Welcome to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse.” This week in Episode 430, we take a slight detour from our usual Disney-centric discussions for a special segment on Jon’s recent trip to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Then, we dive headfirst into the latest happenings in the world of Disney, from executive interviews to unexpected park incidents.
Jon takes us on a journey beyond the Disney parks to the charming town of Pigeon Forge in Tennessee. He shares his experiences with the local attractions, the unique vibe of the Smokies, and how they compare to our beloved Disney destinations. Jon specifically talks about the Sky Fly attraction and how it compares to Soarin and Flight of Passage.
Back in the realm of Disney, we dissect the recent interview with Disney CEO Bob Iger. Iger’s insights were not only revealing but also painted a vivid picture of where the company stands and the direction it’s headed before his tenure wraps up in 2026. We then discuss the current state of Disney movies and why this year has been a particularly tough year at the box office. From theatrical releases to streaming strategies, we ponder what could reinvigorate Disney’s cinematic magic.
Recently, Disneyland witnessed an unusual and concerning event: a guest streaking on the “It’s a Small World” attraction. We discuss this incident, reflecting on why such occurrences seem to be on the rise and what, if anything, can be done to prevent similar events in the future. And Finally, the iconic Hatbox Ghost has officially taken up residence in the Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World. We share our impressions of this spooky addition to a beloved attraction.
Episode 429: Welcome back to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse.” As the holiday season twinkles into full swing, we’ve got some festive surprises and insightful discussions lined up for you. First up, we’re thrilled to reveal our new holiday logo this week! It’s a merry blend of Disney magic and festive joy, perfect for getting into the spirit of the season. And here’s an extra treat: in celebration of Black Friday, we’re offering a special 30% off on all our merchandise, featuring the new logo. Mark your calendars and get ready to add some Disney holiday flair to your wardrobe! Link to our shop. Next, we dive into the first night of Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios. While we were brimming with excitement for this new ticketed event, it seems the opening night had its share of hiccups. From long lines to technical snags, we dissect what went down and what it means for the future of this holiday extravaganza. When then share our top 3 picks on a variety of Disney World topics. From the most thrilling rides and best-hidden dining spots to the top drinks at Epcot, our lists are packed with personal insights, tips, and maybe a few surprises. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Episode 428: In this episode we discuss some tips on Traveling to Walt Disney World during the cooler months of the year. We also talk about some of the latest news. We talk about the new incoming CFO and what that could mean going forward. We talk about the newest additions for the holiday season this year and we take a look at Disney’s new private island Lookout Cay at lighthouse point. Some of the soundtrack for Luminous has been released, we give our thoughts on that. As well as the smaller barges that seem to be a part of this new nighttime spectacular. Finally we talk about a story that recently came out about guests relieving themselves in lines for some popular attractions. Some cast members have confirmed that these stories are unfortunately true.
Episode 427, Welcome back to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse” – your go-to audio guidebook for all things Disney. This week, in Episode 427, we’ve got a blend of the latest Disney news and a playful twist that will have you seeing the parks from a whole new angle! First up, we dive into the Disney headlines. The Monorail had some tire issues this week. The holiday season is now in full swing and Disney’s legal battle with the state of Florida is heating up. We continue on to our main topic this week where we ask and answer some questions that don’t normally get asked about Walt Disney World. Things like, Which ride has the most uncomfortable seats or the ride with the worst on-ride photo. We want to hear your thoughts on these quirky Disney questions. Share your opinions and your hilarious ride photos with us on our social media channels – because if you can’t laugh at a picture of yourself staring blankly on Haunted Mansion, then where’s the fun in that?
Hello Disney enthusiasts and travel aficionados! Welcome to another magical episode of Traveling with the Mouse. This week, we’re thrilled to have Jason with us. We Dive into the Disney realm as we cover some spellbinding news that’s sure to pique your interest. Spirits and spirits collide! Disney is bringing a hauntingly delightful experience for fans with a new Haunted Mansion-themed bar on the soon to set sail Disney Treasure. We discuss the potential themes, drinks, and unique offerings we hope to see. With more enchanting details unveiled, Jollywood Nights is shaping up to be a must-attend event. From captivating entertainment to themed treats, we delve deep into what guests can expect from this festive event. Of course, we touch on much more in the episode, from hidden gems to exciting announcements. With Jason’s trip on the horizon, we also chat about his plans, what he’s looking forward to most, and if any of our discussed news items will make it onto his itinerary.
