What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
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What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
Planning a trip to WDW takes a lot of thought and planning. Even with the best laid plans, one can encounter a bump or two along the way.
An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, like myself, is a 'one-stop-Disney-vacation-shop!' I can help you build your vacation from beginning to end! The best part is that my AMAZING services come at no extra cost to you, than if you'd booked it yourself.
What are the perfect number of days for a Disney World vacation?
It really depends on what you are looking for in your vacation! Generally, three to five days is enough to experience the four main theme parks, but you can always add on extra days to explore the other attractions and experiences available. If you’re looking for a more leisurely vacation, seven to ten days would be ideal to truly enjoy everything Disney World has to offer.
When is the best time to visit Disney World?
The best time to visit Disney World is typically during the off-season. This usually falls between early January and late February, as well as the months of September and October. During these times, there are usually fewer crowds and lower prices. However, it's important to note that the busiest times of year (like summer, Christmas and Easter) can still be enjoyable if you plan ahead and make reservations in advance.
Common mistakes we see when people try to book themselves at the Happiest Place on Earth
Mistake #1 – Not reserving table service meals in advance. You’ll absolutely need to make a reservation for sit down meals 60/180 days prior to your arrival. And, beware…they go fast, especially signature and character experiences.
Mistake #2 – Not using mobile order. If quick service dining is preferred, we encourage you to order using your device in advance. Payment via this method is contactless and all you have to do is pick up your order and go.
Mistake #3 – Not budgeting in advance. This is especially true for food and merchandise. Scope out menus ahead of time and don’t impulse purchase. Try to go in with a PLAN and a budget and stick to it.
Mistake #4 – Overpacking. You don’t need four pairs of shoes and two pairs of Mickey ears per day! Make and stick to a packing list, but don’t forget essentials! Sure, you can find them on property, but at a premium.
Mistake #5 – Overplanning. Prioritize your parks and attractions, but don’t pen anything in. Variables like weather and crowds could quickly derail a day that has been booked down to the minute. Be sure to plan for breaks with all of that walking!
Mistake #6 – Ignoring the forecast. Monitor the weather in Orlando prior to departure and adjust accordingly. Likely rain gear will be needed for summers, and a sweater, sweatshirt or jacket needed for cooler winter nights.
Mistake #7 – Visiting at the wrong time. As a rule of thumb, holidays, school breaks, summer, and weekends will bring the crowds. If they’re too much for you and/or you prefer a more relaxed vibe, check out other times of the year.
Mistake #8 – Wearing the wrong shoes! You should not purchase those cool new sneaks specifically for this trip. New shoes are culprits for a world of hurt, and bandaids. Stick with pairs that are broken in and comfy.
Questions To Ask Your Travel Agent about Disney World
1) What package deals are available for Disney World?
2) Are there any discounts or special offers I can take advantage of?
3) What are the best times of the year to visit Disney World?
4) Are there any seasonal activities or attractions I should be aware of?
5) How far in advance do I need to book my trip?
6) What are the best ways to save money while visiting Disney World?
7) Are there any particular restaurants or attractions that I should make sure to experience while there?
8) Are there any insider tips or tricks that I should know before I go?
9) Are there any special events or experiences that I can book ahead of time?
10) Are there any safety protocols that I should be aware of?
Disney Properties, How do you make the right selection?
Staying on Disney property is certainly our recommendation. At the end of the day Disney is always telling a story, right? Well, the resorts on property certainly aren’t an exception. Plus, staying on property comes with perks that hotels off site just don’t have. Added value! With more than 25 resorts, how do you select the one that is best for your family? Here’s a quick look!
Disney separates its resorts into four categories - value, moderate, deluxe and villas (usually part of the Disney Vacation Club). Pricing, features onsite and availability of certain amenities start off pretty basic and add on from there.
Value – Pretty basic rooms and baths. Recreation and dining are limited – think large pool and food court. Transport is typically going to be via bus.
Moderate – Rooms here are larger and in different configurations as is the bath. View options, pools, recreation, and dining are a little more robust. Bus transport is typical here, but you might find a property with a boat.
