Visit Orlando

Being a Big World Explorer: Our Orlando Story

April 13, 2017 By Lena

Some people visit the family cottage every weekend. Others pack their backpacks for an outdoor camping adventure. My family? Well, friends like to joke that Orlando is our home away from home.

They’re not incorrect! Looking back, we’ve visited Orlando 12 times over the past three years – most recently, courtesy of my friends at Expedia.ca as part of their #BigWorldExplorer program. (Were you following my tweets?) And there’s a reason – actually several – we keep going back.

Proximity. If you’re flying from Toronto, did you know that Orlando is only 2.5 hours away? Too true! It’s a great short-haul option and several airlines offer a direct flight from YYZ (or BUF, if you’ve found a less expensive flight via JetBlue or Southwest). The proximity makes it perfect for families with young children – I like to say that the flight is one-and-a-half Disney movies away! …

The Invitation You Simply Can’t Refuse: Disney Social Media Moms

June 13, 2013 By Lena

Years ago, when I first started blogging, I had no idea that one day, I’d be personally invited to attend a conference.

A conference that my whole family was welcome to attend. A conference at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

In fact, when telling family and friends that I had been selected to attend the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration, their reactions ranged from “That’s totally awesome!” to “You’re sh*tting me, right? They have a conference for that kind of stuff?” Ahem. Indeed they do.

Of course, an invitation to #DisneySMMoms is one you simply can’t refuse. Where else can you celebrate social media, family, friendship and fun – smack in the middle of the most magical place on earth? Surely I have the best job in the world! And so it was with equal parts flattery, curiosity and unbridled joy that I RSVP’ed with a big, fat YES.

(Underscoring my decision was the fact that Ryder’s 5th birthday took place during the conference stay. I reasoned that I’d likely never again be able to say, “Hey dude, let’s go to Disney World for your birthday!”… so that was a huge motivating factor for me. And oh, it was so very magical.)

Of course, as I was a #DisneySMMoms virgin, I really didn’t know what to expect. Sure, the family time and theme park passes were a big draw, but what would I learn from the conference? What would I take away? And most importantly, how could I share those learnings with my audience?

The truth is, the conference was everything I could have hoped for, and more.

It has been exactly one month since I returned home, and it’s taken me that long to get my thoughts together about our time at Disney Social Media Moms. From the stunning welcome reception to the very last tender moments at the Mother’s Day brunch, it was a celebration I’ll never forget. And because I’d love to share the magic with you, I present…….

And THAT’S the Disney Difference.

May 14, 2013 By Lena

I get it. I really do. I know that every time I publish a review of a resort, vacation or hotel, at the back of your mind you may be thinking, “Yeah, but was it all roses because you received special treatment? Did they go over and above because they knew you were reviewing their property?”

Okay, so the truth is – YES – often perks and rewards are bestowed upon us media folk. But certainly, it’s to be expected; it’s the same reason you clean your home before company arrives, grab the best wine and/or break out the fine silverware. You want your guests to leave with a wonderful impression. Because the truth is, if they knew that you actually just dusted in front of the picture frames instead of lifting them off the shelf, and that the wine currently stocked in your wine cellar was purchased 15 minutes before your guests arrived – maybe they wouldn’t tell your friends about the perfect dinner party you hosted. And that’s all we really want, isn’t it? Kudos. Pats on the back. Good press.

Hence, when writing reviews, I’m always sensitive to the “bonuses” that members of the media receive, and refrain from gushing or being overly obnoxious about them. You will rarely see me Facebook a perk, freebie or something else that is unique to my situation as a blogger; my attitude is, if my reader won’t be offered special treatment, there’s no need to prove that I was.

So, it gives me great pleasure to tell you about a wonderful – no, magical – example of exemplary customer service that we experienced this past Sunday at Walt Disney Resort in Orlando, Florida. Staying at the Contemporary Resort for the Disney Social Media Moms Conference, read on for an example of the Disney Difference – not because I am media personnel (he had no way of knowing), but because I am a person. Here’s what happened.

We were booked for the 4:20pm Magical Express to take us to the airport for our return flight. Since we were flying out of Buffalo, we were able to take advantage of Disney’s Resort Airline Check-in. Simply put: we could check our bags and receive our boarding pass right there at the resort, and then jump on a complimentary shuttle to the airport. After ridding ourselves of our heavy luggage, we decided to make our way to Hollywood Studios, to ride Star Tours… oh, 8-10 times.

