Disney Solo??

[purplevalentine]

I've been to Disney several times but kind of want to go again this year. My last trip was last year and stayed a few days at AK with my niece. This time i'm considering going it alone. Have no child I want to borrow or pay for. How weird is that?? I don't know why I feel apprehensive. Any suggestions, thoughts? Looking at going at the end of the summer, maybe with the free dining package discount.


Karen

 

[NJDiva]

I've been to Disney several times but kind of want to go again this year. My last trip was last year and stayed a few days at AK with my niece. This time i'm considering going it alone. Have no child I want to borrow or pay for. How weird is that?? I don't know why I feel apprehensive. Any suggestions, thoughts? Looking at going at the end of the summer, maybe with the free dining package discount.


Karen

Hi Karen! you are a woman after my own (purple)heart! I have no children that I wish to borrow or pay for either, my nieces and nephew say to me all the time "you're going to Disney....AGAIN???? aren't you gonna take us?? I love them to death but I don't think I could do the "I'm tired, I'm hungry, I don't want to ride that, can I have that, hold this..." battle with them. I love going to Disney alone, I have never felt uneasy being there alone and I can totally entertain myself so there's no need to be apprehensive.
what is it exactly that has you skittish about going solo? there are tons of people on the forum that do the solo thing all the time, a lot of times you can actually meet up with one if you so choose to...for drinks, for a meal or even just to pal around with for the day.
I am heading down at the end of this month for a week and I can't wait. I have a dining plan (reservations and all) only because it makes me stop and relax a bit, if I didn't have it, I probably would forget to eat or not eat properly plus it gives me a chance to try new restaurants and awesome food.

 

[purplevalentine]

Hi Karen! you are a woman after my own (purple)heart! I have no children that I wish to borrow or pay for either, my nieces and nephew say to me all the time "you're going to Disney....AGAIN???? aren't you gonna take us?? I love them to death but I don't think I could do the "I'm tired, I'm hungry, I don't want to ride that, can I have that, hold this..." battle with them. I love going to Disney alone, I have never felt uneasy being there alone and I can totally entertain myself so there's no need to be apprehensive.
what is it exactly that has you skittish about going solo? there are tons of people on the forum that do the solo thing all the time, a lot of times you can actually meet up with one if you so choose to...for drinks, for a meal or even just to pal around with for the day.
I am heading down at the end of this month for a week and I can't wait. I have a dining plan (reservations and all) only because it makes me stop and relax a bit, if I didn't have it, I probably would forget to eat or not eat properly plus it gives me a chance to try new restaurants and awesome food.

Another purple lady and a Central Jersey one to boot! I'm not sure what the apprehension is all about. I used to have a phobia about traveling on a vacation alone. A few years back I started to go to Vegas every summer by myself. I'm going this year but I was invited by my brother and sister n' law with their group of about 20 people. I was comfortable because I had been to Vegas and knew the lay of the land so to speak. I know the lay of the land at Disney very well. Actually about 10 yrs ago I lived in Orlando and worked at a DTD hotel for a couple of months. I would sometimes drive up to Disney and walk around DTD or Boardwalk area just to explore. I guess i'm apprehensive that I won't look weird getting on Pirates of the Caribbean by myself in such a family oriented place.

 

[APB513]

I've been to Disney several times but kind of want to go again this year. My last trip was last year and stayed a few days at AK with my niece. This time i'm considering going it alone. Have no child I want to borrow or pay for. How weird is that?? I don't know why I feel apprehensive. Any suggestions, thoughts? Looking at going at the end of the summer, maybe with the free dining package discount.


Karen

In 2009, I went to WDW by myself for my birthday. It was one of the best trips I've taken so far.

I usually travel with my two sons who don't always want to do what I want to do. But on this trip I was able to do what I wanted to do, go where I wanted to go and see what I wanted to see.

I also met up with several DISers I had met on the board before I left. We had meals together and toured the parks together. We even went to Jelly Rolls one night.

That trip was the perfect mixture of alone time and touring the parks with people who love Disney as much as I do!

I say go for it!! You won't regret it!

 

[Pluto0809]

I say go for it! I've never gone solo but am going by myself this November

I did go with some friends last year who pooped out on me quite a bit. I did one full day by myself at MK and a half day at HS.

I never once felt out of place or strange being by myself. The only person who even said anything to me was a CM on TSM. He said "really, just one? Sure you don't have someone hiding in your backpack?" Of couse he was teasing me so I just said "nope, my friends pooped out on me." He said "that's just not right, there's no sleeping when you are at Disney!"

I only ate CS when I was alone last time but come November, I'm doing some TS (impatiently waiting for my 180 day window). I'll probably stick a paperback in my backpack in case I get bored while waiting on meals. I doubt it will ever come out, who could get bored at Disney!

Oh, and the night I came back alone from HS, it was well after Midnight. We were staying way in the back of CS and I never once felt scared or threatened walking back to our room.

