Spontaneous vs Planned

[TiffanyK]

We had been thinking about planning a vacation to WDW next sept. This will be our 2nd visit. As I was researching this I came across the possibility of staying at OKW 2 bdr villa for a really good price. Normally we could not afford to stay there. But we would have to get it together to go in Nov instead of Sept!

Here are my thoughts about doing/not doing this:
1. The price per night for the OKW is pretty high - but we could take all of our food which might even out the cost.
2. We would be able to stay on property and since there are 6 of us that opportunity won't be very affordable usually.
3 We are on a budget - will I be able to stick to it by going so soon or could I do better by waiting and planning more.
4. We would have to drive 13 hours - with a one year old who doesn't like the car!
5. Weather is probably better in Nov than Sept.
6. Is it easier to take a one year old or 2 year old?

So, what do you think? Spontaneous or planned??

 

[disneyatl]

My take on this. We are planning a WDW vacation next July. I've been planning since February 2003. Didn't actually make our reservations until July - a year before the trip. Planning ahead has been better for our family since we aren't very good savers. We've been able to put away money in the Disney fund that we normally would have spent on something else. Because of our plan to go next year, we are also able to stay at a deluxe resort for the first time. Even thinking about upgrading to a deluxe room at the WL (depending on how much money we save).

To answer some of your questions. We've been in October and the weather was perfect. I don't think September weather would be that bad. Might be a bit more humid. Maybe it would be a little less crowded in September than in November since I've heard a lot of people visit around the holidays. Also kids are back in school in September.

Our first visit to the World, my DD was 2 and it was a great time. I can't tell you how many people tried to discourage us from going - saying she was too young. She had a terrific time and was all over the place. I think it would be harder to take a one year old. Since I don't have experience bringing a one year old, maybe someone else on the board can tell you about that.

If you are getting a good deal at an onsite resort and normally you wouldn't be able to afford it.....I think I'd jump on the opportunity. It is definitely better to stay at a Disney resort. You can enjoy the magic 24/7. And, if you have the money to go now, I think I'd go. You can always plan to go back next Sept too. But another thought to ponder. I'm sure next year Disney will have some great deals. You can always watch for discount codes.

Good luck on making a decision.

 

[riggins]

Hi Tiffany-
I've been with both a 1-year old and a 2-year old, I've stayed in a 2-bedroom at OKW, and I've been in Oct and Nov (not September), so I may be able to help. Here are my thoughts on your thoughts:

1. The price per night for the OKW is pretty high - but we could take all of our food which might even out the cost.

The 2-bedroom at OKW is GREAT and worth every penny. If you can come up with the money now, go for it. We ate every breakfast in our room and many lunches. We always ate out for dinner.

2. We would be able to stay on property and since there are 6 of us that opportunity won't be very affordable usually.

This is a good point. You will need two rooms somewhere for 6, so the cost can get high. In addition, 2 rooms doesn't get you a living room, full kitchen, and a laundry room (key with a 1 year old!!)

3 We are on a budget - will I be able to stick to it by going so soon or could I do better by waiting and planning more.

This one a personal one. You are too late to get PSs at the most popular restaurants, but this might help force you to save some money by eating at quick serve restaurants or in your room.

4. We would have to drive 13 hours - with a one year old who doesn't like the car!

This is probably not going to get better with age.

5. Weather is probably better in Nov than Sept.

I've never been in Sept, but was there the 1st week in October this year and it was pretty hot. We were there last year at Thanksgiving and it was much cooler.

6. Is it easier to take a one year old or 2 year old?

Yes. My oldest was 16 months last year and 27 months this year. At 16 months, she would still sleep in her stroller and didn't know enough to be afraid of anything. She was less "demanding" and less prone to temper tantrums. She would nap without a fight and was just generally more agreeable. That said, she was more "fun" this year because she was able to understand more of what we were doing.

So, all that said, if you can afford to go now, I'd jump on it.

Good Luck!
-Leslie