Help with different choices for lodging

[mouselovr]

My extended family is looking at the possiblity of going to WDW for my parents 40th in DEC. I am looking to make it as low cost as possible, naturally. I have figures at 3 rooms on for each family at POR at $5800 for 6 night/7days with base tickets. I am hoping and wishing for free dining again in that time frame which , IMO would make it a no brainer to stay on site, however if that does not happen i am looking at 3 rooms in a hotel or a housse rental for 6-7 nights and base tickets via undercover tourists.com. WHAT WOULD YOU DO?? Book onsite or go offsite? I know we will eat a couple of meals at least onsite and you are looking at around $350.00 per meal for what would be considered 10 adults and 1 child. plus by the time you add in parking for 2 vehicles a day what is your best?

 

[dougsmom98]

We stayed here this past February and we are booked here again for this coming February.
http://www.vrbo.com/46990
We paid $875 and that was inclusive of all taxes, fees and pool heat. It is a little further out in Davenport (Exit 58 off I-4 and Disney is Exit 62 - 20 minutes of travel time tops) but with the money we are saving, we can afford to do more things at Disney.
If you want to stay closer, rent a house in Kissimmee. You are likely going to spend more for a 6 bedroom home, but with a big group you still can't beat the price. Here are a couple of examples:
http://www.vrbo.com/188203
http://www.vrbo.com/70575
http://www.vrbo.com/105403

 

[Upatnoon]

A house is a great option, but if you want more of a resort, check out Wyndham Bonnet Creek.

It's located in Disney next door to the Caribbean Beach resort, has 2,3 and 4 bedroom units. You could get a pair of 2 bedrooms for around $1400 total. They all have full kitchens.

The resort has free bus shuttle service to the parks, which could cut down on car use and make it easier for a few people in your group to return to the resort if they want.

You can read all about this resort in the "we love bonnet creek" thread.