BudgetTravel

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East Brunswick, N.J.: Hi Liliane and Bob,

My family (Husband, Me, Kids 7 and 11) will be going to Walt Disney World for a return trip next year. We are going back and forth between staying at a monorail resort such as Contemporary (with the great waterfront area and ease to the Magic Kingdom) or the Yacht Club with the great pool area. My children have been several times but never experienced either of these resort destinations. We go back to the resort each afternoon so we don't just crash and go each day. I'd love your advice on where you would stay.

Thanks,
JoAnn

Liliane Opsomer/Bob Sehlinger: Our research shows that most kids have the fondest memories of the pool of the hotel they are staying at. I would go for the Yacht Club. Beware! Once they have enjoyed this great property, they WILL remember and know the difference between the Yacht Club and a budget hotel. :) And yes, you will have to come up with some great ideas to get them out of the pool.

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Independence, Minn.: We are traveling 8/4-8/11 to Walt Disney World. We have been once before with a trip package (Animal Kingdom Lodge and meal plan) and now have booked flight and hotel (Shades of Green) separately. We are meeting up with 2 other families. What is the best (economic) way to get from airport to our hotel and where is the most affordable place to rent a car? (We would like to get to the ocean once this trip.)

Liliane Opsomer/Bob Sehlinger: 1) We've confirmed that minivans are almost always less expensive at the airport. (I said "almost" but we never found an off-site minivan cheaper than on-site.)

2) We found an Enterprise location that offers free shuttle service between the airport and its facility 3.5 miles away. This Enterprise location usually has the best deals on economy and mid-size cars, with typical savings around 10%.

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U.K: Hello, we are a family of 4 adults who would like to visit Orlando between December 12th until 7th January. Because of the time available, we would like to spend less on accomodations and more on visiting the sights, but want to be comfortable as well. What can you suggest?

Liliane Opsomer/Bob Sehlinger: Hello there. A value resort is perfectly fine for grown-ups. I have stayed at quite a few hotels, including the All-Star Sports and Pop Century on my own and I was very comfortable. As matter of fact, I am going back to the Pop Century this year--on my own. If you are worried about noise, ask for a room away from the pools.