travelwithjamesdean.ca

Walt Disney World and Disneyland

With over 155 million visitors, Disney is by far the largest amusement park in the world. With something like 195,000 staff (otherwise known as cast members) take care of the endless accommodations and restaurants available to cater to every budget.
There has always been great care to create many fantasy worlds that are quite amazing for both children and adults - to keep the magic alive - take for example, an exact replica of the largest T-Rex skeleton ever discovered in Animal Kingdom or the Disney World Railroad that is really a fully functional steam-powered train.!! (Even the garbage management is even done through an underground vacuum system so that guest never see the collection) Disney has done a great job of creating entertainment to all ages, and is always innovating to come up with new theme parks, athletic complex and water parks.
This link is a great planning resource for Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, and Disney World Vacations with lots of info - including park hours, tickets, reviews and tips.

Do You REALLY Want to Stay on Disney Property.??

We have all heard the stories about the intense Disney Fans that spend every travel dollar on trips to “the Magic Kingdom”, so, it was with that thinking in mind, that our first trip to DisneyWorld in Florida gave me LOTS of concern about staying on the grounds and being CONSTANTLY surrounded by the “It's a Small World” themed music playing and generally being overwhelmed and overstimulated...
BUT - I have to say, that our week in the land of magic & fantasy, was one of the most memorable family vacations - mainly due to staying at the Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort. Now, one of the more dated hotels, as they have really created newer upscale resorts that have so many more amenities. But, personally, staying at Disney, I would be looking for comfort and less amenities if your plan is to spend all your time at the parks. (I think the newer big resorts are for those looking for a get-away that would rival a Caribbean vacation, but include theme parks.)
The accommodations on the property have a huge advantage in the transportation network that takes you from your location to the different areas - as well as the Extra Magic Hour for hotel guests that allows for entry an hour before a select parks opens. Its also handy to be close by, after taking in the evening Festival of Fantasy parade at Magic Kingdom, and the Happily Ever After fireworks show, that are the quintessential Disney experiences.!!!
(Cannot say that I am now an intense Disney Fan - but it was a great holiday.!)

Research the Cost of a Disney Vacation Before You Go

Some friends of ours had gone to DisneyWorld shortly before we were to go. And the best tip Mike gave me, was to look at your costs before you go, so that you are prepared to stay within your own budget. Once you have taken care of the accommodations, flights and big expenses, look at menus and additional costs for shows etc. - It can be quite eye-opening.!! He told a story about a breakfast the first day there - for about $100 USD for the three of them, his son took one bite of a pancake, gulped down some orange juice and ran into the lineup to meet Mickey Mouse... Needless to say this was quite a shock and disappointment.
Once again, know what you are getting into with ALL your costs for your vacations.
AND - pre-purchase your tickets, preferably as a package deal if you stay in one of their hotels to save money and time.!

Disney Super Fans Really Do Exist.!

There is really a group of people that, not only want to bring the kids for a vacation of “magic”- but want to experience everything Disney.
The super Disney Fans create their own costumes, get married on the grounds and ride in Cinderella’s Horse-Drawn Coach.!! Often booking ALL their vacation time around trips to Disney parks and cruises. It is thought that there is a direct link between nostalgia and the past, as many of these adults grew up with Disney on television as children.

Orlando is Much More Than Disney.!!

Orlando Florida is a centre for theme parks, attractions and suprisingly, even eco-tourism.
Universal Orlando is definitely a major draw featuring rides and attractions, including the lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, riding the Hogwart Express, or soon the new Jurassic World thrill ride as well as many fun attractions with your favourite characters from TV shows and movies.
Explore other unique attractions in Orlando like the 400-foot-tall observation wheel at ICON Park, or explore Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, and Museum of Illusions to name a few.