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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

 

16 Restaurants Around WDW To Enjoy A Traditional Thanksgiving Feast

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As the “forgotten holiday” of Thanksgiving quickly approaches, I wanted to give this Fun, Family and Food Filled day a little bit of love. The week surrounding this holiday is generally one of the busiest weeks of the year at Walt Disney World Resort, and while nothing is impossible, your best option if you want to visit the parks during this week is to book early ( as in, prepare this year for next). With these higher crowds comes higher demand for dining. Many WANT that traditional Thanksgiving Feast, and reservations can be hard to snag, but here is a list of 16 places all across WDW property where you and your family can enjoy a traditional meal – maybe even some you never knew about!

 

~RESORTS~

Coronado Springs Resort

 

~ Coronado Springs Resort : Toledo, Three Bridges Bar and Grill

~ All Star Resorts : Intermission Food Court, World Premier Food Court

~ Boardwalk Resort : Trattoria al Forno

~ Riviera Resort : Toppolinos Terrace

 

~DISNEY SPRINGS~

Disney Springs

 

~ Raglan Road

~ The Edison

~ Maria and Enzos

~ Earl Of Sandwich *(Holiday Turkey Sandwich)

 

~IN THE PARKS~

Liberty Tree Tavern

 

~Animal Kingdom~

~ Restaurantosaurus

~ Satu’li Canteen

~ Tiffins

~ Tusker House

~Magic Kingdom~

~ Liberty Tree Tavern

~Hollywood Studios~

~Hollywood and Vine

 

And of course, there’s always the option of enjoying a Turkey Leg! Stop by Yak & Yeti (Animal Kingdom), Tortuga Tavern, Prince Eric’s Village Market, Liberty Square Market (Magic Kingdom), or Fife and Drum Tavern (EPCOT) for one of these park staples.

*Pro Tip – If you don’t immediately get the reservation you want, don’t give up! As Thanksgiving Day approaches, more restaurants often reveal holiday menus, and quite often reservations open up and become available.

It’s never too soon to start planning a Thanksgiving Vacation to WDW. By staying on property, you can have an edge with your reservation window opening 60 days prior to check-in, and allowing you to book dining for the entire length of your stay! And you can even get help with getting those reservations for FREE when you book with one of the agents at Destinations To Travel.

Have you ever enjoyed a Thanksgiving Trip To WDW? Where did you enjoy your Thanksgiving Day Meal? Tell us your MUST DO Holiday Dining choice!

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 or on Instagram.

Take A Road Trip For Your Next WDW Vacation

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Welcome Home!

As many of us have learned over the past year, things can change pretty quickly! From learning about the end of Magical Express (as we knew it) on January 1st, 2022, it’s subsequent replacement option – provided by Mears –  and even looking to the airlines themselves with flights often getting changed or cancelled at the last moment, many are opting to forego air travel and take on the adventure of a Road Trip!! Let’s take a look at some of the advantages and “Need To Know” tips when considering a drive to your WDW vacation.

 

~ Pros To Driving ~

Depending on where you live, driving can be a great advantage, especially with the struggles many airlines are facing right now.

~ You are in charge of your schedule – Choose the time and day that’s best for you to leave. Check out the routes beforehand, and see how long the trip will be for you to see what works best for you and your family.

~ Take a Break – When the kids (or adults!) get a little antsy, pull over and take a little break. Stretch your legs, grab a coffee and regroup before hitting the open road again. There’s no constraints and limits within the airport or the plane. And don’t forget to stop at the Florida Welcome Center!

~ Overpack – There’s no need to worry about bringing that extra pair of shoes – or anything else for that matter. No measuring or weighing your luggage. Pack whatever you need (or even what you don’t need) without worries of size or space. And be prepared for a chilly spell with a set of warm clothes that can take up a lot of extra luggage space.

~ Save Money – While this is definitely something that needs to be looked into based on each families situation, many can save money by driving instead of flying. Instead of purchasing airline tickets for each family member, by traveling in one vehicle, even the cost of gas can be a significant savings.

