Beyond Overwhelmed!

[chipsgirl]

I lurk here often but am just now seriously beginning to plan our own trip. Is there a newbie forum to ask planning questions. My head is spinning trying to figure out best deals, best times, dining plan or not, etc.... I just need some direction on where to start. Thanks!!!

 

[adsrtw]

Hi Chipsgirl! Welcome! I have found a ton of help on the resorts, restaurants, and park strategy sub-boards. Do you have any idea when you want to go to the World?

I guess I should say this too. I found the DIS when I was looking for info about Disney. I couldn't believe how much info I found. It amazed me.

 

[chipsgirl]

This will actually be my 8th time at WDW but I've never been the planner, which is why I'm so confused. I'm familiar with the parks and hotels, just not the logistics.
We are thinking about sometime either this winter/spring or next fall. By that time our little ones will be 2 and 3. We want either a value resort with quick dining or moderate with quick and table. The main thing we want to do with the kids is a character meal but I don't really understand how that works into meal plans. Any advice is helpful. Just point me in the direction!

 

[McDisney]

Firstly, WELCOME!
As PP stated, those are excellent sub forums to gather info. Also the search is your friend, but if ya don't see an answer to your question just ask - everyone is here to help, and those that aren't, are easily ignored
There is a good thread regarding the dinning plan (very easy to understand) in the Disney Dinning Plan sub-forum here : http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2516683&highlight=blondese

 

[adsrtw]

Search is an awesome feature. There is so much information on the boards. Don't be afraid to borrow from what others have learned.

 

[Sammie]

First decide when you want to go. If you are flexible with that, many are not due to kids, work, school etc. I would suggest the cooler months, the heat in Orlando is brutal.

After you decide when, decide where. Once you decide when, and what category of room, Value, Moderate or Deluxe you can come back here and get opinions on the resorts.

Moderate: my favorite is Coronado Springs due to having queen beds now. The other moderates and values have full size beds.

As to the dining plan, in order to book a Character meal you would need the plan that offers full service meals, not the quick service plan. You could get the quick service and then pay out of pocket for the Character Meal if that works best for you.

 

[bubbie11]

I'm in the same boat as you!!! I'm so overwhelmed by it all IDK where to start! Hope your trip is fabulous!

 

[Metro West]