Conference koolit::disney

    
    I guess this is as good a place to "ask" for information too ??
    
    If you buy an "annual" WORLD PASSPORT at WDW, is it also good
    at Disneyland ?
    
    

    No.  Each resort has it's own annual passport.
    
    Sorry.
    

    I gues  I'll ask this question here....
    
    What will the temperatures be like in November?  I am flying out
    on 1.11.89. and will most things be open?
    
    Claire
    
    
    

rep to < Note 29.3 by UBOHUB::ROCK_C "Fraggle" >

>    What will the temperatures be like in November?  I am flying out
>    on 1.11.89. and will most things be open?
    
    Claire

    Historically these are the temp.  (Fahrenheit)/rainfall(inches) numbers
    for the Orlando Fl.  area.

    Claude
    
    From my '84 edition of Steve Birnbaums Guide:

        Month       Av. High     Av. Low    Mean    Av. Rainfall
        --------------------------------------------------------    
        January        70          50        60       2.28
        February       72          51        62       2.95
        March          76          56        66       3.46
        April          82          61        71       2.72
        May            87          66        76       2.94
        June           89          71        80       7.11
        July           90          73        81       8.29
        August         90          74        82       6.73
        September      88          72        80       7.2
        October        82          76        74       4.07
        November       76          57        67       1.56
        December       72          52        62       1.9
    
    From '89 edition of AAA's  Florida  Tour  Book (source National Weather
    Service):
    
        Month       Av. High     Av. Low
        --------------------------------
        January        70          50
        February       72          51
        March          76          56
        April          81          61
        May            87          66
        June           89          71
        July           90          73
        August         90          73
        September      88          72
        October        82          66
        November       76          57
        December       71          51

    
     Hi, 
         Could anyone tell me what time in the AM. the WDW transportation
    system begins operation. I looked in the guide but missed it somehow.
    I am staying at Fort Wilderness and would like to get over to the
    Polynesian Vill for a Character breakfast before 8:00 Am.
    
                                      Thanks,
    
                                             Rob.
    
    
                                        
    

    
    RE .5
    
     The transportation system begins operation at different times during
    the year, depending on different variables, the two main ones being
    Park scheduled openings and expected attendance levels.
    
     For 8am Breakfast, I honestly see no problems.  The normal time
    Busses go '10-7' (or is it 10-6?, I guess I'm a little rusty...)
    is 6Am, sometimes earlier.  Many guests have plans for 8, and they
    realize this.  Also, if there's something scheduled for a certain
    time then you can always find transportation to/from it, no matter
    the time.  I know many a Security Host/Hostess who's driven a late
    dinner guest back to there car after the Parking Lot Trams have
    shut down(10-7, yes, that's it). 
    
    Rich
    

>    I am staying at Fort Wilderness and would like to get over to the
>    Polynesian Vill for a Character breakfast before 8:00 Am.

    Rob,
    
    The  buses  from  the Major Disney Resorts to TTC  (FW,  Poly,  Contemp
    etc.), run from around 7:00am to 2:00am, so I see no problem as long as
    your ready when the bus shows up.
    
    Claude        

>    I am staying at Fort Wilderness and would like to get over to the
>    Polynesian Vill for a Character breakfast before 8:00 Am.

I seem to recall that  a  launch  (boat)  runs  from  FW to PV in time for that
breakfast.  However, if you are  not  staying near the dock or are not near the
bus pickup, you may want to drive  over.  The WDW transportation never seems to
work well for us when we are in FW, especially since you need to connect to the
T&T center to go to Epcot.  Since driving around is  easy  as  a  guest, faster
than going to the T&T Center and parking is free, we usually drive to a "Hotel"
breakfast and to Epcot.

Dave

    The boat doesn't go from the Fort Wilderness goes to the Poynesian.
    It goes to the magic kingdom or to the contemporary.  First thing
    in the morning is real busy on the buses at fort wilderness.  Make
    sure that you allow extra time.  I remember having more then one
    bus drive by us because they were full.  For the most part we were
    very happy with the transportation at FW.

    The breakfast at the Polynesian is one of my favorate things to
    do at WDW you should have a good time!!

    
    	Does anybody have any information about a hot air balloon
    	ride that you can take at WDW?  I heard or read somewhere
    	about it.  My understanding is that it costs $150.00/person.
    
    

There is a short description of 3 possible balloon trips on page 216 of the 
Birnbaum guide.  The description, reprinted without permission follows:

BALLOON TRIPS: A great way to experience the Central FLorida scene is to float 
above its pinewoods and farmlands and enjoy the beautiful shyscape.  The ride is
the smoothest imaginable;its absolutely delightful--and like nothing you've ever
tried before.  Three companies that offer such lighter-than-air ascensions are
Orange Blossom Balloons, Inc.,  Balloons by Terry, and Rosie O'Grady's Flying
Circus.  Weather permitting, balloons go up early in the morning (around 6:30
A.M.), before the ground breezes begin to stir.  Orange Blossom Balloons, Inc.,
which is associated with Old Town (a new shopping,  dining, and entertainment
complex described later in this chapter) offers  flights daily.  The 1-hour
rides cost $250 per couple, including hotel pick-up. Upon landing, guests are
driven to Your Just Desserts, a bakery at Old Town, for a celebration including
champagne, freshly baked croissants, and pastries. Also included in the price is
$50 of Old Town money that can be used at the  shops and restaurants there and
two passes to Little Darlin's, a 1950s-style rock-and-roll club.  Reservations
and a deposit are required.  Information: Orange Blossom Balloons, Inc.; 5770
West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Suite 122; Kissimmee, FL 32741;239-7677. 
Balloons by Terry offers daily flights in each of their 3 hot-air balloons. 
Rates run $250 per couple ($95 for those weighing less than 75 pounds), and
include a wine and cheese greeting upon touchdown.  Reservations are required: 
Balloons by Terry; 3529 Edgewater Dr.; Orlando, FL 32804; 422-3529.  For the
Rosie O'Grady's Flying Circus rides, passengers meet at Church Street Station
and return about 4 hours later.  The  fee of $140 per person includes chanpagne
brunch at Lili Marlene's Restaurant (at Church Street Station), a souvenir
picture, and a small gift.  Reservations are required and can be made by calling
422-2434.  Wear long pants and comfortable shoes.

     Last night I went with my family to make reservations for the 
Caribbean Beach resort next January.  We went through a local travel agent 
who books packages through the Disney Travel Company.  Since we got to the 
agency after 7:00 we could not book our package because the Disney Company 
closes at 7:00, it turns out that I think this was a good thing.

     We have been planning this trip for quite a while, and have read every 
note in this file to date, as well as the Birnbaum book from cover to 
cover.  One of the things that we got out of all this reading is that if 
you are going to stay inside one of the WDW resort hotels, you can advance 
reserve things like the Hoop-de-doo review, Polynesian Luau, etc.., once 
you have your disney confirmation.  When I asked the tavel agent about this 
she said this is not true, except for some character breakfasts.  Well that 
pretty much turned us off from that agency and will be going to another one 
this weekend.  

     What I would like to know is, if I go through a travel agency, and get 
a good package, will I be able to get my Disney confirmation number and do 
all of this advance reserving?  I would also like to know what will not be 
open, since I will be going in January.  Also, what hotels have indoor 
pools, the brochures I have do not indicate this.


       Thanks in advance for your help...


                   Forrest...
    

    Forrest,
    
    The MKC  Travel  Centers are open till 8:00pm M-F, and 7:00pm S-S.  
    
    if your staying on site, Why are you going thru a Travel Agent?  
    
    The MKC travel Centers will also  do  your car and Air, see note 90 and
    it's replies.
    
    Do you have a MKC Card?
    
    If so you can  call the MKC # (407)824-2600, and once they give the the
    lodging reservation #'s, your on  your  way to makinig all those dinner
    reservations except Top of the World and restaurants in the Parks.
    
    Now to answer your questions,
    
    
    
>What I would like to know is, if I go through a travel agency, and get 
>a good package, will I be able to get my Disney confirmation number and do 
>all of this advance reserving?  
    
    Don't know,  I've  given  up on travel agents 10 years ago when dealing
    with a Disney Trip (again see note 90 and it's replies).
    
>I would also like  to know what will not be open, since I will be going in
>January.  

    If dealing with the MKC,  they  can usualy tell you this info.  However
    since this is usually a slow  time  of  the  year,  plan on some things
    being closed.
    
>Also, what hotels have indoor pools, the  brochures I have do not indicate
>this.
    
    None of the Disney Resorts have indoor pools,  all are outdoors (unless
    they'd added some since '87).  I'm not sure  of  the  Hotels in the the
    WDW Hotel Plaza, but to use these you must be regestered there however.



    Claude

    Mark Himes referred to an "unofficial guide to WDW" in the MGM
    topic.  I was wondering what he meant by that.  And does anyone
    know where to find this book?
    
    Thanks,
    Ann

    Would anyone care to explain the 'annual passport'?  Is it good for
    12 consecutive months or by calendar year?  Can you upgrade (and when)
    from a multi-day passport?  When we were in WDW last month (sigh, I
    want to go again) we purchased 3 day passports.  We inquired if they
    could be upgraded and the story was that if they were all used up, we
    needed to upgrade within 24 hours of the last date used.  Was wondering
    about annual passports and how they are upgraded?
    
    Thanks,
    Judy
    

    
                    <<< INDMKT::DUA0:[NOTES$LIBRARY]DISNEY.NOTE;1 >>>
                                 -< DISNEYANA >-
================================================================================
Note XX.X               First timer going to disneyworld              No replies
MAMTS1::TDAVIS                                        5 lines   7-MAY-1989 15:57
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    My family and I are going to disney world in august, we will be
    staying in the contemporary and are using frequent flyer
    for airfare, do i need a car? is 5 days enough time?
    how expensive will it be? i have no package, reservations are done
    by me,  please some tips?

    re .17

>    My family and I are going to disney world in august, we will be
>    staying in the contemporary and are using frequent flyer
>    for airfare, do i need a car? 
    
    Nor really  if all you plan to do is Walt Disney World, since they have
    rather good inside  transportation  withe the monorail, buses and water
    craft.  If however  you  plan  to  visit outside the park, then I would
    suggest renting a car.

>    is 5 days enough time?
        
    It's enough to do most things, depends when your going in August, since
    the early part according to the  book,  seem to be more people visiting
    than later in the month.
    
>    how expensive will it be? 
    
    Expensive if staying at the Contemporary, since  the  average  room  is
    over $115 a night I believe.
    
>    i have no package, reservations are done
>    by me,  please some tips?
    
    Since you have no package, chances are if  you  watch were you eat, and
    depending on wether or not you do other activities  beside visiting the
    parks, you should be able to do alot better than  a  package  thru  the
    Magic Kingdom Club.  However if you plan on doing a  lot  of  things in
    those 5 days, then you may want to consider doing a package.  See notes
    2, 20, and 28 for more details.
    
    Claude

rep to  < Note 29.16 by MVCAD3::CERRONE >      -< Annual passport >-

An annual passport is like a 365-day passport.  It allows you entry into the
MK/EPCOT Center/MGM studios for 1 full year, starting with the day it is issued.
It used to be that you had to be MKC member to get an annual.  Now anyone can
get one, with MKC members getting a slight discount.  I understand (but have
never done it) that you can receive credit for unused portions of multiday
passports towards the purchase of an anual passport.

Some of the benefits:

* if you are going to be going to the parks for about 7/8 days or more, it is
cheaper to get an annual passport.  This is just for one trip.  If you return to
WDW again within the 1 year, you get into the parks for "free". 

* free parking - you don't have to pay the $3 parking fee when you enter the
property (if you are stating off property - obviously not such an advantage if
you are staying on property)

* advance dinner reservations at the EPCOT restaurants (1 or 2 days ahead).
This is the same benefit as the resort guests.  We always call ahead just before
we leave so we can eat in Italy on our first night there.

* use of all WDW transportation.  We take advantage of this to park at one of
the resort hotels, so when we are leaving we don't have to fight our way back to
the TTC.  They check for resort IDs at the monorail and boat launch and accept
annual passports.

* another advantage that we use is the freedom to come and go as we please
without worrying about using up our passports.  e.g. after spending the day at
Sea World or at the beach, we usually head into EPCOT for dinner

* you can get a River Country/Discovery Island add-on for $15.  We got it and
went to River Country during the heat of the afternoon.  I wish there will be a
Typhoon Lagoon add-on, but it doesn't look that way.


