Experts, I need advice!!!!

[bartty]

So, we plan on going to US/IOA on Nove 26-28. It will be me, DH, MIL, DD 2, and DD 1. The last time I went was with DH years ago, before FOTL. Anyways, I need some advice about staying on-site or off-site. The best reat I could find was $239 at RPH. Is it worth it to pay that per night if we are only going to doing "Kiddie" rides? DH and I would like to ride the hulk and maybe the dragon, but that's about it. Also, we are florida residents (overseas with the military) and this is our first trip home in 5 years!!! So we can always stay on-site when we move back ( plan on relocating to tampa). But What do you guys think? Should we stay on-site? Will we actually use FOTL? or should we stay off-site? If so, what is the nicest, cleanest, closest hotel? I don't mind paying the 239/nt, but if we really are not going to use fotl would rather 239 pay for both nites!!

Thanks for all your help!!!!
You guys are the best!!!!!!!!!

 

[Patch'sD]

That's Thanksgiving Weekend. Crowds should be high. I would go for the Royal Pacific and Front of the Line. You are spending roughly $200 ( assuming two nights ) for FOTL. Ride the majors and Baby Swap. Also you don't have to deal with Parking, Kids get tired go back to the Hotel. It most likely will make the trip much easier and enjoyable.

 

[TINK61]

Being FL residents and Military should get you a better rate than that. Have you checked with a travel agent or one of the web sites like Expedia?

First, you are going at a very busy time as that is Thanksgiving weekend. So there will be lines for probably everything. Not only will FOTL be a timesaver, kids get very cranky and don't have the patience that most adults have. So that's a plus.

Second, if you stay on-site, you will have the convenience to easily go back to the resort for a rest or nap with the little ones and then easily return for the evening.

If you stay off-site - there are plenting of nice hotels nearby, but you wouldn't have the convenience of popping in and out of the parks for a rest, but you would save a lot of money. And you can utilize the "Express Pass" system, or buy a book of Express Pass Plus and use them as you wish when you wish.

Lots of options, but I would try for a cheaper rate at the Royal Pacific. Check on mousesavers.com. She has a section labled "Other Theme Parks" and she has some tips for savings at Universal parks and hotels.

Hope this helps.

 

[bartty]

Thanks for the help. I think on-site it will be..... now, off to find a better rate!!

 

[gschmerl]

As TINK 61 said, you should be able to get a better rate being Florida residents. Did you book directly with Loew's and ask for ANY possible discount rates?

 

[bartty]

I made the reservations today!! Royal Pacific $187.20/nt with AAA. Maybe they'll have a special discount for those dates. Keep my fingers crossed....

 

[highlander447]

Am sure u will have a great time