Let's compile some Disneyland Paris Info.

[BevS97]

I just got back from 4 days in Disneyland Paris. We had a really great time, and I can't fault most of it but I was really really frustrated about the lack of information before I went. I know loads about Orlando and found the lack of info about DLP very very frustrating.

I thought since we have so many members here who visit DLP we could compile some great threads which would help people,
If I start some threads, would you all add what you know, and we can get some good reference material compiled.

[BevS97]

Hotel Info (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=66210)

Transport Info (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=66212)

Tickets (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=66214)

Restaurants (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=571426#post571426)

[isanda]

http://www.dlp.info is quite a good deailed site for DLP

[BevS97]

I have read dlp.info quite a lot, but to be honest I don't think there is much detailed information on the site, and a lot of what is there is out of date or in German

[Enright78]

I agree Bev, we are just back too and I also felt I needed to know more. Is it worth a separate thread for the studios? And perhaps a general tips one?

[James]

Not really on the same subject but there was a program last night on one of the SKY channels (Travel I think) about how they made Disney Studio's Paris? It was really good and showed behind the scenes of the building and also some info on Florida and California. If its on again its well worth an hour of your time.

[Jools]

Hi Bev,

I don't have information but just wanted to welcome you back! Glad you had a good time.

Did you visit both parks?

[AndyJ]

Some Castle Club Information:

The Castle Club, as these 60 rooms are known, actually sit over the top of the ticket offices and turnstiles. The service you get is really fantastic.

When you arrive, you let the desk know you are a castle club visitor, and all your luggage is snatched off of you and your personal room manager takes you to the lounge to discuss your stay.

Forms are filled in, requirements ascertained and meals booked. You are given an electronic key card that opens up doors and elevators to private bars, lounges, pools and health clubs. It also acts as a charge card so you don’t have to worry about that money stuff. Probably a good thing, as I will come to.

The room is checked out by your personal manager prior to you being let in. They vouch for its cleanliness and tidiness.

The minibar is another example of money sucking hell. There is a glass window along the bottom of it, and it shows a row of chocolate bars carefully placed within the gaze of short visitors, and each of these choccy bars is 2 pounds 80 pence. A quarter bottle of champagne is 21 pounds. Etc.

In fact, everything is expensive. Much more so than Florida. The average cocktail is 8 pounds, a glass of coke 3 pounds, and even the non alcoholic cocktails are 6-7 pounds.

I am tapping this into my laptop at the Fantasia bar, themed after said movie. I`m gazing out over the Disney Village at the 2 dozen people that are milling about in it. Its really nice and quiet here today. I wonder what the weekend will bring. Probably because its damn cold. To those that know me well, to hear that Im wearing a shirt and a T Shirt inside and still only feeling comfortable will give you an idea of the ambient temperature.

Between taking pictures earlier, I had to put my hands in my pocket to warm them.

[AndyJ]

And a rant I wrote after the trip in 2005:

For the third time in as many weeks I sit in the boring world of the departure lounge.

Its a time gamble between arriving and getting a decent seat, unlike our trip to cz last weekend where we sat 15 rows apart, and sitting bored silly outside Dixons Tax Free.

This flight to Paris, fortunately, only has 62 of 108 seats filled, and so mum and I get to fake a business class arrangement and occupy seats A and C and leave space for arms.

Interestingly, check-in guy said that of the 108 seats they can only fill 99 of them due to government regulations. Just in case a squad of special forces want to hich a ride? Probably not, but It is an interesting law.

Captain has announced we are off now, and I point out to mum there are several window seats if she wants one. She gave me a look that leaves me in no doubt that this will never happen. No wonder dad has so many sunset-from-the-air photographs.

Once we landed in France, the fun began. Some muppet left thier bags unattended and ground arrivals to a halt. Standing up at passport control I could see the bag, the empty baggage collection room, about 10 police guarding the area and ultimately a brave dude with a sharp knife who hacked the bag open at arms length.

I am sure the poor lady on realising she had left the bag would be upset to know we all got to see her underwear distributed by the bomb squad all over the floor for all to see.

What was amusing was that her case contained what was either a long string of sausages or something I dare not contemplate...

But out of the airport the real fun began.

People on the continent in general have no concept of a queue, and the bus to the resort was a fine example. Soon as the bus arrived, the people at the back of the queue jumped at the door of the coach. Seeing this, the driver shut the door quickly and counted up the number of people altogether. Enough to fit on, he realised, and started loading the luggage, and when done opened the door and started checking tickets or collecting fairs.

But oh no, nothing is as simple here. Some new people came along, loaded their luggage on and dived into the queue as close to the front as others would allow. By now I was using my tripod as a plow seeing as mum and I were in the first 10 in the queue from the now 80 odd people attempting to get on a 46 seater bus.

Chaos, and very cramped conditions. It was like a bus in India, and I am sure if allowed some of the people present would have climbed on the roof.

