England vs WDW
 

How to decide where to go next year?
Family, including my dad , DH,DS-9 years old, DD- 11 years old and myself.

DH and myself cannot decide where to go next spring - england or next december- WDW
we have been to WDW 2x but wanted to take the family for christmas time.
but my dad has wanted to go to the american air museum in england and we would love to take him but would my son be bored??

wow! Talk about apples and oranges.

Since you've been to Disney twice and haven't been to England, I would choose England.

Melissa, I don't know where exactly you live , but as for my opinion?
I cannot think that this is even a question.
If you could go to England, why would you go to Disneyworld?
I know of no child who has been bored flying to Europe, seeing sights that are unlike his hometown sights. Eating food that is unlike home, listening to accents/languages unlike his own.
Spring is a good time to go.
Believe me, Florida and Disneyworld will still be here, and not half as interesting or exciting as ones first trip to England.
To add to my reasons for saying all this:
Aside from my love of England and its people, I have traveled since I was an infant..my children have too.
They were always willing to go on adventures, see new places and try new experiences, including food.
Is that not a wonderful gift to give to your child? Introducing him/her to the World out there?
My children now travel on their own, everywhere. My son now lives in Japan, teaches English and on holidays- visits other countries.
My daughter just got back from Belgium,Paris,Amsterdam this March and is planning her fall trip..
see what I mean :)
So that is my long winded but sincere opinion~

I have to agree with the others...definitely England!

We have taken our children to Europe several times and they have never been bored. Just like Scarlett said...its all a new adventure. Although our children are still young I can see a huge difference in them. They are willing to try anything and have noticed the differences in cultures. Even several years ago our daughter commented on how we, as Americans, do not always do things the best way...she was talking about the afternoon siestas and asked why that is not done in the US. She did appreciate American toilets though:)

Take the family to England and enjoy a whole new world! You will not regret it:)

You're kidding, right?
A no brainer........England.

Agree that London is worth ten of WDW - why look at all the fantasy when you can heave reality?

When our children were even younger than yours, we took them to both England & Scotland and WDW (not at the same time of course!). To this day, as young adults, they talk about our trip to England and retell some of our travel stories (surprises such as: katchup costing 5p per pack at McDonalds! - we grabbed a handful without realizing it) and the Concorde overhead breaking the sound barrier while at BP. We hear very little about WDW.

There is SO much for children to do - punting in Cambridge, museums, theater, changing of the guards at BP, Big Ben, Parliament, St. Pauls, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, River Thames, not to mention food and culture that is different from our own. Springtime is a great time to go!

England, without a doubt (unless you're short on time). We took our kids (13, 11 and 8) to Paris this year and they loved it. One thing you might think about when in England is taking the Eurostar over for a day or 2 at Disneyland Paris...it is familiar and different all at the same time. The train station is right at DLP.

To offer a contrarian opinion, England will also wait. Many families would enjoy a trip to England much more when the exchange rate is more favorable.

In the meantime, why not try Universal Studios in Orlando? We just returned from there and as Americans we were in the minority. The majority were U.K. tourists because of the exchange rate.

Like others, I can't believe that there is even a question.

First, my DH lost his Dad this year. How we would have loved to take him on one more trip to a place where he was dreaming of going. However, we'll always have the memories of taking him on his "dream fishing trip" to Alaska.

Second, My kids are the same ages and genders as yours. They've been to about 20 US states and about 6 countries. There is no better adventure or education for children than travel to a foreign country and see how others live. If they have moments of boredom, they'll get over it! Life is about so much more than the constant stimulation of theme parks.

We were in Orlando last year for an event my daughter was competing in, and we never set foot in a theme park, and they never regretted it. Their favorite part of Florida? Eating Alligator nuggets and frog legs as appetizers.

Go to England, you won't regret it! No matter how badly the dollar is valued, it can't be any worse than the overpriced admission, food and souvenirs of WDW. ;)

I put of Europe 4 times before I ever went and will regret each time for the rest of my life.

First time, Junior in high school. It was Europe or a car. Guess which one I chose? That car is long gone.

Second time in college. Boyfriend from Brussells wanted to take me all over Europe for Christmas present. I broke up with him.

Third time I got accepted to study the summer of my junior year in college at Manchester College at Oxford University. Didn't want to give up a summer (boyfriend) at the beach.

