New Yorker Needs Disneyland Frequent Visits Help

[disneyokw]

My family are DVC members. We have been visiting disney world every year since 1996. The situation is this. I am 45 years old. My mom 69 years old (the absolute Disney fanatic). She has heart pulmonary, and diabetes condition. She just had an attack last night. And the one thing she said that we understood was she still has not been to Disneyland. So I am asking for info. The doctor says it is probably bad for her to travel so far this year so I am thinking of next year. From my memory I think I would want to take her to Disney Callifornia (we do love the look of the Wilderness Lodge at WDW but have never stayed there). Plus most likely take Jetblue. I believe from reading a trip report you would take a shuttle (what company???) to Disneyland. Mom and I were at WDW in March where I had to wheel her in a wheelchair. You never know how many hills there actually are untill you wheel someone. She does not drive and refuses an ECV (escpecially after reading reports on mouseplanet.com about people crashing into other people and buildings). Back in March mom and I tried (since it was raining) for her to get along on her own without a wheelchair at Hollywood Studios. Her legs swelled up, she could hardly breath and I really thought I would have to call an ambulance. She refused to be taken out of Disney in an ambulance. We stayed on a park bench for over 2 hours. Please let me know what airport is the best to arrive in, which restaurants are a must to make advance reservations, what shuttle service I should make advance reservations too (mom is so afraid on how to get to Disneyland since we know nothing about it). This post is a desperate plea to make someone in a hospital bed know that planning are under way to get her to Walt's original Disney by next year. All posts will be read to her. Please I am asking for your help. All info. What shows she has to see. I was thinking at least a 10 day stay at least. I know I heard it does not take that long with Disneyland, Calfornia but this is someone who will most likely never be there again. I

 

[HydroGuy]

Sorry to hear about your mother. Best wishes in your plans.

Start here and you will be well on your way on how to plan for DLR: "A DLR Guide for WDW Vets" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

The above link discusses transportation but since you asked about that specifically here is another link for you: "Airport Proximity to DLR and Ground Transportation Information" by 3TinksAndAnEeyore www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2318297

Since you like WL at WDW and because of mobility issues, you would do best at the GCH hotel. See

"HydroGuy's Hotel Rule" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1199862

and the links in Mary Jo's sticky thread

* DLR Info/Links - Maps, Hotels, DISer Reviews, Hydroguy's tips, NEWBIE INFO here!

 

[Peri]

Hi there! We go to Disneyland 3 times each year for 3 or 4 days (on average). I have NEVER seen any accident or incident with an ECV chair. I would urge you to reconsider this - they are fabulous aids. I do not use one yet, but have a disability that might trigger the necessity fairly soon.

Please reconsider - you both will love that chair and it makes things so much more enjoyable. Especially with 10 days or so to spend, you can just take it easy and rule the parks!

There is a long DISability thread that I found, I don't know how to link to it but it is on the main DIS page. Find disABILITIES FAQs under the Dis headings - this is a sticky at the top. Then go into that thread and see entry number 14. It gives you all the links to Disneyland stuff.


you rent the chair from an outside place and it is delivered to your hotel and you can use it for going in and out of the hotel, to dinner off site, etc., all through your stay.

Totally worth every penny!

Also, Mom, I am 62 with missing lung and remaining lung is damaged. I don't want to use an EVC either, kind of intimidating, I think. But I would not want to make my daughter PUSH me all over the parks! It is a gift to her, too, if you will use the EVC.

I think it is SO GREAT that you are both going to Disneyland - have a blast!!

 

[Jynxed]

My mom and step dad broke down on their last day of a WDW trip and got an ECV, they had the best time with it and said they wished they had done it sooner. If you do decide to get one, go to a quiet area and drive around until you get a feel for it, then it will not be intimidating. By the end of the night, my mom and dad were racing each other and laughing like kids!

I can't offer much advice after that A's my first trip is coming up. I just wanted to send you my best wishes and enjoy the planning and your trip!

 

[disneyokw]

I had a brain freeze and forgot my password for a bit.

I wanted to thank the people who posted. I will check them out. Thanks for the links. I will check them out.

You have to really know my mom to be gratfull that she is not driving an ECV. She even crashes the cart into people at the supermarket. Believe me you would not want this woman in an ECV.

Thank you for your help. Any verbal recommendation of a shuttle surface. Also I forgot to ask is it the John Wayne airport we should fly into?

 

[GrandBob]

Thank you for your help. Any verbal recommendation of a shuttle surface. Also I forgot to ask is it the John Wayne airport we should fly into?

Yes, John Wayne Airport, also known as Orange County Airport or SNA (airport code) is the most convenient. But you mentioned that you'll probably take JetBlue. That will most likely take you into Long Beach airport. That's the 2nd most convenient airport, and a very good choice.

