first time cruiser...help me figure it all out

[mist_e_rose2002]

Hello everyone,

my name is Rhonda. I have been reading your posts for a long time now and finally got clearance to post myself.

My son and I are going to Orlando in August. Among other things, we are taking the august 18th Disney Wonder 3-day cruise. I have a great list of prices and information, but I was wondering about transportation.

My son and I have never been in an airplane and are choosing to Greyhound our way to Orlando. Can anyone tell me about the transportation options while in Orlando?

Thanks,

Rhonda

 

[MrShiny]

Well, first of all, I'd suggest maybe trying the airplane if you can afford it. In general, the sensation of motion is very minimal. The turbulance you usually experiemce is no worse than a bumpy road. At worst, there might be a passing moment or two with a slight "roller coaster" feeling, but that's usually over quickly (and often times the pilot tells you about it in advance). it just saves soooo much time to fly, unless you live really close. Now figure in 2 hours at the airport leaving and 1 after arrival, plus flight time and it might work out better to do it on the ground, time wise. However of course ground transportation is much more dangerous. The statitsics are clear, but for example I used to drive past O'Hare airport everyday for about 10 years. I saw many horrible car crashes (which were never on the news) on the side of the road over those years, but not one airplane incident.

Anyway, back to your real question. You can rent a car if you drive. There are many locations around. I find Alamo reasonable, as well as L&M, which is at the airport (http://www.lmcarrental.net/. Yes, you can rent at the airport even if you take the bus!

Are you staying on land before the cruise? Check with whereever you are staying. If at Disney, the Cruise Line (for a fee) picks up from several resorts (and Animal Kingdom, I think) even if you are not staying at those resorts. Otherwise you can check with Mears.

If you are doing WDW before hand and staying at Disney, Disney transportation will get you around for free until it's time for the cruise.