| T.R | Title | User | Personal
Name | Date | Lines |
|---|
| 119.1 | Only 11 days to go | WELMTS::NEWBY | | Mon Jul 10 1989 15:55 | 12 |
| Well it looks as if I may have left it a bit too late to get the
full benifit from your suggestion as I am on my way over to Florida
next Friday (21/7/89) with my girlfriend. It will be my first trip
to America and by the looks of things there is so much to see and
such little time to see it all. Can anyone suggest the length of
pass I need when visiting Disney World. It has been suggested a
four day pass is best??
I have been busy reading up on the attractions of disneyland and
can't wait to see it all.
Regards
Paul Newby (Welwyn office U.K.)
|
| 119.2 | I vote for 5-day! | WMOIS::C_JALBERT | | Mon Jul 10 1989 16:03 | 10 |
| We just returned - had a 5-day pass, and STILL didn't see everything!
As we stayed on the property, we did NOT do WDW from 8:00 till closing,
we allowed time to go back to the hotel, use the pool, rest, get
refreshed to go back for MORE. I can say that by doing this, we
were NOT totally exhausted and really enjoyed our time there.
Have a grand time!!!
Carla
|
| 119.3 | One Person's Planning Guide | HBO::MADDEN | Keep your face to the sunshine | Mon Jul 10 1989 19:07 | 88 |
| Here's what we usually do (and we usually go down - lately - at least
once every year). However, we've never seen a dinner show (with the
exception of the Polynesian Review many, many years ago), so I can't
speak on those.
8 MONTHS - 1 YEAR AHEAD
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
* Call Disney Central and ask for copy of their latest information in-
cluding pricing for the upcoming year as they know it.
* Really start putting money away seriously if haven't started doing
so already.
* Talk to all friends and family and drive them crazy with our plans!
8 - 6 MONTHS AHEAD
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
* Call Disney Reservations and make reservations. We make sure we know
which hotel we want to stay in, what view we want, and how many will
be staying in the room.
* Purchase passports through Reservation Center.
* Purchase air tickets so we can get the front seats on the first flight
to Orlando! (Makes it very easy to exit before everyone else, and
gets you to Disney that much faster.)
* Talk to all friends and family and drive them crazy with our plans!
6 - 3 MONTHS AHEAD
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
* Start calling around to different auto rental companies and get best
prices for car.
* Make rental reservation after getting all/best price.
* Talk to all friends and family and drive them crazy with our plans!
3 - 1 MONTHS AHEAD
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
* Start buying and putting away things like film, tanning lotion, video
film, etc. As they go on sale, I make sure I buy some to put away.
And I make sure that it all goes in/near the suitcases that are still
stored away so that I won't forget anything when that time comes.
* Talk to all friends and family and drive them crazy with our plans!
2 WEEKS AHEAD
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
* Reconfirm reservations with airlines, auto rental, Disney, etc.
* Leave itinerary and phone numbers with families.
* Start packing!!
* Talk to all friends and family and drive them crazy with our plans!
DAY AHEAD
~~~~~~~~~
* Repack all suitcases because what we packed ahead doesn't look right
or doesn't look like enough.
* Call everyone to remind them that we're leaving the next day - in case
we hadn't told them already.
NIGHT BEFORE
~~~~~~~~~~~~
* Repack because we KNOW that all we need are:
- a couple pairs of shorts and t-shirts;
- a swimsuit;
- one pair of sweats;
- one pair of nice clothes for that one special night.
* Stare at each other with these stupid looks on our faces and tell each
other, "This time tomorrow we'll be right inside Disney World!!!!!"
Lorraine (119 days - exactly 17 weeks from TODAY!!! - to go)
|
| 119.4 | I'm sure I forgot something | WEDOIT::BERUBE | Claude G. Berube | Tue Jul 18 1989 12:43 | 129 |
| Based on my more experienced trips to WDW.
Whenever I get around to it (usually more than 6 months ahead)
--------------------------------------------------------------
- make decision to go, and prepare others who may be coming what to
expect, so they won't be turned off when I have to ask for the $'s.
- make a sample itinerary, so as to plan on how many days needed for
trip.
- Call CRO and make reservations for the lodging/flight/car(if needed)
of choice (after all if I'm going to stay on WDW property and they
really want my $'s then let them make sure I can arrive on time etc),
make reservations to the Hoop Dee Doo/character breakfast of choice.
- Start saving like mad, if I haven't already.
- Purchase passports through Reservation Center, unless going on the
World Vacation plan.
- Start the diets
15 days later after making Lodging reservation
----------------------------------------------
- send in the deposit, and money for airfare etc.
3 MONTHS AHEAD 'till I leave
----------------------------
- Start buying and putting away things like film, tanning lotion, new
clothes (bathing suit) if needed etc as they go on sale.
30 days prior to arrival
------------------------
- Reconfirm reservations with CRO.
- send in final payment (World Vacation plan), or if just the lodging
then send in the money to pay for the whole stay (less money to carry
worry about)
- Make reservation for auto rental to drive to the airport, or if
someone wishes to volunteer, them make sure they will take us to
airport, and drive them crazy, since they chose no to come ;^)
30 days prior to desired date
-----------------------------
- make reservatons for Top Of The World Dinner Show.
1 WEEK 'till departure
----------------------
- Reconfirm departure time for flight.
- Leave itinerary and phone numbers with families, and drive them crazy
since they chose not to come ;^).
- Start packing!!
- Talk to all friends and family and drive them crazy with our plans!
- Make sure there are no lose ends at work.
- Take the money out of the bank and purchase Traveler checks
- Give the camera a good cleaning, new batteries etc.
- Start breaking in those new shoes/sneakers
- Tell the wife/kid next week on this day we'll be at ... and drive
them crazy ;^)
2 DAYS PRIOR To ARRIVAL
-----------------------
- No medical emergencies etc, good no need to cancel, we're leaving in
2 days ;^)
DAY AHEAD
---------
- Recheck suitcase for the upteem time (honey did you remember to pack
the ... ;^) )
- Call everyone to say goodbye and remind them that we're leaving the
next day - and that they chose not to come ;^).
NIGHT BEFORE
------------
- Go through that checklist AGAIN, and the bags
- try and get a good nights rest, yeah right ;^)
MORNING OF THE BIG DAY
----------------------
- Go through that checklist AGAIN, and the bags
- get to the airport 1 1/2 hours before departure check in
WDW
---
- Check-in at the hotel or if early pre-check in
- If pre-check, head for the pool, act like you've been here before and
order a drink at the pool bar, you've made it and deserve that drink
- Once you get the keys, head for the room and un-pack, (honey you
forgot to pack the ... ;^( )
Claude_1012_days_to_go_doesn't_look_good_for_this_august_$'s_;^(
|
| 119.5 | Gives you plenty of time to save | COEM::SCOPA | The Major | Tue Jul 18 1989 14:57 | 5 |
| Claude,
1012 days to go? I have 352 to go and I'm going crazy.
Mike_who_1_year_from_now_will_be_in_you_know_where
|
| 119.6 | | WEDOIT::BERUBE | Claude G. Berube | Tue Jul 18 1989 15:41 | 19 |
|
rep to < Note 119.5 by COEM::SCOPA "The Major" >
> 1012 days to go?
Actually I still have my August 22-31th '89 reservations for a campsite
at FW, but will most like cancell in the upcoming week or so, since
I'll be short a minimum of $700.
Instead I'll most likely visit upstate New York this August, (which I
can definitely afford, read I have the $'s) visiting the Finger Lakes,
Thousand Islands and lake Placid areas, and also have reservation at
several campgrounds in the area.
The 1012 days to go is in reference to when both my family and my
brothers family plan to go in April of '92 (staying at either FW or
CBR). It's a long way off but easy to plan to ;^).
Claude
|
| 119.7 | When Planning don't forget the $$$$$$$$$ | COEM::SCOPA | The Major | Tue Jul 18 1989 16:20 | 13 |
| I think you hit the nail on the head Claude.
Let's face it, it's $$$$$$$$$4 that keeps us all from going more often
and planning far ahead gives everyone time to put the nickels and dimes
away.
I can remember the "Good Ol' Days" (before kids and mortgages) when my
wife and I would decide to go to WDW THE MONTH BEFORE and then went
down.
Not anymore.
Mike
|
| 119.8 | Remember $$$ but still have the room of your dreams | NITMOI::WITHERS | So shines a good deed in a weary world.. | Tue Jul 18 1989 16:50 | 21 |
| I remembered ... Visa = $$$/ MasterCard = $$$/ AMEX = $$$
Oh and don't forget! Sears = Clothesto bring, film for camera, etc.
George
BTW, remember you can mix-match reservations on site if you want to
budget. I am going down on my honeymoon in April (no way to cancel
if not enough $$$ hence plastic) and although I could *almost* afford
a Polynesian Room (non-Lagoon View), I opted for mix/match!
I arrive checking into the Grand Floridian in a Honeymoon Suite for two
nights and then move to the Caribeen Beach for the remaining six
nights. On moving day, the people in the GF will have our baggage
meet us in the CB.
(Needless to say, all the pictures of our room will be taken during
thee first two days..:-))
-Gaw
|
| 119.9 | a couple of questions | WMOIS::C_JALBERT | | Tue Jul 18 1989 17:19 | 29 |
| I thought, when I began reading this note that I would delete the
entry after coming back from my first WDW trip... Well, I didn't,
but I didn't know how HOOKED I would get on WDW either!!
We thought that would be our one and only trip, yet upon getting
home we said, definitely going back. First it was 5 years, now
it's 3 years, hoping for 2 years!!
My question, re the next trip... On this trip we went through
Magic Kingdom and took advantage of the the vacation package
that included 4 breakfasts or lunches, 2 dinners and 1 activity.
We stayed at the Polynesian (which we really loved).
Now, the question, for those of you who have used the World Vacation
either thru Magic Kingdom or WDW itself, has it been worth it??
Do you really eat the 3 meals per day? Do you take advantage of
enough activities to make it worthwhile? My 2 daughters LOVED the
watersprites.
One last question, has anyone stayed at the Polynesian AND the
Grand Floridian and if so, which did you like better? I have
had someone tell me they felt that at the Grand Floridian he
should have been wearing a tie with his swim suit!!
Thanks for these answers plus all the other information I have
learned from this file.
Carla
|
| 119.10 | see note 88.* | WEDOIT::BERUBE | Claude G. Berube | Tue Jul 18 1989 17:36 | 8 |
| re: .9
Carla,
For your questions on the World Vacation pacakage worth etc. see note
88 and it's replies.
Claude
|
| 119.11 | Apples vs. Oranges | HBO::MADDEN | Keep your face to the sunshine | Tue Jul 18 1989 18:11 | 35 |
|
RE: .9
Carla -
We've stayed at both the Poly and the GF. As for which is better,
it's up to you. They're completely different.
The GF definitely makes you feel like you're supposed to dress up.
However, I found that that feeling came more from the people who
were staying there than from the Disney employees. They treat you
the same no matter where you are. The only exception - and I do
believe it was an exception - was the concierge. Hopefully, that
was a bad day for them (see "DISNEY GETTING TOO BIG" note for ex-
planation).
The Poly is more tropical and relaxed. (What more can you say?!)
I liked them both. As for which I'd stay in the next time, I guess
it'd depend on my budget. When we go in November, we're staying at
the Village Resort in club suites because there are going to be 7
adults. It would have been too much for us to each have our own
room. Or, had we shared - as we're doing in the suites - it would
have cost us an additional $12/15 per person (if over two adults in
same room). We wanted to save our money on this one so that every-
one could afford to go.
As for what I think you were getting at in your note, I wouldn't
NOT go to the GF because they "act like snobs", because they don't.
Rather, it's like a trip back to a different era; something out of
_The_Great_Gatsby_. The Poly is like being on an island somewhere.
But, I think that it's all in which "Disney dream" you're looking
for on that particular trip.
Lorraine
|
| 119.12 | | WEDOIT::BERUBE | Claude G. Berube | Thu Jul 20 1989 12:05 | 14 |
| rep to < Note 119.8 by NITMOI::WITHERS "So shines a good deed in a weary world.." >
> I remembered ... Visa = $$$/ MasterCard = $$$/ AMEX = $$$
> Oh and don't forget! Sears = Clothesto bring, film for camera, etc.
George,
Yeah but, I'm the type of person who when he charges his vacation on
the magic cards, I like to think I'll have the money in the bank to pay
the bill when it comes in (I've only paid finance charge once in 15
years). Ever since Sears has gone to the new pricing scheme, I've done
little shopping there, better buys elsewhere.
Claude
|
| 119.13 | Quality vs Quantity | 31886::SCOPA | The Major | Thu Sep 07 1989 16:39 | 52 |
| I thought about starting another note on this subject but this type of
discussion really belongs in this "Trip Planning Note".
I subscribe to the philosophy that says, "Do not stay at an expensive hotel
if that will shorten your visit to WDW."
Now I can understand some of the entries in here which pretty much say
that "you only live once" and that it's a vacation and you should
pamper yourself.......and I pretty much agree with that but how many
Disneyholics would sacrifice another day at WDW just to stay in a plush
Hotel?
Let me give everyone an example...or even better...I'll pose a
question:
What would be your preference?
A. 5 days in Orlando...all at the Polynesian
B. 7 days in Orlando...all at CBR
C. 10 days in Orlando in a Hotel off Disney property (1-2 miles)
Now don't get me wrong...I'm always looking to stay in a nice room when
I visit but there is no question in my mind that I'd select C every
time, assuming I had the time to do so.
The time spent at WDW is so precious to me that I would want to squeeze
as much time there as possible and C. offers a chance to stretch my
vacation dollar much more than B or A.
Instead of spending that extra on an expensive "on the property" hotel
I could get that extra day (or few days) added to my stay.
Does anyone else feel this way?
Maybe after waiting 14 years to return to WDW and finally giving my
kids a chance to experience the closest thing to "Wishful Suspension of
Disbelief" makes me think this way...but I'm curious as to what others
think.
Another reason for thinking this way is the idea that there is so much
to do in Orlando and that you spend so little time in your room that it
makes sense to go with a moderately priced room rather than one which
is priced for "convenience".
I guess I would stay at a more expensive hotel if I was a frequent
visitor and didn't really care to spend a whole week in Orlando.
This Disneyholic likes C and would like your opinion on this matter.
Mike_who_is_43_weeks_away
opinions.
|
| 119.14 | Split it. | 35848::JLAWRENCE | Jim/Hartford A.C.T.,DTN 383-4523 | Thu Sep 07 1989 16:54 | 29 |
|
Well, I think the answer to your question depends on your specific
monetary situation. We have taken trips to WDW in the past where
we were looking to pinch pennies. We stayed at my parents an hour
away. Free. But the daily commute got to be a hassle. Just not like
getting up and hopping on the monorail. We now have a three year
old who doesn't like being there past 2 or 3. We really like the
convenience of going back to the hotel and relaxing, having a swim
and a drink and letting the baby nap. Then going back in at 5 for
the night.
In answering this question, you must consider whether you have
children, your financial situation and how much convenience means
to you. If you can afford it, there is no question that staying
on the grounds is the way to go. You are on vacation and work your
butt off all year. I want to relax to the max. If you have small
children, it is almost a must. Are you going to drive back to
International Drive for a swim and nap? Probably not. We usually
go to Florida for 10 days to 2 weeks. Of which we spend 4 or 5 days
at WDW. We hit the parents for a few days, maybe hit Tampa or Daytona
a couple. But the WDW days, we stay there those nights.
Wouldn't do it any other way. The ONLY reason to not do it is if
you just can't afford it. Who says you have to go to Florida for
10 days and stay the whole time at WDW. Stay there 3 or 4 nights
and spend the rest in a cheap Orlando hotel.
