New Digital Trip Planning Experience Coming to WDW

You ain’t never had a friend like this! Today at D23 Expo 2019, details were unveiled by Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Bob Chapek for “Disney Genie,” a revolutionary new digital offering set to debut in late 2020 that will enhance the way you plan for and experience a trip to Walt Disney World Resort. Joining other innovations like the MagicBand, Disney Genie is being designed to help you make the most out of your visit, whether you’re a first-time guest or a seasoned pro.

Disney Genie will make planning easier and more fun by providing customized itineraries geared to your interests, right at your fingertips – from a royal, princess-themed day at Magic Kingdom Park to a trip around the world at Epcot for foodies and even a perfect day for thrill-seekers. Certain features of Disney Genie will also be available through your preferred travel professional.

Sometimes you may know exactly what you want to do, but may not know the best time or order in which to do it. You’ll be able to tell Disney Genie what you’d like to experience, and it will quickly evaluate millions of options to present you with an optimal day. And best of all, it’s flexible! If you change your mind for any reason, Disney Genie will re-optimize your day.

Disney Genie can also send you real-time tips and updates, including recommendations for experiences it thinks you’ll love, helping you navigate the theme parks with added convenience and comfort. If you don’t want to worry about making reservations in multiple steps, Disney Genie will even take care of that for you.



This represents yet another way we are using creativity and innovation to connect guests with the stories and characters they love, and to help them make lasting, magical memories with the family and friends they cherish most. Over the past several years, Disney parks have become more seamless and enjoyable through other digital offerings, such as mobile food ordering, the Play Disney Parks app, online check-in and so much more.


Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Mid-Day Ticket Option for Walt Disney World

Beginning Aug. 15, 2019, guest can “fall into fun” like never before at Walt Disney World Resort with a new ticket offer. With the “Mid-Day Magic Ticket,” Guests can enjoy admission after 12 p.m. to one theme park per day. 2-, 3- and 4-day Mid-Day Magic tickets are available for start dates on or before Dec. 15, 2019.

2-Day Mid-Day Magic Ticket: Valid for admission after 12 p.m. 2-day Mid-Day Magic Tickets are available from $88 per day plus tax (from $176 total plus tax) and expire four (4) days after the selected start date.

3-Day Mid-Day Magic Ticket: Valid for admission to after 12 p.m. 3-day Mid-Day Magic tickets are available from $84 per day plus tax (from $252 total plus tax) and expire five (5) days after the selected start date.

4-Day Mid-Day Magic Ticket: Valid for admission after 12 p.m. 4-day Mid-Day Magic tickets are available from $79 per day plus tax (from $316 total plus tax) and expire seven (7) days after the selected start date.



This is the first time Disney is offering a late-entry ticket with special pricing that allows Guests to enter the theme parks starting at noon and enjoy the day and evening. This option works best for Guests who are looking for an opportunity to start their morning at a leisurely pace, to enjoy other early-morning activities (golf, pool, etc.), or to travel from their accommodations.

With these tickets, the magic starts at noon as Guests will receive admission to one theme park per day after 12 p.m. Additionally, Guests can secure afternoon and evening FastPass+ to select attractions, entertainment and Character Greets up to 30 days in advance. Guests can enjoy new seasonal excitement, including new sips and savors at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and the holiday Hoopla Dance Party in DinoLand U.S.A at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park starting Nov. 8.

For guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Disney's date-based ticket product is still the best option, giving Guests the flexibility and opportunity to experience all the magic that the theme parks have to offer, including the morning Extra Magic Hour benefit.

Mobile Order Service Now Available at Additional Disney Resort Hotel Food & Beverage Locations

Walt Disney World has delicious news to share ... mobile order service is officially available at select Disney Resort hotels.



With a few taps of the screen, you are now able to use the mobile service to save time and skip the line to order at seven newly-participating quick-service restaurants, including Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, the World Premiere Food Court, the End Zone Food Court and the Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Resorts, as well as Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, The Mara at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

These locations are the latest additions to the mobile order lineup, joining Centertown Market and Spyglass Grill at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, as well as over 20 other quick-service locations throughout the four theme parks and Disney Springs area. And there’s more on the way, as Disney plans to expand the service to additional Disney Resort hotel locations soon!

The mobile order service offers the convenience and flexibility of ordering, paying for and picking up fresh meals and snacks directly from the pick-up counter where Cast Members deliver the food – saving you time to enjoy all there is to see and do at Walt Disney World Resort. To see the full list of participating locations, just tap “order food” in the My Disney Experience app. And don’t forget, if you have a Disney dining plan you can now redeem your meals and snacks through the service.

Be sure to download the My Disney Experience app, available via the App Store and Google Play, to mobile order during their next visit!

New My First Disney Getaway Package

If you have little ones and are looking to visit Walt Disney World, you are in luck. Disney has announced the My First Disney Getaway Package. The first memories are the ones you will cherish forever. Experience these magical moments together at Walt Disney World Resort with this kid-sized vacation package.

The package offers a 2 Park Magic TIcket valid for one-day admission to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom parks and includes attractions like the Mad Tea Party Tea Cups, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, Kilimanjaro Safaris and Triceratop Spin.  You'll also have the opportunity to meet Disney character friends such as the Disney Princesses and Mickey Mouse and friends from beloved movies and TV shows.

