But first, you've got to do a little

PLANNING!

Aronda Parks' Vacation-Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Don't be one of many Disney guests who sabotage their vacations by neglecting essential components of the planning process. Here are a few critical pointers, so listen carefully!

\ Don't underestimate the expense of your vacation. Use the budget sheets provided on this Web site or in Making Memories 2004 to help.
\ Don't underappreciate the complexity of the Walt Disney World experience, thereby inadequately preparing for your vacation.
\ Don't forget to include rest times throughout the day to recharge your batteries--as well as the kids accompanying you and your camcorder batteries.
\ If you can't stand the heat, for heaven's sake, don't go to Walt Disney World during the summer. An August experience in Central Florida can help you appreciate what hell must be like. (And I'm saying that as someone who loves Florida.)
\ Be sure to make Priority Seating arrangements-- especially at the most popular table-service restaurants--before you leave home.
\ Be sure to study (and comprehend) Disney's complicated ticket pricing structure to get the best bang for your buck.
\ Know the intricacies of all resort hotels. All have unique features and amenities. Be sure to investigate before you make your decision on a place to lay your weary head.
\ Utilize FASTPASS whenever possible. It's the best time-saving device at your disposal--and the privilege is included in your theme park admission.
\ Be sure to research all Disney entertainment opportunities beyond the four major theme parks. Otherwise, you're likely to cheat yourself of some wonderful experiences.

Aronda Parks' Favorite Vacation Planning Internet Resources

In addition to guidebooks, like Making Memories on Your Walt Disney World Vacation 2004, several Internet sites provide frequent updates to the goings-on and the changes that occur at Walt Disney World. Below, I've listed my favorites, with a short description of each.

Official Walt Disney World Site
www.disneyworld.com

All Ears Net, Deb Wills' extremely thorough site, including trip info, menus and weekly updates. A superb newsletter is also available for free subscription.
www.allearsnet.com

Great photos, park hours, updates and more.
www.themeparks.com

Park entertainment schedules for all parks, updated every Saturday night. Check it out right before your trip.
pages.prodigy.net/stevesoares

Usually updated nightly, a great place to review media coverage
www.laughingplace.com

For fans of Disney-MGM Studios
www.mgmstudios.org

Mary Waring's great site to discover ways to save money at WDW--particularly on accommodations
www.mousesavers.com