A Magical Vacation Only a Few Hours Away (Part 1)
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My writing professor recently said it best: Walt Disney World (WDW) is “yes-ville.” In an adult world boggling with no’s and responsibilities pummeled by reality’s harsh whip, a trip to “yes-ville” doesn’t sound half bad. In fact, it practically sounds, dare I say it, magical. No deadlines, no politicians, just possibility.
As one who has seen both sides of the magic, I count myself among the “big kids” who value time spent in a Disney Theme Park even more knowing I have work and obligations waiting for me when I make my dull transition back to the real world (this usually happens when I lug my souvenir bags through security at Orlando International Airport). During my recent vacation from reality to the Mouse’s House, I suckled every age defying activity and big kid pursuit. Any travel guide will supply several examples of “must-do’s” at Walt Disney World. Heck, if you stay on property at WDW, simply scroll through the resort room’s television to discover a special channel devoted to exploring and attempting every single experience considered part of the “Disney Must-Do’s.”
In an effort to provide you with a sample sprinkling of the pixie dust I accumulated over my trip, I have created a series of blog posts dedicated to some of my own “Must-Do’s” for the kid in everyone headed to or spending time in “yes-ville,” aka WDW. Each piece will be organized into sensory categories, highlighting the process and best of my day’s excursions. Below, I’ve organized a few of the Bibbidi Bobbidi basics, from arrival, transportation, and setting up park access. Now, let’s begin with the most appropriate way to start a story (or a blog post)…
Once Upon a Time..
I put on my ears and enthusiasm as soon as my bus glided through the gateway to Walt Disney World on World Drive just southwest of Orlando. If traveling by car, the destination is off Interstate 4 and west of Florida’s Turnpike. Spring is a splendid time and an enchanting season for WDW, with EPCOT hosting its annual Flower and Garden Show, shades of pink and violet enhancing the seasonal design, and clusters of band kids and cheerleaders parading through Main Street USA and Disney Springs.
How Are We Getting There?
This trip marked my first time taking advantage of Disney's Magical Express, an equally excellent and efficient transportation service to my resort from Orlando International Airport. It is a 100% complimentary benefit available to guests staying at almost any Disney Resort hotel. Resort Airline Check-In Service is also complimentary if you are staying at a select Disney Resort hotel and are traveling on a participating airline. After collecting my checked bag, I was met by a lovely Cast Member on the lower level of baggage claim/pick-up who activated my MagicBand (I will explain these little beauties later) and pointed me to several Magical Express buses parked outside. Through Magical Express, guests can check their luggage and still hold on to their carry-ons during the ride to the resort. The ride itself is surprisingly quick at about half-an-hour (traffic permitting) and monitors inside screen Disney Trivia, old time cartoons featuring the Fab Five (Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto), and DME TV which preps guests with information about Magical Express and what to expect when they arrive on property. Each bus makes at least three stops at different hotels depending upon where the Guests are headed, and the driver unloads any luggage previously checked at the airport.
To the Beach (Club)!
I was greeted at Disney’s Beach Club Resort with a hearty, “Welcome Home,” by at least six different Cast Members from my brief walk from the bus to the Front Desk. Note: At Disney, no one is referred to as an “employee,” or a “customer,” only the delightful Cast Members and the Guests (both always capitalized). Every Cast Member was happy and eager to make sure I felt not only like I was on vacation but that I was indeed “home,” which was not difficult at the Beach Club (“yes-ville” USA). A soothing wave of serenity caressed my person as I entered the lobby. The ambiance is pure calm with peaceful music and the wonderful smell of “beach.” One of the most centrally located hotels on Disney property, the Beach Club is connected to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and offers (you guessed it) a nice beach for play and relaxation along with an amazing pool. Guests can walk to EPCOT’s international gateway entrance in less than ten minutes. A walkway to Disney’s Boardwalk and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are also within feet of the Beach Club’s outdoor amenities.
More Magic
With my bags stowed in my room and a full afternoon at my leisure, I prepared to kickstart my first Disney day. Click these links for more tips on how to make the most of MagicBands, FastPass+, and dining reservations.
