Disney World Archives - Page 2 of 4

Disney Vacation August 31, 2020

5 Tips for Disney Bus Transportation

Disney bus transportation is a great benefit of staying on Disney property. You can get everywhere you want to go on Disney property and never have to drive yourself. You can even get to and from the airport on complimentary bus transportation. Read on for Disney bus transportation tips!

Bus transportation is not an option during Skyliner hours

Bus transportation from resorts on the Skyliner Route (Disney’s Caribbean Beach, Disney’s Pop Century, Disney’s Art of Animation and Disney’s Rivera) ends (or becomes very infrequent) when the Skyliner is running. In reality though, the Skyliner is a much better and faster option anyway.

Disney Springs or the Parks are hotel connection points

Buses do not run from resort to resort so some planning needs to be done if you want to go from your resort to another. Your options to get from your resort to another is to take a bus to Disney Springs or to a theme park. At that location, you can switch buses in order to get to the desired resort (Disney Springs is the longer option). Be aware, getting from one resort to another takes quite a bit of time (allow 1.5 hours).

Buses run 60-90 minutes before park opens and closes

This is especially important to know if you have dining reservations at another resort. If you have a late-night reservation you will have to connect through Disney Springs because the buses will not be going to the parks.

Different resorts have a different number of stops inside the resort

Disney bus transportation tips about remembering the name of your bus stop.

Value resorts have only one bus stop outside the main building. Deluxe resorts usually just have one because they also have other transportation provided from the resort. Moderate and larger resorts (Old Key West and Saratoga Springs) have many throughout the grounds. Check your resort map to find the closest stop to your room. You also might want to ask where the first stop might be. On busy mornings it might be best for you to go to the first stop to catch the bus as it might fill up before your closest stop. Also, find out the name of your stop so you know where to get off when it is dark.

Take the bus to Magic Kingdom even if you have a car

Buses take you right to the Magic Kingdom entrance. If you go by car you park outside the Ticket and Transportation Center then have to take a ferry or the Monorail to the entrance. Taking the bus can be quite a bit faster.

That was the last of my Disney bus transportation tips. Now for a little information about how the buses might have changed since you were last at Disney.

New Bus Safety Measures

Hand sanitizer at every bus stop
Markers on ground to help social distancing
Bus driver directs guest to correct zone to sit through both doors
Zones are divided by partitions and unavailable seats
Drivers are wiping down surfaces after guests
Guests in wheelchairs or ECV’s wait in the same queue

Many Disney World guests either love the bus transportation or not. What about you, love it or leave it? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Disney Baby Care Centers–Not Just for Babies

The Baby Care Center at Disneyland saved our bacon on one of our trips. We had forgotten sunscreen and our very pale Alaskan children would have burnt to a crisp. We headed to the Baby Care Center and sure enough, they had the perfect sunscreen that lasted us our whole trip.

What are Disney Baby Care Centers

Each Disney Park has a Baby Care Center to serve their guests. In the Disney Baby Care Centers, you are met by kind, compassionate Cast Members ready to help as best they can. The Baby Care Center include the following services:

Private nursing room with rocking chairs
Changing room with tables and a women’s restroom
Feeding area with highchairs
Kitchen with microwave and sink
Main room with television, table and seating
On-site shop offering formula, baby food, juice, diapers, wipes, sunscreen, over-the-counter medications and clothing for purchase

Who can visit a Disney Baby Care Center

The Disney Baby Care Centers are open to people of all ages. It is a great place to take your young children when they just need a moment away from all the action. This facility is a quiet, peaceful area. If you have a toddler, preschooler, or older child who is on the verge of a meltdown you might want to head here. A couple of minutes sitting reading a book, quietly eating a snack, or watching a movie might be just what they need to recharge.

As an adult, even I have appreciated walking in to this area just for a couple of minutes to reorient my mind and body. Some of them have a couple of chairs at the entrance for an adult to rest for a short time. Adults without children have to make their visit relatively quick unless its a slow day.

Be aware–once in a while there is another child who is having a hard time and so it might not be completely quiet.

Where are the Baby Care Centers

This blog is mainly going to focus on Disney World because I don’t have photos of the ones at Disneyland. But, both Disneyland and California Adventure have these services and the features at Disneyland are very similar to those at Disney World.

Disneyland: The Baby Care Center is at the end of Main Street closest to the castle. Go back behind the Main Stree Photo Company (the last building on the right) toward the Plaza Inn and you will find the door.

California Adventure: At California Adventure the Baby Care Center is more toward the back of the park. It is inbetween the Pacific Wharf and Cars Land right next to the Ghiradelli Ice Cream Shop.

Magic Kingdom

You will find the Magic Kingdom Baby Care Center at the end to the path in between Casey’s Corner and the Crystal Palace Restaurant. If you are on Main Street looking at the Castle, Casey’s Corner is the last building on the left.

Epcot

At Epcot the Baby Care Center is located more in the middle of the park. The Baby Care Center is in the same building as the Epcot Experience. If you are near Test Track you can take the bridge (toward the Mexico Pavillion) across the water to the building. If you are walking from Mexico toward the main bridge to Future World the building is on the right .

Hollywood Studios

The Baby Care Center at Hollywood Studios is probably the smallest of the bunch. This center is right at the front of the park. Just after you enter it will be on your left hand side. It is a little less convenient because you have to go through Guest Relations to get in.

Animal Kingdom

The Baby Care Center at Animal Kingdom is a little farther into the park on Discovery Island. After entering the park head toward Discovery Island (go toward the Tree of Life). Once you get there you will head to the left toward Pandora and Africa. Pass the trail to Pandora and the Baby Care Center will be down a little path in the building between Creature Comforts and the Disney Vacation Club Booth.

