Disney Ideas

Play Club Penguin. But what’s it all about?


Club Penguin is a massively multiplayer online game (MMO) involving a virtual world with several online games and activities designed for children between the ages of six and fourteen.

In Club Penguin, launched by New Horizon Interactive in 2005 and acquired by Disney in 2007, players use cartoon penguins and play in a winter-themed world.

You can play Club Penguin free, although there are also paid memberships which allow players to access a range of additional features, such as the ability to use Club Penguin codes to unlock items, buy clothing and furniture, and in-game pets called “puffles” for their penguins through the use of in-game currency.

After performing your Club Penguin login, the world is divided into various rooms and distinct areas. Each player is provided with an igloo for a home. Club Penguin members have the option of opening their igloo so other penguins can access it via the map, or purchase larger igloos and decorate them with items bought with virtual coins earned by playing mini-games (or using club penguin cheats).

At least one party per month is held on Club Penguin. In most cases, a free clothing item is available, both for paid members for those that play Club Penguin free. The parties also provide member only rooms in which only members can access. Some major Club Penguin parties are its annual Halloween and Holiday parties. Other large parties include the Music Jam, Adventure Party, the Puffle Party, and the Medieval Party.

Players can play a number of minigames on Club Penguin. They earn coins based on the score they get, which can be spent on items. Some of the games are Bean Counters and Hydro Hopper. There are also some multiplayer games like Sled Racing and Find Four. Ever since the release of stamps, some of the game levels have been limited to members only and not to those that play Club Penguin free.

Club Penguin players can express their feelings with the use of emoticons that appear over the head of their avatar contained within speech bubbles.

Club Penguin members may use the virtual coins that they collect from playing mini games (or by using the ever popular Club Penguin cheat codes) to purchase various items from different merchants including clothing, wigs, stage costumes, igloos, furniture, and sports. Members and users that play Club Penguin free may also purchase new colours for their penguins, pins from different countries, and backgrounds for their player card.

Each Club Penguin player has their own penguin card, which is used to manage the player's inventory. Players may decorate their card by purchasing new backgrounds, clothing and other items.

Club Penguin cards can also be to display "pins" - new examples of which appear within Club Penguin every two weeks. Pins are free, but are hidden throughout the game.

Flags are similar to pins; they also appear in the top left-hand corner of a player's penguin card. In 2010, Club Penguin introduced stamps, and their respective stamp book. Stamps are earned from accomplishing goals in mini-games and on the island.

The stamp book displays all stamps that have been earned and yet to be earned. Pins are also displayed in the stamp book. Players can see other penguins' stamp books by clicking on their player cards.

Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys


A “Hidden Mickey” is best defined as an image of the world’s most famous mouse - Mickey Mouse – cleverly concealed in the design of a Walt Disney World attraction or resort by the Imagineers.

Here are some of my personal favourite Hidden Mickeys that can be found at Walt Disney World:

1. Magic Kingdom: The Haunted Mansion

In the ballroom scene of this popular WDW attraction, check out the arrangement of plate and adjoining saucers on the banquet table. It forms a classic Hiddden Mickey!

2. Magic Kingdom: It’s a Small World

In the Africa scene of this Walt Disney World ride, have a look at the purple flowers on a vine to the left hand of the elephant. Nice Hidden Mickey there!

3. Magic Kingdom: Snow White’s Scary Adventure

Unfortunately, with the expansion of Fantasyland at Disney World, we will no longer be able to enjoy this Hidden Mickey but it will remain in my heart as an all-time favourite.

In the waiting line of this now extinct Disney attraction, you can see a couple of Hidden Mickeys on a pair of shorts hanging on the clothesline and three stones on the chimney of the Dwarfs’ cottage.

4. Epcot: The American Adventure

There is a painting of a wagon train heading west in the lobby of this patriotic WDW attraction; just above the front leg of the foremost oxen there is a Hidden Mickey. Look closely!

5. Epcot: Norway Pavilion, Maelstrom

The Norwegian pavilion at Walt Disney World is full of great Hidden Mickeys. Have a look at the wall mural facing the loading dock and you will see a Viking wearing Mickey Mouse ears. A bearded construction worker on the right side is wearing a watch with the classic Mickey head image.

WDW Hidden Mickeys Disney World

6. Epcot: The Land

In the waiting line for this education WDW ride check out the bubbles in the middle of the mural and three circles near bottom of mural directly across from loading area. Looks familiar?

WDW Hidden Mickeys Disney World

7. Disney’s Hollywood Studios: The Great Movie Ride

When you arrive at Gangster Alley, there is a Hidden Mickey on the billboard and another one in the window above the bank. You need to be quick to spot these, and be sure not to miss the rest of the action on this great Walt Disney World ride.