At the hotel it was time to exact our revenge. The lobby was quickly packed with people, and the fact Mickey and pals were visiting didn`t help. But being in the castle club has its perks. All the queue jumpers got to wait whilst we were personally escorted off to a secluded reception area.

[AndyJ]

But despite all of that, the Disney Christmas magic just overcomes everything.

Some night time pictures of the christmas decorations:

http://diary.andyjpartridge.co.uk/?Page=blog&txMonth=1&txYear=2005

My first trip, with reports of various shows and piccies:

http://diary.andyjpartridge.co.uk/?Page=blog&txMonth=1&txYear=2004

Google Map (Very cool!)

http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=48.872509,2.775958&spn=0.007843,0.010664&t=k&hl=en


I struggled like hell to get DLP info myself!

[AndyJ]

Wireless Internet Access was available from the Castle Club Lounge for £6/24 hours - billed in 5 minute blocks.

(Orange Telecom)

[TRACEYJAYNE]

Disneyland Paris is a great introduction to small children to experience Disney on a smaller scale
Also you obviously avoid the long flight as it is only 2 hours from Ashford in Kent via Eurostar and you are there at the Disney Gates!!
I did not like the way that the French do NOT queue for the characters to take photos or have autographs. It was ok in the official photo line ups but elsewhere was a mad scramble. Not easy with a toddler in tow who was keen to collect autographs for the first time this year.
We also found it to be very expensive and plan a trip back to Orlando next year as my son will be 5 soon
Incidently we have taken him to Disneyland Paris 3 times and also he has even been to Orlando last year as well.
The first time he was only 10 months old and he loved it!

[msdisneytonian]

hi all

i love disneyland paris :D even more than my kids lol :happy:

know what you mean about the queing think - or lack of - have to be as ruthless as they are haha :p: becoming an art now.

dont get me wrong, i LOVE orlando but just found MK too big to take in (need lots and lots more visits lol) - paris has most of the rides (although could do with some more) space mountain in paris i personally feel is better (although havent been on the new one yet) and thunder mountain is 100% better in paris. the studios (in paris) definitely need more rides esp tower of terror - would top it off lovely :D

can never get enough of disney - paris or orlando :heart: :inlove:

roll on the 8th oct...and then 23rd dec for paris - xmas day spent in the land of dreams :heart: :jump: back to orlando next year 21st oct 06 xxxxx :wink

[megstevo]

hello

i visit disneyland paris at least 8 times a year, its only 50mins on a plane from liverpool!

its not as big or as much to do as in orlando but it is a great taster and its good for a quick fix!!!

if anybody is going then anamagique (hope ive spelt that right!)
it is a must see in studios park.

going to paris for haloween. just got back from mickeys not so scary halloween party in orlando and hope that paris is just as good!!

bye for now

xx

[shaunM]

hi ya,are you the couple from t.v's holiday swap?
Shaun

[megstevo]

sorry, not us hun!

x

[pvbmb01]

I agree, some information on DLP would be a fantastic help. I planned and planned Florida until it was coming out of my ears, but I feel a little disorganised for Paris ...

Love

Shelly xx

[pvbmb01]

[QUOTE=megstevo]hello

i visit disneyland paris at least 8 times a year, its only 50mins on a plane from liverpool!

Hiya,

We're flying from Liverpool too ... I've never been to John Lennon Airport before though, is it an easy airport to get around??? I'm guessing it's not a huge airport anyway ... I feel really sad now, I live in Liverpool and I've never been to the airport!!!

Love

Shelly xx

[mcknigma]

Liverpool airport is a piece of cake - it is not very big and if you would probably get lost quicker in your back garden. Plenty of parking options.

Not much in the way of shops now that Dabs has closed.

[pvbmb01]

Liverpool airport is a piece of cake - it is not very big and if you would probably get lost quicker in your back garden. Plenty of parking options.

Not much in the way of shops now that Dabs has closed.

Believe me I would still get lost!!! I get lost going to the corner shop!!! :d:

[disneydaft]

I've just uploaded the first part of our trip report which has loads of usefull info for anyone thinking of travelling by Ryanair.

http://www.thedibb.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?p=715990#post715990

[sarahc]

We've been going to DLP since my daughter was born as I couldn't bear the thought of the 9 hour flight with her! We only go for 4 nights at a time but it gives me (and her now!) a much-needed Disney fix every now and again (my husband isn't quite so enthusiastic!).;)

We've found it a perfect way to introduce her to Disney and she absolutely loves it - thank God!:grin:

I've found dlrp.co.uk and dlpuog.co.uk really useful sites for info. on everything from accommodation to restaurants to character meet n' greets to parade times etc. etc.!

Hope this is useful!:thumbs-up

[dcmax]

First part of our DLP videos and trip reports and restaurant reviews is now on the blog below( fully illustrated)....

on the last trip in march we used RStransports.com to get us from the airport to the resort... Superb service, met us at the arrivals hall and dropped us at the door of the hotel, they were there to pick us up again at the hotel exactly at the time we wanted... A little pricey, but excellent stress free timesaver...

