Author: Kathryn

Categories
In the Parks

Beating the Heat

One of the quintessential parts of the summer months are family vacations and we know many of our readers will be spending their vacations at one of the Disney parks so here are a few tips for surviving the scorching temperatures.

Hydrate!  This may seem like common sense to many but it can never hurt to be reminded, right?  Our bodies require water to function properly so if you are enjoying the Disney magic in the heat of the summer be sure to hydrate consistently throughout the day.  While water is an excellent choice it doesn’t have to be the only one.  Here are a couple of other ideas:

  • Fresh veggies and fruits are good snacks this time of year, and not just for dieters. Fresh produce has a very high water content, so it’s a great way to hydrate without having to drink a ton of water. For example, an apple is up to 85% of water by volume.
  • Pickles (and pickle juice) are higher in electrolytes than beverages like Gatorade or Powerade, and have been shown to reduce cramping cause by exertion in high temperatures. The acetic acid in pickles and pickle juice are considered superior to the citric acid found in commercial sports drinks, at least when it comes to rehydration properties.

*Be sure to avoid caffeinated beverages as they can have diuretic effect which can actually speed up dehydration.

*You can get a glass of water free of charge at any quick service restaurant.  If you don’t like the taste of tap water consider bringing along some individual powdered drink mixes to improve the flavor.

Plan ahead.  Temperatures tend to peak in the middle of the day so keep this in mind when mapping out your plans for the day.  Consider taking a break from the parks during that time to return to your resort to swim or relax in your (air conditioned) room.  If you are completely opposed to leaving the parks then plan to use the hottest hours of the day to visit indoor rides/shows.  Here is a quick list of the attractions in each park that can offer some relief from the heat:

Magic Kingdom

  • Carousel of Progress
  • Mickey’s Philharmagic
  • Tommorlowland Transit Authority (People Mover)
  • Hall of Presidents
  • Pirates of the Caribbean
  • Haunted Mansion

Epcot

  • O Canada Movie
  • Three Caballeros Ride (Mexico pavilion)
  • Reflections of China Movie
  • Impressions De France Movie
  • The Seas with Nemo & Friends
  • Living with the Land
  • Spaceship Earth
  • Ellen’s Energy Adventure

Hollywood Studios

  • Great Movie Ride
  • Voyage of the Little Mermaid
  • One Man’s Dream
  • Art of Disney Animation
  • Post Show after the Backlot Tour

Animal Kingdom

  • Conservation Station
  • Finding Nemo: The Musical
  • Festival of the Lion King

Dress Accordingly.  Remember that light colors and loose fitting clothing will offer the most comfort in extreme temperatures.  Also, be sure to choose proper footwear.  While sandals or flip flops will be cool they may or may not have the support needed to keep your feet comfortable for the entire duration of the day.

Protect your skin.  Don’t leave home without sunscreen and remember to re-apply throughout the day.

Think duel purpose: If you are planning to bring your own bottled water into the parks consider freezing them the night before.  In the morning wrap each bottle in a wash cloth, secure it with a rubber band, and put them in a gallon size Ziploc bag.  As the ice thaws it will help to keep the water cold and the condensation will be absorbed by the washcloth giving you a nice refreshing cloth to put on your neck, wipe your face, etc.  If it dries the washcloth can also be dampened again in the bathroom so you can continue to use it throughout the day.

Most importantly don’t push yourself too hard, listen to your body, and if you start to feel weak find some shade or air conditioning, sip water and have a small snack.  If your condition does not improve within a few minutes head to the first aid center for medical attention.  It is always better to be safe than sorry!

Categories
Travel Tips

Stroller Rental-Which is right for you?

Most Disney guests know that strollers can be rented in the parks but many don’t realize that strollers can also be rented from a number of outside vendors.  This blog post will offer information on both options to help you decide which is right for you.

Disney strollers (Walt Disney World):

  • One day and “length of stay” rentals available which allow you to customize your rental to best suit your needs. 
  • Stroller locations can be found at the front of each park.  Each park also offers additional locations to obtain a replacement stroller (with your receipt) should you accidentally misplace your stroller.
  • Both single and double strollers available for rent.
  • Strollers offer very minimal space for storage/carrying additional items.
  • Since strollers must be returned before leaving the park you do not have to give up space in your resort or hotel to store a stroller.
  • Strollers are constructed of a sturdy plastic which makes them easy to clean and makes it possible to accommodate larger children.  However, this style means the seats are fixed and cannot be reclined but strollers are long enough that smaller children can usually have ample room to lay down comfortably
  • Strollers offer large sun shades which can be a huge benefit in the Florida sun.
  • Strollers feature a three wheel design which makes them easy to handle and maneuver through the park.
  • Strollers are rented on a “first come, first serve” basis so at exceptionally busy times of the year availability may be a problem.

