Help for a born again Disney veteran

[Olivia'sMom]

It's been a while since I've been to Disney. Between DD now in her teens, to a divorce, transfer with my job, DD wanting to see Wizardly World of HArry Potter. I just haven't made it as often as much as I would like lately. We used to be AP holders. Probably have been over 30 times in my life to include a DC & DL. It's been since 2013 since we have done a full week. We have done a day at EPCOT twice since '13. Anyway...I know a lot has changed, magicbands, resort guests paying to park at hotel, new lands, new restaurants, etc. We are beginning to plan our return to the World & hoping y'all can fill me in on some of the changes, give me some tips & opinions.

TIA

 

[Ladyandthepuppies]

Yay, congrats on your return trip! I am not sure what WDW was like when you were going frequently but the biggest change for me is the amount of planning that you can do now. I would download the My Disney Experience app now and start familiarizing yourself with it. D23 announced that Genie will be coming in 2020, so depending on when your trip is, you may get to use it!

 

[Bjkandma]

Make your hotel reservations as soon as you know your dates and what type of accommodations you would like. Then check back often for possible special offers during your stay. If you find one, you'll need to call and see if it can be applied to your stay. (Some offers are valid certain days and\or resorts).

Look over menus for possible dining reservations. Any of your "must haves" can be booked 180 days + 10, if staying onsite.

Look into the fast pass information. You are entitled to select 3 per day (one park) and can add more per day. This can be done 60 days out from your stay (onsite reservation and a few ,other hotels.

Decide on length of stay, whether you want one park per day or park hop to other parks. Decide how many days you want to spend in parks. Decide if you would want dining plan or not.

there is a lot of "pre-planning" that can be done. But, there are also a lot of people who "wing it" and some who plan a last minute trip with success. It just depends on which type of person you are.