The Unofficial Guide Walt Disney World 2009 by Bob Sehlinger, Len Testa (2008, Paperback)

Every couple of years, I purchase this book, even though we're seasoned (22 times and counting) Walt Disney World travelers. It's one of those rare finds that is informative without being condescending, humorous and easy-to-follow. We are constantly using Bob Sehlinger and Len Testa's amazing tour book, "The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World" to help others create their "magical Disney vacation."

Why get the "Unofficial" guide? Disney's guide is great - with lots of pictures and information. But it's telling you what the Disney Corporation wants you to know (which is going to always be "neat and pretty"). Testa and Sehlinger are straight-forward in giving out their opinions, and more times than not they are right on the money (and trust me...with the money you're spending, you WANT to be right in your choices!).

There are many reasons to purchase this book, or even the 2008 version if you don't want to spend full price on eBay.

* IT'S HONEST. If a ride stinks, they'll say why. If it's amazing, they'll point that out too. The authors' extensive surveying not only gives ratings to all the rides and shows, but break them down into age groups (Pre-school, Grade School, Teens, Young Adults, Over 30, and Senior Citizen).

* IT'S EXTENSIVE. Most tour books give basic descriptions and when to go in the season and all...but The Unofficial Guide goes further, giving warnings about motion sickness or flashing lights for those with epilepsy. It talks about loading patterns and rates, and how long each ride should expect to take. Lots of facts but without being overwhelming.

* IT'S FUNNY. You will actually ENJOY reading this book; it's very tongue-in-cheek without coming across too cute or gross.

* ITS TOURING PLAN ACTUALLY WORKS. Before we became "veterans" of Walt Disney World, we used this book's plan extensively. If you follow the Guide, it truly will help you to see more shows, ride more rides, and beat the crowd flow. For people who go to Walt Disney World when it's not so crowded, it's helpful. For people going in the Summer or during holidays, it is CRUCIAL.

* FOR FIRST-TIME GUESTS, IT WALKS YOU THROUGH THE PROCESS. From the initial planning of your trip all the way through to the actual event, you are given practical and wise steps to make the most of your trip. There's sections on saving money, selecting the right lodging, restaurants and more. And YES, PLANNING IS CRUCIAL! There are also chapters that talk about doing Disney with Kids, Special Needs situations, and more. It even has a section to review "the competition" in Orlando (very helpful if you want to sneak "off property" to hit Universal Studios).

The only negative I can see from this guidebook is that doesn't have pictures (due to the Disney Company's tight control over pictures of WDW being used by competiting tourbooks). But there are maps a'plenty and enough information to make you a savvy Mouse House vacationer. You want pictures? Call WDW and get their free DVD Travel Planner. You want excellent information about how to make the MOST of your vacation? BUY THIS BOOK!