Rooms for Your Royal Family!

With all of the buzz about the new Royal baby and the upcoming Royal wedding, I thought I'd highlight Disney World's very own Royal Rooms at Port Orleans Riverside resort.

Port Orleans is considered a Moderate resort on the Disney property.  As with all on-site resorts, your stay includes Extra Magic Hours, MagicBands, FastPass availability 60 days in advance, Option to purchase Dining Plan, Magical Express, Ability to charge items at the parks onto your room account...  And above all, Disney Customer Service which really is priceless.

Having fun while parents check in.

Awe...Back when Rapunzel (his puppy) went everywhere!

The resort is located in the Disney Springs area and there are boats to take you directly to Disney Springs from the resort.  To reach the Disney Theme Parks, you'll take complimentary Disney bus transportation.

Views of the resort and the Sassagoula River

There is an amazing food court at the resort (Riverside Mill Food Court) which is a great place to have a quick breakfast before heading out.  And don't forget if you're on the Dining plan, you can refill your souvenir mug with your favorite soft drink here!

The pool is one of the best at Disney - Ol’ Man Island is a 3.5-acre refuge with a swimmin’ hole and a fishin’ hole. Fashioned after an abandoned sawmill, this pool is accessible by 3 wooden bridges and includes a 95 foot-long rustic waterslide built into the millworks.

One of the room types at Port Orleans Riverside is the Royal Room.  I had the chance to tour one recently and even if I didn't have kids, I'd love to stay in this room!!

The headboards in this room glitter with fiber optic lights, creating your own personal “fireworks” display that can be turned on and off as you like.  During your stay, discover special mementos left by Tiana’s royal friends from classic Disney animated films such as Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. For example, the bathroom faucets are in the shape of the genie’s lamp from Aladdin and the luggage bench is in the shape of Sultan, the dog that was turned into a bench in Beauty and the Beast. And does that ‘rug’ on the carpet look familiar?

The room is wonderful top to bottom and no details were overlooked.  The only downside to the Royal Room is that it doesn't include the fold-out bed like others at Port Orleans so you have a maximum of 4 people in this room.  If you have a family of 5 and would like to stay at Port Orleans, you'll need a standard room but those are really nice also.  You can just pretend that you're still Royalty but you're incognito!  

Give me a call and let me help you find the right room for your Royal Family!!!

All 4 Parks in 1 Day at Disney World?? YES!!

Think you can't do all 4 parks in one day at Disney World?  Well, think again - you can!!  The pic above is proof that we did just that on our recent trip.  Today's post will give you tips and tricks on how to hit all of the parks in one day!

First - start EARLY.  Don't start at 10am and expect to get everything in.  Be at the first park at rope drop (when they open).  Actually be there before they open.  Our first park was Animal Kingdom and with Pandora still being hugely popular, there was already a large crowd headed to the Avatar rides.  Be early enough to get a jump on the line for any ride that typically has a long line that you didn't get a FastPass for.  In our case, we had our Flight of Passage FP but wanted to check out Na'Vi River Journey.  Even being there before the park opened, the line was still over an hour long!  Of course it got longer as the day went on so be early!!

Even at "rope drop" crowds were huge heading into Pandora...

Being early helps you to enjoy the park you're at and not rush through everything just to get to the next park.  I actually didn't intend this to be a 4-park-day, but planning ahead and not wasting time helped me to accomplish it!  But do still take the time to get those great PhotoPass pics and enjoy a delicious Mickey Bar!!

Take the time to get your pic with Everest!

There's ALWAYS time for a Mickey Bar!

One way to make sure you're not wasting time is to take advantage of Mobile Ordering for Quick Service locations (more on this here), or be sure to have made Dining Reservations.  Remember I can get those for you 6 months before you travel so don't waste time waiting for an open table!!

Along the lines of Mobile Ordering or Dining Reservations, be sure you have FastPasses for as early in the day as possible.  When your first 3 are gone, you can get one more at the next park you're heading to (if still available).  Be sure and ask me how this process works as it can save you time and make sure you hit your favorite rides!

