First trip....Feb 2012....Polynesian....Yay!

[Chicago Mo]

I'm here!!! Can't wait to read it all!!

 

[Lidian]

ROFL... Liddy is planning her family's menus based on what she'd like to order... I like that idea.

D~

Wait... you don't?

And...is there a problem with that? My hubby's a good boy, he does what I tell him. If I tell him to order the Somoan, he will order the Somoan and like it

Where's the "like" button? My DH is too scared to not order what I tell him to ...

 

[sjs314]

Wait... you don't?



Where's the "like" button? My DH is too scared to not order what I tell him to ...

My DH has been known to order something after I remind him he does not like something, case in point the time he ordered scallops, I ordered shrimp and we ended up switching plates after we were served.

 

[solana131]

I'm here!!! Can't wait to read it all!!

Hey Mo! Welcome to the club Glad to have you along.


So quick question for you all.....

I have been told many times to know the parks so I don't have to carry a map around. Well thats fine and dandy for all you lucky people who go every year, but for us first-timers...how can I possibly memorize all four parks? I think I have our AK day pretty well planned out in my head, but as for the other parks. Yikes! There is way too much.

So for the first park day we will hit AK. We probably wont get there too early because this is the morning my parents will be arriving. I figure they will be at the Poly around 9ish. Then we will head out to AK. My plan is to head right through and over to the safari to hopefully ride it before the crowds get too bad. But I don't want to hurry through the Oasis or anything on the way. Do I really need to run right over and get FPs for us? Or will it be okay to just take our time? The crowd calendar for that day (as of now, they keep changing it) is a 4.1 and the best park for the day. So will it be busy enough that we have to run for Safari? Don't care about EE or any other FP ride.

Day 2 is MK day. The FP rides we need here are Splash, Buzz, Jungle Cruise, Pooh, and Peter Pan. Touring Plans says a 3.1 for today and the best park. My plan for MK is to just head left and do the circle as we go. Really really really don't want to have to crisscross the parks all the time. I don't think we have any major rides on our agenda, so I think we should be able to just relax and take things as they come. Besides, we will have another MK day later in the week. So if there are too long lines, we can go back to them later. Good plan?

The only FP I think I need at Epcot is Soarin. Will try to run and get that one when we first get there. Epcot is rated a 3.8 and the park to avoid because it is EMH morning there that day. But I think we will be fine. A 3.8 seems like nothing.

 

[DMGeurts]

So quick question for you all.....

I have been told many times to know the parks so I don't have to carry a map around. Well thats fine and dandy for all you lucky people who go every year, but for us first-timers...how can I possibly memorize all four parks? I think I have our AK day pretty well planned out in my head, but as for the other parks. Yikes! There is way too much.

I don't think it's a matter of memorizing the parks, honestly. For me, it was more of a realization of HOW BIG the parks are, and how realistic it is to get from point A to point B. It's a matter of having a general plan (like you do) and knowing what's important for your family. We have been there a few times, and I still need to consult a map occasionally. But if you study the map enough, that you have a general plan of attack - I think you are going to be just fine. Also remember, there are distracting things every 4 steps - if your anything like me, I like to see and take pictures of everything. It always takes me waaaay longer to get anywhere, because I am always stopping... or I see a character, so we have to hop in line... Or I see a Dole Whip, so I have to hop in line.

So for the first park day we will hit AK. We probably wont get there too early because this is the morning my parents will be arriving. I figure they will be at the Poly around 9ish. Then we will head out to AK. My plan is to head right through and over to the safari to hopefully ride it before the crowds get too bad. But I don't want to hurry through the Oasis or anything on the way. Do I really need to run right over and get FPs for us? Or will it be okay to just take our time? The crowd calendar for that day (as of now, they keep changing it) is a 4.1 and the best park for the day. So will it be busy enough that we have to run for Safari? Don't care about EE or any other FP ride.

Well, for our 2008 trip, I just looked up the crowds, and we were at AK on a 1.8 crowd level day (I dunno how I am going to handle the crowds for our March trip )... I know for a fact that we didn't get our FP for the Safari until well after lunch - and we had about an hour wait for our FP time to come around. So, I am pretty sure you will be OK if you hit the safari as your first FP once you get into the parks.

Day 2 is MK day. The FP rides we need here are Splash, Buzz, Jungle Cruise, Pooh, and Peter Pan. Touring Plans says a 3.1 for today and the best park. My plan for MK is to just head left and do the circle as we go. Really really really don't want to have to crisscross the parks all the time. I don't think we have any major rides on our agenda, so I think we should be able to just relax and take things as they come. Besides, we will have another MK day later in the week. So if there are too long lines, we can go back to them later. Good plan?

