Where will the road take YOU?

Destination Diaries

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Disney... On A Dime

 wdwmickey

By Angela Ash

A Walt Disney World vacation may seem like a dream to some families, especially with tales of luxurious resorts and fine dining restaurants abound. When adding up the cost for such a vacation, the numbers seem to grow right before your very eyes... often reaching a final cost that sends you right back to the vacation drawing board.

However, while some may insist on staying at the Polynesian Resort, many just want to get a foot in the door, and ecstatically land on Disney soil. Expensive meal reservations are out the window, and minivans load up with "Disney Or Bust" signs on the back windows.

Yes... a trek to Walt Disney World can still be the great American vacation, even without taking out a second mortgage. You just have to think with your head, and not your Mickey ears!

With gas prices in a "happier" range these days, many East Coast families are opting to drive to Florida, with the simple motto that "getting there is half the fun". And isn't this true? There's no better way to build family unity than to pack everyone into one vehicle and try to find a Pandora station that they can all agree upon. Not only will this be an unforgettable experience, but you can save LOADS of cash! A family of four can cut their travel expenses in more than half by simply submitting to the fact that it's all about the journey. Plus, you can literally watch your budget shrink by making some sandwiches for the road trip, and bringing refillable water bottles for rest stops. Fruit is a great snack, and it is cheaper AND more healthy than that $30, soggy bag that is handed to you through a drive-thru window. See... you're watching the money go back into your kids' college funds already!

As you travel on... as if on a spiritual pilgrimage to all things Mouse, you may already be dreaming about finally laying your head on a pillow. While most visitors think that you must spend a fortune on accommodations, they are wrong yet again. While it is absolutely divine to stay at a premium resort right in the middle of the magic, like the Animal Kingdom Lodge or the Contemporary Resort, you DO have other options. In fact, Disney has an entire line of Value Resort hotels that will be much more pleasing to the wallet.

However, if you wish upon a star to make that dollar stretch even a bit more, Disney works with a variety of properties called Good Neighbor Hotels. They offer comfortable, affordable accommodations close to the theme parks, and with perks like shuttles to the park and ticket counters.  These properties are not eligible for Extra Magic Hours and may not be combined with park admission, but the savings will definitely evoke a bit of magic on all its own!

However, I must admit that Destination Diaries has a favorite "go to" Disney area hotel. Let's just try to count the reasons why!

wyndham

 

Every year, families, couples and even single travelers make their way to sunny Orlando, where they can experience amusements and activities that can't be found anywhere else on the planet. Whether you're planning a day at Hogwarts, a full week with Mickey Mouse or you'd like to get face-to-face with some of the sea's most intriguing creatures, Orlando is definitely the place to be.

Something a lot of people don't take into account is the size of the city. When looking for the ideal location, you can't get much closer to Disney World than the Wyndham Grand at Bonnet Creek, which is within the gates. When you can see the fireworks from your bedroom balcony, you're in the right spot!

But this property is about a lot more than just simple geography. Anyone who has ever spent a week at the theme parks knows that you have to have some downtime, or even a day or two in between roller coasters and long lines to pose with your favorite characters. The kids can enjoy their day in their choice of five swimming pools, two lazy rivers and two splash parks, while the onsite spa and golf course beckons those with other ideas.

When you're preparing for a long day or can't wait to get back to your room at the end of the night, food options are extremely important, and this resort does not disappoint. Indulge at trendy seafood and sushi restaurants, or have a casual meal at the tasty poolside eatery. There's also a coffee shop, a bustling bar and in-room dining.

And when it comes time to relax in your room for the evening, you have options galore. Choose a deluxe room with a king-sized bed or two queens, or opt for a family room with bunk beds. Posh suites add separate sitting and dining areas.

Plus, if all of this isn't enough, there's shuttle service that will take you right to Disney Springs and Disney parks. Be sure to check ahead for shuttle times, as they can change with the season.

When you're planning your Orlando getaway, don't take any chances with your accommodations. Book with Wyndham today, and get ready to explore the magic!

Now, there is really no way to get around what some may consider high prices for park admission. Is it expensive to just walk into the Magic Kingdom? Sure. But is it worth it? Mere words can not describe the absolute joy of experiencing a visit to Walt Disney World.

The good news is that active members of the military and Florida residents get a fantastic price break. For those who do not fall into one of those categories, there are still ways to experience it all for less. Undercover Tourist offers discounted tickets to WDW, even sometimes adding in an extra day. While you should always be wary of purchasing tickets online, these are legitimate, and they will save you money. Some local Walmarts near the theme parks also sell tickets at a few bucks off the gate price. Trust me, every little bit helps. 

Once inside of the parks, it is possible to have memorable meals without spending a fortune or precious vacation minutes waiting for table service. All of the different parks have tons of delicious, counter service restaurants that are quite significantly cheaper than the table service locales.

When in the Magic Kingdom, try the Columbia Harbour House in Liberty Square. Reminiscent of a quaint seafood shop in an old village, they serve up fish and chicken at very reasonable prices. If you'd like a little show with your meal, visit Cosmic Ray's, where the friendly alien plays the keyboard and entertains the diners, feasting on hamburgers, salads, chicken tenders and more.

While in Epcot, head to the World Showcase and try the English-style fish and chips at the Yorkshire County Fish Shop. Walk down to the lower level and enjoy your meal with a nice view of the lake, as well. If you are in Future World, the Electric Umbrella serves burgers, flatbreads and more.

In Hollywood Studios, the place to be is the Toy Story Pizza Planet, serving up pizza, subs and salads. Downstairs there is a fun arcade, but if you'd like a little more of a quiet atmosphere, choose to dine upstairs.

Once in Animal Kingdom, head to the counter service of Yak & Yeti. Expect Asian fare with a twist, offering familiar dishes like Beef Lo Mein and Egg Rolls.

planethollywood burger

Now, when you find yourself in Disney Springs, you will want to splurge a bit at Planet Hollywood, which will soon undergo a transformation into the PH Observatory. Stay tuned for more exciting details, but expect the same level of delectable dining, with a brand new theme!

Disney World also offers plenty of free "extras" that you may be eligible for. For example, if you have a Disney Rewards Visa card, then you should check your program perks for offers like a free family photo or special viewing areas for "Illuminations" at Epcot. Also be sure to get your free "First Visit", "Happy Birthday" or "Happy Anniversary" pins.

wdwkendyl

Kendyl Rae with Minnie Mouse and Pluto at the Disney Visa photo station

When you visit the Walt Disney World Resort, even families on a budget can have a truly magical experience. Just knowing a few tricks can really make a Disney vacation fun and affordable, throwing it back up on the vacation board a lot more often than one might think. When your Disney vacation planning starts breaking out of the budget, just tighten the reigns a bit and realize that it IS possible to have a fantastic getaway without spending more than anticipated. Walt Disney was definitely right. It IS fun to do the impossible!

For more information on the Walt Disney World Resort, please visit them online or call (407) 939-2273.