Too young for Disney?

A lot of parents ask me the same thing - what is the best age to take my kids to Disney for the first time?  I can tell you that we waited until my oldest son was 4 to take him to visit Mickey for the first time.  We also waited until my middle son was 4.  My daughter...she was 9 months.  Of those 3 trips, my daughter was the easiest.  Now, will she remember the trip?  No.  But the look on her face as she saw the castle, the parade, and even the characters was priceless and something that I will remember forever.

I guess you need to decide what you really want out of your child's first Disney vacation.  Is it something that you want them to remember forever and be able to tell their children about?  Is it something that you want them to enjoy and still see the magic in, but maybe not remember it 10 or 15 minutes later?

When we took my oldest, he had just turned 4.  We thought it would be perfect because he was old enough to do a lot of walking on his own, he wouldn't be scared of the characters, and he could ride just about everything.  Let me say that it was not as perfect as we had hoped.  First, we went at the end of August and it was extremely hot and humid.  This made for grouchy parents and an even grouchier 4 year old.  And for the idea of him walking most of the time - that ended halfway through the first day.  He was in a stroller for the remainder of the trip.  So, what we had was a grouchy 4 year old sitting in a stroller complaining as loud as he possible could, and 2 parents that were dripping with sweat that only wanted to find some air conditioning.  Not that the trip was all bad, but if I had to do it again I would either wait until he was a few years older, or travel a different time of year.

That brings me to child number 2.  Again, we decided to take him when he was 4 years old (my oldest was now 7) but we went in December.  This made a huge difference.  The weather was gorgeous so we weren't miserable and tired from the heat.  It also helped that I took my best friend with me instead of my husband.  There's something about best friends that is magic with your children.  They know how to keep them entertained in those Disney lines.
We still had to have a stroller, a double this time because my 7 year old still got tired halfway through every day. We still had our meltdowns but they were much more tolerable this time around.  Again, it could be because of the weather, but it could have been because I was prepared.  Either way, this trip was much easier.

Child number 3.  We took my daughter when she was 9 months old because my husband had a conference at the Beach Club.  I decided to spend the days seeing the parks while he was locked up in meetings.  We left our 2 older boys home for this trip and I was so glad we did.  It was the easiest Disney vacation I have ever had with my kids.  A 9 month old stays in their stroller, and naps in it in the middle of the afternoon so you don't have to head back to the resort if you don't want to.  They can still ride almost everything.  They are fascinated by the parades and the bright colors of the parks.  They don't mind just hanging out at the pool if you want.  They can still have their fits, but they are usually handled by a bottle or a diaper change.

I have traveled to Disney several times with my children since those first trips and my oldest is now 11 years old.  There are still moments in the parks when my husband and I look at each other and ask "what were we thinking" but those are fewer and fewer each time we go.

I'm glad we took them all when they were younger because I will never forget the first time they turned the corner and saw Cinderella's Castle for the first time, or their first hug from Mickey Mouse. They may not remember it well, but if we had waited until they were 10 or 11, I don't think it would have been as magical.

As I said before, you have to decide for yourself what you want out of your Disney vacation.  No matter what age your children are, you can expect some meltdowns and some not so great moments, but those will be easily forgotten after seeing your child eat a Mickey head ice cream cone and waving at Mickey and Minnie as they ride down Main Street with Cinderella's Castle in the background.

Kourtney
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Why use a travel agent?

I had a client tell me the other day that they decided not to use my services because they like to plan their own travel.  I think it's great that people like to plan their own travel and it's not my job to take that away from you, unless you want me to!

What does a travel agent do.  My answer to this is as little or as much as you want me to.   Some clients want me to do everything.  I send several options for hotels, tickets, dining plans and flights.  I can send pictures of hotel rooms and even layouts of the resorts.  I give personal opinions of different places I have stayed and if I haven't stayed there, I will find out what it's like from someone who has.

After a deposit is made, that is where a travel agent can really help!  I will help with all those little things you might not think of.  I can recommend fireworks cruises, dessert parties, kids clubs for your little ones, pirate and princess makeovers, and spa getaways for you.  I can give recommendations for restaurants and even make those reservations for you.  Your favorite restaurant not available?  I can continue to watch until a space opens up.  Need to know what park is best to visit on which day?  A travel agent can give you that information.  Want to order a birthday cake to be delivered for dinner?  I can do that too.  What's the best way to get from your resort to the Beach Club for an early morning breakfast reservation?  Guess what...I can tell you!

