#d2travelchristinasmith Archives | Disney Parks Podcast

3 Need To Know Tips On How To runDisney!

July 12, 2021 By Tony Caselnova

Throughout the years, Walt Disney World has played host to numerous events and festivals. But, few have found the immense popularity of runDisney events. Traditionally held 4 times per year (January, February, March and November) each event offers a variety of distances, ranging from 5k up to a Full Marathon (January) and even a kids run. You will also find each has their own unique theme, such as Princesses, Star Wars, and even Villains which are evident in the medals you can aquire!

While many die hard runDisney fans and competitors have had to participate in these events virtually for the past year, there have been cheers of joy over the recent announcement that these events will become “In Person” events again, beginning with “Wine and Dine Half Weekend” November 4-7, 2021.

For those that are ready to share their love of running, these events offer a unique perspective of WDW, and many join up with friends to help cheer each other along the way. However, many people choose to to participate on their own… and make new friends throughout the event.

Ready to run? Well, I talked with some of my friends over at Destinations To Travel and they are providing some of their tips on how, from start to finish, you can take part in your next – or first – runDisney event!

~Meet Casey Bolt~

A runDisney enthusiast with top tips for securing your race bib

When registration opens, it can be a challenge to secure those sought after Race Bibs! Casey’s advice?

“My tips for securing a bib would be pack your patience. It’s a stressful process. Make sure to have all your info ready ahead of time- credit card info, race distance, shirt size, emergency contact, etc. Also try to log into the registration area early- I’ve been let into the virtual queue up to 20 minutes before the registration start time. Use multiple devices if you can- it gives you a better chance of getting in. I usually have a computer, phone, and iPad trying at once. Then pray for pixie dust! If they sell out, keep checking back periodically. They reload additional bibs sometimes but in very small quantities so they will disappear quickly!”

Want more tips from Casey? Find her on Facebook at Destinations To Travel LLC, Casey Bolt and in her fact filled group Magical Miles with Casey Bolt

~Meet Paul Sul~

An all around Fitness enthusiast knows the top tips to prepare for your run

So, you have secured your place in a runDisney event! What now? Prepare and train. Here are some tips from Paul on how to start your training plan.

“When preparing for any distance run, the most important thing is to give yourself enough time to prepare and train, especially for someone who has never run over 3 miles.

Always, always, warm up with dynamic stretching to get loose and stretch after the run.

For a 5K, I would recommend anywhere from 6-8 weeks out at a minimum. As for training, it should include a combination of running/jogging and walking intervals. For the first couple of weeks, the goal is to build up your endurance. Walk for about Half a Mile (0.5) and then jog for 30 seconds and walk for 1 Minute and do this 3-5x, doing this 3-4 times a week. As you progress, you can lengthen your run/jog time to 45 seconds to 1 minute as well as recovery.

By doing these intervals, it helps build endurance and controls your breathing as well. “

Want More tips from Paul, like what kind of playlist can help motivate you along your training path? Find him at Destinations To Travel with Paul Sul, and in his group Dreamers… Assemble!

~Meet Marisa Alvarado~

A dedicated teacher who finds her escape through fitness and art.

You’ve planned, you’ve trained, and you have a killer playlist – so what can participating in runDisney event do for YOU? I’ll let Marisa put that into perspective!

” The image with the Ahsoka Tano medal was a full circle moment. I was registered for the Rival Run in 2020 (which was canceled due to COVID). That was supposed to be my first in-person event and was the catalyst for my running journey. Ever since then, I haven’t stopped running and pushing myself to conquer another challenge. While I’ve been running virtually every race (since the in-person events will be returning in the fall), I still feel the sense of community through these events. The support over social media has been incredible and I’ve been able to bond with fellow agents, Paul and Casey, over running and fitness in general. That sense of camaraderie has given me the courage to strive for more. With that, I’ve completed every distance that runDisney offers (from 5K through a full marathon … which was insanely difficult) and took part in every theme they’ve offered (Star Wars, summer series, Wine and Dine, Marathon, and Princess). Never in a million years would I have thought that I could make it, nor would I have ever even wanted to try but there’s something that keeps me coming back for more. I hope that I can secure a bib for my first in-person race because as Moana would say, “If I go, there’s just no telling how far I’ll go.” “

For more of Marisa’s inspiration, find her at Destinations to Travel LLC with Marisa Alvarado and on Instagram @behindtheearswdw

Photo credit: Twitter

For some, a runDisney event is a fun way to expand out of their comfort zone. For others, it’s a part of what makes WDW even more magical. But no matter which category you fall into, it’s an experience worth having.

