So now I know what all the hoopla is about, but I'm not really excited, that doesn't mean you shouldn't be. This deal is about discounted rooms and tickets and is for a 7 night stay. I already have tickets and I can't stay for 7 days. So no good for me but if you don't already have tickets and can/want to stay for 7 nights this is a wonderful deal. Details below...
* Buy a 4-night/4 day vacation package, get a 7-night/7-day package. That gives you 3 FREE hotel nights and 3 extra days on your theme park admission tickets!
* Travel between January 4 and March 29 and you will also get a $200 Disney Gift Card, redeemable for dining, souvenirs and more at Walt Disney World! (Travel after March 29 does not include the Gift Card.)
When booking your package you can book for longer than 7 nights (up to 10 nights), but there is a maximum of 3 free nights and 3 extra days per ticket, per stay. You can stay less than 7 nights, but you still must purchase 4 nights, so you'll end up with less than 3 free nights/extra days: stay 5 nights, get 1 free; stay 6 nights, get 3 free. Obviously a 7-night stay is the best deal.
You can add any of the Dining Plans, but you will pay full price for your dining plan (no free days of dining).
You must book this special package by 12/20/08.
If you are considering getting in on this deal I would be happy to work through pricing with you and help you be prepared when you call Disney to book. Post a comment with your info or e-mail me at casprelli@yahoo.com and I'll help you out!
Friday, November 7, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
New deal coming out for 1st half 2009
There is a deal to be announced at 5pm EST tonight for travel to Disney World. It's supposed to be pretty great. We'll see. If you're interested in what this deal is check the front page of mousesavers.com after 5pm EST November 6th.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Other things to do at Disney World
Did you know there are a lot of things to do at Disney besides visiting theme parks? My kids favorite things to do is spend a day at the resort pool. I always plan one day just to do that. It's a really relaxing day and if we plan to do a nice dinner or a dinner show during the trip this is a good night to plan it. My kids also love minigolf and Disney has two really great courses. Something else thats really fun is a traditional afternoon tea served at the Grand Floridian. Isabelle and I did the tea, it was a really nice way to spend some special time with her. Disney can be relaxing if you don't try to spend every minute in a theme park. Build some down time into your Disney trip for a more enjoyable time!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
What time of year should I go?
My family and I just returned from a week at Disney. This was our first time traveling in October, we choose Columbus day week so we would only have to pull Isabelle out of school for 4 days instead of 5 and Tony was able to use an optional holiday for Monday so he also only had to take 4 days off. Next year I am planning a trip for the end of August before the kids go back to school. I have been told that 2nd grade is a tough year to miss days.
So when should you go?
Well if you have kids in school you have to work around that. If you feel comfortable pulling them out for a few days then try to go during the timeframes I will list below. If you want to take advantage of one of the kid's days off from school try to plan it around a 'teacher in service day' or some other day off that is unique to your school. Everyone gets Columbus day off and the crowds reflected that. So if you can be flexible what are the best times to go to Disney?
-October was fantastic weather wise, so far my favorite time of year and the food and wine festival is taking place. So any time in October with the exception of the week before and the week of Columbus day.
-We have also had great luck with all of September. It's quite hot in early September but the lack of crowds make it wonderful there. Be aware though that traveling when crowds are light means the parks don't stay open very late.
- November/early December: After Thanksgiving all the Christmas decorations go up and Disney starts offering their Very Merry Christmas Party which is supposed to be really fun. The crowds are light and the weather is warm but not hot. Don't expect to do much swimming though and bring plenty of sweatshirts, pants and jackets for chilly nights.
- May is also a lovely time to go to Disney. This year dates before the 21st of May were part of Regular season price wise, after the 21st prices went up. The week right before prices go up is your best bet for May, Spring break is over, prices are low and the temperature is perfect. Bring some rain ponchos though, it is rainly season.
If you are considering other dates check Disney's rate charts. The less expensive the rooms the lighter the crowds seems to hold pretty true, so try to plan your trip during value or regular season. Here are the dates for 2009 (note that it does vary slightly depending on your resort level, these are for All Star resorts) You should also know that further promotions are often offered during value and regular season (additional % off or "free dining" are common promotions)
Value- Jan 1-Feb 12 & Aug 9-Oct 1 & Nov 29-Dec 17 (rack rate for all Star room starts at $82)
Regular- April 19-May 21 & October 2-Nov 28 (rack rate for All Star Room starts at $105)
Summer- May 22- Aug 8 (rack rate for All Star Room starts at $115)
Peak- Feb 13-April 18 (rack rate for All Star Room starts at $125)
Holiday- Dec 18 - Dec 30 (rack rate for All Star Room starts at $135)
Wondering what the best time is for your family to go? Ask me a question in the comments section and I will be sure to get back to you!
