Just booked CS...how did I do/can I do better?

[d4est]

This is our first trip as a family to the World, 2 adults, 1 child, 8yrs. Here's what I've got:

Air-
Syr to MCO Jetblue.....$566.40

MYW package with 6 day hoppers and dining....$1935 (AAA discount)

I very (VERY) nearly made my "hoped for budget"- of $2500 total, and the great part is with the package I don't have to worry about the food budget...and hubby is a steak & lobster kind of guy.

I am very excited! Does this seem like a pretty good deal?

 

[Buzz2001]

We love CSR!! Check out my website below for pics, links and info

 

[jimmiej]

Sounds like you're planning well. CS is one of my fave resorts. It's beautiful! And what a pool!

 

[yellowfish78]

January is Disney Month with AAA. If your final payment is not due until sometime in January, your package price may drop or you may get added benefits. (I couldn't tell when in Feb you were going...) Last year it was $25 Disney dollars. So if you can wait to make final in January, ask them to check the Disney Month discount first. (Once packages are paid in full and your within 45 days until trip departure date, you can't make a change to it without any change fees UNLESS the price is more.)
I hope this helps!

 

[d4est]

Well, silly me I forgot dates....we are going Feb 1-7. I guess that makes our final payment sometime in Dec., so we will miss the boat on any January freebees.

I am a little nervous about using the AAA lady...although very nice, she doesn't seem very informed about Disney. And, her first quote was the same as I got by going to disney's site for a rate. When I pointed that out she says "oh, I forgot we just got a new web address to use." Then she called back with the better quote. I just hope she knows what she's doing and all works out ok.

We are really excited about this trip. DS is really excited about the pool.

Buzz2001, going to check out your website right now. Thanks for the link!

 

[d4est]

Wow...what a site, Buzz! So many pictures.

Okay, so from the pics I am sure I don't want the Ranchos (don't care for the rocks). I could be happy with the Cabanas or the Casitas. I would like a nice midway pt between the Dig Site and the food! Any suggestions on what/how to request such a location?
TIA!

 

[Buzz2001]

Don't give up on the ranchos just yet. 6b or 7b are not bad options. They are the 2 buildings closest to the cabanas and are good options.

Cabana 9b is close to bus stop 1 and the main building with a short walk to the Dig Site over the wooden bridge. Most preferred location.

Cabana 8a is close to the Dig Site and bus stop 4 with a short walk to the main building. Some rooms within steps of the Dig Site.

Cabana 8b and 9a are inbetween the 2 above. cabana 9a has a quiet pool. cabana 9a also has smoking optional rooms so make sure you are clear as to what you will accept.

Cabana rooms are mostly waterview rooms or non parking lot views.

Rancho 7b has a quiet pool, is close to the Dig Site and bus stop 4 with a bit longer walk to the main building. 7b is behind cabana 8a. rancho 6b is also fairly close to the main pool area.

Casita 4 is close to the gym, spa and has quiet pool. The casitas have great fountains and courtyards to explore. Casita 5 is close to the Dig Site with a good walk to the main building. The lower the casita number the closer towards the main building but most of them have a good walk to either the pool or main building. The new internal shuttle service helps eliminate the walking.

 

[momof2inPA]

If you could get an upgrade to a water view, it would be well worth it. Hey, it doesn't hurt to ask.

 

[d4est]

Thanks for the further info. I really like the style of the Casitas the best, with Cabanas a second. I would live with the Ranchos, but really don't care for the landscaping.

Also, I didn't know there was a shuttle. Cool.

Upgrades? So what do you do, just ask at check-in? Is there a charge or would it be complimentary if available?

Also, we will be celebrating our anniversary. Anything special to do? Should I mention it at check-in?

TIA