Episode 425: Welcome back, fellow Disney enthusiasts, to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse”! This week, as we navigate through the sea of recent Disney developments, we anchor down on a topic that many of you have asked about: doing Disney World on a budget. Yes, it’s possible, and no, you don’t have to miss out on the magic! Many believe a Disney vacation means a hefty price tag. But we’re here to tell you, with a little savvy planning and some insider tips, you can experience all the wonder of Walt Disney World without breaking the bank. We look at things like, Staying at Disney Value Resorts vs. off-site locations and the perks of considering vacation rentals. Disney is one of the few places where you can bring your own food into the parks and we also discuss our most economical dinning choices at Walt Disney World. We also discuss some other ways of saving money that are a little outside of the box but can really add up savings if things line up the right way.
Greetings, Disney enthusiasts! In Episode 424 of “Traveling with the Mouse,” we delve into a cocktail of Disney delights, from fresh park news to a trip report! Firstly, let’s raise our Mickey ear hats to the return of all-day park hopping! This beloved feature has been missed by many, and its return signals a step closer to the full Disney magic we know and love. But as with all tales, there’s a twist. Along with this joyful revelation, we’ve seen price hikes materializing faster than a puff of pixie dust. Parking, delectable food & beverage options, exclusive tours, and even the coveted annual passes have seen a spike in prices. Next, for those of you who’ve been eagerly awaiting the roster of hosts for the iconic Candlelight Processional at Epcot, wait no more! We’ll give you the full rundown, along with our personal picks and why they stand out in this festive lineup. Last but certainly not least, join us as we recount Adam’s recent expedition to Walt Disney World. From being amongst the fortunate few to experience the ‘Journey of Water’ during its soft open to sipping on delightful concoctions at La Cava, it’s an adventure packed with highs and lows. And speaking of highs and lows, the holiday weekend brought with it the challenges of navigating the labyrinth that is Genie+. Tune in to hear the ins, outs, and in-betweens of this new system during peak park times.
Episode 423: This week’s episode of “Traveling with the Mouse” is dedicated to the trip planners! Those ones who scour the internet with queries and curiosities about the most Magical Place on Earth.To start off our deep dive, we tackle one of the most frequent questions: Where to stay? From luxurious resorts with monorail views to budget-friendly options that still let you bask in the magic, we weigh in on our top picks and why. Genie Plus, how do you maximize it? Is it worth the cost? We break down strategies to make the most of this new offering, ensuring you can hit those top attractions without wasting a precious Disney minute.Disney World can sometimes feel like it’s emptying your wallet faster than you can say “Scrooge McDuck.” But with a sprinkle of know-how, you can experience the magic without breaking the bank. We delve into top tips for those on a tighter budget—from dining hacks to souvenir shopping secrets. We also cover the age-old debate of the Disney Dining Plan’s value. With its mix of quick-service meals, snacks, and table service options, is it truly worth the investment? We dish out our thoughts, along with some anecdotes on our own dining experiences. So, whether you’re a seasoned Disney vet looking to catch up on the latest or a first-timer keen to soak up all the tips, Episode 423 is your trusty guide!
Episode 422: Hello to our beloved Disney aficionados, In this week’s adventure on “Traveling with the Mouse”, we rev things up with a whirlwind of favorites and fun “this or that” questions. And, as we navigate through our fond memories, we also take a moment to bid farewell to the Galactic Star Cruiser. There’s something undeniably magical about recalling favorites. The memories, the emotions, the scents and sounds – each favorite transports us back to a treasured moment at Walt Disney World. In episode 422, we decided to race through our top picks across the resort. From that delectable snack that hits the spot every single time, to the ride we can’t help but revisit, this rapid-fire session is a love letter to the countless joys Disney offers.
Episode 421: In this week’s episode of “Traveling with the Mouse,” we’re diving deep into a rather ‘un-bear-lievable’ incident that had Magic Kingdom buzzing with more than just enchantment. Just when you thought Disney had showcased every character in its arsenal, along came an unexpected, furry, four-legged guest wandering into the Magic Kingdom. That’s right, a real-life bear made its grand entrance, and it wasn’t a bear from the Country Bear Jamboree. This surprise visitor caused quite a stir, leading to half of the park temporarily shutting down. We delve into this curious event, discussing the park’s response, and the eventual safe removal of our forested friend.
While the bear certainly stole the spotlight, it wasn’t the only headline-grabber. Major investments are on the horizon for Disney parks globally, signaling ambitious plans for expansion and enhancement. Yet, in a paradoxical twist, Disney’s stock didn’t seem to mirror the enthusiasm of these announcements. We delve into the financial intricacies, speculating on possible reasons and the broader implications for the Walt Disney Company.