Regards, Jim
|
| 119.15 | Sure | 31886::SCOPA | The Major | Thu Sep 07 1989 17:26 | 10 |
| Jim,
You pretty much verified what I had said in that if you frequent the
area then you would not want to stay there for a long time...especially
with young children.
It depends upon the individual (family) and what he/she (they) want out
of their vacation.
Mike
|
| 119.16 | | 37339::JAMES | | Fri Sep 08 1989 14:18 | 11 |
| My wife and I prefer to stay on property now that we have experienced
both on and off. We have two small children and have to go with
the convenience. To be able to wake up, eat breakfast and jump on
the monorail is alot more appealing than fighting traffic and waiting
in a line of cars at the entrance, knowing how close you are.
I agree that it is expensive but as was stated in a previous note
I work hard for my money and I don't mind spending it on somthing
I know I'm going to enjoy.
John (23 days to go for 7 days at the Contemporary)
|
| 119.17 | 10 days at the Polynesian | WMOIS::C_JALBERT | | Fri Sep 08 1989 15:35 | 26 |
| I originally felt like .13 - rather stay at a cheaper hotel and
spend time at WDW (but that was BEFORE I WENT!!) We ended up
staying at the Polynesian -- wouldn't have it any different next
time. The other notes mention the convenience AND IT'S fact.
We had our two 12/13 year olds and a 3 year old nephew. It was
so much easier to hop on the monorail to go back to the hotel
as opposed to getting back to the parking lot, drive back to the
hotel, and WASTE all that time!! Yes, there is a lot to see in
Orlando, but we preferred to stay totally at WDW - AND we could
vacation at WDW and not even visit MK, EPCOT and MGM and STILL
have a good time.
A woman I work with went to Disneworld the week after me, she
opted to stay at a cheaper hotel in Orlando, and visit WDW every
day. While she enjoyed the visit, she said definitely the next
time they stay ON the property. She felt the hastle to leave
in the afternoon and than go back later and than back to the
hotel was TOO MUCH of a drain, she also tried NOT leaving once
she got there in the AM ... and THAT too was a drain ...
My ideal 10 days at the Polynesian!!
Regards,
Carla
|
| 119.18 | All One Sided So Far | 31886::SCOPA | The Major | Fri Sep 08 1989 16:06 | 10 |
| I don't think I've come across any notes from someone who has stayed on
the property during one trip and has opted to stay outside the property
on the next trip.
Having never stayed inside I guess I really can't make a judgement. On
my two previous trips I did not stay inside. Maybe this time around
I'll do a combo...but if I do it sounds like the right way to do it is
to do the "in part" towards the end of my visit.
Mike_300_days_and_counting
|
| 119.19 | My Vote For 7 Days at CBR | ASABET::KUMPEL | | Fri Sep 08 1989 17:37 | 23 |
| To The "Major"
I stayed outside the park on this last trip after staying inside for
the last 3. The only reason we did this was the the trip was
free.(Note; we won this trip on a radio contest). Even though our cheap
hotel was located on International Drive (a short reasonable ride back)
we would bring our swim gear with us and use the pool at the CBR
because it was a lot more convenient. In fact it was so much more
convenient we checked out for the last 2 days and stayed at the CBR for
those nights. If you can get a "parking lot view" at CBR ( note; We
watched most of Illuminations from our room) the rate is 69/night. This
is not much more than the 39-49/night outside.
Now I'll grant you that the CBR is not as convenient to the MK as
the POLY,CONT or GF but for a LITTLE extra cost the benefits (more
pools,better services i.e. free ice,ironing boards,better laundry
facilities and a hotel staff that cares I'll take 7 days at CBR any
time as compared to hotels outside WDW.
P.S. The cost difference between the POLY and the most expensive room
at CBR ($95) would buy you more than 2 extra nights at the CBR in most
cases.
|
| 119.20 | CBR is on my list | 31886::SCOPA | The Major | Fri Sep 08 1989 18:18 | 8 |
| All along I have had CBR in mind anyway. Seven or eight days there
sounds fine to me.
Fifteen years ago I stayed at a Ramada Inn that had to be 10 miles from
the park...no thanks...I want to be close and able to stay as long as I
can.
Maj
|
| 119.21 | CBR heads my list | NITMOI::WITHERS | So shines a good deed in a weary world.. | Sat Sep 09 1989 00:23 | 24 |
| Yet another vote for the CBR!
I am honeymooning at WDW in April and am staying 2 nights at the GF
honeymoon suite and the remaining 4 at the CBR. The rooms at the CBR
looked as good (if not a little better being new) as the rooms at the
Polynesian.
As for convience, the Contemporary, Floridian and Polynesian are all
close to the MK but the CBR is considerably closer to Epcot and the
MGM studios AND the Typhoon Island/Pleasure Island/Disney Village.
Granted, the CBR lacks conceriage service and doesn't have a "real"
sitdown type restaurant---but you still use WDW transit to eat out at
another hotel.
Finally, the Carribean atmospehere is nice and relaxing. As it has
been noted the CBR goes from $69-$99/night ('90 prices), whereas the
Polynesian rings in at $199-$229/night..a more than subtle difference.
[read: I like the PR but I don't know if I need to spend that much
extra money (almost double) especially if I'm not really making a
visible sacrifice].
George
(T-200ish days to go...)
|
| 119.22 | | MAMIE::DCOX | | Mon Sep 11 1989 13:53 | 16 |
| re < Note 119.18 by 31886::SCOPA "The Major" >
> -< All One Sided So Far >-
>
> I don't think I've come across any notes from someone who has stayed on
> the property during one trip and has opted to stay outside the property
> on the next trip.
Our first time down, staying in a rented WDW camper (mobile home) at FW, we
took my Mother and Father. Everyone loved FW. Mom and Dad (who was so cheap
he had to oil the creases in his wallet just to get it open) went down again
next year and stayed outside - someplace on International Blvd. Next trip down
for the six of us, Dad made it known far and wide that he would never spend the
money for a week in WDW and NOT stay inside. I was prepared to pay the delta
just so they could stay with us in FW.
Dave
|
| 119.23 | Back To Other Side A Little.. | USMFG::GHIGGINS | | Mon Sep 11 1989 16:15 | 22 |
|
Only experiencing WDW once, and from outside at that, I really
don't qualify myself to add to this discussion, but what the heck.
In May of '88 I stayed off property and spent 4 days in WDW, traveling
in by car. Because I would enter WDW about 8 in the morning, and
not leave until closing (MK @midnight), I felt the OFFSIGHT hotel
was the way to go.
All I needed was the basic "bed to sleep in", because I really
used nothing else the hotel had to offer. I left before the hotel
pool opened, and arrived back after it closed so I never got to
use the pool. Was I tired/exhausted from the heat and hoofing. You
bet !!! Would I do it again ?? Sure would !!! So in this case, I
wouldn't want to squander money on accomedations I wouldn't use.
Now on the other hand, on my next trip to WDW, I will be staying
at the CBR. I probably won't spend as much time in the parks next
time and will try and relax a little more and use the hotels
ammenities. It will most surely cost more, but you have got at spend
one WDW world vacation on sight !
George
|
| 119.24 | I opt for convenience | ISTG::MMCKENNA | | Tue Sep 19 1989 16:29 | 20 |
| Our last trip to WDW was this past July. We stayed one night at
the CBR, 7 at the poly, and then back to the CBR for the last night.
The CBR is really pretty, but, the rooms are smaller than the other
WDW resort hotels. We had 2 teenagers and an 11 year old with us. You
can only have 4 to a room so we had to get two rooms and they couldn't
give us ajoining rooms. This is o.k. for people with older kids but
what do people do if they have younger children? Anyway, I found
staying at the CBR inconvenient. I hate traveling by bus, and that is
the only way to get to EVERYTHING. The buses never SEEMED to be going
directly where we wanted to go. There were always multiple stops. We
spent a lot of time going from one end of the CBR to the other picking
up passengers. I felt like I wasted a lot of WDW time.
Anyway, my point is, if the CBR is an inconvenience, I can't imagine
staying off WDW. Just my opinion, but I'll take the poly over the CBR
and outside hotels anyday.
MHO,
Marcie (hoping-to-go-to-the-Grand-Floridian-for-my-20th-anniversary)
|
| 119.25 | | ORACLE::JIM | Jim Pappas | Tue Sep 19 1989 17:14 | 10 |
| If you want to stay at the Polynesian relatively inexpensively, check out note
63.* which discusses reduced prices for Disney stock holders. This is only
available from Spetember - February but is definately cheaper.
I am staying 8 nights in the Polynesian this Nov/Dec for $102.00 per night for
a garden view room. This is not much higher than the CBR per room. Since
there are 5 in my family, and the CBR only holds 4 people, it is actually
cheaper for me to stay at the Polynesian.
/Jim Pappas
|
| 119.26 | I'll take InWDW please! | HPSMEG::BUCKLEY | Mike Buckley High Performance CSSE | Thu Sep 21 1989 19:58 | 18 |
| Well having just returned from 8 days at the G/F, I am quite biased as to the
stay in or out question. This was my first trip to WDW, and would say that
without a doubt when we return it will be to an InWDW resort/hotel. You just
couldn't beat walking out to the Monorail for nearly all of our
transportation needs. I would say the only complaint I had was (what I
considered) below-average bus transportation. With that exception, we (my new
bride and myself) were completely satisfied with all of our arrangements.
Of course we will maybe try a different resort. And will also allow for more
time of `relaxing' It seemed that we were guilty of trying to do too much!
Mike
(A ``grand planner'')
ps: Glad it is not this week with HUGO threatening the SouthEast!
|
| 119.27 | Hidden costs and inconvenience | CGOS01::DMARLOWE | Now serving #18. You have #73. | Mon Sep 25 1989 17:05 | 25 |
| We stayed at the CBR with our kids for 2 weeks in July. They were
having a few problems getting in enough buses for the 8AM rush but
what can you expect with 2000 rooms there. But inspite of that it
was better than staying outside the property. We checked with some
hotels just outside the main gates and found the rates maybe $20
cheaper but you must be aware of the hidden costs and inconvenience.
A lot of hotels have bus service alright but maybe 2 or 3 departing
trips from the hotel in the morning and then 2 or 3 pickups at night.
So once you are there it's no going back for a swim in the afternoon
before you hit the pavement at night. Also there is usually a charge
of $5 per head for a round trip unless you are staying at someplace
fairly far out that they have to offer free shuttle service as an
incentive to stay there. Your costs are now getting close to those
on property.
The smartest thing we did, with the heat in July and 2 kids under 8,
was to stay on property. I didn't have to face the nightly vehicle
exodus from the parks. It was nice to vegitate on the bus, after
hours of walking, knowing that they would drop me off where I was
staying.
Having stayed outside once, we'll never do it again. But each to
their own.
dmm
|
| 119.28 | How Many Days? | COEM::SCOPA | The Major | Tue Sep 26 1989 15:29 | 34 |
| Okay, I'm at the point where I want to determine how many days I should
plan on staying in Orlando. Since it's been 13 years since my last trip
I am depending on all of you to give me your estimation as to how many
days would suffice to thoroughly enjoy all the sites, sounds, and
experiences of WDW, Sea World, etc.
Here's what I've planned so far:
Day 1 - MK
Day 2 - Sea World
Day 3 - Epcot
Day 4 - Universal Studios Florida (coming in May 1990)
Day 5 - MGM
Day 6 - BoardWalk & Baseball
Day 7 - WDW (open)
Day 8 - Open at the moment...is Stars Hall of Fame and the Wizard's
House still around? Those two places plus another
attraction should take care of this day.
Day 9 - WDW (Open...the last hurrah on the trip.
Those of you who have gone down this or last year should be able to
give me or others some insight into how many days to plan. I don't know
if I want to do everything (I am not planning on River Country or
Typhoon Lagoon) but I do want to get my fill after waiting 13 years.
Mickey Mike
|
| 119.29 | FWIW: Rosie O'Grady's is in Church St. Station | RHETT::MITCHAM | New "Daddy" in Alpharetta | Tue Sep 26 1989 15:45 | 21 |
| I'd allocate the following:
4-days WDW -- (3-days MK and Epcot, 1-day MGM)
1-day Sea World
1-day BoardWalk/Baseball/etc.
1-day Universal Studios (initially, unless you have info indicating it
may take longer to see/do)
1 (or more) days open
This should allow some flexibility. Doing all the above one day after
another would likely make you yearn for a vacation from your vacation
(it's alot of stuff!). Take your time and space things out.
A favorite of mine you didn't mention is Rosie O'Grady's Goodtime
Emporium located close to Orlando's downtown district. Fun to go to
for an afternoon of shopping or an evening of entertainment.
Have fun!
-Andy (who has WDW tickets but likely won't be going for a while :-(
cause I've got a new boy! :-)
|
| 119.30 | Don't try to do it all at once | ASABET::KUMPEL | | Tue Sep 26 1989 15:46 | 8 |
| Re .28
You don't say when you are going. That will make a difference depending
if is hot or not. Also you don't state the ages of your party.
I also think that you will need more days at the theme parks and will
probably end up cutting some of the non-Disney attractions. You should
also probably plan for at least one day to sit back and take it easy.
|
| 119.31 | When I'm going! | COEM::SCOPA | The Major | Tue Sep 26 1989 18:37 | 14 |
| The trip is planned for July 1990. My kids will be 12 and 10. We are an
early bird family so I expect to be out the door real early in the
morning.
I anticipate those Disney Days to last until midnight and that is why I
plan to alternate them.
I think back-to-back days also water-down the experience. But then
again my kids may want to go back-to-back-to-back-to-back-to-back.
Again, my question is how many days? I'm thinking somewhere between 7
and 10.
Mike_who_could_be_easily_talked_into_2_weeks
|
| 119.32 | There aren't enough hours in a day sometimes... | DNEAST::ROBBINS_GARY | Almost Timberdoodle time ! | Wed Sep 27 1989 12:43 | 9 |
| On our first trip we went back-to-back-to-back for 8 days, and it was
intense...and tiring.
Alot of the magic wasn't appreciated or given it proper attention...
sensory overload.
We're taking two weeks next time...gonna sit back and soak it in !
GR...too_many_days_to_go_to_count.
|
| 119.33 | Do two weeks... | CTOAVX::JLAWRENCE | Jim/Hartford A.C.T.,DTN 383-4523 | Tue Oct 03 1989 19:01 | 21 |
|
I used to live in Florida. My folks are retired there. I have been
there five times in the last four years. My opinion is that 10 days
is not enough for all you want to do.
Consider that you have kids 10/12 who would are the ideal age for
Typhoon (another day). You could hit Daytona beach for a day. You
could have a relaxing day doing the Florida Mall in Orlando followed
by Church St. Station. Disney will take you a minimum of four days
just for the three theme parks. Then there is Pleasure Island, good
for an evening. I guess you intend to skip Cypress Gardens, Busch
(not worth it anyway in my opinion), and Silver Springs (nobody
ever mentions it). And of course as others have mentioned, you have
to build in a lay-around-the-pool day for every three others where
you are on the go.
I suggest that if you are only going to go every ten years or so,
then two weeks is a must.
Regards, Jim
|
| 119.34 | I could use a month down there but... | COEM::SCOPA | The Major | Tue Oct 03 1989 19:46 | 12 |
| Jim,
I think that you're right about considering 2 weeks since it has been a
looooooooooong time. I don't expect to be taking in places like
Daytona, Church St. Station, Cape Kennedy, Typhoon Lagoon, Busch
Gardens, or Cypress Gardens.
Looks like 10 days may be just what I need.
Thanks,
Mike
|
| 119.35 | Yup, you're right | CTOAVX::JLAWRENCE | Jim/Hartford A.C.T.,DTN 383-4523 | Wed Oct 04 1989 14:03 | 9 |
|
Yes, you will be all set. A big decision that one must make when
going to central Florida, is am I going to stay at WDW the whole
time or not. If you skip the second tier attractions, and maybe
do a day at Seaworld, and the rest WDW and relaxing, then a 10 day
stay is plenty. You can even do a SAT to SAT and see a lot.
