It never fails, does it? Here I am talking about food...again.
But this is some pretty cool news.
In case you didn't know, advanced dining reservations (ADRs) can be made online at disneyworld.com. The cool part is there is a new version in beta that is live right now.
Here are a few of the high points:
1. I can search all restaurants on any given day.
Love this function! There's nothing more sucky than having to search each restaurant individually if the first choice is not available. Plus, it tells me all the available times within the search window for my party size.
2. Larger search window.
Previously, it would only search an hour on either side of the time you wanted. So if I wanted lunch at 12 noon, it would search 11am-1pm for that date and specific restaurant. Now it searches two hours on either side. Love it.
3. A few more search parameters are available.
I can search by specific location (resort or theme park) or by cuisine/dining experience. I could search this way before, but the new setup is much more user friendly.
The only downside I've seen so far is that you can't search a range of dates like before. This was handy if one of those hard-to-get ADRs (Le Cellier, Crystal Palace, etc.) is on the must-have list. Since it's in beta, I'm hoping that people request that functionality be reinstated.
So check it out and let me know what you think.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Personalized Disney Gift Cards at disneystore.com
With the demise of Disney Dollars (sniff), I was thinking about what I could give my kids to spend in the parks.
The "well, duh" solution is to give them cash. Forgive me for wanting to be a little less mundane, but I wanted to do something a little more...well, magical.
The Disney Store sells gift cards online and in its brick-and-mortar stores, but nothing was really jazzing me. I was resigned to grabbing a plain old Mickey card when what do my eyes see but a new card category.
Well, let's look into this. I can upload a picture of whatever and have it added to the card, load it with cash, order it and it's sent off to me. And it doesn't cost me extra to use that personalized template.
I can choose to have a card carrier with a personalized note inside added to the order for $4.95 (which I think is pretty reasonable, all things considered).
Here's the important stuff: It takes 10-15 business days and you can't pay for expedited shipping. Since I'm within that time frame, I can't order these for my trip next month. But you can bet your money that I'll be ordering these for the next trip and each kid will have his/her picture from the Pirate's League on it.
One other note: This card can be used at "select" locations at the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. That means it won't be accepted everywhere. For example, there are probably a few unique vendors in Epcot that aren't part of the system. Just be aware that you may run into those oddball places where your card isn't accepted.
This is rock-on awesome and I can't wait to do it.
Here's the link to get the personalized card without the carrier: Personalized card with no card carrier
Here's the link to the gift card section in general where you can access the personalized template with the carrier. Gift Card Main Page
The "well, duh" solution is to give them cash. Forgive me for wanting to be a little less mundane, but I wanted to do something a little more...well, magical.
The Disney Store sells gift cards online and in its brick-and-mortar stores, but nothing was really jazzing me. I was resigned to grabbing a plain old Mickey card when what do my eyes see but a new card category.
Personalized Gift Cards!
Well, let's look into this. I can upload a picture of whatever and have it added to the card, load it with cash, order it and it's sent off to me. And it doesn't cost me extra to use that personalized template.
I can choose to have a card carrier with a personalized note inside added to the order for $4.95 (which I think is pretty reasonable, all things considered).
Here's the important stuff: It takes 10-15 business days and you can't pay for expedited shipping. Since I'm within that time frame, I can't order these for my trip next month. But you can bet your money that I'll be ordering these for the next trip and each kid will have his/her picture from the Pirate's League on it.
One other note: This card can be used at "select" locations at the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. That means it won't be accepted everywhere. For example, there are probably a few unique vendors in Epcot that aren't part of the system. Just be aware that you may run into those oddball places where your card isn't accepted.
This is rock-on awesome and I can't wait to do it.
Here's the link to get the personalized card without the carrier: Personalized card with no card carrier
Here's the link to the gift card section in general where you can access the personalized template with the carrier. Gift Card Main Page
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
You've Decided to Rent a Car. Now what?
You already know that I'm a huge fan of renting a car on a Disney World vacation.
But maybe this is your first foray into the world of renting and you just don't know where to go, what to do, how to get it done AND get a good deal in the process.
So here's my rental car quick reference guide:
1. Know the players in the game.
Most likely, you are flying into Orlando (MCO). Most of the big names in car rentals are right there are the airport. That means you save more time when you don't have to take a shuttle to a rental car company's lot.
I love National Car Rental. While all companies have some sort of preferred renter program, I'll take the Emerald Club over all of them. National is not always the cheapest, but I feel it's the best overall value when you add in convenience and service to the picture.
Here's the deal: With Emerald Club, you can make an Emerald Aisle reservation. What that means is you are guaranteed a midsize vehicle. But you get to select your vehicle from the Emerald Aisle which could have midsize, full size, SUVs, convertibles or minivans. And no matter what vehicle you select, you only pay that Emerald Aisle price.
Now, this wouldn't be a smart choice if you absolutely needed a minivan because you were traveling with a larger party. If that's the case, book the size you need. You still get to choose your own vehicle at National. But in this case, you'd just select from the Minivan aisle.
The other major rental car companies at MCO are: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise and Hertz. Each have their own preferred renter programs. Check them out and see what fits you best.
A couple tidbits of information:
*Alamo, like National, will let you select the car you want to drive. You don't get that option with all companies. If that's important to you, ask before you reserve.