WDW Hidden Mickeys Disney World

8. Mama Melrose Restaurant: Disney’s Hollywood Studios

In the waiting area, have a close look at the spots on the Dalmatian…

WDW Hidden Mickeys Disney World

9. Tower of Terror: Disney’s Hollywood Studios

In the entrance area of this WDW ride, just before you go inside, on main balcony designs and library on sheet music there are several surprises.

WDW Hidden Mickeys Disney World

10. It’s Tough to be a Bug: Disney’s Animal Kingdom

At the handicapped entrance, just to the left on the ceiling you will see a Hidden Mickey.

WDW Hidden Mickeys Disney World

Picking the Right Walt Disney World Ticket


One of the best ways to skip the lines and save both time and money on your next Walt Disney World vacation is to purchase your tickets in advance, either direct from Disney or from any of the authorized (and reputable) specialized travel agencies.

From a 10 day Park Hopper with the Water Park Fun and More option for Walt Disney World, to dinner shows and exciting driving experiences, there are plenty of WDW ticket combinations to suit your length of stay and theme park touring preferences.

Choosing the right WDW tickets depends on a number of factors such as how long you will be in the Orlando resort, what Disney World attractions you want to visit and whether you want to do more than one of them a day.

Another big question is whether you want to do more than one of the Disney attractions a day. If so, you will need a Park Hopper. If you are debating whether to stick to one park per day or hop between the 4 main Disney theme parks at the WDW Resort, here are some things you should consider before making your decision:

Magic Your Way Disney Tickets

A Magic Your Way ticket allows you to visit one of the four main Disney World theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom) for each day on your ticket. You can leave and return to the same park, but you cannot visit a second park on the same day.

In general, a Magic Your Way Disney World ticket is a good choice if:

1. You have young children: One Disney theme park per day is usually plenty for small children. If you leave and come back to the same park, they usually enjoy the familiarity of it more than starting over at a different park.

2. If it’s your first time: If it’s your first visit, you’ll have enough to do staying in one park the entire day without the added stress of visiting a second Disney park on the same day.

3. If you’re incorporating other activities into your vacation: If you have night time entertainment plans like visiting Arabian Nights, Blue Man Group or enjoying the Cirque du Soleil show at Downtown Disney, one park per day might be enough.

4. If you want to save the most money possible, Disney World Magic Your Way tickets
will be cheaper than Park Hopper tickets, so if your main goal is to spend the least amount of money possible, go with the Magic Your Way ticket option.

5. If you are visiting during the busy holiday season… Navigating between the Disney theme parks during busy seasons – especially if you are relying on WDW transportation - eats up a lot of valuable time. In addition, if a park reaches capacity and you leave that park, you will not be able to re-enter.


Disney World Park Hopper Tickets

A Park Hopper ticket allows you to hop between Disney theme parks for the number of days on your ticket.

In general it’s a good idea to get a Park Hopper ticket if:

1. It’s an adult-only trip or you’re travelling to WDW with teenagers: Grown-ups and big kids can move through the parks much faster than families with small children without getting too tired. And we all know teenagers can change their minds quite swiftly.

2. You have visited WDW before: If you’re a Disney regular, you know which attractions you want to see in each park and then hop to the next.

3. You want to watch a night time parade or fireworks show every night: If you have a Park Hopper ticket, you can go to whichever Disney park has the night time parade or fireworks show you want to watch no matter which park you were at during the day. For instance, if you spent your day at Animal Kingdom and you didn’t have a Park Hopper ticket, you won’t have a fireworks show to attend that night.

4. You are visiting during a less busy time of year: When the crowds are low, you can move through the WDW parks much faster so park hopping makes more sense.

5. You don’t want to commit to just one park per day: Let’s say you begin your day at Magic Kingdom. You may stay all day, but you may decide you want to head over to Epcot for IllumiNations that night. A Park Hopper ticket provides the most flexibility for the more indecisive among us.

We hope this helps make your decision! Happy travelling!

J.J. Abrams will direct Star Wars Episode VII at Disney


After pretty intense weeks of rumors and speculation, finally it seems that Disney cannot keep the secret under wraps for much longer. J.J. Abrams is the “chosen one” to reboot one of the most successful sagas of movie history.

Many of us Star Wars nerds - and Disney fans as well, given the impact that the directorial choice can have on the Disney theme parks going forward – eagerly awaited who Disney would chose to direct the new Star Wars episode announced following the acquisition of Lucasfilm back in October of 2012.

The news that J.J. Abrams has been chosen to lead Star Wars Episode VII is particularly surpising when we consider that just a few weeks ago the director categorically denied that he would be directing the new instalment of the franchise created by George Lucas.

The creator of the popular television series Lost (among other extremely successful projects) had previously expressed that his loyalty to the Star Trek franchise actually prevented him from directing Star Wars Episode VII - even though the job had been proposed to him and that he was definitely a big fan of the series.

