Top Ten Times of Year to Visit Disney World

One of the questions I'm asked most often as a Disney Travel Planner is "When is the best time of year to visit Disney World?"  Here are the top ten times per year that I would suggest that a family visit, and why.

1. Any time kids are IN school.  Kind of a no-brainer of course - many families plan trips during their school breaks so it just makes sense that lines are shorter when kids are in school.

2. Just BEFORE or AFTER holidays.  Same logic... most families would not pull their child out a week or so before or after they're due to be out anyway.

3. Sunday through Friday - Weekends are often the busiest because of the increase in locals and day guests.  Resort Room pricing also increases slightly on Friday and Saturday nights during most seasons.  (However this often goes against least expensive flight availability so its a toss up).

4. Mid -September through early October  - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party begins in Mid September and continues through the end of October, however fall breaks hit late to mid October.  This is definitely a party worth coming in for, and you can also hit the Food and Wine Festival at Epcot.  That's a Win-Win.  If you're a runner, plan to hit the Tower of Terror 10 miler in October as well.  The weather is a bit cooler as you move into October as well.

5. Star Wars Weekends (Last 2-3 weekends in May, First 2-3 weekends in June).  This even only takes place at Hollywood Studios and only takes place Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.  Extra characters walking around, autographs, meet and greets, talks with the actors from Clone Wars, Storm Troopers guarding the park, a Star Wars Parade, Hyper Space Hoopla (you-tube this - you'll thank me), and Jedi Training with battles against Darth Vader, Darth Maul, and Ventress...  A young padawan's dream.  You'll also see your favorite characters in their Star Wars costumes.  If you don't care about Star Wars, avoid this park on these days.

6. Early December - You can enjoy all of the holiday festivities, including Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, while you avoid the majority of the crowds that come in later in the month.  This past year, many of my clients were still able to swim in early December, which is another benefit. Make sure to check out the deluxe resorts - they go all out for the holidays.

7. Early May - Flower and Garden festival is in full swing, but that doesn't typically bring additional crowds because it goes on for several weeks.  Weather is mild.

8. Late January - Early February - lower crowds, not much going on.  I will caution, however, that this is the time of year that some of the large tour groups, sometimes referred to as Brazillian Tour Groups (though not all are Brazillian), come to Disney World.  You may not notice them, but if you end up in the same park on some days, their pack mentality and incessant chanting is fun for the young adults, but often frustrating for guests around them.

9. If you must go in the summer, go as SOON as school lets out, or JUST before it is back in session.  Ideally you'll overlap with some schools and again, have lower crowd levels.

And #10 - Anytime really.  The magic is there all year round, and as they say, "Even a rainy day at Disney is better than a regular day at home."

Be sure to check dates and times with your travel planner as special events, hours, and pricing is subject to change.  I'd love to know YOUR favorite time to visit Disney Parks!

Have a magical day!
Katie

katie@hihovacations.com

Top Ten things to about RunDisney Races

RunDisney Races draw experienced athletes and beginners alike.  There is no doubt that the unique courses, the magical destinations, and the medals draw crowds several times per year.  Here are ten things to know about your racing experience!

1. Sign ups will sell out fast!  Challenges(two or more races of varying distances over several days resulting in an extra medal for completion) are especially quick to fill. The Glass Slipper Challenge sold out in just over 4 hours last year and the Dumbo Double Dare was faster than that.  Follow Run Disney on facebook or twitter to get a heads up and be prepared to pay the fee at time of purchase.

2. There are no longer and resort or ticket discounts for runners or their families.  It is true that there used to be, but this isn't the case any longer. 

3. Wear a costume - yes, you too, Men.  Not everyone does, but you'll stand out more NOT in a costume than you will IN a costume.  This is part of the fun!  I recommend having pieces that can be removed.  I ran the Princess Half as Snow White and had to lose my cape about mile 3.

4.  The entire weekend is full of hurry up and wait.  Hurry to the bus, wait to get on.  Hurry to the Expo, wait to get your packet.  Hurry to the Expo, wait in line to pay.  Hurry to the course (often at 3:30 am) and wait for your corral to start.

