#DisneyVacayCA

Winter Escape: Walt Disney World!

February 11, 2015 By Lena 48 Comments

As I sit in my home office, banging away at my keyboard, the light coming in through the window is hurting my eyes. Because it’s bright white. All over. As in, everything outside is covered with snow. Waaa!!!

Also? I’ve been having dreams. Dreams about cold, creamy Dole Whip – the soft-serve pineapple miracle you can only find at select Disney Parks. Could it be because just one week ago, we were in sunny, warm and perfectly balmy Orlando, enjoying one of our best family vacations at Walt Disney World Resort?
Yeah, probably so.

As we arrived at the Contemporary Resort (our home away from home), I was surprised to find the hotel teeming with guests; you see, the wait times at the park suggested we were actually in “low season”.

“It’s the conferences,” a cast member said. “When the parks are empty, conference resorts are full.”

By why are the parks remarkably less busy in the months of January and February? All vacation planning websites point to February as being one of the best times to visit Walt Disney World due to the smaller crowds. And for Canadians, while the weather is *only* on the 20’s… it’s NOT in the -20’s, you feel me? So what gives?

It turns out that January and February are sandwiched between the Christmas holidays and March Break – two of Disney’s busiest stretches – and therefore, often overlooked in family vacation planning. And, because the beginning of the year is also considered “winter” in the sunshine state, many travellers opt for the intense heat of the Caribbean to ease their cold weather suffering.

But today, I want to show you why it’s the perfect time of year to experience Walt Disney World Resort. If you’re thinking of booking a last minute vacation or planning for next year, here’s what you need to know.

The Pros

First, knowing that any vacation to Walt Disney World can be a sizable investment in time and money, let’s discuss the benefits of visiting over the winter.

1. Discounted Hotel Rates. Of course the very first point is that you can save money! The second week of January right through to the middle/end of February is considered value season at Walt Disney World. Staying at a resort hotel is attractive due to the cost savings – anywhere from 10-30% per family – and your choices for hotels and rooms are even greater if you plan ahead. …

Step into Reality. Or, a Reality Show. Welcome to Laguna Beach.

December 14, 2014 By Lena 30 Comments

I’m not ashamed to admit it: I love a good teen drama.

It all started back in the 90’s, with Beverly Hills, 90210. Yes, I’m talking about the original series – you know, the one with Jason Priestley and Shannen Doherty – not the blasphemous facelift they aired from 2008-2013. The series where tween and teen girls everywhere wanted to be Brenda Walsh, not for her mousy brown hair or mom jeans, but for her uncanny ability to secure at least one lip-lock with Dylan per episode.

Until he, you know, got busy with her best friend while she was in Paris.

The particular drama spurred a worldwide interest in Californian teens and college kids, especially when it came to following their (often alcohol-infused) antics. Years later, when reality shows became all the rage, one particular MTV gem roped me in just as surely as the students of West Beverly High.

The show? Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County.

The series, however – serving up just three seasons of guilty pleasure – was about more than just love triangles, bon fires on the beach and girl drama. (Although, they seemed to be the crux of the show.) To us older folks – you know, the 20-somethings who lounged in our condos, reveling in the throwback to our youth – it was a chance to live a different life; a life on the beach, in a gorgeous Californian town, surrounded by opulence and luxury. The kind of life that was far-removed from reality – served up on Tuesday nights.
And during those reality tv binges, I promised myself that one day, I’d visit Laguna Beach; walking in the same sand as Kristen, shopping along the same streets as Lauren.

OMG. Shopping along the same streets as Lauren!

This past summer, as part of our #DisneyVacayCA, my family was afforded to opportunity to spend a day touring the beaches of Orange County. Included in our agenda was a stop in Laguna Beach – and it’s like years of MTV fandom suddenly became a reality. Located midway between Los Angeles and San Diego, this seven-mile stretch of sand and surf offers a year-round retreat for art lovers, nature enthusiasts and beachgoers. (And, anyone who ever spent an hour on Tuesday nights following its most famous inhabitants.)

Welcome to Laguna Beach. …

This is Southern California Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

October 14, 2014 By Lena 49 Comments

As a family travel contributor, I’m often asked about what I look for in a perfect family vacation. For the most part, my formula for making memories is pretty straightforward: take one part luxury travel, one part kid-friendly activities and add a stunning locale as the backdrop. The recipe is steadfast and undeniable; you’ll have created holiday magic.