* If you need the extra space of a minivan, be wary of booking with Dollar. They tend to have better prices but what's not well known is they tend to carry the shorter wheel base minivans. Like a Caravan instead of a Grand Caravan. This could make a big difference for you if you want or need that extra space in the back.
2. Check rates often
Unlike airfare, you can cancel and re-book a rental car reservation with no penalty. I often will book a vehicle and then check back on a regular basis to see if I can get a better deal.
3. Sometimes it pays to book early...
There have been times where the best deal I got on a car rental was when I booked more than six months out.
4. And sometimes it pays to book later.
More often than not, I tend to see the biggest downward movement in prices within 4-6 weeks of departure. Of course, this is all dependent on time of year, the size vehicle you are renting and a few more factors.
5. You don't have to pay to park if you are staying at a Disney Resort
I hear from people so often that a main reason they don't rent a car is because they don't want to have to pay for parking at the theme parks.
If you are staying at a Disney World Resort, you get a parking pass that gives you free parking through your departure day!
6. Getting a good deal.
Look for codes and coupons. There are a lot of resources out there. The two I usually refer to are Mousesavers and RentalCars.com.
It make take a little investment of time, but it can give you so much freedom on your vacation when you have your own wheels!
But maybe this is your first foray into the world of renting and you just don't know where to go, what to do, how to get it done AND get a good deal in the process.
So here's my rental car quick reference guide:
1. Know the players in the game.
Most likely, you are flying into Orlando (MCO). Most of the big names in car rentals are right there are the airport. That means you save more time when you don't have to take a shuttle to a rental car company's lot.
I love National Car Rental. While all companies have some sort of preferred renter program, I'll take the Emerald Club over all of them. National is not always the cheapest, but I feel it's the best overall value when you add in convenience and service to the picture.
Here's the deal: With Emerald Club, you can make an Emerald Aisle reservation. What that means is you are guaranteed a midsize vehicle. But you get to select your vehicle from the Emerald Aisle which could have midsize, full size, SUVs, convertibles or minivans. And no matter what vehicle you select, you only pay that Emerald Aisle price.
Now, this wouldn't be a smart choice if you absolutely needed a minivan because you were traveling with a larger party. If that's the case, book the size you need. You still get to choose your own vehicle at National. But in this case, you'd just select from the Minivan aisle.
The other major rental car companies at MCO are: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise and Hertz. Each have their own preferred renter programs. Check them out and see what fits you best.
A couple tidbits of information:
*Alamo, like National, will let you select the car you want to drive. You don't get that option with all companies. If that's important to you, ask before you reserve.
* If you need the extra space of a minivan, be wary of booking with Dollar. They tend to have better prices but what's not well known is they tend to carry the shorter wheel base minivans. Like a Caravan instead of a Grand Caravan. This could make a big difference for you if you want or need that extra space in the back.
2. Check rates often
Unlike airfare, you can cancel and re-book a rental car reservation with no penalty. I often will book a vehicle and then check back on a regular basis to see if I can get a better deal.
3. Sometimes it pays to book early...
There have been times where the best deal I got on a car rental was when I booked more than six months out.
4. And sometimes it pays to book later.
More often than not, I tend to see the biggest downward movement in prices within 4-6 weeks of departure. Of course, this is all dependent on time of year, the size vehicle you are renting and a few more factors.
5. You don't have to pay to park if you are staying at a Disney Resort
I hear from people so often that a main reason they don't rent a car is because they don't want to have to pay for parking at the theme parks.
If you are staying at a Disney World Resort, you get a parking pass that gives you free parking through your departure day!
6. Getting a good deal.
Look for codes and coupons. There are a lot of resources out there. The two I usually refer to are Mousesavers and RentalCars.com.
It make take a little investment of time, but it can give you so much freedom on your vacation when you have your own wheels!
Friday, May 21, 2010
9 Disney World Cell Phone Applications
It's a given; people have cell phones. (There's a "well, duh!" statement if I ever heard one.)
With more and more people having smart phones with all the cool and funky applications, I thought I should review the applications that are out there for Disney World vacationers.
Some of these apps are open market and some are limited to certain carriers. Since I have an Android phone, I'll have more info on that than on apps for Blackberry phones or the iPhone. I'll touch on some of the details, but in the end, it's up to you, the user, to decide what works best for you when you are on your Disney World vacation.
1. Mobile Magic
This is an exclusive application from Disney. It's available only to Verizon Wireless subscribers. Users can see wait times, FastPass distribution availability as well as a digital list of events and character autograph locations. Cost: $9.99 for 180 days of use.
2. ReadyPath - Disney World.
This is an application for your Blackberry device. You can access highly interactive maps and find rides, attractions, restaurants and more. It claims you can get phone numbers for restaurants and stores and even the golf courses to get tee times. It seems relatively new and reviews are not great. YMMV. Cost: one-time fee of $4.99
3. Ride Hopper Full
This one is on my Android phone. It shows times and hours for Disney World and other parks. The nice things about this one is it's based on user submitted wait times. Cost: one-time fee of $0.99
4. WDW Maps Box Set
This is an Android application. You get maps of all four major parks. You can search for attractions, restaurants and more. You can mark what you are looking for, mark where you've been, customize your maps and it even has built-in menus for restaurants. Cost: one-time fee of $2.99
5. Disney World Lines
This is an Android application from TouringPlans.com. This is a members-only app for their subscribers that shows wait times and helps you plan for FastPasses. You can download the app for free, but the features will be limited without the subscription. I think the online subscription to be a member is $7.95 per year.
6. Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom Mini Guide
From the same people who bring the WDW Box Set, they have an app just for MK. Cost: one-time fee of $0.99
Since I'm not an iPhone user, I can't see everything that an iPhone user can get nor can I see prices.
The following are iPhone apps:
7. Walt Disney World Maps
Use the GPS in your phone to find your way around the parks.
8. Walt Disney World Dining
See what restaurants are available in each park and what the prices are. This app also has the phone number to make dining reservations.
9. Walt Disney World Wait Times
Check current wait times as posted by other iPhone users.
I'm sure there are other choices out there based on the type of phone and carrier that you have. Do some research and find out if there are any apps that will fit with the way you like to vacation.
With more and more people having smart phones with all the cool and funky applications, I thought I should review the applications that are out there for Disney World vacationers.
Some of these apps are open market and some are limited to certain carriers. Since I have an Android phone, I'll have more info on that than on apps for Blackberry phones or the iPhone. I'll touch on some of the details, but in the end, it's up to you, the user, to decide what works best for you when you are on your Disney World vacation.
1. Mobile Magic
This is an exclusive application from Disney. It's available only to Verizon Wireless subscribers. Users can see wait times, FastPass distribution availability as well as a digital list of events and character autograph locations. Cost: $9.99 for 180 days of use.
2. ReadyPath - Disney World.
This is an application for your Blackberry device. You can access highly interactive maps and find rides, attractions, restaurants and more. It claims you can get phone numbers for restaurants and stores and even the golf courses to get tee times. It seems relatively new and reviews are not great. YMMV. Cost: one-time fee of $4.99
3. Ride Hopper Full
This one is on my Android phone. It shows times and hours for Disney World and other parks. The nice things about this one is it's based on user submitted wait times. Cost: one-time fee of $0.99
4. WDW Maps Box Set
This is an Android application. You get maps of all four major parks. You can search for attractions, restaurants and more. You can mark what you are looking for, mark where you've been, customize your maps and it even has built-in menus for restaurants. Cost: one-time fee of $2.99
5. Disney World Lines
This is an Android application from TouringPlans.com. This is a members-only app for their subscribers that shows wait times and helps you plan for FastPasses. You can download the app for free, but the features will be limited without the subscription. I think the online subscription to be a member is $7.95 per year.
6. Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom Mini Guide
From the same people who bring the WDW Box Set, they have an app just for MK. Cost: one-time fee of $0.99
Since I'm not an iPhone user, I can't see everything that an iPhone user can get nor can I see prices.
The following are iPhone apps:
7. Walt Disney World Maps
Use the GPS in your phone to find your way around the parks.
8. Walt Disney World Dining
See what restaurants are available in each park and what the prices are. This app also has the phone number to make dining reservations.
9. Walt Disney World Wait Times
Check current wait times as posted by other iPhone users.
I'm sure there are other choices out there based on the type of phone and carrier that you have. Do some research and find out if there are any apps that will fit with the way you like to vacation.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Freebies at Walt Disney World - Part 2
I'm a bargain hunter just like everyone else. It's nice to find some free options when I'm on vacation. I'm sure you feel the same way.
Here are a few more to consider on your next visit:
1. Free Movies.
Fort Wilderness has a campfire program where they roast marshmallows and make s'mores followed by a movie on a large outdoor screen. You can bring your own marshmallows, buy the kits at the General Store or bring your own snacks if you like. This is open to all Disney Resort Guests.
2. Visit Downtown Disney
This might seem obvious, but sometimes the obvious needs to be stated. It doesn't cost you anything to do to Downtown Disney and walk around. Your kids can do some creating at the Lego Store. Ghirardelli tends to give away small pieces of chocolate. You can even take the boat down to Old Key West or Port Orleans. Bottom line - there are a lot of free options here.
3. Tour Wilderness Lodge
Inquire at Guest Services about their guided tours. You can ask about the Hidden Mickey Hunt as well. Guest Services should have a list for you to work with.
4. Discovery Club Passport at Animal Kingdom.
This is at the park, not the resort. You can get the passport and head to the different learning stations throughout the park. Each time you finish a station, you get a stamp. When it's all done, you have a cool. educational memento to take home.
That's all for today. I'm sure I'll re-visit this subject later on!
Here are a few more to consider on your next visit:
1. Free Movies.
Fort Wilderness has a campfire program where they roast marshmallows and make s'mores followed by a movie on a large outdoor screen. You can bring your own marshmallows, buy the kits at the General Store or bring your own snacks if you like. This is open to all Disney Resort Guests.
2. Visit Downtown Disney
This might seem obvious, but sometimes the obvious needs to be stated. It doesn't cost you anything to do to Downtown Disney and walk around. Your kids can do some creating at the Lego Store. Ghirardelli tends to give away small pieces of chocolate. You can even take the boat down to Old Key West or Port Orleans. Bottom line - there are a lot of free options here.
3. Tour Wilderness Lodge
Inquire at Guest Services about their guided tours. You can ask about the Hidden Mickey Hunt as well. Guest Services should have a list for you to work with.
4. Discovery Club Passport at Animal Kingdom.
This is at the park, not the resort. You can get the passport and head to the different learning stations throughout the park. Each time you finish a station, you get a stamp. When it's all done, you have a cool. educational memento to take home.
