Many of us remember the Magical Express and are still mad at Disney for taking it away. It was a great way to get folks into the bubble. This would have been very helpful to them to keep folks on their property instead of staying off property, especially at Universal's now plentiful lodging options.
What would you say to Disney bringing back the Magical Express, albeit for a small fee? So, basically, when you book your Disney package, imagine being offered the option to add the Disney Magical Express for a special discounted price of $16 round trip for a maximum party of 6, and any group of more than that, $16 per adult. Kids under the age of 10 travel for free. What do you say?
I doubt Disney will bring back their airport buses, there’s no upside for them especially with competition from Mears Connect now. Maybe Disney could run the airport buses for a profit, but why risk. it seems low reward for what is essentially budget priced transport.
What I really miss are the days you could purchase something and get it delivered to your resort free instead of carrying it around or renting a locker. Oftentimes while enjoying the park, I would forget what I bought the previous day, and the eve of the next day opening those delivered bags was almost like Christmas!
We stay at wilderness lodge on most of our trips. We love staying at this hotel. It meets our needs with my older two kids and my husband. I will forever miss Magical express.
I missed the magical Express too untill our recent vacation which is the first one where we had to use uber, I would use Uber over a free shuttle now after experiencing the convenience. I don't miss the magical Express anymore.
If you don't bring a lot of luggage, you may want to try the new LINK311 bus. It leaves MCO every 30 minutes. The trip takes about 1 hour (similar to mears), drops off at Disney Springs and costs $2/rider. We will be trying it on our next trip. We are light packers but, if you bring big bags, you will need to catch an Uber from DS to your resort. I don't think the resort shuttles allow big bags.
You might want to consider taking out a travel insurance policy, just in case you do have to cancel at the last minute. Yeah, it might add more costs to your trip, but at least you can put your mind at ease, knowing that you're covered if circumstances change. I do it all the time. Just make sure to read the small print under the cancellation cover, so you know which circumstances come under the policy
This is why we have an ongoing travel insurance! It's year-round, and we've made sure it includes the US for when we go. So worth it to never have to worry.
For us Europeans one of those 'hidden costs' is the taxes! We are not used at all to having to add taxes to a price we see (and to google how much the taxes even are). Ironically, I'd say those are the only truly hidden costs (along with the $100 hold), because while it says 'plus taxes', it won't actually tell you what that amount is until you receive the bill. Everything outlined on the video isn't actually hidden, especially since tips are technically not required. I've also seen that Mousekeepers get a full wage these days and are no longer a tipped position. Not to say you can't tip anymore, but only to point out it's no longer as expected. Would also like to add that for purchasing Multipass, it doesn't just depend on where you're staying. It also depends on where you live. Us Europeans are really getting the worst end of the deal here. I hope they fix that soon, because right now it's super unfair, as most of us don't arrive in the US 7 (or even 3!) days before hitting the parks. And rip us for no magicband discounts either.
For all Europeans out there, most restaurants in the U.S. DO NOT include a tip on the bill. I used to be a server at a high class restaurant that catered to alot of conventions and events frequented by Europeans. We learned that Europeans think they are already paying for a tip when they pay the bill, so we got stiffed every time (we were not allowed to automatically add a tip). On top of it, We worked really hard during those events.
@@MeMyselfAndUs903 I think a lot of Europeans would take offense at the ‘getting stiffed’ over something that is expected but not required. We don’t see it as our responsibility to pay our waiter’s wages, though it is the sad reality in the US. My personal issue isn’t tipping per se, but it being a (set) percentage.
Just an FYI on the lightning lane. I'm in the UK and just got from disney and I managed to book the LL before my trip. The app uses a GPS location and not IP address therefore I just downloaded a fake GPS app, set my location to the US then bingo sorted.
We found the multipass purchase useful just to help shorten a bunch of the lines for our two younger kids. That way they weren’t waiting in long line after long line….
@@Ryotsu2112 I go to Walt Disney World to vacation, not to sleep. So the budget hotels are fine. But... what I would have loved a night or two at the Contemporary resort. The ride to the park is literally outside your door!!!
Will be there on the 15th!! We were booked @ All Star Sports & we got a call that we were being upgraded to a Cars Family Suite @ Art of Animation!!! She said we were being pixie dusted!!! ✨️✨️✨️✨️
@rainbow20112011 No...we asked about 3 times to make sure!! We had pd 150 w/ tax for the ALL Star Sports room so she told us we were being "pixie dusted"
To its credit Disney does not tack on a "resort" fee unlike Swan, Dolphin and all the Good Neighbor hotels. Also, no longer a charge to park at the resort. Shades of Green does have a parking charge but I recall no taxes, as it is a quasi military installation.
Not true in Anaheim. All Disney resorts have an occupancy tax. Only if you are lucky enough to be a DVC owner at Grand Californian is this tax already built in to your annual maintenance fee. This is not the case for Disneyland Hotel, where you still have to pay this tax on your DVC stay.
Shades of Green are not exactly “Serving those who served” as claimed. When they started charging for parking I was told “Although not a Disney property they are on Disney property, so they have to start charging for resort parking when Disney did”. When Disney stopped charging for parking I complained and was told “MWR sets the rules”. BS.
never going to disney world yet still binge watching this channel constantly while i sit at home doing nothing and planning nothing because i enjoy nothing and nothning is affordable or fun anymore but this is still interesting
❤ this video! Even staying off property I budget for parking, gratuity, and extra spending. Right now I’m saving up to stay on property in two years at The Art of Animation resort or Port New Orleans.😊 can’t wait to scratch this off my bucket list!
This is great AJ and thank you for this amazing information. Can you do a “Big Box Warehouse Disney vacation bundle VS Buying directly from Disney/Buying with a travel agent. Thanks for being amazing!
Most of the items in this video would apply to any hotel anywhere and are not specific to Disney. But note that Disney does not charge a "resort fee", does not charge for its pools or exercise rooms, and provides free wifi. Many states, counties, and/or cities have tourism taxes and surcharges. For the incidentals hold, using a credit card is better, some banks could take months to temove it from debit cards.
