November 2012 Code Watch!!

[letthewookiewin]

I'm so excited that I get to join the party! I just booked our November 2012 trip today. We'll be staying from November 20th through the 30th.

We're booked at the Dolphin Resort for now. I'd like to switch to a Magic Kingdom area resort for the last (non-holiday rate) part of the trip if I can snag a good discount.

Because discounts are so hard to find over the Holiday, I wanted to share that there's an "Allears 10" rate available right now at the Dolphin, and it covers Thanksgiving. If you're open to staying in a non-Disney resort, there are really good Thanksgiving rates available!

Oh - and the Allears rate isn't available online - you have to call.

I can't tell you how happy I am to have a trip to plan!

I would love to stay at the Swan. Mainly b/c our last name is Swann. Plus they have the Westin Heavenly Beds. We stayed at a Westin on an anniversary trip and the beds truly are heavenly. My only problem with them is that you can't get the DDP. If my DH decides to jus tnot do the DDP, then I am really thinking of staying there.

Yes, because it means not getting to see the Christmas decorations, but then I could be there on my birthday. .

Just think of all the birthday things you'll be able to do!! The rule in our house is that on your birthday, you get to decide where we eat, go, etc... Just imagine if that were your rule & you were in WDW! Never too late for a new house rule
[/QUOTE]

Well I get to do that anyway. If we go in January, our youngest DS will have a bday while we are there too. His is January 8 and mine is January 10. I showed him some pics of T-Rex and he really wants to eat there, so we would do that for his birthday. Plus he once said that if he could be at WDW for his bday, he would spend the day in Epcot. For mine, I don't know. For the rest of the trip, as long as we eat at Biergarten, my DH doesn't really care where we eat. The DS don't know about the trip, so they don't get a choice either.

 

[mydisneyobsession]

I would love to stay at the Swan. Mainly b/c our last name is Swann. Plus they have the Westin Heavenly Beds. We stayed at a Westin on an anniversary trip and the beds truly are heavenly. My only problem with them is that you can't get the DDP. If my DH decides to jus tnot do the DDP, then I am really thinking of staying there.

I will admit - I miss the dining plan a little bit. I go through a little bit of sticker shock every time I see a bill at a table service restaurant! But I think we actually save a bit of money, because the structure of the dining plan isn't our normal way of eating. It just doesn't feel quite as "carefree" as eating on the dining plan.

The beds ARE heavenly, and the location is phenomenal! We stayed at the Swan last time, but our littlest is old enough to put us over occupancy now.

 

[dazednconfused]

Happy 2012 to all November 2012 Disers!

Out tickers are moving along very nicely! 11 more months! Here's wishing us a year filled with time-consuming activities (such as WDW planning) so that time will fly by and we'll get to our beloved WDW before we know it!

 

[Smileybug]

Happy 2012 to all November 2012 Disers!

Out tickers are moving along very nicely! 11 more months! Here's wishing us a year filled with time-consuming activities (such as WDW planning) so that time will fly by and we'll get to our beloved WDW before we know it!

I agree and boy are you up early.

Good morning ya'll.

 

[exwdwcm]

I swear, I am just so frustrated right now!! If it weren't a WDW trip I was talking about, I would just throw my hands up and say, "you know what, let's just forget about it."

When my DH got home, I was talking to him in our room and told him about the trip change. I can vaguely remember my fil saying that from now on, no one got time off in November/December, but I thought he was joking. Afterall, I have told all the adults in my DH's family that we are going to WDW and what the dates were. Well as soon as I told the DH, he said, "well you go right ahead and plan for that. I just don't think it will fly with mom." GRRRRR I keep being told that one of the best benefits of him "being self employeed" is that he can take off when he wants, but if they won't let him, then that's not a benefit. Plus if we can't go then, we can't go until after New Year 2013, b/c of kids school schedules, kids football, and my school schedule. Plus my mil won't talk to my fil about it at all right now. My fil did something to his foot and it has been causing him great pain for 2 weeks. He went to the doctor today and they wouldn't give him some injection the in laws wanted them to b/c "it's only been 2 weeks. An injection is too extreme for that short period of time. Come back in 2 to 4 weeks and if your still in pain, we'll inject it then." They did x-rays and it's not broken. Now I just don't even feel like doing any planning b/c it may all be for nothing if they won't let my DH have the time off. Yes the move in dates would have us there for my birthday, but then that's the 2nd to last week in a grading period. If we go as it's planned now, it's the first week in a grading period. I'm just so annoyed and frustrated!!

so sorry, that is definitely frustrating when plans and times keep changing. it is so hard planning with a large group, especially when it is family. HUGS!!!

