1st Time at Disneyland

[MickeyMoose15]

My family have been going down to Disneyworld for the past 11 years. This year we are taking a break but next year we plan to go back. We decided to visit Disneyland in 2003. What the big differences between Disneyworld & Disneyland beside the number of parks and hotels. How many days should spend at each park (remember this is our first time visiting Disneyland)?
Where are the Character Breakfasts, lunches or dinners? Character Locations at Disneyland & California Adventure? What is the big merchandise item that you must pick up when your down there?

Thank You!!!