Disney Planning Pod

Episode 7: Best Moderate Resorts at Disney World

Welcome back to Episode 7 of our Disney Planning Podcast! Today's theme revolves around discovering the best Moderate Resorts at Walt Disney World and exploring each one's unique advantages and potential drawbacks. 

What We Cover in This Episode:

1. Disney News (3:20)
   • The Food and Wine Classic is back at the Swan and Dolphin Hotel for its 15th year.
   • After Hours events at Magic Kingdom have sold out for the year.
   • The new drone show at Disney Springs has kicked off.
   • Updates on changes to horseback riding at Fort Wilderness.
2. Housekeeping (10:47)
   • Corrections about the Boardwalk Inn details from Episode 6.
3. Disney Decoded: Good Neighbor Hotels (11:57)
   • What are Good Neighbor Hotels?
   • Exploring the perks that come with choosing these accommodations.
4.  Ranking the Disney World Moderate Resorts (15:13)
   • A comprehensive guide to each Moderate Resort, discussing their pros and cons.
     • Caribbean beach resort
     • port orleans riverside
     • Port Orleans French Quarter
     • the cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort
     • Coronado Springs resort and grand destino tower
5. Sibling Showdown: Disney's Room Entry Safety Policy (37:30)
   • A debate on whether we agree with Disney’s policy regarding entering guest rooms. 
6. Character Corner: Messiest Disney Character Breakup (40:41)
   • Discussing which fictional Disney character couple would have the messiest breakup.

Closing Thoughts: Check out the resources below for more detailed information on everything we've discussed today. Whether you're planning your next Disney trip or just enjoying the fun from home, we're here to enhance your Disney planning experience!

Links:

• Ticket Information for the Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic
• Info on the Disney Drone Show
• List of Good Neighbor Hotels
• Watch Video on Disney's Royal Rooms
• Learn About Disney's Safety Policy for Entering Rooms
• Visit Our Website for more resources and travel information.
• Download Our Free Disney World Planning Checklist

Links:

• Visit Our Website for More Tips
• Download Our Free Genie+ Cheat Sheet
• Download Our Disney Planning Checklist
• Disney Planning Pod YouTube Channel
• Disney Planning Pod Facebook Page
• Visit GleasonFamilyTravels.com for More Family Travel Tips and Tricks

 Best Deluxe Disney World Resort

Welcome to Episode 6 of our Disney Planning Podcast! Today, we're diving into the luxurious world of Walt disney world.  We break down each Disney World Deluxe Resorts. We're ranking these resorts based on rooms, location near the theme parks, transportation, theming, dining options, pools, amenities, views, and overall vibes. Get ready for an in-depth look at what makes each Disney Deluxe Resort special.

What We Cover in This Episode:

1. Disney World News (3:03)
   • Rock 'n' Roller Coaster re-opening details
   • Changes to the Disability Access Service (DAS) pass
   • Tiana's Bayou Adventure incorporating scents into the ride
   • Closure of the DVC Lounge in Epcot this summer
2. Disney Decoded: Magic Bands (9:03)
   • Explaining what Magic Bands are and their various uses around Disney World
3. The Main Event: Ranking the Deluxe Disney World Resorts (10:30)
   • Overview of each Disney World hotel from least favorite to favorite
   • Discussing the pros and cons of each Disney World property
   • Highlighting the perks of staying at a Deluxe Resort during your Disney World vacation 
4. Sibling Showdown: Nicer Hotel vs. Longer Vacation (42:09)
   • A debate on whether it's better to have a shorter vacation at a nicer hotel or a longer stay at a value hotel
5. Character Corner: Disney Princesses and Their Starbucks Orders (35:01 - 40:00)
   • Imagining what Starbucks drink each favorite Disney princess would order
6. Wrap-Up and Resources (43:46)
   • Recap of the episode and where to find more information

Closing Thoughts: Be sure to check out our additional resources linked below for more details on the DAS policy and your essential Disney planning checklist. Whether you're planning a luxurious stay or just dreaming about your next Disney vacation, we hope this episode helps you choose the perfect Deluxe Resort for your needs!

