Saying Aloha to 2016!

My final visit to my beloved islands for 2016 took me to beautiful O'ahu! It was my first love, and I think will always be my true favorite! Some people might be surprised by that statement. But if you know and learn from this special place, it might become your favorite too!

My "second home" is the always welcoming Hyatt Regency Waikiki!  I have stayed there for many years.  It is the perfect location, big comfortable rooms, fabulous views, and lots of dining choices there and nearby.  But I return first and foremost because of the people!  From the front desk staff, reservations managers, sales team (especially them!), and of course my Regency Club ohana (family)!  There is something very special about hearing; "Welcome home Teri!", mahalo Mark Omori for always making me feel welcome, special, and important!

One of my first visits was with a very dear friend I have known for years! She is brilliant at what she does~ and she does that for The Modern Hotel in Waikiki. My services at DreamCatcher include special attention to details. I have been successful in delivering these requests and wonderful surprises because of these incredible people I call my ohana in Honolulu! My guests are always "VIPs", and it's thanks to my passion, and continued relationships with these amazing people in my industry! Mahalo nui~ thanks so much Joy Tomita!

From here it was time to head to the "north shore"!  O'ahu is one of the most beautiful of the islands! Many people are sadly unaware, or misinformed of this fact!  But it is far more than the city, far more than the famous beach!  On O'ahu I learned the true meaning and understanding of "aloha".  The peace, love, and sense of place that I feel when I am on O'ahu is undeniable.  Making sure my guests are in a place, or at an event, so they too can get a sense of this special feeling... is something I work very hard to make happen!  It is a way of life, a state of mind, and something I am honored to continue to learn and practice.

Back in the Waikiki resort area of Honolulu; we of course visited many of our favorite hotels, always making sure to know about what is new and exciting.  Another important activity always on my schedule is dining! The city of Honolulu is home to so many amazing chefs!  Each with so many wonderful offerings. There is of course the very famous "Duke's", at the Outrigger Waikiki. One I never miss, right at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki, is their signature restaurant~ "Japengo".  But I have always been particularly attracted to the many delicious choices at Roy's!  Chef Roy Yamaguchi has recently started a new venture in Hawai'i, and he calls these new restaurants; "Eating House 1849"! One of the newest locations has opened recently in the all new International Marketplace in Waikiki, and you must try it!

One of my final stops on my schedule of "Cannot Leave Waikiki Before Seeing"... the historic and special Westin Moana Surfrider. But really it was for and because of this very special lady~ my little sis~ Shannon! I have known this exceptional person for lots and lots of years! Returning to Waikiki without some "talk story" time with her would be just horrific! She represents this original hotel on Waikiki Beach with amazing energy and passion! Shannon is dedicated to making sure all the people she works with are happy, and leave with many special memories!

Looking back at 2016; I am over-all grateful, and honored to be able to continue doing what I love for a living.  But also eager and hopeful for all that I am still going to learn!  My priority has always been, and will always be... the best possible experience for every one of my guests!  I want to continue in 2017 to learn, and share all that I can with the people I work with planning great vacations.

Most of all; I want to position myself and business as your #1 choice for planning the best vacation experiences!  Always making sure that each of my guests know they are important, special, and their requests are my priority! That the service they receive at DreamCatcher is more complete, personal, and thought driven!

Happy New Year~ and here's hoping I hear from you in 2017!

November on Hawai'i

Aloha!

At the end of October, and into the first half of November I made my home on Hawai'i. It was for so many years referred to as "The Big Island".  But in recent years the Hawai'i Visitors Bureau has encouraged us all to respectfully call this island by it's true and correct name... Hawai'i!

It is one of the most diverse of all the islands with 11 of the 13 climatic zones on Earth found here! It's the only island where you could snow ski in the morning, and surf away the afternoon!  You can hike in the rain forests, or ride horseback over the rolling foothills! It is by far the most interesting and strikingly beautiful island, and yet the least well known!

My visit was quite different this time, as I stayed with friends, and combined my own work with some house sitting!  But it was truly a relaxing experience, and I felt like a "local".