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Episode 420: This week on “Traveling with the Mouse,” Jon and I are all set to unwrap the trove of updates and announcements brought to light at the D23 parks presentation, a stage where the future paths of Disney parks were delineated, some taking us by pleasant surprises and others leaving us yearning for more! A central highlight was the rejuvenation ushered in for the much-adored Country Bear Jamboree, a cornerstone of Disney’s rich heritage. The Animal Kingdom segment was a lot different from last year with the addition of Indiana Jones adventure replacing Dinosaur, and Encanto replacing the Dino-Rama area. Another change from last year was Zootopia replacing the “It’s Tough to be a Bug!” attraction. Over at Epcot we got some opening dates for things like Journey of Water, LimunoUS, the new fireworks show and the construction pit also known as World Celebration. Test Track is also getting a new makeover thanks to the help of their sponsor Chevrolet.
Episode 419, We peel back the layers of the recent upheavals at the helm of the magical world of Disney, chronicling the roller coaster journey from the early days of Bob Chapek’s CEO tenure to the trying times faced by Bob Iger in what has arguably been the most testing period of his reign. The conversation kicks off with an in-depth analysis of the insightful article published by CNBC, a narrative painting the vivid highs and lows of Disney in the last three years. From Chapek taking the mantle in early 2020 to the current dynamic scenarios, we have seen it all, and yet, the story is still unfolding. While the recent events signal a turbulent time at Disney, we cannot help but hold onto the magic that has always defined this incredible brand. We share our candid thoughts on what lies ahead. We will have full coverage of the Destination D23 event and all of the announcements from the parks panel next week!
Episode 418: Greetings, fellow Disney aficionados! The calendar has brought us to Labor Day and what better way to relax than to dive into the enchanting world of Disney with the “Traveling with the Mouse” crew? Whether you’re lounging by the pool, grilling up something, or just cozying up in your favorite chair, Episode 418 promises to be your perfect Disney-infused companion. We discuss some of the latest news. Things like the crowd levels this month. The price of Genie+ has been low, Animal Kingdom is getting extra nighttime hours this fall, and Journey of water is ready for guests to start flowing in. We touch on several other topics as well. Jason has a trip coming up where he will get to go to the Halloween Party.
Finally, what would a holiday be without a hearty round of “Would You Rather?” We dive deep into quirky, whimsical, and sometimes downright challenging Disney scenarios. If you’ve ever thought about what it would be like to have Mickey’s hands for a day or be photo-bombed by Olaf in every park picture, you’re in for a treat. And we challenge you to play along with us – make it a game with family or friends and see who’s the true Disney dilemma master!
From the sun-kissed shores of San Diego to the heart of the most magical place on earth, two hotels stand out as monuments to luxury, class, and timeless architectural beauty: The Hotel Del Coronado and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. But how do these two iconic establishments stack up against each other? Let’s delve in.
History and Inspiration: The Hotel Del Coronado, affectionately known as “The Del,” opened its doors in 1888. This National Historic Landmark, with its stunning Victorian architecture, has played host to celebrities, presidents, and royalty throughout its illustrious history. Its unmistakable red-roofed, white wooden exterior and opulent interiors make it a showpiece of the Californian coast.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, on the other hand, transports visitors to the Floridian coast of yesteryears. Opened a century after The Del, in 1988, it’s undeniable that the Grand Floridian borrows heavily from its Californian counterpart’s aesthetic. The Victorian elegance, the sprawling lobbies, and the picturesque waterfront setting echo the charm of The Del.
Hotel Del Coronado Entrance
Grand Floridian Exterior
Hotel Del Coronado Exterior
Hotel Del Coronado from the Beach
Courtyard Area at Hotel Del Coronado
Courtyard Area ad Grand Floridian
Main Lobby at Grand Floridian
Main Lobby at Hotel Del Coronado
Lobby Bar at Hotel Del Coronado
Enchanted Rose at Grand Floridian
Weathering outside of Hotel Del Coronado
More Weathering at Hotel Del Coronado
Scroll Through the Gallery above to more pictures comparing the two iconic hotels
The Aesthetic Comparison: Both hotels exude a similar air of timeless elegance. The vast, intricately detailed lobbies, the grand staircases, and the meticulous landscaping tell tales of a bygone era of luxury. The overarching theme is a nod to the Victorian age, but each hotel offers its unique touch — The Del with its Pacific Ocean backdrop and the Grand Floridian with its Magic Kingdom vistas.