So when should you go?
Well if you have kids in school you have to work around that. If you feel comfortable pulling them out for a few days then try to go during the timeframes I will list below. If you want to take advantage of one of the kid's days off from school try to plan it around a 'teacher in service day' or some other day off that is unique to your school. Everyone gets Columbus day off and the crowds reflected that. So if you can be flexible what are the best times to go to Disney?
-October was fantastic weather wise, so far my favorite time of year and the food and wine festival is taking place. So any time in October with the exception of the week before and the week of Columbus day.
-We have also had great luck with all of September. It's quite hot in early September but the lack of crowds make it wonderful there. Be aware though that traveling when crowds are light means the parks don't stay open very late.
- November/early December: After Thanksgiving all the Christmas decorations go up and Disney starts offering their Very Merry Christmas Party which is supposed to be really fun. The crowds are light and the weather is warm but not hot. Don't expect to do much swimming though and bring plenty of sweatshirts, pants and jackets for chilly nights.
- May is also a lovely time to go to Disney. This year dates before the 21st of May were part of Regular season price wise, after the 21st prices went up. The week right before prices go up is your best bet for May, Spring break is over, prices are low and the temperature is perfect. Bring some rain ponchos though, it is rainly season.
If you are considering other dates check Disney's rate charts. The less expensive the rooms the lighter the crowds seems to hold pretty true, so try to plan your trip during value or regular season. Here are the dates for 2009 (note that it does vary slightly depending on your resort level, these are for All Star resorts) You should also know that further promotions are often offered during value and regular season (additional % off or "free dining" are common promotions)
Value- Jan 1-Feb 12 & Aug 9-Oct 1 & Nov 29-Dec 17 (rack rate for all Star room starts at $82)
Regular- April 19-May 21 & October 2-Nov 28 (rack rate for All Star Room starts at $105)
Summer- May 22- Aug 8 (rack rate for All Star Room starts at $115)
Peak- Feb 13-April 18 (rack rate for All Star Room starts at $125)
Holiday- Dec 18 - Dec 30 (rack rate for All Star Room starts at $135)
Wondering what the best time is for your family to go? Ask me a question in the comments section and I will be sure to get back to you!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
finding a flight
With prices being higher than usual on airline flights here is what I suggest when trying to book a flight to Orlando. You may have a favorite airline but be open to the possibility of other airlines and other airports. Here in Connecticut we have multiple choices for airports. Usually we like to fly out of Bradley but this time we'll be flying out of White Plains, NY it's the same drive time for us either way (about 45 minutes) if I could have gotten a signifigantly discounted flight I even would have flown out of providence or Long Island. A 2-3 hour drive can be very dooable especially if you use a stay and fly option at a hotel, that usually includes parking of your car for the duration of your trip and a shuttle to the airport. Also try to be flexible with your dates. In my experience a Tuesday travel dates are the least expensive so don't rule out a Tues- Tues trip it could save you some cash! If you are at all in doubt about what/when to book I recommend going with Southwest. If you book with Southwest and the price goes down you can get credit for the difference and you can sell those credits on ebay! Can you believe that! Also Southwest doesn't charge change fees so if your flight price stays the same but another flight the same day goes down you can rebook that new flight at the lower price and get credit for the difference. You can't do that with other airlines. Trust me I know, we're on Jetblue out of White Plains for my trip next week and there is no changing things around.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Dining in Epcot
I took a look and the sit down restaurant in the Animal Kingdom is called the Yak and Yeti. Looks pretty much like Chinese food, I haven’t heard much about the place. Getting on to Epcot where there are lots of great places to eat…
We love LeCellier, it’s a steakhouse in Canada and the food is really good and it’s only 1dining credit, but it’s so hard to get into! Teppan Edo is really good too, that’s in Japan and they serve Hibachi style food, they cook right in front of you! Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is in Norway they have a great Princess meal that is only one credit (which is great because a meal in the castle with the princesses is two credits!) I tried Le Chefs de France 2 visits ago for the first time and thought the food was really good, it’s noisy in there though! San Angel in Mexico is so pretty I always wanted to eat there but I’ve heard pretty bad things about the food. If I ever do eat there it will be for a couple of margaritas and an appetizer. Outside of the World Showcase is Coral Reef which has great atmosphere and really good food. Also to be noted is the Sunshine Season Food Fair in the Land Pavilion, they serve “counter service food” but in my opinion it is the best counter service in any of the parks. A great value on the dining plan if you use one of counter service meals for lunch (or dinner) here!
Did you know that all of the Deluxe resorts have restaurants in them too? Even if you don’t have a car you can easily dine at any of the resorts on the monorail or at the Wilderness Lodge which is only a boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom or even at the Boardwalk or Beachclub resorts which are just a short walk from Epcot’s World Showcase. More on resort dining next time!