If you are going to do that, I would hit JC first then Splash, after that make your way through Fantacy Land for Pooh and Peter, ending up at Buzz. Just remembering there is so much to see and do (and distract) along the way... so it will take you much longer than you think it will to accomplish all those things. Since it's your first time in MK - I can almost guarantee you will be gravitated to the Castle for pictures before you do anything - so you might want to make that an official stop (or, at least keep that in mind as a first stop) and then work your way from there. I know, the first time we were there, we had all these grandiose plans to "get 'er done", and we were just swept away by the magic, all of our (meager) plans went out the window, and we just enjoyed the time we had.

The only FP I think I need at Epcot is Soarin. Will try to run and get that one when we first get there. Epcot is rated a 3.8 and the park to avoid because it is EMH morning there that day. But I think we will be fine. A 3.8 seems like nothing.

We are planning to do this too... The last time we were in Epcot, Soarin' was still relatively new. That park day was rated an 8.1 on TP... We actually didn't even head to Soarin' first thing, we stood in line at TT (and got a FP for it), we didn't even get to Soarin' until after our dinner at GG that evening... And yes, we probably did wait in line too long - but it was the last "must do" on our list, and we were happy to just stand there and wait in line after walking all day. So, just remember that sometimes, waiting in line isn't the worst thing.

D~

 

[Chicago Mo]

The only reason we book it over to the safari is becuase most of the animals are awake and moving-playing around!!! We actually saw the lions AWAKE and MOVING!!! they are usually asleep..

I'm late to this party. IMO kids feed off their parents A LOT so if you treat the characters like it's the best thing since sliced bread he may follow along. If mommy likes it i do too kind of thing.. If your nervous FOR him he may feed off you??
regardless He is going to LOVE everything!!!
are you thinking of the Pirates league of Harmony Barber shop??

 

[solana131]

Just remembering there is so much to see and do (and distract) along the way... so it will take you much longer than you think it will to accomplish all those things. Since it's your first time in MK - I can almost guarantee you will be gravitated to the Castle for pictures before you do anything - so you might want to make that an official stop (or, at least keep that in mind as a first stop) and then work your way from there. I know, the first time we were there, we had all these grandiose plans to "get 'er done", and we were just swept away by the magic, all of our (meager) plans went out the window, and we just enjoyed the time we had.

Thats what I want to do D! I just want to take it easy and "mosey" our way around. We will have 2 full days and whatever extra time we have to go back and get things done at MK. I think this will be my son's favorite park by far, so i want to take time for it. DH will get really grumpy if I try to hurry them around and hop from ride to ride. I think he will have a better time if we just take time to smell the roses everywhere and soak up the magic. I just get nervous when I see all these super comando touring planner people with every minute planned out. I don't want to be like that, but I don't want to have all the rides we want to do be 45 min waits either. That will not make DH happy...he hates crowds.

I'm late to this party. IMO kids feed off their parents A LOT so if you treat the characters like it's the best thing since sliced bread he may follow along. If mommy likes it i do too kind of thing.. If your nervous FOR him he may feed off you??
regardless He is going to LOVE everything!!!
are you thinking of the Pirates league of Harmony Barber shop??

That is certainly true about him feeding off me. He has never been and he doesn't have a clue what to expect, but he is super excited because I am super excited. I make him sit and watch youtube with me for rides and fireworks. I just can't wait to see the magic in his eyes Wish my hubby would start feeding off me too....he is such a downer about this. He doesn't like to go anywhere, much less to a place full of rides and people. BUt he is going. Maybe he will just stay at the Poly all day long. Fine with me....I just want my little guy to have fun
I have thought about the barber shop, but don't want to make any appointments. I will see how busy it is when we are in the area. Pirates League doesn't look like something DS would enjoy right now, maybe next trip.

 

[Chicago Mo]

That is certainly true about him feeding off me. He has never been and he doesn't have a clue what to expect, but he is super excited because I am super excited. I make him sit and watch youtube with me for rides and fireworks. I just can't wait to see the magic in his eyes Wish my hubby would start feeding off me too....he is such a downer about this. He doesn't like to go anywhere, much less to a place full of rides and people. BUt he is going. Maybe he will just stay at the Poly all day long. Fine with me....I just want my little guy to have fun
I have thought about the barber shop, but don't want to make any appointments. I will see how busy it is when we are in the area. Pirates League doesn't look like something DS would enjoy right now, maybe next trip.

we didn't have an appointment for the adults but did have one for DD. They do a GREAT JOB. we had to wait about 20 minutes wasn't bad since the parade came threw.
as for the Pirates league. they are simply amazing with kids. My DS was also SO NERVOUS once he got into the chair i think i may have seen tears (last year). i was consoling but the CM took over like i have never seen someone do with the kids. and she made him feel SO MUCH as ease. and had him laughing.. Kinda pushed me aside with grace that i had no idea she did it until i watched the video! and thought damn she's good... So keep that in mind if you have qualms about the pirates league... This year the boys were all over it!