After we did all we wanted to do at Animal Kingdom, 3 of us went on to Hollywood Studios.  Don and Ryan were more interested in a rest time than getting in all of the parks and although I don't understand it, it works for them!  So if you have a group of people, be okay with some doing one thing and others doing another.  

I was only interested in riding Rock 'n' Roller coaster as we didn't get a chance to earlier in the trip.  So our stop at Hollywood Studios was only for one ride.  (Thanks to Luke and Andrew for waiting with me in line even though they didn't want to ride!)  I'd say it was totally worth it as that's one awesome ride!!

Next on to Magic Kingdom!  I had actually planned on just ending the day at MK.  But then looking at the fireworks schedule, I realized that MK fireworks were at 8pm and EPCOT's fireworks were at 9pm. That's when it hit me that we could do all 4 parks!  We had to compromise a bit and watch MK's fireworks from the train station rather than closer to the Castle.  That meant we could get out quickly and head to the monorail to get to EPCOT in time for their show.  But from that point, we couldn't see the Castle due to the Christmas tree.  Other times of year, this wouldn't be a problem.  Still loved the show though!

Don't wait until fireworks are completely over to hit the exit or you'll never make it as everyone will leave at the same time.  We had seen the show from our balcony a few times so knew about when to leave.  But even if you hadn't, just watch about 10 minutes and head out as the show is around 15 minutes.  

We got to EPCOT with time to spare and enjoyed the fireworks show.  After the fireworks, we still had some time before the park closed so we rode Test Track.  In the end I rode at least one ride at each park and ate (at least) one snack.  Success!!

Just don't be in such a hurry to "do all the parks" that you forget to enjoy yourself.  Have fun like us goofballs in these pics below...  We got back to the room exhausted but happy from a wonderful day!!

Call me to help you plan your trip - if you do 1 park a day or try for all 4, I can help!!

Disney World... The SCARIEST Place on Earth??

Although in my mind, Disney World is most certainly NOT a scary place, there are some scary elements to be aware of if you're heading there with small children.  

There are some obvious scary things that parents are prepared for like thrill rides intended for adults.  A few off the top of my head are the Tower of Terror, Mission: SPACE, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster...  

But there are a few rides that you think of as family friendly that just might make smaller ones a bit nervous.  I love the Haunted Mansion, but as a kid that one can be a little spooky.  Check out one of my favorite videos of Luke's reaction when he was 3.

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And it's not just my goofy little kids that have been known to be nervous on this ride.  I love this picture while on Haunted Mansion - Ryan looks a little nervous.  But check out the kid in the Doom Buggy next to us.  His Dad just decided it was too much and covered the kid's face.  Hilarious! (Maybe not to the kid).  I would still recommend this ride to families, but just know it's dark and spooky and think about if your child could handle that.

Another potentially scary part of the parks is the noise of the fireworks shows and parades.  Andrew hid from us once (causing ME to be terrified) during a parade because he didn't like the noise.  And he likes looking at fireworks but the noise bothers him.  Wish I'd have thought back then to take ear plugs along to help him enjoy these parts more.  If you have one that is nervous with loud noises, plan ahead and take those ear plugs.

Dark areas, even those that have no scary elements, can bother a lot of kids.  We let the boys take tiny flashlights with them the first time they went and if they got nervous in a dark part of the park, they could turn them on for a minute to calm their nerves.  I would also recommend taking a nightlight for your hotel room as those are either pitch dark at night or you have to leave the bathroom light on which seems super bright!

Security can also be an issue for some children.  Something about the officers in uniform and everyone crowding around can cause anxiety.  Mention it to your child ahead of time so that they are prepared for it.  And once in a while, there will be a security dog on duty.  If your child is afraid of dogs, letting them know that one may be nearby may help.

Of course, I've seen tons of kids that have a complete meltdown when approached by Characters.  The good news is that most characters now have Meet-and-Greets and are rarely just out wondering in the parks.  But once again, just prepare the child in advance.  The characters are awesome though about realizing that the child doesn't want to be approached and you'll probably not have any problems in this area!

