The bus...

[mickey&minnie04]

It's just my husband and I when we go.....after a long day in the parks we are tired, just like everyone else. So, what we do is grab a bench and wait for the lines for the busses dies down and then when there is no line (or small one) we get in line. Now after waiting sometimes 45 to an hour we get on the bus, so if by chance the bus would suddenly fill up I don't see why I should give up my seat. I waited until I was sure I could get a seat. Remember, you can't judge a book by it's cover, someone may have an underlying condition. Just because someone looks capable of offering their seat, doesn't mean that they can.

 

[brymolmom]

I'm surprised that so many people see rudeness on the bus. I have, generally, found most people on the bus to be pleasant (although often tired) and respectful of others.

You're never going to get 100% of any population, but I have found MOST of the time to be very happy with the other bus riders.

But then again, I usually don't find it rude for people not to give up their seat for someone else. That person standing had the option to sit by waiting for the next bus and OBVIOUSLY doesn't mind standing since he/she opted against doing so. Also don't know any kind of 'hidden' condition that the seated person might have.

As long as everyone takes as little room as possible while being respectful to those around them, I find it good, and that is usually how I see it.

 

[disneychic2]

As for me and mine, we will always give up our seats for people more needy. And teaching my kids those kind of manners has carried over into more complicated issues in their lives. I love it that my worldly, cool and tough (at least he thinks he is ) teen son can't walk past an elderly lady without offering to help her (carry groceries, hold the door, etc.). He has empathy for those who are less healthy than he is - and he treats them carefully in all aspects of his life.

At Disney, he's not stopping to judge whether or not they should have stood on the concrete for 20 more minutes to wait for the next bus, or pay $12 for a cab. He just cares about them regardless of chocies they could have made. Most people wouldn't think to wait for a bus anyway, and most don't think about the cabs either. Not everybody at Disney is as travel savvy as many of us on the DIS .

Now, I don't look around on the bus and judge you all who don't give up your seat - that's up to you. But again, as for my family, we will use kindness and manners in everything we do as much as possible, and without expecting anything in return.

I love this! Good for you!

 

[Capt Stitch]

1) if parents choose stay at the park until closing with small children then they become part of the "normal" crowd and if they want a sit for their toddler they should make them sit on their lap or wait for the next bus.

2) People who rent motorized wheelchairs (not judging why they are in these devices) but my pet peeve is when they are entitled to be first on the bus. They have relaxed all day in their chairs and I am holding a sleeping child and then get to the bus line just as a bus is pulling up and they are playing bumper cars with their zippy mobiles. I understand some people have issues where they have no choice but to use a wheelchair but Disney needs to make it fair to those of us that are waiting.

3) Double strollers that are not folded prior to boarding a bus. Then give the bus driver a hard time because they have to take the kids out of the stroller and fold up the stroller.

I will give up my sit for anyone that may need it, an elderly person, or someone with a baby.

My mother normally goes with us and many polite and courtesy people will give up their sit for her, thank you.

Sorry no hate responses just my pet peeve.

 

[Tomh]

HOWEVER I also believe that if you REQUIRE a seat for yourself,children or whoever in your party then you should make arrangements to do so. Like wait for another bus, let others willing to stand go ahead of you,so your first for the next bus and you'll get your seat,take your own transportation,call a taxi etc..there are many ways around WDW.

And there it is folks, common sense I have a ruptured disc in my back, and travel with children. While DD16 is certainly old enough to stand, and has, I prefer her to have a seat, and I don't like the idea of DS7 standing at all (though that has happened once or twice), but I don't expect someone else to give up their seat for my family. We OFTEN get to the front of the line, and let others pass us so we can wait for a bus that has seating left on it. Others can choose to do the same, they don't have to stand on a bus.

 

[martyshoney]

"I could care less who is standing/sitting on the bus. However, there was a time when NO ONE offered their seat to an elderly lady. I saw many people sitting who I thought should have given up their seat. But eh, you never know which people have some type of disability that isn't visible. I'm sure most people don't have a disabilty, but you don't know which ones do and which ones don't, so I don't judge."

This is the case with myself. I had brain surgery in Dec. and you can NEVER tell, it was my brain stem so my hair was shaved in the back and it was only a few inches, the rest is still long enough to cover that part. I get wipped very easily and have severe neck issues with the disease that I have, so therefore I have to sit and take breaks every so often. I have already been sitting and resting when an elderly woman came and stood right by me and gave me awful glares for not getting up and giving her my seat. I just sweetly smiled back at her, I was not going to explain myself to some stranger.

