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We celebrate the Wine and Dine Half-Marathon with real talk on costumes, pace, and pre-dawn buses, then pivot to Disney’s holiday season to weigh Very Merry Christmas Party against Jollywood Nights. Costs, crowds, transport, and value drive the choices we make and the plans we recommend.

• Wine and Dine Half overview, course vibe, costumes
• How pace groups and balloon ladies really work
• Registration timing, sellouts, and charity bib options
• Resort picks and race-day transportation realities
• Price pressure at Disney and why overseas parks tempt
• Magic Kingdom’s fast flip to Christmas decor
• Very Merry features, exclusive snacks, and kid stamina
• Jollywood Nights for adults, short waits, cocktails, live shows

We’ll do a post on Instagram and ask everyone to give us their best Jollywood Nights. If you think we should go, maybe we do a poll: Should we go to Jollywood?

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Ever wondered how to group travel to Disney and still have fun? We break down the real-world playbook from a weekend with a large group- 9 adults twelve kids, and zero meltdowns we couldn’t fix with snacks, shade, and smart timing.

We start with park news—our take on Soarin’ Across America and what we hope Disney highlights for the 250th anniversary—then jump into Banana Ball’s 2026 stop at ESPN Wide World of Sports and how to tackle the ticket lottery. The core of the episode is our group strategy: morning anchors at Magic Kingdom (PeopleMover, Carousel of Progress, and a Tron Lightning Lane), a smart lunch staging spot near Cheshire Café and Cosmic Ray’s, and a split model that lets big kids chase thrills while littles stack short wins. 

Logistics can make or break a trip, so we get specific about transportation and timing. If you’re exiting Epcot’s back gate, be ready for Skyliner crunch and plan alternatives—front bus loop, your own car, or rideshare. We also share why party nights can mean lighter Magic Kingdom mornings, how to pick meetups that actually work, and the stroller truth no one wants to hear: bring one, even for bigger kids, to carry water, snacks, and tired legs. 

If you’re the planner in your circle or joining friends who know Disney well, you’ll leave with a clear template for expectations, safety, meals, and rides that keeps the magic high and the stress low. Love what you heard? Subscribe, share with your Disney crew, and leave a review telling us your best group-trip tip.

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We're so back. Thanks for listening to our first episode back with a new name, Parkside Breaks. For our first episode we introduce our guest, Emily Dostie from Glass Slipper Concierge. We follow along with her as she reviews her trip to Disneyland. We break down why the West Coast parks feel calmer, kinder, and more walkable—and how that shift turns a packed itinerary into a truly luxurious experience. Think: direct hotel-to-park access at the Grand Californian, characters actually roaming, lighter Lightning Lane pressure, and mornings that don’t start in a sprint.

We compare the energy of Disney California Adventure to Hollywood Studios, gush over the length and thrill of the Incredicoaster, and get honest about Guardians of the Galaxy vs Tower of Terror. Cars Land glows like a memory you get to step into, and seasonal overlays—like Haunted Mansion’s Nightmare Before Christmas—show how Disneyland layers charm without adding chaos. Oogie Boogie Bash wins points for balance: sold-out party, but breezy lines, organic character moments, and candy trails that keep things moving.

Pulling back, we map smarter ways to travel across the Disney universe. VIP Tours that prioritize presence, Disney Cruise Line’s expanding ports for easier access beyond Florida, and curated Adventures by Disney that erase planning friction across Europe, Africa, and the American West. For the explorers at heart, National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions offer small-ship journeys to the Galápagos, Antarctica, and Iceland, guided by conservation and storytelling. Our takeaway is simple: luxury at Disney isn’t just a price point—it’s less stress and more time together.

If you loved this, tap follow, share it with a Disney friend, and leave a quick review. Tell us: what’s your one guaranteed ride and one guaranteed treat on your perfect Disney day?

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Ready to turn your Disney family vacation into the ultimate magical experience? We've got you covered! Join us as we return from a six-month hiatus, bursting with tales of our unforgettable trip to Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. You’ll learn how we strategically balanced deluxe resort amenities with our annual passes to maximize our Disney adventures, ensuring every moment was filled with magic and fun.

Curious about the subtle differences between the Yacht Club and Beach Club? We spill all the details on what makes each resort unique—from amenities and room locations to the logistics of managing the exclusive Stormalong Bay pool. Whether you're planning to stay at one of these deluxe resorts or just dreaming of your next Disney trip, our conversation is packed with valuable insights to help you make the most of your stay.

But that's not all! We also chat about the perfect summer activities, including a memorable evening at Epcot, tips for avoiding the midday heat, and the thrill of riding Tron at night. Our spontaneous adventures and practical tips offer a blueprint for a magical Disney family vacation.  So grab your Mickey ears and get ready for a lively, laughter-filled journey through the happiest place on Earth!

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Prepare to have your Disney movie rankings challenged as we welcome three spirited middle schoolers—Weslyn, Sam, and Josh—to the Tiki Room podcast. Their debate over the top five Disney movies heats up with no holds barred, and you won't believe some of the films that make their cut. From the unexpected championing of Frozen and Cars to a surprisingly heated discussion on Pocahontas, these kids are rewriting the Disney playbook, one animated film at a time. Sequels aren't left behind either, with Toy Story 2 possibly climbing higher than its predecessor in the esteem of these discerning young critics.

