Yea or Nay on needing a rental car (staying at the Poly)

[senorak]

The last time I was in WDW was in '93....so it has gotten much larger since my last visit. As of now, we had just planned to have Tiffany Town Car transport us to/from airport and use the WDW transportation system to get around. While we plan to spend most of our time in MK, MGM or Epcot (all served by the monorail or bus--and, from what I hear, an "easy" commute from the Poly), we do have some PS ressies in other resorts (Boma, Cape May Clambake) and of course, would like to visit AK and at least one of the water parks. Should I stick with TTC and use the WDW transportation (perhpas resorting to taxis to get to Boma or a water park) or should I look into renting a car? With the coupon/discount for TTC, plus a tip, I would be paying about $100 total (family of 5). I know rental cars are more expensive...but have been told of rates under $200. Is the extra expense worth the rental car (hassle of standing in line to register, return the car, etc.) I would really love to hear from anyone who has stayed at the Poly recently....and used the WDW transportation.

Thanks. DEB

 

[Disneyfun1]

I personally love the wdw transportation. I thought the first time we may need a car, but im glad we did not get one. The buses take you everywhere you need to go. They do go to the water parks as well. You also dont have to worry about parking the car, and then walking in. The bus stops are near the gates and resort entrances. I would go with the wdw trans. and if you really need it, get a taxi. So far, we have not needed a taxi to go anywhere. Tiffany makes it nice getting and returning to and from the airport as well. No hassles. We have them booked again as well.

 

[Letsbgoofy]

The Poly is great for transportation to the parks, but getting to other resorts will be a pain. I would go for the rental car myself, especially if you can get a good rate.

 

[Poly Pal]

Next month will be our 6th time at the Polynesian and we've done it with and without a rental car. We were going to do TTC and rent a car at the Car Care Center mid-way through our vacation, but have reconsidered now that rental car prices have dropped.) If you have kids, having a car will make your trip that much more pleasant. Try waiting for a bus at Typhoon Lagoon for 30 minutes in 95 degree heat in a wet,sandy bathing suit with a cranky kid who needs a nap - NEVER AGAIN!

Also, I have a full-size National Emerald Aisle reservation for August for just $19.50 day, including taxes, surcharges, and fees. Used the Disney Club contract code and a Delta Skymiles $20 off coupon.)

Have a fun vacation, whatever transportation option you choose.

 

[sgtdisney]

I would say, get the car. Depending on what time of year you are going you can get a car for close to 100.00 a week. This would allow you the freedom to come and go as you please. If you want to go to any hotel, other than one on the monorail track from the Polynesian, you will need to either walk to the TTC or, take a monorail and get a bus from there. There are no busses that connect the hotels directly. In other words you cannot take a bus from the Poly to the Animal Kingdom lodge. You would have to transfer at the TTC first. If you are on the far end of the Poly that would be a long walk and if you are walking in 95 degree heat, well.... Whichever way you chose, I am sure you will have a good time. But having my own transportation has always worked best for me.

 

[Ityldu]

Another vote for renting a car.

You won't need it as much as you would if you weren't on a monorail resort, but you'll still be glad you have it. It just makes things a little easier. We hate waiting for the bus at the end of the day, when we just want to go to bed. It's also much easier to make PS's when you don't have to wait for a bus. In Jan. 2001 (Ford Explorer) and May 2002 (fullsized car), we were able to get rentals for about $120 for the week. Once through Budget and once through National. It's also nice to have the car to store the empty luggage.

 

[jxh1]

Here's one more car vote! I think you will find it very handy to have one especially if you plan on going to the various parks a few times. When we go we usually use the DIsney Transportation for some things and the rental car for others. I personally don't have the patience to wait for busses and love the convenience of being able to come and go as I please, but some people swear by the Disney Transportation. If you can swing it (and you should be able to get a good deal on a rental car with all the help from people on here), I'd get the car, I think you'll be glad you did. Enjoy!