Is there anything in the World better than wrapping your hands around a good Disney guide book? For my forty-five years of Walt Disney World Resort planning, I say “NO.” Sure, I blog, I research other blogs, websites, and yes, even the Disney Parks Moms Panel site ln a regular basis. BUT I still, after all these years, (or maybe because of them!) need a good tome to kick-start my trip research. And so, I jumped at the chance to review former Magical Blogorail pilot’s new publication: The Ultimate Guide to an Affordable Disney World Vacation. In it, Kevin Barry tackles what is for many the biggest obstacle between their family and pixie dust- finances.
The Ultimate Book Review to The Ultimate Guide to an Affordable Disney World Vacation
Getting to Disney
Here the author excels; he outlines strategies that this frequent traveler has never considered.
He includes subchapters on flight price tracking tools, frequent flier program nuances, even how to bid on your rental car pricing! Who knew??
Park Tickets
Often the largest part of a Walt Disney World family vacation budget, this purchase should receive a fair amount of your planning attention. Even us Disney “pros” are tempted to blindly buy ticket packages- Park Hopper Option included (the ability to roam between all four parks- Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom- in one day.) Barry gives us the pros and cons, tips and tricks to purchasing the right park ticket for your needs, while balancing its ultimate cost to your vacation. To hop or not to hop, that is now your question!
Resorts and Hotels
The “On-Site vs Off-Site” debate rages on. In full disclosure, I have not in my forty-four years of travel to this resort stayed off-site. Yet. I simply cannot break away from the magic for a second. Or mile. Therefore, I can’t personally recommend anyone else doing so. BUT, I am a huge fan of the author’s tip regarding the use of hotel points. We are solid Starwood Hotel & Resorts (SPG) customers, and have received free nights at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels many times. Save money AND stay on-property? I’m all-in for this tip!!
Food
This is a tough one for my family. Being in the “biz” almost requires that we work any vacation around Signature Dining “research.” Certainly never the cheapest option, so, I was particularly drawn to the author’s suggestions for the “Best Option for Sit-Down Restaurants.” Additionally, he reiterates one of my favorite tips: eating a late lunch as your early dinner helps with these inflated dinnertime prices.
Discounts
Disney Pin Codes? I haven’t gotten one in about 15 years. Read Barry’s tips on how to put yourself on Disney’s radar.
I see value in this book for Walt Disney World newcomers as well as seasoned Mouseketeers. And at about $12, The Ultimate Guide to an Affordable Disney World Vacation is a bargain in its own right!
*** I received a free copy of this publication for this book review; these tips and thoughts are 100% mine!
Would you believe I have NEVER received a Disney pin code? I've also never received a thank you note from Mickey Mouse (well, we did get a card from him on our cruise). I'm not sure if I should be offended, or if they just know me well enough to know that I'll come back, no matter what. LOL
I believe Disney knows we're both sure bets Heidi- no enticement needed!!