The episode then careers down the thrilling slopes of theme park comparisons as we pit Universal Studios against Disney World in a clash of titans. Listen as we lay out the pros and cons, from Universal's electrifying rides like Hagrid's and the Velocicoaster to the enchanting and immersive world of Disney. Discover which park might suit your adventure style as we relay our own experiences, the laughter our memories invoke, and why the magic of Disney might just have a slight edge, whether you're munching on Mickey waffles or screaming your lungs out on a coaster. This playful yet poignant discussion serves up a hearty portion of theme park wisdom, with a side of personal nostalgia.

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Every time I set foot into Disney World, it's like stepping into a myriad of childhood dreams all at once—each park brimming with its own brand of magic. This week's Tiki Room is no less enchanting as we're joined by three of the most endearing Disney enthusiasts you'll ever meet: Lora Ann, Sidney, and Molly. They take us through their most treasured park adventures, with Lora Ann championing the wild thrills of Animal Kingdom, while Sidney and Molly gush about Epcot's cultural marvels and futuristic rides. From the adrenaline-pumping heights of Everest to the immersive escapade in Avatar, we're covering all the bases, including a nostalgic nod to Soarin' Over California and why even the most fearless can't resist the allure of Hollywood Studios' Tower of Terror, Elizabeth's favorite.

As if a day at Disney wasn't sweet enough, our conversation whisks you away to a world where the hardest choice you'll make is between a salty pretzel and the iconic Dole Whip. Our young guests' enthusiasm is as infectious as their laughter,  and we couldn't love them more. So, buckle up (or should I say, secure your mouse ears?), as these captivating tales promise a podcast episode that's nothing short of a fairy-tale ride.

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Prepare to set sail on a sea of laughter and heartwarming stories, as we're joined by the most charming crew of little buccaneers! Teddy, Chambers, and Tater Tot (Reed) drop anchor in the Tiki Room to share their swashbuckling tales from the decks of Disney cruises. These young adventurers open up about their favorite moments, from the thrill of an emergency drill to birthday celebrations at sea. You won't want to miss the humorous recollections and adorable insights that only the candid honesty of kids can provide.

This episode is a treasure chest of childlike wonder, perfect for parents plotting their own Disney cruise or anyone who cherishes the magic of Disney through the eyes of its most important fans – the children. With personal anecdotes about room setups for larger families and the most beloved onboard activities, our tiny guests give us the scoop on what really makes a Disney cruise an unforgettable voyage. So, hoist the mainsail and join us for a journey filled with giggles, surprises, and the pure joy of childhood on the high seas. Ahoy, mateys—let the adventure begin!

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Have you ever wondered if a three-day whirlwind on a Disney cruise can truly capture the magic of the ocean and Disney combined? Join us, as we recount the enchanting and sometimes chaotic escapades we experienced while sailing the high seas with Disney. We'll take you through the mad rush of day one, trying to cram our belongings into those adorable yet challenging state rooms and tackling the ever-important dining schedules. Plus, we'll share the inside scoop on balancing family time and the unexpected joys and independence our young adventurers found on board.

Imagine indulging in the culinary masterpieces of a Michelin chef at Enchanté and then switching gears to a fairytale in Arendelle. We compare notes on the whole dining scene from the themed extravaganzas with Worlds of Marvel to strategic planning for the much-anticipated Pirate Night. We also dish out on the exclusivity of the Concierge service, giving you our candid thoughts on whether the splurge elevates the cruise experience. Our reflections on every delicious detail will leave you either hungry for your next gourmet meal or reaching for your sea legs.

Lastly, we'll steer you through the decision-making process of choosing the ideal family cruise. While sharing anecdotes from our own Disney and Alaskan journeys, we weigh the worth of a Disney cruise for your little ones against the breathtaking natural beauty offered by other cruise lines like Celebrity. We consider everything from onboard kids' clubs, shore excursions, to that perfect balance sought by every family at sea. Whether you're planning your first voyage or you're a seasoned cruiser, let our stories guide you toward crafting your ultimate high seas adventure.

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Are you ready to uncover the secrets of the Disney Wish? We guarantee you a magical journey as we unravel everything you need to know from booking details to the enchanting on-board experiences. Join us as we venture through the deck levels, reveal the tricks to booking the perfect stateroom, and share our strategies for securing the best activities. Not to mention, our plans of indulging in delectable dining delights at Enchante and Palo Steakhouse. So, buckle up and get ready to set sail on an unforgettable Disney cruise journey!

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On this week's episode, we share a unique personal experience and great stories from our recent staycation at Disney's Beach Club. Dive into our chat about amenities, age considerations, and the importance of magic bands at Disney's Beach Club.

We review a standard hotel room as well as a DVC 1-bedroom villa at Disney's Beach Club. We even give you a pro tip for viewing Epcot's night time show outside of the parks. If you're planning a trip to Disney World, don't miss our insights on the pool area, Beaches and Cream and other resort amenities. Join us, as we unwrap the treasures Disney's Beach Club Resort.

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Thank you for listening to this week's episode! Please follow us on instagram @parksidebreaks and leave us a rating and review.