My strategy = no strategy

[Selket]

I think it is good, as someone said, to have a "partial plan" - know generally what you want to do each day and what times and go from there. It also helps to have an idea of what you want to see at each park. I highly recommend the Tour Guide Mike website (which you have to pay for). His touring plans and tips are excellent for those who don't want to be "marched" around the parks. I have 2 little kids and it is impossible to keep to a schedule of "go here and then here and here" all by 9 a.m.! LOL! I did a little of that with my oldest when we did the EE at the MK for Fantasyland rides that were must-sees for him. The rest of the time we used Mike's tips to hit the least crowded parks and attractions. We also had a lot of rain on our trip and had to modify plans somewhat but his tips worked great for us. I felt like I had an overall idea of what was best to do and when. This was extra important because our youngest has mobility issues and was using stroller as a wheelchair so we wanted to avoid lines and waits as much as possible. TGM's site is http://www.tourguidemike.com (I have no affiliation other than a paying customer!).

I also recommend making some PS arrangements if you're going during a busy time. You can always cancel them if need be but it really helped us to get inside out of the heat and have a relaxing meal. Many of the restaurants were turning away folks who didn't have a PS when we were there in August.

Have fun!

 

[iluvtink]

clayb,

At the rides/attractions where fast passes are available, you will see a sign that shows where to pick them up. Unless they've changed it since we were there, you go up to a fast pass machine, put your ticket/card in the slot and a fast pass comes out with the time window you should return for the ride/attraction.

It doesn't just say that you have to be back at 3:32 p.m.... there is a time range for you and when you go back, you just get in the fast pass line. I know it's silly, but I feel guilty passing up all those people in the regular line who have been waiting and waiting... but I also feel spoiled!! We think fast passes are one of Disney's greatest inventions!