First timer, so many questions....

[jecarter]

So excited about planning our first trip to Disney!
But I have so many questions...planning to go first week of December do you guys think it will be too cold to swim? Trying to figure out whether or not to go for the Plus tickets.

So, it seems that pretty much the consensus on the boards is to not book a package but to get a room only reservation through AAA and then look for additional discounts...is that right? When should I order my tickets?

Where do I sign up for the discounts?

Should I book a standard room now and see about any upgrades when I get there? What are the chances.

Thinking ASMovies 3 days and AKL 3 days, can't wait!

 

[estnh]

http://www.mousesavers.com/

This link is a good place to start!

 

[Crazy Kanga]

It should be warm enought to swim since the pools are heated. I think you will love these resorts. We have stayed at both. Very different, but each has it's own special qualities. Have fun!

 

[Scoootch]

I agree, mousesavers is the place to start with the discounts. As for tickets, sorry can't be much help there as I am a FLa.res. who has AP's for the last few yrs but as for the weather in Dec. and swimming...it can go either way. Weather during the winter months down here is sometimes in the 80's one day and can shift over night to the 40's. Ya just never know...pack for anything and you'll be fine. As an FYI, all pools at the resorts and the waterparks are heated so for those who can brave the cold (if it ends up being cold) the pools are usually open....they only close them if it's REALLY REALLY cold...like under 40 degrees outside.

As to your question of :

Should I book a standard room now and see about any upgrades when I get there? What are the chances.

If you want a particular room view such as " water view or Savanah view since you mention AKL " which would be a paid catagory and would be really disappointed if you couldn't get that upgrade at check-in, then you are better off booking it in the first place. They do offer discount codes on all different room types and views not just standard. If you wouldn't mind the standard room and would just be all the more happy if you lucked out to get an upgrade at check in than go for it...just make sure you wouldn't be totally dissappointed if it doesn't work out. Upgrades (particularly complimentary ones) are becoming fewer and farther between as so many people are constantly asking for them now a days. As for your chances, it's always 50/50 % but you may have a better chance in early Dec. if the hotel you stay at isn't at capacity.

HTH's! Good luck!

 

[ducklite]

Scoootch did a good job of responding, just wanted to add about teh swimming.

It's hit or miss. I've been there in early December in shorts and t-shirts, and I've also been in long sleeves and pants.

The pools are heated, but IMHO it's never so hot that you "need" to swim, more like you "want" to so it's sometimes pleasant enough to.

Anne