Help us decide where 13 should stay--VWL/WL or BCV/BC?

[disneydenisel]

Months ago, I started planning a trip for four families (13 people total) from CA to visit WDW to celebrate my Dad's 70th birthday. At first we were going to go in June, but most people on this board talked me out of it since temperatures would be high and crowds would be unbearable. I convinced the rest of my family to rethink the dates. So now we are aiming for the week of Thanksgiving (better weather, less crowded for a few days).

My family of 4 (with a 3-year-old and a 6-year-old) would like a DVC 2-bedroom villa. The rest of the group doesn't need a DVC. If we want to be together, should I book the VWL/WL or BCV/BC? The other kids are 15, 12 and 12. It will be my Dad's first trip there! Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

 

[jordanyosh]

You may be able to get away with a 1-bedroom villa for your family of 4.

Location is always a matter of personal preference. If the majority of your time will be spent at the MK, then the WL/VWL will probably be more convenient. However, a strong case can be made for BCV/BC. You can walk to Epcot. MGM is a 15 min walk or boat ride away. Stormalong Bay is basically a mini waterpark. You have a ton of restaurant choices within walking distance. If anyone in your family likes to watch sports, the ESPN Club is right across the lake on the Boardwalk. Again it depends on what your interests are.

We've gone with large groups before. Try and schedule some time together and some time apart. We generally only had one meal together a day. Definitely try and have at least a general idea of what will be happening every day. Nothing worse than having 13 people standing in front of Cinderella's Castle trying to decide where they're going to go next. It happened to us a few times-- even with a plan.

Good luck to you.