Hence, it’s no surprise that The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Southern California is just my ticket.

A celebrated icon along the California coast, today The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel boasts a newly re-imagined and modern vibe. Perched timelessly atop a 150 foot bluff, against cascading views of the Pacific Ocean, the hotel is tailor-made for travellers who desire a playful approach to luxury.
Ritz Carlon Laguna Niguel I snapped the above photo during a tour of the hotel, one of the highlights of our recent #DisneyVacayCA adventure. Standing on a balcony, perilously hanging over the edge, I gasped in awe at the view from this celebrated Dana Point landmark. Squinting against the glare of the sun, I tried to decipher the figures below, wondering where my husband and boys could be. Were they squatting on the beach, building castles in the sand? Or dipping their feet in the cool Pacific Ocean? Our tour moved on, and I reluctantly tore my eyes away from the breathtaking scenery. …

Disneyland Resort, California: Disney, On Your Terms

September 28, 2014 By Lena 42 Comments

Having recently returned from a fun-filled #DisneyVacayCA in sunny Anaheim, California, I am invariably confronted with the following question:

So, which one do you prefer, Disney World or Disneyland?

It is a question I know I cannot avoid, having posed it myself countless times to friends and family who have experienced both parks on opposite coasts. And even though I have forewarned myself that the query should be expected – even prepared to make a choice and stand by it – I am nevertheless unable to give a satisfying response.

I like them both, I hedge mildly.

Way to take a stand, Lena! At this point I should warn you that I also make a terrible expert witness, mediator and/or customer in line at Starbucks.

What’ll that be? asks the barista.
Hmmm… I can’t decide. I quite like lattes… but I like cappuccinos too.

Pathetic.

Honestly, you can’t blame me. Asking me to choose between Disney World and Disneyland is like asking me to select a favourite among my offspring! It simply can’t be done – I love both my boys irrevocably and unequivocally for very different reasons. (Except when Ryder does that weird yodeling thing… or, perhaps, especially when he does that weird yodeling thing.)

However, since I’ve described my love affair with Walt Disney World in previous posts, I think it’s only fair that I make the case for Disneyland, too. Simply put, a visit to Disneyland Resort in California offers Disney, on your terms.
Let me explain. Using a numbered list, of course. …

BACON MANia, Huntington Beach: Because, Bacon.

September 3, 2014 By Lena 79 Comments

All I ever wanted… all I ever needed is here in my arms.
Words are very unnecessary… they can only do harm.

Enjoy the ~~silence~~ bacon.

Pictured Above: Bacon MANia Food Truck’s “Jack Back Sammie” – Thick-sliced egg bread, crisped and stuffed with Sharp Cheddar Cheese and Hickory Smoked Bacon.

If you find yourself in the OC (Orange County, California), there are a few things you *need* to do. First, make your way down to Huntington Beach – Surf City USA. Then, take a leisurely stroll on the boardwalk, and seek out BACON MANia Surf City, just steps from The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel. Here, you’ll dine on bacon, bacon and more bacon (with a side of bacon).

What’s on the Menu? Here are my picks of the bacon bunch:

STARTERS

Bacon Ball Trio: Three of our most delicious bacon-wrapped bites of brilliance – The Mac’n Bac’n (Cheddar Bacon Mac n’ Cheese), the Bacon Mignon (Petite Filet and Gorgonzola) and the PB&J (on crustless Wonder Bread). Wrapped in Applewood Smoked Bacon and Deep Fried.

Speedy Gonzales: Arriba! Whole jalapeno stuffed w/ Sharp Cheddar Cheese and wrapped with Applewood Smoked Center Cut Bacon. Sauced with our Spicy Chipayo.

Dog Nuts: Always served in pairs, this occasionally featured ball is a Greek Pepperoncini wrapped in Carne Asada and then wrapped in Applewood Smoked Center Cut Bacon! …

Tips: How to Handle a Hot Superhero

August 28, 2014 By Lena 71 Comments

The sun is high in the noon sky, casting rays of powerful heat onto the civilians below. As you make your way through the hoards of mortals gathered by a galactic structure, a broad shadow looms, covering the land in darkness. Wary – but determined – you amble forward, stepping across the threshold. And instantly, you’re transported into another time. You’ve crossed the “cosmic bridge” into Asgard.

