Q&A with Virgin Holidays - Ask your questions & share your tips on going to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida - 3x £100 vouchers to be won

[EllieMumsnet]

We're going to have the Virgin Holidays experts online on Monday 17th June from 1:30pm - 3:00pm to answer your questions on how to get the most out of a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, from the great value Disney Dining Plans to what to take with you into the Disney Parks, best attractions for different ages or how the Disney FastPass+ service works. This Q&A will work a little like our Live Webchats if any of you have taken part in one before - just ask a question below for the experts at Virgin Holidays to answer!

Not only would we love you to ask your questions below for Virgin Holidays to answer but we’d also like you to share any top tips or helpful advice you may have for other MNers thinking of going to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

Here’s what Virgin Holidays have to say: “Planning a dream family holiday to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida can seem a little daunting. What was once ‘just’ the amazing Magic Kingdom Park, is now four entertainment-filled theme parks, plus two water parks, covering a total area the size of San Francisco. And that’s before you add in Disney Springs — packed with shopping, restaurants and attractions in its own right.

Don’t leave the holiday of a lifetime to chance. Here at Virgin Holiday’s we’ve got a whole team of Disney experts to help you with the planning now so you can enjoy the Disney magic even more.”

Post your question for Virgin Holidays and they will be online to answer them on Monday 17th June . Everyone who posts a question or shares a tip will be entered into a prize draw where 3 MNers will win a £100 voucher each of their choice (from a list).*

Thanks and good luck with the prize draw
MNHQ

Standard Insight T&Cs Apply
Webchat guidelines - one question each (follow-ups allowed if there’s time)

*The Walt Disney Company Limited has no responsibility whatsoever with the running of this Prize Draw and shall not be liable for any losses, damages, or costs should a reader make any claim against the promoter as a result of the running of this Prize Draw.

@IamPickleRick

Do you have any idea how the Star Wars hotel is likely to work? I understand that it’s an immersive experience as well as a hotel and we are all very keen to find out more!

Currently saving for our trip after going to DLP recently. DP is watching vlogs daily about Galaxys Edge so that he can work out his spending money!

Hi IamPickleRick! This is a great question, and it's one that we don't have any further information on at this time. We know exactly the same as you, it's going to be something never seen before, a fully immersive experience where guests can really live and breathe the whole Star Wars experience from the minute they arrive. If Galaxy's Edge is anything to go by, this is going to be a once in a lifetime experience, and not to be missed by any budding Jedi's! I'm heading to Galaxy's Edge in October when I visit for my honeymoon - we can't wait! We are also watching all the VLOG's, it's a great way to build the excitement before you go!

• Emily, Virgin Holidays

@jacqui5366

My tips would be:- to take full advantage of the fast pass system hire a pram (my DS was 4 and was glad of the rest (and sleep). Take an empty bottle to to refill with water. Use a map to plan your route around the park.

My question would be would you consider a (or do you do) a luggage service - taking your luggage to and from the plane to your hotel and take that part of the holiday stress away.

Hi @jacqui5366 when booking with Virgin Holidays pre-departure you can take advantage of our Twilight Check In at Gatwick and Manchester where you can check in and drop your bags the night before you fly. You can also access the Disney Springs check in area on the morning of departure so you can drop your bags, check in and enjoy the parks luggage free on the last day. The next time you see your bags will be back at your UK airport.

If you book a holiday staying onsite at Disney, part of your stay includes Disney's Magic Express which not only takes you to and from the airport. but transports your bag straight to your hotel room after you've claimed it from the baggage area.

@TellMeItsNotTrue

Do you have anything to help people with autism to manage the parks, if so how do we put it in place and how does it help?

