Disney Resorts, Memory Keeping

 A New Crown Jewel at Disney’s Polynesian Resort: Island Tower

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I had the pleasure of visiting the Polynesian Resort recently and took a stroll over to the new tower that was recently completed. The Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is a striking 10-story tower. It is beautiful.

We got a peak into the rooms and had a lovely lunch at the restaurant overlooking the Seven Seas Lagoon. You can see Cinderella Castle in the distance from your perch on the breezy terrace.

Inspired by the spirit of the South Pacific, the Island Tower embodies the vibrant cultures and natural beauty of Polynesia. From the moment you step into the lobby, you are greeted by art installations and design details created in collaboration with Polynesian artists — these are wildlife-inspired ceiling panels, sculptures made from recycled fishing nets, and chandeliers of living moss — that reflect themes of nature, and conservation.

The spaces blend Disney storytelling with cultural richness. Nods to Moana and design elements that echo the ocean, wind, earth, and fire.

🏡 Accommodations Meant for Adventure

The Island Tower introduces 268 new Disney Vacation Club (DVC) accommodations — from cozy duo studios perfect for couples to spacious one- and two-bedroom villas that sleep families up to nine. For the first time in this resort’s history, two-bedroom penthouse villas are available, offering ultra-luxurious stays with expansive living space and elevated views over the lagoon or golf courses.

🌴 New Spaces to Play, Dine & Unwind

One of the highlights of Island Tower is its Cove Pool, a zero-entry tropical oasis ideal for cooling off, while Moana’s Voyage splash area brings playful water fun to younger guests with life-size figures and themed water features.

Food and drink get their own island vibes at Wailulu Bar & Grill, a casual yet refined dining spot with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Seven Seas Lagoon. Inspired by Polynesian ingredients and relaxation by the water, its menu and ambiance extend the immersive theme from morning coffee to dinner and tropical cocktails. I cannot say enough about this dining venue. Even in extreme heat, the fans and lovely breeze made it very comfortable to eat outside, it wasn’t even a thought.

In short, the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort isn’t just additional rooms — it’s a vibrant new destination within a destination.

Disney Food, Epcot, Memory Keeping

Plan Your Visit to EPCOT’s Fall Food & Wine Festival

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This is a must-attend festival which happens late summer into the Fall.

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Each country in World Showcase, along with many “pop-up” countries scattered around the lagoon, features scrumptious bites! There is nothing better than wandering around the WORLD, tasting the flavors of all the different countries.

This past Fall, I had the pleasure of spending several days doing just that. Wandering around World Showcase and sampling many different sweet and savory treats from around the world.

The Sweet Potato Casserole fries from the Fry Basket were a sweet dessert. Yum! The Pumpkin Ravioli were another favorite.

Churro Sundae
Grand Marnier Orange Slush

Honestly, I could just wander Food & Wine for days on end. The lines moved quickly, even if they were long, and we always managed to find a table or trash can to perch on to eat.

Have you been to EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival? If not, let’s get you there. The Fall is the perfect time to visit. The weather is tolerable and the crowds are better than Spring and Summer.

I’ve got the perfect base for a great Food & Wine Festival-focused trip! Just a few steps away on the Boardwalk, at the lovely, recently renovated Boardwalk Inn.

Disney Food, Memory Keeping

Delicious Breakfast Delights at Trattoria al Forno

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While I’ve had dinner at Trattoria al Forno several times, this was my first breakfast experience. It did not disappoint.

Staying at the Boardwalk Inn made booking a last-minute breakfast here very easy. We were able to snag the reservation the night before and get a nice breakfast in our tummies before heading over to Epcot for more picture taking and Food & Wine exploring. Not to mention a ride on Guardians of the Galaxy!!

You’ll find all the delicious breakfast options from omelets and frittatas to pancakes and even a breakfast pizza.

I chose a Peach Bellini and the Caprese Omelet. Both were delicious and the service was excellent. The restaurant was busy, but we didn’t feel rushed.

A lovely start to the day. Trattoria al Forno never disappoints.

