Disney’s Grand Floridian review: what guests can expect for the deluxe resort price

Before our stay for the purpose of a Disney's Grand Floridian review, I admit to harboring high expectations. I imagine this is typical; after all, the Grand Floridian is Walt Disney World's flagship resort. The moment we stepped off the Disney Magical Express bus into the generously appointed porte-cochère and were greeted by no fewer than three cast members, however, I knew … [Read more...]

When to upgrade to Park Hopper tickets at Disney theme parks (and when not to)

When buying Disney theme park tickets, families have the ability to upgrade to Park Hopper tickets. What does this mean? Instead of gaining admittance to one park per day, you have access to all four (plus water parks, if desired). Do you 'need' Park Hoppers? Most families believe the answer is yes, but in fact, it depends on your family's plans in the theme parks, style of touring, and … [Read more...]

How you can get Disney Vacation Club points for less

What family hasn't dreamed of a magical Disney vacation? The characters, the rides, the enchantment...and oh yeah, the cost! Planning a family getaway to Disney is not only expensive, but it can also be stressful and difficult. These days, there's just so many different ways to "do" Disney that it can be nearly impossible to find the best deal. But I think I have discovered the best way to indulge … [Read more...]

Disneyland California Adventure MaxPass and how to use it

Have you heard of the new Disneyland and California Adventure MaxPass yet? Here’s what you need to know about Maxpass, in order to maximize your time in the parks. First, the facts of Disneyland California Adventure MaxPass: Disney’s optional MaxPass designed to do two basic things: 1. take FASTPASS paperless in the parks, and 2. streamline your PhotoPass experience. Here’s how: With MaxPass, … [Read more...]

Vacation clubs and timeshare rentals: right for your family?

We just got back from four days on Disney World property, which meant we heard a lot about the Disney Vacation Club. Everywhere we turned, it seemed, Disney was advertising about the merits of their timeshare rentals  program. Is it a good a deal as Disney claims? How about all those other vacation clubs and timeshare programs? The answer depends on your vacation style and goals. Ask yourself the … [Read more...]

It’s here! Lots to Do in Line: Walt Disney World edition

Over a year ago, I reviewed Meredith Lyn Pierce's Lots To Do In Line: Disneyland. I admitted to being a reluctant reviewer: After all, I believe in not waiting in Disney lines at all! But after reading through the book, I wholeheartedly endorsed Lots to Do in Line. There was only one thing missing...all of Walt Disney World. Now Pierce is back with Lots to Do In Line: Walt Disney World, which I'm … [Read more...]

Educational Animal Kingdom attractions (your school-aged kids will love)

Can a theme park be educational? We had our doubts...until being schooled by Disney's Animal Kingdom. Usually fans of the latest and greatest headliner attractions (read about how to tour any Disney theme park attraction in 15 minutes or less), my school-aged sons and I spent our latest visit touring the park from a less thrill-seeking perspective, exploring the many environmental, zoological, and … [Read more...]

Aulani, a Disney’s Resort and Spa: what’s included in the Aulani value

There's no doubt about it: Aulani, Disney's new Hawaiian resort on the leeward side of Oahu, is jaw-droppingly fabulous. Throughout my stay, I experienced first class service, amenities, and activities across the board. For the average traveling family, however, it's also jaw-droppingly expensive. Utilizing a quick room rate and availability search on Aulani's reservations page, I was hard pressed … [Read more...]

Disney Done Right: Star Wars Weekends at Disney Studios

Summer's here, and family travel is at its best! What better way to celebrate the end of another school year than with a weekend at Walt Disney World? If you have a Star Wars fan, there's no better time: Fridays-Sundays through June 12th, Star Wars Weekends are ongoing at Disney Studios. The best part is, all special activities, shows, and parades are free with the cost of admission. Last … [Read more...]

Disney done right: Finding the right Disney resort for your family

When visiting Disney, we recommend fully immersing yourself in the magic of an on-site resort, but as a family of five, we also know the frustration families of five or more experience when seeking accommodations at a reasonable rate. Below are our ways to sleep in comfort, style (and within budget) at a Walt Disney World resort as a family of five (or more): Know your options. At first glance, … [Read more...]