Not Your Ordinary Pampering

The pampering you can receive from your stay at Disneyland is not the same as you can receive from a world class spa. Nevertheless, Disney staff will make you feel relaxed and special with the same amount of care.

How To Get Some Disney Pampering?

Although you are pampered from the very moment you set foot on Disneyland, you can receive a little extra pampering by booking a room in one of Disney’s Hotels and Resorts. There are a number of hotels and resorts that you could choose from. They have different themes and environment designs, however they all have world class Disney service and hospitality.

Once you booked into a room for the duration of your stay, speak to the hotel concierge. Inform him/her that you would like to upgrade your room to include Concierge Services.

Be Ready For Good Changes

Once you opt for the Concierge service, you should be ready for some changes. There is no need to worry. These changes are good and can benefit you more than you expect. This service will make you feel like a VIP, even if it’s just your first time visiting the park.

Room Changes

The Concierge Service will transform regular room to a more special kind of room. Although there is no literal change in the environment or physical aspects of your room, the service is what matters most. This service will be extra special. You will receive free bottles of water, sodas, coffee and tea during your stay. Additionally, you can check in and out of the hotel faster and avoid waiting and long lines by simply going to the Concierge Counter. They will provide you with a nightly turndown service.

The Lounge

The next highlight of having a Concierge service would be the lounge. You have full access to the special Concierge lounge. In fact, most people think that this is where all the special pampering officially starts!

Every morning, you can go to the lounge and indulge yourself with the continental breakfast buffet. It is possible for you to bring your breakfast to your room. The lounge can be your favorite spot during the afternoon. The concierge service provides a special spot for children where they could watch Disney videos. As the children are entertained with Disney videos, you can treat yourself to a little wine tasting.

Different Perks, Different Services

There are still other perks that you can receive from a concierge service. The perks depend on the resort or hotel that you are staying in. If you haven’t booked for a hotel ask the customer service hotline about the Concierge Services in different hotels and see which hotel will suit your idea of relaxation and pampering.

For instance, if you would stay at the Innkeeper’s Club, a concierge accommodation includes servings of chocolate-covered strawberries, milk and cookies for your kids every night. If you are staying at Disney’s Beach Club Resort or Yacht Club Resort, the concierge benefits are steamed clams and braised beef samplings, along with other dishes. You can receive the privilege of booking the Albatross Treasure Cruise for your kids.

At the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, wine tasting events and free tea parties are held for concierge users.

Food Needs

If you have a special dietary needs and you only have special foods, having the concierge service is definitely for you. They will make sure that your special need are met. They will go the distance just to service you.

If you want to get more than your feet wet, here are some other water activities you should try.

1. You can try surfing at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park. It has a 2.75 million gallon wave pool that provides waves every 90 seconds that can reach six feet high. Those who want to learn how to surf can learn from Craig Carroll’s Cocoa Beach Surf School which is open from 6:30 am until 9:00am.

2. If you are a certified scuba diver, you can borrow some dive gear and head out in The Living Seas pavilion at Epcot. This is considered to be one of the world’s largest aquariums that houses thousands of creatures from fish to giant sea turtles.

3. Guests who prefer to stay on the surface will have no a problem because they too can have some fun snorkeling at Shark Reef at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park.

4. For those who want to get wet, you can borrow a Sea Racer watercraft which is a mini-powerboat. You can rent one of these from the marina. There is also the WaterMouse, sailboat, pontoon boat, canopy boat, pedal boat, rowboat or canoe for rent. Another interesting ride is the fireworks cruise where guests hop on board a yacht and watch the fireworks show which happens nightly.

5. Extreme sports enthusiasts will be happy to know that you can do some water skiing at Sammy Duvall’s Water Sports Centre. They have slalom, kneeboarding and wakeboarding that can be done by the waters of Bay Lake near Magic Kingdom.

6. For those who love to fish, you can do some Bass fishing by the lakes and canals close to Cinderella’s castle.

7. Two things you shouldn’t forget to do at the Disney World Resort are to swim in the pool or the beach. Unlike other pools you have seen, this one occupies a land area of 3 acres making it a mini-water park. It has pirate shipwrecks as well as sand bottom pools. If you want to cool off, stand right below the five story waterfall on the side of a Mayan pyramid at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

The best food in good places

During Disney world vacations, the most sought after would be visiting the places and enjoying the world-class facilities the place has to offer. But, some don’t realize that dining can be good in the magical world, too! Although Disney World is not famous for its food that doesn’t mean they don’t have delicious cuisines. In fact, a majority of the dishes available in many restaurants are truly delectable and would appeal to anyone’s appetite.