I think that this was my favorite of all the Baby Care Centers. It was spacious, well-stocked, and had the most calming atmosphere. There was also an awesome cast member here to help guests.

You also might be interested in this great resource:

Have you visited a Baby Care Center at Disney World? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

5 Ways to Start Your Disney Day in Style!

Getting your day off to a good start often sets the tone for your whole day. No one wants a bad day at Disney! Let’s explore 5 ways to make your morning great and get your day headed in a magical direction!

And now, 5 ways to start your Disney day in STYLE!

1) Mickey Waffles

Why not start your morning off right with a yummy, filling breakfast. Nothing will get your family focused on Mickey Mouse and Disney magic more than eating Mickey Waffles for breakfast. You will find these special waffles at all the table service restaurants that serve breakfast. Plus, value and moderate resorts will have these as options on their quick service breakfast menu. Guess what! You don’t even have to be staying at the resort to eat there. Feel free to stop on your way to the park.

2) Character Breakfast

This is taking Mickey Waffles to a whole ‘nother level! At a Character Breakfast not only will you get to feast on a delicious breakfast, including Mickey Waffles if you desire, but you also get to see your favorite Disney Characters. Character breakfasts are only at Table-Service restaurants and you must have advanced reservations.

Different Table-Service restaurants have different characters you will see. 1900 Park Fare (Grand Floridian) will have Princesses. Crystal Palace (Magic Kingdom) will have Winnie the Pooh and Friends. Lilo and Stitch will show up at O’hana’s (Polynesian). Chef Mickey’s will, of cours, have Mickey Mouse and Friends. There are quite a few other Character Breakfast possibilties. Talk with your Travel Advisor about which one might be the most fun for your family.

**Important Info: As of Summer 2020 the only Character Breakfasts available are at Topolino Terrace (Riviera Resort) and The Garden Grill Restaurant (Epcot). The Characters dance around the restaurant and wave and occasionally slow down for a far away selfie. Unfortunately, they will not sign autographs or pose with you. Other Character Dining will be opening up as time goes on. Talk with your Travel Advisor to keep updated.

3) Rope Drop

Rope Drop is such an awesome way start to your morning. It takes a little planning and sometimes work to get everyone out the door early but, TRUST ME, it will be so worth it!

Rope Drop is getting to the park before it even opens. The idea is to be through health screenings, security and the gate well before the park opens. You will want to make your way as far as possible into the park until you see the Cast Members with ropes holding you back from the rest of the park.

What’s the benefit of this? Crowds are lowest at this point of the day (FYI, sometimes new rides can upset this plan). If you are waiting halfway in the park, think how much closer you are to the rides. Using this method you can often ride most of your favorite rides within a couple hours and not have to wait in long lines.

When is this strategy really important? This strategy is most important during really crowded times–holidays and summer. Get your day started off right, ride your favorite rides and then you can relax the rest of the day enjoying the other wonderful activities in the park. Or you can take a break during the hottest and most crowded time of the day.

4) Minnie Van

How much better would your morning be if you didn’t have to fight the crowds to get on a bus, or have to walk a mile through the parking lot to get to the park entrance. Minnie Van to the rescue!

A Minnie Van (not actually just vans) can be scheduled to pick you up at any Resort and drop you off at any Park you choose. There is an additional fee but if just might be worth it to your family to get your day started off right!

Minnie Vans are scheduled through the Lyft app. Enter in Walt Disney World as a destination, select Minnie Van and continue from there. This is such a great way to start your Disney day in style!

5) VIP Private Tours

Now this is the absolute ultimate way to start off your Disney day in STYLE! This is a very expensive option but, OH MY GOODNESS! Would you have a blow-your-mind-awesome day!

First, there is the ultimate VIP Private Tour. You (and 6-9 of your favorite friends or family members) can have a Cast Member Guide you through all your favorite, must-do rides and attractions for the number of hours you wish. Often they will guide you up to the front of the line for those rides as they dazzle you with little known facts and knowledge about the parks. They are ready to answer every question and make just about every wish come true.

Then there are the VIP experiences that are already planned out. Still AMAZING but not tailored to your group and a little less expensive. You might spend a few hours riding all our favorite Disney Classics. Or spend a heart-pumping, thrill-seeking 7 hours riding major rides at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot AND Hollywood Studios. Can you imagine! Every big ride in 3 parks. Normally just the travel alone between 3 parks would take an hour and a half. What a day!!

No matter which VIP tour you choose you will definitely have a Supercalifragilistic kind of day you will always remember!

Important Info: As of Summer 2020 only the VIP Private Tours are taking Reservations. The other tour options will be available in the future.

Do you have a favorite way to start off your Disney Day? Let me know in the comments below!

If you have any questions or would like help planning your Disney day contact me! I would love to help! tamara@alaskatomickey.com or (907) 952-7055

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Other links you might be interested in :

Disney Vacation July 16, 2020

8 Things Still the Same at Disney World in 2020!

Boy, it sure seems like everything at Disney World has recently changed with all the new health and safety measures. BUT, I want to explore the things that are still the same at Disney World in 2020.

There are actually quite a few really important features that are still the same at Disney World as they were before.

I believe that because the foundations of the Disney experience haven’t changed you can still have a fantastic Disney World vacation even in the midst of the changes!

Let’t take a look!

Theming at Disney World

Immediately when you walk under the bridge into the Magic Kindom, through the turnstiles right onto Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood Studios, or Discovery Island at Animal Kingdom, you are transported to another world. A world of magic, enchantment, and where dreams come true. This is still true of Disney World.

The feel of Disney World is still the same in 2020 even though lots has changed.

You will see the same early 20th-century streetscape, the same old Hollywood flair, the same mysterious Tree of Life, the same iconic Epcot ball. All the lands that you know and love are still there. Africa and Asia haven’t disappeared. Adventureland didn’t get taken over by pirates or angry natives. Galaxy’s Edge wasn’t decimated by the First Order. They are all still there waiting for you!

