Disney, Disney, Disney

June has been all about Disney for me this year…it’s my favourite holiday destination! If you saw my social media channels you will know I really made the most of it! I visited Disneyland Paris with my son Sam, followed by a once in a lifetime educational trip to Walt Disney World Florida on the invitation of Disney themselves as a top selling agent. If you are thinking of a trip to Disney, whether it’s Paris or Florida, I have found more than ever that it’s important to book with an expert if you want to make the most of your trip and everything there is on offer. Disneyland Paris Smaller than Florida, but Disneyland really packs a punch. It’s quick and easy to get to with just a short flight and transfer. I stayed off-site and travelled to the park via bus which runs frequently to/from partner hotels. I have also stayed on-site before, and for the small amount extra this would be my recommendation. There are 2 parks to visit, both offering lots of rides and entertainment for kids of all ages, from toddler through to teenager. I would recommend a minimum of 3 days if you want to make the most of both parks. Sam’s favourite ride was Tower of Terror but personally I liked Thunder Mountain the best! You can expect to pay somewhere in the region of £600 - £800 per person to stay on-site with flights and tickets for 2 nights / 3 days. For a short break that the whole family will remember Disneyland Paris is a great option. My Top Disney Tips; - Stay on-site – it is worth the small additional cost for the convenience and experience - Purchase the Photo Pass which captures your ride photographs - Pre-book restaurant dining early, especially if there is a specific place you want to go - It is worth being at the park late to watch the fireworks, however ride times are also significantly reduced during this time and so it’s a great time to hit the rides! Walt Disney World Florida Wow, what a trip. I stayed at Disney’s top hotel, the Grand Floridian Resort which is on-site with a view of the castle and fireworks and direct access to the Magic Kingdom via monorail. Walt Disney World Florida is the most magical place for children of all ages and an amazing family holiday that you will all remember forever. From theme park rides to meeting Disney characters, themed attractions and hotels, water parks and lovely sunshine it is truly memorable. Depending on your budget you can tailor make your holiday here. Staying on-site is the most magical, a Disney hotel really adds to your holiday experience and Disney transport allows you to navigate the parks easily. As an alternative stay off-site and rent a car to drive to the parks. You could choose to stay nearby, for example International Drive, or maybe rent a villa on Champions Gate. I have done all combinations and what suits you really depends on budget, circumstances and who is with you on your holiday. I would recommend at least a week here but preferably 2 to explore the 4 theme parks and 2 water parks that Disney has to offer. Jan/Feb and Nov are quieter times to visit (although it is always busy) but this is a year-round holiday destination. For the best value you should be looking to book around 11 months before you travel as new flights are released. Each park offers something different with rides and shows, my favourite park has to be Animal Kingdom and getting access to the park before it opened was something special. My favourite ride though must be Guardians of the Galaxy at Epcot – the highlight of my trip was an exclusive ride after the park closed! You should also remember that if you want a little relaxation, down-time or a day away from the parks Orlando has so much to offer. Relax at your hotel and enjoy the sunshine or take a trip to Clearwater beach, take an air boat ride on Boggy Creek or even take in the ice hockey at Tampa Bay…there is so much on offer. It is difficult to give an idea of price for a holiday here as there are so many options available to you. I can’t stress enough how important it is to book with someone who really knows how to tailor make this holiday so that it offers everything you are hoping for. My Top Disney Tips; - Take some comfortable trainers – you will walk a long way!...if your children are young and get tired you can always hire a buggy and push them around the park! - Familiarise yourself with the Disney App before you go…you will use it a lot whilst you are there for things like finding ride times, booking rides and booking dining - If you are staying on site, make use of your refillable mug in the resort to stay hydrated - Remember to scan your memory maker after each ride – you will be sent your ride pictures in your App - Plan your trip carefully…choosing what to do when helps manage jet lag and entering the parks at different times means different experiences, for example see the fireworks before parks close on an evening Cruise with Disney Wish I also had the opportunity to explore one of Disney’s Cruise Ships, Disney Wish at Fort Lauderdale. This would make a great add-on to relax at the end of a Disney holiday. Disney Cruise offers lots of entertainment from cinema’s to shows, kids clubs (a theme park in itself!), water slides and even relaxing facilities for the adults. There are also lots of dining options from buffet to adult-only fine dining. The ship is full of subtle themed luxuries making it perfect for the whole family. Disney Cruise offers some great holiday options. You can add-on to the end of your Disney theme park holiday, book just a cruise itself and if you are looking for a Disney fix without flying to the USA they even sail from Southampton from £223 per person per night in a veranda state room. I will be posting some Disney holiday offers on my social media channels over the next week...(Instagram: travel_with_tinaw) or (Facebook: Tina Williams – Travel Counsellor). I hope you can follow me and check them out. Thank you to all my customers who have been getting in touch and booking their holidays with me. If I can help plan your next trip, please get in touch I would love to help! Tina.