One of the things I love about Disney is getting exposed to other cultures. Between the movies and music and trips to Epcot, I’ve gotten a glimpse of other countries I’d love to learn more about. There is so much out there to see! If you’ve always wanted to travel, here are three ways you can explore the world with Disney.
What type of travel are you looking for?
I Want a Taste of Other Cultures
Destination: Walt Disney World Resort
If you’re not quite ready to leave the country, you can still sample the cuisine, music, art, and culture of other countries. One of the best examples is the World Showcase in Epcot. Here you will find pavilions that celebrate 11 different countries (America is one of them). Each “country” includes performers, exhibits, movies, dining, shopping, replicas of icons, and more. The Cast Members who work in each pavilion are even from those native countries, so you can ask them interesting questions about their homelands. For kids you can buy or make World Showcase passports, or participate in craft projects at the Kidcot stops. If you can, visit during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival for samplings from over 20 additional countries.
Another great option is Animal Kingdom. This park has areas focused specifically on Africa and Asia. Go on a safari to view real life savanna flora and fauna. Walk past tigers, bats, and gorillas. Watch performers share their culture through music and dance. Dine at Tiffins or Nomad Lounge to experience an African- and Asian-inspired menu. You can also visit Animal Kingdom Lodge for fantastic meals at Jiko, Boma, and Sanaa. The lodge displays collections of African artwork throughout the lobby. One of my favorite spots in Animal Kingdom is Nomad Lounge which displays travel stories from visitors around the world (you can even contribute your own).
If you’ll be in Magic Kingdom, you can still be inspired by the spirit of adventure. Explore Adventureland for attractions such as Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room and Jungle Cruise. The Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper’s Canteen is decorated with travel paraphernalia from around the world. Stay at the nearby Polynesian Village Resort for a taste of Pacific culture. Or, if you’re looking to teach your kids about other countries, take a boat ride through “it’s a small world”.
I Want to Visit Other Countries
Destination: Disney Cruise Line
If you’ve never traveled outside the country before, a cruise is a relaxing way to do it. Sail around the world without having to worry about hotel arrangements. Sample new foods, new surroundings, and new cultures. You can visit ports in the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, and Canada (among others) with Disney Cruise Line.
European cruises give you the option of Northern Europe, Western Europe, the Norwegian Fjords, the Mediterranean, or the British Isles. Imagine touring Copenhagen, Reykjavik, or St. Petersburg with your family. Or seeing Spain, Italy, and France in one trip. Why not bring along a phrase book and learn a little bit of each language you’ll encounter? Book port excursions to explore the landmarks, or combine your cruise with an Adventures by Disney itinerary to immerse yourself further in your destination.
Tour the islands of the Eastern, Western, or Southern Caribbean. You’ll stop in ports such as Falmouth, Jamaica and Bridgetown, Barbados. I love the idea of comparing the cultures of different island nations. There is so much more to see than just the beaches (although they’re pretty great too). Shore excursions will introduce you to the people and wildlife. You can also visit Mexico either on a Western Caribbean cruise, a Mexican Riviera cruise, or a Baja cruise.
For a cooler cruise, why not explore the coast of Canada? Sail from New York or from the Californian Coast to see Halifax, Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), or Vancouver. You can even board a transatlantic cruise that takes you past Nova Scotia and over to Western Europe. See a side of North America you haven’t experienced before.
I Want to Go On an Adventure
Destination: Adventures by Disney
As the name implies, there’s no better way to set off on an adventure than with Adventures by Disney. Each itinerary is carefully crafted to immerse you in the history, art, crafts, food, music, and culture of countries on six continents. Hotel accommodations, meals, and activities are arranged for you so all you need to do is arrive and enjoy the experience.
You’ll tour destinations with Disney’s Adventure Guides and local experts, so you won’t have to worry about a language barrier or not getting an authentic experience. Get private VIP access to landmarks such as the Vatican Museums, Edinburgh Castle, and the Vienna Zoo. Imagine standing in the Sistine Chapel with only a small group around you. Or seeing the famous Terracotta Warriors in person. Learn how to make pasta in Tuscany, walk the Great Wall of China, or go snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands. And do this all with all with a level of service only Disney can provide.
Adventures by Disney is great for families who don’t have time to research the perfect trip. Plus you’ll have “backstage access” that isn’t available to the public. You get all the benefits of a guided tour, while also participating in local activities and having free time to explore on your own. There is no better way to explore the world than with Adventures by Disney.
I hope this has given you some new ideas about traveling the world on a vacation the whole family will love. Whether you’re ready to trek through the jungles of Costa Rica or you’re content to branch out with some new cuisine in Epcot, there is a Disney vacation perfect for you.
Ready for your next Disney trip? Let me help design your dream Disney vacation! I offer stress-free vacation planning, personalized itineraries, concierge services, and more at no cost to you. Request a free, no-obligation quote through my web form, email me at jtullino@themouseexperts.com, or call me at (321) 222-DSNY. I’d love to help your plan your most memorable vacation yet!