Disney has really made the visit to Disney from an airport, a horrible experience on top of raising prices. And for delivery, Kroger is definitely the best, but you'll have to do it at least a day in advance.
So sad multipass (fastpass then) is not free anymore, nor the bus transportation from the airport nor the magic bands. It's almost as if staying in the Disney resorts has no perks anymore aside from just being able to be there earlier in the am.
I have to say there's another huge benefit to Magic Bands: instant access to hotel rooms, payments, and Lightening Lanes to name a few. Instant, meaning no one is behind you waiting to open your phone, find your ticket, and other fumblings that slows everyone down...not in a good way. Whenever we use our Magic bands, people watch in amazement how easily we get through. Just my two cents.
I wish they'd hide more costs somewhere else because everytime I go on the website to price out a trip I have a heart attack and say there's always next year.
It is what it is. We always add $1,000.00 for HIDDEN costs! That normally covers it. No, not happy about it but figure if we don't spend it, it's found money. We can justify anything to ourselves if we watch to😂
Same here. For all the bits and bobs not included, or stuff forgotten, or stuff needed. The replacement hat for the one lost on the Skyliner. The sunscreen spray because airport security confiscated moms but not the kids (somehow). A new tshirt for the kid who got major chocolate on his from the mickey ice cream which won't come out in the hotel sink. Or matching sweatshirts for all when it gets surprisingly cold in the evening and you just weren't prepared. The few days we buy lightening lanes or fancy timed entry queue (whatever they call it these days). (Hollywood studios + Star wars were totally worth it!!!) Uber/Lyft to from airport. Also Uber/Lyft for that one time after you leave the park and the bus queue is more than you or your kid can handle right then.
Me and my wife are flying down to Epcot for a day trip and are trying to figure out if Uber is worth it so finding out we could lose twice as much time on the bus is very helpful. She tried to schedule a taxi and they wanted $80 each way
Definitely take a rideshare. Back in Magical Express days, i was continuing on to a trip in Argentina after Disney. Magical Express wanted to know my flight time - and that was just connecting me from Orlando to Miami before Miami-Buenos Aires flight. I was at AKL and three of us boarded the bus at the appointed time. Then we stopped at PopCenttury where about 50 people with all their luggage was waiting to get on. There was no one to help the bus driver load all this stuff under the bus. It took like an hour to get us on our way, and i was sweating. When we got to the Magical Express stop at MCO, we could not pull into a space until another bus left, and it was taking forever. I explained the situation to the bus driver and curb attendant. They got me and my suitcase off the bus first, but i had to RUN to the security line and then RUN to my gate. There was all sorts of weird stuff going on at the gate with boarding this flight to Miami (like extra screening of carry-ons), but i did make the flight - barely -
Mears is pretty good but can add 30-60 mins commute from Orlando Airport. Mostly because you will need to wait for the next bus to come in(sometimes it’s 5 mins sometimes up to 20mins) and then depending on which resort you’re staying you may also have to stop at a few others before you get to yours. Mears one way is $16 while Uber is usually anywhere between $60 and $80 depending on surge. If you’re not in a rush to get to your resort, Mears is definitely worth it.
Uber is really convenient. It's expensive, especially with tips, but it's convenient. It's also fun to talk to your Uber driver and ask them stuff in the area and maybe get some information you wouldn't otherwise
Also, the magic band discount for hotel guests only works if you live in the US. If you don't live in the US, you don't get the discounts because you can't order internationally, apparently. Bummer.
I like following DFB and AllEars and the information they provide is valuable and very fun. However, I can’t tell you how many times I say to myself about people who go to Disney World are “these people are crazy”.
Yes we tip alot, but it really got out of control during the pandemic when everyone who was considered "essential" and called "heros" started feeling entitled to tips. Its still out of control. It is customaly to tip for service in which the quality of that service is wholey dependent on the person delivering the service..examples would be wait staff, taxi/ride share drivers, bell services, hair stylist, bartender, delivery person, housekeeper, masseuse and similar......not for putting cookies in a box or making a hoagie.
I curtained a lot of my tipping! We have friends that all go to dinner together & the families sit at their own tables & just have the tables close by each other, so we do not pay the big automatic gratuity!!!!!
YOU CHOOSE TO TIP! WE NEVER TIP FOR FAST PICK UP ON ANYTHING! IVE FOUND OUT THAT IMMIGRANTS WHO HAVE MOVED TONTHE USA AND WORK IN SERVICE JOBS EXPECT TIPS! WRONG! I TELL THEM TIPS ARE ONLY FOR RESTAURANTS, HOTEL BAGGAGE, AND SPECIAL SERVICE JOBS!
AJ, Could you please do a vlog like this for a DCL Visit? I need the following information: 1) Transportation from MCO to a Disney Value Resort 2) One night accommodations at a Value Resort 3) Transportation to Port Canaveral for DCL 4) Transportation back to a Disney Value Resort 5) Accommodations for 2 nights @ Value Resort 6) Transportation to MCO for return flight home. Traveling on the Disney TREASURE on May 17th -24th. BUT, I'm flying in on May 16th from Houston Hobby! 😉😉
While I miss the old perks of staying on property as much as everyone does & while I think this is a great video to remind everyone of expenses you might forget, I think it’s also important to remember that you’re likely going to have the bulk of these added expenses, regardless of whether you stay on or off property. For example, most hotels are going to charge more for everything on site and most are going to charge an extra adult fee, as well. Our family is 3 adults (two parents, a 20 yo, 14 yo, & 4 yo) and I faced that extra adult charge at each place I priced, whether on or off. Additionally, every hotel we ever stay at, whether at Disney or not, charges an incidental fee (many charge more than $100) and they also charge at least one night of your stay, if not the entire thing, if you cancel last minute. Lastly, those taxes you mentioned are going to be added everywhere across the state and some off property hotels may even have more add ons, such as resort fees and/or parking fees. These were actually what made staying ON property more affordable for us. They tacked on an average of $60 a night to the listed nightly cost and these were not factors at Disney hotels. Not saying they’re not included in the rate you’re given by Disney, but they aren’t added on at the end like they were off property. I’m personally glad that I checked the rates everywhere and didn’t just assume off would be cheaper. I’m not saying our experience will be the same for everyone, but I do recommend pricing both options. You might be surprised at the results you get! I know we were and I believe we had a more enjoyable experience by choosing an on property hotel. And for the record, I make zero dollars to say this. Just sharing my personal experience in the hopes it might help someone else!
