need advice for booking for a large group.

[markm0926]

We want to plan an April or May 2003 trip to WDW. Have a rather large group going, 5 adults, 5 kids.
Any advice would be appreciated. This is two seprate families each paying our own way.

Thanks!!

 

[sharoncity]

Rates for 2003 decrease after April 27, 2003. Keep that in mind while picking dates, because it goes from peak season down to regular season which will save you a bunch.

How old are the kids? Any under 3? That would make a difference in how many people can be in a room. If at least 2 are 3 or under, I believe you could stay in a 2 bedroom villa (BW, WL, OKW, BC). Those are nice because you get a full kitchen and washer/dryer, not to mention the jacuzzi! Otherwise, it would have to be 2 or 3 rooms, depending upon the resort and ages of kids.

 

[josierac]

Check the different websites for pictures of the resorts this way everyone can come to an agreement about which one they like the best

Here is one.
Disney Resort pictures

Also make sure that everyone knows it's ok to go off on their own and meet up later. You don't want to have to wait for people while they go on a ride or see something that someone else doesn't want to.

 

[skiptomypooh]

If you haven't seen it, there's a whole board on ways to save at Disney, under budget board.

Outside of that, some of the strategies are to plan days at the park and some days when you just do the resorts (pools, rent a movie in the room, have dinner at another hotel and walk around). My DH, DS and I spent a whole day looking at Downtown Disney and the other areas near by. It was very relaxing and lots of things for toddlers to touch and play with, even some sandlot/playground space.

Another good tactic is to have your big meal at lunch time, around 1 or 2pm and take advantage of the lunch time prices. You can see all the fun resteraunts and save a little on the price, then have counter service for dinner.

If you have a lot of people going, it is great to get the one-bedrooms (or more) with the kitchens. Then you can grab breakfast in the room and pack snacks for the day for younger kids, and not have to buy everything in the park.

I'm sure there are many more ideas on the budget boards, but be sure to read the advice about discounts and the seasons for buying rooms. It will make a big difference in costs.

Good Luck!

 

[WDW2000]

My advice is to purchase an annual pass for one of the children in the group. If you don't have one already, this can save you hundreds of dollars on your room alone for just a few dollars more than the park-hopper passes.

Also, take everyone to O'hana's for dinner. THis is a great restaurant for large groups and families. The atmosphere is one of the best and a lot of fun.

Book an Illuminations Cruise. This is a must. The boats hold up to 10 people and was the highlight of my last trip.