Arrival - The First Week

Trust me when i tell you that moving across the globe to a new country and not knowing anyone is a hard task. To make it easier for you, I'll guide you through step-by-step on what it's like arriving on the happiest place on earth.

Before you get there
Check out the list below to make sure you are ready for your arrival!

• Ensure your visa is printed in your passport and you've checked all the information is correct.
• Make sure your passport is easily accessible for your arrival (you will need it a lot).
• Ensure you've got your offer letter from Disney, receipt of program assessment fee, copies of your on-boarding documents and directions to Vista Way housing complex printed and in your hand luggage.
• Ensure you have copies of all important documents and they're stored separately from your originals.
• If Disney sent you a coupon for a Mears shuttle, ensure you've printed this out/got the code.
• Be sure to have at least $350 for your arrival as this is needed for your first Walmart shop and for staying alive on the first couple of weeks during your program. Take as much as you can though, especially if you want to get a TV and maybe a Universal Annual Pass!
• Make sure your mobile phone is unlocked by your service provider. This will make it compatible with a US sim card. If it's not possible with your current phone, you may need a new unlocked one.

Once You`ve landed

Upon landing in Orlando International airport, you'll first proceed to immigration. Aboard the flight you'll be given a customs card, this requires some basic information about the things you're bringing with you (the answer is normally no to all questions). Fill in the card with the address of the place where you'll be staying.

You'll need to present this card along with your passport to the immigration officer once you reach the desk. I'd advise first presenting your passport with the visa page open for the officer to process your arrival. They will take your fingerprints and ask you questions about your stay.

Once you`ve arrived at the Main Terminal

Now you have a couple of options once you've reached the main terminal in order to get to your check-in to housing and to start your program. Disney offers you $5 off a Mears shuttle. By far the cheapest method of transport is actually a UBER ride. You may download the "Lyft" app prior to your arrival and use the free wifi at the airport to book your shuttle.

Alternatively, if you're arriving with a large group and you already know each other through Facebook and such, club together to get a local airport transfer. This will normally cost a similar amount to a Mears shuttle between about 4+ people and will mean you get to your check-in a bit quicker.

Check-in at Disney Housing

Upon arriving at your Housing complex (check-in is now directly at your assigned complex), your shuttle will either drop you off at the front gate or security will allow them to drop you at the welcome center. Be sure to have your Arrival Itinerary  ready!

Once arrived at the Welcome Centre, you'll be welcomed into housing and need to provide them with your DORMS boarding pass, the I-94 form and your Passport. You'll receive your housing ID and

the schedule of training for the next week as well as your room assignment. Upon receiving your room assignment, you can go to your apartment.
Once You've Arrived at Your Apartment

Once you've arrived, i advice you to directly head over straight to Walmart to get the needed utilities.

As you'll normally find that you're very tired, its recommended to only get the basic amenities like a tooth brush, toothpaste, shower gel, toilet paper, basic bedding (a couple of single sheets and a travel or inflatable pillow) as well as a towel to make yourself comfortable. You will have enough time the days after to buy food and other necessary stuff.
The First Full Day of Your Program

You'll normally find yourself having the Housing Session which is usually held at the Commons. Check the bus time-table you were given when you checked-in and make sure you're on time.

Once at The Commons main building for the talk, you'll find that there's a small shop located by the pool that offers some essentials should you need them. I'd recommend picking up some breakfast from here.

It's during this talk you may meet or see the people that are in your arrival group. Listen out for people with the same accent as you. The talk will normally last an hour or so and then after that you have the day to yourself. My advice is to start with getting your phone working!

Once you`ve your Apartment ready, you are ready to go :)