JJ Abrams Disney
J.J. Abrams to direct Star Wars Episode VII

Specifically, the famed filmmaker J.J. Abrams told the film magazine Empire just a few weeks ago that he preferred to enjoy the new rendition of Star Wars as a spectator rather than being actively involved in the new film’s creation.

Since announcing the production of a new Star Wars saga in the autumn of 2012, speculation about who would be chosen by Disney for the directorial role has increased in intensity in recent weeks suggesting possible candidates including Guillermo del Toro, Steven Spielberg, Brad Bird and even Ben Affleck among others.

So, if all goes as expected, Mr. Abrams will deliver new episodes for two of the most successful science fiction franchises in film history: Star Wars VII and Star Trek XII.

Jeffrey Jacob Abrams, born 1966, is a writer, producer, actor, director and composer for film and television. His prolific resume includes directing films like Super 8, Mission Impossible III and the television series Lost.

Abrams also created the television series Fringe and Alcatraz, besides composing the soundtrack for films like The Godfather and the TV series Lost.

We will keep you informed, and remember that you read the breaking news here first!

Walt Disney World FASTPASS Top 5 Tips


Although FASTPASS at Walt Disney World is likely to change in the coming months, with the introduction of FASTPASS PLUS (FASTPASS+) and several other next generation initiatives recently announced by Disney, it is likely that the tradition FASTPASS system will continue to work for the foreseeable future and it is very important to understand how it works to make the most of your Disney vacation.

Disney World FASTPASS

Here are 5 suggestions to use the WDW FASTPASS system to your advantage. It will allow you to save time and ride on your favourite rides with minimum wait times.

1. Send one person to pick up all the FASTPASSES for the group. While the group heads to one attraction, send one person (I would pick the one who can run the fastest) to another WDW attraction that offers the FASTPASS option.

2. Remember that FASTPASSES must be used within the time stated. This used to be different, but now you MUST arrive within that one hour window or the WDW cast members will not let you on the ride.

3. You can get another FASTPASS after two hours. In general you are not supposed to have a FASTPASS for more than one attraction at any given time. If you attempt to get a second FASTPASS when you haven’t used the first one, you’ll get an invalid ticket from the machine. However, Disney does put a two hour cap on this rule. So keep in mind you can get another FASTPASS – even if you haven’t used the first one – after two hours.

Disney actually prints this on the FASTPASS, so you don’t have to keep track of the time with your phone or write it down.

4. Since you are limited to the number of FASTPASSES that you can have, know which Disney theme park attractions are the best use of this option. Captain EO is a bad choice for using FASTPASS while Test Track is a good choice for using FASTPASS.

5. What goes around, comes around. Did you grab some FASTPASSES that you won’t use? Are you on your way out of the park for the day? Get some anyway and hand them to someone on your way out. Walt Disney World is a place for magic after all, and you can make some for you and a stranger.

Currently, the following attractions offer Disney FASTPASS Service at Walt Disney World:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park FASTPASS attractions: 

• Primeval Whirl
• Kilimanjaro Safaris
• DINOSAUR
• Kali River Rapids
• Expedition Everest

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Theme Park FASTPASS attractions

• Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
• Toy Story Mania!
• Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

Magic Kingdom Theme Park FASTPASS attractions

• Space Mountain
• Splash Mountain
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
• Jungle Cruise
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
• Peter Pan's Flight
• Dumbo The Flying Elephant
• The Barnstormer
• Town Square Theater

Epcot Theme Park FASTPASS attractions

• Mission: SPACE Pavilion
• Test Track
• Captain EO
• Maelstrom
• Soarin'

Disney World FASTPASS

Walt Disney World Top 10 Drinks


Everyone talks about their favourite foods and restaurants at Walt Disney World, but I believe that “Drinks” and “Refreshments” tend to be really forgotten in the scope of a WDW vacation.

In the grand scheme of things, I suppose that a drink is not perceived to be as exciting as a great Disney Desert, or a great meal at one of the Disney World signature restaurants like Le Cellier at Epcot’s Canada pavilion or perhaps Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.

However, I do believe that there are certain drinks and refreshments at Walt Disney World that do deserve a special mention so here is my list of Top 10 WDW drinks.

10. Soda from around the world.

Head to Club Cool at Future World in Epcot and try sodas from around the world. For free. There’s Kinley Lemon from Israel, Fanta Kolita from Costa Rica, Mezzo Mix from Germany and about a dozen others.

Walt disney World Drinks

9. Frozen Coke.

You can grab one of these at various locations throughout the WDW theme parks.

Walt disney World Drinks

8. Fruit Slush.

While in France at Epcot, enjoy this potent drink. Choose a Grey Goose Lemon Slush or Grand Marnier Orange Slush.