You didn't add a traditional taxi, I took a taxi and was immediate ride. probably cheaper than surge pricing rideshare. Cab stands are right outside by where the busses are. This was 2021 cost was 45 from MCO to Carribean beach for van with seven people
I'll start by saying I *LOVE* DFB, but I don't know what the deal is with all the bus hate on the channel. Any resort with a bus loop: bad. Taking a Mears bus from the airport: bad. Disney bus transportation: bad. DFB often makes it sound like you're spending half of your vacation on a bus which is simply not true. I've stayed at many hotels with bus loops and they're not bad at all. At worst, they may add 10 minutes to your bus ride which honestly, on the way back from the parks, can be very welcome to sit for 10 more minutes. In the mornings, as long as you plan for it, a bus loop isn't ruining your day. The Mears bus, while not as great as DME when it was free, is still our FAVORITE way to get to WDW from MCO. It costs roughly as much as an Uber for our family of 3 and who cares if it takes a few extra minutes if you stop at a second Disney resort? The buses are clean, spacious, and comfortable. They're always timely and - something that is rarely talked about - run 24 hours a day! Last time we came to WDW, we had terrible flight delays and were still able to hop on a Mears bus at nearly 3am. Plus, they're often not full, so you usually don't have to deal with a big crowd. On top of all that, the drivers are always very kind. So, DFB, let's take it a little easier on buses at WDW. Our trips would be much worse off without them!
Several reasons. Immersion in Disney bubble. Off-site shuttles are not as convenient time wise and drop off location sucks. Extra time in the park. Disney dining plan. ….
If you need to have an amazon package delivered to a resort it will cost you $6 whether or not it is delivered to your room or bell services holds on to it.
I know when it comes to Disney parks and possibly hotels people have a problem with it but what about Disney cruises? I never feel like I heard people have any problems with it other than costing a whole bunch of money but…
The Disney credit card gave back $300 after spending $1000 I just received the first bill with the credit already applied The parks have applications at the stores that offer $400 cash back Mine was online so $100 less Lost money on car rental they make you buy their ezpass for $65 The only tolls between airport and Disney adds up to $4 so that’s something to think about
These blogs are usually helpful, but I was really put off by the statement early in this blog of “having to listen to someone in another hotel room peeing.” What? Is this a thing?
I have never stayed at Disney, but I have heard repeatedly that most of their hotels and resorts have very thin walls. This can be especially annoying since the other guests often have kids or are a large, loud group.
This question goes to those who have stayed at the Swan or Dolphin hotels. Does the Magic Band work to charge inside the parks? I appreciate any help you can provide.
If the capacity of the room sleeps 4 people, the price should be the same regardless of adults or children. Disney is getting absolutely ridiculous. I hope they lose more money as guests just aren't willing to pay all these nickel-and-dime fees.
Whatever became of Tiffany Town Car Service? For a family of four with a week’s worth of luggage, it was a good value compared to the Mears bus X4 and it was express to your resort and also included a 20 minute stop at Publix (for room snacks & bottled water). This was 1999-2002. Maybe Uber killed them.
Thanks for a great video. Please remember that if you do rent a car, or drive to DisneyWorld, the hotel will charge you a per diem rate to park that car. Rates vary per hotel, but it does get you (or used to) free parking at the parks.
@@debosmom59 Thanks for updating me. I just watched a news program and they did say that resort parking fees were removed again once Iger came back as CEO.
How much would you customarily tip someone that holds your luggage or the mouse keepers of the room? In my country it’s not really a thing so I had no idea about it
I think I read it's $5 for the bags as a minimum, and then $1 per bag if you go over 5. Mousekeepers are actually a point of contention these days, as many people tip them out of belief they are a tipped position, when at WDW they no longer are; they get a full wage. When people do tip, the standard tends to be $1 per person per night, and a bit more at the end of your stay due to the full service. The common consensus however is to tip per night/service, and not all at the end, as different mousekeepers may service your room during your stay.
@@jayokee714 I honestly don't know for sure. I know WDW charges a fee for holding your stuff as is, and then I believe you tip them for each piece of luggage they handle, if they take it to/from your room. I believe it's like $1 per item, but with a minimum of $5?
What if you and 3 adult friends want to stay for 2 weeks at art of animation resort or port orleans riverside resort. What would be the price in Australian dollars?
It's most insulting for us prior cast members who were responsible for making the parks what they are today, and not being able to afford to go there now. Waiting for them to invalidate the remaining cast-member comp tickets we were given during our employment which were always supposed to be good forever.
Tips for food and bar services - 15-20%. Room cleaning - a minimum of $5/person/day. Request to have your luggage, extra towels or pillows brought to your room - $10 minimum.
@@lou4057 That's encouraging. I plan to take our old magic bands on our next trip and hope for the best. If they don't work, we can use the keycards like we used to before magic bands.
MagicBands do not "expire", they're just a rfid chip and should last for basic functions (tapping in). Additional functions which require the battery may no longer work.
So, "adult fee", is it? Yeah! Who can blame them? With drunk and rowdy people breaking up the furniture, stealing towels, etc..., it's no wonder. Sometimes, the adults are worse than the kids (no offense to either), lol! 🤪
Them not allowing luggage on the in-park buses made me change my vacation plans. I am never using rideshare under any circumstances. That actually shows how capitalism cannot provide a vital service like transportation because it literally leaves people stranded in the dust.
The ONLY way I would go to Disney World is to drive my RV and stay at Fort Wilderness (you can also rent RVs). I would only go to Animal Kingdom, IF I visit the park; because Fort Wilderness has enough activities to keep busy. Going in the cooler times of year would be the only choice. Why people suffer through Florida’s heat and humidity is beyond me.