Please give me a call if you're thinking about a Disney trip.  I have a list of rides and how my kids handle them that can certainly help when you're planning.  And remember my services are always FREE to plan and book your trip!!

Rantings of a Frustrated Travel Agent

OK, so I should start by saying it’s not your fault.  You just don’t know how it works! 

In the past few weeks, I’ve had many potential clients contact me for information and pricing on Disney trips and Disney cruises.  But only a couple have actually booked a trip.

I know that there are times when the price isn’t what is expected or dates of availability don’t work out.  But lately, I’ve had a lot of people tell me thanks and then go book it on their own online.

My first instinct is to be frustrated.  Typically I’ve spent a decent amount of time finding out about what they want in a trip and then customizing a quote based on that.  And time spent doing that is something I do enjoy but when it boils down to it, it takes time away from my family.  That’s easier to justify when it becomes a job and I’m paid for it, but when a trip isn’t booked, I don’t get paid.  (Cue the Mom Guilt at that point). 

That’s something I think people just don’t quite understand.  I only get paid when I book a trip.  Now if the trip is not right for you, you decide not to go, circumstances change… I totally get it.  But to go book online with the info I’ve provided stings a bit.  

I truly think people just don’t know how it works though so I try not to take it personally. I do want to educate everyone on a couple of things though.  Click the links below to find out why you need a travel agent and how I actually get paid...

Do you really Need a travel agent to go to Disney?

How Do I get Paid?

Disney is no small business.   But when you book your trip through an authorized Disney travel agent (like myself!) you are supporting a local business.  Doesn’t cost you a penny more and in fact may save you money in the long run.  

The best benefit for you is that you have access to my expertise and one-on-one planning.  I am your direct link to Disney or Universal!  If you book yourself and need to make changes, have a question or just want to get some advice, you can call Disney/Universal.  But you’ll have a different agent every time that doesn’t know you or your situation.  And be prepared for a long wait on the phone. 

With me, I get to know what you want out of your trip and work to make it the best possible.  If there’s any need to call Disney/Universal, I will do that for you.  And there's a reason I only book Disney/Universal vacations.  I've been there, done that.  I don't book other areas because I'm not an expert!  Not to brag, but I do feel like an expert when it comes to Disney and Universal and I'd love to be your Fairy Godmother.

I really hope I haven’t offended any of you that might be reading this.  If you’ve asked me for information but didn’t book a trip, just know that I totally understand.  And honestly, before I became a travel agent, I most likely did the same thing in asking for info but doing it myself.  

Do me a favor and spread the word on this new knowledge - there’s no reason for you to plan alone when it costs you nothing to have an expert in your corner!!

Is Universal Better Than Disney?

Something that has been debated for a while amongst theme-park goers is the question of which one is better - Disney or Universal?  

To be honest, Disney has my heart and I won't ever be able to say that I think Universal is better.  However, depending on your family and situation, Universal might be a better fit for you.  I love all things Disney but I admit I'm pretty much a little kid when it comes to that stuff.  I know a lot of people that prefer Universal and today I'll talk about a few reasons why that might be the case.  Even I have to admit that in the following areas, Universal has the edge!

1 - Security Process

I am all for stringent security at the parks - I really do feel safe there and that's worth a lot.  But in this area, Universal wins hands down.  They have an almost airport like security area in which you send your bags through an x-ray machine and then you go through the metal detector.  When we visited, it was first thing in the morning and we were through security in a matter of seconds.  Also, since it's at the entrance to CityWalk, you go through once and you're good for both theme parks and all of CityWalk until you leave.  

Disney does a thorough, by-hand, bag check.  It's time-consuming and sometimes a bit frustrating.  If only everyone understood the process and got ready before their turn it wouldn't be a big deal, but not everyone reads my blog!!  :)  They also have metal detectors and they randomly send guests through them.  We typically waited 5-10 minutes to get through, which isn't much, but I really loved Universal's streamlined process.  Plus at Disney, if you leave a park and go to another, you get to do the security process all over again.