However, at some point between the 35°C heat and the repeated passage on the simulator ride, Ryder began to feel sick. All the classic symptoms of heat exhaustion, really; irritability, drowsiness, complaining of thirst, and an overall feeling of malaise. And, since I was so wrapped up in making sure he was okay, I did something really silly – when I checked my phone, I thought “3:45 pm” read as “2:45 pm”. So yeah, by the time I figured out my mistake and we booted it back to the Contemporary Resort, we had missed our 4:20 pm Magical Express.

Truth be told, I wasn’t too concerned. I knew there would be another leaving at 4:50pm, 5:20pm, 5:50pm… etc. And, since our flight wasn’t until 7:20pm and our bags were already checked, there was no real emergency. We just had to make sure there was room on the 4:50pm bus. So, after collecting our carry-ons from bell services, I ventured to the front of the hotel and explained the situation to the Magical Express coordinator.

Me: (Eyeing his name tag) Hi Greg!
Greg: Hello there! How are you?
Me: Well, I have a small problem.
Greg: How can I help?

(Note: Greg didn’t say, “What’s the problem?” – rather, he immediately jumped in and committed to helping me find a solution. Love that.)

Me: Well, my little guy was under the weather in the park, and in turn we missed our Magical Express.
Greg: That’s not a problem.

I followed him over to a podium where I assumed he would check for availability on the next shuttle. Instead, he simply grabbed a taxi chit, filled in a few details, and said,

“Are you ready to leave now? Or would you like to cool off in the hotel for a while? I can arrange for towels if you’d like to freshen up.”

“Um, no…” I sputtered. “You really don’t have to do that. We can take the next Magical Express, I don’t want to put you out.”

“You’re not putting me out”, he laughed. “Everything is already taken care of. This chit even includes a tip, so unless the taxi driver sings and dances for you, you don’t even have to worry about that. Honestly. Just go inside, rest a bit, and when you’re ready to leave, the taxi will be waiting here for you.”

“Are you sure?” I asked.

“Listen, you’ve got a little guy who’s under the weather. And the last thing you need is to board a bus that makes multiple stops. Relax; it’s my pleasure to make your vacation the best it can be, right up until you board your flight.”

And THAT’S the Disney Difference.

“Well Greg,” I said. “You’re so awesome, and you know what? You’ve helped someone who has the ability to tell the world how amazing you are,” I said. “I’m a Disney Social Media Mom, and you just know I’m going to put this on social media! Can I take a picture with you?”

Stunned, Greg posed for a photo. (Thanks again Greg!)

I Have Nothing to Wear.

May 3, 2013 By Lena

It happens each and every time before a big event. I wait until about a week before I depart, and then frantically tear apart my closet.

I have nothing to wear.

“This won’t do! Ugh – why do I own that? This will work if I can lose 10 pounds in 4 days… That looked good in 2006. OMG I SUCK!”

*Technically* I have a few clothes to wear. Okay, more than a few. But come on, how can I go to an event as special as the Disney Social Media Moms Conference next week – without at least a few brand spanking new threads to show off?

(I know y’all are all wondering about this #DisneySMMoms hashtag I keep tweeting. Simply put – “The Disney Social Media Moms Celebration was created as one of the first family-friendly conferences where social media savvy moms and dads can network, learn, and share knowledge of social media while experiencing the magic of Disney with their families. The goal is to provide an intimate experience packed with access to industry leaders and opportunities to network with peers.” Translation: being the BEST social bee I can be… at the happiest place on earth. PINCH ME!)

To tell the truth, I know I’m not alone. Much discussion has flown back and forth between fellow attendees about what to wear, who’s going shopping – where, when, and what did she buy. (This gets a little complicated when you have friends with similar tastes and styles – yes, there will be an influx of long, flowing maxi dresses at the event.) We all seem to have one thing in common: a closet completely devoid of anything we want to take along with us. Buy. Buy. Buy. Spend. Spend. Spend.

So why do most women have the uncontrollable desire to pack a suitcase filled with brand new clothing? Certainly 99.9% of the attendees would have no clue if we are wearing a new top or one that is 5 years old. And 100% of the attendees wouldn’t care either way.

In fact, I’m willing to bet that some women will spend over 10 hours doing a combination of online research, in-person shopping, closet raiding, Spanx fitting, closet raiding part II, and finally, a Hail Mary trip to Insert-Your-Favourite-Store-Here a mere 12 hours before they jet off to Orlando. Not that I’m speaking from previous experience.

So why is there pressure to walk off the airport runway like we’re walking on a fashion runway?