I started this visit by checking off one of my own "bucket list" items!  We went to the Hilo side (east side) of this island to board the "Lava Boat", and see the Kilauea lava flowing into the ocean! This volcano has been flowing actively for many, many years.  But I have never seen this level of activity in all my years, and it was breath-taking! This is without a doubt, one of the most jaw-dropping experiences ever! It's a bit on the "pricey side".  But I would do it again in a heartbeat!

My first resort visit was the always gorgeous and very special... Four Seasons Hualalai. There is simply nothing to compare this place too. It is in a class all it's own.  The service is at a level that other resorts strive to achieve.  The rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed. The dining is spectacular, and the location is simply perfect!  I am proud to work directly with this resort, and all of my guests are definitely VIPs!

Another favorite of mine was my next stop... the Fairmont Orchid!  Located in the Mauna Lani Resort area, this experience never disappoints! My favorite choice for my guests is the "Gold Floor". This exclusive club on the 6th floor offers extra special services and amenities! From your arrival you know you are a welcomed special guest!  You and your luggage are taken directly from curbside to the sixth floor for a private check-in with the amazing folks of the concierge lounge.  You are from that point forward always referred to by name, and they provide you with anything you need and want! Staying at the Fairmont Orchid is something that should be on your "bucket list"!

Another spot I never miss on my visit to Hawai'i is the little town of Hawi! Located about 45 minutes north of the Kohala Coast.  This quaint little village will keep you intrigued all day!  From the "original" statue of King Kamehameha the Great, to the many little restaurants and shops. It's definitely worth the drive to explore this gem!

I love Hawai'i... but my love for Hawai'i Island has easily tripled in the past few years!  The history and the "sense of place" are very strong here. This is the island where the Great King Kamehameha was born and raised. It is the home to the powerful Madame Pele, and her Kilauea volcano!  At the same time; this is where the very famous and much loved "Kona coffee" is grown too!

This island is very- very big!  But I say; all the more reason to plan the experience you want, by using the expertise of a Certified Master Hawai'i Island Specialist! (That would be me of course!)

Just the opinions of this Professional Travel Consultant~ Aloha!

Fall Travel Has Begun!

Hello Everyone!

After a summer of planning vacations for my guests, it was time for me to once again "hit the road"! My first adventure of the fall/winter season was for my own birthday celebration to Disneyland!

This year was not only for my birthday.  I also celebrated the 20th Anniversary of DreamCatcher! What was even more exciting was this year I was joined by some very special people!  Clients from DreamCatcher's very first year in business, who I now call my dear friends.

My stay this year was at the Disneyland Hotel.  I had a gorgeous room on the eighth floor with a magnificent view of the parks and DownTown Disney.  We all stayed at the hotels of Disneyland, and for one couple it was the first time.  I have always told my guests that once you have stayed "in the magic" you will never consider a "Good Neighbor" again... and this time was no different! These gals experienced Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel, and even upgraded to "concierge"! They will forever know the "magic" of a stay at a Disney hotel, and now really understand the value of the location.

Disneyland has just completed the big 60th Anniversary celebration, it ended on September 5th. So these days the parks are transitioning to the Halloween and Christmas festivities. Just the same; the "FastPass" came in very handy, as there were still some pretty good crowds! Disneyland is honoring Halloween with the traditional make-over of the "Haunted Mansion", and "HyperSpace Mountain". Plus the always popular "Mickey's Halloween Party" begins this Friday, September 23rd!  The party is considered a "special event", so an additional ticket is required.  But the fun runs well into the night with lots of special treats for everyone! (Insider Tip; if you have been thinking of going, do not delay! The party is held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights, with a special schedule the weekend before Halloween.  And all the Friday night events are already sold out!)

Over at Disney's California Adventure Park there is also lots of excitement!  The very popular "Soarin", was closed down for a complete make-over.  Now referred to as "Soarin Around the World". The new version of this ride does not disappoint!  With spectacular videography of beautiful and amazing places around the world. Insider Tip; there is a distortion problem, that may/may not be corrected. To avoid seeing this; ask for glider 'B', the first row is always the best.  But now you need to also be in the center glider for the very best experience.