The Rides

If one on the things you love about Disney World is the rides then you are definitely in luck! Most all of the rides are open and ready for you. Now the queue might be a little different. You might not get to experience the pre-ride activities such as the stretching room in the Haunted Mansion. You may not ride with guest other than your own family (this is a total BONUS!). BUT, the rides are still the same.

The dolls are still forever singing the tune you will be humming all day long after It’s a Small World. The Dwarves are off to work. You will still be terrified at the Tower of Terror. Elsa and Anna will still “let it go”. Battles will still ensue as you make your Smugglers Run.

AND, GUESS WHAT! The lines will be quite a bit smaller (at least for a little while). Okay, okay. I guess this is a change. But I think we can all agree, it is a very good one!

Beautiful Landscaping

One of my favorite things about visiting Disney World is the beauty and cleanliness all around. Gorgeous trees, plants and flowers make the atmosphere so exciting and yet calming. Sitting down on a bench in Adventureland (with Dole Whip in hand) and gazing at all the lush plants and trees is a highlight. I also can’t neglect to mention all the awesome Disney topiaries!

Awesome Customer Service

Disney is known for their fantastic customer service. They often seem to do whatever they can to make your trip to Disney World as wonderful as possible. Even though things look a little different and they might not always be able to do things they way they could before they are still working hard to make your vacation magical.

Incredible Cast Members

Yes, all the fantastic Cast Members are there at Disney World ready to greet you and make your vacation magical. They still love to talk with you, share their tips, and guide you during your day. They will be there at the rides directing you through the lines and where to sit, in the restaurants serving and preparing your food, in the shops helping you find all the souvenirs you could possibly want.

Cast Members have been specially trained to help you navigate all the changes and keep the Disney magic alive and well even in the midst of all the differences.

And of course, they are there hoping to be able to spread a little Pixie Dust too!

The Food

Right now, how you order at the restaurants or where you sit down might be a little different. You might find the menus slightly pared down from what they were before and not all are open. BUT, you can be assured that Disney is doing everything they can to keep the quality and taste of the food just what you always expect. Piping hot churros, popcorn and pretzels are sitting on the carts waiting for you. The quality and the delicious taste of the food is still the same at Disney World!

Disney Transportation

The transportation is still the same at Disney World in 2020 even though there are a few changes.

Thankfully Disney Transportation is here to stay even through all the changes. You are still able to land at Orlando International Airport and not have to drive at all for your whole Disney World Vacation due to the awesome Disney World Transportation.

Disney’s Magical Express will still pick you up at the airport (now you have to get your own luggage) and whisk you off to your fabulous Disney resort. Fewer people will be on the bus with you (maybe this means less waiting for the bus to fill up) and you will be spread throughout. This sounds quite nice!

Disney buses are ready to take you wherever you want to go on Disney World property that is currently open. Theses busses will also have you spread out throughout the bus and will have less passengers. Again, not such a bad thing!

Water transportation is also still available. You can travel on the Friendship boats from Epcot to the nearby resorts. The Magic Kingdom water transportation is also available to the Tickets and Transportation Center and Ft. Wilderness Resort and Campground.

Shopping!

Boy, oh boy! The stores are open for you to shop, shop, shop. Disney is well stocked for you to come in a swoop up all kinds of merchandise. There are cute new shirts welcoming everyone back to Disney World. The 2020 items are still there. At Epcot, you can still purchase memorabilia from the Flower and Garden Festival. You might even find some merchandise from the Taste of Epcot Food and Wine Festival that began on Epcot’s opening day.

The fabulous Cast Members are ready to help you find that sought after hat, stuffed Disney Character, or funny Grumpy t-shirt. They are hoping to make this part of your Disney day fantastic. Just as it should be!

So as you can see…

So what thing that hasn’t changed are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

5 Magic Kingdom Restaurants to Love!

There have been so many changes to Disney World so it is sometimes comforting to think about the things that haven’t. Today’s blog will cover 5 of the wonderful Table-Service Restaurants that are a Disney World staple. Let’s learn more about some great places to sit down and have a wonderful meal at some Magic Kingdom restaurants.

Important Planning Information for Magic Kingdom Restaurants

You must have a Park Reservation and Park Ticket for Magic Kingdom for each person in your party to eat at one of the Magic Kingdom restaurants.
Advanced Reservations can be made 60 days ahead online.
Use Mobile Check-In on My Disney Experience.when you get to the restaurant.
Cashless payment is definitely recommended.
The menu might be a bit different so make sure you check it out before reserving.
Character dining is unavailable at these restaurants for the time being.
Since there is no Disney Dining Plan right now you will have to pay for your meal when you dine.

Health and Safety Measures to Know at Magic Kingdom Restaurants

Enhanced Cleaning: We’ve increased cleaning in high-traffic areas such as public elevators and escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms and more. Additionally, seating areas, dining areas and pagers will be cleaned between Guests.
Reduced-Contact Menus: Menus will be shared in ways to minimize contact. At quick-service restaurants, menus will be displayed on signage. And at table-service restaurants, you can scan a code with your mobile device to access the digital menu.
Self-Serve Changes: Beverages and other items that were previously self-serve will instead be served by Cast Members.
Face coverings for each Guest age 2 and up, which must be worn in all public areas—including while entering and exiting dining locations—and can be removed while eating or drinking

Be Our Guest Restaurant

As you step out of Fantasyland and into the Be Our Guest Restaurant you will feel transported right into the castle of Belle and the Beast! You have three rooms to choose from:

The Grand Ballroom – Go for baroque in this magnificent ballroom with its high, domed ceiling, chandeliers and snow-laced Gothic arches.
The West Wing – Dine in the Beast’s mysterious West Wing study—if you dare—and perhaps you’ll even spy his enchanted rose.
The Castle Gallery – Get swept up in the romance of Belle’s private library, and inspired by the larger-than-life figures of Belle and Beast dancing.