5. Prepare to walk quite a bit before you get to the start line.  Disney will provide some entertainment and water for quite a while prior to race start.  Then you'll walk, and walk, and walk to move to the starting area.  Some say it is several miles from resort room door to the start line, so plan on that. 

6. Don't use the first porta-potties you see.  There seem to always be more just around the corner.  It is worth looking for the next set.  They'll be less "used" and have shorter lines. 

7. The Expo is a lot of fun- plan to spend some time here.  It isn't as large as some other expos I've been to, but most of the booths are good stuff - including sparkle skirts.  Be sure to buy whatever race merchandise you're interested in when you see it. Items WILL sell out and there are unfortunately people who buy loads of things to sell on e-bay. 

8. Plan for humidity and hills.  For the Princess Half Marathon this year, the humidity was 99%.  I'm a drinker when I run and there wasn't enough water stops for me.  Be sure to carry drinks with you if you're someone who needs water more than every 2-3 miles.   For most, these are not the races to try for a PR because of the number of people and the terrain and characters on the course.

9.  Each corral gets its own start - fireworks, hoopla, etc.  If you have a proof of time that qualifies, submit it. You'll be happy to have the extra time for character photos along the course (many opportunities for photos!) and restroom stops.  Oh, and if you are doing a race that is primarily women, like the Princess Half, go ahead and use the men's restroom in Epcot and Magic Kingdom.  It's okay.  Trust me.

10. Be warned: It's addicting.  The day of the races, many Princesses were saying "NEVER again."  Less than 24 hours later, the same Princesses were signing up for other races.  I've done two now, ended up hurt and having surgery with the Glass Slipper Challenge I just finished (due to being far undertrained) and am already planning my next RunDisney event. 

One more note: There are themes for everyone!  Tower of Terror 10 miler is full of villans and is a night race.  Wine and Dine Half Marathon is also a night race that ends with an Epcot AfterParty (loved this race!).  The Tinkerbell and Princess races speak for themselves. The new Avengers race in Disneyland is sure to be amazing.  Expedition Everest Challenge is a team event with a scavenger type twist on a normal race.  This may be my next event. 

Happy Running!
Katie

Top Ten Items to Pack for Your Disney Cruise

When it comes to cruising, Disney does it right.  All of the magic, with some of the most beautiful backdrops in the world.  Just like the theme parks, there are a few things you can take with you to make your cruising experience a bit more magical.

1. A cup or mug with a lid.  Tervis tumblers or even the refillable souvenir mugs from Disney World are great for this.  The soda is complimentary on the pool deck, but the cups provided are tiny!   There are mugs and cups available for purchase on board if you wish.

2. Magnets!  This is a fun way to decorate your door (and help you find it easily down the long halls!)  Personalized magnets are less likely to "walk away" and you can find lots of options on Etsy.

3. Lanyards.  If this is your first Disney Cruise, a lanyard is helpful to carry your key card with you.  If you've cruised with Disney before, you'll get lanyards as a gift.

4. Treats or cash for your service staff.  Gratuities can be prepaid or paid on board, but some of the cast members will become close to you - almost like family.  These people live on the ship for extended times, so sometimes things that they can't get on the ship are a nice treat.  Popular items - mints, gum, Pringles, Girl Scout Cookies, International Calling Cards, sample size toiletries, chocolate.  Keep in mind that they don't have a lot of space in their quarters, so consumables or small items are best.  Cash is always appreciated, of course.

5. An underwater camera - If you plan to take advantage of any of the amazing opportunities that Disney offers to get in the water during excursions, you may wish you had a way to capture the memories.  Underwater cameras can be inexpensive and can take some amazing pictures.

6.  Beer or Wine - Unlike many cruise lines, Disney allows you to carry 2 bottles or wine OR 6 cans/bottles of beer per adult age 21 or over on board as long as YOU transport it yourself.  Some of the transfer services will even allow for a complimentary grocery stop on the way to the port.   If you take a full bottle of wine to dinner, you'll pay a corking fee.  So take it in your Tervis instead. :)   If you choose to order drinks on the ship, watch for the Drink of the Day.  Often fun and reasonably priced.