Links:

• Learn More About the DAS Policy Here
• Watch Trader Sam's Grotto YouTube Video
• Download Our Free Disney Planning Checklist

Thanks for tuning into Episode 6! We hope this guide to the Deluxe Resorts at Disney World helps you plan your ultimate luxurious Disney getaway. Join us next time for more Disney fun and insights!

Links:

• Visit Our Website for More Tips
• Download Our Free Genie+ Cheat Sheet
• Download Our Disney Planning Checklist
• Disney Planning Pod YouTube Channel
• Disney Planning Pod Facebook Page
• Visit GleasonFamilyTravels.com for More Family Travel Tips and Tricks

Episode 5: Best Disney World Theme Park

Welcome to Episode 5 of our Disney Planning Podcast! In this episode, we're tackling a big question: Which is the best Walt Disney World theme park? We've got a packed episode for you today, including the latest Disney news, some housekeeping notes, a deep dive into Advance Dining Reservations, and a fun debate in our Sibling Showdown segment. Plus, we'll end with a playful discussion on which Disney character would make the best stylist.

What We Cover in This Episode:

1. Disney News (3:14)
   • Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates announced
   • Opening details for Tiana's Bayou Adventure
   • Refurbishment updates for All Star Movies Resort
2. Housekeeping (8:22)
   • Corrections on the dates mentioned in our previous episode about the Food and Wine Festival
3. Disney Decoded: Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs) (9:40)
   • What are ADRs and why they're crucial for your Disney trip
   • Step-by-step guide on how to make ADRs
   • Discussing the most popular ADRs you don’t want to miss
4. The Main Event: Breaking Down Each Disney World Park (15:35)
   • Magic Kingdom Park: Pros and Cons(16:35)
   • Epcot: Pros and Cons(27:36)
   • Hollywood Studios: Pros and Cons(36:26)
   • Animal Kingdom: Pros and Cons(40:35)
   • Ranking our favorite Disney theme parks(45:23)
5. Sibling Showdown: Are ADRs Fair? (48:43)
   • A lively debate on whether the ADR system is fair to all guests
6. Character Corner: Which Disney Character Would Be the Best Stylist? (50:43)
   • Imagining Disney characters as stylists and who would have the best and worst fashion sense

Closing Thoughts: Check out the links below for more resources, including our YouTube channel for visual guides and tips, our website with more planning tips, and, of course, your essential free Disney planning checklist. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Disney pro, our resources are designed to enhance your experience!

Links:

• Visit Our YouTube Channel
• Revisit Episode 2 Here
• Download Our Free Disney Planning Checklist

Links:

• Visit Our Website for More Tips
• Download Our Free Genie+ Cheat Sheet
• Download Our Disney Planning Checklist
• Disney Planning Pod YouTube Channel
• Disney Planning Pod Facebook Page
• Visit GleasonFamilyTravels.com for More Family Travel Tips and Tricks

Welcome to this episode of Disney Planning Pod! Today, we're discussing budgeting for your Disney trip and breaking down everything you need to know about Park Hopper tickets. Whether you're planning a budget-friendly trip or looking to splurge, we've got you covered.

[1:45] - Disney Decoded: Park Hopper Tickets

• What is a Park Hopper ticket?
• Who should consider getting one?
• Pros and cons of Park Hopper tickets.

[08:10] - Budgeting for Disney-Average Walt Disney World Cost

• [08:51] Moderate/Base Trips
  • What to expect in terms of cost.
  • Recommended on-site accommodations and dining options.
  • average ticket costs
  • How many days for your Disney vacation
  • What theme park do you need to budget for Lightning Lane
• [11:00] Budget Trips
  • Tips for saving money on tickets, food, and staying on property 
  • Best budget-friendly Disney resorts
• [15:00] Elevated Trips
  • Luxury accommodations and dining.
  • Exclusive experiences worth splurging on.