Deluxe – Most posh rooms! Types and sizes can vary. The main draw is the proximity to the parks. This is as close as it gets! A park could be a quick walk or monorail ride away.
Villas – We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program (but can be booked for cash). Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is like a deluxe property.
Evaluate each category as described and make your selection based on the needs of your family. Need help in choosing which is best for you and your family? Let us guide you each step of the way!
More Details - Selecting a Resort on Walt Disney World Property
Each resort has been carefully crafted and immerses you in a story – and we LOVE that. Plus, staying on property comes with perks that hotels off site just don’t have. Added value! However, there are SO many resorts (more than 25!). So, how do you select the one that is best for your family? Well, we’re here to break it down for you, and as we go, remember the story! A hint or indicator of it is usually in the name.
Since the resorts are split into four budget categories - value, moderate, deluxe and villas (usually part of the Disney Vacation Club but can be booked for cash). Pricing usually follows this model as it sounds – value is a better price per night as compared to deluxe. Same goes for features onsite and availability of certain amenities. Let’s do a quick breakdown!
Value Category - Resort Level
The bulk of rooms in this category are standard and approximately 260 square feet. There is a basic bath setup (sink often in the open and toilet and shower/tub in a separate room) and bedding could be two doubles or a king. Some rooms in this category are family suites coming in at approximately 520 square feet. They have a similar set up as a standard but double the baths and add in some convertible sleeping options. From here things at both are about the same. Views can differ from parking areas and wooded areas to swimming pools – and naturally the better the view the higher the price. Speaking of swimming pools, the pools here are typically themed and could be interactive, but here’s your warning – no slides! Other forms of recreation can be limited – think poolside games, a playground, and an occasional movie outside at night. Dining options are slim too with your only options being a foot court or pool bar. Finally, transportation provided by Disney (a perk of staying onsite!) will usually be via a bus. The only exceptions to this are the Art of Animation Resort and Pop Century, which recently were added to the new-ish Skyliner route.
Includes: All Star Movies, All Star Music, All Star Sports, Art of Animation, Pop Century, and Campsites at Fort Wilderness.
Moderate Category - Resort Level
Standard rooms in this category are in the 300 square foot range with a similar bath set up as a value resort, but maybe an additional sink. Two queen beds or one king is the standard, but there might be a spot for a potential fifth person (otherwise four is max). Views are similar as well but throw in the possibility of a room facing/near a natural body of water. Pools, other recreation and dining options are a little more robust with the addition of “quiet pools,” water recreation, bikes, a health club (Coronado Springs), at least one table service restaurant and a lounge. Transport here is typically bus as well, but there might be a boat service from some resorts to Disney Springs.
Includes: Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans French Quarter, Port Orleans Riverside, and Cabins at Fort Wilderness
Deluxe Category - Resort Level
There are a variety of rooms and sizes here. We’re talking anywhere from 344 to 440 square feet. The bath situation can vary too and includes what you’ll find in a moderate, but probably in a different configuration for more privacy. If the room is larger, there might be several baths. Bedding configuration is like a moderate property with nothing smaller than a queen. However, it’s the views, recreation, dining, and transportation that sets a deluxe apart. Pools will have slides, hot tubs, or other water features. Spa services might even be available. There are more table service restaurants, room service and maybe even character dining your Walt Disney World onsite. Lastly, these resorts are typically in close proximity to a park (very attractive to some), so transportation options open up. Buses, skyliner and boats could still be available, but add walking and monorails to the list.
Includes: Animal Kingdom Lodge, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, Contemporary, Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Polynesian Village, Wilderness Lodge, and Yacht Club.
Villas Category - Resort Level
We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program but can be booked for cash. Villas can be found at some deluxe properties, but there are also three that are dedicated to Disney Vacation Club. Rooms are villa style with more amenities and can range from a studio all the way to a three bedroom. Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is similar to a deluxe property.
Includes: Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary, Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge, Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom Villas at Jambo House and Kidani Village, Beach Club Villas, BoardWalk Villas, Old Key West, Polynesian Villas and Bungalows, Riviera Resort, Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa, Villas at Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.
We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program but can be booked for cash. Villas can be found at some deluxe properties, but there are also three that are dedicated to Disney Vacation Club. Rooms are villa style with more amenities and can range from a studio all the way to a three bedroom. Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is similar to a deluxe property.
