Thanks for the comments on the video post. I promise that next time, I won't shoot a video on the same day that I'm working out. I just had been meaning to do that video and figured I better get it done. I'll plan ahead better so I won't stick myself in the "ugly faces" category.
As I'm composing this post, Countdown Clock in Firefox says I have 3 days 21 hours 23 minutes and 3 seconds until I leave for Disney World.
Being a veteran Disney traveler, a lot of preparing for a trip is automatic and instinctive for me. It's like breathing - I don't have to think about it, I just do it.
So this is a first for me to actually document prepping for a trip.
On the docket for today:
Login in to USPS.com and put my mail on hold.
LOVE this feature. I don't have to physically go to the local post office to do this. I can set the date I want mail to be held and the day I want it stopped. I can even tell the post office to deliver my held mail once I start delivery again. It's so much easier than trying to arrange for someone to pick up my mail.
Finalize my grocery list.
I usually go grocery shopping myself at SuperTarget once we get settled into the resort. I'm thinking about using Garden Grocer, a grocery delivery service in Central Florida. This is so not me. I'm so Type-A - it's a huge control thing. Plus, I'm one of those shoppers where I might think my list is finalized, but once I'm on the store I think of other things that I forgot. And if I order groceries and then realize I forgot something, then I have to make a run to the store anyway. So why not do it myself?
I need to decide today before all their delivery slots are filled. I'm thinking about doing it this time because our flight doesn't get into MCO until 7pm-ish. We're going carry-on and getting a rental car from National so we'll be out of there tout suite, but I'm thinking that we won't be in the room before 8pm. Now, I'm kinda wanting to check out the pool and get settled in. But I might also be wound up because I'll be at Disney World.
So I need to decide that and place the order if I'm going to do it.
Schedule newsletter delivery.
I own two businesses. I send out a newsletter for one of them on the 15th of the month. I need to finish that draft and schedule it in Constant Contact to go out on the 15th. By the way, I'm a Constant Contact goddess. If you need Email Marketing, Constant Contact rocks and I know the ropes.
Check Rental Car Prices
Remember what I said previously about rental cars? You can cancel reservations at any point without a penalty. I've probably canceled and re-booked the rental car for this trip 3 or 4 times as I find better prices. It's a daily thing now until I leave.
Stay on task.
Yeah, right. I'm a pretty focused person - I don't usually need motivation to work. My discipline borders on military. That's part of the reason my virtual assistant business is called Can Do Virtual Assisting. "Can Do" is part and parcel of my makeup.
But throw Disney World into the mix and I have to expend a little more energy on working.
What can I say; my O.D.D is in overdrive and I can't wait to indulge it.
Showing posts with label Disney World. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Disney World. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
New Online Dining Reservation System on disneyworld.com
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.
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.
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.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Party Tickets for MNSSHP and MVMCP on sale Thurs. 4/29
Call 407 - WDISNEY to place your order.
MNSSHP Dates (as of today):
Sept. 14, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
Oct. 1, 3, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 31
Nov. 1
MVMCP Dates (as of today):
Nov. 11, 12, 16, 18, 19, 28, 30
Dec. 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17
I'm thinking of taking in MVMCP this year! How about you?
MNSSHP Dates (as of today):
Sept. 14, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
Oct. 1, 3, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 31
Nov. 1
MVMCP Dates (as of today):
Nov. 11, 12, 16, 18, 19, 28, 30
Dec. 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17
I'm thinking of taking in MVMCP this year! How about you?
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Freebies at Walt Disney World - Part 1?
I put Part 1? because I think I'll need to break this up into smaller parts or you'd be reading here until the cows come home.
That being said...Freebie? Did you say Freebie? At Walt Disney World? Are you sure?
You hear this kind of stuff from people who have the impression that a Walt Disney World vacation costs you an arm and a leg.
There are little bits of magic that you can experience for free on Walt Disney World property. Here's the first installation:
~ At nearly every counter service location at Walt Disney World, you can get a free plastic cup of ice water.
~ If you get a headache and need a Tylenol or aspirin, head to one of the First Aid stations to get one for free rather than spend $10 on a bottle in the parks.
~Stickers! A lot of CMs are out and about giving stickers out to kids and kids-at-heart.