All in all, we are very pleased with our annual passports.  We feel we have all
the benefits of a resort guest, without paying resort prices.  It is more
convenient getting home to the Disney resorts from the MK, but from the MGM
Studios or EPCOT Center, we can get home more quickly.  Last month, we made it
from WDW parking lot to hotel parking lot in 10 min (less from MGM).

--Jay

rep to Note 29.25 by BAHTAT::BELL "SWAS Leeds 845 2214" >

>    I just got back and Illuminations was on everynight in EPCOT. Even
>    when we weren't in the park we could see the fireworks from our
>    hotel in LBV. 
    
    Richard,
    
    I beleive  since  the  openning  of  Disney-MGM  Studio  Tour,  and the
    expected  crowds, that Epcot and the MK are  openned  for  longer  than
    normal  periods,  and  hence Lumination every night.  During  the  slow
    periods (read off-seasons) Epcot and MK used to be oppened  from 9:00am
    to  8:00pm  during  the  week,  but  on Sundays Epcot was opened  'till
    10:00pm, and  you  could  always  count  on  Illuminations  running  at
    10:00pm.
    
    Claude

     Re: .22
      
       Geetha,
    
          I'll assume that you will be in Florida over/during Memorial
        Day Weekend. If this is the case, both the MK and Epcot are
        open till 12:00 midnight on the weekend. I was there last year
        for Memorial Day and they were both open late, and the Electrical
        Parade in MK was at 9 & 11, and Illuminations was at 10:00 in
        Epcot.
    
        George
    
         P.S. Not quite sure if both are open until midnight. I know
              at least one is.
      

    
     Just got of the phone with WDW. From June 10th through June 17th,
    here are the theme park hours.
    
                  Magic Kingdom      9am - 12 Midnight
    
                  Epcot Center       9am - 11 pm
    
                  Disney/MGM Studio  9am - 9pm
    
     Typhoon Lagoon is still scheduled to open sometime between,
    June 15th and July 1st. Hopefully in my case, June 15th !!!!!
    
    George

    
    
    
    Does this mean we need a "separate" note for all the hours, hours,
    and changes, to operating hours "information" ?
    
    Mark
    

Whenever EPCOT is open until 10 pm or later, ILLUMINATIONS is at 10 pm.  This is
every night.

--Jay

    re: last few (including mine)
    
    Please refrain from posting anymore Operating Hour info for the various
    Disney Parks in  this  topic, (since it seems to change more often than
    prices).  Any further  replies  concerning operating hours will be sent
    back to the author and deleted.
    
    As note 98 states (created so you can find it on a dir/topic=Operating)
    From now one if you  have a question, please call the MKC # or the Park
    itself to find out the info.  And note that the posted time are subject
    to change due to attendance.
    
    Claude    

rep to < Note 29.32 by WEDOIT::BERUBE "Claude G. Berube" >

>    Any further  replies  concerning operating hours will be sent
>    back to the author and deleted.

    I meant to say, posting  of  the  nature  'EPCOT will be opened on June
    10th thru 17th from 9:00am to 10:00pm' will be sent back to the author,
    and deleted.  However postings which state Iluminations is performed at
    EPCOT when openned 'till 10:00pm and beyond is fine.
    
    
    Claude    

    Can anybody give me info on the bugs and creepy crawlies situation
    in Orlando generally and FW in particular. I've spent many sleepless
    nights on holiday chasing mosquitos with a slipper (Stealth Bombers
    they aint!) and have a concern about WDW being, I believe, reclaimed
    swampland. Do I need repellants, sprays, big slipper etc.?
    
    We are in the Orlando area for three weeks, with limited luggage
    'cos we're flying from the UK, any tips for myself/wife about practical
    matters such as laundry etc. Are there washing lines on the FW
    campsite, and if so do they provide pegs in the trailers. Any fine
    detail of this sort would be appreciated to ease the culture shock,
    we really don't know what to expect!
    
    Thanks,
    
    Mike

    Hi Mike,
    
        As far as FW goes they do have both washing machines and Dryers
     available for the guests. There are some unusual bugs in Florida.
     Last time I was there, '86 Disney did a wonderful job of pest control.
     There was somekind of horsefly that was bothering us and many other
     campers. We called down to the desk and they sent out a spray truck
     about 1 hour later, we didn't see any of the flies the rest of
     our stay. I think basic forest repellent is all you might need,
     big slipper is optional!!
    
                           -Rob
    

re to < Note 29.38 by WARCAS::BATTY "This Face Intentionally Left Blank" >

>    Can anybody give me info on the bugs and creepy crawlies situation
>    in Orlando generally and FW in particular. 
>    Do I need repellants, sprays, big slipper etc.?

    Well I've  only  been  in  April and November (so far), and I've never
    been bothered by any mosquitoes etc..   But then again this summer will
    be my first time during summer and  at  Fort  Wilderness so I'd like to
    know as well.  However the year I  flew  into Melbourne and traveled to
    WDW the white rental car (clean when I picked  it  up)  turn  an  awful
    shade of green/brown/black from the Love Bugs that are in season during
    April/May.
        
>    We are in the Orlando area for three weeks, with limited luggage
>    'cos we're flying from the UK, any tips for myself/wife about practical
>    matters such as laundry etc. Are there washing lines on the FW
>    campsite, and if so do they provide pegs in the trailers. 
    
    Not sure what you means by pegs (Clothes line?), but each  loop  has  a
    minimum of one comfort station with rest rooms, private showers, an ice
    machine, telephones and a laundry room.
    
    Claude

    re: .39 & .40; 
    
    Bugs.  I too, was concerned about bugs before we went to FW/WDW.
    
    I live in Maine, so I know about bugs...and I HATE 'em !
    
    But WDW does an incredible job of de-bugging.  The only bugs we
    encountered were spiders...there were two "biggies" in the trailer
    I had to kill...and one out by the BBQ pit..I left that one alone...
    he was not bothering anyone and had spun a large web in the woods
    that was covered with dew every morning.
    
    No nasties sighted in FW.  No bugs, snakes, skunks, alligators...just
    chickens, ducks, rabbits, armadillos and deer...and tired but happy 
    campers.
    
    We used the laundry facilities in FW and they are good.  We went
    after 9pm to the laundry on Fleetwood pass next to the pool.  The
    kids swam while the laundry was being done.  The laundry has washers
    and dryers...no clotheslines.
                                                
    FYI - We were there Oct 26-Nov 2 last fall.
    I saw no need for repellants/sprays/slippers
    

Does anyone have any information about the kennels at Disney World?  Even
though our house-sitter would take care of her, we're contemplating taking our 
dear mini-dog (Cairn terrier) along ... but only if the kennels are opened 
early/late enough for us to enjoy the (whole) day.  

Thanks,
Elaine

    Re .39 and .40
    
    Thanks Rob and Claude, that was exactly what I was looking for.
    As I said, there will be an element of culture shock. I assumed
    that everyone would make use of the Florida sunshine to dry and air
    the laundry, rather than use up resources, but then again, the thought
    of X hundred campers with Clothes/Washing lines doesn't fit the
    Disney image. 
    
    Any more practical tips would be appreciated. We had planned to
    cook some meals in the trailer, to reduce the expense. Is it really
    worth it, or are the relative costs of meals in WDW the same as
    buying and cooking for ourselves. Where are the best places to buy-in
    food, and is there a freezer in the trailer?
    
    Thanks once again,
    
    Mike
    

    rep to < Note 29.42 by COMET::INDERMUEHLE >

>Does anyone have any information about the kennels at Disney World?  Even
>though our house-sitter would take care of her, we're contemplating taking our 
>dear mini-dog (Cairn terrier) along ... but only if the kennels are opened 
>early/late enough for us to enjoy the (whole) day.  

    Elaine,
    
    You don't say if your staying on site or not.  There are 3 kennels that
    I know off,  WDW  Kennel CLub next to the TTC, Epcot Cneter Kennel CLub
    next to Epcot entrqnce  (to  the  left), and the Fort Wilderness Kennel
    and Livery at the campground  entrance.    For  off-site guest they all
    close 1 hour after MK/EPCOT/DISNEY-MGM closings,  where  as  WDW Resort
    and WDW Village Hotel Plaza guest can  board  their  pets  overnight at
    either the TTC or FW kennels.  I  don't have the latest prices (doesn't
    include  food, must bring your own) but you can  always  call  the  MKC
    travel  #  (407)  824-2600  or CRO (407) 824-8000.  Note  however  that
    advance reservations are not accepted.
    
    Claude

rep to < Note 29.43 by WARCAS::BATTY "This Face Intentionally Left Blank" >
    
>    We had planned to
>    cook some meals in the trailer, to reduce the expense. Is it really
>    worth it, or are the relative costs of meals in WDW the same as
>    buying and cooking for ourselves. Where are the best places to buy-in
>    food, and is there a freezer in the trailer?
    
    Mike,
    
    The  trailers  do  have refrigerators in them, and whether or not  it's
    worth it to you to cook your own is a personal choice,  since  you have
    to consider the time to leave the park getting back top the trailer and
    cooking etc.  Meals  inside the parks/hotels vary from moderately price
    to  the  expensive, from fast  foods  (hamburgs,  buffet  etc)  to  the
    extravagant  (roast  Duck,  Salmon  mousse  etc).      There  are  some
    convenience type stores right outside WDW but  I  don't remember seeing
    any supermarkets right outside.
    
    Claude
    

    re 29.43
    
    The trailers are have both  refrig/freezer, stove, and a microwarve
    oven.  The best place to buy food is off disney property. The food
    on property at the shopping village is VERY expensive.  However,
    there are several supermarkets not too far from FW.  
    
    Cooking meals in can reduce you exepenses, but it takes more time
    then eating in the parks.  The last time we were there we at most
    of our breakfasts in, most of our lunchs out, and about 1/2 of our
    dinners in.  In my case I had two small (under 5) children with
    me, and eating some meals in made the trip easier.
    
   Dan

    There is a good supermarket at Crossroads in Lake Buena Vista, Goodings
    I think it's called. Crossroads is a Disney shopping area outside
    of the village, there is also a good restaurant there called 'Jungle
    Jims' that does huge burgers and 'powerful' cocktails. There is
    a happy hour every night when you get one of these concoctions for
    half price. There is also a 7/11 in LBV which is open all hours.
    (Mike, why don't you give me a ring in Leeds sometime,I might be
    able to help you out on a few things.)
    
    Richard Bell

    < Note 29.47 by BAHTAT::BELL "SWAS Leeds 845 2214" >
                             -< Try 'Crossroads' >-

    >There is a good supermarket at Crossroads in Lake Buena Vista, Goodings
    >I think it's called. Crossroads is a Disney shopping area outside

    Goodings is the name - nice place.  While at Crossroads - also check
    out Larry's Ice Cream (at least I think that's the name).  They
    have some of the best ice cream I've ever tasted.
    
    Is Crossroads owned by Disney?  When we were there, a Disney security
    car pulled up, and two guards started checking a car that appeared
    to be abandoned, so I thought Disney had some connection there.
    I wonder what other area properties Disney might be involved with,
    outside WDW?

    re .47 and .49
    
    Where is  Crossroads located exactly?  
    
    I don't remember seeing anyplace like this in '84 and '87 when I roamed
    around the village area and toured Grand  Cypress.  Since it looks like
    I'll be going this summer and staying at  FW  I'm interested in finding
    foof reasonably priced etc.
    
    Is it located on route 535 between the WDW Village entrace and the road
    that leads to Grand Cypress?

    Claude    
    

    RE: .50
    
    It's directly across from the WDW village entrance on 535.  It went
    up fast - they were clearing trees from the site a year ago, and
    this year (Feb) it was all built, highway widened, etc.

    From Fort Wilderness:  go out the "back way", thru the Village,
    and take a left at the 3-way stop intersection, past all the village
    hotels.  At the next intersection (SR 535), it's directly in front
    of you.

    Hi I am planning a vacation to Disneyworld this October and I would
    appreciate it if I could get some help on the following points.
    
    1) Does anyone know the publishers of Steve Birnbaum's book "Official
       Guide To Disneyworld". As I live in Holland it is quite difficult
       to order this book without as much info as possible, and I was
       quoted a four month waiting list for the book; which sounds
       absolutely absurd!.
    
    2) The second question is does anyone have the phone number please
       of the Caribbean Resort Hotel at Disneyworld?; as i'd like to
       make a reservation.
    
    
    Thanking anyone out there in advance.
    
                                           Leigh
    

    You can call the main reservation number for the Carribean Beach
    Resort. The number is 407-824-2600.  
    
