Why do we always stay at a Disney resort?

     Kenny and I stay at a Disney resort each time we go to Walt Disney World.  I do not think we would stay any where else unless it was free.  There are just too many benefits.  If you have been and stayed in a resort then you should understand why.  For those who choose not to for whatever reason, I will outline our reasons why.

1. Disney's Magical Express: how about FREE transportation from the airport to your resort?  And not just free, it is on a comfortable bus with televisions.  AND you do not have to worry about getting your luggage.  You get off of the plane, and go straight down stairs to Disney's desk.  You get on your comfy bus and go straight to your resort.  Then, you can go hang out at the parks for the rest of the day and your luggage will be waiting for you in your room when you return.  When it is time to go home, they drag your luggage to the bus and  they take you back to the airport.  So simple, so convenient, and so genius on Disney's part.  

Our bus waiting for us at the Orlando airport

2. The Disney "Touch": have you ever stayed at a resort that leaves special touches in your room for you? We have returned to towels folded into a Mickey shape, chocolate covered strawberries, champagne, balloons, cards from our favorite character and much more.  If anyone knows how to do it, it is Disney.  I do not care how old you are, when you get a special signed card from Ariel (my favorite Princess) that says, "Happy Birthday, Amanda!"... you cannot help but smile ear-to-ear.  Oh, and I cannot forget those adorable little Mickey Mouse soaps you receive in your shower!

3. The Refillable Resort Mug: the price of drinks can add up quick at Disney...but not when you have your refillable resort mug when staying at a Disney resort.  

4. Worry-Free Transportation: to and from each park, Water Parks and Downtown Disney.  Not having to worry about renting a car, or paying for parking is AWESOME!  This includes buses, trains, monorails, boats, ferrys and more.  So nice!

5. The Disney Dining Plan: in the beginning, we did not get the Disney Dining Plan.  It was not because we did not want it, we did not realize the value.  For people that love good food as much as we do it is such a great deal.  Looking back, we wasted so much money by not getting the dining plan.  If nothing else, it is so nice not to worry about what you are ordering because you know it is already taken care of.  You basically pre-pay for your meals, and get an amazing deal.  SO much food! Watch for my post coming up about this plan.

Concierge floor at The Grand Floridian

6. Key to the World Card:  when you stay at a Disney resort, you can use your room key as if it is a credit card.  We don't always use this, but if you don't want to carry all of your cards and cash around it it is a nice convenience.  

7. Location: who wants to have to drive for 30 minutes each time that you go to a park?  Not me!  When you stay at a Disney resort you right by everything.  

8. Extra Magic Hours: this is one of the best reasons to stay at a Disney resort.  Before the parks open, or after the parks close...resort guests get to enjoy the parks without the extra crowds.  Often times you can walk right onto your favorite rides.  LOVE EMH!

9. Themed Resorts: We take "days off" from the parks just to enjoy our resort.  They each have a fun theme, and there is so much to see.  

10. More Convenience: Aside from the transportation, there are other convenient benefits for staying at a Disney resort.  One includes a fun wake up call from Mickey himself.  Sleep in all you want, but if you want to get up for early EMHs or breakfast reservations get a wake up call from Mickey.  Also, if y you want to buy an item while you are at the park gift shops they will deliver the package to your room.   

I hope this helps when you are planning your next trip!  PS...the Value Resorts as not much more than the others, is any more at all.  Look for my post coming soon including our reviews of resorts that we have stayed in thus far.