To GPS or Not, among other things

[bwo]

Hi,
Heading down to see the Mouse end of June/July, staying offsite at Bonnet Creek, and for the first time we'll have a rental car. First off, I was wondering what might be the best route from MCO to Bonnet Creek---looks like I can avoid I-4 by taking 527 to 417 west (which I think is the "Greenway") to 536 which turns into Epcot Drive. Or would just getting over to I-4 be a better alternative. And second, I am somewhat old fashioned in the sense that I don't own or know how to use a GPS. I am a very confident driver, live in New England and know how to deal with nasty traffic(NYC,Boston,etc.), can follow signs well, and always have depended on good maps to get me places. I am not getting the GPS they offer with the car--I could get a decent Garmin for the cost the rental car is asking to rent one for 9 days! My question is should I, should I buy a decent GPS, and bring it to Florida to use in the rental. Any thoughts would be helpful, both for and against using GPS. Thanks, drive safe!

 

[figment_jii]

I've not driven from MCO to WDW (always used ME), so I can't really comment if the GPS would be helpful in that situations, but within the boundaries of WDW it's not needed. Everything is clearly marked and easy to follow (lots of warning before needing to make turns and signs that are large).

Also with regards to GPS within WDW, I've read some reports that GPS want to navigate you onto roads that aren't accessible to the public (i.e., the road exists, but it's 'backstage'). All-in-all, I think it would be easier to just follow the street signs!

 

[skelooch]

I believe the best route from the airport is 417 to exit 6 as you describe.
After entering Disney property take the second exit which will loop around and put you on Buena Vista Dr, at the first traffic light take a left into the Bonnet Creek Resort.

I don't think it will be necessary to rent or buy a GPS. Disney is very easy to navigate around, signage is very good.

Here is a map of the property in case they don't have them at Bonnet Creek.
Bonnet Creek is right next to CBR

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[Cherinva]

I don't feel you need GPS either....there are lots of signs that clearly mark the destinations.

 

[dudspizza]

I have done WDW with and without GPS. You don't need the GPS, but it is nice to have. I bring mine each trip, but would be fine without it...

Travel safe!

Duds

 

[bwo]

Thanks for the tips! Probably going to stick to old-fashioned maps and signs

 

[dancin Disney style]

I love having a GPS. I think it's a wise buy if you think you would use it another time. I really like that I can look up things like gas stations, restaurants, hotels etc. When I first got it I thought that maybe it was a waste of money but once I figured out everything that it could do I was very happy.

Maybe you could borrow one from a friend or relative for this trip.

 

[dudspizza]

I love having a GPS. I think it's a wise buy if you think you would use it another time. I really like that I can look up things like gas stations, restaurants, hotels etc. When I first got it I thought that maybe it was a waste of money but once I figured out everything that it could do I was very happy.

Maybe you could borrow one from a friend or relative for this trip.

I agree with this. Anyone looking for a GPS should do some homework first, though. I bought a Nokia and found out after the fact that they don't have updates for it, so it is already out of date. I have read the best reviews of Garmin......

Duds

 

[dancin Disney style]

I agree with this. Anyone looking for a GPS should do some homework first, though. I bought a Nokia and found out after the fact that they don't have updates for it, so it is already out of date. I have read the best reviews of Garmin......

Duds

I would stick to the usual ones...Garmin, Tom Tom, Magellen. I have an early version of the Tom Tom. The newer ones have a couple of features that mine doesn't have and the one that I would like to have is the spoken street names. Mine shows them on the screen and says when to turn but it would be nice to hear Richard (that's what we named it) say ''turn left on Pine St".