[34:46] - Cost-Saving Tips

• How to find the best deals for Disney World vacation
• Tips for cutting costs without sacrificing fun. on a Disney World budget

[39:53] - Sibling Showdown: Is Disney Worth It?

• Discussing if a Disney trip is worth the cost.
• Different perspectives and experiences.

[41:40] - Character Corner: Best and Worst Babysitters

• Debating which Disney character would be the best and worst babysitter.
• Fun and lighthearted discussion.

 Resources

• Info from today's episode and Price breakdown on Mousehacking.com
• Buy discounted tickets on Undercovertourist.com
• Rent Disney Vacation Rental points 
• Budget Dining Resources 

Free Disney Planning Checklist

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your Disney planning tips with us. See you next time!

Links:

• Visit Our Website for More Tips
• Download Our Free Genie+ Cheat Sheet
• Download Our Disney Planning Checklist
• Disney Planning Pod YouTube Channel
• Disney Planning Pod Facebook Page
• Visit GleasonFamilyTravels.com for More Family Travel Tips and Tricks

About The Podcast

Hosted by Haley, a Disney expert who thrives on planning Disney World vacations, and Stephanie, a mom who is new to the Disney World planning scene. 

Together, they’re the perfect duo to guide you through the happiest place on Earth.

This podcast is great for both Disney World beginners and Disney World veterans.

Subscribe now and start planning your dream Disney vacation today!

Check Out Our Website for more planning tools, including a free Disney World Planning Checklist.

Links:

• Visit Our Website for More Tips
• Download Our Free Genie+ Cheat Sheet
• Download Our Disney Planning Checklist
• Disney Planning Pod YouTube Channel
• Disney Planning Pod Facebook Page
• Visit GleasonFamilyTravels.com for More Family Travel Tips and Tricks

Welcome to Episode 3 of our Disney Planning Podcast! Today, we're diving deep into Disney genie service, Disney's skip-the-line service that helps you maximize your time at the parks. From understanding what a Lightning Lane is to exploring the details of Genie+, we've got you covered. Plus, we'll discuss the future of Genie+ and have some fun linking Taylor Swift's new album tracks to Disney characters!

What We Cover in This Episode:

1. Understanding Lightning Lanes (3:43)
   • Explaining what Lightning Lanes are, lightning lane access, and how they replace the old FastPass system
2. Introduction to Genie+ (5:36)
   • Discussing the costs involved and how to purchase Disney Genie Plus
   • Detailed guide on how to use and book Genie+ with step by step guide
   • Explaining the two-hour rule
   • The difference between standard Genie+ selections and Individual Lightning Lanes
3. Using Our Free Genie+ Cheat Sheet (19:48)
   • How to get and use our cheat sheet to make the most out of Genie+
   • Making lightning lane reservations in the My Disney Experience app
4. Modifying a Genie+ Selection (25:20)
   • Tips on how to change your plans on the go with Genie+
5. Individual Lightening Lanes:  (32:10)
   • What Are They?
   • How do you book them?
   • How much do they cost?
6. Taylor Swift’s New Album: Disney Character Edition (41:19)
   • A fun segment imagining which Disney characters each track from Taylor Swift's new album could be about

Closing Thoughts: Be sure to use all the resources linked below to make your Walt Disney World trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Whether you're a first-timer using Genie+ or looking to optimize your next visit, we're here to help!  Also, don't forget to check out episode 1, where we break down a whole Disney Planning checklist to help you plan your vacation. 

Episode Transcript

Links:

• Visit Our Website for More Tips
• Download Our Free Genie+ Cheat Sheet
• Download Our Disney Planning Checklist
• Disney Planning Pod YouTube Channel
• Disney Planning Pod Facebook Page
• Visit GleasonFamilyTravels.com for More Family Travel Tips and Tricks

Welcome back to Episode 2 of our Disney Planning Podcast! Today, we'll help you decide the best time of year to plan your Walt Disney World trip. We’ll consider everything from crowds and pricing to weather and special events. Plus, we'll explore whether Disney is more enjoyable for kids or adults and have some fun imagining Disney characters as podcast hosts!