There has been additional changes at Disney's California Adventure, and more to come!  The beloved "Aladdin" did close this year in January, and in June we welcomed "Frozen" to the Hyperion Theater! For those who have seen it; the show is spectacular, fun, and heart warming. But this new production has had some issues.  My own experience was very disappointing, as the show was canceled.  After two hours of getting our Fast Passes, then waiting in line.  We entered the theater finally, got seated with the popcorn.  Then only ten minutes into the production, continued technical difficulties caused the show to be canceled. We were not compensated in any way, and there was no confirmation of the shows going on for the remainder of the day.  Insider Tip; try and see the show, it is worth it. (I hear from great sources!) But make sure you have the time, and ask the cast members about these cancellations.

I wanted to mention the dining!  Yes, Disneyland has become a dining destination for sure!  Long gone are the days of hot dogs and popcorn.  Although I must admit; Disneyland still has the best popcorn, and the corn dogs are "to die for"!  But let me share with you some of the spectacular dinners we enjoyed on this visit!

The always comfortable, easy, and great food at the ESPN Zone started our first evening. The added bonus of my "name in lights" above the entrance was pretty great!  (Even the DownTown restaurants like to make a deal of a girl's birthday!)  The next night we enjoyed our dinner at "Tortilla Joe's". Really good Mexican food, just too much for me!  (If you are a big eater~ this is a must try!)  Next we experienced the truly wonderful and surprising food, service and atmosphere of "Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen". I was sincerely impressed, as it does not look at all on the inside, what you see from the street walking by. It is far more elegant, and the food and service exceeded my expectations!

My "special day" was Saturday, and we started with my favorite tradition breakfast with Ariel and her Princess Friends.  This magical experience is at "Ariel's Grotto" in the California Adventure Park. This is the perfect character dining experience for "kids of all ages", and my group was no exception! Every Princess stopped for conversation and photos. The food is outstanding, and you are served table side!  It is truly the Disney-way to start your day, and especially fun for a birthday!

For the birthday dinner we went to one of my favorites the Carthay Circle Restaurant in Disney's California Adventure Park.  It's a stunning location, beautiful atmosphere, and excellent food and service! We enjoyed three courses as a part of the "dinner and show" combination. This entitles each guest to a very special viewing area for the night time spectacular "World of Color", which we saw after dinner. I can not encourage my guests enough to experience this package at least once during your next visit! It's a wonderful way to spend the evening, and Disney really makes you feel like a VIP!

This was a very special year for me, and for my business! But this year's visit to Disneyland was made truly magical by the amazing and wonderful people I had the privilege of sharing it with this time! Before this trip we were all individuals who love Disney. Now we are close friends, with special memories shared!  Disneyland really is all about those special memories.  I look forward now to many more shared in the future!

I truly hope you will allow DreamCatcher to help you plan your next visit to the "Happiest Place on Earth"!  Because making those "magical moments" happen for your family is what we do best!

Just the "Dis-nified" opinion of this Professional Travel Consultant!

This summer choose a Travel Professional!

Aloha... from sunny California!

As some of you know my office and home (most of the time) is in Northern California.  During the summer months I stay close to my office because I have a lot of guests going on their vacations! One thing that has been a constant, and always a part of my business practice is my very high level of service! My happy guests and the success of their vacation experiences are my priority!

I think it is interesting that many people are unaware of the services of a Travel Professional, and that for the most part they are complimentary! But let's be honest; many people think that booking everything themselves is what they are supposed to do!  I want everyone reading my blog posts to know... it's what you can do~ but you do not have to anymore! I hope to get you to at least consider the alternatives in this edition!

