Jules1

Hi we're from UK travelling to Orlando 20/12 for Christmas and New Year. Have son 14yrs recovered fron cancer for 2nd time of his life!-bone tumour this time, can walk quite well now but may get tired. Would appreciate any advice on where to spend Christmas day and in particular where to eat, would like something traditional, will we need to book and what's best way of doing so. Also where to spend New Years to make extra special holiday.

P_M

I wish I could help, but I'm not very familiar w/Orlando. However I topped the other thread where you posted this question. I think you will get more responses from that thread because the word "Orlando" is in the title. It sounds like your family has been through a really tough time, I hope this is a special Christmas holiday indeed.

wsoxrebel

I would definitely recommend staying at one of the Universal Studios on-site resorts so you can use their no waiting in line benefit for the attractions at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure parks. Universal also offers VIP tours for add'l money that take you to the front of every line.
Hotel wise, Your son might really enjoy bragging about staying at Hard Rock. The other onsite hotels would probably have lavish Christmas buffet options.

For your Disney visits, check the hotels to see if they still offer specials if you stay nights at their properties. Recently they offered extra times at the properties where non-resort guests could not attend.

However be warned, Christmas Day or New Years Eve at Disney would be a challenge for the most able-bodies and might be a nightmare for someone without stamina.

Seaworld is such a nice alternative and they have a fantastic fireworks show at night. New Years Eve might be very nice there.

schmerl

If your son is still weak, bring some sort of note from your physician about his condition. Both Disney and Universal parks offer special handling for disabled people. You may not have to wait in lines!!! You can also rent a wheel chair or scooter at the parks.
If you want information about Disney and Universal, go to www.disboards.com

GoTravel

wsox gave you great advice! Definitely Universal Studios Islands of Adventures!

Yes, stay on site to get front of the line perks. A 14 year old would probably like The Hard Rock Hotel.

Disney's MGM studios would probably be the ticket for your family for New Years Eve.

Disney's Magic Kingdom for Christmas Day.

travelinwifey

Welcome to the States. In addition to this board try posting the same question on www.disboards.com as mentioned above. I think there you be able to find much more detailed info and even theme park strategies to fit your needs Have a great holiday.

Scarlett

Hi Jules,
My daughter goes to Disney World about once a month, she is there now. They are staying at the Disney Yacht Club for the 2nd time. It looks quite beautiful, is right on water and you can get to the park by boat or ground transportation.
When she gets home tonight, I will ask her to post here with her ideas.
Wishing you and your family all the best.
Scarlett

girlonthego

Disney has some very nice themed parties and events going on at Christmas time. They have an evening at Magic Kingdom that has caroleing and snow falls on Main St. They serve hot chocolate and cookies. There is an extra fee for this and it must be purchased in advance. There are events at each park.
Your teen will love Universal Studios. I would definitely stay on property there because they offer your room key as a way to go on the fastpass lines.
I wish you the best for quick recovery for your son and a very healthy New Year...

Jules1

Thanks for all the great info. Sorry forgot to mention already booked Best western hotel disney through Christian Lewis Cancer Trust. More worried about not finding anywhere to eat Christmas day, can't be dragging our son around looking for somewhere, is everything open or will we be struggling?

GoTravel

Most if not everything will be open. Especially in the parks.

P_M

So many people visit Orlando over the holidays you should have no trouble finding Christmas meals. I hope you and your family have a lovely trip.

padams421

Go to the www.disboards.com website. There's a discussion board for Orlando, and you can get lots of restaurant advice (Disney and non-Disney). There's even a discussion board for UK visitors to WDW.

Have a great trip.

sunbum1944

Dont know about eating in the area -
but here is a suggestion for SeaWorld -
and that is the Dolphin encounter - you get to put on a wet suit and get in the pool with the Dolphins and a trainer -
you learn some hand signals and you get to swim with them also
My daughter and I did it and it was very fun

dizneluver

Hi...My name is Kelly and I moderate a special needs forum on the new.disneyecho.emuck.com (DisneyEcho) website.

I love what others have reccomended...definately bring some kind of note from your doctor...you never know when you are going to need it.

When you go to any Disney Park be sure to stop at Guest Services to get a Guest Assistance Pass (GAP). Get it for the lenght of your stay and ask for the guide book to go with it because not every attraction is covered by the GAP.

I would also recommended (hope I dont get in trouble for this) The Passporter's Walt Disney World for your Special Needs book. It is geared toward all kinds of special needs and breaks down each park with references to what the particular rides are in light of a particular special need. You can order the book at the Passporter Website..Passporter.com.

if you have any questions please feel free to contact me at [email protected]

Have a great time!

Kelly D <><

lynnejoel1015

Just wanted to say good luck planning and have a wonderful Christmas. Give your son a big hug from all of us Yankies. He's amazing!

Jules1

Thanks again for all the fantastic info.

have booked Liberty palace for xmas day lunch & will spend day in MK. Have also booked swim with dolphins (can't wait for that one)! Will also take advice re doctors note and GAP.
Thanks again