Tell Us…Have you ever participated in a runDisney Event? Or are you ready to participate? Let us know 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.

Summertime Park Bag Essentials

June 7, 2021 By Tony Caselnova

That time of year is upon us. Summer! Longer days, shorter nights, tank tops and shorts… and in Florida – heat and humidity. It’s true that the summer heat can be tough to handle. Proper preparation and planning is crucial to both make the most enjoyable time of your family vacation to WDW, AND to keep you and your family safe. If you prefer to hit the parks for rope drop and stay to close the parks, packing your park bag properly will be a step in the right direction to ensure both of these bases are covered. Here are a few Summertime Park Bag Essentials to include on your packing list!

~Reusable Water Bottle~

Keep a water bottle with you to stay hydrated

Water can be readily obtained throughout the parks. By carrying a reusable water bottle with you, you can easily refill them wherever you may find yourself in need, without having to wait in line at a quick service location. Many have built in filters (if you aren’t a fan of the Florida water). Definitely consider filling up prior to getting into line for your next ride, so you can continue to drink while you wait. With a bottle that closes securely, there is less waste, and less opportunity to spill. When you’re finished, close it up, throw it back in your bag, and enjoy your ride!

~Cooling Towels~

Cooling Towels will be your best friend!

Cooling Towels will be your new best friend. Honestly! They are easy to find online, or even at your local superstore, are relatively inexpensive and can be reused often, even once you return home. Get each member of your traveling party one in their favorite color. Simply get them wet, snap them out and place them on the back of your neck. Most come in their own pouch, so you can place them back in there before putting them in your park bag to keep from getting anything else wet.

~Portable Neck Fans~

Portable and Rechargable Neckfans

Portable and rechargable, these neck fans can help keep you and your family cool. They come in numerous styles, and most have multiple speeds – some even have misters built in! Usually charged by USB ports, they can be charged throughout the day using the Battery Pack you most likely already have in your park bag to charge your phone.

~Safety First~

Midday Breaks

While all these tips can absolutely help make the most of your hot day in the parks, I can’t stress enough to not to take for granted escaping to some of the many air conditioned attractions, shops, and to even plan for a Table Service restaurant meal in the middle of the day to let you and your family recharge and cool down. And there is no shame in heading back to your resort for a dip in the pool and return to the parks later when the temps start to drop again. Questions about how to best navigate the parks in the hot months of the year? Reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel!

What are your favorite tips for staying cool in the parks? What “Stay Cool” items do you keep in your park bag?

Why Memory Maker Is A Must Do

May 17, 2021 By Tony Caselnova

Let’s talk about a #truthbomb. We ALL want to save money on our vacation. And this is especially true for a trip to Walt Disney World. For many of us, these trips are “Once In A Lifetime” experiences, and while we are happy to save for that trip, we want to save on the extras where we can. One of the extras that is easy to brush aside is Memory Maker. But let’s talk about why, out of all the extras, this is one you shouldn’t pass on!

~Get Everyone In The Picture~

Whether it’s a Couples, Family, Solo, Multi Generation, First or 50th trip, it’s the perfect way to have everyone in the picture. It’s called Memory Maker for a reason. They can capture the special memories that you will treasure forever, with everyone in the picture – Moms too! In addition, it will include all of your Attraction photos, including Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and more.

~Special Surprise Guests~

You never know who may pop up!

One of the BEST features – Magic Shots! These super fun, surprise photos add a touch of Disney Magic when they show up. You could find Mickey, Tinkerbell, Chip and Dale, or so many more of your favorite characters… and even Sven has made an appearance! Don’t hesitate to let the photographer know you would like some of these special photos. They will happily oblige!