It's a dream trip with a friend but not sure one DC will cope and its a lot to spend if they can't cope and one of us is in the hotel while the other has all of the DC

All Parks have assistance in place for cognitive disabilities along with tips on how to manage the parks. It's great staying on-site or close by as you can do as little or as much as possible to take the stress out of the situation. Check out a few of these links so you can see what's available. I have included the link to Disney’s DAS card regarding queuing for those with medical conditions, which you may find of interest_disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/disney-parks-disability-access-service-card-fact-sheet/Ride information/ suitability for those with cognitive disabilities_wdpromedia.disney.go.com/media/wdpro-assets/help/guest-services/cognitive-disabilities-services/wdw_cognitive_guide.pdf

@wwwwwwwwwwwwww

I wanted to know where is best to stay with a three year old? Also when are the quietest times to visit?

Hi wwwwwwwwwwwwww! There are so many choices, especially for children at that age. If you would like something themed that can really engage them with lots of colours and characters, the Art of Animation Resort is one to look at. With the Disney theme running throughout the whole resort, it's a great option.

As it is the most magical place on Earth, it really does draw the crowds, so there isn't essentially a "quiet time" to go, but I have found late September to early October a great time to go, as you still get nice hot weather. Early December, after Thanksgiving in November I have also found to be less manic. I hope this helps!

@EggysMom

If we were to book an Orlando villa as a Virgin holiday, could we find out the address of our allocated villa before we leave the UK, so as to arrange for delivery of a rental disability stroller?

With selected villas you will be able to check in 48 hours before and at this point you will be given the full address and the key code to enter the villa. In regards to delivery of a rental disability stroller, our special assistance team will be able to help you with this and advise the best way to get this delivered, you can contact them on 0344 557 3998 (option 1).

@StickChildNumberTwo

If we were only to visit WDW once, what is the best age to take the kids, when they'll get the most out of it but still be entranced by the magic? We went to DLP with 4 year old + baby which was great, but even the 4 year old doesn't remember much about it, and if we're going to pay to go to WDW I want to know it will be a really special holiday they'll remember.

Hi StickChildNumberTwo!

I honestly couldn't tell you this, all kids develop at different rates, and you know your kids better than we do. But one thing I would say, you still feel the magic at any age! I have been lucky enough to visit throughout my childhood, and I am now well into my thirties, and I never once felt like it wasn't for me, even during those teenage years!

@Tonkatol

Sorry, forgot to add my question :

I would love to visit WDW again with my husband and two younger children. However, I am now in a wheelchair and can only stand/walk for a very limited amount of time. How does your disabled policy work? Specifically, do those with mental disabilities and physical disabilities follow the same process?

The reason I ask this is because last year we went to a theme park in the UK. One of the rides had a separate entrance/queue for those with disabilities. However, it was down a flight of steps and then about a 15 minute wait before getting onto the ride. Before I get flamed, I have no problem with any disability being recognised, seen or unseen but my problem was that I was physically unable to stand in a queue for the length of time needed. Fortunately, there was one chair by the front of the queue and my daughter helped me get to the chair (being glared at by other waiting guests), where I sat and waited for my daughters and sister to reach me and take our turn. Because this entrance was down a flight of steps and into a narrow entrance, it wasn't feasible for someone to carry my wheelchair down (and someone else who had done this had had their wheelchair taken from them and stored somewhere until they had finished the ride, they couldn't queue in it - we saw them after the ride and the lady could barely stand and the husband was trying to manage his wife and wheelchair until a couple of men in the queue gave them a hand). As I have a deteriorating condition, I am worse now than I was last year and it worries me that I would be compromised whilst queuing.

Hi Tonkatol. I am so very sorry to hear of your UK experiences.. Disney and Florida in general are miles ahead of UK parks. They are fully set up for anyone with a disability and don’t discriminate in any way. There’s so much help and information available to make sure you have a well planned and enjoyable vacation. All entrances and exits are fully wheelchair accessible. The general rule within Disney would be that if it’s safe to do so then you are able to ride. They also have some rides where you can stay seated in your wheelchair Ride accessibility for wheelchair users – Disney disneyworld.disney.go.com/en_GB/guest-services/mobility-disabilities/ All transportation is fully wheelchair accessible and Disney also have wheelchair accessible rooms with roll in shower or bath tub/ grab-rails. Virgin Holidays also rent ramped access self-drive vehicles to give you the freedom to explore.

