Big 50th Birthday Trip

Fun question, just wondering what people would choose. I have a group of friends. We take trips to celebrate big birthdays. In a few years (2018), I turn 50 while two of the others are turning 60 in 2019. We're combining the birthdays and taking one trip. Last year, when one of us turned 50, we had four days in Napa. I'm having trouble deciding what I want to suggest. Two are from Texas and three of us are in the northeast.

We've talked about renting a villa in Tuscany and taking cooking lessons together. We also considered Spain, but one of us is taking a Spain trip this year instead. That same one said she would prefer to keep our next big trip domestic, and maybe 4-6 days.

Currently, I'm thinking Disney World or Disneyland. Obviously. I've never been to Disneyland. Could be fun. But there's so much to do at Disney World. But there are other choices, too. We will be at a conference in WDW next year, but probably not all 5 of us and work will dominate. Would you choose WDW or DL for five women? Or something else? What would you do? All ideas welcome!

I say DL! Personally, I like the charming quaintness of DL parks and I think it would be ideal for a group of gals. You can take it leisurely and still feel like you've accomplished much. Whatever you decide, I'm excited for you. I've been wanting to do a gal-pal trip with a group of my friends and it's nearly impossible to link our schedules. Have fun planning!

Not sure of the timing of the year you're looking at traveling but I'd say WDW during Food & Wine or Flower & Garden. Or even in December to take in all the Christmas décor and festivities. That would be fun park hopping and resort hopping.

We're open to times of year. Birthdays are in October, January, and March, but we've scheduled trips depending on everyone's availability. Fall usually works out well. Food & Wine would be fun, but so crowded around World Showcase. Flower & Garden is taking on a similar vibe so that could work, too. I love the idea of trying DL, something new. But World Showcase is a huge draw at WDW.

Disneyland for sure. There is also plenty to do in the area if you want to branch out.

Thanks, Natalie. I know you are familiar with the area. I've been to Laguna Beach briefly and a short drive up the coast there. Gorgeous! Yeah, I think that could be fun.

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Originally Posted by SBETigg

Thanks, Natalie. I know you are familiar with the area. I've been to Laguna Beach briefly and a short drive up the coast there. Gorgeous! Yeah, I think that could be fun.

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Newport is great as well. Lots of great restaurants. There is also a wonderful performing arts center in Costa Mesa (Segerstrom Center) where there are often great shows.

Have you guys ever done a cruise together? That can be fun for a group as well. (Not necessarily Disney even)

The reason I would hesitate to go to Disneyland would be you went to California for the last 50th birthday in your group, though San Francisco and Napa is a totally different vibe than Southern California. Janet's cruise suggestion is a good idea. There is a delay in settling my Aunt's estate (my Mom's will probably be done before and Mom died a year later) but my sister and I plan to use the money we are inheriting from her to go on a cruise in Europe, but not a Disney cruise (most likely Celebrity). My Aunt loved cruising, gambling in the casino and playing bingo and we want to see more of Europe.

If you do decide to go to WDW, you definitely need to plan a Spa day!

Wow - Another vote here for a cruise. Groups can be so much fun! Pick a place that sounds good to all of you, then check out the cruise lines to see which one sounds best for you. You will never be as catered to on a vacation as when on a cruise!