Disney strollers (Disneyland):

  • Offers only daily rental rates but does have a discount if you are renting more than one.
  • Stroller rental location can be found adjacent to the kennel outside the Disneyland Park main entrance and strollers can be taken used in both Disneyland and California Adventure.
  • Only single strollers available for rent.
  • Strollers offer small basket for storage/carrying additional items.
  • Since strollers must be returned before leaving the park you do not have to give up space in your resort or hotel to store a stroller.
  • Strollers offer retractable sun shades to help keep children comfortable.
  • Strollers feature a three wheel design which makes them easy to handle and maneuver through the park.
  • Strollers are rented on a “first come, first serve” basis so at exceptionally busy times of the year availability may be a problem.

 

Stroller Rental from Outside Vendors:

  • Strollers are delivered to and picked up from your resort at no additional cost.
  • Both single and double strollers are available for rent.
  • Costs vary depending on the number of nights of your stay but in most cases the price is either the same or less than renting in the parks.
  • Since you will have the stroller at your resort you have the benefit of being able to use it from your room to whatever mode of transportation you are taking to the parks.  As well, when you leave the parks you have the convenience of leaving children in the stroller until it is time to board transportation back to your resort.
  • On the reverse side, storing the stroller will take up some space in your room but in the folded position the floor space required is fairly minimal.
  • Strollers must be folded on Disney transportation and the models offered by outside vendors feature an easy one step fold.
  • Strollers feature large retractable sun shades, baskets for storage and some vendors offer the ability to add additional accessories such as rain covers, parent trays for holding drinks etc, or glider boards to attach for older siblings to stand on if they need a little reprieve from walking.
  • Strollers feature a three wheel design which makes them easy to handle and maneuver through the park.
  • Strollers can be reclined for naps or additional comfort for younger children.
  • Since you make reservations for your stroller ahead of time there are no concerns about availability.

 

Strollers can prove to be an invaluable tool during a Disney vacation and I hope this information will help you determine what will work best for you.  I also recommend giving consideration to using a stroller for slightly older children who may not use one at home but who are still young enough that they could tire easily from the extensive walking.  Some other benefits of using a stroller are eliminating the concern of getting separated from a child in a crowd, being able to move between attractions quicker, giving kids have a comfortable place to sit when waiting for or viewing parades, and having a place to nap if you prefer not to leave the parks for naptime.

 

Links to stroller rental vendors (Walt Disney World)

 

Links to stroller rental vendors (Disneyland)*

*All of these vendors also rent a wide variety of other baby equipment.

 

 

Categories
In the Parks Travel Tips

The Waiting Game

Let’s be honest there are very few downsides to a Disney vacation but if there is one it is probably the amount of waiting that can be required.  When you stop and think about it, waiting can factor in to just about every part of your day.   This means being prepared with ways to help pass the time can be crucial to avoiding the whining, complaining, and potential grumpiness (and I am not just talking about your kids!) that boredom or impatience can evoke.  So here are a few ideas of how to help pass the time while keeping everyone engaged and having fun!

No supplies needed:

  • Alphabet Game: Go through the alphabet and see how many Disney characters you can name that start with each letter.  If you want to have a “cheat sheet” simply Google alphabetic list of Disney characters and you will find all the information you could ever want (and then some)!  This activity is fun for all ages and don’t be surprised if other guests around you join in on the fun.  This same idea can be done with just about any subject you can think of: bands or music groups, foods, places, famous people, animals, etc.
  • Remembering the Movies: If you are in line for a ride that is based on a movie start a discussion about the details of the movie.  Things like, favorite part or scene, favorite character(s), funniest lines, best songs, anything you might remember about the first time you saw the movie, and funny memories associated with the movie, etc.
  • I Spy: As we all know Disney is all about the details which makes it a great environment for a game of “I spy”.  You can play with the usual rules of spying items of a particular color or if it is age appropriate you can vary it to spy items starting with a particular letter.
  • 20 Questions: Select Disney themed subjects to focus on (characters, rides, movies), give a hint as a starting point and then let the questions fly!  There is also an electronic version of this game available in a generic version as well as a Disney specific version that I will discuss below.
  • Hidden Mickeys: Of course I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the ever popular game of spotting hidden Mickeys.  You can go at this activity all on your own or if you prefer a little guidance you can always pick up one of the numerous books published on the subject.

Some supplies needed:

  • Pipe cleaners: These work best for times when you are sitting and waiting—at a table service meal, waiting for a show or parade, etc. They are inexpensive (typically less than $3 for a pack of 100), lightweight, not messy, and don’t take up a lot of space which in my book makes for an ideal form of entertainment!  You will be amazed at what a child’s imagination can come up with when you hand them a stack of pipe cleaners to play with.  In addition to creating things they can also be used for counting, sorting, or doing color patterns.  My kids have also been known to link a bunch together in a chain and use them to decorate the stroller.  The possibilities are almost endless!
  • Deck of cards: Cards don’t take up much space and don’t weigh much so they are easy to throw in your bag and can be invaluable if you have to stake out a parade spot an hour or more in advance and need something to help pass the time.
  • Namits:  This activity is brilliantly simply, durable, and even comes with a hook so it can easily attach to your bag making it readily available when you find yourself waiting.  The concept is pretty basic, the cards provide prompts to get you thinking which can also turn into conversation starters.  Things like “name three things that fly” or “name something that is sticky.”  You could also come up with your own but sometimes all the fun of a vacation combined withthe Florida/California heat can sap our  creative powers so this can be a great tool to have on hand.  There are multiple versions available and they can be ordered from Amazon.
  • 20Q or Disney 20Q: These are electronic versions of the game 20 questions discussed above.  Again they are small and lightweight (are you seeing a pattern here?) and can be great for getting everyone engaged.  I have seen them on Amazon and at Target and I am sure you could also find them at Toys R US and other box stores as well.

What are your favorite ways to pass the time?  Feel free to share your ideas in the comments section below!

Categories
Travel Tips

Traveling with Kids

There are few things as exciting as seeing the magic of Disney through the eyes of children but by the same token traveling with kids can be a daunting task and that brings me to today’s post.  I hope you will find the following tips helpful in not only making the actual travel to your destination less stressful but also allow you to relax and enjoy your vacation more once you arrive.

Today I will focus on the three “p’s”—planning, preparation, and precaution (don’t let that last one scare you I will explain more shortly).

Planning: The more you can plan ahead of time, the less you have to think about (or let’s face it, worry about) while on vacation.  This extends beyond ADR’s for dining and what park we will visit each day.  This can include deciding on each day’s wardrobe (stay tuned for some great blog entries on this topic in the near future) before you leave home and packing accordingly.  This makes things run smoothly in the mornings when you are trying to get everyone up and out to the parks while also eliminating the “Mom, does this shirt go with this?” or “Mom what color socks do I need to wear”, “Mom I can’t find my brown shorts”, etc. while you too are trying to get ready for the day.  For my kids, I pack each day’s outfit (including undies, socks, and any applicable accessories—bows, barrettes, hats) in a gallons size Ziploc bag labeled with their name and the day I want them to wear it.  Then each morning the only thing I have to do is hand each child a bag and they have everything they need to dress for the day.  This same idea works well for the daily supplies needed when traveling with an infant.  Prepare a Ziploc back with the food, formula, disposable bibs, utensils, diapers and so on needed for each day so all you have to do is grab and go each morning.

Preparation and Precaution: These do go hand in hand in my mind because one of the keys to avoiding unnecessary vacation stress when traveling with kids is being prepared for what you know will happen (based on your everyday experiences) while also anticipating and being prepared for what might happen.  From our everyday lives we know that kids get restless when confined to the same place for an extended period of time which means traveling to the happiest place on earth can be a recipe for disaster if you are not properly prepared.  I am always on the lookout for new (and cheap) things to entertain my kids when traveling.  (I will get into more specifics in a future blog post.)  I have had great luck with the dollar bin at Target as well as the local dollar store but the one thing I have learned is that you can’t go looking for anything in particular because the selection is always changing.  For that reason, I look every time I am in one of those places even if I don’t have a trip coming up—this way I am always adding to my stash of goodies.  I have a reusable (Disney of course) shopping bag that I use to store everything and it stays hidden in a guest closet.  Keeping these items a secret is another key to maximizing their entertainment value.  As we all know, the most play time the great majority of toys get is when they are brand new so waiting until you are on your way to reveal them gives you a great advantage.  And don’t bring out everything you have at once either. Instead offer one new item at a time and perhaps reserving some for use when waiting for a show or a parade (or any other time when arriving early to stake out seats is necessary).

In terms or precaution, I always go by the motto my Mom instilled in me—“better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it.”  Don’t get me wrong, I am not suggesting you load yourself down like a pack mule “just in case” but there are a few key things that have not been needed on every trip came in very handy on the times when they were.  First is a mini first aid kit and some basic medications.  I found a great first aid kit in the travel size section at Wal-Mart for less than $3 and it has become a permanent fixture in my park bag.  You never know when you might need a band-aid and while you can get one from Disney first aid, having some with you allows to quickly take care of the “boo-boo” and get back to having fun!  The same goes for a few key medications I carry:

  • Tylenol or Ibuprofen for both adults and chewables for kids
  • Chewable Pepto for both adults and kids: Let’s face it there is no shortage of yummy food at Disney and you never know when enjoying all of the delicious options might result in an upset tummy.  This way you can address the situation right away and hopefully get relief quickly.
  • Allergy medication: Here I am referring to generic seasonal allergy medicine.  There is nothing that can ruin a vacation faster than getting somewhere and having whatever is in bloom wreak havoc on your sinuses—leaving you miserable and unable to breathe.  Again, I know you can purchase medication on property (at a premium of course) but I prefer saving the extra money and having it readily available should anyone need it.

 

So I leave you with one final thought, the more planning and preparation you can do beforehand, the less you have think about while on vacation making it easier to focus your energies on making memories with your family!