The package includes a 2 night stay at a Disney Resort hotel, immersing you in the magic and giving you access to complimentary benefits like Extra Magic Hours, access to Disney FastPass+ and complimentary transportation.

At this time, the package, which is $999 for 2 adults and 1 child, is only available by calling the Disney Reservation Center and is valid for arrivals most Sunday to Wednesday nights between August 11 and September 25, 2019.

Even More Closures at Epcot Coming

I mentioned in my previous two blogs about some upcoming closures at Epcot in Walt Disney World.  In addition to those, a few more closures have been announced.

The Fountain of Nations will close on Sept. 8, 2019.

As part of the ongoing transformation of Epcot, Art of Disney will operate temporarily from a new location while refurbishment is underway. Heritage Manor in The American Adventure pavilion will later become the new home for Art of Disney offerings.

Colortopia and Nanooze Break in Innoventions will also be closing September 8, 2019.

These closures are all part of the massive transformation of Futureworld in the upcoming months.

The Magic of Disney's Magical Express

Disney offers a complimentary airport transfer service called Magical Express to all of its resort guests. Not only will Disney pick you up at the airport and drop you off at your resort, but they’ll also retrieve your bags and deliver those to your room, as well.

When it’s time to go home, you can check your bags at the resort and use Magical Express for your return to the airport.

If you are traveling with small children, Magical Express can be a lifesaver at the end of a long day of travel since you don’t have to worry about waiting for your bags and then schlepping your suitcases (and children) through the airport to whatever ground transportation you’re using.

It is also handy if you prefer to not drive or want to save money and not rent a car or car service. The downside to Magical Express is that, in some instances, it can take some time for your bus to depart the airport and it will take several hours for your bags to arrive in your room.

Lyft Becomes Official Rideshare at Disney Parks

The popular Minnie Van transportation service at the Walt Disney World® Resort is celebrating a major milestone – 1 MILLION GUESTS MAGICALLY TRANSPORTED!

And the best is yet to come for Minnie Vans connected by the ridesharing service Lyft. It was just announced that Lyft is now the official rideshare of Walt Disney World® Resort and Disneyland® Resort and new enhancements will be added to the Walt Disney World® Resort service as early as this fall.

Disney and Lyft are collaborating in exciting ways for guests. This fall, Lyft and Disney will be enhancing the app experience at the Walt Disney World® Resort. The update will make it easier to request a Minnie Van ride, find the most convenient pickup location, and even select a wheelchair accessible vehicle.

Since 2017, the Minnie Van fleet has been taking guests everywhere they want to go at the Walt Disney World® Resort in a magical way that only Disney can do.

What to do in Epcot When There is no Festival?

We’ve all become accustomed to seeing the food booths in Epcot's World Showcase but what is there to do until the next festival? Well, check out the following list of things to do in Epcot when the theme park is a little less festive!

Epcot Wine Walk
If you enjoy trying wine from various countries and regions try the Epcot Wine Walk. The Wine Walk is often an overlooked activity in Epcot. When you purchase it you receive two refillable glasses and a passport that entitles you to, and tracks, your two pours at each location. You can purchase the Wine Walk in either the Germany, France, or Italy wine shops. Take your tasting passport and Wine Walk glass to the wine shops in each shop and enjoy a taste of wines from various regions in each country.

If you don’t want to complete the Wine Walk but still like the wine glass, you can buy just the wine glass for $5.00. Then you can purchase wines of your choice at each of the three locations. Plus, you’ve got a pretty cool souvenir to take home!

Behind the Seeds Tour
If you have ever wondered where some of the food comes from in the parks and resorts you’ll find out on the Living with the Land ride. To learn even more, take the Behind the Seeds tour.

The Behind the Seeds tours are led by a member of the Epcot Science Team and let you discover more than 60 crops from around the world, see some of the latest techniques used to grow and improve plants, and walk through the fish farm to see thousands of fish — and alligators. You might even get up close to some ladybugs and learn how they help keep the insect population down.

You can sign up for the tour on the day of if there is availability, or sign up in advance by calling (407) WDW-TOUR. The cost is $25 for adults and $20 for children. Be sure to ask about annual passholder, DVC, and Disney Chase Visa Cardholder discounts.

Enjoy the Entertainment
The live entertainment in Epcot is worth the price of admission alone. First, for those who love the characters, there is plenty to see in Epcot. The Character Connection in Future World is a great place to start. Follow that with various meet and greets in the countries. 

Over in World Showcase, you can spend your entire day going from country to country and with cultural experiences from around the Globe. Without festivals, the park is a little less congested, and this gives you space and time to enjoy the entertainment in the World Showcase pavilions. There are musical groups in the Canada, UK, Morocco, American Adventure, and Germany pavilions, the Serveur Amusant with their amazing climbing and balancing act in France, the Matsuriza drums in Japan, Sergio and his juggling act in Italy, the Jewel Dragon Acrobats in China, and the Mariachi Cobre as well as their retelling of the tale of Coco in Mexico.

Of course, there are the classic eat around the world or drink around the world activities as well. I wanted to take this time to point out a few of the lesser known or not as popular things to do in Epcot.