That's all for today. I'm sure I'll re-visit this subject later on!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Rumor: Le Cellier to become Signature Restaurant
I always seem to come back to food. I can't help it; dining at Disney is part of my vacation.
This rumor hit a couple of discussion boards in the last few days.
It seems that the staff at Le Cellier has been told they will re-categorize as a Signature restaurant as early as fall of 2010 or early 2011.
What does that mean for the average Disney vacationer?
The obvious one is an increase in price. Given the huge following Le Cellier seems to have, this might make it easier for those who've yet to experience it to acquire that oh-so-hard-to-get ADR. But it will set you back a bit more, either in cash or in dining credits.
Le Cellier will probably re-vamp its menu to make it more unique. This would put it in line with other Signature locations which tend to offer a more specialized menu.
Given that Signature locations tend to be more intimate and quiet, it's also possible that seating would be shifted around to accommodate fewer tables and that a Resort Casual dress code would be put in place.
What do I think? I think it's not just possible, but highly probable.
Le Cellier is very popular. Demand for seats at this restaurant vastly outweigh supply. Make it a Signature and raise the prices will make Disney more money and probably not affect demand significantly.
Don't worry about having fewer one credit choices at Epcot. We have those two new restaurants coming online shortly. Well, one new and one refreshed option. Cantina de San Angel will open later this year with more space, especially for outdoor dining. And the new restaurant in the Italy pavilion, Via Napoli Pizzeria, will certainly draw in crowds with its pizza.
Stay tuned! We'll see how this all plays out.
This rumor hit a couple of discussion boards in the last few days.
It seems that the staff at Le Cellier has been told they will re-categorize as a Signature restaurant as early as fall of 2010 or early 2011.
What does that mean for the average Disney vacationer?
The obvious one is an increase in price. Given the huge following Le Cellier seems to have, this might make it easier for those who've yet to experience it to acquire that oh-so-hard-to-get ADR. But it will set you back a bit more, either in cash or in dining credits.
Le Cellier will probably re-vamp its menu to make it more unique. This would put it in line with other Signature locations which tend to offer a more specialized menu.
Given that Signature locations tend to be more intimate and quiet, it's also possible that seating would be shifted around to accommodate fewer tables and that a Resort Casual dress code would be put in place.
What do I think? I think it's not just possible, but highly probable.
Le Cellier is very popular. Demand for seats at this restaurant vastly outweigh supply. Make it a Signature and raise the prices will make Disney more money and probably not affect demand significantly.
Don't worry about having fewer one credit choices at Epcot. We have those two new restaurants coming online shortly. Well, one new and one refreshed option. Cantina de San Angel will open later this year with more space, especially for outdoor dining. And the new restaurant in the Italy pavilion, Via Napoli Pizzeria, will certainly draw in crowds with its pizza.
Stay tuned! We'll see how this all plays out.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Star Wars Weekends!
Did I mention that we like Star Wars here at my house?
Photo Courtesy of Disney(C)
Photo Courtesy of Disney(C)
The Star Wars bug is firmly entrenched in this family. Seriously.
It's so bad that Liam Neeson doesn't have a real name in my house. My son, who's 14, saw a commercial for some movie Mr. Neeson is in and said, "Hey, Qui Gon Jinn is in that movie. Let's go see it."
We all love Star Wars Weekends.
I'm so excited to see our new droid, R2-MK, with Jedi Mickey. How cute is that?
Some of you may be wondering, "What is the big deal?" or you may just not be up for rubbing elbows with the Rebel Alliance and the Evil Empire.
I could go on and on about why this is such a fun event, but in the interests of time, I'll leave you with a few items to peruse:
and a YouTube video that shows you why you want to be at Disney's Hollywood Studios well before opening to see what I refer to as "The Stormtrooper Show. It's nine minutes long and totally worth it.
I'll be there later in June!
Have a great day!
I'll be there later in June!
Have a great day!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
New Family Suites Resort Announced for Walt Disney World
The Disney Parks Blog announced yesterday that the Disney Art of Animation Resort will open in 2012.
This is the first non-DVC resort for Walt Disney World in the last seven years.
Even as a DVC member, I have to say I'm freakin' excited by this new resort! To me, this resort concept is the epitome of being immersed in the magic of Disney while on a Disney vacation.
Here are some tidbits:
Stay tuned for more info!
This is the first non-DVC resort for Walt Disney World in the last seven years.
Even as a DVC member, I have to say I'm freakin' excited by this new resort! To me, this resort concept is the epitome of being immersed in the magic of Disney while on a Disney vacation.
Here are some tidbits:
- This resort will be most appealing to families who want more space
- There will be nearly 2,000 units
- 1,124 family suites with a living room and separate bedroom will have one of the following themes: The Lion King, Cars, or Finding Nemo.
- 864 rooms will be themed to The Little Mermaid
- The resort will be adjacent to Pop Century Resort - most likely across the Generation Bridge where the Legendary Years buildings have been standing.
- A 35-foot-tall King Triton will great guests at the resort's entrance
Stay tuned for more info!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Why I Rent a Car at Disney World
After reading that title, you may be thinking, "Why would I rent a car when I can use Magical Express and the bus system for free?"
Believe me, I'm a bargain hunter just like you are. I understand the value of "free."
But for me, it's not just about the money.
I rent a car every time I go to Disney World. That's right; every single time.
I won't go into a long dissertation, but here are the salient points:
1. Control.
I'm so Type-A, it's not even funny. I never sit by the window on the plane. Never. If I'm not driving, there's no point. I need to be in control of my transportation.