First point~ your airfare!  We all know that the first step to building your vacation package, or the details you will reserve, is your airfare.  I absolutely want to make this first point a strong one; we are all looking at the same thing people!  The very best tip I can share is it is all about "availability". So you are not finding anything "online" that I could not also offer to you. If it's available we all have access to it!  But here's my advantage; my airfare for you is refundable, and changeable with out penalties!  It costs you no more, and if "life happens" and you need to make a change, all you do is call and we fix it... it's that easy!

The next step is of course... where you are going to stay!  Now I totally understand that some people have a favorite place, and have no intention of going elsewhere!  But my question always is; when were you there last?  Hawai'i (my #1 specialty) is forever changing, growing, and reinventing itself! As a part of my services I make sure to "consult" with every guest, and advise if their intended destination or resort has made some changes. Most of the time they are all good!  But sometimes that special location or restaurant you remember, is now gone!  Nothing spoils a perfect vacation faster then that kind of surprise!  I make sure my guests are well informed, and have made the right choices for them, and they are never "surprised" after they arrive!

But I would also like to talk for a moment about the guests that have "never been there before". I know people like doing their "research", and I respect that always.  But a very common resource is a friend or family member.  This can often be a Travel Consultant's worst nightmare. I never disrespect this advice, often times it is good and accurate.  But more often than not it comes from a person who has also not visited the destination in years! The perfect example is when people call me and tell me they want to go to Maui.  My first question is always; "Please tell me why you have chosen Maui?" The answer 9 out of 10 times is that a friend or family member went there and so that is where they are going.  What troubles me is the answer to my next question; "What do you want to see and do while on Maui?"  Most of the time they are very general; "I want to lay on the beach during the day, or sight-see, and go out at night!" Or they quite literally do not know what they want to do, or what they will see at all!  As an expert and someone who spends a lot of time in Hawai'i, I find this the most frustrating of all!  You see all the islands are very, very different and have unique qualities and things to offer!  Just because your best friend went there and loved it, does not always mean its perfect for you!  Case in point; there is no "night life" on Maui!  Great restaurants (some of the best), some awesome luau, and a few very entertaining shows!  But there are no night clubs, and staying out until the "wee hours" of the morning... not on Maui anyway!

Then the next step of planning any great vacation... and it's often not even in the planning for a lot of people.  Your activities, tours, and dining reservations!  Still so often I talk with people that really want to "leave this open", or "we do not want to be stuck to a schedule."  To this I must reply; then please be prepared to miss some of the most special and fun things available for you to do!  You see the Islands of Aloha are busy, all the time!  Some times of the year are of course worse than others. For example; traditional summer months, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Spring Break, and anytime there is a three day weekend!  I have never seen the reasoning in not making a dinner reservation... they are free, and if you change your mind, you just cancel it!  With so many great Chefs moving to Hawai'i, the word is out!  If you want to eat dinner anytime before 830PM, you better have that reservation! As for luau; I still go to them myself, they are fun, and the food is great!  But if you do not have a reservation before arriving on island, there is a very real possibility you will not go!  Some of the best luau sell out weeks in advance!

In closing this post I just want to express to you all; I am passionate about Hawai'i and vacation planning.  I love what I do, and I love to share my expertise so that your experience will be the very best it could be!  My goal has always been; to make this the best vacation you have yet experienced! So that you will come home happy, feeling spoiled, and talking about it with all your friends!  I do not want to just "sell" you something!  I want to earn your trust, share my aloha, and become "Your Travel Consultant" from this trip forward!

Just the sincere opinion of this Certified Master Hawai'i Specialist!  A hui hou...

Kauai ~ My Garden Home!

Aloha Everyone!

In this post I want to share my most recent visit to the beautiful island of Kauai!  This island holds a very special place in my heart, and has been my second home since 1989!

Many people have said different things about this island.  But I always prefer to describe it in this way; "It's the one island in the Hawaiian chain, that looks like what people think Hawaii is supposed to look like, if they have never been there before!"

