Surprise Birthday Gift / Advice

[sbatty]

My husband told me the other day that for my birthday he would love to send me and the two kids (3 & 5) to Disneyworld. However, he can't join us because of work comittments. He said we should go for the 7 night FTP package.

I did a quick check on Expedia to determine price and availibility. They had the dates I wanted available for an All Star resort and I booked my airfare on Southwest.

Now the problem, I should have checked the Disney site directly. They don't have availability at any of the budget resorts. They do have availability at POR and Cornado Springs for $200.

I have never booked with Expedia and am a bit nervous because their cancellation penalties seem larger and you don't get much personal attention. However, it is $200 cheaper. What are your thoughts for one adult traveling alone with two children? Is it worth the extra to stay at a moderate resort? Our activities will primarily be limited to swimming, eating at the food court and sleeping. Which of the two resorts do you prefer? Do you have any experience booking directly with Expedia? Is it just to hot and crowded in July to take little kids to the parks (I have only been in the winter)?

Thank you any advice would be very appreciated.

 

[susy]

I am misuderstanding your post. Is it $200 cheaper for Coronado??? I like Coronado because of all the amenities and it does not share buses. In your room you will have a coffeemaker/coffee/hairdryer/iron/room service. A quiet pool and laundry in each section. The main pool is FANTASTIC!!! The kiddie pool/playground and arcade are right there. The pool bar serves lunch (very convenient). I believe they have life vests for the kids and no need to bring towels from your room. You will have to rent a double stroller for the kids in the parks (I can't see you trying to get on the bus with two kids) and you will need an umbrella stroller for your little one at the resort (airport?)
I would seriously consider having another adult go along. It can't cost much more, since I am sure you are already paying a "double occupancy rate" for the room!

 

[sbatty]

Sorry for not being clear. Cornado Springs and POR are $200 more for the week than the All Star Resorts.

 

[disneycuban]

I think you should stay at the POR or Coronado.
When I stayed at the All-Star Movies it was NOISY I couldn't really enjoy myself because I couldn't hear what the person next to me was saying. It really is that noisy, and imagine when you put the kids down for a nap or they go to sleep for the night, I don't think it'll be very peaceful, oh, and I also agree with susy you should seriously consider inviting another adult along.