|
|||
Brought to you by...
John and Donna Gross "The Full Mickey - At a Discount!" The Wall Street Journal
NOTE: News sources remove their articles rather quickly. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message, search the source's archives for the story. The source's URL is posted in its entirety to make it easier to track down the original article and avoid dead links. Be sure to copy and paste the entire URL in your web browser's address window. Certain news organizations require a free registration to view their articles online.
"Choose your destinations wisely and you'll find that this fall really is
a good time to travel, even if you don't have much to spend." Bargain
destinations include: Mexico, Iceland, Ohio, Las Vegas and Ft.
Lauderdale.
Vickie writes:
Disney only offers deals at Disneyland Paris to stockholders. Those who own 20 or more shares get in free, while those who hold 5-20 shares must pay a modest 30 Euro fee. (See our book for more information.) As of 06/04/08 cost is $34 per share plus brokerage fees.
"12 money-saving travel tips: Take these proactive measures to save your wallet - and your trip." (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26011826/)
WASHINGTON DC: "There
are so many free and cheap things to do in Washington that the biggest
challenge is carving out enough time to take advantage of them."
"Here are five smart ways to have a great experience your kids will
never forget - without leaving you with credit-card bills that make you wish
you'd never gone in the first place." Money Saving Tip From The Coupon Mom: Valassis is the company that places the grocery coupons in the newspapers across the country. They will also mail the inserts to your home. Sign up here: http://www.advo.com/consumersupport.html. See The Coupon Mom at http://www.couponmom.com/ for more money saving tips.
Some theme parks are concerned that gas prices will affect their summer
profits. Six Flags is already reducing its ticket prices. "Which credit card companies or debit cards give the best exchange rate (from dollars to euros) and/or the best transaction fee?... A handful of credit and debit cards don't ding you for using them. Check out bankrate.com." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/20/07) "Anyone who still thinks Orlando is a bargain hunter's dream vacation destination is out of step with the way the rest of the world thinks. The Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau says 36 percent of potential travelers consider price to be the primary barrier to a Central Florida vacation." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/06/07) We paid $64 per night at Port Orleans Riverside (Dixie Landings) on our first WDW vacation. Now a standard room can run $215 + tax per night!
"The back-to-school sales-tax holiday begins Saturday and continues through midnight Aug. 13... Clothing and books must cost $50 or less per item and school supplies must cost $10 or less per item to qualify for the tax exemption." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/03/07)
Jen writes about Beth, our travel agent: "I just wanted to tell you what I have already told Beth. I told her that even if she hadn't saved me money on my upcoming trip, I would still have used her as I had been looking into this trip with other travel agents....one of which is my Uncle and even with a AAA discount his price still came in over $200 more than Beth's. Plus I would always use her because every time I talked to her I did not feel rushed and she shared her experiences and went into so much detail without sounding scripted and listened to me and each of my questions and answered them thoroughly. She worked with me when I had many changes and was just awesome. Like I said, even if Beth had not saved me money, her personality would make me use her no matter what! You have found a gem with her and you really need to hold onto her." Thanks again, Jen, for your rave review! I will hold onto Beth as long as she will have me.
AffordableDisney.Com Growing in Popularity! Seomoz.org measures the importance, visibility and popularity of a site in regard to other sites in a particular field. Here's what they have to say about how AffordableDisney.Com rates in the field of Disney travel: "Your site is having an impact and may even be a leader in your field... Keep on this path; it's clear that the effort you've put in is producing results." That's quite an accomplishment given the number of Disney sites on the 'net! Thanks to all of you who have helped us grow over the years! |
Resources
|
||
Walt Disney World has announced that children can get FREE refills on milk, juices, soda, and bottled water at its table-service restaurants effective May 31!
"There is something wonderful -- and free -- for Disney Rewards Visa cardholders at Epcot every afternoon. It is an exclusive character meet 'n greet offered daily from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Innoventions West. Plus, each group (up to 6 people allowed in per credit card) receives a free 5 x 7 photo with the Disney characters." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 05/25/07)
Look Out for Check Scams on the 'Net "Counterfeit check scam artists respond to people who have posted items for sale on legitimate Web sites such as eBay and Craigslist. Then they offer to buy an item and send a certified check for more than the purchase price. The seller is asked to deposit the check and wire back the difference. Consumers who cash the check and wire the money find out later that the check was fake." Do not cash the check. Call the bank and have them verify that the check is real. If you take the check to your bank, see your bank manager, not the teller. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/01/07)
"Americans spend close to $2,500 on the typical summer vacation... Here are ways to trim expenses once you hit the road."