I suppose when it comes down to it, it’s because most women feel their best when they look their best. And it’s hard to feel your best in a shirt that you know has been crumpled at the bottom of your closet for months; a pair of pants that you swear your baby once peed on; or a dress that has been worn so many times, it has stretched and faded to accommodate your more voluptuous areas. A new outfit means a new me; a “me” that has taken much care and attention to present the best Lena possible.

(“Don’t be fooled by the dress that I bought; I’m still, I’m still Lena from the block…” – Sorry, I couldn’t resist.)

The last conference I attended was BlogHer ’12 in New York City – you’ll recall that I wrote up a “Frugal Fashion Recap” that included the following looks:

Since purchasing the dresses for BlogHer, I’m happy to report that I’ve worn the first two outfits once more, and I’ll be bringing the last one to Disney SM Moms to wear again at the opening family dinner. See? My entire wardrobe does not have to be new – I am capable of recycling outfits!

However, I am currently in fashion panic mode and will be undertaking a shopping mission of epic proportions this weekend, as I only have five (5) shopping days left before we leave. This time, I’m trying to plan for an outfit that can withstand 40-degree weather, but also be fashionable enough to identify myself as someone who is attending a professional conference. I’m thinking tank dress? Perhaps an airy cotton wrap dress? Fashion gods, have mercy.

Do you rush out to buy new clothes before a special event? Or do you work with what you’ve got?

Staying Off-Resort in Orlando? Stay Here.

March 24, 2013 By Lena

It’s safe to say that Orlando, Florida is my happy place… and the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort is as close as you can get to the Happiest Place on Earth… without staying at the Happiest Place on Earth. I’ll explain.

Located in beautiful Orlando – within the gates of Walt Disney World Resort – the Wyndham Grand Orlando is your gateway to Orlando’s legendary attractions, theme parks, entertainment and shopping. In fact, you can catch a complimentary shuttle to the Walt Disney World theme parks or explore Downtown Disney for incredible shopping, dining and live entertainment. And trust me, the enviable location is just one of the many reasons you should consider this resort for your next Orlando stay – with rooms starting at just $164.25 per night (“Stay 3 or More Nights” Promo) you won’t break the bank, either.

Accommodations

Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort offers 400 guest rooms and suites that overlook the property’s 10-acre lake and Walt Disney World parks. (In fact, we watched the fireworks from the comfort of our room each night at 9:00pm. Now that’s my idea of magical.) Each room is appointed with contemporary furniture; a 40-inch, flat-panel television; high-speed wired and wireless Internet access; black granite surfaces; and True Blue Spa and Bath & Body Works amenities….

My Brush with Fame. Without a Makeup Brush.

March 3, 2013 By Lena

I suppose I can laugh at it all now. But let me tell you – 48 hours ago, I was highly stressed out.

It all started with my recent press trip to Visit Orlando. In exchange for a family vacation, my obligation was twofold: blog coverage on my site (a given), and media appearances to chat about our amazing adventure (a bonus).

Now you’re probably familiar with my blog coverage, as I’ve been churning out reviews of the places we visited and the wonderful things we did. But, you may not be familiar with some of my media appearances. I’ve chatted about Orlando and family travel on outlets such as Daytime Live, CH Morning Live, and this past Friday – CP24 Live at Noon.

And while all media appearances give me the opportunity to go LIVE in front of the camera (which I actually adore! Yes, I’m an attention-you-know-what) I was particularly excited for my CP24 appearance on Friday afternoon. After all, if you live in the Greater Toronto Area, who hasn’t tuned in to the all-news station? It’s like media royalty, if you will.

So, Friday arrived and I was super pumped. Because not only was I appearing on Live at Noon, but then I’d literally be walking over to the Canadian Council of Public Relations Firms PR Agency Boot Camp, where I was a speaker on the Social Media Blogger Panel. And so, I gushed accordingly –

I checked over the instructions once more. Chatting with Stephen Ledrew, segment to air live at 12:45pm. Check. Arrive at 12:00pm, as one of CP24’s professional makeup artists will get me camera-ready. Check. Need to get to the infamous 299 Queen Street West, where there is ample parking within a few blocks. Check.

Okay, I was ready….

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We’re Off to Visit Orlando!

January 30, 2013 By Lena

I know, I know – right about now you may be having a deja vu moment – Didn’t she just come back from Orlando?

Yes, we did. In fact, memories of our Walt Disney World vacation are still front of mind! But when my family was selected by Mom Central Canada to participate in a Family Travel campaign with Visit Orlando, we just couldn’t refuse. After all –

1) We had a chance to experience Walt Disney World, which in itself is spectacular, but did you know that Orlando also boasts world-class dining, several renowned spas, more than 175 golf courses, a stellar combination of malls, boutiques and outlets (yay!), outdoor adventures like hang gliding and zip lining – and much, much more? After seeing how amazing our last family travel experience was, how could I deny the boys such adventures as LEGOLAND, Universal Studios and SeaWorld?