What We Cover in This Episode:

1. What is Genie +? (1:35)
2. Best Times to Visit Disney World (6:03)
   • Analyzing Disney World crowd patterns throughout the year. When are moderate and heavy crowds?
   • Discussing the impact of pricing on theme park tickets and Disney World resorts in different seasons
   • Weather conditions to expect in Orlando.
   • Special events to consider
     • Disney World Marathon
     • Festival of the arts
     • Epcot International Food and Wine Festival
     • International Flower and Garden Festival
     • Mickey's Not so scary Halloween party
     • Mickey's Merry Christmas party
3. Is Disney More Enjoyable for Kids or Adults: Sibling Showdown(24:29)
4. Disney Characters as Podcast Hosts (27:40)
   • Fun segment imagining which Disney characters would make the best and worst podcast hosts

Closing Thoughts: Remember to check out the links below to further aid your planning process, including our crowd calendar and seasonal packing lists. Also, Check out episode 1, which breaks down the whole planning process and timeline. 

Links:

• Download Our Free Disney Planning Checklist
• View Our favorite Disney World Crowd Calendar
• Visit TouringPlans.com for more detailed planning
• Check Out Our Packing Lists for Spring, Summer, and Winter

Transcript for the show: 

Links:

• Visit Our Website for More Tips
• Download Our Free Genie+ Cheat Sheet
• Download Our Disney Planning Checklist
• Disney Planning Pod YouTube Channel
• Disney Planning Pod Facebook Page
• Visit GleasonFamilyTravels.com for More Family Travel Tips and Tricks

Episode 1: Your Ultimate Disney World Planning Timeline

Welcome to the first episode of our Disney Planning Podcast! If you dream of a magical Disney World vacation, you're in the right place. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned park-goer, this episode will walk you through the essential steps and timelines to plan your perfect trip.

What We Cover in This Episode:

1. What is Walt Disney World Resort (4:21)
   • What are the 4 major theme parks
   • How many hotels and restaurants are on site
   • Other extras outside the park, including water parks and golf courses
2. Planning Guide/  Planning Checklist (12:20)
   • When to book your Disney hotel
   • Tips on finding the best ticket deals and packages
   • Understanding different Disney World ticket types and which one suits your needs
   • Details on Disney World dining reservations
   • When to buy Disney World tickets
   • Park Pass reservations:  Do you need them?
   • My Disney Experience account
   • Genie+ lightning lanes 
3. Can your kids be too young to go to Disney World? Sibling Showdown (44:45)
   • Explaining what Genie+ is and how it can enhance your Disney experience
   • Tips on leveraging Genie+ for minimal wait times and maximum fun
4. Character Corner:  Which Disney Character would be the best to go to Disney World with? (47:05)
   • How far in advance you should book dining
   • Highlighting can't-miss dining experiences and character meals

Closing Thoughts: Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll dive deeper into when the best time of year to visit Disney World is, as well as more advice. Don't forget to visit our website to download your free Disney planning checklist, which pairs perfectly with today's episode to help you start planning your magical vacation.

Thank you for tuning in.

Links:

• Download Our Free Disney Planning Checklist
• Crowd Calendars
• Our Favorite Stroller Rental: Kingdom Strollers
• Mears Airport Shuttle Service
• Mouse Dining:  Dining Reservations

That’s it for Episode 1! We hope this guide helps you feel more prepared as you count down the days of your Disney adventure. Remember, the planning is in the details. See you next time!

Show Transcript

Links:

• Visit Our Website for More Tips
• Download Our Free Genie+ Cheat Sheet
• Download Our Disney Planning Checklist
• Disney Planning Pod YouTube Channel
• Disney Planning Pod Facebook Page
• Visit GleasonFamilyTravels.com for More Family Travel Tips and Tricks