Parks and Pals

It's that time of year again where Disney World and Disneyland gear up for the spooky season with their nighttime special events of Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Oogie Boogie Bash. In this week's episode, we take you through everything you need to know about these scary spectaculars including treat trails, special character meets and costume recommendations.

Disney holidays can sometimes feel like a minefield - from the planning to dining and not to mention the added challenge of doing it all with children. In this week's episode, we are joined by the wonderful Hackett Family (@the_hackettfamily) to discuss getting the most out of a family Disney World trip. From how to manage temper tantrums to over-rated rides, we'll explore the most magic...

Every year, Disney makes a host of announcements about park developments, upcoming films and so much more. This year was no exception. In what might be Disney World's largest park expansions, this week, we discuss all the company's imminent projects and explore every prediction around the Disney parks worldwide!

Opening in April 1998 to a ‘roaring’ success, Animal Kingdom has become a fan favourite for all wannabe Wilderness Explorers. In this week’s episode, we discuss how to get the most out of the Orlando park that offers so much more than attractions and shows. Jump in everybody as today you’ll be riding on Simba One!

Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay have become fan favourites for theme parks and water parks in Orlando. Plus, with the eagerly anticipated opening of Epic Universe, there has never been a better time to visit. This week, we’ll deep dive into all the Universal Orlando Resort hotels to discuss the best options when planning your next vacation. 

The Disney World parks offer more than just world class attractions; they have incredible shows to truly capture the heart of Disney magic. This week, we are joined by Charlotte Farmer (@circleoflifechar), an ex-Disney World cast member boasting three programs, to discuss the unmissable, and slightly missable, shows offered in the Florida parks.

For years, EPCOT has developed and shifted with new attractions, interactive areas and immersive culture. Firmly cementing itself as a local favourite, and with an ever changing calendar, how do you get the most out of Walt Disney’s experimental park? In this week’s episode, we take you through our top tips to ensure you learn, play and explore all there is to offer at EPCOT. 

With the Orlando heat regularly reaching highs of 35+ degrees, we all need a place to cool off. From Volcano Bay to Blizzard Beach, the Floridian water parks have something to offer everyone including: high speed thrills, daring dingy adventures, lazy rivers, wave pools and even dolphin encounters. Join us this week as we 'dive in' to everything the sunshine state has to offer with a spl...

Bonjour! Disneyland Paris is full of magic and wonder, and for a lot of us in the UK, it’s our first experience of a Disney park. This week, we are joined by Holly (@happily.everholly) to discuss all of the magical memories she’s made at Disneyland Paris, as well as sharing our top tips, favourites and least favourites, and how to get the most out of your trip!

Look after the pennies, the pounds will look after themselves. A trip to Orlando requires meticulous planning, hours of research, and often, a budget that can seem daunting; but does it have to be this way? In this week’s episode, we explore the budget beating tips to get the most out of your Florida vacation without breaking the bank.  

From ground-breaking attractions to immersive worlds, Universal Orlando resort has it all. But where are the best places to refuel and energise for those hectic full park days? In this week's episode, we travel through Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk to discuss the stand-out food options available throughout the resort. We hope you have an empty stomach! 

After opening in October 1971, Magic Kingdom has become the iconic flagship of Walt Disney World, and a staple for all who visit. However, with high wait times, endless possibilities and a packed Main Street, how do you get the most out of a park day? This week, we explore every tip and trick you could possibly need to have the most magical day at the truly breathtaking park! 

Back in 1955, Walt Disney’s vision to create a theme park in Anaheim California became a reality, and so, the happiest place on earth was born! In this week's episode, we share all of our magical experiences from our recent trip to Disneyland California and California Adventure: expect several character meets, endless snacks and emotional reactions to shows.

Disney's reputation for creating world class entertainment, attractions and experiences covers every corner of the earth, but also, the seven seas. This week,  we are joined by Disney Cruise Line extraordinaire, and Parks and Pals favourite, Charlotte Fage (@thefagesisters_) as we explore Disney's entire fleet of current and upcoming cruise liners. Get ready to set sail!

Having previously ventured to the wonders of Disney World and Disneyland Paris, we are finally jetting off to the east coast to explore where it all began. Join us as we plan for our upcoming trip to the happiest place on earth Disneyland California and discuss every attraction, show, and eatery we plan to indulge in. Anaheim here we come!

After two weeks sailing the beautiful Caribbean seas, Chloe returns to tell us all about her trip on the Disney Wish. We'll discuss all the hidden details, dining experiences, shows, character meets and, of course, the incredible Castaway Cay. It's time to set sail! 

Both Disney World and Universal Studios in Florida have become must-visit tourist destinations for us Brits to experience the magic and wonder of world class attractions, experiences and worlds. However, they also offer a host of opportunities for UK citizens and students to work in the sunshine state. This week, we chatted to Louise (@louiseemmma) to discuss her summer program at Universal and ho...

For decades, Walt Disney Imagineering has captured the hearts, minds and imagination of every park-goer that sets foot on one of Disney's world famous attractions. This week, we explore where it all began, tracing the very start of WED enterprises and Imagineering, and discussing the incredible individuals that helped invoke wonder and create real life magic. 

It's back! After a long hiatus, the Disney World Dining Plan is finally back in full swing, and with select booking for 2025, you can secure this absolutely free. But what is the Disney Dining Plan? What is classed as a snack? Where can you get the most ‘bang for your buck’? Join us this week as we explore potential trips in 2025 to Orlando and indulge in everything Disney World dining has to...

With a trip on the famous Disney Wish imminent for our Chloe, we gathered our resident Disney Cruise Line expert Charlotte Fage (@thefagesisters_) to walk us through all of the exciting activities, food offerings and entertainment available on board. If you’ve ever considered a trip on a Disney Cruise Line then this trip planning episode is sure to become your go to guide for sailing the seas with...

Following on from our EPCOT festival series starter on Festival of the Arts, we dive head first into the springtime sensation that is Flower and Garden Festival. During this period of the year, the park welcomes world class entertainment, tremendous topiary, and mouth-watering food options. It's time to find out what the 'buzz' from Spike the Bee is all about!

When you walk into a Disney park anywhere in the world, you are immediately met by the true icon of the place; the castle. In this week's episode, we take a trip through history and around the globe to explore the history of all the Disney castles from their origins, inspirations, hidden features, walkthroughs and names (albeit with questionable pronunciations!) Whose castle is this anyways?

Disney World is an adventure; a trip like no other, and a chance to release your inner child. However, how do plans change when you’re taking a child for their first ever holiday? This week, we are joined by Sarah (@orla.ndoandme) to discuss her upcoming vacation with her daughter and how she’s approached the task of ‘My First Disney World Trip’. Expect top travel tips from flying, park hopping, s...

Before Universal Studios Orlando became the park we know and love today, it was rife with technical failures, disputes and fierce competition. In this week’s episode we explore the history of Universal Studios as we recount the opening day fiasco, attractions and reimaginings throughout the years. Expect epic ride names, nostalgia, and the epic feud between Spielberg and Lucas!

What's an anniversary episode without chaos and controversy? To celebrate our 50th episode, we've teamed up with all of our previous guests to debate our biggest Disney World opinions. Join us as we prepare for a no holds barred discussion where nothing is off the table - Are there certain foods to avoid? Which rides should be closed immediately?  And, are some attractions really worth t...