First Timer Inquiry

[Kimbysmom]

Thanks for the book recommendations. I'm going to check both of them out .

 

[Chip_Dale]

I have always used the Birnbaum book. It is published yearly so always up to date. Found in the travel section at any bookstore. It's about 14 dollars I think (haven't used it in a few years). It's a fun read.

The library also has the books (current year and previous years). If it is not at your local branch or if it is currently out place a hold on the book.

 

[TagsMissy]

Thanks for the book recommendations. I'm going to check both of them out .

I'd say the Unofficial Guide is one of the best out there and calls it as it is rather than simply being a book promoting something without negatives. But it's a big book, not fancy and no big glossy photos. ((sometimes the little cartoons within it are annoying but whatever)) You can probably find this in your library. Ours has it.

To the person who said you won't see it all, boy are you correct! 5 trips under our belt and we haven't seen it all!

My biggest advice: DO NOT OVER PLAN. Get a general idea of what you want to do, make some dining reservations if you want but then go with the flow. Makes for a much more enjoyable vacation. Don't tie yourself down to a schedule.

As for free dining, my understanding is that say Free Dining starts ends on March 26th, assuming you book a pkg with free dining & as long as you check in before Mar 26th your whole stay will be on the package.

 

[bankr63]

I'd say the Unofficial Guide is one of the best out there and calls it as it is rather than simply being a book promoting something without negatives. But it's a big book, not fancy and no big glossy photos. ((sometimes the little cartoons within it are annoying but whatever)) You can probably find this in your library. Ours has it.

Ditto. UG is our bible, but I have read tons of others. Kim Wiley's book on Disney with Kids is also very good. Pay attention to the touring plans advice in UG, it really does work. DSIL thought we were crazy last year the way we attacked the park; she just wanted to take pictures. But once she realized that you could hit all the big attractions before the crowds hit, and then have lots of time for pics and shopping later, she was onside. You can't do Disney well without a plan at the park.

Fastpasses are a godsend! Learn how to use them well. One added stealth tip - you are only supposed to have one FP at a time, but often in the early morning the machines jam up and a CM will hand them out manually. Since the computer then has not scanned your pass and recorded that you have a FP, you can motor over to another attraction and get a second. So I usually look for the "broken" lines.

And welcome to the planning fun. I think I have as much fun preparing for our trips as I do actually going!