 

[NJDiva]

Another purple lady and a Central Jersey one to boot! I'm not sure what the apprehension is all about. I used to have a phobia about traveling on a vacation alone. A few years back I started to go to Vegas every summer by myself. I'm going this year but I was invited by my brother and sister n' law with their group of about 20 people. I was comfortable because I had been to Vegas and knew the lay of the land so to speak. I know the lay of the land at Disney very well. Actually about 10 yrs ago I lived in Orlando and worked at a DTD hotel for a couple of months. I would sometimes drive up to Disney and walk around DTD or Boardwalk area just to explore. I guess i'm apprehensive that I won't look weird getting on Pirates of the Caribbean by myself in such a family oriented place.

you won't look weird! I go on lots of rides/attractions alone. I did Aladdin's ride alone and got a carpet to myself. trust me, you will love the freedom that comes with going solo.

 

[jagfanjosh3252]

Since I live 2 hours from WDW, I often go weekends by myself. I enjoy them. Usually there are a few people from DIS that are there at the time and I meet up with them also.

 

[Bethannk511]

Us Jersey girls sure love our purple don't we!!

Go solo!! It's the best time. You do what you want, when you want, however you want!! Want to go to the pool, easier to find a chair for one!! Want to go to the park, well that works. Want to eat, eat whatever you choose!!!

 

[Loftus]

Went solo last September, going back solo this September. Can't think of a better place to do a solo trip. I'm not a lying on the beach kind of guy so prefer a holiday where there is plenty to do and see. Had the DDP last time and had no issues with eating by myself. Got the QSDP this time, so hopefully this trip will be a bit more relaxed as I'm not tied into reservations.
I'd definitely say go for it.

 

[purplevalentine]

Well thank you for all of your positive comments and the fact that I was watching a replay of Oprah's Lifeclass you've convinced me to go solo! I MUST LIVE FEARLESSLY! I figure if I can do Vegas by myself I most certainly can do Disney!

Now where to stay.....

Karen

 

[APB513]

Well thank you for all of your positive comments and the fact that I was watching a replay of Oprah's Lifeclass you've convinced me to go solo! I MUST LIVE FEARLESSLY! I figure if I can do Vegas by myself I most certainly can do Disney!

Now where to stay.....

Karen

I stayed at Port Orleans French Quarter for my solo trip and I loved it!! I had always wanted to stay there and I thought my bday was the perfect opportunity to treat myself.

The resort is small and feels quite homey. And I love the themeing!! Transportation was great - we only shared a bus with Riverside once. Plus the bus shelter is covered which was great considering it was so hot during my entire trip. And I loved taking the boat to DTD.

I also LOVE Pop Century and would recommend it for solo travelers who might be on a budget.

BTW - I love Oprah's Life Class. I didn't realize it had started again.

 

[Mickey's Best Girl]

I went on my first solo trip last October. Until the day I left I was super excited but while I was sitting in the airport in Toronto I started thinking "what have i gotten myself into?"...........

I am a single mom to a great daughter who is now in college and Disney has been our "thing". Going without her felt wrong but I had a fantastic time! I can't say it was the best trip ever because I did miss my Disney buddy but there is definitely something to be said about being able to go where you want, when you want, eat what you want, etc. It was awesome!

The only time I felt awkward all week was in line at Soarin'. When the CM asked how many and I said one, he actually laughed and made me feel a little self-conscious. I can't imagine I am the only person who has ever been on Soarin' solo. Other than that, it was smooth sailing all week.

I am heading out on my second solo trip on April 15! I say go for it, you'll have a blast!

 

[Farm Girl]

I am going solo for the first time in October and really looking forward to it. I agree, I will miss my Disney buddy (my great sister) but I keep telling myself I will be able to share my experiences with her when I get home and double the fun!

I was able to book a Beach Club Villa and will be able to walk to Epcot for the Food & Wine Festival. Perfect for me.

I hope you have a great time.

 

[NJDiva]

Well thank you for all of your positive comments and the fact that I was watching a replay of Oprah's Lifeclass you've convinced me to go solo! I MUST LIVE FEARLESSLY! I figure if I can do Vegas by myself I most certainly can do Disney!

Now where to stay.....

Karen

I stayed at Port Orleans French Quarter for my solo trip and I loved it!! I had always wanted to stay there and I thought my bday was the perfect opportunity to treat myself.

The resort is small and feels quite homey. And I love the themeing!! Transportation was great - we only shared a bus with Riverside once. Plus the bus shelter is covered which was great considering it was so hot during my entire trip. And I loved taking the boat to DTD.

I also LOVE Pop Century and would recommend it for solo travelers who might be on a budget.