~Pin Trading - While you need to bring your own pins, participating in pin trading with CMs is free.
~Club Cool in Epcot - you can sample different varieties of Coca-Cola from around the world for free.
~Kidcot Funstops in Epcot - make a mask and decorate it for free.
~After you get off the vehicle on Spaceship Earth in Epcot you can send free email postcards
Do you have a favorite freebie that you have taken part in on a Walt Disney World vacation? Please post your comment or email me! I'd love to hear your thoughts.
That being said...Freebie? Did you say Freebie? At Walt Disney World? Are you sure?
You hear this kind of stuff from people who have the impression that a Walt Disney World vacation costs you an arm and a leg.
There are little bits of magic that you can experience for free on Walt Disney World property. Here's the first installation:
~ At nearly every counter service location at Walt Disney World, you can get a free plastic cup of ice water.
~ If you get a headache and need a Tylenol or aspirin, head to one of the First Aid stations to get one for free rather than spend $10 on a bottle in the parks.
~Stickers! A lot of CMs are out and about giving stickers out to kids and kids-at-heart.
~Pin Trading - While you need to bring your own pins, participating in pin trading with CMs is free.
~Club Cool in Epcot - you can sample different varieties of Coca-Cola from around the world for free.
~Kidcot Funstops in Epcot - make a mask and decorate it for free.
~After you get off the vehicle on Spaceship Earth in Epcot you can send free email postcards
Do you have a favorite freebie that you have taken part in on a Walt Disney World vacation? Please post your comment or email me! I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Disney World Countdown
Well, I'm popping in to report that my O.D.D got the better of me this past week.
Even though my next trip to Disney World is not until June, I couldn't hold off. I had to make a chain.
You know, one of those paper chains we made as kids, usually to count down how many days were left in the school year before summer vacation?
Seriously...my chain might be that long. Okay...maybe not. I usually make a chain around 45 days out. That's about how long it can be when tacked to the top of my corkboard in my kitchen and not hang on the floor.
Well, my chain had to be tacked up twice to not be on the floor. I think my loops were a little large this time around.
Not the paper chain making type?
Did you know there are some digital countdown timers you can get with Mickey or Disney themes on them?
These are kind of fun is you are regular poster on bulletin boards online and such.
Mickeypath.com is a pretty popular one in terms of having a lot of different options. Some include even adding your countdown to email and Facebook.
Here's a sample of what it looks like:
Not going to Disney right away? Use this counter for any other special occasion you have coming up!
Check it out and count down!
Even though my next trip to Disney World is not until June, I couldn't hold off. I had to make a chain.
You know, one of those paper chains we made as kids, usually to count down how many days were left in the school year before summer vacation?
Seriously...my chain might be that long. Okay...maybe not. I usually make a chain around 45 days out. That's about how long it can be when tacked to the top of my corkboard in my kitchen and not hang on the floor.
Well, my chain had to be tacked up twice to not be on the floor. I think my loops were a little large this time around.
Not the paper chain making type?
Did you know there are some digital countdown timers you can get with Mickey or Disney themes on them?
These are kind of fun is you are regular poster on bulletin boards online and such.
Mickeypath.com is a pretty popular one in terms of having a lot of different options. Some include even adding your countdown to email and Facebook.
Here's a sample of what it looks like:
Not going to Disney right away? Use this counter for any other special occasion you have coming up!
Check it out and count down!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Pop-in #1: Disney World 101
This is Mary, popping in with some Walt Disney World 101 tips and facts.
Fact: Walt Disney World covers more than 40 square miles and includes four theme parks, two water parks, two mini golf courses, its own shopping and entertainment district and more.
It's true! The land encompassing Walt Disney World is larger than the island of Manhattan. So you can imagine being able to truly "do everything" is a bit on the improbable side. I've been to WDW almost 20 times and there are things that I can identify that we have not done yet.
I'll have future posts talking about making a game plan to touring the parks and the stuff beyond the parks, too.
Fact: WDW has a lot of onsite resort hotels.
There are nearly 20 Disney resorts. There are also a couple of non-Disney branded resorts that happen to be on Disney property. I'll be doing some resort reviews as well. There are plenty of "off-site" resorts and hotels within close proximity to WDW, too. Look for comments and reviews on those in coming posts.