Waiting for the Magical Express when I could be in my own car, on the way to Mickey's place? Why would I waste that time?
Waiting in line for a bus at the park to take me back to my resort? I really don't want to wait in a line for the bus, only to have to wait for two buses because there were so many people that it filled the first bus. I could have taken the tram to my car and been out of there and on my way faster.
Control for me also means freedom. I'm not a slave to the system. Did you know that Disney tells you to plan for an hour to get from one place to another - one way - using their transportation system? An hour! Now, it may not always take that long, but it gives me a headache just thinking about that.
2. Flexibility.
Flexibility straddles control in some ways, but it has its own part of this picture.
I always stop at the grocery store on the way to Disney World from the airport. Sure, I could use a grocery service or use the limited selection that Disney has in its resort gift shops. I like to pick out my own food and beverages. I know what brands and off-brands are acceptable to me when I see them. A grocery service could ask me what's acceptable and half the time, I wouldn't know unless I was in the aisle looking right at it.
You might argue that shopping for my own groceries wastes my time. I don't consider it a waste of my time if I know that I'm getting everything I want and I don't have to go back because I forgot to put something on the list.
I also enjoy eating at Disney Resort restaurants. There is no direct transportation option between resorts. For example, if I was staying at the Beach Club and I wanted to have dinner at Kona Cafe at the Polynesian, and I didn't have a car, it would probably take me at least an hour (as Disney suggests) to get there. I'd walk through Epcot, get on the Epcot monorail to the Transportation and Ticket Center, transfer to the Resort Monorail and ride it to the Polynesian.
Sounds cumbersome, doesn't it?
I could get in my car and drive from the Beach Club to the Polynesian and be there in ten minutes.
Another plus is that if I want to go off-site (gasp!) to Discovery Cove or maybe just hit 31 Flavors for some Daquiri Ice, I can do that.
3. Privacy and Comfort
Let's face it; no matter when you go to Disney World, there are other people there.
When I've been on my feet for several hours, the last thing I really want to do is get on a crowded bus and stand some more. If I happen to be on a bus that services multiple resorts, I may have to wait through a couple of stops before I can get off, much less sit down.
When I have my own car, each person in the party has their own seat and we have only one stop.
Now you probably all think that I'm bashing Disney's transportation system. I'm really not. Considering the number of people, the number of resorts and the number of square miles Disney World covers, their transportation system is really quite good.
I'm just an odd duck that has to have a rental car to be happy on my vacation.
Believe me, I'm a bargain hunter just like you are. I understand the value of "free."
But for me, it's not just about the money.
I rent a car every time I go to Disney World. That's right; every single time.
I won't go into a long dissertation, but here are the salient points:
1. Control.
I'm so Type-A, it's not even funny. I never sit by the window on the plane. Never. If I'm not driving, there's no point. I need to be in control of my transportation.
Waiting for the Magical Express when I could be in my own car, on the way to Mickey's place? Why would I waste that time?
Waiting in line for a bus at the park to take me back to my resort? I really don't want to wait in a line for the bus, only to have to wait for two buses because there were so many people that it filled the first bus. I could have taken the tram to my car and been out of there and on my way faster.
Control for me also means freedom. I'm not a slave to the system. Did you know that Disney tells you to plan for an hour to get from one place to another - one way - using their transportation system? An hour! Now, it may not always take that long, but it gives me a headache just thinking about that.
2. Flexibility.
Flexibility straddles control in some ways, but it has its own part of this picture.
I always stop at the grocery store on the way to Disney World from the airport. Sure, I could use a grocery service or use the limited selection that Disney has in its resort gift shops. I like to pick out my own food and beverages. I know what brands and off-brands are acceptable to me when I see them. A grocery service could ask me what's acceptable and half the time, I wouldn't know unless I was in the aisle looking right at it.
You might argue that shopping for my own groceries wastes my time. I don't consider it a waste of my time if I know that I'm getting everything I want and I don't have to go back because I forgot to put something on the list.
I also enjoy eating at Disney Resort restaurants. There is no direct transportation option between resorts. For example, if I was staying at the Beach Club and I wanted to have dinner at Kona Cafe at the Polynesian, and I didn't have a car, it would probably take me at least an hour (as Disney suggests) to get there. I'd walk through Epcot, get on the Epcot monorail to the Transportation and Ticket Center, transfer to the Resort Monorail and ride it to the Polynesian.
Sounds cumbersome, doesn't it?
I could get in my car and drive from the Beach Club to the Polynesian and be there in ten minutes.
Another plus is that if I want to go off-site (gasp!) to Discovery Cove or maybe just hit 31 Flavors for some Daquiri Ice, I can do that.
3. Privacy and Comfort
Let's face it; no matter when you go to Disney World, there are other people there.
When I've been on my feet for several hours, the last thing I really want to do is get on a crowded bus and stand some more. If I happen to be on a bus that services multiple resorts, I may have to wait through a couple of stops before I can get off, much less sit down.
When I have my own car, each person in the party has their own seat and we have only one stop.
Now you probably all think that I'm bashing Disney's transportation system. I'm really not. Considering the number of people, the number of resorts and the number of square miles Disney World covers, their transportation system is really quite good.
I'm just an odd duck that has to have a rental car to be happy on my vacation.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
We are a family of 5. Now what do we do?
