We recently returned from our family trip to Disney World, and as much as we love planning our trips to the Sunshine State – even I have to admit, that it can be confusing when you’re new to it all! I’m a member of many Disney planning groups and time and time again, the same questions seem to crop up from Brits who are confused about US customs and Disney how-to’s. So I’ve compiled a list of 6 things you need to know before a Disney World trip to make sure you don’t get caught short!
Tipping Etiquette
This is without a doubt the biggest area of confusion when it comes to planning a trip as a Brit! Tipping custom in the USA is VERY different than here in the UK. Whereas tipping here is a gesture to demonstrate our satisfaction with and gratitude for good service, it is very much optional in the majority of circumstances with the amount expected very open to personal view. Generally speaking, tipping anywhere between 10-15% is considered plenty but if you don’t receive good service or food, you are within your rights not to tip and you will not face any repercussions for doing so.
In the US, things are very different. Wait staff are often paid below minimum wage, with tips factored in to their overall pay – this means that tips are really NOT optional, but rather are absolutely expected. While you can still tip on a sliding scale based on your overall satisfaction, you will be expected to tip a minimum of 18%. EVEN if service is not up to scratch. Yes you can ask to speak to a manager and discuss things, but you will likely still be expected to tip.
This is not something to be dismissed – I have heard many stories of guests being chased down by angry waiting staff who were undertipped, which is surely an embarrassing situation that nobody wants. It’s also worth noting that it’s important to be respectful of other cultures while visiting another country, and this is standard practice in the US.
Working out how much to tip in the US can be tricky, so I was really pleased to find this handy tip calculator – https://www.culinaryschools.org/tip-calculator/
Not only does it help you to work out how much to tip in dollars, but it also helps you to split the tip between your party too – so handy!
Disability Access Service & Accessibility
Another common query is around disabled access at the Disney parks, and eligibility for Disney’s Disability Access Service.
At Disney World, the Disability Access Service (commonly referred to as the DAS) is used to help accommodate guests who struggle with queuing – it does this by allowing them access to the Lightning Lanes, which are shorter queues than the usual Stand-By lines. However access to the Lightning Lane is not immediate – you will still need to wait the usual Stand By wait time, but rather than doing this in the physical queue the DAS allows you to queue virtually instead – meaning you could be sitting down somewhere cool or enjoying another aspect of the parks while you wait for your ride queue time to pass, rather than physically standing in line.
For example, say you wanted to ride Peter Pan’s Flight but the wait time is 60 minutes. You would select the ride on your app, and select a DAS return time – this will usually be in 60 minutes time (or however long the queue currently is). You are then queuing virtually, while you can physically do whatever you want during that 60 minutes – returning when your time is up to ride the ride.
This service is extremely helpful for many people, but it’s worth being aware that not every disabled person will qualify for the service.
It is not designed for use by those with mobility issues which could be resolved by the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooter – instead Disney expects that these guests will make use of the mobility devices available for hire and the accessible queue spaces.
In order to apply for DAS, you will need to speak to Guest Services upon arrival at the parks and explain the reasons that you or your party member struggle with physically queuing. The Cast Member will then decide whether the DAS will be helpful for you, and – if so – the disabled person and up to 5 of their party will be granted access to it.
Extra Magic Hours
At Walt Disney World, the Extra Magic Hour service is like getting a VIP pass to the coolest party in town. Imagine rolling up to the park gates before they officially open or staying long after everyone else has called it a day. That’s the kind of special treatment you get with Extra Magic Hour. It’s like having the keys to the kingdom handed to you for an extra half hour or sometimes more, either in the morning or at night depending which Disney resort you are staying at.
Picture this: you’re up at the crack of dawn, but instead of reaching for your morning coffee, you’re heading straight into the heart of the magic. The park is quiet, the sun is just starting to peek through the trees, and you’ve got your pick of all the best rides with hardly any lines. It’s like having your own personal playground before the crowds come rushing in.