One of the highlights of our #DisneyVacayCA at Disneyland, California was the ability to get up close and personal with some of our favourite Superheroes at Innoventions. Located in Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park, Innoventions is a 5,000-square-foot home of the future, where you can learn how the advancements of today—and the technology of tomorrow—seamlessly interconnects within the home, the surrounding community and the whole world.

It also happens to be the home of Thor, the Mighty Avenger!

“Ready yourself for a thunderous encounter as you come face-to-face with the crown prince of Asgard.”

Hint – he’s hot. No really, I know he’s Thor and all – and never once did he break character, so it’s all good for the kids – but really, kudos to Disneyland for this casting decision. Someone up there decided that a young Brad Pitt-lookalike made perfect sense for the role, and set out to find him. Well, he’s there folks. From 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.

“Begin your journey by first entering a fascinating display where you can learn about the rich culture and history of Thor’s home planet. Examine the walls where you’ll find formal portraits of Thor and Loki, in addition to other treasures and artifacts—including the fabled book of Yggdrasil.”

Yes, there’s the anticipation. In fact, no one does anticipation better than Disney – from the many “artifacts” of Asgard on display (recognizable props from the Thor movies, such as weapons used by the Warriors Three and Heimdall) to the possessions of the dark elves, we’re given a glimpse into Thor’s world. And then, upon entering the Bifröst, the voice of Odin himself can be heard, welcoming us at the gateway to Asgard. Finally, Odin’s throne room opens – revealing Thor standing in splendour.

So… how do you handle a hot superhero?

Tip #1: Bait the hot superhero into a sidelong glance. You know, the type where he looks at you from the corner of his eye. Confirm his hotness, and then move over to a more central location to get a better photograph.

Thor: Treasures of Asgard Disneyland Tip #2: Creatively blur out your husband (accidentally on purpose?) and focus on the hot superhero. Note that your 6-year old is touching his mighty hammer, Mjolnir – which Thor is also touching – which means that in a way, Thor is actually touching you. Be secure in this knowledge and accept it as truth. …

We’re Back from Our #DisneyVacayCA!

August 20, 2014 By Lena 50 Comments

Ryder is zooming around the room simulating roller coasters. Reid is singing “Let it Go” at the top of his lungs. My husband is clicking through hundreds of photos. It can only mean one thing – we’re back from our Disneyland vacation!

And it’s only right that I just come out and say it: it was our BEST family vacation EVER. Truly! From beginning to end, we were treated to a flawless experience that is consistent with Disney’s excellence in service, entertainment, value and family fun. Plus, we had a chance to tour some of the most scenic beaches of Southern California – I can’t wait to tell you all about it! (But first: laundry.)

In the meantime, I wanted to share my favourite picture from our vacation – my two little guys in Cars Land. It’s rare that I can get both boys to simply pose for a photo, but in this case, they were so excited about “meeting” Mater that they wrapped their arms around each other and smiled for the camera. I can’t believe I got this in one shot! They must have been “racing” high on adrenaline – or “fueled” by excitement! (Do you see what I did there? I’m so punny!)

Cars Land Anyhoo, please bear with me as I get back into a groove; the 3-hour time change owned me today. Seriously, I napped twice!! OMG. But I’ll certainly be back to share all the highlights from our epic #DisneyVacayCA. Until then, have a magical day!

#DisneyVacayCA: Disneyland, Here We Come!

August 11, 2014 By Lena 64 Comments

The kids are running around, my bedroom is a disheveled mix of suitcases, clothing and lightsabers, and I’ve got a to-do list taped to no less than four doors in my house… but it’s all awesome because we are headed to DISNEYLAND!

disneyland-guide_596x334 I’m on a t-minus 5 day countdown until we leave for the #DisneyVacayCA media trip to Disneyland, California. We’ll enjoy a stay at the stunning Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which boasts a breathtaking 6-story lobby constructed of stone and wood plus stately American Craftsman-style décor in all rooms. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is a premium hotel that celebrates the grandeur of the great outdoors.

grand-californian-overview-g14 Of course, we’ll spend tons of time in Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park (three days of fun!), so you can bet this Disneyland newbie will be all over the attractions. And speaking of attractions, you do know I have two Disney Cars fanatics, right? I predict we’ll be spending a LOT of time in Cars Land! …