Treating both sets of parents to a DL vacation

[KirklandTutu]

Allright, so it's decided, DH and I will be taking both of our parents for a 'trip of a lifetime' next January. We decided to go the week before MLK day. If anyone would care to help, I'd love help with some questions...if it were just DH and I, not so many questions as we go about twice a year, but with this sort of trip, oh yes, many many ones.

1-- On our recent trip to WDW, we were able to book the room before rates were released. Talking to the people at DL, they are saying that they can't do this. Truly? Can I truly not reserve the rooms now for a trip that is less than a year away?

2-- We're going to go GC concierge...I've looked at the continental breakfast offerings, but every time I read there is something missing...a protein offering! Other than plain old milk, is there yogurt, or boiled eggs...anything?

3-- It's non peak season, parks will most likely close by 8pm. Is there a danger of boredom? This is dangerous because when bored, my mom and I pick fights with each other.

4-- Since my parents are newbies to DL, I'm wanting to do the intro to DL tour with them (it's the 2.5 hour one). Anyone do this one before? Especially during this time of the year? What's it like.

5-- Anyone know what time the GC hotel tour normally happens? Does it happen in the off season?

6-- For one time, and one time only, I'm willing to watch the fireworks from a good location, for the sake of my parents. During this time of year, how far in advance and where should we aim for?

7-- Finally, I know the upsides to going this time of year, but what are the downsides?

8-- Anything else to help make this an amazing vacation for our parents?

9-- We're thinking of DH and I getting annual passes for this year and it'll be a wash with the money back on food discounts and our ticket prices alone. I've been trying to find out somewhere what typical hotel discounts might be for a passholder during that time period, but to no avail. What's the likelyhood of their being a discount during that time period?

...and yes I know I'm planning v. early. However, I'm laid up for a few weeks and have nothing better to do than plan plan plan!

Thank you in advance to anyone who helps out!

 

[ScooterL]

I can't help with #1 or #2 so I'll start with #3...

3: Danger of boredom - Remember that Downtown Disney is open late, and there are things going on there. You can always schedule a late dinner at one of the Downtown Disney restaurants or one of the DL Resort restaurants (7:30 or later) and that will take at least an hour, if not two, of time. There are often "street" musicians playing in Downtown Disney in the evening, and they are entertaining to watch. And you can always hang out in the Concierge lounge and enjoy the evening dessert offerings there! Or go down to the lobby and enjoy the fire in the fireplace. There's often a pianist playing in the lobby, though I don't know if that goes on in the evening as well as the afternoon - I've only seen it in the afternoon/early evening.

5: Yes, the GC tour happens in the off-season - it's not every day, though, because some days there is a tour of the DL Hotel instead. I think it starts at 2:00.

6: Fireworks - remember that in the off-season the fireworks will only be held on weekends - typically Friday-Saturday night. And unfortunately they are subject to cancellation because of wind conditions. So I would recommend trying to see them the first night you can, just in case you need to return for the second night. I like to watch them from the curb of the hub right in front of the castle - you don't get a good view of the Matterhorn from there, but good viewing of the projections on the castle, the fireworks, and Tinker Bell. For a prime spot like that, I'd recommend getting there an hour early. If you just want to be in that area, and not necessarily on the curb itself, you can probably arrive 30-40 minutes early.

7: Downsides: Weather - it's cool in January, and it can be rainy. Park hours are shorter, rides like Haunted Mansion and small world are down while they remove the holiday overlays, and other attractions go down for rehab, too. And the special shows like Fantasmic! and the fireworks are only shown on the weekends. I think they cut back a bit on the live entertainment as well - most of it will only be on the weekends.

8. Other ideas - have you considered doing the Fantasmic! Dessert seating? That's a great way to see the show without wading through all of the crowds. And you can watch the fireworks from the viewing area after Fantasmic! ends - you just can't see the projections on the castle and Matterhorn. Other ideas...if your parents are "foodies" how about a nice dinner at Napa Rose, The Vineyard Room, or Steakhouse 55? Or do a character breakfast at the Plaza Inn, Goofy's Kitchen, the Lilo and Stitch breakfast at the Paradise Pier, or the Chip and Dale breakfast at the Grand Californian.

9. That's a slow time of year, so I wouldn't be surprised if there are discounts...but a lot of time the GC isn't included in the discounts - and it's especially unlikely for there to be much of a discount on Concierge. You'd have more of a chance for a Concierge AP discount at the Paradise Pier or the DL Hotel.

Sounds like a wonderful thing to do for your parents - I hope you will all have a terrific trip!

 

[audrabolster]

1. I have no idea. Try calling and speaking with a different person to verify it?

2. Sorry, again no idea!

3. Would you be able to get different rooms? That would provide a nice break away since you will likely be spending most of the day together. There is also Downtown Disney which can provide some entertainment? There are movies, restaurants, etc. to keep you occupied!

4. sorry, i havent done that one!

5. no idea.