    If you would like I can pick up a copy at a local bookstore of Birnbaum
    and mail to you. You can call me on DTn 335-6733 or 201-884-6733
    or just answer note and I'd be glad to help out.
    
    Paula
    

    re: .62 October hours
    
    Carol,
    
    We went last year around this time (Oct26-Nov2).  MK hrs were 9am-7pm,
    you could get onto Main Street starting at 8am if you were a resort 
    guest, but not into the "lands".  There was no Electrical Parade.  I
    think there were fireworks, but I didn't ever stay in the MK until
    closing.
    
    EPCOT was open at 8am to everyone, but only for Communicore East and
    West, until 9am when the rest of the park opened.  Illuminations is 
    at 9pm, the park closes at the end of the show (9:30).
    
    Hope this helps...
    
    Gary

    re : last few,
    
    Please refrain from requesting/posting the operating hour of the Parks.
    The base  operating  hours  of  the parks can be found in here and will
    change based on  the season and actual daily attendance, meaning actual
    posted hours could change thru the course of a Day.
    
    In the future all request/posting of  hours  will  be  sent back to the
    author and deleted, since they are only  acurate for a given period and
    subject  to  change  to  boot  and will only  suffice  to  clutter  the
    conference with stale and unreliable data.
    
    In  the  future please follow the policy laid out  in  topic  98  (also
    mentioned as one of the conference policy/info topic in the  Conference
    Notice).
    
    Claude_with_his_Moderator_hat_on
    
    

    re: .69
    
>    1.  What, where, and how, is the Hoop-de-do(?) I've seen it mentioned
>    here and there, and it's been highly recommended that I get
>    reservations now (?).  Where do I call? 

    The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue is a dinner show performed three times
    nightly at Pioneer Hall in Fort Wilderness at WDW.  (Note 116 is
    dedicated to dinner shows).

    I think the Hoop-Dee-Doo is the best of the dinner shows offered at
    Disney World.  Many others agree with me, and as a result reservations
    can be hard to come by.  If you are staying on the WDW property, you
    can reserve when you make your room reservation.  If you are staying
    outside WDW, you can reserve up to 30 days in advance by calling the
    Central Reservations Office (CRO) at (407) W-DISNEY.

    If you can't get a reservation, they begin a standby list at the
    Pioneer Hall ticket window 45 minutes before show time.  Note 116 also
    suggests some alternatives to the HDD.  I suggest you go for it.

    re: .71

>    On Hoop-Dee-Doo reservations do you just give them your confirmation
>    number proving you are guests on WDW property?

    Yes, when you call the CRO (or MKC Travel Center), they will add you
    dinner show reservations to your existing reservation record.  If you
    cancel or change your arrival date, you will most likely have to re-do
    your dinner reservations too.

>    Other info...when driving to WDW, if I am staying on the property do I
>    have to pay to get into the parking lot when I first enter the main
>    gate?

    No.  Stay way over to the right as you enter the toll plaza.  Tell them
    you are checking in to wherever.  Sometimes they ask to see your
    confirmation slip.  Sometimes they don't.  They will give you a
    complimentary parking pass, and direct you to your hotel.

>    Thanks,

    Your welcome.

>   < Note 29.69 by AKOV12::CJACQUES "Everything's coming up roses" >
>   
>   Also, is there anyone located in the Orlando area now that
>   I can mail to just before my trip.  I'm leaving Jan.20th and
>   would like a quick weather report just before I go.  

    If you have a "talking phonebook"� at home, there are codes you can
    punch to get weather reports in various major cities.  We've tried
    this before just prior to Disney trips, not only for Florida weather
    but for the latest reports on the trip down (New York, Philadelphia,
    Baltimore, etc.), and it was timely and accurate.

    Other than that, try The Weather Channel, if you get it, or USA
    Today's weather page.
    
    � Talking Phonebook = A yellow pages book that has touch tone codes
    for all kinds of advertisements.  They also have some general
    information available, like weather, stock reports, etc.  You dial
    a local number number and then enter the codes.  This thing seems
    to be widely distributed in eastern/central MA, not sure about other
    areas (although they have it in Florida - in fact it's part of the
    regular Mickey Mouse phone book inside WDW).
    
    /Don
    

I'm off to WDW on 26th March. I phoned WDW the other day to confirm whether the
Electrical Parade would be performed on any of the days that I was visiting WDW
- I was told that the Electrical Parade would not be performed until April 15th,
Easter week, onwards. Can anyone confirm this??

Cheers
Kev in the UK

    That sounds about right.  The Main Street Electrical Parade is for
    summer and holiday seasons to help control the crowds.  When is
    Easter this year?

  I was there two years ago the week before Easter. We saw the Electrical 
  Parade then.
  
  Robin from Warrington
  
  PS My spirit is in Disney. My body follows in 21 days.

    
     I'm not sure if this is the case but isn't the Main St. Electrical
    Parade performed ONLY when the park is open until 12:00 midnight ?
    And then it's performed twice. Once at 9:00 and then again at 11:00.
    The latest the MK is opened this month (published hours) is 10:00pm.
    
    George

    I called WDW information last week to find out if the electrical
    parade would be performed during the last week of May.  The parks'
    operating hours have only been set through the end of March so
    they don't know yet.  I asked for a guess about the usual date
    and was told mid-June.
    
    I'm bummed!  I thought the extended summer hours and the electrical
    parade normally started the week before Memorial day.  Can anyone
    confirm this? 
    
    RE .84 Midnight...
    The only exception I have seen to this is the last week of August.
    The MK was open until 10:00 the times we went but they still had
    the 9:00 electrical parade, the 10:00 fireworks and King Neptune's
    Water Pageant (or whatever it's called).

    Midnight is not the key, it has to do with the expected size of
    the crowds although the two are usually related.  You have to remember
    that the parade is very labor intensive.  These people have to go
    through auditions (I went though one) and then be trained for the
    dance routines.  In addition, you need drivers for the floats and
    people to do the repair, washers for the costumes, and lots of others
    who remain behind the scenes.  Oh, and let's not forget those
    custodians who clean up after the  parades passes them by.

    In general, the parade runs Easter, Christmas, and the summer season.
    I can remember being there in the Spring and a company had rented
    out the park and the price included the parade and fireworks.
    
    I would recommend calling Disney Information and asking them although
    as pointed out elsewhere, even Disney doesn't always know its own
    schedule.

    Joel
    

    
    Re: .85
    
      I don't know Ruth. I was in WDW the weekend before Memorial Day in
    '88 and the MK was open until midnight with the parade running at 9:00
     and 11:00 pm. But as Joel pointed out in .85, midnight doesn't always
     mean the parade runs. I still think there hope though !!
    
    George

    I'm so excited, please bear with me..  I just dicovered the Disney
    notesfile, and I am like a little kid, jumping from topic to topic
    reding bits and pieces of them.  I have a ton of questions and am not
    sure where to find the answers since there are so many topics.
    
    I'm sure you regulars can tell me where to go (please don't take that
    literally..).  Where do I find COSTS???  Like what does it cost for 2
    adults for a day at DW??  I've heard of a Disney Club???  DEC
    discounts???  What does it cost to stay at some of these real nice
    hotels and inns that I keep reading about ( Polynesian Village,
    etc..)??  If you can please guide me to the right topics I would be
    very grateful...  
    
    My wife and I are talking about visiting DW on our 30th. anniversary
    this coming October.  We have only been there once before and that was
    ONLY for 1 day back about 10 years ago....  I KNOW that alot has
    changed since then and I want to see it all........
    
    Thanks for your help,
    Bob

    Rep to <<< Note 29.88 by DISCVR::LEONE >>>

    Bob,
    
    Please read 1.1 for details on the conference quidelines etc., and look
    at 60.1 for a conference listing.   After  doing  that  and reading the
    topics listed there, if you still have questions, then by all means ask
    in the appropriate topics (as listed in 1.1 and  60.1), or create a new
    topic if not already covered.
    
    Claude
    Disney.Note Co-Moderator

    re: .88

    Here are some hints where to find the information you need to plan your
    trip:

    1. Read note 2.*.  It contains information about the Magic Kingdom Club. 
    This is the corporate discount arrangement that DEC gets.  The note will
    tell you how to get a membership card and membership guide from
    personnel.  It's free.  Once you get that, you will have some idea
    about prices for on-site Disney hotels.  There are also some MKC
    packages worth looking at.  There is lots of discussion in this
    conference about the value of those packages.

    2. Go to the bookstore and invest $9.95 in Steve Birnbaum's Official
    Guide to Walt Disney World.  (See note 43.* for more information.) 
    This book tells you EVERYTHING there is to know about WDW.  Except of
    course all the inside information you'll find in this conference.  It
    also includes complete descriptions of all the on-site resorts, and
    many other hotels nearby.  And it's fun to read.  Read it from cover to
    cover.

    3. Read through the trip reports in note 34.*.  This will give you an
    idea of what other DEC folks did on their vacations, and what they
    liked and didn't like.  Remember every one has different tastes, and
    different needs.  The trip reports will also give you ideas about areas
    that you would like to research further.  Look at the conference
    directory for topics on specific things you are interested in.

    4. Ask questions.  No one in this conference has ever shied away from
    giving free advise.  And it's worth every cent :-)

    Have fun, and good luck!

    (BTW, Admission prices will be found in note 96.*)

    Bob,
    
    One more thing. October may seem far off but you should plan on
    gathering as much info as you can as quickly as you can so you can make
    your reservations as soon as you can. Our fellow noters can assure you
    that the closer you get to your travel date the harder it will be to
    get exactly what you want for accomodations.
    
    Mike_123_days_to_go

    I recently tried to reserve a room at the CBR (through Central
    reservations) but could not get the full number of nights I needed.
    I am waitlisted for the remainder.  In the course of the discussions,
    some of the rules around waitlists were explained.  I'm not sure
    if this changes from resort to resort or dependent on time of year but
    this is the info I received:
    
    Once you have reservations for some portion of your stay:
    
    -if you need previous nights, their system will attempt to add the 
     missing nights up UNTIL 26 days prior to beginning of your reserved
     nights.  After that you must call manually to check availability.
    
    -if you only need subsequent nights, their system will try UNTIL 15
     days prior to your arrival. After that you must call manually.
    
    In all cases, it will only credit you with nights for the same ROOM
    CLASS. 
    
    Example:    I reserved 5 night and need 2 subsequent.
    	        I was waited for them.
    	  	A couple days later I called and they did have the other
    	        nights but not in the same room class so they hadn't been
    	 	given to me.
    
    		I explained that I didn't mind changing room (I prefer that
    	        to going off-property) so they created a second reservation
    	 	for the other room class.
    
    		At my request they kept me waitlisted for the full 7 nights
    	        for each rom class so potentially I could stay without
    	        having to change rooms.
    
    	        The drawback is having to pay two deposits but if I do get
    		cleared for the full number of nights in any one of the
    		two classes, they explained that the extra reservation
    		could  be cancelled and the deposit transferred.
    
    

    RE: waitlists
    
    The policy in .92 is exactly how it was explained to me, but I have
    doubts as to whether it (waitlisting) really works.
    
    For our recent stay, we were waitlisted twice.  I never picked up any
    additional days from the waitlist.  But, when I called the day after
    the waitlist period expired, they were able to find extra days on the
    system.
    
    Give it a try, but don't count on it.  We were able to book 14 nights
    in a row just by calling a few times and picking up cancellations as
    they became available.  Also, if your plans change and you end up
    arriving a day early, as we did, try calling the resort directly.  I
    don't think the CRO will pick up same-day cancellations.  Phone numbers
    for each resort are listed in the booklet they send you after you make
    a reservation.  I could probably dig out the booklet and look them up
    if anyone needs the numbers in a hurry.
    
    /Don, still unpacking the trailer

    Re: .92
    
    How far in advance are you booking?

    An update to .85:
    
    First, thank you George for your reply!  It gave me the courage to
    call the information number again.
    
    I just called the information number again and they have set the
    operating hours for the last week of May.  The following comparisons
    refer to the hours the parks were open when we were there last
    October.  MGM is open two hours later.  Epcot is open one hour
    later during the week and two hours later on the weekend.  The MK
    is open one hour later during the week and open 'til midnight on
    the weekend.  Illuminations will be performed at park closing.
    The Main Street Electrical Parade is scheduled to run at 9:00 and
    11:00 on the weekend but is subject to cancellation (more proof
    that "open 'til midnight" doesn't guarantee anything).  So, although
    the parks won't be open as late as I'd like, it looks like we'll
    have more Disney time available (maximize, maximize) and we have a
    good chance of seeing the parade.
    