21 Fun Facts about Walt Disney World
Balloons Balloons have been a guest favorite since day one. Disneyland started selling them in 1955! And fun fact – if you pop your balloon while in the park just bring it back to the vendor and they’ll replace it! Ready to pick up yours? Then, let’s get planning! What’s the Disney souvenir of choice for you or your little ones? Balloon? Plush? T-shirt?
Beast and Belle Flower and Garden The Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot runs annually starting in the spring. Did you know that more than 500,000 plants, trees and shrubs are installed for the festival? A lot of people call it their favorite. Are you ready to find out? Our personal favorite Flower and Garden Festival topiary can be found in the France pavilion – Belle and Beast. If you’ve been, what was your favorite?
Boardwalk Staying on Disney property is special. Not only are you immersing yourself in a story and experience, but you might even be so close to the parks that you have this view! Ready to explore the onsite possibilities? Tell us, do you stay on Disney property? What is your favorite and why?
Carousel No visit to the Disney parks is complete without a ride on the carousel. With the backdrop of the castle, it stands as the most classic ride of them all. Ready to put this attraction on your must-do list? Do you know how to identify Cinderella’s horse?
Castle Fireworks Another Disney tradition is catching the nighttime fireworks! There have been many iterations over the years, and they just keep getting better and better. If you’re ready to see them in person, let’s connect! What has been your most recent fireworks show favorite?
Cinderella’s Castle Cinderella’s Castle as pulled straight from the movie, is said to have drawn influence from Versailles and Fontainebleau in France as well as Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany. Do you see the resemblance? The regal Cinderella’s Castle stands as our favorite castle from any park across the globe. Which castle is your favorite? What memories does it hold for you?
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Epcot holds a lot of festivals throughout the year and our favorite can be seen here – the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. Watch the park come to life in bloom each spring. Ready to schedule a visit to one of Epcot’s festivals? Topiaries? The fresh snacks? Scavenger hunt around World Showcase? What’s your favorite part of Flower and Garden?
Epcot Skyliner The Skyliner is the newest form of transportation on property having opened in September of 2019. It connects four resorts and two theme parks. The system is easy to navigate, convenient and the views while riding are mesmerizing. Ready to ride? Let’s get you there. The Skyliner has quickly become a transportation favorite among guests. Have you had the chance to experience it? Did you love it?
Expedition Everest There are a bunch of fun facts about Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Most notably, it’s the tallest attraction on property. But did you know that despite its name, riders aren’t actually navigating Mount Everest? Instead, it holds the fictitious name of Forbidden Mountain. Disney Imagineers created it just for the storyline of the attraction! Riding forward…Riding backward (in the dark)…An 80 foot drop. Yikes! Do you love or hate Everest, um Forbidden Mountain?
Haunted Mansion As you weave through the Haunted Mansion queue pay close attention. The names on the tombstones are those of Imagineers! Some even worked on the build of the attraction itself! Another fun fact, as you exit there’s a pet cemetery. Towards the back there’s a tribute to Mr. Toad! Besides it’s 999 happy haunts, there’s a hidden Mickey inside the Haunted Mansion! Do you know where it’s located?
Mickey Ears and Castle Ears for some are a must have collectible. During your visit to WDW keep an eye out for ears that pay tribute to certain attractions and characters. If you’re looking to jump on an even hotter trend, go for one of the many color specific ears. Rose gold and purple potion are two favorites. Get your ears on!
Mickey Waffles Some say that waffles just taste better when they’re in the shape of Mickey and consumed on property. There is an abundance of breakfast locations where you’ll find this icon! And, while the mouse himself is the most widely available, you might spot Stitch or Simba at some spots as well! We love Mickey waffles! What’s your favorite Disney snack?
Monorail There are three different monorail lines. The Epcot line connects guest to Epcot via the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC). The Resort line stops at Magic Kingdom, all three surrounding resorts and the TTC. The Express line is a direct connect between MK and the TTC. If the Express line is too long, hop on the Resort line if there’s a much shorter wait time and only make one additional stop at the Contemporary! The classic. The monorail. It’s our favorite. Is it yours too?