The Menu at Be Our Guest Restaurant

At the Be Our Guest Restaurant both adults and children have the freedom to choose your own 3-course French-inspired prix-fixe meal. You might choose to start your meal with French Onion Soup or Maine Lobster Bisque. You might follow with Center-cut Filet Mignon or Roasted Corn and Spinach Tortellini. For dessert, treat yourself to a rich Dark Chocolate Truffle or a lighter Lemon Jam Macaron. Whatever you choose you will be delighted by your time at this restaurant!

Liberty Tree Tavern

The Liberty Tree Tavern dishes up the ultimate comfort foods for lunch and dinner. This family-style restaurant is right in the heart of Liberty Square. At this Colonial-style restaurant, you will dine on delicious New England inspired food as you sit in one of the six dining rooms that reflect American historical figures:

Benjamin Franklin
Thomas Jefferson
John Paul Jones
Paul Revere
Betsy Ross
George Washington

This is a perfect place to celebrate Thanksgiving!

The Menu at the Liberty Tree Tavern

Since this is a family-style restaurant you table will be brought plates full of crispy salad and then the Patriot’s Platter. The Patriot’s Platter includes Roasted Turkey Breast, Pot Roast, and Oven-roasted Pork with Mashed Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Herb Stuffing, and House-made Macaroni and Cheese.

If you would like a meatless option they have a Plant-based Impossible™ Meatloaf.

For dessert you can indulge in the Oooey Gooey Toffee Cake or the plant based Johnny Appleseed Warm Apple Cake. YUMMY!

The Plaza Restaurant

The elegant turn-of-the-century atmosphere sets the stage for a delicious meal at the Plaza Restaurant. Take a step back to the early 20th Century as you enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. You will find this restaurant at the end of Main Street with a beautiful view of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.

The Menu at the Plaza Restaurant

Bring back yesteryear and get to eat some of your old favorites. Choose from deli-sandwiches, Cheese Steak Sandwiches, burgers or meatloaf. For dessert you will not want to miss out on the chocolate cake or delicious milkshakes. Since there is a ice cream shop close by you may also induldge in a fantastic Banana Split or Brownie Sundae. There is a nice selection of choices on the kids menu also.

Tony’s Town Square Restaurant

“When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s amore!” That is also how you will feel when eating at Tony’s Town Square Italian Restaurant. But this is no ordinary Italian restaurant. This is the restaurant where Lady and the Tramp fell in love! Tony’s Town Square sits right on the hub of Main Street and offers some fun people watching.

The Menu at Tony’s Town Square Restaurant

Mouthwatering Italian food is what you will find at Tony’s Town Square. Start your meal off with a nice Caesar salad or Caprese. Move on to your main entree and choose from classics like Spaghetti, Chicken Parmesana or Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo. Cap off your meal with a delicious dessert of Tiramisu or Cannoli.

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen

Head into Adventureland for your reservation at the Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen (Skipper Canteen for short). This Magic Kingdom restaurant is easy to pass right by as it is tucked in just past the Sunshine Tree Terrace and across the walkway from the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse.

Bring the legacy of the Jungle Cruise to life. The skippers who guide you down the jungle rivers have opened up the doors to their kitchens to feed your famished families. There are three quirky rooms that really reflect your skippers that you might dine in:

The Crew’s Mess Hall–an actually not very messy colonial-era dining hall
The Jungle Room–the former family parlor of Dr. Albert Falls himself
The S.E.A. Room–the once-secret meeting room for the Society of Explorers and Adventurers

The Menu at the Skipper Canteen

At this exotic outpost feast on African, South American, and Asian food with a twist fitting of the joke-cracking skippers. You might want to begin your meal with Jungle Green Salad or Lost and Found Soup (a mystery until you get there). For your meal, you might like to try Dr. Falls Signature Grilled Steak or “Tastes Like Chicken” Because it is! (crispy fried chicken with rice and veggies). Top off your meal with delicious Panna-Connie’s Congo Lime Delight or Kungaloosh!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Here are some other links you might be interested in:

Disney Vacation June 23, 2020

What’s Up at Disney World for 2020 and Beyond!

Disney World is undergoing so many changes right now it can be difficult to navigate. But, hopefully this post will help you understand some of the ins and outs of the new processes and set you on your way to planning a magnificent Disney World vacation in 2020 or 2021.

Let’s start with the Key Dates!

Key Dates for planning your 2020 or 2021 Disney World Vacation

For 2020 Disney World Vacations

If you have a current Disney World Resort reservation in 2020 and park tickets then you will want to immediately get started with the Park Pass System for reserving park days for your trip. This also applies to those with resort reservations and annual passes. You may book as many reservations as your tickets allow (or length of resort stay with an Annual Pass).

If you have Annual Passes (no resort stay) you may begin reserving park days through the Park Pass System on June 26th. You may book through 9/26/2021 but will have a limited number of reservations available.

If you have Disney World tickets but resort booked then you may begin reserving your park days through the Park Pass System on June 28th. You can reserve through 9/26/2021.

If you have booked a Disney World resort but do not have tickets you are able to purchase them now.

Resort Opening Dates for 2020

These Disney Resorts are now open!

Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Towers
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Resorts

Future Resort Openings

Aug. 24 – Disney’s Yacht Club Resorts
Sept. 21 – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Oct. 14 – Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Nov. 1 — Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Summer 2021 — Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

You will notice that Disney’s Beach Club, Boardwalk Inn, Port Orlean’s Riverside/French Quarter, and the All-Star Resorts are not on the above lists. Disney is continuously evaluating the situation and will open these resorts when the environment is right to do so.