We love LeCellier, it’s a steakhouse in Canada and the food is really good and it’s only 1dining credit, but it’s so hard to get into! Teppan Edo is really good too, that’s in Japan and they serve Hibachi style food, they cook right in front of you! Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is in Norway they have a great Princess meal that is only one credit (which is great because a meal in the castle with the princesses is two credits!) I tried Le Chefs de France 2 visits ago for the first time and thought the food was really good, it’s noisy in there though! San Angel in Mexico is so pretty I always wanted to eat there but I’ve heard pretty bad things about the food. If I ever do eat there it will be for a couple of margaritas and an appetizer. Outside of the World Showcase is Coral Reef which has great atmosphere and really good food. Also to be noted is the Sunshine Season Food Fair in the Land Pavilion, they serve “counter service food” but in my opinion it is the best counter service in any of the parks. A great value on the dining plan if you use one of counter service meals for lunch (or dinner) here!
Did you know that all of the Deluxe resorts have restaurants in them too? Even if you don’t have a car you can easily dine at any of the resorts on the monorail or at the Wilderness Lodge which is only a boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom or even at the Boardwalk or Beachclub resorts which are just a short walk from Epcot’s World Showcase. More on resort dining next time!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Dining at Disney World
So my pal Lisa has booked her trip, way to make the leap Lisa! So now she wants to know where she should make reservations for dining. Well aren't you thinking ahead! And you should be! Reservations for meals can be really hard to get especially if there is a "free dining" promotion going on. Most reservations for dining at Disney can be made 180 in advance. Thats 6 months wow! So Lisa can make her reservations now for her December trip. She asks me where she should eat. I have some favorites...
in the Magic Kingdom I like Liberty Tree Tavern for a sit down meal, currently they have characters there (Minnie and some others) but they are doing away with the characters soon. The food is turkey stuffing mashed potaots, typical thanksgiving fare, it's pretty good. Breakfast and dinner are good at the Crystal Palace also, I'm not too keen on their lunch. They have Pooh and friends at that meal. Other than that I prefer to stick to fast food in the Magic Kingdom. I have heard that the Plaza on Main Street is nice for a relaxed lunch, they do sandwiches and such and even though it is a "sit down" meal reservations can not be made here.
In Animal Kingdom we always stick to fast food too. I like Flame Tree BBQ, the husband like Pizzafari. They just added a sit down place there but I haven't tried it.
In MGM they have some fun places to try 50's Prime time is fun if you're with a crowd or if you are just silly people, the food is quite good here too, I love the smores dessert! Brown Derby is tasty although a bit expensive and counts as 2 meals if you're on the dining plan. We also like Sci-Fi where you sit at car tables and watch movies on the big screen, just like you were at a drive in. Lunch here is a great way to cool down from the heat. They have good burgers rings and milkshakes as well as much more sophisticated fare. We're eating lunh here on our next trip on a day when we don't have the dining plan, we'll just pay for this meal (If you are not on the dining plan lunches or breakfast are a cheaper meal to have sit down than dinner) Fast food at MGM is typically not considered wonderful although I've had sgood experience at ABC Commissary.
There are so many wonderful places to eat in Epcot that it deserves it's own post, so it shall get one. Stay tuned for Epcot dining... In the mean time you can check out all of the menus for Disney resturants online. This amazing woman Deb runs http://www.wdwig.com/ check out her site, click on dining then in the top left corner on 'the menus' it's all organized by park and resort. Being able to see the menu offerings and prices can make it much easier to choose a place thats right for you.
in the Magic Kingdom I like Liberty Tree Tavern for a sit down meal, currently they have characters there (Minnie and some others) but they are doing away with the characters soon. The food is turkey stuffing mashed potaots, typical thanksgiving fare, it's pretty good. Breakfast and dinner are good at the Crystal Palace also, I'm not too keen on their lunch. They have Pooh and friends at that meal. Other than that I prefer to stick to fast food in the Magic Kingdom. I have heard that the Plaza on Main Street is nice for a relaxed lunch, they do sandwiches and such and even though it is a "sit down" meal reservations can not be made here.
In Animal Kingdom we always stick to fast food too. I like Flame Tree BBQ, the husband like Pizzafari. They just added a sit down place there but I haven't tried it.
In MGM they have some fun places to try 50's Prime time is fun if you're with a crowd or if you are just silly people, the food is quite good here too, I love the smores dessert! Brown Derby is tasty although a bit expensive and counts as 2 meals if you're on the dining plan. We also like Sci-Fi where you sit at car tables and watch movies on the big screen, just like you were at a drive in. Lunch here is a great way to cool down from the heat. They have good burgers rings and milkshakes as well as much more sophisticated fare. We're eating lunh here on our next trip on a day when we don't have the dining plan, we'll just pay for this meal (If you are not on the dining plan lunches or breakfast are a cheaper meal to have sit down than dinner) Fast food at MGM is typically not considered wonderful although I've had sgood experience at ABC Commissary.
