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We have a few resources that might be of use to you on this caper. First, links for tools for keeping awake. Next one of Uncle Bob's Rules: Start Rested, Stay Refreshed and finally, you might consider skimming all of the rules -- a tremendous layer of skill & concept can be found therein.Quote:
Originally Posted by Utahtea
Mark
Ahhhh, I had not thought of a rental car. When I went to WDW we stayed on-site and used cheap cabs to get to Universal and SeaWorld. I forgot you were going to a timeshare.Quote:
Originally Posted by amukia
WOW!!! that was close!!!!
I received a notice from expedia that tickets were 220 each, roundtrip. Turned out it was one of those fishing e-mails, they tried to get me by saying they were out, but they had another offer if I wnated it.
That would have meant all this help could have been for nothing!!!
We even thought about flying there and driving back so we could enjoy the ride back, but then that's really expensive.
So, as they say, "My momma didn't raise no fool," I am using everyone's advice and am going to add another full day of driving. Itinerary is leave Wednesday morning, drive as far as I can everyday, or until the kids start to have a hard time. That's three and 1/2 days of driving, 12 hours on the road per day = 42 hours. This should be more fun than originally planned.
Thanks again everyone. I did read the articles everyone sent thanks for that as well.
You will still be somewhat pooped when you reach Florida, but the latest plan is at least reasonable.Quote:
Originally Posted by amukia
Have fun.
Mark
Amukia,
are your kids used to long roadtrips? If not, maybe it would help to make shorter road trips during the weekends before you leave. I made my first long trip when I was one year and a half. I'm personally a road kid, my parents used to bring me for 32 hours straight rides when I was young but before we reached Florida (I'm from Quebec), we hit Maine, VA, NC and other closer places so I was kind of up to it. Be sure to have plenty of noiseless toys, books and snacks to keep them occupied if you don't want to hear to many "are we there yet".
Make them involved in the preparation of the trip, give them maps so they can see where you're at and where you're going. Tell them about ghost towns, legends and history of the towns you go through(for short stories about towns, just look in AAA guidebooks) , play car plates trivia, try to make the road look like a game, not like a chore. Maybe they'll get really excited and they won't want to sleep at all for the whole trip (like me) or, if you're lucky, they'll, be able to sleep in the car. The first scenario is more likely ot happen though so prepare yourselves mentally, because the more tured they will get, the more uncomfortable they will be and you're more likely to hear them complain or fight with each other. Play shotgun, make sure they each have the chance to be the co-pilot and to choose the music.
I agree with the other posters, I think 2-3 days is way too short. I drove from AZ to Miami, FL on I-10 and I-95 in 4 days and I didn't spend much time anywhere. We don't want to discourage you of doing this trip it's just a matter of safety for you and your family. And frankly, what would you prefer, having to spend an extra 30 bucks on your budget for a motel room to get some rest or having to buy a new car because you fell asleep and hit a telephone post? We're an overprotective community, like a mother to a child, we don't want our members to fall from the nest, we want them to stay alive and to drive safe.
Have a great trip and drive carefully!:-)
Gen
Sorry, but non-adult humanoids should not sit in the front seat. Uncle Bob knows of what he writes and his advice on this very subject can be read here...Quote:
Originally Posted by Gen
Mark
Ok guys, I really do appreciate all your experience, you guys are definitely the "NERDS OF THE ROAD" for lack of a better term, (hope that didn't offend anyone).
Gen, if I let the kids ride in the front, Uncle Bob would see to it I never visit this forum. But I do catch your drift and will let them play shotgun by letting me know what town is next or like you said, choose music etc,,etc,,.
Well, I was getting worried that the price of plane tickets were almost affordable. I would much rather drive, but if the money is better, what can I do. So as of now,
WE DRIVE!!!!!
My next post will be in about a month with a full and detailed report THANKS GUYS!!!!!
Have a great trip -- you're a good sport! Bob
See?? I wouldn't even be a good Mom, I never read that rule...I knew it wasn't a great idea for babies but...And I thought I was overprotective!:o)lolQuote:
Sorry, but non-adult humanoids should not sit in the front seat. Uncle Bob knows of what he writes and his advice on this very subject can be read here...
We'll be looking forward to your field report Amukia, let us know how your kids enjoyed the trip!
Gen
I forgot to mention two books you ought to pick-up and carry with you on this adventure. Louis Mongello's book about WDW is very entertaining and it will enable you to find places and events inside the park that very few casual visitors ever learn about. And Bob Mervine's Orlando Chow could be a lifesaver for your budget.Quote:
Originally Posted by amukia
We are certainly interested in hearing what amazing things you discover on this journey!
Mark