For 2021 Disney World Vacations

Brand new bookings for Disney World resort vacations with tickets in 2021 will be available to book on June 28th (but, I have it on good authority that they are available as early as June 24th). Woohoo!!!

But, the process is a little bit different now since you will be required to reserve your park days with the Park Pass System through September 26, 2021. A travel agent will be a plethora of information to help you with the planning process for your Disney World vacation in 2020 or 2021.

Steps to planning your 2021 Disney World Vacation

Check park availability HERE
Purchase tickets/resort package
Purchase airfare
Make park reservations through the Park Pass System ASAP

Where’s the Park Pass System?

Your My Disney Experience app/website should become your new best friend when planning your Disney World vacation in 2020 or 2021. If you don’t have a My Disney Experience account you will need to set one up. If you have one from a cruise or Disneyland, you will use that same login. If you would like, your travel agent can walk you through the process.

The 1st very important step is to link your Resort reservations and tickets to your My Disney Experience site (this can be done by you or your travel agent).

The 2nd very important step is to reserve your park days through the Park Pass System on the My Disney Experience website (the website works better than the app). This must be done by YOU but your travel agent can walk you through the process. You will find the Park Pass System in the drop-down menu at My Disney Experience.

There are more cool reasons you are going to love the My Disney Experience App but we will talk about those at another time. Stay tuned!

Know Before You Go

Disney has created a mini-site to keep you up to date on all the latest happenings at Disney World. At Disney’s World’s Know Before You Go site you will find information about:

Current operating conditions
Health and safety measures
Adjustments to the parks and resorts
Adjustments to Disney World experiences and dining

You should definitely check out this site during your planning process before you purchase your tickets. You will want to make sure that the current procedures are ones that wouldn’t be detrimental to your vacation.

More Important Items

Park Hopping is not available during this time. You are limited to one park per day. Make sure that you plan your dining around the park you are scheduled to be in that day

Advanced Dining Reservations can be made 60 days before your stay. Dining plans are not available now so you will have to pay out of pocket for meals. Dining locations are also limiting the number of diners so be flexible with your options.

Fast Passes are not available either in order to make more room for guests to social distance while standing in line. One less thing to worry about, right!

Both a Park Reservation and a Park Ticket (and dated for the same day) are required for entry in to a theme park. This is so important which is why I am stating it again!

Face Coverings are required for all guest 2 and up, in the theme parks and Disney Springs.

Temperature screenings will be required upon entering theme parks and Disney Springs. If anyone has a temperature of greater than 100.4 degrees then the whole party will be denied entry.

Photopass photographers are not allowed to take pictures with your personal cell phone or camera. If this prompts you to purchase a Memory Maker package make sure that you purchase at least 3 days ahead of your vacation at a slightly discounted price.

What else will be different?

All events that bring large groups of people together in a close area are canceled for now. These events include parades, nighttime spectaculars, character breakfasts, playgrounds, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, H2O Glow Nights, among others.

Special tours and dining experiences will also have to be put off until a future Disney World vacation as well as character breakfasts and Bibbidy Bobbidy Boutique.

To stay up to date on what Enchanting Extras are available keep an eye on this page.

Traditional character greetings are suspended at this time. BUT, that doesn’t mean you won’t see characters. They will be out and about in different ways and full of surprises!

Why should I go? What’s still available?

Oh my goodness, so much!

Most all of the attractions will be open and ready for guest to enjoy such as Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Rise of the Resistance, Space Mountain, the Jungle Cruise, Kilimanjaro Safaris and so much more! Even Spaceship Earth will be open as they are pausing the refurbishment schedule. So cool!

Check out this page for a list of what’s open at each park! Just scroll down to Available Experiences and click on each park for the list.

PLUS, Disney Imagineers are hard at work planning all kinds of things to make your trip special.

Beloved characters will appear in new and different ways that bring a smile to your face while also being mindful of physical distancing. From special cavalcades down the Magic Kingdom Park parade route and friends sailing the waterways of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, to processions along the World Showcase promenade at EPCOT and motorcades on Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Hollywood Boulevard, each area will come to life throughout the day. You never know when a party of your pals may come by, so be prepared for plenty of surprises!

For example, after rocketing through space in Tomorrowland guests might see that famous Space Ranger, Buzz Lightyear; or discover a captive Captain Jack Sparrow as they traverse the Castillo del Morro on their way to Pirates of the Caribbean. Guests could cross paths with Queen Anna and Elsa as they venture “into the unknown” on a journey around World Showcase at EPCOT or spy members of the Resistance hiding out from the First Order throughout Black Spire Outpost on the planet Batuu.

ALSO, they are tweaking and modifying the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival to begin in July and run through the fall. You will also get a small glimpse of the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. How cool is that!! Find out a little more here.

A Walt Disney World Vacation during this time will be truly memorable. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity (hopefully) to experience Disney World like this.

Do you have questions or concerns about planning your Disney World vacation in 2020 or 2021? I would love to help! Send me a message through the Contact Me button above.

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

6 Unusual Things to Love at EPCOT

Are you someone who likes to go off the beaten path? Do you like to blaze your own trail? Then today’s post might be just for you. Wait, you say! I like to stick to the normal stuff. Okay, for those of you who stick to the popular attractions let me encourage you to try something new.

Here we go! 5 unusual things to love at EPCOT!

1) Garden Railway at the Germany Pavilion

As you walk from the Italy Pavillion just before you arrive at the Germany Pavillion you will see a little path go off to the right. Take this little path, the Romantic Road, from the tiny town of Wurzburg to Fusser. Along the way view the miniature mid-century Bavarian town, landscaping, and Lehmann Gross Bahn trains. The gentle movement of the train through the village is quite mesmerizing. Remember, there is a lot more park to see so don’t stay all day.