Corey writes: "We used your book on a trip in fall 2001. Your book/tips saved us a lot of money and we can't wait to return with our new daughter, her uncles and grandparents fall 2005. Our family couldn't believe how cheap the trip could be! Thank you for making this memory possible." Thank you, Corey, for your kind comments. You make all the work worthwhile.
Beth, our travel agent, writes about the Disney Visa: "My advice on the Disney Visa continues to be this: If you're a Disney fanatic and feel the need to have The Mouse in your pocket at all times then get a Disney Visa. (Yes, I do have one myself.) Otherwise, don't get a Disney Visa unless you are hoping for a promotion that will help you out on your upcoming trip plans. If you request it 6 months before you want to go then there's a good chance that you'll have it in hand if and when a deal comes out that will apply to your dates. Be prepared to pay off your balance every month because the interest rate is outrageous. You only get 0% on certain Disney packages (and perhaps a few months at the very beginning on all purchases)! If you're not a person that is good about paying things off monthly, tuck that baby away and don't look at it again until you're thinking about your next Disney trip."
Pete writes: "I plan on booking a trip to Disney World now for next year. A lot of the discounts are not out yet or won't apply to next years time. How can I save a few $$$ by booking it so far in advance."
The smart move is to book your vacation now at the lowest price possible
by following the advice in our book. Then keep checking the deals to lower
your cost even further. The easiest way is to have Beth, our travel agent,
book it for you. She will be sure to apply any discounts that arise in the
future so you don't have to worry about it. It also pays to have a back up
vacation planned in case Disney sells out while you're waiting for a great
deal to come along.
Beth, our travel agent, writes about fun Disney stuff: Did you know that Disney can now add on a beach stay to your package? They've made arrangements with several hotels on both the East and West coast of Florida so that you can go get sand in shoes either before or after your Disney stay. On the West coast they offer the Sheraton Sand Key, the Hilton Clearwater, and Tradewinds Grand Resort in St. Petersburg. On the East coast they offer the Bahama House in Daytona beach or Disney's Vero Beach Resort. As with most Disney packages, the value of booking through them vs. going directly to the hotel or through another course varies, but if you're going to do a beach stay AND a Disney package anyway, then it never hurts to ask!"
Disney's Secret Bargain: 15 miles south of Orlando is a part of Disney that many visitors have never seen. The Disney Wilderness Preserve is a 12,000-acre sanctuary that provides a home for a multitude of animals: bald eagles, storks, bats, tortoises and snakes. Bought by Disney in the '90's, the reserve was donated to The Nature Conservancy which is trying to restore the land to its original condition. The sanctuary boasts a Conservation Learning Center, hiking trails and guided tours. Admission is only $3 for adults and $2 for those 6-17 and Nature Conservancy members. Guided tours are extra. To experience a piece of Disney that is truly affordable, visit the preserve any day from 9 AM to 5 PM except holidays. For more information, click here.
Angela writes: "Thanks for everything. I have printed out a ton of coupons. I was wondering if you could give me some tips on how to find coupons. I have been searching for restaurant coupons for the 2nd portion of my trip. I have been looking in the Seminole area, Madeira Beach, Clearwater, Treasure Island, Indian Rocks, pretty much down that stretch. I can't believe Restaurants.com has no coupons for those areas." Some coupons may only be available for pick up in person. When you get there, check out stores like Seven Eleven for coupon books with coupons for the local area. Beth, our travel agent, writes: "John, you might also suggest that Angela look for the Entertainment book that applies to that area... If you use it just one time it's a savings in most cases."
There is one available for each of these areas in Florida:
For details, click here.
Many thanks to the New York Post which mentioned us in their article, "Doing Mickey Right," on November 16, 2004: "And here's a devious tip from affordabledisney.com for savings over the holidays: This year, the pricey holiday season starts Dec. 20, but if you begin your vacation on the 19th and don't change hotels, you get low "value season" pricing for your whole stay, saving you hundreds of dollars." They included a nice comment about our ticket agent in Florida: "Plenty of roadside outfits in Orlando promise discounted tickets, but most of them really want to rope you into a time-share sales pitch in exchange for vouchers - accept at your own risk. [Affordable Disney's ticket agent], though, is legit. It sells Park Hopper tickets for what works out to be about 11 percent off the gate price."
