[OtherVoices]

We were originally planning to go to WDW next July, but we've decided we could "do it right" if we held off until the following year. We're looking at going in May of 2007, although we're flexible and could probably swing dates after that if we could get a better deal. We'd be traveling with my DH, and DSs who would then be 11, 8 and 4. My parents will probably be coming with us and my uncle (who lives in Florida) may join us for a day. There's also a chance that my brother and his wife may decide to come along. I haven't discussed it with them yet, but it's probably too soon for them to decide. They'd be fine making their own plans if I book early and they're not ready to commit. We're considering driving down from NY, which probably means 5 days in WDW. If I can convince my husband to fly between now and then we could spend an extra day or two at WDW. It would be a hard sell, but I've got time to plant the idea.

So, when is it too early to start planning? I've already started researching resorts, passes and dining plans. Of course, I'd be more than happy to post my ideas and plans and get feedback from all of you once I actually have plans.

I've been considering using a travel agent, thinking maybe they could get us a better deal since we're a party of 7. Is this a good way to go? None of us (aside from my brother and SIL) have been to WDW before. When would be the appropriate time to contact a travel agent and ask for quotes? How flexible are they with changes in plans (say, if my parents decide they just can't do it)? At what point would we have to book the rooms and commit funds?

[MJD]

OMG! Its never to early to start planning. Thats the best part. There are so many great ideas here on DC and so many people to discuss your plans with. In regards to booking and making arrangements you could use Mouseketrips for your trip. You can find the link at the top of the home page.

The funnest part of a vacation at WDW is planning and sharing the happiest moments with your friends.

Happy Planning
Welcome Aboard,
MJD

[OtherVoices]

So if I were to get in touch with Mousketrips (or any other agent) now, they wouldn't tell me I should wait a bit? I'm just wondering how they'd know prices this far in advance (to give me a quote).

[MJD]

Its never too early to get a price. I'm sure they could help you its only a quote. You could check out this site for some great ideas.

Click Here; http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/index

[Dopey]

You are actually asking the people on Disney Central when it is too early to plan? LOL
It is never too early to work on a Disney trip. It part of the fun of the trip!
Plan away. Have you been before? Do you have other questions?

[OtherVoices]

My husband went as a kid, but other than that, we've never been before. Right now we're looking at staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge but I haven't gotten much further than that and I'm still looking at other places. I don't have any questions yet... but there's a lot of info to digest, so I'm doing it slowly. :lol

[MJD]

You should also order a Disney vacation kit. Its fun and free to see what WDW has to over.

Click Here; http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw...d=VPKEntryPage

[palmickey]

Welcome to DC! You will love it here. There is so much information available here. Ask your questions - someone will have an answer. They have been very helpful to us as we have planned our trips.

I just recently booked with Mouseketrips for the first time and I would suggest talking with them. They will get you the information you need and get back to you.

Again - Welcome to DC and happy planning!

[Dana]

It's never to early to plan. The thing you can set now are dates and start saving. With this much time in advance, if you do it right, you can pay for everything in cash and be paid in full long before you go. There is nothing sweeter than a paid in full vacation.

[OtherVoices]

Here's another question I just thought of. Is there anywhere I can see a map of where all the onsite hotels are located? I'm pretty sure transportation is free for anyone staying onsite so getting around shouldn't be a problem, but I'm curious to see how centrally located some resorts are compared to others.

I already ordered a vacation planning kit (haven't had time to watch the DVD yet, but will do it very soon). I definitely hope to pay for the trip in full before we go. It would be a lot more relaxing knowing it's all taken care of way in advance.

[DisneyHog6]

Welcome to DC... You'll find a ton of folks here that know so much about WDW...

I agree with the rest of the folks. It's never too early to start planning. I'd suggest getting the WDW Passporter. It's a very cool book that tells you EVERYTHING you need to know about planning, when to do it, how to do it, etc. It's really great...

[queensmama]

Plan away, it helps build the excitement.
Those of us around here are planning trips that we dont even set yet.

Oh and welcome to DC!

[tigger]

I don't want to tell on anyone here but...there are members of this board that plan even when they have no trip. They go on virtual trips too.

[Dopey]

Originally Posted by OtherVoices

My husband went as a kid, but other than that, we've never been before. Right now we're looking at staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge but I haven't gotten much further than that and I'm still looking at other places. I don't have any questions yet... but there's a lot of info to digest, so I'm doing it slowly. :lol

I didn't read on further, but in case it hasn't been mentioned by the other posters, www.allearsnet.com is a good place to inform yourself. I actually think that Disney.com is a pretty site but has very little real information about WDW. And because of that I went looking for better info and came to DC. Glad you've found it.

I believe there are maps of the property on allears as well. But it doesn't really matter where the resorts are located because really the disney transportation is so wonderful and stress free and I don't think that any of the resorts are very far away from any of the parks.

www.ourlaughingplace.com has a feature that lets you see what kind of transportation goes from where to where and how long those trips take. It was helpful to me when I planned dinner reservations.

[mickeymommy]

Welcome! You'll find DC to be addictive...but very helpful. Like everyone else has said, it's NEVER too early to plan. I just got back and am already looking for a way to plan another trip!