The Epic Universe Effect: Why a Disney vs. Universal Debate Misses the Real Story

Epic Universe is coming, and the Orlando theme park landscape is about to shift! But what does this mean for the long-standing "Disney vs. Universal" rivalry? We're breaking down why this competition is actually the best thing for us, the park enthusiasts. Get ready to explore the unique magic of Disney and Universal and understand why their push for the top means more thrills, more immersion, and more incredible vacations for everyone.Make sure to check out our partners at MickeyTravels to book your next Disney adventire! https://mickeytravels.com/get-a-quote/

In today's episode Serena is joined by her friend and theme park expert Megan duBois to share real, doable ways to save money on your next Disney World trip. Tons of practical tips for saving money and sticking to a budget as well as the free and inexpensive things you can take advantage of that you're already paying for. Megan is a theme park journalist who writes for Forbes, Conde Naste, Points Guy, Delish and more. Follow along on her latest adventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minglingwithmegan/Ready to book your next Disney adventure? Contact our partners at MickeyTravels!https://mickeytravels.com/get-a-quote/

Ever wondered what's really going on behind the scenes at Disney World? This week I joined an exclusive, insider conversation with Disney executives, sharing their top priorities for the next year, and revealing exciting updates coming this summer! Let's dive deep into their strategies for enhancing the guest experience, and I share why I left this meeting feeling incredibly hopeful about the future of the parks. From new attractions to revamped guest services, we cover it all. Get ready for a rare glimpse into the magic-making process and discover what Disney is focusing on to create unforgettable memories for you.Also discussed- the latest news of the week inlcuding opening dates for two new shows!Mentioned links: Email for giving Disney feedback: mailto:[email protected] to book your next Disney adventure? Contact our partners at MickeyTravels!https://mickeytravels.com/get-a-quote/

Want to totally master Animal Kingdom park? How about without buying Lightning Lanes? Today we are breaking down all the strategies and taking you step by step on the perfect one day itenerary for Animal Kingdom. We'll give you everything you need to master this park, without buying Lightning Lane Multi Pass, and both with and without Early Entry so this plan will work for everyone! This is the first of a 4-part series breaking down the best plan for each park at Disney World. It's updated with all the latest strategies tested thoroughly in the last month. And even if you already are a park master, enjoy this walk through of Serena's perfect day, including shows and food. Ready to book your next Disney adventure? Contact our partners at MickeyTravels!https://mickeytravels.com/get-a-quote/

Bringing kids with you to a Disney park definitely requires some specific strategies and this is your ultimate guide to creating the most magical Disney trip with your little ones. Today Serena is joined by mom of four Abby who will share her insights from countless trips including visiting with 3 kids under 2! In this episode we will discuss:What should be the goal?How to set realistic expectations?Beware of bad advice!Quality over quantityWhich Disney trip is best?Should you try character dining?Is Dining Plan good for kids?How to get great photos of everyoneShould you bring a stroller?Thank you so much to Abby Yingling for joining me today! If you'd like to take advantage of all her expertise, she can help you plan your Disney vacation as well! You can find her on Facebook or email her at:[email protected]://www.facebook.com/MickeyTravelsAbbyRehnerYingling/

Big news roundup! Today Serena will break down all the latest news we've gotten for Disney World including:When will Spring Break crowds arrive?Starlight Parade Updates (and why I'm excited)After Hours party for summer (and why I'm not excited)What Disney is doing to design the new Cars rideCan Rivers of America be saved?What we still don't know for FrontierlandWhy the new Monsters coaster looks awesomeHuge changes coming to Galaxy's EdgeAs always, check out our ⁠partners at MickeyTravels⁠ to get your next Disney vacation booked! Mentioned: New Imagineering Show can be watched hereCheck out the thrilling new coaster launch

Staying at a Disney resort has some perks that comes with it- and today we will talk about Early Entry and Extended Evening Hours- are they worth using? And if so, what's the best way to use them?Serena will break down these perks and show you the best strategy to use them in each park. Plus the perk that so many aren't using!Hope you enjoy this episode, follow along on all our socials and make sure to check out our partners at MickeyTravels to book your next Disney vacation! https://mickeytravels.com/

In this episode, we dive into the life of Walt Disney, exploring 5 key lessons we can learn from one of history's greatest visionaries. Join Serena as she breaks down his powerful approach to creativity, resilience, leadership, and self-belief, and discover how these lessons can inspire anyone, no matter the goal, to achieve their dreams.Make sure to book your next Disney vacation with our partners at MickeyTravels! They are a diamond level Disney travel agency offering free planning services to help make your trip easier. Find them at https://mickeytravels.com/Mentioned in this episode is a previous one regarding having the Audacity to Chase Your Dreams listen here:⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/having-the-audacity-to-pursue-your-dreams-motivation/id1679476518?i=1000615843421⁠

The parks are getting busier each year but not to worry! There are lots of tucked away quiet spots if you know where to find them. Today Serena is joined by her friend Steven who has become a master at finding all the quiet places to take a break at Disney World. Today they share all their favorite secret spots that can't even be posted online for fear they will become too popular. You can find Steven on Instagram where he shares great info like this and more! https://www.instagram.com/dintroverts/Make sure to book your next Disney vacation with our partners at MickeyTravels! They are a diamond level Disney travel agency offering free planning services to help make your trip easier. Find them at https://mickeytravels.com/

Getting reservations at some of the most popular restaurants at Disney World can be tricky. Today Serena will share all her toolbox for getting those hard to find dining reservations PLUS what are the Top 10 most popular hard-to-get reservations at Disney World right now? Some of them may surprise you!Thanks for listening and make sure to check out our preferred partners at MickeyTravels for free travel planning from a Diamond level agency! MickeyTravels.comFind Living By Serena on all social media platforms for daily updates!