My clients all receive a document that includes all of the reservation numbers, flight times, park hours, parade and fireworks times, and even a step by step itinerary through each park if they wish.  It includes park maps with parade routes and even tips for the best places to stand.  I include important phone numbers for taxis, your hotel, and even my own number if you need anything.  And when I say anything, I mean anything.  I once had a client call me from Downtown Disney looking for a store I had recommended.  I was able to walk them right to the entrance while on the phone.

Now - a travel agent also doesn't have to do any of that.  We can simply book the trip and be done if that's what you prefer.  I have had clients call and tell me exactly what days they want to travel, what flights they want, which hotel and the tickets they prefer.  They book all of their own dining reservations and I have very little communication with them.  So, why book with a travel agent?  In this case it's all about "what happens if I have a problem"?  For example, I once had a client on a flight all ready to head to Florida...in the middle of a snow storm.  The flight was cancelled.  All flights were cancelled for 2 days.  They called me and I took care of re-booking the flight and hotel for a later date and all they had to do was explain it to their kids.  I think I had the easy part!  If they had booked on their own, they would have had to deal with the airline to try and re-schedule the flight.  Then they would have to call Disney to do the same with their package.  They took care of it all with one call to me.

So - when people ask why should I use a travel agent - I say there are many reasons but you should do it for peace of mind that a professional will be in charge of your trip, and to make your vacation as magical as it can possibly be!

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Is the Disney Dining Plan worth it?

One of the most common questions I get from clients is about the  Disney dining plan.  Is it worth the extra money?  My gut reaction is to say YES...but it's not as simple as that. It really depends on your family.  Do you enjoy sitting down to family meals or are you more interested in just grabbing something as you head to stand in line for Space Mountain?  Are you a big dessert eater or do you just like to have the main course and a glass of water?   

Pork Chop and Macaroni at Be Our Guest

Disney has 3 dining plans to choose from so it's very easy to find something that will suit your family.  I usually recommend that you sit down and look at the menus of a couple restaurants that you might be interested in.  www.allears.net is a great website for this!  They have full menus with prices so you can get an idea of what it would cost your family to eat there.  Add up the cost and see how it compares to the dining plan.

To give you an example of the types of families that might choose the dining plan, here are 3 clients of mine and the plans that they chose.

1.  Quick Service Plan
$37.58 per night ages 10 and up
$14.32 per night age 3 to 9

Quick Service Dining Plan Details

Includes Per Person, Per Night: This plan includes counter service (e.g. fast food) meals and snacks at most quick service dining locations in the Walt Disney World Resort.

• Two quick service meals (entrée or combo meal, dessert at lunch and dinner and a non-alcoholic beverage)
• One snack
• One Resort refillable drink mug per person, per package

This family consisted of mom, dad and 3 teenagers.  They were only spending a few days in the parks and wanted to make the most of every minute.  None of them are big eaters but they knew they would eat at least 2 meals a day.  They quick service plan was perfect for them.  They could grab a quick meal and be on their way to the next attraction instead of wasting valuable time in a restaurant.  They also wouldn't be paying for all the extra food that they probably wouldn't eat.  This family also decided that if they did want to do a sit down meal, it would still be cheaper to pay out of pocket.

2. Plus Dining

(Value and Regular Season)
$55.59 per night ages 10 and up
$17.16 per night age 3 to 9

2012 was $51.54 and $15.02.

(Peak Season)
$56.94 per night ages 10 and up
$18.16 per night ages 3 to 9

Includes: Each person on the meal plan will receive credits for the following, per day

• One table service or buffet meal, including appetizer (for kids 3-9 ONLY, at lunch & dinner), entrée, dessert, OR full buffet, plus non-alcoholic beverage
• One quick service meal, including entrée, dessert, plus non-alcoholic beverage, OR combo meal plus non-alcoholic beverage, dessert
• One snack from a wide variety of options
• One Resort refillable drink mug per person, per package

This family consisted of mom, dad, and 2 younger children ages 6 and 8.  This family knew that their kids were too old to nap in the middle of the day, but also knew that they would really need a break from all the excitement.  A table service meal is a great way to do that.  They also knew that they wanted to do a couple of character meals.  The plus dining plan was the perfect choice for them.  They would be able to sit down at least once a day and get away from the crowds and the excitement.  It would give the children a chance to relax and recharge for the rest of the day.  Since character meals are included in the dining plan, they would be able to meet some of their favorite characters without standing in the long lines at the park!  

The plus dining plan is the most popular among my clients and everyone always comes back and says it was absolutely worth it!

California Grill Restaurant at the Contemporary

3.  Deluxe Dining Plan

(Value and Regular Season)
$99.97 per night ages 10 and up
$26.84 per night ages 3 to 9

2012 was $85.52 and $23.79.

