Congratulations! You are starting to plan a trip to Walt Disney World! It is finally time, the stars have aligned and you are going. The kids are going to be so excited! And you can not wait to do all the things.
You sit down at your computer and start the process. First step, pick a resort! No problem, you can do this. You have booked plenty of hotel stays before, why would this be any different?
And then, it happens. Before you know it, 12 tabs are open on your computer. YouTube videos, TikTok, reels, lists, posts - and everyone who has an opinion is telling you the BEST resort to pick. Problem is, none of them agree.
So now what, you ask? How are you supposed to pick the BEST Disney resort, if everyone has a different opinion on what the BEST resort is? And just like that, you close your laptop and Phase One of Disney Overwhelm has begun.
It is no joke, it is real, and it is frustrating! You run a family of small humans, you have an advanced degree, you run your own company, you work a demanding job, you have a successful side hustle, you figured out how to "do it all." Then why is picking a Disney resort so complicated???
Well, it doesn't have to be. Let me be the first to let you in on a secret. The reason you can not crack the code on what Disney resort is the BEST, is because there isn't one. The answer doesn't exists. Not at all!
The question you need to be asking yourself is what is the BEST Disney resort for me. What is the BEST Disney resort for my family, at this time, for this trip? And that my friend, is a question that you can actually answer!
So how do you go about figuring that out? What do you need to consider to make the right choice? How can you kick that "Disney Overwhelm" to the curb and start planning the Disney vacation you are dreaming of?
I always advise my clients of three key considerations. Once you think about these, you will be able to narrow down your options and begin to feel comfortable with the choice you make.
I know you want it to be perfect! Make a list. Talk to those you are traveling with. Take a few minutes to think about these things so you can make a decision you feel good about.
One, what needs do you have for this trip? Meaning, how many people does the room need to accommodate? Are there any mobility needs that must be taken into consideration? Are there multiple families traveling together that have different needs? What are those needs?
Two, what wants do you have for this trip? You might not be able to check all the boxes, but knowing what matters most will certainly help narrow down your options. Do you want to be able to walk to a Theme Park? Do you want to be able to dine or enjoy a lounge at your resort? Do you want heavy theming for the kids to enjoy? Do you want to avoid taking sleeping children out of the stroller at the end of the night?
Three, what is the budget? Everyone has a budget. And Disney can be done in many ways. Value Resorts offer excellent options for smaller budgets, and Deluxe Resorts offer excellent options for those on larger ones.
Once you have consulted your traveling party, made a list (mental or written), and had that glass of wine; you can now start to work on what resort hits the target.
Is your list saying you need a room that sleeps 5, you want heavy Disney theming, at a smaller price point, but still easy to access with Disney transportation? You need to consider Art of Animation.
Maybe your list is saying you want excellent restaurants, a balcony with a water view, transportation options besides the buses and a mid-range price point. Well then The Riviera might just be for you!
Or maybe you are planning a multi-generational trip, where the younger and the older guests will want a mid-day break from the Theme Parks, you want a good pool to relax at, you want many different food options and this is a family reunion trip so it is a bit of a splurge. The Polynesian could be the best option!
There are so many things that need to be considered before you pick your resort. It is not as easy as just "booking" a hotel. But it does not have to be super complicated either. Make sure you give it the time it takes to think through what matters most, so once you and your family arrive, you know you made the right choice.
Hello! Thank you for stopping by!
Exploring far-off places and immersing in diverse cultures creates remarkable memories that connect us to the people we love most, in unique ways. It reminds us of how beautiful our world is
& the important lessons we can learn from traveling together.
With over 15 years of travel planning experience,
I have had the distinct privilege of helping numerous travelers
plan their dream vacations and experience those connections.
If you would like to become a part of our exclusive travel community, a mere click on the "Join Us" button above will grant you access. Anticipate bi-weekly correspondences from me, rich with captivating destinations and enriching travel experiences to elevate your travel adventures.
For additional inspiration, travel itineraries, and expert travel advice, just explore the menu bar above. Here, you'll find a selection of articles I've personally assembled to further ignite your love of travel.
I look forward to seeing you again soon!
Ready to embark on your dream adventure?
Your extraordinary vacation awaits! Click the link below to arrange your complimentary
15-minute travel consultation. We are here to transform your travel aspirations into reality.