~ Save Time – While on property instead of waiting for Disney transportation, you can hop in your vehicle and drive. Resort guests don’t pay extra for parking at the theme parks. And you can easily access and enjoy some of the incredible restaurants located at the different resorts across WDW property.

 

~ Things To Know ~

With all the advantages to driving, there are some things to keep in mind before loading up the car.

~ Extra Vacation Days – For many, vacation time is limited. You’ll need to add extra travel time, so keep that in mind and determine if that is doable for you and your schedule.

~ Resort Parking Fees – The resorts at WDW (along with many others, including off property hotels) do charge a nightly fee. Currently they are : Value Resort $15 per night, Moderate Resort $20 per night, and Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts $25 per night (these fees can change at any time). This fee is charged to your resort folio on the last night of your stay.

~ Keep them occupied – Pick up little things to keep the kids busy on the drive. Travel games, like these bingo cards can be found numerous place online and even your local dollar store!

 

 

 

Truthfully, there are many advantages to driving for your WDW vacation. If you have questions or are looking for help deciding which way to travel, reach out to Destinations To Travel and your agent can help you figure out what will work best for you and your family!

Let us know –

Do you drive or fly to WDW? Have you considered (or will you now) making your next vacation a road trip?

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.

EDU-TAINMENT! Exploring Animal Kingdom With Families

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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.

 

Prepare To Set Sail With Disney Cruise Line

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Disney Fantasy Docked at Castaway Cay

 

It’s a great day to say WELCOME BACK DCL!!! It’s so exciting to see the return of cruise ships sailing, even if it isn’t exactly the same as it was in the past. Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or preparing for your first time setting sail, here are few tips you need to know before embarkation.

 

~KNOW BEFORE YOU GO~

Blanket Designs created by Stateroom Host/ess

For those of us who know and love cruising with Disney Cruise Line, we are ready!! But preparing to board that magical vacation at sea looks different than it used to, and it is absolutely neccessary to be aware of requirements for all ages in you traveling party. We recommend using one of the amazing agents at Destinations To Travel who will help keep you updated on all the changes and requirements prior to boarding. But if you enjoying the planning yourself, be certain to visit the Know Before You Sail page. This will consistently be updated with the most recent testing and vaccination policies, so you won’t be surprised upon your port arrival.

 

~Enjoy Relaxing Family Fun~

Family Pool area aboard the Disney Fantasy

Whether you have little ones, teens, tweens or it’s just adult fun for you, take time to explore the pool areas on the ship. In addition to the main pool (which is next to a large screen which runs Disney favorite movies all day and into the evening), most ships have their own fun slide or experience! Sailing on the Dream or Fantasy? Check out the AquaDuck Water Coaster. Or if you’re on the Disney Magic, be sure to try the AquaDunk – a 3 story body slide! The Disney Wish (setting sail in 2022) will have the first water attraction at sea called the AquaMouse!

 

~Stay Flexible~

Although rare, be prepared for the possibility of port changes

Even the best laid plans can hit rocky waters. You’ll want to be prepared for the possibility of Port Of Call Changes. Though very rare, occasionally rough seas, ship issues, or even sudden changes in the country where your port of call is located, could cause a last minute change in your original itinerary. BUT – be willing to go with the flow. Many times the very thing we were looking for comes when we weren’t expecting it. Rest assured that no matter where your cruise takes you it will be amazing! You’re on vacation after all, so relax and let the waves take you away.

 

~Book Early~

Quiet Cove aboard the Disney Fantasy

So, you’re ready to experience the relaxation, beautiful Ports of Call, the fun and the food. What next? BOOK EARLY! Prices will never be lower than when booking opens for any itinerary! Whether you want to sail the Carribbean, or see the stunning sites of Alaska, Disney Cruise Line is ready to welcome you and your family aboard.

 

Have you ever been on a Disney Cruise? Tell us where you went! Or if your considering setting sail, what is your ideal itinerary?

 

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 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.