2) Orlando is THE perfect spot for a family vacation. Several airlines offer direct flights to Orlando and it’s only a 2 ½ hour journey from TO! Quick travel time makes it the perfect location for a long-weekend getaway (especially to escape the cold weather… brrr). You all know that if it’s going to work for my family, it has to be convenient. I love that we can be in a totally different climate – and give my boys totally new experiences – in less than the time it takes to watch two Disney movies.

3) I suppose the main benefit of visiting Orlando is that because there’s so much to do, everyone will find something to meet their vacation needs. From toddlers to grandparents, there’s always a day trip or night-time adventure to pique even the most discerning interests, and, you’re bound to discover a few new activities to bring you all together.

So, although I’d love to stay and chat, I really need to start packing! (The Eternal Procrastinator strikes again!) Here’s a sneak peek into some of the amazing places and attractions that have been built into our itinerary:

Our Home Away from Home – The Wyndham Grand Orlando: Play, relax, dream, escape, and be you. At the all new Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort, you will experience a spectacular hotel resort that will captivate your senses.

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5 Reasons to Stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

January 17, 2013 By Lena

As you may have read, until just a month ago – I was a Disney newbie. Seriously! It took me 34 years to finally experience the most magical place on earth for myself. Through the tears and misty-eyed moments (here)… the wonder and awe surrounding the New Fantasyland (there) … and even the less than perfect photographic evidence (everywhere)… let’s just say that it’s never too late to experience Walt Disney World for yourself.

And, if you have a couple of beautiful, excited children to take along with you, it’s even better.

When we returned, I expected friends and family to ask, “How was it? What did you enjoy most? What parks did you visit?” – etc, etc. BUT, to tell the truth, the most frequently asked question was “Where did you stay??”

It makes sense, of course – a huge part of your Disney vacation budget is allocated to lodgings, and you want to make sure that you’re getting the best comfort, convenience and value for your money. And so I pretty much have this to offer – our stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort was flawless. Truly, we could not have asked for more. But you don’t have to take my word for it – listen to the 458 people who rated the hotel a 4.5/5 on Trip Advisor. For a “value” or “budget” hotel – a rating so high is virtually unheard of. Told you it was awesome, no?

The following review is not written with the air of a professional traveller, sharing yet another review of another hotel she has visited on yet another media trip. The fact is, I don’t think I’ve ever reviewed a hotel! So, rather than complicate things, I think it’s best to simply share 5 Reasons to Stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, trust me – you’ll want to read this….

Inside the Magic: Disney World’s New Fantasyland

December 18, 2012 By Lena

It’s been just over a week since my family returned from Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida… and we still have the magical afterglow. Oh, it’s all Disney-this and Disney-that from the boys non-stop… but you know what? It’s all good! Because I can’t stop talking about it either. #LOVEDisneyWorld

Now I know I teased you last week with a small peek into our experience – and, of course, the many misty-eyed moments I encountered – but I also promised that I would follow up with more details about the New Fantasyland. So here we go! Read on for The Facts (what you need to know) and The Fantasy (our experience and thoughts).

The Facts

The New Fantasyland is the largest expansion in the history of the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. Featuring attractions, dining, shopping, character interactions, recreation and more, the new grounds are laid out fairy tale-style amid waterfalls, grottoes, arched bridges, forests and circus big tops.

“Walt Disney once promised that Disneyland, and by extension all of our parks, would never be complete as long as there is imagination left in the world,” said Tom Staggs, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “New Fantasyland is a spectacular addition to the Magic Kingdom that delivers on Walt’s promise. We’re thrilled to take guests beyond the walls of Cinderella Castle to discover new worlds featuring iconic Disney characters and stories in ways that are more imaginative, more interactive and more immersive than ever before.”

The Fantasy

Every inch of the New Fantasyland is perfect for young children. EVERY INCH. Reid, who is an average two-year-old at 35″ tall, was able to go on all the rides with us! (Often more than once – we had to do Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid six times just for him. OMG.) From Dumbo, the Flying Elephant to the elegant Be Our Guest Restaurant, the New Fantasyland is the perfect destination for toddlers and young families. During our 5-day stay, we spent 50% of our time at Magic Kingdom, including the Fantasyland expansion. So, for every reader who has commented “My kids are too young!” or “I have a whiny 2-year-old” – guess what? So do I… and he LOVED it.

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