[mapilling]

Hi All
I have stayed at disneyland paris, at the Santa fa hotel. I would go back again, if i was not going to WDW.
worth a visit. But food prices are £££££ very exspensive. Take sweet and snacks for the kids. water bottles to refill at water fountains. It sounds strange, but will save a small fortune, on hot days.
your
michelle

[piglets pal]

have to agree with tracyjayne re the euro star and the rudeness of people not queing.

Eurostar to the gates is amazing and you can get your tickets on board and leave your luggage at the disney express check in desk in the station and it will be taken to your room for you.

not queing or turn taking was maddening we only experienced it in AUG 05 and not DEC 03 or 04. my son had been twice in the dec aged 3 and 4 and totally in love with the charecters but in AUG 05 (still aged 4) was refusing to go near as older children were being shoved in front of him by the parents!!!!!!!!!! he was desperate for autographs and ended up being held in DH arms and i have to admit that the charecters tended to notice the children waiting patiently and made the effort to move towards him. Dare i say that the people trying to take turns were mostly from the UK....

to add to that when he got jessies autograph her face was covered and i mean covered in pen marks where pens were being shoved in her face... what is that about

[astronut]

Hi all. We've been to DLP for the last 2 years, at the end of March (not this year mind, we're off to WDW instead!). On both of these occasions we stayed in the Newport Bay Hotel and travelled by Eurostar.
We took advantage of the extra night and kids go free promotions both times.
Both times we travelled, was Wednesday to Saturday.
We were unable to get the Disney express from Waterloo, having to change at Lille for the TGV. The interchange is very fast and efficient. From Lille to DLP there about 4 stops only. The train continues on to the South of France and can be quite busy. The trains were very cean and all seats are allocated. There are clear signs on the platforms about where to stand for your particular seat number.
Arriving at DLP and leaving the station brings you to a wide plaza. From here you can turn right into the Main Park, go straight ahead into the Studios, turn left into the Disney entertainment plaza or catch the free shuttle to the hotel. It's very well planned.
The Newport Bay hotel is huge. Apparently the largest hotel in Europe, so checkin can get a bit busy at peak times.
Rooms were clean, average sized, typical Disney. One tip, wherever you are palnning to eat, make reservations! our first night we never did, and all restaurants in the NEwport Bay, Hotel New York and Santa Fe were booked. Ended up on room service! Another tip. Try for upgrade to the Admirals floor, as you get 24 hour room service and dedicated checkin.
Walk to the parks from this hotel is about 10 mins around the lake.
Best thing about going this time of year (March) is the crowds, or lack of them rather. Last year, we had went of the Thunder Mountain railroad 8 times straight around, no queue. However, on the day of departure, the queue time for this ride was showing 120minutes! Paris comes out to play at the weekends. One final note about travelling this time of year. It's VERY cold (4 inches of snow last year!) but this meant that at the Character parade in the Studios, there were barely 200 hundred watching. very cold but well worth it.
Hope this is of some use.

[sarahc]

As you may, or may not, know at WDW a CM can take your photo and if you pose with your hands cupped, they will edit in Tink. It looks as though she is fluttering away in your hands! Apparently, they do the same at DLP - only just found out and am V V excited for DD as she will love this when we go in Sept!!!:d: :spin: :d:

Edited to say that the person who told me this must have got confused with WDW - so they don't do it!! Sorry!!

[cerigirl]

Hi there :wave:

I love DLP too - last went in 2002, just after the studios opened and am returning in November this year for 4 days.

My advice is to really concentrate on enjoying how close everything is - there are no long distances to walk between parks and the hotels are all within walking distance (the on-site ones that is), so it is easy in the evenings to get back and fall into bed! (Feet killing you!)

I would highly recommend The Blue Lagoon restuarant inside Pirates, it really is gorgeous and the food is superb. You would believe you were out in the Bayou underneath the stars. Our waiter was so efficient and really took the time with our then 2 year old to make her feel special.

DLP is great for a quick Disney fix and without the long flight and really hot weather of Florida, which can be very draining. Although, it has to be said.... WDW is so vast you get a much more full-on feeling when you are there, that's hard to beat.

Hotel Santa Fe is ok, we stayed there last time, but no air con in rooms and the longest walk to the parks. Rooms are a slightly boring and were a little tired (may have been spruced up by now) and the breakfast is a bit like a bun fight at busy periods (we went in mid July). Next time, we are going to stay at the Sequoia Lodge, simply because of the swimming pool and hoping the breakfast/room is better. One good thing DLP does is you can get a free Good Morning Fantasyland Breakfast one hour before the park opens. Just mention it when booking and you can enter the park, have your breakfast in Fantasyland and then enjoy the rides before everyone else! (only is you stay in a Disney Hotel)
Hope this all helps someone - keep dreaming!! Happy Disney Holidays, wherever you go!!!!! They are all Wonderful!!!:stitchbou

[Rach109]

hi

a few Qs about DLP

are you able to take food in with you ??? or do they check your bags etc?

does anyone know what times its open in mid oct ? ive looked on the DLP site but only gives times up to sept 30th

TIA

Rach x

[catshorseygirl]

:wavey: Hi!