7. Coffee Confections.

According to some people, the best coffee in all of Walt Disney World is at the Writer’s Stop in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Enjoy it hot or iced and add a shot of flavor. Others will say the best coffee at WDW is at the Kona Cafe at the Polynesian Resort.

6. Peanut Butter And Jelly Milkshake.

At 50’s Prime Time Cafe in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s a drink. It’s a dessert. It’s a classic and kids of all ages love it.

Walt disney World Drinks

5. Beer.

Epcot offer some of the best beers at Walt Disney World. The Rose & Crown at the United Kingdom includes an Imperial Sampler with a glass of Bass, Harp, Strongbow, Boddington’s, and Guinness. Or you can grab a litre (yes, litre) of Radeberger Pilsner at Biergarten in Germany.

Walt disney World Drinks

4. Shaved Ice Martini.

Yak & Yeti in the Animal Kingdom. This drink comes in three flavours….. grape, cherry and citrus. This is a very adult version of the snow cone.

3. Quake Shake.

This treat can be savoured at Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop in Downtown Disney. Take a Ghirardelli chocolate bar, melt it into a drink and add caramel and ice cream. Oh my.

2. Dole Whip.

You can’t leave Disney World without heading to Adventureland in the Magic Kingdom for one of these ice cream-based drink. There are a variety of flavours, but a lot of people’s favourite is the pineapple. (Also available at Captain Cooks at the Polynesian Resort). 

Walt disney World Drinks

1. Water.

It may not be as exciting at the other drinks listed here, but this one is essential. Florida can get hot & humid and dehydration can ruin any vacation. Water is refreshing, good for everyone and available throughout the entire Walt Disney World complex.

The Twilight Zone Service Elevator


You unlock this door with the key of imagination...

Beyond it is another dimension. A dimension of sound. A dimension of sight. A dimension of mind. You're moving into a land of both shadow and substance, of things and ideas.

You've just crossed over into... The Twilight Zone.

Hollywood, 1939. Amid the glitz and the glitter of a bustling, young movie town at the height of its golden age, The Hollywood Tower Hotel was a star in its own right; a beacon for the show business elite. Now, something is about to happen that will change all that.

The time is now on an evening very much like the one we have just witnessed. Tonight's story on The Twilight Zone is somewhat unique and calls for a different kind of introduction. This, as you may recognize, is a maintenance service elevator still in operation, waiting for you. We invite you, if you dare, to step aboard because in tonight's episode, you are the star. And this elevator travels directly to...

The Twilight Zone.

'Nuff Said. Tower of terror is one of my favorite Walt Disney World Rides. The Hollywood Tower Hotel is imposing, eerie and just pure fun. 

Now get on with the show already!!

Twilight Zone Elevator

Free Things at WDW


You might think that the words “Disney World” and “Free” don’t really go together – and you would probably be right most of the time – but that is precisely why when you find nice and entertaining things to do at Walt Disney World for free it is all the better.

Here are 10 things that you can do for free at the Walt Disney World Resort. Enjoy!

10. Watch the street performers at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
This is a fun place to stroll on the boardwalk and watch the jugglers, jazz ensembles and other street performers. If you are there around 9pm, you may even see some of Epcot’s Illuminations fireworks show.

9. The Lego Imagination Center and Store at Downtown Disney has a 3,000 square-foot play area filled with thousands of Lego blocks. Get creative. You can also admire the creations made by professional Lego builders.

8. Take a ride on the free Disney transportation system
I love the Monorail. You can ride it all the way from the Magic Kingdom to Epcot and around Spaceship Earth. Or take the boat that crosses Seven Seas Lagoon to the Magic Kingdom. You can also cruise along the Sassagoula River from Downtown Disney to Port Orleans.

WDW Free


7. Look at the holiday decorations
If you are at Walt Disney World for the Christmas season (mid-November to the beginning of January), you must check out the holiday decorations at the different deluxe Disney resorts.

The Grand Floridian Resort has a life-sized Gingerbread House. The Yacht Club Resort displays a New England village. The Christmas Tree at the Wilderness Lodge is more than 30-feet tall!

WDW Free

6. Enjoy Chip and Dale’s Campfire Program
Every evening at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, you can meet Chip & Dale and watch a free Disney movie. The last time I went, we saw Finding Nemo. (They do have a campfire and you can buy a S’more’s kit for $9- serves about 4 people). Other resorts, such as the Beach Club, also offer free movies (but no characters or campfire).

5. Sample Coke from around the world
At Club Cool in Epcot (Innoventions), you can sample Coca-Cola from Israel, China, Thailand and many other countries.

4. Watch the Electrical Water Pageant. This floating parade usually starts at 9:00pm and takes about an hour to move around to all the Disney resorts on the Seven Seas Lagoon (Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, Ft. Wilderness and Contemporary). This is definitely one of my favourite WDW free things to do, just hop on the monorail and head to the beach on one of the resorts.

