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Mom and daughter on Expedition Everest
  • On Nov 9, 2011
    Shelley Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Going in June '12, family of 5 (kids 17,11,5). Where is best place to stay: Beach Club, Art of Animation, or Port Orleans Riverside? When is it best time to make reservations and get a better deal, now or next year? Thank you!

    Hi, Shelley! Picking my favorite resort out of those three is like asking someone to pick their favorite child. Sure, it wouldn't be impossible to do, but it would be wrought with complexities and implications.

    With those three resorts, you're looking at three different types of resorts: value, moderate and deluxe. My general rule of thumb is this: the less time you are planning to spend at your resort, the less important it is for the resort to have extra features and amenities. If all you need is a bed (and pools, quick service dining, etc.) then I'd save some money and go with Art of Animation. Plus, it's new. And, new stuff is cool. And shiny. And it smells good too.

    In the grand scheme of things, I'd favor the Beach Club slightly more than the others because of its proximity to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, which are just a short walk or boat ride away. You also have more dining options in close proximity, including restaurants at the resort itself, on the BoardWalk and at those two parks.

    Keeping your eye out for the best deals is worth the extra effort, but finding the right timing can be time consuming. When that's the case, I like to enlist an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner to help book the trip. We've enjoyed working with Mouse Fan Travel in the past. It doesn't cost anything extra than it would by booking the trip on your own. Plus, you get the benefit of a vacation planner being on the lookout for deals to apply to your reservation up through the very last moment when changes can be made and applied to your reservation.
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Meet the Panelist: Joel, Wisconsin

I’m the proud papa of two little pirates or princes (depending on the day!) I enjoy sharing information to help beginners with little ones - including naps, strollers, rider swaps, height restrictions, scary rides, touring plans, characters and dining. Learn More About Joel

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