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INFO: How to Celebrate Special Moments at Walt Disney World

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One of the few questions asked both at booking and upon arrival at a Walt Disney World Resort is “Are you celebrating anything during your stay?” It can be any milestone- anniversary, birthday, graduation- or even a remission from an illness- Disney wants to celebrate the moment with you! So, if you are commemorating something special, let a Cast Member know- you’ll receive a unique button to wear and show off your reason for celebration! Chances are, though not guaranteed, that a little pixie dust may be sprinkled on you during your stay, when and where you least expect it!

There are a few ways you, too, can sprinkle pixie dust for someone celebrating at Disney World. Disney’s own full service florist, Disney Floral & Gifts, creates customizable baskets (even boozy baskets), Disney-themed floral arrangements, balloon bouquets, and in-room celebrations with all the ribbons and bows. You can also order a Celebration Cake, in advance, from the Cake Hotline 407-827-CAKE(2253). A Mickey Mouse, dome-shaped cake can be delivered to most resorts and participating dining locations for $35 pls tx.

Amorette’s Patisserie is another Disney-based location that bakes delectable desserts and specialty cakes that vary in size and theme, from Petit ($16) to Signature ($75). Call 401-934-3500 or stop in the bakery, located in the Town Center at Disney Springs.

Want to deliver something even more exceptional? 

There are some very talented, Orlando-based entrepreneurs (even former Disney employees) who know a thing or two about creating magical Disney moments – and they deliver straight to Disney resorts!

Magical Charcuterie

 

Care for cheese boards, salami, and fruits? Magical Charcuterie offers mouth-watering charcuterie boxes and trays with a special touch of Disney. Orders are customizable, even for those looking for Gluten-Free or Keto-Friendly offerings. There are so many varieties to choose from, with combinations appealing for kids and adults.

 

 

 

A New Hope Confections

Chocolate lovers will melt for the heavenly sweet treats from A New Hope Confections. This candy store is best known for creating Star Wars themed chocolates, yet their recent Animal Kingdom custom box proves their talents go beyond lightyears. You can find out more about this duo team of candy makers on Instagram @anewhopeconfections and their Facebook business page.

 

 

 

Waterside Bakes

Can’t decide between flowers or something to satisfy a sweet-tooth? Waterside Bakes delivers- not just to the resorts, yet to the eyes and taste buds as well! Just name the character or ‘Disneybounding’ theme for an extraordinary display of luscious buttercream cupcake bouquets! Gluten-Free orders are also available upon request. Check out all of their amazing cupcake creations on Instagram @watersidebakes and Facebook.

 

 

No matter the occasion, taking in the moment at Walt Disney World will make it undeniably memorable. Just being there makes it extra special. It is, after all, the most magical place on Earth! And that, on its own, is deserving of a celebration!

 

Will you be celebrating a special occasion at Walt Disney World?

Have you ever experienced a pixie-dusted moment? 

 

 

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

Secret Tips To Doing WDW

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There’s a ton of fantastic information available to you, between Facebook Groups and friends, and each one offers great tips and tricks to help make your trip to WDW more Magical. But here are some additional things to take into consideration. Okay, so maybe these aren’t “Secret” tips, but they are less talked about and easily overlooked!

 

~Save Packing Space~

Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash

 

Does anyone else pack their entire wardrobe… or just me? Save some space when packing and leave the shower things at home. Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash are provided for you, which can save some precious luggage space for those new Ears!

 

 

~Break Them In~

Break in Your Shoes Before You Go!

 

You’ll be walking between 5 and 10 miles per day on average, so be kind to your feet. Sure those new shiny sandals look amazing, but it’s going to get old (and painful)… quick. I highly recommend wearing your most comfortable sneakers and get them well in advance of your trip so you have time to break them in. The great thing about a WDW Vacation is, there’s no need for a fashion show. You don’t want to miss out on anything because sore feet or blisters came along on your trip too!
~Know BEFORE You Go~
Things are changing every single day. We are seeing things reopen, protocols changing, different experiences coming available. If you happen to use a Travel Agent (like our friends at Destinations To Travel ), they will keep you up to date and on top of what you need to know. If you’re a self planner, be sure to check the website or your MDE App for the most up to date information!
~Double Screen~

Screen Your Skin AND Lips!
photo: Pure Haven (we do not endorse or are endorsed by Pure Haven or it’s subsidiaries. Photo is for visual only)

 

 

Most of us remember to apply sunscreen – and if this is something that may have slipped your mind, here’s your reminder! The Florida sun is no joke. Apply Sunscreen and apply it OFTEN. While keeping it on our body is important, here’s something many of us can forget… SCREEN YOUR LIPS! Make sure you use a lip balm with SPF and apply that often as well. Sunburn, whether it’s on your body or lips, can bring about as much fun to the party as those blisters we talked about earlier!