@MummyKnowsAll

We are going to Disney in August with Virgin. The scale of the place is confusing me - we're staying in resort at the Royal Caribbean. Can we walk to say Animal Kingdom? I'm assuming we can walk to the water parks either side of us but it's hard to tell scale. Fast pass planning was hard - I was trying to research the popular rides to make best use of the FPs but also looking at maps to try and select 3 relatively close together. That failed and on a couple of days we'll be traversing the park to get to the next ride! How long is the walk from entrance to furthest point in Magic Kingdom? Am I right in thinking I can't book more FPs until I've used all 3? Finally, my daughter has adhd - if I take paperwork is there a system for that with queuing?

How exciting, not long to go now! I assume you mean Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort? (great choice!). In terms of scale, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida is the size of Greater Manchester, so it's pretty big! In terms of getting around, Disney have their own transportation system running all day everyday and it's free of charge! It consists of a monorail, air conditioned buses and water crafts so getting around is super easy. From The Caribbean Beach Resort specifically they have bus transportation which takes you to all of the Disney theme parks, including the water parks and Disney Springs!
Regarding your fast pass slot, you will have an hour window, so for example if your fast pass is for 10.15 you can arrive by 11.15 so you will have plenty of time to get there.
You are correct that you can only book more Fast Passes when all three have been used, this is also subject to availability.
Regarding paperwork for your daughter, you don't need to take proof with you, only if it makes you feel more comfortable. It's illegal in the USA for them to ask for proof. You can also download Disney’s booklet prior to travel, which is full of helpful hints and tips to make the day more enjoyable secure.cdn1.wdpromedia.com/dam/wdpro-assets/help/guest-services/guests-with-disabilities/WDW_Cognitive_Guide_compressed.pdf

• Chris, Virgin Holidays

@lovemyflipflops

I have been on a Disney cruise and loved the whole 'Disneyness' of the ship, we have booked for WDW for this Summer, we are however kind of dreading the time difference and jet lag - what are your tips for getting acclimatised to the new time ? I am sure many of you guests have come across this. Thank you.

Hi @lovemyflipflops unfortunately jet lag is inevitable but you'll be having so much fun that it'll be worth the tiredness!

Your body clock will adjust to the new timezone but it helps if you drink plenty of water, eat right and fit in a cheeky nap if you're feeling tired.

@pushchairprincess

My daughter lives the life of a Disney princess when she wears her princess her outfit. so when you wish upon a star, give a little whistle and bibberty bobberty boo around the theme park my tips would be:-

Photopass to be a good buy and takes the pressure off parents trying to capture all the magic moments when there is a meet and greet with a Disney character.
It's very expensive food and drink wise -so if you have time - take a packed lunch.
Book your 3 Fastpasses for between around 10.30am and 1pmWear wear comfy shoes you will walk for miles!
Hire a buggy! It can not only be used to carry excess bags, your toddler can have a break/nap, and you know where they are.

my question would be I want to hire a car whilst I am there this time - I have a full UK licence - can you organise the car hire for me as part of my holiday package, and do need extra holiday insurance when hiring a car in the USA ?

Hi @pushchairprincess we can absolutely book your car hire for you as part of your Virgin Holidays package. There are different insurance packages which our holiday advisors can recommend based on your requirements.

@mrsminx

I have never been to Disney and always wanted to, now my eldest son is 6 he is also asking to go, we have heard great thing from friends that have visited however I am concerned about travelling there with a baby, he would be 1 when we would be thinking about going. How are babies catered for? Is it easy to visit/travel with them?