Fourth time an honors history program in college to spend winter break in Cypress. Christmas in Paris, New Years in London on the way home. Gulf War broke out.

My point is yes, England will wait but do you really want to put it off for something as stupid as Orlando?

My stepchildren still talk about Italy and London.

I know one poster thinks too many Dr. Phil like answers are given, but I believe there's more to travel than just picking the right hotel, getting a great airfare or even going to places others would love to see. And one of those things is this - Will the people actually going on this vacation enjoy it? Because there are people out there whose children SHOULD have enjoyed different cultures, food, rich history of England etc. but didn't. In private their parents will tell you the entire trip wasn't worth it. They might also reveal as their children grew older, this feeling didn't change.

So what do your children REALLY want to do? Will the appreciate England or will they spend the entire time wishing they were in WDW? IF your children really are up to it, I would do England. If not, and you think you're going to hear nothing but "But at WDW", I would go there.

Dr. Cat

Assuming MB is a frequent traveler or she wouldn't be on this board, I think my point is still valid. The family will, in all likelihood, get to see Europe. My kids have seen it several times. While Orlando may not be your idea of a hot spot, it is a legitimate vacation when you have children.

I think it is ridiculous to be so in awe of another country as to think it offers the end-all, be-all trip for every family situation. Depending on MB's home climate, England that time of year may be just another dreary gray place, while a trip to sunny Orlando may be a nice holiday treat.

Lighten up.

Since MB has already been to WDW 2xs, she is quite aware of what it has to offer. She is the expert on knowing her children, the way that none of us can, it is only wise to offer suggestions on what England has to offer children - they are two entirely different types of trips. It is harsh to call Orlando stupid and it is wise to realize that the exchange rate is not favorable to U.S. travellers. That being said, in my opinion, vacations are the most enjoyable when everyone partakes in the planning. - whether WDW or England, it adds an element of excitement. It should be something however that everyone can enjoy, not just the children.

Melissa, I agree with most of the above posters, go to England. There's plenty to see in the UK which will engage both of your kids. They'll do fine and I'd stake a fair sum of money they'll enjoy or even love it especially if you plan things which cater to their interests.

We've hauled my now 13 YO daughter to a few places she didn't want to go but when she scans the photo albums today, you'd never know there was bitching & moaning. Of particular significance are those places meaningful to my dad who is no longer with us.

GoTravel, Your first reply was exactly what I was thinking when I read Melissa's post.

Don't understand your follow up. The personal info is interesting but tagging Orlando as stupid to someone who has twice visited WDW and is contemplating a third trip might dent your credibility a bit.

Melissa, If you settle on England as a destination, visit the Europe forum for lots of info to engage your kids on the trip!

I think I would listen to Dr Cat LOL

Yes, England will always be there, so will Florida and Disneyworld.
It seems to be more the quality of the trip than the destination.
When I told the Yankee about this question, his reply was, if one enjoys rides in teacups, rides that scare you and fake Other countries, by all means, go to Disneyworld.
But if you want to really Travel, go see something new.
And speaking of Dr Phil, would he ask if it is more important for your dad to see the Air Museum in England with you or that you son not be possibly bored for a short time?

Sorry, Melissa, I overlooked the part about your father. In this case, if it were me, I would chose England due to this fact. I would explain to any child who proclaims they will be bored, the importance of this trip to Grandpa.

You're kidding, right?
My kids have been to WDW probably 5-6 times and England/Scotland 4 times. Given the choice, they would definitely choose England--different culture, tons of interesting things to do. The first time we went, my youngest was 7. He still remembers the trip and talks about it (now is 13). All the WDW trips are fun, but they just merge together after a couple of times. If your son is bored in England, there is a serious problem!

Just when I figured out the WWJD bracelets, I now have to research WWDPD.

MB, enjoy your trip to England.

Hi,
My kids have also been to Disney several times, but it is their "foreign trips" that have had the most lasting impact. (Japan, Germany, London, Paris)
My daughter's teachers have always commented on how much her travel has helped her in school. That she was so much more knowledgable of the things that they were studying, because of it. And both of my kids have loved every bit of it! Yes they enjoyed Disney, but it is not what they talk about when we talk about travel.

Yet another vote for England.

Dent my credibility? My credibility on this board at times is as dented as a wadded up peice of tin foil.

