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Walt Disney World

Must Do Disney: 2022 Edition

August 9, 2022 By Lena Leave a Comment

Before 2020, Walt Disney World and I were faithful buddies.

I popped in for a visit several times a year, and Disney rewarded me with a good time and great memories. In fact, in September 2019, I celebrated my 20th visit to Walt Disney World and my first visit without the kids! Yep, my husband and I ditched our offspring for an adults-only vacation. We visited Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and ate around Epcot and took advantage of every minute of extra magic hours. My boys were flabbergasted that we left them behind, but I promised that we’d all be back for our family vacation in March 2020.

MARCH 2020! Oops.

In fact, we didn’t go back, and it would be a full two years – and two cancelled Disney vacations later – that we were finally able to experience the most magical place on earth. In June, we spent five incredible days rekindling our love for classic attractions, enchanting fireworks, over-the-top food and beloved Disney characters.
Was it worth the wait? YES.
Would I do it again? HECK YES.
Was it… different? Yeah, yeah it was. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: Disney, disney genie+, disney virtual queue tips, disney world vacation, genie+, guardians of the galaxy cosmic rewind, lightning lane, Walt Disney World

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Virtual Queue Strategies

June 13, 2022 By Lena Leave a Comment

Are you ready to take off on an intergalactic chase through space and time? It’s finally here: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind  launched at EPCOT on May 27th, and believe me when I say the hype is REAL. From the thrilling ride pre-show to Disney’s first-ever reverse launch, this full-enclosed coaster is the newest innovation from Walt Disney Imagineering. We experienced the ride last week thanks to a well-timed family vacation, and there’s only one word for me to describe it: OBSESSED!
At the time of publication (June 13, 2022), you have two options available to experience the attraction: joining the virtual queue (no additional fee) or purchasing an individual Lightning Lane entry. That’s right: there is currently no standby line available, nor can you schedule a Lightning Lane entry using the Genie+ service. While both available options are pretty straightforward, there are are few strategies that can help you snag a spot in the virtual queue for this wildly popular ride. Read on! …

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Filed Under: Featured, Travel Tagged With: disney virtual queue tips, epcot virtual queue, guardians of the galaxy cosmic rewind, guardians of the galaxy ride, virtual queue, Walt Disney World

Start Something Priceless! The Surprise Getaway

September 25, 2019 By Lena 1 Comment

We are a family of travellers. Since 2012, we’ve taken over 100 trips together – exploring, learning, bonding, creating. In fact, the most enriching experiences I’ve had as a parent center around introducing my children to new cultures and cuisines. Family travel is awesome.

However, it was time to bid the kids adieu and TAKE A REAL GROWNUP VACATION!
My husband and I were (over) due for some alone time. Months ago, I started researching quick getaways where we could leave for a few days without overly disrupting the boys’ schedule or putting too much pressure on my mother-in-law (who would be looking after them in our absence). I kept everything a secret from my husband, mostly because I didn’t want to get his hopes up just in case I couldn’t pull something together. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #startsomethingpriceless, galaxy's edge, MasterCard Canada, star wars, Walt Disney World

Mind. Blown: Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

July 21, 2018 By Lena 22 Comments

If you’re currently in planning mode for a Walt Disney World vacation, I’m going to insist that you stop what you’re doing, grab a cup of tea and settle in for some valuable reading time. Trust me! Because I’m about to tell you all about a hidden gem located in the very heart of the excitement of the Walt Disney World Resort. It offers its own unique benefits and also piggybacks on many of the benefits of staying on site.

It’s the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, an Air Canada Vacations partner hotel.To be absolutely transparent, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is owned by Marriott International. So while the hotel is located on site, it operates slightly differently from other Disney-owned properties. By the end of this post, I promise that likely won’t be a deal-breaker for you. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: air canada vacations, Marriott International, Walt Disney World, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

Must Do Disney in 2018!

January 7, 2018 By Lena 44 Comments

And now, ladies and gentlemen, I’ll be chatting about my most favourite subject, ever: all things Disney! I’ve estimated that I spend the equivalent of 25 days per year dreaming, researching, planning and coordinating Disney vacations. It’s an obsession, admittedly, but if craving a little pixie dust is wrong… I don’t want to be right.

