A Magical Family Vacation at Disney World: Tips and Hotel Review

 A Magical Family Vacation at Disney World:
Tips and an Off-site Hotel Review

Are you planning a family vacation to the enchanting World of Disney? We went hard on our trip - We were there for 7 days! We were at the park for 12-14 hours a day some days. I brought back some good tips and hard lessons from this tip I'm excited to share with you! I will provide you with valuable tips to make the most of your long days in the Disney parks, along with some smart Amazon purchases ahead of time. Additionally, I'll share our glowing review of the fantastic TownePlace Suites Orlando, highlighting the benefits of staying off Disney property.

One of the highlights was our visit to Hollywood Studios. As a Star Wars fan, I was in absolute awe of the incredible Star Wars-themed attractions and rides. From the thrilling Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run to the epic Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, I was completely immersed in the galaxy far, far away. The attention to detail and the level of storytelling in each experience were simply phenomenal. I couldn't get enough of exploring Batuu, interacting with the characters, and even building my own lightsaber at Savi's Workshop. Hollywood Studios truly brought the Star Wars universe to life, and it was an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults alike.

Tips for Long Days in the Disney Parks:

Stay Hydrated and Energized:

• Florida's warm weather can be tiring, so remember to stay hydrated by bringing refillable water bottles and taking advantage of water stations throughout the parks.
• Pack energy-boosting snacks like granola bars and fruit to keep everyone fueled and avoid energy crashes.

Plan Ahead with FastPass+:

• Maximize your time and minimize wait times by utilizing Disney's FastPass+ system.
• Book your FastPasses in advance for popular attractions, shows, and character meet-and-greets to ensure you don't miss out on your must-visit experiences.

Take Breaks and Pace Yourself:

• With long days at the parks, it's important to take breaks and pace yourself to avoid exhaustion.
• Find shaded areas or air-conditioned spots to rest, enjoy a snack, or simply people-watch. It will help you recharge and stay refreshed throughout the day.

Arrive Early and Take Advantage of Rope Drop:

• Get a head start on the day by arriving at the park before it officially opens, known as "rope drop."
• This allows you to be one of the first guests inside and enjoy shorter wait times for popular attractions.
• Take advantage of this quieter time to experience popular rides without the crowds and capture amazing photos of iconic locations before they get too busy.
• Plus, you can make the most of the cooler morning temperatures and start your day on a positive note with a sense of excitement and anticipation.

Capture Memories and Embrace the Magic:

• Don't forget to bring a camera or use your smartphone to capture special moments with your family and favorite Disney characters.
• Engage with the park's immersive environments, participate in parades and shows, and make lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

By following these tips and tricks, you'll be well-prepared to tackle long days in Disney parks, make the most of your time, and create unforgettable experiences with your family. Enjoy every magical moment and treasure the memories that will last a lifetime!

Amazon Pre-Purchases

Amazon Pre-Purchases: Save time and money by purchasing essential items like autograph books, Mickey Mouse hats, and pass lanyards from Amazon before your trip. This way, you'll be well-prepared to meet characters, capture memories, and show off your Disney style.

Autograph books:

• Meet your favorite Disney characters and collect their signatures in a dedicated book.
• Avoid the hassle of searching for autograph books at the parks.
• Personalize your autograph book with your name or Disney-themed designs.
• Create a cherished keepsake filled with magical memories from your trip.

Mickey Mouse hats:

• Get into the Disney spirit by wearing iconic Mickey Mouse ears.
• Have fun with the various designs and styles available, including classic and themed versions.
• Skip the queues and potential disappointment of sold-out options at the parks.
• Capture adorable photos with the whole family sporting Mickey Mouse hats.

Pass lanyards:

• Keep your park tickets, FastPasses, and identification easily accessible.
• Prevent the risk of losing or misplacing important items.
• Enjoy hands-free convenience while exploring the parks.
• Choose from a range of styles and designs to match your personal taste.

We also bought ourselves a little something!

Disney Dad Tee

Tee for Mom

By purchasing autograph books, Mickey Mouse hats, and pass lanyards ahead of time on Amazon, you can ensure that you have these essential items ready for your Disney adventure. It saves you time, money and eliminates the worry of searching for them at the parks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magical experience. 

Plus, you can personalize your autograph book, have a variety of hat options to choose from, and keep your important items organized and easily accessible with a pass lanyard. Don't miss out on the chance to make lasting memories and show off your Disney style by preparing these items in advance!

Disney Rash

Because of our epic days, hours on my feet, and heat I started to get Disney rash on day 3. It was pretty itchy and ugly by days 5-7 so I was wearing compression socks (which wasn't the cutest look). 

Disney rash, also known as exercise-induced vasculitis or golfer's vasculitis, is a common skin condition that can occur during visits to theme parks like Disney World. It is characterized by the appearance of red, itchy, and inflamed patches on the lower legs, typically caused by prolonged walking or standing in hot and humid environments. The combination of heat, friction, and sweat can lead to the development of this rash.

To prevent Disney rash and ensure a more comfortable experience, there are a few measures you can take. Firstly, it's essential to wear breathable and moisture-wicking clothing that helps to keep your skin dry. Opt for lightweight and loose-fitting garments, and consider wearing compression socks to improve blood circulation and reduce friction. Additionally, applying a sweat-resistant sunscreen with a high SPF to your legs can protect your skin from harmful UV rays and minimize irritation. Taking frequent breaks to rest and elevate your legs can also help alleviate discomfort. Finally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing dehydration, which can exacerbate skin issues.

By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of developing Disney rash and enjoy your time at theme parks without discomfort. However, if you do experience persistent or severe symptoms, it's advisable to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Next time we go I plan to wear full-length leggings no matter how hot it is!

TownePlace Suites Orlando - A Home Away from Home:

We had the pleasure of staying at the delightful TownePlace Suites Orlando during our Disney and Universal vacation, and it exceeded our expectations. The spacious and well-appointed suites provided a comfortable retreat after long, adventure-filled days. The fully equipped kitchenette allowed us to prepare quick meals and snacks, saving both time and money. The hotel's complimentary breakfast (Mickey Mouse Waffles!) was a great start to our days, offering a variety of options to please everyone in the family. 

The highlight for the kids was undoubtedly the fantastic pool area, ensuring endless fun and relaxation. Staying off Disney property provided us with a less expensive stay, the convenience of a short drive to the parks while enjoying the flexibility of exploring other attractions in Orlando.

A family vacation to Disney World and Universal Studios is a dream come true, and with these tips, you'll be ready to make magical memories that last a lifetime. Remember to plan ahead, take advantage of Amazon pre-purchases for essentials, and consider the wonderful TownePlace Suites Orlando for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Embrace the wonder, excitement, and pure joy that these parks offer, and let the enchantment of the vacation create treasured moments for the entire family. Safe travels and may your adventure be filled with laughter and endless happiness!