Announcing a trip to Disney is a sure fire way to get on the parents of the century list lol! In this episode, we go over a few fun ways to surprise someone special with the ultimate gift. We love coming up with these and encourage you to share your ideas as well. We’ d love to hear them or see them! Send us photos
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Email us your question or suggestions for future episodes: Info@unlockingthemagic.com
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Email us your question or suggestions for future episodes: Info@unlockingthemagic.com
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
After many vacations to Walt Disney World it got us thinking... why do so many people complain that they need a "vacation from their vacation" to WDW? Then we remembered our first fateful trip... we did so many things wrong that we swore we'd never go to Walt Disney World again- LOL! Fast forward to today, we have learned from our mistakes and try to convey our message to others.
Below is a few top mistakes to avoid..
Back to Back Parks
It is so very tempting to cram as many days in the theme parks as possible. Especially when "adding" additional park days to your "magic your way package" seems so affordable. However, this will lead to an exhausting vacation.
Even as our kids grow we find that scheduling back to back parks makes our vacation feel like a blur and our feet so achy we can't enjoy the moment. If you are still dead set on visiting the parks back to back be sure to set these two largest parks apart from your days..Animal Kingdom and Epcot.
NOT SCHEDULING SCHEDULING DOWN TIME/relaxing AT THE RESORT
Scheduling down time is a definite must at Disney. If you are not able to schedule a day off at your resort (highly recommended) you can even slow down for a while at the parks. Relax and recharge. You might even find something you weren't looking for..
OVERPLANNING
While planning a Disney vacation is important and for me it's half the fun ;) It is also important to not get so bogged down on your plans that you fail to enjoy each moment. We also find that having a little flexibility we stumble upon things we may have missed if we stuck to a strict plan.
UNDER PLANNING
Ok, while we think that over planning is an overkill, under planning is definitely not. Disney is continuing to grow their technology to help (fast passes online etc) but it's also important for you to do your research prior to your vacation. Jot down what shows, restaurants or parks your family will like most and plan accordingly.
Another way to go about it is to make sure you have you have an idea where you will be each day of your trip wether a theme park or other and schedule dining reservations around that plan. If your heart is set on a specific restaurant be sure to begin reserving 180 days in advance.
Park Hopping
While some families can park hop without batting an eyelash, for us it is daunting. We never quite enjoy or appreciate the park that we are visiting if we have the park hopper option. Plus, the travel time between parks (plus all the walking) is exhausting for most.
Not preparing for Florida weather (beyond the rain gear)
Florida is called the sunshine state for a reason. Sunscreen is an absolute must even if you think you will be spending only a few minutes outdoors.
Florida can also be surprisingly chilly. During off season months you can go from wearing swimsuits to heavy winter coats in a few days. Plan accordingly so you are not stuck purchasing warm gear while on vacation. Who wants to spend their souvenir money on that anyway? lol ;)
Not going on the disney site to view restaurant options and menus
This goes along with planning. I can't tell you how many people out there don't realize the many different restaurant offerings inside Walt Disney World. If you have very picky eaters, you can easily research menus ahead of time from home and plan out your families favorites. Having at least some idea of what you might like even if you are doing only quick service options will help ease the "hangrys" lol
Not seeing the big picture
"We believed in our idea- a family park where parents and children could have fun- together."
-Walt Disney
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
It's hard to imagine nowadays that the plot of land that the Grand Floridian sits on was originally intended for an Asian Themed resort.
Due to financial hurdles, the project was abandoned and the land remained empty for many years to come. When the idea for the resort finally resurfaced, Imagineers wanted to make sure that whatever they built resembled the land in the Magic Kingdom (just as the Contemporary goes with Tomorrowland and Polynesian with Adventureland).
They finally settled on a concept that would reflect the beautiful Main Street U.S.A inside the Magic Kingdom. Alas, the Grand Floridian was born.
Officially opened in 1988, The Grand Floridian was designed to resemble the beautiful beach front resorts of yesteryear with an old fashion victorian elegance that transports you back in time. Adorned with Italian marble and timeless victorian details throughout, the Grand Floridian is a luxurious resort.
Definitely with the luxury comes a hefty price tag but I strongly believe that it is something that everyone should experience at least once in a lifetime. Even if you are not staying at the resort, carve some time during your vacation to tour the grounds. The cast members are incredibly welcoming.
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Email us your question or suggestions for future episodes: Info@unlockingthemagic.com
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Email us your question or suggestions for future episodes: Info@unlockingthemagic.com
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Email us your question or suggestions for future episodes: Info@unlockingthemagic.com
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
Walt Disney World has many designated (kodak photo spots) areas to take incredible photos. The parks even list these areas on their maps for easy finding. Of course, memory maker also takes the ease from taking photos but many just don’t have it in their budget.