 

[solana131]

So, I have a dilemma. Originally my parents were only coming for a few nights. They bought a 6 day parkhopper no expiration when they took my brother's family a few years ago and they have 3 of those days left over. So they didn't want to spend more time there than that. But I think I have convinced them that they can still stay with us longer. First of all, we are doing DTD and resort hopping the 4th day, so no ticket needed. And the 5th day is a quick trip to HS then just relaxing at the Poly. I don't anticipate DH or DS being thrilled with HS, so I don't think it will take long. And while we are there, the parents can hang by the pool or do some shopping outside Disney as they will have their car. So I think they will stay more than the originally planned 3 nights. Which is great as this is the only time we will see them all winter (they live in Maine in the summer and Cape Coral, Fl for the winters).

My problem is.....I have 3 ADRs booked (Kona two mornings and Chef Mickeys) for just the 3 of us. Now, I'm reasonably sure the Kona mornings won't be a problem to add a couple to our party as it isn't a busy time of the year. But Chef Mickeys isn't going to be so easy. I checked the website and they still have openings for both Kona and CMs, although I would have to move our time slot at CM and might be a little close to our ME leaving time. But if M&D stay til the end, they can bring us to the airport. Anyway....do I make the Kona ressies for 5 in case they stay, or do I leave it at 3 and hope we can fit them in? I don't want to reserve 5 and show up with 3. What do you think?

 

[solana131]

I wanted to do a brief timeline for you, and me to see it all out there:

Sat Feb 4 Travel:
Breakfast: Home
Lunch: Airport
Dinner: Captain Cooks

Sun Feb 5 AK:
Breakfast: Capt Cooks
Lunch: Pizzafari
Dinner: Kona ADR at 5pm for 5

Mon Feb 6 MK:
Breakfast: Capt Cooks
Lunch: Pecos Bills
Dinner: Columbia Harbor/Cosmic Ray (depends where we are)

Tues Feb 7 EP:
Breakfast: Capt Cooks/Kona if not busy (no ADR)
Lunch: various treats around Epcot (school bread, etc)
Dinner: Garden Grill ADR at 5:15 for 5

Wed Feb 8 DTD:
Breakfast: POFQ - Sassaguola Floatworks
Lunch: Earl of Sandwich
Dinner: Whispering Canyon ADR at 5:15 for 5

Thurs Feb 9 MK2:
Breakfast: Kona ADR at 9 for 3
Lunch: Caseys/Plaza if not busy (no ADR)
Dinner: Contempo Cafe (in case we cancel Chef Mick)

Fri Feb 10 HS:
Breakfast: Kona ADR at 9 for 3
Lunch: ??? QuickServ HS ??? Help
Dinner: Beaches n Cream/Capt Cooks

Sat Feb 11 Travel:
Breakfast: Chef Mickey ADR at 9:10 for 3
Lunch: Capt Cooks
Dinner: Airport/Plane

I need help with the lunch at HS. Haven't heard great things about their QS spots. Anyone recommend anything?

 

[Chicago Mo]

To be safe i would make the the 5. if they don't come you can always tell them 2 weren't able to show up.

 

[Chicago Mo]

That's a lot of Kona!!! But yes the Tonga toast is totally worth it! I am hoping to TRY to make it on Christmas Morning Breakfast!!!
I am getting so excited for you and your trip!!!!! By the time you realize it.. IT WILL BE HERE IN NO TIME!!!

HS: one of the better tasting food was at Sci-fi. But there was a small sandwich place we had gone last year.. It had tons of pastries.. someone help on that name?

 

[FosterA]

All your choices look really good. We loved Kona and Cook's is great too!
NOt sure how to handle the reservation thing whether it be party of 3 or 5 but I'd almost think it would be better to do 5. They seem really good about accomodating people at Kona because our friends made a separate ressie than us but they were able to push us together and make it one large group right at check in time. We were worried we'd be on opposite ends of the restaurant but it always worked out. Kona never seemed that busy the whole time we were there for breakfasts. Dinners might be different though.

p.s. Not sure about QS at Studios. WE did sci-fi and really liked it though that's a TS place.