But why am I a bona fide Disney fanatic? It’s simple. It’s the happiness on my boys’ faces when we enter Magic Kingdom. It’s the joy in their voices as we conquer Expedition Everest. And it’s the wonder and enchantment in their eyes as they see their most heartfelt wishes come true. I am reliving my youth through them and loving every second!

If you’ve decided that 2018 is the year that you’ll plan a most magical vacation, let me help you! Here’s a month-by-month rundown of all the exciting happenings at Disney Parks and Resorts, and aboard Disney Cruise Line. If you have any questions, as always, feel free to connect with me on social or email me at lena@listentolena.com.

Before I begin, however, I must tell you about the most incredible offers:
Canadian residents can save 20% on 4-day or longer tickets for Walt Disney World Resort when purchased in advance online or over the phone before February 10, 2018. Tickets are valid through December 31, 2018. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: canadian resident ticket offer, disney aulani, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland, Walt Disney World

The Fun is Simply Spooktacular! Halloween at Disney Parks

August 31, 2017 By Lena 36 Comments

Trick-or-treating throughout the park, your favourite Disney characters on parade, a wickedly joyous “Villain Spelltacular” and to cap it off, bewitching fireworks under a pumpkin moon – it’s Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort, of course!This year, the party runs for an unprecedented 32 nights – in fact, the spooktacular fun is happening right now. While I haven’t had the opportunity to experience Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (or #MNSSHP as it’s hashtagged on social media) at Magic Kingdom in Orlando, I have had the ghouish pleasure of attending Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Resort in 2015. The entire family still talks about it to this day! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #HalloweenTime, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World

An Otherworldly Experience: Discover Pandora – The World of Avatar

June 18, 2017 By Lena 24 Comments

Although I’ve covered Walt Disney World many, many times on my blog, there’s a distinct lack of content dedicated to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. In fact, a recent search pulled up only one article, dated back to December 2012. But there’s a reason for that; the truth is, as recent as a few months ago, it simply wasn’t my preferred park. Sure, I love the symbolism represented by the Tree of Life and Dinosaur is probably my son’s favourite ride – but otherwise, there wasn’t any one thing that attracted a high level of fanaticism in me.

With the addition of Pandora – The World of Avatar, all that has changed.
It’s been a few weeks since I had the incredible opportunity to attend the world media preview, and if you’ve been keeping tabs on the new expansion, you may already have read a few articles on this brand new world. However, rather than simply give you a laundry list of reasons you should visit (not that there’s anything wrong with that) or provide a creative re-telling of the press release (that’s a little more lazy, but also, no shame in that game), I thought I’d simply wait and provide answers to some of the most frequent questions I’ve been asked since my return. It seemed to work well for my Star Wars Day at Sea coverage, and if it ain’t broke, I don’t fix it.

And so, my friends, I present to you: Everything You Want to Know About Pandora – The World of Avatar. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: pandora, the world of avatar, Walt Disney World

Do You Want to Build the Perfect Land and Sea Vacation?

March 12, 2017 By Lena 47 Comments

Yes, I did that on purpose. No, I don’t feel bad that you’ll be humming Do You Want To Build A Snowman? all day. I’ve been singing the catchy tune ever since I settled on the title for this post!

Here’s the thing – I’ve thought about this article for a long time. Never one to rush out of the gate like the proverbial hare, I’ve been making notes, conducting research and trying to collect my thoughts. Because it’s hard to tackle the subject of land AND sea vacations, and if you’re going to plunk down the money to do it, I want to present it in the most rewarding way possible.
16585275_1100486463412235_8796706588351004672_nNow, please take note of the words “most rewarding”. And realize that most rewarding may not equate to least expensive or least amount of planning. This post, simply put, is for my Canadian readers who have decided they are open to – or looking for more information on – booking a tandem vacation at Walt Disney World and aboard Disney Cruise Line, and want my advice on the best way to do it.

And to those, I say… read on, Disney lovers, read on. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: Disney Cruise Line, disney land and sea vacation, Walt Disney World

The Holidays are Magical at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort!