Fact: WDW has over one hundred restaurants.
All the theme parks, waterparks, resorts and Downtown Disney have places to eat. It's just a matter of deciding what you want to eat and when. I'll have a dining planning primer a little bit later.
Fact: WDW has special events throughout the year.
This place is not just a mecca for thrill rides and attractions. There are special events that make going to WDW even more exciting than usual. I'll have a quick reference guide post for that coming up as well.
Fact: Disney Characters are everywhere!
You just have to know where to find them. But if your little princess is dying to meet her favorite princess, there are multiple locations throughout WDW where you can not only find them for a meet & greet, but you can even dine with some of them as well. And don't worry, if you have a boy like I do, there's plenty of characters for them as well.
Fact: It's easy to travel to WDW.
I think it is and I live in the middle of the country! Whether you drive or fly, there are ways to make it affordable and reasonable for your budget. I'll have future posts on transportation options, including rental cars and Magical Express, and other information.
Fact: WDW has A LOT of ticket options.
Don't feel overwhelmed by all the options that the Magic Your Way ticket provides. It's truly a great system for you to get only what you want and only what you need. And I LOVE that the more days you add to your ticket, the less it costs you per day to visit the parks. Truly genius on Disney's part. I'll have a ticket rundown in later posts as well.
Fact: Mary has lots of WDW trivia and fluff.
Total fact. If they ever had a Jeopardy show just with Disney categories, I should so be on it. I have more than one friend who refers to me as "The Queen of All Things Disney", entirely unprompted. While that title may be used by others as well, I know that I am excited to share my passion with all of you.
My plan is to have posts not only in the categories I've discussed above, but on other aspects of the Disney world as they occur to me and as you ask questions.
Thanks so much for following me on this journey!
Fact: Walt Disney World covers more than 40 square miles and includes four theme parks, two water parks, two mini golf courses, its own shopping and entertainment district and more.
It's true! The land encompassing Walt Disney World is larger than the island of Manhattan. So you can imagine being able to truly "do everything" is a bit on the improbable side. I've been to WDW almost 20 times and there are things that I can identify that we have not done yet.
I'll have future posts talking about making a game plan to touring the parks and the stuff beyond the parks, too.
Fact: WDW has a lot of onsite resort hotels.
There are nearly 20 Disney resorts. There are also a couple of non-Disney branded resorts that happen to be on Disney property. I'll be doing some resort reviews as well. There are plenty of "off-site" resorts and hotels within close proximity to WDW, too. Look for comments and reviews on those in coming posts.
Fact: WDW has over one hundred restaurants.
All the theme parks, waterparks, resorts and Downtown Disney have places to eat. It's just a matter of deciding what you want to eat and when. I'll have a dining planning primer a little bit later.
Fact: WDW has special events throughout the year.
This place is not just a mecca for thrill rides and attractions. There are special events that make going to WDW even more exciting than usual. I'll have a quick reference guide post for that coming up as well.
Fact: Disney Characters are everywhere!
You just have to know where to find them. But if your little princess is dying to meet her favorite princess, there are multiple locations throughout WDW where you can not only find them for a meet & greet, but you can even dine with some of them as well. And don't worry, if you have a boy like I do, there's plenty of characters for them as well.
Fact: It's easy to travel to WDW.
I think it is and I live in the middle of the country! Whether you drive or fly, there are ways to make it affordable and reasonable for your budget. I'll have future posts on transportation options, including rental cars and Magical Express, and other information.
Fact: WDW has A LOT of ticket options.
Don't feel overwhelmed by all the options that the Magic Your Way ticket provides. It's truly a great system for you to get only what you want and only what you need. And I LOVE that the more days you add to your ticket, the less it costs you per day to visit the parks. Truly genius on Disney's part. I'll have a ticket rundown in later posts as well.
Fact: Mary has lots of WDW trivia and fluff.
Total fact. If they ever had a Jeopardy show just with Disney categories, I should so be on it. I have more than one friend who refers to me as "The Queen of All Things Disney", entirely unprompted. While that title may be used by others as well, I know that I am excited to share my passion with all of you.
My plan is to have posts not only in the categories I've discussed above, but on other aspects of the Disney world as they occur to me and as you ask questions.
Thanks so much for following me on this journey!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)