I was at UC-Irvine for a conference several years ago. I regret not taking a day to go to Disneyland.
Yeah, I debated whether I should go or just chill and relax, but I'm really glad I did it. Left DC at 7am. Arrived at LAX at 9:45am. Was checking into my hotel in Anaheim by 11am and walking through the gates at Disney at 12pm. Stayed until a little after 8pm. Long day, but fun (+9.5 mi walking).
Kind of liberating to go alone and be able do whatever you want whenever. Can walk quickly, swerving around strollers, criss crossing the park as needed. Stop to watch a parade or just have a soda and put feet up for a bit. Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters isn't quite as fun by yourself ;-) but overall it was a good time.
I think you need to be freak level to do it. We’ve talked to people at the DVC kiosks but it seems like a lot of money for not a lot of benefit unless you live far enough from FL and go a lot.
Seems like it can be advantageous if you’re going and staying on property every year.
They claim you break even at 5 trips, which doesn’t seem unreasonable.
Obviously, Disney makes money by ensuring you keep coming back.
Speaking of Debbie Downer, I heard that the new Star Wars resort will only have 100 rooms. Got to think it will be near $1000 a night.