2) Bijutsu-kan Gallery

Deep in the heart of the Japan Pavillion is the Bijutsu-kan Gallery. You will be delighted to find a very fun and cute exhibit called Kawaii: Japan’s Cute Culture. This small gallery will introduce you to the part of Japanese culture that celebrates “cute” in every facet of life through an “apartment” display. Learn how it is rooted in their Shinto past and brought forth to today. What a great way to take a few minutes away from the busyness of the park and enjoy a little sweetness!

3) Baguettes at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie

The baguettes at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie are a delicious but unusual thing to love at Epcot. — Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie in the France Pavillion

Take a walk all the way throught the France Pavillion, under the archway, past the quaint cafe seating to the wonderful quick-service French bakery, Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie. As you stand in the generally long line eyeing all the wonderful selections (Don’t worry, drooling is normal!) you are actually thankful for the time to make the tough decisions. I am not usually swayed from my objective, a whole chewy delicious baguette, butter and a Coke. At least a couple times during my trip will this be my lunch (and inexpensive too!). Just thinking about these baguettes has me longing to go back!

4) Bruce the Shark

????? you say! Hear me out. You will find Bruce the Shark after riding The Seas with Nemo and Friends (I love this ride!). After exiting the ride you enter SeaBase. This area is full of live sea creatures in one of the largest man-made ocean environments on the planet and many interactive learning displays. But, my kids always gravitate toward Bruce the Shark and the simple play area that surrounds him. No matter what their age my kids always take a turn getting a picture. This is also a great place to wait for my #5 pick.

5) Turtle Talk w/ Crush

Turtle Talk with Crush is one of the highlights of every trip. This isn’t so unusual but is often overlooked. You will find the entrance to Turtle Talk with Crush inside SeaBase (on the left after you exit The Seas with Nemo and Friends). Since this is a show you might have to wait a few minutes until the next show. This is a very family-friendly activity that is accessible to all. As you go in the children will be directed to sit on the floor in the front (if they would like) and the accompanying adults may sit on the benches. There is lots of room so you shouldn’t have to wait more than one show unless it is really busy. The show is hosted by Crush and he loves to talk with the audience through his special Hydraphone. Each show is so unique Such fun!

Bonus Thing to love:) Gran Fiesta Tour

Like #5 the Gran Fiesta Tour is not too unusual of a thing to love at Epcot since it is one of the rides but because it is hidden inside the Mexico Pavillion it can often be forgotten. I am a sucker for a gentle boat ride with lots of fun, colorful, entertaining displays. This is a great ride on a hot day when you want to spend a little time out of the sweltering heat. After you ride you might want to peruse all of the souvenirs from Mexico.

So what is your favorite unusual thing to do or see at Epcot. Let me know in the comments!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Disney World Reopening Plans!

Yipee! Disney has laid out plans to reopen!

July 11th as an opening date for Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom
July 15th as an opening for EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
The parks will now utilize a pre-arrival theme park reservation system and more info will be coming on this
Characters will be in the parks but will not have meet-and-greets
Fireworks and parades postponed for now
There was NOT any discussion on the re-opening of the resorts
There will be increased cleaning protocols
Face masks will be required for guests and cast members
Plexiglass at points of sale in retail and food & beverage locations where distancing cannot be maintained
Reduced capacity of theme parks, restaurant, retail, attractions, buses, monorails and other transportation that enables appropriate physical distancing
Temperature checks at Main Entrances to theme parks
3rd Party screening via contactless, handheld device
Contactless payments with Magic Bands, Apple Pay, Google Pay
Further enable mobile ordering
Launch of the Social Distancing Squad!! A team designed to encourage social distancing protocols
Signage around the parks to remind guests about new health and safety measures
Disney Vacation Club Resorts and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground will begin opening on June 22nd
Disney is dealing with the current guests who have reservations so they will not be making any new reservations at this time

This plan will need to be approved by the Governor of Florida and then Disney can begin executing their plan. Here is what Disney put out on their blog about the reopening. Yes, there are a lot of changes right now but it is super exciting that they finally have given us a plan and a reopening date.

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Disney Vacation May 25, 2020

Disney World Skyliner Tips and Tricks

In March I was able to ride the Disney Skyliner. It was so so so AWESOME!! I loved the Disney Skyliner so much and now I want to share with you some of the things that I learned to make the experience even better for you. On to some Disney World Skyliner tips and tricks!

Disney Skyliner tips — Disney’s Skyliner over Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Click here for a map of the Skyliner

A Quick Overview

Disney’s Skyliner is a gondola “ride” that connects quite a few resorts with Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Let me give you a quick list of the connections:

Epcot to Disney’s Riveria Resort (12 minutes–you do not have to get off) to Disney’s Caribbean Beach (4 minutes)
Disney’s Caribbean Beach to a station between Disney’s Pop Century and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (5 minutes)
Hollywood Studios to Disney’s Caribbean Beach (5 minutes)

If you look at the map you can see the theme parks are the end of the line and Disney’s Caribbean Beach is a hub. The travel times are approximate.

Disney’s Skyliner Caribbean Beach Station

Disney’s Skyliner International Gateway Station

Disney Skyliner tips for Hollywood Studios station — Disney’s Skyliner Hollywood Studios Station

Disney’s Skyliner Pop Century/Art of Animation Station

Now for my Disney World Skyliner tips and tricks to help you navigate this awesome new form of transportation throughout the Disney World Resort!

Stay at a Resort on the Skyliner Route!

If you are going to spend much time at Epcot or Hollywood Studios I highly recommend staying at a resort that has a Skyliner station nearby.

Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort (Jamaica is the closest village to Caribbean Beach Station and Aruba is very close to Riviera Station)
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation

The Skyliner makes transportation to these parks so slick and easy! Lines move very quickly and so most of the time you are able to board without much waiting. Travel time to the parks is so much quicker than taking the bus. A couple of my later tips also support why I think it’s a good idea to stay at a resort serviced by the Skyliner.

