My "Re-Do" Trip

Well, it's that time of year again when I will begin planning yet another wonderful vacation to the magical world of Disney. Planning out a trip is often just as fun as the trip itself! This time around, I'm planning quite a ways in advance. I will be a senior in college this year and I have decided that there is no where else I would rather spend my spring break than in Disney World! I will be traveling with one of my best friends, a fellow Disney enthusiast.
The Orlando theme parks are always more fun when you are around others who share the same passion for the experience. On my last trip, there were some members of my group that preferred the big thrill rides you would find at Universal or Busch Gardens and did not fully appreciate the fantastical world we had entered into for six days. This did not stop me from enjoying my time, but I feel like I need a re-do.

Word to the Wise: If traveling with people you have not vacationed with before, keep the trip to a week or less. We're all bound to get on each others nerves at some point! Eight days was too much for me, but I think five days should be a safe bet. Also, keep in mind that within large groups, compromise is a must. Anything that can be discussed and sorted before the trip should be taken care of so that it does not cut into vacation time when decisions need to be made.


This time around I will be going with someone who I have been on vacation with before and we are both on the same page about what we want to do and how we want things done. This will be our first trip being 21 years of age, meaning, we will be able to fully experience Disney nightlife and I can report our findings here! I have heard nothing but good things about the nightlife in Disney and I can't wait to experience the vibrant evening atmosphere of the Boardwalk for myself.

"All the adversity I've had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me... You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you." -Walt Disney

Fantasmic

Fantasmic is a night show featured at Hollywood Studios. The show can be seen twice a week after the rest of the park closes. It is located in an arena off Hollywood Blvd. right before you reach the Beauty and the Beast stage. The show incorporates music, lights, water, fire, pyrotechnics, well known Disney characters, and of course the MAGIC of Mickey! This is truly a sight to see.



Caution:
-The use of water during the show can cause a mist to fall over the audience sitting near the front if there is a breeze in the air.
-The use of fire can cause a brief change in temperature.
-The music and pyrotechnics can become quite loud at times and may not be enjoyed by very young children.




"Why be a governor or senator when you can be king of Disneyland?" —Walt Disney

Manatees

One of my favorite animals to see whenever visiting Florida is the manatee. This "sea cow" may not have a very active lifestyle but these giant gentle creatures are a magnificent and intriguing endangered species. When visiting Epcot, head to The Seas with Nemo and Friends. Take a ride in a big pink clam shell in search of Nemo. At the end of the ride are the remains of the original attraction, the living seas. The manatees are located in a tank over on the right. I could stay there for hours just looking at these creatures.

Disney takes great care of their animals, unfortunately they alone cannot save the manatees.Manatees are disappearing from the wild at an alarming rate. The Florida manatees are often in danger of being hit by boat propeller blades in the everglades. For more information on saving the manatees please visit www.savethemanatee.org

"My fun is working on a project and solving the problems." —Walt Disney

Toy Story 3

This will be a short post but definitely one that is worth while. As a child I remember going to the premier of the movie Toy Story, Disney's first collaboration with Pixar studios. This new type of computer animation being used was fascinating to audiences everywhere in 1995. Toy Story became a hit over night and eventually sparked a sequel. Now, in 2010 the Toy Story enterprise becomes a trilogy with a third installment due out in theaters this June. This will be the first Toy Story movie to be presented in 3-D! Visit disney.com for the latest trailer!

The premier of this movie comes after the opening of the newest ride in Disney World, Toy Story Mania, located at Hollywood studios. Disney.com describes the ride as: "Come board a ride vehicle and zip off into a 4-D world of midway-style games hosted by Woody, Buzz, Jessie, Rex, Hamm and more! Use your spring-action shooter to throw virtual projectiles at targets and rack up points. Compete for the high score. Certain targets trigger fun surprises!"


Before getting in line for this ride make sure to get your FASTPASS! This ride is popular and can make for a lengthy wait.


