Planning Disneyland on a Budget

[MELAUSPAITRA]

Hello! I've been planning to take the family on a vacation for a few months now, and I plan on booking one in the next month. Let me tell you what my limitations are first. I am not/cannot rent a car, so I will need to plan with that in mind. I've scoured the WDW properties, Good Neighbor Hotels, and am worried about the length of time it will take to get around. I either will waste time waiting for shuttles, and/or the onsite transportation, or cash paying for a taxi or a shuttle. Secondly, my budget is $9000, including transportation and spending cash. Third, my husband has back problems, so I'm looking for something that can be relaxing as well. Fourth, I have three children ages 11(boy) , 8 (girl), and 6 (girl). Fifth, I've been to WDW (twice)...once in 1990 and again in 1997. I really didn't see much of a difference between the two visits, so the excitement was lacking a bit the second time.

Here's what I want out of the vacation:

I want all of us to be excited about seeing something new (which would seem to automatically disqualify WDW). I also want to visit the beach and the San Diego zoo. Not including food, do you think I could get souvenirs for all five of us for $1000 or less? I really don't want to buy too much stuff (partly because I'd rather pay for the "experience" rather than overpriced items, and partly I don't want to end up paying extra baggage fees). Is two days enough for the two Disney theme parks? I figure my budget allows me to have four full days of "touring?"

P.S. I need a fully equipped kitchen, so I have settled on the Staybridge in Anaheim.

 

[danaesacto]

Hi there! First, you posted this in the wrong place- hopefully the moderators will move it for you.

Second, there is TONS of planning info on the site which already answers most of your questions- start here: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1072276

Third- go to the Disneyland forums, main page and use the search feature (upper right)- type in budget- and it will give you many threads with lots of budget tips. There have been several threads just recently.

Fourth- most people will tell you 3 days minimum to see DL- especially if you are coming during summer- though the park will have longer hours, there will be more people.

Fifth- read the posts in the Southern California forum for tips on SD Zoo.

Hope this helps!

 

[Disneylovers2000]

Welcome to the Dis!!
Just a few cents I would like to add. I think the Staybridge is a little too far away. If you are not using a car, you will spend more time waiting for shuttles etc. The Residence Inn Maingate has kitchens which is about 15mins walking distance. PVI is across the street and has a suite with a kitchen as well as the Tropicana (they don't advertise the kitchen suites, you need to call them directly) and they are across the street as well. Your budget is HUGE as well, you will have no worries about money if you have that much to spend. I also think your budget of $1000 is crazy for souvenirs! You will find that if you choose carefully something special you each want, I doubt you will spend $500. You might want to check into Southern California Grey Lines bus tours. We used them for a Seaworld trip and for a trip to Universal Studios and found them to be fantastic. No car needed as they pick you up at your hotel. If you look online, you will find deals on tickets for each. I purchased our tickets online from their website. If you take the tours you will need one full day for Seaworld and one full day for the beach and if you are able, I would plan out at least 3 days for DL/CA. The bus tours also go to the beach! Hope this helps and have a fantastic trip!