This is my first time joining the forum. I have read the experiences of many people and I have enjoyed the stories so much, I thought I would join in. I have always had a fascination with WDW ever since my childhood friend from Rhode Island went with his family when the World opened in the early 70's. His vivid description of their vacation had me dreaming for years. It wasn't until I was in college that I was able to go myself. I stayed at the Tree House Villas (which I believe are no longer open to the public)with my girlfriend and her parents. Disney World was everything I had dreamed it would be. I have since been back a total of 6 times, every stay being more magical than the last. That girlfriend became my wife and her parents have taken us and their two grandchildren several times. We reside in Vermont and wish we could have gone more often over the years. We have stayed at the now defunct Disney Villas, the Polynesian twice and the Wilderness Lodge twice. We had planned an April 2002 trip but when 911 occurred, my kids were scared to fly and we cancelled the trip. It has been a long time since and my oldest is now in college. She recently begged us to go again. Maybe this being our last vacation as a family since the kids are getting older. So we decided to do it up right. My family is going to WDW for Christmas! We can't wait! It has been a long time since we have been back and the first time we have gone alone as a family. We have reservations at the CBR and are so excited we can't wait! I plan on doing my homework and studying this site to learn as much as I can to make the most of our trip.

Welcome, Edwin!! Sounds like you have a long history of lovin' the Mouse! I hope your vacation is everything you dream of and MORE! Let us know if you have any questions as you start your reserach. As you've undoubtedly figured out, we LOVE to give our opinions!!!:p

Welcome to the boards Edwin! My father's name was Edwin, a name you don't hear too often and you mention RI, so I will remember you. MousePadders are the best for great info and reporting. Ask any question and you will get helpful responses. My oldest is almost 26 and we still go to WDW together, now her boyfreind comes too.

A Christmas trip sounds fantastic! I hope you report back after the trip, I've never been at Christmastime and have no plans to in the near future, so I have to live vicariously through those of you who get to :) It sounds like it'll be such a special time with your family.

Hope you enjoy the rest of the planning -- it'll be here before you know it!

Welcome!

You didn't mention it, so I have to. Have you made your ADRs? If not - do it THIS WEEKEND! If you're doing the dining plan, you need ADRs to take advantage of the table service credit you get for each night of your stay. And if you're NOT doing the dining plan, you still need to make ADRs for any table service meals you want.

Hi Edwin, welcome to the boards! I'm going in December too, but only for a few days in the beginning of the month. I've researched the holiday extras extensively, so ask away!

welcome!!!! Im going to VT on Friday! You must love living there! Nice to see the green mountains loving the world as well!

Edwin, I really enjoyed your introduction. I can just imagine the fun of going to WDW for the first time, with your family and your girlfriend/future wife! You must have some terrific memories of the place, and now it's time to make some new ones. Keep the questions coming, and don't forget to send a trip report when it's all done.

Welcome! Christmas time is wonderful in DW. We've stayed at the CBR many times. Hope you enjoy your stay there - it's lovely to walk around.

Orlando excitment can be overwhelming. There are SO many attractions and SO many fun things to do! It is my suggestion that you have your agenda mapped out before venture out on your own. Don't forget to allow some down time to rest those tired feet!!! Check out [Solicitation Removed]

Orlando excitment can be overwhelming. There are SO many attractions and SO many fun things to do! It is my suggestion that you have your agenda mapped out before venture out on your own. Don't forget to allow some down time to rest those tired feet!!! Check out [Solicitation Removed]

Is this type of blatent advertising allowed here? I thought not; that's one of the reasons I enjoy your Boards so much... My apologies if I've misread this?......

Have fun. We were there last year for Christmas and the only advice I can offer is to make sure you have as many dinner reservations as possible. We had to wait over three hours for dinner one night. This year we have our dinner reservations for each night already made.

Disney World was everything I had dreamed it would be.

Me too! Welcome to the Boards and have a magical holiday - can't wait for your trip report!

Hello Edwin, Im planning a trip for christmas 2008 I have never been there during the busiest week of the year can you please report back and let us know how it goes, I have heard so many stories (some not so positive) and now I am a little worried about going during this time I am traveling with 2 children and i want to have and idea what to expect and maybe you can give us some tips on how to avoid some of the crowds.