Here's a Strategy....Relax!

[5Hfan]

My DH has been reading these threads over my shoulder every now and then. His take on some of the people is that they turn their WDW vacation into a manic episode. I told him that some of the people on here are "hyper-strategists" because they're afraid they're going to miss something on their trip. He's never been to Disney and that's kind of putting him off. I have promised him that I will not be like that. My goal is to make him fall in love with the magic that is Disney.

seems like Disney wants people to be hyper strategists. Know where and when you want to eat 180 days out? Know what rides you want in which park at what time 60 days out? Spend the whole time in the parks in line at kiosks or glued to your smart phone trying to change your well intentioned plans?

Not afraid we are going to "miss something", just want to know we are getting some value for a very $$$ vacation.

 

[RayRay13]

So funny! Watching the podcast from 1/21/14 and it pretty much sums up what I intended to say. http://youtu.be/417KeHGBScQ

 

[goofyintoronto]

I would hate to go on a family vacation without my husband so that would not be Magical. There is also nothing Magical about a Disney value resort IMHO. I would never hide the cost from my husband so I guess your style is not magical for everyone.

So nice for you to share your opinions on these boards without sounding judgemental. Shame on the OP for travelling without her husband and "hiding" money from him (even thou thats not the impression I got from the original post). Shame on anyone for leaving a spouse behind. Everyone should travel together as a family, even if your spouse doesnt enjoy it and will be miserable the whole time, WHO CARES! You WILL travel as a family, miserable or not. Am I right??? While im at it, youre also implying that youre doomed if you cant afford at least a moderate resort. If you stay at a value you'll have the worst time because value resorts are hideous. Honestly Ofinn, the comments you just made are neither helpful to anyone or polite. You basically insulted the OP's lifestyle and choices, and for what reason? You might want to think things thru before you post such nonesense.

OP, as you can already tell, my style is very much like yours. I put down a $200 deposit, pay little by little here and there, and we stay at a value resort most of the time. Pop is our fave (my DS13 & I). Its definitely full of magic, each and every trip. This past trip I had the best room location, it was like a whole new resort. We were in the 60's (playdough building), corner room facing the lake right by the bridge that connects to AoA. What a gorgeous view!!! A couple of times I walked over to the bridge and saw tons of huge turtles swimming about. They rose to the surface because one of the guests were feeding it goldfish crackers and bread. So neat to see. I walked over to AoA a few times. Love their food court and gift shop!

I think anyone going to disney has just be realistic with their expectations and just remember that you CANNOT see everything and do everything in one trip. There's just no way.

 

[RayRay13]

So nice for you to share your opinions on these boards without sounding judgemental. Shame on the OP for travelling without her husband and "hiding" money from him (even thou thats not the impression I got from the original post). Shame on anyone for leaving a spouse behind. Everyone should travel together as a family, even if your spouse doesnt enjoy it and will be miserable the whole time, WHO CARES! You WILL travel as a family, miserable or not. Am I right??? While im at it, youre also implying that youre doomed if you cant afford at least a moderate resort. If you stay at a value you'll have the worst time because value resorts are hideous. Honestly Ofinn, the comments you just made are neither helpful to anyone or polite. You basically insulted the OP's lifestyle and choices, and for what reason? You might want to think things thru before you post such nonesense. OP, as you can already tell, my style is very much like yours. I put down a $200 deposit, pay little by little here and there, and we stay at a value resort most of the time. Pop is our fave (my DS13 & I). Its definitely full of magic, each and every trip. This past trip I had the best room location, it was like a whole new resort. We were in the 60's (playdough building), corner room facing the lake right by the bridge that connects to AoA. What a gorgeous view!!! A couple of times I walked over to the bridge and saw tons of huge turtles swimming about. They rose to the surface because one of the guests were feeding it goldfish crackers and bread. So neat to see. I walked over to AoA a few times. Love their food court and gift shop! I think anyone going to disney has just be realistic with their expectations and just remember that you CANNOT see everything and do everything in one trip. There's just no way.

The kids and I are headed to Pop for the 1st time in May. So excited!!

 

[goofyintoronto]

The kids and I are headed to Pop for the 1st time in May. So excited!!

I love that resort! Did you book a preferred room or standard? Preferred is definitely nice and convenient. But if you have a standard room, ask for the location that I just mentioned (a room facing the lake, as close to the bridge as possible, ground floor of course). its the best location, and the best part is its a stanard room! No extra fee! It was like a different resort. We were able to see the fireworks from there too. Such a lovely time we had. Have fun!

 

[RayRay13]

I love that resort! Did you book a preferred room or standard? Preferred is definitely nice and convenient. But if you have a standard room, ask for the location that I just mentioned (a room facing the lake, as close to the bridge as possible, ground floor of course). its the best location, and the best part is its a stanard room! No extra fee! It was like a different resort. We were able to see the fireworks from there too. Such a lovely time we had. Have fun!

I actually got the preferred pool view because I love being closer to the transportation and my daughter (12th bday trip) is old enough to head out to the pool on her own and I can still keep an eye on her. I am excited to see the fireworks from there but we are night owls so we are usually in the parks for that.