Disney seems predisposed to the notion that families of four are the only ones who travel to Disney World.
Why?
Well, all of their regular resort rooms usually sleep only four people.
You might be thinking to yourself, "Well, I'll just get a rollaway." Most Disney resort hotels don't even offer that option.
So what do you do?
The obvious choice, and the one Disney probably would prefer you to make, is to purchase two rooms. I'd like you to think about that one for a minute. With two rooms, you have two bathrooms. If you have five or more people in your party, wouldn't it be nice if you didn't have to share one bathroom?
If you scored connecting rooms, you could leave the connecting doors open for a more spacious feeling. But watch how you make the room request. Don't make the mistake of asking for adjoining rooms. To Disney, adjoining means next to each other. If you want an inside door connecting your two rooms, you need to request connecting rooms.
However, I fully acknowledge that some budgets may not find that a workable option. The fact of the matter is when you have a larger family, you have more expenses. It is what it is.
Here are some options for you to consider:
1. Reserve two rooms as discussed above.
2. Reserve a Family Suite at the All Star Music Resort
A few years back, Disney converted the rooms in one of the buildings at All Star Music into Family Suites. It's roughly the space of two regular hotel rooms and sleeps up to six people. There is a queen bed, full size sofa and two chairs that convert into twin beds. You get benefits of space, two full bathrooms and a kitchenette. Many families find the kitchenette handy because they can manage snacks and some meals in the room.
3. Cabins at Fort Wilderness.
Each log cabin sleeps up to 6 people. The living room has a pull-down double bed. The bed room has a double bed and a set of bunk beds. The space you have here is amazing! It not only has a living room, but also has a full kitchen. Cabins receive full housekeeping. You don't have to do the dishes!
4. Port Orleans - Riverside
In some rooms at POR, trundle beds pull out from under one of the double beds in the guest room. However, this trundle is small. If you have a party of all adults or even older children, it may not be the best choice. Be aware of its limitations.
5. Select Deluxe Resort Rooms
Some rooms at Deluxe Resorts have two queen beds and a day bed and can sleep up to five. Inquire at the time of reservation if these rooms are available for your dates.
6. Deluxe Villas Resort Rooms
The larger accommodations are part of the Deluxe Villas Resorts which are Disney Vacation Club properties. For families of five or more, you can select a 1-bedroom villa at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas at Kidani Village. There is a king bed in the bedroom plus a pull-out queen sofa and twin convertible chair in the living room. These units also include a full kitchen and two bathrooms.
The other Deluxe Villas properties do not have the same 1-bedroom villa configuration. Technically, those units will only sleep four, though reservations for five can be made. In general, Disney will not provide bedding for a fifth person.
The other options are the 2-bedroom and Grand Villas units. Each has a full kitchen and living areas. A 2-bedroom unit sleeps 8 or 9 people and a Grand Villa sleeps 12 or 13 people, depending on the resort.
These tend to be the highest priced rooms on property, but can be cost-effective if you have a large party.
You can stay at a Disney Resort if you plan ahead. Evaluate all your options and see what works for you. If in the end, it doesn't feel like a good fit, then you can look at off-site options.
Why?
Well, all of their regular resort rooms usually sleep only four people.
You might be thinking to yourself, "Well, I'll just get a rollaway." Most Disney resort hotels don't even offer that option.
So what do you do?
The obvious choice, and the one Disney probably would prefer you to make, is to purchase two rooms. I'd like you to think about that one for a minute. With two rooms, you have two bathrooms. If you have five or more people in your party, wouldn't it be nice if you didn't have to share one bathroom?
If you scored connecting rooms, you could leave the connecting doors open for a more spacious feeling. But watch how you make the room request. Don't make the mistake of asking for adjoining rooms. To Disney, adjoining means next to each other. If you want an inside door connecting your two rooms, you need to request connecting rooms.
However, I fully acknowledge that some budgets may not find that a workable option. The fact of the matter is when you have a larger family, you have more expenses. It is what it is.
Here are some options for you to consider:
1. Reserve two rooms as discussed above.
2. Reserve a Family Suite at the All Star Music Resort
A few years back, Disney converted the rooms in one of the buildings at All Star Music into Family Suites. It's roughly the space of two regular hotel rooms and sleeps up to six people. There is a queen bed, full size sofa and two chairs that convert into twin beds. You get benefits of space, two full bathrooms and a kitchenette. Many families find the kitchenette handy because they can manage snacks and some meals in the room.
3. Cabins at Fort Wilderness.
Each log cabin sleeps up to 6 people. The living room has a pull-down double bed. The bed room has a double bed and a set of bunk beds. The space you have here is amazing! It not only has a living room, but also has a full kitchen. Cabins receive full housekeeping. You don't have to do the dishes!
4. Port Orleans - Riverside
In some rooms at POR, trundle beds pull out from under one of the double beds in the guest room. However, this trundle is small. If you have a party of all adults or even older children, it may not be the best choice. Be aware of its limitations.
5. Select Deluxe Resort Rooms
Some rooms at Deluxe Resorts have two queen beds and a day bed and can sleep up to five. Inquire at the time of reservation if these rooms are available for your dates.
6. Deluxe Villas Resort Rooms
The larger accommodations are part of the Deluxe Villas Resorts which are Disney Vacation Club properties. For families of five or more, you can select a 1-bedroom villa at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas at Kidani Village. There is a king bed in the bedroom plus a pull-out queen sofa and twin convertible chair in the living room. These units also include a full kitchen and two bathrooms.
