Since we live in Orlando, I spend a great deal of time in the parks and in the resorts. If we get a free night to go out to dinner the answer on where to go is always – somewhere at Disney! Perhaps one day we will experience what I am sure are all the great restaurants in the Winter Garden and Windermere area where we live? But this post is Disney centric and it is our second holiday season here in Florida. It was exciting last year to be here at Christmas, but reality is setting in and now I can see the excitement, challenges, dreams, and frustrations on those faces on guests who come here during the busiest time of the year.
I had an interaction with another guest who asked me, “Is it always this crowded?” My response was of course not, but it is the busiest time of the year. They weren’t prepared, and had no idea what was involved and the crowd levels. So this post is to give you some insights from a local on how to truly enjoy the Christmas/New Year’s rush at the “most magical place on earth.” Sure, planning ahead and being knowledgeable is always important no matter the time of your vacation, but these tips will hopefully help even more.
1. See as much as you can! I see so many guests that spend half their day not only in one theme park, but just in one section or one land. There is so much to explore. And even if you feel the crowds are too much to navigate, just make your way through and explore the beauty of the parks. You never know where you will find a good place to sit and take a break. Or find an amazing unique snack. Or see that a popular attraction has a lower wait time than you had expected. When you explore, you find things you want to come back to, and that only enhances your vacation. You now know where things are and what will bring you the most joy in the midst of the crowds and holiday happenings.
2. Have a “merch” plan. Okay this is a planning tip, but one that doesn’t come up that often. You know how much time guests spend in a store or purchasing that merchandise? In the busy weeks it is even more time. Look at the ShopDisney app before your vacation to see what’s in the stores. Purchase Disney gift cards (even for the kids), and make it easy at check-out if you don’t want to charge to your resort room on the Magic Band. Don’t buy merch at the first store you see. Explore and see what is offered. However, if you see something that you really want, grab it because it may not be there when you venture back, and not every store sells everything. Set reasonable expectations for the young ones in the family. Nothing affects the mood of your traveling party or those around you when your little one has a melt down over the bubble wands!
3. Get the matching shirts. I am generally not a fan of the shirts and some of them make me cringe but that is another posting for another day in another place. 😉 But the matching shirts really do help keep up with your squad. Make them unique colors and designs. Something that sticks out so you can see when little Timmy runs off to get a pirate sword, or little Janie runs to grab a set of those princess ears.
4. Plan at least one table service meal a day, and make those reservations. I can’t tell you how many people I heard asking cast members where a good place to eat was. They had no idea the lines they would encounter while waiting for a table to open up. Whether the table service restaurant is in the parks or at a resort, take in one each day. That way you know you have a place, a break, and hopefully great food.
5. Take several moments a day and enjoy your surroundings! The decorations are marvelous. The smells from the bakeries are intoxicating. The weather can be stunning. And of course people watching is fun too! Enjoy the moments you have in Disney World. Don’t rush all the time. Take it for what it is and know there are many people who would want to be in your shoes if they could.
All in all, don’t be afraid to come during the holiday weeks! They can be an amazing time to visit, just set your expectations and, of course, prepare. Don’t be afraid to ask cast members or those of us who look like we are locals and frequent guests to help you out. We are all here to experience the magic together. Happy 2019!
