This is one of my favorite topics. While planning isn't really "half the fun" of going to Disney, it does bring certain planning types a great deal of enjoyment.
The resources we use to help us "planning types" scratch our itches are varied.
With no disrespect to the print media, the best resources for planning a trip exist on-line. The DIS, MouseSavers, All Ears, WDW Magic, etc., have the advantage of offering up to the minute coverage due to the amount of contributors "working as researchers."
In terms of print media, Unofficial Guide is #1 as a textual resource, Passporter is THE book you bring WITH you (along with the touring plan pages from Unofficial Guide , that is if you haven't yet memorized them), and to get that Disney feel, I suggest Birnbaum's WDW. The photos are tops.
Think of the Unofficial Guide as the textbook, Passporter as the workbook, and Birnbaum's as "mind-candy."
Maybe it is time for someone to write a "DIS"sertation on Disney trip planning?
I still believe that the "ultimate planning tool" has not yet been written or posted. However, those that have gotten us this far have done a superb job!
