First Timer - Where to Stay?

[daisygirl902]

I'm going to DL for the first time in May for a very short (2 day) trip. I am debating between staying at the Howard johnson or at Paradise Pier. Has anyone been to both that can give me some advice? I've been to WDW many many times, and have always stayed on property - just not sure whether or not it's worth it at DL.

 

[darph nader]

Hojos would be 'my' first choose. Closer and less expensive. I'm frugal, (ok,cheap). We stay across the street. Just closer.

 

[DisneyMomma81]

Definitely HoJo's, this past Dec. our 1st two nites were at HoJo our last nite was at PP ~ not only was HoJo a 1/3 of the price, our room was better, the walk was better ~ the only great thing about PP was the fact that we got a MM with our stay, we're AP holders so no MM's for us unless we stay on site.

 

[daisygirl902]

Awesome - thanks for the advice - this made my decision, and now I can spend more money on a nice dinner instead of a room that's not worth it Thanks!

 

[disney-super-mom]

I've stayed at both and really like both!

However, the HOJO isn't actually closer. I would say the walking distance to the front gates of Disneyland is about the same. (Although the walk to/from the Paradise Pier Hotel is a little more enjoyable since you walk through the Grand Californian Hotel and Downtown Disney, which is prettier and more scenic.)

If you can get the Entertainment Rate for your dates at the HOJO, then the HOJO is the way to go!

 

[daisygirl902]

What is the Entertainment Rate?

 

[Hound 109]

I'm going to DL for the first time in May for a very short (2 day) trip. I am debating between staying at the Howard johnson or at Paradise Pier. Has anyone been to both that can give me some advice? I've been to WDW many many times, and have always stayed on property - just not sure whether or not it's worth it at DL.

What day's of the week are you staying (& which days of the week will you be touring the two parks)?

What rates have you been quoted? (maybe there's a deal in early to mid May)

For just two nights it MAY be worth it to stay on-site at the Pier.

 

[Peace.love.mickey]

I also like the Fairfield Marriott...closer then HOJO..NEVER had a issue!

 

[disney-super-mom]

The Entertainment Book rate is a special discount you can get when you buy an Entertainment Book (you can buy one for your area, you don't need to buy a book for Anaheim). You don't really need the book to receive the discount when you check in.....all you need is the little plastic card that comes with the book.
http://halifax.entertainment.com/discount/browse.shtml

If you don't want to buy the book, you could always buy one of the plastic cards on Ebay. But hey, if you could use some of the other coupons in the book for your area, you might as well get the book.

The Entertainment rate is 50% off their regular rates, and it's only offered on certain dates. According to their site, it's offered for May 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 25th, 26th, 27th, & 28th.

It would be:
$59 + tax for a standard room with 1 king or 2 double beds.
$69 + tax for a deluxe room with 2 queen beds.
$79 + tax for a premium Disney view room with 2 queen beds.

It's best to call their in-house reservation number to book it. Ask to speak with Lorealle or Jennifer (and let them know you're a DisBoard member too). The in-house reservation number is 714-776-6120.

Hope the helps.

 

[daisygirl902]

Oh! Thanks for the info that's a much better deal than I thought I'd get! I am going on May 4, 5, and checking out the 6th...I'll look into it

 

[daisygirl902]

Thanks for the great advice - ordered my entertainment book AND booked at the fantastic rate of $59 per night for my stay - I love Disboards