3. View the animals at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
I especially love going at night when you can view the animals through night-vision glasses! There is an animal expert at the Uzima Outlook every evening from 9:00 until 11:00pm. 

Some other free activities at the Animal Kingdom Lodge: listen to an African folktale at 7:30pm or play an African instrument in a parade at 7:45pm.

2. Get a button
Are you celebrating something special on your WDW vacation like a birthday or First Communion? Stop by Guest Services at any park and get a button. They will even personalize it for you!

1. Watch Wishes from the Grand Floridian boat dock. 
Narcoossee’s Restaurant is nearby and they pipe in the music for the fireworks. You can hear them from the boat dock!

Walt Disney World Favourite Table Service Eating


So, by now you’ll probably agree with me that one of the highlights of a Walt Disney World vacation is the quality dining.

Whether you choose a signature table service to provide a needed break from the hustle-bustle of theme park touring or stop by a WDW counter service location for a quick bite before returning to the attractions and shows, Walt Disney World dining offers a variety of cuisines and price ranges from which to choose.

There are literally hundreds available so whatever your taste, schedule or budget there's sure to be something suit your needs. However, since we had to provide a list here are my Top 5 Disney World Table Service recommendations:

5. Cinderella’s Royal Table at the Magic Kingdom.

I feel like a true Disney princess eating in a magical castle. The stained glass is beautiful. I love Major Domo’s Favorite Pie and my kids love the chocolate crown that comes with their dessert.

Although this Disney restaurant is rather pricey and it is very difficult to get reservations, it’s worth doing at least once; just remember to be on the phone those 180 days in advance if you want to secure a reservation for your WDW vacation.

4. La Hacienda de San Angel at Epcot.

I could eat 100 cheese empanadas from La Hacienda. While the food here is good, the view of IllumiNations is even better.

Disney World Dining

I like to make a reservation to eat dinner at 8pm so I am just finishing my last bite of the Emapanda de Manzana when the show starts.

This Walt Disney World restaurant pipes in the music and the view is wonderful.

3. Sci-Fi Dine In Theater at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Possibly not the best food in Walt Disney World, but definitely here you will experience Disney Imagineering creativity at its best.

I love eating in a car and not having to worry about driving. The onion rings are delicious and so are the ribs. My kids love to watch the really bad movies they show.

Disney World Dining

2. T-Rex Café at Downtown Disney.

Even though this is not on the Dining Plan, we eat here EVERY visit. The ribs are the best that I have ever had anywhere. I also can’t resist the French Onion Soup. Don’t let the dinosaurs eat your food!

1. Chef Mickey’s at the Contemporary Resort.

This is the place to breakfast or dinner at WDW with the classic Disney characters: Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto and Donald.

I enjoyed the chicken & rice soup and pasta and my kids enjoyed the Mickey Macaroni & Cheese. Of course, we all enjoyed the dessert bar! During dinner, we watched the monorails zip through the Disney Contemporary Hotel.

Feel free to add to these!

Disney Cruise Line Top 10


In case you haven’t heard yet, the Disney Cruise Line is now sailing basically all over the world and you can now travel “Disney Style” to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Italy, Mexico and more…

Here are 10 things to do while on a Disney Cruise:

10. Watch a Disney movie!

Several times a day, in the Buena Vista Theatre, you can watch a Disney movie. And these aren’t the old ones- these are the ones in the movies right now. 

Disney Cruise Tips

9. Participate in an onboard activity.

Disney Cruises are fun, and there are loads of onboard activities. Play Bingo, learn how to make towel animals, do some yoga. There are activities just for adults and activities for families aboard the cruise ships.

8. Send the kids to the Disney club.

There is almost an entire deck dedicated to the kids on the Disney Cruise Liners and no one does it better than Disney. 

The club is usually open from 9am until midnight and there are all kinds of things for them to do. On the first Disney Cruise we took, the kids club called me at 11:30pm to tell me that my child fell asleep ON the computer. When I got to the club, he was asleep on the keyboard. LOL Disney Cruise Line hyperactivity.

7. Meet a Disney character…. or two.

There are several Disney character greetings aboard the Disney Cruise Line all day long. You can meet Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, the princesses, Captain Hook and many more.

There are photographers there, too, to capture that magical moment. And you can even turn that special Disney photo into a Christmas card!

Disney Cruise Tips

6. See the shows.

Just like you can find in Walt Disney World, we’re talking about Broadway-quality shows with a Disney theme. These are wonderful multimedia experiences for the entire family.

5. Get a spa treatment.

Enjoy a facial, manicure, pedicure, massage--- all with a great view aboard your Disney Cruise.

4. Watch the fireworks.

Disney is the only cruise line that has fireworks at sea. This is usually during the Pirates in the Caribbean deck party.