The other Deluxe Villas properties do not have the same 1-bedroom villa configuration. Technically, those units will only sleep four, though reservations for five can be made. In general, Disney will not provide bedding for a fifth person.
The other options are the 2-bedroom and Grand Villas units. Each has a full kitchen and living areas. A 2-bedroom unit sleeps 8 or 9 people and a Grand Villa sleeps 12 or 13 people, depending on the resort.
These tend to be the highest priced rooms on property, but can be cost-effective if you have a large party.
You can stay at a Disney Resort if you plan ahead. Evaluate all your options and see what works for you. If in the end, it doesn't feel like a good fit, then you can look at off-site options.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Top 10 "Hidden Jewel" Eateries at Disney World
I'm a fan of Top 10 lists. Don't be surprised if you see some here from time to time.
Today's list is about good eateries that tend to fly under the radar screen of most Disney guests. Didn't get the oh-so-coveted Le Cellier for dinner in Epcot? (By the way, I wouldn't waste my time trying to eat there, but that's for another blog post.) There are plenty of great places that, thankfully, don't have a lot of hype and still deliver great meal experiences.
1. Kona Cafe
A true hidden jewel, Kona Cafe tends to be forgotten because its neighbor is the popular 'Ohana at Disney's Polynesian Resort. Kona is that rarity among table-service resort restaurants in that it is open for lunch. It's a great place to stop on your way out of Magic Kingdom if you happened to be there at rope drop. My favorite is the Mahi-Mahi. If you like coconut, try the Coconut Crusted Chicken.
2. Starring Rolls
Located in Disney's Hollywood Studios, this counter service eatery has unique options for its visitors. Stop here first thing in the morning for a pastry and make your plan for the day. Or check back later in the day for the Turkey Focaccia Sandwich or Whole Wheat Veggie Pita.
3. Biergarten
Even if German food isn't on your radar, you should give this location a try. It's an all-you-care-to-eat buffet with a cold and hot side plus a dessert buffet. Join everyone else celebrating Oktoberfest and you might catch the performing oompah band!
4. Earl of Sandwich
If you are looking for a quick, filling meal on a reasonable budget, this is the place to go! Earl of Sandwich is located in Downtown Disney and makes all their sandwiches fresh and warm. You can even get a warm PB&J.
5. Restaurant Marrakesh
I think maybe people don't know what Moroccan food is like and avoid this because they just don't know what to expect. Can I just say that the food here is amazingly flavorful? Yumatrocious, to use my daughter's favorite word. It's off in its own area of the Moroccan pavilion at Epcot, but I think that serves to give everyone a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the park. Oh, and don't miss the belly dancer.
6. Tusker House
Some of you might be going, "What? Tusker House? There's a character breakfast there! How can you say it flies under the radar?" But it's just a regular restaurant for lunch and dinner. This is not the place where you'll get hamburgers and hot dogs. So if you are looking for plain-Jane food, this isn't it. I'd call it African-inspired. There are some great dishes here and everyone in my family has always been satisfied.
7. Trail's End
This one could definitely be a "hidden jewel" because if you have never visited Fort Wilderness, you would miss it. This is probably the best deal on-property. It's an all-you-care-to-eat buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can even pop in to Trail's End To-Go for pizza, chicken dinners, nachos and a few other items. It's not the easiest place to get to, especially if you are commando touring, but it's a great value.
8. The Plaza Restaurant
Odds are you have probably walked right by this restaurant in Magic Kingdom and didn't even realize it was a table-service establishment. I'd describe it as a twist on the old ice cream shoppes of yesteryear. The main menu isn't terribly fancy, but the sandwich selection is quite good. I love the fact that you can choose to have broccoli slaw as your side item instead of chips.
9. Grand Floridian Cafe
This one is on my list to try on my next trip. I think it gets forgotten when mixed in with all the other restaurant options at the Grand Floridian Resort. I'm personally on a mission to try the Lobster-Topped Burger.
10. Captain's Grille
You may not know that this table-service restaurant at the Yacht Club has a fantastic all-you-care-to-eat breakfast buffet for only $15.99 per person.
Do you have a favorite eatery that you feel is under-appreciated by the Disney community at-large?
Please share your comments!
Today's list is about good eateries that tend to fly under the radar screen of most Disney guests. Didn't get the oh-so-coveted Le Cellier for dinner in Epcot? (By the way, I wouldn't waste my time trying to eat there, but that's for another blog post.) There are plenty of great places that, thankfully, don't have a lot of hype and still deliver great meal experiences.
1. Kona Cafe
A true hidden jewel, Kona Cafe tends to be forgotten because its neighbor is the popular 'Ohana at Disney's Polynesian Resort. Kona is that rarity among table-service resort restaurants in that it is open for lunch. It's a great place to stop on your way out of Magic Kingdom if you happened to be there at rope drop. My favorite is the Mahi-Mahi. If you like coconut, try the Coconut Crusted Chicken.
2. Starring Rolls
Located in Disney's Hollywood Studios, this counter service eatery has unique options for its visitors. Stop here first thing in the morning for a pastry and make your plan for the day. Or check back later in the day for the Turkey Focaccia Sandwich or Whole Wheat Veggie Pita.
