Anyone ever NOT like Disney?

[CandleontheWater]

Hi and welcome to the Disney family! I hope you guys have the vacation of a lifetime and comeback hooked on all things Disney!

There were a lot of good ideas presented so far in this thread, and I'll throw in my 2 cents as well. I second the idea of going in January or Feb. The crowds then are at their lowest and the weather usually isn't too hot, but it also can get very cold in central Florida, so I would be prepared for that variable as well.

If you plan to go in Feb, I'd make sure that you stayed away from Presidents week. Many schools have vacation this week and the crowds tend to soar.

I also really like Port Orleans French Quarter, but I think in your families case that you might have a better time at the Cabins at Fort Wilderness. I don't remember if you mentioned how large your family is, but if it is more than 4 members, you can't stay at a value or moderate resort. I also think that the cabins would be a good choice for you because you mentioned that your DH is an avid hunter. The cabins really give you the feel of being out in the wilderness away from the theme park hustle and bustle, and he might really enjoy that and feel right at home. It is also really nice to have a kitchen, that way you can save some money on snacks and maybe even make breakfast in your room, that way you can avoid breakfast crowds.

About park hopping, I am a big fan of park hopping, but I'm not sure if it is the best idea for the first time guest. The park hoppers are more expensive, and if you are visiting the parks for the first time, you may not have the familiarity with the Disney transportation systems, and it make take up more of your time than it is worth. If you go during a low crowd time of year, you are not going to have to worry about the parks being too croweded, and that way you can concentrate on learning and enjoying one park at a time.

The unofficial guide can be purchased at any bookstore. It is a huge volume, and it is full of great information. I've been 38 times, but I still buy one every year because there is always new information. Another perk of purchasing an unofficial guide is that you can use *****************. On ***************** they have a crowd calendar which will help you plan which park to visit on which day of your vacation based on what park will have the lowest crowds. This will be a great tool if you want to make sure to avoid crowds as much as possible.

If you have any other questions, please don't be shy and ask away. I'm sure there is someone who can answer any and all questions you have.

Happy planning!

 

[jakenjess]

You can get the Unofficial Guide at any bookstore or online book seller. It's a great resource.

You mentioned the Fort Wilderness Cabins. They're great for space and to have the kitchen, but I just want to warn you that the transportation can be a pain. We stayed there once and I wouldn't go back just for that reason. If you're going to have a car, it's easier to drive to the parks (except for MK). Just keep that in mind in doing your research. Others may feel differently about it, but that was my experience.

The moderate and deluxe resorts do have a small fridge in each room, so you could keep milk, etc., for breakfasts and snacks.

 

[jjctfields]

In a word....NO.

The place is just so incredible! I'm wondering how long a family on a teacher's salary will be able to visit with the prices being so outrageous and continuing to rise.

 

[tkoran]

You can get the Unofficial Guide at any bookstore or online book seller. It's a great resource.

You mentioned the Fort Wilderness Cabins. They're great for space and to have the kitchen, but I just want to warn you that the transportation can be a pain. We stayed there once and I wouldn't go back just for that reason. If you're going to have a car, it's easier to drive to the parks (except for MK). Just keep that in mind in doing your research. Others may feel differently about it, but that was my experience.

The moderate and deluxe resorts do have a small fridge in each room, so you could keep milk, etc., for breakfasts and snacks.

Thanks! That's something I will definately keep in mind. Good to know about the fridge's in the Deluxe & Mod resorts too. That has become a must for us over the years, but in alot of the places I've looked, they didn't make it very clear if they were in the rooms.

Anyone know if small microwaves are available for use?

 

[karmalicousss]

You'll have a Magical Trip don't worry.

 

[Kathi OD]

Our first experience was much like Coach81's. DH was not so keen on the whole Disney scene. It would be hot, it would be crowded, it would be (put in whatever negative you want). I just said, this is something the kids would absolutely LOVE! You get to go on your own hunting and fishing vacations every year, so just suck it up and go for your children. I unashamedly admit I just put a huge guilt trip on him.