I have just returned from DLP (staying at the Seq. Lodge - OK, have stayed in better). Enjoyed DLP but thought it was very, very expensive. Best place to eat without doubt is Walts on Main Street, we ate there 3 out of 4 nights. 25 euros for a sumptious 2 course meal - and if you time it right you can watch the wishes parade go past as you eat!!!

Catshorsey girl:pgig:

A must see for DLP - The Tarzan show - WOW!!:spin:

[catshorseygirl]

Hi, :wavey:

Just read your post - we have just returned from Seq. Lodge. To be honest we would not stay there again. Hotel was disappointing, room was not cleaned properly (we had an upgrade as the first room offered had a lovely view of the bins and workmens bums!) but nothing special. Breakfast was a bun fight, food ok, and only one restaurant offered for guests at night which was a nightmare! food very mediocre would not eat there again, it was like a school canteen. The pool was fairly cold, and a very big walk back to the hotel. we only went in once - not as good as our local JJB gym. would try the NEW YORK next, but is the cost too much for a quick Disney fix - I think so. Going back to WDW next year can't wait!!

Catshorsey girl :pgig:

[Sheeps68]

I went to DLP before trying Orlando. Whilst it was fun I will say its exceptionally cold in December and February. That wind just goes right through you. The thing I found was everything was small and close together. By this I mean the seats on the coasters are smaller, its all close together and somewhat claustophobic. Having had this I was shocked how spacous everything was in WDW.

[lainey5565]

hiya
been to DLP 3times now stayed in
Santa Fe .... Cheaper end of the scale, place to get your head down, very noisy at breakfast time.
Cheynne....pretty much the same as Santa Fe...maybe not as noisy as breakfast time.
Newport Bay....Upgraded to Admirals Floor..well worth it..dedicated check in, gorgeous spacious room..looked out over the lake, relaxed and plentiful breakfast...well worth the extra money.
DLP is a lovely break, but BEWARE its not as organised as WDW. Characters are bombarded by screaming adults with children..no organised queuing :confused2
I have found a lot of Europeans to be very rude...and this does put me off, as it takes a couple of days to get used to it then its time to come home.
But other than that, all the best rides are there, the castle is better IMHO ( I like pink!) and your feet will be pleased as its not as big as WDW so you will probably see everything without rushing around.
Its a great short break.
Elaine

[jeremy]

I,ve some questions

1) Are the rides open in November (during the first week).

2) Are they more characters then WdW?.

3) Talking of Characters: where is the best place to meet "Chicken Little?".

[Andre]

I,ve some questions
1) Are the rides open in November (during the first week).


Definitely! Lots of Haloween stuff will still be going on too. May be an odd attraction down for rehab, but almost everything will be running. Don't expect night-time parades/fireworks every night though.

2) Are they more characters then WdW?.


Kinda similar, but a lot less organised other than in specific greeting locations! France and ad-hoc queues just don't seem compatible.

3) Talking of Characters: where is the best place to meet "Chicken Little?".

In Disney Studios, in a special location just between the main entrance Studio One building and the Animagique theatre. Chicken Little and Abby Mallard alternate every half hour or so, so join the queue just after a change if you want to see one in particular.

Andre

[jeremy]

Thanks. We are thinking of going to Dlp this year.

[sheilahall]

Just back from DLP;

Flew from Exeter airport with Flybe, good basic no frills service.
Exeter airport small but local for us and efficient.

Arrived Paris CDG, baggage arrived safely,about 20 mins., loos unpleasant, still not very easy to find VEA shuttle, on ground/departure floor opposite exit /gate 16. Usual queue jumping but got on bus o.k

Stayed at Sante Fe, comfortable beds, clean bathroom, good breakfast. Make sure you get the breakfast time you want...they offer you 7.15...we wanted much later but got it o.k. Would not go to Santa Fe again simply because it completely lacks charm and far removed from the lakeside area so you don't really feel that you are in Disneyland. Staff were friendly and helpful though and shuttle to Parks is good. For sante fe take bus stop 1.
Went with Bridge/Cresta travel and they were efficient.

Had a good 4 days but now want to go to Orlando.