Hydroguy gave you a bunch of links to look at. His advice is always golden, well worth paying extra attention to. The link he provided for Airport Proximity to DLR and Ground Transportation will answer your questions about a shuttle. Don't worry too much about the shuttle, though. You can easily get one at the airport without advance reservations. Or you could take one of the numerous cabs, and the pricing works out to be about the same.

I hope you and your Mom have a wonderful time! You should note that Disneyland doesn't sell 10 day tickets. Not to worry though -- just buy an annual pass. The annual pass will also get you a discount for staying at the Grand Californian Hotel, if that's what you choose to do.

-Bob

 

[blackjackdelta]

Since your Mom has all these complicated medical issues I would think her primary care physician would have some input as to what may be the best way for her to travel comfortably. Does she require oxygen? Does she need a local physician in case of??? Does she travel well in the rarified air of an airplane?? Does she require a hospital type bed at the hotel??
Just some simple planning thoughts.

Jack

 

[Dizneydaz]

Couple tips for you-
Shows-Aladdin-a must see! When you enter the line tell one of the CMs there that you need to use the elevator. They will direct you over to it where you will wait until they start letting everyone else in. (no reason to get there too soon-why stand for longer?) The elevator will take you to the top floor. Great seating is by the railing.

Fireworks-another must see. If it's important for you to see the projections on the castle, etc. arrive early and grab a spot at the hub, facing the castle (there are benches here, they go fast)

ADRs-unlike WDW there isn't a huge need for making ADRS. There aren't as many choices at DLR but at many of the restaurants there you can either walk up and make your ADRS a few days before. If there's a restaurant, or two, that you really want to do, go ahead and make your ADRs (Priority Seating at DLR) just in case. Blue Bayou and Ariel's Grotto are 2 that you should book in advance it you want to eat there.

10 days will give you time to take it easy and see it all (several times). I hope you get to do it next year, have a wonderful time. My DM71 has been to WDW with me (and DD11) on every trip except my first one back in 1983. I'm lucky in that my DM is very active and has no health issues. Though we did use the elevator for Aladdin last year-DM didn't want to do all those stairs (me either!)

 

[disneyokw]

I just absolutely have to say this. Disney fans are the best people on earth. You know how it is going throught the emotions of a loved one ill but boy I felt myself breathing better after reading all your posts. In fact I had to see if any one wrote anything else and right now am using the computer of a secretary in the hospital. Plus the best thing is you should seriously see the smile on mom's face. No joke. Just the idea of her planning to go to Disney put color on her cheeks. You guys rock.

 

[ArchOwl]

I am sorry to hear about your Mother, best wishes to her for a speedy recovery!

You have lots of time to plan and planning a trip for Disneyland is a lot more relaxed than planning for WDW. You can only making dining reservations 60 days out, and usually you don't even need to do it that far in advance anyway. If you can swing it, the Grand Californian Hotel sounds like the best option for your mother. What a gorgeous place and so close to the parks! Check out this thread for info and pics of the Grand: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2396588

10 days should give you a lot of time to enjoy the parks and the hotel. Like a PP said, get an annual pass. You can use it for entry as well as discounts on restaurants and the hotel.

Flying into Long Beach is really easy because it is such a small little airport. I have flown in and out of there several times on Jet Blue and it was a breeze. I think another poster gave you info on shuttle services, but it is no sweat.

I would check in on the first day at the Grand and have a relaxing first day of settling in and exploring the hotel. Dinner at Napa Rose (located at the Grand) would be a fine introduction. http://disneyland.disney.go.com/grand-californian-hotel/napa-rose/?name=NapaRoseDiningPage Make reservations for this award winning restaurant in advance.

As for the parks, with 10 days you have time to visit every attraction. Be sure to make time for World of Color. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2542717&highlight=woc+superthread Can's miss Fantasmic!, maybe do the dessert? http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2671983&highlight=woc+superthread And you will want to see the Fireworks for sure!

Other favorite places to eat include the Blue Bayou, Carnation Cafe, and the character meals. These can all be seen with dining reservations. Have fun planning your trip and best wishes to your family.

 

[tinksdreamwishes]

Aww best wishes and big hugs to your mom!
I would stay at the Grand Californian Hotel if you can wing it. upgrade to a park view room- that way in case she has a not so good feeling day- she can still sit out on the private balcony of your room- and still "see and hear" the park- without leaving your room! Best of luck on your trip planning!

 

[the donut]

I hope your mom feels better soon. Wow, 10 days at DLR would be awesome! Are you getting a villa? I joke with my husband that a 2BR would be perfect for us, and I'm ready to move in today.

I think of DLR as a very accessible place, and you'll be glad to know that is also fairly flat. In fact, the only hill I can think of is over by New Orleans Square because of the overpass over the Pirates of the Carribbean entrance.

Do you know what time of year you'll be going? If you can be flexible, I'd lean towards a non-peak season. The parks are compact and can get kind of crowded.

 

[bdmphs]

We are from ny too and do the trip once or twice a year. JFK to Lgb on jetblue everytime. I would definitely see fantasmic (way better than Florida) and they have handicap seating. Ask at townhall. I would also make reservations for for a world of color dining plan to get you comfortable seating for that show. The best part of California is not dealing with trams and buses when you go back to the grand Californian!!!