 

What are your favorite lesser known tips and tricks? Share them with us in the comments below!

 

If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney or Universal Studios vacation, I would love to be your planning partner! Email : christinasmith@d2travel.com . Looking for more Disney in your life? Come join us on Facebook at Living The Magical Life and Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith or on Instagram.

 

 

 

INFO: How to Survive on a Special Diet at Walt Disney World

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Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be intense. Aside from the very real FOMO we get when mapping out all there is to do during those vacation days, there’s also the worry about what the weather will be like, what to wear, which rides require a FastPass, and, most importantly, where to eat!

Let’s be honest with ourselves, it always, ultimately, comes down to food. About three times a day, we are always racking our brains on figuring out where and what to eat – there’s just too many options to choose from! Yet, what if those options are suddenly diet-restricted? Whether it be a life choice or mandatory dietary requirement, eating out can be a challenging obstacle for those who follow special diets like gluten-free, dairy-free, wheat-free, vegan and vegetarian, etc. Also, many of us can’t let go of our diets for other heath-related issues. That said, it is encouraging to know that Disney has it all covered.

Years ago, special dietary requests required speaking directly with a chef or special diets Cast Member to place an order. Though guests may still consult when in doubt, Disney has expanded their mindful food offerings – and they can be ordered directly from the menu at most dining locations.

As for vegetarians and vegans, you may be surprised to know that plant-based options are available at most locations throughout the parks and Disney Springs (even at outdoor kitchens at EPCOT festivals). In fact, meatless options have been noted on menus with a green leaf icon since 2019.

Curious about which dining locations would best meet your dietary needs? Go to Walt Disney World’s website, click on Things To Do, then All Restaurants. From there, you can view all the menus and food offerings at every restaurant. If your eyes need more convincing, check out Vegan Disney World on Instagram or here. All the photos featured below are from this very knowledgeable blogger who has been sharing vegan food (and gluten-free options as well) since 2014! You will find suggestions on dishes and dining locations that will have you traveling like a foodie pro!

Do you have a special diet or  food-allergy? If so, where are your favorite go-to dining spots in Walt Disney World?

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

 

Solo Trips to WDW

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Have you ever considered taking a solo trip to WDW? Have you ever done a solo trip to WDW? If not, let’s consider why you would ever think about it, and why it’s an amazing way to experience the Happiest Place on Earth!

 

Why Not?

~ Why? ~

For many who haven’t experienced a trip to WDW alone, a common question is “why would you”? Well, that may have a different answer for each person. Maybe your family isn’t as “Disney Crazy” (let’s call it passionate instead of crazy) as you are. Maybe you need a bit of time away from the real world. Whatever the answer is for you, I can promise that it may very well be the most INCREDIBLE experience you could ever hope for!

 

Treat Yourself To A Deluxe Experience

~Treat Yourself~

If you’re used to traveling with family, most of us have to be a little tighter with our budget. Now is the time to indulge! While you can’t go wrong with a fun stay at POP Century, or be immersed in Disney magic at any of the Value resorts, why not splurge and spring for a visit to a Deluxe Resort? With only one person to please, is it even possible to go wrong!?

 

What’s For Dinner?

~Easy Meal Choices~

There are dining options aplenty all over WDW. And most families have to take special consideration as to where they may choose to make dining reservations… does it have something the kids will eat, is there something for everyone to enjoy, is the price right? When it’s just you, the choices are limitless. With only one person to please, take the time and maybe even enjoy that Signature Dining experience you never had the chance to try before (and – bonus… you don’t have to share!).

 

Living The Solo Life

~ Living Your Happiest Life~

You know the feeling of trying to keep every member of your party happy… yeah, that one. We try, but it is one truth that carries over from the real world. You can’t keep everyone happy all the time.  One of the most perfect moments is the one you are enjoying. Rope Drop and close the park. Sleep in and leave early. Take a nap in the middle of the day, or ride Flight of Passage 5 times in a row. It’s a lot of fun to please 1 person, and there’s no wrong choice!