Disney Resorts, Memory Keeping

Top Dining Options on EPCOT’s Boardwalk You Can’t Miss

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Let’s take a walk on the Boardwalk. This area at EPCOT is, and always has been, one of my favorite places to wander.

On a recent trip, I stayed at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort and was able to spend a good amount of time exploring the Boardwalk.

The Boardwalk comes alive at night with a barbershop quartet and magicians, jugglers, and a very lively ice cream shop with incdredibly delish creamy delights.

One of the main complaints I hear about The Boardwalk Inn is the lack of easy dining options. Which is strange, because honestly, there are tons of dining options, and it’s not a long walk to 4 other resorts with dining options and all the countries of World Showcase.

The Inn itself has a wonderful little grab-and-go coffee shop off the lobby. They even had a very yummy specialty coffee drink à la Starbucks style. Breakfast goodies like croissants, muffins, and yogurt.

Iced Frappe on the back porch overlooking boardwalk

One of my favorite restaurants on the boardwalk has always been Trattoria Al Forno, and it’s a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Full review here. Right next door is AbracadaBar with curious concoctions with names like Hoodunit’s Punch and The Conjurita!

Quick service options include Pizza by the slice, Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs, Boardwalk Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas, and Boardwalk Ice Cream!

The Cake Bake Shop Restaurant by Gwendolyn Rogers offers a bakery as well. And along with Trattoria Al Forno, Flying Fish is another table service option.

I really enjoyed my time strolling the boardwalk. The margarita was delicious, the quartet sang Barbara Ann by the Beach Boys and then looked for a Barbara and found me. I was only the second Barbara they had ever actually had in the crowd. The Thundering Surf Peanut Butter and Chocolate Sundae was divine! Definately make time for an evening on the Boardwalk next time you are at Disney World. Better yet, stay right there!

Memory Keeping, Disney Resorts

Exploring Disney’s Boardwalk: A Renovated Gem

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Disney’s Boardwalk has recently been renovated to be a very pretty, classic, upscale version of the New Jersey boardwalk it is modeled after.

One of the best perks of course, is the Boardwalk’s proximity to EPCOT. A less than 10-minute stroll brings you to EPCOT’s International Gateway into World Showcase between the U.K. and France. Since I was there for EPCOT”S Food and Wine Festival, it was the perfect base.

The room is a standard Disney Deluxe room, with 2 queen beds and subtle, not over-the-top, theming. The bathroom is also standard with 2 sinks in the hallway alcove, and the toilet and shower in the bathroom. There are plenty of outlets and lighting. A coffee maker with supplies, good sized closet, wall mounted tv, and a balcony.

Our particular room, on the second floor, had a lovely, large balcony. The second floor is the main floor where the lobby and a small coffee/pastry shop is located. The boardwalk is down on ground level.

Remember the scary clown pool?

The clown is gone!

Transportation options here can be both great and not so great. You cannot beat the walk to EPCOT and the Skyliner is just outside the International Gateway. You have the Friendship Boats to Hollywood Studios or take a ride on the Skyliner. A bus will take you to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. The buses often share the other EPCOT resorts so can be slow at busy times. We walked through EPCOT to the monorail and took a scenic Skyliner ride and the boat to Hollywood Studios. The only real issue was Disney Springs which is always an issue. I recommend taking a Lyft to Disney Springs.

This is a beautiful resort located in the heart of Disney World. It’s peaceful during the day and comes alive at night.

Disney Food, Epcot

Unforgettable Dining at Space 220

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A truly unique experience!

Your experience starts with a check-in and a ticket to space. Next, you board an elevator that launches you up to space in 1 minute. Upon arrival, you step out and walk into the Centurion Space Station and are immediately surrounded by enormous windows overlooking…space.

Once seated, you can take it all in. Each floor-to-ceiling window offers a view of various scenes. A shuttle or space debris, an astronaut, flies by every so often. The music piped in is otherworldly.

Clever drink and dish names enhance the experience. A fun disk serves as a drink menu with names such as the Galaxy Spritz, Illumination, or Black Hole Fashioned. Entrees called Star Course such as Space Pad Thai, Galactic Miso Salmon, and Orbit Filet Mignon. Lift off appetizers such as Blue Moon Cauliflower, Apollo 16 Shrimp Tacos, and Starry Calamari. Some items appear on both the lunch and dinner menus, but there are some differences.

