Pre-Pre Planning for First Solo Trip

[catra121]

For the past year or so I have had this idea rolling around in my head about going solo to Disney World. I've been there probably 20+ times and I am only 27 years old. But this idea of going solo is something that has only recently come to mind while I was planning a mother/daughter trip with my mom this past September. Even though I have been SO many times to Disney in my life...I did a lot of research before our trip to decide exactly what would be the best resort to stay at, what dining plan to choose, what sort of tickets to get, and where to eat. We were on a budget but were looking for a lot of value. After an onsite Disney trip with the boyfriend in 2004 I made up my mind that I am never staying off site again. Mom and I had an excellent trip, stayed at Pop with the Deluxe Dining Plan and had all our reservations made in advance and had some truly AMAZING meals.

So now I am in research mode for this new idea that I have in my head...a solo trip to my most favorite place in the world...DISNEY WORLD!

So here's what I KNOW:

-I'm staying on site
-I'm getting the Deluxe Dining Plan
-I want to rent DVC points and stay in a studio

Staying on site is a no brainer for me. It's all about convenience. And while Deluxe Dining Plan may seem excessive with it just being me,..again it is all about convenience. I want everything paid for in advance and the ability to eat AMAZING food and to eat as often as I want (I may only weigh 100 lbs but I seem to be ALWAYS eating).

So my big dilemma is where should I stay and what sort of plans should I make as a solo traveller? I want to rent points because I want to amenities of a deluxe resort because staying by myself I expect to spend a lot more time at the resort than I do when I go with others where we try to fit in everything THEY want to do too that I would be happy to skip. I also have some serious mobility issues so spending some quiet time at the resort would be a nice option as far as being able to rest and relax when I have to. I love the parks...but I no longer feel the need to do EVERYTHING at the parks each time I go and that leaves a lot of time for relaxing either in the parks or at the resorts or at DTD.

I've got 3 top contenders as far as resorts and my reasons for each are so varied. First one that came to mind was BLT. I don't know why...but the Contemporary Resort has always fascinated me. I like the very subtle Dinsey feel of the place. And being able to take the monorail or walk to the Magic Kingdom is a HUGE plus. I don't know that I would be willing to pay for a MK view here...probably just a standard. Obviously a great view would be a nice feature...but it's not essential for me at THIS resort.

Next one that comes to mind is AKL. If I did this resort I would spring for a Savannah view. I had dinner at Jiko at this resort on my last trip and I LOVE the themeing. I have seen pictures of the rooms and they are totally my taste. I would probably spend a good amount of time at this resort in the room/balcony or in one of the viewing areas. I also like strolling around the resort and this one seems like more of a "strolling" resort than BLT.

And the third and more recent one that I have begun to consider is BWV. While the themeing is not necessarily to my taste...it seems like there is EXCELLENT value here. Plus the ability to walk to two parks is a giant plus. And being able to stroll the boardwalk...also a nice feature. I don't like the themeing too much...but for the price I think I could definitely deal with it.

Any advice? What do you all think are the best options for a solo trip? Are there certain activities that you enjoy as a solo traveller? Planning this trip for 2012 during a slow season...probably Feb or September. Also curious to know what sorts of things you all do when you go solo? I don't really plan on doing any meet ups or anything...just planning on really enjoying the atmosphere all by myself. I have a very stressful job and I suffer a lot of pain from my pain condition that I have...and I think my love of Disney and doing it on myy own would be a fantastic trip. Will continue to do lots of research but would value any opinions or advice from those experienced with solo trips.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Montana Minnies]

Sorry, I can't offer you any advice on what to do as I am also planning my first Solo Trip to see the "Mouse". It looks like to me that you are off to a great start. I am fortunate my sister being a new DVC owner will have some points left over from a family trip she will be taking and has offered them to me to use.
Hopefully you will get some good tips from the more "seasoned" Solo Travelers.

My dilemna has been whether to get the dining plan or just pay OOP. When I've gone with others we have always done the dining plan thru a WDW Package Vacation. So you are ahead of me there and I can see why you would go with the DXDP.

So good luck fellow Solo traveler and happy planning!

 

[catra121]

Thanks for the reply and good luck with your first solo trip as well. That is very cool that your sis is going to let you use her DVC points. Some day I hope to become a member myself...but until then I'm stuck with renting...which I've never done before so am very excited at the new experience. Isn't it funny how when you've been so many times already there are still so many new experiences to be had?

As far as dining plan for me...it's all about the convenience. I just want my first solo trip to be as stress free and easy going as my last trip with my mom. Don't want to worry about "bugeting" for food or what the hotel bill will be at the end...lol!