Since the All Star and Pop refurbishment, rooms aren’t bad at all. Far better than any motel and probably just as inexpensive. I got a standard at Sports for $120 per night in Oct.
Do NOT forget: They charge your credit card for "incidentals" to the tune of 100 bucks PER NIGHT when you check in. Yeah, they refund these back but....be sure to have a CLEAR card for that little surprise even if you don't partake of room service or whatever!!!!!
There are articles how Disney is purposely pricing out low to middle class families. Essentially it provides a better experience for upper class guests who tend to spend more money. Even though park attendance is “down” Disney is most profitable this way
Ooh - I’d definitely recommend checking on some nearby airbnbs/vrbos, JUST to make sure your family has plenty of room to spread out!! However, if you’re cool with splitting up, the Disney hotels also have conjoined rooms that you might wanna look into, as well!
Airbnb for sure. A group of 8 of us are staying at a condo literally next to to the All Star resorts. We are all paying about $200 each for the entire length of our stay. Don't get the Disney perks, but it's worth that savings, IMO.
Renting a car isn’t as expensive as many may think + you control everywhere you go and how long it takes.. Not saying it’s the cheapest but it’s the most user friendly and easiest to do.
Many of us remember the Magical Express and are still mad at Disney for taking it away. It was a great way to get folks into the bubble. This would have been very helpful to them to keep folks on their property instead of staying off property, especially at Universal's now plentiful lodging options.
What would you say to Disney bringing back the Magical Express, albeit for a small fee? So, basically, when you book your Disney package, imagine being offered the option to add the Disney Magical Express for a special discounted price of $16 round trip for a maximum party of 6, and any group of more than that, $16 per adult. Kids under the age of 10 travel for free. What do you say?
@@jackwilkinson4911 It ought to be free, but $16 is within the realm of reality.
I doubt Disney will bring back their airport buses, there’s no upside for them especially with competition from Mears Connect now. Maybe Disney could run the airport buses for a profit, but why risk. it seems low reward for what is essentially budget priced transport.
@@offchance789 True. But it could encourage more people to stay at their resorts. Especially if they did it my way
"Many of us remember the Magical Express..." And many of us don't. So they should tell us about the present, instead of your dreamy memories.
2 words that never go together...Disney and Budget
They do in "Disney doesn't care about your budget"
It does if you add “buster” to the end of budget.
Actually I find that “budget” is the only way that Disney happens.
Actually its really easy to stay on a budget
Disney and middle-class.
Miss the Magical Express, no picking up our bags…they magically showed up at your resort.
I MISS IT TOOOOOOOO
We've chosen other travel options and skipped Disney several times because of the loss of the Magical Express and the package valet services.
What I really miss are the days you could purchase something and get it delivered to your resort free instead of carrying it around or renting a locker. Oftentimes while enjoying the park, I would forget what I bought the previous day, and the eve of the next day opening those delivered bags was almost like Christmas!
We stay at wilderness lodge on most of our trips. We love staying at this hotel. It meets our needs with my older two kids and my husband. I will forever miss Magical express.
I missed the magical Express too untill our recent vacation which is the first one where we had to use uber, I would use Uber over a free shuttle now after experiencing the convenience. I don't miss the magical Express anymore.
If you don't bring a lot of luggage, you may want to try the new LINK311 bus. It leaves MCO every 30 minutes. The trip takes about 1 hour (similar to mears), drops off at Disney Springs and costs $2/rider. We will be trying it on our next trip. We are light packers but, if you bring big bags, you will need to catch an Uber from DS to your resort. I don't think the resort shuttles allow big bags.
Disney hates you. If you don't understand that by now, look around.
You might want to consider taking out a travel insurance policy, just in case you do have to cancel at the last minute. Yeah, it might add more costs to your trip, but at least you can put your mind at ease, knowing that you're covered if circumstances change. I do it all the time. Just make sure to read the small print under the cancellation cover, so you know which circumstances come under the policy
You have up to 30 days to cancel the vacation insurance too and you can get a complete refund of that
@@eddiemac24Good to know. But still, it can't hurt to take out a 3rd party insurance, just in case
This is why we have an ongoing travel insurance! It's year-round, and we've made sure it includes the US for when we go. So worth it to never have to worry.
@@disabledisney Clever. Always prepared for anything, I like your thinking
This is a great idea. I always have travel insurance when I visit the USA and go to Disney given the potential healthcare costs anyways.
Congrats on one million subs AJ
For us Europeans one of those 'hidden costs' is the taxes! We are not used at all to having to add taxes to a price we see (and to google how much the taxes even are). Ironically, I'd say those are the only truly hidden costs (along with the $100 hold), because while it says 'plus taxes', it won't actually tell you what that amount is until you receive the bill. Everything outlined on the video isn't actually hidden, especially since tips are technically not required.
I've also seen that Mousekeepers get a full wage these days and are no longer a tipped position. Not to say you can't tip anymore, but only to point out it's no longer as expected.
Would also like to add that for purchasing Multipass, it doesn't just depend on where you're staying. It also depends on where you live. Us Europeans are really getting the worst end of the deal here. I hope they fix that soon, because right now it's super unfair, as most of us don't arrive in the US 7 (or even 3!) days before hitting the parks.
And rip us for no magicband discounts either.
For all Europeans out there, most restaurants in the U.S. DO NOT include a tip on the bill. I used to be a server at a high class restaurant that catered to alot of conventions and events frequented by Europeans. We learned that Europeans think they are already paying for a tip when they pay the bill, so we got stiffed every time (we were not allowed to automatically add a tip). On top of it, We worked really hard during those events.
@@MeMyselfAndUs903 I think a lot of Europeans would take offense at the ‘getting stiffed’ over something that is expected but not required. We don’t see it as our responsibility to pay our waiter’s wages, though it is the sad reality in the US. My personal issue isn’t tipping per se, but it being a (set) percentage.