Universal's Security Checkpoint 

2 - Proximity of Parks to Each Other

Universal is smaller than Disney which can be a great thing.  If you stay on property, you can easily get to both Theme Parks and all of the CityWalk entertainment on foot.  They do have shuttles and water-taxis but it's nice to have the option to walk if you don't want to do public transportation (Don loves this option).  

At Disney, if you want to go from one park to the other, or head to Disney Springs, you can't walk.  The area is just too large.  

The maps below may look similar sized, but looks are deceiving.  Universal is around 800 acres and Disney World is 43 square miles!!

3 - Harry Potter!

OK, so I know that Disney has all of my favorite characters.  I mean they have Mickey Mouse after all.  But the thing about Universal and Harry Potter is that you feel like you are actually in Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley.  Disney has amazing theming but nothing quite so immersive as the Harry Potter areas.  This may all change when Star Wars Land opens up though!  I'll keep you posted!!

 

4 - More Rides for the Big Kids

To be quite honest, I'm happy as a little clam riding Small World, Winnie the Pooh, Peter Pan...  You name it.  But I know some people like a little more thrill from their rides.  Universal has that.  I won't ride a few of them since I'm a big chicken, but if thrills are what you're after, you can find them there.  Disney has a few too, but as a whole, I think Universal has the edge here.

So is Universal better than Disney?  You decide!!!  And please, give me a call to let me help you plan and figure it out.  Don't forget my services are free and I would love to help you make this decision!!

Coming in August - Universal's NEW Aventura Hotel! Booking now!

Universal’s Aventura Hotel, opening August 2018, is a modern and stylish place for you to stay. This perfectly priced hotel is within walking distance of Universal’s Volcano Bay!  Of course, walking paths and shuttle buses are available to get to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.  It's available to book today for your late summer vacation!

As with the other Universal on-site resorts, you'll enjoy Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay™ one hour before the parks open (valid theme park admission required).

The rooms will feature wooden (tile) floors, which is a first for standard rooms at Universal Orlando, and each will come with a tablet that will allow guests to control many of its features, such as the lights, television, and air-conditioning. Universal is promising this will be the most technologically-advanced hotel on-property.

There's also a Kids Suite - this 575 square foot room sleeps 5 and features a special interior area for the kids that includes two twin beds. You can put the little ones to sleep securely while you enjoy a few hours of downtime in a separate area that offers a king bed and a couch that converts into a deluxe, foam bed. 

Universal’s Aventura Hotel Introductory Offer

Book a 4-night stay or longer and you'll not only be among the first to stay at the newest on-site hotel, but you'll also receive a FREE $50 hotel dining credit* (per room). To take advantage of this introductory offer, you must book by June 15, 2018 with travel August 16 to December 20, 2018.  

And of course, if you book with Trips By Mouse, I will provide all of my planning services for FREE!  The cost is the exact same if you book with me or book yourself, so you'll want to make sure to take advantage of my expert planning.

Guest Room Amenities

• 600 guest rooms and suites; rooms start at 258 sq. ft.
• Flat panel television with HD channels and On Demand® in-room movies (fees apply)
• Coffee maker
• Mini refrigerator
• Iron, ironing board, hairdryer and in-room safe
• Two compartment bathroom – tub/shower with toilet, and separate compartment with sink and vanity
• Complimentary wireless internet access in each guest room and most common areas of the hotel (or upgrade to Premium Plus wireless internet access for optimal entertainment and business needs.)

Standard Room at Aventura

Pool:

Underwater speakers allow for Universal’s dive-in movie experiences!  The pool area also features a kids' splash zone and a fire-pit!

Pool at Aventura

Dining Options at Aventura:

FOOD HALL

The food hall is where unique, high-quality restaurants come together, offering a multitude of cuisines for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Throughout this expansive space are dining options sure to fit everyone’s palettes. Guests can enjoy their meals indoors or poolside, where the free WiFi flows.