Things to remember: 1) Buses to Epcot and Hollywood Studios run much less frequently to/from Skyliner resorts. 2) The Skyliner begins running at 7:30 AM. The ride is quick and if you are in line earlier than opening you should be able to make it into Hollywood Studios by 8 AM. But, if you have an early time commitment an alternate transportation method might be better. I did take the Skyliner from Caribbean Beach and was just able to make it for the Rise of the Resistance Virtual Queue booking.

Try Different Restaurants!

The Skyliner makes it so easy to try different restaurants. Now, you probably don’t want to hop from quick service to quick service but for table service restaurants the Skyliner is amazing. No longer do you have to worry about bus transportation to get you to your reservation on time. Plus, the Ample Hills Creamery (Disney’s BoardWalk Inn) and the take-out counter at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club) are a great place for some yummy ice cream.

Restaurants on the Skyliner route at which you do not need a park ticket:

Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Rivera Resort–Character dining for breakfast and Signature dining for dinner
Sebastians’s Bistro at Disney’s Caribbean Beach
Yachtsman Steakhouse, Cape May Cafe, Ale and Compass Restaurant and Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club
Flying Fish, ESPN Club, Big River Grille & Brewing Works, and Trattoria al Forno (character breakfast) at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn.
The Swan and Dolphin (only a few minutes walk from Disney’s BoardWalk Inn) have quite a few fantastic dining options but they are not included in the Disney Dining Plan

Ride the Skyliner Just to Ride the Skyliner!

It is such a peaceful ride and the scenery is fantastic! I loved seeing the Epcot ball in the distance and overlooking the construction for the France expansion. Check out these views!

Skyliner view of Hollywood Studios buses small

Ask for a Gondola Without a Wrap

This is probably my #1 Disney World Skyliner tip! The graphics on the outside of the gondolas are super cute, on the outside. But, from the inside, the wrap obscures the view. Just ask the cast member directing guests if you can wait for a clear gondola. You might have to wait for a moment (at busy times they may not be able to honor your request) but they will usually try and accommodate. And, trust me, the view will be worth the wait!

Gondola with wrap–cute on the outside but not as good from the inside.

My number one Disney World Skyliner tip is to ask for a gondola without the wrap. — Gondola without wrap–boring outside but great viewing from inside

Take the Skyliner to Hollywood Studios to Catch Buses

If you want to go from one resort to another you must first take a bus to a theme park or Disney Spring. A quicker way to get to a resort is to take the Skyliner to Hollywood Studios and then head over to the bus stop that will take you to the desired resort. Since a lot of my time in March was spent looking at different resorts I used this trick a few times and it worked out pretty slick. I think this feature makes traveling around the Walt Disney World Resort just a bit easier.

This tip does not always work from the Epcot station! Epcot’s Skyliner Station is located outside the International Gateway (near the World Showcase). The buses are all the way on the other side of Epcot so, you must have been to Epcot that day or have a Park Hopper to walk through the park.

Enjoy Your Traveling Companions

Each gondola will hold up to 10 passengers. Strollers and wheelchairs can roll directly on. If your party is small you will most likely have company with you. I know it is easy to just remain quiet and just watch the scenery go by. But you might be pleasantly surprised if you try and begin a conversation. I learned some good tips from fellow travelers and was able to give some of my own to others.

Don’t Panic When the Gondola Stops

I know that everyone has heard the nightmare story of how the Skyliner broke down for hours just after it first opened. But, you need not worry or avoid taking the Skyliner. Most of the time the gondola stops is because cast members have to help someone on that needs an extra moment. Stops happen quite a bit en route but 95% of the time you start back up in just a moment or two.

Too Hot? Open the Windows!

Inside each gondola is a handle above your heads and below your feet that open up the windows. Open windows greatly increase airflow as you move along. As you turn the corner to/from Epcot it is really interesting to feel how the breeze changes inside the gondola. Conversely, if you happen to be cold feel free to close the vents.

Do you have a Disney World Skyliner tip or trick you would like to share? I would love to hear them and learn something new. Just comment below!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Some other blog posts you might be interested in reading:

Disney World vs. Disney Cruise Line? Which is best for my family?
A Guide to Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival
Celebrate the Holidays at Disney World (It’s time to think about Christmas travel)

Planning May 18, 2020

Benefits of Booking Your Vacation Early!

Does booking my vacation early benefit me or the travel companies?

Over and over you see travel companies saying “Book Now” or “Don’t wait any longer, book that vacation today.” Do you wonder, “Is this just to get me locked into a vacation? Is it just to get my money?” My answer to the question, “Should I book my trip now?” is YES. There IS a benefit to you, the traveler, to booking that trip earlier rather than later and not just the travel company. So, read on to discover the benefits of booking your vacation early.

Can’t I take a last minute trip??

Please don’t get the idea from this blog post that you shouldn’t book those last-minute, spur-of-the-moment trips or even 6-9 months ahead (this is my usual booking window). Last-minute trip planning can be super exciting and fun. Instead, I just want to show you the benefits of a little planning ahead, like a year or more.

Planning during the Pandemic

I am writing this in the midst of the Pandemic. We aren’t able to travel right now and for many that can be really hard. When this all started, we had just come back from vacation. So, we weren’t planning on going anywhere for a while, but, I still have the feeling of being trapped simply because I can’t travel. SO, since we cannot go, I feel that planning for a vacation is really important. Having something to look forward to brings hope in difficult times.

But, traveling costs money which might be in short supply right now! Continue reading and I will address this as one of the benefits of booking your trip early.

At the end of this post there will be a FaceBook live that I did a few months ago about the benefits of booking your vacation early.