3. Eat at Palo.

This is an adult-only restaurant with great food and a great view. (There is an additional charge). One of the best Disney restaurants just happens to be on a boat…

2. The Disney AquaDuck

If you are on the Dream or Fantasy, ride the AquaDuck. No other cruise line has this. It’s a water coaster that takes you over the side of the ship in this all-acrylic see-through tube.

Disney Cruise Tips

1. Relax, Relax, Relax

This is my favourite thing to do aboard the Disney Cruise Line, and I strongly suggest that you make it your number 1 priority.

You can sit near the Mickey pool and be in the middle of the magic. Or you can meet some new friends at the adult-only pool. I like to grab a book and relax on a deck chair on deck 4. It’s very quiet.

Walt Disney World Top Snacks


It’s too early for dinner, but all of that walking around WDW has made you hungry. What should you do? Well, given that you’re on vacation and that you can put your diet on hold for a few days, I suggest that you grab one of these delicious Walt Disney World snacks and enjoy. Let the fun begin!

10. Funnel Cake (American Pavilion in Epcot or Sleepy Hollow Refreshments in the Magic Kingdom)

These WDW funnel cakes are made from sweet dough and then deep fried. I love mine topped with powdered sugar. Mind you, I have tried funnel cakes elsewhere, but they simply taste different at Walt Disney World. Try it!

Disney World Snacks

9. Popcorn (all WDW theme parks)

They say that popcorn just tastes and smells different at the WDW parks. I love to grab a bucket of popcorn just before a parade or the night time fireworks show.

It makes waiting a lot more fun! (Photo courtesy http://www.wdwlive.com).

Disney World Snacks

8. Turkey Leg (all WDW theme parks)

Now this is what I call a snack! I could make a meal out of this. They are moist and delicious, and although they kind of remind me of the Flinstones they are just too yummy to pass.

Disney World Snacks

7. Candy Apple (Candy Cauldron in Downtown Disney)

This ripe fruit is dipped in caramel and then rolled in nuts or candy or anything else you want. You design your own apple at Walt Disney World!

Disney World Snacks

6. Fudge (Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom)

My absolute favourite is the turtle, but there are so many to choose from: vanilla, chocolate, maple, Rocky Road, peanut butter and more (picture courtesy of http://www.disneyfoodblog.com).

Disney World Snacks

5. Dole Whip (Adventureland in the Magic Kingdom)

While waiting in line, grab a cup or cone of pineapple ice cream. These are flavoured with real pineapple juice from the Dole plantation in Hawaii. Oh, and this WDW snack has legions of followers and it has achieved a kind of mystical status so there must be something to it!

Disney World Snacks

4. Pickle (all WDW theme parks)

These are great, especially on a hot day. These large, cold pickles are not only healthy, but absolutely fantastic.

Disney World Snacks

3. Boulangerie Patisserie (France pavilion in Epcot)

Just pick anything at this awesome bakery in Epcot. If the smell is enticing, wait until you taste basically anything that they have on offer.

Croissant, éclair, napoleon - you can’t go wrong at this French WDW pastry shop. I personally love the caramel soufflé but it’s really up to you.


2. Cupcake (BabyCakesNYC in Downtown Disney)

Not only are these cupcakes delicious, but they are all-natural and free from wheat, gluten, dairy and eggs. In fact, some of the cupcakes at this Downtown Disney store are so beautiful that it’s sad to gobble them up; although after the first bite you will get over it.

Disney World Snacks

1. Mickey Mouse ice cream bar (available at virtually all WDW parks and hotels)

There is something about this Mickey Mouse-shaped ice cream bar that is just pure Disney magic. I ALWAYS have one when I go to Disney (Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line- whatever). A Disney trip is just not complete without one of these treats. 

Disney World Snacks

Walt Disney World Top 10


So, I know that it’s very difficult to pick your 10 favourite things about Walt Disney World… What do you leave out? How long is your “honorary mentions” list?

There are just so many awesome things to experience at WDW that it is very difficult to narrow down the list. In any case, I have tried my best to list my Top 10 favourite things at WDW and here is my (preliminary) selection.

10. The beach at the Polynesian Resort.

Although you definitely cannot swim in Bay Lake or the Seven Seas Lagoon, the beach over by Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Resort is a wonderful and relaxing spot to look at Cinderella Castle.

Come to the beach at night to see Wishes and the Electrical Water Pageant, or simply have a stroll around this Disney resort’s lush gardens and soak in the tropical tiki atmosphere. Best of all, it's free and you don't even need to be a guest of this deluxe WDW resort to experience it.


9. Toy Story Midway Mania at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

In my opinion, this is the best interactive 4D attraction in all of Walt Disney World. I can’t pull that handle fast enough to shoot at the targets…

Also, I love the queue area in particular the larger-than-life Mr. Potato Head audio-animatronic. The old boardgames also bring up nostalgic memories.