Apollo 16 Shrimp Tacos
Titan Crater Flatbread

Space 220 is a prix fixe meal. Specialty dining with a set cost for adults and children, regardless of what you eat. Drinks are additional. Currently, the prices are $79.00 adult for dinner and $55.00 adult for lunch.

My visit was at lunch, and I had the Apollo 16 Shrimp Tacos for an appetizer or Lift-Off, and then the Titan Crater Flatbread for my Star Course. Both were delicious as was my drink, the Illumination.

This is a special experience, but it is a little pricey. It’s worth doing once and you can book lunch for a better price with the same experience.

There is also the option of trying to just walk up and sit in the lounge or at the bar. Then you can order à la carte without the high prix fixe menu.

Have you tried Space 220? Is it on your list?

Memory Keeping

Top 3 Disney World Splurges

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After Hours Parties

Of course, there are the ever-popular Halloween and Christmas parties as well.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Join some of your favorite Disney Characters for an evening of spirited fun at this spooktacular celebration.

Get your favorite costume ready and make your plans to live it up—collecting candies, sweets, and delightful treats—all while Magic Kingdom park thrills and chills you with electrifying entertainment and eerily fun activities.

Like the Halloween party, the party starts at 7pm, but your special ticket allows you to enter the park at 4pm to get a head start on activities.

  • Set your sights on a group of sinister sisters as they bewitch and bedazzle the residents of Magic Kingdom park at the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular.
  • Don’t miss Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular*—a wickedly wild fireworks display featuring some of your favorite Disney Characters.
  • Collect a bag full of candy as you roam the trick-or-treat trails in search of some of your favorite sweets.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

When Mickey celebrates the season, Magic Kingdom park lights up with excitement for Guests of all ages. Cinderella Castle shimmers. Joyful music fills the air. Disney Characters don their most festive attire. Favorite attractions take on a holiday theme. And enchanting surprises lie around almost every turn!

  • Christmas fun awaits as Mickey invites his pals over for an unforgettable party.
  • Queen Elsa transforms Cinderella Castle.
  • Holiday parade brimming with joy and magic!
  • Look to the sky as your host—Minnie Mouse—presents a dazzling fireworks show full of festive cheer.
  • Bring home a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party memory with a piece of official merchandise from shops across the park.

Wild Africa Trek

Be awestruck viewing wild animals in their natural habitat on the 3-hour Wild Africa Trek. Discover animals of nearly every variety living in the Safi River Valley—an amazing environment that resembles their home in Africa.

Walk along a grassland path, cross a rope bridge and ride in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna—with a chance to view African creatures including towering giraffes, powerful rhinos, hippos, and crocodiles.

Along your journey, your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the majestic animals you’re viewing as well as the general operation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom park and details about the park’s dedication to animal conservation.

And as if your safari weren’t enough, you’ll receive complimentary photo services as well. Enjoy the animals of the Harambe Reserve while a trained photographer captures all the action and excitement throughout your adventure. At the end of your expedition, you’ll receive a photo code that you can use to access and download images taken during your Wild Africa Trek experience. Two gourmet snack breaks are also included.

Disney Resorts, Memory Keeping

Inside the Magic: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

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Step into the heart of Africa at this magnificent Resort hotel. Inspired by the traditional African kraal, the horseshoe-curved design provides spectacular views of 4 lush savannas that over 200 hoofed animals and birds call home.

Experience your own African safari adventure with a touch of Disney magic!

This resort was an ambitious effort by Walt Disney Imagineering to bring guests closer to the magic and fully immerse them into a world, or in this case, the African Savanna. Not only did the design team want to provide a truly authentic experience, but they also wanted to add an element with which they had little control… Animals!

Opening on April 16, 2001, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge — today is known as Jambo House — is one of the resort’s most spectacular and most authentic-feeling hotels. The resort recreates the feel of an African reserve lodge. The architecture, interior design, and landscaping creates one of the most immersive Disney resort experiences for guests.