 

[solana131]

That's a lot of Kona!!! But yes the Tonga toast is totally worth it! I am hoping to TRY to make it on Christmas Morning Breakfast!!!
I am getting so excited for you and your trip!!!!! By the time you realize it.. IT WILL BE HERE IN NO TIME!!!

HS: one of the better tasting food was at Sci-fi. But there was a small sandwich place we had gone last year.. It had tons of pastries.. someone help on that name?

Is Starring Rolls the place you are thinking of? Thats what I am kinda planning. Though honestly not sure if we will even go to HS this trip. We will play it by ear and see how it goes.
And yes, I realize it is a lot of Kona and Cooks, but I'm so unsure of how the monrings/nights are gonna go with all of us crammed into one room. I didn't want to make ADRs somewhere else and not make it. I had an ADR one morning at Grand Floridian Cafe, but decided to cancel it. Why go anywhere else when our hotel has the best options?

All your choices look really good. We loved Kona and Cook's is great too!
NOt sure how to handle the reservation thing whether it be party of 3 or 5 but I'd almost think it would be better to do 5. They seem really good about accomodating people at Kona because our friends made a separate ressie than us but they were able to push us together and make it one large group right at check in time. We were worried we'd be on opposite ends of the restaurant but it always worked out. Kona never seemed that busy the whole time we were there for breakfasts. Dinners might be different though.

p.s. Not sure about QS at Studios. WE did sci-fi and really liked it though that's a TS place.

I know QS isn't very good at HS, but I really don't want to have a sitdown meal there. I'm not totally sure we will even go to HS this trip, so I don't want to commit to a big meal. If we can't find anything, we will just leave and walk up to the Boardwalk area. Beaches n Cream looks pretty good for lunch

 

[Chicago Mo]

Is Starring Rolls the place you are thinking of? Thats what I am kinda planning. Though honestly not sure if we will even go to HS this trip. We will play it by ear and see how it goes.
And yes, I realize it is a lot of Kona and Cooks, but I'm so unsure of how the monrings/nights are gonna go with all of us crammed into one room. I didn't want to make ADRs somewhere else and not make it. I had an ADR one morning at Grand Floridian Cafe, but decided to cancel it. Why go anywhere else when our hotel has the best options?

SING IT SISTER! Poly does have THE BEST!!! If i click my heels three times i hope it takes me there!!!
you have tons of choices too! Including the sushi bar!!! ok now im jealous

 

[Eventer98]

I just found your TR..sorry to be late!!!

So for the first park day we will hit AK. We probably wont get there too early because this is the morning my parents will be arriving. I figure they will be at the Poly around 9ish. Then we will head out to AK. My plan is to head right through and over to the safari to hopefully ride it before the crowds get too bad. But I don't want to hurry through the Oasis or anything on the way. Do I really need to run right over and get FPs for us? Or will it be okay to just take our time? The crowd calendar for that day (as of now, they keep changing it) is a 4.1 and the best park for the day. So will it be busy enough that we have to run for Safari? Don't care about EE or any other FP ride.

The only FP I think I need at Epcot is Soarin. Will try to run and get that one when we first get there. Epcot is rated a 3.8 and the park to avoid because it is EMH morning there that day. But I think we will be fine. A 3.8 seems like nothing.

PP's have answered this already but thought I would throw in my two cents...for AK I would get the FP to Safari (or ride) right away. My kids are 3, 2 and under 1. Because they love DinoLand we head right over there...they love Triceratop Spin and we can usually ride it a few times in a row before anyone else really comes. Then there is the BoneYard for them to play in. After that we take the Wildlife Express Train..not only do my kids love the train but there is a really cute petting zoo and characters waiting on the other end. After that we jump on safari, if we haven't already, have lunch and head back for naps! If I can sneak in a single rider ride on Everest I do that too. But we always do AK on an early morning hour too

My problem is.....I have 3 ADRs booked (Kona two mornings and Chef Mickeys) for just the 3 of us. Now, I'm reasonably sure the Kona mornings won't be a problem to add a couple to our party as it isn't a busy time of the year. But Chef Mickeys isn't going to be so easy. I checked the website and they still have openings for both Kona and CMs, although I would have to move our time slot at CM and might be a little close to our ME leaving time. But if M&D stay til the end, they can bring us to the airport. Anyway....do I make the Kona ressies for 5 in case they stay, or do I leave it at 3 and hope we can fit them in? I don't want to reserve 5 and show up with 3. What do you think?