    To add further confusion to the midnight = parade debate, I was
    reading the park guide they give out for the Magic Kingdom.  It
    states that the electrical parade runs when the park is open 'til
    midnight.
    
    On a humorous note (pun intended)...  The person I was talking to
    about the electrical parade couldn't remember the name of it.  He
    had to hum a few bars of "Baroque Hoedown" in my ear before he
    could recall it!

    Yes this is true. I returned this last week (March 18) and can confirm
    that for you. Further, the fireworks demo will not be held until
    then or later either. This leaves you with only one parade at 15:00
    hours.
    
    It was unfortunate that they don't tell you any of this when you
    enter the park. The kids and us older kids were pretty disappointed.
    
    Tanned and Relaxed.

    re: .96

�   It was unfortunate that they don't tell you any of this when you
�   enter the park. The kids and us older kids were pretty disappointed.
    
    The trick is to pick up an entertainment schedule when you first enter
    the park.  These are available at City Hall in the MK, and Earth
    Station in Epcot, as well as other locations.  The Entertainment
    schedule lists all the shows, character greetings, parades, and other
    special events for the week.  They are an important tool for planning
    your day.

    re: .76 and .77
    
    You asked for and published a list of scanner frequencies back in
    January. My ham husband is dying to know which of them were active,
    and if you found any more to listen to. He wants to bring his handheld
    and do a little QSO'ing. He's not really into WDW, so this would
    keep him occupied while I have a good time in the MK.
    
    Thanks in advance for any further information.
    
    
    Linda
    K1JCU's XYL

    re: .98
    
    I forgot to mention, we will be leaving four weeks from today.
    
    Thanks again
    
    Linda (28 days and counting)    

    
    Some interesting scanner freguencies:
    
    464.125    security.  seemed to be very active.  hard to believe that
    		they seemed to cover whole complex.  but from
    		communications, they were all over the place.
    
    462.575    monorails.  interesting to listen to
    
    453.825	medical/fire   interesting.  seemed to be high medical
    		activity.
    
    464.125	security.
    455.925	fire f2
    
    many other freqs listed in 3.4 and 29.77  but found these to be the
    best to listen to at the time we were there.  gut feeling that
    there are more 'good' freqs out there waiting to be discovered.
    
    ed
    
    

    
       Does anyone know if WDW has redesigned the resort guest ID card?
      I have one from 85 and one from 89 that are exactly the same. They
      both have the Castle in the foreground and the Contemporary in the
      background. No EPCOT or MGM logos. I asked if these were being
      updated back in 89 and I got two conflicting answers one yes, one
      no. Any recent guests out there that could tell me if the resort
      guest ID has been updated to reflect the times?
    
                                 Curious to add to my collection
    
                                -Rob
    
    

    I have three resort IDs in my collection.  One from '87, one from '89,
    and one from '90.  The following is from memory, subject to
    verification when I get home.

    The '87 version was printed on white card stock, with brown ink.  I
    don't remember any graphics on the card, but there may be some.  It had
    been pre-printed with all the vital information: guest name, resort
    code - G in our case for the Disney Inn, (who knows why the Disney Inn
    is "G"?), and check-out date.  The room number was written by the desk
    clerk.  Since our room wasn't ready when we checked in, they left it
    blank.  It made it interesting when we tried to charge something later
    that day.

    By '89 it appeared that the system had changed.  The cards were now
    plastic, and the vital information was printed on local printer at the
    registration desk at check-in time.  The front of the card had the name
    of the resort pre-printed across the top, (Ft. Wilderness this time),
    in dark red ink.  The reverse had the Ft. Wilderness "Mickey with
    Musket" logo in the same color.  The IDs I saw from the other resorts
    were similar, with their own logos etc., but all the same color.

    In '90 the IDs were identical to the '89 ones, except they were green
    instead of red.  Obviously the change the color from time to time.

    Anybody know if there's a central 'Guest Mail' point that I could 
    use?
    
    Here's the problem. A colleague from another conference wants to 
    get a bunch of T Shirts over to the UK from the US. To save a 
    fortune in delivery charges, I don't mind picking them up from 
    Orlando (Preferably WDW) and bringing them back, but we might be 
    jumping around and changing reservations depending on 'specials', 
    so I can't give a resort as a definite address.
    
    Is there a central point that I could use as a delivery address, 
    or is there another simple solution that I'm not aware of, 'cos 
    I'm a foreigner.
    
    Mike.

I have read many of the notes in this conference and have found them very 
helpful. I have a question I have not been able to find an answer to yet.

I am planning to drive down to Disneyworld this October. There will be three
"adults" in my group. We plan to stay 7 nights in the world area and are 
looking for a place to stay that 

	1. has transportation to and from the parks (one of the "adults" may 
	   have a different schedule from the other two)

	2. has suites or whatever that have two bedrooms (prefer not to rent 
	   two $eparate rooms - $$ reasons) 

	3. is a nice place for a nice price (also any info on deals, packages
	   would be greatly appreciated.)

It looks like our only option on Disney property is the Village (the condo-type
places). Is that true? 

Do any of the hotels off the property provide transportation to and from the 
parks?

Thanks in advance for any help.

Jack
	

    The attached is an "Unofficial Guide" summary of the attractions at the 
    major DisneyWorld parks, the best times to visit them, and the estimated 
    wait time for each. We found it to be worthwhile, although it could not be
    relied upon with 100% accuracy. There are just too many variables at play.
    For example, many of the attractions they list as ok to see anytime before
    11:30 were mobbed by 10:30. However, it is good for identifying what 
    should be done early in the day vs an "anytime" ride, or at least it 
    prepares you for a long wait.

All information is taken from "The Unofficial Guide To Walt Disney 
World and Epcot". I would recommend purchasing this book and using 
the recommended itineraries it provides to help you beat the crowds. 

Some of the newer attractions are not listed.

Mike

    
    key:
    
*   = first thing in the morning
<   = before the time listed
>   = after the time listed
"x" = no exact time frames provided.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

				MAGIC KINGDOM		       

			     Morning   Mid     End	Wait time
			               day    of day	
				     
 Main Street
  Walt Disney World Railroad  		x	x	8 min p/100 people
  Walt Disney Story			x		no sig. wait
  Main St Cinema	    <-------anytime--------->   no sig. wait

 Adventurland
  Swiss Family Treehouse     <11:00		>5:00	7 min p/100 people
  Jungle Cruise		     <11:00		@close  3-4 min p/100 people
  Pirates of the Caribean           11:30-4:00		1-2 min p/100 people
  Tropical Serenade	     <11:00		x	15 min (total)
  Veranda Reetaurant			x		

 Frontierland
  Big Thunder Mtn Railroad   <11:00		>5:30	2-3 min p/100 people
  Diamond Horseshoe Jamboree	 must reserve
  Country Bear Jamboree	     <12:00		@close	30-50 Min (total)
  Tom Sawyer Island and		    10:30-4:00		no wait (a playground)
	Ft Sam Clemens
  Davy Crocket's Canoes	     <12:00		>5:00	28 min p/100 people
  Shooting Gallery	     <-------anytime-------->   no sig. wait
  Walt Disney World Railroad  		x	x	8 min p/100 people
  Restaurants			x		x

 Liberty Square
  Hall of Presidents	     <12:00		>4:00	40 min (total)
  Liberty Square Riverboat   <12:30		>3:30	15 min (total)
  Haunted Mansion	     <11:30		>3:30	2-3 min p/100 people
  Mike Fink Keelboats	     <11:30		>5:00	15 min p/100 people
  Restaurants 
   (Liberty Tree Tavern)		x

 Fantasyland	
  It's a Small World		    11:00-5:00		1-2 min p/100 people
  Skyway to Tomorrowland	x (or at spec. events)  10 min p/100 people
  Peter Pan's Flight	     <11:30		>5:00	5-6 min p/100 people
  Magic Journeys		    12:00-4:00		12 min (total)
  Cinderella's Carrousel     <11:00		>5:00	5 min p/100 people
  Mr Toad's Wild Ride	     <12:00		>5:00	5-6 min p/100 people
  Snow White's Scary Advent. <11:30		>5:00	6-7 min p/100 people
  20,000 Leag. Under The Sea   (*)		@close	8 min p/100 people
  Dumbo, The Flying Elephant <10:00		>5:00	20 min p/100 people
  Mad Tea Party		     <11:30		>5:00	7-8 min p/100 people
  Restaurant (King Stefan's
    in the Castle)		must reserve 

 Mickey's Birthdayland
  Mickey's Surprise Party	 	x		10 min (total)
  Grandma Duck's Petting Farm <-------anytime-------->	no wait
  Small Children's Play Area <-------anytime-------->   no wait

 Tomorrowland
  Space Mountain	       (*)		6-7pm	2-3 min p/100 people
  Grand Prix raceway	     <11:00		>5:00	4-5 min p/100 people
  Skyway to Fantasyland		x (or at spec. events)  10 min p/100 people
  Starjets		     <11:00 		>5:00	13 min p/100 people
  WEDway People mover		    11:30-4:30		1-2 min p/100 people
  Dreamflight			    11:30-4:30		3 min p/100 people
  World Prem. Circle Vision	    11:30-4:30		10 min (total)
   (American Journeys)
  Mission to Mars		    11:00-4:30		10 min (total)
  Restaurants			ok anytime


			EPCOT CENTER

			     Morning   Mid     End	Wait time
			               day    of day	

Future World
 Spaceship Earth	       (*)		>5:30	3 min p/100 people
 Earth Station			anytime (not really an attraction)
 Comminicore			anytime (not really an attraction)
 The Living Seas	     <10:00		>3:00	3-4 min p/100 people
 The Land
  -Listen to the Land	     <10:30		>7:30	3 min p/100 people
  -Kitchen Kabaret	     <11:00		>3:00	10 min (total)
  -Harvest Thtr (Symbiosis)  <11:00		>3:00	15 min (total)
 Journey Into Imagination	
  -Journey into Imag'n Ride  <10:30		>7:00	3 min p/100 people
  -The Image Works		go after above ride	no sig. wait
  -Magic Eye Theater:CAPT EO <11:00		>5:00   12 min (total)
 The World of Motion
  -It's fun to be free		x		x	2-3 min p/100 people
  -Transcenter			anytime (not really an attraction)
 Horizons		     <10:30		>3:30   4 min p/100 people
 Wonders of Life		
  -Body Wars		       (*)			4 min p/100 people
  -Cranium Command	     <11:00		>3:00	10 min (total)
  -Fitness Fairgrounds		anytime (not really an attraction)
 Universe of Energy	     <10:30		>4:30	20-30 min (total)

World Showcase
 Mexico: El Rio del Tempo     <11:00		>7:00	4-5 min p/100 people
 Norway: Maelstrom	      <10:00		>3:00	4 min p/100 people
 China: Wonders of China      <------anytime-------->	10 min (total)
 US: An American Adventure    <12:00		>3:30	16 min (total)
 France: Impressions de France<11:00		>7:00	12 min (total)
 Canada: O Canada!				x	10 min (total)

 Restaurants:	Advised to make reservations; Go to the U.S. for fast food.




			      DISNEY MGM

			     Morning   Mid     End	Wait time
			               day    of day	

Movie/Theme Park
 The Great Movie Ride	     <10:00		>5:00	2 min p/100 people
 Superstar Television		    11:00-4:00		10-20 min (total)
 Star Tours			(*)			5 min p/100 people
 Monster Sound Show		(*)			20-50 min (total)
 Indiana Jone Stunt Spectac.	    11:00-4:00		no sig. wait
 Theater of the Stars	     <-------anytime--------->  no wait
 
Studio Tours
 Disney-MGM Animation Tour   <10:30		>5:00	7 min p/100 people
 Backstage Studio Tour	     <10:30		>3:00	2 min p/100 people

Restaurants:
 Hollywood Brown derby		Reserve
 50's Prime Time Cafe		Reserve (good for kids)

    I am now planning our 1992 trip, and have a general question (and some
    information to pass along).
    