Pandora The stunning Pandora – World of Avatar. The film’s writer and director James Cameron played an integral role in the design of this land in Animal Kingdom as did producer Jon Landeau. They were joined by legendary Imagineer Joe Rohde. Did you know they left a little easter egg at the exit of Flight of Passage? Keep an eye out for it during your next visit! Flight of Passage. Pandora’s must-do attraction. Do you rope drop it? Or save it for your last attraction before close?
Spaceship Earth Spaceship Earth or as some call it, “the giant golf ball” is the very first ride that we take when visiting Epcot. We just can’t get over the fact that we travel in there! Imagineering at it’s finest. What is the first attraction on your list when visiting Epcot? What’s your favorite scene on Spaceship Earth? Rome burning? The Phoenicians?
Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge The most recent addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Galaxy’s Edge was announced in 2015. After over six years of concept development and construction, the first guests were welcomed in 2019! And, for reference, the timeline you’re entering when coming into the land is between the eighth and ninth film! Did you know there’s a hidden mini– Millennium Falcon ON the Falcon itself? Know where it is?
Teacups The teacups were our first ride EVER in the Magic Kingdom! We spun that thing so fast …you could hear the joy and excitement in our screams and laughs! What was your first ride EVER at a Disney Park? Share with us below. Ready to ride again? Let’s chat! Did you know the teacups were a Magic Kingdom opening day attraction? Can you name some others?
Tomorrowland Tomorrowland was a land that opened when the park itself opened on October 1, 1971. But it only featured two attractions, and Space Mountain wasn’t one of them! They were the Grand Prix Raceway and Skyway to Fantasyland, which, sadly, no longer exists. Rank your favorites! Choices – Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover and Carousel of Progress.
Tower of Terror The Imagineers on the attraction watched every single episode of The Twilight Zone for inspiration, and it can be seen in the attraction’s queue area. There are a ton of easter eggs and the attention to detail is incredible. You might even spot some props used in actual episodes! The story of the hotel is that it was struck by lightning, and that’s the state you see it in. Do you know what date that strike occurred?
Tree of Life We encourage you to take the time and explore the paths that surround the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. They’re often overlooked as most others head straight for the main attractions. Here you’ll get a break from the crowds, an up-close view and excellent photo ops! There are 300 animals carved into the Tree of Life.
And did you know, it's NOT a Small World After All! Disney World encompasses over 50 square miles.
A quick example itinerary for starting a 3 day trip to WDW
This itinerary is chock full of park days. Consider checking out each park during the day and night. If the park time below is too much, you can always return to your hotel for pool time, check out Disney Springs or visit a waterpark!
DAY 1
Fly into Orlando in the morning and transfer to your hotel. Take your time in getting settled at the hotel and enjoy dinner onsite before an early sleep. Or, if you're feeling up to it, head to the Magic Kingdom! Try to hit some opening day attractions and maybe catch the nightly fireworks (if available).
DAY 2
Grab a quick to-go breakfast from the hotel and head to Epcot Center, or head to Epcot and go straight to Les Halles in the France pavilion for breakfast. Even though World Showcase typically opens later in the morning (around 11am) as compared to the rest of the park, Les Halles is typically open and serving. Return to your hotel in the middle of the day for a nap or swim, then head back out Hollywood Studios. If running, try to catch Fantasmic or Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular!
DAY 3
Grab a bite from the hotel or head to the Magic Kingdom for breakfast. Enjoy the morning exploring the park then return to your hotel. Spend some time relaxing and exploring — take a nap, enjoy the pool, partake in some activities, if available. After that if you're completely relaxed and feeling like hanging in, grab dinner on site. If you're up for it, head to Disney Springs for some shopping and dinner.
I would love to create the perfect FREE Disney vacation package for you and your family / guests. If you like to reach out to me, please use my Disney World Travel Inquiry Form.
Get in touch with Briana Capps
Briana Capps
Hey there, welcome to my world of wonder!
