Basic Tips?

bopper

Which way to the Hundred Acre Woods
Joined
Oct 22, 2004
Messages
2,696
I am a disney veteran and when I read the disboards it is to get more subtle kind of tips...but i have a friend who is going with her family for the first time and has asked me for "tips". They have two boys (around 9 and 11).

What are some realllllly basic tips to give them? They are going for 7 days and are stayimg at the Carribean Beach Resort.

I have mentioned the Fastpass System and DisneyQuest so far and to make reservations for dinners.

What would you tell a total beginner?
 
To go to the parks early. You can get so much done by the time the late sleepers start arriving around 11:00. When the kids get tired go back to the resort for a swim or nap then head back out again in the late afternoon/early evening.
 
1. Set a very early time to get to the parks, and get there at least a 1/2 hour before that!
2. Fastpass, crazy how many people don't have a clue.
3. Join DIS
4. Did I mention get there EARLY?
 
Make a breakfast ADR before a park opens...especially in MK at CRT or CP. Getting in before the rope drop is MAGICAL!

You can get the best pictures on Main Street without the crowds as you walk to your reservation.
 

be prepared for rain with either ponchos or umbrellas.
take small snacks
extra pair of shoes
something familiar from home...a favorite stuffed animal or blanket to keep at the resort.
take or wear water friendly shoes for kali river rapids in AK.
 
My Top Ten List for First Timers:

1. Wear comfortable footwear - you will be walking miles
2. Start taking long walks in that footwear a few weeks ahead of time to get your legs in shape - you will be walking miles
3. Don't think you can see everything in one trip. It cannot be done so don't try
4. Don't over-plan and over schedule each day - but have some ADR's in your pocket. Be sure to call and cancel an ADR you will not be using.
5. There is no attraction worth waiting 90 mins in line for. FastPass it or skip it.
6. Dollar Store ponchos work as well as $12 park ponchos
7. Stop and watch the little shows that pop up around you.
8. Long indoor shows are not only worth seeing, they are a great place to rest (ex: Hall of Presidents, Ellen Energy Adventure, etc.)
9. Worry about how much it costs before you get there, not while you are there.
10. Remain calm in the face of crisis. Nothing at WDW was ever solved by yelling at someone. Magic happens more often when you ask nicely.
 
My Top Ten List for First Timers:

1. Wear comfortable footwear - you will be walking miles
2. Start taking long walks in that footwear a few weeks ahead of time to get your legs in shape - you will be walking miles
3. Don't think you can see everything in one trip. It cannot be done so don't try
4. Don't over-plan and over schedule each day
5. There is no attraction worth waiting 90 mins in line for.
6. Dollar Store ponchos work as well as $12 park ponchos
7. Stop and watch the little shows that pop up around you.
8. Long indoor shows are not only worth seeing, they are a great place to rest (ex: Hall of Presidents, Ellen Energy Adventure, etc.)
9. Worry about how much it costs before you get there, not while you are there.
10. Remain calm in the face of crisis. Nothing at WDW was ever solved by yelling at someone. Magic happens more often when you ask nicely.
 
One Tip I like with kids your ages is pick a place in the park to meet if you would accidentally become separated. Then when you can't find little Steven and Steven is freeking out because he can't find you. You know you will all meet up if you go to Designated area. Saves a lot of headaches if that would happen!

Have a great trip.
 












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