Ten trips later......he loves the place! On trip #3 he started talking about buying DVC. Trip 5 we bought......and trip 10 was just the two of us!

Every time we go, that old Life cereal commercial just comes into mind. "Let's ask Mikey. He hates everything. He likes it, he likes it." You'll just never know until you try.

 

[tkoran]

Love your story Kathi, thanks for sharing! I'm getting more and more convinced. I can't book yet (too far ahead), but I'm going to start pinching pennies and researching rates. The cheaper I can get it, the more likely he will be to go along with this.

 

[Aliceacc]

I started this thread for other newbies; it may help give you some direction: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1715551

 

[catgirl]

Back in 1984 when DH & I were dating, we took our 1st vacation together to WDW. We were expecting a very cute amusement park with lots of rides, boy were we disappointed! Thought it was cute, but were hoping for more thrills. I returned in 1994 with BFF, we stayed at Caribbean Beach and had an awesome time! I think because my expections were different, I loved it! Hollywood Studios (MGM at the time) was my favorite park. I just got back a month ago from a trip with mom & 4yr old neice, again I had a blast! I have never got DH to go back. He is also a hunter and doesn't want to "waste" his vacation time, in the heat, long lines, & crowds. I also suggest you pick a value season to go when the crowds are a little less, 1st week of February was great. DH may not be interested in MK, but I bet he would like Epcot, Hollywood Studios & Pleasure Island (adult inspired). I wish I could get DH to make a return trip, just to see if he would have a change of heart. I highley recommend Park Hopper & Water Park & more options. Dining Plan was a nice way to pre-pay for your meals and have one less expense when you get there.

 

[tkoran]

I bought the Unofficial Guide to Disney yesterday and I couldn't believe how thick this thing is! I've only read the introductory part and some of the accomodation reviews and I have already found some great info. Thanks so much for recommending it!

I also told DH my plans. We haven't dicussed dates or anything because I don't want to discuss it too much in front of our kids because everything is so preliminary right now, but so far he's been fairly open to the idea. He did say it was about the last place he wants to go, but I think he knows he's going to have to sooner or later because I keep bringing it up.

 

[mericletwins]

Thanks everyone!

I'm already thinking park hopper pass so that we can be flexible. Is it worth it?

I think in your situation it is absolutely worth it. It gives you so much flexibility. If you get to a park and it seems crowded, just hop over to another. We always get hoppers. We really like being able to go to one park in the morning and then going to another in the afternoon.

 

[Carlos_in_Wonderland]

No one has ever told me "I didn't like Disney".

I do have my complaints like I HATE the lines and if it's summer time it's even worse. Disney should give deodorants for free at the main entrance...seriously.

 

[brianm27]

If being able to get away from the crowds is important, the Cabins at Fort Wilderness definitely give you that relaxed experience. We love the cabins. We have stayed at all the values, moderates, BW, BC, WL, SSR and OKW.

I will admit that having a car is nice at FW. You actually have a driveway at each cabin so you park a few steps from your porch. We also rent a golf cart when we stay in the cabins. Being able to drive the cart to the park bus stop inside FW, versus a long walk to the loop bus stop and the ride on an internal bus, then transferring to your final bus or boat makes a big difference. The double bus ride is not a favorite.

I had a friend who was going to take his teen daughters but didn't want to go. He said he would rather go to a nice beach resort in Miami. I knew his taste and recommended that he stay at the Swan or Dolphin. He took my advice and he had a great time. I think the hotel gave him that feeling of the type of resort that he would pick so he didn't feel cheated on his type of vacation. He would have been miserable for the whole trip if he stayed at a value resort.

You may have the same luck with the cabins (or Wilderness Lodge). If the resort feels right and is a comfortable place to "come home" to, it might make a difference.

