Okay, so I may be dating myself with that intro! But I am in fact a Disney Kid, and always will be! I wanted to share my recent Disneyland experience, but also wanted to make sure that you knew about "the magic" that truly exists there!
So many people that I talk to have what I call the "it's just Disneyland" attitude. They feel like if they have been there a few times, that they already know all you need to plan a visit. I would like to share a few of my experiences, and some of my "Disney Expertise", to hopefully change that way of thinking!
My visit started by checking into the wonderful and very "Disne~fied", Disneyland Hotel! With Disney touches from the entrance, to the front desk, the grounds, to the hotel hallways and rooms!
My first amazing experience was the "World of Color Dessert Party". This is a VIP event in the California Adventure Park that should not be missed! It does have an extra cost. But I found every minute of it to have been worth! No waiting, standing, and pushing hours before the show starts! But in fact high-tables and directors chairs. We were escorted to this exclusive area, then settled in and were served a stunning plate. Several beautiful (and oh so tasty) desserts, along with fresh fruits and cheeses. All were served along with our choice of "adult beverages", or soft drinks, or water, coffee and teas! It made for a relaxing and fun evening, not to mention the best "seats" in the house to see this breathtaking nighttime spectacular!
The next evening was an all new event at Disneyland, it's the Tomorrowland Skyline Lounge! Located just above the Star Wars Launch Bay in Tomorrowland. This very relaxing and intimate experience also starts with some wonderful Disney treats! Along with unlimited soft drinks, water, teas and coffee. The "secret" to this special place, is that it is also a great location to watch the fireworks! (I do need to mention; this is of course providing the fireworks are being presented that evening!) But for me the high-light was having Mickey and Minnie come by for a visit and pictures! The Disney kid in me was ecstatic, because I did not have to share them with any "actual kids"!(Children are of course welcome in the Skyline Lounge. That evening there were in fact only two.)
Then on my final evening at Disneyland I had reserved the very special; "Blue Bayou and Fantasmic Dinner and Show Package"! Now in my opinion as a huge Disney fan, and Master Disney Specialist... this is the ONLY way to see this show! The evening starts with a great dinner at the Blue Bayou (famous for being the restaurant inside the "Pirates of the Caribbean".) Then at the end of dinner you receive very cool "retro design" cushion, for the very special viewing area. These are of course yours to keep! A bit later I made my way to the waiting area, and then was escorted "front and center" to watch this "all new" presentation! Now "Fantasmic" has been around for a while. But went "dark" in January of 2016, as Disneyland began the construction of "Stars Wars; Galaxy's Edge". The new version (brought back in July 2017) is even bigger and better than ever before! So having this exclusive viewing area made the experience all that much better! Plus; the first showing of Fantasmic is referred to as a "2~fer". Because moments after the show ends, the Disneyland fireworks begin, and this location is ideal for viewing!
Now after years of visiting and planning Disney vacations, it never surprises me when I experience what we call a "magical moment". It comes in many different ways, and some people (sadly) will miss theirs. On this trip for me it happened one afternoon on Main Street USA. I was having some troubles, and had received some assistance from a Cast Member at the "Tiki Room". I only got as far as Main Street, and my difficulties continued. Then suddenly that Cast Member from the Tiki Room was standing in front of me, asking if I was okay and could he help. Now for those of you who know Disney well, this young man had left his "area" (this is not done at Disney!) to help me! I was so impressed, and scared for him at the same time! But he assured me he had received permission to come and help. He truly made me feel special, and let me know that someone cared!
I will never get tired or bored with Disneyland, and manage to find that "magic" with every visit! It truly is a special place, and I hope that Walt Disney is smiling on this park still today!