[phgannon]

Here's some detail about our experiences at staying in the Castle Club in the Disneyland Hotel in Paris

Booking
I've booked our DLP trips using various different methods in the past ranging from a travel agent through to calling DLP direct. If you want anything remotely extra like a suite or Castle Club room then you need to call DLP direct or get a travel agent to do it for you. You can find the number to call on the DLP website. I have to say that the best booking experience I've had was by dealing with them direct. The staff on the other end of the phone speak excellent English and are incredibly helpful. Last time I called I wanted a last minute 4 night stay at the Disneyland Hotel and the operator searched every week in the summer holiday for me to find 2 interconnecting rooms. She emailed me my confirmation and I subsequently called/emailed her back a couple of times about a private pickup to/from CDG airport.

The only part of the trip that I booked myself was the flights and for this I used Expedia. We flew from Manchester to CDG on the 8:40am BA flight and by 12:30pm we'd not only arrived but had checked into the hotel and we're sat outside Caseys on Main Street USA having a Hot Dog.

The Castle Club in the Disneyland Hotel a.k.a. The Pink Palace
We've always been lucky enough to stay in the wonderful Castle Club in the Disneyland Hotel. Here you do get truly pampered from the moment you check in all the way through to your departure.

The Castle Club occupies the upper two floors of the hotel and is accessed by calling the lift using your room key card. When you first arrive at the hotel you get escorted up to the Castle Club reception by a bell-hop after he's tagged and taken away your luggage that is whisked to your room once it's ready. This is the same lift that takes you straight down to the entrance of the Disneyland Park. This lift is a real boon and means that you can be in Fantasyland one minute and back in your room 5 minutes later - very handy.

Once there you get checked in either in the Castle Club reception area or in the adjacent Castle Club lounge depending on how busy they are. During check in you're given your park tickets and VIP Fastpasses along with an overview of the parks, amenities and restaurants. The adults are also given ID cards which you sign and can use to charge anything to your room [they need a swipe of your credit card for this]. During check in you can also make restaurant reservations - these can be changed or cancelled at any time. You then have another opportunity to leave bags behind reception while you whiz off into the parks or you can go straight to your room if it's ready.

Bedrooms
If you can get a Castle Club room with a Park View then book it!

Photo: This is the view we had from our Park View Castle Club room in January '06... need I say anymore?!
http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/500/Disneyland_Park_-_Panoramic_view_of_park_from_hotel_bedroom_at_nigh t_-_080106.jpg (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=17703&perpage=30&ppuser=6149)

If you are staying over the summer and Wishes is on then this is the place to see it. Best view in the park! If your room isn't park facing then head to the Castle Club lounge and stand out on one of the 4 balconies to watch Wishes.

Photo: These photos of Wishes were taken from a balcony in the Castle Club Lounge in the summer '05.
http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/500/medium/Disneyland_Park_-_Wishes_8_.jpg (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=18025&size=big&cat=500&ppuser=6149)

http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/500/medium/Disneyland_Park_-_Wishes_9_.jpg (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=18039&size=big&cat=500&ppuser=6149)

The alternative to a Park View is a Garden View which is of the gardens, fountains, Disney Studios (to the right) and the Disney Village (to the left).

All of the rooms are spacious, have a mini-bar and DVD player which does play English DVDs and you get a complimentary bottle of champagne (Taittinger), chocolates and long stemmed roses.

On plenty of occasions we've emptied the mini bar so we can fill the fridge with our own stuff. The staff don't seem to mind but you do need to be a little vigilant when checking the bill at the end of your stay!

The rooms at the Disneyland hotel are something else whether you’re staying in the Castle Club or not. They’re all very clean, spacious and extremely comfortable. There’s plenty of wardrobe space and a safe. The attention to detail is marvellous with Tinkerbelle bed spreads, the Seven Dwarfs carved on the mirrors in the bathroom, etc. Every night there’s a complimentary turn down service during which they’ll turn down your beds, tidy your room, freshen the towels and leave chocolates on your pillows along with tomorrow’s weather forecast.

Photo: A Castle Club room
http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/500/medium/Disneyland_Hotel_-_Kids_room_in_the_suite.jpg (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=17934&size=big&cat=500&ppuser=6149)
Whilst the rooms are large and excellent they are missing tea/coffee making facilities so take a travel kettle and some tea bags if you want tea in your room or, alternatively, call room service or pop into the Castle Club lounge for free tea, coffee, soft drinks all day. Milk is available to buy in cartons from the hotel's shop on the 1st floor near the restaurants.

Interconnecting Rooms
This is available on request [call/book DLP direct for this]. On booking they'll tell you that they can't guaruntee interconnecting rooms but that you can request them. I think they only say this to cover themselves because the hotel's not let me down yet. What we've had is two rooms that share a porch that's just off the hotel corridor. So, you use the key card for either room to open the porch and there inside are the doors to both rooms. You can only open the door to the porch if you have a key to one of those rooms.

Doorstops are provided to keep the inner doors propped open. These are especially handy if you have little kids sleeping in the 2nd bedroom because the doors are heavy.