November 24, 2016 By Lena 232 Comments

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

A Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort vacation at Christmas. Could there be anything more magical? (Hint: the answer is NO.)

I first visited Walt Disney World in December 2012, almost exactly four years ago to the day. At the time, the entire resort was teeming with holiday spirit, featuring whimsical Christmas decor and shopping, festive feasting and magical wintery wonder. It was, without a doubt, one of the most awe-inspiring experiences I’ve ever had the pleasure to witness.
Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime ParadeThis season, I want you to experience the magic, too!

It’s not too late to book a Disney vacation for the holidays! The BIG news is the Canadian Resident Ticket Offer – at Walt Disney World, save 25% on 4-day or longer tickets and enjoy all four Disney Theme Parks at a whopping discount. At Disneyland Resort, save 25% on 3-Day or longer tickets.

To take advantage of this special offer, you must purchase your tickets in advance before February 28, 2017. The best part? At Walt Disney World, you can use these discounted tickets at any time during 2016, 2017 and beyond – they won’t expire! At Disneyland Resort, the tickets must first be used by December 31, 2017. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: Disney Cruise Line, Disney Parks, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World

(Almost) Picture Perfect

May 9, 2016 By Lena

We took 18 family photos today at Hollywood Studios and this was the best one. Once in a while, I’m asked why I don’t put my kids in modelling. This would be why.Life isn’t picture perfect – not even when you’re on vacation. Kids will be silly, and throw tantrums, and push parents to their limits. They’ll fight and refuse to eat and splash water in each other’s faces even after the giggles have turned into tears.

You’ll ask yourself more than once why you even bothered to spend your hard-earned money. All you wanted to do was make memories with your children, but they’re behaving like a bunch of lunatics, not showing an ounce of gratitude for your generosity and sacrifices.

And then, just when you’ve reached your breaking point and you’re ready to head back to your hotel room, you’ll see wonder and delight etched across your child’s face as they discover something new, make a new friend or experience a moment of magic.

And just like that, you’ll decide that it’s worth it. It’s all worth it.

We have two more days left in our Walt Disney World vacation and we intend on making the most of our time here. I’ll be back later this week! In the meantime, have a wonderful day, friends!

Filed Under: Family Tagged With: family life, family travel, raising kids, Walt Disney World

Who’s Afraid of the Big, Bad Yeti?

April 25, 2016 By Lena

Okay, so perhaps it’s not the Yeti that has me so freaked out.

Perhaps it’s the backwards portion of the roller coaster. Or the fact that a large part of it takes place in the dark. Now that I think about it, it’s probably the ascension to the top of the mountain, the 80-foot drop, or the basic reasoning that it’s labeled a “thrill ride”.

Whatever the reason, I’m scared of Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain.
Walt Disney World Photo Gallery Disc“My 7-year old rode it!” one IG follower said in encouragement. Well, the thing is – so did mine. And that gives me cold comfort, because now I realize that I’m the biggest wimp ever.

“It’s nothing – you hardly feel anything and then it’s over,” my husband assured me. However, I can’t help but remember that time I ate chips from his private stash, and he promised he’d get me back… and I can picture him saying “Ha! Ha! Gotcha!” as we barrel down the mountain. Shudder.

Alas, for all the times I’ve been to Walt Disney World, I do believe it’s time to conquer my fear. Wish me luck, friends. I’m ready for the Forbidden Mountain.

Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #DisneySMMC, animal kingdom, family travel, Walt Disney World

2016 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

March 18, 2016 By Lena

If you’re lucky enough to visit Walt Disney World from March 2 – May 30 this year, you’re in for a treat! You can experience the annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, FREE to guests with valid park admission. This year, it takes place for an unprecedented 90 days!The festival authentically has something for everyone. For foodies, Outdoor Kitchens offer delectable small plates and flavorful non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. The kiddos will adore the brand new Harmony Gardens Musical Playground, featuring state-of-the-art net climbers. And for the nature-lovers in your travel party, feast your eyes on more than 70 world-renowned Disney-themed topiaries, vibrant gardens and wildlife habitats. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: 2016 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, Walt Disney World

Multi-Generational Memories

January 24, 2016 By Lena

It’s a moment I don’t want to forget.