When we went in may I had ADRs for 5 people and my sister consistently bailed on a few ADRS...it was NO issue at all to check in and say the party size was smaller. I would make the reservation for Kona for 5 and don't give it any extra thought. As for Chef Mickey's..with the new credit card hold policy I don't know if they would bill you $10ea for your parents if they didn't go. I also don't think you will be able to walk up and add them either since it's not like going from 3 to 4 people (same table size)

I wanted to do a brief timeline for you, and me to see it all out there:

Sat Feb 4 Travel:
Breakfast: Home
Lunch: Airport
Dinner: Captain Cooks

Sun Feb 5 AK:
Breakfast: Capt Cooks
Lunch: Pizzafari
Dinner: Kona ADR at 5pm for 5

Mon Feb 6 MK:
Breakfast: Capt Cooks
Lunch: Pecos Bills
Dinner: Columbia Harbor/Cosmic Ray (depends where we are)

Tues Feb 7 EP:
Breakfast: Capt Cooks/Kona if not busy (no ADR)
Lunch: various treats around Epcot (school bread, etc)
Dinner: Garden Grill ADR at 5:15 for 5

Wed Feb 8 DTD:
Breakfast: POFQ - Sassaguola Floatworks
Lunch: Earl of Sandwich
Dinner: Whispering Canyon ADR at 5:15 for 5

Thurs Feb 9 MK2:
Breakfast: Kona ADR at 9 for 3
Lunch: Caseys/Plaza if not busy (no ADR)
Dinner: Contempo Cafe (in case we cancel Chef Mick)

Fri Feb 10 HS:
Breakfast: Kona ADR at 9 for 3
Lunch: ??? QuickServ HS ??? Help
Dinner: Beaches n Cream/Capt Cooks

Sat Feb 11 Travel:
Breakfast: Chef Mickey ADR at 9:10 for 3
Lunch: Capt Cooks
Dinner: Airport/Plane

I need help with the lunch at HS. Haven't heard great things about their QS spots. Anyone recommend anything?

For lunch at HS I would try Toy Story Pizza Planet..fun for kids but the same food just about as Pizzafari. ABC Comm. is also really good. What about instead of Cooks so much you buy some items for the room? You could get some OJ, Milk, doughnuts, etc from the grocery part of the gift shop (I assume Poly has it but don't hold me to it) We eat in the room in the AMs b/c we don't want to waste park time in a rest. But we do usually go to Crystal Palace at 8am (on a 9am opening time) to get in the park extra early. Eating in your room might save you some money and you might not feel so rushed. I think that is my concern for your TS at PO that morning...what time is the ADR? It's my guess it will take you about an hour to get there.

Maybe you found this out by now but yes, you can check your stroller under the ME bus and take whatever you want inside with you. We usually tip $1 per item he has to lug back out for us. We loved ME!! We drive now though. Oh, and where in ME are you? My husband was stationed there for a bit in the Navy and my uncle is in Portland. We would LOVE to move there someday!!
Ok..just my two cents..can't wait to hear more about your trip

 

[solana131]

I just found your TR..sorry to be late!!!



PP's have answered this already but thought I would throw in my two cents...for AK I would get the FP to Safari (or ride) right away. My kids are 3, 2 and under 1. Because they love DinoLand we head right over there...they love Triceratop Spin and we can usually ride it a few times in a row before anyone else really comes. Then there is the BoneYard for them to play in. After that we take the Wildlife Express Train..not only do my kids love the train but there is a really cute petting zoo and characters waiting on the other end. After that we jump on safari, if we haven't already, have lunch and head back for naps! If I can sneak in a single rider ride on Everest I do that too. But we always do AK on an early morning hour too



When we went in may I had ADRs for 5 people and my sister consistently bailed on a few ADRS...it was NO issue at all to check in and say the party size was smaller. I would make the reservation for Kona for 5 and don't give it any extra thought. As for Chef Mickey's..with the new credit card hold policy I don't know if they would bill you $10ea for your parents if they didn't go. I also don't think you will be able to walk up and add them either since it's not like going from 3 to 4 people (same table size)



For lunch at HS I would try Toy Story Pizza Planet..fun for kids but the same food just about as Pizzafari. ABC Comm. is also really good. What about instead of Cooks so much you buy some items for the room? You could get some OJ, Milk, doughnuts, etc from the grocery part of the gift shop (I assume Poly has it but don't hold me to it) We eat in the room in the AMs b/c we don't want to waste park time in a rest. But we do usually go to Crystal Palace at 8am (on a 9am opening time) to get in the park extra early. Eating in your room might save you some money and you might not feel so rushed. I think that is my concern for your TS at PO that morning...what time is the ADR? It's my guess it will take you about an hour to get there.

