Arrival FAQS

Where do I check-in? How do I get there?
Your ultimate destination is the Vista Way Apartments located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Once you arrive at Vista Way, you will fill out all of the necessary paperwork and receive your housing assignment (your apartment complex, apartment, roommates, etc.).

Where to Check-In

Your ultimate destination is the Vista Way Apartments located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Once you arrive at Vista Way, you will fill out all of the necessary paperwork and receive your housing assignment.

Please keep in mind that Vista Way serves as a central arrival location and that you may be assigned to a different apartment complex.

If Traveling by Air

Please make flight arrangements to arrive in Orlando, so that you can pick up your luggage and travel to Vista Way by 1pm EST. If your flight arrives after 12pm EST, you may not reach Vista Way by 1pm EST.

We recommend MEARS TRANSPORTATION (www.mearstransportation.com) to assist you with transportation from the airport to the Vista Way Apartments. This van transportation has departures from the Baggage Claim area of the Orlando International Airport every 20-25 minutes and operates 24 hours a day.

If Traveling by Bus or Train

We recommend you contact MEARS TRANSPORTATION (www.mearstransportation.com) to assist you with transportation from the bus or train-stations to the Vista Way Apartments.

If you take Amtrak's Auto Train (Lorton, VA - Sanford, FL), please follow these directions from the Sanford station in your car. From Sanford head west on I-4 to Orlando. Exit I-4 at Exit 68. At the bottom of the ramp turn left onto 535. Proceed to the second light and turn right onto Meadow Creek Drive. The Vista Way Apartments will be the first complex on your right.

If Traveling by Automobile

To assist you in reaching Vista Way Apartments by automobile, we offer the following directions:

• I-95
  Exit I-95 to I-4 junction heading west to Orlando. Exit I-4 at Exit 68. At the bottom of the ramp turn left onto 535. Proceed to the second light and turn right onto Meadow Creek Drive. The Vista Way Apartments will be the first complex on your right.
  
• I-75
  I-75 heading south toward Ocala, FL. Exit on Florida Turnpike south to Orlando I-4. Exit I-4/Orlando. Go west on I-4 to Exit 68. At the bottom of the ramp turn left onto 535. Proceed to the second light and turn right onto Meadow Creek Drive. The Vista Way Apartments will be the first complex on your right.
  
• I-10
  Exit I-10 at I-75 junction heading south toward Ocala. Exit on Florida Turnpike south to Orlando I-4. Exit I-4/Orlando. Go west on I-4 to Exit 68. At the bottom of the ramp turn left onto 535. Proceed to the second light and turn right onto Meadow Creek Drive. The Vista Way Apartments will be the first complex on your right.
  
• Florida Turnpike
  Exit I-4 west to Exit 68. At the bottom of the ramp turn left onto 535. Proceed to the second light and turn right onto Meadow Creek Drive. The Vista Way Apartments will be the first complex on your right.
  
• I-4 from Tampa
  Head east towards Orlando to Exit 68. Turn right at the bottom of the ramp onto 535. Proceed to the next light and turn right onto Meadow Creek Drive. The Vista Way Apartments will be the first complex on your right.
  
• I-4 from Daytona
  Heading west to Orlando. Exit I-4 at Exit 68. At the bottom of the ramp turn left onto 535. Proceed to the second light and turn right onto Meadow Creek Drive. The Vista Way Apartments will be the first complex on your right.

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What forms of identification should I bring?
Your ability to provide original documents confirming your employment eligibility will be required upon your arrival in Florida. A complete listing of these documents can be found below.

You may bring one (1) document from List A to confirm eligibility. Or you may bring one (1) item each from BOTH List B AND List C.

List A: Documents that establish both identity and employment eligibility

1. U.S. Passport (unexpired or expired)
2. Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (INS Form N-560 or N-561)
3. Certificate of Naturalization (INS Form N-550 or N-570)
4. Valid foreign passport, with I-551 stamp or attached INS Form I-94 indicating valid employment authorization
5. Alien Registration Receipt card with photograph (INS Form I-151 or I-551)
6. Valid Temporary Resident Card (INS Form I-668)
7. Valid Employment Authorization Card (INS Form I-668A)
8. Unexpired Re-entry Permit (INS Form I-327)
9. Unexpired Refugee Travel Document (INS Form I-571)
10. Unexpired Employment Authorization Document issued by the INS which contains a photograph (INS Form I-688B)