Best Benches in Walt Disney World

While sitting down at a Walt Disney World park may be the last thing you expect to do, sometimes you just need a break and if you find the right bench Aside from offering a nice place to sit, some theme park benches offer unique photo opportunities with some very popular characters. Here are my benches to rest:

Goofy Bench (Magic Kingdom) – There isn’t a ton of seating in and around Main Street U.S.A., as most people are just entering the park and too excited to take a break or trying to leave and just want to make it to their car safely. But if you do need to take a seat in this area head to Exhibition Hall and sit down next to Goofy. The statue of this popular Disney character, dressed in his usual top hat, purple suit jacket, gold vest, red tie and black pants welcomes you to come and sit next to him and snap a photo. This is the perfect Disney bench to experience your first character meet-and-greet.

Roy and Minnie (Magic Kingdom) – Perhaps the most popular bench in Walt Disney World is the Roy & Minnie Mouse bench. Here, co-founding father and Walt Disney’s brother Roy O. Disney is seated next to Minnie Mouse and holding her hand. The statue is entitled “Sharing the Magic.” Guests can squeeze in right beside these two figures and “share the magic” with them for a unique photo op that captures the spirit of Disney. This bench is located just outside the fence in Town Square with Cinderella Castle as a backdrop.

Animal Benches (Animal Kingdom - Discovery Island) – You’ve probably walked past these benches in Disney’s Animal Kingdom a hundred times and thought, “Oh, how cute…” and then kept walking. These multi-colored, multi-shaped seats are made out of recycled plastic products. Well, yes, they are cute, and I love that Disney took the trouble to give the benches various animal character themes. But what’s really interesting about these brightly colored benches is that they are made out of recycled plastic milk jugs. Totally in keeping with the theme park’s conservation theme!

Chester & Hester's Bench (Animal Kingdom - Dinoland) – You can spot this one just outside Chester and Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, in Dinoland USA. It makes perfect sense, because, as the story goes, Chester and Hester ran a old-time gas station where dinosaur fossils were discovered. They decided to sell tacky, dino-themed souvenirs as well as gas. Guess this bench is a symbol of that! This is just another one of those Disney details that are so easy to overlook.

Rocking Chairs (Magic Kingdom) – OK, technically this one isn't a bench, but it's still one of the best places to take a load off and rest. In Liberty Square you can find rocking chairs on the porch to the right side of Hall of Presidents. This spot is very popular with guests and it’s often difficult to secure a seat here.

France Pavilion (Epcot) – France offers unique wooden benches, but don’t plan on leaning back. The support is somewhat lacking. It's still a great place to rest your feet.

Canada Pavilion (Epcot) – With a view of the Rockies, these simple but stylish benches in the Canada Pavilion are a great place to escape and catch your breath.

Raglan Road (Disney Springs) – There is bronze gent sitting on a bench outside Raglan Road Irish Pub‘s Shop for Ireland at Disney Springs is Irish poet/novelist Patrick Kavanagh. Actually, the bench is a replica of Irish sculptor John Coll’s statue that now resides in Dublin along the bank of its Grand Canal on Mespil Road. Among Kavanagh’s best-known works is the poem “On Raglan Road”— so I think you can see the sculpture’s relevance.

We’re sure there are other benches in and around the parks that might be just as interesting, with stories to tell. Next time you feel like you need to have a seat while you’re in the World, remember to look down first — your bench just might be one of the most interesting you’ll ever see!

Eating Healthy Meals & Snacks at Walt Disney World

Are you someone who tries to eat balanced, healthy meals, even on vacation? I’m trying to make improvements in my eating choices, and I must admit that thinking about “dieting” on vacation is a bit stressful- but so is the thought of gaining those extra pounds. The good news? Eating healthy food at Walt Disney World is actually easier than you may expect. Disney fare goes well beyond traditional “theme park food” in its offerings- it’s not all hot dogs, chicken nuggets, and burgers. There are plenty of healthy options all around if you look for them!

Follow the same common-sense rules you would at home


Hydrate! Especially if you’re traveling to Walt Disney World in the hotter months, you’ll be thankful for hydration! Skip the sugary drinks and focus on water intake. Remember- you can grab a FREE cup of ice water at any counter service location- just ask. You can also bring your own bottles into the park.  


Another good tip is to watch your portions. Consider sharing meals, or just ordering an entree at a quick service location without sides (you may even save a few dollars). Adults may also order smaller kids entrees, but be aware that if you are using the Dining Plan, you’ll still be charged an adult meal credit. You can also share entrees- it is not discouraged! 
Make smart substitutions. You can always ask for fruit or a side salad instead of fries. If you’re not sure what’s available, just ask!

Snack smarter
Eating around the “World” might be tempting, but those snacks you grab during the day can add up. One of the most popular treats, the Dole Whip, is actually not terrible for you at all. Coming in at under 100 calories, it’s a great alternative to an ice cream sundae, and it’s a favourite of many guests! Skip the Dole Whip Float, though- all the added juice is higher in calories than the actual non-dairy soft serve. You can also find some fantastic snack spots that will offer fresh fruit, like Hollywood Studios’ Anaheim Produce or Animal Kingdom’s Harambe Market.  


Did you know you can also bring your own snacks into the parks? You may want to stash some protein bars or trail mix in your bag to help keep you sustained between meals. I wouldn’t advise you to “ban” a coveted snack; just be mindful in your eating, and make sure the calories you are consuming are worth it!

