From C. Sorenson, N.Y.C.:

Where I went: Walt Disney World

Why I went: My kids had never been

Who was on the trip: Three girlfriends of mine and our kids: 11 total!

When: Over MLK weekend in January

Who organized it: We all did but we used Cheryl Murphey @ Small World Vacations (866 202-4737) when we had trouble getting hotel rooms. She was very helpful and knew the ins & outs of the Disney booking system.

Where we stayed: The Polynesian

Who it’s right for/wrong for: Ha ha! Disney World was definitely wrong for ME! My kids had fun but I don’t know what I would have done if my friends hadn’t come with me: at least I had people to laugh with!

What I’d go back for: I think of it as a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

What I wish I knew in advance: How bad the food is and how cold it can get in January. If I had it to do over again, I would have stayed at either the Animal Kingdom Lodge or the Grand Floridian. I also would have made restaurant reservations as soon as they opened up – I think that you can book 3 months in advance?

What to skip: The Ohana character breakfast and the Polynesian in general. Marrakesh restaurant in Epcot was horrible! Try the Canadian steakhouse instead.

What not to miss: Getting a VIP guide. We used Heather Georgi (hgeorgi77@yahoo.com or simply book through Walt Disney World VIP Services) and she was amazing. She really made things easy for us and was wonderful with the kids. Absolutely worth every penny!

What we loved: Soarin’ Over California, all of the old-school rides in the Magic Kingdom (Peter Pan, Haunted House, Small World etc.), the safari in Animal Kingdom, Biko restaurant, the views from the California Grill, the little boat ride in the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot.

Read more information on how to do Disney like a VIP.