Originally posted by goofyernmost
In one of the posts, I don't remember which one, it was said, "if you want to get the most out of your trip, use Fastpass" or something to that effect. All things being relative, I feel that if you want to get the most out of your trip you won't use Fastpass.
Especially, first timers!
If your only object is to "ride" the attractions then by all means get the pass. If you would like to obsorb the Disney experience than spend a few extra minutes in the Q and pay attention to the detail and thought that went into a lot of the themeing. Talk to the people in line, find out where they came from, relax, slow down and enjoy!
When I first went to WDW there was no such thing as Fastpass. We all were equal and experienced the same thing. My theory is that to the first timer, fastpass is the reason why return visits are on the decline. It becomes no more than a six flags to them. It has been stated that Fastpass was installed so that people waiting for their time would spend more money on gifts and snacks. I can't prove that but I wouldn't be surprised if it were true. What else are you going to do with that "extra" time. Not all other attractions are timed that well that you won't have considerable downtime somewhere along the way. I doubt if much time is really saved. You just aren't standing in line for the attraction but you are at the snack bar, etc.
Anyway, everyone is free to do as they please but for me, I have so many fond memories of the "old days" that I still enjoy the, so called, standby line more. The making of new friends, the anticipation of the ride, all of it make up my memories and experiences.
By the way, whomever looks at us and shakes their head in pity that we are so uninformed as to wait in line, well, the feeling is mutual. As stated by someone else, if it weren't for those of us that still enjoy the regular line there would be no fastpass, we just would all stand in a different line. They don't take on riders any faster because of it. Just remember, not all things that make you move faster are necessarily better, it's just faster, relatively.