8. The pool at the Yacht and Beach Club.

These sister hotels share a 3-acre mini-waterpark. Stormalong Bay (for hotel guests only unfortunately) features a sand-bottom pool and a lazy river. Great to chill out on a warm summer day after a long walk in the theme parks.

7. Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

The best way to ride this roller coaster is in the front. The worst is after lunch. Watch out for the Yeti (if it works). This is probably one of the few attractions at Walt Disney World where I would not recommend using FASTPASS. 

The queue is awesome, with great theming and spectacular visual details. Take your time to go through it, it's probably the best part of the whole experience.

6. Chef Mickey’s Restaurant at the Contemporary Resort.

Enjoy a wonderful buffet breakfast with Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy and Donald. And watch the Monorail pass by, too!

5. Mickey Mouse-shaped Ice Cream Bar.   

Vanilla ice cream dipped in chocolate, you really cannot go wrong with that. A must-have on any Walt Disney World vacation, which has become quite of a tradition for our family.

4. Soarin’ at Epcot.

I love to smell the orange groves and the Pacific Ocean on this amazing WDW attraction. Remember that the best seats are on the top! Also, bear in mind that the queue can get very long and FASTPASS tends to run out pretty soon in the morning, so get there early!

3. Cirque du Soleil.
A little bit pricey, but the stunts and performers on this Downtown Disney show are simply amazing. If you have the chance and the budget, check it out; Cirque du Soleil at Walt Disney World is one of the most impressive experiences in all of WDW.

2. Wishes Fireworks at the Magic Kingdom.

I love to sing along. Enough said. 

As an added bonus, have a look around you and chances are that you will see many grown-ups shedding a couple of tears. The music, the story and the setting make this one of my all-time favourite Walt Disney World nighttime shows.

1. Main Street USA at the Magic Kingdom.

There is nothing like walking down Main Street USA and seeing Cinderella Castle at the end. I know I am in the most happy place on earth, and there is no better way to start your WDW vacation.

Walt Disney World Shopping Top 10


I love watching the parades at WDW, I love eating at the restaurants and I love the attractions, but one of my favourite things to do at Walt Disney World is SHOP. Here are my Top 10 favourite stores at the Disney World Resort in Orlando.

10. Mombassa Marketplace (Animal Kingdom).

I really enjoy browsing through this store because of the unusual African items. Where else can you find an animal ornament made from a coconut? The African art is also beautiful.

WDW Top 10

9. LEGO Imagination Center (Downtown Disney).

Your one-stop-shop for everything LEGO at Walt Disney World; Whether you’re looking for individual blocks, themed sets, LEGO watches and cute accessories or just a great (and free) play area to let the kids blow some steam this is your stop.

While my kids love the play area, I love looking at the different sculptures - a life-size dinosaur, Buzz Lightyear and Woody, and an awesome LEGO dragon in the lagoon.

WDW Top 10

8. Mouse Gear (Epcot).

You can find all kinds of Disney items and general merchandising here. My kids love to build their own Mr. Potato Heads and, if you like your design, you can buy it.

WDW Top 10

7. Chapeau (Magic Kingdom).

Don’t leave Walt Disney World without those famous Mickey or Minnie ears. Of course you will find the classic black ones, but you will also find dozens of other colours and styles.

Best of all, you can have your name embroidered on them! There are also Goofy hats, princess hats, baseball caps… 

WDW Top 10


6. Disney’s Days of Christmas (Downtown Disney).

This WDW store is open every day of the year so no matter when you go, you can always find that special ornament for the Christmas tree.

You can also find tree skirts, plates, fireplace stockings and collectibles. There is also a special section of Hanukkah items.

WDW Top 10

5. La Bottega (Italy pavilion, Epcot).

All the “countries” in Epcot offer items from their native land.

My favourite item is the Perugina Baci chocolates. You will also find Italian wine, pasta, Venetian masks and other Italian-made items in this great WDW shop.

WDW Top 10

4. AFI Photo Shop (Disney’s Hollywood Studios).

Love the movies? Find all kinds of movie-related items at this store. For about 30$, you can even put your face on the cover of a magazine!

WDW Top 10

3. Uptown Jewellers (Magic Kingdom).

If you’re looking for good quality jewellery with a Disney touch (or just want to browse), stop by this shop on Main Street USA at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

There are also Disney figurines ranging from a few dollars to several thousand dollars. When you wish upon a star…

WDW Top 10

2. Animation Gallery (Disney’s Hollywood Studios).

Here you will find Disney film and cartoon original cells, drawings, sketches and other Disney collectible art featuring your favourite characters.

Special edition Disney cells are created specifically for sale in this store and nowhere else. You can also find copies of the Academy Awards won by Disney animators.