Maybe you found this out by now but yes, you can check your stroller under the ME bus and take whatever you want inside with you. We usually tip $1 per item he has to lug back out for us. We loved ME!! We drive now though. Oh, and where in ME are you? My husband was stationed there for a bit in the Navy and my uncle is in Portland. We would LOVE to move there someday!!
Ok..just my two cents..can't wait to hear more about your trip

Hi there! Welcome You're not too late until the PTR is over In which case I hope to have the TR starting...

We wont be very early to AK that first day since we have to wait for my parents to get there. Or....I was thinking of asking them to just meet us at AK. Then we could eat quick and head over for opening and they could let us know when they get there. Then no one has to hurry. They are driving anyway...so whats the difference if they drive to AK or Poly first? Then when we leave the park that night they can drive over to Poly and get checked in. Oooh...good plan Suzi *pats self on back* we will stick with that one.

I think I have decided to keep the ADRs as is. I am seriously thinking about cancelling Chef Mickeys anyway because of price and craziness that DH won't like. We can always go to Contempo Cafe over there that morning so they can get the ambiance of the Contemporary and ride the monorail one last time. And so, if I cancel CM. The only other ADRs are 2 Kona ones. I have heard many times that Kona is rarely busy on off-times. So we should be fine to just walk up. And if worse comes to worst, 2 people can just eat at Capt Cooks while the other 3 eat at Kona. I know DH and Dad would rather eat something quick anyway. So problems solved

And I decided not to do lunch at HS that day. If we get hungry, we can get one of those incredible looking cupcakes from Starring Rolls to tide us over. Not planning on spending much time there anyway, so we should be able to wait til we get somewhere else for a meal.

I can't get stuff for the room! I had a hard enough time fitting in all the yummy stuff I want to eat there. A week is not time enough to eat my way around Disney. I have so many Capt Cook ones in there because I think their stuff sounds good. I also planned on hitting up the GF QS place too one morning on our way. And even though it is a pain to ride the monorail around twice....Contempo Cafe looks like it has some great breakfast stuff too. If we hit that on the second MK day, we can just walk to the MK after eating so we don't have to ride the monorail around again. So many choices...so little time

We are in southwestern Maine, about 45 mins north of Portland right on the ME/NH border. We both grew up here. DH was born and raised and never moved from the town we are currently living in (Cornish). I have moved a few times, but all have been within an hour of here. I went to college in VT, but other than that I am born and raised Maine too. Where was your hubby stationed?

Anyhoo....glad to have you along. The more the merrier is so true on DIS

 

[Lidian]

So quick question for you all.....

Quick? That's four whole paragraphs. (Sorry, I'm behind as always. )

I have been told many times to know the parks so I don't have to carry a map around.

Wait... who's telling you this??? The first thing I do when I walk into the park is pick up a map and a Times Guide. Sure, I typically know where MOST things are, and there's usually pretty good signs stating which way to head for which major land or attraction. But I still pull out the map every now and then.

This will be my fourth trip, and I have no issues calling myself a very seasoned veteran. Sure, it's good to understand the park layout, it's very helpful. That way you know where certain elements can be found. Can I name all the attractions in Adventureland off the top of my head? Well, maybe, but it will take me some time to sit and think and stare at you for awhile. But if you asked where select attractions where, I could tell you what land they were in. I feel that's all you need to know, is the basics. That can be learned easily ... because most of it makes sense.

When it comes to AK, I wander around aimlessly (or so it feels). Yeah, I know my way around NOW ... but that place is just designed poorly, when it comes to the paths and stuff. DHS is kind of odd, too. MK is probably the easiest park to understand how it's laid out. Sure, there's odds and ends that even the seasoned vets would have to stop and pull out a map to locate.

But while a good understanding is very helpful, I highly recommend telling even a vet to carry a map with them.

Well thats fine and dandy for all you lucky people who go every year, but for us first-timers...how can I possibly memorize all four parks? I think I have our AK day pretty well planned out in my head, but as for the other parks. Yikes! There is way too much.

I'd say there are even CMs who don't have all the parks memorized.

My biggest recommendation is knowing what you want to see and when the best time to see it is. Any big attraction should be FP'ed, seen during parades, or visited within the first hour of park opening. If you know what attractions you want to see (and what you want to skip), you can plan around those. I visit my "eh, if I miss it this year I won't cry" attractions while waiting on FPs. It sounds like you're on the PERFECT PATH to the PERFECT VACATION.

So for the first park day we will hit AK. We probably wont get there too early because this is the morning my parents will be arriving. I figure they will be at the Poly around 9ish. Then we will head out to AK. My plan is to head right through and over to the safari to hopefully ride it before the crowds get too bad. But I don't want to hurry through the Oasis or anything on the way. Do I really need to run right over and get FPs for us? Or will it be okay to just take our time? The crowd calendar for that day (as of now, they keep changing it) is a 4.1 and the best park for the day. So will it be busy enough that we have to run for Safari? Don't care about EE or any other FP ride.