There are so many wonderful places to eat in Epcot that it deserves it's own post, so it shall get one. Stay tuned for Epcot dining... In the mean time you can check out all of the menus for Disney resturants online. This amazing woman Deb runs http://www.wdwig.com/ check out her site, click on dining then in the top left corner on 'the menus' it's all organized by park and resort. Being able to see the menu offerings and prices can make it much easier to choose a place thats right for you.
Get into Disney World Free on your Bday in 2009
My wonderful friend Tara loves me and so she posted a comment to my blog, a helpful one!
Tara said...
Just came across this great deal for 2009! Go to Disney FREE on your birthday!! (US parks only)Here is the announcment. http://abcnews.go.com/Travel/wireStory?id=5833458
So here is a link to the Disney site with the details...
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/WhatWillYouCelebrate/index?name=WDWCelebrationsOverviewPage
and if you're down in Disney but already have your park tickets you can choose
-A birthday fun card in an amount equal to the price of a 1-day Magic Your Way base ticket* for you to use on your birthday for merchandise, recreation or fun activities at select participating locations at Walt Disney World® Resort; or
-A special birthday FASTPASS® badge+ for certain attractions at the Theme Park you visit on your birthday; or
-A 1-day Magic Your Way base ticket for you to use any time until your next birthday.
VERY COOL!! Thanks Tara!
Tara said...
Just came across this great deal for 2009! Go to Disney FREE on your birthday!! (US parks only)Here is the announcment. http://abcnews.go.com/Travel/wireStory?id=5833458
So here is a link to the Disney site with the details...
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/WhatWillYouCelebrate/index?name=WDWCelebrationsOverviewPage
and if you're down in Disney but already have your park tickets you can choose
-A birthday fun card in an amount equal to the price of a 1-day Magic Your Way base ticket* for you to use on your birthday for merchandise, recreation or fun activities at select participating locations at Walt Disney World® Resort; or
-A special birthday FASTPASS® badge+ for certain attractions at the Theme Park you visit on your birthday; or
-A 1-day Magic Your Way base ticket for you to use any time until your next birthday.
VERY COOL!! Thanks Tara!
Friday, September 19, 2008
10 day non-expiring passes, working the DisneyWorld.com site
The question:
The Disney website won't let me change my pass for the magic your way, it says six days, so I guess it will be cheaper if I get less
The answer:
You can change it from 6 days to less. If you're on the Disney Worldsite there’s a drop down in that area that will show you the choices.
Another question:
Ok, I tried that out. Getting the 10 day no expiring only adds a couple hundred, is that a good idea to get that? It seems reasonable to getyour passes for the next time, no? or is it better to get hotel/tix deal? I really want to go in dec. but it seems like nov. will have better prices/warmer weather. Probably less crowded too.
Another answer:
We buy ours as 10 day non expiring and use what we need each time until they run out. If you can afford to put that cash out now it's nice to have them for next time and per day that works out to be the cheapest way. Lots of times we just buy what we need though because then you aren't paying for the nonexpiring option, totally up to you. Are the prices coming out different for Dec vs. Nov? I would have thought they were the same season thus the same prices and no Nov probably won't be any less crowed there are NO CROWDS either time, it's really a nonissue, warmth though that’s something to think of, still in Dec there’s more reason to escape although with trying to get ready for the Holidays sometimes you’d rather be home. Each has a plus and minus you just have to decide what works for you...
The Disney website won't let me change my pass for the magic your way, it says six days, so I guess it will be cheaper if I get less
The answer:
You can change it from 6 days to less. If you're on the Disney Worldsite there’s a drop down in that area that will show you the choices.
Another question:
Ok, I tried that out. Getting the 10 day no expiring only adds a couple hundred, is that a good idea to get that? It seems reasonable to getyour passes for the next time, no? or is it better to get hotel/tix deal? I really want to go in dec. but it seems like nov. will have better prices/warmer weather. Probably less crowded too.
Another answer:
We buy ours as 10 day non expiring and use what we need each time until they run out. If you can afford to put that cash out now it's nice to have them for next time and per day that works out to be the cheapest way. Lots of times we just buy what we need though because then you aren't paying for the nonexpiring option, totally up to you. Are the prices coming out different for Dec vs. Nov? I would have thought they were the same season thus the same prices and no Nov probably won't be any less crowed there are NO CROWDS either time, it's really a nonissue, warmth though that’s something to think of, still in Dec there’s more reason to escape although with trying to get ready for the Holidays sometimes you’d rather be home. Each has a plus and minus you just have to decide what works for you...
