Surviving Disney

        I’ve just returned from a wonderful week vacationing in Disneyworld, Florida, and thought I would share some of my experiences for those of you who are planning a trip to any of Disney’s theme parks. If you’ve never contemplated a family holiday at Disney, I have to say, I understand. It’s busy. There are line-ups everywhere and the crowds are huge, but it can also be a wonderful vacation that can be shared and enjoyed by everyone from grandparents to toddlers.

          To start off, this is a walking holiday. You will walk and then walk some more and when you stop walking you will have to stand. Wear good shoes and if you have small children bring a stroller. If you have elderly or infirmed relatives, rent an electric scooter. The one we rented (No it wasn’t for me) cost about $30 a day and was worth every penny. The bus drivers and Disney staff are excellent at catering to people with special needs. And if you stay at one of the Disneyworld resorts transport to and from the parks is free. 

All your information including meal plan, hotel, park entrance and FastPass + is held on the Magic Band.

         If you are travelling with a person with special dietary needs, whether it is an allergy, a gluten intolerance, or diabetes, the restaurant staff is excellent. We had a child travelling with us who had a peanut allergy. At every single restaurant we visited the chef came our table to discuss the appropriate menu options, not only was our child aware of the safe choices, but was also provided with a peanut free alternative dessert, something that is a rare treat.

click here for Disney's dietary policy

A peanut free Mickey waffle

Green Mickey in the Epcot Center

          I have chronic motion sickness and am not a fan of rollercoasters, but there is so much more to Disney than theme park rides. There is always something to see and do, from shows to safari tours. Most of the attractions have long lines. You can wait for an hour to get on a ride, but Disney does have a solution. You can purchase a FastPass +. Now I can’t tell you the prices, but I would contact a Disney representative before you go for more information. I do suggest that if your budget allows you get one. It works by allowing you to schedule your rides and attractions. You book the time you want to ride and then show up at that time, there is a special entrance for FastPass + holders, so there’s no need to wait in the long line up. 

---

click for more about fastpass +

Disney staff are courteous, friendly, and helpful. They know that for most of us a vacation at one of their theme parks is a once in a lifetime event. For me this was a holiday full of family memories that can be cherished forever.

The castle in the Magic Kingdom at night