 

Relax by the Koi Pond during a visit to Epcot

 

~What Do I Need To Know~

Even the most seasoned WDW visitor can be a little thrown off by planning their first Solo Trip. It is as easy (or easier) as planning for your family. Choose your favorite resort, and whichever dates you want to go. Make your park reservations as soon as you book and ADRs 60 days out. If you like the idea of still having a Disney BFF in your corner, reach out to our friends at Destinations to Travel (and you’ll never feel alone throughout the whole process) Keep an open mind, let your imagination soar, and let yourself enjoy the Most Magical Place On Earth!

 

Have you ever done a Solo Trip to WDW? What are some of your tips? Share with us in the comments!

 

photo credit : Disney

 

If you’re looking to book a Solo OR Family Trip to WDW, I’d love to help! Feel free to join us on Facebook at Living The Magical Life, Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith, or reach out via email at christinasmith@d2travel.com

 

 

INFO: Top 5 Splash Zones at Walt Disney World

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Not all pools on Walt Disney World property are alike, and the same can be said of the splash zones, or aquatic play areas, that have been catching on throughout resorts over the years. Yet, not all resorts have these designated areas of water play for kids, and some are very basic geyser, ground sprays – this is commonly seen in Disney’s Value Resorts.

Aquatic Play Areas that go a little beyond sprays can be found at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Port Orleans Resort-French Quarter, Wilderness Lodge, Polynesian Village Resort, Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Riviera Resort, Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Fort Wilderness Resort, and Animal Kingdom Villas–Kidani Village. The first ever installed on site is the Water Play Fort at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, which is ok– but I want to share with you those that will definitely give any kid a blast!

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Reminder: Height requirement for most splash zones is 48″ and under, unless otherwise noted.

Alice in Wonderland Wet Play Area, Disney’s Grand Floridan Resort & Spa: Everyone is mad here- crazed mad with excitement as the Mad Hatter’s gigantic hat tips and pours a deluge of water over the kids! This isn’t just a splash zone- it’s a “you’ll get drenched’  zone. Don’t let those dainty golden teapots fool you!

Kiki Tikis Splash Area, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: This spacious splash and play area features everything from a climbing zone with rope bridges, thatched roof huts, water squirting tikis, fountains and slides. All set within the lush, tropical landscaping of a South Pacific retreat.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

 

Aquatic Play Area by Double Lagoon, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-French Quarter: Decked out in vibrant, Mardi Gras colors, this whimsical water play area will not leave one inch dry once the kids are done here. There’s slides, sprays, fountains, water canons, a water wheel- and all of this is right by the Sea Serpent Slide at the Double Lagoon pool. Staying at the Riverside? No worries- guests at both Port Orleans Resorts share pools which are within less than 10 minutes of each other. *Note: Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts are currently closed.

The Shipwreck Play Area, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Located by the Fuentes del Morro pool, there’s much swashbuckling fun for little ones. Three slides and a tipping water barrel is a sure win on a hot, Florida day.

 

The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Splash Zone at Explorer Island, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World: I beg to call this anything but a splash zone. It’s more like a water park! There’s interactive fountains blasting water 30ft into the air, cascading waters, curtains of water and fog- all choreographed within a complex of ancient Roman ruins and arches. All of this is just part of the entirety of a 5 acre water park waiting to be discovered by everyone in the family.

Honorable Mention: Uwanja Camp, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas-Kidani Village: There are 3 distinct zones to provide hours of fun for kids of ALL ages. The Observation Station is a jungle playground for children under 4 with a small kiddie pool, rope bridges, and gentle ground-bubbling geysers. Children ages 5 to 7  gather round the leaky water tower at Departure Zone, and kids 8 years and up can squirt water cannons and get soaked under the dumping water bucket station at Base Camp. This is ideal  for families with kids of varying age groups.

 

Do these splash zones fit the bill of your Top 5? Which is your favorite? Is there one not mentioned here that you would have added?