The planning and design of the lodge took place from 1997-98 and construction lasted approximately two and a half years. The backstory on the Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort is pretty straightforward. “We worked closely with Joe Rohde from the very beginning,” said Randy Johnson. “So the story behind the hotel developed organically as he [Rohde] collaborated with the team during the design process.”

The Design

The design of the Animal Kingdom Lodge was influenced by one guiding principle — the design team wanted guests to become part of “the journey.” “We wanted guests to experience a magical and slightly mysterious safari expedition into the unexpected and the profound,” says Johnson. “We wanted to create an authentic experience, textiles, art, and artifacts that would be seen during their ‘safari’ trip.” To create this authentic safari trip, the team used as many native materials as possible in the lodge.

Be sure to take the time to enjoy the lookouts, the time spent gazing at the giraffe or zebras will undoubtedly be one of your favorite experiences. The central lobby of Animal Kingdom Lodge is set up with numerous overlooks. Sunset Overlook shows over 30 different species on the Savannah. If you aren’t sure exactly what animal you are spotting, there is a Wilderness Field Guide in the main lobby.  

Visitor at breakfast at Saana at Kidani Village

The Savannah view room is definitely worth it. Relaxing on your own balcony and enjoying the animals is hard to beat.

California

A Visit to Muir Woods

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Nestled in the hills just north of San Francisco lies the Muir Woods National Monument, a pristine and awe-inspiring forest that draws visitors from around the world. Named after the naturalist John Muir, who fought tirelessly to preserve America’s wilderness, the Muir Woods National Monument is a testament to the beauty and importance of our natural heritage.

The Muir Woods National Monument covers over 500 acres of protected forest, with many hiking trails winding through the towering redwoods that can reach heights of up to 250 feet. These trees, which can live for over a thousand years, are some of the oldest living things on the planet, and walking among them is an experience unlike any other.

The main trail at Muir Woods is a 1.5-mile loop that takes visitors through the heart of the forest, passing by some of the tallest and most impressive trees in the park. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it a great option for families and visitors of all ages.

For more experienced hikers, there are also several longer trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. These trails can be more challenging, but they are well worth the effort for the breathtaking scenery they offer.

In addition to the hiking trails, there are also several ranger-led programs and educational exhibits that provide insight into the natural history and ecology of the forest. Visitors can learn about the unique flora and fauna that call Muir Woods home, as well as the efforts being made to protect and preserve this fragile ecosystem for future generations.

Perhaps the most striking thing about Muir Woods National Monument is the sense of peace and tranquility that pervades the forest. Despite being just a short drive from the bustling city of San Francisco, the park feels like a world away from the noise and chaos of urban life. Walking among the towering redwoods, with only the sound of birds and the rustling of leaves to break the silence, is a truly humbling and meditative experience.

Overall, Muir Woods National Monument is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of nature. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual nature-lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, this park has something to offer everyone. So the next time you find yourself in the San Francisco Bay Area, be sure to make a trip to Muir Woods National Monument – you won’t be disappointed!

Animal Kingdom

Trekking Through Animal Kingdom

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Animal Kingdom is a theme park in Walt Disney World that is themed around the natural world and its creatures. As such, there are many animal trails that guests can explore to see a wide variety of animals up close and learn more about them. Here are some of the most popular animal trails at Animal Kingdom:

These animal trails provide guests with a unique opportunity to see animals up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors. Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring each trail and to observe the animals from a safe distance to ensure their well-being.

Maharajah Jungle Trek: This trail takes guests through the ruins of an ancient palace in the forests of Asia, where they can see tigers, bats, birds, and other animals native to the region.

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail: This trail leads guests through lush African forests where they can see gorillas, hippos, birds, and other African wildlife.

Discovery Island Trails: These trails wind through the center of the park around the Tree of Life and offer guests the chance to see a variety of animals, including flamingos, kangaroos, and lemurs.

Oasis Exhibits: These exhibits are located at the park’s entrance and showcase a variety of animals, including giant anteaters, wallabies, and sloths.

So many animals! Plan to spend some time enjoying these animal treks, this is what Animal Kingdom is all about.