My stay this time began on the Royal Coconut Coast, just below where the "Sleeping Giant" lays! For me (a self-professed five star girl!) my home for the first four days was the Courtyard by Marriott. This little gem is right in the heart of Wailua and Kapa'a Town, and is really quite lovely!  I have always said that one of the things that has always drawn me close to Hawaii are the people!  The staff here from the front desk to housekeeping are very special! The resort is talking about some upgrades, and they will be very well received.  But until then; they have the best beds!  This is a great choice for those on a more modest budget.

From this ideal location on the east-side of the island , I focused my visits north.  My favorite spot and home in the north shore is Princeville and Hanalei!  I was excited and eager to return to the stunning St. Regis Princeville!  This very special resort sits on the bluff, at the opening of the mythical~ Hanalei Bay.  Your views from most all of the rooms and suites is the ocean and Na'Pali, which is Hawaiian for "The Cliffs".  There is something truly magical about this place, I always feel completely at peace here. The resort is exceptional, the rooms very large and well appointed. But they are most and best known for their service, and they never disappoint!  When you are ready to pamper yourself, and experience the very best service... contact me, and we will plan your visit to the St. Regis at Princeville!

Regretfully I left the perfection of St. Regis, but I did not go very far!  Just down the road I visited with my friend at the Westin Princeville Villas!  This is one of the newest resorts on the island, and if you want to stay in a condo resort~ this is the one!  The grounds are stunning, the views spectacular, and the units here are five star!  Beautiful fully equipped kitchens with dark woods and granite, living rooms with actual comfortable sofa-beds, and gorgeous master suites with amazing big bathrooms! The pool area rivals any five star resort, with all the expected services!  But I really want to emphasize their restaurant ~ Nanea! They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and I have yet to experience anything except excellent food and service!  So even if you are not a guest of the Westin, you should make plans to stop here to enjoy Nanea!

After four amazing days in the east and north shores of Kauai, I packed up and moved to my home... okay "second home", the exceptional Grand Hyatt Kauai!  Located in the popular Poipu Beach resort area, in the south part of the island. This is truly a resort I could live at permanently~ if they would let me!  Every time I return it always feels like coming home!  The best valet and bell staff; they remember me year after year, and always welcome me home with a hug!  The front desk staff continues to amaze, they are always thinking about how to go above and beyond, and never disappoint!  The rooms are gorgeous, and very large!  The location on Shipwreck Beach just could not be any better!  But this resort's most outstanding features; the water ways, lagoons, pools, and of course the world famous "Anara Spa"!  I have always described this special place as being completely "self-contained".  Once you arrive, you will really find it very hard to leave!  But please do at least go and see the rest of the island!

When I visit my islands, I always see all the great resorts of course!  But I also make it a point to experience different activities and tours, so that I can personally share those experiences with my guests. On this visit one of the hi-lights for sure was my catamaran ride north to Na'Pali, and then across the channel to the island of Ni'ihau! This island is privately owned, and home to some very devoted Hawaiian people.  They live in a very primitive way (by today's' standards) with only generated power, and zero technology! They are there by choice, and very protective of their home. It has always been on my "bucket list", and now I have been there!  It was a very interesting and exciting journey, those waters are everything people said they would be... and more!  But it was worth it, and I would do it again!  Mahalo nui loa (thank you very much) to my friends at Holo Holo Charters for a great day!

My passion for Hawaii, the culture, the history, and the people just grows stronger with every visit! If you have been looking for that perfect destination, especially for a honeymoon, anniversary, or romantic getaway... visit Kaua'i!

Just the very devoted opinion of this Hawai'i Destination Specialist!  A hui hou... (until next time).

The Magic of Maui!

Aloha!

I wanted to share today my latest experience on the beautiful island of Maui!  More accurately the county of, or Maui Nui.  This geographically includes; the islands of Maui, Lana'i, Moloka'i, and Kaho'olawe.

