Reddit mentions of Birnbaum's Walt Disney World 2011 (Birnbaum Guides)

There is SO MUCH information available it can be overwhelming. So, take your time, and read thru some of the tips others have submitted, but keep in mind, its just their advice. Your plans and style will vary according to what you want from your trip.

Here's a site that was developed for first timers and has a lot of good info and links: http://yourfirstvisit.net/

The following is some general information I give to all my friends:

There is a TON of information on the Internet about Walt Disney World, but it’s not all easy to find or sort thru. Here are a few of the better places to go for information.

I don’t know if you’ve made reservations yet, but we usually prefer staying on-property at one of Disney’s hotels. They might be a little more expensive, but the benefits you get from staying there, make it worth the slightly higher price.

First, check out Disney's own web site, they have some useful information, and you can order a free Vacation-Planning DVD and park maps. http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/planning-guides/in-depth-advice/first-trip/ However, they don't always make their information easy to find, especially if you're cost-conscious.

The following are free from Disney and they will send them to you to help you plan your trip. The DVD is fun to watch with the kids and will get you and them excited, but may also leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed.
Maps - http://customizedmaps.disney.go.com/
DVD - https://www.disneyvacations.com/dv/en_US/VacationPlanningDVD/index?sourcecode=15857&referrer=wdw&hdrType=default&vcntype=wdw

http://www.mousesavers.com/ - They highlight the latest specials, discounts and deals and update them frequently.

Something else to consider is using a travel agent. Disney has their own travel agency and you can book your trip on their web-site. However, there are several independent travel agencies that specialize in Disney trip planning, and can help you with every little detail of the trip, probably better than what Disney can. Plus, many of them (not Disney) will even watch for discounts for you and contact you when prices change or specials become available.

https://www.smallworldvacations.com/ - They have a great web-site that will walk you thru the steps in planning and booking a trip. I have used them a time or two to get price quotes, and they are fast and friendly.

http://yourmagicaljourneys.com/ - I have used this one, and they are great, but they’re just not as big as some of the others travel agencies.

http://www.mousefan.travel/mft/index.php?apid=lou - Another one I have not used, but heard lots of good about.

I should add that none of these travel agencies, including Disney's, charge any extra fees for using them. So, if nothing else, contact them and get a quote, talk to them and see what they can offer. It will take a lot of the hassle off the planning for you.

One other thing to keep in mind. Disney World is HUGE, really, really HUGE! There's lots to do, and lots of different options on how to do it. And, unless you've been multiple times or are going with someone who has been multiple times, it's hard to know where to go and what to do. Plus, if you're not careful, you can easily over-spend what you planned and not experience what you wanted. Working with one of the above travel agents can help. I know it sounds like I'm pushing you to use one of these, but I'm really not, I just want you to have a good time. If you choose not to use a travel agent, be sure and read up and do some research. Pick up one or more of the following books.

http://www.amazon.com/Birnbaums-Walt-Disney-World-2011/dp/1423123786/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1311780856&sr=8-1 - This is the "Official" book for Disney World. It's not too big, has lots of pictures, and some good, general information for first timers or those who haven't been very much.

http://www.amazon.com/Unofficial-Guide-Disney-World-Guides/dp/047061529X/ref=pd_sim_b_4 - This is the "Unofficial" Guide, or as many call it, "The Walt Disney World Bible" and has LOTS more information, including very specific touring plans for each park and how to get the most out of your visit. However, it isn't nearly as pretty as Birnbaum's, and for first timers, this one is overkill at 864 pages, it can be overwhelming.

http://www.amazon.com/PassPorters-Walt-Disney-World-2011/dp/158771082X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1311781055&sr=1-1 - This one is a balance between the first two and has lots of good information in it to help in planning and organizing your trip. It's also my wife’s. She gets a new one almost every time we go.

You might be able to find some of these books at your local library too, or at least older versions.

By the way, we have been 15 times since 2000, and will be returning on Thursday of this week (3/8) for trip number 16! Send me a msg if you have any specific questions, I will be glad to help.