"Fantasy and reality often overlap." —Walt Disney

Some Hidden Gems of Disney

You have probably heard about the hidden mickeys that can be found in everywhere on Disney property. But there are some parts about the World of Disney that are kept out of the spotlight. On my last trip to Orlando I wanted to see the World of Disney from a new perspective, I wanted to see and do things that I had always passed over on previous trips. These are a few of the hidden secrets I looked up and found interesting.

Magic Kingdom:

While exploring Tom Sawyer's Island, look for a paint brush hidden in the bushes that Tom has left behind. Give the paint brush to a cast member nearby and you will receive a voucher for immediate access to your choice of Thunder Mountain or Splash Mountain.

Head to Main Street U.S.A. to the candy store. Inside you will find an old-fashioned phone on the wall. Pick up the receiver and you will hear an actual phone conversation.


Epcot:
Walk to the back of the UK in the world showcase to find a butterfly garden and a rose bush maze.


When leaving the Test Track ride, look for the crash test dummies, they may not be fake dummies after all!

At shops and carts throughout the park, your child can pick up a passport and have it stamped in each country of the world showcase, travel to every country and receive a prize.

Hollywood Studios:


Upon entering the building to Muppet Vision, lift up the mat at the door, find a key and bring it to the nearest cast member for a prize.


Walk the New York Streets on the Avenue of the Americas and hear gangsters plotting their next move.


There are two scenarios on the Great Movie Ride. One with gangsters and one with cowboys.


Animal Kingdom:

Head to Camp Minnie-Mickey and listen for the two talking bushes Herb and Flora.

While playing the the Dino-Land Boneyard look for the crates and lift their lids to hear animals growl.

Arrive at the park 15 min early to catch Rafiki welcoming the new day.


Look out for DeVine a performer dressed as foliage she blends in so watch out!




Looking for these added touches gives you a special addition to your trip, enjoy!


"The fun is in always building something. After it's built, you play with it awhile and then you're through. You see, we never do the same thing twice around here. We're always opening up new doors." —Walt Disney

Disney's FASTPASS

The Disney fastpass is definitely something you and your family will want to look into for your next vacation if you are not already familiar with the system. The fastpass is a ticket you can choose to get from certain Disney rides that allows you faster access to the most popular rides. For example, there is a 90 min wait for Space Mountain. You have antsy children that cannot wait in line that long. Does this mean you miss out on riding Space Mountain? Nope. Simply place your park ticket into a fast pass machine and it will print you out a pass to come back in between specific times.


When you return, you will be able to use the fast pass line that will take you straight to the front of the pack. If the ride is especially busy one day, the fast pass line may have to wait a maximum of ten minutes but that is still much better than the 90 min so many people decide to wait. This is a very beneficial system to the Disney parks. The only downsides to this are:
1.) so many people have caught on to the fastpass that they run out very quickly each day
2.) you may have to plan the rest of your day around the time you have been given on your fastpass



I have never really had any complaints about using fastpass. It is always beneficial for the busiest rides. I always use fastpass for Rockin' Roller Coaster, Toy Story Mania, Soarin', Splash Mountain, Winnie the Pooh, Buzz Lightyear, Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, and Expedition Everest.

"Animation can explain whatever the mind of man can conceive. "—Walt Disney

The Many Faces of Cinderella's Castle

The Magic Kingdom's main focal point is Cinderella's Castle. This breathtaking structure can make anyone feel like royalty. The castle has undergone many makeovers in order to celebrate certain occasions in Disney history but always comes back to its famous white and stone facade with blue roofing.

The first time I remember seeing the castle "transformed" was for the 25th anniversary of Walt Disney World in 1997. It looked more like a big frosted cake but it was an amazing sight to see. There was a balloon-like covering over the actual castle to give it this appearance. It was extremely colorful and to the six year old that I was, it looked like my dream house.


The next time I saw the castle made over was for their Cinderellabration in 2005 when the castle was adorned in gold embellishments giving it an even more regal appearance.

