Please help I don't know where to begin

[N'vergone]

We are a family of 5,(3 kids 11, 8 & 7). I have put this off for so long because I don't know where to begin. Is it too late to book a trip for April 2002? Should I go to a travel agency, if so does anyone have suggestions for agencies that specialize in Disney trips. I know we want to stay onsite for at least 7-10 days. Our spring break is week of 4/15, and have no problem adding days before or after the vacation. What travel guide do you reccomend? Any help anyone can give me will be oh so appreciated.

 

[April76]

Hi!!! Welcome

You've come to the right place for help.... be sure to check out the Theme parks, and the Resorts threads for lots of terrific information!!!

First, you'll want to get some idea of what's at WDW, and info on hotels and prices, etc.... I always recommend getting a good guidebook (I like Birnbaum's- it's easy to read for first-timers -- you can pick it up at the book store and also at the Disney Store). After you've scanned the guidebook from cover to cover, you'll have LOTS of questions..... be sure to ask about ANYTHING you want to know about.... no question is too silly!

Most people on these boards will recommend that you put your plans together yourself - not use a travel agent.... I agree with that -- you'll find a thread that links you to a site with codes you can use for greatly reduced hotel rates at WDW; and you can purchase the passes you feel will fit your needs the best. Making arrangements for dinner and special activities isn't difficult... just ASK!

Planning a trip to WDW is almost as much fun as the trip itself -- in no time you'll feel like a pro!

So, start posting questions on the Theme parks and the Resorts boards and here; you'll get quick answers ---- GOOD LUCK!

 

[Kallison]

You can book it cheaper yourself. With tmany people you will need to research where you can all stay. I like the Unofficial Guide, you can get past year editions cheap at the Atlantic Discount bookstores. Read up on this site and Deb Wills site. If you don't want to go until April you have plenty of time to plan. I would work on figuring out where you will be staying and nail down those details as soon as possible, like in the next several months. Then you will have lots of time to plan itinerary, ticket plans and priority seating reservations. Planning is half the fun! Oh and don't be afraid to ask lots of questions on these boards. Even if you think they are dumb, somebody will know the answer in much detail!

 

[Gillian]

Welcome!

It isn't too late!!! 4-15 is later than a lot of schools this year, I think, so it should make it easier.

If you are thinking of using a travel agent (it can take a lot of the pressure off!) I'd recommend looking into Dreams Unlimited. They only do Disney & will be so helpful you won't know how you could have planned the trip without them! Click on the Disney World reservations link in the top right corner of this page to get a quote. They will also look for discounts for you. Right now the the discounts for April are limited, but they will check periodically to see if they can get you a better deal.

I also like the unofficial guide, because it is cynical Birnbaums is good for 1st timers, your library should have it. I like passporter because it has pockets for me to organize all of our travel documents & discount coupons & ticket stubs & well, you get the idea

Here are some other helpful links:

www.mousesavers.com

Deb's site
http://www.wdwig.com/

Passporter book & website
http://www.passporter.com/

All of the DIS discussion boards can be found here
http://64.225.125.24/forums/

It is so much fun planning! You'll have a great trip!

 

[N'vergone]

Thanks everyone for the help. I've been reading these boards and have learned so much already. Gotta go get a guide book now to help decide were to stay! Thanks again.

 

[BethR]

Hi and WELCOME TO THE DIS N'vergone! How exciting for you to be planning your first trip to WDW. Your kids are a perfect age.
As was mentioned before, be sure to spend time on our Resort Board to get ideas about where you would like to stay. There are so many wonderful options in such a wide range of prices. If you are a government employee, a nurse, a teacher or have the Entertainment Book, be sure to consider the Swan or Dolphin - they have some great discounts there and are located in my favorite area of WDW - the Epcot/Boardwalk area.
You definately have time to plan.
If you are trying to get the most for your vacation dollar, be sure to visit our Budget Board (link located in my signature! ).
Hope to see you aroung a LOT!
Again, WELCOME!

 

[disneyag]

I am a firm believer in no travel agents;however, for our upcoming trip, I used Dreams Unlimited Travel (dreamsunlimitedtravel.com). I am amazed at all they can do for you. My agent found a GREAT deal at the Poly and made all our PS's for us and even managed an elusive breakfast at Cindy's Royal Table! You can get a quote from them for no charge by clicking on their website. If you use them for reservations, they will continually check for better deals up until 45 days prior to your trip. They specialize in WDW vacations, so they know what they are talking about. I would give them a try!

 

[cboudre1]

If you need plane tickets the price on most airlines will be high already. If you can fly Southwest they have not even started selling them for those dates yet. Currently they only sell until 1/11/02. It won't be until oct or Nov that April tickets go on sale for Southwest.