by Abbi Glines

Created on: September 08, 2008

Mom sits at the computer glowing while she tells a smiling Dad what an affordable Disney vacation they can get. Upstairs the kids magically leave their beds to watch out their window as Cinderella's coach drives up. It is a commercial that sends most parents reaching for their nifty plastic card to purchase a Dream Come True.

After days spent in long lines under the relentless Florida sun, their once perfectly normal kids have transformed into small demons who whine, scream and cry constantly. Those same parents swear they'll never return to the place where dreams come true. Why spend thousands on a nightmare?

But, if you know how to take your family to Disney World, it truly can be a magical trip. An unplanned Disney vacation is a waste of money, A LOT of money.

The first mistake most people make is assuming they can pick anytime of the year and just go to whatever parks they choose that day. HALT! Red Light! Large Flashing Warning Sign! This crucial step will make or break your trip. The fact is if you're going to do Disney World while school is out then you must follow some strategy guidelines. The insane crowds would send June Cleaver running to the liquor cabinet.

Brilliant people have watched the pattern of tourist over the years and it is a fact that certain parks are busier on certain days. First rule of thumb is to leave on a Monday. Why you ask? Well, historically Monday is the absolute busiest day of the week at Disney World. Amazingly Saturday isn't that busy and is one of the best days to visit Magic Kingdom. Tuesday go to Hollywood Studios, Wednesday head over to Magic Kingdom, Thursday see the Lion King at Animal Kingdom, Friday taste the world at Epcot and Saturday is great for Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Sunday is another good day for Animal Kingdom and if you must go to a park on Monday then head over to Epcot.

The official Disney World calendar can be found at www.Disneyworld.com. Research events that may be happening while you're there. If you aren't interested in the events then steer clear of the park hosting it. The crowds can be smothering.

You've nailed down your dates and days at the park, now it's time to book them. Travel agents are great for those who don't feel comfortable doing it themselves. For those who like controlling everything, like myself, then go to www.Disneyworld.com and book your trip online. I need to stress here that staying at a Disney resort is a must, especially if you are going during "school's out"

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