Offsite for me!

So, you’ve decided to stay offsite…  How do you find the right offsite hotel for you?  Believe it or not, picking an offsite hotel is harder than picking an onsite resort at Walt Disney World.

I like to narrow things down by location.  Just like buying a house, deciding where to stay while on your Walt Disney World vacation, is all about location, location, location.  You don’t want to fall in love with a hotel that doesn’t meet this number one, most important requirement.  And don’t be fooled by x miles to Walt Disney World.  Walt Disney World is HUGE.  Some offsite hotels are closer to the parks than onsite resorts.  And being located near one theme park doesn’t mean you’ll be close to any of the other theme parks.  So, find out by searching online or calling the hotel directly (not the toll free number) and asking, “How long does it take to get to Walt Disney World?” and “Which theme park is that specifically?”  You won’t be sorry.

Step two is to ask about their prices, or search around online for a good deal.  Don’t forget tax rate; there are two different tax rates in the Walt Disney World area.  Ask about any parking fees.  Ask about any transportation fees to the park, or airport, if available.  Find out about any resort fees.  Are there any perks/benefits to staying there versus another hotel, i.e., free breakfast/food vouchers, etc?

If your location is met and you are still in price range, go ahead and ask about transportation.  Specifics.  Not only do they have it, but to which theme parks?  Check cost if you didn’t before in the above step.  Find out the start time, the end time, and how often it runs.  How many people do they take at once; are you going to get stuck waiting for an extra shuttle for two hours?

How many people can you fit in one room/house/condo?  What amenities and dining are available?  Operation hours? 

If you find all your questions to have acceptable answers for your needs, go online and search for reviews.  Use any and every source available.  Trip Advisor, Hot Wire, Expedia, DisBoards, All Ears, etc.  Leave no stone unturned.  While staying offsite might not ruin your trip, picking the wrong offsite resort for you Walt Disney World vacation can!