Sherry writes: "Dear John, Our family of 14 total went to Disneyworld in October. We had a wonderful time...and I owe it all to your great advice and especially to Beth [your travel agent]. There isn't enough praise to cover all she did to make our trip as easy as it could be. She not only offered the answers to the usual travel questions, but she suggested other cost savings ideas as well. She suggested and arranged one of the private limo companies to provide all of our airport transportation. The same company transported us to Universal Studio's on 2 different days. Not only was it a huge savings for us, but it was so much more enjoyable not having to wait for mass transportation, and being able to have the privacy of our own family. With so many of us going, we were apprehensive at first. We shopped around with local travel agencies, and AAA because we felt safer. Most of the travel deals offered by Affordable Disney required payment in full by check or money order unless you were willing to pay the 4% fees for the credit card. With having no first hand knowledge of your services, a few in our party were a little nervous about not using a credit card. Needless to say, a certified check went off, and the rest is history. I felt completely at ease, and comfortable the first time I spoke with Beth. We could not have been in better hands. I imagine that you already know that no one can compete with your prices and service. The local travel agent employee was also in disbelief that we could get such a good deal, when they couldn't. By the way, she wanted to know how to join Affordable Disney so that she could use them for her vacation. I would also like to mention that our travel dates did not match the dates for Affordable Disney's block of rooms, but it did overlap one day, and Beth was able to obtain our entire stay at the rates offered for the block. (we had a total of 4 rooms). I was so thrilled that I think I told just about anyone who would listen. We will never travel again without first checking out Affordable Disney's website. We also took advantage of purchasing our tickets from [your ticket agent]. Initially, you think that the savings are alright, but then you realize that not only are they cheaper but they include all the taxes. I received the tickets within 2 days of ordering them. Wonderful service! In closing, I just want to say "Thanks Again" for offering such a wonderful service. Please give our "special appreciation" to the supporting agents that you have assembled. Vacationing has never been easier and more affordable!" Thanks, Sherry, for your wonderful feedback!
Sheila sent me a note with her request to be added to our new mailing list: "Dear John, So this was a great excuse to finally write to you and thank you. I went by myself for a week to Disneyworld May 2000. It was a time of relaxation and rejuvenation. Your online book was a great resource! I have returned with my family, my husband and his employees, 2 trips with daughters, and my husband and I are going back this May and taking 2 of our sons. I have stayed four times on Disney property (Dixie Landing--I loved that!, and twice at All Star Music, and with family in our RV at the RV park). Then last time tried a condo from Condosavers.com. The Westgate Lakes? Planning to go back there this year. Thank you so much for money saving tips on food, ideas of how to spend days in the parks, ideas of where to see Epcot night show, and so much more! Thank you, thank you!" Glad to have been of service, Sheila!
Jim writes about redeeming his Disney's Visa reward dollars: "I just returned from Disney World where I was able to use the Disney Dream Reward Dollars I had earned from my Disney VISA credit card. Originally, I went to the Disney VISA site to redeem the amount I had earned in the form of $10 gift certificates that could be used for food, lodging etc. at WDW. A new method is now in place. I was sent, upon request, a card with a magnetic strip that contained information on how many dollars I had earned. It can be used as a credit card until the limit is reached. I used ALL of my reward dollars on the room at check-in so I didn't have to be concerned about it after that. It was simple and easy."
Sara writes: "I don't know if everyone else received one, but I received a postcard in the mail. It advertised the Deluxe resorts for $109 per night. " Disney sends out postcards with special deals to select individuals. These postcards have PIN numbers which can only be used by the recipient. To increase your chances of getting a postcard deal, our advice is to sign up for everything that Disney offers, from sweepstakes to their new Visa card.