 

[MCSfromWA]

I hope your mom will feel better soon!

Since your family has DVC you definitely will want to stay at the Grand California -- in the villas. They are really lovely and have either a park view of California Adventure or the hotel pool. Also, there is a private gate from the hotel into California Adventure which makes the location really helpful. We travel with my DM who is almost 79 now and she really likes the location of VGC and the park view from the room. She also rents a scooter because she doesn't like her sons-in-law pushing a wheelchair (for some reason it makes her feel uneasy ).

Good luck with your planning! Our family likes both WDW and DLR, but one difference between the two is that everything is so much closer together at DLR -- it makes traveling around the two parks easier.

 

[TheColtonsMom]

Best wishes to your Mom from one Disney lover to another prayers for a speedy recovery and hugs for wanting to come see our Land.

Our Family's absolute favorite show is Fantasmic and if you can time your trip for when the"Remember dreams come true" fireworks are playing you will not be sorry...tears of Joy in my eye just thinking of it!

As far as meal reservations are concerned (called Priority seating in the Land) only a few you need to worry about...If you are real foodies Napa Rose at the GC, If a true Disney experience is what you want Blue Bayou inside the Pirates ride is not to be missed amazing atmosphere! If Mom is a true kid at heart character meals are a must do, our favorite is Surf's Up with Mickey at the PPH and a close second is Minnie's breakfast at the Plaza Inn inside DL.
There are some really cool counter service restaurants inside the parks too...Try the Hungry Bear in Critter Country where you can sit on the back patio and watch the ships and canoes ply the Rivers of America while you eat. Or try Riverbelle Terrace and sit outside just as Walt did for breakfast on Sunday mornings.

As far as pushing her around DL good news for you is everything is closer together..not as much walking overall and I agree with PP thereis a really noticeable hill is in New Orleans square near Pirates the only other one I can think of is heading up into Big Thunder Ranch is quite a slope. I've never pushed a wheelchair through the parks but I have done a double stroller. My MIL was never able to safely drive an ECV either so I totally get it. Also really nice is no need for boats & buses etc to get around you can hop parks with just a tiny walk across the esplenade. DCA was built completely handicapped accesable so no problems with any of the rides or shows there and at DL they have done an admirable job of retrofitting everything they can. For example if she can't do the stairs for the submarine ride there is an alternate viewing location for those in wheelchairs. Also many of the rides that have stars in their queues have elevators for those who need them. Check in at City Hall when you arrive at DL and they will fill you in & get her a GAC card if necessary (although I believe that if she is in a wheelchair that is not really a necessity)

She might really enjoy the "Walk in Walt's Footsteps" Tour where you get a lot of DL history and a peek at the lobby of the exclusive Club 33. There are only a few spots where she would have to leave the wheelchair behind,


Order that Disney Vacation planning DVD today! They always make me smile...and beg or borrow a laptop and start showing her youtube videos of Disneyland... Start with "Remember Dreams Come True!"

Whatever you choose to do and see I know you will have a wonderful time...and planning a trip to Disneyland is enough to get anyone up on their feet...God Bless & get well soon!

 

[mama2dutchies]

I just wanted to say Best of luck to your mom

 

[KTR]

I hope your mom has a fast recovery.

There is one more significant hill. It's in DCA on Paradise Pier near California Screamin'. But I would agree with the other posters that it is mostly flat.

 

[disneyokw]

WOW!!!! You guys are really great. I for all your help.

Boy do I have a lot of information to check out. There is a lot I don't know about. I know one time I saw on tv about Disneyland. I do have the DVC disk but always looked at only WDW. A long time ago we did take a look about Disneyland. My mom can't wait to get home to look at the DVD. My laptop is huge and my mom is afraid I will accidently break it. (She is afraid we won't be able to play the Nancy Drew games she loves to do). She got excited when I mentioned for her 70th birthday. I can't believe I never thought to go for her 70th. I took her to the Polynesian Coincerage (sp?) for her 65th birthday. I feel like I am still paying for it and all we did.

I told mom and read to her but you all wrote. She gives you all hugs and kisses.

 

[mama2dutchies]

I think she will really like it.

Most people I find love their park ( the one they go to most).
I've been to both and I really like DLR.. I just feel there is something special about it, and remember to show her the light in walt's apartment they keep on for him above the firestation on main street

 

[AmericanItGirl]

Remember Dreams Come True fireworks are a must do for any Disney parks fan because they pay tribute to all of the lands in Disneyland.

I second the recommendation for getting a park view for your VGC room as it will allow you to watch World of Color from your balcony in case your mother never quite feels up to watching it live.

As your mother has health issues, I suggest that you ask her regular physician for a doctor recommendation/referral in Southern California in case something minor (i.e. not requiring the emergency room) happens and you want/need to see a doctor.