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2850043

Iv been reading this. I am planning on trying to get a ressie. I will 'plan' on 1900 PF or CP but I really want Be Our Guest! I WILL gt a ressie lol

Me Too!!! So getting a ressie here. I am stalking all info on it and will be on the phone/online at exactly 180!!!

I saw this book on another thread - The Disney World Queue Line Scavenger Hunt: The Game You Play While Waiting In Line. I took a quick look on Amazon. Looks great! Does anyone have it or the Kindle version?

I downloaded a sample to my phone's Kindle reader (just got yesterday!!! ). It doesn't look like you can mark the person's/team's score on the Kindle reader. Does anyone know if that would be possible? I was excited about one less thing to carry, but if I can't do the score on my phone, I might have to buy the book.

Thanks!

this sounds interesting, might have to check it out. I don't have hte kindle app, but should get it. I did get DH the Kindle Fire for Christmas, so we could put it on there too.

I'm so excited that I get to join the party! I just booked our November 2012 trip today. We'll be staying from November 20th through the 30th.

We're booked at the Dolphin Resort for now. I'd like to switch to a Magic Kingdom area resort for the last (non-holiday rate) part of the trip if I can snag a good discount.

Because discounts are so hard to find over the Holiday, I wanted to share that there's an "Allears 10" rate available right now at the Dolphin, and it covers Thanksgiving. If you're open to staying in a non-Disney resort, there are really good Thanksgiving rates available!

Oh - and the Allears rate isn't available online - you have to call.

I can't tell you how happy I am to have a trip to plan!

Congrats on booking- love the Dolphin! and 10 days- woo hoo, what a great long trip! here's hoping for a great mK area rate for you too!

Great resolutions guys!! I haven't even thought about it, it's been so busy and i've been sick since right after Christmas. Been laid out in bed the last two days and dreading starting back to work tomorrow. But the usual lose weight as always, work out more so I'll just feel better in general. Hoping to work out at lunch 2x a week during lunch. Work on the house more- put travertine in the bathrooms finally. And the big one- GET pregnant! Doing IVF toward the end of next year again, hoping for our second child. Our 4yo is an IVF baby too. Might mean no disney trip in 2013, but that's okay if we are blessed with another child. I am just so grateful I was at least able to have one, many couples never even get to experience that. So counting my blessings, but hoping for just one more. - and of course that means one more kiddo to spoil and share the disney magic with!

 

[Happy Mom2]

I have the Kindle app on my iPhone. Other than downloading it, I haven't touched it. I wonder if I can find that one the Kindle app. We thought about getting either a Kindle or a Nook, but I'm waiting to see if my school puts their ebooks on one of them. Right now the books can only be put on the iPhone or iPad. I just could never get the ebooks to work on my iPhone.

I have the Kindle app on my smartphone too, but never use it. It's just too small. As much as I want a tablet, I'm having a hard time hitting the "buy now" button.

Yes, because it means not getting to see the Christmas decorations, but then I could be there on my birthday. I talked to my DH about it today and he agrees that it is going to cause a lot of conflict. He is still willing to back me if I want, but he knows it will happen if I want those dates. I just think I'm at an age where I don't want that much conflict over a vacation. Even if we do change, I'll still be around this thread. Y'all are great to bounce ideas off of.

I know what you mean. I want a vacation to be relax and happy. You definitely don't need any bad vibes hanging over head. Enjoy the planning process without the negative issues.

Yay! We'd hate to lose you!

I'm so excited that I get to join the party! I just booked our November 2012 trip today. We'll be staying from November 20th through the 30th.

I can't tell you how happy I am to have a trip to plan!

Welcome!! You've joined the right group! I think we are a bunch of Disney planning fanatics!

Just think of all the birthday things you'll be able to do!! The rule in our house is that on your birthday, you get to decide where we eat, go, etc...

Luggage question - I posted this on the budget board earlier, but I thought I'd ask you as well.

We lost 2 of our big suitcases to old age & damage on our last trip. I need to replace at least one of them.

1. Spinners? big is 29-30"
2. hard sided?
3. good prices anywhere?

Happy New Year & thanks!

We have the same birthday rule! I'd love to spend a birthday in Disney! Maybe one day!

I'm no help on luggage at all, but I have to say, I would go for the spinners. They seem like they would make things so much easier.

Happy 2012 to all November 2012 Disers!

Out tickers are moving along very nicely! 11 more months! Here's wishing us a year filled with time-consuming activities (such as WDW planning) so that time will fly by and we'll get to our beloved WDW before we know it!

Cheers to that!