 

[Planogirl]

So now people are arguing about whether WDW is relaxing or not? Isn't that a matter of personal opinion? I find waiting in lines stressful so my goal is to minimize those waits. Maybe others aren't bothered by lines.

I'm glad that what the OP does works so well for her. She has found a formula that suits her needs and really that's all that most of us want. That formula will differ for each person and constantly arguing about what people should want or telling people not to go isn't really solving anything IMO.

 

[goofyintoronto]

I actually got the preferred pool view because I love being closer to the transportation and my daughter (12th bday trip) is old enough to head out to the pool on her own and I can still keep an eye on her. I am excited to see the fireworks from there but we are night owls so we are usually in the parks for that.

Hopefully they will put you right in front of the hippy dippy pool, and not the bowling pin pool. Its more fun at the hippy dippy pool. The entertainment staff are great!! Even better than at some of the moderate resorts ive stayed at. You guys will love it!

 

[amberpi]

I don't understand this...

If it's not relaxing (or at least, invigorating and exciting), then why go? What does proximity have to do with anything?

For me, planning a Disney vacation is VERY relaxing. I just book my flight, pick my resort, pick the park of the day using EasyWDW, choose my FP+ and perhaps add in a dining reservation. Then all I need to do is show up!

I don't have to worry about getting from the airport to my resort. I don't have to worry about anything my whole trip, other than being at the right park on the right day. And if I miss a FP+, no big deal.

Now, in a couple of weeks, I'll be going to London with my daughter. I have to take a bus to another city, then get on a plane to Amsterdam, and another plane to London. Then I need to navigate the subway system to get from Heathrow to our hotel, which involves changing subway lines once. Before we leave home, I need to organize our week's activities, including buying tickets and arranging to meet a friend on a particular day. Our hotel room is smaller than you can possibly imagine, if all you've experienced is the spacious luxury of a Disney Value resort.

Compared to a Disney vacation, visiting London is INCREDIBLY complicated. And with the five hour time difference, it's going to be exhausting, too.

I have to learn about tipping customs, and subway payment options, and where to find food, and how to get out to the "Harry Potter Studio Tour" on time, and how the money works, and to be careful crossing the street, because the cars are coming from the opposite direction you'd expect, and on the Street View, I don't think I understand their traffic at all. There's wiggly lines painted on the road, everywhere!

I've never printed so many maps in my life.

Give me a nice, simple, relaxing Disney vacation any day!

I've been to London at least 12 times. Spring for a cab to/from the airport. The tube is brilliant, but it encompasses a LOT of stairs which I found really difficult with luggage. Otherwise, the tube is great!

Just a thought!

 

[goofyintoronto]

So now people are arguing about whether WDW is relaxing or not? Isn't that a matter of personal opinion? I find waiting in lines stressful so my goal is to minimize those waits. Maybe others aren't bothered by lines.

I'm glad that what the OP does works so well for her. She has found a formula that suits her needs and really that's all that most of us want. That formula will differ for each person and constantly arguing about what people should want or telling people not to go isn't really solving anything IMO.

I totally agree! Its a matter of opinion. My disney touring lifestyle might not be relaxing for someone else, and vice versa. Different strokes right. Everyone needs to do whatever suits their family and lifestyle. Whatever that may be.

 

[Pixiedustaway]

Here, here!!! Couldnt agree more. In the immoral words of Tim Gunn, "make it work"

 

[ConvenientTruth]

So now people are arguing about whether WDW is relaxing or not? Isn't that a matter of personal opinion? I find waiting in lines stressful so my goal is to minimize those waits. Maybe others aren't bothered by lines.

I'm glad that what the OP does works so well for her. She has found a formula that suits her needs and really that's all that most of us want. That formula will differ for each person and constantly arguing about what people should want or telling people not to go isn't really solving anything IMO.

That is what I said in my first post in this thread...

Disney is different for everyone and you can do your vacation...

 

[Planogirl]

That is what I said in my first post in this thread...

Disney is different for everyone and you can do your vacation...

I didn't call you out specifically. (Is that you Al? ) I see others trying to once again tell others what to do though. That's nice in principle but will only lead to more squabbling. I might be wrong but I don't think that the OP had that in mind.

 

[RayRay13]

I didn't call you out specifically. (Is that you Al? ) I see others trying to once again tell others what to do though. That's nice in principle but will only lead to more squabbling. I might be wrong but I don't think that the OP had that in mind.

You are correct! My strategy is keeping my attitude in check so my kids don't need a therapist to recover from Disney, lol

 

[fairyprincess88]

I don't understand this...

If it's not relaxing (or at least, invigorating and exciting), then why go? What does proximity have to do with anything?

For me, planning a Disney vacation is VERY relaxing. I just book my flight, pick my resort, pick the park of the day using EasyWDW, choose my FP+ and perhaps add in a dining reservation. Then all I need to do is show up!

I don't have to worry about getting from the airport to my resort. I don't have to worry about anything my whole trip, other than being at the right park on the right day. And if I miss a FP+, no big deal.

