In episode 463 of WDW Prep To Go, Holly K. recounts her six-day adventure split between Universal’s newly opened Epic Universe and Disney World. She shares the ups and downs of her trip, including ride delays at Epic Universe, highlights from stays at multiple Disney resorts, and insightful comparisons between the two theme park giants. Post trip b…

In episode 462 of the WDW Prep to Go podcast, Charlotte shares details of her multi-generational Disney World trip with her husband, young children, and parents, sharing their experiences at all four parks, Disney Springs, and Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary. The episode highlights the importance of staying flexible while traveling with small ch…

In this episode of WDW Prep To Go, I chatted with Kim about her recent solo trip to Disney World. Kim, a former Disney College Program participant, shares her detailed experiences and itinerary from her trip. Highlights include her first-time experiences at several attractions in Magic Kingdom, her visit to Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival, and s…

In this episode of WDW Prep to Go, Taraneh shares highlights from her family’s Disney vacation, which included a 3-night cruise on the Wish and a stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge. She offers practical tips on Disney transportation, using Lightning Lanes, and balancing structure with flexibility for a fun, stress-free trip. Post trip begins: 29 minutes …

In episode 459 of WDW Prep To Go, Kim discusses her first Disneyland trip with her family, covering their itinerary, dining at Blue Bayou, and highlights like yoga at California Adventure and the Lamplight Lounge VIP experience. She shares tips on navigating crowds, Lightning Lanes, and enjoying attractions with teenagers. Links: Small World Vacati…

In episode 458 of WDW Prep to Go, Brittany discusses her detailed Disneyland trip with her family, covering everything from hotel stays at Hyatt Place Anaheim to park itineraries, dining, and strategies for navigating rides and wait times. She also shares insights from their non-park days in Newport Beach and Fullerton, ending with reflections on t…

In episode 457 of WDW Prep To Go, Blaize, a teacher from South Georgia, shares her experience planning and taking her family's first ever trip to Disney World. She talks through traveling during spring break, staying at Pop Century Resort, and visiting to all four Disney parks and Disney Springs in three days. Blaize reveals that the trip was such …

Jeff recaps a 19-day trip with his husband Brandon and friend Yimay to the Disney parks in Tokyo, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. They explore unique attractions, local food, shopping, and entertainment. Post trip begins: 1 hour and 34 minutes Links: Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar 6 Step Disney World Planning Process Leave me a message (including trip r…

Tami recounts her family’s memorable Spring Break trip to Disney World, which included smooth logistics, exciting new rides like Tron and Guardians of the Galaxy, and delicious dining experiences. Despite minor setbacks such as ride malfunctions and crowded parks, the trip was filled with family bonding, character meet-and-greets, and a magical Hap…

In episode 454 of WDW Prep to Go, I talk to Deb about her solo trip to Disney World. Her journey begins at Animal Kingdom Lodge and ends at Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. Deb shares her experiences, tips, and tricks from her fifth annual solo trip to Disney World, including detailed day-by-day activities. Post trip begins: 30 minutes Links:…

In this episode, Tyler returns to share his experience aboard the Disney Treasure, following up on his previous trip report from July 2024. He details the attractions visited at Disney parks, the exceptional dining experiences, and highlights activities on the cruise, such as the AquaMouse waterslide and Broadway-style shows. Despite facing seasick…

In this episode, I chatted with Sarah about her epic Disney World trip with her family, which included her husband, four of her children, her mother, and her grandmother. We dove into their journey from Maine to Florida, and their two-week stay covering Fort Wilderness Disney Vacation Club cabins and Riviera Resort. Sarah is a logistics master and …

Sara talks about her whirlwind Disney World trip, where she and her family visited four parks in one day, using Standby Skipper to maximize their time. Despite challenges like motion sickness and exhaustion, they enjoyed great meals, character dining, and convenient transportation. However, they missed out on fully experiencing each park due to the…

Sam and Brian from the DCL Duo share insights on Disney cruises, covering their favorite ships, itineraries, and activities. They offer tips for first-time cruisers, like using a Disney-savvy travel agent, booking spa services on port days, saving on excursions, and considering the type of family trip when choosing a cruise. Links: DCL Duo Disney C…

Mary shares her family’s magical first trip to Disney World! That included highlights like Topolino’s Terrace character dining, using the Disability Access Service, and staying at the Wilderness Lodge resort. Of course, there were a few misses, too. Overall, a well executed plan led to a memorable adventure! Post trip begins: 24 minutes Links: Walt…

Erin shares her unforgettable honeymoon at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii! From relaxing at the Aulani Spa to enjoying the Circle Island Tour, it was an adventure full of great food and memorable experiences. But, not everything was perfect—she also shares a few disappointments. Check out her review for the highs and lows! Post trip begins…

