New to the Vers and need help.

[rosedolph]

Hey guys! Newbie Melissa here! Actually I'm not new to the Dis - I've planned many a Disney trip here, and often find myself reading a trip report to get my pixie dust fix. BUT my Hubby and I are planning a 15th anniversary trip to Universal (specifically to see Harry) without kids!!

(Was that too much excitement? I do love my kids. )

We have never been, so we need a lot of help. I have so many questions I have no idea where to start.

Are there any other planning websites I need to know about?

Where to stay? Offsite vs Onsite.

Tips and tricks to a awesome visit?

Anything you wished you knew the first time you went?

Any and all help will be greatly appreciated! Thanks! ~ Melissa

 

[DCTooTall]

Nice thing about the Universal parks? You don't need to do nearly the same level of planning as with a Disney trip. It'll give you much more room to have a nice romantic and fun trip with the room to improvise as the mood strikes.


Onsite vs. off? I'd probably recommend onsite. Besides the fact the Unlimited Express pass will just add to your ability to just relax and have a good time without worrying about crazy lines, the onsite hotels are VERY nice, can be quite romantic for an anniversary trip, and VERY close by. It would also make it very easy for you guys to go back to the room after visiting the parks to clean up/change before heading to one of the many nice restaurants at the resorts, or at Citywalk. You could also enjoy the opportunity for a fun night out at the bars/clubs at Citywalk and then just take a rickshaw or boat ride back to your resort afterwards.

Planning websites you should know about? You already found a great one here. Everybody in this forum loves to help people out, so if you have any questions or need advice, feel free to ask and someone will jump right in and help you out. The other great resource would be the Universal site itself. You can look at the list of rides and attractions and see what you might enjoy doing. You can also explore the resorts, citywalk, and all the dining options available. Unlike Disney, ADR's are not really required, and onsite guests get "priority seating". If you like having a reservation though, you can book many of the restaurants onsite at Opentable. Reservation windows can open up anytime from 180day to 30 days in advance, depending upon the restaurant.

As for anything I wish I knew about my first trip? Just relax, have fun, and take in the atmosphere. It's very easy to get into the rush-rush-rush mindset when you are used to Disney.

Oh! And the Nectar of the Gods. Such a VERY tasty beverage available at Mythos.