    First, the question:
        We are planning to get annual passports, as our trip will be for 
    17 or 18 days, and we like the "luxury" of being able to go A LOT. 
    Also, our stay will be a combination of on/off property (and even the
    on-property time may be some combination of days on one of the plans
    vs. non-plan days).  I just think it's all "cleaner" if we have the
    AP's.  My "question" is, do I have this sequence of things I should do
    in the right order?  #1, I'll get an MKC card (I think that I'm going
    to call the # tonight and get a gold one).  At the same time, I'll be
    calling the # to get information on the various plans, individual room
    rates, etc. - is this the CRO #???  #2, Once I've got the MKC card,
    I'll call the number that's in the AP note and get AP's for all of us
    (actually, do I need to wait 'til I have the MKC card to do that, or
    would I get some information when I'm ordering it that would let me
    start working on the AP stuff right away.  You know that I'm asking
    about being able to use the MKC discount on the AP cost.)  I do know
    that I'll be getting the AP voucher and not actually the AP itself,
    'til we go next year and get our pictures taken, etc.  #3, I'll work
    on all the room reservations, getting a deal for whatever AP entitles
    us to.      I know that this got to be a long QUESTION, but I'm trying
    to figure out what I can do, and when.
    
    The information I have to pass along concerns the Disney Magic Years
    Club.  It's for folks over 60, and my mom just got one.  It came with
    some of the "trinkets" described elsewhere - tote, key chain, etc., and
    an MKC vacation booklet.  It costs $30 for a lifetime membership.  It
    turns out, though, that you can only use it for yourself and one other
    person - so we can't use it to get AP's, more than one room, etc.  So,
    it's a good deal for mom, but someone else in the family (me) has to
    get an MKC membership to get benefits for all of us (5) who are
    probably going next year.
    
    Jean

    Jean,
    
    First and foremost you need to get the GOLD MKC card. This will enable
    you to get the MKC prices. As a matter of fact I think I'll order my
    Gold Card tonight 'cause I want to order my vouchers soon.
    
    YOu can call the CRO at 1-800-Mickey-1 and if they can't provide you
    with answers to your questions they'll be more than happy to provide
    you the proper number or numbers to call.
    
    Re: World Plans
    
    Take some time and study these vacation plans and match them up against
    non-plans. That is, figure out your vacation time down there on a
    special plan and then estimate the cost if you weren't on the plan. 
    
    For some it's better a la carte.
    
    Re: Magic Years Plan
    
    Thanks for the info. Hopefully Jim Pappas will add to this when he
    returns. Hmmm, let's see Ol' Jim might be by the pool around this time
    or could be getting ready to return to one of the parks for an evening
    of fun.
    
    Mike

    re -.1  
    
    Hi Mike, I'm way behind on notes in this conference, so please
    bear with me if this is answered elsewhere.
    
    You say the the GOLD MKC card is required to get the MKC prices
    on the annual passport?  Is this true? or can one simply use the
    MKC club cards we can get through Digital?
    
    We most likely aren't going until '93, but I'm contemplating purchasing
    the vouchers for Christmas!
    
    thanks - peter

    Peter,
    
    	    You can use the normal MKC card to purchase AP vouchers, 
    no problem! The Gold Card is only necessary if you are a Disney 
    'Snob' like Mike S. [8-) 8-) Only joking Mike!] The Gold Card, as 
    previously discussed, does have a nice package with it, and is 
    worth the money if you are a serious Disneyholic.
    
    	    Although you can buy your vouchers now, remember to get a 
    new card later on which is valid for the '93 period you are going. 
    You may need to produce it as you turn in the vouchers (but you'll 
    probably be a Gold member by then anyway!)
    
    Mike B.

    THANKS -that is what I thought was the situation around using the
    MKC to purcahse AP vouchers.  I always have a valid MKC card and
    make use of it at the Disney Store in the Pheasant Run Mall.
    
    Mike, being a "DISNEYsnob" is ok in my book. If not for Mike, I 
    wouldn't be able to watch a tape of some highlights of WDW that
    he took on his last visit.  It gets me over that itis that keeps
    popping up!
    
    peter

    The other Mike is right Peter. My MKC card just ran out and I've been
    thinking about getting a Gold card. I wanted to get a gold card before
    ordering the vouchers for the APs.
    
    By the way, I called The Magic Kingdom Club yesterday and ordered my
    gold card and had an interesting conversation with the person on the
    other end.
    
    She asked me if my employer offerred the card and I said "Well yes the
    regular card." She said, "Yes it's free so you won't need to get one
    through us."
    
    I said, "But gold cards aren't available through employers correct?"
    
    "Yes that's right."
    
    "Well I'd like to order a gold card."
    
    "Okay, we just like to let people know that they can get a MKC free."
    
    Actually the conversation came across in a manner that suggested she
    didn't want to sell me the gold card.
    
    Anyway, it's on it's way so this Disney-snob will be ordering his AP's
    within another month or so.
    
    Peter, sounds like you're thinking AP's for '93.
    
    Mike

    Peter,
    
    	    I did put some smiley faces in, but obviously my jealousy 
    still showed through. To try and 'Keep up with the Joneses' from 
    here in the UK costs an arm and a leg. We finally got the overseas 
    subscription rates for Disney Adventures, and it's four times the 
    US rate! What with not being able to use 800 numbers, shipping 
    charges, dollar conversion rates and so on, this is becoming an 
    expensive addiction. I'm really very grateful to the regulars like 
    Mike, Len, Claude, Jim and Robespierre for keeping me informed for 
    the cost of a few electrons.
    
    Thanks Guys (and Girls - Sorry, Ruth!)
    
    Mike in Warrington

    Well, I'm not getting any responses in the FW note, so I'll try here.
    If I'm staying at FW in a tent - no RV/Trailer, which loop would be
    best?
    
    Kathy
    

    
    Kathy,
    
          Which loop will be best for you depends on what is most important
       to you.  Some loops are very close to Pioneer Hall, the beach, River
       country.  Other loops are quite close to the Meadow trading post,
       Bike barn, Main pool.  The later is were I prefer the 1000 loop
       "Racoon Lane" this is directly across from the Meadow trading post.
       For some loops,(quite possibly Racoon lane) you will have to pay a
       higher fee for prefered campsites.  I guess it boils down to what is
       most important to you?
    
                               -Rob
    

    Thanks for the info.  I guess I was nervous about whether or not some
    of the sites were "wet" at times.  Since I'm basically sleeping on the
    ground I was concerned about that.  Also, I didn't know if tents or
    RV's were put in specific areas of the park.  After having read some
    other notes, I did realize I need to ask for the begining or end of the
    loop to be near the bus stops (correct?).
    
    Kathy_her_first_time_at_FW   
    

    Kathy,
    
    	I went through the FW note looking for info about a month ago.  I 
    believe that buried in there is already a lot of information about
    which loops are where and what's close to them.  There is one reply
    that even tells which loops are underwater when it rains.  This winter
    will be our 2nd time in FWW but we stay in a trailer - it's great!
    
    George

Kathy,

	In the fort wilderness note read 14.25 - .32.  .32 is
	the one which talks about "wet" campsites.  You may want 
    	to read a few others following too.

	In additon.  GENRAL::RV is an RV notesfile.  Note numbers
	17.12, .40, .44 and .72 may give more info on sites in FT
	Wilderness.  Check em out.

	Bryan
    

    
    
    my family and i (husband, me and 8yr old son)will be visiting WDW at the 
    end of sept/first of oct.  my son has never been and it has been a
    while for the two adults....
    
    I would like any pointers/information from
    WDW alumni so i will know the following (or at least have a good idea)
    
    where to go 
    what to do 
    good resturants (family likes meat and potatoes)
    what not to miss
    
    
    thanks for any input  
     
    

Hi,

	I am planning a trip to WDW with my 2 years old son.
	I would like to know following information.

	1. What are the intresting parks/places for 2 year old kid?

	2. What is the travelling time from airport to CBR via Mears motor
	   shuttle?

	3. Is the their any age limitation for admission in the Adventurland /
	   Theme parks? if so ,What are the parks/places where the kids are 
	   allowed to take the rides with the parents?

				Thanks in advance ,
					Milind.

re. .121

  I took my niece and nephew (ages 9 and 7) two years ago.  (I'm sure their
  behavior was different than it would have been with their parents.)

  I was concerned about the guide books recommending to save the Magic 
  Kingdom for last.  I did not want to have to hear "When are going to see
  Mickey Mouse?" for the first week.  So instead I tried to set expectations
  accordingly.  I explained to them that zoos and amusement parks were 
  different but they have fun at both.  I then explained that EPCOT and other 
  places we went to would be different than the Magic Kingdom.  Something
  must have worked because they enjoyed all of the parks.

  I also would narrow down the list of restaurants and let the kids decide
  where to go.  (One of the criteria was whether or not there would be
  something on the menu the kids would enjoy.)

  Marilyn

    First timers (young or old) really should visit TMK before EC and MGM
    because of two main reasons:
    
      o Visiting The Magic Kingsom first establishes a foundation for your
        visit. Familiar characters (Mickey, DOnald, Pluto, etc.) and familiar
        sites (most noteworthy the castle) puts you in the proper WDW mode.
    
      o Scondly, there is a slight technological gap in the
        audioanimatronic figures between the three parks. This gap may
        someday dwindle down to almost nothing but presently there is an
        obvious difference between the actions in "Tiki", "Pirates...",
        "Country Bear..." as compared those seen in "American Adventure.."
        or "the Great Movie Ride".
    
    In general, those who go to EC and MGM first on their initial visit to
    Orlando somehow never take to TMK like those of use who way back when
    had just TMK and an artist's rendition of EPCOT (1975).
    
    Mike 

    In response to 29.121:
    
    You did not mention how long you will be there.  I will assume you are
    spending 5 to 7 days.  You need at least one day at each park.
    (the bare minimum)
    
    I agree with Mike - you should go to TMK first.  If you browse through
    the notes on each theme park you should get an idea of what to see
    first etc....  As to where to eat - see the note on Dining at WDW.
    Most restaurants in the World cater to children so it's not a problem.
    If all of you can swim don't miss Typhoon Lagoon!
    
    And never miss an oppportunity to try the Dole Whip!
    
    Kathy
    

    Where is  the best place/park to be on new eyars eve?
    op inions please.
    ed
    

    I'd vote for Pleasure Island.

    Well, my preference would be the Magic Kingdom.  For the atmosphere. 
    Unless of course you want to do some dinner and dancing and drinking,
    then I'd second Mike's choice of PI.
    
    - Skip

    Based on past experience, the Magic Kingdom is an excellent place to
    spend New Year's eve.  Becareful not to get on a ride too close to
    midnite though, I spent more than one New Year's eve stuck on Space
    Mountain.  Bring a warm coat.

    THE Lasershow/fireworks in Epcot are INCREDIBLE for New Years'. I was
    there 3 years ago. 
    
    I've never been in a war, but I imagine that the effect is the same.
    The show started at midnite and for 15-20 minutes the ground was
    shaking from the BOOMS of the fireworks, and it was like daytime with
    the light given off by them. 
    
    NOTE: all the locals show up for the show (can u blame them), so be
    prepared for a crowd. People are getting viewing spots at 6-7 pm !
    By the time midnight rolls around it is CROWDED (wall to wall people
    around the lagoon). After the fireworks there is a mass of humanity
    heading for the parking lot.
                            * * * * *
                         I M P O R T A N T
     
     (IF YOU ARE GOING TO END UP IN EPCOT --- PARK YOUR CAR IN EPCOT SO
     YOU DON'T HAVE TO USE WDW TRANSPORTATION !...DITTO FOR OTHER AREAS.
     PARK WHEREVER YOU PLAN ON ENDING UP THE NIGHT. .....   TOO MANY 
     PEOPLE TO WAIT FOR TRANSPORTATION.)
                            * * * * *
    
    When I was there, I walked from Epcot to my car. I got in my car and
    made a note of the time-- it was exactly 01:00 AM when I started my
    car. At 01:10 AM I was on the phone in my hotel room at the Day's Inn
    at Sand Lake Road (International Drive). I was impressed: Can those
    people move cars !
    

    Just thought I'd post some WDW Special Events for 1992:
    
       o The "Surprise Celebration" 20th Anniversary Parade will be
         presented during extended hours at the Magic Kingdom.
    
       o Easter Sunday Parade (nationally televised) at the Magic Kingdom.
    
       o Extended hours at all theme parks on Easter Sunday.
      
    *********************************************************************
                            Summer    Specials
    
       o "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks every night in TMK.
    
       o "The Nighttime Dazzle of Illuminations" every night at EC.
    
       o The Electrical Water Pageant every night at the Seven Seas Lagoon.
    
       o "Sorcery in the Sky" fireworks show at MGM every night.
    
       o On July 4th Epcot and TMK offer a larger than normal fireworks
         and laser (EC) spectacular.
    
       o One weekend in July there will be a Classic Car Show at the
         Marketplace and Pleasure Island. 150 vintage cars will be showcased.
    
       o "Kids' Night Out, a "fun fair" at the Marketplace, will run from
         June through August.
    
