Explore our Etsy shop brimming with fun Disney items.

Disney Parks Podcast

All the Disney Parks in One Podcast

What was Old is New Again!

By

 

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

 

A Food Festival on the West Coast

By

Disney California Adventure is back with the Festival of Holidays which runs Now through January 9, 2022!

We recommend getting one of the Tasting Lanyards to enjoy all of the special foods and drinks. For $57 (or $52 for Magic Key Holders) you get a Tasting Passport with 8 “tabs” to exchange for any of the food or non-alcoholic beverages at the Marketplace Booths. When you make your purchase, you will also receive the Festival Guidebook with all of the entertainment offerings as well as the Tasting Passport which focuses on all of the food offerings and has a bit of magic if you wish to partake!

The Tasting Passport is your handheld guide to all of the food and drink offerings from not only The Marketplaces but also the restaurants around Disney California Adventure. Here is a preview off all of the options:
1) Holiday Duets Marketplace: Braised Pork Belly Adobo, Shrimp and Grits, Pabana Cachaca Colada (Alcoholic), and Calamansi Melon Lemonade (Non-Alcoholic)
2) A Twist On Tradition Marketplace: Reimagined Beef Brisket Wellington, Ruben Potato Bites, Churro Toffee Cold Brew Latte, Lolea No. 1 Red Sangria (Alcoholic), Wither Hills Sauvignon Blanc (Alcoholic)
3) Brews and Bites Marketplace: Impossible Queso Fundido, Festive Favorites Flight (Alcoholic), Seasonal Specialties Flight (Alcoholic), Multiple Beers by the Glass (Alcoholic)
4) Winter Sliderland Marketplace: Nashville Hot Turkey Slider (Pictured Below), Beef Pot Roast on Potato Roll (Pictured Below), Prickly Pear Tea Lemonade (Pictured Below), Bourbon Cranberry Cocktail (Alcoholic)

5) Grandma’s Recipes Marketplace:  Impossible Arepa Encantada, Gingerbread Mickey, Berries ‘n’ Crema (Non-Alcoholic)
6) Making Spirits Bright Marketplace: Cinnamon & Sugar Holiday Tart, “Hot Cocoa” Marshmallow Macaron, Maple Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum (Alcoholic), White Wine Flight (Alcoholic), Red Wine Flight (Alcoholic)
7) Favorite Things Marketplace: Chana Masala, Holiday Stuffing Mac & Cheese, Hibiscus Ginger Mezcal Mule (Alcoholic), Festival Beer Flight (Alcoholic)
8) Merry Mashups Marketplace: Esquites Carnitas Mac & Cheese, Holiday Spiced Wings, Holiday Mix, Honey Guava Pisco Punch (Alcoholic)


We tried everything this weekend and we are still so full! There were a few highlights from these menus for us including the Nashville Hot Turkey Slider, the Esquites Carnitas Mac & Cheese, the “Hot Cocoa” Marshmallow Macaron (Pictured Above), and the Braised Pork Belly Adobo. For drinks, the Churro Toffee Cold Brew Latte and the Prickly Pear Tea Lemonade were stand outs for the non-alcoholic offerings. If you like alcohol like I do, the Honey Guava Pisco Punch was a spicy and sweet drink. This was only topped by the Maple Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum (Pictured Above) which is just as delicious as it sounds. While this was just the Festival Marketplace offerings, the restaurants around Disney California Adventure also offer some great holiday treats. Of what we listed, what would you be looking for when you visit?

Looking to visit a Disney Destination for your next Vacation? Make sure you contact us at Destinations to Travel!

If you would like more information and to work with me as your planning partner, please email me at patrickoconnor@d2travel.com

You can also check out my personal page at Destinations to Travel with Patrick O’Connor or my private group at Destination Vacation Network Family on Facebook. Instagram I can be found at Destination Vacation Network

OPINION: Is Oogie Boogie Bash better than Boo Bash?

By

We have had the chance to see both parties on both coasts and we feel the Oogie Boogie Bash is a far superior After Hours Party when it comes to celebrating Halloween.

Let us start by discussing the differences and why one may be superior to the other. First off these events are not cheap. For an After Hours Party they are similar in cost to others ranging from $129 to $169 per person for the Boo Bash and $114 to $169 for the Oogie Boogie Bash. While the West Coast may have some cheaper days, for a family of four this can be a big expense for the holiday season so is it worth it? The short answer is “Maybe?”. While both events will allow early access to the park it is hosted in, the Boo Bash is only a 3 hour event versus the Oogie Boogie Bash at 5 hours. this does not include the 2 hours of “early admission” where both party goes and the regular attendees can experience the attractions before the official festivities begin.