Thanks for dropping by! If you're here, you're probably dreaming of your next incredible getaway. Let me help you turn those dreams into reality with all-inclusive luxury travel experiences tailored for both couples and families. Whether you're looking to relax on the pristine beaches of the Caribbean, explore the vibrant culture of Jamaica, bask in the sun of Mexico, unwind in Cabo, or indulge in the beauty of Riviera Maya, I've got you covered.
My passion for travel began with a magical trip to Disney in 2021, igniting a spark that has turned into a lifelong love for creating unforgettable vacation experiences. As proud Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Owners and Annual Passholders, my family and I are always finding new ways to immerse ourselves in the enchantment of Disney. And I'm thrilled to share that magic with you, making Disney one of my top destinations for families and couples alike.
When I'm not busy planning luxurious escapes, you can find me juggling two other passions: Human Resources and teaching in the Medical Assisting program. By day, I'm dedicated to creating thriving, happy workplaces, and by night, I'm sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm with eager students.
And guess what? The learning never stops for me! I'm currently on the thrilling journey of earning my master's degree in legal studies from the University of Tennessee. Go Vols!
So, what's my mission? Simple – to help you experience all the joy and relaxation of all-inclusive luxury travel without any of the stress. Let's team up and make some unforgettable memories together!
Back by popular demand! Why download our guide? As an EarMarked Agency, we are recognized by Disney.
A Disney EarMarked travel agency is an agency that is officially recognized by Disney and has been given permission to provide Disney vacation packages and services. These agencies are specialists in planning vacations to Disney destinations and can help you find the best deals and packages for your trip. They can also provide personalized advice and help you plan your trip from start to finish.
As Authorized Disney Vacation Planners, we are knowledgeable in all things Disney vacations related.
An authorized Disney vacation planner is a professional travel advisor who specializes in Disney vacations. They are knowledgeable about all Disney destinations and resorts, and can help plan the perfect trip for you and your family. They can provide advice and assistance on EVERYTHING. From choosing the right resort and tickets, to planning the perfect itinerary. They can also suggest activities and attractions to make the most of your time in the Disney parks.
Briana Capps
What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
North Carolina Travel Agent Near Me
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Hey there, welcome to my world of wonder! Thanks for dropping by! If you're here, you're probably dreaming of your next incredible getaway. Let me help you turn those dreams into reality with all-inclusive luxury travel experiences tailored for both couples and families. Whether you're looking to relax on the pristine beaches of the Caribbean, explore the vibrant culture of Jamaica, bask in the sun of Mexico, unwind in Cabo, or indulge in the beauty of Riviera Maya, I've got you covered. My passion for travel began with a magical trip to Disney in 2021, igniting a spark that has turned into ... Read More >>>
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Nestled in the heart of Tulum’s lush jungle, Secrets Tulum offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and natural beauty. One of the standout accommodations at this adults-only haven is the Junior King Swim-Out Room—a sanctuary that perfectly balances modern elegance with a serene, tropical vibe. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a romantic escape, this room is designed to elevate your stay to the next level.
The Room: Where Comfort Meets Sophistication
As you step into the Junior King Swim-Out Room, you'll immediately be struck by its spaciousness and sophisticated design. The room is tastefully decorated with earthy tones and natural materials that seamlessly blend with the surrounding jungle environment. The king-sized bed is the epitome of comfort, dressed in plush linens that invite you to sink in and unwind.
The open-concept layout of the room creates a seamless flow from the bedroom to the living area and beyond to the outdoor terrace. Floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the room in natural light, offering stunning views of the lush greenery just outside. Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee or a quiet evening in, the ambiance is both peaceful and rejuvenating.
The Swim-Out Pool: A Private Oasis
The true highlight of the Junior King Swim-Out Room is, of course, the direct access to your very own swim-out pool. Imagine stepping right from your private terrace into the cool, refreshing water—no need to leave the comfort of your room to enjoy a dip. The pool is surrounded by tropical foliage, providing a sense of privacy and tranquility.
The swim-out pool is perfect for those who want to relax in seclusion, whether you're floating under the sun or enjoying a romantic evening swim under the stars. With lounge chairs on the terrace, it's easy to spend hours basking in the sun, reading a book, or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.