Jim
|
| 119.36 | When to reconfirm? | COEM::SCOPA | MAJOR | Thu May 17 1990 16:46 | 6 |
| Does anyone suggest how much time in advance of your reservations you
should consider calling the CRO to reconfirm your reservations?
One month? Six weeks?
Mike
|
| 119.37 | | ATE012::BERUBE | My Biscuits Are Burning!!! | Thu May 17 1990 16:59 | 12 |
| Rep to <<< Note 119.36 by COEM::SCOPA "MAJOR" >>>
Mike,
I would reconfirm whenever I made a change in a dinner reservation
etc., so If I decided to change the time of the Hoop-Dee-Doo or the
Luaua, I would reconfirm then. Otherwise I would do it 30 days in
advance since that used to be the earliest you could book the Top Of
The World and 5 business days after sending in the final payment, under
the guise of checking to make sure they received it.
Claude
|
| 119.38 | Thanks! | COEM::SCOPA | MAJOR | Tue Jul 03 1990 20:33 | 13 |
| Well it was about a year ago I started this note and I'm about to take
off on a vacation I have waited 14 years to enjoy.
I figured this is the note to thank everyone for all their help, tips,
information, and warnings.
I promise to bring back the best trip report ever and in turn will
hopefully repay all the noters with information that they too can use
for their next trip.
See you guys in a month.
Mike_whose_5125_day_wait_is_OVER!!!!!!!
|
| 119.39 | Pros/Cons for Staying On/Off Disney Property | COEM::SCOPA | MAJOR | Tue Sep 04 1990 13:19 | 33 |
| I'm not sure where this note should go but I think putting it here
in this "Planning Note" may be helpful for others.
I was wondering how many people have opted to stay off the property
following a previous vacation in which they had stayed on the property.
In my two previous visits to WDW I had stayed off the property. Last
year I asked for advice and I read pros and cons for staying on the
property and pros and cons for staying off the property.
I personally am glad I stayed on the property and will never stay off
the property again because I really relished the full Disney experience
during my stay. It's amazing how I waited 4 months before making up my
mind as to where to stay.
First-timers (first time to WDW or first time considering staying on
the property) could benefit from hearing our viewpoints on this matter.
This information is located in one or two other notes but probably need
to be dealt with in a "Planning Note" too.
If you have strong feelings either way here is yet another forum for
which you can help your fellow noters.
Mike
thinking back to when I was trying to detrmine wether to stay
on
or
off the property before making reservations last year.
I heard a lot here to stay, that
is, off-property or on-property.
|
| 119.40 | On Property Convertee | FPTVX1::ABRAMS | My home is my CATsle | Mon Sep 17 1990 19:40 | 20 |
|
I have just returned from WDW and my first on-property stay after many previous
off-property stays. (Be patient; trip report in progress.)
The experience was so positive that we we try to stay on-property in all
future visits.
Major reasons:
1. The Disney magic DOES continue all day and all night;
2. No traffic hassles. Rte 192 traffic can be unbearable during at peak
times (opening and closing hours, of course.)
3. Everything you need is there. We only went off property once after getting
there.
4. Lots of options, from budget to luxury.
Bill
|
| 119.41 | Ditto | COEM::SCOPA | MAJOR | Tue Sep 18 1990 14:53 | 18 |
| Bill,
I echo your sentiments.
I think that just as people get "hooked" from their first visit to WDW
they also get hooked with their first on-property experience. Just as
you can never truly describe WDW to those who have never gone it's
difficult to describe on-property experience to those who have never
tried it.
* * *
I hope noone's planning a trip during Summer of 1996. The Atlanta
Olympics will bring in hordes of people who will probably visit the
Orlando area.
Mike
|
| 119.42 | Advice on meeting Friends/Family at WDW | COEM::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Tue Apr 16 1991 14:16 | 83 |
| Hmm this note has been quiet for about 6 months but it's time for
another trip planning question.
Okay gang I'm tentatively (we're talking 99% sure) scheduling a trip
for July of '92. We have very close friends who have never been there
and don't take too many vacations. Over the weekend they visited us and
told me they were considering a trip in October. I think the price was
$2600 which included airfare, 6 nights at the Poly, and unlimited
admission to the parks. I don't know if that unlimited admission deal
was for "Super Passes".
Anyway I looked at all my stuff and tried to price everything
separately and it came out to about the same price. They then asked if
I'd have some of my videos handy from my last trip. I pulled out one of
my ELP tapes, the one I got from street level thanks to my sitting on a
curb for 90 minutes prior to the start of the parade. They said, "Ohh
that's nice. We'd enjoy that."
Well I mentioned to them that the ELP isn't a year round attraction and
they asked why and I talked about operating hours. I told them about
the difference in the operating hours in the Summer versus the
operating hours in the Fall.
Well they weren't too crazy about the operating hours being cut back
and felt they wouldn't be getting their money's worth if they went in
October.
I mentioned that we were planning on trying to get back in July of '92
and told them why we prefer the Summer hours and they were sold. They
would prefer going in the Summer. Then someone said "Wouldn't it be
neat to be down their together?" Well this really got my wife excited
and as is turned out our tentitively scheduled plans are pretty close
to 100%. But here's a question for all my brothrs and sisters in
Disneydom.
My friends (and godson who'll be 7 and loves the TMNT) plan to visit
their parents in Tampa before going to Disney. They plan on spending 10
days in Disney and we will be there for 14 days. I'd like some advice
on how I should plan this trip...that is:
- Should I plan to spend some time in WDW with my family a few
days before they arrive?
- Should I spend our first 10 days in Disney with them and have
the last four just with ourselves?
- Should I plan for 2 days with my family, the next 10 with our
friend, and the last two with just us?
I need some feedback on this. We'll be making our plans in June and I
intend to call the CRO at that time.
Let me mention a few things. We are very close to these friends of
ours. My daughter's Godfather and I have agreed to approach this trip
as a "no-holds barred" kind of trip which means we plan to enjoy
ourselves.
Also, this is their first trip to WDW so they will depend upon us for
most of their information.
We'll be driving down and they will fly down to Tampa and rent a car to
drive to Orlando. This means that both families will have a car. That
may not seem like a big deal but I like the fact that I will not have
the only car.
We hope to secure adjoining rooms at the CBR.
We're all planning to get Annual Passports.
But the best part is that my wife wasn't sure if whe wanted to do
Hoop-Dee-Doo when we returned but now wants to since we'll be with
friends.
Okay gang any advice? Has anyone done something like this? If so can
you warn me or advise me regarding any aspect of your trip which was
either positive or negative and that I should be aware of?
I've entered this note not only for my own sake but for anyone else who
may be planning a trip with friends or family.
Hey Claude haven't you done this before?
Mike_who_may_be_booking_in_60_days
|
| 119.43 | How to lose friends... | WOTVAX::BATTY | Well, I wouldn't start from here! | Tue Apr 16 1991 15:22 | 28 |
| Mike, IMO it depends on how close these friends really are! We did
a similar thing over Christmas '90. The family we went with
were/are real close. The husband is my sporting/drinking buddy,
wives spend hours on the phone gossiping, sons are the same
age-same school-same hobbies-best friends. After four or five
days, we all agreed that we needed some space! We then went our
own way some of the time, doing something together in the morning
and then splitting, or meeting up for the evening only. This
worked so well, we are all going again together this summer!
I'd suggest all starting the holiday together, with you guiding
them while they find their feet. Then as they get more independant
you have the option of staying together, or doing your own thing.
If things get really bad, and they are constantly dogging your
trail, at least you will have 4 days clear at the end to build up
the magic again. This 'weaning' process will probably be better
than having your 4 'free' days first, and then suddenly being
constrained by the time/support/guidance the new arrivals will
need from you.
No matter how close you are, or how well you think you know them,
there's nothing like living in each other's pockets to highlight
the little differences!
My perhaps jaundiced view!
Mike.
|
| 119.44 | How about 1 before and 3 after? | COEM::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Tue Apr 16 1991 15:44 | 24 |
| Mike,
YOu sort of echo Peter Karam's thoughts on this. I think that there are
times when I'd like to be with my immediate family and there are times
when we like to share our experience.
I see most of our times together around breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
We are close...my daughter's Godfather and I were born two weeks apart
and we went through school and college together. His wife and my wife
are good friends. The only bif difference is that my kids will be 14
and 12 next Summer and their son will be 7. Obviously we'll enjoy
seeing him go crazy over the characters and such but I don't think
he'll enjoy EPCOT like my kids will.
Right now I'm thinking about letting them tell me first what their
plans are and I'll then work mine around there's. I'm thinking right
now of arriving one day before them and staying three days after they
leave.
Any other noters have some guidance for me?
Mike_who_can_almost_sign_off_saying_something_like_470_days_to_go
|
| 119.45 | I'd stay later | WDWLD::KARAM | | Tue Apr 16 1991 15:46 | 27 |
| Hi Mike - where have I seen that question before-)? I'll put my
2 cents in here, rather than just in a mail message.
I have never done this type planning before, but have met family
at WDW during our Nov, 1991 trip.
Personally, I would prefer having the last few days with my own
family. This gives the family an opportunity to build some lasting
memories. I tend to recall the events that happened the last couple
of days the most.
When we met my wife's brother and his family at WDW in Nov, '91,
it was not a planned from the start meeting. Up until 2 weeks
before we were going, they had not done any of their planning.
We were more than happy to meet them, but didn't plan our trip
to fit in with theirs (our reservations were done 8 months ahead).
We did overlap their entire trip, we were there 2 days earlier and
1 day later than they were. MGM was new, and we had the opportunity
to visit there and "advise" them on what to do and an order they
may want to use.
Also, have you considered staying in a 2 bedroom villa, if it is
available under the annual passport holders $150 a night special?
No problem with adjoining rooms, actually MUCH more space than 2
rooms at the CBR!
peter
|
| 119.46 | Some info | VAXUUM::LOWELL | Grim Grinning Ghosts... | Tue Apr 16 1991 16:14 | 77 |
| Mike,
I've done similar things in the past. For trip A, we went with my
younger sister and my two kid brothers. For trip B, we went with my
other sister, her husband and my niece. The major difference for us
was that we all stayed in the same room - to save money (mainly for
our "guests"). That was the main problem with this set up, we felt
like we had to be hosts on both trips. And due to that, we ended up
doing a lot of things we would have skipped otherwise and probably
skipped a lot of things our "guests" would have liked.
We ended up doing everything together so us "experts" ended up setting
the schedule. Our "guests" just assumed we knew what we should do and
when. We'd ask what they wanted to do next but they'd just leave it up
to us. I didn't like having that kind of responsibility. We couldn't
have done anything different on trip A due to the ages of my brothers.
But I would change the way we did trip B in a minute. I think it would
have helped to let my sister and her family explore on their own.
Because we did everything together, coordinating ourselves was very
difficult. It took forever everytime we did anything - do you realize
how many bathroom stops five or six people make in a day?
Now for the positives - I would love to go again with someone I know.
In fact, we're trying to include my sister (from trip B), her boyfriend
and my niece in our tentative plans for a late 1991 trip. The thing
that's stopping us is their financial situation. If Randy and I can
afford it, we'd like to pay for a room for them and would consider
renting a mini-van so we can all drive down together. Am I a great
sister or what? Randy and I have spent some time discussing the
advantages of going together. Here's some we've come up with:
o We could swap off babysitting with Raina and Andy for a couple
of nights. Randy and I haven't been able to go on Space Mountain,
Thunder Mountain, Body Wars or Star Tours together! We'd enjoy
a chance to experience WDW as a couple again.
o We could take Lindsay (my niece) with us during the day a few
times to give Nicole someone to play with and to give Raina and
Andy some time to themselves. One problem we've had on recent
trips was keeping Nicole entertained when we weren't in the
parks. Although she likes the playgrounds and playing in the
sand, she gets bored quickly without someone to play with.
o We could hire an in room sitter to watch the kids and go to
Pleasure Island (or whatever) and have someone to talk to.
o We could all go to the Hoop-Dee-Doo together. I think it would
be even better with friends.
Personally, I think the biggest advantages would be experiencing some
of the evening activities together and Nicole having a playmate.
In your case, I would recommend spending only parts of each day together
as a group. This will give you some time to yourselves and will allow
your friends to explore on their own. This will allow your friends to
notice the things us pros take for granted and will be helpful if they
decide they aren't hard core Disney fans or if their interests are
different from yours. In our case my brother-in-law wanted to spend more
time watching some of the musical entertainment but never told us. If
you do this, it really won't matter how you schedule your departure.
But, if you think you'll end up playing host/tour guide, I'd recommend
leaving after they leave. This will give you a chance to do anything
you compromised on in order to accomodate your friends.
Another bit of advice I can offer is try not to set their expectations
for them AND don't set your expectations too high either. Believe me,
it's very depressing to spend months psyching someone up about the
wonders of WDW only to have them not react the way you expected. It
concerns me that you have stated, "This is their first trip to WDW so
they will depend upon us for most of their information." Based on my
experiences, I'd do everything possible to foster their independence.
Show them your tapes, get them to read Birnbaum, show them your trip
reports, discuss these items and then let them do some touring on their
own. During your WDW together times you can discuss what each family
has done and offer hints if they seem to need them. This way they are
repsonsible for their own vacation experience.
Please feel free to ask more questions. I'm sure I've left a lot out
of my note. I'll try to talk to Raina to see if she has anything to
add from the "guest's" point of view.
Ruth
|
| 119.47 | 2 more cents worth | EXIT26::SNODGRASS | | Tue Apr 16 1991 19:53 | 19 |
|
Mike,
Just a few thoughts. We were planning two different trips with two
seperate families, but they fell through. Some of the planning varied.
One family had never been to the World were as the other had. One big
thing we kept trying to mondful of was the old How The Movie Ends
Syndrome and keep the surprises surprises especialy our son. Then we
planned on mornings or afternoons to split up. But we definately wanted
to be with them on their first morning to see their reaction. With the
expirienced family we were planning less time together but more kid
swapping days or nights just so everyone could have a break from
everyone. I know you'll do the right thing;^)
have fun planning
steve
|
| 119.48 | | TECRUS::JIM | Jim Pappas | Tue Apr 16 1991 21:52 | 46 |
| Mike,
I would recommend that you have your personal time with your
family at the end of your vacation. This will allow you to
relax a little after your friends are gone. Also, I would not
assume that your friend's 7 yr old son will not enjoy EPCOT.
My kids were 4,6,8 on our last trip and EPCOT is their
favorite park.
On our last trip, we spent the first week in a condo with my
mother-in-law (her first trip). It worked out really nice and
we are planning to try this again in the summer of 92,
possibly with both sets of grandparents. During this first
week we pushed it a little so that we could show my MIL as
much as possible. We were up early in the morning and at the
parks when the gates opened. Some days we did the water parks
in the afternoon. Other days we would take afternoon naps and
then go back in the evenings for fireworks etc. By the end of
the 1st week, we pretty much showed my MIL most of what Disney
had to offer and she had a great time.
She left after the first week and we checked into the CBR for
another two weeks. Having already seen all the attractions
the prior week, this allowed us to really relax and enjoy WDW.
With our annual passports, we didn't feel guilty about going
into the parks for just a couple of hours a day during the
least busy times. For example, one night we went into the
parks at 10:00PM for the first time that day, just because we
wanted to see the fireworks. We spent those two weeks
relaxing, going to dinner shows, checking out the live
entertainment, having nice dinners and lunches, lounging by
the pool, going to River Country, Typhoon Lagoon, or Discovery
Island, horseback riding, renting boats, riding bikes etc.
