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smdl
I love Gary too..on a plate!
Member since 5/06 32461 total posts
Name:
me
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LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
- Is it too late to get a short Disney trip at the end of April?
- Do they have nice 3 nights packages?
- Who did you buy your Disney trip through? Travel agency, Disney, etc..
- What are good but reasonable hotels to stay at? Criteria: not too far from Disney (we won't have a car rental there), shuttle to/from airport to hotel, MUST have pool (indoors or heated outdoors), microwave and/or minifridge in bedroom.
TIA
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Posted 2/15/10 5:45 PM  |
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Long Island Weddings
Long Island's Largest Bridal Resource |
CaMacho
Sisters :)
Member since 7/06 15112 total posts
Name:
Jess
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
We just went this weekend and stayed at the Dolphin hotel. It's right next to Epcot and they have a ferry that goes to/from the park (about 10 mins long) so we took that to go there and actually walked back to the hotel that night. The hotel is really nice and has great restaurants, the food and ice cream was amazing. The room had a fridge and they also provided a good size crib.
You can book right through swan/dolphin, that's what we did. I think the website is swandolphin.com. We got a huge discount b/c we're florida residents so i'm not sure how much it is normally. I'd also check out Pop Century, it's a value resort on disney property and my friends said it's a great place to stay. Have fun!
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| Posted 2/15/10 6:13 PM |
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Lillykat
going along for the ride...
Member since 5/05 16253 total posts
Name:
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
why did you not call me I will help you plan and book - call me asap!!!
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| Posted 2/15/10 6:47 PM |
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Michmouse
LIF Adult
Member since 11/07 1260 total posts
Name:
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
I've planned Disney a week prior.....April is definitely possible!
Room recommendations depend on your budget. April is one of the more expensive times at Disney room wise but the most affordable accomodations are still awesome. Disney does a great job in themeing all of their hotels. If $$ is no object, Check out the Beach Club....My favorite! When we are conserving $$$ we will stay at Coronado Springs, Pop Century or Port Orleans French Quarter. Disney categorizes its hotels into Deluxe, Moderate, and Value. There are price differences even in those categories.
It is always cheaper to not purchase a package. In my many trips to the World I have found that booking pieces separately is less $$. Definitely use a room only code (Check Mousesavers.com) for big savings. If you or someone you know has AAA you can purchase your tickets prior to arrival for a discounted rate.
Definitely stay onsite...If you stay offsite (including Swan/Dolphin which is on Disney property ) you will not have access to the Magic Express. ME is direct transportation to and from Orlando Airport for FREE! And the best part is they will pick up your tagged ME luggage and bring it right to your room. I highly recommend staying on property for many perks....Extra Magic Hour (early admission/late stay at parks only for Disney Resort Guests) and many other magical benefits.
If you do not care about the ME, The Swan and Dolphin give really great discounts, are in the heart of WDW and offer beautiful accomodations.
FM me if I can be of any help....We've been to Disney about 30 times
ETS: Good codes available.....check here:
http://www.mousesavers.com/disneyresorts.html#codes
Message edited 2/15/2010 8:08:25 PM.
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| Posted 2/15/10 7:16 PM |
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LoveBeingMrsT
Love my Boys!
Member since 12/05 4648 total posts
Name:
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
sending info through fm
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| Posted 2/15/10 10:07 PM |
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CucumberGirl
You give the best smiles!
Member since 1/09 2398 total posts
Name:
M~
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
You should definitely stay on Disney property - the Magical Express is one great benefit, the transportation between the hotels, restaurants, and parks is another HUGE benefit. No car needed and so easy to get around - you have the monorail for certain parks/hotels and then a massive free bus system for the rest. If you're on a budget, the All Star hotels and the Pop Century are decent - nothing fancy but definitely clean and adequate and they have pool access. The moderate hotels are nicer (e.g., Caribbean beach, Coronado Springs) but also more expensive. And if $'s no object, the Wilderness Lodge is incredible and I've heard amazing things about the Animal Kingdom Lodge too. Enjoy!!
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| Posted 2/16/10 12:23 AM |
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Hofstra26
Love to Bake!
Member since 7/06 27915 total posts
Name:
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
Posted by hopeful2009
You should definitely stay on Disney property - the Magical Express is one great benefit, the transportation between the hotels, restaurants, and parks is another HUGE benefit. No car needed and so easy to get around - you have the monorail for certain parks/hotels and then a massive free bus system for the rest. If you're on a budget, the All Star hotels and the Pop Century are decent - nothing fancy but definitely clean and adequate and they have pool access. The moderate hotels are nicer (e.g., Caribbean beach, Coronado Springs) but also more expensive. And if $'s no object, the Wilderness Lodge is incredible and I've heard amazing things about the Animal Kingdom Lodge too. Enjoy!!