If you are looking forward to a food tasting spree in the Disney world, you can try a restaurants in each theme park or even try those outside and enjoy the feel of being carefree.

If you are looking for an extraordinary dining opportunity, you shouldn’t miss visiting the restaurants and food kiosks inside the Magic Kingdom. Dining inside this wonderful theme park can be attributed to “Cinderella’s Royal Table” where you get the chance to experience dining ala princess inside Cinderella Castle, and “Tony’s Town Square Restaurant,” where you can step into the magical world and relive the scenes from the famous Disney film, the ‘Lady and the Tramp’.

If your craving for more themed restaurants, these can be found in the Epcot Center. For those who are fascinated with the marine life, the “Coral Reef Restaurant” would be the perfect option because you can have a wonderful view of various sea creatures specifically the cast of Nemo and Friends is a larger than life aquarium! You can also try the “The Garden Grill,” an amazing circular restaurant that revolves on top of the ‘Living With The Land’ rides located in The Land. If turning Japanese is your mood, try the “Teppanyaki” restaurant which offers delectable Japanese cuisine specially prepared by esteemed Japanese chefs right before your very eyes. The “Chefs de France” on the other hand will give you the finest French-inspired dishes inside a romantic Parisian set up.

In the Hollywood Studios, there’s the “50’s Prime Time Cafe” where you can eat in specific areas that were inspired from the famous shows back in the 50s, the “Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater” where you can experience dining on the go on your very own car-designed area, and the “The Hollywood Brown Derby” that gives you an opportunity to eat in a renown restaurant East Coast style.

Then, there’s the Animal Kingdom which houses the “Rainforest Cafe,” “Restaurantosaurus,” “Fort Wilderness Campground,” “Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue,” “Mickey’s Backyard BBQ,” and others which can make Disney world vacations more enjoyable.

Arrive At The Park Early

As the saying goes, the Early Bird Gets The Worm, in this case your worm would be the comfort of not having to wait in extremely long lines and seeing most of the park while others are still stuck in line. Beating the crowd is definitely effective here at Disneyland. statistics show that park lines are always shorter during the morning.

Take this advantage by visiting the popular attractions and rides first. Create a game plan with your family and map out where you need to be to hit the best and most popular rides first. With this plan you will be able to visit the minor attractions during mid-day when all other people are busy lining up for the major rides.

Arrive Later

Another way to avoid lines would be by targeting the popular rides and attractions much later in your day. However, this strategy is only recommended if you really can’t be there early. If you access the best rides during the evening hours, there will be fewer lines to fall into on your part.

Dinner time is a good time to go for the popular rides. You can expect that everyone else will be hitting the restaurants and having their magical Disney dinner. Dinner time is also parallel to a majority of entertainment shows. You can expect that a bulk of the park visitors will definitely be off somewhere else.

Take Advantage Of The FastPass Ticketing System

Everybody needs a FastPass. Which is great for you since everyone gets a FastPass no matter what kind of ticket they purchased. Although it entail a little planning, this system could really pay you big dividends especially with saving time.

To make the most out of this system, your best bet would be reserving tickets early and targeting the more popular rides during the morning. Another advantage is that you can get these tickets through phone or on the Internet. This type of ticket is only offered for the most popular attractions and busiest rides.

You could may get a FastPass through the FastPass automated machines that can be found near the FastPass equipped rides. These machines are fast and easy to use. Don’t expect to be placed in front of the line. The FastPass allows you to make a reservation with the ride while you go do something else.

House Of Blues

Located at the West Side of the park, this is one of the all-time-favorite spots. Take your seat in front of the main stage in which legends are made. Dance all you want at this total shopping, dining, and entertainment experience! Indulge yourself as you watch world-famous performers do their thing onstage. You will see the best up-and-coming talents from the surrounding region.