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

INFO: How to Brunch at Walt Disney World

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Two of my favorite meals of the day are brunch and brinner. Any brinner fans out there by the way? Though brinner hasn’t caught on yet as I could hope for, most restaurants have jumped on the demand for that mid-morning mash up. Once considered an elite meal-time, brunch has become quite commonplace, and with that, some very typical dishes like Eggs Benedict and Avocado Toast are expected everywhere. At Walt Disney World though, especially Disney Springs, brunch is far from typical and ordinary- and delivers the unexpected.

So, make your reservation in advance, stay in bed a little later than usual, and get your appetite ready for these Disney Springs Brunch Fixin’s.

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, House-Made Doughnuts

 

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, Fried Chicken & Doughnuts

House of Blues Restaurant and Bar, Saturdays and Sundays from 10AM-2PM

Speaking of Fixin’s, any place that offers a side of Garlic Home Fries or Brown Sugar Chile Bacon has my attention. Add bottomless Mimosas or Bloody Mary’s to that, and this place is undoubtedly right up my alley! 

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin, Saturdays and Sundays from [9:30]AM-1PM

The Rise & Shine Southern Brunch is true homestyle, Southern comfort. Fried Chicken and house-made Sugar Doughnuts come together in one dish like yin and yang. As for those doughnuts, they do come separately as a starter, piled with pecans and bacon and a whole lotta love! The Hush Puppy Benedict is another win- a Southern spin on a classic with (can you guess?) fried chicken in a deck of a poached egg, country ham, and pimiento hollandaise.

 

Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant, Full Irish Breakfast

 

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, Saturdays from 11AM-3PM/Sundays from 10AM-3PM

There’s nothing typical about the menu offerings here! Though you could go old-school for Brunchy Stuff like the Full Irish Breakfast, why not be daring and dig into some Whiskey BBQ Lollipop Chicken? Or a Lobster Club with lobster, egg, prosciutto and a side of Irish chips? If you are looking for Vegan or Gluten-Free options, it’s on the menu, too. The Rollicking Raglan Brunch even comes with entertainment, starting at noon.

STK Steakhouse, Lobster & Shrimp Eggs Benedict

STK Steakhouse, Saturdays and Sundays from 11AM-3PM

If you want to splurge and take brunch to a level that would impress someone, this is it. Of course, you’ll be paying for food you will want to savor to the last bite, like Dry-Aged Delmonico Steak, Truffle Steak & Egg (not your average Walmart slab- this is wagyu beef), and additions like Parmesan Truffle Fries, Lobster Mac & Cheese, and King Crab Oscar. And, yes, Bottoms Up on Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s.

 

The BOATHOUSE, Brunch Cocktails

 

The BOATHOUSE, Sundays from 10AM-3PM

Stunning waterfront views, dueling piano entertainment, and consistent top-rating reviews may be just a few reasons to make this your next brunch date. The Captain’s Sing Along Brunch serves brunch fare that’s not far from ordinary- Smoked Salmon Bagel and Avocado Toast. Yet, what makes it worthwhile, truly, is that you can order from the normal menu as well. Added fun factor- wearing a captain’s hat or BOATHOUSE shirt will get you a free mimosa!

Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, Sundays from 10AM-[1:30]PM

Brace yourself for this dish- Nutella-stuffed French Toast topped with Warm Berries and Mascarpone Whipped Cream…Oh…My..! And if that doesn’t do it for you, or you want something savory, there’s plenty of Maria & Enzo’s Signature Dishes on the menu as well. Still, if Melanzane alla Parmigiana seems much for the morning, you could just start off with something simpler- like an Italian Breakfast Board served with soft, scrambled eggs.

 

 

 

Now, would you stay in, take it slow for a day, and enjoy a brunch during your vacation at Walt Disney World?

Have you tried any of these locations for brunch and care to share your experience?

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

Making Memories on a Budget

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Let’s get right to the point. Vacations are not at the top of many peoples “Priority List”, and in all honesty they aren’t cheap.  And, I get it! We all have bills that come first, so that much desired trip to WDW tends to get put on the back burner. While I wish I could wave a pixie dust filled wand and make everyones trip the cost of the change we find in the laundry, I can’t… BUT I can give you a few tips to help make a dream come true trip a reality and a little easier on the wallet!

 

~BOOK EARLY~

    Call as soon as the idea hits!