|
Stephanie writes: "I'd like to share with you how much we've saved by pre-paying and using your tips. By booking our own air, room at a Disney Resort, & buying tickets from Omar (which give us so many days that we could use them again on a future trip to Disney - no kidding), we are saving $1,487.10!! So, not only are we saving on this trip, we are saving on our next, already. Omar was friendly & very accommodating. He was prompt to get back with my e-mails, and even nicer on the phone. My tickets were sent to me within the week. I can't say enough about his service. We used [one of the sources in the book] for air travel, and actually got a much cheaper flight with no connections (Disney could only offer expensive flights with connections). We had also considered "Disney-area" rooms ... but with more thought decided that staying at Disney (with the non- stop park-to-park transportation) would be invaluable, since we are taking a group of teenagers that want some freedom while enjoying the parks. So, the only thing we booked through Disney were the rooms at one of the "value" resorts, which I've stayed at before, and have been very delighted with. They are superb for those who are going to be at the parks most of the time, and basically need a place to rest their weary heads... Furthermore, getting a room at Disney means that we don't have to rent a van, which was going to cost us about $300. We are, instead, taking the Mears Shuttle, which is conveniently run many, many times of the day from the airport and back. I've used this shuttle before and it's very easy and worry-free. Even with a shuttle driver's gratuity for our party of eight, it is cheaper for us to use this option than to rent a van big enough to hold all of us and our luggage. And it means less time filling out paperwork at the airport after arrival and before departure. More time at the parks!! Also, I don't know if your readers know this, but the pools at the Disney Value Resorts stay open until midnight, so if they have some hyperactive teens that still have energy left over after exploring the parks, this is a great way for them to wind down their evening. I usually choose this time to do a couple of loads of laundry at the near-by laundromats, and can easily keep an eye on my brood at the pool. I have a couple of tips that I'd like to share with your readers: If you get caught in a rainstorm (inevitable), and your tennis shoes are soaked, place them upside down on your heat register in your room. Usually ours are dry by the morning. That said, it's a good idea to bring strapped sandals to wear if you plan on getting wet (I think every theme park has a ride that will soak you!). Also, we take a big suitcase full of ready-to-eat food. Cereal, granola bars, trail mix, pop-tarts, microwave popcorn, beef jerky, mixed nuts, etc.; things the kids can fill up with in the morning or during an afternoon break (there's a community microwave in the food court). The kids can also tuck a couple of energy bars in their fanny packs for the parks, cutting down on expensive snack attacks. I would also highly recommend buying the refillable cup at your resort, if you have kids that seem to be thirsty all of the time. This way we only have to buy and stock the room fridge (optional, but well worth the $10 bucks a night) with milk, deli meats, condiments, water, and bread that we buy at the resort. Then, when our trip is over & our foodstuffs are depleted, we use the big suitcase to stick all of our souvenirs in, and it works out great. This saves us so much money, we don't go into debt when we go "all out" at least one night and dine in one of the premier Disney Restaurants. This year we are bringing walkie-talkies. They might not work out (we have cell phones for back-up), but I'll let you know if it was worth the investment. Have you heard from anyone else who has tried the walkie-talkies? Thanks for your tireless efforts with the Affordable Disney WebBook. I recommend it frequently to Disney-bound families. Regards from an extremely budget minded mom. P.S. I forgot to include the expense of buying your WebBook. Okay, gee, I only saved $1,457!!! I'm so disappointed - NOT!!!" Thank you, Stephanie, for your feedback and tips. We are glad to have been of service!
Judy writes: "If there is a refrigerator in your room, I have found that a take out meal from the Golden Corral is a HUGE savings in the food budget! Order a steak or whatever to go, and you get to fill up that container plus another with whatever you desire. If you ask politely, they will even give you a decent size cup for soup (or more goodies) plus a small container for dessert. Just make sure that you keep those heavenly warm cookies separate from the food or they will fall apart. I just wrap several in a napkin and away I go, savoring one enroute back to the hotel! Since I eat very little at a time, 2 trips to Golden Corral will last me a week of lunches and dinners." Thanks, Judy, for the tip!
What happened to the American Express White Glove treatment? Beth, our travel agent writes: "Although American Express is no longer the "preferred" credit card of Walt Disney World, those that pay with it will still get the same "white glove treatment" benefits that they always got. I'm told that nothing has changed in that respect."
Donna writes: "I'm sorry I was remiss in thanking you for all of your other money saving tips and information you list in your online book. The information you gave about what was closed at the parks was very helpful in saving time on what we could skip and go right to the other rides and attractions. I printed out the park maps and hours ahead of time so we could plan on where and when we wanted to go to each park. I used my AAA card for savings at the Universal gift shops and eating places too."
A visitor writes: "After reviewing several websites dedicated to Disney, I have equipped the family w/ backpacks & other gear I believe will be beneficial. The question I now have is; "what are we permitted to take in, i.e. in the way of food/beverages?" I am on a vegan diet & concerned I won't be able to find too many places in the park to eat & still maintain my lifestyle - is it ok to pack snacks & drink?" The official line is that no food or drink is allowed to be brought into the parks. We always bring snack cakes, cookies, cheese crackers, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, etc. Many other people do the same. We have never heard of anyone having their snacks confiscated. One day we passed a lady and her child eating raw hot dogs out of the package! BTW, there are plenty of vegetarian choices in the parks.