 

[kaligal]

If you think the Disney buses are bad, try riding the regular bus in your closest metropolitan area.

Disney buses are NOTHING.

I do drive, because the bus is not convenient and...well, it's the bus. You get stuck on it with a bunch of strangers who may be stinky or God knows what.

But Disney buses are WAY nicer than regular ones. And the people on them are rarely doing things that can't be mentioned in polite society. I also have yet to hear of one DISer being menaced, threatened or had anyone attempt to stalk them. Nobody has reported witnessing anything foul, perverted or disgusting.

"I had to stand up" seems to be the biggest complaint, which is not a big deal. Hello! It's the bus! Some people - even you - have to stand! If you don't want to stand, wait for the next one.

 

[KSDisneyDad]

The things that boggle my mind??? When the bus is filling and a woman takes the one remaining seat towards the front of the bus, but her dh refuses to leave her side and stands there, blocking the aisle. Or, those getting on the bus and move about half way back. They don't go far enough back to see the few empty seats left. And then, they have now blocked off the rest of the bus...even though the driver is yelling "Please, move all the way to the back!!''
Or, those people who feel that their shopping bag is much better off on the seat next to them than on the floor at their feet. I mean, really..can you blame them??? Someone they don't know might actually sit next to them!!!
Or the families with several adults and a gaggle of kids. They all take a seat...even the little ones. So now, rather than have each adult take a child on their lap, and empty up some seats for others, they take up 8 or so seats!!

So, basically?? Try to be charitable when on the bus. Try to understand that even though someone looks like they should be able to stand, perhaps they just can't.
Oh...and those of you who complain about the ECV's??? Law states they have to board first. Sorry if that holds you up. The only issue I have is when one person in an ECV gets to bring along their entire group of 10 with them when they board. Sorry, but that's wrong. One person should board with the person in the ECV, all others get to wait in the line with everyone else. Yes, that might mean they get on different bus. But, is it fair to those who have been patiently waiting for the bus for 15 mins to have someone in an ECV come along, with his entire group of 10, just as the bus approaches and they all get on first?? Only if there is going to be enough room on the bus for everyone else. I would think the bus driver could make that call. If they all insisted on being together, they could wait for the next bus if they were going to have to split up to get on the first bus.

I guess there are even more reasons to add to my long list of reasons of why we don't take the buses anymore! I had forgetten all about the bags-in-the-seat-next-to-you type people and the aisle blockers.

 

[KSDisneyDad]

See, to me, driving requires actually waking up before leaving for the parks. I'm a commando rope-dropper, which normally requires me being out the door and on my way no later than 6:30 for an 8AM EMH rope drop.

With the bus, I can stagger through the lobby, fill my mug with coffee, and powernap on the bus ride over.

Yep, there are bus people and car people. I don't expect to convince anyone who prefers the Disney buses that cars are a more relaxing & convenient means of transportation. But on the other hand, there is absolutely no way anyone can convince me that buses are more relaxing & convenient. We just have to disagree on this one.

 

[stargazertechie]

2) People who rent motorized wheelchairs (not judging why they are in these devices) but my pet peeve is when they are entitled to be first on the bus. They have relaxed all day in their chairs and I am holding a sleeping child and then get to the bus line just as a bus is pulling up and they are playing bumper cars with their zippy mobiles. I understand some people have issues where they have no choice but to use a wheelchair but Disney needs to make it fair to those of us that are waiting.

I do believe that it's the law that they are loaded first. It's a safety regulation. Scooters and wheelchairs are REQUIRED to be in the tie-down spots, and it would be DANGEROUS to load scooters after everyone's already on the bus.

And when there are multiple wheelchairs and scooters waiting at one bus stop, someone in a scooter may be waiting for the 2nd, 3rd, or even 4th bus at park closing because there are a limited number of tie downs in each bus.

And honestly, sitting in a scooter all day is anything but relaxing. There is a reason that most full time wheelchair users have $300 cushions in their chair.

 

[goofy4tink]

1) if parents choose stay at the park until closing with small children then they become part of the "normal" crowd and if they want a sit for their toddler they should make them sit on their lap or wait for the next bus.