However, we also went into the theme parks for a few hours
each day. Overall, our time was a mixture of visiting the
parks during the least busy times, and enjoying the rest of
WDW the other times. With as much time as we had, and having
annual passports with the RC,DI,TL,PI adders, we could come
and go as we pleased and we were able to have a great time.
As far as the Hoop-de-do-review goes, I think it is definitely
more fun with a group of people. On our last trip we went out
with people that I know who were in Orlando for business.
Knowing this in advance, I had booked extra seats for the HDD
and then invited our friends to join us. We had more fun as a
group than we would have had by ourselves.
|
| 119.49 | | GEMINI::GIBSON | | Wed Apr 17 1991 12:11 | 20 |
| Mike,
We treated my in-laws to three days at WDW during our last trip.
We had been there two days when they joined us, and we stayed a day
after they left. My advice is to leave the largest amount of time alone
with your family after the other people leave. Then you get to just
relax and do what you want to do at your own pace, without worrying
that they are missing something that they should see but you're not
really crazy about.
I also like the owne day in the beginning to race to your favorites and
get a big dose of them before the other guests arrive.
I also found that, when I told the CRO that we were travelling together,
they made sure that we had rooms fairly close together (at least in the
same building in CBR). They link your reservations in the computer.
have a great trip,
Linda
|
| 119.50 | Going with my parents | IMTDEV::GULLIKSEN | Disney in 1991 | Wed Apr 17 1991 14:15 | 22 |
| I'm also planning a trip to WDW with my husband and my parents. Neither
of them have been before.
We will be travelling together so there isn't an opportunity to plan a
few days at the end of the trip for just ourselves.
Fortunately, my mom doesn't swim and she doesn't like laying around on the
beach or by a pool. My husband and I will be able to get away from them
by going to the water parks. My parents also would like to see Busch
Gardens so they will most likely be going there by themselves. I doubt
that they'll ride the roller coaster rides. I'd really like to get them
on Big Thunder Mountain and Star Tours. Greg could probably spend the
entire day riding Space Mountain over and over and over.... At least we'll
have some opportunities to get away by ourselves.
I'm trying really hard to stress that we may want some time alone (luckily
we are getting separate rooms). However, my mom will probably tie a rope
around me so that she doesn't miss anything. She wants to do it all.
The good news is that my dad understands the need to be alone.
mig
|
| 119.51 | Good Input | COEM::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Wed Apr 17 1991 14:24 | 55 |
| Many of the things I've been hearing from Peter and Ruth are things I
have been thinking about.
I expect that we'll be arriving a WDW a day before my friends and
staying 3 days later than they are.
Also, I expect to maybe spend the first day altogether and then the
remaining days will be jumbled a bit.
Okay here's another question: Which attractions, events, are fun to
experience together? Let me take a shot:
Hoop-Dee-Doo
Electrical Light Parade
Fireworks
Indy Jones
TGMR
Illuminations
Prime Time
Pirates (There's NEVER a bad time to do "Pirates")
Small World
Imgination
A World Showcase meal
Typhoon Lagoon
Village Marketplace
Character Breakfasts
Living Seas
Wonders of Life
Walking through World Showcase
Star Tours
Mickey's Starland
Country Bear Hoedown
Ruth makes a good point. The Disneyholics in this conference may take a
lot of things for granted, things which first timers may relish. How
many of us have gone into one of the theme parks and rushed over to
make reservations for a meal later on in the day or have made a beeline
to an attraction (Star Tours in MGM, The American Adventure in EPCOT,
or Pirates in TMK, for example) whereas if we can remember back to our
very first time in any of the theme parks we would probably recall just
standing and taking all of it in. Good point Ruth.
Also, I agree that it's best to see someone establish a little
independence and go out on their own once they get a good feel for the
(here comes a "Bible" phrase) lay of the land.
No two people are alike or have the exact same interests. My wife and I
love to sit along Hollywood Blvd. and watch the Streetmosphere but
after about 15 minutes of this the kids are looking to do something.
The input in here is very appreciative. I hope others are gaining from
it. I would like ideas on what's good to do together and what's not
good to do together.
Mike
|
| 119.52 | ******** | COEM::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Wed Apr 17 1991 14:33 | 12 |
| Jim,
You're probably right about EPCOT. Each kid is different.
Linda,
We'll probably be making the reservations with the same phone call and
we are planning on making the reservations 13 months in advance so I'm
assuming the rooms will be close.
Mike
|
| 119.53 | The best big sister in the world | VAXUUM::LOWELL | Grim Grinning Ghosts... | Mon Jun 24 1991 17:49 | 15 |
| This is an update to my reply in .46. Neither my sister, Raina,
nor my husband, Randy, had anything to add.
BUT... It's all your fault Mike! Between this note and your damned
stats note, well... YOU STARTED IT! (said in the whiniest voice
imaginable). I was on the phone with the CRO yesterday and today.
Between making and cancelling reservations, I expect 7 to 10
confirmation slips in the mail within the next 7 to 10 days. And,
as the woman handling my latest call said, it will take me 7 to 10
days to sort them out.
So now we're planning to spend a couple of weeks at WDW in December
with my sister, her boyfriend and my niece. I must remember to bring
a copy of .46 with me so I can follow my own advice. And yes, we
will be paying for the majority of their vacation.
|
| 119.54 | WDW in 1995 | CUPMK::JETTE | | Fri Jul 19 1991 18:14 | 9 |
| I am planning to go to WDW in 1995. Does it sound crazy to make
reservations now? Also, if I pay for the room now - will I get this
years rate or will I be charged increases as the years go by?
(Just trying to be as cost effective as possible)
PS: I can't wait - I wish it were this year!
Kathy
|
| 119.55 | | TISKNU::JIM | Jim Pappas | Fri Jul 19 1991 22:45 | 10 |
| RE: 119.54 by CUPMK::JETTE
Kathy,
You can make reservations now, but it isn't necessary. You
will have to pay a 1 night deposit but the rate will not be
guaranteed until the 1995 prices are set. This will probably
happen in the summer of 1994 (ex: they just set the 1992
prices a couple of weeks ago).
|
| 119.56 | Need your advice | CUPMK::JETTE | | Thu Feb 06 1992 17:24 | 28 |
| I've read my Birnbaum '92 and added notes that I feel I will need from
this notesfile. With that knowledge I've been trying to create an
itinerary for the 5 - 6 (?) days I'm there. Such as where I'll be in
the AM - where lunching - where I'll be swimming (TL or RC or pool)
till 4 or 5pm then where I'll be in the PM, have dinner and then the
rest of the evening. I'm finding this to be a very difficult task.
We've never seen the countrys at EPCOT except Italy, and we've never
been to MGM. (as you can see I've spent lots of time at MK)
I belive we'll be spending much more time at EPCT this time around -
since my son is going to be 10 yrs old and appreciate alot more of it.
Mike S tells me we'll be spending more time at MGM than MK - however in
my opinion I don't think so - but then, I've never been there.
Not having seen alot of this - I'm having a hard time "guessing" where
I should be on what day.
My questions:
1. Do any of you out there try to plan itineraries this way?
2. If so, how do you do it?
3. Should I even bother since there so much unknown?
Seems like the only definite is MK on the day we arrive and
HDDR on Sunday night!
Kathy_who_is_going_to_get_gray_hair_waiting_for_a_cheap_airfare!
|
| 119.57 | | SALEM::BERUBE_C | Good Morning WDW!, in 79 days | Thu Feb 06 1992 17:55 | 58 |
|
> 1. Do any of you out there try to plan itineraries this way?
yes, see my planned itineraries below, notice it not definite but a
plan
> 2. If so, how do you do it?
Read the Birnbaum/Unofficial/Trip reports, talk to the wife/son, and
come up with a rough idea of what ot do, mostly my inputs though, since
I'm the one who has access to this conference.
> 3. Should I even bother since there so much unknown?
Depends on the individual, I'm planning on worst case what we think
we'll do, I usually rearrange due to Parades/Closing time/rain etc.
Claude
ITENIARY:
Date Activities Breakfeast/Supper
--------------------------------------------------------------
Day 1 Morn. - Depart Plane
noon - Kennedy SC
Eve. - Check out Hotels Port Orleans
or Parade in Park
Day 2 Morn. - MGM Port Orleans/Dixie Land.
break - PO/DL Pool
Eve. - MK (SpectroMagic) Grand Floridian
Day3 Morn. - MGM Beach/Beach Club
Break - Beach Club Pool
Eve. - EPCOT Norway
Day 4 Morn - Typhoon Lagoon Yatch/Beach Club
Eve. - Pleasure Island Pleasure Is.
Day 5 Morn. - Universal Studios Crossroads
Eve. - Pleasure Island Pleasure Island
Day 6 Morn. - Epcot Port Orleans
Break - Typhoon Lagoon
Eve. - MGM Sci-Fi
Day 7 Morn. - MK Polyneasean
Break - PO/DL Pool
Eve. - MGM (Socery Fireworks) Brown Derby
Day 8 Morn. - MGM Port Orleans/Dixie Landings
Break - Beach Club Pool
Eve. - EPCOT (Luminations) Yatch/Beach Club
Day 9 Morn. - Depart Orlando Airport Port Orleans/Dixie Landings
|
| 119.58 | planning vs. scheduling | MR4DEC::AWILLIAMS | Let's get dangerous!! | Thu Feb 06 1992 18:34 | 32 |
| Kathy,
I agree with Claude on one point. It depends on the individual. For
my two previous jaunts to WDW in '88 and '90, I didn't put together any
type of itinerary and I don't think we missed anything we wanted to
see/do or had less of a good time because it wasn't 'planned'.
What I do instead is have a rough idea of what we want to do and see
while we're down there. For example, while preparing for our '88 trip,
I knew my then-girlfriend/now-wife had never been to EPCOT so we
planned to spend two full days at that park and less time at the MK
which she had seen before.
During our last trip, MGM was new and we knew it would open early for
resort guests so we planned to be there as early as we could. And the
day before, we made reservations for dinner at the Stearman's Quarters
on the Empress Lily so that after a busy day at MGM, we could sit down
to a nice meal.
What I'm getting at is that there's a difference between planning
(being informed as to what WDW has to offer) and scheduling. I think
you can plan for a trip without having a schedule. It allows you to be
a bit more spontaneous.
And Claude, don't get the idea that I think your planning is the wrong
thing to do. I just know that it wouldn't work for me and my wife. I
would tend to plan the trip to death...
I guess, Kathy, the best indicator is: what do you do when you go on a
non-WDW vacation??
- Skip
|
| 119.59 | I must be trying to over-schedule | CUPMK::JETTE | | Thu Feb 06 1992 18:55 | 15 |
| I tend to be a planner/scheduler to the extreme. I make hundreds of
lists and tend to plan to the minute! (My husband is the opposite so
it drives him nuts!) I guess this is why i'm frustrated. Not having
been to MGM and my son not having seen much of EPCOT - I cannot PLAN
how much time to be there. I also won't know which ones he'll like the
best and want to return to more often. So, for someone like me -
leaving large gaps of time open drives me crazy! For instance, the 4th
day we are there, we'll have been to each park once - I can't PLAN where we
will go that day, dine that day etc...... since I have no idea which
ones we'll want to return to.
Maybe it's just me
Kathy
|
| 119.60 | Plan...but be Flexible | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Thu Feb 06 1992 20:24 | 37 |
| Kathy,
Try to play the middle ground and put together a schedule that allows
for flexibility.
For my '90 trip I tried to break up the trip by assigning certain days
with a specific park.
It went something like CLaude's itinerary. I put together a someone
strict schedule early on and let it get more and more flexible as the
vacation unwound.
Basically I did two days of Disney, one day off (SW, US), two days on,
one day off, etc.
In your case you may consider MGM the first day because there are more
attractions you haven't seen there than those you haven't seen in EC.
Epcot could be the second Day and TMK the third. Maybe that 4th day
could be a second run at MGM.
I think it is DEFINTELY wise to plan what you'll be doing once in the
park.
I strongly suggest that once in MGM go to Prime Time and make
reservations and then head over to Star Tours, then to TGMR, and then
do the Backstage Tour. Once those are out of the way before Noon you'll
have plenty of time to do the rest of the park.
Your first day in Epcot should include an immediate boat trip over to
AA and begin there and work your way counter-clockwise.
I like to break down the trip into a general daily itinerary because it
goes a long way towards estimating how much $$$$$$$$ you may need.
Mike_who_is_looking_forward_to_seeing_Kathy_on_stage_at_Pioneer_Hall
|
| 119.61 | Getting more flexible all the time.... | BROKE::LUND | | Mon Feb 10 1992 16:18 | 67 |
|
I find that planning gets less and less; the more times we've been
there. We start with a list of the things we want to see (all new
stuff, our favorites, etc), the places we want to eat; and plan
days around those things. Then there's the bonus things that we'd
like to see again, see if anything's changed, etc. and then at the
end of the list is the things that once is enough; don't want to
do unless we are passing by and we are tired and there are no lines
and it's raining or it's a sit down ride and we could use a break.
Then we take the list of things we want to do and divide them up
into what can be done on rainy days vs. days we'd like to have
sunshine for. (We have annual passports, and so don't have a
problem going into one of the three parks and only doing a few things),
As an example:
MGM : We'll want to catch the new things: like the little mermaid
show and the Beauty and the Beast Show; so those are on
the definite list.
Indiana Jones: now we've seen this 4-5 times in the past two
visits; both at night and during the day; both off to
the side and in the middle. They repeat just about the
same speech, like at the beginning when they ae getting
extra's from the audience... So that falls in the; if
there are no lines; and we need a place to rest, and the
show is starting soon category, at least for this spring.
Star Tours: This I did several (5-6) times out at DL; and
then in the past 2 visits we've probably done it 4 times
each visit; and this definitely falls into the favorite
ride category; so we will do it again.
Restaurants: In MGM - I haven't been overly impressed with
the restaurants in MGM. Nice to eat in once; but the
food tends to be more "meat and potatoes" oriented. I am
more into poultry,fish, fresh salads/fruits etc; and there
is not a big variety of these items in MGM - sitdown
restaurant wise. So making sure I have reservations for
Prime Time or Sci-Fi is not top of the list priority.
Both places have very interesting atmospheres; they
just don't offer what I like to eat. On the other hand
Stan is a meat/potatoes person, and he likes sci-fi;
so...
Rainy days: we actually plan for a couple of rainy days and
decide what we can save for a rainy day. Shopping
at Disney Village; Playing in Communicore East/West;
Hotel hopping on the monorail; etc. Things that don't
require alot of being outside; or places where several
hours can be spent such that the number of times outdoors
are limited....
This next trip, we have on our list of definite things to do:
Go Mickey Mouse Hunting: Finding some of the mickeys
described in the issue of Disney News, etc.
Wait for and watch some of the preshow shows that we have
missed in the past, because we got there just as they were
letting people in or because there was no line so we walked
right in.
- Annie
|
| 119.62 | Check the weekly schedule of events | BROKE::LUND | | Mon Feb 10 1992 16:25 | 13 |
|
One thing I forgot; early in our visits we make sure to get a copy
of each of the weekly schedules for the three parks; and if there
is a special show or event we want to catch; we make sure to juggle
days to fit it in. Especially since we tend to go during off season;
slowest periods; where some event are only on certain days. If there
is something we wanted to see in Epcot; but it's only going to be
on Fri; Sat; Sun; Mon; and we had planned to be in EPCOT on Tues.,
then we will swap whatever was planned for Sunday and go to EPCOT
that day and go to whatever on Tuesday.
- Annie
|
| 119.63 | How NOT to Plan Your Vacation | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Fri Feb 21 1992 18:55 | 103 |
| I mentioned this to Claude and Kathy and I thought I'd share this with
the rest of you.
About three weeks back I received a phone call from a friend who was
thinking about finally taking his family to WDW. He figured his kids
were getting old (15,14,12,9) and thought that it would be now or
never.
