AAA Western and Central New York was named as the winner of the prestigious 2008 “Disney Club of the Year Award” for mid-sized AAA Clubs and has also received the Disney award for highest percentage increase in Walt Disney World multi-day ticket sales.

1. Before leaving home, try to make a tentative plan, including what parks to visit on what day. Remember, you can't possible see and do it all in one vacation. Have everyone choose one attraction that they must see, and put those at the top of the list.

2. Don't stress the small stuff. Go slow, take time, experience.

3. Get an early start and take advantage of the Extra Magic Hours (available to guests staying at a Disney property). By starting early you can rest at the hotel during the hottest (and most crowded) parts of the day and go back to the parks in the evening when it’s cooler. The evening hours really clear out towards the end of the night and you may not even have to get off the ride to experience it again!

Walt Disney World
Space Mountain is closed for a make-over and will reopen later in 2009.

A Goofy Celebration: In 2009 you can book an exclusive birthday celebration at Goofy's Candy Co at the Downtown Disney Marketplace. Choose between 2 themes: Goofy's Scien-Terrific Birthday Bash and Disney's Perfectly Princess Party. Both parties include a private party room, two party hosts, invitations and thank you notes, decorations and delicious treats.

1. YOUR CHILDREN WILL LOVE IT At 13 months old, our daughter’s Disney cruise was her first Disney experience. In one seven-day span, she had many big “first” experiences: She met Mickey Mouse. She played on a beach. She visited St. Thomas and toured St. Maarten’s hilly streets. She befriended crew members Noel and Nicoleta, who played with her every time they saw her for the entire week. Sure, she doesn’t remember a thing from it — but we do.

By Jennine Lombardi

The powerful muscles, long broad neck and thick mane of the Andalusian masks the beautiful and gentle spirit of this magnificent horse. They are among the world’s finest, and our visit to the Yeguada de la Cartuja, a world-class breeding farm on the outskirts of Jerez, was a special treat on the eighth day of our nine day tour of Spain. The sight of brilliant white mares with their gangly young foals graced the exotic countryside of Andalusia. My daughter and I stood quietly under the strong Spanish sun, sharing a wonderful and rare moment together.

By Laura Wahler
Every day, Walt Disney World guests flock to the spinning teacups, the Haunted Mansion and the fast rides affectionately referred to as the “Mountains”—Splash, Big Thunder and Space. Sometimes though, it only takes a few turns on “It’s A Small World” before you begin to look for an escape from the Magic Kingdom’s overwhelming cuteness. Check out these “hidden treasures” during your next Disney vacation.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- High-flying elephants and spinning teacups usually take center stage when a guest is thinking of Walt Disney World Resort. But did you know that nine-pound lemons flourish at The Land pavilion at Epcot, or that sunset safaris explore Africa-inspired savannahs in the middle of Florida? Guests who take a second glance find undiscovered gems within the 40-square-mile Vacation Kingdom.

Although we gladly escaped the wintry weather of upstate New York last December, my husband and I couldn’t escape the irony when we found ourselves playing with our daughter in the faux snow drifting down from the skies above the Magic Kingdom on a 70-degree evening.

By Laura Wahler

For many people, a Disney vacation is a much-anticipated opportunity to relive their childhood, but it doesn’t have to drain the bank account. With a little help, a few tricks can save you a bundle on your next Disney dream vacation.

By Laura Wahler
Any vacation to a land of parades, flying elephants, and fairy tale princesses is sure to be a magical experience, but Walt Disney World is even more enjoyable when you know you got a great deal. Follow these steps for Disney savings, and your dreams of a magical vacation can come true…even without a fairy godmother.