Heather shares her Disney World trip with her daughter Bella during a field hockey competition, including a day at Magic Kingdom using the Lightning Lane system. Despite cold, rainy weather, they rode Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Tron, enjoyed great meals, and appreciated the convenience of staying at Port Orleans Riverside. Post trip begins: 23 min…

Hannah embarked on a land and sea trip to celebrate her 30th birthday with her sisters and girlfriends. She called it, “One of the best trips I’ve ever been on!” Listen to hear how they navigated Walt Disney World and the Disney Fantasy with a member recovering from surgery, another with food allergies, and a few first timers in the mix. Post trip …

Full written version of this episode with pics and links - https://wdwprepschool.com/emily-katie-navigate-wdw-uo-with-a-wheelchair-prep-445/ Emily and Katie traveled for an adult friends’ trip to Central Florida. Katie uses a wheelchair full-time, and they share extensively about the accessibility at both Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World. Po…

Ever wondered if buying into Disney Vacation Club is right for you? Shannon talks with seven DVC owners to find out why they bought in, what they view as the biggest advantages and disadvantages of the program, how they use their points (there’s quite a variety!), if they’d recommend DVC ownership to a friend, and more. Links: Walt Disney World Cro…

Wonder what’s new at Disney World in 2025? Shannon recaps all that’s coming to the most Magical Place on Earth this year and beyond. Links: What's coming to Disney World in 2025 Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar 6 Step Disney World Planning Process Leave me a message (including trip report submissions) Please use the SpeakPipe link below to leave us…

Candy’s 5-year-old niece recently completed treatment for leukemia, and to celebrate, the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Give Kids the World made her dream trip to Walt Disney World a reality. But the magic didn’t stop there—both sets of grandparents, along with aunts and uncles, planned their own trips to join in the fun. Candy shares what it’s like t…

Kara’s trip in December to Walt Disney World with her two young children, husband, and parents was full with holiday fun and park hopping while trying to minimize extra steps. She shares how her side quest to maximize the value of the Disney Dining Plan ended as well as her thoughts on Caribbean Beach Resort, Standby Skipper, and Mears Transportati…

Sara traveled to Walt Disney World with her extended family during the busy Thanksgiving holiday week. She shares how she navigated a jam-packed holiday trip with two young kids and five adults. Listen to hear her thoughts on the value of the new Lightning Lane Premier Pass, Jollywood Nights, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and staying at the …

Are you traveling with a group? Cruising is a great way to allow for multiple individual interests and still carve out time for togetherness. Shannon shares tips to make your next group trip on Disney Cruise Line even better. Links: See wdwprepschool.com/podcast for Palo private dining room form Small World Vacations Disney Cruise Line Request How …

Shannon spent Thanksgiving at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort and is sharing all the details—from must-try activities to insider tips. Curious how it stacks up against Hilton Head Island? Tune in to find out! Links: Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar 6 Step Disney World Planning Process Leave me a message (including trip report submissions) Please use the…

Jill’s whirlwind solo four-day trip included four different Walt Disney World resorts, the Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic, an Orlando Informer Universal event, Jollywood Nights, a special once-a-year hidden Mickey, visiting several gingerbread creations, and very intentional meals and snacks. Listen to hear how she filled her days to maximize…

Jacqueline’s trip with her three-year-old, her husband, and her extended family to Florida had a touch of just about everything! Listen to hear her thoughts about traveling in late October and early November, All Star Music Resort, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Disney Cruise Line cruise transport, the Disney Wish…

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World in the next two months? Get ready for magical holiday events like Jollywood Nights and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! Plus, don’t miss festive highlights like the gingerbread houses and Christmas Tree Stroll. Tune in for all the must-know details! Links: Disney World Christmas 2024 Complete Guide Review an…

MK and her best friend maximized a short Disney World trip to celebrate their 40th birthdays. She shares lots of details, including the play-by-play of their 4-park challenge. Post trip begins: 27 minutes Links: Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar 6 Step Disney World Planning Process Leave me a message (including trip report submissions) Please use th…

Curious about the Halloween magic at Walt Disney World? Ever wondered what it’s like to stay in an RV at Fort Wilderness? Join Shannon as she shares her favorite spooky highlights from her recent adventure! Links: Halloween Activities at Walt Disney World Meacham's RV Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Complete Guide Walt Disney World Crowd Cale…

Emily planned to travel to Disney World with her husband, son, and daughter in late September. Hurricane Helene threw a wrench in those plans. Emily shares how she and her family pivoted to make the most of their trip to Disney World during hurricane season. Post trip begins: 35 minutes Links: Hurricanes at Disney World Walt Disney World Crowd Cale…

Shannon, Heather, and several WDW Prep to Go patrons sailed on the Disney Magic this October. Shannon shares her impression of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and how this cruise redeemed the experience she had on the Disney Magic earlier this year. Links: How to do embarkation day on Disney Cruise Line How to do disembarkation on Disney Cru…