2) People who rent motorized wheelchairs (not judging why they are in these devices) but my pet peeve is when they are entitled to be first on the bus. They have relaxed all day in their chairs and I am holding a sleeping child and then get to the bus line just as a bus is pulling up and they are playing bumper cars with their zippy mobiles. I understand some people have issues where they have no choice but to use a wheelchair but Disney needs to make it fair to those of us that are waiting.

3) Double strollers that are not folded prior to boarding a bus. Then give the bus driver a hard time because they have to take the kids out of the stroller and fold up the stroller.

I will give up my sit for anyone that may need it, an elderly person, or someone with a baby.

My mother normally goes with us and many polite and courtesy people will give up their sit for her, thank you.

Sorry no hate responses just my pet peeve.

Why do ECVs get on first??? It's the law, plain and simple. And because of laws here in the US, no one can ask to see 'proof' of a 'disability'...I think it's HIPA, or something like that. So, yes, there is abuse. But because of the law in this country, anyone at all is able to rent an ECV and board a bus first.
On the other hand...here is an example going the other way....we were at WDW in the summer a few years ago. It was hot/humid as only Orlando can get in August. My dd and I were at the bus stop at MK, waiting to go back to our resort. Well...there was an older couple sitting on their ECVs waiting for the bus as well. But, they weren't under the overhead covering because they had those ECVs..they had to be out along the curb and the sun was in just the right place to hit them. We got to talking to them...very nice couple. BUT...they were waiting for the third bus to come. Why?? The first bus had to take the ECV that was in line before them and couldn't handle two more. The next bus that came wasn't able to load them because their lift was broken. So, waiting for a third bus. They had been sitting there, waiting in that heat/humidity for close to an hour!!!

Don't get me started on some of those idiot parents with strollers. I was in front of one family...mom, dad, baby in the stroller and two other kids. Mom and the kids got on the bus, dad followed with the stroller. Driver told him the stroller had to be folded up before getting on the bus. Soooo, dad proceeds to fold up the stroller. Driver yells at him...'Take the baby out first!!!!' Yep, he was folding it up with his infant child still in it!!!
Or the idiots who figure they can jump the line with their strollers and board through the rear exit. Yes, sometimes a driver will tell a parent to foldup the stroller and enter through that rear exit..especially if it's a double wide!! But, the parents that think the driver won't notice if they board at the rear exit and that way can leave the child in the stroller...well, it sure is prettyy humerous when that exit door starts closing on them!!! Man, they get upset. Watched one woman get her stroller through the door and as she went to step up, the door closed on her..she was outside, the stroller was inside.

Or the parents who feel the need to stand in the line, kids in the stroller, bags hanging off it...then when they get to the steps, start unloading the kids and rearranging the bags. Drives me nuts.
Or the mother who screamed at the bus driver when he told her she had to take her sleeping infant out of the stroller, and fold it up before boarding the bus. She yelled at him..'Are you serious?? You want me to wake up my baby just to get on this bus??? She just fell asleep! That's crazy...I can just carry the stroller on with me and it won't take any more room than if it's folded.'' and started to do it. Bus driver got out of his seat and physically prevented her from boarding with the stroller. He calmly explained that 'it was against the law to have a child in an opened stroller on any WDW bus...all 'devices' with guests in them, had to be tied down and there were no tie downs that worked with strollers..and to now, please, remove your child from the stroller, fold it up and then get on the bus. Oh, and please step to one side so others may board while you fold up the stroller.' Man, was she peeved!!!

 

[stargazertechie]

Yep, there are bus people and car people. I don't expect to convince anyone who prefers the Disney buses that cars are a more relaxing & convenient means of transportation. But on the other hand, there is absolutely no way anyone can convince me that buses are more relaxing & convenient. We just have to disagree on this one.

I also drive every January (we stay off-site). I yearn for those Disney buses at the end of the day when I'm dead on my feet, even if it means waiting 20 minutes for a bus

 

[goofy4tink]

Yep, there are bus people and car people. I don't expect to convince anyone who prefers the Disney buses that cars are a more relaxing & convenient means of transportation. But on the other hand, there is absolutely no way anyone can convince me that buses are more relaxing & convenient. We just have to disagree on this one.

