Hi Jon! Welcome to planDisney.
My husband and I were just talking about planning an early-2022 weekend getaway to the Walt Disney World Resort! I love the idea of starting off a brand-new year with a trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth, and I'm happy to hear you and I are on the same page. With the
50th Anniversary celebrations underway, it's a great time for a visit!
I just did a quick check, and I was able to find availability at several Disney Resorts Collection hotels in January 2022. It sounds like maybe you have specific dates in mind and are having trouble making a reservation, and I know several Guests have had similar issues. I completely understand how frustrating it is to be ready to plan your vacation and have it not go the way you hoped. It's a good idea to take a look at the
Returning to a World of Magic guidance to see which operations may be limited during your stay; in particular, the
Resort Hotels page shares information about current operations.
I have three ideas for you, Jon. The first is to keep checking the
"Places to Stay" page for available resort hotels. Make sure you have your correct party size entered. If you find no availability for your dates, try breaking up your dates into a "split stay," where you switch hotels in the middle of your visit. I actually love these because I get twice the Disney theming, pools, dining, and amenities. Bell Services will even transfer luggage between your two resort hotels at your request! I see you're looking at an arrival date on January 5; that is
runDisney Walt Disney World Resort Marathon Weekend, and the hotels may be full with runners coming to Florida for the races.
Secondly, it might be better to call and speak with a Cast Member in the Disney Reservations Center. They can help you strategize for your dates and see what availability they can find for you. While hold times are longer than usual right now, I have always found speaking to a Cast Member to be my favorite way to book a
Disney Resorts Collection stay. You may call (407) 939-1936 to speak with a friendly agent.
Finally, you might want to consider using an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They are available at no cost to you and are experts in arranging your Walt Disney World Resort vacation. If you don't currently have a travel planner, an internet search can help you find one - but please carefully read reviews. EarMarked agencies have been recognized by Disney for exceptional service and the number of trips they've booked for Guests. I have a dear friend who is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, and I often use her services because I know I'm in great hands with someone who has been trained by Mickey himself!
Jon, I'm sending pixie-dusted wishes that you're able to find availability for your visit and you are enjoying all the benefits of a Walt Disney World Resort hotel stay soon! Thank you for stopping by with your question, and please come back and see us again.
Wishing you much magic,
Robyn