I cannot stress this enough. BOOK EARLY! When you book your vacation as soon as your desired travel dates are available, you are locking in those rates. To secure your vacation, all it takes is a $200, refundable deposit! Prices can go up at any time, without notice. But you will keep your lower rates. My favorite part of this is, it also allows you more time to save!

 

~WATCH FOR PROMOTIONS~

             Keep Your Eyes Peeled

While nothing is guaranteed, even WDW occasionally does release money saving promotions. A promotion can be applied to your existing reservation. Simply call and speak to a Cast Member (or if you are using the FREE services from our friends at Destinations To Travel, they will do it for you!) and see if your package qualifies!

 

~GIFT CARDS~

Use Discounted Gift Cards or ask for them as gifts!

Disney Gift Cards are a fantastic (and often overlooked) way to budget for your WDW Vacation. You can even find them at a discount using your Red Card at Target, as well as other locations such as some wholesale stores (BJs, etc). While the discount may not seem like much at the time, those savings add up… quick! Gift Cards can be applied as payment on your vacation package, as well as for food and merchandise at the resorts, in the parks and at most locations at Disney Springs. * Bonus Tip – If your family is looking for gift ideas for Christmas or Birthdays, ask them for a gift card!

I truly believe everyone deserves time away and something to look forward to. By working a “vacation fund” right into your budget and following the tips above, it can be done. And with plenty of time to experience the INCREDIBLE 18 Month Long 50th Anniversary Celebration! How will you Make Memories This year?

Do you have a favorite budgeting tip? Please share with us in the comments below!

photo credit : Disney

 

If a trip to WDW to celebrate the 50th Anniversary with Mickey and friends is on your mind, I would love to help! You can find me on Facebook at Destinations to Travel with Christina Smith, request a FREE, No Obligation Quote here, or join in the fun in our group Living The Magical Life.

INFO: Bringing Your Pet to Disney World

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If there’s one positive outcome of the pandemic, it’s the surge of pet adoptions over the past year, right? Maybe you’re one of the many who now have a four-legged best friend that kept you from insanity as we all stayed indoors.
Now, the part you didn’t think through when you adopted: how to go on vacation. Better yet, a Disney vacation. You may have heard some horror stories from the local pet hotel (Cruella is real!), or there’s no one available to watch Fido while you go on your Disney getaway (they really just don’t want the responsibility). Now what?
Alas! Worry not! There are a select few Disney resorts that have dog-friendly accommodations! 
There are a few restrictions. Dogs are the only pets allowed (sorry cat lovers). Have two dogs? That’s ok, as two is the maximum permitted per room. Also, other than service animals, dogs are not allowed in any of the theme parks nor common areas at your resort (restaurants, pools, etc.). Yet, your dog can stay at your room, which will have access to designated spaces and walkways for pet relief and exercise. You’ll even receive a special welcome- dogs and their owners are greeted with a Pluto’s Welcome Kit! How sweet is that? The kit includes a mat, bowls, puppy pads, dog walking maps, and more. There’s even a “Do Not Disturb” Pluto door hanger to alert staff that your pampered pooch needs privacy.
More important facts to know:
  • Dogs cannot be left unattended in the room for more than seven hours, and must remain silent
  • Housekeeping services must be scheduled while you are in the room
  • Dogs must be leashed at all times
  • Furniture is off-limits in public areas
  • Vaccinations must be up-to-date and documents at hand
  • Dog food is not provided
Resorts with designated rooms for families with dogs are: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Interested in Disney’s campsites? Simply request a pet-friendly loop ($5 per night). Additional charges apply per night for each resort, starting at $50 per night. 
The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is both cat and dog friendly, yet their policy limits to only one pet up to 25lbs.
Don’t forget to alert your Disney resort of your four-legged guest (or leave that to your Disney Travel Agent), and be sure to bring a pet carrier if using transportation.
Note, only service animals are permitted on the monorail, skyliner, and boats. 

Best Friends Pet Hotel

Best Friends Pet Hotel

Afraid your dog won’t behave if left alone while you have fun at the parks? Best Friends Pet Hotel may be a better option. The animal care facility at Disney World welcomes other small animal friends as well. There are web cams that allow pet owners to check in on their pet, and side yards for popping in on their dogs as well. VIP Suites include a television, raised bedding, and a private yard. Boarding starts at $47, and daycare starts at $28 per day.

 Have you ever brought your pet on a Disney vacation? Would you consider it for your next trip?

 

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.