We wanted to share with you our favorite places to take pictures that are a bit more “out of the box” and are just as beautiful -if not more! Some of these require a bit of pre planning but we think the effort will definitely be worthwhile and provide you with great memories when you arrive back home.
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Email us your question or suggestions for future episodes: Info@unlockingthemagic.com
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
“A vista into a world of wondrous ideas, signifying man’s achievements … a step into the future, with predictions of constructive things to come. Tomorrow offers new frontiers in science, adventure, and ideals: the Atomic Age, the challenge of outer space, and the hope for a peaceful and unified world.” -Walt Disney. Dedication of Tomorrowland.
Walt Disney loved exploring and imagining what the future would hold. Exciting innovations and progress were at the core of his heart. Visiting Tomorrowland inside the Magic Kingdom makes us feel connected to Walt Disney. Be sure to try to visit the land both day and at night as a lot of our favorite attractions are better experienced when the sun goes down.
Tomorrowland Transit Authority People Mover
This iconic attraction is our first stop when entering Tomorrowland. It sets the tone of the entire area and makes you feel like this really may be the way people travel in the future. ;)
Space Mountain
Did you know that Space Mountain is actually astronaut approved?!!
"With help from a NASA astronaut, Space Mountain opened in January 1975 at Magic Kingdom park. The idea originated with Walt Disney in the 1960s, but the technology did not exist to bring his vision to life. Later, when the attraction was given the green light, Mercury 9 and Gemini 5 astronaut Gordon Cooper joined the Space Mountain creative team as a consultant. He wanted to make sure that the attraction incorporated information gleaned during NASA’s early space missions and that the experience felt like actual space flight"- source disneyworld.com
Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress
A Disney Classic. Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress was personally created by Walt Disney for the 1964-65 New York World's Fair. It takes you into the history of progress from the 1920's to the "present" (1986 lol). With each era, you will learn how the technological advances of the day have made life more convenient. Definitely makes you appreciate the every day "little things" we so take for granted.
We guarantee you'll come out singing, "Theres' A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow!!!"
Stiches Great Escape
An under- rated attraction that my kids still enjoy. It's lighthearted fun and a unique experience.
Star Orbiter
*Best to visit at night. It's actually waaay more thrilling than it appears from the ground below. Don't be ashamed if your rocket doesn't take the highest flight. Ha!
Buzz Light Year Space Ranger Spin
Such a fun attraction. Be sure to spin continuously to annoy your fellow space ranger LOL!
Tomorrowland Speedway
This attraction definitely tops Bruce's list as must do. There is nothing quite like this speedway and we know you will have a blast.
Monsters Inc Laugh Floor
The "Monsters" of this attraction discovered that laughter provides 10 times more energy to Monstropolis than a scream, so they put on quite an interactive show. It's hilariously fun and you just never know who they will pick in the audience to participate.
"Tomorrow is a heck of a thing to keep up with.” —Walt Disney
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Email us your question or suggestions for future episodes: Info@unlockingthemagic.com
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
Rating Disney's Moderate Resorts
This is a tough show for us to do as there's much to love about each one of Disney's moderate resorts which makes them difficult to rank.
In this episode, we give a brief overview of each resort while listing our top picks from our least favorite to most. From the relaxing tropical setting at the Caribbean Beach Resort to the cobblestone streets inside New Orleans’s historic French Quarter, there are many things to love about the variety of the resorts. Which one is your favorite? ;)
The only moderate category resort with a full fitness center and spa, this resort tops our list as our #1 choice.
The only tough thing about this place is how to pronounce the name ..("ker-i-BEE-uhn"??) There are plenty of relaxing areas at this tropical resort and the pool is absolutely beautiful.
With quaint cabins that sleep 6 adults, there is plenty of space for a big family with all the comforts of home. You can even pre-order a pantry full of fresh groceries— and housekeeping even does the dishes!!
Port Orleans -French Quarter
The Historic French Quarter comes alive here. With beautiful wrought iron balconies some overlooking the river, there is a mystical feel throughout the resort.
The resort offers two very different areas... the fancy white Mansions of Magnolia Bend where you will find gorgeous landscaped grounds to the "cottages" of the Alligator Bayou.
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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Pirates of the Caribbean, located at the end of Adventure Land is one of our favorite attractions.
It is a well known "Disney Classic" and a must do at the Magic Kingdom. Believe it or not, the attraction was originally supposed to be walk through wax museum but with the success of Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress at the 1964 New York World's Fair, Walt Disney decided that Audio Animatronics was the best way to have their guests immerse themselves in this fun, pirate story.
There was even a movie inspired by the attraction. Have you heard of it? ;) Be sure to visit the pirate themed gift shop at the end of your experience for some really great keepsakes to take home. Truth be told, Bruce has to drag me out every time."Yo ho, yo ho, a pirates' life for me." Ha!
