One week to go...

[eeyore1226]

Well, one week from tomorrow morning (very early I might add) we are taking off from Manchester, NH airport to WDW with my daughter and her best friend. We have never taken a family vacation with a friend tagging along before (both girls are 12). We are having dinner with this girl's parents tomorrow night. Any last minute items I should go over with them (the parents) before we leave. I mean aside from the obvious things like money, health insurance info etc. This endeavor has the potential to be a wonderful trip for all of us or a stressful one - I think it's all in the preparation. The girl is a friendly, nice kid but I've seen her become sulky if she doesn't get her way at times too although that was when the girls were a few years younger. Any tips from folks who have already done this will be greatly appreciated. BTW - we are staying at AKL for one week and plan on doing only Disney parks each day - no rental car - bus transportation only with airport limo shuttle.

 

[Wish Upon A Star]

I think that's awesome that your DD is taking a friend! They'll have a blast!

When I was in Junior High I got to take a friend with us on vacation and it was so much better than just tagging along with your parents all the time. There were times however that we didn't see eye to eye, but we were in Puerto Rico, not WDW, I'm sure that would of made a huge difference . . .For some reason my parents considered going to Puerto Rico every February vacation a fun time. . .I don't know why, I wasn't hispanic, nor did I gamble . . .

Anyways, we just returned from WDW with my 12 (going on 13 soon) DD and she probably would of had a better time if she had brought someone along . . .she had an ok time, but I guess hanging around with her OLD mom and dad kinda stunk for her.

Don't worry about a thing . . .go and have a great time . . .!
Have a WONDERFUL trip!

 

[CaliforniaDreaming]

You are so lucky!!! Have an awesome trip!

 

[travelitis]

Are both parents notarizing a letter of permission for you to seek medical treatment? I would do this as well as have a note of any pertinent medical info like drug allergies. Having dinner with her family is an excellent idea. Her parents will know if there's any tidbit of info you need that hasn't been covered.

I was once the kid who was taken along to entertain my friend. One thing I will say is that because I was so appreciative and didn't want to be a bother I sat broiling on the side of the car that wasn't getting any a.c. because my friend was getting too much and had complained about the cold. I asked her quietly if she'd trade me seats, and she refused, so I kept quiet and was miserably hot. Just be aware that your daughter's friend might not speak up, and remember to ask her if she's hungry, comfortable, etc. My friend's parents were just wonderful, and they let me know how happy they were to have me along which made me want to behave even more. I think just by being caring you'll bring out her best behavior. Most kids are on better behavior with people other than their parents, and you sound very concerned meaning you'll be an excellent host for this lucky girl.

 

[JulesMom]

You will have a wonderful time! That is so wonderful of you to bring someone for your daughter to hang out with! You will make memories that will last a lifetime!


Have a great trip!

 

[Beanie]

Can I be your DD's friend too??

Seriously, we have taken "friends" on all kinds of family vacations before and they have always been wonderful!! At times, more help than my own kids! LOL

Have a wonderful time and lots of fun!!!!