Noelle

Looking for something off the beaten path at Disney World?   One of my  favorite things to do is take one of Disney’s behind the scenes tours, and the Wild Africa Trek is one amazing option.  I took the trek at 8 am one morning last September.  It was one of the best experiences I have had, by far, at Disney! The trek begins by everyone getting “outfitted” in their vests and harnesses; it is very easy and moves pretty quickly. You also receive your souvenir water bottle filled with cold water at this point. There are also various spots along the trail with cool water to refill your bottle. The space is quite limited for each trek, so the group stays small and fun!  Then, you move on to the “practice bridge” where you practice walking on a bridge suspended about 4 ft. off the ground.  They have some delicious Jungle Juice available at the practice bridge.  Keep in mind though that it will be about 2 hrs before you get to a bathroom, so drink at your own risk!  Once everyone has crossed the practice bridge, they go over some safety information and off you go! The group walks through some of the public areas and part [...]

I have a confession to make.  I am one of those people who plans their trip to Disney World around the food.  Yup, I am a foodie.  Unfortunately for me, very few of my friends and family are as adventurous as I am when it comes to food.  However, one of the things I LOVE about Disney is their ability to please everyone, from picky eaters to foodies! Jiko is one of my favorite restaurants.  Jiko is one of the Signature restaurants at Disney World, located in the Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House.  The first time I went,  I was accompanied by my cousin, who is not an adventurous eater.  We both found something to rave about at the restaurant! My cousin had the chicken and she asked for a different side item then what was on the menu.  She was VERY happy with her dish! I went a little more adventurous – and had some of the more exotic items on the menu! The appetizers range from the delectable Bobotie rolls (left)  The complex Taste of Africa Platter (center) to the sweet corn soup (right) In the few times I have been to Jiko, I have been very [...]

EPCOT was the first park I ever visited so  it has a special place in my heart.  One of my favorite things about EPCOT is the different shows in the World Showcase, from the Fife and Drum Corps to the Japanese Drummers to the Mariachi Band, they are so entertaining!           Every “country” in the world showcase has their own entertainers.  Some of them are even interactive, pulling people from the audience! My friend was pulled into this amazing comedy and balancing act just outside of the French pavillion. One of my favorites is Miyuki – the candy artist.  She makes the most amazing candy animals.  She asks the audience for requests and then makes the animal requested. All candy is donated to a local children's hospital.     Many of the shops and restaurants also have entertainment andshows.  For instance, the Japanese store has a counter where you can choose an oyster and get a pearl and they turn it into a very entertaining little show. The Restaurant Marakesh has a belly dancer.  EPCOT is a place full of entertainment at every turn!           Noelle has been a Disney Travel Specialist with [...]

Sometimes you just need a break from the rides.  After riding Expedition Everest 5 times (yes FIVE) in a row, my family needed a rest from the adrenaline rush!  One of the greatest ways to take a little break in Animal Kingdom is with “Finding Nemo, The Musical” This musical takes place in a darkened Air-conditioned theater, which is super important during much of the year in Florida!  Typically you wait about 15-20 minutes inside the theater, before the show starts, then the show is about 30 minutes long.  This Broadway-style, quality musical is great fun for all ages!     Finding Nemo, The Musical, captures the fun and delightful spirit of the movie.  The puppeteers are fantastically fun to watch, and no matter where you sit in the auditorium you have a great seat.  The puppeteers run through the aisles with some of the characters, so be prepared to see Bruce the shark up close, or perhaps Dorie and Marlin right in front of you! I really enjoyed “Finding Nemo, The Musical”.  The puppets and stage sets were stunningly beautiful, and the talent is truly Broadway caliber.  I have seen this show several times and enjoy it every time. [...]