Upkeep and Maintenance: While both establishments aim for perfection, on my recent visit to The Del, I couldn’t help but notice a stark contrast in upkeep when compared to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. Despite its historical significance, some areas of The Del showed signs of wear, perhaps a testament to its extensive history and the challenges of maintaining a property by the salt-laden sea. I noticed a lot of exterior flaws in the paint for example. This much visual wear and tear wouldn’t be tolerated at the Grand Floridian. At least not in my experience.
Disney’s Grand Floridian, however, seemed pristine. The Walt Disney World Resort, known for its impeccable attention to detail, ensures that the Grand Floridian remains in tip-top shape, retaining its charm and magic year after year. From freshly painted exteriors to immaculately groomed gardens, Disney’s commitment to guest experience and preserving the magic is evident. I know that as the writing of this the lobby and some of the buildings at Grand Floridian are undergoing an extensive refurbishment. That also speaks to the fact that Disney is always looking to improve and keep this property in pristine condition.
In Conclusion: While The Hotel Del Coronado and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort share a kindred spirit in design and elegance, their experiences differ. The Del offers a rich, historical journey on the Californian coast, while the Grand Floridian provides a magical escape in the heart of Walt Disney World, with the added touch of Disney’s renowned maintenance standards.
Both have their unique charm and offerings, and choosing between them boils down to personal preferences: a historic coastal getaway or a magical Disney experience in a setting inspired by history. I say you should visit both! While they look very similar on the outside the experiences will be very different. while walking the grounds of the Del, I couldn’t help but feel like I was touring a new addition to the Grand Floridian that I didn’t know about.
Have you had the opportunity to experience both these iconic hotels? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Episode 417: of “Traveling with the Mouse” is jam-packed with the latest and most thrilling news from the magical world of Disney. As always, Jon and I are here to give you the inside track on what’s happening and what’s to come.
One of the most anticipated events on the Disney calendar, Destination D23 is right around the corner! Josh D’aMaro will have another parks presentation. We can only hope that it will be better than the one at D23 last year. Expectations are low. We preview ‘Journey of Water,’ a walk-through attraction inspired by the world of ‘Moana’. It promises to be a refreshing blend of creativity, innovation, and Disney magic. If you’re dreaming of a stay at the Yacht and Beach Club in early 2025, you might want to hit the pause button. We’ve got some news that could influence your travel plans. Details in the episode! We also delve into the thrilling expansions set to open soon in Tokyo Disney Resort, and more.
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In our recent episode, while diving deep into Jason’s Disneyland trip report, a theme park more than 2,000 miles away still managed to tug at his heartstrings – the one and only Epcot at Walt Disney World.
“The thing I missed most while out there in California? Epcot. There’s just nothing quite like it…”
A snippet from Episode 416 where we discuss Epcot
Indeed, there isn’t. Epcot has remained unparalleled since its grand opening in 1982. It’s a testament to the park’s uniqueness that even after visiting Disneyland, with its myriad of attractions and timeless charm, Epcot still held its own. It’s almost like Epcot is our little piece of Walt out here on the east coast. While Walt never saw Epcot come to fruition, he was obsessed with the idea of it in his final days.
What Epcot could have been…an experimental prototype community of tomorrow
Even through we didn’t get a living, breathing community of the future – it emerged as something perhaps even more special: a celebration of humanity’s achievements, a glimpse into our potential future, and a global cultural fiesta all rolled into one. Epcot seamlessly marries two contrasting worlds: the forward-looking, technology-driven Future World and the rich, diverse World Showcase. This blend allows guests to hop from experiencing the thrill of tomorrow in attractions like Test Track or Spaceship Earth to indulging in the culinary and cultural delights of 11 different countries, all in the span of a day.
For all three of us at “Traveling with the Mouse”, Epcot holds a special place. It has long been our favorite of the Disney World theme parks but sometimes it is hard to know exactly why. We touch on it in the clip above from our most recent episode. There is just something about Epcot that you can’t get anywhere else on earth. They tried to make a Westcot but those plans ultimately fell through. Disney hasn’t been able to replicate the uniqueness and originality that is Epcot. It really is the most unique Disney park in the world.
So, next time you find yourself wandering the pathways of Epcot…remember to: Thank the Phoenicians, Design your own car, Save the Galaxy, Visit Mars (or circle the earth), Soar around the World, Drink Around the World, go to La Cava and then ride Gran Fiesta Tour, enjoy some food and wine, soak in the atmosphere, learn to live with the land, visit our favorite purple dinosaur, get stuck for 25 minutes on the Seas, ride the Skyliner back and forth between Epcot and Hollywood Studios and so much more. No matter where your Disney travels take you, you might just find yourself missing this one-of-a-kind gem.