Have some tasty treats as you jive with the eclectic beats, ranging from rowdy rock ‘n’ roll to reverent Sunday Gospel, Latin, R&B, hip-hop, reggae and last but not the least, the blues. Call (407) 934-BLUE for tickets, reservations and inquiries.

Wishes Nighttime Spectacular

As night time falls, one of the most awaited entertainments is the Wishes Nighttime Spectacular. Be amazed with the spectacle of this wonderful fireworks display. Watch Jiminy Cricket guiding Pinocchio and all the Disney characters through a wonderful story narrated amongst the stars. Of course, don’t forget to make your wish!

Atlantic Dance Hall

Down the Boardwalk, you can find the Atlantic Dance Hall. Feel the groove in this elegant nightclub. Enjoy the sounds of different flavors and varieties. Be sure to be there as soon as the sun goes down and see the club come alive with a DJ Dance Party. Dance till your heart’s content under the beautiful twinkling ceiling where stars shines down on you and the expansive dance floor.

AMC Pleasure Island 24 Theatres Complex

If you’re up for a late night movie, then AMC Pleasure Island would be the way to go. They have 24 superb movie palaces. See all the current box office hits and award-winning movies in style and comfort. Go ahead and snuggle up in the loveseat-styled stadium. Get the best out of the experience while watching in Sony Dynamic Digital Sound and THX Surround Sound. Don’t be fooled with the 1920’s Art Deco style of the place. They have a state-of-the-art system just to bring your movie to you at its finest.

Jellyrolls

Another place to visit on the Boardwalk is the Jellyrolls. Don’t be shy. Sing along with the clubs rollicking piano music. Watch as 2 keyboardist’s give you a raise-the-roof kind of party and tickle your pleasure with all time favorite tunes. Watch them as they duel it out so that you could party till your heart’s content.

ESPN Club

If you’re afraid of missing out on your favorite sport season update’s because of your Disney vacation, then think again. Get your dose of sports and night time entertainment all rolled into one at the ESPN Club. Dine, shop, and be entertained with this great facility. Have fun in their interactive multimedia center and sporting arcade facilities. Eat your fill at their full-service restaurant while watching a game on TV or listening to a radio broadcasts.

Pleasure Island

If you are looking for a great nightlife scene here at Disneyland, Pleasure Island would be the right place to go. Love the lights and party under them as cool music surround your senses. The name says it all, get some pleasure from all the happenings and events in this island.

It all depends on you. Whatever you feel, Pleasure Island has it. If you want to go for a nonstop laughing trip or unlimited dancing, all you need is one ticket and you’re good to go! Visit the different late-night clubs in Pleasure Island. You are sure to have a great time at each. All you need to do is call (407) WDW-2NITE (407-939-2648) for tickets, inquiries and reservations.

Cirque du Soleil- La Nouba

See the circus at Disneyland with Cirque du Soleil- La Nouba. Watch as professional artists do their stunts and be awed with their death-defying and breathtaking exhibitions. See high-wire and flying trapeze stunts, seasoned with exquisite choreography. For tickets, you can simply buy online in Disney’s Web page or call (407) 939-7600 for inquiries and packages.

The good thing about Disney management is that they make sure the whole family gets their own share of magic, whether toddlers or seniors. They have services that cater to any kind of population. If you think bringing along your toddler would only mean endless tantrum sessions, think again.

Here are some ways that you can make your Disneyland vacation a toddler friendly one!

Magical Beginnings

Magical Beginnings is an official program from Disney for toddlers. It is specially designed to answer your little kids needs. This includes entertainment and other activities that your small one can safely and enjoyably do.

If you’re thinking why a program like this is important, just imagine your baby riding Space Mountain. You really can’t expect him/her to enjoy a ride this ride? Of course, your toddler wouldn’t even be allowed to get on those kinds of rides. This is why they have special programs just for toddlers to enjoy.

The program offers live shows that star their favorite Disney Characters. They cater recreational activities tailored for a young child’s pace. You will be informed of the different fun dining choices available that little ones will definitely love!

Attractions

To make your vacation more enjoyable, you can visit a number of attractions that are considered to be toddler friendly. One of which would is The First 50 Magical Years, where you could learn about the history of Disneyland. Here you could see a preview of different sights and attractions that were never built.