The rain clouds began to dissipate, revealing a bright sunny day with a promise of the perfect weather Orlando is known for. As we made our way into Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Ryder, my sweet, sensitive 7-year old, beckoned me with his hand.

“I want to look at the castle,” he said.

This is our tradition. Skirting over to the nearest curb to avoid the crowds, I let him drink in the sight of Cinderella’s castle. It didn’t matter that we were too far for an unobstructed view. It didn’t matter that we were pushed together as a steady throng of guests shuffled past us. My entire world was reduced to a little boy, staring in helpless wonder at a fairy tale come to life.
DSC_0064aWhat is he thinking? What does he see? I wondered. Was he imagining himself as the brave prince who fights for the maiden’s honour? Was he envisioning the colourful burst of fireworks that adorn the sky at night? Or did he simply see the castle for what it was – an iconic representation of a place where dreams come true? I had to know. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: Disney Cruise Line, family travel, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World

WDW: Dare You to Find a More Magical Sight.

January 9, 2016 By Lena

No matter how old I am… no matter how many times I’ve visited Walt Disney World… there’s something truly, truly special about Cinderella’s castle.
12446017_856563911122838_550749723_nIt’s no secret that January is my favourite time to visit Walt Disney World. Perfect park weather, reduced wait times due to lighter crowds, and the piece de resistance: most parks are still outfitted in holiday decor, such as the stunning icicle lights on Cinderella’s castle at Magic Kingdom.

It’s not too late to plan an incredible Walt Disney World vacation! Have a magical day!

Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: cinderellas castle, family travel, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World

WDW: May the Force Be With You. (And Also With You.)

December 13, 2015 By Lena

(Hands up if you’re Catholic and this *always* comes to mind? Yeah, me too.)

Celebrate, my young Padawans! New Star Wars offerings have landed at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, just in time for Star Wars: The Force Awakens which hits theatres on December 18, 2015. From interactive exhibits to galactic-themed food, discover new and updated Star Wars experiences that bring you closer to the epic saga than ever before.
SW1Now, where do I begin? Grab a “Hoth” chocolate (Get it? Hoth? I kill me!) and settle in, because I’ve been geeking out and can’t wait to share the fan fodder with you! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: disney's hollywood studios, star wars, Walt Disney World

Your Best Disney Vacation: How to Stretch a Weak Dollar

October 12, 2015 By Lena

It’s the most magical glow.

It’s a particular warmth you feel after returning from a Walt Disney World or Disneyland vacation, led by the intense desire to do it all over again. In fact, immediately upon returning from a visit to the most magical place on earth, I begin planning our next vacation! And since we returned from Disneyland Resort just two weeks ago, you can guess what’s currently taking up my time – yep, consulting calendars for 2016’s epic adventure.
FullSizeRender 6Addicted? I like to think I’m converted. Because now, I prefer to only vacation at world class resorts with world class theme parks. What’s wrong with that? You only live once!

Of course, one of the most frequent questions I’ve been asked since I announced our getaway is:

“How can I afford a Disney vacation with the falling Canadian dollar?”

To all those who’ve emailed or messaged me, thanks for your interest! The truth is, my Visa statement was indeed impacted by the weaker dollar; I’m not going to sugarcoat it. You need to plan ahead for increased prices. However, has that stopped me from wanting to do it all over again? NEVER! Because I have a great handle on how to stretch a weak dollar for an incredible Disney vacation. And today, I’m happy to share my best tips with you! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #Disneyland60, Disneyland Resort, family travel, Walt Disney World

The Happiest Party on Twitter: #DisneyTBT

August 6, 2015 By Lena

If you’ve ever gazed upon Cinderella’s castle, held Mickey Mouse’s hand or took a journey under the sea with Ariel, you’ll know the power of Disney vacation memories.

Tell me, what is your favourite Disney throwback?
IMG_0960aI admit that one of my favourite ways to de-stress is going through photos from past Disney vacations. Nine out of ten times, it inspires me to book my next one! And as long as my boys believe in the power of wishing upon a star, we’ll be sure to return to the place where dreams come true.

A request: Find your very best Disney vacation photos. Mark Thursday, August 13th, 2015 at 8PM EDT on your calendar.