Make your dietary needs known
Know where to go for some delicious meals and snacks.  Regardless of where your party has reserved a meal, you’re likely to find a healthy option or two on the menu. The less planned, on-the-go dining is more of a challenge if you haven’t looked in advance. Here’s a list of a few particularly delicious Quick Service options for your healthy- eating needs!

In the Magic Kingdom:
A favorite quick-service location of many is Columbia Harbor House. While they have plenty of not-as-healthy (but yummy) seafood options, they also have a delicious tuna sandwich and a Lighthouse sandwich (hummus and broccoli slaw on multigrain bread); the tuna is also available for kids as a Disney Check item.

A few steps farther into Fantasyland, try a the Caprese flatbread at Pinocchio Village Haus - I think it’s just as satisfying as a slice of pizza, and definitely healthier. On the opposite side of the park, enjoy a southwest salad or chicken fajitas at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe. They have a full toppings bar, complete with several salsas, veggie fixings, and guacamole- so fill up on healthy toppings (you can practically make those fajitas into a salad)!

At Epcot:
Sunshine Seasons in the Land Pavilion is a fantastic choice for eating a balanced, fresh meal. They offer tons of variety, from soups and salads, to fresh chicken and fish, hearty homestyle choices, and Asian dishes. Kids can even enjoy Disney Check salmon or chicken drumstick options.

If you’re looking to grab a bite in the World Showcase (and really, who isn’t?) try Tangierine Cafe in Morocco - they have some great vegetable and chicken options, as well as sides like couscous salad, tabbouleh, and hummus.

At Animal Kingdom:
My go-to choices are Flame Tree BBQ (check out the watermelon salad) and my newest favorite, Satu’li Canteen. Located in Pandora, Satu’li Canteen offers a variety of “bowls” that include a protein (chicken, beef, fish, or tofu) as well as a base (quinoa and sweet potato hash, to name a few) and a sauce. Depending on the combination you choose, you can certainly build a light and nutritious meal.


This guide certainly only scratches the very, very delicious surface of the world of Disney dining. Eating healthy foods on vacation will help with energy and stamina, but remember to strike a balance in your travels- stressing about food shouldn’t be on your agenda! Menus at Walt Disney World do change, so also be sure to keep any eye out for new options. This guide is by no means exhaustive of all the great healthy options available- we would love to hear what your favorite healthy snacking and dining choices are!

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Now Open at Disneyland Resort

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened at Disneyland Resort on May 31, 2019 and invited guests to live their own Star Wars adventures as they explore a remote planet of Batuu which is full of unique sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and many other immersive experiences.

Upon entering the land, guests will be transported to a galaxy far, far away in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge on their journey to Batuu.

Welcome to the Edge of Wild Space: Black Spire Outpost on Batuu

Photo courtesy of Disney

Batuu is a far-flung destination along the galaxy’s Outer Rim, on the frontier of Wild Space – the uncharted region beyond all known star systems. The planet is home to Black Spire Outpost, an infamous port for smugglers, traders, and adventurers wishing to avoid any unnecessary … entanglements with the First Order.

When guests arrive at Black Spire Outpost, they will come across aliens, droids and other inhabitants of this planet as they search for rare and unique goods, discover unusual food and drink, or join a crew seeking adventures. Along the way, guests may encounter some familiar faces, including Rey, Chewbacca or even Supreme Leader Kylo Ren and his Stormtroopers.

Star Wars Adventures Come to Life in Two Thrilling Attractions

For more than four decades, fans of Star Wars films have imagined what it would be like to blast across the stars inside the Millennium Falcon or race through the halls of a Star Destroyer. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will feature two signature attractions that turn those dreams into reality.

In Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, guests climb into the cockpit of “the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy” for their own Star Wars adventures. They take the controls of the Falcon in one of three unique and critical roles as the ship hurtles through space. Some will be pilots, some gunners, and some engineers, creating multiple ways for guests to engage with the attraction in an experience that responds in real time to the actions they take.

Photo courtesy of Disney

A second attraction, opening by the end of 2019, is Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, will be one of the most ambitious, advanced and immersive experiences ever undertaken by Walt Disney Imagineering. It will place guests in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance, including a faceoff with Kylo Ren. Their journey takes them aboard a full-size transport shuttle and then into a nearby Star Destroyer on a harrowing and thrilling adventure that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality.

A Diverse Menu of Food and Beverages Await

What does Blue or Green Milk actually taste like? That question and more will be answered when guests visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and experience the new land’s expansive array of food and beverages. Guests walk through a bustling marketplace, where vendors offer various local delicacies, including an Outpost Mix of flavored popped grains from Kat Saka’s Kettle, a unique popcorn snack with a combination of sweet, savory and spicy flavors.

At Oga’s Cantina, even the blaster-bolt scorches on the walls tell a story. Here, guests gather to share their tales from around the galaxy as they enjoy exotic beverages served in unique vessels and listen to spirited musical entertainment provided by DJ R-3X, otherwise known as Rex, the former Starspeeder 3000 pilot droid from the original Star Tours. Rex re-invents himself as the cantina’s DJ, and he’s as quirky and talkative as ever.

A multi-purpose transport shuttle docked on top of a large hangar beckons guests into Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, a designated location for traveling food shuttles. Chef Strono “Cookie” Tuggs is in much demand for his culinary skills, so he moves from site to site in a modified.