@MrsMusicAddict
"When in Rome"
Isn't that a thing everywhere, Music Ma'am?
@@METVWETVAnd where exactly did I say I wouldn’t tip?
Just an FYI on the lightning lane. I'm in the UK and just got from disney and I managed to book the LL before my trip. The app uses a GPS location and not IP address therefore I just downloaded a fake GPS app, set my location to the US then bingo sorted.
We found the multipass purchase useful just to help shorten a bunch of the lines for our two younger kids. That way they weren’t waiting in long line after long line….
I still feel line Pop Century is a pretty good value.
I like to stay at the budget Motels over the expensive Hotels!😊
It’s probs my favorite value resort, to be honest.
@@Ryotsu2112
I go to Walt Disney World to vacation, not to sleep. So the budget hotels are fine.
But... what I would have loved a night or two at the Contemporary resort.
The ride to the park is literally outside your door!!!
Stayed there back when it first opened for $79 a night. Miss those days. 😂
@@m.s.r.1795 I think everyone does.
The nickel and diming the parks are doing is out of hand. Free shuttle is like the bare minimum!
Oh no they do the same as any other hotel
I don't think there are any free airport shuttles to/from MCO. Disney was the only one I know of.
Disney does not have a "resort fee" like other hotels, and Disney does not charge for its park shuttles.
Not everything in life is free.
vincent412l7 neither does Fairfield Marriott, the charges aren't universal.
Will be there on the 15th!!
We were booked @ All Star Sports & we got a call that we were being upgraded to a Cars Family Suite @ Art of Animation!!!
She said we were being pixie dusted!!! ✨️✨️✨️✨️
Nice!!!!
Did you have to pay more for the upgrade?
@rainbow20112011
No...we asked about 3 times to make sure!!
We had pd 150 w/ tax for the ALL Star Sports room so she told us we were being "pixie dusted"
To its credit Disney does not tack on a "resort" fee unlike Swan, Dolphin and all the Good Neighbor hotels. Also, no longer a charge to park at the resort. Shades of Green does have a parking charge but I recall no taxes, as it is a quasi military installation.
Not true in Anaheim. All Disney resorts have an occupancy tax. Only if you are lucky enough to be a DVC owner at Grand Californian is this tax already built in to your annual maintenance fee. This is not the case for Disneyland Hotel, where you still have to pay this tax on your DVC stay.
@paul16451 the Disney resorts in Anaheim are notn military accommodations.
Shades of Green are not exactly “Serving those who served” as claimed. When they started charging for parking I was told “Although not a Disney property they are on Disney property, so they have to start charging for resort parking when Disney did”. When Disney stopped charging for parking I complained and was told “MWR sets the rules”. BS.
@@bubsmp
Somebody at MWR is probably getting a 'cut' for themselves.
never going to disney world yet still binge watching this channel constantly while i sit at home doing nothing and planning nothing because i enjoy nothing and nothning is affordable or fun anymore but this is still interesting
I watch it just to learn about everything. It’s good to know things when people bring them up I. Conversation
❤ this video! Even staying off property I budget for parking, gratuity, and extra spending. Right now I’m saving up to stay on property in two years at The Art of Animation resort or Port New Orleans.😊 can’t wait to scratch this off my bucket list!
That’s so awesome!!
I’m SO glad I watched this. I haven’t been to Disney since 2017 and thought the bus still went to the hotels from the airport 🥲
There is still one - Mears Connect - but you have to pay for it now! 😅
This is great AJ and thank you for this amazing information.
Can you do a “Big Box Warehouse Disney vacation bundle VS Buying directly from Disney/Buying with a travel agent.
Thanks for being amazing!
Most of the items in this video would apply to any hotel anywhere and are not specific to Disney. But note that Disney does not charge a "resort fee", does not charge for its pools or exercise rooms, and provides free wifi. Many states, counties, and/or cities have tourism taxes and surcharges.
For the incidentals hold, using a credit card is better, some banks could take months to temove it from debit cards.
Disney has really made the visit to Disney from an airport, a horrible experience on top of raising prices. And for delivery, Kroger is definitely the best, but you'll have to do it at least a day in advance.
GET OVER IT! ITS A VACA! IF YOU DONT PLAN DONT GO! STAY HOME! ALL THESE KARENS WHO COMPLAIN ABOUT WDW
So sad multipass (fastpass then) is not free anymore, nor the bus transportation from the airport nor the magic bands. It's almost as if staying in the Disney resorts has no perks anymore aside from just being able to be there earlier in the am.
Meers connect is solid.
If you have more than 3 people it's cheaper to Uber or Lyft. Way more convenient too. I couldn't believe how fast we got to our hotel.
I have to say there's another huge benefit to Magic Bands: instant access to hotel rooms, payments, and Lightening Lanes to name a few. Instant, meaning no one is behind you waiting to open your phone, find your ticket, and other fumblings that slows everyone down...not in a good way. Whenever we use our Magic bands, people watch in amazement how easily we get through. Just my two cents.
Totally agree! Plus, they are waterproof!
I hate to say this but Disney is good at throwing extra costs at people
You mean the ones that are optional? 🙄🙄
@@Canrugger no
I don't agree with you
one of the best informative videos ever!
Aww, thank you!
Heading to WDW in Dec, already have my Mears and my shopping list ready to order and have delivered.
Look at YOU!! 🤩
The DFB is always there for us:)
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I wish they'd hide more costs somewhere else because everytime I go on the website to price out a trip I have a heart attack and say there's always next year.
I just started saving for Oct 2026 😂
It is what it is. We always add $1,000.00 for HIDDEN costs! That normally covers it. No, not happy about it but figure if we don't spend it, it's found money. We can justify anything to ourselves if we watch to😂
Same here. For all the bits and bobs not included, or stuff forgotten, or stuff needed. The replacement hat for the one lost on the Skyliner. The sunscreen spray because airport security confiscated moms but not the kids (somehow). A new tshirt for the kid who got major chocolate on his from the mickey ice cream which won't come out in the hotel sink. Or matching sweatshirts for all when it gets surprisingly cold in the evening and you just weren't prepared. The few days we buy lightening lanes or fancy timed entry queue (whatever they call it these days). (Hollywood studios + Star wars were totally worth it!!!) Uber/Lyft to from airport. Also Uber/Lyft for that one time after you leave the park and the bus queue is more than you or your kid can handle right then.