And the big one- GET pregnant! Doing IVF toward the end of next year again, hoping for our second child. Our 4yo is an IVF baby too. Might mean no disney trip in 2013, but that's okay if we are blessed with another child. I am just so grateful I was at least able to have one, many couples never even get to experience that. So counting my blessings, but hoping for just one more. - and of course that means one more kiddo to spoil and share the disney magic with!

I think that is the best resolution of all! Good luck!

 

[Happy Mom2]

Hi all! Hope everyone is having a great start to 2012. I only have 8 more days til my surgery, then I'll be home for six weeks. Other than the pain, I'm looking forward to having the time to plan our trip.

I'm trying to decide if we are going to do the dining plan if they don't offer free dining. We do at least one character meal a day so that cost adds up. Decisions... decisions.

 

[letthewookiewin]

I will admit - I miss the dining plan a little bit. I go through a little bit of sticker shock every time I see a bill at a table service restaurant! But I think we actually save a bit of money, because the structure of the dining plan isn't our normal way of eating. It just doesn't feel quite as "carefree" as eating on the dining plan.

The beds ARE heavenly, and the location is phenomenal! We stayed at the Swan last time, but our littlest is old enough to put us over occupancy now.

I am a bit worried that being on the DDP will make it feel like the entire trip is focused around ADRs and when we have to start getting in the area near an ADR. I'm going to do some math this week and see the differences between the FWC and the Swan. If they don't offer free dining, then I might switch over.

so sorry, that is definitely frustrating when plans and times keep changing. it is so hard planning with a large group, especially when it is family. HUGS!!!

Me Too!!! So getting a ressie here. I am stalking all info on it and will be on the phone/online at exactly 180!!!

this sounds interesting, might have to check it out. I don't have hte kindle app, but should get it. I did get DH the Kindle Fire for Christmas, so we could put it on there too.

Congrats on booking- love the Dolphin! and 10 days- woo hoo, what a great long trip! here's hoping for a great mK area rate for you too!

Great resolutions guys!! I haven't even thought about it, it's been so busy and i've been sick since right after Christmas. Been laid out in bed the last two days and dreading starting back to work tomorrow. But the usual lose weight as always, work out more so I'll just feel better in general. Hoping to work out at lunch 2x a week during lunch. Work on the house more- put travertine in the bathrooms finally. And the big one- GET pregnant! Doing IVF toward the end of next year again, hoping for our second child. Our 4yo is an IVF baby too. Might mean no disney trip in 2013, but that's okay if we are blessed with another child. I am just so grateful I was at least able to have one, many couples never even get to experience that. So counting my blessings, but hoping for just one more. - and of course that means one more kiddo to spoil and share the disney magic with!

Yes it is very frustrating. Right now it's just our family of 4 going, but we have told his family that they are more than welcome to come with us. If they decide to come with us, it will be a total of 9. My DH does have a sister, but I don't think they would be able to come with us.

I hope all works well with the IVF. I was very lucky and didn't have any problems with that. I just have blood pressure issues. When I was about 31 weeks pregnant with our first DS, I was put in the hospital for hypertension and toxemia. After having an emergency c-section, I didn't even want to think of having a 2nd. Then, way sooner than I wanted, I was back at my OBGYN pregnant again. Our DSs are less than 15 months apart in age. The oldest was born 11-13-1997 and then youngest 1-8-1999

Hi all! Hope everyone is having a great start to 2012. I only have 8 more days til my surgery, then I'll be home for six weeks. Other than the pain, I'm looking forward to having the time to plan our trip.

I'm trying to decide if we are going to do the dining plan if they don't offer free dining. We do at least one character meal a day so that cost adds up. Decisions... decisions.

I must have missed this while I was MIA with all of my school craziness, but what kind of surgery are you having?

I am having the same problem. I don't think my DH will want to pay full price for the DlxDDP. I'll just have to wait and see what they offer. I'm going to just make a bunch of ADR plans and plan for several different type of trips. I don't have to be back at school until the end of February, so I have tons of time.

If anyone has a smart phone with the Kindle app, they do have the book "The Disney World Queue Line Scavanger Hunt: The Game You Play While Waiting In Line". It looks like the Kindle edition is only $3.99. OMG, I went crazy nuts yesterday with that app. I was watching the Cowboy game and unfortunately, it was going like I expected (not like I wanted). I found a section in it, where it had free classics. I dl'd so many that I will have lots to read while I wait in line to pick my nephew up from school.

 

[Hmom]

We have the same birthday rule! I'd love to spend a birthday in Disney! Maybe one day!

This will be DS third birthday at WDW & our 3rd anniversary. Ok, that doesn't sound right...he will be celebrating his 9th birthday at WDW (the 3rd time he has had a bday at WDW) Make more sense??? Same with anniversary, only it will be our 12th. Weird, but cool...our 11th anniversary was 11-11-11!

