I fell in love the moment I stepped foot inside Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. I admit that I work really hard for my vacations and have become a sort of hotel snob over the years. From the grand lobby, shopping options, fine dining, and most importantly fantastic Cast Members it didn't take me long to be impressed. 

So it's a regular theme here on my blog-- using a Travel Agent is a tremendous value when you're planning your family vacation. This is especially true when trying to navigate places like Walt Disney World or looking to find the perfect cruise/resort that is "perfect" for your family.

Well today brought to life another great example of why using a Travel Agent is a great idea... We can help you save money and you don't even have to lift a finger!

As I told you in my post yesterday, one the first full day of our annual Walt Disney World trip we tackled the Seven Dwarf's Mine Train. This is a great roller coaster that is just a step above kid-level, but not too intense for people afraid of coasters like me!

Check out this great ride and let me know your thoughts if you've ridden before!

Jenn Whitney is a travel enthusiast and mother of four. Her goal is to share her experiences and knowledge to help families plan amazing vacations around the world. Jenn is the owner of Whitney World Travel, a boutique family and luxury travel agency, and an Accredited Cruise Counselor. You can contact Jenn by e-mail at [email protected].

Well it is that time of year again... The Whitney's have descended upon Orlando, FL to enjoy a week at Walt Disney World. This is certain to mean lots of fun rides, maybe a temper tantrum or two, and of course LOTS of sweets!

Lots of fun is in store for this trip, so check out how it's gone so far and what is to come!

Let’s face it, my family is BIG! With four kids ranging from diapers to learning to drive we need a lot of space when we go on our family vacations. The one downside is the world is built for families of four—two parents, two kids. And in most cases the beautiful resorts at Walt Disney World are no different, unless you’re ready to break open the bank for Villas and Club Level suites!

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is the exception to that rule. This Value level resort provides amazing comfort for families of up to six people. During a recent visit to Disney World we stayed in this resort and here are some of the great highlights I found.

The most common questions I get from my friends and clients heading to Walt Disney World or Disneyland is how to survive in the summer.  With the Florida and California heat, and the summer vacation crowds, you can quickly turn a potentially amazing vacation into a stressful trip.  But if you follow a few key tips you'll make your vacation dreams come true!
 
Tip #1: Take Advantage of Rope Drop

Rope Drop is the term we Disney Parks nerds use for park opening.  I always recommend to clients to get to the park at opening in order to minimize crowds and heat.  As soon as the gates open head over to the most popular ride in the park and enjoy the shorter lines in the cooler weather.  Avoid parks with Extra Magic Hours in the morning and if a park had Extra Magic Hours the night before head there-- its usually the least crowded park the next day.

Just the other day I was with a group of dad’s at one of our kids activities when the topic of Disney World came up. One of the dad’s commented that he would never go to Disney World for a vacation— “That place is meant for kids and not how I want to spend my free time!”

Woah there my friend… Apparently you do not know Disney World!

With this in mind I thought I’d throw together some of the top “guy” things to do on a Disney World vacation.

1. Grab a Round of Golf

Did you know that Walt Disney World doesn’t just have one championship caliber golf course, no my friends it has THREE. Not only have their courses held multiple PGA tour events, but they have also won numerous awards for their design, service and amenities.

Disney is so serious about its golf that there is even a special Players Club available. This membership gives you complimentary access to all practice ranges, daily clinics offered by the Pros at Disney World, and special rates during member access time.

And if a round of 18 is just too much for you, there is also an amazing 9-hole course available.