Jan 6-11, 2008. Need to book now due to marathon?

[Momof2J's]

Just would like some opinions on booking our trip.

The time of year we go should be slow, however, we're going 1/6-1/11 & the marathon is 1/10-1/13. Are we going to have problems booking our entire stay since people will be coming in for the marathon? I really wanted to just wait and book package all at once, but do you think I should book room only for now then try to change to package w/dining later??

We're thinking of the family suites at ASMu or a preferred room as ASMo.

Thanks

 

[jwfla422]

It's quite possible as it becomes more popular every year. We were there during the marathon this past Jan. and it was a madhouse, maybe not as bad as between Xmas and New Yrs' but I'd never go back during the marathon again unless I was running in it.

Resorts will definitely sell out. If you can only go this time then you should book soon and watch for discounts later as you usually can get a refund on the difference depending on who with or how you make the reservation.

 

[Momof2J's]

Thanks for the info! We are leaving early morning of the 11th. Do you think crowds will be bad all week or just starting to get heavier on the day we leave? Unfortunately, we can't change the dates.

 

[chasgoose]

It's quite possible as it becomes more popular every year. We were there during the marathon this past Jan. and it was a madhouse, maybe not as bad as between Xmas and New Yrs' but I'd never go back during the marathon again unless I was running in it.

Resorts will definitely sell out. If you can only go this time then you should book soon and watch for discounts later as you usually can get a refund on the difference depending on who with or how you make the reservation.

Really? I had read that it really wasn't too crazy until right after the marathon. The resorts fill up but the parks stay relatively unaffected. Right now, we are planning to go from Jan 7-12 because that is the only time we could go. We were hoping that it wouldn't be too bad, but we never seem to be able to schedule a Disney trip when it isn't crowded. I would book my resort now, but I can't decide between Poly LVC or GF RPC and I don't really want to book and then call back later and book again. Stupid marathon.

 

[Momof2J's]

Anyone else been there right before the marathon?

 

[karebear1]

I would definetly book now. My experience is that the resorts will be crowded, but the parks shouldn't be. When I did the half marathon a few years ago, the parks were all but empty. However, that was when they did the marathon and half marathon together in the same day. They now have the half and full marathon on seperate days.