Sienar-Chall Utilipede-Transport that becomes a mobile kitchen and restaurant. His travels across the galaxy allow him to fill his pantry with exotic ingredients he uses to make new and unusual dishes. He is proud to present Tuggs’ Grub, a “traveling diner for diners traveling,” inspired by dishes he created during his time working for Maz Kanata on Takodana.

Elsewhere in the market, Ronto Roasters draws attention with its large podracing engine firing up a barbecue pit for mouth-watering Ronto Wraps. When hungry customers queue up to order, they encounter a former smelter droid, carefully turning the spit of meats. Guests can also choose from a variety of exotic non-alcoholic drinks like the Sour Sarlacc or Tatooine Sunset.

The Milk Stand offers two local favorites – Blue Milk and Green Milk. Blue Milk was first seen in Star Wars: A New Hope when Luke Skywalker sat down for a family meal. Green Milk was introduced in Star Wars: The Last Jedi when Luke lived on the planet Ahch-To. Now, thirsty guests can order these colorful frozen drinks as they live their own Star Wars adventures.

Take a Piece of the Star Wars Galaxy Home from a Vibrant Marketplace

Photo courtesy of Disney

Food is one of many discoveries just waiting to be made while wandering the lively marketplace of Black Spire Outpost, where guests encounter a robust collection of merchant shops and stalls filled with authentic Star Wars creations.

The Droid Depot invites guests to construct their own astromech droids. Patrons pick pieces and parts off a conveyor belt to build one of two core models (R-series or BB-series) and they can customize their droids with various parts and colors. These droids interact with elements throughout the land, enhancing guests’ adventures. Additional accessories can be added to further customize these new friends. In addition, the Droid Depot will offer pre-built droids, droid- inspired toys and apparel, and more.

At Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers, guests have the opportunity to craft and customize their very own lightsabers. In this mystical experience, guests feel the Force as they build these elegant weapons from a more civilized age.

Inside Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities, guests find a selection of rare and mysterious items for sale representing different eras of the Star Wars galaxy, including holocrons, ancient Jedi and Sith artifacts, lightsabers and more. As they explore the nooks and crannies of the shop, guests also see Dok-Ondar at his desk as the large Ithorian checks his inventory and barks the occasional order at his assistants.

In addition to these special experiences, the Black Spire Outpost marketplace features the Creature Stall dedicated to the plethora of rare and fascinating creatures that populate the galaxy, as well as Black Spire Outfitters, showcasing the latest in galactically trendy apparel and accessories. The Toydarian Toymaker stall is full of toys and games crafted by a Toydarian (the flying alien species first seen in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace). And all tourists who visit Batuu will want to make a stop at Jewels of Bith, offering “trinkets to treasure” and other accessories.

Guests can also demonstrate where their loyalties lie with the gear and accessories they purchase within the land. Resistance Supply is a “makeshift” location at the Resistance’s hidden command post, selling Resistance pins, badges, hats, and other accessories to help guests feel like part of the cause. First Order Cargo, meanwhile, is a temporary First Order storage dock near the marketplace. Easily identified by a never-before-seen First Order TIE echelon ship, the cargo location offers guests a chance to pledge their loyalty by purchasing pins, caps, gear, model ships and more.

Play Disney Parks Mobile App Deepens Guest Engagement with the Land

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the first land within a Disney park designed to integrate with the Play Disney Parks mobile app. The app debuted last year and offers interactive adventures and experiences that bring surrounding environments to life at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. When guests choose to use the Play Disney Parks app in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, they will be able to transform it into their very own Star Wars: Datapad. Using the app provides new opportunities for guests to engage with the land, such as translating a galactic language or learning what’s hidden inside crates and containers.

Photo courtesy of Disney

In addition, guests can use the Play Disney Parks app to interact with elements in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including droids, blinking door panels and antenna arrays. Throughout the day, guests may participate in a multiplayer game throughout the land, “Outpost Control,” to support either the Resistance or the First Order.

In light of tremendous demand, Disney is opening Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland park in phases to allow guests to sooner enjoy the one-of-a-kind experiences that make Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge so spectacular. Guests wanting to visit Galaxy's Edge between May 31st and June 24, 2019 must have a reservation to enter the land.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens August 29, 2019, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.

Ten Misconceptions About Walt Disney World

We hear a lot of misconceptions about Disney. Here are some things we thought we should clear up!

1. I’ll be eating burgers and hot dogs the whole trip
Well… if you want to you’re welcome to. But Disney offers a huge variety of meals now for every taste. Want to try Asian cuisine? Yak and Yeti at Animal Kingdom is great! What about some seafood? Grab some crab at Cape May Cafe. Up for a steak dinner? Le Cellier in Epcot it is. No matter what your tastes, you’ll find something at Disney you love.

2. The only snacks are popcorn and ice cream
This closely ties in with the food in general. Yes, ice cream and popcorn are available. So are cinnamon rolls and zebra domes and cream brulee and the infamous Dole Whip. There are so many snacks available that we’ve often toyed with simply snacking our way through our time at Disney Parks. You won’t be disappointed by the assortment.

3. You only need one day per park
Maybe on your second visit. On your first visit, we definitely recommend at least two days at Magic Kingdom if possible. The other parks it really depends on your interest level. Do you want to see all the shows at Hollywood Studios? You might need two days. Want to take your time touring and dining at Epcot? Maybe a day and a half (more if you plan on taking in one of the festivals like Food and Wine). But at any of these parks, you could easily spend multiple days if you wanted.

