by Barb Hopkins

Created on: October 07, 2008   Last Updated: August 16, 2009

Sporty, ultra-modern, elegant, exotic, and even a bit wild, the diversely-styled resorts at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida provide their guests with a magical escape from reality. With 23 individually-themed resorts, how do you choose the one that will make your wishes come true?

Ten Tips for Choosing a Walt Disney World Resort

1. Know Your Traveling Party.

How many kids will be in your group? All Disney resorts welcome children but some are better for younger kids, teens, and families on a budget. For example, if your party includes two children under the age of ten that love any game played with a ball, The All-Star Sports Resort would be a great choice and is suited to a young family's budget. Larger families may like the Disney's Beach Club Villa Resort with extra living space and kitchen accommodations. For a romantic stay, try the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa or a cozy hideaway for two at the Caribbean Beach Resort. Is your group a bit wild and loves all creatures great and small? The Animal Kingdom Lodge offers a late afternoon safari tour followed by dinner at its famous Jiko restaurant, but these special is only available to guests staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.

2. Determine Your Vacation Dates.

If you are visiting Walt Disney World during the Value Season (Jan. 1-Feb. 13, Aug. 3-Oct.1, or Nov. 30-Dec. 18), resort prices are at their lowest and you might be able to upgrade to another resort that in the Peak or Holiday Season would not fit your budget. If you are planning a trip during the winter holidays, be sure to book far in advance as some resorts will book quickly during that season.

3. Know Your Budget.

Disney offers four price levels of resorts and each resort has complimentary resort transportation, free parking, Disney's Magical Express Service, and extra Magic Hours to all resort guests.

Value Resorts: Big on everything but price, they range from $82 to $97 per night and include the following themed resorts: PopCentury, All-Star Movies, All-Star Sports, and All-Star Music.

Moderate Resorts: With amazing themed pools, slides, and recreation activities these include The Caribbean Beach Resort, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside, and start at $149 a night. The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness are also included as a Moderate Resort but their pricing begins at $265 a night.

Deluxe Resorts: Starting at $240 a night for the Animal Kingdom Lodge or the Wilderness Lodge and run as

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