What are some of your thoughts, memories, and Epcot stories? Let us know!
Episode 416: Pack your bags, don your Mickey ears, and prepare to journey across the country with us in this exciting episode of “Traveling with the Mouse”. Our co-host, Jason, recently embarked on a captivating trip to Disneyland, California with his son Andrew. Jason takes us along, regaling us with tales of his adventures in Walt’s original theme park. One of the highlights of his trip, and certainly a segment you won’t want to miss, is Jason’s experience on the Main Street tour. It wasn’t just any tour; this unique journey culminated in a visit to Walt Disney’s very own apartment above the fire station on Main Street. To stand in the space where Walt once stood. The highlight of the Trip for his son was Avengers Campus at Disney’s California Adventure park. They spend a lot of time there and got a lot of merch there too! But, as all Disney aficionados can attest, every Disney park visit brings its own set of comparisons, especially for those of us who have Walt Disney World engraved in our hearts. The discussion inevitably veers towards comparing similar attractions between Disneyland and Walt Disney World. We also hit on something that does make Disney World truly special, Epcot. That is what Jason seemed to miss the most while visiting Disneyland and one thing that proves just how unique and groundbreaking Epcot truly is.
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Episode 415: Greetings, Mouseketeers! Ready for another enchanting episode of “Traveling with the Mouse”? This week, we’re diving deep into exciting news, whirlwind rumors, and some delightful, imaginative brainstorming that’ll have every Disney enthusiast’s heart racing.
We kick things off by dissecting the latest earnings call from Disney. What’s up, what’s down, and what does it all mean for park-goers and Disney aficionados alike? We dissect the numbers, explore their implications, and discuss the potential future of our beloved theme parks.
But then, we venture into the realm of rumors that have taken the media by storm: Could Apple be considering a merger or even an acquisition of Disney? It’s a thought that might seem out of a fairy tale, but with the ever-evolving world of business mergers, we ponder on the feasibility, implications, and potential outcomes of such a colossal move.
After a dive into the news and speculations, we shift gears to our main segment, where dreams truly come alive. With the hypothetical scenario of an unlimited budget for Walt Disney World, what would we change? What new innovations would we bring to each of the four theme parks?
Join us on this magical journey, and let’s dream big, Mouseketeers!
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Welcome back, Mouseketeers! This week’s episode of “Traveling with the Mouse” promises to be an insightful Disney experience as we welcome our special guest, Raul.
Raul recently embarked on a magical journey to Walt Disney World with his Mom and Nephew, and what makes this trip truly unique is how we, the “Traveling with the Mouse” team, contributed to his adventure!
As Raul shares his enchanting experiences, laughter, and unforgettable moments from his trip, he delves into how our guidance, tips, and Disney insights shaped his adventure. His reflections on how different the experience would have been if he was on his own are both enlightening and heartwarming. Whether it’s navigating the theme parks, choosing the right attractions, or simply soaking in the Disney magic, Raul’s perspective adds a fresh and personal touch to the Disney vacation story.
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Episode:413 Hello, Mouseketeers! Prepare for an exciting episode of “Traveling with the Mouse” this week as we delve into all the Disney news that’s been making waves and offer a sneak peek into Jason’s upcoming adventure at Disneyland!
First up, we venture into the world of Disney news, which has been anything but quiet recently. The ongoing feud between Disney and the state of Florida continues to capture headlines. We break down the latest updates in this complex saga, shedding light on what it means for the theme park and its guests. Next, we tackle a rather unusual piece of news. In a surprising twist, a Disney hotel has been branded as one of the ugliest buildings in America! We dive into the details of this article, questioning the criteria used for such a dubious honor, and discussing whether we agree or disagree with this controversial claim. But it’s not all drama in the Disney universe. We share some happier news for Disney Vacation Club members, who are being treated to discounted VIP tours. We break down what this means for members and how it might enhance their Disney experience.
Shifting gears from the buzz of Disney news, we join Jason as he previews his upcoming trip to Disneyland! As a seasoned Disney Ride Challenge runner and co-host of “Traveling with the Mouse”, Jason’s trip previews are always packed with valuable insights and tidbits. From planning strategies to must-visit attractions, Jason shares his expectations and goals for this exciting journey to the Happiest Place on Earth.