Knowing your expected cost before you call, Pleasure Island Closing :(
The question:
This is great information. I don't know how I would have booked without your advice! Thank you soooooo much. Yes, we will probably get a 4 day per your recommendation. We can explore. Esp with the baby, it will probably work out better. how do you find out how much the total will be? Oh, right, we won't go to the water parks. I went once, that was enough. I mean I like them and all, but it isn't worth it. Did you know they are closing pleasure island? I loved the adventurers club.
The answer:
We loved the Adventurers club too. So sad. Your code is for free dining right? If you go to the Disney website and plug in all your numbers and play with it and just don't add the dining that should be the price you would get with dining.
This is great information. I don't know how I would have booked without your advice! Thank you soooooo much. Yes, we will probably get a 4 day per your recommendation. We can explore. Esp with the baby, it will probably work out better. how do you find out how much the total will be? Oh, right, we won't go to the water parks. I went once, that was enough. I mean I like them and all, but it isn't worth it. Did you know they are closing pleasure island? I loved the adventurers club.
The answer:
We loved the Adventurers club too. So sad. Your code is for free dining right? If you go to the Disney website and plug in all your numbers and play with it and just don't add the dining that should be the price you would get with dining.
what type of pass to buy, having a plan when you make reservations
The question:
My code specifies my dates can be either 12/17 - 12/22 or 11/12 - 11/17. if it needs to becut short a day, my dates can be cut short either way (i.e., I can leave 18 or come back on 21). That is helpful information about the pass type, I did park hopper, butwith the baby you are probably right.I am hoping to get tix to get in early the first day and then leaveearly the last day, so I think 5 day tix would be best. We are notplanning on renting a car, nor do we want travel insurance (I like tolive risky!!!). I was planning on using magical express, that is still free,right? We can stay at riverside like you suggested, but if it is full, popcentury? Or wherever you think is best.
The answers:
Yes Magical Express is still free. If you can't get Riverside and you still want a moderate because it's bigger then ask what other mods they have. The only mod I don't really like is Coronado Springs. Ridiculous amounts of walking and they don't really have a food court. But I like the values and any of them are good but whichever you prefer. POP could totally work for you and it would save you $$ so have a plan before you call like #1 choice Port Orleans Riverside #2 choice POP #3 choice AS Music or whatever your preferences may be that way when they come back and say, we don't have anything available with that code at riverside for those dates you can say, can you check for other moderates or could you check what’s available at the values. Don't forget there’s lots to do at Disney that isn't a park like downtown Disney or a decent meal at one of the other resorts. If you are staying 3 nights I would discourage a 5 day pass, 4 day if you must ;) Of course I'm being bossy you do what’s right for you guys but we literally only go the parks half of the days we're there. We mini golf and have tea at the Grand Floridian or lunch at the Polynesian resort. There’s a lot to do, oh and you shouldn’t get the water parks and more add on, you won't need it.
My code specifies my dates can be either 12/17 - 12/22 or 11/12 - 11/17. if it needs to becut short a day, my dates can be cut short either way (i.e., I can leave 18 or come back on 21). That is helpful information about the pass type, I did park hopper, butwith the baby you are probably right.I am hoping to get tix to get in early the first day and then leaveearly the last day, so I think 5 day tix would be best. We are notplanning on renting a car, nor do we want travel insurance (I like tolive risky!!!). I was planning on using magical express, that is still free,right? We can stay at riverside like you suggested, but if it is full, popcentury? Or wherever you think is best.
The answers:
Yes Magical Express is still free. If you can't get Riverside and you still want a moderate because it's bigger then ask what other mods they have. The only mod I don't really like is Coronado Springs. Ridiculous amounts of walking and they don't really have a food court. But I like the values and any of them are good but whichever you prefer. POP could totally work for you and it would save you $$ so have a plan before you call like #1 choice Port Orleans Riverside #2 choice POP #3 choice AS Music or whatever your preferences may be that way when they come back and say, we don't have anything available with that code at riverside for those dates you can say, can you check for other moderates or could you check what’s available at the values. Don't forget there’s lots to do at Disney that isn't a park like downtown Disney or a decent meal at one of the other resorts. If you are staying 3 nights I would discourage a 5 day pass, 4 day if you must ;) Of course I'm being bossy you do what’s right for you guys but we literally only go the parks half of the days we're there. We mini golf and have tea at the Grand Floridian or lunch at the Polynesian resort. There’s a lot to do, oh and you shouldn’t get the water parks and more add on, you won't need it.