Hi all! Hope everyone is having a great start to 2012. I only have 8 more days til my surgery, then I'll be home for six weeks. Other than the pain, I'm looking forward to having the time to plan our trip.

I'm trying to decide if we are going to do the dining plan if they don't offer free dining. We do at least one character meal a day so that cost adds up. Decisions... decisions.

Hope your surgery goes well! Not too much of this more of this

I did our calculations this past weekend for the DP. I tried all kinds of things - buying an annual pass, TIW & I forget what else. In the end, we are sticking with the dining plan since it seems we either do character meals or someone chooses the most expensive item on the menu O'hana's bfast w/ Stitch is surprisingly inexpensive (in WDW terms). I may do that one OOP so I can try something different or do Le Cellier for dinner instead of lunch, or maybe for lunch and dinner??? Hummm, have to think about that one

 

[letthewookiewin]

This will be DS third birthday at WDW & our 3rd anniversary. Ok, that doesn't sound right...he will be celebrating his 9th birthday at WDW (the 3rd time he has had a bday at WDW) Make more sense??? Same with anniversary, only it will be our 12th. Weird, but cool...our 11th anniversary was 11-11-11!

The only person in our family that has been at WDW on their bday is my hubby. Actually, he has been twice on his bday, once with our family and once before we got married (well actually it was the trip we met on). His birthday is March 12, so it is usually during Spring Break and much easier to take a WDW vacation on his birthday.
That is super cool about your wedding anniversary!! Ours is July 1, and it's mainly so my DH can remember it. He's a huge Civil War buff and July 1 was the start of the battle of Gettysburg.

I did our calculations this past weekend for the DP. I tried all kinds of things - buying an annual pass, TIW & I forget what else. In the end, we are sticking with the dining plan since it seems we either do character meals or someone chooses the most expensive item on the menu O'hana's bfast w/ Stitch is surprisingly inexpensive (in WDW terms). I may do that one OOP so I can try something different or do Le Cellier for dinner instead of lunch, or maybe for lunch and dinner??? Hummm, have to think about that one

I need to run the numbers for our trip like that. The main reason I want to do the DDP is to try new places to eat. The only TSs we have eaten at are Beirgarten, the old Italian TS (that is no longer open), Chef Mickey's (for breakfast), 'Ohana's character breakfast, Whispering Canyon, and the Sci-Fi. There are so many that I want to squeeze into this trip. Especially if it's going to be on my bday.

 

[mommyof3princess27]

I'm so excited that I get to join the party! I just booked our November 2012 trip today. We'll be staying from November 20th through the 30th.

We're booked at the Dolphin Resort for now. I'd like to switch to a Magic Kingdom area resort for the last (non-holiday rate) part of the trip if I can snag a good discount.

Because discounts are so hard to find over the Holiday, I wanted to share that there's an "Allears 10" rate available right now at the Dolphin, and it covers Thanksgiving. If you're open to staying in a non-Disney resort, there are really good Thanksgiving rates available!

Oh - and the Allears rate isn't available online - you have to call.

I can't tell you how happy I am to have a trip to plan!

YAY! Ill add you

Yes, because it means not getting to see the Christmas decorations, but then I could be there on my birthday. .

Just think of all the birthday things you'll be able to do!! The rule in our house is that on your birthday, you get to decide where we eat, go, etc... Just imagine if that were your rule & you were in WDW! Never too late for a new house rule



Isn't it nice to have people to share your obsession with? Welcome!


Luggage question - I posted this on the budget board earlier, but I thought I'd ask you as well.

We lost 2 of our big suitcases to old age & damage on our last trip. I need to replace at least one of them.

1. Spinners? big is 29-30"
2. hard sided?
3. good prices anywhere?

Happy New Year & thanks![/QUOTE]

Luggage? We got a nice 5 piece set from Target 2 years ago and have used it 3 times on a plane already and still no rips or tears.

Hi all! Hope everyone is having a great start to 2012. I only have 8 more days til my surgery, then I'll be home for six weeks. Other than the pain, I'm looking forward to having the time to plan our trip.

I'm trying to decide if we are going to do the dining plan if they don't offer free dining. We do at least one character meal a day so that cost adds up. Decisions... decisions.

I ahve been running numbers as well seems DP is still our best bet

The only person in our family that has been at WDW on their bday is my hubby. Actually, he has been twice on his bday, once with our family and once before we got married (well actually it was the trip we met on). His birthday is March 12, so it is usually during Spring Break and much easier to take a WDW vacation on his birthday.
That is super cool about your wedding anniversary!! Ours is July 1, and it's mainly so my DH can remember it. He's a huge Civil War buff and July 1 was the start of the battle of Gettysburg.