    *********************************************************************
    
       o November Art Festival at the Marketplace in November.
    
       o Magical Christmas Celebrations in December with extended hours.
    
    Mike

    I'm going to DW the last week in Juna and the first week in July...
    What are the current prices of passes at..
    
    DW?
    Seaworld?
    MGM?
    Buschgardens?
    Universal?
    
    REK

    DW - Depends on the type of passes you get.
         1 day is approaching $35
         5 and 6 day passes are in the area of $160-170.
    SW - Figure on $25-30
    MGM- See DW
    Busch Gardens - Probably close to SW
    Universal - Close to $30
    
    These are guesstimates but I think they are pretty accurate.

    I can't find the answer anywhere so here the situation...
    
    We are planning to drive to DW this summer.  I'm evaluating land
    packages for cost vs doing it myself.  The only anser I can't find is
    how much does it cost to park for the day at DW attractions?  
    
    If anyone has done land-only packages feel free to contact me with any
    comments, pro and con.
    
    gog_who_is_getting_a_bit_confused_with_all_these_deals :-))

    Rep to <<< Note 29.140 by FSOA::OGRADY "George, 297-5322, US Retail/Wholesale SW" >>>

>    The only anser I can't find is
>    how much does it cost to park for the day at DW attractions?  

    $4/day, unless you are staying at a WDW Resort then free.
    
    Claude

    If you have an Annual Passportholder amongst the group in the car, 
    again, parking is free.
    
    Mike B

    
    Was told last week at the Disney Village Marketplace by a cast
    member that very shortly the MKC card will no longer be honored
    in the marketplace. I couldn't get much more info than that. So
    if your looking for that 10% discount, better get it now....
    
    George

    Hi,
    
         I have two questions about the disney world.  
    
    1.  Is there and electric parade in February?
    
    2.  And in February, what are the parks hours in WdW, MgM, Epcot?
    
    
    thanks
    
    Mike
    Feb 93'

    Visitors planning a visit to Walt Disney World can obtain a vacation
    discount coupon book from Kissimmee-St. Cloud, offering discounts up to
    50% at many Central Florida attractions and lodging properties.
    
    The coupon savings are part of the area's Great Fall-Winter Getaway
    starting Sunday and continuing through March 31st of next year.
    
    Kissimmee-St. Cloud is located near Walt Disney World, Sea World and
    Universal Studios and offers the areas most affordable lodging and
    dining.
    
    For a free Great Fall-Winter Getaway Vacation Coupon Book, contact
    Kissimmee-St. Cloud, P.O. Box 422007, Kissimmee, Fla. 34742
                                                               

    There is an 800# for .145 as well as a lot more in note 179.33.
    Happy saving.

    Make that just note 179. Thanks
    

 

 Hi, 

 4 of us are planning on a fly drive to ORLANDO (Two centre for 2 weeks checking
 out Disney etc etc..) we have a few queries...

 1) We want to go in early November this year, are there any school holidays
    or sudden influx of people at this time?

 2) What the weather is like and the hours of daylight at this time of year?

 3) Is there any problem upgrading to a jeep/4WD type vehicle?

 4) Can anyone think of any problems we may incur this time of year...?


 any help would be greatly appreciated...

 Stewart Piesley ... LONDON

    
    Hi,
    
          I never have the time to look at all the replies looking for
    my questions about the parks schedule, so if someone could answer
    my questions and send them in mail I would greatly appreciate. I
    am going in Feburary for my honeymoon.
    
    I am looking for:  The times that all parks open and close
                       If they have fireworks everynite and where
                       If they have the electric parade and where
    
    thanks again....and don't forget I am going in february 14th week
                    of school vacation...
    
    
    Mike Jubinville
    usadec::mjubinville
    

    Rep to <<< Note 29.149 by JUPITR::MJUBINVILLE >>>

>    I am looking for:  The times that all parks open and close

    We don't officially  post  the  time,  unless someone who is going down
    happens to be nice  enough to post what they find out when they call in
    topic 98.  Best source for this is to call your local Disney Store, see
    topic 16.39 for the current listing, which  is  probably  cheaper  than
    calling WDW yourself.
    
>                       If they have fireworks everynite and where

    Only when the parks are open late.
    
>                       If they have the electric parade and where

    Only when the MK is open past 10pm.

re: .148

I don't think you'll find any school holidays between Columbus Day (in
October) and Thanksgiving, so you should be safe.

I don't recall ever noticing a jeep/4WD for rent, but that doesn't mean
they don't exist.  Finding one in Florida may be another story. 
Without snow or mountains, and very limited motor vehicle access to
beaches, they probably don't get much call for them.  For that matter,
I can't imagine why you'd want one.  Getting a convertible should be no
problem, and getting what are called utility vehicles around here
(Pathfinder, Trooper, etc., high off the ground, truck-like, hard roof,
not necessarily 4WD) should be easier than a traditional jeep.

   Gary

    I know I read it somewhere, and to take the easy way out, can someone
    verify for me whether the Disney 5 day pass allows you to park for 
    free at the parks?  Thanks.
    
    Jean (who's heading out to Orlando tomorrow)
    
    

    Hmmm,
    
    I was under the impression that only Resort ID's and Annual Passports
    get you in free.
    
    Mike
    
    P.S. AP's do not give you access to that walkway between the
         Contemporary and TMK front gate.

    	Sorry, 5 day super passes don't give you free parking.  You still
    have to shell out the $4.00 a day.  Unless of course you park at the
    WDW Village and take the buses from there as we did on the last day,
    purely by accident.  My brother said, "I wish we had figured this out
    earlier, we could have saved $20!".
    
    Tom

    Johns Hopkins University just concluded a study on World Population and
    identified areas in most need of birth control.
    
    Brazilians seem to be the most "active" people in the world.
    
    I guess that explains it.
    
    Mike 

    	That's why they are always so happy and jumping around clapping
    their hands and singing I guess!
    
    Tom

                <<< TALLIS::S2:[NOTES$LIBRARY]FLORIDA.NOTE;1 >>>
                                  -< Florida >-
================================================================================
Note 517.1                RENTAL NEAR DISNEY AVAILABLE                    1 of 2
LISVAX::CABRAL::CABRAL "JOAO CABRAL"                 23 lines  23-APR-1993 05:27
                            -< Information Disney >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hello,

    I'm new in this conference.

    But I'm interested to visit Disney in September.

    I would like to know as much as possible about Hotels(or apartments), rent a 
cars and other places to visit near Disney (cities,beach,etc...).

    I would like to know details like prices,wheater ,etc...

    I know nothing, so if you can send this information to me I will be very 
happy.

    My nodename is LISVAX...

    .....My username is CABRAL.

    ..........And I'm from Portugal...

    regards,

    Joao    
    

Hi all,
	I have just decided on the spur of the moment to book a vacation
	from the UK to Florida. I will be there in August.
	There are three of us - 2 adults and one 7 year old.
	We intend to spend approx 10 nights in Orlando area. WDW and all that.

	Question:  Does anyone know the current entrance charges for
		   DisneyWorld etc. ?
		   1,2,3,4,5 day passports ?

Regards... Bryan 

P.S. I have been before, last time about 5 years ago.

    Bryan,
    
    Check the latest prices posted in topic 96.
    
    Mike

    Hi all,
    
    We are leaving in 4 days for the World. Driving down from Trenton, NJ.
    Without pushing it I plan on being at WDW on Saturday afternoon.
    
    Yesterday I booked saturday night at Dixie Landings, originally we were
    not checking in till sunday. 
    
    Here's where you come in.
    
    Our passes won't begin until Sunday, that gives us Saturday afternoon
    and night to goof around. We will probably go swimming, maybe eat at
    the Contemporary buffet and wait around to watch the electric water
    pagent from the CR dock.
    
    What would you do your first half day at the world?? We don't want to
    pay for one day passes to any of the parks.
    
    Let's have some fun with this! I want to hear from all of you.
    
    Regards,
    
    John (Itis working in overdrive)

    John,
    We'll be in the same situation next month.  We arrive in Orlando in
    the early afternoon, Monday September 13.  Our five day Admiral Plan 
    doesn't start until Tuesday.  We booked an extra night at the beginning and
    end of the plan.  
    
    We want to do the free stuff like shopping and lounging around our
    first and last half days.  The other five days we'll be busy trying
    to get our money's worth out of our package.  
    
    On my last trip in 1990, Dixie Landings, Port Orleans and the Yacht and
    Beach Club didn't exist.  We thought we might stroll around and check
    out these hotels.  We're staying in the Beach Club though, and from
    all that I've read about what they have to offer, I doubt whether we'll
    venture out of there on Monday.  I'll probably hang out by the pool all
    afternoon and then maybe I'll work out in their health club to justify
    what I plan to eat later on at Beaches and Cream.  Yummmmm!!!
    
    Our last half day we'll probably end up at the WDW Shopping Village.
    You could easily wander around there for an entire afternoon.  Pleasure
    Island is open to all during the daytime also and they have some
    interesting shops there.  There are some great restaurants out that way
    also.  Chef Mickey's, The Portobello Yacht Club, and the Steerman's 
    Quarters all come to mind.
    
    Have fun!!
    Kristen
      

How about going to the Campfire Sing-Along and movies in Fort Wilderness?
You could also use the water sprites, tubies, canoes, bicycles, etc that are
for rent.  You could cruise around the different resorts and check out all
the swimming pools, or spend the time at the Disney Village Marketplace and
get some of your shopping done up front.

                                           Tracy

    The last two replies pretty much cover it. Basically you can check out
    the hotels, the shopping village, and Fort Wilderness.
    
    Also, why not try booking the Luau at the Poly or even The Hoop at FW
    for your first night.
    
    Mike

    In my case, I will be arriving three weeks from today at around 6pm. 
    My basic plan is to go get something to eat, and go to bed in order to
    be at the parks before opening time.
    
    tom

>    Also, why not try booking the Luau at the Poly or even The Hoop at FW
>    for your first night.

I don't think I'd do this if I was going on a package.  The dinner shows are
rather expensive and would be covered once the package starts.

                                                Tracy

    Hi,
    
    Any news on the theatre dinners in Orlando?  I'll be on
    holiday there soon, and have heard that the murder mystery dinner
    theatre was the best?  It's 15 years since I've been in Florida, so
    want to make the most of my two weeks:-0)
    
    Regards,
    
    Anne
    
       

    BTW......anyone ever stayed at the Days Inn, Lakeside?  Is it nice?
    How far is it from the Magic Kingdom??  Any recommendations for
    other hotels??
    
Anne.

    
Anne.


   See 37.235 re Lakeside.

Tony.

    
    I stayed at the Days Inn Lakeside for three weeks in June, it's not
    a palace but it was o.k for somewhere to crash out each night. I 
    enjoyed my stay there and would probably return. 
    
    It's close to all the parks, 10 minutes to Universal, 20 minutes to
    Walt Disney World, 10 minutes to Seaworld..
    
    Andy 

Three years ago we stayed at the Holiday Inn, I do not know what you are
specifically looking for, but we didn't have any complaints.......this was
our first trip so we didn't know much about the area and other hotels at the 
time...but I would stay there again

Candy

    We just got back from that area yesterday.  Continental had the best
    rates for flying, and as for hotels/motels, all along route 192 in
    Kissimmee (East gate, they call it) were numerous places advertising
    prices as low as $17 per night for a single.  We stayed at the Quality
    Suites - for a double it was $65.  That was probably the higher price for
    the area at this time of year.  If you are heading down during a school
    vacation period, I would guess the rates are going to skyrocket. 

    Yesterday I had a brief chat with a friend who went down to Orlando in
    January as her husband was running in the marathon. They took their
    5(?) year old daughter with them. Here's what she told me:
    
      * The first words out of her mouth was "You got to go to the Aladdin
        Character Breakfast in MGM." Apparently the big draw is the castmember
        who appears as Jasmine. This castmember was described to me as "the
        personification of the animated character from the movie" and I
        guess all the waitresses marvel at this castmember's 18" waistline.
        I recall the breakfast being $12 per adult and under $10 for children.
        You need reservations.
    
     
      * She was told by a castmember (Tony's Town Square Manager) that 
        SpectroMagic does not run in January at all. Keep that in mind
        if you think about going during that month.
    
