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Episode 433: If you’re planning a magical trip to Disney World in 2024 and want to avoid the crowds, our latest episode is a must-listen! We delve deep into the crowd data from 2022 and 2023 to uncover trends and clues for this year’s attendance patterns. We’ve pinpointed what are statistically the best times to visit Disney World in 2024. These periods promise lower crowd levels, offering a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. In this episode, we also cover the latest news and updates from Disney World. We preview the upcoming Festival of the Arts at Epcot and the new popcorn bucket that is sure to draw a crowd. Disney has also released a number of good discounts from the spring all the way through the fall.

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Episode 432: Happy New Year from all of us at “Traveling with the Mouse”! 🎉 We’re back with another exciting episode that’s all about what’s on the horizon for Disney parks and entertainment in 2024. We kick off 2024 with a sneak peek into the new attractions and experiences set to debut at Disney parks. From the main headliner this year, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to the new Little Mermaid show and a Country Bear Jamboree revamp in between. But it’s not all about the new; we also dive into the completion of ongoing construction projects that will enhance the magic of your Disney visits.

We also take a closer look at Disney’s film lineup for 2024. Is this year’s cinematic offering as enchanting as we’d hoped, or are we in for a more low-key year in the world of Disney entertainment? Our opinions might surprise you. As we embark on this new year of Disney discoveries, join us in Episode 432 for a lively discussion about what’s to come in the world of Disney, from the parks to the big screen. We’re your trusted guides to all things Disney

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Welcome back to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse,” where we dive deep into the latest Disney developments and share our candid thoughts and experiences. In Episode 431, we’re exploring the new wonders of EPCOT, reviewing the latest adventure from our favorite archaeologist, and reflecting on a family’s first Disney trip gone awry.

Luminous, has finally made its debut at EPCOT, and we’re here to spill our thoughts. Does it live up to the legacy of its predecessors like IllumiNations and How does it compare to Harmonious and EPCOT Forever? We discuss the visuals, music, and overall experience of this new show, providing you with everything you need to know before your next park visit.

The construction walls are (mostly) down, and EPCOT’s World Celebration area is now open to guests! We take you through the transformed space, discussing what’s new, what’s changed, and how it impacts the overall EPCOT experience.

Next, we switch gears to the silver screen with our review of the newest Indiana Jones movie, “The Dial of Destiny.” Jon and I delve into our perspectives on the film and its place in the iconic franchise. We also discuss the broader picture of how Lucasfilm has been managed under Disney’s stewardship.

Lastly, we dissect a post from a family whose first trip to Walt Disney World didn’t quite meet their expectations. We break down their experience, pinpoint where things may have gone off course, and offer advice on what could have been done differently. Whether you’re a Disney veteran or planning your first visit, there are lessons to be learned and tips to be gleaned from this discussion.

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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!

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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?

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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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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.

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Episode: 412: Greetings, Mouseketeers! Welcome back to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse” – your go-to podcast for all things Disney! This week, hosts Jon and Adam have brewed up an extra magical serving of Disney chatter that’s sure to whisk you away to the Happiest Place on Earth. Kicking off this week’s episode, we jump right into the latest news and updates from Walt Disney World. We revisit some of Bob Iger’s recent comments that got him into hot water. But that’s not all! In the spirit of embracing different perspectives, we’ve taken a deep dive into the world of hot takes from TPM Vids, a popular YouTube channel known for its informative and entertaining Disney content. As we journey through their list of bold Disney assertions, we put our own Disney knowledge to the test, providing our thoughts and responses to each hot take.

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Episode 411: Welcome back, Mouseketeers, to another exciting episode of “Traveling with the Mouse”! As always, we’re here to sprinkle a little pixie dust on your week and keep you up-to-date with everything happening at the Happiest Place on Earth. In this week’s episode, we dive into the latest news and rumors swirling around the magical kingdom of Walt Disney World. From Bob Iger’s contract extension to his comments on the Parks and the strike. Bob has been in the news a lot lately. But we’re not just stopping at the latest news! In our ongoing mission to help you make the most out of your Disney World adventure, we’re also sharing our current top picks for the best experiences across the Walt Disney World. From dining to unwinding, and even spending those hard-earned Disney dollars, our picks are sure to enhance your Walt Disney World experience. Remember, every Disney journey is unique and filled with its own magic. We hope our tips and insights will help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Episode 410: Welcome, fellow Disney enthusiasts, to another exciting episode of Traveling with the Mouse! In this edition, we join Jason and Adam on their recent trip Walt Disney World. Join us as we delve into their experiences staying in a treehouse villa, reconnecting with friends who hadn’t visited in years, and Adam’s extra day at Wilderness Lodge. Nestled amidst the lush vegetation of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, Jason and Adam enjoyed the tranquility of a Treehouse Villa. These unique accommodations, perched high above the ground, provided a sense of seclusion and a touch of wilderness while still being part of the enchanting resort atmosphere. Surrounded by nature, they were able to unwind and recharge after days filled with Disney adventures. We were joined by some friends who hadn’t been in several years so we hit all of the new highlights like Tron, Guardians of the Galaxy, Toy Story Land and Galaxy’s Edge. We also had some great experiences at Enzo’s Hideaway, La Cava Del Tequila, and Baseline taphouse to name a few. We also had to visit this classic attractions like Carousel of Progress, Tom Sawyer Island, Haunted Mansion, and Pirates. Adam also stayed an extra night at Wilderness Lodge and went to Geyser Point.

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Episode 409: Welcome to another exciting episode of Traveling with the Mouse podcast! In this week’s episode, Jon recently returned from a trip to Walt Disney World. He fills us in on everything from his stay at an Air BnB to attending an exclusive Epcot after-hours event, and being the first of us to try out Gideon’s Bakehouse. Jon also traveled with a party that used the DAS system. He explains how the Disability Access Service works. During his visit, Jon also experienced Tron and he lets us know where it ranks for him. Jon left just and Jason and I arrived so next week we will continue with Jason and Adam’s trip report. Stay tuned!

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Episode 408: Welcome back, fellow Disney enthusiasts, to another exciting episode of the Traveling with the Mouse podcast! This episode Jon and I catch up on the latest news and rumors and we can’t help but chat about our latest Disney World trips. We will go more in depth in next week’s episode but we had to cover some of the details of our recent vacations. In the news, we have a new pricing structure for Disney Genie Plus that goes into effect June 27th. The Reflections resort may not be dead in the water after all. The Dinosaur attraction at Animal Kingdom has seen better days. It’s almost like they are ready to pull the plug on it. And in some ways they already have. Indiana Jones meet and greet is coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World is gearing up for 4th of July. In our next episode, we’ll be diving deep into our respective experiences with our trip reports so stay tuned.