First Time Disneyworld Travller

[unityco]

Hello!

I've been told this is the be-all end-all site for Disney travel tips. I need it all! We have a week of vacation booked beginning the 21st of February, and we plan on spending some/most of it at DW. Advice on everything from flights to Park itineraries would be appreciated. Some details that should help narrow the field:

• 7 days beginning Feb. 21/09
• 3 travellers (3yo son, DH and myself.)
• Departing Toronto or Buffalo (or even Hamilton - but Toronto is preferred.)
• On site/off site doesn't matter
• We'll want to spend some time away from Disney (a day at the shore, KSC, etc.)
• Around $2100 (including flights and most meals.)

TIA!

(I have posted this in the Canadian forum as well for flight tips, but I thought I might get more response on the other things in this general forum. Please forgive me if that's considered bad form. )

 

[LadyShea]

Congrats on your first trip planning! Welcome to the boards.

I don't really have any advice, as everyone is so different in their must dos and such, I will however let you know a few things about how we travel. You don't mention a budget...is it a once in lifetime money is no object trip, or are you like me who has a small budget?

We have travel points due to my dad's job. He stays in hotels 4 nights a week, every week, so we usually have a ton of points for accommodations and gas cards. Because we are using them, we always stay off site, but choose a location with free breakfast, a kitchenette, and free shuttle to the parks to save money. So, you may want to check your credit cards etc. and see if you have any points to use towards any part of your trip.

I spend a lot of time at www.disneyworld.com, looking at the calendar and new info. This helps me get a basic plan down based on what's going on.

 

[unityco]

You don't mention a budget...

Thanks for the welcome!

D'oh, budget! Hmm, I don't know that my financial planner (aka my husband ) has given me one. His guideline for a good deal is usually about $100/day/person all-inclusive, so I guess that would make it around $2100. There is some flex around that.

 

[JackJack08]

With the current deal going on your timing is great!
I am Canadian also...so my tips are....
--usually flying out of the U.S. will get you a better price on a flight
--staying onsite is the only way to go...the value resorts are great with little ones...I like POP (and you won't need to rent a car)
--get in on a photopass share
--get the dining plan....you won't regret it....well worth the $$
--no parkhopper for your first visit...it will save you $$ and it isn't necessary
Probably once you get there you won't want to leave. It is another "world" in itself. We always think we are going to go to the shore too...but have never made it yet!!! We can't pull ourselves away from the magic!! Of course these are only my opinions...but enjoy your trip!!

 

[goofygal531]

--no parkhopper for your first visit...it will save you $$ and it isn't necessary

Gotta disagree, I'm all for the park hopper!

With little ones, it's best to tour the parks at "rope drop" (first thing in the morning) and leave by noon when the crowds approach. Go back to the resort, possibly hit the pool (they are heated and some days in Feb can hit high 70s) or rent a boat at your resort marina, hit your resort arcade, or just relax and everyone take a nice midday nap. Then return to a different park that evening for dinner.

We've found that a midday break helps everyone really relax and enjoy the vacation. We all need some down time. Plus this gives Mommy a chance to hit the spa, go shopping or go for Afternoon Tea at the GF

(Daddy gets his Epcot Segway tour )