We dont usually take trips around our birthday it seems to be our Anniversary (Oct 30th) that we take our vacations around lol


I need to run the numbers for our trip like that. The main reason I want to do the DDP is to try new places to eat. The only TSs we have eaten at are Beirgarten, the old Italian TS (that is no longer open), Chef Mickey's (for breakfast), 'Ohana's character breakfast, Whispering Canyon, and the Sci-Fi. There are so many that I want to squeeze into this trip. Especially if it's going to be on my bday.

I want to eat at all of them! Tried Sci-Fi and CM and loved them!!!

 

[Gymbomom]

We are doing a split stay. Still deciding on the first resort for the first half of our trip. (November 16-20) We are planning on the DxDP for this part of the trip.
Then my dh parents will get there on the 20th. I added everything up this past week and we would be spending $500 more to HAVE the dining plan. I really think with the price hike we aren't going to book it.
Our first part of the trip we do some serious eating. So, by the 20th or so, I will be tired of food and desserts. We plan all signature and menu order eating during the first part. After that, we have Ohana's, Boma's - and those are really the most expensive. We plan on doing the Candlelight, but that doesn't make sense to use 2 credits on a $50.00 ticket. We have two breakfasts planned, well those REALLY don't add up to being worth it. I even figured out $4 snack every day per person. I think I might give my kids a Disney gift card with their "snack credits" on it. That way they still feel like they can stop and get their treats without asking....they loved that about the plan.
I think I might even be excited about not doing it......I think it will really make eating more enjoyable. Like at the counter service places, I was SO tired of that stupid chocolate cake. So, not worth eating. I would much rather pause after eating for a few hours and stop by France for a pastry, or a Dole Whip later, or a sundae on Main Street. Our past few trips we NEVER felt like snacking we were so FULL all the time.

 

[mommyof3princess27]

We are doing a split stay. Still deciding on the first resort for the first half of our trip. (November 16-20) We are planning on the DxDP for this part of the trip.
Then my dh parents will get there on the 20th. I added everything up this past week and we would be spending $500 more to HAVE the dining plan. I really think with the price hike we aren't going to book it.
Our first part of the trip we do some serious eating. So, by the 20th or so, I will be tired of food and desserts. We plan all signature and menu order eating during the first part. After that, we have Ohana's, Boma's - and those are really the most expensive. We plan on doing the Candlelight, but that doesn't make sense to use 2 credits on a $50.00 ticket. We have two breakfasts planned, well those REALLY don't add up to being worth it. I even figured out $4 snack every day per person. I think I might give my kids a Disney gift card with their "snack credits" on it. That way they still feel like they can stop and get their treats without asking....they loved that about the plan.
I think I might even be excited about not doing it......I think it will really make eating more enjoyable. Like at the counter service places, I was SO tired of that stupid chocolate cake. So, not worth eating. I would much rather pause after eating for a few hours and stop by France for a pastry, or a Dole Whip later, or a sundae on Main Street. Our past few trips we NEVER felt like snacking we were so FULL all the time.

WOW cngrats!!!! I would love DxDP but too expensive and too much time away from parks for kids

 

[mommyof3princess27]

Ok I have what I think will be 2 possible schedules. This is where I need your help which one lookes better? The numbers next to the park are the projected crowd levels.

Option 1:
Sun- arrive DQ@DTD
Mon-AK4.4
Tue-Epcot 3.4
Wed-MK Day1 MVMCP1.1
Thu-WaterPark/Epcot 2.8
Fri-Magic Kingdom 2.1
Sat-DHS 3.8
Sun-DTD Leave


Option 2:
Sun-arrive DTD
Mon-AK 4.4
Tue-Magic Kngdom Day1 MVMCP 1.3
Wed-DHS 3.8
Thu-Waterpark/Epcot 2.8
Fri-Magic Kingdom 2.1
Sat-Epcot 4.0
Sun-DTD leave

Option 3:
Sun-arrive DTD
Mon Epcot 4.0
Tue-AK then MVMCP at night 1.3
Wed-Magic Kingdom 1.1
Thu-Waterpark/ Epcot 2.8
Fri- MK 2.1
Sat DHS 3.8
Sun- Leave

Not sure which one though. With option 2&3 , my grandparents will be able to do MVMCP with us as they leave on Wed.
But doing MVMCP after a park is alot....IDK I need help!

 

[Happy Mom2]

I must have missed this while I was MIA with all of my school craziness, but what kind of surgery are you having?

I am having the same problem. I don't think my DH will want to pay full price for the DlxDDP. I'll just have to wait and see what they offer. I'm going to just make a bunch of ADR plans and plan for several different type of trips. I don't have to be back at school until the end of February, so I have tons of time.