This visit I was very pleased to spend four days in the Ka'anapali Resort area, and then four additional days in the Wailea Resort area.  My home for the first four nights was the gorgeous Honua Kai Resort in the Ka'anapali area.  This is a condo style resort with all the amenities of a five star hotel!  I had a beautiful one-bedroom ocean view, that I could have easily called home for much longer!  With several pool areas, a big beach, adorable market and deli, and their very own Duke's restaurant! This resort makes it hard for you to leave at all!  It's not my first time staying here.  But it was my first experience at their spa!  I was ultimately pampered, and relaxed by my "lomi lomi" massage, and then time in the Himalayan Salt Room! Mahalo nui loa to my ohana at this very special place!

While in the north part of Maui, convenient to the port town of Lahaina, I made a visit by ferry to the island of Lana'i. The 45 minute ride was this time of year a real "2 for 1"!  As I sighted a "full breach" by our friends the Humpback Whales, as well as, several tail sightings on the ride over! Upon arrival I was met by the Director of Sales from the Four Season Resorts, for my day of exploration and absolute amazement! Never in my career have I seen a transformation of such beauty and perfection implemented so fast! From June of 2015 to the first of February 2016, this resort today is completely different!  As I commented to a client recently; "There are five star resorts... and then there is Four Seasons!" The level of service is without comparison, and the rooms are so technologically advance and luxurious, you will simply not believe it!  When you are ready to experience truly the best of the best... please contact Teri at DreamCatcher Vacations.

Another great part about what I do, and the services I provide my guests are the activities and tours. I experience as much as possible while I am visiting, so that I am able to truly describe them to others. My first was the fabulous show "Ulalena", in Lahaina Town.  This very visual, "cirque du soleil" style presentation depicts the history and culture of the Hawaiian people. It is moving and entertaining, and a great way to spend the early evening before a dinner in town!  I also revisited the most popular luau in all of Hawai'i, the "Old Lahaina Luau". This luau is truly still not to be missed! The entertainment is very good, and the food is excellent!  But what impressed me the most was the service!  The staff is awesome, meticulous about details, and so eager to serve!  I will go back, much sooner next time, and you should not miss this experience!

After four wonderful days in the north, I moved to the south part of Maui to the Wailea Resort area. My home for the next four days was the exceptional and stunning Fairmont Kea Lani. This all suites resort is the only one of it's kind on the island, and has all the amenities you would expect at a fine, five star resort.  The suites are beautiful and spacious with the most wonderful bathrooms.  But the thing you do not want to miss here is the dining!  The original fine dining at Nick's Fishmarket, which opened with the resort, and still impresses today!  But my favorite is the addition of "Ko". The experience here is truly special, as is the service and atmosphere.  They have proven you do not need an ocean view, if you are serving great food!

While staying in the south part of this island I also spent the day "up country".  I visited my two favorite spots; the Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm, and the Surfing Goat Dairy!  The lavender is gorgeous, but do not miss the tour of the gardens.  The products sold in the little shop will have you addicted to all things lavender! Plus they serve the food products out on the lanai; nothing better than a warm scone and hot lavender tea!  Then on my way back down Mt. Haleakala, I turned down the road to visit those crazy goats!  You really should stay for a tour.  But do not leave without tasting the goat cheeses!  You have not actually tasted goat cheese, until you taste it here!  Before you call it a day; go back inside the little shop and get some of the truffles, also made from that famous cheese!  You will return to the dairy just for them, I promise you!

I think the most important thing to share in this post... I visit this island at least once a year (some years more), and I still find new and wonderful things to share!  Maui is a living thing, and that means change!  So being able to stay current with the things that are new and changing is important for me, so that I am able to make sure my guests are never surprised!

Hoping you enjoyed this post and found the information interesting and important!  From this Travel Professional and lover of all things Hawaiian!

My 2016 started with the "magic" of Walt Disney World!

Hi there everyone!

So I hope your 2016 has started off well! January was a busy month, always has been.  But it was also the start for my first travel experience of the year, and this time it was to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida!

Walt Disney World; very special indeed, and known as the "Most Magical Place on Earth"!  Which is unlike it's counter-part in California (the original) and the "Happiest Place on Earth"! Do you know some of the other differences?  They are extremely different these two destinations, size being the most obvious.  Disneyland; which now includes Disney's California Adventure Park, is 152 acres, not including the Downtown District.  While Walt Disney World is 41 square miles, or roughly the size of the greater San Francisco area!

