The biggest advice I have for a first-timer at Disney is to give yourself enough time to enjoy the experience -- especially if you have kids! A little planning can go a long way, and I highly suggest buying a Disney or Orlando guidebook (I like Fodor's -- just make sure it's a recent edition, as things have changed). We have always taken a little time to plan out what we want to do during each day (usually just over breakfast that morning) -- that way you can allow yourself time for the major attractions (i.e. long lines), shows, the Disney parade, lunch, etc...
The FastPass system at Disney is outstanding -- you can bypass the lines at major attractions (which are usually 30 to 60 minutes... sometimes up to 90 minutes!) by obtaining a FastPass in advance and coming back to the attraction during the time stated on your pass (often an hour or two later) -- the caveat is that you can only have one FastPass at any given time, so you need to plan which rides you want to use this for. The Guidebooks are excellent at giving advice and strategies for this...
If you're staying at Disney, I'd recommend getting a Multi-Day parkhopper pass, which will allow you come and go as you please. The afternoon tends to be the 'worst' time at Disney (longest lines + hottest weather), so staying at Disney will allow you to come to the park in the morning, take a break in the afternoon to have a swim or a nap, and return to the park in the evening.
Orlando will be busy in August, so patience will be the key to having a good time. Expect to wait everywhere (parks, restaurants, driving, etc.) and expect to be gouged everywhere (food, souvenirs, parking, etc.)... but rest assured, the memories will be priceless. There is nothing else quite like Disney...
|