Suites
We've stayed in two different types of suites in the Disneyland Hotel. Staying in a suite automatically gives you access to the Castle Club although, for some strange reason, the Junior Suites are not actually located up in the Castle Club. Ours was on the first floor so you have to walk quite a way from your Junior Suite to the Castle Club but it does mention this on the DLP website. On the plus side the Junior Suites are big and do have a separate living room and bedroom - they're separated by a set of double doors. The sofa in the living room is a sofa bed that's made up during the evening turn down service.

We've also stayed in a Tinkerbelle Suite. These suites, and all the other types of suites, are located up in the Castle Club. You get a bigger bedroom and bigger living room. All Tinkerbelle Suites face the gardens - there are no park facing Tinkerbelle Suites . It is possible, if you're really wanting to push the boat out, to have a Tinkerbelle Suite with and interconnecting 2nd bedroom. Mmmm roomy.

Photo: This is the living room through to the bedroom in a Tinkerbelle suite.
http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/500/medium/Disneyland_Hotel_-_Living_room_in_the_suite.jpg (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=17868&size=big&cat=500&ppuser=6149)


[U]The Castle Club Lounge
Breakfast in the Castle Club lounge is a much more sedate affair compared to the main restaurant below. Also, unlike the main restaurant below, you don't have to book for breakfast - just turn up when you want. The lounge isn't that big but always seems to have tables ready without waiting. There are excellent views of the park from every table and the food's good too.

Photo: Having breakfast in the Castle Club Lounge
http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/500/medium/Disneyland_Hotel_-_Fe_JJ_Ellie_having_breakfast_in_the_Castle_Club_L ounge.jpg (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=17853&size=big&cat=500&ppuser=6149)
I was pleased to see on our last trip that they've replaced the two cereal dispensers with a stall of various Kellogg’s cereals everything from CoCo Pops to All Bran. You also get fresh pastries (Danish and French), yoghurts, fruit, juices, eggs, sausages, bacon, cold meats, smoked salmon, cheese, toast, etc. I mustn’t forget to mention that you also get visits from the characters.

As I wrote earlier you can also get free hot and cold drinks [you have to pay for alcoholic drinks] throughout the day in The Castle Club lounge and as well as breakfast they also serve afternoon tea at 4:00pm with a delicious and tempting array of cakes.

VIP FastPass
Thank you to whoever thought up the idea of the VIP Fastpass! This wonderful little ticket allows the holder to go on any Fastpass ride without having to pre-book a time slot first. You just go up to the ride, show your ticket and on you go. You can go on again straight afterwards if you want to and keep going until you're fed up. However, you're not allowed to use your VIP Fastpass after certain hours of the day e.g. 9:00pm in summer.

Hotel Restaurants
There are two restaurants in the Disneyland Hotel and they're next door to each other on the 1st floor. Just in front of these two restaurants is a lounge area which is where you get to meet the Characters at breakfast. At least one of the Characters will be with an official photographer just in front of the large fire place. Those photos are available to view and buy in the hotel's shop within minutes of them being taken. You do have to queue to have your photo taken but it's nowhere near as long as the queues you get in the parks.

Photo: The lounge area in front of the two restaurants where you can have official photos taken with the Characters
http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/500/medium/Disneyland_Hotel_-_view_of_restaurant_foyer_from_Castle_Club_recepti on_at_breakfast_time.jpg (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=17865&size=big&cat=500&ppuser=6149)

Inventions is a large buffet restaurant and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The other restaurant is A La Carte and, I think, only serves dinner.

Photo: Buffet in Inventions restaurant
http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/500/medium/Disneyland_Hotel_-_Buffet_in_Inventions_Restaurant.jpg (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=17931&size=big&cat=500&ppuser=6149)
The buffet in Inventions is excellent and there's always a good selection. They also have a kids section with pizza, chicken dinosaurs, potatoe smiley faces and a little freezer with ice creams in. The staff are excellent and will willingly warm up baby food up for you or get you a plate of fries even if there's none on offer at the buffet. There's never a shortage of high chairs complete with Mickey Mouse ears.

Dining with the Characters
Do try and eat as early as you possibly can in order to avoid the crush - this applies to all meals in any Disney restaurant! Fortunately Inventions in the Disneyland hotel opens at 6:00pm for its evening service and it's nice and quiet at this time and there's plenty of Characters wandering round the tables to make a fuss over you.

Whether it's breakfast or dinner in the evening there's always plenty of Characters around irrespective of what time you're eating. You'll regularly find Mickey, Minnie, Chip and Dale (or Tic et Tac as they're know in French), Pluto, Goofy and Eeyore. The Characters will muck about, sit in your place and pretend to eat your food, hug the kids (and you), play peek-a-boo with the younger ones, get the kids to sit on their knee while you take a photo, sign autographs (buy a Disney autograph book and a chunky pen from any of the Disney shops), etc, etc.

