Walt Disney World for adults

I know a lot of you are thinking, really? Disney World for adults? You’ll hear the words ‘Disney World’ and be thinking you wish you were taken there as a kid but now as an adult the place is far removed from your ideal holiday or vacation.

Back a few years ago at the age of 21 and after spending time backpacking around the world I agreed with most peoples sentiments however I was invited by Disney themselves which was too good an opportunity to turn down.

I’m now proud to say that I am one of only roughly 50 Disney Star Travel Experts in the UK who has personally been invited to Walt Disney World by Disney themselves. I’m now a self confessed Disney aficionado and have been back a couple of times and feel that with some forethought Disney World can be an excellent and fun holiday for adults as well as children. If you’re thinking of visiting as adults (big kids) then see my tips below.

 

THE RIGHT TIME OF TIME OF YEAR

Obviously it goes without saying, avoid the kids school breaks. Long queues for rides and attractions are going to ruin any excitement you may have had.

Personally I have found the best time to visit to be the middle of May, the parks aren’t as busy after the Easter and spring breaks and don’t get busy again until the May Half Term weeks at the end of the month.

Early November is a similar situation with October half term out the way and thanksgiving coming up you will find the parks noticeably quieter.

THE RIGHT RESORT HOTEL

Yes they all do character breakfasts and there are plenty of things for kids but pick the right resort and you might not even see any kids!

If you don’t want to break the budget then Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is my favourite of all Disney’s moderate resorts. The reason being is that this resort is more suited to adults and older children rather than younger families. The Coronado Springs is one of Disney’s main convention hotels which probably explains why it’s more geared to an older age range.

The grounds of this resort are large and the rooms spread around the lake ‘Lago Dorada’. There are three separate themed areas Ranchos which are like Mexican Ranches, Casitas similar to Mexico City living and the Cabanas which are like beach cabanas and close to the lake and man made beach. It is worth noting that the Ranchos are the furthest from El Centro which houses the resorts reception, restaurants and shops. The furthest room being a 10 minute stroll so make sure you make the appropriate room requests for your stay.

This resort is close to Typhoon Lagoon, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Another reason for the resort perhaps not being popular with young families is that the trip to the Magic Kingdom can take up to 40 minutes on Disney Transport.

If its luxury you want and you budget is not a problem then look no further than the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. This place doesn’t really need any introduction, it is a true 5* resort and the base for Disney weddings hence the reason there are not too many kids around.

 

THE RIGHT RESTAURANT

Disney is certainly not all burgers, turkey legs, hot dogs, pizzas and extra large fries. There are some great culinary experiences to be had such as Jiko at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, which offers traditional African cuisine and Victoria & Alberts at the Grand Floridian, which is a truly opulent dining occasion that lasts the whole evening.

In the autumn there is also the Epcot Food & Wine festival which offers fantastic cuisines from all over the world.

Personally I feel the food on offer at Disney World is easily better than my local town centre. Don’t miss out on those turkey legs either, there huge and very tasty!

 

THE RIGHT PARKS

The Magic Kingdom is understandably Disney’s most popular park, especially with families. You are going to find the most kids running around here.

It is definitely worth taking advantage of the extra magic hours offered to Disney Resort guests. A nominated park will be open for an extra 3 hours and obviously the later into the evening the less kids.

 

 

IT’S NOT JUST THE PARKS

Disney offers everything from water parks, parasailing, race car driving, shopping, boat and bike hire and world class shows such as Cirque Du Soleil La Nouba.

You can also hide out at your resort hotel, which is normally very quiet during the day, chill by the pool or beach and have a few drinks.

 

DON’T DISMISS THE MOUSE

Many travellers or backpackers I speak to hate the thought of Disney. But I say don’t dismiss the mouse! Disney really does offer something for every age. The imagineers and creative directors have made sure there is more than enough across the resort to cater for adults.

So even if you don’t have kids give Disney a chance I’m sure you will be pleasantly surprised like I was.

Disney World for adults is great too.