I'm having a hysterectomy Jan 11th so I'll be off work for 6 weeks. I'm looking forward to some uninterrupted Disney planning time!

Hope your surgery goes well! Not too much of this more of this

Me too! Thanks!

Ok I have what I think will be 2 possible schedules. This is where I need your help which one lookes better? The numbers next to the park are the projected crowd levels.

Option 1:
Sun- arrive DQ@DTD
Mon-AK4.4
Tue-Epcot 3.4
Wed-MK Day1 MVMCP1.1
Thu-WaterPark/Epcot 2.8
Fri-Magic Kingdom 2.1
Sat-DHS 3.8
Sun-DTD Leave


Option 2:
Sun-arrive DTD
Mon-AK 4.4
Tue-Magic Kngdom Day1 MVMCP 1.3
Wed-DHS 3.8
Thu-Waterpark/Epcot 2.8
Fri-Magic Kingdom 2.1
Sat-Epcot 4.0
Sun-DTD leave

Option 3:
Sun-arrive DTD
Mon Epcot 4.0
Tue-AK then MVMCP at night 1.3
Wed-Magic Kingdom 1.1
Thu-Waterpark/ Epcot 2.8
Fri- MK 2.1
Sat DHS 3.8
Sun- Leave

Not sure which one though. With option 2&3 , my grandparents will be able to do MVMCP with us as they leave on Wed.
But doing MVMCP after a park is alot....IDK I need help!

I like option 1 & 2 for the reasons you stated... (1) your grandparents could go to MVMCP, and if they are anything like my MIL, they will love sharing that with your kids. (2) It would be hard to do everything in AK, then go to the MVMCP. On the day of the MVMCP, we went to MK that morning, had breakfast, saw a few attractions, had lunch, then went back to the room for a nap before heading back to MK for the MVMCP. It worked out perfectly.

Option 2, you can end your vacation with Illuminations, but option 1 you can end it with the Osbourne Lights at DHS. Either would be nice ending to a great vacation!

 

[Happy Mom2]

My issue with the DxDP is that DH insist we do it. I do like the convenience of having everything prepaid, and last year we had free dining so we just paid to upgrade.

We had an early (8am) character breakfast at a park each morning so we were done by rope drop and got to be ahead of the crowds. We ate quick service for lunch, and had dinner ADRs in the park where we were that day. Except for Chef Mickey's, we didn't spend any time traveling to our ADRs. I didn't see where the ADRs took much more time than CS buy the time you stand in line, order, get your food, find a table, etc. If we didn't do as many character breakfasts and TSs for dinner, I wouldn't even consider the DP, but I'm going to have to do some calculations. I'll post some figures when I calculate everything - maybe it will help someone out.

 

[letthewookiewin]

I want to eat at all of them! Tried Sci-Fi and CM and loved them!!!

We liked the Sci-Fi, but my DH said that he would rather eat some where else. Biergarten is by far our favorite. One trip, when we went without the DSs, we ate there twice.

We are doing a split stay. Still deciding on the first resort for the first half of our trip. (November 16-20) We are planning on the DxDP for this part of the trip.
Then my dh parents will get there on the 20th. I added everything up this past week and we would be spending $500 more to HAVE the dining plan. I really think with the price hike we aren't going to book it.
Our first part of the trip we do some serious eating. So, by the 20th or so, I will be tired of food and desserts. We plan all signature and menu order eating during the first part. After that, we have Ohana's, Boma's - and those are really the most expensive. We plan on doing the Candlelight, but that doesn't make sense to use 2 credits on a $50.00 ticket. We have two breakfasts planned, well those REALLY don't add up to being worth it. I even figured out $4 snack every day per person. I think I might give my kids a Disney gift card with their "snack credits" on it. That way they still feel like they can stop and get their treats without asking....they loved that about the plan.
I think I might even be excited about not doing it......I think it will really make eating more enjoyable. Like at the counter service places, I was SO tired of that stupid chocolate cake. So, not worth eating. I would much rather pause after eating for a few hours and stop by France for a pastry, or a Dole Whip later, or a sundae on Main Street. Our past few trips we NEVER felt like snacking we were so FULL all the time.

It sounds like a good idea to do a split with the DDP. One of the things that I am worried about in getting the DlxDDP is that I will get sick of eating by the end of the trip. We're not really breakfast people, so we will more than likely do several 2 credit TS. I can only think of one time I am thinking about us eating breakfast. Well maybe 2.

Ok I have what I think will be 2 possible schedules. This is where I need your help which one lookes better? The numbers next to the park are the projected crowd levels.