Photo: Mickey, Goofy and Pluto with my wife and kids in the Inventions restaurant
http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/500/medium/Disneyland_Hotel_-_Fe_Ellie_JJ_with_Mickey_Goofy_and_Pluto_at_Supper _2.jpg (http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=17940&size=big&cat=500&ppuser=6149)

Other hotel facilities
There's a nice indoor pool but it's a bit on the cool side for our liking! Other people have reported it as being small but I don't think it is. We've never found the pool to be too busy.

There's a spa in the hotel which I haven't tried yet but not without trying. You do need to book in advance if you want treatment. Next to the spa is the kids club and games room which is really a mini arcade.

There's Wi-Fi Internet access available throughout the hotel not tried that either - I'm on holiday for Heaven's sake!

We have used a baby sitter on three occasions and this was excellent. She spoke wonderful English and put our 8 year old to bed for us (he was already bathed and in his PJs). Our 3 year old was already well away and dreaming of Minnie!

Have a look at the videos on my website listed in my profile for our DLP experience or just give me a shout if you want to know more.

[dcmax]

Excellent info there... I recognise the name and the vids probably from the DLP forums I think.. Anyway just to add Inventions (review here http://disneyand.blogspot.com/2006/04/lunch-at-inventions-dlp.html) is an absolute must for Lunch time people watching as you look down on them entering the park below as you savour the fine buffet (and this food is nothing like buffet food) and wine.. The California Grill (review here http://disneyand.blogspot.com/2006/03/calfornia-grill-paris-disney.html )rates as one of my favourite disney dining experiences of all time.. Though the waiter did take us back into the kitchens and the chef bribed us with hand made chocolates..

[phgannon]

Because theDibb doesn't send out email alerts if someone edits/updates an earlier post I'm adding this note to let you know that I've added quite a few pics to my earlier post in this section about the Castle Club and the Disneyland Hotel.

Just scroll up a bit!

Patrick

PS Lots more photos of DLP added to my Members Gallery.

[mandybeef]

shaunm have you changed tour name from happy hammer

[t1gg3er]

hi all been to dlp several times was there febuary this year not busy at all took youngest as an introduction to disney he loved it so we booked for florida as soon we got back

[Fab]

I've been to DLP twice - Newport Bay Club and Hotel Sante Fe. The first time I went for a week and found ourselves doing the rides 2 or 3 times to fill in the time. The second visit we just went for 3 full days and still found on the 3rd day we were revisiting the rides over and over. Both of these trips were in the summer holidays aswell. Although I love Disney no matter what, it didn't have the same atmosphere as WDW. The Americans are just such great actors and really live out the roles so much better. On the plus side we were able to walk from our hotel on both occassions to the parks which was really pleasant and unhassled. The food was much more expensive and the French don't half like to smoke! Good for a stop gap if not off to WDW but there is little change year on year if you go frequently.

[Minicooper]

Does anyone know of any of the Disney Hotels sleep 5.

[Rosie30]

I have booked a family room at Newport bay, sleeps 6 i think, expensive though. I think the only other one is the Disneyland Hotel

[Katie C]

I've been to DLP 5 times now- twice to Santa fe, and once each to Cheyenne, Sequioa and Newport Bay. Despite getting the upgrade at Newport Bay I still preferred the Sequioa for the natural themeing, and the two restaurants (asurprised on here to read of only one as there def are 2!) were both really nice. Breakfast much better than at Sant fe and Cheyenne. having said that I haven'treally had a bad experience in aany of them, all the hotels are nice in their own way.
My main tip- cocktails vary in price between the hotels from 6.50 to 10 euros! ithink its becasue you get more spirits in the more expensive but if you're not fussed about that then pottering to a bar at another hotel is a good way to get a cheaper drink, and the luxury of DLP is that you can alk between all the hotels easy!
In the parks I've now down 6 days max and found enough to keep me busy all the times, mainly because I'm very much a stop, look and take in the ambience person! Did repeat rides but don't mind as love them all.
Of all the times I've been Christmas is my fave ,the Halloween is awesome as well.
My main bug bears at the lack of roganisation for character meetings- we always do a character breakfast as its the best way to meet them!- also people pushing in last minute before the parades. Another minor bug bear is by the end of the day the toilets could be cleaner- they are much better at that in Florida!
Despite that though I still love it, as does my fiance. We're gonig to Florida next May- his first time so that should be fun!

[Gill H]

The California Grill (review here http://disneyand.blogspot.com/2006/03/calfornia-grill-paris-disney.html )rates as one of my favourite disney dining experiences of all time.. Though the waiter did take us back into the kitchens and the chef bribed us with hand made chocolates..

Oh. My. Word! (Where's a drool smiley when you want one?)

Peter and I are real foodies (well, as much as budget allows) and I think this place has just gone on our must-do list!

[lynneandnick]

i am so glad i found this thread. I go to DLP in september and i have to agree there is very little info available on it!!!!

[treacle]

Just back from DLP and have to admt was a little disappointed. Found the people there not have as helpful as the states and no sign of a disney photographer. The queues were a nightmare as they were somewhat lacking. That said it was good to get a fix so close to home.... want to go to ORlando now!!