LOBBY BAR

The lobby bar is contemporary, spacious and inviting. This breezy and comfortable meeting space is the perfect before or after dinner hangout.

ROOFTOP BAR - Bar 17 Bistro

Here, you can take in the views of the city and the theme parks - including Krakatau at Volcano Bay and Hogwarts at Islands of Adventure. All your drink favorites, some custom potions and delicious small plate specialties make the rooftop bar a cool hangout.

Rooftop Bar at Aventura

POOLSIDE BAR AND GRILL

You might spend a whole day in the relaxing surroundings of the hotel’s pool. And why not, when all your snacks and meals, along with frozen drinks, cocktails, beer and wine are right here?

STARBUCKS® COFFEE

Starbucks is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. The Starbucks at Universal’s Aventura Hotel is in the heart of the hotel lobby and offers their full menu of food and drinks.

Other Amenties:

A couple of other great amenities are an on-site Universal Studios Store, a Complimentary Fitness Center and a Virtual Reality game room where technology and motion tracking controllers deliver an experience unlike any other.

*Terms and Conditions of Dining Credit:  One (1) $50 hotel dining credit per room. Credit applies to food and beverage (excluding alcohol) at Universal’s Aventura Hotel restaurants only, days/hours of operation may vary. Hotel dining credit must be used in full during stay and excludes gratuities and applicable taxes. Offer is non-transferable and cannot be combined with any prior purchases. Any unused credit is non-transferable and non-refundable and forfeited if not used. All prices and options are subject to availability to change without notice and additional restrictions may apply.

Be One of the First to Enjoy Disney World's Toy Story Land!

This Summer, Get Ready to Play Big in a New Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

Toy Story Land opens in just 95 days people!!  Want to be one of the first to check it out?  Call me!  I'll get you set up with reservations and tickets.  And if you want to be one of the first to enjoy the new rides in the new land, you'll definitely want a FastPass.  The new attractions will be the most popular at the parks this summer and you don't want to waste your time standing in line! Disney hasn't released information yet on when FastPasses will be available, but based on past new attractions, I'd expect them at the 60-day out mark.  So you've got about 35 days to get booked and then we'll be able to get that FastPass!

Here's a glimpse at all of the fun to be had in the new land...

Attractions:

Slinky Dog Dash - 

Andy’s assembled his Mega Coaster Play Kit—and Slinky Dog is gonna take you on a wild, toy-filled adventure as you stretch Slinky Dog’s coils to the limit across Andy’s backyard! Come along for a roller-coaster-style ride as he bends and twists and stretches his way all throughout this new land.  Make no mistake, it’s one wacky attraction… and fun for the entire family!

Alien Swirling Saucers - 

Blast off on an interstellar romp, set to an out-of-this-world beat!  Inside a play set that Andy won at Pizza Planet, the Aliens have powered up their flying saucers—and they’re ready to spin you on a wild ride into space! Hold on for some wild fun as your toy rocket takes off, all while electronic space music provides an intergalactic soundtrack.  And if you’re really lucky, you might just get “chosen” by the claw. Oooooo!

Toy Story Midway Mania - 

Step inside Andy’s room and wind your way through a toy treasure chest of classic playthings. Pass a Candyland® game box, Viewmaster® discs, crayon drawings and a Scrabble board before picking up a pair of special 3D glasses for the fun to come.  Climb aboard an early 20th-century-inspired Carnival Ride Tram and grab your spring-action shooter. With 3D glasses on, glide into the Toy Story Midway Games Play Set and take aim at stationary and moving 3D objects in a variety of fast-paced games.  This popular ride may not be new but it never gets old!

Food:

Woody's Lunch Box - 

Lasso your hunger with a meal from Woody’s Lunch Box!  During your upcoming Toy Story Land adventures, be sure to drop by this food stop for a toy-riffic meal! Dishing out all sorts of tasty treats for “honorary toys,” Woody’s Lunch Box features classic American fare, old-fashioned soda floats and other Toy Story-themed specialties.

