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