Benefits of Booking Early

Definition of booking early–Booking a trip a year or more ahead of time. Now, many companies are booking well into 2021 with some going even into 2022.

Best Selection when Booking Early

Cruises

Stateroom Selection–As you know there are only so many staterooms on a cruise ship. And then, there are only so many staterooms in a certain category or the location you want. If you want connecting cabins, cabins right across the hall from each other, or some of the few larger cabins that sleep 5 or 6 then booking early will help get the perfect stateroom. Want one of the few suites or one of DCL’s Deluxe Family Oceanview split layout staterooms? Booking early is imperative! Especially if you want the one and only, super amazing, super awesome (and super expensive) Royal Caribbean Ultimate Family Suite which is booked up at least a year out.

River Cruise ships are small (100 staterooms or less) and definitely have a limited selection. Some boats have only 1 or 2 single rooms, a handful of the economical window, french balcony or lower balcony staterooms.

For those needing an accessible room booking early gives you the best selection as these are usually limited in number.

Cost–Often Cruise lines offer their best prices when they first release their cruise dates about 15-18 months out. This is especially true of Disney Cruise Line. The cost will then go up for a while and only go down a few months before with a Guaranteed fare so you cannot pick your own cabin (and that is often to the same fare as the time of release).

Dining–The main seating time in the main dining room is always the first to go. We booked our cruise 9 months ahead. Our family was able to get a main seating reservation only because we had children but the whole rest of our party was relegated to the second seating. We had to wait and wait and wait to see if our party could eat all together.

Excursions–There are some excursions and activities that are limited to a certain number of people. Once the numbers are filled you are out of luck. Cabanas on private islands are one example. Booking early is essential to securing a cabana for the day. Another is the water park on Royal Caribbean’s Coco Cay. The capacity of the waterparks is significantly lower than the capacity of the ship. If that is a must-do for you then early booking is important.

Resorts

Most Resorts aren’t in as much danger of booking up like cruises except at busy traveling times such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter/Spring Break. Popular smaller resorts might get booked up during the summer. So, there are some resorts that benefit form early booking.

Disney World–Disney World definitely is a place that benefits from booking your vacation early. Value and Moderate resorts are some of the first to fill up all year round but especially during the busy seasons. Getting a 5th sleeper at Disney’s Caribbean Beach or Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside becomes incredibly challenging if you wait too long. These rooms are the least expensive way for a family of 5 to stay on Walt Disney World property and as such, they are in great demand.

Dining reservations at Disney World–Advance Dining Reservations can be made 6 month ahead. In order to get the time you want to some of the most popular restaurants (Be Our Guest, Cinderella’s Royal Table, Le Cellier) need to be reserved at the 6 month mark.

Guided Tours

You cannot go on any tour, any time of year. Guided tours are scheduled at specific times and they are limited both in the number of travelers and the number of expeditions. Sometimes there might be only one trip to a country. Getting to go where you want, when you want is a big reason to book a tour early.

Ability to Budget Your Vacation

The ability to accurately budget for you vacation is another one of the benefits of booking your vacation early. Once you plan and book your vacation you know exactly how much it will cost. Some companies allow you to pay a deposit and then make the final payment at a certain point before you depart. This gives you the opportunity to make yourself a monthly budget in order to have the vacation paid off before you go. You can ask your travel advisor to set up a payment schedule for you to help you stay on track.

Companies that work well for budgeting:

Disney Parks–$200 deposit and final payment due 30 days ahead
Disney Cruise Line–20% deposit and final payment 3 or 4 months ahead depending on length of cruise
Adventures by Disney–10% and final payment due 4 months ahead
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line–$250/per person deposit and final payment 3 months prior (does depend on length of cruise above for 6+ days)
Norwegian Cruise Line–Same as Royal Caribbean
AmaWaterways–$400/person deposit and final payment 3 months ahead
National Geographic Journeys by G Adventures–$500 or $750 (some $2000) deposit depending on length of journey and final payment due 3 months ahead

This list certainly is not exhaustive. There are quite a few other companies that have the same deposit and final payment options. So there are lots of vacations you can plan early and be able to budget easily. Yippee!

Groups Get Choices You Want

If you are coordinating a group (or your travel advisor is–so much easier for you) a huge benefit to booking your vacation early is to get the features you want–rooms together, cruise dining times, excursions, dinner reservations, etc. We traveled with family for a reunion cruise and because we booked 15 months ahead we were all able to have main seating dining and we had a better selection choosing staterooms closer together. Groups usually take up quite a bit of room and it is best to book when there is a lot of selection available. One group of 10 couples on a river cruise ship could take up 10% of the staterooms. One extended family could fill an entire guided tour so if you want your choice of dates you have to book early.

Something to Look Forward To

I actually think that this is an important reason to book early. Studies show that it is good for your psyche if you have something good on the horizon. For me, when I don’t have a specific planned I feel a little at loose ends. Even if that vacation is a year or more away I feel better. Also, if you know for sure you are going on a trip it sometimes makes it easier to scrimp and save.

If you have any more suggestions you have experienced about the benefits of booking your vacation early just comment below!

Happy travels to you…Until we meet again!

Links you might be interested in reading:

5 Reasons to Book Your 2020 Disney World Vacation NOW (still applies to booking for 2021)
It’s Tulip Time! Explore the Netherlands and Belgium–Start planning for Tulip Time next year
Planning a Family Reunion? Consider a cruise!–Planning ahead is very beneficial when planning a group trip.

Hi! I’m Tamara. I am a travel loving, Christ-following, wife of a wonderful husband and mother of 7.

Traveling is a passion of mine. I love to get away from home whether that is exploring our own gorgeous state, flying off to Disney (my favorite) or another exotic location (pretty much anywhere outside of AK)

My goal is to share travel tips and tricks to inspire your own family adventures.
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