Ask Magically Speaking

In each issue we like to answer questions from you. Are you wondering about a certain attraction? Are you curious about a resort or cruise? Do you have some nagging little trivia question that you are just dying to know the answer to? If so, please send them to us. We have a great team of Disney experts and sleuths that who would love to answer your questions! If you have a question, send it to us at magicallyspeaking@themouseforless.com.

Ask Magically Speaking is a regular feature in the Magically Speaking newsletter. The following Ask Magically Speaking was published in the March 10, 2008 issue
of Magically Speaking ISSN: 1556-3863

Q. We have a trip scheduled for the end of March 2008. We would like to leave "direct" phone numbers for family matter at home in case of an emergency. Does Walt Disney World have such numbers? We are staying at the Pop Century resort. Do you have their direct number? (Submitted by Jennifer C. )

A. Hi, Jennifer! As a matter of fact, we do have a direct phone number for Pop Century. It is 407-938-4000. This is a great idea to give everyone a little sense of security while you are on your trip. If anyone is looking for the direct line to another resort, we have this handy reference on our website here: http://www.themouseforless.com/tripplanning/wdwphonenumbers.shtml. In addition to these numbers, it's also a good idea to leave a cell phone number of someone in your party with family at home. That way you can be reached even if you are out at the parks all day. Have a great trip!

Q. We are planning our first trip to Disney World. I am wondering how people handle their money while on the rides, in the pool, etc. I am probably over cautious about these things, but just had to ask. (Submitted by Patricia A.)

A. That's a great question, Patricia. You can't really be too cautious and sometimes in the midst of the magic, we forget that real-world problems can still plague us at Disney.

The answer is probably as varied as the ways families handle money at home. Some prefer an almost cashless method, some don't. If you choose, you hardly need to carry any cash at Disney. When you check in, you can link your credit card to your room key card and use it to charge back to the room. These room charges can be especially convenient because you don't have to be at the hotel to use the room key as your credit card. Virtually every venue (theme parks, restaurants, gift shops) will accept room charges. Most kiosks will as well, although occasionally some don't, so you may want to have at least a little cash. With the popularity of the Disney Dining Plan, cash becomes even more unnecessary. Meals and snacks are taken off of your account and you only need to pay for additional items, adult beverages, and the tip out of pocket.

Now, we know you need some cash and credit cards when traveling. If you choose not to carry them with you when you leave your resort, it is extremely important that you use the in-room safe to store these valuables. Every on-property room has a safe. For the money or cards you do choose to carry, there are a few methods that seasoned Disney travelers use. Some prefer a neck wallet, and just have those small items hang around the neck. There are even some lanyards with a small pouch at the end that can serve the same purpose. Others, who might wish to carry a couple of additional items, use a waist pack. If you have more to carry than will fit around your waist, then a smaller backpack is an option.

Whatever type of bag you choose, as long as it isn't too big, you will be accommodated on the rides. On most rides and attractions, you can just keep your belongings on your lap or on the floor. If you're opting for coasters, most provide a bag or other location on the ride to stow your gear. The water rides offer some place for your items, but you might want to waterproof your bag ahead of time, just in case.

The last part of your question was about swimming. Well, again, it depends on where you swim. If you are at the resort, you can lock all but your room key in the safe. There are many waterproof items that will easily store a room key without a problem. If you opt for a waterpark, then renting a locker might be in order. The key will attach to your swimsuit without problem. You can also use a waterproof wallet for smaller items as you spend your day. A word of caution about using waterproof lanyard holders at Typhoon Lagoon. We have anecdotal evidence (thanks, Erica!) that it's possible the big waves can carry the lanyard away without you noticing. So pay attention!

As you can tell, there is no right answer, but there are a lot of options. One thing that we've all found in traveling, though, is that less is more. Only bring what you really think you will need. Carrying too many items around a theme (or water) park all day can be draining. And try to keep the cash on your person to only the amount that you can reasonably expect to use. Keep all of the excess locked in your room. Have a great trip!