Have spent the day making lists...I'm such a Disney dork...lol!

Obviously I'm using pricing based on this September vs next year...but hopefully it will be fairly compabable. And I know as a solo it's going to be a very pricey trip anyway so it's more for the purpose of setting money aside for the trip than a determining factor.

Plenty of time to actually MAKE the decisions...but right now I'm thinking it's really going to be between AKL and BLT. Now I'm off to see what sorts of quiet places each resort has to offer and what I'm REALLY going to want to focus on during my first solo trip. I'm so excited!

And the info here is SO helpful...going to make it a tough decision...

 

[catra121]

Okay...thus far here is what I have considered my TOP choice for this trip (realizing of course that I could always change my mind until I actually make my reservations).

Top choice and winner for resort:

Animal Kingdom Lodge Studio Villa with Savannah View - This just seems like it would be tops for me. I LOVE the room decor...definitely to my tastes and would be very relaxing. And a balcony with a view of the Savannah...I could most definitely take advantage of that. Plus it seems like the place with the most quiet locations to sit and relax throughout the resort. I could save almost $400 with a value view...but don't want to.

Deluxe Dining Plan - With my mobility issues TS places are just the right fit for me. I need the ability to sit and rest and relax for a while. Plus...I like AWESOME food. I'm also committed to being adventurous during this trip and trying out things that I never would have considered before...like eating in Japan, France, and Moracco. Too many picky eaters in my family...and I want to take the opportunity to be adventurous with some meals and try things I've never had before.

5night/6day trip with 6 day park hopper tickets - I don't like the waterparks...I don't even use the pools at the resorts so no point using that option. But Park Hoppers are a must in my planning stategies. I don't use touring plans because I have odd tastes I guess when it comes to rides and while I like to have things planned out...they are not planned out to the EXTREME. I will be skipping a lot of things because I just don't want to do them this trip.

So what will the package all cost me with the options I have chosen: $1611.95. That's a lot for a solo trip but I'm only going with the best. Plus...I am thinking of budgeting $2000 total for the trip not including airfare. That extra money to be used for tips (which I am aware are not included in the plan) and the rest I'm not quite sure. I don't know if I want to splurge on shopping...or a tour of some kind...or a spa treatment (NEVER had one before so would be leary)...Illuminations cruise? Don't know what would really be worth it. But this is a trip for ME so I'm obviously planning on spoiling myself ALOT. Even if I just end up returning with lots of stuffed animals...lol!

 

[Amysita]

I tend to be a tight wad by nature...and FINALLY splurged on Cirque on my last solo trip and was in agony with the $100 ticket for just a couple of hours of entertainment...until I went. By far one of the best $100 I ever spent. If you've never been...go! Make an evening of it... I went to Wolfgang Pucks (another splurge) and to Cirque...kinda a date nite for myself...only solo.

Also, when I'm solo...I'm a dork and like to go through the Animation Academy over & over again and draw characters.

And might I suggest a fun place to eat. 50's Primetime Cafe...delicious home cooked food, neat decor, and amusing 'family' (waiters/waitresses). It really took the edge off of eating solo with so much to see and the antics going on. And the food really was good (probably the best fried chicken I've ever had).

 

[catra121]

I tend to be a tight wad by nature...and FINALLY splurged on Cirque on my last solo trip and was in agony with the $100 ticket for just a couple of hours of entertainment...until I went. By far one of the best $100 I ever spent. If you've never been...go! Make an evening of it... I went to Wolfgang Pucks (another splurge) and to Cirque...kinda a date nite for myself...only solo.

Also, when I'm solo...I'm a dork and like to go through the Animation Academy over & over again and draw characters.

And might I suggest a fun place to eat. 50's Primetime Cafe...delicious home cooked food, neat decor, and amusing 'family' (waiters/waitresses). It really took the edge off of eating solo with so much to see and the antics going on. And the food really was good (probably the best fried chicken I've ever had).

Thanks for that info. I have neven been to Cirque but have ALWAYS wanted to so that would probably a perfect splurge for me. I've never tried the Animation Academy but I will DEFINITELY check it out this time around. Am also thinking on splurging on some sort of Disney Art.

I ate at 50s Primetime last time with mom and enjoyed it. This trip I'm going to try to balance favorite dining spots with new ones (not that there are loads of options at DHS anyway). But you make a very good point. I'll definitely go to Sci-Fi at that park because it's a "tradition" even though I think the food at 50s Prime time is better. We'll see though. I can't wait to start actually making reservations and stuff.

This is gonna be such an amazing trip!