7. Pirate Gear - Arrgh!  Disney Cruises have Pirate Nights and it is always accompanied by some serious fun.  Many cruisers dress up, some do not, but if you have younger kids, getting into the spirit of the evening is definitely the way to go.  Disney will provide you with a pirate bandana, but eye patches, sashes, and even full on Captain Jack gear will be appropriate.  Alaskan Cruises do not have fireworks or pirate night, but you're in for some Frozen themed fun instead!

8. Work out clothes - if you're into that sort of thing. Each ship has a workout facility and a track on board.  Also, there is a 5K on Castway Cay first thing in the morning.  Keep an eye on your Navigator for details on how to sign up.

9. Drink carrier - Dad can run up to the buffet to grab breakfast for everyone and coffee for him and mom, but uh-oh - how can he carry everything back to the room?  Pack one of these from your local fast food joint and all of the other coffee jugglers will think you're a genius.

10 - and most important - pack your passport (recommended) or original birth certificate with the raised seal.  All cruisers 16 and older must also have a Government Issued ID (Driver's License).  They really will not let you on the ship without it.  Also pack a copy.

ºoº Expert Tip!  Be prepared to put down a deposit on your next cruise - there is always a great offer available to you on board.  Once you leave the ship, the offer isn't available so plan ahead and be aware.  If you use a travel planner, be sure to have her information with you to add her to your booking.  You won't regret booking another cruise, but lots of cruisers regret NOT booking their next on board. ºoº

I'd love to help you plan your Disney Cruise adventure!  Email me at katie@hihovacations.com

Bon Voyage!
Katie

Top Ten Items to Pack for your Disney Trip!

It's important to remember that Disney is in Florida, not in the middle of the jungle.  It is hard not to overpack, but if you forget something, you'll be able to replace it in most cases.  That being said, here is a list of my recommendations for 10 things that you won't want to leave home without!

1. Gallon sized zip lock bags - We actually pack the kids' clothes in bags and then take the empty bags with during the days in the park.  We keep autograph books, cameras, phones, and other important things that could be ruined by rain in the bags.  They're also great for wet clothes, left over food, and, on the hottest day, a frozen wet hand towel to help keep cool.

2. Glow Sticks - Disney is famous for parading expensive light up toys in front of children just before parades and fireworks or shows.  We take the dollar store tubes - one per night of our stay, and encourage our kids to share with others around us.  They're also a hit on the dark buses.



3. Cases of water - You can have this sent ahead, delivered by a grocery service, or pick it up on your way in.  The bottle water is very expensive and not worth the snack credits, but you'll need to stay hydrated during your stay and Florida water tastes... a bit off.

4. Autograph books - The park books have few pages and are less than exciting.  You can find supplies to make them or if you aren't super crafty, Etsy has several that are nicer than the park books.

5. Disney Gift Cards - Giving a card to each child for their own souvenirs eliminates a lot of fights and allows them to manage their money and stops the "I wants" to a degree.

6. Gum - Disney doesn't sell it in the parks.

7. Hand sanitizer - Disney is great about providing interactive attractions, but the number of people from all over the world that touch the Honey walls on Winnie the Pooh, or the handle of the Sword in the Stone.  A bit of sanitizer can help with peace of mind.

8. Ponchos - It's inevitable, you're going to need them at least once.  The ponchos available in the parks are expensive, look the same as everyone else's, and the lines to get them during the start of a downpour are substantial.  Pack an extra if you have a stroller or a scooter - nothing worse than having a wet stroller for a little one.

9. More than one pair of shoes per person - There are some people who can handle Disney World in flip flops.  I'm not one of them.  We like the waterproof sandals like Keens or Tevas, and a pair of tennis shoes. 


10. Address labels and postcard stamps - It makes it very easy to send off a quick post card to family and friends if you have the necessary tools with you.  You can mail them from the parks with a special Mickey postmark or from the resorts.

I hope that you found some of these items helpful.  Enjoy your trip! 
Katie