Should I buy an unoffical guide book?

[GOBA Mom Lynn]

My advice would be to by the book, but realize that you don't necessarily have to follow any of the touring plans if you think it will be too stressful or confusing. The best thing about the Unoffical Guide is that it will explain alot about "how" WDW works, and that information can help alot.

For our last 2 trips I've bought the new book each time and came up with my own touring plan from the recommendations. For our upcoming trip I've lent the newest book to the "newbies" in our family and heard that it has scared them to death! (So beware of information overload! )

Hope this makes sense....and happy planning!

 

[alliecats]

The book is worth every penny. Plus it is just plain old entertaining to read. This board is also a HUGE help, but it is easier to carry a paperback with you than, say, your laptop or a big ol' stack of printouts. The book is funny, helpful, and covers everything to make a great trip. I can't recommend it highly enough!

 

[XStAnt]

You've already taken care of the major things for which people buy the book--hotel, tickets, and car rental.

Here's where the book can help and then you can decide if it's worth it.

1) Restaurant info: reviews and info on places both on site and off site. Have you made any PSs yet?

2) Touring plans: although you are not going at a very crowded time the plans may still be useful to help you avoid lines. At a minimum they help you decide when to see the rides. Sometimes people get overwhelmed when they first enter a park and they don't know what to do.

3) Tips: the book has a number of tips in it. Some of them are often repeated on these boards but every once in a while you pick up something. For $15-$20, it's a good investment.

4) Enjoyment factor: I have to say I enjoyed reading the guide. It has a certain tongue-in-cheek humor that was fun to read. If you're obsessive about your trip like the rest of us (and it sounds like you are), you can never read enough about Disney and trip planning.

The book is not expensive. If it's your first trip pick up a copy. The worst that can happen is you spend a few hours reading it.

Have a great trip.