I have come to enjoy having a car while in WDW. BUT...I don't find it to be particularly relaxing. Not with the way most people drive down there. You have the locals who know their way around and drive like nut cases. Then, you have the tourists who have absolutely no idea where they are....driving at 50mph in the left lane as they see their exit come up....jersey skip over to the exit, not much caring about who they have just cut off!! Man, I can't imagine the stress some of the bus drivers live with. Have you watched the road in front of the buses???? Amazing what drivers will do around a bus in WDW.

 

[rotlex]

I have come to enjoy having a car while in WDW. BUT...I don't find it to be particularly relaxing. Not with the way most people drive down there. You have the locals who know their way around and drive like nut cases. Then, you have the tourists who have absolutely no idea where they are....driving at 50mph in the left lane as they see their exit come up....jersey skip over to the exit, not much caring about who they have just cut off!! Man, I can't imagine the stress some of the bus drivers live with. Have you watched the road in front of the buses???? Amazing what drivers will do around a bus in WDW.

LOL, too true on all of that.

We have driven down from PA for the past few years, just to save on air fare. As far as bus or car while on site for us? We do both. I love having the car for dining rezzies at other hotes, and for certain parks such as Animal Kingdom and Epcot. (We always find parking at these two parks easy; we get there early, and generally have parking as close as the bus walk).

To each his own, but I like having both options.

 

[Sappermont]

Again, I can see everyone's point. My deal is that it's not about rules and entitlements. Sure we all get annoyed by different things and we're all tired waiting to get on buses, boats, and monorails. We're all just trying to have fun and live our lives - we're all in the same boat is my point. And truth be told you never know when it might be a nice thing to give your seat to someone. Someone could look young, not be pregnant but maybe they have another physical ailment or they are going through a hard time in their life and a small gesture may be something that helps them. We spend a lot of time talking about and hoping for "the magic" and the "pixie dust" associated with Disney and we talk about how Disney has gone down but we forget that we are not separate from this. So, if someone seems like they need my seat, I'll offer. If someone asks for my seat I'll give it to them. I'd do this at Disney or any public transit. And, I spent years riding public transportation in Los Angeles. Ride some of those lines once and you'll never complain about a Disney line. So bottom line is I think that you are all right in your opinions but I personally think if I can help someone by giving them my seat so be it.

 

[poohbearrocks]

Wow, I hope it isn't this bad - we havent' been in 2 years -

I remember standing from time to time - even had a seat offered - but it is 1st come...I usually tell them thanks, but I don't mind standing! I did have two kids, one asking to be held (it was after a late EMH) and offered after he asked me twice I took it - as my 3 yr old was HEAVY!

I never allow my kids to sit if adults are standing - well they can sit in my lap...It is just respectful!

 

[skater]

Wow, I hope it isn't this bad - we havent' been in 2 years -

I remember standing from time to time - even had a seat offered - but it is 1st come...I usually tell them thanks, but I don't mind standing! I did have two kids, one asking to be held (it was after a late EMH) and offered after he asked me twice I took it - as my 3 yr old was HEAVY!

I never allow my kids to sit if adults are standing - well they can sit in my lap...It is just respectful!

Honestly, its not usually bad at all. Most people on Disney buses will gladly give up a seat for someone in need. And most of the time people tend to be friendly - even when they're tired .

 

[rotlex]

Wow, I hope it isn't this bad - we havent' been in 2 years -

I remember standing from time to time - even had a seat offered - but it is 1st come...I usually tell them thanks, but I don't mind standing! I did have two kids, one asking to be held (it was after a late EMH) and offered after he asked me twice I took it - as my 3 yr old was HEAVY!

I never allow my kids to sit if adults are standing - well they can sit in my lap...It is just respectful!

It's not bad at all; really!

The problem with boards like these is it brings out the worst in people. The complainers, the whiners, the folks who would find reason to complain if Disney gave them everything they wanted, then refunded their trip money after just to make sure they were truly happy.

I

 

[PIRATEGIRL007]

Ok....as much as I'd like to use the Disney Bus for transport, most being that I drive alot for work...close to 1000 a week.

I still can't get over how rude and inconsiderate people are on the disney bus! So....u all take that bus. AND I will stay at MK till 3am!

OP what did you find rude on the bus? was it the give up your seat debate that this thread has turned into? or something else?

 

[LilyWDW]

If you NEED a seat, then it is up to you to make sure you get one. You simply can not count on getting on the bus and having someone offer you their seat. You need to take personal responsibility for your own needs.

And never judge people who don't give up their seats, even if they look healthy. You simply never know.