WDW Top 10

1. World of Disney Store (Downtown Disney).

At 50,000 square feet, this is largest store of Disney merchandise in the world. From tee shirts to snow globes to stationary, you will find it here.

If you are going to Downtown Disney, you MUST visit this store.

WDW Top 10

Walt Disney World Dining Tips


Here are 10 excellent tips to make the best of your Walt Disney World dining experience.

10. Make advanced dining reservations (ADRs).
 
Even during the “slow” times of the year (early January, first half of December...), you definitely need to make reservations for Walt Disney World table service restaurants. 

Guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort property can make all of their dining reservations for the length of their stay up to 180 days in advance, and don’t think that's a day too early! Remember that certain dining experiencies - in particular Disney character dining such as Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom and other signature restaurants like Le Cellier at Epcot - book quickly so it is really important to get your name on that table as soon as possible.

You can make your dining reservations online through the official Disney site http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/ or by calling (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463). Note that this is not a toll-free number, and that you will need to take into account different time zones if you want to be among the first callers.

WDW Dining Tips

9. Do your WDW homework.

There are more than 70 table service restaurants and over 100 counter service locations at Walt Disney World serving everything from Sushi to Hamburgers. 

Read the online restaurant reviews on sites such as AllEarsNet and have a look at the sample menus that you will be able to download from the official Walt Disney World dining site.

Share this information with the rest of your party, make a note of what type of food everyone likes and dislikes, and plan accordingly. Remember that you want to reduce nasty surprises in your WDW vacation!

8. Be on time (or even a few minutes early).

At some WDW restaurants, Disney will only hold your reservation for about 10 minutes. Make sure you plan plenty of time to get to the restaurant, too. 

Bear in mind that if you're going to rely purely on Walt Disney World transportation, you are going to need to factor in potential delays and longer routes.

It would be very frustrating to miss a dining reservation that you made 180 days ago, just to arrive 30 minutes late! Please don't make this mistake.

WDW Dining Tips

7. Try to eat at unpopular times.

This should not be hard for those of you that are used to eating late, or foreign travellers. 

At Walt Disney World, the common dining times for Americans are 08:00 am for breakfast, 12.00 pm (noon) for lunch and 6 pm for dinner. So consider a10.00 am reservation for a WDW breakfast, a 2 pm lunch and an 8 pm dinner at the Walt Disney World parks and resorts. This is true for counter service restaurants, too.

6. Plan around the parades, fireworks and shows.

You don’t want to plan an 8 pm dinner at Epcot when Illuminations is at 9 pm. 

If you are inclined to have a table service meal on that day, consider booking a lunch and then grabbing some counter service food to go and eat while waiting for the event to begin.

Remember to check the theme park calendars before booking your WDW dining reservations. Again, you can find this in the official Walt Disney World site.

5. Let the WDW restaurant know about food allergies.

Walt Disney World has done a wonderful job at accommodating food allergies and can create a delicious meal for all types of dietary restrictions. Several of our friends have celiac disease and we always let the restaurant know ahead of time and then again when we arrive. Most times the chef has actually come to our table personally and discussed the situation with us as he/she explained alternative dining options.

Don’t be shy, and even if you are – it’s better to be shy than sorry! Don’t let a food allergy get in the way of fabulous dining at Walt Disney World.

WDW Dining Tips

4. Eat breakfast in your room.

This definitely saves time AND money. All Disney World guest rooms now have a small refrigerator so this is a new tip. You can stock the fridge with milk, juice, water and have cereal, bread and other breakfast items in the room. The resort food court or gift shop sells these items.
 
3. Buy the Disney Dining Plan.

The Disney Dining Plan takes the guess work out of knowing how much to plan for your trip, and it is less expensive than buying the same food a la carte. The only question is whether your group will actually be inclined to each that much food!

2. Allow enough time to enjoy the meal.

I plan about an hour and a half for each table service meal at Walt Disney World. 

Sometimes you may have to wait for a table, it takes a while for the characters to get to every table, and many of the restaurants are “attractions” themselves. Look around and enjoy the atmosphere. Enjoy the food. Relax and soak in all of the fabulous WDW details strategically crafted by the clever Imagineers!

1. Book your WDW vacation with an authorized travel agent.

Specialized travel agents are critical to making the most of your Walt Disney World vacation. They have usually eaten at almost every restaurant in the theme parks, so you will receive awesome advice at zero additional cost:  Do you want a romantic restaurant? Enjoy seafood? Want to eat with Mickey Mouse (who doesn’t…)?

If you book with the right WDW travel agent, he/she will even make the reservation for you. They can take the stress out of planning your Disney World dining for you. 

Don’t forget, their services are FREE. Check on online message boards and popular Disney fan sites for a reputable specialized and Disney authorized travel agent. We can personally recommend Castles and Dreams Travel and MEI Mousefan Travel.

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