6. I also recommend going as early into the trip as you can. You never know when they can be cancelled and it would suck to have it cancelled. At the off season, I would still recommend that you pick a spot at least 20-30 minutes early.

7. It might be colder, hours are shorter, rides will be shut down for refurbishment from the holidays. Most of the good stuff is only done on weekends.

8. Character meals can be fun!

9. I am sure there will be passholder discounts then, but I don't think they release the deals this soon.

 

[actionvaughn]

Scooter and Audrabolster have already given up some helpful info.. I just want to say though- when I first saw your post, I read it as, "Trading both sets of parents for a DL vacation."

 

[Leofoenget]

#3) I love the "when i'm bored my mom and I fight"
My guess is, because it won't be crowded, you will probably be able to do whatever you want so you wont' have time to be bored. If you start to fight head to different lands.

My guess is the only downside to going off season would be stuff down for referb or holiday take down.

 

[pitchmom]

Scooter and Audrabolster have already given up some helpful info.. I just want to say though- when I first saw your post, I read it as, "Trading both sets of parents for a DL vacation."

How can I get in on that deal???

 

[KirklandTutu]

Scooter and Audrabolster have already given up some helpful info.. I just want to say though- when I first saw your post, I read it as, "Trading both sets of parents for a DL vacation."

Hmmm, tempting.

No, this trip is me sucking it up and spending an extended amount of time with them. They're great people, it's me who's not so great to get along with. I'm going to try though! Even if I have to say 'you know, I'm going to go head to the Cove bar for a bit, yes, I know you're all waiting in line for Peter Pan, but I need a drink...and I need to be alone.' Note that I chose the Cove Bar because it's in a different park...

Great suggestions and info, thank you! We'll end up doing two sit down resteraunts (about) every day, so everything from Carnation Cafe to Napa Rose. I hadn't really thought about character meals, though. Other than Ariel's, are any of the character lunch/dinners?

 

[victorandbellasmom]

1-- On our recent trip to WDW, we were able to book the room before rates were released. Talking to the people at DL, they are saying that they can't do this. Truly? Can I truly not reserve the rooms now for a trip that is less than a year away?
I'm not positive, but I don't think you can reserve a room past the first week in Jan 2009 now. Another poster, posted that DLR rooms will now require 1 night's deposit starting sometime this month, though.

2-- We're going to go GC concierge...I've looked at the continental breakfast offerings, but every time I read there is something missing...a protein offering! Other than plain old milk, is there yogurt, or boiled eggs...anything?
We've only done concierge at PPH & DLH but we've never noticed any proteins (bacon, sausage, eggs, etc). It's basically a continental breakfast so you won't find any hot dishes, not even boiled eggs. DLH did have yogurt available but you needed to ask a server for it as it wasn't out at the buffet.

3-- It's non peak season, parks will most likely close by 8pm. Is there a danger of boredom? This is dangerous because when bored, my mom and I pick fights with each other.
We've gone on trips with my parents, and dh's mom and grandmothers in the off season. By the time the parks closed at 8pm, everyone was just about ready to turn in to bed. I was going to suggest getting connecting rooms, but this may or may not be a good idea.

4-- Since my parents are newbies to DL, I'm wanting to do the intro to DL tour with them (it's the 2.5 hour one). Anyone do this one before? Especially during this time of the year? What's it like.
We've never done this tour but it sound like a good idea.

5-- Anyone know what time the GC hotel tour normally happens? Does it happen in the off season?
It was going on we went in the off season. I have my actvity sheet from Thursday, Oct 6, 2005 and it shows the "Art of the Craft Tour" at 2-3pm. Here's a description from the sheet: Learna bout the Arts & Crafts Movement and how it influenced the architecture & design of GCH. With information about hand crafted artisan peices and insights on design elements the hotel will come alive. Join us on this complimentary guided walking tour. Contact Guest services, space is limited. Recommended for ages 12 and over.

6-- For one time, and one time only, I'm willing to watch the fireworks from a good location, for the sake of my parents. During this time of year, how far in advance and where should we aim for?
I'd say plan for an hour before and definitely watch it in the HUB. Try and get a bench facing the castle with an unobstucted view.

7-- Finally, I know the upsides to going this time of year, but what are the downsides?
Closures of attractions due to refurbishment, shortend hours, fireworks & fantasmic on weekends only.

8-- Anything else to help make this an amazing vacation for our parents?
If it's in the budget, splurge and get reserved seating for fantasmic. That way your parents don't have to stake our good spots early and then have to sit uncomfortably on the hard ground during the show.

9-- We're thinking of DH and I getting annual passes for this year and it'll be a wash with the money back on food discounts and our ticket prices alone. I've been trying to find out somewhere what typical hotel discounts might be for a passholder during that time period, but to no avail. What's the likelyhood of their being a discount during that time period?
The past few years have had the special AP rate available in January, I'm not too sure if the weekend of MLK day would be included though. The special AP rates were available for concierge in Aug-Dec 2007, but the current AP5 & AP6 rates do not include concierge rooms.