He wanted to take everyone down during February vacation which for
NH is the week of Feb. 24th. Sounds like a good idea so far.
Well, he called to get some information from me regarding resort
prices, admission costs, etc. It looked like he was torn between
staying at either the family triad (PO/DL/CBR) or FW. His situation was
like Tony Lapointe's in that he needed to sleep 6.
The conversation seemed strange when we discussed the price of the
passes because I told him that they might find a 6-day pass just right
since THEY HAVE NEVER BEEN THERE. That would give them a day for either
Sea World or Universal Studios.
All along I'm assuming they were going to be down there for a week.
Then he tells me, "Oh I'm driving down!"
"You're WHAAATTT?!?!?!"
As I'm entering this they are on their way. They are driving all
afternoon and evening today (Feb. 21) and will drive non-stop (except
for the obvious pit-stops) until they get to Jacksonville sometime
Saturday. They plan to stay with a relative on Saturday night.
Early Sunday morning they will be taking off for Orlando and hopefully
arriving some time before Noon. They are staying OFF THE PROPERTY and
will be staying Sunday thru Wednesday in Orlando.
They weren't sure if they were going to be able to see all three parks
as they also wanted to go to US and SW. They were thinking of just
doing TMK and EC. I made an argument for doing TMK and MGM. I figured
these two parks are more entertaining than EC.
Okay, they leave Orlando sometime late Wednesday and drive to Tampa to see
Busch Gardens. They spend the night in Tampa and on Thursday visit The
Dark Continent. Here is where it gets kind of fuzzy. I think their plan
is to sleep overnight in Tampa and then take off for home on Friday
morning. They hope to arrive back in NH by noon on Sunday.
Kathy and Claude almost had a heart attack when I told them of this
itinerary. Just think 4-5 days on the road, 3-4 days in Orlando, and
1-2 days in Tampa. Phew!
Driving down saves airfare but omigawd.
If there was no way around driving down I would have done the
following:
o Leave Thursday, Feb. 27th and keep the kids out of school on Friday.
o Plan on arriving in Tampa early Saturday evening.
o Spend Sunday at Busch Gardens and leave for Orlando around
6-7 P.M. Sunday night.
o Arrive in Orlando around 9 P.M.
o Stay on the property for convenience and to save time (if
money allows.
o Plan 4 full days in Orlando (Mon-Thurs) with one day at US.
This allows them to see all three parks and US.
o Leave Friday morning and take it easy on the way home (450
miles Friday...450 miles Saturday...450 miles Sunday).
Now why am I relating this story to everyone? This is intended for
those of you who have never gone or who haven't gone since the
mid-80's. This conference not only should help you decide how to plan
but also how NOT to plan.
It's important to plan, plan, plan. The level of planning you do will
make a world of difference in the quality of your vacation. In this
case time and money is a factor. Many of the noters in here who have
related trip reports which recall enjoyable vacations had planned their
vacations well in advance. Few vacations run well when planned in less
than 30 days. In 1975 and 1976 I planned a WDW vacation in 30 days, but
only TMK was around back then. That was then........this is now.
Planning ahead allows you to carefully put an itinerary together, to
think about where you'd like to stay, and most importantly, allows you
the time to $ave, $ave, $ave. Taking your time with your planning
offers you the chance to see what options are there for you to save
money. Rushing in doesn't work.
Believe me, it's worth waiting a few months more or even one more year
to make sure you will have an enjoyable vacation. Those vacationers who
come back complaining about WDW not being what it's cracked up to be
are those who hastily plan their vacation.
Okay, I'm getting off my high horse.
By the way, when my friends get back next week I'll let you know how
their vacation went.
Mike
|
| 119.64 | Update | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Mon Feb 24 1992 13:30 | 3 |
| They arrived in Jacksonville on Saturday at 1 P.M.
Phew!
|
| 119.65 | Are we crazy, too!??? | A1VAX::DISMUKE | Kwik-n-e-z! That's my motto! | Tue Feb 25 1992 17:44 | 27 |
| Well, I guess I'm not the only crazy one. We will be leaving Nashua on
March 27 and arriving in Kissimee (Orange Lake Resort). Are we crazy
to think we can get there late Saturday night? We will drive till
about midnight or so Friday night and start again before 9:00 on
Saturday. Needless to say, ya gotta love to drive!
We will be staying at my parent's timeshare (they own two weeks - one
of which is up for sale - but that's another note).
We are fairly flexible for the rest of the week. We want to spend much
time at MK (we have 2 boys age 5 and 6 - not that age makes any
difference when your at WDW) and at least one day at MGM. We are not
into water theme parks, so that won't be a big problem for us this
trip.
Since we are novices (n. one who has entered a religious order, but has
not taken the final vows) how many days would you for a pass to WDW?
And what is a must see? My kids are Disney fans big time and since
they don't know really what to expect we can take this trip comfortable
and slow so as to not wear them out too much, but still have a great
time.
(PS We have our MKC card and will purchase our passes in NH - that
info courtesy of this notesfile already)
-sandy
|
| 119.66 | No, you're not crazy... | MR4DEC::AWILLIAMS | Let's get dangerous!! | Tue Feb 25 1992 19:45 | 36 |
| re: .65
Sandy,
You don't say when on Friday you're leaving. If it's in the a.m., you
shouldn't have a problem getting there late Saturday. But if you're
leaving Friday afternoon/after-work/after-school, you may be pushing
it. It might be better to find a hotel Sat. nite somewhere in upper
Florida and drive straight to WDW Sunday morning.
You don't mention how long you're planning to stay down there. I
assume that you'll be there from Sunday 'til Thurs./Fri. from your
"Are we crazy too??" comment.
If that's the case, you'd probably want to go with a 4-day passport,
which would give you a day off from WDW to do Sea World or lounge by
the pool. If you'll be there a day or two longer, a 5-day super-pass
would allow you to hit River Country in the middle of the day just to
relax rather than piling back into the car and back to the timeshare.
Are you crazy?? No, I don't think so because unlike Mike's friend, you
seem to have your expectations set correctly. I've done a couple of
"quickie" trips where we've only had a limited time and we try to do
*everything*. Sure, we have a good time but afterwards, we need a
vacation from our vacation.
One other thing. Even though you don't plan on hitting EPCOT (which is
probably a very good idea with kids your sons' age), they may enjoy a
couple of pavilions in Future World like Journey Into Imagination and
the dinosaurs in the Universe of Energy. Also, kids their age will
probably thinks the monorail ride from the MK to EPCOT is a lot of fun
(try to sit with the driver).
I hope I was of some help... Have a good time.
- Skip
|
| 119.67 | Early Starts the key | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Tue Feb 25 1992 20:44 | 43 |
| Sandy,
I had the same reaction as Skip. I think if you left real early on
Friday morning and drove until late Friday night...and got up early
on Saturday morning and put in about 12 hours on the road you would get
there by 9 P.M. on Saturday.
Let me be specific about this. Leave around 5 A.M. and drive until the
kids need to make a pit stop. Take this opportunity to eat. Drive,
drive, drive. Again, only stop to gas up, eat, or tinkle. Drive until
7 or 8 P.M.
I suggest mapping out your trip and try to finish your first night of
driving at least 700 miles out. Stay overnight at a place which offers
express checkout so you can leave early in the morning.
Saturday morning leave early again (between 5 and 6) and stop only for
the reasons mentioned earlier. Do not stop at South of the Border
(except for Gas). You should reach Orlando by early evening.
Assume the trip will cover 1400 miles one way and that your average
speed on the road will be 55 miles per hour. This will require about
25 hours on the road.
Okay so that's 12.5 hours on Friday and 12.5 hours on Saturday. How
about:
Friday
Leave @ 5 A.M.
Rest/Eat @ 9 A.M.
Take off @ 10 A.M.
Rest/Gas @ 2 P.M.
Take off @ 3 P.M.
Pull in @ 7:30 P.M.
Saturday: Same schedule.
You'll get there by Saturday night. It's important to get a good
night's sleep Thursday and Friday night.
Good luck.
Mike
|
| 119.68 | a mere 24 hours if you don't stop too much! | HUMOR::EPPES | I'm not making this up, you know | Tue Feb 25 1992 23:28 | 6 |
| You can drive straight to Orlando from Nashua in almost exactly 24 hours.
My S.O. and I did in December, 1987. :-) (We even stopped at South of the
Border at around 4:00 AM, and one of the stores was open. And we weren't
the only ones there, either. Lotta odd people in the world... :-) )
-- Nina
|
| 119.69 | .-1 Must be a Dave Barry Fan 8-) | WOTVAX::BATTY | Well, I wouldn't start from here! | Wed Feb 26 1992 06:51 | 1 |
|
|
| 119.70 | Check Note 48 for Driving Info | LUNER::D_BROWN | | Wed Feb 26 1992 10:32 | 21 |
|
Sandy;
Driving to Orlando in two days isn't crazy or
impossible, but I think doing it straight thru is. We drive down
to Florida in two days each year. We leave around 4:30 AM and reach
Roanoke Rapids, NC about 6:00 PM. Leave about 7:00 the next morning
and reach our destination about suppertime the second day. I have done
this to the Daytona, Edgewater, and Orlando areas, with another couple
of hours to St Pete. area. We stop for potty stops and gas as needed.
We just returned Saturday from a trip to North Carolina, and
found just a little road construction, and no one observing speed
limits. Apparently all of the states have cut back on their speed
traps as we saw only one, and less than usual watching from single
cars parked by the highways.
Check note #48 for other peoples experiences driving down to
WDW.
Dave
|
| 119.71 | | A1VAX::DISMUKE | Kwik-n-e-z! That's my motto! | Wed Feb 26 1992 12:20 | 14 |
| Well, thanks for all those quick replies. We were planning to leave
early Friday - but 5am was not the intended hour (what is 5 am?) We
will probably adjust our schedule though...the idea of eating breakfast
on the road sounds good. We usually give the kids pop tarts and juice
to hold them over until we adults feel like eating. (We have survived
many car trips to Oak Ridge TN in about 17 hours or so.)
We have the Birnbaum book and will list out a few must sees and play
the rest by ear. This is our first VACATION (time away without
visiting family memebers) since our honeymoon in '84! Definately
looking forward to it!
-sandy
|
| 119.72 | We'll be down there too... | BROKE::LUND | | Wed Feb 26 1992 12:54 | 31 |
|
re: .-1;
While in WDW don't forget to wear your Digital Badge..:^)
Just kidding.... If you see some pale Northern folks wearing
sun visors (one most likely will say DIGITAL on it) and carrying
camera gear with bright blue DIGITAL luggage tags on it; it'll
probably be Stan and I... You know carrying the gallon bottle
of Sunblock 2010! I sunburn in 15-20 minutes washing a car in
the driveway in Nashua in the summer...
However; we will be leaving Nashua (I hate driving!!!!)
the day before you at about 5am; heading for the airport and
arriving in Orlando about 10:30 am the same day! Just about
15 years to the minute that we got married. We'll probably
spend most of our time in EPCOT and MGM, with only a little time
in MK. And we'll be staying at Dixie Landings (so far anyhow).
No car; hopefully we'll do Universal Studio's one day...
Definitely don't rule out the front half of EPCOT; the kids should
also enjoy the Living Seas (unless you're planning on going to
Sea World (I can't remember if you mentioned it)) and the
communicores. There are alot of hands on things to play with;
and there are always alot of small kids playing with them; and
some big kids, of course!.
Hope you have a safe drive down; if I could stand being in a
car more than 5-6 hrs; then I'd consider driving one time.
However, based on past experience; just going to Philadelphia
requires a minimum of three stops; or you don't want to be in
the same car as me!
- Annie
|
| 119.73 | slight Dave Barry disgression | HUMOR::EPPES | I'm not making this up, you know | Thu Feb 27 1992 22:05 | 8 |
| RE .69 - I assume you're referring to my personal name? Well, as it happens, I
am indeed a Dave Barry fan - however, my personal name is actually the title of
Anna Russell's autobiography!
Dave Barry's version is "I swear I am not making this up." :-)
-- Nina
|
| 119.74 | how little can you plan and still be organized at all? | TOHOKU::TAYLOR | | Tue Mar 03 1992 21:03 | 47 |
| re: to plan or not to plan
After the last time when we planned, and made reservations for,
three meals at day I was tired of planning and ready for a wing
it vacation. This turns out to be much harder that I expected.
First there is the how long to go and what package to buy.
After piling up four pages of newspaper ads, MKC tours, and misc
other options, it becomes obvious that there are more plans and
numbers than my wife and I can keep in our heads, so it becomes
time to decide what we wanted to do. Arrive on Day 1, leave on
day N, and do X,Y,Z in the middle. Ok except X,Y,Z becomes MK,
Epcot, MGM, TL, US, BG, and SW for 7 days plus the 2 days half
consumed by flying totaling out at 9 days 8 nights. Oh? We want
to eat dinner at Italy, France, Germany, Sci-fi theater, Brown
Derby, Grand Flordian, Yacht Club, Empress Lilly, and the HDD.
(Note the 9 dinners in 8 dinner days.) Time to try a time-line
management chart. What? Leave US to go to MGM for dinner 1 hour
before MGM closes? Time to look at expenses. If we fly XYZ and
stay N days @The Inn in Tampa it includes free WDW passes for 2
people except on weekends.... Would a paper spreadsheet help?
Plan |cheapest|delta | MKC | X | Y |Grand Plan
---------------------------------------------------------------
airfare | | | | | |
---------------------------------------------------------------
car | | | | | |
---------------------------------------------------------------
hotel | | | | | |
---------------------------------------------------------------
admissions| | | | | |
---------------------------------------------------------------
food $/day| | | | | |
$$/day| | | | | |
---------------------------------------------------------------
total | | | | | |
Throw out the GP and cheapest, and realize the differences
between the rest are really less than it first appeared. Back
to the time-line to assign priorities with restaurants & parks &
other activities and then associate things that can be done on
the same such as park with restaurant. Sort the days into the
days between arriving and leaving. Time to choose between the
Fly&SleepCheap plan at The Inn in Tampa that gives you N days,
or plans X,Y, or Z that only allow N/2 days but inside the world.
Now start vacation.com.
Mike
|
| 119.75 | Update?? | MR4DEC::AWILLIAMS | Let's get dangerous!! | Thu Mar 19 1992 12:37 | 11 |
| re: .63, .64
So, Mike, how did your friend's WDW vacation go?? Did they get done
everything they wanted to do and more importantly, did they enjoy
themselves??
Just wondering, because my folks have taken a couple of last-minute
trips like this, and I'm sure that they've missed a lot. Can't wait to
get down there with them some time and play tour guide, though...
- Skip
|
| 119.76 | Whirlwind Vacation | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Thu Mar 19 1992 14:15 | 58 |
| Skip.
Well just as we guessed their trip was in a word "rushed". Here's a
rundown as to how it went:
- They drove all night and did not take routes that you or I would
take. They drove through NY City to save time. Don't ask...you
couldn't pay me to drive through there and I couldn't figure out how
anyone could save time doing that.
- One good thing. They passed South of the Border in the middle of the
night. It was closed so no temptation to stop.
- Arrived at a relative's house 24 hours after leaving N.H. and slept
14 hours. Got to Orlando the next day (Sunday).
- They did TMK first and followed my instructions to the "T". They
managed to do all the popular attractions but did miss a few. They
did not stay after 5 because the husband wanted to leave...hence no
Spectro or "Fantasy..." They probably saw/did 60% of what the noters
in here would do on a typical day.
- They went to Sea World the next day (Monday).
- The third day (Tuesday) they went to MGM and enjoyed it. They ate in
Prime Time but again they did only about half the attractions...Indy was
curtailed because it was a misty day. Again they left early.
- That night they went to Medieval Times.
- The next day (Wednesday) they drove to Tampa. Saw Busch Gardens the
next day (Thursday).
