Sparky_Blue2 said:
Can anyone offer some good advice on going to Disney? How to do Disney without overspending? This will be our first time there we have 3 kids, 10 years & 7 years old twins. Are we too late to make reservations at hotel at a decent rate?
First of all, welcome to the DIS Boards!
You will be able to find lots of specific info here. Our family of four has been multiple times (kids are 8 and 5) and we always are budget-conscious. In nor particular order...
1) Are you planning on going over spring break/ Easter time? If so I think it will be hard to get any room onsite. Best bet is to call (407) W-Disney. Look off site if on site is not possible.
2) A WDW doesn't have to cost and arm and a leg. The ticket media have recently changed, so be sure to purchase tickets that suit your needs. For example, don't pay extra for the "no-expiration" option if you don't need it. You MAY wish to add the "park hopper" option. That is a nifty feature that lets you visit multiple parks in one day. You will especially benefit from this if you are visiting at a busy time of year.
3) Buy a guide-book. My personal favorite is "The Unofficial Guide to WDW". Other good title include "Passporter" and "Birnbaum's". Guide books will be essential for you because you will be able to orient yourself in advance in terms of geography of the place -thus saving you some steps. Also, they provide descriptions of each attraction; your family will be able to decide what the "must-sees" are.
4) Do at least one character meal. The kids will love it; so will you. It is a bit pricey, but certainly worth the splurge for one meal.
5) If traveling aroud a holiday, prepare yourself for crowds. Know that you will need to be patient, but that you can still have a great vacation.
6) As you have specific questions, fire away. There are a whole bunch of folks on here who love to talk Disney.
Have a magical vacation!