Tom and Cindy write: "I just thought I would let you know our Xmas trip is PLANNED with the EXTREME HELP of [the travel agent you recommend]. She saved me nearly $800.00 for the week of the 21st thru the 27th. She was extremely helpful and knowledgeable! I recommend her to EVERYONE who is considering going to Disney for a FAMILY VACATION. I keep up to date on your website just in case. Here is what she saved me: Originally we were spending $116.00 per night at the All Star Movie Resort (we have 2 rooms booked per nite for December 23rd - 27th). After reading on your website about Elizabeth, I decided to call her. To my amazement she found [a room] for us at the All Star Music Resort for only $56.00 per night per room. So needless to say we switched our reservations IMMEDIATELY! I also received my tickets from your ticket agent. Omar is a VERY NICE MAN and VERY HELPFUL. I hope you can post some of this in your next newsletter. THANK YOU FOR YOUR WEBSITE. YOU SAVED US A BUNDLE OF MONEY which will be spent on our daughter's 4th birthday (which is the 26th of December)! Thank You. Keep It Going." Thank you, Tom and Cindy, for the great feedback! We are proud to have Beth and Omar as very valuable resources for our customers.
Guests making "advanced reservations" arrangements at all Disney restaurants on holidays must give Disney their credit card number. If they don't show up or fail to cancel up to 48 hours before their seating time, Disney will charge their card $10 per person.
FREE Attraction Tickets: Participate in
Hilton's Hotel Rewards program and earn points that can be redeemed
for passes at WDW, Disneyland, Universal Studios, and Islands of Adventure.
For details, click
here.
Earn FREE Flyer Miles: The Gold Delta SkyMiles card gives you up to 2 SkyMiles for every dollar you spend on groceries, gas, stamps, travel, etc. Get 10,000 free SkyMiles the first time you use the Card. Winning strategy: use it whenever you can, pay the bill when it comes due, and accumulate those flyer miles. That's like getting the sky miles for free! For more details, click here.
A subscriber writes: "God Bless America; God Bless New York! I have seen discounts for Florida residents and several states as listed in your last Disney News update. Can you help new yorkers in finding out why in spite of been the most expensive city in America, we never 'qualify' for any discount? Will love to hear from whoever decides who gets a break and who doesn't and why." Disney offers deals to those who come to WDW less than others. I can only assume that New Yorkers come often and pay full price (unless they follow the advice in our book! :)
Tracy writes: "I am a member, and we are getting ready to go to WDW next week. ... My opinion is that I have learned more from your book than anything Disney puts out there. If you do not already know what you are looking for then you do not know what to ask the operators when scheduling your trip... That stinks! But thank you for your priceless information." You have hit the nail on the head! How can you get a good deal if you don't know what to expect? Thanks for your kind comments.
Cheap Drinks: Bring empty water bottles
and drink powders like lemonade mix or Koolaid. Fill the bottles with water
and add the mix for an inexpensive alternative to Disney's overpriced sodas
and bottled water. "We [took] a trip to WDW (Aug 24-28) - the crowds were the lowest I've ever seen, which we took full advantage of... We don't mind the heat - August in Florida isn't that different than August elsewhere in the South, but know that it can be a problem for some folks. Getting squirted or misted on a hot day is not only fun, but is a boost in safety in keeping down the chances of heat-related physical problems... My suggestion on getting drinking water - use priority seating to get a dining time at a restaurant during the hottest part of the day (say 2:00 p.m.), and whether you eat much or not, be sure to order waters. They won't serve water unless you ask, but the water is free. A family of 4 can get $12 "worth" of water with their meal, and coke just isn't going to give you enough hydration. Even if you just go to the Sci-Fi Drive In for milk shakes, you can still get free ice-water too."
Rick and Nancy write: "We are planning a Disney World vacation (our 1st.). There are 7 of us. Do you know when Disney publishes the discount programs for next year. How would I go about getting the best deal? Any help would be greatly appreciated as we are novices at this. Your book is great!!!" Disney offers unadvertised specials virtually every season. It all depends on how slow Disney is. To get the best deal, keep checking our Addendum. We will post the deals there as soon as they become known. You can always make your reservation at current prices and cancel it before you leave if you find a better deal. My advice: be flexible and be ready to change plans if a better deal comes along. Glad you like the book! |
How Much Money To Bring For Food
"i am on my way to the world of disney in 70 days... i purchased your wonderful book in 2000 but was unable to make the trip to the land of mouse then. ...i have a question for your expertise that i have been unable to get anywhere i search. can you give me what you "guestimation" would be as to what amount of daily spending money i can try to budget per day. there are 3 of us, 2 adults 1 child (age 8) we will be staying at the all star movies without the use of a car. the closest thing i could find said to figure on $100.00 per person per day - $300.00 for us. that seems a tad high if you ask me. i know that the food is high at disney but we will be stopping at a grocery store b-4 we get there to purchase breakfast / snack type items, etc. again, thanks in advance for any help you can give." We normally carry $80 with us each day for food. And that's for 4 adults! Any souvenirs you buy would be extra.
