The Best Guide

[DisneyConvert]

Consider checking out:

http://terraserver-usa.com/image.aspx?t=1&s=10&x=2215&y=15717&z=17&w=2

With a fast internet connection.

The sight contains overhead satellite images of "the world" that are physically correct and not subject to the biased presentations of the map-maker. You will be amazed at how much Disney property is devoted to parking lots!

Incredibly interesting if you like geographic relationships (which I do, obviously)

PS - I think the Birnbaum guide is for "newbies" only. These boards, thanks to the dedication of the posters, is my best source.

 

[Fooboy]

but the pic is dated Jan. 1999. Are there any updated pics?

foobs

 

[jaysue]

The Unofficial Guide is clearly #1 for us

Thanks
jaysue

 

[SnowWhite33]

I have bought the Passporter for the past 3 years and I use that as my "center" for keeping up with all of my PS and general plans.

The Unoffical Guide is very long and at times sarcastic and cynical so if you want the pixie dust version of Disney you won't find it here. I bought this guide for our first trip and use it to look up extra info on specific restaurants or attractions as needed.

With all of that being said you just cannot find a better guide than the Dis. It's always up to date and you can be sure to find the most diversified opinions here !

 

[Kapp]

"Unofficial", hands-down. I have never been impressed with the PassPorter at all. Sure the folder sections are cute but have not found the information that good or useful.

Kapp

 

[pigget74]

At first I used the passporter and really liked it. Now I use the boards only.

 

[Texowl2]

ditto what Kapp said. Unofficial gives you the absolute straight story. Passporter is a bit squishy for my taste. First time, we went to MK, I used the Unofficial tour plan step by step, my wife was originally perturbed, then astonshed when we had seen almost everything by 11 am and got to go back and see stuff multiple times. However, they can never top the quickness of the DisBoards for dessimination of real time information.

 

[Fooboy]

i absolute agree with everyone that the boards give the best tips and tricks. The books give the tested and proven approach. I've definitely learned much and will apply them on my trip. the board totally gives the hands on truth.

foobs

 

[katerkat]

I'd like to add - if you have someone with a short attention span and want to get them involved in the planning, the Passporter is great! I let my husband read the short restaurant descriptions and check off which ones he'd be interested in. In a longer guide, he'd never make it through, but the Passprter stuff was just right for him - not too much info but enough that he was making an informed decision.

 

[halfway there]

I agree the Passporter is perfect as a quick reference guide. I often use it to answer questions on these boards!

However, I used to live by Birnbaum's for over 10 years till I discovered the Passporter in 2002. I bought it mainly because of the resort layouts. I agree it is lacking in restaurant detail.

Another guide of mention particularly for people with kids is Kim Wright Wiley's book appropriately titled "WDW with Kids". I bought one in '95 and another for 2004 (along with my most recent Birnbaum's ). It has excellent tips for traveling to WDW with children. It describes rides and gives 'scare factors' as well as restaurant suitability with or without kids.

I think each one offers something different and while these boards are the best, I like to have something to read in bed at night!

 

[Micca]

After more than two dozen trips to WDW, we don't need no stinkin' book. I buy the Unofficial Guide anyway for entertainment and to support their efforts.

 

[lentesta]

Hi folks,

Thanks for your kind comments and continued support of the Unofficial Guide.

Through an agreement with Webmaster Pete, we'll be posting updates every few hours from the Mission:Space media event starting in just a few hours. We'll also be answering your questions - so feel free to post away!

My flight to Orlando leaves in less than 9 hours (hopefully!). See you real soon!

Len

 

[Castillo Mom]

I have the deluxe Passporter. Love it! Also have WDW with Kids which is pretty detailed. I use the guides in conjunction with the DIS and TourGuide Mike.

 

[Donald's #1 Fan]

My favourites are The Passporter, The DIS Boards (invaluable) and personal visits.