- On Friday they hung around their hotel (Arrrghhh!!! just knowing
someone did this for a whole day dives me crazy).
- On Saturday they left Tampa to head home. I think they stayed
overnight somewhere in Penn.
- They arrived Sunday @ 6 P.M.
- When we first got a chance to talk to them we were all asking, "What
did you think of..." or "How did you like..." or "Did you see..." and
every other answer was "We didn't have time" or "We left the park
early" or "Where was that?"
- They stayed off the property at a Comfort Inn somewhere.
- They plan on doing it again next February but this time they will
do EC, MGM, and Universal Studios. They will then drive down to
Ft. Lauderdale for a day or to before returning home.
I'm going to try and talk them into stretching their vacation by
keeping the kids out of school the Friday before Feb. vacation and
the Monday after vacation. The purpose here will be to get them to
Orlando by the weekend so they can see some nighttime activities.
Mike
|
| 119.77 | touring plans | WBC::LANIER | | Thu Apr 30 1992 16:05 | 7 |
| My family is planning a trip to WDW in two weeks. We will be there for
six days/5 nights. These notes have been great, but at the same time
so overwhelming that I would like some suggestions for our itinerary.
Do you have any suggestions as to how we plan our days. We will be
arriving at 10:00am on May 10th and departing at 7:30pm on May 15th.
Thanks in advance for your help.
|
| 119.78 | Some suggestions | FPTVX1::ABRAMS | Doctor of Data | Thu Apr 30 1992 18:20 | 35 |
| <<< Note 119.77 by WBC::LANIER >>>
-< touring plans >-
My family is planning a trip to WDW in two weeks. We will be there for
six days/5 nights. These notes have been great, but at the same time
so overwhelming that I would like some suggestions for our itinerary.
Do you have any suggestions as to how we plan our days. We will be
arriving at 10:00am on May 10th and departing at 7:30pm on May 15th.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Here's a few suggestions:
1. Read notes 30, 82, and 240 and all their replies. These notes are related
to first-timer questions and strategies.
2. Read any notes applicable to the hotel you will be staying at. If you're
staying off-property, read the off-property notes for strategies about
driving in/out, parking, etc. Do a DIR/TITLE=hotel to see which topics.
3. Read some trip reports.
Note 237 has 1991 reports, Note 290 has 1992 reports.
4. Read the rest of note 119 if you haven't already.
5. Read the Birnbaum book. That's the best source of attractions and
touring strategies.
6. In times of higher crowds, my favorite strategy (shared by many) is to
arrive very early, go to the back of the park, and work toward the front
Feel free to post any specific questions you might have!
Bill
|
| 119.79 | July 4th WDW plans - anything special? | SOLVIT::JAFFE | | Mon Jun 15 1992 17:36 | 13 |
| This will not be my (or my families) first time to WDW but it will be
our first time staying on Disney property (Contemporary) and going
during a major holiday, Fourth of July.
What should I expect that will be different or require special planning
with a stay from July 1 to July 6? Are the crowds going to be that much
worse than my other visits (I have been there winter and summer all
different times). Are there any special things that go on July 4th to
take advantage of?
Thanks for any advice
Joel
|
| 119.80 | Yep! | WOTVAX::BATTY | Well, I wouldn't start from here! | Tue Jun 16 1992 08:47 | 33 |
| Joel,
I don't understand it myself, but 4th July seems to have
some significance for our colonial cousins (I'm still picking off
the tar'n'feathers from last year 8-)8-)).
It is the heaviest day's attendance of the year, and all
parks will be PACKED!! Read some of the trip reports around that
date and you will get a feel for what I mean.
The major difference is in the fireworks in the evenings,
which are double the volume and double the length in all the parks
- Excellent!! All the other shows run as normal, but with more
pzazz and sparkle, and a concentration on the patriotic theme.
Merchandise last year had a heavy emphasis on the 'Star Spangled
Banner', and hotels and admission booths were handing out badges
and pins.
My suggestion would be to stay out of the parks during the
day, and build up strength for the evening. Lines are heavy even
by summer standards, and IMO it's a waste of time trying to fit in
a day's touring. Pick a park, get in at least two hours before the
fireworks are scheduled, select your viewing spot and be prepared
to defend it!
Bear in mind that on our two previous visits over 4th July
period we've had three weeks to play with, so could afford to
write-off the 4th as a normal touring day, get in some pool time,
and concentrate on the evening fully rested and prepared for a
long stake-out. Your mileage may vary depending on time and
make-up of your party.
Mike B.
|
| 119.81 | Crowds | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Tue Jun 16 1992 13:58 | 9 |
| As many as 92K people pass through the turnstiles on a given Summer day
so plan accordingly....avoid the 12-5 crowd.
* * *
On another planning subject Caldor's has those aqua socks for $5-6...I
got mine for TL.
Mike
|
| 119.82 | Anyone ever done last minute plans?? | ILUVIT::GOLDMAN | Lifetime Piling Up | Wed Dec 02 1992 12:45 | 41 |
| I just opened this conference for the first time, started
browsing through some of the info and first timer notes, and have
now started to panic! :^) See, my SO and I have just decided that
we'd like to go to WDW for a couple days in January (yes, next
month!). I have a FF coupon on United, so we'd just need his
airfare. We're also going to visit my grandparents while we're
there (current idea is to arrive Wed. Jan 6, do WDW till Friday
later afternoon, drive to my grandparents for the weekend, fly
home).
Now, I was at WDW quite a few years ago (before EPCOT), but
wasn't involved at all in any of the reservation stuff (my folks
took care of that!). So I have to start from scratch and do this
all now. I was thinking it'd be easy - find a hotel and car, get
my discount card from Employee Services, get there and get a three
day pass, etc. But after reading some of these notes - Eiieeee!!
I can't even understand some of the acronyms - CBR, CRO, etc. (I'm
guessing MKC = Magic Kingdom Club?).
So....where do I begin? We need this to be a relatively
inexpensive trip if possible. My thoughts were to stay outside
WDW, but now I'm thinking that for the two nights, if we can find
a room that's not much more than outside, that'd probably be
better. We're both more interested in Epcot and MGM than Magic
Kingdom, as we've both done that (even though it's been years).
Do I have any chance of being able to do this in such a short
time? We can't really do any of the travel packages, at least not
the ones that include air. Are there others that don't include
air (it sounds like there are, but how do I find these)??
I'll continue to plow through the notes, but there's a LOT
here, and I'm overwhelmed. Specific pointers and advice would be
VERY much appreciated (like where to go for info, who I can call
about packages, etc.). I'm trying to get a hold of personnel to
see if I can get my MKC stuff (I'm in TTB - does anyone know if
it's available at ZKO??).
Thanks - (deep breath, now!)
amy
|
| 119.83 | You can do it! | PHDVAX::JMCGLINCHEY | | Wed Dec 02 1992 13:59 | 37 |
| > I just opened this conference for the first time, started
Beware! It's addicting! ;^)
> I can't even understand some of the acronyms - CBR, CRO, etc. (I'm
> guessing MKC = Magic Kingdom Club?).
Yep. and CBR is Carribean Beach Resort, CRO means Central
Reservations? There are lots of others, I don't know if there is an
acronym note. Mod??
>
> So....where do I begin? We need this to be a relatively
> inexpensive trip if possible. My thoughts were to stay outside
> WDW, but now I'm thinking that for the two nights, if we can find
> a room that's not much more than outside, that'd probably be
> better. We're both more interested in Epcot and MGM than Magic
> Kingdom, as we've both done that (even though it's been years).
For inexpensive stay either at CBR or Port Orleans or Dixie Landings.
These are all closer to MGM & EPCOT than they are MK. BUT...I would
recommend that you not passup MK. It has changed in subtle ways over
the years.
>
> Do I have any chance of being able to do this in such a short
> time?
Yes. You may find that the time you are going is opportune for
pricing. Does anyone know if these dates are on or off season?
> Thanks - (deep breath, now!)
A Pleasure (Island, don't miss it either)
John.
|
| 119.84 | It Can Be Done | LJOHUB::GOLDBERG | Len, I Own a Piece of the Magic | Wed Dec 02 1992 14:25 | 34 |
| Yes Amy, I believe it can be done. You've picked a good time, since
January is usually a very quiet time at WDW (Walt Disney World).
Here's what you need to do right now:
1. Pick up your MKC (Magic Kingdom Club) card from Employee Activities
in ZKO3 (near the cafeteria last time I went there).
2. Call the MKC travel center. The number is on the card. There are
good discounts for January for MKC members, but they may be sold
out. You could also try the three "budget" resorts in WDW mentioned
in .-1, but these are not discounted. In either case you should be
able to get a room for $85-$95 per night. These are good deals.
Other notes in this conference will explain why it's worth it to
stay on the property.
Do take what ever reservations you can get. They only require a one
night deposit, and you can cancel with only 2 days notice. You'll
kick yourself if you turn down something now, and find it's
sold out later. If you don't get exactly what you want the first
crack keep calling to try to change/extend/whatever. Sundays are
the best time to snag a cancellation.
3. Go buy the Steve Birnbaum Guide to WDW. Most bookstores have it for
about $11. You can pick up the "Unofficial Guide" too if you want,
but it's most useful if you are going in the really busy times of
the year. Don't bother with any of the other guide books.
4. Read the book. Read this conference, I find the trip reports most
helpful, but there is lots of information here.
5. Ask questions about anything you still don't understand.
P.S. There is a glossary in note 89.
|
| 119.85 | Going forward... | ILUVIT::GOLDMAN | Lifetime Piling Up | Thu Dec 03 1992 12:42 | 15 |
| Thanks, Len and John. I picked up my MKC card yesterday, and
tried to get the Birnbaum book, but Barnes and Noble was out.
I'll try the mall tonight. Once I get an idea of price range for
the different resorts, I'll be able to call reservations and see
what's available.
On the good news side, I understands air fares are low again
for the next week! (Good, since we do need one ticket!)
By next week, I might even have my preliminary plans in place!
:^)
amy
|
| 119.86 | Econo Disney | CSC32::B_GRUBBS | | Thu Dec 03 1992 18:06 | 44 |
|
We've become addicted........unfortunately much more addicted than the
old budget can handle, so after the first trip staying in the resorts
we started to figure out where to cutback so we can afford our yearly
trip to the world. The hotel has been the quickest money saver. By
staying at one of the outside hotels we can easily recoup $350-$400
for the trip to use on other expenses in the park. Even on a weeklong
economy trip the 5 day super pass is the best deal for park hoppers.
Other tricks are to keep a little cooler in the room and eat cereal and
OJ in the room for breakfast. It's cheap AND you get out of there and
into the park at gate opening time much easier. We also stick with a
fast food/snack type lunch and save the big meal for supper. Another
money saver is to eat luch as your big meal as most of the World
Restaurants have lower prices for many of the same supper entrees........
unfortunately this is better in theory than in practice if you like to
head to the water parks for the afternoon.
If you are looking for economy lodging, try the Econolodge Maingate West.
$32 a night, not a resort but a good place to the hang the hat while not
in the parks, and it's just a couple miles west of the US 192 Disney
entrance so there's never any traffic problem. We've used this place a
couple of times in the past, and intend to use them again next May. I've
always figured I could use the extra $50-$70 (savings over a CBR or PO
room) a day on something different than a hotel room, like Epcot
dinners or Pleasure Island.
We also like the Unofficial Guide over Birnbaum, but they are both
good guides. If you've never been before there is a good attraction
by attraction guide to all the parks, pleasure Island and the two
water parks included in the Unofficial Guide. New in the Unoffical Guide
(as of the 1992 version)is some detailed info about Universal Studios
which is well worth a days visit while you are there.
Hope some of this helps you, no matter how you go you'll have a blast.
I just can't hardly wait for my next trip back!
bert
Use that MKC card, it will save you a few bucks here and there. It's
always been a little difficult to figure out exactly where they will
give you a discount and not so we just ask everywhere when buying
something.
|
| 119.87 | Reservations made at CBR! | ILUVIT::GOLDMAN | Lifetime Piling Up | Fri Dec 04 1992 15:28 | 30 |
| Well, I called last night and got reservations at CBR for
$99/night. This was a room with a garden view, I think. There
was only one thing lower (Port Orleans, room with parking lot
view for $94), but this was preferable (due to reports here, plus
liking the Caribbean better than New Orleans! :^) ). There were
some specials for $135 (Disney Inn, Disney Village Resort), but
given that I don't expect to spend a whole lot of time in the
room, I decided to go with CBR.
I also made a reservation for the Hoop Dee Doo Revue, for our
first night there (at 7:15, and we should be at the park by noon,
so it seemed like a good thing to do). I plan on us going to
Pleasure Island the second night.
Does anyone know what the approximate cost of the shuttle from
the airport to WDW is? We need to rent a car to go from Orlando
to near Ft. Lauderdale Friday night, and I'm trying to decide
whether to rent the whole time, or just go back to the airport and
rent on Friday. If the shuttle is more than $13 per person each
way, then it probably makes more sense to just rent the car the
whole time, since it'd only be $45-51 more (depending on renting
from National or Avis).
So, plans are well under way, and we're starting to get
psyched! We'll be looking at an itinerary over the next couple
weeks - now to wade through some of the trip reports!
Thanks all!!
amy
|
| 119.88 | Worth the $$$ | AUDIBL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Fri Dec 04 1992 19:05 | 5 |
| Amy,
Rent the car for the whole trip....trust me.
Mike
|
| 119.89 | | NOVA::FEENAN | Jay Feenan Rdb/xxx Engineering | Fri Dec 04 1992 19:06 | 13 |
| re:-.1
Check out note #62 for shuttle information.
Do a DIR/TIT=RENTAL it should return the rental car information. I
just returned from WDW in Nov and found rental car prices had gone up
significantly over the past year. The best price I could find was
$119.00 / Week, Alamo...the next closest was I think 187.00/wk. I'll
post the discount # that you can use to get this Alamo price (if I can
find it...)
-jay
|
| 119.90 | Rent the car... | PHDVAX::JMCGLINCHEY | | Mon Dec 07 1992 12:44 | 9 |
| RE: .87
I agree with Mike (.88), rent the car. You will have limited time down
there and you don't want to waste it waiting for shuttles to and from.
The shuttle will probably cost you about $12-$15 each, each way. So
the car will probably be more economical anyway.
John
|
| 119.91 | Take the car behind door #1! | CUPMK::JETTE | | Mon Dec 07 1992 19:45 | 10 |
| Amy,
This summer I did not rent a car - for the first time -
I will never do that again.
Rent the car! It is worth every penny
Kathy
|
| 119.92 | move and move and move | JUPITR::MNORTON | | Thu Jan 28 1993 16:40 | 25 |
| I have some question. I called the Magic Kingdom Club Travel
Center. This is the deal I am getting.
staying the first 5 nights at the Carabean resort. first 4 is under a
package plan. the plan gives me unlimit use of the parks for 5 days.
and the 5th night is just for the room. price is $1044
then the next 4 night will be at Grand Fl. under the Grand plan. this
take care of everything. even baby sitting :*>> . then off to
Polyneasan, the concier room the cost for this is $3513
total cost $4557 for the time of or lives.
Question
going is ME and my Wife plus two kids 3 & 4 yrs old.
who moves my stuff for resort to resort. and how hard is it to sign in
and out every time?
thanks
Mike
TFSO april 16, This is what I am doing with my money from DEC. :))
|
| 119.93 | Let Mickey Do It! | CUPMK::SCOPA | | Fri Jan 29 1993 14:41 | 11 |
| Mike,
The Disney folks will gladly move your luggage from resort to resort.
This saves you the time and hassle of doing it.
Plus they want you to spend your time and money in the theme parks,
etc. and not moving yourself from one resort to another.
By the way, I think you're getting a heck of a deal.