ITA!! Plus. when you stay on property you can use the Disney Dining Plan which is GREAT!! The last time we went the Magical Express picked us up and it was perfect. They were right on time, took us right to the hotel, got all of our bags for us at the airport and delivered them to our room. I couldn't ask for better service. Go to WaltDisneyWorld.com..........they are offering so many deals these days that you'll be able to find something affordable. We stayed at Port Orleans Riverside which is a Disney *moderate* resort. We LOVED it!! The grounds were beautiful, the rooms were spacious. NO complaints!! As far as getting to all the parks the Disney Transportation was fantastic!! Buses run constantly throughout the day so you're never waiting long. I have been to Disney countless times and have stayed various places but nothing beats being on property. There are just so many benefits to staying on property that I plan on doing every time from now on. We had a great trip!!! Have fun on your trip!! 
Message edited 2/16/2010 7:27:17 AM.
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| Posted 2/16/10 7:26 AM |
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smdl
I love Gary too..on a plate!
Member since 5/06 32461 total posts
Name:
me
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
Thank you everyone!
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| Posted 2/16/10 7:53 AM |
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GottaHaveFaith
LIF Adult
Member since 10/09 1443 total posts
Name:
Kelly
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
Pregnancy crasher here, but my DH and I own at Animal Kingdom thru the Disney Vacation Club. If money is no biggie, I would HIGHLY recommend staying here, in a savannah view room. You will see the animals right from your balcony! I would also highly consider the meal plan, just for you and hubby, it's well worth it. If $$$ is an issue, there are tons of other moderate and value resorts, my faves being Coronado Springs and Port Orleans, either French Quarter or Riverside. The only issues with these resorts, is the walking if you get a room way in the back. It could pose a problem if you are far away from everything. Just request a room closest to a bus stop, or ferry, or to the main building! I could seriously go on an on an on, as we go every year! FM me if you want more details!!!
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| Posted 2/16/10 11:34 AM |
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smdl
I love Gary too..on a plate!
Member since 5/06 32461 total posts
Name:
me
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
Posted by GottaHaveFaith
The only issues with these resorts, is the walking if you get a room way in the back. It could pose a problem if you are far away from everything. Just request a room closest to a bus stop, or ferry, or to the main building! I could seriously go on an on an on, as we go every year! FM me if you want more details!!!
That's very helpful! Thanks for the tip.
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| Posted 2/16/10 3:18 PM |
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MommaG
Yay Spring!
Member since 5/05 5133 total posts
Name:
Gloria
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
Posted by Hofstra26
Posted by hopeful2009
You should definitely stay on Disney property - the Magical Express is one great benefit, the transportation between the hotels, restaurants, and parks is another HUGE benefit. No car needed and so easy to get around - you have the monorail for certain parks/hotels and then a massive free bus system for the rest. If you're on a budget, the All Star hotels and the Pop Century are decent - nothing fancy but definitely clean and adequate and they have pool access. The moderate hotels are nicer (e.g., Caribbean beach, Coronado Springs) but also more expensive. And if $'s no object, the Wilderness Lodge is incredible and I've heard amazing things about the Animal Kingdom Lodge too. Enjoy!!
ITA!! Plus. when you stay on property you can use the Disney Dining Plan which is GREAT!! The last time we went the Magical Express picked us up and it was perfect. They were right on time, took us right to the hotel, got all of our bags for us at the airport and delivered them to our room. I couldn't ask for better service. Go to WaltDisneyWorld.com..........they are offering so many deals these days that you'll be able to find something affordable. We stayed at Port Orleans Riverside which is a Disney *moderate* resort. We LOVED it!! The grounds were beautiful, the rooms were spacious. NO complaints!! As far as getting to all the parks the Disney Transportation was fantastic!! Buses run constantly throughout the day so you're never waiting long. I have been to Disney countless times and have stayed various places but nothing beats being on property. There are just so many benefits to staying on property that I plan on doing every time from now on. We had a great trip!!! Have fun on your trip!!
We just got back from Disney and stayed at the Animal Kingdom Lodge using the 45% off (booked through Disney website - just go to the Specials page - you'll see it). BUT - if you use this you CANNOT use the Disney Dining Plan. You must pay full price for the room for the dining plan. When I worked the figures, it was much more expensive to pay full price and get the plan. The hotel was great for kids - lots of activities (too bad DS was sick the whole time and couldn't really enjoy it). Have fun!