 

[Mikes:)Mom]

I just got my plane tickets today for my first solo trip! Makes it seem so real now. I'm still trying to decide on which meal plan to get. It's only $156 more for the deluxe and you get so much more. I too love to eat at WDW. I never get to eat out at home. BTW: My last trip I tried all new TS, I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and try new things. One of my favorites ended on being Teppan Edo in Japan. So far that is the only TS I'm eating at again. another surprising Good TS was the Whispering Canyon Cafe. I didn't think I would like the food but know my son would love the unlimited mike shakes. We all ordered the Canyon Skillet. It was awesome. I want to eat there again, but I'm not such if 1 person can order the skillet.

Happy planning!

 

[elbodans]

i'm going solo in less than two weeks (!!!!) so i will be sure to report back here to give you some solo pointers. happy planning!!!!

 

[Bets19]

Wow all these trips sound fantastic and helpful. I am also planning my first truly solo trip. I am planning on going in October for a week. I am a DVC owner and not sure where I want to stay. I stayed at Animal Kingdom- Kidani Village last Nov. Loved it. We had a savannah view and was not disappointed at all. SSR was year before with DD view. Again I enjoyed the location. This time I am leaning towards BWV b/c of location location location. And with Jellyrolls and Atlantic Hall right there it's nice for an adult evening out. As for dining I am thinking of going OOP b/c I may choose to fly by the seat of my pants for dining as opposed to planning where and when... tho that could change.
Here's to all of us having wonderful trips!

 

[Bets19]

And yes, Cirque is on my wish list too!

 

[jimfaster]

Hey! I'm going to make the trip 3-4 days in the spring of next year, and I was wondering if anyone can give me some tips for safe use, or let me know your experiences on tourism alone. I will be one of the 22 year old woman traveling alone, which is what worries me a bit '(more concerned about my father). I thought I'd save money, but I heard that it can be very dangerous depending on where you are. Thoughts, comments? Thank you!

 

[brdlyleon]

Im also traveling solo for the first time! Staying at POP (college student means no $$$ for splurging) and staying for a week! Trying all new restaurants like the crystal palace, sci-fi, via...whatever haha in italy, and rainforest cafe. so excited! deff. more relaxed than usual (I hope)

 

[catra121]

Hey! I'm going to make the trip 3-4 days in the spring of next year, and I was wondering if anyone can give me some tips for safe use, or let me know your experiences on tourism alone. I will be one of the 22 year old woman traveling alone, which is what worries me a bit '(more concerned about my father). I thought I'd save money, but I heard that it can be very dangerous depending on where you are. Thoughts, comments? Thank you!

I'm a 27 (will be 28) year old woman traveling alone (and I look like I'm 12 BTW because I am only 5ft tall and 95lbs). I would say that as long as you are staying on property, using magical express and disney transportation, and just use common sense you will be in the safest place in the world for a young woman to travel alone. When at the parks I never carry cash, just the KTTW card, an extra credit card just in case charging to the room is down or something, and I wear it in a lanyard around my neck. Nothing worth stealing from me...lol! I only use PacSafe bags now for all their anti-theft features...though my BF jokes that someone could just pick ME up and carry me off. But I would not worry about safety at Disney as a woman alone. Just use normal common sense....don't go to any secluded places with strange people you don't know, etc and you will be totally fine. Disney security is phenominal and there are more there than you think because many blend so well. Just relax and enjoy the trip. I know I will...lol!

 

[catra121]

Okay...so I have been thinking about this solo trip just about non-stop since I made the decision to take it. Right now I am basically stuck to the couch and can't really walk due to health issues and trip planning is one of the few things that takes my mind off the pain.

But I started thinking about what rides I would do/not do on a solo trip. Not that I wouldn't change my mind once getting there...but I was thinking a lot about what are the things I always do because someone else want to and what are the things that I couldn't leave Disney without doing. And it really is an odd list. But it's gonna free up my time to really explore other stuff I always wanted to (especially once you see what some of my skips are...lol).

Magic Kingdom HAVE TOs:

Peter Pan
Philharmagic
Buzz Lightyear
Haunted Mansion
Pirates
Tiki Room (yes...even in its sad new management form)

Magic Kingdom SKIPS:

Big Thunder Railroad
Space Mountain
Jungle Cruise
Country Bears
Dumbo/Aladdin Carpets

Epcot HAVE TOs:

Figment
Spaceship Earth
Maelstrom
Ellens Energy Adventure

Epcot SKIPS:

Test Track
Soarin'
Mission Space
Nemo

DHS HAVE TOs:

The Little Mermaid
Beauty and the Beast Show
Tower of Terror

DHS SKIPS:

Great Movie Ride
Rockin Roller Coaster
Any other show besides Beauty and the Beast

AK HAVE TOs:

Dinosaur
Its Tough To Be A Bug

AK SKIPS:

Expedition Everest
Kil. Safari
Water Raft Ride (don't remember the name)

You would almost think I don't like rollercoasters...but I LOVE them. It's just that I don't want to do them on my solo trip. All the night shows are a must while I am there. And if any of the Fantasy Land expansion stuff is open by then I will definitely be trying those things out. But I just thought that it was funny that even rides I like such as Test Track, Mission Space, etc I just don't want to do on my solo trip. I want to spend more time eating at new places, shopping, exploring hidden/quiet parts of the parks, at DTD and the Boardwalk, etc. But the rides I just cannot live without are sort of dorky, right? I'm such a weirdo I guess but that's the best thing about a solo trip...you do what YOU want.

Oh...why isn't it time yet for me to go? 19 months is too long to wait...lol!

 

[brdlyleon]

Magic Kingdom HAVE TOs:

Peter Pan
Philharmagic
Buzz Lightyear
Haunted Mansion
Pirates
Tiki Room (yes...even in its sad new management form)

Tiki Room is closed indefinitely :/ I'm really upset about that too since I reeeeaaaallly wanted to see it on my solo trip but there was a fire and so no its closed until who knows...

Ellen's energy thing is a must for this trip for me too...def. need to go on that

 

[catra121]

Tiki Room is closed indefinitely :/ I'm really upset about that too since I reeeeaaaallly wanted to see it on my solo trip but there was a fire and so no its closed until who knows...

Ellen's energy thing is a must for this trip for me too...def. need to go on that

That's so SAD about the Tiki room. Hope it comes back (maybe under new, new management?). I don't know what it is about Ellen's ride that I love so much...it's getting really dated...but I hope it stays forever. I just LOVE it!

 

[petals]

I'm thinking of a solo trip this year but wonder is it wise as I'm from ireland so it's a long way to go on my own.
I was thinking if I do go I'd spend one week off site and one week on site prob in POP or one of the All Stars.
I also wonder about how safe an offsite hotel room will be for solo traveller.. I think I'd feel more secure in on site hotel but the off site ones are soooooooo much cheaper plus I'd prob want to go to Wizarding world of Harry Potter again and Seaworld and shopping

 

[brdlyleon]

I wondered about security too! It got to the point where I just said, forget it! I'm staying on site! The thing with me is, I'll be wanting to stay out in the parks all night, which means I just want to get to the room at night.

On the other hand, if you want to save money. then off site is obviously the way to go. Some even offer free shuttles to the parks! Problem with those are, the shuttles usually run until about 7, so you may not get to spend a lot of time out at night in the parks.

I have no car so im going to have to rely on other modes of transportations, so staying on property was best for me.
It all just depends what mood you are in!

 

[hintofspy]

Security at WDW is fantastic. I'm a 24 y/o woman, and never once in my 5 solo vacations to WDW (and countless other solo day trips) have I felt unsafe there. I actually was really impressed with the security presence, especially at night. One of the benefits of being on property (and I guess a drawback too lol) is that there are rarely times when you are "alone", except in your room. Everywhere is well lit, although I will say the parking lots do need some work (but since you are using WDW transport, shouldn't be too much of an issue).

I also noticed that cast members made an effort to not loudly point out that I was alone in any situations, which was nice, both from a safety and ego perspective

One thing that I will say about the deluxe dining plan while being alone is that OMG IT IS SOOOO MUCH FOOD. I'm sure you've heard this ad nauseum, but wow I've never seen so much food in my life. However, having the deluxe plan affords you the fantastic opportunity to take advantage of more signature dining experiences, which, I have to say, might be more fun alone than with a table full of people. Relaxing for an hour (or two...) with a glass of wine and phenomenal food is basically the best thing ever Enjoy your trip planning, and most importantly, your trip!!

 

[petals]

I wondered about security too! It got to the point where I just said, forget it! I'm staying on site! The thing with me is, I'll be wanting to stay out in the parks all night, which means I just want to get to the room at night.

On the other hand, if you want to save money. then off site is obviously the way to go. Some even offer free shuttles to the parks! Problem with those are, the shuttles usually run until about 7, so you may not get to spend a lot of time out at night in the parks.

I have no car so im going to have to rely on other modes of transportations, so staying on property was best for me.
It all just depends what mood you are in!

The hotel I stayed in last year had a shuttle bus for seven dollars to disney parks and last one came back at 10.30 I think so it worked for us but I'd prob go to the other parks when off site and use the i ride to get to them and the shopping outlets