I'd recommend taking your time, but there's a good chance the wait will be pretty high, and if so, grab FPs. While you're waiting for your FP time, you can wander around and check out the sights, or head over to Rafiki's and see if they have any animals for viewing (and check out the animals along the path). If the wait is manageable, grab FPs, ride, and then come back later. The Safari is a ride I recommend trying multiple times. You never know what you'll see. Even each driver can be different. I've even ridden before and gone a different route. I felt out of place. Out of the three years, it was our final trip in May that I found out there was lions on the Safari ride. We have seen the lionesses, but never a lion. We rode two or three times that day (same for previous trips -- at least twice). So it's always a new experience (just maybe not so much if you ride it back-to-back). We like to hit near arrival and then ride it before we leave.

Day 2 is MK day. The FP rides we need here are Splash, Buzz, Jungle Cruise, Pooh, and Peter Pan. Touring Plans says a 3.1 for today and the best park. My plan for MK is to just head left and do the circle as we go. Really really really don't want to have to crisscross the parks all the time. I don't think we have any major rides on our agenda, so I think we should be able to just relax and take things as they come. Besides, we will have another MK day later in the week. So if there are too long lines, we can go back to them later. Good plan?

That sounds good ... but I usually grab a FP first, then go do things, grab another FP, then do things, grab a FP ... I always criss-cross, but I try not to make it the furthest points at MK that I'm crossing to. If you grab a FP for, say, Jungle Cruise, then you'll have back-tracking. Just be flexible. You can still do minimal walking ... but you may decide that you want lunch at place Xyz, and then you can use up some FPs afterwards.

But yes, your plans sound good, I just recommend being flexible when it comes to back-tracking. And ... I've found that sometimes "later" doesn't come around. So be sure to keep an eye on that "later". He's sneaky.

The only FP I think I need at Epcot is Soarin. Will try to run and get that one when we first get there. Epcot is rated a 3.8 and the park to avoid because it is EMH morning there that day. But I think we will be fine. A 3.8 seems like nothing.

I have no qualms with a 3.8 at EP. I do recommend arriving early, grabbing your FP (riding if lines are still good - using your FP later).

Your plans sound good. And if you just know the basics, you'll be fine. That's all that is needed to know. Grab your maps, grab your Times Guides, and forget anyone who said to leave them behind. I think they're a bit ... . Just remember to make note of shows you want to see and when you want to see them. That's what I usually do first, plan out what time I want to see what show, so I can make sure it's around ADRs or lunch. And then I can be heading to that area in enough time that I don't feel like I'm running across the park.

 

[Lidian]

We wont be very early to AK that first day since we have to wait for my parents to get there. Or....I was thinking of asking them to just meet us at AK. Then we could eat quick and head over for opening and they could let us know when they get there. Then no one has to hurry. They are driving anyway...so whats the difference if they drive to AK or Poly first? Then when we leave the park that night they can drive over to Poly and get checked in. Oooh...good plan Suzi *pats self on back* we will stick with that one.

Keep in mind, if they drive to AK without checking in first, then they'll have to pay for parking if they aren't AP holders. It might be better for them to drive to the Poly, check-in, then hop a bus to AK. That way, they're not moving their car more than needed. But that's just my thoughts. If they have APs, then it doesn't matter!

But I do like the plan of you guys heading over to AK and then they can meet up with you there, later. That way, you can get an extra ride on KS, wander around, maybe see a street perfomer.

I think I have decided to keep the ADRs as is. I am seriously thinking about cancelling Chef Mickeys anyway because of price and craziness that DH won't like. We can always go to Contempo Cafe over there that morning so they can get the ambiance of the Contemporary and ride the monorail one last time. And so, if I cancel CM. The only other ADRs are 2 Kona ones. I have heard many times that Kona is rarely busy on off-times. So we should be fine to just walk up. And if worse comes to worst, 2 people can just eat at Capt Cooks while the other 3 eat at Kona. I know DH and Dad would rather eat something quick anyway. So problems solved

Here's my story: In 2009, we decided to go to WDW for the first time. Then mom said she wanted to go. Then her friend wanted to go. Then her son and his GF wanted to go. (My TA hated me by the time the trip rolled around.) None of this happened in the same time ... it happened over a 3 month span. I originally had to book ADRs for 5. Then call and book ADRs for 6. Then call and book ADRs for 8. I didn't get many of the 8 ones. So I kept my 6s, and booked 2s. It gave us a chance to split up. So if there's anything you desperately want, keep it. Or see if there's a table for 2 near the same time. You can then check-in for two ADRs and ask if you can be seated near each other (or at the same table). Worst case, you're on opposite ends of the restaurant, but you get the same experience -- just not together. Best case, you get a table for everyone. And if you think some people aren't up for it, then book another ADR for somewhere else. It sounds like you've totally got this under control.