Character Encounters:

Inside this new land, you’ll have the chance to encounter some of your favorite characters from the Disney•Pixar “Toy Story” films, including Sheriff Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie the Yodeling Cowgirl!  And keep an eye out for the Green Army Men - one of the most fun character encounters out there!

Thinking of going to Disney World later in the summer or even this fall/winter?  Now's the time to firm up your plans so that you can have me get the dining reservations you'd like.  Remember those are available 6 months out.  Contact me today!!!

runDisney Races - Should You Do One?

Yes, Yes and Yes!  I guess I might say no if you were opposed to running a race in general but you could walk one and still have a great time!  You should definitely sign up for the most magical race weekend on Earth at Walt Disney World® Resort where your favorite classic Disney characters are the hosts! With race distances for all skill levels, including Kids Races, a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Marathon, participants will enjoy special Disney entertainment on course and earn one-of-a-kind Disney finisher medals. Plus, runners can take on race challenges to earn even more bling. Whether you're a beginner or a veteran runner, everyone can experience the magic of running through Walt Disney World® Resort!

Registration for the 2019 Disney World Marathon Weekend opens up on April 17 at noon (ET) or 11am (CST).  You need to plan ahead and know what you want to do because it sells out QUICK and is non-refundable.  So only sign up if you're sure you want to do it but be sure to sign up that day!  

For Race Weekend:

The Expo - you must pick up your packet YOURSELF.  I know a lot of races allow you to pick up other people's packets but not this one.  So plan to be in Orlando the evening before the race with enough time to pick up your packet before the expo closes.  I heard the the expo was quite crowded the evenings before the 5K and 10K but on the evening before the Half, it was practically empty.  Here are some pics of the expo that evening:

The Expo is at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Disney property.

Packet Pickup - NO lines when we went!

T-shirt pickup - also no lines!

TRUE Story!!

Race Morning - We stayed at the Contemporary which was AMAZING for convenience.  Monorail resorts are perfect since the start line is at Epcot and you are taken right there.  Each Disney resort has buses dedicated that morning for the race so even if you don't stay on the monorail, you'll be good to go.

Plan on getting there EARLY.  Our race start time was 5:30am.  The latest they recommended being on the monorail was 3:30am.  I hate to cut things close so we headed out of the room by 3am.  It's a long walk from the monorail or bus drop-off to the corrals so you want to leave plenty of time!  Yes, we did have to stand in the corral for years it seemed before the race started but at least we didn't miss it!  We were in one of the last corrals so we didn't cross the start line until close to 6:30am.  You do have to be a little bit careful on food and drink that morning.  Don't drink so much that you have to leave the corral to use the restroom but of course don't let yourself become dehydrated!

The best parts of the race?  Running through the parks, of course!!  If you're like me, prepare for a few tears as you hit the parks.  The Half goes through Magic Kingdom and ends at Epcot.  The Full goes through all four parks (which is enough to make me plan to do this some day even though I had promised myself a few years ago to never run a full marathon again)!  I didn't stop for PhotoPass photographers but I tried to look like running is easy for every photographer that I saw! I also snapped some shots as we ran with my phone - wish I had done more of that.

Almost to the Magic Kingdom!

Running down MAIN STREET!! Yes, it's crowded...

Woody & Bullseye! Next time I'll stop for the actual pic!

THE Castle and a Cheeseball

My fav pic of my running buddies - Ryan and our cousin Muriel.

Geez - how did I miss the camera this bad? Too excited over running thru the Castle, I guess!

Murn's much better at smiling at the right camera!

Cheeseball Part 2. I really did have THE BEST TIME!

Costumes - you've really got to dress up!  But there are rules.  Check out runDisney's website for the full set but basically you can do whatever won't get in your way or anyone else's way and no masks.  We saw some great ones but it was an off year since it was so cold.  I think a lot of the best ones were covered up with layers!  The easiest is to dress as a character but still in running gear like Ryan (Yoda) and I (Rapunzel) did.

Finish line pic!

We did it!!

Medals - Wear them in the parks the following days!  You'll enjoy the glory as everyone congratulates you and makes you feel like the rock star that you are...