The poster before me stated that England will always be there. True, but I blew of Europe 4 different times over more than a decade under the premise that it would always be there which is why it took me so long to get there.

Melissa said she would like to take dad and family to England but was afraid her son would be bored. In my opinion, London has more to do for kids and adults than Disney and Universal combined 10 times over.

She also stated the family has been to Disney twice.

Does my post make more sense and where is this Dr. Phil nonsense coming from?

>In my opinion, London has more to do for kids and adults than Disney and Universal combined 10 times over.<

GoT, I agree coming and going. Just think there's no need to label Orlando stupid to punctuate your point.

I'm not getting the Dr. Phil thing either.

..."I know one poster thinks too many Dr. Phil like answers are given,..."

I took this to mean that a poster on Fodors has remarked on Too many Dr Phil-like answers are given on Fodors..
Or maybe I am just as confused as others seem to be here ~

thanks for all of your answers.

my son today answered the question because a make believe situation came up that involved going to England and right away he said that he would love to go

so Now I have another trip to plan

Melissa

Mellissa, don't confine your trip to London. or for that matter to England. Wales is within very easy reach of Heathrow (3-4 Hours) and is truely wonderful. You should perhaps save Scotland and Ireland for your next trip, but do get to see the cotswolds, the peak district and the lake district...oh and don't forget the west county...I could go on and on. Come to the UK and enjoy every minute of your stay.

Hi Melissa

I live in London so I agree with all of the posts telling you to come here. Yes there is lots of history and culture but may I add there are also theme parks !! Thorpe Park is a 40 min drive from the center of London and Alton towers is 3hr drive - both have great rides !!
So you do not need to compomise , come here !! x

Glad to see you decided on England, Melissa. I took my niece over to London as a graduation present when she was 12 and she just loved it. At the end of the trip, when I asked her what we could have done to make the trip better, she said we should have stayed longer. What she enjoyed most was a day trip we took to Salisbury Castle and Stonehenge, stopping on the way back to see some crop circles. She was fascinated with the history and even bought a couple of books to find out more on her own.

Just keep in mind that just about ALL the restaurants are closed on Xmas day and the day after is BOXING DAY, a national holiday..on those days you would have to eat in a hotel dining room and on Boxing day, most of the stores are closed....GO on the EUROPE BOARD and post this question about England during Christmas..they are extrememely knowledgeable..

One thing that is open on Xmas day is the walking tours in London..those are fun for all ages...Here is the link:

http://london.walks.com/

"The Dickens Christmas Festival Explorer Day in 2004...

If you can't make it this year (December 6th and 7th, 2003)...well, there's always next year.

I'm talking of course about the Dicken's Christmas Festival Explorer Day...one of the great seasonal highlights of the early winter.

The Festival takes place every winter on one of the earlyish weekends in December. And - as a matter of fact - our Explorer Day goes down there both Festival days - Saturday and Sunday.
"
Fri 24 Dec Christmas Eve

Shops, transport and most companies start to close down in the afternoon.

Not a good time to travel - trains and buses will be very busy and there are only limited train services in the evening. Plan or book in advance any train travel after 4pm. It is best to book any coach travel in advance. For information about travel services, see the websites or telephone lines in the Travel sections of this website.
For details of the Transport for London services on Christmas Eve, see: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/seasonal/241203.shtml.

At 3pm at King's College Chapel in Cambridge is a traditional carol service called "A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols": the carols are sung by the famous King's College choir. You can listen to the service live from 3:00-4:30pm on BBC Radio 4. Alternatively, you can watch "Carols from Kings" on television on BBC2.
Many Christians go to a midnight service in churches to celebrate the start of Christmas Day.


"Christmas Day

For photos and information about typical Christmas celebrations in the UK, see: Ideas/Album/Christmas.

This is a public holiday in the UK. Most people stay at home with their families, and some people go to local church services. Many pubs are open in the afternoon. Most shops and restaurants are closed (some Indian restaurants may be open).

Most public transport services do not operate (apart from the Gatwick Express and Heathrow Express train services). For details of the Transport for London services on Christmas Day, see: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl.

If you are not staying with a family in the UK it can be a lonely time: arrange to get together with some other friends who don't have a family here and live within walking distance, or stay at home and watch TV.