UK Currency Exchange: Visitors to WDW from the UK can save time by buying US dollars online by credit card and receiving their cash by special delivery the next day. Click here.
Those with a military ID can save on admission to Florida’s Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven, near Orlando. For more information, call 800/282-2123 or visit their web site. Active duty and retired military personnel with an ID card can visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum in St. Augustine for free. For more information, click here. Discounts at Pleasure Island: When you arrive, ask about current specials - guests have reported getting additional nights for just $5 more. Annual Pass holders, American Express credit card holders, and AAA members have been offered discounts.
Dining: Before making purchases at your
resort food court, check the resort's store first. Juices, breakfast items,
etc. may be a lot cheaper at the store than at the food court.
AAA Alert
We were shocked to find out that AAA wanted $100 more than the price we were quoted at Amtrak's site! The agent called Amtrak personally to verify the price. She was not happy to learn that Amtrak was charging $100 less if the customer booked online. Needless to say, we went home and booked the train tickets online and saved ourselves $100! And that was for one-way tickets. We would have saved even more on round-trip tickets! Amtrak will mail our tickets at no additional charge and gave us our AAA discount online!
Make sure you know what things cost before you see your travel agent. Our
members know what to expect since we put prices in our book. That's why they
get the best deals!
Parking Fees
A visitor writes: Those with Disney passes and staying off property may park at the Transportation and Ticket Center located near the Magic Kingdom. You can access all of WDW from there via monorail and bus. You will only have to pay one parking fee per vehicle. Parking: Car, Taxi, Shuttle, and Limousine parking: $10 per day; RV, Camper and Trailer parking: $11 per day; Bus parking: $12 per day.
Those with the Universal Flex Ticket pay $10 per vehicle once at the first
park they visit.
Dan writes: "I could be wrong but I seem to remember being offsite and park hopping with my car and just showing my first paid parking [voucher] and not having to pay a second time. I have six children and with a large group it is sometimes easier to use the car to park hop." You are right. The parking voucher is good all day at any park.
Cheap Transportation To Busch Gardens
The Shuttle Express picks up passengers at Mercado Shopping Village, Kissimmee Old Town Shopping Village, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlet Mall; at 40 hotels in Central Florida; and at Flex Ticket transportation routes. Shuttles make morning pick-ups at 8 AM and 10:15 AM and return to locations in Orlando at 5, 6, and 8 PM. The service is free to those who buy the 5-Park Orlando Flex Ticket which grants unlimited admission to Busch Gardens, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Wet 'n Wild. Reservations are recommended. Reservations are required for groups of six or larger. For information, reservations, and schedules, call 800/511-2450.
Cheap Transportation The Greyhound Bus Company offers discounts to Children, Students, Military, Veterans, and Personal Care Attendant s. See greyhound.com or call 800/231-2222.
Student Discounts Studentadvantage.com offers some decent travel discounts to college students. Membership costs $20 + $2.50 S & H. Benefits include discounts at Greyhound, Amtrak, Target and many more.
Discount Air Fare Seniors get a break from the airlines! Many airlines allow seniors to travel at a reduced senior rate. Moreover, they can travel with a companion (has to be under 62) who also gets the "senior" rate. So, let the grandparents take the grandchildren with them to WDW and they will all save money! These "senior" fares are generally hidden, but your travel agent knows how to find them. Recently, round-trip flights to several cities in Florida went for $158! Several airlines offer a student rate to full time college students. Be sure to ask for the discount. Like Disney, the airlines will never volunteer the lowest rate!
TBRIDGES writes: "I was thinking of going to WDW in November. One of my children is 2 and will be turning 3 during the time of the stay. Will I have to buy a pass for her for the remaining days we are there?" If your child has a birthday while you're at WDW and turns 3 or 10, you are NOT charged for the more expensive admission. You get to be whatever age you are when you arrive for the whole stay. That tip will save you over $100!