How to book
The question:
SOOOOOO. What site do you use? I want to book today. I am so excited.Also, do you need to bring a car seat or can you hold babies on yourlaps on the bus? I think I am going to book at riverside as yourecommended bc we never stayed there.
The answer:
Disney systems are down until noon for an update but you should bookthrough Disney travel. You call 1407wdisney, you want to book a travelpackage. Give them your code and dates. You can give them to me firstand I will tell you how much your total should be. You will be buyingpark tickets as part of that. Get the fewest days you need. I suggestone for every full day you are there so if you go for 4 nights get a 3day pass. I also recommend not getting the hopper. It adds aridiculous amount on to the total cost and you don't really need it.you would do one park per day which if you're going for 3 days means youskip one park, save something for next time :) It would include themeal plan for free, you have to tell them you don't want travelinsurance (unless you do) or they tack on that rather expensive bit.Don't book airfare through Disney, get your Disney reservations all setand then book airfare, you can always change your Disney dates if you need to in order to coordinate with the cheapest airfare.Unless you plan on renting a car when you are there you will want to use Magical Express which will get you from the airport to the resort, you sign up for that when you book or you can add it later. Any more questions before you book? Oh and yes you can hold the babies on the busses, if you arent' renting a car or buying a seat for the baby on the plane I don't think you even need a car seat.
SOOOOOO. What site do you use? I want to book today. I am so excited.Also, do you need to bring a car seat or can you hold babies on yourlaps on the bus? I think I am going to book at riverside as yourecommended bc we never stayed there.
The answer:
Disney systems are down until noon for an update but you should bookthrough Disney travel. You call 1407wdisney, you want to book a travelpackage. Give them your code and dates. You can give them to me firstand I will tell you how much your total should be. You will be buyingpark tickets as part of that. Get the fewest days you need. I suggestone for every full day you are there so if you go for 4 nights get a 3day pass. I also recommend not getting the hopper. It adds aridiculous amount on to the total cost and you don't really need it.you would do one park per day which if you're going for 3 days means youskip one park, save something for next time :) It would include themeal plan for free, you have to tell them you don't want travelinsurance (unless you do) or they tack on that rather expensive bit.Don't book airfare through Disney, get your Disney reservations all setand then book airfare, you can always change your Disney dates if you need to in order to coordinate with the cheapest airfare.Unless you plan on renting a car when you are there you will want to use Magical Express which will get you from the airport to the resort, you sign up for that when you book or you can add it later. Any more questions before you book? Oh and yes you can hold the babies on the busses, if you arent' renting a car or buying a seat for the baby on the plane I don't think you even need a car seat.
park crowds and weather Nov/Dec
The question:
I guess then if we want to take advantage of the special we would have to go the 12/14-22 dates? I was thinking of going the 17-21 then. Bc I just started my job I don't have a lot of time off I can take. Boohoo for me! What dates would you pick? I could either go the nov. or the dec dates. What goes on in early nov? are parks crowded?
The answers:
All the times they are offering the discounts the parks are dead, that’s why they are offering such good discounts, trying to fill things up! Are the dates on your pin the same as those I listed? You wrote until Dec 22, that’s a Mon. I have for the visa code until Dec 20th that’s a Saturday. If you're pin is for up to Dec 22 then the dates of the 17th to the 21st would be perfect for you. Either Dec or Nov is nice. Nov will be a bit warmer (which to me is a good thing). If you wanted to go in the pool at all you'd likely want to go in Nov. Dec gets a bit chillier. Gorgeous 75 degree weather during the day and fairly chilly nights, you'd want jackets and pants for the evening. Other than that I would take the price of airfare for the dates you want to travel into consideration.
I guess then if we want to take advantage of the special we would have to go the 12/14-22 dates? I was thinking of going the 17-21 then. Bc I just started my job I don't have a lot of time off I can take. Boohoo for me! What dates would you pick? I could either go the nov. or the dec dates. What goes on in early nov? are parks crowded?
The answers:
All the times they are offering the discounts the parks are dead, that’s why they are offering such good discounts, trying to fill things up! Are the dates on your pin the same as those I listed? You wrote until Dec 22, that’s a Mon. I have for the visa code until Dec 20th that’s a Saturday. If you're pin is for up to Dec 22 then the dates of the 17th to the 21st would be perfect for you. Either Dec or Nov is nice. Nov will be a bit warmer (which to me is a good thing). If you wanted to go in the pool at all you'd likely want to go in Nov. Dec gets a bit chillier. Gorgeous 75 degree weather during the day and fairly chilly nights, you'd want jackets and pants for the evening. Other than that I would take the price of airfare for the dates you want to travel into consideration.
