It’s time once again for the Destination Disney carnival hosted by Jennifer at Snapshot. This week’s theme is all about the planning. And, seeing as how I spend a good deal of time planning Disney vacations both for myself and for perfect strangers, this week’s topic is particularly fitting.

     I thought it best to spare you the details of my trip planning adventures because, well, my process is not for the faint of heart. What I would love to do, however, is share very basic tips that hopefully will help novice trip planners in the beginning stages. So, as Peter Pan would say, “Here we goooooooooooo!”

       - First things first: visit the Walt Disney World Moms Panel for excellent advice from seasoned trip planners who also happen to be parents and know exactly what it’s like taking little ones to Disney World for the first, second and even third time. We can recommend the best restaurants, offer advice as to which shows and attractions shouldn’t be missed, and even help out with tips for how to tour the parks with a child who is in the midst of potty-training. We’d be more than happy to help you plan your dream vacation, just ask!

       - You’ll want to give careful consideration to when you are going to visit. Perhaps you’ll want to hit one of the special events that occur throughout the year. The Flower and Garden Festival is popular with the mom crowd while Pirate and Princess parties are pretty darn cool for little ones. You’ll also want to consider crowds, weather, and specials that may be going on that will help you save a few bucks.

       - Choose a resort that is well-suited for your needs. I’m assuming you’re going to stay on property, because really, that’s the only way to go. The location, theming, and amenities of each of the resorts are important to consider. My personal favorite resort is Port Orleans Riverside. The grounds are gorgeous and given all the amenities it truly feels like a stay here offers deluxe accommodations for a moderate price.

       - Don’t underestimate the shows! Novices might assume that the best part of Disney World is the rides. They’d be wrong. The shows and parades and fireworks are unbelievably entertaining. Don’t miss them!

       - Plan your days out, but leave some wiggle room. I can’t stress enough the importance of making dining reservations as early as possible. That said however, don’t schedule every moment of your trip. It is a vacation after all and you’ll need some down time. Most of my favorite memories from our trips have occured outside of the theme parks. A stroll alongside the Sassagoula River to watch the resident ducks, for instance is a great way to sort of slow down and soak up some of the ambiance. For something more exciting, do like we did and squeeze your entire family onto a surrey bike and pedal your way around the Boardwalk. I guarantee that hysterical laughter will ensue. I also guarantee that you’ll be left panting from both the exercise and the laughter.

     Oy vey. I wish there were some way to condense everything I want to tell you about planning a trip into this one post. But alas, I can’t. I do have some very useful information though that I’d love to share. If you’re thinking about a trip be sure to visit my bio page online and scroll down to the “ask Darcie a question” link.

     Next week’s theme is all about the $$$$ baby. More specifically about how to get the biggest bang for your hard earned buck at Disney World. If you think it can’t be done then I might have a tip or two that will surprise you.

     For now though, I’ll leave you with the image of me and the man behind the mouse. The big guy who  inspired it all. The man after whom we almost named Jayce (c’mon Elias is a cool name!). One of my heroes, Mr. Walter Elias Disney.