As you know, we are in the thick of vacation planning mode. With the arrival of our Magical Express package in the mail yesterday it has truly hit us that our magical journey will soon be under way. And so as I did for ninety days, I will now do my thirty days to go list of things you should do if your planning.
Magical Express-
Maybe you've heard of it. Maybe you haven't. Maybe you have used it, maybe you haven't. But whether you have or not let me take the opportunity to explain it. Because believe me, it could be your best friend, and greatest time saver around. Now if you have ever flown before you know how much time it is to grab your bags, to check in. Not to mention that when you finally do get them you have to hail a taxi to your destination which costs you an arm and a leg more in likely. So leave it to Disney-because after all they think of everything-to come up to a solution. If you are a guest at any of the Disney Resorts you can utilize the free transportation from Orlando International Airport straight to the front doors of your home for the next little while.
This free service is exclusive only to those guests on property and is offered through most major airlines. Once reservations have been requested and arranged, Disney will send you a magical express packet. In this packet, you will find your boarding passes to board the bus and special luggage tags that you place on your bags. Why so special? Well once you hand over your bags at check in you will not have to do another thing to them except wait for them to arrive in your room upon arrival. That's right, there is no picking up standing at those turn tables waiting because Disney will pick up the luggage, and will deliver it to your door usually about three-four hours after you get there. Now note, this works only if you arrive before Ten PM, after this point you are still able to use the free shuttle service to your resort but you must pick up your own bags.
I must say my husband and I have used this service several times and find it to come in quite handy. For we board, we get to the resort check in and off we go to enjoy our vacation and pack in that much extra magic without the hassle of such things as dealing with the luggage. However I would suggest the following
-In your carry on, make sure to have at least one change of clothes, especially if you arrive from a colder region, you may just want to jump in the pool and since the service doesn't bring your luggage right away better to be prepared.
-Check with the airline to make sure they offer such a service. While Disney has partnered with most major airlines it hasn't partnered with all of them yet. Which means while you can still use the bus, you will have to get the luggage and bring it to the bus yourself.
-Its about a half hour ride from airport to each resort. Sit back and relax. Watch the video they have playing which explains in depth how ME (magical express) exactly works. Remember, its not just there to bring you to your vacation, its there on your return as well.
Grocery Shopping
No, I don't expect most people would be buying or even thinking about grocery shopping when they are on vacation. However if you are like myself-a DVC member-or are someone who is lucky enough to stay at a Villa which offers a full kitchen you may say why even bother with such a thing as the dining plan and cook. Mind you I am one who wants to go on vacation and not think about cooking what so ever. But that's just me. Or you actually may just find yourself longing for an omelet after hours and with most everything on property closing around midnight. I doubt one is going to be readily available. Which makes looking into getting groceries perfect for you. There are several companies which actually deliver groceries right to your hotels room. One in particular gardengrocer.com seems to be quite popular and recommended by several die hard Disneyaholics. Their prices do seem a bit cheaper than the ones used through Disney-which is only offered to DVC members. and offers more of a variety than the little gift shops on property.
I have never used this myself, but will be doing so this July when we are staying with a group of seven adults. I am sure I will be able to go on about this a little more in detail upon my return but for now I will have to go by what others have said.
Just a reminder, they are quite popular therefore its better you get your request in early to avoid any delivery complications.
Getting Excited?
So your an adult and you think there is nothing to do but rides and kiddie shows. Well then might I suggest you pick yourself up one of these books. Hidden Mickeys are stored throughout all four theme parks and two water parks and even in Downtown Disney. They are exactly what you think a Mickey shaped head hidden throughout lands, in rides, on buildings etc. There is no set number of just how many there are and with each new attraction comes new chances to find them. Believe me we have been going for years and haven't even touched nearly a quarter of all of them And with each trip down my husband and I like to be the one to find the most, or the hardest one. Or one neither have seen before. And its just not for adults, I have seen several kids get into the act. Dif. a must do if you ask me.
Don't forget the cash
Disney did away with the above Disney Dollars. But this still brings up a good reminder, you are now coming up on a month to go. Time to start thinking about any last minute savings. Lets not forget Disney, is a money machine. And no matter what you bring it never seems enough. Which is why its a good idea to start thinking about just how much you want to bring. To think about the extras you know your going to look into. The t-shirt you want. The ears. The last mickey shaped rice crispy treat. My general rule of thumb is always prepare and bring more than I need...only taking so much with me-in room safes are perfect-if you happen to pull to much out. Just think of the lunch money you won't need to worry about when you return.
30 days may still seem far enough out to go. But remember this, they go by rather quick. And before you know it, you will soon be boarding that bus as your magic awaits.
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