List B: Documents that establish identity

1. Driver's Licenses or ID card issued by a state or outlying possession of the United states provided it contains a photograph or information such as name, date of birth, sex, height, eye color and address
2. ID card issued by federal, state or local government agencies or entities provided it contains a photograph or information such as name, date of birth, sex, height, eye color and address
3. School ID card with a photograph
4. Voter's registration card
5. U.S. Military card or draft record
6. Military dependent's ID card
7. U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Card
8. Native American tribal document
9. Driver's License issued by a Canadian government authority

List C: Documents that establish employment eligibility

1. U.S. social security card issued by the Social Security Administration (other than a card stating it is not valid for employment)
2. Certification of Birth Abroad issued by the Department of State (Form FS-545 or Form DS-1350)
3. Original or certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a state, county, municipal authority or outlying possession of the United States bearing an official seal
4. Native American tribal document
5. U.S. Citizen ID Card (INS Form I-197)
6. ID Card for use of Resident Citizen in the United States (INS Form I-179)
7. Unexpired employment authorization document issued by the INS (other than those listed under List A)

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Will I have insurance while on the program?
The Disney CareerStart program does not provide medical insurance for CareerStart participants. You are responsible for securing your own medical insurance for the duration of your Program.
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Will I need a physical exam before I start my employment at the Walt Disney World Resort?
No. When you check in, you will be asked to complete a medical history form and submit it to our on-site health specialists for review. If you have any medical conditions for which you are under treatment, have been hospitalized for, or limit your ability to perform certain tasks, it is critical that you and your personal physician complete the Request for Medical Accommodation in Employment Form, giving us a current status of this medical condition and submit it to the review board as explained on the form. Employment cannot begin at the Walt Disney World® Resort until all medical concerns have been cleared and a release is received from your physician. To receive the Request for Medical Accommodation Form, email us at [email protected] .
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What should I wear when I arrive?
Casual attire is acceptable on your arrival date as well as at the Welcome Session scheduled for the same day. Professional attire will be required when you attend your Traditions class. Unless you have been advised differently, all Disney CareerStart Program Cast Members will be issued a themed costume from their work location.

You will be required to meet Disney look guidelines when you arrive, including the Disney Look guidelines for hairstyles. Additional questions you may have regarding grooming guidelines are covered in "The Disney Look" section of this site.
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Can I check in early?
Unfortunately, our housing complex cannot accommodate check-ins prior to the assigned arrival date.  However, you can call the Disney Reservation Center at 407-W-DISNEY (407-934-7639) for accommodations at any Walt Disney World® resort hotel or ask about Walt Disney World® Good Neighbor Hotels. There are many other hotels located around the Walt Disney World® Resort. If you do not wish to stay in a Disney resort, you may want to locate a hotel that is on or near State Road 535 or Highway 192.
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My plane does not arrive until after 1 p.m. on my arrival date. Is that ok?
We prefer that you arrive by 1 p.m. in order for you to attend your Welcome Session. If you can't make other arrangements, you will need to get oriented on another date; and this may create potential delays in starting your Disney CareerStart Program experience.
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Will there be someone to meet me at the airport?
No, you will be responsible for transportation to check-in. If you are flying into Orlando, we recommend that you contact MEARS Transportation at 407-423-5566 for assistance. More information can be found on the Travel Page
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How much money should I bring with me?
Because you may not receive your first paycheck until about a week and a half after you arrive, we recommend that you bring $350-$400 for living expenses. This is only a recommendation and will vary among students.
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What credit cards are accepted on Walt Disney World property?
American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Diner's Club, and JCB (Japanese Credit Bureau) are accepted at the Walt Disney World Resort.
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Work FAQs