Now THAT’s a solid safety net!
@@mymasmith7848 Yes! $1000 is my Disney “extra whatever” budget as well!
That's what we figure for a week too. But we are including bellhop tips and a Bibbity bobbidi boutique in there as well
There are literally no hidden costs …every single costs is clearly outlined
some delivery apps can bring your order directly to your hotel room.
Which ones
Me and my wife are flying down to Epcot for a day trip and are trying to figure out if Uber is worth it so finding out we could lose twice as much time on the bus is very helpful. She tried to schedule a taxi and they wanted $80 each way
Definitely take a rideshare. Back in Magical Express days, i was continuing on to a trip in Argentina after Disney. Magical Express wanted to know my flight time - and that was just connecting me from Orlando to Miami before Miami-Buenos Aires flight. I was at AKL and three of us boarded the bus at the appointed time. Then we stopped at PopCenttury where about 50 people with all their luggage was waiting to get on. There was no one to help the bus driver load all this stuff under the bus. It took like an hour to get us on our way, and i was sweating. When we got to the Magical Express stop at MCO, we could not pull into a space until another bus left, and it was taking forever. I explained the situation to the bus driver and curb attendant. They got me and my suitcase off the bus first, but i had to RUN to the security line and then RUN to my gate. There was all sorts of weird stuff going on at the gate with boarding this flight to Miami (like extra screening of carry-ons), but i did make the flight - barely -
Mears is pretty good but can add 30-60 mins commute from Orlando Airport. Mostly because you will need to wait for the next bus to come in(sometimes it’s 5 mins sometimes up to 20mins) and then depending on which resort you’re staying you may also have to stop at a few others before you get to yours. Mears one way is $16 while Uber is usually anywhere between $60 and $80 depending on surge. If you’re not in a rush to get to your resort, Mears is definitely worth it.
Uber is really convenient. It's expensive, especially with tips, but it's convenient. It's also fun to talk to your Uber driver and ask them stuff in the area and maybe get some information you wouldn't otherwise
Try Lyft instead, we had a few trips uber wanted over $35 but Lyft was only $17-$18
Compare with lift. We found them much cheaper
You can hear the guy above your room peeing?
😂 enchanted extras ✨
Also, the magic band discount for hotel guests only works if you live in the US. If you don't live in the US, you don't get the discounts because you can't order internationally, apparently. Bummer.
They used to give free basic magic bands with a vacation package. That was a nice perk
I like following DFB and AllEars and the information they provide is valuable and very fun. However, I can’t tell you how many times I say to myself about people who go to Disney World are “these people are crazy”.
I just can't see doing it multiple times of year, especially if you don't love close by
I’ve never experienced a tipping culture quite like in the US…even for just buying a coffee to go…
Yes we tip alot, but it really got out of control during the pandemic when everyone who was considered "essential" and called "heros" started feeling entitled to tips. Its still out of control.
It is customaly to tip for service in which the quality of that service is wholey dependent on the person delivering the service..examples would be wait staff, taxi/ride share drivers, bell services, hair stylist, bartender, delivery person, housekeeper, masseuse and similar......not for putting cookies in a box or making a hoagie.
Now self check out registers have tip option at some places. Like am I tipping myself?? Geez
I curtained a lot of my tipping! We have friends that all go to dinner together & the families sit at their own tables & just have the tables close by each other, so we do not pay the big automatic gratuity!!!!!
YOU CHOOSE TO TIP! WE NEVER TIP FOR FAST PICK UP ON ANYTHING! IVE FOUND OUT THAT IMMIGRANTS WHO HAVE MOVED TONTHE USA AND WORK IN SERVICE JOBS EXPECT TIPS! WRONG! I TELL THEM TIPS ARE ONLY FOR RESTAURANTS, HOTEL BAGGAGE, AND SPECIAL SERVICE JOBS!
I don’t think as much should be given on a concierge level since you already paying an up charge for the level???
AJ,
Could you please do a vlog like this for a DCL Visit? I need the following information:
1) Transportation from MCO to a Disney Value Resort
2) One night accommodations at a Value Resort
3) Transportation to Port Canaveral for DCL
4) Transportation back to a Disney Value Resort
5) Accommodations for 2 nights @ Value Resort
6) Transportation to MCO for return flight home.
Traveling on the Disney TREASURE on May 17th -24th. BUT, I'm flying in on May 16th from Houston Hobby! 😉😉
The only magic that is left at Disney is the magic of making all your money disappear out of your wallet.
While I miss the old perks of staying on property as much as everyone does & while I think this is a great video to remind everyone of expenses you might forget, I think it’s also important to remember that you’re likely going to have the bulk of these added expenses, regardless of whether you stay on or off property. For example, most hotels are going to charge more for everything on site and most are going to charge an extra adult fee, as well. Our family is 3 adults (two parents, a 20 yo, 14 yo, & 4 yo) and I faced that extra adult charge at each place I priced, whether on or off. Additionally, every hotel we ever stay at, whether at Disney or not, charges an incidental fee (many charge more than $100) and they also charge at least one night of your stay, if not the entire thing, if you cancel last minute. Lastly, those taxes you mentioned are going to be added everywhere across the state and some off property hotels may even have more add ons, such as resort fees and/or parking fees. These were actually what made staying ON property more affordable for us. They tacked on an average of $60 a night to the listed nightly cost and these were not factors at Disney hotels. Not saying they’re not included in the rate you’re given by Disney, but they aren’t added on at the end like they were off property.
I’m personally glad that I checked the rates everywhere and didn’t just assume off would be cheaper. I’m not saying our experience will be the same for everyone, but I do recommend pricing both options. You might be surprised at the results you get! I know we were and I believe we had a more enjoyable experience by choosing an on property hotel. And for the record, I make zero dollars to say this. Just sharing my personal experience in the hopes it might help someone else!
