If you’ve ever met me, then you know it’s only a matter of time before I end up talking about Disney World.
And whilst it receives a lot of eye-rolls, I genuinely enjoy talking, discussing and planning trips to the Orlando theme park, because its great.
Whilst the ever escalating costs aren’t my favourite, you can’t deny that you pay for what you get.
I’ve been to Walt Disney World four times in my 22 years of existence and I have fond memories of each.
Whether that’s being creeped out by Its A Small World as a small child or being creeped out by Its A Small World as a 21-year-old, all are fondly remembered.
And when I talk to people about my trips they always say the same things: “Why do you want to go to a kids park” or “But it’s so expensive”.
Now, for the first comment, if you think that Disney World is just for kids then you have clearly never looked into it, apart from listening to the clichés.
The four theme parks offered in Orlando are far from just kiddie rides you might see at Pontins. At Magic Kingdom you have Space Mountain, Animal Kingdom has Everest (and a safari), Hollywood Studios has Tower of Terror and Epcot – arguably built for adults – let’s you have alcohol from a variety of nations across the globe.
Yes there are kids rides in all four locations, and yes the mascot is a mouse, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed by adults.
And hey, what’s the point in growing up if you can’t have a little fun once in a while.
As for the second point, the price, it’s hard to disagree.
In pricing up potential trips for two people flying as cheap as possible and staying in the cheapest on-property hotel, the price still comes out between £2,000 – £3,000. Much more than a standard all-inclusive package holiday.
But there is no denying you get your moneys worth.
The main difference between Disney World and anywhere else is the staff.
Staff are on hand at all times in the day to make sure your stay is as ‘magical’ as possible, and they succeed.
Not only that but, of course, the rides provides thrills and entertainment that lasts the entirety of your stay meaning you will never find yourself bored.
Now, I’m not saying there’s nothing wrong with Disney World.
Sometimes rides break down, sometimes shows get cancelled, often the amount of people can provide a horrible sense of claustrophobia, but it’s the overall package that you remember.
You remember that amazing interaction you had with Kylo Ren, you remember the first time you saw the castle as you walked down Main Street and you remember those memories for as long as you live.
The point of this piece, is to not only show my love for a set of theme parks, but to hopefully try and convince people that they’re not just for kids, they provide something for everyone.
Connor Mountford 