Option 1:
Sun- arrive DQ@DTD
Mon-AK4.4
Tue-Epcot 3.4
Wed-MK Day1 MVMCP1.1
Thu-WaterPark/Epcot 2.8
Fri-Magic Kingdom 2.1
Sat-DHS 3.8
Sun-DTD Leave


Option 2:
Sun-arrive DTD
Mon-AK 4.4
Tue-Magic Kngdom Day1 MVMCP 1.3
Wed-DHS 3.8
Thu-Waterpark/Epcot 2.8
Fri-Magic Kingdom 2.1
Sat-Epcot 4.0
Sun-DTD leave

Option 3:
Sun-arrive DTD
Mon Epcot 4.0
Tue-AK then MVMCP at night 1.3
Wed-Magic Kingdom 1.1
Thu-Waterpark/ Epcot 2.8
Fri- MK 2.1
Sat DHS 3.8
Sun- Leave

Not sure which one though. With option 2&3 , my grandparents will be able to do MVMCP with us as they leave on Wed.
But doing MVMCP after a park is alot....IDK I need help!

Personally, I would do option 2. You grandparents can attend MVMCP. You never know how long your going to have your grandparents around and I wouldn't miss out on doing something like that. Then with option 2, you have planned on going to the MK. Since you are going to be at the MK while at MVMCP, it might be easier to get away from the park to get a nap in. Another option would be, if there is one of the parks that is a 1/2 park for your family, do that park on the day you go to MVMCP.

My issue with the DxDP is that DH insist we do it. I do like the convenience of having everything prepaid, and last year we had free dining so we just paid to upgrade.

We had an early (8am) character breakfast at a park each morning so we were done by rope drop and got to be ahead of the crowds. We ate quick service for lunch, and had dinner ADRs in the park where we were that day. Except for Chef Mickey's, we didn't spend any time traveling to our ADRs. I didn't see where the ADRs took much more time than CS buy the time you stand in line, order, get your food, find a table, etc. If we didn't do as many character breakfasts and TSs for dinner, I wouldn't even consider the DP, but I'm going to have to do some calculations. I'll post some figures when I calculate everything - maybe it will help someone out.

I agree, I love the convenience of having all the meals, but tips, paid for before we leave. I just need to run the numbers to see if they don't offer free dining, if it's worth it. I hate having to wait in the lines and try to find a table at a CS. I would much rather have all TS. I don't even want to have to deal with any buffets, except for Biegarten.

Well it's official.....we are no longer going in November. My mil told me this afternoon that she talked to my fil about it this morning and my DH can't have the time off in November. If there is just no other week to go, then we could have the time. The problem is, I know if we go in November, it will be miserable before and after the trip, and we will never hear the end of it. Well at least now I know for sure, so I can start the planning. It looks like our youngest will be turning 14 and I will be turning 37 at WDW. It looks like the trip is back to the original January date, but it's 2013 instead of 2012.

 

[mommyof3princess27]

Personally, I would do option 2. You grandparents can attend MVMCP. You never know how long your going to have your grandparents around and I wouldn't miss out on doing something like that. Then with option 2, you have planned on going to the MK. Since you are going to be at the MK while at MVMCP, it might be easier to get away from the park to get a nap in. Another option would be, if there is one of the parks that is a 1/2 park for your family, do that park on the day you go to MVMCP.

Thanks! I think option 2 is for us. If I do option 1, grandparents cant go to MVMCP So that is that!!! THANKS!!! I knew you guys would be able to help!!!

Im sure you will still have a wonderful time no matter when you go! Afterall, you will be in DISNEY!!!!

 

[Gymbomom]

WOW cngrats!!!! I would love DxDP but too expensive and too much time away from parks for kids

Thanks! We are looking forward to it. Going to some great places to eat is what my husband loves and keeps him coming back. But, we have to do a split stay because we couln't afford it for the whole time - not would we be able to eat all of it!! Last year we did the same thing and for the 4 days we were on the plan, we didn't even go to the parks!! Just ate and hung out together at the resort!! Loved every minute of it too. Of course our kids are 15 and 11 now.

 

[exwdwcm]

I think that is the best resolution of all! Good luck!

ah, thanks, yes, I'll take all the prayers and luck I can get!

Hi all! Hope everyone is having a great start to 2012. I only have 8 more days til my surgery, then I'll be home for six weeks. Other than the pain, I'm looking forward to having the time to plan our trip.

I'm trying to decide if we are going to do the dining plan if they don't offer free dining. We do at least one character meal a day so that cost adds up. Decisions... decisions.

good luck on your surgery- i know it isn't as difficult as it used to be, and I hope you recover quickly with minimal discomfort! and yeah for plenty of disney planning time!!!