4. There aren’t any attractions for toddlers, grandparents, etc.
The vast majority of rides can be enjoyed by everyone. Peter Pan comes to mind as one of the quintessential Disney rides that’s gentle enough for everyone in your party to ride. All the boat rides are also fair game as well as many others. Everyone can also enjoy the shows, parades, and fireworks. Disney was designed to be a family experience, and that includes everyone.

5. I need to be super rich to go to Disney
Disney isn’t cheap, but it’s not as expensive as most people imagine either. When you price things out via the Disney website it automatically defaults you to the more expensive options. Disney wants you to purchase those options because then they make more money. Here’s where a good travel agent can help you. I'd be happy to advise you on how to save some money and get the best bang for your buck (you can visit my website for a free no-obligation quote). Many times a Disney trip can be less expensive than a comparable trip to other tourist destinations.

6. Characters are only for kids
Everyone can stop to see their favorite character, no matter their age. Want a picture with Mickey Mouse? Get your photo. Want to get a hug from Chewbacca? Go for it! Characters are there for everyone to enjoy, no matter how old you are.

7. You need to stay in the park from open until close
You don’t need sunscreen or to prepare for the Florida heat.  Guests often underestimate the Florida sun and heat (just ask my husband). It can get very hot and the sun is extremely powerful. Even in the winter months, guests should plan ahead with sunscreen, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. Guests should also be sure to hydrate very well and drink water throughout the day while in the parks.

8. The dining plan definitely saves you a lot of money
While the dining plan is a fantastic value for some, it’s not always a money saver. If you are likely to have an entree, drink, and dessert at every meal, it might be worth it to you. However, if you don’t often order dessert, and sometimes drink water instead of ordering fountain drinks, you may be spending more money on the dining plan than you would be paying as you go. Of course, if there’s a “free dining” promo, go for it (but remember, you would be paying full price for your resort room).

9. You only need to go once
Unless you are planning a month-long trip or do not care about experiencing most of what Disney World has to offer, you will surely want to visit Disney more than once. There’s much more to Disney than just rides. We have been to WDW more than 20 times over the past 16 years and we have not yet seen everything. Disney is constantly changing.

10. You can buy super cheap park tickets
Visiting Walt Disney World is expensive, and one of the most frequent questions I get is whether there’s a way to save on park tickets. The short answer is yes, there is — but those discounts tend to be pretty modest, a few percentage points at best.

What then, of the tickets you find on the internet or in the Orlando area that purport to be free or steeply discounted from the gate price? One of two things is happening. Unless you are a Florida resident, the only way to legitimately get really cheap or even free Disney tickets is by agreeing to sit through a timeshare presentation. Invariably, the presentation will be high pressure, far longer than advertised, and unless you’re actually in the market for a timeshare, probably a bad use of your time.

The other possibility is that the tickets are bogus. Deeply discounted Disney tickets sold at less established locations to the public at large are likely fake or have already been partially used by someone else and should be viewed with caution. Craigslist, eBay, random convenience stores around Orlando — you might see Disney World tickets advertised at any of these places, and chances are good that you’ll be buying tickets that have no value at all.


What misconceptions have you heard about Disney World? Do you agree with our list? Do you try to talk people out of their misconceptions? Let us know!

Start planning your next Disney trip with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They’ll help you get the best price for your vacation, share their expert advice and their services are totally FREE!

MyMagic+ & MyDisneyExperience Explained

Walt Disney World Magic Bands Explained

Using Disney's Magical Express at Orlando International Airport

Booking Airfare and Transportation to Walt Disney World

The main airport that most visitors fly into is Orlando International Airport (MCO) which is located about 20 miles from Disney World. MCO is designed in a way that the gates are in 1 of 4 "satellite" buildings and visitors ride the tram to get to and from the main terminal.

Another airport option is Orlando Sanford International (SFB) which just serves a few airlines. It is located about 35 miles from Disney World. Rental cars, Ubers, taxis and limos are available to travel from Sanford to Disney World but Magical Express isn't an option.

For finding cheap airfare, I recommend checking Kayak.com and then booking your flight with the airline directly. Another great site is ITA Software by Google.   You can’t book through ITA, but it gives you more options in choosing multiple airports to see if nearby airports might offer better pricing, and allows you to check out a calendar of dates for travel, among other things.

There isn't an airfare research tool that can search the low airfare airlines like Southwest or Allegiant so you need to research those separately. Go to those airlines' websites to look up their pricing.

If you’re not booking a trip for set dates but are willing to travel whenever a deal pops up, another great option is Airfarewatchdog. You can signup for their deal alerts for trips between two cities. We opt for their daily email, which provides listings for the cheapest future airfare to numerous destinations departing out of our home airport.

When visiting Walt Disney World, you’ll also need to determine whether to rent a car. If you’re not visiting other destinations outside of Walt Disney World, you might not need to waste the money on one. Walt Disney World provides complimentary transportation to the parks from your Disney resort and even to and from the airport via Disney's Magical Express, however, keep in mind Disney transportation can take a lot of time.

If you are looking to venture off property once or twice during your stay, an alternative to renting a car is a taxi or an Uber, which would definitely be cheaper than renting a car.