First let us look at the Boo Bash at Walt Disney World! One of the biggest perks exclusive to this event is the unlimited popcorn, Mickey Premium bars, and soda (or water). This may be a perk for many as you can stock up on your drinks and enjoy some fresh popcorn while strolling through the park – hydration is key after all! Walking around you will find the opportunity to catch one of several Cavalcades throughout the evening. Some of these include Jack and Sally with Oogie Boogie, Mickey and Minnie in their Halloween best, as well as Maleficent in dragon form. You will also find 8 Trick-Or-Treat trails throughout the Magic Kingdom to assist in loading up on candy and treats (not many tricks to be found here – it is Disney after all!). There are also several characters out for you to socially meet and greet including some of the face characters in front of the Haunted Mansion which was a highlight in our opinion.


Now how about our West Coast friends? While you will not find the free treats here, you will find some more activity – and more creativity possibly with how things are organized. First off, all Trick-Or-Treat trails are themed to different villains. There were 7 trails this year and 3 of them featured all new characters never seen in a Disney park! These were Agatha Harkness from WandaVision featured in Avengers Campus, Cruella from the live action film in the Hollywood Backlot, and Sid from the original Toy Story in the Pixar Pier area. The other villains around the park are Maleficent, Dr. Facilier,  The Evil Queen, The Mad Hatter (from the live action film), and of course Oogie Boogie himself. Each trail has not only candy but another sweet treat option such as apples, grapes, rice crispy treats, and temporary tattoos! There is another unique offering for this bash, Villains Grove. This is a spectacle of light and projections in the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail. There may not be any candy or villains to be seen, you will see sections of the path themed to our favorite villains. Make sure you keep your eyes open for some rarely seen characters throughout the park as well. Along Buena Vista Street you will find some villain duos such as Cinderellas Stepsisters, Pain and Panic from Hercules, and more! Over by Grizzly Bear Rapids some rare characters can be seen including Mr. Smee, Governor Ratcliffe, and the Sherriff of Nottingham! Lastly, in contrast to the Cavalcades, the Oogie Boogie Bash features the Frightfully Fun Halloween Parade – the first parade back at a Disney Park since Covid! It truly was a great time as the attraction lines are short and the party was a fun one.

Have you been to one of these parties? Share your thoughts with us!

EDU-TAINMENT! Exploring Animal Kingdom With Families

By

Animal Kingdom – One of the most intricately themed of all 4 WDW Parks. Along with over 50 species of Animals you’ll see more than 4 million trees, plants, shrubs, vines, epiphytes, grasses and ground-coverings from every continent on Earth (except Antartica)! Let’s add in one of the best “Mountains” to ride – Expedition Everest – and the land of Pandora, and amazing shows, you have a full day ahead of you. But why is it so amazing for families? If you have school age children, there is so much to learn and they won’t even know it!

 

~Conservation Station~

Hop On the Train To Conservation Station

After your journey through the Kilimanjaro Safari, hop on the train and head to the Conservation Station. Here you will find the vetrinary and conservation headquarters. You can meet wildlife experts, observe ongoing projects and learn a little about what goes on behind the scenes at the park. This area also serves as a rehabilitation center and nursery. Stop by the Affection Section to pet and play with some of the animals, participate in some of the interactive activities, and view the terrariums of some reptiles, invertibrates and amphibians.

 

~Tree Of Life~

The Iconic Symbolof the Park: The Tree Of Life

 

Ten artists and three Imagineers worked full-time for 18 months to create the 325 animal carvings on The Tree of Life. It is topped with more than 103,000 transparent, five-shades-of-green leaves that actually blow in the wind. Take a walk underneath this incredible structure and enjoy a break from the heat to watch “It’s Tough To Be A Bug”. For a little family friendly competion, have everyone see how many different animals they can find engraved into the tree (and whoever finds the least buys the next round of Dole Whips!)

 

~Rides, Shows, And More~

Expedition Everest : One of the Mountains to Conquer!

It’s not all just walking trails and animals! Try to escape the Yeti on Expedition Everest (Fun Fact – Disney Imagineers went to great lengths to create an attraction rich in storytelling, authenticity and detail – even traveling to Nepal to research the region’s architecture and culture!) Be sure to take a break from the heat and watch “The Celebration of the Festival of The Lion King” show. Take a trip back in time on “Dinosaur”, or stop by and play traditional carnival Midway games in DinoLand USA – another great opportunity to learn about our prehistoric past.

 

Many don’t give this misunderstood park enough credit. If your are traveling during the school year with children, this park is an excellent tool for reports, and Mom and Dad can learn things too! Adults can stroll through and enjoy the beauty that this stunning park offers us. If you’re looking for help on how to best plan your WDW Vacation and make the most of your day at Animal Kingdom Park, reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel!

 

Tell Us what YOUR favorite part of this park is!

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.

 

3 Must Do Steps After Booking Your WDW Vacation

By

“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. 

New Park Bag Packing 101

By

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! 

 

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. 

Secret Tips To Doing WDW

By

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.

 

 

 

Solo Trips to WDW

By

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