Universal has valet parking near the entrance to CityWalk. If you come during lunch (11 AM to 2 PM) and dine at a full service restaurant, the restaurant will validate your parking stub. With validation, parking is free if you stay two hours; just $3 if you stay three hours. Emeril's will validate your parking stub no matter when you dine there.
Universal is offering a "Manager Disability" discount to those whose medical condition might prevent them from trying some of Universal's more aggressive rides. Bring a doctor's note and save 15%. Without the note, save 10%.
FREE Scheduled Transportation from Universal to SeaWorld and Wet ‘n Wild: This is a free service offered to Universal resort guests. Reservations are required. Visit the concierge desk at you hotel for schedule. Click here for more Universal Hotel information.
Walt Disney World
Photos Becky writes: "We will be taking our Family Reunion to Disney World in June. We'd like to have some professional photos taken of the whole group and perhaps each individual family. What's your recommendation on the best way to approach this (who to contact, how to do it, where to do it, etc.)? We obviously don't want to spend a fortune but are hoping for something better than what our individual Polaroid will provide. Thanks for all the great information in Affordable Disney. We're all very excited about the trip." Disney has a photographer that they use to follow wedding couples around the parks. I'm afraid he may be very expensive. You can contact Disney at 800/438-9876 and they will direct you to the right people to speak to. Our advice: Disney has a professional photographer at each park who will take your family photo for $13 as you enter each park in the morning. At the Magic Kingdom®, for example, he will take your picture with the castle in the background. We love ours!
Conventioneers can visit SeaWorld, Orlando after 2 PM and purchase tickets for children and adults at a discount which is good for conventioneer and as many as 5 guests. Conventioneer must show convention registration proof, her badge, and ID with photo at Guest Relations. Offer is valid only during convention dates.
Rae writes: "I have been browsing around your site since we are considering a Disney vacation with our 4 1/2 year old son. Can you please tell me what times of the year Disney is slow and a bit more inexpensive? Thanks!" The value season is the slowest and the cheapest: approximate dates are 1/1 - 16, 8/27 - 9/27, and 10/29 - 12/20.
Rather than rent a fridge for $10 per day to keep your food cool in your room, buy a $3 cooler at the grocery store (ice is free from the hotel's ice machine) and throw it away at the end of your stay!
Universal's CityWalk Party Pass with Movie, besides allowing access to all the clubs at CityWalk (Universal's entertainment district), now includes a FREE movie at the Universal Cineplex (Universal's movie theater complex).
All guests at the Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels who dine at
Planet Hollywood before 5 PM are entitled
to preferred seating.
Rather than take a shuttle or taxi from the airport to Walt Disney World®, reserve a town car. The driver meets you at the gate, handles your luggage, makes no stops (unless you want him to stop somewhere along the way), and costs less than a shuttle or taxi.
Carmon writes: "We always have gotten a fridge in the room for the $6 rate [now $10 per day]. We also drive to Disney and therefore pack 2 or 3 cerealflavors. We buy milk once we arrive and of course buy again later in the week. I purchased 4 different colored bowls that have straws built in. The cost was a mere $.88 each at Wal-mart here in Pgh. We each have our own color and go from there. We always splurge on one character meal in the week and by eating cereal or bagels in our room each day-we can. Our kids are now 4 and 5 and have been traveling to Disney as young as 6 months old. They know no other way to eat breakfast at Disney other than in our room. I pack a small container of soap and wash the bowls before we head out. One day, I didn't do them and the maid had them cleaned up and air drying when she cleaned the room. We also store leftovers in the fridge. Places like Hard Rock Cafe and Planet Hollywood give the kids too much food and we let them snack on the leftovers that evening. We also pack Peanut Butter and jelly for the road and in the room. We have gone to Disney during Lent each year and find that a PBJ sand for lunch and a cheap pizza for dinner solves that dilemma. The other money saver is to purchase one annual pass. I purchased one last year(not the premium one). The pass cost $121.00 more than my husband's 5 day park hopper. I called and got the annual pass discount on our room. The discount for the room equalled $132.00. I was $11.00 ahead. We then used the annual pass for the 20% discount at Planet Hollywood, (food and merchandise)-big savings. We also were given first priority seating with the annual pass. We walked right in at 5:55 pm when the line was 30+ minute wait. Another big bonus!!! that doesn't equate to $$. The pass is also good for 15% at Rainforest Cafe (food and souvenirs) plus first priority seating. We were not able to go, but another bonus. Disney also sends you the bimonthly Mickey Monitor. This gives a lot of details on Disney-discounts, upcoming events, special parties for pass holders etc. Truly the annual pass is a bonus!! I'm thrilled to have it." Thank you, Carmon, for your great tips! We encourage all our readers to submit the ways they discovered to save money at WDW! You can even save more by purchasing your Unlimited Magic Passes and Annual Passes at a discount. See our book, Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation, for details.