 

[laura001]

Why not. We do it all the time. People get so wrap up with the commercials of a "perfect" vacation with the happy adults and smiling children. If dad has a lot of issues maybe Disney is NOT the place for him. There is a whole big wide world out there for them to do the family thing. We took some one who wasn't a disney person ONCE, they complained, moaned and acted horribly the entire trip. Really suck the joy out of the vacation for the rest of the family. My dh is ok with disney but he could live without it, not only do we leave him home at times, he usually kicks out the extra cash so we can stay concierge.

Op I say plan a great time with you and the kids (of course ask Dh would he mind, my bet is he say go have a wonderful time)

I agreee with you, there are people that don't LOVE Disney! (why, I am not sure....but whatever floats their boat) My DH is not a huge Disney fan, he doesn't walk around complaining and he does go.........why???? Because I LOVE it, and he loves me (he enjoys seeing me love it so much and share it with me). He goes and always has a good time, he will admit that for sure. He just isn't in the boat of "getting" it!

There have been plenty of times that I have packed up the kids and gone by myself with them, leaving him at home. He was just as happy with that, although this past fall when I did that, I think he was actually thinking he should have gone too! I always make sure that when we go (which we are doing in 2 weeks, just the two of us) that we do some things he wants to do, like eat a couple of restaurants he wants to, go to the water park, do a tour, mini putt.......and of course.....Marguerita's by the pool!!!

Good luck with your planning! As for the time of year, I would recommend the end of February then, weather isn't too bad and the crowds should be pretty good.

 

[LilyWDW]

Welcome to the boards and the beginning of an exciting (if a bit insane) journey to planning your vacation!!! Yea, I know, that sounds a bit corny but who cares ?

So far you have received a TON of good advise! Make sure to head over to the other boards for some more information and please feel comfortable to ask questions. There are a few touchy subjects on these boards, but usually you can get a sense of what those are pretty quick.

You already have purchased the Unofficial Guide so, in my opinion, you are starting off well. When time allows I would also invest in a PassPorter book and even with Tour Guide Mike (TGM, whose link you can find from the theme park and attractions board). Personally, I like to have multiple opinions on things before picking resorts and restaurants. That way you get more of an "average" idea then just that of one person. Also, don't get caught up in some of the "hype" surrounding some things here on the boards. You know your family the best and what they enjoy.

I have not planned a trip at the time of year most people are suggesting (though I agree with the suggestions). However, in my experience, there seem to be a few things that fall into all times of the year. So, since you wanted our opinions (do you realize what you got yourself into when you asked that ), here are some of mine (based off of what you have so far posted).

- If you have 4 people or less in your party, I would 100% happily suggest Port Orleans French Quarter (POFQ). It is a beautiful, relaxing, yet smaller resort with a "disneyfied" New Orleans feel. It is absolutely amazing in my humble opinion. Everything is very close to everything else, but at the same time it never felt crowded or seemed loud. Plus, you do get a fridge in the room (though no microwave, I think only the cabins and DVC Villas have those in room) so you can save money on breakfast and drinks. There is also a boat that services both sections of Port Orleans (French Quarter and Riverside (POR)) and will take you to the Downtown Disney (DTD) area. The only downside of this resort (once again my opinion) is that is does share buses with Riverside which means they can get pretty packed, but in general French Quarter is picked up and dropped off first.

-If you have more then 4 people in your party, then I really don't have any suggestions as I have never stayed with that many. I will allow those with experience there give you suggestions.

-Even though you would (hopefully) be going at a slower time of the year, if there are any dining experiences you MUST do make an Advanced Dining Reservation (ADR). When staying on property you can make these reservations 180 days from your check in date for up to the first 10 days of your stay. Even during slow times of the year, there are some dining locations that will turn away walk ups simply because of demand (character meals and Le Cellier for examples). You don't want to get your hopes up only to be turned away, know what I mean?

-Fastpass, fastpass, fastpass. During slower times of the year the lines are shorter this is true. However, fastpass is still a wonderful thing. Get a fastpass, ride something else with a little wait, then ride the fastpass ride with pretty much no wait. Less standing in line overall and it allows an easy way to hit some rides multiple times.

