Beginning June 1, all resort hotels at Walt Disney World will be smoke-free. As someone who lives in a predominently smoke-free city - Austin, Texas - I've been amazed at the number of smokers at Disney World. As a professional event planner, I'm surprised that it took Disney this long to jump on the "smoke free" bandwagon. In any case, I think most families will applaud this move. In fact, the Orlando Sentinel said:

During the last five years, guest demand for smoking rooms at the Walt Disney World Resort has been declining steadily. Currently, less than 3.5 percent of Walt Disney World's 24,000 resort rooms are smoking optional, Disney reported in a news release.

The Sentinel and other sources report that smoking will be prohibited in all guest rooms, indoor public spaces, balconies and most other outdoor spaces. Smoking will be permitted only in designated outdoor areas, similar to the smoking areas in the parks.

Smoking bans were put in place at Disneyland last year. Word is that this move is part of Disney's ongoing efforts to promote healthy lifestyles. Whatever the motive, I say "Hooray!"

These very casual resorts with bold colors offer guest rooms open to exterior balcony, two double beds, counter-service food courts. Generally located farther from the theme parks that other resort categories. Lowest price (except for tent or RV camping).

Continue reading to learn about key features of Value Resorts.

These very casual resorts with bold colors and décor offer these features:

• Guest rooms that are approximately 260 square feet, open to exterior hallway or balcony.
• Two double beds that sleep four in most rooms, with limited king rooms available.
• One vanity sink in room. Toilet and bathtub with shower in bathroom.
• One six-drawer bureau, small table and two side chairs in each room.
• Dial-up internet connection in room (75¢ per call) and refrigerator rental for $16/day.
• Counter-service food court (early morning to late evening). In-room pizza delivery (evening).

These casual resorts themed to favorite vacation destinations offer guests rooms that open to exterior hallway or balcony (slightly larger than Value Resorts, two double beds, table-service restaurants and counter-service food courts, plus recreational activities. Closer to the theme parks than Value Resorts, moderately more expensive.

Continue reading to learn more about the special features of Moderate Resorts.

These casual resorts themed to favorite vacation destinations offer:  Read more

• Guest rooms that are approximately 315 square feet, open to exterior hallway or balcony.
• Two double beds that sleep four (or five at Port Orleans Riverside), with limited king rooms available.
• One or two vanity sinks in room. Toilet and bathtub with shower in bathroom.
• One armoire with four to six large drawers, small table and two arm chairs in each room.
• In-room high-speed Internet access ($10/day) and free in-room refrigerator.
• One or two table-service restaurants (dinner).

The Easy Way to 'Rough It'

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is what camping should be! Enjoying the easiest way to “rough it,” guests love the idyllic forest setting, plenty of recreation choices, plus easy access to the Magic Kingdom across Bay Lake.

Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Fort Wilderness cabins are perfect for guests who prefer accommodations more like a home-away-from-home, and the campsites bring the same comfort to RVers and tent campers. Nestled among natural Florida flora, guests are sure to see plenty of native fauna.

• One-bedroom log-style cabins with kitchens sleep six, and campsites sleep up to 10.
• One table-service restaurant, one lounge, and two dinner show choices (one is seasonal).
• Resort shops offer the widest selection of groceries at WDW, with resort wear and merchandise that reflect the resort theme.
• Wide selection of recreation.
• Transportation to parks by bus and/or boat.

Read more about Fort Wilderness Wilderness Resort and Campground in the book on Page 76 om Mouse Map.