Disney can seem overwhelming and there is a lot to digest but we can definitely make it really simple for you at Virgin Holidays! My recommendation would be to speak to one of our experts, we have a dedicated Florida team who you can call on 0333 230 7750, the whole team have been (most of them multiple times) so they know Disney inside out and will be able to help you with all of your questions. Alternatively, we have stores nationwide so you can always pop in and chat to one of our experts face to face. To find your nearest store, please follow this link:retail.virginholidays.co.uk/retail-appointments/

• Shelley, Virgin Holidays

@foxessocks

I've never been. What age is the best age for kids to go?

Hey @foxessocks!

Everyone's different but I think kids get the most out of it when they're school age (from four upwards) as they're more aware of what's going on and are more likely to remember the magical moments

@FogCutter

How many days would you recommend spending at WDW?

And is there much to see/ do for a pre-teen who is into gaming, sci-fi, football and hates Disney ?

Hi FogCutter, I would always recommend a minimum of 7 days, but optimum would be 10 - 14 nights to really get the most out of the whole resort.

A must do for your pre-teen would be the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex, I'm sure they will love it!

@victorianphobia

Can anyone give a clear breakdown of the pros and cons and price implications of staying at a disney hotel vs a villa. We're looking at going next summer - 2 families - 1 wants to stay onsite and 1 wants a villa! And if we stayed onsite and got the free dining how much would that potentially save compared to self-catering? My head's mashed with too much information! Also while I'm being thick - how does the fast pass work and what does it get you - if everyone has them how does it make the queue shorter! I'm obviously missing something! Thanks

Hi victorianphobia Don't worry, we know there is a lot to consider when planning a Disney holiday! I would advise you contact one of our Florida Experts to assist with your onsite/offsite comparison in the detail you require to make the best decision for you and your family. To do this, you can either conatct us on 0333 305 1409, or visit any one of our stores. Our stores are nationwide and you can find your local one by using our store finder - retail.virginholidays.co.uk/retail-appointments/.

As for Disney's FastPass, you get 3 FastPasses per person per day, which are pre-bookable. If you are staying on-site, you can book 60 days before you travel or 30 days before for off-site guests. We'd recommend using your pre-booked passes for morning slots, as once they have been used you are allocated a further FastPass. The extra Fast Passes are allocated singly, so each time you use one you are allocated another. On the day Fast Passes can be booked by making the most of the parks free wi-fi using the My Disney Experience App, or by visiting the pods located around the parks. The queues are still shorter as they are booked in hour blocks, of which you can arrive at any time within that hour and they are only allocated to a set number of people. So in short, don't worry, you won't all be turning up to the queue line at the same time.

@Summergarden

We would almost certainly have to visit in July or August, and I’ve been warned by many that Florida is unbearably hot and humid in these months. Is this the case? If so, how much of the parks are under shade to make it more comfortable?

Hi Summergarden! Orlando is generally humid all year round so I'd say there's probably not a best time to avoid this. As for the heat, the average temperature for July/August is 28 degrees. However, all of the parks have shaded areas, air-con within all buildings and fans or cool mist within the queue lines. If the heat worries you, I would recommend heading to the parks early in the morning to enjoy the attractions before it hits midday. Then take a break during the hottest part of the day using the time to have lunch or heading back to your hotel for a refreshing break by the pool or a nap in your room. You can then return back to the parks later in the afternoon/evening once it's cooled down.

@Flapdoodles

We are planning on taking our children in the next couple of years but I feel totally overwhelmed with what I need to book, where to book, what is on offer etc. I would therefore ask Virgin to they have a dedicated website that a complete novice could look at and find out what is on offer, when to book tickets, hotel versus a villa.

Hey @flapdoodles completely understand it can feel quite overwhelming however Virgin Holidays have Florida experts who are on hand to provide advice on everything WDW related, from hotels and villas to parks and transportation. Either give us a call on 0333 230 7750 on pop into your local store

[quote Nquartz]@Maiyakat

Driving is v easy there, all cars are automatic, there's no roundabouts, nice straight roads & all signs in English

DH always drives there but I definitely would & I wouldn't want to drive in a European country![/quote]

Hi Maiyakat! A large majority of Orlando hotels will provide transport to all Walt Disney World Parks, this is often complimentary but some may charge a small fee so I would suggest you check with your Virgin Holidays Personal Holiday Advisor before booking. There is also the option to use taxis and Uber. I would not recommend staying in a villa without a rental car as they are located at a further distance from the parks.