~Where To Find Them~

Check for locations of photographers in your MDE app

While you’ll usually find PhotoPass Photographers near the icons in each park, they will move around. And there will be some in a few of the beaten path areas too. To see where they are located at any given time, simply check your MDE App, and from the drop down menu, select “PhotoPass”. It will pinpoint where to find them in each park. In addition, stop by the Disney PhotoPass Studio in Disney Springs for extra photos with special backgrounds and props… All included in your Memory Maker purchase!

~How (and How Much)~

If you are booking your WDW vacation with a Travel Agent (like our friends at Destinations to Travel), this will be a question they will ask you when they work up your free quote. But, if you are booking yourself, just let the cast member know, and they will add it to your package (current early purchase price $169 *subject to change). It is best to add it at least 3 days prior to the start of your vacation for the best price. Memory Maker can be added after the start of your trip, but the price will increase (currently $199 *subject to change), so by adding it in the beginning, you’ll save. All of your photos will be available to you to download to your mobile device or computer for 30 days… ALL of them! No need to decide which ones to purchase individually (or watch that bill add up)

Let us know if YOU are a Memory Maker Fan, or if you pass on this option. Will you be adding Memory Maker to your next Vacation?

3 Must Do Steps After Booking Your WDW Vacation

May 5, 2021 By Tony Caselnova

“WE’RE GOING TO DISNEY WORLD”!!! It’s always exciting to say those words! Now, whether you are a First Time visitor to Walt Disney World, an “Old Pro” or if you haven’t been in a while, there have been many changes to the way we plan our magical trip. Technology keeps changing and bringing us new things, along with the many changes that have had to be made due to the pandemic. The best thing you can do is be in the know on how to get off to a great start. By doing these 3 things upon booking your trip, you’ll be more than halfway there!

~Download the MyDisneyExperience App~

If you haven’t traveled to WDW before, you’ll want to download the MyDisneyExperience (MDE) app to your phone. Here is where you can link your reservation, see your plans, make dining reservations, do online check in, and even set up MagicMobile! This will be your most valuable tool in not just PLANNING your trip, but while you are in the parks. *It is also important to note that when logging in, use ANY current Disney log in information you have. The Walt Disney World Website, shopDisney, Disney+ and MDE will all use the same username and password you already have.

~Visit MyDisneyExperience.com~

My Disney Experience on your Computer or Laptop

After you have your app set up, your next visit will be to your computer or laptop. Go to the My Disney Experience page and get a grand over view. Here you can order your MagicBands, and double check everything is set up properly. While this site does offer all the same features as the MDE App, this area is a bit more detailed and laid out with the ability to see All your plans on 1 page. Here is where THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR TRIP PLANNING COMES IN, and it must be done via your laptop/computer (currently not available on the app).

~MAKE PARK RESERVATIONS~

Click on the link to make your park reservations immediately upon booking

This is absolutely the MOST important step… you MUST have both a Valid Ticket AND Park Reservations to enter any of the theme parks. It is not uncommon to see some parks unavailable for certain days, so it is recommended to select your parks and secure those reservations right away. While initially this may seem like an extra step, trust me… knowing that you are guarenteed access to the park of your choice, without getting turned away due to capacity limits, is really nice! If you’re looking for assistance in planning a course of action or which parks are best to visit on which days, we suggest reaching out to our friends at Destinations to Travel to book your trip and have them by your side each step of the way, including walking you through the process.

Park availability calendar

*Note that currently, due to a waiver, park reservations must be made by the reservation holder and cannot be secured by a travel agent*

Things may be a little different, but change is not always bad. Follow these steps and the rest of the planning for your trip will be a breeze!

~Have you been to WDW since the Park Reservation System was introduced? What do you think?~

New Park Bag Packing 101

April 19, 2021 By Tony Caselnova

Ask a veteran WDW traveler for some park tips, and it’s likely that one of those tips will be to take a park bag with you. WDW allows you to take a bag – backpack, large purse, camera bag – into the parks with you. While people usually agree on taking a bag, some have different ideas on what to put in it. Here are few things that currently top the list of park bag essentials.

~Extra Masks~

Disposable mask vending machines are placed throughout property

Having extra masks for each person is not only convenient, but almost required. Between the Florida weather – including sudden afternoon rain showers and humidity – and some rides, being able to switch out a wet mask with a clean, dry one will not only be more comfortable, but more sanitary for you and your family. Disposable mask vending machines are available throughout the parks, and cloth masks are available for purchase at every turn in gift shops as well.