BTW - I love Oprah's Life Class. I didn't realize it had started again.

the first time I stayed on property I stayed at POR...LOVED IT! everyone said it was too big but I really liked it. I was close to the quiet pool and the I could walk right over the bridge to eat. and of course you can't beat the fact that boat takes you to DTD. this year I treated myself to the Royal room and I can't wait! the faucets are in the shape of genie lamps!!
I think I have stayed in every moderate resort and so far I haven't been disappointed. the areas are nice, the buses run great (although I always have a car) and there aren't too many kids around that make it annoying.

 

[Mouse88]

Hey everyone,

Im new to DISBoards and it was great to see that people are going solo, I have been thinking about it lately because I don`t really have anyone who is as Disney obsessed as I am or who can get the same time off from work.

So good to know it`s not weird

 

[mahannie]

The absolute joy of going solo is you can do Disney your way on your schedule.

My last solo trip was only for a weekend so I wanted to cross something off of my bucket list- tour all 4 parks in one day! Crazy, right? But since I was solo, I could totally do it.

It helped that it was a day with both morning and evening EMH. Started at AK, rode Everest, Safaris, and Lion King. Hopped over to Epcot and did Soarin, Test Track, Maelstrom with a tasty lunch at Morocco and caught a couple of shows of Off Kilter. Over to MK for all of the Mountains, along with Carousel, Pirates, and Wishes in front of the Castle. Ended at the Studios-ToT, RnRC, and best of all, able to ride the re-vamped Star Tours several times!

Granted, it was a LOOONGG day, and I'd never do it again, but I was able to stop and smell the roses along the way because I was solo. No one to please but me!

Bucket list goal for my next solo trip? Leisurely enjoying an adult beverage in each of the countries in Epcot.

 

[ZehnJahren]

I just went on a fully solo trip in January and loved it - I planned another for this September, but I might possibly take some kids with me in August instead. Still trying to figure it out, but if they can't go then I'll definitely go in September. I rented DVC points and stayed at AKL for three nights and four full days; this time, I'm planning on five nights. I was apprehensive staying very long by myself, but I was too rushed, and definitely had no cause to be apprehensive, so when I go back next by myself it will definitely be for a longer period of time!!

I also loved that so many rides called out for "one rider" - I was constantly going to the front of the line to fill in spots, and my waits were never more than a couple of minutes due to the need for a single rider. *sigh* What a great trip.

 

[lurkernj]

Don't feel wierd. I can honestly say that when I am touring Disney with my family I am pretty oblivous to what other people are doing. If I saw you alone in a line, I would think maybe your other party is in the bathroom or just didn't feel like riding, but more than likely I wouldn't even notice you were alone.

I've been trying to go solo for two years and others keep glomming on. This year I'm going three days ahead of my DH and 2 teen DS's, but now my in-laws want to come ahead with me, lol. I love my in-laws so I'm not at all upset, but I did tell them that Im going to ditch them in the parks and just meet up with them for dinners. I am very much looking forward to being alone and doing what I want and not worrying about if everyone else is having a good time. Anyone who happens to notice I'm alone will just be jealous.

 

[purplevalentine]

I stayed at Port Orleans French Quarter for my solo trip and I loved it!! I had always wanted to stay there and I thought my bday was the perfect opportunity to treat myself.

The resort is small and feels quite homey. And I love the themeing!! Transportation was great - we only shared a bus with Riverside once. Plus the bus shelter is covered which was great considering it was so hot during my entire trip. And I loved taking the boat to DTD.

I also LOVE Pop Century and would recommend it for solo travelers who might be on a budget.

BTW - I love Oprah's Life Class. I didn't realize it had started again.

LOL Yes Oprah's Lifeclass is in it's second week for season 2. Replays on her website! So now I am going semi solo. My mom wants to come with me. I'm totally cool with that. I say semi only because she's not gonna do all the parks and stuff with me. Probably 2 separate days at EPCOT. She had some health issues and has gotten her energy back but definitely can't do all the running around. I figure we will go to Epcot together, I can go solo to other parks while she relaxes at resort. We can eat meals together and go to DTD. Since you've been to both POP and POFQ which would you select for my scenario? Having a hard time deciding on a value or mod resort!

Thanks
Karen

 

[NJDiva]

LOL Yes Oprah's Lifeclass is in it's second week for season 2. Replays on her website! So now I am going semi solo. My mom wants to come with me. I'm totally cool with that. I say semi only because she's not gonna do all the parks and stuff with me. Probably 2 separate days at EPCOT. She had some health issues and has gotten her energy back but definitely can't do all the running around. I figure we will go to Epcot together, I can go solo to other parks while she relaxes at resort. We can eat meals together and go to DTD. Since you've been to both POP and POFQ which would you select for my scenario? Having a hard time deciding on a value or mod resort!

Thanks
Karen

if your mom is going I would suggest POFQ, it is smaller and easy to get around. I would also suggest that you ask for a first floor room so she does not have to fight stairs. you also have the advantage of catching the boat to DTD, it's a very pretty ride and I think your mom would enjoy that. (not that it's all about her)