Single Parents Visiting Walt Disney World
Because single parents generally are also working parents, planning a special getaway with your children can be the best way to spend some quality time together. But remember, the vacation is not just for your child—it’s for you too. One thing single parents visiting Walt Disney World should consider is to invite a grandparent or a favorite aunt or uncle along. The other adult provides nice company for you, and your child will benefit from the time with family members.
Art of Animation Resort
You might likewise consider inviting an adult friend. Though bringing along an adult friend or family member is the best option, the reality is that many single parents don’t have friends, grandparents, or favorite aunts or uncles who can make the trip. And while spending time with your child is wonderful, it is very difficult to match the energy level of your child if you are the sole focus of his or her world.
Best way to meet other single parents visiting Walt Disney World
One alternative: Try to meet other single parents visiting Walt Disney World. It may seem odd, but most of them are in the same boat as you; besides, all you have to do is ask. Another option, albeit expensive, is to take along a trustworthy babysitter (18 or up) to travel with you. The easiest way to meet other single parents visiting Walt Disney World is to hang out at the hotel pool. Make your way there on the day you arrive, after traveling by car or plane and without enough time to blow a full admission ticket at a theme park. In any event, a couple of hours spent poolside is a relaxing way to start your vacation.
If you visit Walt Disney World with another single parent, get adjoining rooms; take turns watching all the kids; and, on at least one night, get a sitter and enjoy an evening out. Throughout this book we mention the importance of good planning and touring. For a single parent, this is an absolute must. In addition, make sure that you set aside some downtime back at the hotel every day.
Hotel recommendation for single parents visiting Walt Disney World
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a wonderful place to stay for single parents visiting Walt Disney World. Not one but three pools are available. The main pool, the Big Blue, has a great splash zone for young children. The resorts has four themed sections: Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Cars Land and the Lion King section. The courtyards of each section are lavishly decorated and the resort offers free movies under the stars on the deck of the Big Blue pool.
Add a cruise
Castaway Cay
Finally, don’t try to spend every moment with your children on vacation. Instead, plan some activities for your children with other children. Disney educational programs for children, for example, are worth considering. Then take advantage of your free time to do what you want to do: Read a book, have a massage, take a long walk, or enjoy a catnap. While pricey, one of the best ways for single parents to relax is to add a three- or four-night cruise to their Disney stay.
Onboard activities will keep your child occupied and give you time to relax. The cruises that visit Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, are perfect for single parents. At Castaway Cay kids programs are offered free of charge so you can enjoy some time at the beach.
For more information on traveling to Walt Disney World with Kids check out the Unofficial guide to Walt Disney World with Kids by Bob Sehlinger & Liliane Opsomer with Len Testa
Also a good read is the Unofficial guide to the Disney Cruise Line by Len Testa with Erin Foster and Laurel Stewart.