What are the "Disney Look" guidelines?
All guidelines for costumed and non-costumed Cast Members can be found in the "The Disney Look" section of the site.
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Do I start working the day I arrive?
No, you will spend your first day checking in, attending a welcome session and getting settled in your new home. You will receive your scheduled Traditions date, which is your official first day of work, during your check-in process. This extra day(s) gives you some time to get settled and visit the grocery store.
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What is the "Traditions" class?
In short, "Traditions" is your orientation to The Walt Disney Company and the Walt Disney World Resort. All Cast Members attend this training class.
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When will I receive my Walt Disney World Cast Member identification card?
Your official first day of work will be the day you attend Traditions, which will be one or two days after you arrive. You will receive your Cast Member ID at your Traditions class.
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Why can't I know exactly where I'll be working now?
You have received your role in your offer letter; however, your specific work location is not determined until you arrive because you have not been officially hired until you verify your employment eligibility during check-in. Once you are entered into our system, your work location will be provided.
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When will I know the location in which I will be working?
You will be given this information during the second day of your check-in process.
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What kind/color shoes will I need to purchase for my role?
Because you won't know your exact work location until you arrive, we recommend that you purchase your shoes after your arrival. Your Coordinators of Training will provide you with the exact shoe specifications for your work location when you begin your work-location training. Don’t worry; there are several outlets, discount stores and malls near the Walt Disney World Resort.
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If I do not like my role, can I change once I get down there?
Once you accept the role you have been offered, you make a commitment to that area for the time frame of your program.
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When do I get my first paycheck?
Paychecks are issued every Thursday for hours worked during the previous Sunday through Saturday. You probably won't get your first check until one-and-a-half week after you arrive. Also, keep in mind that your first paycheck will include only your first couple of days of work (one to three days), and your second paycheck may have your first and second week's housing payments deducted from it. Bring extra cash to carry you over until your third pay period. Your first paid day of work is your Traditions class.
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Will I have the same days off each week?
Your time off may vary depending on your work location and Guest attendance. You may or may not have the same days off each week.
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Can I get additional time off from work?
Time off for weddings, graduations and other personal occasions must be processed through your work location's manager. We cannot guarantee any days off before you arrive.
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What type of shifts should I expect to be scheduled?
CareerStart Program participants should expect to work an average of five days a week and typically have two days off per week. Days, hours and time off vary by work location.
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What is meant by "Full Availability"?
"Full Availability" means that you have no restrictions about when you can work (that you are available on nights, weekends, holidays, etc.). Your recruiter discussed this during the presentation and during your interview.
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Can I network with Walt Disney World professionals during my program?
Yes. Networking opportunities are available in all areas; but it’s up to you to contact the department. Keep in mind that the opportunity is based on the availability of the individual professional. The earlier you start seeking networking opportunities, the more opportunities you'll find. A great place to start is the Disney Learning Centers located throughout property. The centers host "Conversations With...," "Career Insights" and "Spotlight On..." sessions with a variety of Disney leaders each month.
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Housing and Living FAQs

If my parents or friends visit, where can they stay?
Overnight Guests are not permitted in our housing complexes. Walt Disney World Cast Members are eligible to receive discounts on hotel accommodations at Disney resorts.

Note: You will be eligible for these discounts after you complete your Traditions class.
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What is the non-refundable Program Assessment and Activities Fee, and when is it due?
The non-refundable Program Assessment Fee is a $60 cost (plus a $2 processing fee) applied to all participants in the Disney CareerStart Program. The non-refundable fee consists of a $50 Program Assessment fee and a $10 activities fee. (An additional $2 processing fee also is required.) Once we receive your Offer Acceptance Form via fax or mail, we will send you an email with a link to submit your Program Assessment Fee. Once the payment is received, we will reserve your place on the program officially.
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What will my address and phone number be?
You will receive your address and phone number upon your arrival.
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In which housing complex will I live?
The name of your housing complex will be communicated to you upon your arrival.
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Can I receive U.S.P.S., UPS and FedEx packages?
Yes. Packages can be sent to your apartment once you receive your address at arrival. However, the front desk will only receive and sign for packages sent to you through the U.S. Post Office.
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Are there elevators in my apartment complex?
No. However, there are disabled-accessible apartments.
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Are there laundry facilities at the apartment complexes?
Yes. Card-operated facilities are available in each complex. Laundry cards are available for purchase at each apartment complex.
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Will I get the one-bedroom or the four-bedroom apartment?
We will try to place you in your preferred choice. However, if there aren't any apartments of that size available, you will be placed in the one that is. You can indicate your apartment preferences when you check in on your arrival day.
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Can I pick my roommates?
Roommates are selected based on a variety of topics, including your arrival and departure dates. If you share the same arrival and departure dates as your friends, you will have a greater chance of living near each other. Please keep in mind that there is no guarantee that you will be able to reside with your friends.

Your arrival and departure dates will not be changed to make this accommodation.
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If I do not like my roommates, can I change?
Yes. You may apply to transfer to a different apartment. There is a $50 relocation fee.
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Do the complexes have Resident Assistants?
No, but each complex has a front desk that’s open daily, and the Disney Housing Operations Program Office is open daily on the second floor of The Commons Clubhouse. Both areas are staffed with people who can assist you with any questions or concerns during your program.
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Will meals be provided?
Meals will not be provided in the housing complex or in your work location. Full-service employee cafeterias, which provide meals at reasonable prices, are located at your work location. Each apartment has a kitchen equipped with cooking and eating utensils in which meals can be prepared. And remember, shuttles from your housing complex can take you to the local grocery store.
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Can I bring a computer?
Yes, high-speed Internet access is available in all apartments. Computer labs are available in the housing complexes and Disney Learning Centers locations across Walt Disney World property.
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Will I have access to the Internet from my room?
Yes.
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What type of Internet connections are available?
High-speed Internet access is available in each apartment. To use the modems in the apartment, we require the following:

• Anti-virus software that runs constantly and automatically updates its virus definitions
• Ethernet card and cable
• A firewall program

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How many phone lines are in the apartment?
One phone line is provided in each apartment.
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What should I bring/leave at home?
Please remember that you will have one to seven other roommates in your apartment. Please be courteous.

