Mom and Daughter at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Room
  • On Jan 31, 2010
    Marilynn from MD 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.

    I am trying to get started with planning a trip (1st. time) with my 5 grandchildren ages 3 to 8. Moms and dads included. I read some valuable info from a AAA magazine, and then saw your write-up in the Ho.Co. times. How and where do I start? Help!

    Hi Marilynn!

    Thank you very much for sending me this question!  It's great to answer a question from my hometown area!

    Some panelists recently answered a question about planning a first time trip.  You can read the different viewpoints here.

    Be sure to order the free Walt Disney World planning DVD.  I also recommend picking up the book "The Complete Walt Disney World" by Julie and Mike Neal.  There are a lot of good tour books out there, but I especially like this for first timers as it is packed with photos and some good tips; the photos help to get everybody excited for the trip and give a glimpse of all of the wonderful things to do inside and outside of the theme parks.

    In my opinion, one of the biggest mistakes a first timer sometimes makes is not making dining reservations.  Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs) can be made up to 180 days in advance.  I think the ADRs are critical if you want to dine in a Table Service (full service) restaurant.  While not all reservations need to be made 180 days in advance, you should know that some of the most popular restaurants will in fact book up quickly.  You made make on-line reservations here.

    This should get you started.  Write back with some more detailed questions when you are ready!
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Meet the Panelist: Bernie, Maryland

I am an engineer with NASA with prior Air Force service. My wife and I have two boys, ages 13 and 8. At home, I'm known as the "Disney Guy" and I've enjoyed helping guests plan their Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, and Disneyland vacations. Learn More About Bernie

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