3. Biergarten
Even if German food isn't on your radar, you should give this location a try. It's an all-you-care-to-eat buffet with a cold and hot side plus a dessert buffet. Join everyone else celebrating Oktoberfest and you might catch the performing oompah band!
4. Earl of Sandwich
If you are looking for a quick, filling meal on a reasonable budget, this is the place to go! Earl of Sandwich is located in Downtown Disney and makes all their sandwiches fresh and warm. You can even get a warm PB&J.
5. Restaurant Marrakesh
I think maybe people don't know what Moroccan food is like and avoid this because they just don't know what to expect. Can I just say that the food here is amazingly flavorful? Yumatrocious, to use my daughter's favorite word. It's off in its own area of the Moroccan pavilion at Epcot, but I think that serves to give everyone a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the park. Oh, and don't miss the belly dancer.
6. Tusker House
Some of you might be going, "What? Tusker House? There's a character breakfast there! How can you say it flies under the radar?" But it's just a regular restaurant for lunch and dinner. This is not the place where you'll get hamburgers and hot dogs. So if you are looking for plain-Jane food, this isn't it. I'd call it African-inspired. There are some great dishes here and everyone in my family has always been satisfied.
7. Trail's End
This one could definitely be a "hidden jewel" because if you have never visited Fort Wilderness, you would miss it. This is probably the best deal on-property. It's an all-you-care-to-eat buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can even pop in to Trail's End To-Go for pizza, chicken dinners, nachos and a few other items. It's not the easiest place to get to, especially if you are commando touring, but it's a great value.
8. The Plaza Restaurant
Odds are you have probably walked right by this restaurant in Magic Kingdom and didn't even realize it was a table-service establishment. I'd describe it as a twist on the old ice cream shoppes of yesteryear. The main menu isn't terribly fancy, but the sandwich selection is quite good. I love the fact that you can choose to have broccoli slaw as your side item instead of chips.
9. Grand Floridian Cafe
This one is on my list to try on my next trip. I think it gets forgotten when mixed in with all the other restaurant options at the Grand Floridian Resort. I'm personally on a mission to try the Lobster-Topped Burger.
10. Captain's Grille
You may not know that this table-service restaurant at the Yacht Club has a fantastic all-you-care-to-eat breakfast buffet for only $15.99 per person.
Do you have a favorite eatery that you feel is under-appreciated by the Disney community at-large?
Please share your comments!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
2011 Disney Dining Plan Rumors And Dining Plan Bits To Think On
We love to talk rumor, don't we?
I'm a member over at MouseOwners and one of the recent topics of discussion has surrounded the Disney Dining Plan at Walt Disney World and some purported changes that are afoot for 2011.
One of the members saw information on a British travel website talking about 2011 and the dining plan.
Supposedly, the dessert is now being removed from the table-service credit on the regular dining plan and the prices are increasing again across the board.
I always advocate number-crunching when it comes to the Disney Dining Plan. Disney would love it if you all paid for your food up front and didn't use it all. Believe it or not, folks, this happens a lot.
While it may make you feel justified in getting the most expensive item on the menu because you've already paid for the plan, odds are that some of you may have gotten a better deal and a better experience had you number-crunched and eaten only what you wanted and where you wanted to.
I also encourage you to not be sucked in by the offers of "free dining" that are sometimes offered. You have to pay "rack rate" - this is, full price - for your Disney resort room to get that "free dining" part of the deal. Do the math. Ask yourself if you'd really eat all that food that comes with the plan. You also need to remember that you have to add in gratuity for all those table-service meals that you use because that's not included in the plan.
Now, I won't say the plan doesn't have its place. For some people, they like the convenience of having their meals pre-paid. Just make sure you evaluate all the options and decide what works best for you and your family, not just what might appear to be the better deal.
I'm a member over at MouseOwners and one of the recent topics of discussion has surrounded the Disney Dining Plan at Walt Disney World and some purported changes that are afoot for 2011.
One of the members saw information on a British travel website talking about 2011 and the dining plan.
Supposedly, the dessert is now being removed from the table-service credit on the regular dining plan and the prices are increasing again across the board.
I always advocate number-crunching when it comes to the Disney Dining Plan. Disney would love it if you all paid for your food up front and didn't use it all. Believe it or not, folks, this happens a lot.
While it may make you feel justified in getting the most expensive item on the menu because you've already paid for the plan, odds are that some of you may have gotten a better deal and a better experience had you number-crunched and eaten only what you wanted and where you wanted to.
I also encourage you to not be sucked in by the offers of "free dining" that are sometimes offered. You have to pay "rack rate" - this is, full price - for your Disney resort room to get that "free dining" part of the deal. Do the math. Ask yourself if you'd really eat all that food that comes with the plan. You also need to remember that you have to add in gratuity for all those table-service meals that you use because that's not included in the plan.
Now, I won't say the plan doesn't have its place. For some people, they like the convenience of having their meals pre-paid. Just make sure you evaluate all the options and decide what works best for you and your family, not just what might appear to be the better deal.
Captain EO returns to WDW on July 2
I believe it last was shown at Epcot in 1994 or thereabouts. And yes, it stars Michael Jackson.
It's a 17-minute long 3D show that can probably be best categorized as a space-fantasy-adventure-musical. It's been a long time since I've seen it and while I wasn't ever the biggest Michael Jackson fan, I do recall enjoying this attraction.
So if you plan on heading to Epcot later this summer, make sure you check out Captain EO and report back with your thoughts!
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