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Disney Parks Podcast

All the Disney Parks in One Podcast

What was Old is New Again!

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As has been common over the past couple of years, we are seeing more changes come and go throughout the parks and properties of WDW. Some good, some different, some challenging. But as we enter the Spring and Summer season this year, we are looking at seeing more of our beloved experiences returning to what they once were! Let’s talk about all the new updates and what you need to know before you go!

 

~ HUGS AND AUTOGRAPHS ARE BACK~

Oh, how long we have waited to hug the main mouse himself, Mickey! The time has returned!!!! Traditional character meet and greets are beginning to return to the parks, as well as on board the ships with Disney Cruise Line. Instead of socially distanced selfies, we can go and hug our favorite pals AND get their autographs. I’m personally looking forward to a big Goofy hug – his are the BEST!

 

 

~ GENIE, GENIE+, LIGHTENING LANE~

Have you heard about our friend Genie? Chances are you have. This feature is found right inside your My Disney Experience app. GENIE helps plan your day while in the parks for you, giving customized suggestions for your preferences as well as wait times, suggested times to get in line for your favorite rides, and even dining choices! This feature is completely free, and if you haven’t been into your app lately, why not pop in and check it out! GENIE+ is a separate purchase you have the option to make. Currently $15 per ticket, per day , this allows you the opportunity to skip the stand by line on select attractions by reserving a time slot beginning at 7am each morning, and can be purchased in advance by adding it to your package or on a day by day basis via your app. Wondering if it’s a good fit for you? We recommend using the free services of one the agents at Destinations To Travel – they’ll help explain all the details, and determine which choice is best for you and your family.

 

~MASK POLICY UPDATES~

As new guidelines are announced, so are new policies around the parks. As new guidelines were released, WDW followed suit, by adjusting it’s policies gradually, until masks were only required on enclosed transportation such as busses and the monorail. Recently, the federal mandate regarding mask wearing on planes was removed and the parks followed suit! Currently masks are optional for all guests. *NOTE that it is recommended that guests who are not fully vaccinated continue wearing a face covering in all indoor locations and enclosed transportation*. For the most up to date information, visit the Know Before You Go website.

 

~RESORTS, RESTAURANTS AND MORE~

For the first time in forever (you sang that, didn’t you!?) ALL ON PROPERTY RESORTS ARE BACK OPEN! With the recent re-opening of All Star Sports Resort, all on property resorts are operational and accepting reservations. In addition, we are seeing more dining options coming back, as well as Fireworks Packages including the Enchantment Dessert parties at Magic Kingdom, and Harmonious Dinner options at Epcot. Seasonal Festivals including the Flower and Garden Festival, International Food and Wine Festival and more are back in full swing over at Epcot as well.

 

~ IS NOW THE TIME?~

If you have been waiting for some of these experiences to come back, then absolutely – NOW IS THE TIME TO GO! Can things still change? Well, yes. It’s incredibly important to stay on top of what’s happening as you get closer to your vacation, even the day you travel, by checking your airlines website for their protocols and requirements, the WDW website (or use a Travel Agent who will keep you in the know)!

 

What are you happiest to see coming back? Let us know!

If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney Destination, Universal Studios, or Cruise vacation, I would love to be your planning partner!

Email me at : 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

 

Why EPCOT IS A Perfect Park For Families

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It breaks my heart that one of the most overlooked parks is EPCOT – especially by those with children. Often viewed as an “adult” park, (mainly due to the idea of  “Drinking Around The World”) there are so many edutainment opportunities that are often overlooked or forgotten about. From Future World, to World Showcase, there’s an abundance of opportunities to learn and explore for both adults and children alike! Here are a few reasons why a day at EPCOT is not to be overlooked.

 

~Future World~

Spaceship Earth – The iconic geodesic sphere that greets many guests as they enter the park

Future World – This iconic feature is the first vision of many guests as they enter the park, and it hosts a ride that takes you through time and the evolution of communication. But in addition to this beautiful attraction, Future World hosts The Land Pavillion – home to the immensely popular “Soarin’ Around The World”. Also found here is “Living With The Land” – a leisurely boat ride that focuses on agriculture and takes you through the 4 working greenhouses that help supply some of the restaurants on property! You can pop over and spend some time with Nemo and Friends at the “The Seas with Nemo” – an adorable ride that takes you below the water. In addition, you can visit SeaBase, which hosts rehabilitating manatees among other undersea creatures, and includes a 360 degree view of sea life when you “enter” the aquarium. Make sure you secure a reservation at Coral Reef Restaurant, with floor to ceiling viewing windows to the aquarium – Best View in town! Looking for some excitement? Head to Mission Space and choose either the Orange or Green Mission, and then take a drive on Test Track!

 

~World Showcase~

The Stunning Moracco Pavillion in EPCOT’s World Showcase

After exploring Future World, head over to World Showcase! With 11 countries represented, there is no shortage of incredible (and beautiful) places to explore –  and learn about! This is a great way for those children that may need to write a report about something they learned while absent from school. There are Scavenger Hunts available for families to take part in,  and of course the rides – the ever popular “Frozen Ever After” found in Norway, “The Grand Fiesta Tour” inside the Mexico Pavillion, and “Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure” (coming October 1, 2021) in France!

 

~Food, Food, FOOD!~

Regal Eagle Smokehouse at The American Pavillion

It was almost as though much of this park was thought out with families in mind… especially those with young children who aren’t quite adventurous eaters. The numerous Festivals (Arts, Flower and Garden, Food and Wine & Holidays) offer a vast array of opportunities to sample small plates from around the world – on a snack budget! The Table Service options available in every “country” cannot be beat whether you want to eat in Japan, Germany or Mexico. And the Quick Service options, also available in each country, make sure that every person in your party will never go hungry (*PS – The Mac and Cheese at Regal Eagle Smokehouse is AMAZING!!)

 

EPCOT is truly a park to EXPLORE, not just visit. Take your time, soak it all in. I promise, if given the chance, you and your family can find a newfound adoration for all this park has to offer. Looking for assistance in planning your next WDW vacation? Reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel!

Tell Us, is EPCOT a must do park for you and your family, or do you pass it by?

Will it be in your plans for next time?

If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney or Universal Studios vacation, I would love to be your planning partner!

Email me at : 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

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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?

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. 

Why Memory Maker Is A Must Do

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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?

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. 

3 Must Do Steps After Booking Your WDW Vacation

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“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?~

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.