First timer...some questions?

[Madhattermad]

All,

Thanks for the wonderful insight and tips, I'm definitely thinking a spreadsheet will be essential for planning!

I think after some consideration the Animal Kingdom Hotel is best, after all it's a long way to travel and a lot of money, so might as well make it a dream trip and go for the hotel with more services, also it's the one I've always wanted to go too.

On dining plan, I like the idea of planning costs upfront, so I think this is a good option. Again, as it will be a one-off special trip, it would be good to have the freedom to explore some of the higher end restaurants!

I continue to plan but thanks again, it's so great having an amazing bank of knowledge from across the miles right here on my computer!

 

[fairyjess]

There really is a lot of information, isn't there? Just wait until you get to the 'extra magic'.

I think your choices are great. (But you do recall that there is no direct access to any park from AKL, correct?) And one of the best restaurants is Boma, which is inside AKL. Lots of people don't get there because it is out of the way, but it will be right at your hotel, so I would make sure to make at least one dining reservation there!

One more recommendation - WDW prep. She has a lot of throrough and easily understandable posts that distill down the overwhelming amount of information available (here and elsewhere) and can make your choices easier.