And I decided not to do lunch at HS that day. If we get hungry, we can get one of those incredible looking cupcakes from Starring Rolls to tide us over. Not planning on spending much time there anyway, so we should be able to wait til we get somewhere else for a meal.

I can't get stuff for the room! I had a hard enough time fitting in all the yummy stuff I want to eat there. A week is not time enough to eat my way around Disney. I have so many Capt Cook ones in there because I think their stuff sounds good. I also planned on hitting up the GF QS place too one morning on our way. And even though it is a pain to ride the monorail around twice....Contempo Cafe looks like it has some great breakfast stuff too. If we hit that on the second MK day, we can just walk to the MK after eating so we don't have to ride the monorail around again. So many choices...so little time

We are in southwestern Maine, about 45 mins north of Portland right on the ME/NH border. We both grew up here. DH was born and raised and never moved from the town we are currently living in (Cornish). I have moved a few times, but all have been within an hour of here. I went to college in VT, but other than that I am born and raised Maine too. Where was your hubby stationed?

Anyhoo....glad to have you along. The more the merrier is so true on DIS

Your plans sound great! Very well thought-out. Can't wait to hear about them in practice, too!

 

[solana131]

Quick? That's four whole paragraphs.

Sorry, I have so much in my head and DH doesn't care at all about this trip, so I have to talk to someone

But if you asked where select attractions where, I could tell you what land they were in. I feel that's all you need to know, is the basics.

Thanks, that makes me feel better...much more doable in 44 days

It sounds like you're on the PERFECT PATH to the PERFECT VACATION.

Yikes! That's putting the pressure on me! I know it wont be perfect...just want it as stress free as it can be. Thats why I am stressing now...so when I get there I can let it all go out the window. The ME window

Keep in mind, if they drive to AK without checking in first, then they'll have to pay for parking if they aren't AP holders. It might be better for them to drive to the Poly, check-in, then hop a bus to AK. That way, they're not moving their car more than needed. But that's just my thoughts. If they have APs, then it doesn't matter!

Oh I hadn't thought about that. But I talked to Mom today and she said Dad is planning on leaving Cape Coral around 5am, so they should be there in plenty of time to have breakfast with us. (Only about a 3 hour drive.)

Your plans sound great! Very well thought-out. Can't wait to hear about them in practice, too!

Thanks Liddy, as usual your advice is invaluable!

Just to share a little story about what I did today:
I had 3 vacation days to use up before the end of the year, so my boss told me to take today and tomorrow and Tuesday (we get Monday anyway for Xmas)...so this morning my mom and I headed to the nearest Disney store to see if we could find some shirts etc for our trip. Well, we live in the middle of nowhere, so the closest Disney store was 2 1/2 hours away! Not that big of a deal...nice ride. Well, we drive this 2 1/2 hours and get to said Disney store to find NOTHING! They had a ton of girls princess clothes and lots of toys. But nothing for a little boy or adults. I mean nothing. The ONLY shirt in his size was a Toy Story dumb little screen print thing. He hates that movie. I am not that worried about Bradey's clothes because I can find a little Mickey shirt anywhere online. It is me that is the problem. I am not a plus size, but not a juniors either. I have a hard time finding shirts that fit me. Disney seems to run VERY small, so I knew I had to try things on. Well, besides the fact that the store didn't even have a dressing room, they didn't have any slothes that weren't juniors. The one sweatshirt they had for a woman was really really ugly. Like the rack was full because no one bought them. I was so deflated all day after that. To drive that far and come out empty handed was horrible! I guess I have to order online and hope I get one that fits. I think I will order a couple sizes and then send back the one that doesn't fit. I want that black zip up hoodie thing with a rhinestone Mickey head. Then I can just wear that with anything. And I found some nice embroidered iron-on patches that I can just put on tshirts I already have.

Oh and if D~ is still reading this.....I saw those pens that someone gave you. The Donald one that when you click it his body drops down. So incredibly fun! I honestly spent about 10 mins playing with those while my mom was trying to find something useable in that store. I liked the Goofy one best, but Donald was pretty fun too!

Anywho....sorry I ranted for a while there. Just a really long day with nothing to show for it, except the knowledge not to go to the Disney store in Mall of NH again Oh, and a great day shopping with my mommy...Guess I'm heading off to DisneyStore.com to order me some hoodies.