Mike
|
| 119.94 | When should reservations be made? | LJOHUB::DYER | | Thu Mar 25 1993 18:21 | 18 |
| Hi, I'm a new noter to DISNEY. I have a question. We are planning
on making the plunge to Disneyworld in Oct. Isn't it getting late
to make reservations? Air and hotel?
We were told that August would be soon enough by a travel agent.??!
I don't think I want to wait that long but this travel agent has
to handle this for us since we won the 2 airline tickets to Orlando
and one of the strings attached is that we have to use their resort/
hotel!
Should we forgo these tickets and make our own plans? We may decide
to drive and a friend of mine has a 3 bdrm furnished house for rent
in Kissimee for 720./week w/10% disc for DEC employees so???
What do you suggest?
Nancy
|
| 119.95 | | KAOOA::LAVIGNE | | Thu Mar 25 1993 18:27 | 10 |
| Oct is pretty quiet in the Orlando area, you shouldn't have any
problems getting hotels or car reservations a month or two in advance.
If you were staying on-site it's always best to reserve as early as
possible. As for flights I would imangine you shouldn't have any
problems as well. I have been twice in late August early September and
there have always been lots of specials and deals because of the lack
of tourists around.
regards,
JP
PS hope you have a good time!!!
|
| 119.96 | It's never too early to reserve | CUPMK::SCOPA | | Thu Mar 25 1993 18:51 | 14 |
| Nancy,
October is a relatively light tourist season for Orlando and therefore
booking reservations should not be a problem.
Rule of thumb should be about 6 months if you want to get your primary
choice for a room somewhere on the property.
Remember that if you go in October you'll be dealing with off season
hours and off season downtime.
August would be more crowded but with later hours and more festivities.
Mike
|
| 119.97 | | ILUVNH::BADGER | One Happy camper ;-) | Tue Mar 30 1993 00:37 | 9 |
| Nancy, just be careful about those 'free' programs. then can cost you
many more dollars than you expected. nothing is free.
gee, I remember goping in October once, was it 1972? I arrived a day
earilier than my reservations. could not get a motel for 30 miles.
getting into the park was about a ten mile backup up.
each 'e' ticket attraction took 2-4 hours waiting in line.
that that was the year it opened.
ed
|
| 119.98 | | SOLVIT::REDZIN::DCOX | | Tue Mar 30 1993 01:55 | 5 |
| We just made reservations for 2 in the Grand Floridian June 4-9. No
problems getting the room we wanted in the price range we were looking
for (once you get over the sticker shock of the GF).
Dave
|
| 119.99 | Oct not a good time?! | LJOHUB::DYER | | Tue Mar 30 1993 14:52 | 11 |
| Mike,
Thanks, but do you mean that Oct is not a great time to go? I thought
off season would be better.?
Also, after reading as much of these notes as I can for now, I am
confused. What does CBR stand for? Sounds like the place to stay!?
Is it the Carribean? It's so hard to keep track of all this info
as I read all these notes!
Nancy_with_193_to_go (my first trip) HELP!!!!!!
|
| 119.100 | Anytime is a good time to go | CUPMK::SCOPA | | Tue Mar 30 1993 15:40 | 24 |
| Nancy,
October is a fine time to go if you really want toavoid crowds and
heat.
October is not a good time to go if you want everything to be working
at 100% capacity. Remember that they have to close attractions sometime
during the year and October is one of those months.
It's really hard for any of us in here to give you the "right" time to
go. There are those who will go around Thanksgiving and never go in the
Summer. There are those, like myself, who will go ONLY in the Summer.
You have to decide when to go.
Actually, anytime is a good time to go these days.
The CBR stands for Carribbean Beach Resort. It's the most economical
place to stay (one of three actually) on the property. It's very
colorful and off the beaten path so it's very popular to a lot of
people.
Mike
|
| 119.101 | my Oct experience | CSC32::MA_BAKER | | Tue Mar 30 1993 18:21 | 13 |
| I went last October, mostly to miss the heat and crowds. It only rained 1
day and the days were pleasant and warm but not hot. The weekend was
very busy, they hit the max allowed into the MK on Saturday befor 2pm,
but there were like 3 conventions there that weekend and that is where
the people came from. Line for PeterPan was over an hour that afternoon.
BUT..the rest of the week, there were no crowds and few lines..the
longest during the week was the Little Mermaid and it was about 15
minutes (but felt longer). The only ride that was closed was Space
Mountain. But they only did the parades and fireworks in the MK on
Saturday and the parks closed early except on Saturday--2 more reasons
for the Sat. crowds. All in all it was a nice stay, but next time, I
think I will chose a week or two after Labor Day, still off season but
everything still open and running.
|
| 119.102 | Plan accordingly for these two | CUPMK::SCOPA | | Tue Mar 30 1993 18:28 | 6 |
| Peter Pan and Snow White's Adventure have to be the two most popular
attractions in Fantasy Land. No matter what time of year you go and no
matter what time of day, except first thing in the morning, there are
long lines for those two attractions...next to Dumbo of course.
Mike who's getting the Itis
|
| 119.103 | Best Places to Stay in WDW??? | QETOO::TELIAN | | Mon Aug 16 1993 17:55 | 24 |
|
Dear Mr. Moderator,
If this belongs else where, please move it to the more appropriate
place.
I am looking for suggestions on where to stay while at WDW. I am
considering three places, Port Orleans, Caribbean Beach and Dixie
Landings. I have read certain notes about trips with special sec-
tions mentioned (such as Martinique). Could someone enlight me
about them????
I was looking through the MKC Bouchure and it listed various pack-
age deals, with discounts and a list of everything included. Has
anyone used these packages??? If so, any recommendations??? I've
never used any of the packages, and will be going as a MKC Member
for the first time too. Any helpful hints on how the membership
can save me money, time and aggravation.
I have until Jan 19th to hear all your suggestions, but I'm excited
about it already.
Alan
|
| 119.104 | GO FOR THE CBR! | CUPMK::JETTE | | Mon Aug 16 1993 18:37 | 22 |
| Hi,
I noticed in your sign in that you have two children, ages 10 & 8
correct? If that is the case here is my suggestion.
First off - I'm a FIRM BELIEVER in staying on property. To me it is
worth every extra penny. If you make the decision to stay on property
- with two kids of that age - I'd recommend CBR - Carribean Beach.
It is the lesser expensive hotel range and IMHO it caters to families.
I toured around Port Orleans and Dixie Landings and stayed at CBR.
To me - there is much more to do and CBR caters to those with children
better.
You may end up spending more by staying on property - rather than a
Days Inn somewhere else - but to me it is worth it. You never leave
the magic - you can go back to your room anytime you need to - I could
go on forever.
Hope this helps,
Kathy
|
| 119.105 | Don't be Hasty | WREATH::SCOPA | | Mon Aug 16 1993 19:30 | 19 |
| Alan,
I second Kathy's suggestions. The CBR usually fills up before Port
Orleans and Dixie Landings (in that order) because it caters to
families more than the other 2 resorts.
I think you should invest some time and read topics 137, 20, 28, 39,
52, 119, plus the trip reports over the past few years.
Think about how much time you'll have, what you really want to do, and
then decide if a vacation package is for you.
Vacation packages are not for everyone so check them out before
deciding. One thing to keep in mind is the time of your trip and park
operating hours while you're down there.
Take good notes....looking forward to your trip report.
Mike
|
| 119.106 | We've stayed there twice | CSTEAM::STEINHARDT | | Mon Aug 16 1993 19:45 | 8 |
| I'll add a third vote for the CBR, which is very accomodating for
families. Hopefully, by the time you go, they will have replaced their
existing NON_DIGITAL reservation system (see my trip report), which is
my ONLY criticism of the CBR.
Cheers,
Ken
|
| 119.107 | Check your #'s | CUPMK::JETTE | | Mon Aug 16 1993 19:51 | 10 |
| Another thought - you can generally put together a package on your own
for less that the standard ones you purchase through and agency or WDW
for that matter. In all the trips I've taken - I've always managed to
put together a less expensive trip than the package deals.
Check them very thoroughly and compare what you are getting to what you
really need/want.
Kathy
|
| 119.108 | Airfare is a big factor | WREATH::SCOPA | | Mon Aug 16 1993 20:06 | 11 |
| I think another key factor in all of this is the airfare.
Figure out how many days/nights you'll be there, how many days
admission you require and then where you want to stay.
Add the price of the resort plus the cost of admission and then try
to get the best price for airfare. Add this up to get a total. Now you
have a reference point to work from when looking into the MKC or any
vacation packages available.
Mike
|
| 119.109 | stay at CBR | WMOIS::REYNOLDS_R | | Tue Aug 17 1993 15:48 | 8 |
| If you are planning on the CBR... I would stay there.We got back about
4 weeks ago I know i'm late with my trip report forgive me .one is
coming,I've been busy with other matters, but to make it short I would
highly recommend staying at the CBR. when making reservations ask for
Martinugue section 25 second floor no noise,first to be picked up at
bus stop first to be drop off at night...
Dick Reynolds....
|
| 119.110 | | IMTDEV::GULLIKSEN | Longing to be at WDW | Tue Aug 17 1993 18:01 | 8 |
|
Also beware of listed features in the vacation package.
A common feature include in a package transportation around WDW. This is
free to anyone staying at WDW or anyone who has purchased a multi-day
passport.
Marilyn
|
| 119.111 | annual pass dollars | TOLKIN::LONCZAK | | Tue Aug 17 1993 19:34 | 33 |
| I'm currently booking a vacation for my wife, youngest son and
my in-laws for 8 nights in December. I utilized annual passport
discount program versus MKC and here's the numbers for those
interested.
8 nights at Poly / lake view(not lagoon view)
with extra adult fee of $15/night
compared to 8 nights at Disney Inn Pool View
with $15/night extra adult in room fee
POLY Original NEW Annual Pass Disney Inn
________________ __________________________
base room $1400 Base Room $1300
MKC Disc 140 Ann'l Pass Disc 520
----- -----
$1260 $ 780
$15/Xtra 120 $15/Xtra 120
----- -----
$1380 $ 900
10% FL Tax 138 10% FL Tax 90
----- -----
Total $1518 New Total $ 990
Savings of $528 realized. If you assume that annual passes plus one
adder for a water park amount to $40/pass more than a 5 day super, then
the net savings are $528-160 = $368, which can be applied towards
airfares.
Hope this helps someone like it helped me.
|
| 119.112 | Insider Information Wanted. | QETOO::TELIAN | | Wed Aug 18 1993 16:40 | 33 |
|
Like many other new-comers to the WDW notesfile, I'm a little over-
whelmed by all the abbreviations, any information shared by the ex
perienced WDW'ers.
Is there a note that already exists that will explain what the Annual
Pass is, what advantages there are to having one and what it's cost
is. Is it worth it for a family that may go eery three or four years??
Next, with so many hotels to choose from it's confusing enough, then I
hear someone recommend staying at this hotel, in this section, on this
floor, in this room. Can someone explain the differences such as the
Caribbean Resort with Martinque, Trinadad, Aruba and others??
What about renting a car. I thought that since I wa already staying
on the propoerty thinking about renting a car is a mute point.
One more, what is a CRO??
Also, of the vacation packages listed in the WDW bouchure, which one
is the best value, the Admiral, the Family Fun or one of the others??
Do I sound confused or what. All I do know is I am leaving 1/19/94
for Orlando, and returning 1/25/94. My wife wants to experience our
staying on the property and that is it for her requests. I want to
use some budget awareness as far as what I spend on accommodations.
Afterall, how much time is spent in the room. I'd rather use the ad-
ditional funds for other fun activities.
I'm all ears.(Wasn't that a Ross Perot line??)
Alan
|
| 119.113 | | PHDVAX::JMCGLINCHEY | | Wed Aug 18 1993 18:03 | 8 |
| Check out topic 30.*, First Timers Questions. You'll get a lot of info
there. Then check the conference listings for each hotel and you'll
find specific notes topics that should clear up your confusion. Also,
if you haven't done it already, buy a copy of Birnbaums "Bible", study
it every night until you leave.
John
|
| 119.114 | Research! | WREATH::SCOPA | | Wed Aug 18 1993 18:03 | 24 |
| Alan,
First off you should go through this conference and pick out the topics
that pertain to your questions. The answers are here...you need to find
them. Be advised that the answers are more like opinions.
Check topic #150 for Annual Passport information.
The CBR has sub villages called Martinique, Trinidad, Barbados, etc.
Each one has a distinctive roof color and it's own pool/laundry area.
If you stay on the property and just do Disney activities you don't
necessarily need a car and will find the busses very convenient. Some
of the frequent visitors prefer renting cars to save time and for
convenience (no waiting, always being able to find a seat, etc.). It's
a matter of choice.
The CRO is the Central Reservation Office (1-407-W-Disney).
If you ask 100 people about the vacation plans you'll probably get 100
different opinions. Check out the experiences listed in this conference
and decide what's best for you.
Mike
|
| 119.115 | When are school vacaction weeks? | SMURF::MCMILLEN | | Fri Feb 25 1994 18:24 | 12 |
| I want to go to Orlando sometime in the next couple of months but want
to avoid spring break and Feb/April vacations. I know that they are
not taken the same weeks in different parts of the country and am
looking for a week that would not be effected by them. I am getting
different answers from different travel agents. Does anyone know
which weeks are typically taken?
Thanks in advance,
Judy
PS I've read note 47 but it doesn't give specific weeks for this year.
|
| 119.116 | My plans given advice thus far | DALED::DONCHIN | Between IRAQ and a hard place | Mon Feb 28 1994 12:12 | 16 |
| After several phone calls and *MUCH* help from noters in this
conference, I'm ready to finalize my plans to bring my family of four and
my mom to WDW for a five-day visit in early May. We're planning to get
two rooms at the Polynesian (yes - I know it would be cheaper to put
everyone in one room, but I'd prefer having my mom in her own room).
Seems like the least expensive lodging rates are through the 20%
discounted AAA rate. The passes can be bought separately using
Digital's participation in the Magic Kingdom Club. Airfare is by
constant monitoring of the rates. Anything else that we may want
that would normally be included in a package, such as the character
breakfast, can always be bought once there.
Any further advice?
Dale
|
| 119.117 | Kinda high! | WREATH::SCOPA | | Mon Feb 28 1994 12:55 | 13 |
| Dale,
Wow two rooms at the Poly! That's gotta run high. Did you check on
rates for the Contemporary, PO, DL, and CBR or was your heart set on
the Poly?
Are the rates cheaper through AAA than through the MKC?
I'd buy the passes now before the prices change. Actually that's good
advice for anyone going down this year. Prices usually change in the
Spring.
Mike
|
| 119.118 | possible villa rental | TLE::KARAM | | Mon Feb 28 1994 15:07 | 7 |
| re .116
to take Mike's question one step further - did you consider a
Disney Villa rental? It may be less expensive than 2 Poly
rooms and give you more space.
peter
|
| 119.119 | | MSBCS::STEINHARDT | | Mon Feb 28 1994 15:25 | 6 |
| And I'll second Mike's thoughts. On our last visit two rooms at the
CBR priced out about the same as one at th Poly.
Cheers,
Ken
|
| 119.120 | Good comments - thanks | DALED::DONCHIN | Between IRAQ and a hard place | Mon Feb 28 1994 16:03 | 9 |
| We stayed at the Polynesian last year and, being directly on the
Monorail, many sit-down restaurants, and close to the Magic Kingdom,
it suited our needs (read: young kids) well. However, you're right;
I should check on the Contemporary.
Thanks also for advising to buy the passes now. Didn't consider a rate
hike.
Dale
|
| 119.121 | Convenience does come at a high price | WREATH::SCOPA | | Mon Feb 28 1994 16:51 | 4 |
| Dale makes a good point...sometimes the convenience of being on the
monorail makes the extra cost well worth it.
