Trip solo using ECV, wise?

[disgram]

I am thinking seriously of a trip the end of Sept. or first of Oct. My grandchildren will be in school (and though I love them dearly, I don't want take them, as take them all the time). Am I crazy to try this? I want to stay at the Poly as it is more convient for me. Also, if I go the last of Sept., will I still be able to get the free dining, is it worth it for just one person? Sorry for so many questions. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[catra121]

I think that generally...free dining when it is just one person is not as good a deal as a room discount if you can get that instead. But free dining is better than no discount at all for sure.

And no...I don't think you are crazy at all for wanting to go by yourself. If you feel that you are capable of getting around safely then go for it! Right now I am stuck in a wheel chair (though hopefully not permamently) and if I could go to Disney right now I totally would. I have already decided that as soon as I am able to walk and get back to work...I am going to take a vacation to Disney the first chance I get (ie...the first week available for me to take a week of vacation from work). So if you can do then do it! Disney is such a wonderful place...it's my happy place...and even though I will be slow and need to take it easy I'm going to go and I am going to enjoy it...lol! So you should too I think.

Disney is so accessable now for people in ECVs and wheel chairs...and even though there will be things that will be more difficult if you are by yourself you certainly shouldn't let that hold you back. Go and have a great trip!

 

[disneylove69]

I did free dining when going solo and in the end I should have just taken room discount. I went the end of Sept. and due to the heat I didn't want to eat. GO and GO with room discount. Crossing fingers there will be some for the first week of October.

 

[disgram]

I appreciate your thoughts and help on my trip. I want to go so badly (it is my "happy place, too",How but am having trouble with the family. Getting food, opening doors, etc. by myself. Any suggestions on how to handle them? Husband and two kids.

 

[catra121]

Umm...not sure if this would work for your family or not. But if it were me I would say, "I am going and I am going solo. End of discussion." But I know that doesn't work for everyone. Generally I find that if you are confident and don't waiver about your decision it can actually make other people relax about it because you have a plan and you have set your mind to it and they really have no say in the matter.

For some people, they may feel better about it if you go through your plans with them. That may make them feel more secure about your ability to manage on your own.

Or they just may be stubborn and it is up to you to just not give in to their ridiculous idea that you shouldn't go. Because that's what it is...ridiculous. Make your plans, stick by your decision, and just have a great time.

 

[Simba's Mom]

As far as going solo with an ECV-opening doors and such-I think you'll be fine. Although I haven't had an ECV, yet, I've gone solo with knee braces and a cane, and in my experience, WDW seems to bring out the helpfulness in (almost all) people. I've had more people open doors for me, offer me seats on buses and other transportation, etc.

 

[friendnc]

I use my own personal scooter. I went to Disney by myself last November and really enjoyed it. No problems at all. Disney's aways fallen over themselves to be accomadating to those of us with special needs. I'd always been there with my 2 sons (18/15) in the past, but thought I'd give it a shot alone. I love going with my boys and/or others, but like going solo once in a while. Have a great time!!!

 

[Mrs D]

Disney is really well designed to accommodate those with ANY special needs. You will find on automatic door just about everywhere. You can ride your ECV into all restaurants. AT counter serve restaurants just inform them when ordering you will need help getting your tray to a table. I had them offer to help me when I was pushing a double stroller, fortunately hubby was right behind to carry the trays! You will have free transportation everywhere you want to go on property and no worries about using it with an ECV.
I think Disney would be the BEST place to go solo with an ECV. And don't forget there's a special parade viewing area for those in wheelchairs/ECVs, but they do fill up so get there early.

You will find lots of helpful info over on the disABILITIES forum.

Have fun!