(Peak Season)
$102.27 per night ages 10 and up
$28.91 per night ages 3 to 9

Three table service or quick service meals:

• table service includes entrée, appetizer and dessert, OR full buffet, plus non-alcoholic beverage
• quick service includes entrée, dessert, plus non-alcoholic beverage, OR combo meal plus plus non-alcoholic beverage OR combo meal plus dessert and non-alcoholic beverage

This family consisted of 2 adults and a 10 year old.  They love food and wanted to try all that Disney has to offer.  The have been to Disney several times and are more laid back when it comes to touring the parks.  The deluxe plan is perfect for them because they receive 3 meals per day.  These can be table or quick service meals.  I have to say that with the deluxe plan, it is a lot of food!  I would only recommend this plan if you plan on doing the signature restaurants that require 2 credits each.  Otherwise, unless you can eat a lot, I just don't think it's worth it.

So, I hope this has helped you a little.  Each family is different and you really have to think about what is important to you while at the parks.  Talk to your travel agent (hopefully me) and I'm sure they will help you come up with a plan that is perfect for you!

Princess 1/2 Marathon - Race Day

3:00am is really early - especially when you're getting up to go run 13.1 miles!  However, I was up and ready to get this thing started.  I climbed into my running costume (yes costume) and headed up to catch the bus.

It was very short trip to the Epcot parking lot where the race was going to begin and end and before I knew it, I was surrounded by thousands of women , large tents, and loud music.  This was enough to get anyone energized.

An empty Epcot parking lot.

Such an energetic and fun atmosphere.

Let me say here that I paid the extra money for the Race Retreat.  I thought it might be nice to have temperature a temperature controlled tent, the chance to meet some characters, and a small breakfast.  I walked in the tent, grabbed a banana, and walked back out.  It was very crowded and the lines to meet the characters were really long.  It might have been different if I had some friends with me, but I was by myself and just didn't really get it.  

Before too long it was time to start headed to the corrals.  I had heard that it's quite a walk from the parking lot to the corrals and people weren't exaggerating, but I didn't mind it.  Gave my legs a little warm up and some time to calm my nerves.  I was in Corral E because I hadn't submitted a time before the race.  I had never run another race! This meant a lot of time waiting for the racers in front of me to start before it was my turn.  I think that was the worse part of the entire race for me.  Next time I will definitely submit a time!

Finally, after what seemed like forever, the Fairy Godmother counted down my group, the fireworks went up, and we were off! 

 Now, I have been training for this thing for over a year and wanted to do my best.  Other people in my corral had other ideas.  As the fireworks went off, they started walking.  Then there were others who would run, and then all of a sudden stop and walk.  I'm all for the walking or running/walking.  Whatever it takes as long as you're out there moving.  With that being said, I wish people would warn you when they are going to stop running.  I don't know how many people I almost ran into!

Now that I've gotten that rant out of the way, let me tell you how amazing a run Disney race is!  The entertainment along the course is so much fun.  It makes you want to keep running just so you can see what is coming up next!!

Most people will tell you that running through Cinderella's Castle is the best part of this race.  I have to disagree.  For me, it was when we ran through the Magic Kingdom parking signs.  I think that's what they're called?

I don't know why, but I just got that excited feeling that I get every time I visit Disney World!  If you don't know, the Magic Kingdom comes early in the run.  I believe around mile 5 - 6.  So, you're still feeling pretty good at this point.  It is pretty amazing running down Main Street with thousands of people cheering you on!

After getting through the Magic Kingdom, through the castle,  and then being taken behind the scenes, you end up on the road over by the Grand Floridian resorts.  This is where another large group of people are cheering. About this time, it's starting to get very humid and I start to see runners sitting on the side of the road.  I can't even begin to tell you how many people I saw like this.  But, I kept chugging along...even when the road would narrow so much that everyone started to bottleneck.  Doesn't seem very safe but I don't see how Disney can fix it unless they change the route.

The hardest part for me was at the 15K point.  It was hot, I was tired, and I had never run more than 10 miles in my training. It was amazing how many other runners would give you encouragement when they see you're starting to give up.  

Finally, the final hill was approaching.  Disney style, there was a green army man giving a little motivation to help!

Up the hill, around the corner, and there's Epcot again!!!!  I'm so excited.  My legs start to move a little faster and I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.  All of a sudden, I'm running next to Spaceship earth towards the lake.  Wait, why am I  running towards the lake?  The finish line is in the parking lot!  Okay, I can do this.  I think I can, I think I can.  Okay.  I've made it to the lake and they're turning me around to go back.  Woo Hoo!