*Pro Tip – take an empty plastic sandwich bag with you to put wet/dirty masks in. When you return to the resort, wash them in the sink and hang them to dry overnight for fresh masks each day.

~Back Up Power~

Back Up Power Source

Now more than ever, having a power bank and charging cord is almost a neccesity. With the roll out of MagicMobile (available in your MDE App) which can replace MagicBands, it is more important than ever to make sure your device stays charged. Keeping a back up power source will help insure your device is always ready to capture those surprise Magical Moments that will live on in memories for years to come. There are locations throughout the parks for you stop, take a break and charge your device as well, but being able to stay on the go and power up at the same time is the best way to keep moving and save valuable time.

*Pro Tip – Forgot a portable charger? Don’t stress! There are Fuel Rod machines throughout property for purchase. While a bit pricey (approx $30) they come fully charged and can be exchanged at any time or charged at night and reused

~The Basics~

The Basics

Sanitizing and hand washing stations are front and center throughout the parks – but a little extra can’t hurt. Cast members are working diligently to keep guests safe and healthy, but we can certainly help them along. Hand Sanitizer and surface wipes come in handy, especially for peace of mind whether sitting down for lunch or hopping onto your next ride.

*Pro Tip – Anti Fog wipes (reusable or disposable) will also come in handy. If you already wear glasses, you may have already considered this but if not and you will be using sunglasses, these will be your best friend to avoid your glasses fogging up from wearing masks or going between air conditioned buildings to the warm Florida weather.

For more assistance on preparing for your trip to WDW, reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel. Your new Disney BFF will help make preparation a breeze!

What are your MUST HAVES in your park bag? Tell us in the comments below!

Solo Trips to WDW

March 22, 2021 By Tony Caselnova

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

Making Memories on a Budget

March 1, 2021 By Tony Caselnova

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.

By Bus, Boat or Skyliner – SUPER Ways To Travel Around WDW

February 15, 2021 By Tony Caselnova

Anyone who has been to Walt Disney World knows how much planning is involved. If you haven’t been there yet… buckle up for the best experience ever! But even the most experienced WDW visitor can still have questions about the one thing we can easily overlook… How to get from point A to point B. Disney Transportation is by far the most magical way to travel around the “World”. From arrival day to the day you leave and head back to reality, you don’t have to worry about how to get around. Here are the common forms of transportation, and where you can find them!

~Bus Transportation~

Resort Bus Transportation

As an on property guest, you have access to bus transportation to and from the parks and Disney Springs from most resorts. Simply head to the marked area at your resort and get whisked away to your reserved park or Disney Springs! At the end of the day, look for your resorts bus stop, and have a worry free trip back “home” (and yes, it’s ok if you take a little nap on the way back to your resort).

~Skyliner~

Skyliner

The newest (and for many, the most fun) form of transportation is the Skyliner Gondolas. The skyliner route includes POP Century, Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach and Riviera resorts. If you are staying at any one of these, the skyliner will be your best form of transportation to and from both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. The main hub is located at Caribbean Beach, so depending on which resort you are coming from, you will transfer to a new line depending on your destination. One of the best parts of this form of transportation is the stunning views you can see along your journey… especially at night!

*If you have travelers in your party who struggle with heights, be aware that if staying at a resort on the skyliner route, it is a possibility that busses MAY not be available to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. For free, expert assistance with choosing which Resort is right for you and your family, we recommend reaching out to Destinations To Travel

~Friendship Boats~

Friendship Boats

Friendship Boats are available to certain resorts and will shuttle you to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, Magic Kingdom or Disney Springs (depending on your location). These are ideal for a relaxing, trip back to your resort after a long day of playing in the parks!

Of course there are many who prefer to drive themselves or rent a car to get around. Resort guests do not pay to park while at the parks (however there is a nightly resort parking fee). And a ridesharing service has become a popular option for many as well.

Tell us, which form of Disney Transportation is your favorite?

If you have questions about Disney Transportation or are ready to start planning your WDW vacation, I would love to assist you! Reach out to me on Facebook at Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith. Or we would love to have you join us in Living The Magical Life. I’m looking forward to Seeing You Real Soon!