The food court at Coronado Springs automatically includes a 10% tip in each bill although the food court is self-serve! Save yourself 10% and eat elsewhere.
Senior Discounts
Book the cheapest room at a Disney resort hotel and when you check in ask if there is an upgrade available for the same price. This strategy will work best during the value season, but is always worth a shot. Even at All Star Resorts, you could ask for a quiet room or one close to the eatery. At the moderate hotels like Dixie Landings, instead of accepting the standard room, you could ask for a room with a water view, for example. Save the parking fee at the Magic Kingdom. When dropping off someone at the Magic Kingdom (go to the parking lot of the Ticket and Transportation Center -- from there the visitor can take the monorail or ferryboat to the Magic Kingdom®), the driver will have to pay the $8 parking fee. However, he can get a refund by showing his parking receipt to the attendant at the Exxon station located outside the parking lot before an hour has expired. If you plan to visit Pleasure Island three nights during your stay, you can save money by purchasing the Annual Pass. If you are visiting with someone else, you can save even more with the Annual Pass With Guest.
Check with your employer to see if your company participates in Club USA. Club USA is the official discount program of SeaWorld®, Busch Gardens® and nine other Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks (including Adventure Island, Sesame Place and Water Country USA). Club USA offers $5 discounts off each admission ticket to Busch Gardens® and SeaWorld® in Florida (for up to six people per card), Alamo car rental discounts, and 10% savings at Sleep, Comfort, Quality, Clarion, Econolodge and Rodeway Inns, Hotels and Suites. The Club USA card also entitles you to promotions throughout the year. We emailed Anheuser Busch asking them how one goes about getting a free Club USA membership card. Here is what they wrote in response:
"If you are currently not a Club USA member, ask the Human Resources Director
or Benefits Director of your company if your company or organization is a
member. If they are not, the Director may inquire about eligibility for a
FREE membership. On company letterhead the Director should provide the following
information:
Mail to (this will ensure the letterhead and signature are on file):
SeaWorld / Busch Gardens Club USA Thank you for your interest in Club USA and the Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks." Go ahead and copy the letter from Anheuser Busch and take it to your employer so he or she can apply for membership. We get a free card every year from the school system where my wife teaches.
A reader comments on the costs of parking at the theme parks: "Tell everyone if you have season passes parking is free. Disney --- Universal --- and Busch parks." A good tip! We invite all our readers to share their money saving tips with us!
Rather than taking a limo or bus from the Orlando airport to WDW, consider renting a car instead. There is a car rental agency we discuss in our book that allows you to drop off your car at other locations at no charge. Pick up the rental car at the airport and use it to run some errands or to visit Universal's Islands of Adventure! Then drop it off at the station near the Magic Kingdom or at the Dolphin. That's right. This particular car rental agency has a drop off at WDW! That means that after you drop off the car, you can take a WDW bus to the parks or back to your hotel. Pick up your rental car on Disney property the day before you leave, see the sites, etc., and drop it off at the airport the day you head home. Enjoy the freedom of having a car for a few days!
Eat an early dinner at the theme parks between 2 pm and 5 pm when lower prices apply. The restaurants offer basically the same meal for lunch and dinner. If you have an early dinner, you will save up to 30% and enjoy shorter lines in the park while everybody else is eating dinner during the evening hours! Ask to see the early dinner menu upon arrival. Otherwise, the waiter may bring the regular menu!
Cheap Date: Atlantic Dance Hall at BoardWalk is free and Jellyrolls at BoardWalk charges only $8-10 to get in. Enjoy a live 10-piece band, alcoholic beverages and snacks at Atlantic Dance Hall; Jellyrolls features dueling pianos, alcoholic drinks and popcorn. Guests must be at least 21 years old.
The Kissimmee St. Cloud Convention and Visitors Bureau offers a booklet that features discounts to area attractions (Disney excluded), restaurants and non-Disney hotels. Call 800/327-9159 and get your free booklet.
Promotional Rates
Cast Member Discount
Cheap Drinks
Save on milk: Before paying 99 cents for an 8-ounce carton of milk at WDW's food courts, you many want to buy your milk by the quart at your resort's gift shop for $1.50!
Cheap Food
|