But nothing can compete with the picturesque view of the castle at night. The lighting on the castle is constantly changing through the darkness. It is possible to take a number of pictures during one night in the park without any of them looking alike.





Although I'm always amazed by the castle no matter how it looks, the most magical view I have witnessed was during the winter of 2010. Each night at the end of the fireworks show, a magical cascading transformation occurred as the structure gave the appearance of turning into a shimmering, frosted, ice castle. It is truly I sight I will not forget.




"We believed in our idea - a family park where parents and children could have fun - together."—Walt Disney

Eating in Downtown Disney

Downtown Disney can be a very exciting place. It is a shopping extravaganza for all. It is also home to some intriguing restaurants. Downtown Disney is a great place to take the family for a night out, or on a day when you are taking a break from the excitement of the parks. Downtown Disney has so much to offer. Whether you are looking toys, candy, some active-wear, Disney-themed clothing, sunglasses, a pin trading station, or just some souvenirs for the pets you left at home, Downtown Disney has a store for that and so much more! Be sure to visit World of Disney, the largest Disney character store in the world!

Can't think of where to eat dinner? Head to Downtown Disney where you can choose to dine during a thunderstorm with the animatronic animals of The Rainforest Cafe or go back in time to a land of dinosaurs at T-Rex.Both restaurants are owned by the same company so prices are similar for both. They are usually a big hit with kids, although, very young children and babies are often frightened by the loud noises made by the animatronic animals.


For an upbeat pop-culture feel, go to Planet Hollywood. Similar to a Hard Rock Cafe, Planet Hollywood displays things that once belonged to celebrities. Another reason to visit this restaurant is so you can eat inside a globe shaped building!


It is also a great photograph spot. Traveling without children? Get your groove on at the House of Blues or Bongos Cuban Cafe. Downtown Disney also offers ethnic cuisine with an Irish pub, an Italian restaurant, and a Spanish restaurant.








"Get a good idea and stay with it. Dog it, and work it until it's done and done right." —Walt Disney

Character Breakfast

Hello Disney lovers! Sorry I have not written in a while but I'm back! I'd like to say a little about the character breakfasts offered at many hotel restaurants and park restaurants throughout the world of Disney. Most of the breakfasts consist of buffet or family style food, mainly eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, fruit, juice, and you can't forget the mickey mouse shaped waffles (my favorite!).

Every 10 minutes a select number of characters come around to the tables to share comic moments, take pictures, and sign autographs. The character breakfast at the Grand Floridian is quite popular showcasing many of the favored characters, such as Mickey, and Minnie. The Polynesian offers a breakfast featuring Lilo and Stitch along with Mickey and Goofy wearing Hawaiian shirts. It is a filling, and fun-filled experience for all. The prices can range and can seem a bit steep at first for a breakfast, but you are paying for the atmosphere, and a guaranteed meet and greet with at least 4 characters. It is definitely worth it and I would recommend going to one during your vacation!

"The life and ventures of Mickey Mouse have been closely bound up with my own personal and professional life."—Walt Disney

Christmas in Disney

There's something extra special about being in Disney at the holidays. The parks are decorated beautifully, the characters are dressed like Santa, and there are special events and parades that cannot be seen at any other time of year. One down side to going to Disney World during the holiday season is that everyone else in the world is there too. The week of Thanksgiving and the week before, during, and after Christmas, are the busiest winter weeks for Disney. Families with elementary and high school aged children flock to the Sunshine State for Winter Break.

One of my favorite things to see in Disney at Christmas is the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. This amazing light display began as the Osborne family's Christmas display on their property in Arkansas. In 1995 they decided to share their passion for Christmas lights with Disney World. Some of the Osborne family's original light pieces are included in the now much larger scale display such as "flying angels" and a rotating carousel. The light spectacular has changed in recent years. Originally, visitors would walk through a setting of houses on the MGM back lot that were once used for television shows. During my first experience at the spectacle of lights I remember passing by the house seen in The Golden Girls. This section is no longer open to the public and some of the houses have been torn down. Now visitors are treated to a dancing light show on the Avenue of the Americas.