And when the sun sets, that’s when the real magic happens. The park lights up with a whole new kind of energy. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale, with all your favorite attractions glowing in the dark. Whether you’re strolling down Main Street under the twinkling lights or hopping on your favorite ride for one last spin, the Extra Magic Hour lets you savor every moment of the Disney experience.
It’s all about making memories that last a lifetime. So whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or just looking for a little extra adventure, the Extra Magic Hour is your ticket to an unforgettable day in the most magical place on earth.
How To Use The My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app is your ultimate sidekick for navigating the wonders of Walt Disney World, seamlessly blending convenience with magic to enhance every moment of your trip. First and foremost, this app is your digital gateway to all things Disney. From planning your itinerary to booking dining reservations and securing Lightning Lanes, it puts the power of the park right at your fingertips. Want to check ride wait times or locate the nearest restroom? Just a few taps and swipes, and you’re on your way.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. My Disney Experience is like having a personal tour guide in your pocket, helping you make the most of your time in the parks. It’s your go-to for finding character meet-and-greets, parade times, and show schedules, ensuring you never miss a magical moment. Plus, with interactive maps that pinpoint attractions, dining options, and more, you’ll never have to worry about getting lost in the sprawling wonderland of Disney World.
Perhaps the most invaluable feature of the app is its ability to streamline your experience, minimizing wait times and maximizing fun. By linking your park tickets and reservations, you can access the Genie+ system, allowing you to reserve access to select attractions, entertainment, and character experiences in advance. This means less time waiting in line and more time creating memories with your loved ones.
But beyond its practical functionalities, the My Disney Experience app serves as a portal to the heart of the Disney magic. With personalized recommendations and special offers tailored to your preferences, it transforms your visit into a truly unforgettable adventure. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you don’t want to be glued to your phonme during your trip…be sure to download the My Disney Experience app and unlock its full potential. It’s really NOT possible to get the most of your Disney experience without it.
Be Aware Of Hidden Costs
Beneath the surface of the Disney Magic there often lies hidden costs that savvy travellers should consider when planning that all important Disney World budget.
One notable aspect is the absence of value-added tax (VAT) in the United States. Unlike many other countries where taxes are included in the displayed price, American retailers often add taxes at the point of sale. This means that the price you see on the tag isn’t necessarily what you’ll pay at the register, leading to potential surprises when tallying up your purchases.
Additionally, when booking accommodations, it’s essential to factor in resort fees or visitor taxes that some resorts tack onto the room rate. These fees, often covering amenities like Wi-Fi or pool access, can add up quickly and catch guests off guard upon check-out. While these extra expenses may not be as apparent as ticket prices or hotel rates, they can significantly impact your overall budget. Therefore, being aware of these hidden costs upfront allows travelers to plan and budget more effectively, ensuring a magical Disney experience without any financial surprises.
Prohibited Items
When embarking on a journey to the magical realms of Disney World, it’s crucial to be mindful of the park’s strict guidelines regarding prohibited items. Among these are selfie sticks, banned for their potential to disrupt the flow of attractions and endanger both guests and Disney characters.
Similarly, while dressing in a similar style to the characters is an activity that many Disney adults enjoy (known as Disney Bounding)…it’s worth noting that full fancy dress costumes or wearing outfits that TOO closely resemble Disney characters is discouraged to maintain the integrity of official character appearances and avoid confusion among visitors. This policy extends to full masks or headgear that conceal the face, as visibility and identification are paramount for safety and security reasons.
Additionally, items like drones, weapons, and recreational devices such as skateboards or inline skates are strictly prohibited within park grounds to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests. By adhering to these guidelines and respecting Disney’s regulations, visitors can contribute to a harmonious and magical experience for themselves and fellow guests, fostering an atmosphere of joy and wonder throughout the parks.
Being aware of all of these factors will help you to plan your Disney trip properly and enjoy it to its full potential. Have a magical time!