Now, in a couple of weeks, I'll be going to London with my daughter. I have to take a bus to another city, then get on a plane to Amsterdam, and another plane to London. Then I need to navigate the subway system to get from Heathrow to our hotel, which involves changing subway lines once. Before we leave home, I need to organize our week's activities, including buying tickets and arranging to meet a friend on a particular day. Our hotel room is smaller than you can possibly imagine, if all you've experienced is the spacious luxury of a Disney Value resort.

Compared to a Disney vacation, visiting London is INCREDIBLY complicated. And with the five hour time difference, it's going to be exhausting, too.

I have to learn about tipping customs, and subway payment options, and where to find food, and how to get out to the "Harry Potter Studio Tour" on time, and how the money works, and to be careful crossing the street, because the cars are coming from the opposite direction you'd expect, and on the Street View, I don't think I understand their traffic at all. There's wiggly lines painted on the road, everywhere!

I've never printed so many maps in my life.

Give me a nice, simple, relaxing Disney vacation any day!

If you need any London help, send me a PM. I grew up there but have lived on this side of pond for many years so I can try help you navigate the differences such as money, underground(subway) payment and I have been to the Potter tour so I can give you advice there as well.

I've read enough of your tips on Disney ect on here, so turn about is fair play so to speak.

 

[magicbob]

Yeah.

I hope I never ever see another stressed out "FP runner" bolting through the park, bumping into people and throwing up his hands in frustration because someone with a stroller isn't moving fast enough to suit him. Is that guy really having fun? Or is he just "winning?"

To be fair, lots of FP "runners" didn't actually run (or even "bolt" through the park). I'm sure some did, but let's not make sweeping generalizations.

P.S. Since when is winning not fun?

 

[Disneylover99]

To be fair, lots of FP "runners" didn't actually run (or even "bolt" through the park). I'm sure some did, but let's not make sweeping generalizations.

P.S. Since when is winning not fun?

Yes, winning is fun!

And I'm going to miss being a FP "runner". We don't go to Disney to relax. The magic for us is touring until you drop. If I want to relax I'll go to an all-inclusive on an island.

 

[*disgal*]

Hahaha.....I can appreciate the theory but when I crawl into bed after being in the parks all day and my feet are throbbing, I don't say to myself, "I'm so glad I got to relax today"... But I get what you are saying.

Me and my many friends who have made multiple trips to WDW always say, if we want to totally relax, we cruise or go to the beach. lol And actually, the last few years we've gone to Orlando and have only done 1 or 2 days at the parks HAVE been pretty relaxing. Just not the park days.

And why do Disney if you can't do it relaxed? CAUSE IT'S STINKIN' FUN, THAT'S WHY!! hahaha

Oh, and my DH is a fp "runner" (or at least before the rollout of the new fp system) and he never actually ran or ran over anyone. Sorry if having a fp "runner" makes people stressed.....we just want to ride rides, man.....WE'RE AT DISNEY!!

 

[RayRay13]

Hahaha.....I can appreciate the theory but when I crawl into bed after being in the parks all day and my feet are throbbing, I don't say to myself, "I'm so glad I got to relax today"... But I get what you are saying. Me and my many friends who have made multiple trips to WDW always say, if we want to totally relax, we cruise or go to the beach. lol And actually, the last few years we've gone to Orlando and have only done 1 or 2 days at the parks HAVE been pretty relaxing. Just not the park days. And why do Disney if you can't do it relaxed? CAUSE IT'S STINKIN' FUN, THAT'S WHY!! hahaha Oh, and my DH is a fp "runner" (or at least before the rollout of the new fp system) and he never actually ran or ran over anyone. Sorry if having a fp "runner" makes people stressed.....we just want to ride rides, man.....WE'RE AT DISNEY!!

Yup. I agree that while my attitude is relaxed, it isn't relaxing (unless that's your thing). We spend all of our time in the parks but I just don't let things get to me which is a vacation from myself, lol

 

[danceteachermom]

Thanks for sharing your approach OP. I do not get why people get so snarky. I love to hear how different families make their Disney vacations work for them.

We are blessed in that the last several years we have been able to take an annual trip. That fact alone helps us relax as we know if we do not get to do something, we can try again next year.

I love Disney but I hate crowds. Lines do not bother me as much as crowded walkways, seating, etc. Yet we can only go when the park is busy. So we have found out how to make it work.

We get to the park at rope drop and do as much as we can before lunch. Have lunch and then do a low wait attraction or show and then leave. We get back to our resort most days by 2 PM. Some people would hate this strategy and/or worry about not getting their monies worth. But for us it works. The down time at our resort is a huge part of our vacation. enjoying the Florida sun by the pool, taking a nap, getting a spa treatment, taking a walk, riding a bike. This approach has made Disney a repeat destination for us because it makes everyone happy and no one comes home needing a rest from the vacation. But I know many people who thrive on the go-go-go.

It sure would save us a lot of money if we stayed offsite. But we like staying at Disney, not renting a car, and enjoying the perk of EMH.

I have not had a trip with FP+ yet. I am interested to see how we will like it. We probably only used 2-3 per day in the old system so I think we will be fine. We plan to still ride our favorites at RD and then use the FP+ for a second ride or to see something we may have skipped before.