We spend our summers in Europe, South Africa or the UK. This year, we are taking the plunge and doing the 17 hour journey to the US. WDW is an absolute must as is Universal. I’m currently planning and am completely overwhelmed by the war-strategy worthy planning that seems to go into what should be a fun day out at a park. I’ve heard that the end June / July period is hectic and crowded. We are also staying off-site as hubby is not a massive theme park fan (he loathed Disney Paris but we loved it so staying off site is a compromise). So, we are missing out on extra magic hours but I’ve already booked 8:10 reservations at in-park brekkie places like Be Our Guest. I’m a stress-pot and I can’t do the whole planning, mission impossible thing and relax.... so... I’m thus forgoing a 40th birthday party and gifts and have convinced hubby instead to pay for VIP tours. So, that’s what I’m doing now and how I found your forum... I’m researching on how and what in terms of VIP tours (Disney vs Outside companies) as well as the many dining either VIP access options. The costs of these places are staggering and chances are that we won’t make the long trek to the US again... hence the splurge. A lot of money and my 40th gift so I need to get this right. I look forward reading your posts. Thanks