• Pets are not allowed.
• Bikes are not allowed due to lack of storage.
• Rollerblades are not allowed within your company-sponsored housing complex.
• Candles are not allowed, as our fire code prohibits burning them.

Look in the Items to Bring section for a complete listing of suggested items to bring.
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Are there nurses or medical facilities in the housing complexes?
No, but there are many walk-in clinics close to the Walt Disney World® Resort if a doctor or nurse is ever needed. Pharmacies also are located within walking distance to our apartment complexes.
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When can I start getting into the Walt Disney World Theme Parks for free?
You will have complimentary admittance to the Disney theme parks once you attend Traditions and obtain your Walt Disney World® ID.
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How far is the housing from my Walt Disney World work location?
Depending on your specific housing complex and work location, it could take anywhere from 10-20 minutes to travel to work in a personal vehicle. However, if you’re using our transportation system, it is not unreasonable to spend more than one hour in travel time. Remember, the Walt Disney World Resort is about 43 square miles in size!
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Should I bring my own car?
Bus transportation is provided to and from your work location, as well as the grocery store, bank, shopping mall and post office. Many participants will tell you that it is very convenient to have access to your own transportation. If you decide to bring a vehicle, parking at your apartment complex and within the Walt Disney World Resort is free of charge to Walt Disney World® Cast Members and is patrolled by security.
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What is the "1 a.m. rule"?
For the security and safety of everyone living in our housing complexes, only Cast Members who live in our housing complexes are allowed to be in that complex after 1 a.m. Cast Members from other housing complexes are considered guests and subject to the same rules and conditions as other Cast Members who don't live in one of our housing complexes. For example, if you live at Vista Way and wish to host a Cast Member who lives at The Commons, you must submit a Visitor Authorization Form PRIOR to the guest's arrival. That guest must vacate property by 1 a.m. If guests are found in your apartment after 1 a.m., disciplinary action, including possible termination, will follow.
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What should I bring?
While many amenities are supplied for you, you may want to bring additional items for recreation, decoration or because they are an everyday necessity. The following are recommended:

• Set of linens and bedding (twin-size sheets, pillow, blanket, towels, etc.)
• TV/VCR/DVD player and a coaxial cable
• Stereo (small)
• Phone card
• Answering machine
• Cordless phone (The phone provided in the apartment has a cord.)
• Cell phone (Check with your current provider for coverage information.)
• Alarm clock
• Beach towel, suntan lotion and/or sunscreen
• Camera and film
• Casual and professional clothing (Please refer to the Disney Look Guidelines for assistance.)
• Sweater or jacket
• Dress shoes
• Combination lock for your in-room locker
• Computer with an Ethernet card
• An anti-virus program that runs constantly and updates its virus definitions
• A firewall program
• A wireless router
• Small computer desk/stand and lamp
• Copies and/or originals of important documents (You must present your original Social Security card during your arrival process.)
• Cosmetics/toiletries
• Credit card and traveler's checks (if available)
• Health insurance information
• Personal medications, including prescription drugs if needed
• Walt Disney World® phone numbers and contact information
• Writing paper, envelopes and pens

Because they are not allowed, please don't bring:

• Candles (Our fire codes prohibit you from burning them.)
• Bicycles (Our facilities don't have bike paths or storage facilities for them.)
• Pets of any type

What is the weather like in central Florida?
Central Florida is a mix of warm breezes and sunshine. Our weather can go from hot and humid in the summers to near freezing temperatures in the winter. During the span of your program, you probably will experience both the warm and cool temperatures.

Average temperatures for the Central Florida area are listed below:

• January - 70° F High, 48° F Low
• February - 72° F High, 49° F Low
• March - 76° F High, 55° F Low
• April - 82° F High, 59° F Low
• May - 87° F High, 65° F Low
• June - 89° F High, 71° F Low
• July - 90° F High, 73° F Low
• August - 90° F High, 73° F Low
• September - 88° F High, 72° F Low
• October - 82° F High, 65° F Low
• November - 76° F High, 57° F Low
• December - 72° F High, 51° F Low

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