You can go to Disney’s Railroad and visit Mickey’s Toon Town. Mickey’s Toon Town is where you can find all the characters that your kids want to see. Chip and Dale’s Tree house is also situated here. This is another toddler must see attraction. Your kids can enter and play in the big redwood tree house for as long as he/she wants!

Entertainment

For some entertainment, you can visit the very home of Mickey Mouse! This is situated in Mickey’s Toon Town. You will get a full tour of his home. You can see how he lives, his appliances and artifacts. The best thing is, your child may also get to meet Mickey Mouse in person after the tour!

You can watch playhouse Disney Live On Stage. This would definitely keep your child entertained as they sing along and dance while watching the show. You can see appearances from the Mickey Mouse Club, Disney Little Einstein’s, Handy Manny and other Playhouse Disney stars.

If you have a little princess in hand, then it is a must that you visit the Disney Princess Fantasy Faire. Let her fairytale dreams come true as she enters the world of happily ever after. Storytelling, arts and crafts, making sparkling crowns and regal ceremonies are just some of the activities that will make your child feel like a real Disney princess.

Dining

If you want a fun place to eat, Goofy’s Kitchen is just the place! Here you get to meet Goofy and have a fun filled meal with the whole family. Kids can enjoy Mickey Mouse shaped waffles, Goofy’s Hot Chocolate Cake, Peanut butter & Jelly Pizzas and a lot more!

For some ice cream treats, Bur-r-r Bank Ice Cream would be the right place. Here your child can choose from an array of scrumptious ice cream flavors and confections that make ice cream eating truly special.

Shopping

Specialize shopping for toddlers can be done at Engine Ear Toys. This toy shop has the coolest toys around along with other Disney merchandise. Another store to visit is It’s A Small World Toy Shop, where dolls are the highlight of the shop. If your kids love Pooh then it’s a must that you visit Pooh’s Corner and shop amongst the numerous Pooh merchandise.

It’s nice to ask yourself these questions before starting to plan your vacation; do I want to relax? Do I want adventure or a learning experience? Do I want to get away from my job? Once you know the answers to these questions, then you are ready to plan your trip.

Vacations are needed for our emotional, physical and mental balance. Vacations give a person a chance to relax, renew his energy, and free him from his daily routine. Vacations could be far away or close to home. Wherever the vacation may be, it does the same thing. It is the satisfaction that is more important than the destination.

Generally, there are some different types of travel according to activities involved. Here are some of them:

1. Responsible Travel. Traveling doesn’t always have to be self-serving. With responsible travel, one could have enjoyment as much as respecting the local environment and the people.
 
2. Rediscovering nature. Rediscovering travel is all about nature and everything in it. It revitalizes the soul while smelling and feeling nature.
 
3. Tribal cultures. In today’s world of high technology, it is wise to experience the simpler life of the tribal people who live close to nature in the same way for the past thousands of years.

4. Responsible Diving. Diving not only let travelers appreciate what is down the sea but also making the traveler more aware of the conservation effort.

The country one is planning to travel to also leaves a great mark on the traveler’s diary. Here are some of the most popular destinations today:

1. Thailand. Thailand is also known as Siam. It is an Asian country bounded by Burma, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia.  Behind the back draft of Thailand’s jungles of bamboo, rubber trees and vines are the Five-star hotels of modern conveniences. In some parts of the country, elephants are still being use to lift timbers and buffalos are still being use in farming.

2. China. China is now the second largest country and fastest growing economy in the world. Most parts of China are still unexplored by tourist; however, the eastern portion is now popular to western tourist. First class hotels now offer highest class of amenities and dozens are still being built/

3. Italy. Italy is a boot-like shape country bounded by Switzerland, Austria, France, and Slovenia. The main attraction of Italy is St. Peter’s Square where the Pope resides.

4. Caribbean. Caribbean is an archipelago of islands, 2000 square miles across. Most of the islands are plateaus and eruptions of underlying mountain systems. It has nice beaches of crushed coral and white or pink sand and the water at the shore is a deep blue.

The success of any vacation will not depend by how much the traveler spent or its destination.  It is how the traveler enjoyed it and how he was able to achieve his primary goal of “getting away from it all.”

Plan ahead

Research and read about the place you’re heading to. Know where’s the nearest hotel, restaurant, and such. Make reservations too, if possible. That way, your travel is on a good start.
 