Yeah I was a bit proud of my medal.

Use your lanyard for character signatures!

My Best Pal Mickey adding his signature!

Post Race - I would recommend planning an easy day on race day.  I was pumped to go eat my favorite breakfast at Tusker House post race so had made reservations for our entire family.  We made it on time but it did put a bit of stress on me to make sure we got there.  The race takes longer than you think due to stopping for pics, crowds and busy transportation.  I skipped a lot of the set up photo ops with characters since I knew we were on a time crunch.  Next time I won't have a set schedule after the race and I'll stop for all of those pics!  

My only other advice is to be prepared for the unexpected.  Yeah, I know - how can you prepare for that?  Well for one, plan on any type of weather.  We FROZE before the race since we were expecting to have warmer temps.  Mid 30s is pretty miserable when you're wearing shorts and standing hours before you reach the start line.  I would wear layers that you can toss if you warm up.  Discarded clothing is collected and given to charity after the race so you can feel good about tossing it aside.  

For the best race possible...  Train!  Even though it's the most fun race I've ever run, it is still a long distance and you can get hurt if you're not ready.  Enjoy yourself - you most likely won't set a personal record on a Disney race.  But I can tell you that you won't care.  So. Much. Fun.  Just be forewarned that this race will ruin you for any other races you plan to run!!  Nothing compares.

Check out how much fun these people had when we watched the Full race at Epcot.  They had stopped for drinks near the finish line.  We saw a ton of people doing this - don't worry about finishing quickly and enjoy yourself!!  Also, be sure and wear your MagicBand so that you can just charge food/drinks without carrying money.  Of course, you'll have to wait until the parks open to be able to do this but on the Full race you'll be running well after the parks open.

Here are some tips to help you on registration day.  PLEASE give me a shout if you think you might want to register and I can be available that day for info or help...

Before registration day - sign up for an account on Active.com - the registration system that runDisney uses. This way, you will save time entering basic information.

Be at your computer a few minutes BEFORE registration opens and open your browser window to Active.com and make sure you’re logged in.

Once the time arrives, the registration link will appear on the runDisney page (may need to refresh a few times).  Click on it and you will be taken to Active.com. By having logged into your account earlier, you should already be logged in and ready to go. Select which race you are registering for. Here’s when a few different things could happen:

• You might be instantly directed to the registration page.
• You might be sent to a virtual waiting queue. If so, do not hit back or close your window! This is what I saw when I registered last year - the wait time was only a few minutes for me.
• You might see ON HOLD by the race you want to sign up for. If this happens, DON’T PANIC, just keep hitting refresh and trying again since there’s a good chance it will reopen.
• You might see SOLD OUT.  Don't let this happen to you!  Be on time to register!

I would love to visit with you about your personal situation and talk about the races in more depth.  Of course, along with race information, I can plan and book your entire trip for FREE!  Give me a call!!

Is it Worth the Price to Dine at Cinderella's Royal Table?

In all my years of visiting Walt Disney World, I'd never had the chance to eat at Cinderella's Royal Table until this most recent trip.  I'd always wondered if it would actually be worth the high cost just to eat in the Castle.  In this post, I'll let you know what I discovered!

Thanks to my sweet kid Luke, I was finally able to check out Cinderella's Royal Table.  Having 3 boys, it was just not something we thought would appeal to them enough to justify spending our time or money.  But I've had many clients ask me what I thought so I decided to just go it alone this trip while the boys played golf.  Luke heard me talking about it and said he didn't want me to have to go alone so he went with me!  (I told you he was sweet).  

He didn't love the idea of meeting all the Princesses, so I made him my Photographer and he did an excellent job.  The Princesses were awesome to catch on right away that they had a guest that didn't want to be fawned over so they focused their attention on me and let him just take the pics.  Those Princesses are some smart women!  Here are the great pics he took...

One of the best perks of the meal was the fact that I made an early morning breakfast reservation so we got into the park early.  Look for a blog post in the near future explaining that process and how it's a great thing!