-More information on Tour Guide Mike, which I mentioned above. I used his service for my May trip, mostly for his "best days" advise. It's about the same cost as another guide book, but with a wealth of information that you just can't get from the "dead tree" format. With his advice, we never waited more then 15 mins for a ride and that was only because Test Track broke down just as we got in the fastpass line. To me, it was another wonderful resource that made our trip just that much better. A warning on it though, there is a LOT of information over there so join early. Your membership lasts through the date of your trip so even if it is a year or more away, go ahead and join and get started. He will release the "best days" information before you have to make ADR's so you will have that to assist in picking which restaurants on which days.

Once again, welcome to the boards. Sorry for the long post though...

If you have any other questions feel free to post or even send a PM. We're always willing to help another Disney lover out!

 

[tkoran]

Thank you! I keep forgetting to post that we are a family of 4. Although we can get away with a smaller room due to the number of people, I worry a bit about the size of the beds. DH and I do not do well sleeping in a double bed together. I spend most of the night pushing his elbow out of my face. From what I hear, the only places with anything other than double beds are the deluxe resorts and although I really had my heart set on the Wilderness Lodge, I don't know if I can justify the expense. Our kids are young enough that I suppose we could sleep one adult and one kid in each bed instead of having the kids together. I am thinking of checking out the family suites at the All Star. They have both a fridge and a micro too, which would be great.

I work with someone who's stayed at POR (or POFQ - not sure which, I'll have to ask) both times she's gone and they've also been happy with it also. If it's a great location, I'll look into that as well.

I definately plan on using Tour Guide Mike, but am waiting until I have a definate date in mind of course. I talked to DH about this twice yesterday, but in passing only. He did state that Disney World was about the last place he wants to go, but he said it in a nice way. I'm easing DH into this slowly so he has a chance to let it sink in.

You really think getting the PassPorter book would be worthwhile too? What is different about it?

 

[traderneal]

no, of course not. But I do grow tire of the constant attempt to seperate me from my money.

 

[kathie859]

To the OP--before you invest a small fortune in any more guidebooks, you may want to hit your local library and grab an armload for free. I adore the OG, but you may prefer a different format and this is a good way to "test drive" a guidebook.

Another thing--Set your budget. This will determine if you will stay onsite, offsite, do ddp, fly, drive, whatever.

Also, if the kids and schooling isn't an issue, I second an early December trip. The decorations are incredible and it's a great "lead in" to the holiday season.

One more thought about accomodations and size of beds, microwave and fridge. Check out some of the threads on some of the very close offsite condos (Windsor Hills is a fave) . It's truly the best of both worlds. Close to WDW, room to spread out and full kitchens to help with budgeting issues.

Have fun planning your WDW trip. Put DH in charge of recording the kids' reactions and, I promise, he'll be hooked on his kids' enthusiasm.

There's no blanket wrong or right way to do Disney--it's just what works best for your family. We're a drive there/stay offsite/cook a few meals in the condo/ have sit down lunches at Disney with a few exceptions (Boma/Ohana dinners) kind of family. But there are some who are fly/stay on site/take WDW transportation/DDP and wouldn't think of doing it any other way and that works great for them.

 

[tkoran]

Thanks for the hint. Our library is really small so they don't have a lot of stuff others would have, but maybe they would have these. I'll check.

 

[tkoran]

I'm so excited! I actually got DH to tentatively agree to this trip! He's a bit apprehensive still due to having to have new shingles put on the roof this year ($$$), but I think we should be able to swing that without too much trouble. I also applied for the Disney CC so that we would have 6 months to pay off the trip.

He was also worried about the trip overlapping with his deer hunting, but I have the schedule all planned out to leave the day after deer hunting is over. I would also be willing to change to Jan or Feb, but thought being there when it's all decorated for Christmas would be nice. He was laughing at me because I had an answer to all of his questions already.