Pin number, Christmas decorations
The question:
Do you book it yourself or do you go through one of the Disney travel agents? Well, I will try to book it, Disney sent a pin number to me, maybe that is all I need?!?!?! I also found decent flights out of Hartford for like 300 a person. Not too bad. Don't think that once I book the questions will stop. One more question, when do they decorate for Christmas?
The answers:
Whee a pin. Thats super coveted you know! You're lucky not everybody gets those. they decorate overnight on Thanksgiving day so that if you go the day after thanksgiving most of the stuff is up! The lights are already on the castle! Then they continue for a few more days finishing stuff up like when we went from the day after Thanksgiving (Fri) to the following Saturday we went to the resorts and watched them building their "Gingerbread Houses" each resort has an edible display, we stayed at the boardwalk and they had a HUGE boardwalk replica made out of Chocolate that they were finishing! By Dec 1st everything should be completely done.
Do you book it yourself or do you go through one of the Disney travel agents? Well, I will try to book it, Disney sent a pin number to me, maybe that is all I need?!?!?! I also found decent flights out of Hartford for like 300 a person. Not too bad. Don't think that once I book the questions will stop. One more question, when do they decorate for Christmas?
The answers:
Whee a pin. Thats super coveted you know! You're lucky not everybody gets those. they decorate overnight on Thanksgiving day so that if you go the day after thanksgiving most of the stuff is up! The lights are already on the castle! Then they continue for a few more days finishing stuff up like when we went from the day after Thanksgiving (Fri) to the following Saturday we went to the resorts and watched them building their "Gingerbread Houses" each resort has an edible display, we stayed at the boardwalk and they had a HUGE boardwalk replica made out of Chocolate that they were finishing! By Dec 1st everything should be completely done.
getting Disney Visa, December/Nov weather
The questions:
I don't have a Disney Visa, can I apply for one? How is it to go in Dec? I would like the baby to be able to see the Christmas lights. Will it be too cold? If we went for a long weekend that would be PERFECT........ I need to check airfare
The answers:
You have to actually have the visa to book which takes atleast a week. My guess is that the code will become "public" in another few days and anyone can book it, might be a different code ie not QXZ anymore but the new code should get you the same thing. I loved it when we went right after Thanksgiving one time, awesome time to go. Check all the dates though to see what days they fall on ie some might run only Sun-Saturday making a long weekend difficutl, you may have to do like Sun-Tues or Wed.
I don't have a Disney Visa, can I apply for one? How is it to go in Dec? I would like the baby to be able to see the Christmas lights. Will it be too cold? If we went for a long weekend that would be PERFECT........ I need to check airfare
The answers:
You have to actually have the visa to book which takes atleast a week. My guess is that the code will become "public" in another few days and anyone can book it, might be a different code ie not QXZ anymore but the new code should get you the same thing. I loved it when we went right after Thanksgiving one time, awesome time to go. Check all the dates though to see what days they fall on ie some might run only Sun-Saturday making a long weekend difficutl, you may have to do like Sun-Tues or Wed.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Room size at POP, flying with a lap child, Amazing free dining deal
Lisa says:
I will ask hubby tonight and see when he wants to go. I have stayed at pop century and loved it bc of the location and the Huge pool. And of course the twinkie tiramisu. I think budget will not allow the top notch, but maybe moderate as a bigger room would be necessary to squeeze the baby’s pack n play in. do you remember how old kids are when you have to pay for them to fly?
My answer:
Under 2 they can fly as a lap child and btw if you did decide to go budget and stay at POP we have done it may times with the pack and play and it doesn't really affect the space that much, you put it on the side of the bed by a wall, you weren't going to walk over there anyway!
I also found this info I thought would be useful:
Free Dining is being offered for Disney Visa holders. Any chance you havea Disney Visa? The best part, the room rate is actually 20% off rackrates. That is unhead of. Anyone who can get this deal especially if they stay at the value resorts will be getting an UNBELIEVABLE deal. Iam so jealous! So if rack rate is $85/night you'd be paying $68 dollars for the room and getting the meal plan for free (value $75 /day and you'd have to buy atleast a 1 day park ticket for each of you which you'd bedoing anyway). My point, if you have the Disney Visa, call and book something at a value or moderate for the dates they are offering.The code is QXZ and it is good 9/28/08-10/11/08, 11/9/08-11/22/08,12/14/08-12/20/08 If you don't have the Disney Visa hopefully they willopen this up to the public in a few days but by then the best rooms maybe gone. Good luck!
I will ask hubby tonight and see when he wants to go. I have stayed at pop century and loved it bc of the location and the Huge pool. And of course the twinkie tiramisu. I think budget will not allow the top notch, but maybe moderate as a bigger room would be necessary to squeeze the baby’s pack n play in. do you remember how old kids are when you have to pay for them to fly?