Taking it back to basics! Here’s the details of our easy-to-follow 6-step planning process to customize your Walt Disney World vacation. Links: 6 Step Disney World Planning Process Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar Disney World Touring Strategies Leave me a message (including trip report submissions) Please use the SpeakPipe link below to leave us a…

Christina and her husband took their almost-three-year-old to Walt Disney World in September with a trip that included the dining plan, character meals, and Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. She learned some things and had some fun. Christina shares what was (and wasn’t!) worth it, how it was to travel with her son without extra adults, and if…

Laura traveled from Buffalo, New York, to southern California to experience Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Hollywood and run a 10k during the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon. Listen to hear how the record-breaking heat wave affected their parks’ strategy. Post trip begins: 26 minutes Links: Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar 6 Step Disney Wo…

Matt, his wife, and their 4-year-old daughter are frequent visitors to Walt Disney World. For their September trip, Matt attempted the Every Ride Challenge. That consists of riding all 50 operating rides at the time of the challenge while raising money for Give Kids the World. He shares his insights on Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, crowds,…

Clay, his wife, and their three kids braved the August heat and spent a week at Walt Disney World. Taking advantage of the free dining promotion, they stayed at Beach Club Villas for their second family trip. Clay shares what went as planned - and what didn’t. Post trip begins: 37 minutes Links: Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar Quicksilver Tours an…

5 tips: Download the Food&Wine app If you’re on a budget, consider pre-purchasing gift cards If ordering more than you can carry, bring a tray - https://amzn.to/3zamCZf If you have more than 1 person, send somebody to get a table Go on a weekday for fewer crowds BEST BOOTHS The Fry Basket - flight of fries, grapefruit mule, yuca fries, mango-rita s…

Julie and her wife embarked on a three-city European vacation that included the Olympics, Disneyland Paris, London, and Dublin. Their multitude of tours, museums, and restaurants included many hits and a miss. Listen until the end to hear why their Dublin plans completely changed. Post trip begins: 37 minutes Links: Eating Europe 6 Step Disney Worl…

Becca had to reschedule her Disney World trip - with eight people in four generations ranging in age from 7 to 81 - from late June to mid-July due to a family emergency. She details what it was like to alter her carefully laid out plan and how Disability Access Service worked under the new rules. Her takeaway: it’s important to temper expectations …

We were at the 2024 D23 Expo in Anaheim, CA, and bring you the details on all of the exciting announcements during the Disney Parks and Experiences Showcase! Links: Disney Parks and Experiences: Every Announcement from D23 Expo Cars Area at Magic Kingdom (Everything We Know About The Frontierland Expansion) Leave me a message (including trip report…

We recently spent several days touring all four Walt Disney World parks and tested Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass strategy. Here are 7 tips we learned that will help you maximize the newest version of Disney’s standby-line skipping service. Links: 7 Lightning Lane Tips Magic Kingdom Lightning Lane Guide Epcot Lightning Lane Guide Hollywo…

Stephanie, her husband, and their 13-year-old daughter flew from Texas to spend almost two full weeks in Hawaii. They visited three islands, stayed in VRBOs and at Disney’s Aulani Resort, and packed in multiple activities. She shares what was worth the time and money, and what activities were a one-and-done. Post trip begins: 30 minutes Links: Aula…

Tyler brought his partner and an infectious energy to his second adult trip to Walt Disney World. He shares about their stay at the Grand Floridian, how they celebrated a special occasion, and as a theme park person what he thinks Disney does well. His advice: “Be happy you’re there and live in the moment.” Post trip begins: 36 minutes Links: Groce…

Disney launches a new Lightning Lane system on July 24. Listen to learn more about how you can use this to your advantage on your next trip to Walt Disney World. Links: All About Lightning Lanes Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar 6 Step Disney World Planning Process Leave me a message (including trip report submissions) Please use the SpeakPipe link …

Kiley spent the Fourth of July holiday week at Disneyland with her husband, three children, friends, and their kids. It was a hot one! She shares her strategy, special pixie-dusted moments, and what she would do differently when planning her next Disneyland vacation. Post trip begins: 24 minutes Links: Small World Vacations Disneyland Request Walt …

Beginning at Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando and finishing at the Beach Club at Walt Disney World, Kristin, her husband, and their tween daughters spent several days in June in Orlando. Kristin shares what she thought of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, how important it is to know how to pivot, and what she loves about staying in a Disney Vacation Clu…

Travel is expensive! But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t ways to save money and still have a great Disney World Vacation. We highlight nine strategies you can use to save. Check the links below for details. Links: 9 ways to save money at Disney World Disney World tickets and prices for 2024 How to rent DVC points (step-by-step guide) Current Di…

Heather and Felicia just returned from a busy trip to Disney World. They chat about preparing for the heat, Dreams that Soar drone show, H2O Glow, Fantasmic Dining Package, Epcot openings, and more. Links: Where to watch Dreams that Soar drone show H20 Glow After Hours Review Space 220 Review Complete Guide to World Celebration Summer Travel Tips 6…