Luxury Amenities: Every Detail Considered
At Secrets Tulum, no detail is overlooked, and the Junior King Swim-Out Room is no exception. The room is equipped with top-of-the-line amenities, including a fully stocked minibar, a Nespresso machine, and a large flat-screen TV with international channels. The spa-like bathroom features a rainfall shower, a deep soaking tub, and premium bath products that add a touch of indulgence to your stay.
For those who need to stay connected, high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the room, and there's a comfortable work area if you need to catch up on emails or plan your next adventure. Room service is available 24/7, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal or a refreshing cocktail without ever leaving your private oasis.
The Private Beach Club: Your Exclusive Access to Paradise
One of the standout features of Secrets Tulum is its Private Beach Club, an exclusive retreat that takes your experience to another level. A short, scenic walk through the jungle leads you to this secluded paradise, where pristine white sands meet the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
At the Private Beach Club, you can relax on luxurious daybeds, enjoy personalized beachside service, or take a dip in the warm sea. The club is the perfect place to unwind, with a calm and intimate atmosphere that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
In addition to the stunning beachfront, the Private Beach Club boasts two additional pools, providing even more options for relaxation and leisure. Whether you're taking a refreshing swim, lounging with a cocktail in hand, or simply soaking up the sun, these pools offer a serene and luxurious escape. The combination of lush surroundings and top-tier amenities makes the Private Beach Club a highlight of any stay at Secrets Tulum.
The Resort: A World of Luxury Awaits
While the Junior King Swim-Out Room is a destination in itself, the rest of Secrets Tulum is equally enchanting. The resort offers a variety of dining options, from fine dining to casual beachfront bites, ensuring that every meal is a culinary delight. The world-class spa is the perfect place to indulge in a couples' massage or a rejuvenating treatment, while the pristine beach is ideal for soaking up the sun or trying out water sports.
Secrets Tulum also offers a range of activities and entertainment, from yoga classes and cooking lessons to live music and themed parties. Whether you're looking to explore the vibrant culture of Tulum or simply relax and unwind, the resort has something for everyone.
Why Choose the Junior King Swim-Out Room?
If you're looking for a luxurious, romantic escape that offers both privacy and direct access to nature, the Junior King Swim-Out Room at Secrets Tulum is the perfect choice. It's the ideal setting for couples celebrating an anniversary, honeymooners, or anyone who wants to experience the best of Tulum in style.
With its blend of modern comfort, natural beauty, exclusive amenities, and access to the Private Beach Club, this room provides a truly unforgettable experience. Book your stay at Secrets Tulum and discover the magic of the Junior King Swim-Out Room—your private oasis in paradise awaits.
Interested in visiting Tulum? Message me for a personalized quote!
Life has been a whirlwind lately. As moms, wife’s, full-time students (her completing her Bachelor’s in Business Admin & Law and myself finishing my Master’s in Law), full-time workers with additional part-time jobs, finding a moment to breathe seems almost impossible. But recently, my best friend, who also happens to be my coworker, and I decided to take a much-needed break and embark on a magical adventure to Disney.
It started with a random text LATE one night, I’m not sure which one of us was in tears this time from being completely overwhelmed and overstimulated (thanks ADHD). You see, both our spouses are gone for days at a time. Hers is a firefighter who pulls 24-48 shifts with overtime call. Mine took a job that requires traveling a few nights a week.
The Decision to Take a Break
Balancing work, studies, and motherhood can be overwhelming. The constant juggling act takes a toll on our mental health, leaving little room for self-care. Recognizing the need to recharge, we planned a trip to Disney—a place where we could escape reality, even if just for a few days. I had this tripped planned in 15 mins. I knew she didn’t care where we went or what hotel we stayed in. I left going to parks up to her.
The Journey Begins
Traveling with someone who understands your hectic lifestyle makes the experience even more relaxing. We both agreed to leave our campus cell phones at home and UNPLUG. My best friend and I have a unique bond; we share the same struggles and triumphs, both at work and at home. As we boarded the plane, excitement and relief washed over us. This trip was our chance to disconnect and not worry about what the kids wanted to do- it was what we wanted to do on our time.
