Where to stay at DisneyWorld?

[geekay]

Anyone got any tips on where to stay at Disney Orlando? It's only for 3 nights so I fancy a Disney hotel-am I right? Nearer and passes etc?? Also when should I buy my park tickets? Here or there?
Thanks. Here's to a stress free trip!

geekay, I think tickets from Keith Prowse were a bit cheaper than the ones in the Virgin brochure. Disney don't give anything away.

Hotels are lovely, rooms not very Disneyfied though apart from the toiletries! We have stayed at the Contemporary which the mono rail runs straight through the middle of which is handy. They also do Chef Mickey's Buffet on the 4th floor. It is a fantastic breakfast buffet which you must not miss (pre-book b4 you go). The characters visit your table for photos and autographs, it's brilliant.

Also stayed at the Polynesian, nice too.

If you stay at the Disney hotels, on certain days you can get in the parks early. With young children spend a couple of days at WDW and go to Animal Kingdom. Save the rest for a return visit.

Also go to the Disney Marketplace, a glorified shopping area by the water with restaurants, Lego play area and water shooting out the floor. A lovely half day out.

We're going on Sunday, can't wait. R