As a blogger, I may be compensated in some way (either pay, product, or experience) for sharing the post below All opinions are my own. ~Heidi
A few years ago, I had opportunity to use and review the PassPorter’s Walt Disney World guide. Not only did I review the book, but I added it to the very tippy top of my Suggested Books & Resources List.
But, that was over 2 years ago, and a lot can change at Walt Disney World in two years time (think New Fantasyland, for example!) So, I was pleased with the chance to check out the 2013 version of the PassPorter’s Guide! In preparing to write this updated review, I looked back at my old one. I love this quote:
I have a sick fascination with planning – especially my Disney trips – and this book just feeds my addiction. Seriously! It’s like a drug for the planning addict. I’ve never seen anything quite like it.
My last review was very word-laden and detail-oriented (two things that are so me that it’s almost ridiculous! I’m so predictable sometimes!) Anyway, I thought it might be fun to focus more on pictures this time around. You know, appeal to you visual types. So, let’s go . . .
*If you would like a more detailed description of each section that is included in the PassPorter, then please refer back to my original review.
The PassPorter cover (as seen above) is a nice, durable cardboard (with a plasticy-feel to it). I love how it’s more than just a book cover – it’s actually a wrap-around binder. You can even personalize it.
There’s also a place to write the dates of your trip, which is pretty cool! I haven’t filled that part in yet, since I don’t know exactly when we’ll get to visit next (hopefully soon we’ll have something set in stone!)
When you open your Passporter, you are greeted with this – 2 years worth of quick-reference calendars, a quick-reference planning timeline, and a fun place to “make your PassPorter your own”.
There are lots of ways to get to Walt Disney World. What is YOUR transportation method of choice? Is it the most cost effective? Find out here.
One of my favorite features – a handy-dandy packing list (complete with check boxes!)
Where are you going to stay? On or off-property? Value, Moderate, or Deluxe? How many members are in your family? Can you all fit in a regular room? Or do you need to upgrade to a family suite? You’ll find the answer to all these questions and more (detailed resort information) in this next section.
This section also contains maps of each resort. I’ve chosen our family’s favorite – Port Orleans Riverside – as an example.
In addition to the maps, you’ll also see a room layout for each resort. My family doesn’t fit in a standard room at this resort (see – there are only 2 beds).
Once you’ve decided where you’re going to stay, you really need to think seriously about your park experience. Which parks should you visit when? What do you want to see and do in each park? Are the attractions appropriate for young children? What about teens? Or maybe this is an adult-only trip – what would be the best options for you?
The authors of PassPorter have included a scoring system which I think is very helpful. Jennifer and Dave Marx each rate the attractions, and there’s a column for reader ratings as well. Their children even join in the fun by sharing Toddler Tips, Kid Tips, and Teen Tips. Using these ratings, you can plan a trip perfect for any family dynamic!
My family loves to take advantage of the Disney Dining Plan, so we enjoy this next section – devoted to Feasting and Snacking. Much like the attraction ratings, the restaurants are rated as well.
And, as if you couldn’t find enough to do, there’s a section for even more . . .
There’s a section of reader-submitted pictures, and then the book finishes up with one of my favorite features – the pockets!
There are 14 of them! In addition to the one shown above, there are pockets for Our Room, Days 1-10 of our trip, one blank pocket to customize as needed, and one for Magic Memories.
I don’t think I can state my thoughts on the PassPorter any better than I did the last time. I said that EVERYONE needs one of these, and I still feel that way.
So, who would I recommend this to? EVERYONE! Here’s why:
If you’re not a good planner, you need this book! It will totally walk you through each step of your vacation and help you create a plan that will enhance your trip and make it more meaningful for you and your family.
If you’re a planning freak, you need this book! As mentioned above, it’s fuel for the planning fire!
If you’ve never been to Walt Disney World before, you need this book! It will help you get your bearings before you even arrive, and you’ll feel right at home when you get there – and ready to take the World by storm.
If you’ve traveled to Disney many times, you need this book! You’ll enjoy learning about the little extras that you maybe weren’t aware of. Add a few of them to your trip to make new memories this time!
Head on over to PassPorter’s website and check out this book and all the other great PassPorter items that are available. They have guides for Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Weddings, and lots more!
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