      
      * So many complaints have been made regarding the outdated Snow
        White's Scary Adventures and Mr. Toad's Wild Ride that bot
        attractions are being strongly considered for either a complete
        renovation or even a replacement.
    
      
      * King Stephan's Banquet Hall still falls short from what one would 
        expect of a Disney restaurant. The food, especially the veggies, 
        just did not come close to that found in the other restaurants.
    
      
      * She recalls everything in TomorrowLand was shut down except for
        Space Mountain.
    
      
      * While in EPCOT they took in the Barbie Show and she said she was
        pleasantly surprised because the show had everything you would expect
        to see in a Broadway Production.
      
      
      * It seems that every shop in every World Showcase country has a
        Barbie doll for sale. There are also Barbie carts all over Epcot.
    
      
      * She raved a bit about the Teppanyaki Dining Room meal they enjoyed
        one day. Seems that this restaurant never really got kudos in the
        past.
    
      
      * I asked her if Captain EO was still there and yes he is alive and
        well.
    
      
      * The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is huge; she said it appears
        larger than TGMR. Apparently it's as visible from outside the park 
        as the Water Tower. She said she'll be curious to find out if the
        actual ride takes up most of the attraction....that's how big it
        is.
    
      
      * They tried the Sci-Fi Restaurant in MGM and yet I got another
        thumbs down for the food there. Everyone take notice...don't go there
        if you're hungry.
    
      
      * The Fort Wilderness Lodge is all but completed. Thery are currently 
        putting all the finishing touches together and castmembers are
        falling over one another to work there. It's supposed to be "The"
        place to work. I guess all new stuff gets this attention from
        castmembers.
    
      
      * The last two comments I feel worth mentioning is that she spoke
        very highly of both Chef Mickey's and The Portobello Yacht Club
        (opposite The Empress Lilly).
    
    Okay, now store all this info away and refer to it when planning your
    next trip.
    
    Mike

>      * They tried the Sci-Fi Restaurant in MGM and yet I got another
>        thumbs down for the food there. Everyone take notice...don't go there
>        if you're hungry.


I guess this all depends on how you rate dinners.  I've only eaten at 
the Sci-Fi and Prime Time at MGM and both times the only 
disappointment that I had was that although the names and presentation 
of the food were different the actual food between the two was about the 
same.

Now I eat **a lot** so my rating is usually on quantity (I usually 
rate all restaurants/DEC cafes on calories per $$).  I would rate the 
Sci-Fi and Prime Time exactly the same...with high marks on quantity.  
But, like all Disney eateries that I've sampled, I'd give them fairly 
low marks on calories/$$.

The only differating factor between the Prime Time and SciFi in my 
eyes is that I like the atmosphere in the Prime Time better...thus 
overall it would get a higher mark.

Cheers,

-Jay

PS: I've only eaten at each twice.

    I've been at Prime Time 3 times and enjoyed all three meals. I stick
    with the Pot Roast.
    
    I've heard less than good reports on Sci-Fi not just in this notesfile
    but from conversations with people at the parks.
    
    Mike

    Glad to hear the Portobello Yacht Club is still as good as I
    remembered. We will be taking our friends there for dinner during our
    trip in January. The three-cheese pizza appetizer is wonderful!
    
    Linda

    .171  Hi Mike, I was told you can't make reservations at the Alladin
          Character breakfast.  They said to just show up, but when I get
          down there I will call ahead to check to see if I can make the
          reservation.
    
          Julie
    

Hi Mike,

Well, now that we're flying, we're scheduled to arrive in Orlando the
morning of May 21st so it's about 101 days (not Dalmatians) from today, but
close enough...  :-) And on days like today, it can't come soon enough!!!

Skip Williams passes along this information...
    
    - The new Aladdin TV cartoon debuted on the Disney Channel recently.
    
    - Disney is coming out with a sequel to Aladdin. This will be released
      directly to video. It's title is something like "The Return of Jafar"
      and will be available this Spring.
    
    - WDW's Snow White's Adventures is planned for a rehab this summer.  Snow
      White herself is being added to the attraction (imagine that).  They 
      appear to taking the focus off the wicked queen and putting Snow into a 
      number of new scenes.  Apparently, this is the attraction guests
      complain about most often.  Unsuspecting parents take their kids on the 
      ride expecting a nice visit with Snow White and her little friends; 
      instead, the kids get the bejeebers scared out of them by the witch.  
      It should reopen sometime in December.

    - The conversion of the Star Jets in Tomorrowland into the Astro Orbiter
      should be complete in April.

    - Sunset Boulevard now has a target opening date of July 1st. It
      doesn't sound like it will be offering much more than a couple of shops 
      and the Tower...

    - Some rehab is being done to the roof of Pirates of the Caribbean and will
      be complete in June.  However, it's being done when the park is closed so
      it shouldn't affect the operation of the attraction during normal hours.

    - The first phase of the All-Star Resorts opens in April/May.


Mike

  My youngest ( 6 ) doesn't like the "thrill" rides at Disney much but 
  my oldest ( 9 ) does. 

  How does the "childminding" thing seen in various other notes in this 
  conference work? 

  Regards,

    They call it a "Child Swap" or a "Baby Swap".  It's available for most
    of the action rides.  I've used it at Body Wars and Star Tours but have
    never tried it at Space Mountain or BTMRR.
    
    The way it worked for us is that we (the family) went in line and when
    we got to the head of the line we requested the "child swap".  The
    attendant then organized it so that my wife and 1/2 of our party would
    ride first and I and the other 1/2 would ride 2nd.  For example, at
    Star Tours they put us all in the space behind door #2.  When the door
    opened for the next group to ride my wife and the first 1/2 of our
    party entered the ride and I and the other half (with the non-rideing
    child) waited.  When the doors opened again my wife waited before
    exiting the ride so that I could hand her the baby.  Then she left out
    the back door and I rode with the rest of the group.
    
    They may have different techniques for other rides so it's best to ask
    the attendant at the entrance how it works for the ride you are about
    to enter.
    
    I know it's different on Splash Mtn, but it wasn't open yet last time i
    was there!  8-(
    
    Good luck,
    
    	John M
    	([email protected])
    

    Splash Mountain at Disneyland works a little differently.

    Instead of the entire party waiting in line, a cast member at the
    entrance gives the person waiting a card.  When the riding party
    finishes, they find the waiting party.  The waiting party then takes
    the card in thru the exit to ride.

    I had to wait a little to get into the queue of people that had been
    waiting.  I believe it was because there was a large party in front
    of me.  

    There are advantages and disadvantages to both.  If the baby or child
    is sleeping, it's great.  It also keeps impatient little ones from
    standing in a long line and someone doesn't have to carry them.

    But you miss seeing the preshow area.  It also takes a little longer
    to get finished with the line.  

    Now if Disney would just give us the choice.

    Would you believe that WDW is now offering Valet parking?
    
    That's right. Presently this is being done at the TTC and at EPCOT.
    Of course you'll have to add $7 to the $5 parking fee you already
    pay.
    
    Mike

    Last night, at our family meeting, we decided to go to WDW in late
    August '95 (3kids, 13/11/7, Mom and Dad).
    
    The kids REALLY want to stay on-site, so we're trying to figure out
    where.  Right now, it appears that the approved choices are The
    Polynesian, Port Orleans, or the Disney Yacht and Beach Club.  
    
    Questions:
    
    1. Am I crazy to think we can get in to any of these places on
    relatively short notice?
    
    2. Is the Polynesian worth the price?
    
    3. Do I need two rooms for five folks?
    
    4. Is the Disney Gold Card a good deal?
    
    Any advice you Disneyophiles can give will be greatly appreciated.
    
    Thanks
    
    gc

I think that you can still make reservations for any of these places.
BTW, late August is the off-season and you should ask them about
special offers. The weather is a little uncertain that time of year;
ie cloudy, thunderstorms, etc. But if your at WDW, who cares?

I've always wanted to stay at the Poly but could never justify the
price but people do love it there. (I think in late August you can
get a 50% discount if you are an annual passport holder.) 
Very convenient and tropical. You can have 5 people to a room there.

The moderate priced hotels (PO, CBR, etc) now have rooms that will
sleep five via a trundle bed. Not all rooms have these from what I
gather.

Doug

    When I stayed in Port Orleans in September, the room contained two
    double beds.  If we wanted a extra bed, they would have taken out
    our table and two chairs and put in a roll away bed.  The room while
    adequate would have been a little cramped with the extra bed in it.
    My understanding is that the Carribean rooms are a little bigger
    and can hold the extra bed better.  

    All,
    
    I am going to Florida in two weeks and I am still looking for the best
    attrations to go for.  I am going for two weeks and am staying in
    Kissemme in a personal villa, but at the moment I have all these ideas
    of where to go but I am not sure if they are all suitable.  I am
    looking for thrills and spills and action and adventure, also plenty of
    watershoots, can anybody help me!! Also we will have a car so transport
    is no problem.
    
    yours
    
    CPS
    
    

    re:.0
    
    I'm in the same situation...family of 5 with almost the same age kids. 
    You should have *no* problems getting what you want for reservations. 
    I've never planned a trip more than 4 months out in advance and always
    get what I wanted.  If you are not sure of what you want Disney makes
    if fairly easy.  I make multiple reservations for one nights payment
    and cancel them out when they no longer become options.
    
    Our largest priority is that we like to have 2 rooms to sleep.  that
    way all the kids can go to bed on their own schedule and we can do a
    *lot* during the day.  Whenever we stay in one room this is not
    possible...plus everything is really 'made for 4' and having 5 is a
    pain...get me an extra towel, move the tables, who gets to sleep on the
    real bed, who has to share a bed...
    
    Second priority (but still high is cost)...and we only like to stay on
    property.  And you have to 'work every discount'.  AAA, MKC, annual
    passholder...and there is a huge difference.  For instance during the
    time we will be going we could all stay at Dixie Landings with the 
    MKC discount, stay in 2 rooms adjoining rooms at the All-star or
    stay at the Grand Floridian with a AAA discount....all for around the
    same price.
    
    For us, which probably seems warped to most people in this file, our
    current reservations are two rooms at the All Star and a FW trailer at
    the MKC price.  The FW home provides us with our number 1 priority, but
    also provides us with a kitchen...where we eat probably 30-50% of our
    meals....however it is about $50/night more than the other options.
    
    Now on the Annual Passholders special.  I've been an annual passholder
    and every time that I've been to disney have endedup getting 50% off
    hotel rates.  The problem is that they don't always advertised and last
    year in the fall I was investigating a trip and found *no* special rate
    [although there had been a special rate for the previous 4 years at
    that same time].  As I've stated in previous replies I've keep close
    track of the AP specials and there have been no published
    specials...but I found out that a special was run starting around the
    first of the year and ended last week...the bottom line is that you
    have to call on this to be sure and they don't let CRO sometimes until
    about a month before it is available.
    
    How this works into this trip is that we will most likely stay only 5
    or 6 nights in the park this trip.  The reservations that I've made are
    for 8 nights, since we don't know our exact arrival / departure dates
    [yet].  When these dates are known I will change the reservations to the
    exact dates.  I will keep both reservations and check every 3 weeks to
    see if an AP special has opened up. If it has we will definitely stay
    at the FW home, with 50% off...[or maybe another resort with 2 rooms] 
    and I will plan on validating my new AP pass coupon (read, use my AP
    pass...valid for 1 year).  If the AP pass special isn't available we
    will decide on the two reservations and choose whatever the kids/spouse
    want to do....but I will not use the AP pass yet, since financially it
    is better to delay this and get a 5 day hopper pass this time around.
    
    Hope this helps,
    
    -Jay
      
    

Here's my experiences...
    
    1. Am I crazy to think we can get in to any of these places on
    relatively short notice?
	I'm not sure I agree about August being low season, call now
	and see what's available.  YOu may find that only the best views
	are available at higher prices, or, that there is no availability
	at discounted rates.  We couln't get into the Beach or Yacht Club
	for October 94 even though we started trying in June.  On the
	other hand, since the new resorts are hot, the older resorts are
	often overlooked and available.
    
    2. Is the Polynesian worth the price?
	I think the Poly doesn't have a good enough pool area.  I know people
	who return to the Poly year after year after year, though.  The
	atmosphere is superb.
    
    3. Do I need two rooms for five folks?
	Until recently, very few of the hotels even permitted 5 in a room.
	The CBR, PO, and DL hotels have small rooms, it will be crowded.
	The best hotel for 5 in a room is the Contemporary.  It has a larger
	than average room with a sofa bed already in the room with two
	doubles.  It is an agreeable amount of space.
    
