With our trip to The World coming in just over a month, I’ve been thinking of the relaxation must do’s; the things that make my family and I breathe a deep calm breath. We all know that going on vacation should be a relaxing experience. Sometimes though, The World can be an overwhelming place. The hustle and bustle of the parks, the heat, the crowds and traveling around with all your gear. Over the years, our family has found a few favourite ways to unwind when visiting our happy place. Some are for all 3 of us, others for just the adults in the party.
First and foremost, A nice dinner is always number one on our list, and the first thing we plan out (even before ADRs can be made). Since our first trip to the top of the Contemporary, my husband and I can’t imagine a trip to the world without a stop at California Grill. For us it’s a combination of food, wine, atmosphere, and above all the experience provided by the staff. Over the years we have invited various family members, including our daughter, to dine with us. That said, sometimes we book ourselves a date night. If you aren’t traveling with family or friends willing to watch the kid(s), there are 4 activity centers on property to take advantage of. Finding that dining experience may not be cheap; signature dining certainly isn’t, however we have found the cost to be well worth it. Taking a night out to indulge yourself is a great way to cap off a busy day.
Next, we always schedule some time by the pool. A day or night spent poolside is a wonderful way for our family to wind down. One of the many advantages to staying on property is the resort pool. As a family, we often like to take a half or full day away from the parks, and relax poolside. Every day brings a variety of activities for the family to enjoy hosted by Disney cast members. Scope out a couple of chairs, take a load off. The pool side bars often have unique drinks, snacks, and if you’re staying at a DVC resort there are often recreational toys you can sign out.
Like most families, movie night is one of our favourite ways to spend time together. Movies Under the Stars are a lovely way to watch your favourite Disney movies while lounging together. All resorts offer this experience nightly (weather permitting), and you can see which movies are planned in the package given during check in. We’ll always try to make sure we get there early to get a good spot to enjoy the show.
Sometimes my husband and I need a fun, yet quick get away. We have always had a blast visiting one of the many lounges found throughout The World. If you haven’t been to Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, we highly recommend it. It can get pricey and a bit crowded, however the experience of the place is well worth it. If you want something a little more subdued and intimate, we have also enjoyed some evenings spent at the California Grill Lounge. For DVC members (or anyone willing to kidnap/bribe a member), the Top of the World Lounge is spectacular. If you’re looking to visit either of those lounges around Wishes time, plan ahead and get there early, as prime viewing space (or seats) can fill up quickly.
Last, but not least, sometimes it’s the simple things that can give you the best peaceful moments. Just like the perfect cup of tea during a busy day, a favourite snack, drink, or attraction can bring you directly to your happy place. For me, a Dole Whip on a hot day, or the first sip of Gold Peak iced tea (hard for me to find in Toronto) is often bliss. For my husband it’s that first handful of popcorn from the parks. Our daughter takes after me, and simply can’t wait for that first spoonful of Dole Whip. The day we arrive at the world, we often find ourselves in the Magic Kingdom for a stroll. That time wouldn’t feel complete for us without a trip around the PeopleMover; it means we’re finally home again
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How about you? Leave me a comment, and let us know what is or transports you to your happy place.