Locations
Most people probably think of Orlando when it comes to a Disney vacation, but Disney-style fun can be had around the world. Orlando features the Magic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Downtown Disney, and water parks. California features the original Disneyland Park and Disney's California Adventure. Disneyland Paris is the Disney vacation destination for those in Europe. The Far East has both Tokyo Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland.
Golf
The best destination choice for a golfing vacation at Disney is Orlando. Walt Disney World is host to five quality golf courses. In addition, you can also schedule golf lessons with Professional Golf Association (PGA) card-carrying members. Guests who stay at a Disney resort receive benefits such as lower greens fees and free transportation to the courses.
Peak and Off-Peak Seasons
As far as crowds go, the worst times for a Disney vacation are during summer break and from mid-December to the first week in January. The best time to avoid crowds is when school is in session, such as from early January to the spring break season and from early September to mid-October. Winter is also the best time to go to Disney World to avoid the extreme heat.
Accommodations
Disney's hotels and resorts vary from value to ultimate luxury. The luxury hotels are far more expensive, but the rooms are bigger and you may enjoy extra amenities like more extravagant pools and ferry service from the hotel to certain parks. Most Disney visitors use their hotel only for sleeping while they spend most of the day at the parks, so seriously consider whether the extra amenities and room size are worth the added cost.
Extra Magic Hours
A perk reserved solely for guests who stay at Orlando's Disney resorts is something called Extra Magic Hours. At least one of the parks will either open an hour early or stay open three hours later just for hotel guests. During the extra hours in the evening, those not staying at a Disney resort are allowed to stay in the park, but they cannot take advantage the rides and attractions.
Off-Season Vacations
Visiting Disney during the off-season provides the opportunity to get cheaper rates at hotels and to avoid the bigger crowds. These advantages come with the potential for some of the more popular rides to be off-line for repair, maintenance, inspection or upgrade. In addition, the parks open later and close earlier during the off-season, reducing the amount of time you can actually spend there.
About The Author
Timothy Sexton is an award-winning writer who has published over 6,000 articles on such topics as film, television, politics, fitness and health, travel, sports, and recreation. He has a B.A. in English from the University of West Florida and is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists.