Take a city map

You better study how to read maps. Needless to say, these can guide you where you are going, especially if it’s the first time you’re going to that place. Relying too much on the cab driver is not a good idea.

Learn the language

Just study the basics, and the most common things you’re likely to ask a local. Learn it before you arrive.

Hide your valuables

Put your guard up. Don’t invite muggers to come and get you. Don’t wear too much jewelry outside the streets. Use inexpensive accessories.

Dress appropriately

Check what the locals wear on a given time of day. You don’t want your clothes screaming you’re a tourist. The lesser attention you draw to yourself, the better.

Don’t be afraid to ask for directions

It would be okay to ask someone for directions, but be sure you are going to choose who to ask. You can ask a waiter in restaurant, or the receptionist in your hotel. Just be sure you get all information. Asking from a complete stranger outside is not advisable.

Bring some cash

Take just enough. Traveler’s checks and credit cards are good, and it could be your primary mode of payment, but you might want to keep a few extra dollars in your pocket with local money.

Enjoy your self

Well, you are traveling, so make the most of it. Make friends with a local. Talk to somebody over lunch in a cafe. Get the addresses of the friends you make to send them a thank you card. Maybe next time, you’ll be their host.

Traveling alone can be your best experience. With solo traveling, you will definitely learn more about your self and what you can do. Try it. It would be fun!

- Decide on a travel plan - specific destination, how many days, what activities, etc. The attention given to this first step will ensure smooth sailing in making the travel arrangements.

- If the destination is a foreign country, make sure all information that would be needed in making reservations are on hand.

Airline Reservations

- If booking on online, use a reservation site where ticket prices for all airlines are shown so a comparison can be readily seen.  If booking for more than one person, check also the ticket price for both a single passenger and multiple passengers. Some airlines quote different prices.

- If notification of your reservation is done by e-mail, make sure that the ticket price quoted is the same.  Sometimes, some airlines claim the airfare booked earlier is no long available.

Hotel Reservations

- Ask if the rate is a flat rate or per person.  Ask how many beds are in the room and what the size is.  Make sure to finalize a rate before getting off the phone.

- Ask about tax rates that would be added.

- Will breakfast be included with the price of the room?  What time is it served and what is included.

- Are there guarantee and cancellation policies? Most hotels require guarantee for reservation with a credit card.  Will they ask a check deposit?

- If this is a standard reservation, make sure there is a confirmation number.

Proper Season

It is best to go to Disney World during off season, which is roughly around early January to mid February, or after Labor Day through mid December. During off season, there are less people, less congestion and less headaches. What’s more, it rarely gets cold in Florida, even during winter season, and it gets swelteringly hot and humid during summer, so winter, really is the time to go.

The Proper Lodgings

Although it is cheaper to stay in hotels outside of Disney World, the extra cash you’ll have to cough up if you stay inside is more than made up for by the comfort and convenience of an inside stay.

Imagine traveling from your room, then going through the 47 square mile area that is Disney World, then traveling back to your hotel? exhausting isn’t it?

The Proper Schedule

Where to actually go once you get there is determined by your choice of companions, kids, teenagers or adults.

Kids

Go through Cinderella’s Castle and Visit Fantasy Land or Mickey’s Toon Town, the little tots will surely love all the characters roaming around that area. The rides in these parts are built for 6 year olds and below, but mommy or daddy can still squeeze themselves in if they want.

Adults or Teens

A trip to the Magic Kingdom may be in order if you’re with big kids. You can go to Splash Mountain to get wet or to Space Mountain to get some indoor rollercoaster, and fun for the bumpy person, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad should be enough to satisfy their taste for adventure.

Rides for Everyone

If you want something that everyone can enjoy, a ride in the Walt Disney World Railroad, can rest those tired feet and at the same time give you an enjoyable view of Magic Kingdom.

Haunted Mansion, although not really for very young kids, can be a thrill for toddlers, it’s a ride not a walk through so there’s no tripping or running involved.

For relaxing walks, try the Tiki Room Show or the Swiss family Tree House.

The Proper Dining Experience

For cute snacks, try the Aloha Isle inside Adventureland, they conjure up creative drinks and snacks, a good place to try something cute and different.

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe provides a cool indoor dining area between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland where you can enjoy your food to your hearts content.