Things to listen for:
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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Disney's Boardwalk is a little tucked away gem. It can be easily overlooked as there is technically no direct transportation to the Boardwalk (tips on how to get there on the show). The ambiance takes you back to a simpler time "the good old days ;) " and there is no better place to go for an evening stroll.
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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PLease leave a rating and review :)
Bruce and I are constantly torn (argue lol) about whether to fly or drive when headed to Walt Disney World. Both have great pro's but they also come along come with some negatives. On this episode, we discuss our thoughts about driving or flying and hope to help with your decision.
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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The Magic Kingdom is a remarkable park. From the moment you step upon Main street, you are taken into another world. We have been so lucky to have visited many times and are able to share some insight on what makes a great day for us.
In this episode, we give you our ideas of what makes a perfect day at the Magic Kingdom.
What to look for along Main Street
Where to grab lunch
How to relax and regroup
Must do attractions
The perfect way to end the evening
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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Planning a vacation to Walt Disney World is an exciting time. However, with so many details to coordinate, there can be a lot of questions that are left unanswered.
In this episode we answer some great listener questions and hope it can help you with your planning.
How far out in advance does Disney release extra magic hours?
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10 Things To Love About Disney's Hollywood Studios
Disney's Hollywood Studios holds a special place in my heart. From the moment you step into the park, you are immersed into the glitz and glamour of Hollywood's Golden age. Movie magic comes to life and the entertainment is abundant.
Although the park is currently undergoing changes, you can feel at ease knowing that Disney has always been able to undergo transformations seamlessly.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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A vacation to Walt Disney World is not complete without visiting the Magic Kingdom. The magic can be felt as soon as stepping onto Main street when you are suddenly immersed in a land of fantasy, leaving all your worries behind. It is a place we feel that everyone of all ages should experience at least once in their lifetime and become inspired that truly anything is possible.
“Walt Disney World is a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney… and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney’s dream come true. May Walt Disney World bring Joy and Inspiration and New Knowledge to all who come to this happy place … a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn — together”.
– Roy Disney October 25, 1971
Our Favorite Things
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a theme park unlike any other. Officially opened on Earth Day, April 22, 1998, the park actually has a lot of ties to Walt Disney, and the admiration he displayed for animals throughout his life. Some of Walt’s earliest sketches were local animals.
With over 500 acres, it is super important to wear your most comfortable shoes at this park.
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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We could literally do 5 episodes of our favorite quick service restaurants we love when visiting Walt Disney World. To narrow them down to fit into a 30 minute show was tough but we did it.
In this episode we give you are top quick service restaurants we have to visit every time we go to Disney World in Orlando. We try new ones every time that we visit but this is the list of our favorites.
They are spread out inside and outside of the parks, so some of these you will need a ticket to get into but not all. On your next trip visit some other resorts and check out there quick service restaurants and see what they have to offer.
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Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
There are so many dining options in Walt Disney World which can make choosing a restaurant difficult. In this episode, we talk about our favorite places to dine and some insight on each.
We know you may have your favorites so we would love to hear what you think. Where are your favorite places to eat when your at Disney World? It can be anything in the parks or resorts. Leave your comments below.
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Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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Walt Disney's One Man's Dream located inside Hollywood Studios, is one of our favorite attractions in all of Walt Disney World.
It is incredible to view some of the amazing prototypes that Walt Disney himself created. The short film at the end of the attraction is a documentary of Walt's life and is something that we feel everyone should see.
This is the place that completely changed the way we viewed Disney World and where essentially it all began for us...
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Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
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Some exciting news coming out of the D23 expo in Anahiem this weekend! In this episode we go over some great announcements made at this years expo.
Big changes are in the works for some Disneyland and Disney World parks. We stay mostly on the parks in Orlando but seeing how we are a couple of Disney nerds, we can't help ourselves and get off topic a little ;) We discuss some movie announcements too!
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
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Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort is a moderate category resort located just a few minutes from Disney's Main Gates and Downtown Disney. The resort is so close to Downtown Disney/ Disney Springs :) that transportation to and from is also provided via water shuttle. It's definitely a relaxing way to head back to your resort after a long evening of shopping and dining.
In this episode, we talk about our recent visit and our thoughts about Disney's Port Orleans Riverside. Many good things to discuss about this resort and some suggestions for you to keep in mind while you visit.
Sit back and enjoy this episode. Be sure to let us know what you think!
Hope you enjoyed this episode! We really love doing these shows. It's so much fun for us and we hope you like them too :) . If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Also come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That's it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.
Unlocking The Magic
In this episode we talk about why we started this podcast and what we want you to get out of it.
We want to help make your trip whether it's your first visit or your 5th the best one ever. We have been many times and want to bring to you where ever you are the Magic that we found and why we keep going back.
Please leave a review here and follow us on twiter for updates of future episodes.