First Trip to DLP

[dvcscott6]

Ok, we have decided to go to Paris!! We have been going to WDW-Orlando for 10 years, so I know alot about WDW-Orlando, but I do not have a clue about DLP. We are planning on going between Christmas/New Years. I have Marriott points, so staying at Marriott's Village d'lle-de-France. Other than that, I am clueless. There are 6 of us, DW and 4 DS. It is our 20 year anniversary and my oldest son will graduate from High School next year. Any insights???

 

[tennisfan]

It is likely to be very busy over that period of time & probably very cold. Having said that an advatge to DLRP is that both parks are next to each other, so they are within walking distance.

If you have any specific questions need answering please ask, one of us is bound to know the answer

Also I would recommend you buying A Brits Guide to DLRP by Simon Veness. Its very useful, even if you are not British.

 

[Disneyparisfan]

Hi There.

I was at DLRP for New Year last Year. It is very cold. and Very busy, but with the advantage that everything is open. Be prepared for long queues and use a fastpass whenever possible and it is manageable. Personally I wouldnt do the park for bringing in the new year again, it was crowded to dangerous levels (I work at concerts etc so am used to crowds, but even I was uncomfortable with it, and ended up dumping our DD into a flowerbed for her own safety!) The better option would have been one of the hotels which put on shows etc.

The parks are much closer together than any in the USA, with the disney hotels easy walking distance. With the marriot you will need to use the shuttle bus service as its that little bit farther out. The parisiens have a somewhat different attitude to safe numbers on buses. Just be aware that you will have to jam in like a sardine if you wait till park shutting or try to be there for opening!

Its a nice resort though, no real surprises compared to wdw, except space mountain. Think Rockin rollercoaster rather than thunder mountain and you will be ok! Hope you have a great time.

 

[ap156]

Be aware that the Parks were "full" on the December w/e days in 2008 i.e. no admittnace unless you had dated tickets for that day.

Due to in all probability a promotion where children were admitted for 1Euro with a full paying adult....

If they do the same in 2009....

Rgds

Andy

 

[tinkerbell 766]

I agree with all the above!!
My advice would be - PLEASE do not compare it to WDW. It is much smaller and more intimate. Judge it on it's own merits (and there are many). IMHO the Chateau is the most beautiful of all the Disney Castles, there are some attractions which WDW does not have (Crush's Coaster, Cars, Animagique, Cinemagique, some of the stuff in Fantasyland etc) and I think it has it's own unique atmosphere. I would recommend the Wild West Show too. Go with your minds and hearts open and I'm sure you'll love it!!
Of course, there is the added advantage of the lovely city of Paris just a train ride away!!
I own DVC, like you, and make frequent trips to WDW (and will continue to do so for many years I hope), but as you can see from my tag, DLRP is my spiritual home and always will be!!
Hugs to you
Joanne

 

[Lisa_C]

I also was there for NYE with the family, youngest - four, was fast asleep in a pushchair come 12 o'clock.......the crowds were disgustingly aggressive, climbing over DD because they were too drunk to see her and at one stage sitting on her (which got a swift shove from me and a few choice french words!). It was cold (but I can do cold!) busy (but we coped) and the Castle is the most beautiful of them all with a DRAGON! DLP is unique in it's attention to detail and the cleanliness is next to none (well maybe not some of the restrooms). You will love the decorations too at Xmas and get the real feel from a picture postcard scene. The hotels are all near, each with a shuttle service if you want to use it, and as mentioned, Paris is easily accessable by the train link right at the entrances of the parks.

As someone who lived in Orlando I can say that I loved WDW with all my heart, but DLP just has that "new" feeling. And Space Mountain goes upside down and loops!!! Whoot!

Lisa.