I am a bit worried that being on the DDP will make it feel like the entire trip is focused around ADRs and when we have to start getting in the area near an ADR. I'm going to do some math this week and see the differences between the FWC and the Swan. If they don't offer free dining, then I might switch over.

Yes it is very frustrating. Right now it's just our family of 4 going, but we have told his family that they are more than welcome to come with us. If they decide to come with us, it will be a total of 9. My DH does have a sister, but I don't think they would be able to come with us.

I hope all works well with the IVF. I was very lucky and didn't have any problems with that. I just have blood pressure issues. When I was about 31 weeks pregnant with our first DS, I was put in the hospital for hypertension and toxemia. After having an emergency c-section, I didn't even want to think of having a 2nd. Then, way sooner than I wanted, I was back at my OBGYN pregnant again. Our DSs are less than 15 months apart in age. The oldest was born 11-13-1997 and then youngest 1-8-1999

scary on your c-section, but so glad you made it through with two healthy happy kiddos! My sister has a one year old, just turned one and just told us at Christmas she is preggo again!

i've done plenty of large family trips, so i know how frustrating it can be to work around everyone's schedule and preferences. Sometimes you just have to move forward and if they can come great, if not, too bad. otherwise, you end up waiting around for everyone! lol

We are doing a split stay. Still deciding on the first resort for the first half of our trip. (November 16-20) We are planning on the DxDP for this part of the trip.
Then my dh parents will get there on the 20th. I added everything up this past week and we would be spending $500 more to HAVE the dining plan. I really think with the price hike we aren't going to book it.
Our first part of the trip we do some serious eating. So, by the 20th or so, I will be tired of food and desserts. We plan all signature and menu order eating during the first part. After that, we have Ohana's, Boma's - and those are really the most expensive. We plan on doing the Candlelight, but that doesn't make sense to use 2 credits on a $50.00 ticket. We have two breakfasts planned, well those REALLY don't add up to being worth it. I even figured out $4 snack every day per person. I think I might give my kids a Disney gift card with their "snack credits" on it. That way they still feel like they can stop and get their treats without asking....they loved that about the plan.
I think I might even be excited about not doing it......I think it will really make eating more enjoyable. Like at the counter service places, I was SO tired of that stupid chocolate cake. So, not worth eating. I would much rather pause after eating for a few hours and stop by France for a pastry, or a Dole Whip later, or a sundae on Main Street. Our past few trips we NEVER felt like snacking we were so FULL all the time.

We've only done the dining plan twice, it was free both times. One time was back when they included an appetizer per person for the sit down meal. it was WAY too much food. Then in 2009 we had FD in early December for our party of 15. It was great, but again, I almost felt like we were eating all the time and with a party of 15, the meals were NOT quick. We often were there for 2 hours, because it took so long for the CMs to figure out all the checks, since we were in 5 separate rooms. It was just a pain. Now that we bought DVC, we obviously can't get FD anymore (at least when staying on points). I've considered buying it, but we ended up getting APs and TIW instead and used that. I'll be doing the numbers for our November trip to see what makes sense, since our APs expired now and TIW did too. Although they just announced DVC members can purchase TIW without having an AP, so that is good. Last year after running the numbers, it was cheaper for us to use TIW over paying for the DP. I even picked out what ew would order at each place and did the calculations.

Ok I have what I think will be 2 possible schedules. This is where I need your help which one lookes better? The numbers next to the park are the projected crowd levels.

Option 1:
Sun- arrive DQ@DTD
Mon-AK4.4
Tue-Epcot 3.4
Wed-MK Day1 MVMCP1.1
Thu-WaterPark/Epcot 2.8
Fri-Magic Kingdom 2.1
Sat-DHS 3.8
Sun-DTD Leave


Option 2:
Sun-arrive DTD
Mon-AK 4.4
Tue-Magic Kngdom Day1 MVMCP 1.3
Wed-DHS 3.8
Thu-Waterpark/Epcot 2.8
Fri-Magic Kingdom 2.1
Sat-Epcot 4.0
Sun-DTD leave

Option 3:
Sun-arrive DTD
Mon Epcot 4.0
Tue-AK then MVMCP at night 1.3
Wed-Magic Kingdom 1.1
Thu-Waterpark/ Epcot 2.8
Fri- MK 2.1
Sat DHS 3.8
Sun- Leave

Not sure which one though. With option 2&3 , my grandparents will be able to do MVMCP with us as they leave on Wed.
But doing MVMCP after a park is alot....IDK I need help!

i like option one too! but i simply can't plan until i see park hours. i base so much of our plan on morning EMH, we like to get at least one in at Epcot and MK.