But why do I bring this up you ask~ when Walt Disney World was where I visited?  Because one of the most important things I want to share in this post... because of the size, and all that is there for you to enjoy, please do not plan Walt Disney World on your own!

My stay this time was at the beautiful Disney's Polynesian Village Resort!  This resort has always been one of my favorites, located right on the Seven Seas Lagoon!  This makes it just a Monorail ride away from the "Magic Kingdom" and "Epcot", and has a station just off the lobby on the second floor!  They have recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation, and added some gorgeous "over-water bungalows" (two and three bedrooms) for families to enjoy! I was very excited to spend my time in one of the new "studios".  Nicely appointed, very comfortable, and perfect for a couple or small family!

This visit for me was focused on the dining!  Walt Disney World has become a spectacular dining destination!  Long gone are the days of hot dogs and popcorn as your main food source!  (Don't panic popcorn lovers~ they still have both!)  But in fact; when done right, this magical place is home to some pretty amazing restaurants!

Now here's how it works best for you!  All packages should include a "meal plan", and there is one just right for you, no matter your appetite!  They are a proven value, and an absolute savings over not having one at all!  I most often recommend the "Deluxe Dining~ or Plus Dining Plan", with one quick-service meal, one snack, and one sit-down dining per person, per day!  With the greatest value to you, planning your "sit-down" dining experience in the evening for dinner.  Now here is one of the most important tips regarding dining at Walt Disney World... you have to reserve dinners and specialty meals (like Character breakfasts) 180 days in advance!  Yes, I am saying six months! If you do not, many of the most popular will be long since sold out! (Another reason you should be planning with an expert!)

The above, unassuming exterior is that of the "Be Our Guest" restaurant, in the new "Fantasyland" area of the "Magic Kingdom". They now serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner due to over-whelming demand!  The really fun part; the breakfast and lunch, although served to you, is considered a "quick-service" meal on your dining plan!  This is a real plus when planning, and makes it easy to dine there for two meals in one day... and worth it!  The breakfast is seriously so good, and in fact more than you can eat!  But I also must mention the dinner.  I have eaten at some pretty amazing, five star restaurants during my travels!  The service here was excellent, and the food was far better than I was expecting! Plus; it is one of only two places in this "Magic Kingdom", where you are able to enjoy an adult beverage with your meal!  I highly recommend it for the perfect place after a very long day in this park!

My next favorite I wanted to share (above photo) is "Jiko", at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge- Jambo House.  This unique dining experience features dishes from Africa.  They are gorgeous and served with great attention to details.  But the flavors are outstanding and what you will remember most!

Another favorite is one you will find at Disney's Hollywood Studios~ "The Hollywood Brown Derby". It's interior design and even the menu are fashioned after the world famous original from Hollywood back in the day!  The food is exceptional, and certainly deserves it's five star rating! They have even kept their signature "Grapefruit Cake".  Which was invented by the chef to ease the minds of all the ladies on "diets". It was after all... grapefruit! This is one you really should try, and don't even attempt it without that reservation!

There are so many more; from character dining to five star, from luau to chef's tables!  But I also wanted to mention (for those less adventurous) there are many "name brands" available to you too! Most recently is Starbucks!  They are in the parks, provide a great choice for breakfast (with your favorite coffee drink) and they are on the meal plans too!

So whether you prefer to run all day and eat that way too!  Or like to sit down and enjoy a nice dinner served to you... Walt Disney World provides it all!

Walt Disney World... opened in 1971, despite the fact that it's name sake died five years before it opened.  Roy Disney (Walt's brother and business partner) had been planning on retiring.  But he postponed that in order to see Walt's dream through to opening. It is a special place, and it is very large.  So whether you just want to play in the parks (four of those), or experience the dining or both! The secret to a great Walt Disney World vacation is ... planning!

Just the educated (by Disney), and personal experience... of this Travel Professional!