...and yes I know I'm planning v. early. However, I'm laid up for a few weeks and have nothing better to do than plan plan plan!
I think one of the great parts of a DL vacation is the planning. So have fun.

 

[carmel]

RE: Cooler weather....

We got those 'break and they heat up' hand warmers when we were there in December and they worked nicely. If you put them in your pants pockets or the pockets of your jacket, they keep you toasty. I got 2 per person and got mine at a drug store.

Oh, and the bread bowl soups in NOS taste better when there is a chill in the air.

 

[godalejunior]

If some people do not want to watch the fireworks in the park, the GC concierge lounge was really nice to watch from. Enjoying treats, beer, wine, etc. The pipe in the music for you too.

I did notice the lounge having yogurt but people had to ask for it.

 

[KirklandTutu]

Hand warmers....noted. That could be a good teaser gift for xmas. 'Bring these on your surprise trip!'

And that's a good thought about the GC concierge lounge and fireworks. We could fly in on a Sunday, not go to the parks the first day and watch from the lounge...hmmm, things to think about.

 

[godalejunior]

Hand warmers....noted. That could be a good teaser gift for xmas. 'Bring these on your surprise trip!'

And that's a good thought about the GC concierge lounge and fireworks. We could fly in on a Sunday, not go to the parks the first day and watch from the lounge...hmmm, things to think about.

When you see all the goodies, especially the Mickey chocolate dipped macaroons, you won't want to watch the fireworks anywhere else!! Ha. Ha.

 

[greewe]

You can also try for a senior discount. It's about 30% off the rake rate. You can make the ressies and just have Mom or Dad show their ID at checkin to show that someone is at least 60 yrs old. One senior can book up to 2 rooms.

 

[KirklandTutu]

So, I'm extra glad that we're planning this trip, I just hope the timing will work out. It the past week my dad found out that he did have cancer on his bladder. They got it all and it was only superficial, he'll find out Thursday what's next. I'm trying to not freak out about it, because what good does it do me, but it's still a big thing to happen.

One of the big reasons to take this trip now is we want to do it before my parents get any older (they're about ten years older than DHs). I really want to give them both that special time with the entire family. DHs mom had a couple of health scares this last year, she's fine and doing great, but it is one of those wake up calls that our parents won't be around forever and make the time count while you can...and now with my dad, it drives the point home even more.

Not sure why I'm posting this message...just wanted to put my thoughts out there into the world. Not looking for sympathy or advice really (my mom is the one who needs that the most), just felt the need to put it out there.



So, the pressure is on! lol, this must be the best trip ever!!! Maybe massages for everyone at the Mandara Spa?

 

[Master Mason]

I was down there this year right around the same time, and they were not even running fantasmic on the weekends. And fireworks were canceled both nights we were there. There was not a live band in tomorrow land at night etc. So while crowds may be less, some of the must see things don't happen.

On the bright side, the parade under the lights is much much better than in daylight during the summer.

 

[mAlien13]

I think massages would be a great add-on, esp if you put it right in the middle of the trip...a re-coup from the first bit and a way to reinvigorate everyone for the rest of the trip!

 

[KirklandTutu]

I was down there this year right around the same time, and they were not even running fantasmic on the weekends. And fireworks were canceled both nights we were there. There was not a live band in tomorrow land at night etc. So while crowds may be less, some of the must see things don't happen.

On the bright side, the parade under the lights is much much better than in daylight during the summer.

I found a record of the shows for that week the last couple of years, and if things hold true, the only thing I think we will be missing (I don't mean what will be closed, but what we will truly MISS) is Fantasmic, Billy Hill (which imo is the worse thing to miss), and a few other small shows. DHs parents have been to DL the last couple of years, but I think my mom would have loved Fantasmic. That I'll be sad about.

I did see a bit of the parade around dusk the last time we went, that was the first time that I truly wanted to see the parade, so I am looking forward to it.

I think massages would be a great add-on, esp if you put it right in the middle of the trip...a re-coup from the first bit and a way to reinvigorate everyone for the rest of the trip!

Would it be selfish to book them all massages and myself a full spa package? lol

 

[nunzia]

We'll be there the same time for our ABD.
I booked directly with the Grand Californian using my AAA discount. I can't remember how early I was able to do that, but I watched for as soon as rates were released and jumped on it. I did not have to put down any deposit, and I have three rooms booked.
Is there a special thing to do for Fireworks? If so I don't know anything about it, but we did do the Fantasmic dessert thing and it was very nice. As far as the nice dinner, I would suggest the 55 one at DLH, as I have haeard great things about it. Alot of people really seem impressed by Napa Rose, but no one in my party was and I won't go again.
YES get the spa day.
I can't think you'd be bored by early closings..DTD is nice to stroll through..they had live music playing when we were there, and I bet your folks will love an early bedtime after schlepping through the parks all day. There is also a nice bar in GC..great atmosphere, but maybe concierge level offers night time drinks also?
Anyway..sounds great!