If you are not staying at one of the Disney resorts, your hotel may offer shuttle services to and from the different parks (Disney, Universal, SeaWorld, etc).  Historically our experience has been that these shuttles are very limited in schedule so you may want to look into renting a car.

Where to Stay When Visiting Walt Disney World

One important decision you will make as you plan your trip to Walt Disney World, is whether to stay on-site at a Disney resort or off-site at one of the many hotels in the surrounding area. The purpose of this page is to offer some suggestions as to what criteria might be considered when making such a decision and to summarize the main advantages and disadvantages of each choice.

Things to Consider When Making Your Choice

When attempting to make the choice of staying on-site or off-site, it is helpful to know the answers to the following questions:
- What is my budget?
- How far in advance am I planning?
- How many people are in my party and what are their ages?
- Do we want to all stay together in one room or suite or villa?
- What hotel amenities are important to me?
- Will I have my car/rental car?
- Will I be spending most of my time visiting Disney attractions, or will I be visiting non-Disney attractions too?

Some Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Choice

Off-site Advantages:
- Generally better/larger accommodations for the same or a lower price.
- More likely to find rooms in your desired price range at the last minute.
- Better access to restaurants, shopping and other non-Disney attractions.
- NOT immersed in Disney Magic 24 hours a day.
- Some hotels offer scheduled shuttle service to the parks.
- Some hotels offer free breakfasts.
- Many off-site hotels offer discounts to non-Disney attractions and restaurants.

Off-site Disadvantages:
- Getting to and from the parks may be more difficult. This is more important if one plans to take afternoon breaks from the parks.
- On peak holidays parking lot(s) at WDW might be closed.
- Quality of the rooms varies; as does service.
- Off-site guests must pay for parking at Disney theme parks if they drive unless they have an Annual Passport.
- Shuttle service is limited at many hotels, some hotels share shuttles making the service very slow and/or crowded, and some hotels charge for using their shuttle service.
- Hotel staff may be less familiar with Disney property.

On-site Advantages:
- Getting to and from the parks is generally easier. This is more important if one plans to take afternoon breaks.
- Immersed in Disney Magic 24 hours a day.
- Disney resorts offer wonderful theming.
- Disney staff provides excellent service.
- Properties are always clean and well-maintained.
- Priority on tee times on Disney golf courses.
- Room-charge privileges throughout WDW.
- Ability to purchase Magic Your Way tickets.
- Merchandise delivery to your Disney hotel.
- Access to WDW's closed circuit TV information channels.
- Unlimited use of WDW transportation system.
- Magical Express transportation to/from airport to WDW Resort at no charge
- Able to purchase Disney Dining Plan.

On-site Disadvantages:
- Rooms are more expensive.
- Availability of budget-priced rooms is limited, especially at the last minute.
- Dining is generally more expensive.
- Getting to and from area's non-Disney attractions may be more difficult.
- Going from resort to resort relying on Disney Transportation can be long and/or a hassle.

Ultimately the choice to stay onsite at a Disney resort or off-site all depends on what is right for you and your family.

How to Plan Your Walt Disney World Vacation

Planning a Disney World vacation requires some research. Walt Disney World is a huge place (47 square miles — that’s almost twice as large as Manhattan!) with so many things to do and see that even after more than 30 visits, we have not begun to do it all.

Just a quick summary of SOME of what’s available at Disney World:
• 4 major theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• 2 water parks: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon
• Over 25 resort hotels
• 5 golf courses
• 2 mini-golf courses
• numerous lakes offering water sports, boating and fishing
• 2 dinner shows
• BoardWalk entertainment district
• Disney Springs shopping and dining district

So it’s not surprising that you’re a little confused about where to begin.

You’ll need to decide the following, in roughly this order:

1. When you’re going

See when is the best time to go to Disney World for hints on the best and worst times of year for planning a Disney World vacation.  Obviously your budget, kids’ school schedules and other factors will influence your decision as well.

2. What you’re going to do when you get there

Seems kind of early in the planning process, doesn’t it? I mean, you haven’t even decided on a hotel yet! Well, trust me, you need to do some research before you go any further. There is so much to do, and everyone does something slightly different. Depending on the parks and attractions you want to visit, you may find certain hotels and resorts are much more convenient.

If you need some help with planning, I offer a planning service through Fiverr where I provide you with the perfect personalized 4 park itinerary for your trip to WDW and can customize it with shows, entertainment and dining suggestions based on the dates of your trip.

3. How long you’re staying

You probably thought that was part of #1 above, didn’t you? But after you learn how much there is to do, you may re-think your plans.

If you want to visit all four theme parks and actually experience the majority of the attractions, parades and shows, you will need at least 5 full days! (Epcot can easily take 2 days all by itself, because in a sense it’s the equivalent of 2 theme parks: Future World and World Showcase).

If you would like to do the major attractions at the theme parks without racing around like a maniac, or you want to try some of the “extras,” like water parks or golf, allow more days. In fact, I believe a one-week trip is optimum for a first-timer who wants to enjoy the full experience. Tickets are the most expensive part of most people’s Disney World vacations, and Disney has set up its ticket pricing to encourage trips longer than 4 days: 7-day tickets don’t cost that much more than 4-day tickets.

4. How you’re getting there

Whether you plan to go on your Disney vacation by plane, train or automobile, it can be challenging to find the most economical way to get to your destination — and then you need to figure out how you’re going to get around while you are there!