My answer:
Under 2 they can fly as a lap child and btw if you did decide to go budget and stay at POP we have done it may times with the pack and play and it doesn't really affect the space that much, you put it on the side of the bed by a wall, you weren't going to walk over there anyway!
I also found this info I thought would be useful:
Free Dining is being offered for Disney Visa holders. Any chance you havea Disney Visa? The best part, the room rate is actually 20% off rackrates. That is unhead of. Anyone who can get this deal especially if they stay at the value resorts will be getting an UNBELIEVABLE deal. Iam so jealous! So if rack rate is $85/night you'd be paying $68 dollars for the room and getting the meal plan for free (value $75 /day and you'd have to buy atleast a 1 day park ticket for each of you which you'd bedoing anyway). My point, if you have the Disney Visa, call and book something at a value or moderate for the dates they are offering.The code is QXZ and it is good 9/28/08-10/11/08, 11/9/08-11/22/08,12/14/08-12/20/08 If you don't have the Disney Visa hopefully they willopen this up to the public in a few days but by then the best rooms maybe gone. Good luck!
My 1st question
I got a question from my friend Lisa, she wrote,
Hey, when are you going to Disney this year? They are instituting the free dining plan for later this year. Where are some good places to stay in Disney?
And here is what I have to say:
I saw that they are having free dining for some dates from Oct -Dec. Unfortunately we are going from Oct 11-18th and those dates aren't included. Figures! If you are going for the free dining the value resorts make the most out of that. You would be getting the two of you for free for dining which is like $75 a day so that would be the discount on the room. You pay "rack rate on the room actually which at Pop Century or one of the All-Stars is about $85/night so you can see that the value of free dining would be almost the cost of your room which is the best discount you could ever get! Now if you wanted to stay somewhere really nice, a Deluxe those are over $400 a night, percentagewise the free dining isn't as wonderful and if you can get one of the other discounts that are offered like 30% off (which may be available when you want to go) that is a better savings, you would save $120 off the room and pay for the dining plan which would work out to be $45 cheaper than "free dining" Disney also has moderates which are about $165/night, free dining is about the best discount you could hope to get on those since it is equivalent to almost half off the room cost. If you decide on a value we like POP century or All Star Music tends to have more of an adult crowd. If you go for a moderate I love Port Orleans Riverside, French Quarter is nice too and for deluxes I'm in love with Wilderness Lodge (which is more like 300/night) and if you can afford to go crazy the Polynesian is amazing and the Grand Floridian is the ultimate top notch Disney has to offer (at about $500/night!) If you have some dates you're tossing around I can help you find the best discount.
Do you have a Disney question? post it here and I'll see how I can help!
Hey, when are you going to Disney this year? They are instituting the free dining plan for later this year. Where are some good places to stay in Disney?
And here is what I have to say:
I saw that they are having free dining for some dates from Oct -Dec. Unfortunately we are going from Oct 11-18th and those dates aren't included. Figures! If you are going for the free dining the value resorts make the most out of that. You would be getting the two of you for free for dining which is like $75 a day so that would be the discount on the room. You pay "rack rate on the room actually which at Pop Century or one of the All-Stars is about $85/night so you can see that the value of free dining would be almost the cost of your room which is the best discount you could ever get! Now if you wanted to stay somewhere really nice, a Deluxe those are over $400 a night, percentagewise the free dining isn't as wonderful and if you can get one of the other discounts that are offered like 30% off (which may be available when you want to go) that is a better savings, you would save $120 off the room and pay for the dining plan which would work out to be $45 cheaper than "free dining" Disney also has moderates which are about $165/night, free dining is about the best discount you could hope to get on those since it is equivalent to almost half off the room cost. If you decide on a value we like POP century or All Star Music tends to have more of an adult crowd. If you go for a moderate I love Port Orleans Riverside, French Quarter is nice too and for deluxes I'm in love with Wilderness Lodge (which is more like 300/night) and if you can afford to go crazy the Polynesian is amazing and the Grand Floridian is the ultimate top notch Disney has to offer (at about $500/night!) If you have some dates you're tossing around I can help you find the best discount.
Do you have a Disney question? post it here and I'll see how I can help!
Okay I have a purpose
I had a friend e-mail me a couple days ago asking for some help with a few questions she had about Disney. The e-mails flew back and forth and I think she got a lot out of it and I had fun telling her about my favorite place to vacation. So I will be posting that exchange here for others to view and inviting all my friends and family to send their friends and family to my blog to ask me questions about a vacation at Disney World or simply to read what I've had to say to others about the topic.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Thats it? Now I'm a blogger?
Well that was easy! I have lots to say about travel mostly Disney travel especially doing it on a budget. So hopefully soon, maybe even tonight I will post something worth reading and send my link to my friends and family so someone will read it!
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