Good things to know!
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AJ, in your opinion, which is a better value? Seven days at Disney World or a Seven Day Disney Cruise?
That's a good question.
IMO, the cruise is more relaxing. I don't know how to quantify that in dollars.
Magical express was awesome. But there was sometimes a 2 hr line waiting for it. It was crazy
WE WENT BROKE AT WDW ! SAD! WE LIVEB N OUR CAR NOW!
I took Mears with no stops
I took the red eye
This vid convinced me to skip Disney altogether. We’ll stick to beach vacays.
You didn't add a traditional taxi, I took a taxi and was immediate ride. probably cheaper than surge pricing rideshare. Cab stands are right outside by where the busses are. This was 2021 cost was 45 from MCO to Carribean beach for van with seven people
$100 incidental hotel charge is ridiculously cheap. When we stayed at a resort in the Maldives, there was a $10k USD hold on our credit card. 😆
I'll start by saying I *LOVE* DFB, but I don't know what the deal is with all the bus hate on the channel. Any resort with a bus loop: bad. Taking a Mears bus from the airport: bad. Disney bus transportation: bad. DFB often makes it sound like you're spending half of your vacation on a bus which is simply not true. I've stayed at many hotels with bus loops and they're not bad at all. At worst, they may add 10 minutes to your bus ride which honestly, on the way back from the parks, can be very welcome to sit for 10 more minutes. In the mornings, as long as you plan for it, a bus loop isn't ruining your day.
The Mears bus, while not as great as DME when it was free, is still our FAVORITE way to get to WDW from MCO. It costs roughly as much as an Uber for our family of 3 and who cares if it takes a few extra minutes if you stop at a second Disney resort? The buses are clean, spacious, and comfortable. They're always timely and - something that is rarely talked about - run 24 hours a day! Last time we came to WDW, we had terrible flight delays and were still able to hop on a Mears bus at nearly 3am. Plus, they're often not full, so you usually don't have to deal with a big crowd. On top of all that, the drivers are always very kind.
So, DFB, let's take it a little easier on buses at WDW. Our trips would be much worse off without them!
What resort does sunrise yoga? And is it open to any resort guest or only guest staying at that resort.
I don’t understand why people don’t just stay in a hotel off-property and use the hotel’s shuttle service back and forth to the park.
Several reasons. Immersion in Disney bubble. Off-site shuttles are not as convenient time wise and drop off location sucks. Extra time in the park. Disney dining plan. ….
Knowing that you have videos that cover all the Disney World Hotels, but which one would you recommend as far as theming while being budget friendly.
Art of Animation or Pop Century
If you need to have an amazon package delivered to a resort it will cost you $6 whether or not it is delivered to your room or bell services holds on to it.
I know when it comes to Disney parks and possibly hotels people have a problem with it but what about Disney cruises? I never feel like I heard people have any problems with it other than costing a whole bunch of money but…
The Disney credit card gave back $300 after spending $1000 I just received the first bill with the credit already applied
The parks have applications at the stores that offer $400 cash back
Mine was online so $100 less
Lost money on car rental they make you buy their ezpass for $65
The only tolls between airport and Disney adds up to $4 so that’s something to think about
That credit card would be worth it
These blogs are usually helpful, but I was really put off by the statement early in this blog of “having to listen to someone in another hotel room peeing.”
What? Is this a thing?
The walls aren't insulated or soundproof, and some people are loud or stay up late.
I have never stayed at Disney, but I have heard repeatedly that most of their hotels and resorts have very thin walls. This can be especially annoying since the other guests often have kids or are a large, loud group.
This question goes to those who have stayed at the Swan or Dolphin hotels. Does the Magic Band work to charge inside the parks? I appreciate any help you can provide.
Disney is a business i get it but it's already so expensive then you have these extra fees it just feels greedy
If the capacity of the room sleeps 4 people, the price should be the same regardless of adults or children. Disney is getting absolutely ridiculous. I hope they lose more money as guests just aren't willing to pay all these nickel-and-dime fees.
Just about all hotels (and cruises) are priced double-occupancy, and chare extra for additional guests. Why do people focus only on Disney?
Never paid more than $45 plus tip for Lyft
Whatever became of Tiffany Town Car Service? For a family of four with a week’s worth of luggage, it was a good value compared to the Mears bus X4 and it was express to your resort and also included a 20 minute stop at Publix (for room snacks & bottled water). This was 1999-2002. Maybe Uber killed them.
Staying on property is just too expensive for a family of 5 (2 parents 3 kids). We stay offsite. Still enjoy your videos though!
Does shades of green offer overflow rates for Disney properties?
5:58 Lines, lines and more lines everywhere and anywhere. I have no patience to pack in my suitcase, do you?
Thanks for a great video. Please remember that if you do rent a car, or drive to DisneyWorld, the hotel will charge you a per diem rate to park that car. Rates vary per hotel, but it does get you (or used to) free parking at the parks.
I went in August and stayed at a resort. I parked for no fee.
@@debosmom59 Thanks for updating me. I just watched a news program and they did say that resort parking fees were removed again once Iger came back as CEO.
“Super-themed, super-immersive”
That now means Marriotts with a few pictures on the wall hinting at the theme.
My AmEx card gives 5% back on Kroger purchases. Disney chase offers that hit and miss as well.
Fif you are flying in on an international flight mears connect is from the older terminal and you'll need to get there
I stayed at disney years ago and walked to a supermarket. Bought our own thing
Did I understand it right, I have to pay tax addionally?
Unlike anywhere else where you don't pay taxes?
@@vincent412l7in Germany wie don‘t pay extra tax. All taxes or fees are included at the hotelprice.
Yes. Definitely have to add various taxes to all hotel stays in the USA. I usually allow 15% for most areas.