If you will be flying to Florida, it is a good idea to start checking out airfares right away, and keep checking them. The fares fluctuate wildly and if you catch a good one, you’ll need to grab it quickly.

5. What kind of theme park tickets to buy

Because Walt Disney World tickets are so expensive (you’ll probably spend more on tickets than you will on your hotel room) this is a critical decision. Look over your itinerary, get out your calculator, take a look at the prices and figure out which tickets make sense for your situation.

While there are discounted tickets available from authorized ticket resellers like AAA/CAA, Undercover Tourist, and Maple Leaf Tickets in Canada, keep in mind that discounts are small for the most part; you’re probably going to have to pay 80%-95% of full price in most cases.

6. Where you will be staying

First you’ll have to decide whether to stay at an official Disney resort, or at a nearby “off-property” resort. This is a complex decision for many people, to say the least. Keep in mind that while we use the term “off-property” to describe the non-Disney hotels, many of them are quite close and some are actually physically located on Disney-owned land. They just aren’t owned and run by Disney.

Each of the official Disney resorts is unique and special, and the ability to leave the real world behind and experience the Disney magic 24/7 is part of the fun for many people. The Deluxe Disney resorts are especially stunning. When you stay at a Disney resort hotel, you get FREE transfers to and from the airport via Disney’s Magical Express, access to Extra Magic Hours and some other perks. Staying at a Disney resort gives you direct access to the Disney buses, boats and monorails so you can take a break from driving. The Disney resorts have much larger pools and more recreation options than most off-site hotels.

If you are trying to save as much money as possible, an off-property resort is usually going to be the best value. Families of 5 or more usually find that off-property resorts are an especially good deal, because most of the 5-person options at Disney’s resorts are quite pricey. Good off-property hotels often have larger rooms with more amenities than the official Disney hotels (especially compared to the Value and Moderate resorts, which have standard rooms that feel a bit motel-like). A quality off-property hotel will have service at least as good as a Disney resort, and a “luxury” hotel like the Waldorf Astoria Orlando will typically have better service. If you stay off-property, you will probably want to rent a car, which is an additional expense, but it is generally a faster and better way to get around than the Disney transportation system.

The bottom line is that you can have an excellent vacation staying either on or off property. I have done it both ways multiple times, and can assure you there are no right or wrong answers.  I recommend exploring both options and figuring the bottom-line price and what you get with each. If you can afford to stay more days with one option, we recommend going that way; we’ll always advocate for staying longer if you can swing it. If neither one jumps out as being obviously better for you and this is your “once in a lifetime” trip, we’d go with a Disney resort just to get the full experience. If you think you’ll come back, just pick one option at random; you can always try it the other way on your next visit.

If you’re considering an on-site resort stay, you will want to see some photos and details about Disney’s resorts. Disney’s own disneyworld.com website is a good basic resource.

If you decide to stay on-site, there are discounts available at certain times of year for Disney’s resorts as well as discounts on Disney’s vacation packages. If you will be staying for 5 nights or more at a Disney resort, that’s a big investment and we hope you’ll seriously consider contacting a Disney Specialist travel agent such as myself. It costs you nothing to have someone else keep track of all the resort discounts and find you the best deal. They will even rebook your resort reservations if a better discount becomes available.

If you’re considering non-Disney/off-site hotels — and it’s worth considering, especially if you are on a tight budget and/or have a family of 5 or more — we have visited dozens around Walt Disney World and can help you choose the perfect hotel for your family.

7. How you’re getting from the airport to your hotel (if you’re flying)

There are lots of options.

If you are staying at a Disney resort, Walt Disney World Resort offers a FREE airport shuttle service called Disney’s Magical Express that includes a complimentary airport shuttle bus to and from the Disney resorts*, and luggage delivery from your home airport directly to your Disney resort hotel room (as long as you arrive between 5:00 am and 10:00 pm).

If you are staying at a non-Disney/off-site hotel, one option is to use an airport shuttle — a shared van or bus service that runs at scheduled times between the airport and your hotel. You will need to check if this is offered by your hotel as not all hotels offer this service.

Another option if you will not be staying at a Disney-owned and -operated hotel, is booking Mears Shuttle. When arriving, you don’t really need to make a reservation (though it still may be helpful during peak season). There’s a Mears desk in the airport and you can walk up and arrange to go on the next shuttle. When going back to the airport, you will need to arrange a pickup time with Mears. You tell Mears when your flight leaves, and they assign you a pickup time. They’re generally pretty good about arriving close to that time and getting you to the airport in time for your flight. Transfers between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Disney World-area resorts are $37 roundtrip for adults (12 and older) and $28 for kids ages 4-11, plus tip. Kids 3 and under are free.

Unfortunately, Mears can be slow, since you will have to wait for the shuttle (which is often a big bus) to pick up numerous passengers and take them to their individual hotels. Allow about 90 minutes from the time you get off the plane until you arrive at your hotel. (Direct driving time is 20-30 minutes.)

Other options include a shared shuttle van service or towncar/limo transfer


That’s it!

Seriously, everything else is “gravy.” You can make reservations for your meals, book special events and do all kinds of other planning, but these are the basics. Enjoy your planning!

Start planning your next Disney trip with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They’ll help you get the best price for your vacation, share their expert advice and their services are totally FREE!