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| Posted 2/16/10 5:45 PM |
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
I am not sure Sophie, but if you want to drive south, come visit me and meet Miss Bean! 
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| Posted 2/16/10 5:51 PM |
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Xelindrya
Mommy's little YouTube Star!
Member since 8/05 14470 total posts
Name:
Veronica
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
I agree with everything said.
I loved ME, loved the dining plan and loved the Port Orleans French Quarter
I did not love Pop All Star (music) but maybe it was an off experience? It was Cheap, dirty and just annoying. I got moved from one room because the phone, mirrors, paintings and handles had shaving creme all over them  The next room just felt dingy. Think Motel 6. *shrug* but that was my experience.
ETA: that last one I booked myself but the others that I enjoyed I used AAA.
Message edited 2/16/2010 6:38:43 PM.
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| Posted 2/16/10 6:37 PM |
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Lillykat
going along for the ride...
Member since 5/05 16253 total posts
Name:
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
Posted by MommaG
Posted by Hofstra26
Posted by hopeful2009
You should definitely stay on Disney property - the Magical Express is one great benefit, the transportation between the hotels, restaurants, and parks is another HUGE benefit. No car needed and so easy to get around - you have the monorail for certain parks/hotels and then a massive free bus system for the rest. If you're on a budget, the All Star hotels and the Pop Century are decent - nothing fancy but definitely clean and adequate and they have pool access. The moderate hotels are nicer (e.g., Caribbean beach, Coronado Springs) but also more expensive. And if $'s no object, the Wilderness Lodge is incredible and I've heard amazing things about the Animal Kingdom Lodge too. Enjoy!!
ITA!! Plus. when you stay on property you can use the Disney Dining Plan which is GREAT!! The last time we went the Magical Express picked us up and it was perfect. They were right on time, took us right to the hotel, got all of our bags for us at the airport and delivered them to our room. I couldn't ask for better service. Go to WaltDisneyWorld.com..........they are offering so many deals these days that you'll be able to find something affordable. We stayed at Port Orleans Riverside which is a Disney *moderate* resort. We LOVED it!! The grounds were beautiful, the rooms were spacious. NO complaints!! As far as getting to all the parks the Disney Transportation was fantastic!! Buses run constantly throughout the day so you're never waiting long. I have been to Disney countless times and have stayed various places but nothing beats being on property. There are just so many benefits to staying on property that I plan on doing every time from now on. We had a great trip!!! Have fun on your trip!!
We just got back from Disney and stayed at the Animal Kingdom Lodge using the 45% off (booked through Disney website - just go to the Specials page - you'll see it). BUT - if you use this you CANNOT use the Disney Dining Plan. You must pay full price for the room for the dining plan. When I worked the figures, it was much more expensive to pay full price and get the plan. The hotel was great for kids - lots of activities (too bad DS was sick the whole time and couldn't really enjoy it). Have fun!
You can get the dining plan Sophie - but you have to make sure you use the correct code if you call (see Mousesavers.com for the code - or just go to WDW's website and click on the specials and you will get the discount code - you only get discount ON the room not the tickets or dining - then you can add to the quote tickets and dining- you do not have to pay rack rate which IS ridiculously expensive. If you call some of the CMs on the phone are confused which is why you need to go to mousesavers and get the proper code which does allow you to add the dining plan as long as you purchase tickets - if you don't purchase tickets when you make your room reservation then you cannot add the dining plan. Disney makes you get tickets thru them to get the dining plan.
We are going in May and I got 40% off at the Poly and I am getting a package with park hoppers AND the basic dining plan.
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| Posted 2/16/10 7:06 PM |
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MommaG
Yay Spring!
Member since 5/05 5133 total posts
Name:
Gloria
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
Posted by Lillykat
Posted by MommaG
Posted by Hofstra26
Posted by hopeful2009
You should definitely stay on Disney property - the Magical Express is one great benefit, the transportation between the hotels, restaurants, and parks is another HUGE benefit. No car needed and so easy to get around - you have the monorail for certain parks/hotels and then a massive free bus system for the rest. If you're on a budget, the All Star hotels and the Pop Century are decent - nothing fancy but definitely clean and adequate and they have pool access. The moderate hotels are nicer (e.g., Caribbean beach, Coronado Springs) but also more expensive. And if $'s no object, the Wilderness Lodge is incredible and I've heard amazing things about the Animal Kingdom Lodge too. Enjoy!!