How much would you customarily tip someone that holds your luggage or the mouse keepers of the room? In my country it’s not really a thing so I had no idea about it
I think I read it's $5 for the bags as a minimum, and then $1 per bag if you go over 5. Mousekeepers are actually a point of contention these days, as many people tip them out of belief they are a tipped position, when at WDW they no longer are; they get a full wage. When people do tip, the standard tends to be $1 per person per night, and a bit more at the end of your stay due to the full service. The common consensus however is to tip per night/service, and not all at the end, as different mousekeepers may service your room during your stay.
@@disabledisney Thank you so much!
@@disabledisneydo you top bell services at drop off or pick up of luggage or both?
@@jayokee714 I honestly don't know for sure. I know WDW charges a fee for holding your stuff as is, and then I believe you tip them for each piece of luggage they handle, if they take it to/from your room. I believe it's like $1 per item, but with a minimum of $5?
@@disabledisney they don't charge to hold your luggage.
What if you and 3 adult friends want to stay for 2 weeks at art of animation resort or port orleans riverside resort. What would be the price in Australian dollars?
It varies by room and date.
Does Disney still charges a parking fee for the hotel car park?
Nope! If you’re staying as a Disney hotel guest, parking at your resort hotel is free now!
It's most insulting for us prior cast members who were responsible for making the parks what they are today, and not being able to afford to go there now. Waiting for them to invalidate the remaining cast-member comp tickets we were given during our employment which were always supposed to be good forever.
When you stay at WDW, you're paying for the perks (what few there are, anyway). Nothing is free. It's why you're paying so much per night.
We spent $77 total round trip for Uber for 3 people.
Maybe you know build a train from the airport to the major orlando resort area's?
I got a magic band for $10 and change
Not too shabby!
How
Whats a good gratuity amount?
Tips for food and bar services - 15-20%. Room cleaning - a minimum of $5/person/day. Request to have your luggage, extra towels or pillows brought to your room - $10 minimum.
3:23 The pricing sign shows “(Plus PFRC)”. What is PFRC
Anyone use Walmart grocery delivery for when they stayed at the hotel?
Lynx ftw
I vote no to taxes
What if you use Amtrak.
How old of a magic band be and still work?
Usually 3-5 years at most
@@DizneeAllstar That's disappointing. I have a drawer full of old ones.
I used mine from 2018 this summer and it worked.
@@lou4057 That's encouraging. I plan to take our old magic bands on our next trip and hope for the best. If they don't work, we can use the keycards like we used to before magic bands.
MagicBands do not "expire", they're just a rfid chip and should last for basic functions (tapping in). Additional functions which require the battery may no longer work.
So, "adult fee", is it? Yeah! Who can blame them? With drunk and rowdy people breaking up the furniture, stealing towels, etc..., it's no wonder. Sometimes, the adults are worse than the kids (no offense to either), lol! 🤪
I wonder if people know to leave a tip on your pillow each day for the people who clean the room.
They don't clean the rooms anymore. Not daily anyway.
@@jayokee714 LOL, right? Your joking.
@@MeMyselfAndUs903 what? No I'm not joking. We stayed four nights at Port Orleans and they didn't clean once.
Them not allowing luggage on the in-park buses made me change my vacation plans. I am never using rideshare under any circumstances. That actually shows how capitalism cannot provide a vital service like transportation because it literally leaves people stranded in the dust.
Yeah I was super shocked to hear about that. They really expect people coming to and from the airport not to have luggage? Makes no sense.
The ONLY way I would go to Disney World is to drive my RV and stay at Fort Wilderness (you can also rent RVs). I would only go to Animal Kingdom, IF I visit the park; because Fort Wilderness has enough activities to keep busy. Going in the cooler times of year would be the only choice. Why people suffer through Florida’s heat and humidity is beyond me.
It's a timing thing. Most people only really have the time to go in the summer when kids are out of school.
Disney budget resort is a glorified Motel 6 with cafeteria style foods.
I found Landscape of Flavors more like what you get at IKEA.
Yes, but the convenience was (and maybe still), worth it.
Since the All Star and Pop refurbishment, rooms aren’t bad at all. Far better than any motel and probably just as inexpensive. I got a standard at Sports for $120 per night in Oct.
Hitch hike from airport to Disney
😂😂😂. Prob very safe too lol
Playing chess instead of checkers, I see. 🤣
Do NOT forget: They charge your credit card for "incidentals" to the tune of 100 bucks PER NIGHT when you check in. Yeah, they refund these back but....be sure to have a CLEAR card for that little surprise even if you don't partake of room service or whatever!!!!!
Tourist tax? Might as well add that on to my 6’2’ tall male tax.. jeez
The state and county want to take their share.
Mears Connect is not even close to Magical Express. Mears is terrible
Why do you call the Motels, Hotels? Why not call them all Resorts like Disney does?!!
Same experience but now you have to pay disney's 2024 motto. Next you will have to pay to get on all ridea
It is a luxury visiting disney. Too expensive to get to a place and wait for everything
The adult fee doesn’t explain why.
Most hotels everywhere (and cruises) are priced double-occupancy, and charge extra for additional people.
There are articles how Disney is purposely pricing out low to middle class families. Essentially it provides a better experience for upper class guests who tend to spend more money. Even though park attendance is “down” Disney is most profitable this way
It isn't just about money. Well, if it is, but Disney was having a real overcrowding problem for years. This is one way to deal with it.
Additional adult charge may be the biggest scam Disney runs
Im planning a trip in 2025 for a family of 13 trying to figured out where we can stay
Ooh - I’d definitely recommend checking on some nearby airbnbs/vrbos, JUST to make sure your family has plenty of room to spread out!! However, if you’re cool with splitting up, the Disney hotels also have conjoined rooms that you might wanna look into, as well!
Airbnb for sure. A group of 8 of us are staying at a condo literally next to to the All Star resorts. We are all paying about $200 each for the entire length of our stay. Don't get the Disney perks, but it's worth that savings, IMO.
@dfbbreea thank you I'll look into the airbnb
@@StrongMoustachio thanks I'm definitely going to look into the airbnb
Renting a car isn’t as expensive as many may think + you control everywhere you go and how long it takes..
Not saying it’s the cheapest but it’s the most user friendly and easiest to do.