The Queen's Christmas Message is at 3.00-3.10pm on BBC1/ITV1 - it is a tradition for many British people to watch this each year."


Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
In the Second World War Norway was occupied by the Nazis. The King of Norway escaped to Britain and set up an alternative government in London for 5 years until the war was over. The Norwegian resistance secretly sent a tree from Norway each year to make the King feel closer to his homeland. After the war, the Norwegian government decided to offer a large Norwegian tree to Britain each year, as a symbol of friendship and to thank the nation for helping the Norwegian people. This fir tree, which is about 75 feet (26 metres) high, is put up in Trafalgar Square, London (map; nearest Tube: Charing Cross). Between about 6pm and 6.30pm there is a ceremony in Trafalgar Square. Some Christmas music will be played by a band, short speeches will be made by representatives of Westminster and of Norway, the lights on the tree will be turned on, and some carols will be sung by a choir. The tree is decorated in a traditional Norwegian style with 500 white lights: these lights will be lit from noon until midnight each day during the Christmas period (until 6th January). There will be carol singing next to the tree on most evenings until 24th December (between 5pm and 9pm).

And I threw in New Years Eve in case you will be there then also...

"Sun 26 Dec Boxing Day
A public holiday in the UK. Most shops are shut, but some department stores start their sales. Most transport services are working, but have a reduced service and may start later in the day than normal (for example, after 9am). For details of the Transport for London services on Boxing Day, see: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl.
Mon 27 Dec Bank holiday
A public holiday in the UK (because Christmas Day was during the weekend).
Tue 28 Dec Bank holiday
A public holiday in the UK (because Boxing Day was during the weekend).
Wed 29 Dec Christmas sales
Most shops are open and travel is a normal service. Many start their New Years sales now: these sales last until mid-January.

Fri 31 Dec New Year's Eve
Many people in the UK stay up until midnight on New Year's Eve so that they can celebrate the start of the New Year. As midnight approaches, British people traditionally watch Big Ben (the bell in the Houses of Parliament), and celebrate after it strikes for the 12th time. This is shown on television. It is traditional to make a New Year's Resolution (a promise to start doing something in the new year). You may be invited to someone's New Year party. Check what transport is available in the area where you live.

In London, people often gather in the area around Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square and Parliament Square from about 10pm until the early hours of the morning. If the central area becomes overcrowded, Westminster, Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square underground stations may be closed for safety reasons.

For details of the Transport for London services on New Year's Eve, see: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl."

I agree with most others posters on this board. England

I hightly doubt you son would be bored. there is so much to see and it is quite an experiance for a young person. I think age 9-12 is the perfect age for Europe, they are old enough to learn from the expereance and not old enough to be complaining about girlfriends and boyfreinds back home they are missing (see Nat lampoons Euro vacation).

I would suggesst going to London and somehwhere else possibly scotland or Wales OR possibly paris(you can take to EuroStar) ( as an added bonus - paris actually has a disney world, which I would probably skip)

it would be a great exprieance for you family

If you do decide to take the Eurostar to Paris, I would recommend not doing the day tour. We did that on our trip and my 12-year-old niece felt it was the worst part of our trip. She would rather have spent more time in England. We had to get up really early to catch the train and we got back really late at night, making us both tired and irritable. It was too rushed and the train ride was long and boring. If I were to do it over again, I would fly to Paris (there are very cheap flights available) and stay overnight, maybe even do a couple of nights. We felt the Eurostar was way overrated--it's just a train and not even that fast.

i live in London but am just back from FLorida where we had a wonderful holiday. I am not being biased but would need to say visit London, the experience of world travel is just to good to miss, also when in London visit the Imperial War Museum if you like the Air Museum you will love this and the Blitx epxperience will move you more than any ride at Disney

I have rethought out this situation and we have decided to got to WDW. I feel, with my dad's handicappedness that getting around in a city would be a problem. thanks anyway

Melissa

Now, I have another question.

where can I find info on tours in england ?
maybe that is a better way to go as they would be handicapped accessible

melissa,

I wish I could help you - Why don't you post this question on the Europe Board.
(Post something like 'London w/ handicapped Senior')
there is a ton of traffic there with lots of smart people that could help.

Melissa--I have never done a tour, so can't help with that. But I have a relative who over 30 years ago was in a wheelchair permanently and travled all over Europe for 2 years, including England.