Mike
|
| 119.122 | | RAGMOP::LOWELL | Grim Grinning Ghosts... | Mon Feb 28 1994 18:55 | 27 |
| >Dale makes a good point...sometimes the convenience of being on the
>monorail makes the extra cost well worth it.
Personally, I haven't found "being on the monorail" convenient, let alone
worth the extra cost. If you use the Resort Monorail to go to the MK
you spend way too much time sitting at each stop. It can easily take
30 minutes to get from the Poly to/from the MK and that's in the
off-season. In my experience, I was able to get to the MK faster by
taking the buses from the CBR than I could by taking the monorail from
the Poly.
Here's what I'd recommend:
If you're going to take advantage of the "convenience" of staying in a
monorail resort and ride the monorail to the MK, the Poly is probably
the best choice since each leg of the trip is fairly equal. It also
offers the opportunity to walk over to the TTC and take the express
monorail or the ferry. But if you're willing to walk to the TTC, then
it may be easier to stay at the Contemporary and walk to the MK. If
I remember correctly, the Contemporary is the first stop after the MK
so you could take the monorail when you leave the park without much wait.
If you have a car and want to avoid the expense of the monorail resorts
then I'd recommend staying at the CBR, Port Orleans or Dixie Landings.
You can then drive to the Contemporary and walk to the MK from there.
Ruth
|
| 119.123 | Before, During, or After WDW? | WREATH::SCOPA | | Mon Apr 11 1994 19:21 | 24 |
| Okay Gang I need some advice.
I'm thinking about visiting Busch Gardens in Tampa when I drive to
Florida this Summer.
Does anyone care to volunteer suggestions as to how I should do this?
Here are the options I'm looking at:
Option #1 - Drive to Tampa first, visit Busch Gardens, then drive
to Orlando for the remainder of the trip.
Option #2 - Drive to Orlando, halfway through our stay make a day
trip to Busch, then return to Orlando to finish out our stay.
Option #3 - Drive to Orlando, stay two weeks ther, leave and then go
to Busch Gardens before going home.
Right now I'm thinking about Option #1 because I can take care of the
drive to Tampa up front and then we won't break up our Disney visit.
There are plenty of non-Disney stuff to do in Orlando.
Mike_whose_vacation.com_brings_a_smile_to_his_face_each_day
|
| 119.124 | WDW before Busch! | PHDVAX::JMCGLINCHEY | | Mon Apr 11 1994 19:27 | 6 |
| Mike, get real! YOU will not be able to be within 100 miles of WDW
and not visit the place. Go to Busch Gardens after Disney, not before.
That way if your kids like the fast rides at Busch Gardens they won't
be hounding you to go back there while your at WDW. If they like
Disney better than Busch, then you will just feel smug and rightly
so! IMHO, of course! John
|
| 119.125 | Ho_Hum Syndrome | WREATH::SCOPA | | Mon Apr 11 1994 19:58 | 6 |
| John,
Sounds like you're anticipating that after Busch Gardens the "thrill
ride" attractions at WDW will seem ho-hum to the kids.
Mike
|
| 119.126 | Don't forget the Hospitality Area! | BRAT::STEVENS_M | | Mon Apr 11 1994 20:54 | 13 |
| Mike,
I'd go to Busch Gardens first. The thrill rides are good, but the
intangibles aren't there as they are at WDW. I think the kids would
appreciate that.
I've done both, breaking it up in the middle or have gone to Busch Gardens
first. I preferred the later myself.
Just be careful if you do go first. That new coaster they have at Busch
Gardens is a killer!
Mark
|
| 119.127 | It could be used as ransom! | PHDVAX::JMCGLINCHEY | | Tue Apr 12 1994 13:45 | 8 |
| I guess since my oldest boys are now 13 and 14.5 that they would
probably go for the thrill rides more than Disney. Hmmmmm. I still
say to do WDW first although I'm sure that has alot to do with the
nature of my own kids (and me ;^). If I hold Busch over the teenagers
heads as ransom, they will behave at Disney. I did this at
Williamsburg a few years ago and it worked great. I told them we would
go to Busch Gardens AND Kings Dominion if they behanved for 4 days at
Williamsburg. They were little angels! John
|
| 119.128 | My 2 cents | PHDVAX::RICCIO | Respect All... Fear None! | Tue Apr 12 1994 15:07 | 8 |
|
I always go after the trip to WDW, but that's because I visit family
on the gulf coast after WDW. After doing this the last couple of times,
and we'll do it again in July, I perfer BG after WDW.
my 2 cents, Phil...
|
| 119.129 | One Down....One to Go! | WREATH::SCOPA | | Tue Apr 12 1994 15:56 | 20 |
| Well after hearing some of the suggestions in here and talking to
someone just returning from Florida I've decided to drive to Tampa
first and then go to Orlando.
They are currently repaving portions of I4 and she mentioned that it
took them 2 hours to go 7 miles.
With that in mind here's another question. Should I....
......take 10W to 75S to Tampa or...
......follow 95S to 4W to Tampa?
By my calculations the second route is about 25 miles shorter.
I'm thinking about doing the first route and picking up I10 from
295.
Mike
|
| 119.130 | FWIW | STUDIO::ARNOLD | Gail M. Arnold | Tue Apr 12 1994 16:46 | 20 |
| Mike,
I would go to Busch Gardens first. A couple of years ago we went
to Florida, first to Disney then to Busch Gardens. Busch Gardens
was a BIG disappointment after Disney. Looking back on it I think
that the hotel had a lot to do with it. We stayed on site at Disney
(Fort Wilderness Trailers) which was great. The hotel in Tampa was
not something I would have chosen if I had seen it beforehand. Also,
we had been to Busch Gardens Williamsburg the year before and preferred
that to Busch Gardens Tampa. In Williamsburg they have a deal where
you can buy tickets for the next day for just $6 each when you leave.
This makes a 2-day visit a lot easier on the wallet. At the Tampa
one they did not have this deal, so we opted to go to the beach
instead of pay another $30 each for tickets to go another day.
Since you are driving, you may want to consider going to Busch Gardens
in Williamsburg instead of Tampa. That way you would have a break
along the way.
Gail
|
| 119.131 | Possibility | WREATH::SCOPA | | Tue Apr 12 1994 18:40 | 6 |
| Hmmm,
I never thought of doing it that way. Is there a difference between the
BG in Va. and the one in FLA?
Mike
|
| 119.132 | Here's my $.02 | VAXUUM::FARINA | | Tue Apr 12 1994 21:14 | 16 |
| That sounds like it might be a good idea - trying Busch Gardens in VA.
If you got with Florida, I would opt for BG first, then Disney. I
don't know your family's preferences, though. I *love* rollercoasters
and "thrill rides" (do I remember correctly that you don't, Mike?), and
I was, overall, disappointed in Busch Gardens when I was there. One
day was more than enough (I went in May, and I think there was a lot
closed, refurbishing for the summer crowds). The motel was
disappointing, the atmosphere (compared to Disney) was just okay, and
the rides were *WAY* too short! I went on the "biggie" roller coasters
a couple of times each, and they were under 1 minute a ride!
Personally, I'll take the "magic" atmosphere at WDW over a 50-second
thrill! ;-) If we'd gone to WDW first, I think I would have been very
let down, instead of even more anxious to get on with the trip!
Susan
|
| 119.133 | VA Busch is very nice | PHDVAX::JMCGLINCHEY | | Wed Apr 13 1994 03:17 | 6 |
| I have been to Busch in VA, but not in Tampa. I do have to say that
the VA park is very nice. Also consider Kings Dominion in VA since
that is just off of I-95.
John
|
| 119.134 | I thought of KD also | WREATH::SCOPA | | Wed Apr 13 1994 12:02 | 4 |
| Yeah John I've been thinking about KD too. The question remains....BG
in VA or BG in FLA.
Mike
|
| 119.135 | | SPESHR::CHAPUT | | Wed Apr 13 1994 13:17 | 10 |
| Mike,
I'm not too familiar with either BG, I went to the FL one over 15
years ago so that really doesn't count. However I do believe that
the parks are themed very differently. The one in VA is like a
European village and the one in FL in like an African safari. Which
theming do you prefer? Maybe others can elaborate more on this to help
you to decide.
Rose
|
| 119.136 | BG and WDW | VLNVAX::CHRISTENSEN | | Wed Apr 13 1994 15:53 | 14 |
|
Having just returned from both WDW and BG last month I can say that we first
went to Disney for three days, then went to BG and had a great time, then
returned to Orlando and went back to Disney to see some of the things we had
passed up the first time around. As for BG, it was a very nice day trip and
really a lot of fun. The coaster is called KUMBA and we had to ride it several
times before I'd had enough. There are some truly beautiful sights to see, and
best of all, the second day was free if you wanted to come back. I drove from
Ramada maingate to BG and was only slowed for about 10 minutes in the worst
of the construction. (Remember, this was a month ago and things do change.)
BG also has two hospitality houses, where one can "sample the product", very
very nice on those hot days. All in all, I would recommend BG as a day trip,
or an attraction to break up a long Disney vacation. In any event, have a great
time, relax and enjoy, enjoy, enjoy.
|
| 119.137 | Another vote BG/VA | KELVIN::LARMOUTH | | Wed Apr 13 1994 16:41 | 10 |
| Mike,
I haven't been to BG in Tampa recently enough to comment but we were at
BG in VA in '92 and I'd definitely agree with .133 - very nice park and
worth a stop on your trip down or back. Great rides and shows and
decent food. We were there on a hot summer day but there is plenty of
shade and places to take a breather. Roman Rapids is a fun ride on a
hot day as you're guaranteed to get soaked. One day should do it.
Bob
|
| 119.138 | Why not Do Both? | WREATH::SCOPA | | Thu Apr 14 1994 16:07 | 5 |
| Actually with the time I've got planned I could do both.
So much for that decision.
Mike
|
| 119.139 | VA or FLA? | BRAT::STEVENS_M | | Thu Apr 14 1994 18:24 | 10 |
| Mike,
I've been to both BG in VA. and in FLA. within the last couple of
years.
I thought the BG in VA. was a nicer park with better rides. Of course,
I love roller coasters and VA. has the better of the coasters.
Mark
|
| 119.140 | My 2 cents worth (again!) | STUDIO::ARNOLD | Gail M. Arnold | Fri Apr 15 1994 02:27 | 13 |
| Mike,
As I said earlier, I preferred BG in Virginia. The park is bigger
(or least it seems bigger) than the one in Tampa. I liked the "Big
Bad Wolf" roller coaster, they didn't have anything like it in Tampa.
I think that they called it a suspended roller coaster (it attached to
the track from the top and the individual cars swayed freely from side
to side). But to to fair, I couldn't ride the roller coasters in Tampa
because I was pregnant at the time. Whatever you decide to do, my
suggestion is to make sure that you have a good hotel (it sounded like
the one mentioned a couple of notes ago was nice). Have fun.
Gail
|
| 119.141 | | IMTDEV::GULLIKSEN | Longing to be at WDW | Mon Apr 18 1994 18:10 | 7 |
| Mike,
You might want to consider what day of the week you will be going
to BG before you make your decision. Don't plan it on a busy BG day
and a slow WDW day.
|
| 119.142 | Another Option | CUPMK::SCOPA | | Mon Apr 18 1994 19:11 | 9 |
| My wife came up with an interesting option. She suggested going to
Orlando and on the return trip to stop over in VA and do BG there.
If we're too tired to visit BG we won't.
I kinda like that option because I wasn't too keen on driving to
Tampa...I4 scares me.
Mike
|
| 119.143 | Looking for Input on my trip plan | CNTROL::STOLICNY | | Wed Nov 06 1996 13:18 | 93 |
| 119.144 | | HYLNDR::BADGER | Can DO! | Wed Nov 06 1996 14:52 | 13 |
| 119.145 | | GRANPA::JAMES | | Wed Nov 06 1996 15:14 | 16 |
| 119.146 | Looks Good | DONVAN::SCOPA | | Wed Nov 06 1996 15:18 | 17 |
| 119.147 | | PETST3::STOLICNY | | Wed Nov 06 1996 16:06 | 31 |
| 119.148 | Above all, be flexible... | STAR::CHALMERS | | Wed Nov 06 1996 16:15 | 55 |
| 119.149 | It's pretty busy these days | ZEKE::ASCHNEIDER | Andy Schneider - DTN 381-1696 | Wed Nov 06 1996 16:27 | 9 |
| 119.150 | Not even *close* to summertime crowds | STAR::CHALMERS | | Wed Nov 06 1996 16:47 | 15 |
| 119.151 | | CSC32::B_GRUBBS | | Wed Nov 06 1996 16:53 | 16 |
| 119.152 | | CSC32::B_GRUBBS | | Wed Nov 06 1996 16:57 | 5 |
| 119.153 | i will try not to be too rigid...promise! | PETST3::STOLICNY | | Wed Nov 06 1996 17:12 | 20 |
| 119.154 | | MKOTS3::OBRIEN_J | Yabba Dabba DOO | Wed Nov 06 1996 18:01 | 2 |
| 119.155 | sorcery in sky? | CNTROL::STOLICNY | | Wed Nov 06 1996 18:35 | 2 |
| 119.156 | | MKOTS3::JACOB | | Wed Nov 06 1996 18:57 | 17 |
| 119.157 | | HYLNDR::BADGER | Can DO! | Wed Nov 06 1996 19:04 | 4 |
| 119.158 | only 2 water parks to choose from | STAR::CHALMERS | | Wed Nov 06 1996 20:02 | 4 |
| 119.159 | | GRANPA::JAMES | | Wed Nov 06 1996 21:15 | 8 |
| 119.160 | | DECWIN::MCCARTNEY | | Thu Nov 07 1996 13:59 | 17 |
| 119.161 | Fridays? | SUPER::SCOPA | | Fri Nov 08 1996 18:00 | 4 |
| 119.162 | Nov. '96 schedule for Disney/MGM | ORION::chayna.zko.dec.com::tamara::eppes | Nina Eppes | Mon Nov 11 1996 13:12 | 33 |
| 119.163 | 8-( | CNTROL::STOLICNY | | Tue Nov 12 1996 14:33 | 10 |
| 119.164 | | HYLNDR::BADGER | Can DO! | Tue Nov 12 1996 14:46 | 6 |
| 119.165 | | KERNEL::LUCKMAN | | Wed Nov 13 1996 08:50 | 15 |
| 119.166 | Christmas happenings?? | GNATS::WOODS | | Wed Nov 13 1996 10:54 | 9 |
| 119.167 | a couple of Christmas suggestions | ORION::chayna.zko.dec.com::tamara::eppes | Nina Eppes | Fri Nov 15 1996 20:32 | 12 |
| 119.168 | other Christmas topics in this conference | ORION::chayna.zko.dec.com::tamara::eppes | Nina Eppes | Fri Nov 15 1996 20:34 | 8 |
| 119.169 | | BRAT::STEVENS_M | | Mon Nov 18 1996 15:59 | 13 |
| 119.170 | Have you tried the vacaction club villas? | MROA::CUDAK | Thel | Mon Nov 18 1996 16:16 | 3 |
| 119.171 | | BRAT::ARCHAMBAULT | a rebel to the naked eye | Wed Nov 20 1996 12:10 | 11 |
| 119.172 | Going on a budget... | IVOS02::PIGGOTT | | Wed Nov 20 1996 23:08 | 12 |
| 119.173 | | HYDRA::SCHAFER | Mark Schafer, SPE MRO | Thu Nov 21 1996 11:49 | 4 |
| 119.174 | | PECAD8::CHILDS | | Thu Nov 21 1996 12:17 | 7 |
| 119.175 | IMHO | DONVAN::SCOPA | | Thu Nov 21 1996 13:31 | 4 |
| 119.176 | | MKOTS3::JACOB | | Thu Nov 21 1996 17:27 | 4
|