Today, at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, you can experience the magic with your entire family. Disney Parks Cast Members deliver one-of-a-kind experiences to millions of guests annually, and if you’ve been planning a family vacation to this world-class entertainment and recreation center, this one’s for you –

I’m pleased to invite you to the #DisneyTBT Twitter Party, on Thursday, August 13th at 8PM EDT. It will be a fast-paced, fun-filled party where we want to see your very best Throwback Thursday photos… Disney-style! Share your park pictures, thrill-ride stills, poses with characters, or show us your throwback Disney-themed toys or costumes. The possibilities are endless! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #DisneyTBT, Disneyland, Twitter Party, Walt Disney World

Winter Escape: Walt Disney World!

February 11, 2015 By Lena

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?
IMG_1914Yeah, 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. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #DisneyVacayCA, family travel, MyMagic+, Walt Disney World

A Super New Way to Make the Most of Your Disney Vacation

January 20, 2015 By Lena

(I wish I could take the credit for that awesome title, alas, I found it right on the Walt Disney World website. Which means even they know it’s super, and are totally owning it. You go, Disney.)

Here’s the thing. My mother taught me to always measure twice, cut once. Which I’m sure was her fancy way of saying Why don’t you try planning a little, Lena. But come on, mom, where’s the fun in that? It’s much cooler to leap in with both feet.

Except, then I became a mother, and I realized what she was trying to tell me all along – life’s a lot easier when you plan ahead. And this notion can be applied to almost anything, whether it’s planning dinner for the week, planning the car pool rotation, or planning your family vacation.

Especially when planning your family vacation. 

You may have heard that a Walt Disney World family getaway requires planning skills akin to Martha Stewart circa 1990. And yes, while it’s important to make the most of your time together – especially when you’re visiting somewhere as magical as Disney Parks – the feedback I’ve received time and time again is that it can be *slightly* overwhelming.

The resort. The theme parks. The meal plan. The extras.

So, where do you begin? With MyMagic+.

MyMagic+ gives you unprecedented control of your vacation and makes it easier than ever to enjoy time with the people who you care about the most. Listen up folks, because I’m about to change the way you think about planning a Walt Disney World vacay. Consider this your magical tutorial.
magic-kingdom-00-fullFirst, go on and book your trip! Figure out your travel dates, the resort hotel you’d like to stay at (check out my review of the Art of Animation if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option) and buy your park tickets. You know, the standard stuff that makes up a Disney vacay. Then, take your Walt Disney World vacation to an all-new level, making it uniquely yours. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: fastpass+, magicbands, MyMagic+, Walt Disney World

The Happiest Party on Twitter: #DisneyFamilyTravel

July 23, 2014 By Lena

In the mid-1960s, Walt Disney’s dream was to build a family resort destination like no other. The dream became a reality when Walt Disney World Resort opened in 1971, featuring Magic Kingdom as the centerpiece.

If you’ve ever wished to gaze upon Cinderella’s castle, hold Mickey Mouse’s hand or take a journey under the sea with Ariel, you’ll know the power of dreams. And today, at Walt Disney World Resort, you can experience the magic with your entire family. Walt Disney World Resort and its Cast Members deliver one-of-a-kind experiences to millions of guests annually, and if you’ve been planning a family vacation to this world-class entertainment and recreation center, this one’s for you –

We’re pleased to invite you to the #DisneyFamilyTravel Twitter Party, on Tuesday, July 29th at 9:00pm ET. We’ll share all the latest Walt Disney World news including the latest attractions, current and upcoming events, vacation planning tips and more. To thank you for joining the conversation on Twitter, we’ll be giving away ten (10) Disney Store Gift Certificates valued at $50 each. (Please see official rules here.)

Disney Family Travel

For your chance to win, RSVP below. In the words of Mickey Mouse, See you real soon! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #DisneyFamilyTravel, family travel, Twitter Party, Walt Disney World

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Lena Almeida

Toronto Blogger, Social Media Strategist for Listen to Lena Inc. Television & Radio Personality, Columnist and Speaker. Family Travel Expert. Star Wars Fanatic. Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion. Read More…

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