    4. Is the Disney Gold Card a good deal?
	I'm sold on it because I like the packages with unlimited admission
	and the constant flow of information I get from them.
    

Craig,

The best action and thrills are at Busch Gardens Tampa (coasters and water
rides),

Wet 'n Wild on Northern International Drive Orlando (water slides etc.)

Typhoon Lagoon at Disney and soon Blizzard Beach (April?) (water slides etc.)

There are one or two thrilling attractions scattered around Disney and
Universal.

Enjoy,
Bill

If I had it to do again, I would not have bought the MKC Gold Card.  It 
doesn't offer much more than the free card I could have gotten from
HLO (Hudson, MA).

    Carol

The "free" card was supposedly discontinued as a corporate program. I know
you can't get it out in the field where I am.  Does anyone know what the
real status is?

I bought the gold card because 
a) I know I have it
b) I get a newsletter and program materials regularly
c) The discounts haved saved me hundreds of dollars.

Bill A.

Bill, it's discussed quite a bit in this file, probably under the MKC topic.
Basically, it was discontinued as a program, but some sites still have them
and you can obtain them that way.  There was also a contact listed (check
the MKC topic) who could provide them.

AFTER I bought my gold card for $69, I found out I could have gotten one for
free at HLO (Hudson, MA).

    Carol

    >>>AFTER I bought my gold card for $69, I found out I could have gotten
    >>>one for free at HLO (Hudson, MA).
    
       Hmmm, but not a gold one.
    
       Also, $69 is high...I think it's around $45-55 these days depending
       upon what you want for extras.
    
    Mike

    I think the original price for obtaining the gold card is $69 to pay
    for the goody box that you get: tote bag, key ring, video, etc. The 
    renewal price is less because new members don't get the package. I gave
    a gold card membership for a Christmas gift and did pay the $69 fee. 
    
    Linda

    Membership renewal =>  $35*
    
    Spouse card        =>  $10**
    
    Vacation Video      => $ 5**
    
    Travel America Card => $ 3.95**
                           ______
          Total Renewal    $53.95
    
          *If you renew within 30 days (otherwise it's $49)
         **Optional
    
    Plus you get a two-year subscription to Disney News (Worth about $20).
    
    If you subtract the $20 you'd pay for the Disney News that makes the
    renewal price $15. If you purchase at least $150 worth of merchandise
    over the two year period the card pays for itself.
    
    I like Linda's idea of giving a gold MKC membership as a XMAS gift.
    It's especially good if you give it to someone who is heading down
    to either DL or WDW.
    
    Mike

    
    
    We are heading down to the World 3rd week of April. We plan on
    going to the Disney store at the Emerald Sq. mall in Attleboro
    to purchase our 5 day-hopper passes soon. Our last trip to WDW
    was back in 93, and I know they do the tickets different now,
    (vouchers, pictures...) Here's my question or questions...
    
    How does this whole ticket purchase thing work ?
    
    Do they give you a receipt at the Disney store up here that
    you need to give them down at WDW in order to have your 
    picture taken ??
    
    OR 
    
    Do they take your picture up here at the Disney store ?
     (which would be the best for all concerned)
    
    Now, if they do take it somewhere in WDW, where is the best
    place to do this ?? 
    
    We will be arriving around mid to late afternoon on a friday.
    By the time we check in the hotel it will be getting near
    supper time. We plain on maybe going over to the Disney
    Village Marketplace and hang out there that first night.
    Is there a place near there we can get our pictures taken ??
    
    If not, then at what park and what would be a good time to do
    it ??
    
    Our plain is to start our Saturday morning at TMC.
    
    
    Thanks
    Dave 

    they don't really do pictures on the passes anymore.
    
    there's no real advantage to early purchase of tickets other than
    avoiding a possible price increase.
    
    they probably will be giving you a card with a magnetic strip on back
    as your entry pass.\
    
    
    I would guess soon, very soon that they will be going to their finger
    print pass.
    
    Under the current magnetic strip pass system, no id is required.  let's
    say a family of four buys tickets.  mom and dad only want to see
    Pleasure Island, but the kids want to do the water parks.  The family
    buys 2 super duper passes and 2 park hopper passes.  the kids use the
    super dupers in the day, the parents use them at night.  net cost
    savings to the family.  Now you know Disney is going to plug that gap
    soon.

I read in yesterday's Boston Globe that Disney has, indeed, gone to the
finger print pass.  Actually, the article stated that it was a finger-V
snapshot that contains your index and middle fingers.  As you enter the
park, you make a "V" with your two fingers and place them on the reader,
and it makes all sorts of measurements and matches them to the data 
recorded on your pass.  It didn't sound like it was a fingerprint matching.
I remember wondering, if passes are good for life, how a child's pattern
could possibly still match if they waited several years to redeem unused
days on their pass.

    What?!  We just got back from Disney World Sunday (actually the last
    day at a Disney park was MGM on 2/21) and we never saw anyone use any
    such method.  Did the Globe say when this will start?
    
    Leslie

    
    
    COME-ON !! Finger scanning ?? This is getting out of control.
    
    That should look good...everybody flashing the peace sign....
    
    or something else !! 
    
    I'm assuming you can get these scanning cards or magnetic
    backed cards at the Disney store ??  (i hope)
    
    Bring back the old tickets that show the date stamped on the 
    front. That way if you did a lot of park hopping you have a
    record of how many days are left on the ticket.
    
    I hope they will still take the old child ticket with one day
    left on it from 93. My child was 7 then now she's all grown up
    and 10.
    
  Dave

    We were at WDW earlier this month, and the Park Hopper passes were just
    cardboard stubs with a place for the date to be stamped (4 times) and
    spot for a hole-punch.  That's it.  We used the passes for 3 out of the
    4 days, and put them in a safe place for next trip.  Now all I have to
    do is remember where that is in 3 years.
    
    By the way, there is a place where you are supposed to sign your name,
    but when we bought them (hotel lobby) the cast member said you don't
    have to sign it.  Nobody asked us to, so I guess we could give our
    remaining day's pass to anybody.
    
    Julie

    
    I have just come up with the opportunity to go to Florida during the
    week of April 29th - May 3rd.  We called the Magic Kingdom to book a
    room, but the cheapest they had for the week was $180/night in a
    motorhome or something in Fort Wilderness.  Not exactly what we were
    looking for.
    
    I would prefer to stay in Port Orleans, Dixie Landings or even
    All-Star Resorts in order to keep the price down.
    
    Any suggestions as to ways to find a room in one of these resorts?  Do
    they hold any rooms for emergencies and then open them as the time gets
    closer?
    
    Any help is welcome.
    
    - Gary

    Normally, one tries to make reservations at least 6 months in advance
    for Disney stuff.  But in January, after many personal setbacks for
    our family, we decided to do a Disney trip during April vacation week.
    We were armed with a AAA card, a MKC card, and an AT&T discount access
    number because of our True Rewards program.  AFter about two days of
    calling and checking, we ended up with the same as the previous
    note -only the Fort Wilderness motor homes at a cheaper rate.  As
    has been said earlier, each of these packages has only so many
    rooms available - kind of like super-saver seats on a plane flight.
    So, while each resort may have open rooms at full price, they may
    not have rooms available under a NUMBER of discount plans.  And,
    as has been said before, you can keep calling back to see if any
    rooms do open up under the discount plans - but it's almost a crap
    shoot.
    
    In our case, we ended up back where we were 5 years ago - that
    being the Doubletree Suites (formerly Guest Quarters suites).  The
    rate was $140 per night for a 2 room suite.  This is one of the
    hotels that's on Disney property, but not a formal Disney resort.
    The disadvantage is that it doesn't have lots of "theme" stuff, and
    it's also located beyond the Disney Village Marketplace, which
    is a bit off of the beaten path.  But the advantages are that it's
    considered a Disney hotel, and as such has a disney desk inside and
    has bus routes to all attractions.  Also, the rates (for what you
    get) are overall much better, plus when you do go back to your room
    at night, it's relatively peaceful.  Plus, it's right across the
    streets from a hugh shopping complex with 10 restaurants, a grocery
    store, plus other things.  So, you sort of get your Disney fix, but
    can still stick your head out into the non-Disney world fairly
    easily.
    
    So, we do have a reservation, but are still calling the resorts to
    see if any discount rooms open up (our personal preference is the
    Contemporary, by the way) - but for now at least we have a more-than-
    acceptable "on-site" hotel.  If you check out the Birnbaum's book
    they have all of those hotels listed so you can check out availability
    directly.
    
    good luck,
    andy
    

    Andy's right, call as often as you please.  My wife reserved a Hertz
    rental car with a AAA discount a month ago.  Called last week and got
    an additional discount thru some promo that they are running.
    
    Mark

    re: 29.214 by USCTR1::OTENTI 

    �I just returned from WDW 48 hours ago.  I purchased 4-day park hopper
    �tickets during check-in at the Carribean Beach Resort and was issued a
    �plastic card with a magnetic strip on the back...
    �... On the front of the card is printed the name of the
    �person in whose name the reservation is held, the check-in/out dates,
    
    This is the procedure they have used for some time for length of stay
    passes.  Is that what you had rather than a 4-day park hopper pass,
    which should last forever or until you have used up all four days?
    
    --Jay
    

    They where installing the "hand-readers" this past week.  Saw them at
    TMK and MGM.  Also, they now has a separate turnstyle for Annual and
    Season Passholders.
    
    Julie

    
    This just came to mind, don't know if it belongs here or somewhere
    else.  Does anyone know if the photo stores in any of the three
    parks will charge your camcorder battery (for a small fee i'm sure)
    
    
    Thanks
    Dave

    I don't believe so.  Now's the time to stop at BJ's and pick up an
    extra battery pack.
    
    Mark

According to the FAQ at www.disney.com the average temp (degrees F) and rainfall
(inches) are:

             Ave Temp(F)     Ave Rainfall(inches)
September       88                  7.20
October         82                  4.07

Hurricane season ends in September as I recall.  We're planning on being there
in late September, early October and really aren't planning on taking anything
special in the way of rain clothes.  If it gets bad enough that we need
something, you can purchase rain coats at many of the stores in the park (they
are sold "under the counter" - that is, not displayed, you have to ask for them,
and I understand are reasonably priced).

Re NASA - there's a shuttle launch scheduled on October 9th.

--Scott

.re: .220
>>Hurricane season ends in September as I recall. ...
    
    Actually, Hurricane season ends November 30.
    

    Scott,
    
    	Hurrican season starts in End of August and goes through November. 
    Don't know what the "offical" dates are...Lived in South long enough to
    know hurricanes come when they feel like it....
    
    Kathi
    
    

    The Unnofficial Guide extends the Hurricane season back to June but I
    agree with Kathi that August is the beginning of the true Hurricane
    season.
    
    Mike

    Mike,
    
    	I guess we don't count summer down pours/thunderstorms as
    hurricanes.
    
    Kathi
    
    :*)
    
    

    Folks,
    
    FWIW, hurricane season oficially runs from June 1 through Nov 30.  
    However, there have been hurricane strength storms in every month 
    except January.
    
    Dwight

    
    Hi,
    
    I'm looking for some pointers in the file.  My sister is traveling to
    WDW for Easter Week and with the package she purchased she has a half
    day+ on each end of their package.  It's the same think a lot of people
    encounter, I'm looking for some specifics. 
    
    I've read notes 29.159-29.170 from the summer of 1993 to see if there 
    are any ideas on what to do for those half days, but other then some
    general ideas and specific shows mentioned I was wondering if any one
    had some updates or additional pointers that will give me some ideas to
    pass along to my sister.
    
    Thanks,  Beth

re:

The Disney Shopping Village

Fantasia Golf

Discovery Island

Trail Ride

Pick any Disney resort and wander around (ie Boardwalk, etc).

The water parks

Pleasure Island is free during the day for shopping, etc.

Rent a boat

    
    Does anybody have an available copy of the special called "Disney - Past,
    Present, and Future" that I could borrow.
    
    This show was run on the Disney Channel a few years ago (maybe 4-5 years).
    The host was John Lithgow.  It had little trivia breaks that appeared
    to be suited for commerical breaks.
    
    Any help would be appreciated.  I loaned my WDW videos to my cousin and
    not all of the tapes made it back safely.  I promise safe return ...
    
    Thanks,
    
    Bill 

    Bill,
    
    I may have that. If I do I'll make you a copy and send you the tape.
    I believe it's a 2-hour show.
    
    Mike Scopa
    Caretaker of the Scopa Disney Archives