Once we were at the Castle, we checked in at the desk and were shown to a small waiting area.  In just a few minutes, Cinderella made a grand entrance and met with the few guests in the room.  We each had a turn to visit with her and there was a PhotoPass photographer on hand to capture the moment.  (FYI, there are no photographers in the restaurant so bring your own - like Luke!).

Cinderella had Luke help her sign my medal lanyard - bring your autograph books!

After meeting Cinderella, we made our way up the winding staircase (I enjoyed this more than the average person I imagine...) in the turret of THE CASTLE!  The restaurant itself is really pretty small so once again, get those reservations 6 months in advance!!  We nabbed the absolute best seat in the house with a view of Fantasyland.

The winding staircase!

Restaurant Interior

Best Seat in the House

Here's Our Table!

Before the Princesses came around, we were served a pastry plate and gave our order.  Even though Luke is older than the standard kid's menu, they let him order off of it.  We also each received a fun souvenir - his was a sword and mine was a magic wand!

Kid's meal with Mickey Waffles!

Pastry Plate

Adult Meal

My wand and Luke's sword

So, is it worth the price?  I'd say a big YES.  At least once.  I don't know if I'd do it again just because I'm pretty cheap. It was around $100 for both of us to eat breakfast.   If I had daughters that loved meeting the Princesses I would definitely do it again.  But since it's just for me, I feel like I've been there and done that.  Totally worth it once though!  

The good news is that you pay in advance (unless on the Dining plan) and all is included - tip and everything.  So even though I know you're not getting anything for free, it kind of feels like it at that moment which is nice!

And honestly, any time I get to go on a date with Luke to eat at a fancy restaurant (notice he's got his pinky up being all fancy in this next pic), it's practically priceless!!

Give me a call so that we can get you booked for your next Disney trip!!  You really need to get these reservations 6 months to the day before your trip and I'll take care of it for you.  

Atlanta Braves Spring Training at Disney's EPSN Wide World of Sports Complex

Champion Stadium at Disney's ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex is home to Atlanta Braves Spring Training in 2018 and 2019.  

Atlanta’s spring training home schedule is a great one with games against clubs like the Nationals (Feb. 26, March 1), the St. Louis Cardinals (March 3, 17), the New York Yankees (March 9, 24) and the 2017 World Series Champion Houston Astros (March 8).

I haven't personally attended Spring Training in Florida but have had the good fortune to spend a few days at the Cactus League Spring Training in Arizona.  It's a really fun atmosphere and my boys LOVED it.  Spring Training is a time where the rules are a bit more relaxed, the players talk to the fans and it's just a great way to watch a baseball game.

The Florida league (called the Grapefruit League) is a similar setup and the best bonus is that you can also go to Disney World while you're there!!  Also while at the game, Disney character appearances and special moments such as kids running the bases after every game are some of the in-game entertainment opportunities that make Braves spring training at Disney a unique experience.

It's best to buy your game tickets ahead of time although they will be available at the gate if not sold out.  Good news - parking is free!!  Be sure to get there early for the best chance at catching practice balls or snagging an autograph from your favorite player.

Don't wait too long though to check this out...  The Braves announced recently that 2018 and 2019 will be their last seasons at Disney.  The Braves have held spring training at the Walt Disney World complex since 1998. But with many of the other major-league teams having moved out of Central Florida, the Braves reached a deal with Sarasota County to relocate to North Port, which will have a new 9,000-seat stadium, 6 1/2 practice fields and 55,000-square feet of clubhouse and fitness center space.

Call me today and I can set you up with a great time at Disney while you're enjoying some Braves baseball!!  Tomahawk chop!!

FYI, if you are just in it for baseball and not Disney (WHY???), then here is info on how to get tickets...  Braves fans can purchase individual spring training game tickets at www.espnwwos.com/braves, through Ticketmaster outlets (800-745-3000) and at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Box Office. Tickets range from $15 (general admission berm seating in left field) to $59 (lower level reserved seats).  But you should make a trip of it - I'd love to help you get it all planned!!