ITA!! Plus. when you stay on property you can use the Disney Dining Plan which is GREAT!! The last time we went the Magical Express picked us up and it was perfect. They were right on time, took us right to the hotel, got all of our bags for us at the airport and delivered them to our room. I couldn't ask for better service. Go to WaltDisneyWorld.com..........they are offering so many deals these days that you'll be able to find something affordable. We stayed at Port Orleans Riverside which is a Disney *moderate* resort. We LOVED it!! The grounds were beautiful, the rooms were spacious. NO complaints!! As far as getting to all the parks the Disney Transportation was fantastic!! Buses run constantly throughout the day so you're never waiting long. I have been to Disney countless times and have stayed various places but nothing beats being on property. There are just so many benefits to staying on property that I plan on doing every time from now on. We had a great trip!!! Have fun on your trip!!
We just got back from Disney and stayed at the Animal Kingdom Lodge using the 45% off (booked through Disney website - just go to the Specials page - you'll see it). BUT - if you use this you CANNOT use the Disney Dining Plan. You must pay full price for the room for the dining plan. When I worked the figures, it was much more expensive to pay full price and get the plan. The hotel was great for kids - lots of activities (too bad DS was sick the whole time and couldn't really enjoy it). Have fun!
You can get the dining plan Sophie - but you have to make sure you use the correct code if you call (see Mousesavers.com for the code - or just go to WDW's website and click on the specials and you will get the discount code - you only get discount ON the room not the tickets or dining - then you can add to the quote tickets and dining- you do not have to pay rack rate which IS ridiculously expensive. If you call some of the CMs on the phone are confused which is why you need to go to mousesavers and get the proper code which does allow you to add the dining plan as long as you purchase tickets - if you don't purchase tickets when you make your room reservation then you cannot add the dining plan. Disney makes you get tickets thru them to get the dining plan.
We are going in May and I got 40% off at the Poly and I am getting a package with park hoppers AND the basic dining plan.
I must have gotten one of those people who didn't know what they were talking about. I booked the hotel room online though and there was no choice to add a dining plan or park tickets.  So I could book online, then call to add the tickets and dining plan? Is that how it works?
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| Posted 2/17/10 11:23 AM |
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Lillykat
going along for the ride...
Member since 5/05 16253 total posts
Name:
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Re: LOTS of Disney Qs - For quick trip and SOON!
Posted by MommaG
I must have gotten one of those people who didn't know what they were talking about. I booked the hotel room online though and there was no choice to add a dining plan or park tickets. So I could book online, then call to add the tickets and dining plan? Is that how it works?
Yes unfortunately there are several cast members who are clueless. I can walk you thru it if you book online. You need to go to the main WDW page - and on the bottom click on See Specials - then you will get a page with 2 columns - one with %s off (which is actually deceptive b.c they list the discounts for UNDER 5 nights but not the % off if you are staying 5 nights or more - so it says 35% off deluxe but if you stay more than 5 nights it is 40%. Anyway you scroll down and click on check availability. Then you will get a page to put in dates, number of people and you can do an advanced search and enter the resort or category you want. Then when you click continue - it will price it with ROOM only - (it should read something like winter-spring 1-4 night discount) change category room if you want - then scroll down to where it says add tickets. You must do that BEFORE you can get the dining plan option (you cannot get the dining plan - discount or not - without purchasing a package (which means tickets and the room - unless you have an AP pass then you can get the dining plan). Add the tickets and whatever options you want (hopper etc) then click add - once you add the tickets then you can add dining. I believe you have to buy at least a 1 day base ticket to add dining.
I TRIED to book my package online back early January when the code 1st came out (we had a package booked rack rate and were waiting for a discount to be released. At the time I DIDN'T have the right code off of Mousesavers b.c she hadn't listed it yet. The CM couldn't figure out how to adjust our package so I ended up having to cancel it on the phone and rebook online to get the tickets and dining plan added. It was a real pain - but I have over on disboards that some people had trouble adding it - so you need to make sure you get someone who knows what they are doing (they tell you to call back if the CM is clueless).
I'm sorry that you didn't get to add it - I would be annoyed if they told me that I couldn't and you really could and the person booking me didn't know what they were doing.
BTW another tip - if you aren't sure how many days you are going to want to go to the parks - you can buy say a 4 day ticket (if you are going say 7 days) and then you can ALWAYS add days, and park options to your tickets when you down there. If you add things like park hoppers, non expiration or the water park extras though you will be adding it to your entire ticket days NOT to just 1 or 2 days (as the price varies depending on how long you are there) - but if you get down there and say eh I want to add another day to my tickets it is the same price as it is to add before you go.
Dining cannot be added once you arrive - I believe you have to add dining at least 2 weeks before your check in date.
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| Posted 2/17/10 6:40 PM |
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