Choosing a Walt Disney World Resort can feel like trying to pick your favorite Disney snack; there are too many tempting options, and each one has its unique magic. Do you want to be right in the heart of the action, or are you dreaming of a peaceful retreat after the fireworks? Are you after luxury, theming, convenience, or all of the above? With more than 25 resorts to choose from, the decision can quickly go from exciting to overwhelming. Before you lock in your choice with your Dreams Unlimited Travel agent, here are five questions to ask yourself that will help narrow the field and make sure your resort is the perfect match for your vacation style.
How far are you from your highest priority area?
Walt Disney World is enormous, so if you are planning a double Magic Kingdom experience, there is no point staying at the far east corner of the resort near Disney Springs. Although the provision of transportation makes life easier, the distance still takes precious time away from your park day or relaxing morning routine. Take some time to become familiar with the map, and be sure to select a resort location that is closest to your priority areas.
How much time will you spend at the resort?
No two Disney vacations are created equal, and that means that different resorts suit different guest agendas. If you are planning a laid-back trip with a sprinkling of Disney Parks in between pool days and golf, you’ll want to choose something with a few more on-site amenities, and maybe even a nicer room. Alternatively, suppose you are cramming in as much park time as possible. In that case, your room is likely just a place to sleep and shower, making the bed configuration a high priority for restful recovery.
What is your realistic budget?
It’s easy to get carried away, especially when you’re only paying a deposit up front, and the bulk of your vacation cost is yet to come. Think about your vacation goals. Are you seeking maximum park time and experiences, or focusing on the finer things, such as Disney Springs dining and entertainment? These are the things you will want to build into your budget first, before calculating what is left to work with for your accommodation. Crunch some numbers on those ever-important activities and then see what you are working with for your resort stay.
What is your preferred bedding configuration?
Depending on the size of your party, some resorts may be better suited to you than others. Some offer a fifth sleeper option, allowing a younger child to sleep in a pull-down style Murphy bed, or an additional bed in a pull-out sofa situation. If you have a larger family and want to all stay together, you might be best looking at multi-bedroom suites or adjoining rooms. This doesn’t need to equal a bigger spend, as the Art of Animation Family Suites offer up to 6 guest occupancy at a value resort. There is something to suit everyone if you know where to look.
We are spoiled for choice when it comes to our Walt Disney World stays, with so many beautiful options available; it’s unlikely that you will go wrong. However, there may be something even better suited to your specific needs if you help narrow down the options.