Disney Magic
From the moment we entered the park, we felt a sense of wonder and joy. Disney has a way of making you feel like a kid again, and for us, it was the perfect antidote to our stress. We laughed, screamed on roller coasters, and indulged in our favorite treats. The sheer magic of Disney allowed us to forget our worries and embrace the present moment. We met princesses, people watched, swam, resort hopped, and watched fireworks.
Mental Health Benefits
This trip was more than just a vacation; it was a mental health retreat. The pressures of being moms, students, and professionals often leave us feeling drained. Being at Disney gave us the mental space to breathe, laugh, and enjoy life without the weight of our daily responsibilities. We realized the importance of taking breaks, not just for fun, but for our mental well-being. We preach mental health in our work, so it was that much more important for us to have the break. 
A Reminder for All
Our Disney trip was a reminder that taking time for ourselves is not selfish; it’s necessary. As moms, students, and professionals, we often prioritize everything else over our well-being. But to be our best selves for our families, our studies, and our jobs, we need to prioritize our mental health.
Traveling to Disney with my best friend was a magical and transformative experience. It reminded us of the importance of self-care and the power of friendship. As we continue to juggle our many roles, we now have a cherished memory to look back on and a renewed commitment to take breaks and nurture our mental health and already trying to plan a couple trip ASAP!
So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember to take a step back and plan that getaway. Your mind and soul will thank you for it. 
Disney is not just for families with kids, it is also a place for adults, friends, and couples too.
Ready to plan your next trip? E-mail me at briana.capps@ vincentvacations.com
Step into a world where flavors dance on your palate, where every bite tells a story, and every sip takes you on a journey. Welcome to the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2024, where culinary mastery meets Disney magic. Let's embark on a gastronomic adventure through the festival, exploring the delectable dishes, exquisite wines, and unforgettable experiences that await.
A Feast for the Senses: As you enter Epcot during the festival, you're greeted by a symphony of aromas wafting from the Global Marketplaces that line the World Showcase promenade. From savory to sweet, and everything in between, there's something to tantalize every taste bud.
One cannot talk about the Food and Wine Festival without mentioning the diverse array of cuisines represented. From traditional French delicacies to exotic flavors of Asia, each marketplace offers a glimpse into the culinary traditions of different cultures. Highlights of this year's festival include:
1. Mediterranean Flavors: Indulge in the richness of Greek moussaka, savor the tanginess of Moroccan tagine, and delight in the freshness of Italian caprese salad.
2. Asian Fusion: Explore the fusion of flavors with dishes like Korean barbecue beef, Japanese sushi rolls, and Thai coconut curry.
3. Latin American Delights: Experience the vibrancy of Latin cuisine with dishes such as Brazilian feijoada, Mexican street corn, and Argentine empanadas.
4. Farm Fresh Fare: For those craving farm-to-table goodness, don't miss out on the offerings from the Farm Fresh Marketplace, featuring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Raise a Glass: No culinary journey is complete without the perfect beverage pairing, and the Epcot Food and Wine Festival delivers on all fronts. Wine enthusiasts can rejoice in the extensive selection of varietals from around the globe, with tasting seminars and wine pairings available to enhance the experience.
But the festival isn't just about wine; beer lovers can sample craft brews from artisanal breweries, while cocktail aficionados can enjoy handcrafted libations inspired by flavors from across the globe. And for those looking for non-alcoholic options, refreshing mocktails and specialty beverages abound.
Beyond the Plate: While the food and drink are undoubtedly the stars of the show, the Epcot Food and Wine Festival offers so much more. Culinary demonstrations hosted by renowned chefs provide insight into the art of cooking, while beverage seminars offer education on wine, beer, and spirits.
Guests can also enjoy live musical performances, cultural demonstrations, and interactive experiences throughout the festival. From culinary walking tours to behind-the-scenes glimpses into Disney's culinary operations, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
The Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2024 is a celebration of flavor, culture, and community. Whether you're a foodie seeking new culinary adventures or simply looking to indulge in delicious eats and drinks, this festival offers an experience like no other. So come hungry, come thirsty, and prepare to savor the magic of Epcot's culinary extravaganza.
E-mail: briana.capps@vincentvacations.com for a personalized vacation quote to be able to experience the 2024 Food & Wine Festival!