After what seemed like an eternity, I can see it.  There's the finish line.  Now my legs are really starting to move.  I can hear the crowd and they're cheering for me!  Finally - I cross it!!

After a year of training, an injured back, an injured knee and physical therapy, I have crossed the finish line of my first 1/2 Marathon.  Not only that, but I did it at Disney World.  I don't think there is any greater feeling.  I walked up and collected my medal and then downed a bottle of water!

Still smiling

Beautiful medal

I couldn't believe all of the people at the first aid tent as I walked by and I was so thankful that I wasn't one of them.  I had made it injury free.  I tracked down Linda and we both decided that I needed a shower and a nap.  So, back to the bus and back to Riverside.  

So Kourtney, you've just run your first half marathon.  What are you going to do next?

If you're thinking of running your first half marathon, I would say that Disney is definitely the way to go.  I wouldn't trade the experience for anything!

Disney Princess 1/2 Marathon 2013 - Part 1

I know.  What was I thinking.  I was that kid who couldn't even run the mile in high school and I signed up for a half marathon!?  I had to be crazy!  But, if I was going to run that far and actually pay money to do it, what better place than Disney World.  Where else can you dress up like a princess and run through the happiest place on earth?
I boarded the plane the morning of February 21st for the long flight from Geneva, Switzerland to Orlando, Florida. Let's just say I was happy that I upgraded to business class! I arrived about 6pm that night (midnight Swiss time), met up with my friend Linda who graciously agreed to come cheer me on (or laugh at me) and we caught the Magical Express to Port Orleans - Riverside.  Now, I have stayed at Value resorts, deluxe resorts and even villas, but I had never stayed in a moderate resort.  Most of the clients I book stay at Riverside so I decided to give it a try....but more on that in another post.
It was a quick dinner and then off to bed since I was almost a zombie at this point.
The first morning we headed to the Race Expo.  This is where we pick up our race numbers, bags, and any goodies that we want to buy.  When we pulled up to Coronado Springs where the Expo was held, there were literally thousands of people waiting in line just to get in.  I decided this could not be a good sign. Thankfully, the line moved very quickly and I think only waited 5-10 minutes.  On a side note, I ran into an old high school friend while standing in line. That was a nice surprise!
As soon as you walk in the doors, there are two footmen ready to have their pictures taken with you.  Really wanted to do this, but the line was so long!  Once we got in the Expo I picked up my packets and did a little shopping. Picking up the packet was very quick and easy and I ran into a co-worker while standing there.  It really is a Small World!   I guess this year was a little different because it was held in a different venue, but it was really crowded when you got to the shopping area!!  I wanted to get a few things from the Official Race Merchandise tent and it was awful.  First I had to wait in line to even get into the place.  That line ran into the line of people waiting to pick up their race bags.  So, it was a huge jumble of people with everyone asking "which line are you standing in".    Then you had to push your way through to even see the merchandise.   Finally, after picking up the 2 things I wanted, I waited in line about 45 minutes just to pay.  They had 13 registers open!!  After paying, you had to fight your way back through the line of people wanting to pay. Disney really needs to rethink how that was set up if they ever plan on having it there again.  I heard nothing but complaints from everyone I talked to.
After leaving the main part of the expo, we were able to sign up so my friend Linda could receive texts with my split times.  That would give her an idea of where I was so she could hop around the race course to watch me.  I was also able to sign up my Facebook page so friends at home could keep track also.  I though that was a nice added touch.
After finishing up, it was off to Hollywood Studios for the day.
I'll go into details about the parks and things we did another time, but I want to keep this to being just about the race weekend itself.
More to come about race day itself!!

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How it all began

Me and my kids at Disneyland Paris 2012

I have been a fan of Disney for a long time...but I didn't really become obsessed until after I got married.  I first visited Disney in 1988 with my cousins and grandparents.  I don't remember much about the trip except that we stayed offsite.
I didn't visit again until after I was married in 2001.  I was about 6 months pregnant at the time and again we stayed offsite.  It was very hot and I wasn't in the greatest shape to be walking around as much as we did, but that trip was the one that sealed my fate.  I was hooked!
Several trips followed that first and I can now say that I look at, talk about, or write about something Disney related every single day.  I love it so much that I have become an authorized Disney travel planner 3 years ago (although I've been a travel agent for 13 years) and planning other people's Disney trips makes me almost as happy as planning my own.
I was trying to figure out other ways to share my love of all things Disney and I thought what better way than to start a blog.   I hope to write about my own experiences with Disney as well as questions that I get from clients so please let me know if there is anything you would like to see here!
I look forward to sharing my crazy Disney obsession with all of you and maybe even convert a few non-believers!

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Kourtney's Pixie Vacations