"When people laugh at Mickey Mouse, it's because he's so human; and that is the secret of his popularity."—Walt Disney

Disney vs. Universal

I have come to realize that there are two types of people that visit Orlando theme parks. Those that desire the action thrills of Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, and those hoping to experience the magical world of Disney. I don't know anyone who likes both worlds equally. They are geared towards different types of visitors, Universal is more for the roller coaster, adrenaline rush fans, mainly teenage boys and adults. Whereas Disney parks are geared towards those who want to see magic and make believe. Some sections are geared towards small children, others are for those who simply want to feel like a kid again. I believe Disney has a wider variety for a wider range of people. I'm personally not a Universal fan, however, I am looking forward to their up coming Harry Potter Theme Park.


I believe it will open their fan base a little more and I do plan on visiting at some point, but I will remain through and through, a Disney Girl =).


This is how I see it:

Magic Kingdom has the most to offer families with young children.




Hollywood Studios, formally MGM, can be more enjoyable for teenagers and adults.



Epcot is normally seen as the most "adult" park. The ride selection is limited, and the main focus of the park is the World Showcase, which can make some small children restless. Epcot was always my least favorite park as a child but as I get older, I now have a new appreciation for it.












Last and certainly not least, Animal Kingdom is a park for all ages. Everyone loves animals which is the theme of this park. There are sections of the park such as Dino-Land where small children can explore a bone yard, there are fast paced rides such as Expedition Everest and Dinosaur for teenagers and beyond, and then there is the wonderful leisurely Safari that one can enjoy whether they are 5 or 85.


"You don't build it for yourself. You know what the people want and you build it for them." —Walt Disney

The Magical Monorail

Your journey in Orlando begins as you step onto the monorail at the Orlando Airport(MCO). Before you know it you will be quoting the phrase that every journey on the monrail begins with: "Please stand clear of the doors. Por favor mantengase alejado de las puertas." It took me a while to figure out how to say the spanish translation but once I did I couldn't stop. For some reason, I love the feeling I get when I'm on the monorail. I think it's the fact that when I'm stepping on board I know I'm on my way to one of the parks, which is always an exciting experience. Many times, children will be given the chance to ride in the front of the monorail with the conductor. When I was younger I was able to do this. All children enjoy riding in the front of the monorail looking out over Mickey's kingdom imagining what awaits them inside the parks.


"It has that thing - the imagination, and the feeling of happy excitement - I knew when I was a kid."—Walt Disney

"To All That Come to This Happy Place, Welcome."

I have set up this blog to share my love and knowledge of Disney World. From the parks, characters, hotels, transportation, shopping and food I hope to give you information that will ensure a magical experience for all who visit Orlando!


When planning a trip to Disney World, your hotel choice could make or break your vacation. If it is your first time to Disney,why not make your stay the best it can be? I suggest staying at a Disney Resort or a chain hotel located on Disney property. The service you will receive at one of these hotels is miles above that which you will see outside of the Disney realm. The accommodations and amenities are also worth the extra splurge. There are different themes to each resort at a variety of prices so there is something for everyone!

The Grand Floridian is the cream of the crop when it comes to Disney Resorts. If you're willing to spend the money, it is an amazing experience! They have a wonderful character breakfast for children along with direct boat transport to Epcot and the Magic Kingdom.


On my last trip to Disney in January 2010, I took some time to visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge. This hotel is stunning! I hope to stay here on my next visit. The staff is very conscientious of their guests' needs and always greet you with a smile.




There is a floor to ceiling window in the lobby of the lodge that overlooks the grounds complete with zebras and giraffes grazing in their natural habitat. It is a sight for all to enjoy. Guests also have the option to take a private safari on location.




"I only hope that we don't lose sight of one thing - that it was all started by a mouse."—Walt Disney