Oh a word of warning... unlike WDW youcan see 2 of the same characters in the same studio at he same time. Donald was in the parade at the Studios, walked to the entrance and he was signing and posing for photos. For those with small kids be ready with the"Secret tunnels" and "Move very fast" excuses to avoid bursting the magic bubble. :)

Also food was expensive. Though the steakhouse at the Disney Village and California Grill are totaaly worth it. The Blue lagoon was totally overrated and service was a nightmare.

(Not down on DLRP as it has its good points just more a WDW fan!)

[phgannon]

Hi

I just wanted to let y'all know that I've recently added a page to my website all about the Castle Club in the Disneyland Hotel at DLRP.

There's a photo gallery and an info page. The photo gallery speaks for itself but on the info page there's information about the facilities/priveleges, booking, check in procedure, types of rooms/suites (including photos), etc.

We've been extremely lucky to stay in the Castle Club four times now and, in doing so, stayed in a Junior Suite, a Tinker Bell Suite, garden view rooms and a park view room. The information on this page is cultivated from those 4 stays.

I created the page because, IMO, there isn't a lot of information out there about this exclusive part of the hotel.

When we return to the Castle Club in August '08 I intend to film a video tour of the Castle Club and add that to the page along with more photos.

Here's the link to the pages:
Info Page: http://www.haighgannon.com/castle_club_info/index.html
Photo Gallery: http://www.haighgannon.com/castle_clb_photo/index.html

Hope this is of some use to anyone intending to stay in the Castle Club.

Patrick

[Hels80]

Just noticed in the back of the new 2008 Brit guide to DLP, there is a voucher for 20% off at Planet Hollywood when you show the book!

[cathann]

One thing we wished we'd realised sooner was the small minimart in the entrance to the eurostar station. We walked past it every day going into the parks then spent a small fortune on snacks and drinks in the park, then past it again every evening and then spent another small fortune in the hotels. They sell sandwiches, crisps, wine :), beer, sweets and so on at almost normal prices. We found that although our bags were checked going in, it was more of a quick glance and they didn't remove any food items or drinks we had in there. we will certainly be using the minimart next time we go.

[BrerVixen]

Just got back, this morning it's SO expensive,

The mini-mart is a must, for water especially as it's much cheaper

Any more than a 3 day stay, get a Fantasy annual Pass. 10% of merch. and dining. Well worth it.

I found that DLRP was great, but didn't have the magic that WDW has, I found it hard, as I don't speak french, so I think I missed a lot at times.

We stayed at the Kyriad, wouldn't recommend, as we had a lot of ants and 2 beetles in the room

The europeans are quite rude, always walking into me/queing to close. seems they don't regard personal space at all, 2 kids walked into me full force.

We had a great time, and it was cheap, but If I were to go again, I will do 2 days/1 night to save some money

The Blue Lagoon is a MUST DO, very, very nice.

[phgannon]

...it's SO expensive ...[DLRP] didn't have the magic that WDW has ...europeans are quite rude, always walking into me/queing to close. seems they don't regard personal space at all...

I’m really sorry to read about your bad experience at DLRP but I also found it very interesting because everything you wrote I, personally, could write about Orlando/WDW. In fact, in your post I'd swap "DLRP" for "WDW", "WDW" for "DLRP" and "Europeans" for "Americans".

The vacations we’ve had in Orlando/WDW have all been terrific but they’ve also been very frustrating and, at times, stressful. Americans really do not know how to queue. It ends up more like a “huddle” than a queue!

I am not trying to say that you're wrong and that DLRP is perfect. Please don’t get me wrong, I love America and Americans – I’d go so far as to say that I’m an Americophile but I’m also a Francophile. I love both countries just the same and I also love Disney and their resorts but, IMHO, they both have their frustrations.

[mouli1]

yes I would agree ,we were barged out the way by Americans on our last trip.

[BrerVixen]

I've never been barged at WDW!

[lainey5565]

great tip about the mini-mart....didnt even know it was there:thumbs-up will be trying it in October.
We too have been 'barged' at WDW mainly on the Disney transport this really put the damper on my last visit in Nov 07,, it didnt bother my DH but I was well and truly fed up after our 2 week stay.....but I will add it didnt happen at IOA/US on our 3rd week :) which I really enjoyed - you can get it anywhere i suppose.

[Mersey Mouse]

I don't know if it's already been mentioned but a good site is dlp.info You should be able to get loads of stuff from here.. Similar to this site i.e hotels, restaurants, rides etc.

[jenn9780]

I would definately recommend DLRP for Halloween.It is absolutely great.The giant pumpkin in the middle of the main st is fantastic and the scarecrow pumpkins and pink witches are excellent in Frontierland.Have been to DLRP 6 times and although prices are high and some foreigners very rude, we love it.