@Smilingsophie85

Which parks would be most suitable for a 3 year old?

All of the parks are brilliant for 3 year olds so I'll give you some top tips instead! In Disney's Magic Kingdom you can visit Enchanted Tales with Belle which is an interactive story time where they use members of the audience to play characters. You also have the Frozen Sing-a-long in Disney's Hollywood Studios which is a show with hits from the movie and the whole audience get involved. Toy Story Land in also now open in Hollywood studios which is great for little ones and Peter Pans Flight over London in Magic Kingdom is a mini ride, super cute and perfect for a 3 year old, it's also air conditioned which is great for beating the heat! Also, for a truly memorable dining experience, try the Be Our Guest restaurant in Magic Kingdom, we would recommend trying The Grey Stuff (it's delicious)

• Chris, Virgin Holidays

@muminlon

Disney seems to be a holiday that involves a lot of planning. Any suggestions on how to involve a 7 and 9 year old in the planning? (For the fun and to save my sanity!)

Hi @muminlon! It's a great idea to get the kids involved as it will get them really excited for their trip (and keep you sane!) If you download the Walt Disney World app you can check out all the park maps and start planning which attractions they want to visit. Also look at videos online to really get a feel of the park experience!

@JC4PMPLZ

Why do people go here rather than Europa Park? I can't fathom it.

Hi JC4PMPLZ. Walt Disney World and DisneyLand Paris are both so very different, and there is no way to possibly compare them! Whilst they are both amazing, Walt Disney World is on another level, it's the World for a reason! DisneyLand Paris covers roughly 8 square miles, whereas Walt Disney World covers nearly 40 square miles, that's pretty much the size of San Francisco! With so many more attractions, dining opportunities, character experiences, parades and shows, and of course, the glorious Florida sunshine, WDW will always hold a special place in my heart.

• Emily, Virgin Holidays

@lillypopdaisyduke

We went last year with a 8 and 5 year old - the perfect ages, we embraced the whole Disney experience, my tips would be set yourself a budget for when you are in the park, there are plenty of places to spend your $$$$$'s and when you are in the Disney/Holiday mood it's so easy to spend on things you won't and don't need when you are home. We went Disney mad getting autographs and photos, (which are now in boxes in our wardrobe, the memories and my mobile phone footage is far more personal and moving to have. We would love to go again, and would love to book, so my question would be how far in advance can we book, and therefore start to budget for the trip.

Hi @lillypopdaisyduke!

You can book up to the end of 2020 with Virgin Holidays at the moment. The earlier you book the better as you have more time to budget as the balance needs to be paid 12 weeks before travel

I would recommend renting a house and self catering! You save so much money!

Certainly you can take food and drink in, there are lockers near the entrance if you don't want to carry it all day. They don't allow the huge pull along coolers but few Britons would have those.
With the opening of the Star Wars thingy at Hollywood Studios that park is likely to be manic for the foreseeable future.
If you have older children they may prefer Uninversal Studios, certainly worth a couple of days.
Have a villa, maybe a couple of nights in on site hotels to get the earlier fast passes, the cost is much the same for 3 or 4 bedrooms, anything smaller tends to be apartments.
We've always bought the combined WDW and Universal tickets, if you're on a long trip you can make those pay.
If anyone wants a companion...........................!

My best tip is to take some squeeze squash with you. In the heat you need to stay hydrated and it can get costly. The water fountains water is warm, so visit any dining location and ask for free iced water, then squeeze your squash into it. Yum

As a family with five children I am assuming that it would be more economical to rent a house than to stay in a hotel?