! Why is it so unique you might ask? Many people are quick to say “No!” when they learn that Sanaa serves “African or Indian cuisine.” I’m sure most people glance at the menu and think, “Oh this is going to be weird and spicy!” Luckily that is not the case at all. Yes, the food does have an authentic African/Indian flare to it, but most people find it delicious and unique. Join me as we talk about Disney World Dining: Sanaa, to find out why I love it!

Disney World Dining: Sanaa

There are two main reasons I love Sanaa: Ambiance and Cuisine.

Ambiance

Sanaa is a table-service restaurant located at the Animal Kingdom Lodge in the Kidani Village. Quite frankly, its location is a hot minute from the rest of Disney World, so some people don’t give Sanaa a chance simply because of where it is. Fortunately, once you arrive and see the scenery and eat the food, it definitely makes the trip worth it! As you make your way downstairs where the restaurant is located you’ll see that the entrance features some beautiful, handcrafted African artwork. The beads that line the podium are simply gorgeous. You might even be able to spy a Hidden Mickey on the mats behind the counter where the “Sanaa” Sign is displayed. The waiting area outside of the restaurant features large windows that look out onto Sunset Savanna, the same view that you’ll enjoy once you’re seated inside. This plays into the ambiance that I mentioned earlier! Be sure to keep your eyes open to see some amazing hand-crafted decorations.

In the main dining room, the view above changes to resemble a tree canopy with rustic lanterns hanging from the branches overhead. One of the reasons I wanted to eat at this restaurant was the view! I requested a Savanna view before I was seated and it was so neat! Chances are great that you’ll have an opportunity to see a variety of animals as you dine.

Walt Express Tip

If seeing animals is important to you, here’s a TIP: be sure to book your Advanced Dining Reservation for earlier in the day. Choose either lunch or an early dinner. Later reservations might fall after dark, and you won’t be able to see much except your reflection in the glass at that point. With all of that being said, now it’s time to take a look at the menu!

Cuisine

I had no idea what to order but our waitress was amazing! She walked me through all of the drink options and the entire menu. She suggested the Bread Service for an appetizer, so that’s where the meal began.

The Famous Bread Service

If you’re dining at Sanaa for the very first time, you should know that bread service here is not complimentary. However, it is very much worth the price of $17.00. It came with some incredible breads and accompanying nine sauces and spreads. My favorite sauces were Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, Mango Chutney and Tamarind Chutney. The Bread Service was so unique and it was a great way to start the dinner.

Main Course

When it came to the entree part of the meal I decided to choose the Potjie Inspired option. This is where I got to choose one meat and one vegetable dish from several options and it was also served with rice. Overall the Butter Chicken was my favorite! The Butter Chicken I ate was so tender and flavorful, my fork would glide right through it. I loved it so much I now have created my own recipe and make it at home pretty often.

Dessert

Dessert was nothing short of amazing also. I had the Caramel N’dizi, which was Banana Financier with Caramelized Milk Chocolate Crémeux, Hazelnut Crunch, Banana-White Chocolate Chantilly, and Ginger Raspberries.

Disney Dining Plan

Sanaa is one table service credit per person on the Disney Dining Plan. The Bread Service is not included and will need to be purchased separately. The price for the bread service is $17.00.

Why I Love Sanaa

Sanaa remains one of my absolute top picks for dining at Disney World. Sure, it’s a little inconvenient, with its waaaaaaay off the beaten path location in Kidani Village. It’s true: you will likely need to mark off a few hours if you dine here. But it’s so worth it! The food is phenomenal. In addition to that, the care that Imagineers took in creating this restaurant is apparent everywhere. The view of the Sunset Savanna — free with a meal!! — is unparalleled. Usually, you would pay big bucks to see animals like this.

And don’t forget, once you’re at Animal Kingdom Lodge, there’s plenty to look at and see there as well. Even if you aren’t staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge, this restaurant is worth the trip.  It is definitely a hidden gem and reservations aren’t too hard to get here!

If you plan to head back to Animal Kingdom Park, be sure to check out these snacks that are available! ANIMAL KINGDOM SNACKS!

Looking for more Disney Dining reviews? We have lots of great information in our Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE! Join us today!

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So, I’m sure as you can imagine we pulled everything out of the house that could hurt her in any way. We take every precaution we can and watch everything she eats, constantly. Not only that, but she is constantly on the lookout for her predators.

She knows what can happen to her, so she takes extra precautions as well. So with that being said, we are very careful, EXTREMELY CAREFUL, when we go away from the house, especially out of town. We do not take our dining experiences away from home lightly, we take them very, very seriously!

How to Prepare for Food Allergies at Disney

We feel very secure when it comes to our Disney vacation and allergies.

Before we go on a Disney trip, before making any reservations we check the menus and make sure we are aware of everything that could be harmful to her. If you have ever made any reservations at Disney, I’m sure you are aware they ask you to checkmark anything that anyone may be allergic to at the time of your visit. When you arrive they check the allergies, when you are seated they double check and then send a chef to your table to even triple check!

How Disney Stepped Up Dealing with Food Allergies

Of all the years and times we have gone to Disney we have only had one problem with their system. Even though there were issues, they made it right. It can be very scary having allergies like that.

We use our best judgment for sure but, do feel more secure going to Disney knowing they put such effort into making everyone comfortable. We have definitely had more positive experiences than negative. If anything, my daughter thinks it is so cool that the chef comes to her table and talks to her. She finds that more exciting than seeing actual characters at her table.

One year when we were visiting Tusker House in the Animal Kingdom for lunch, there were not many desserts my daughter could eat, AT ALL. The chef was worried about cross contamination so he brought her a whole brown sandwich bag full of Gluten-Free, allergy-free packaged snacks and desserts (they didn’t sell or serve at Tusker House) that were safe for her to eat. He went over and beyond! We were grateful as well as my daughter, she for sure did not go without!

The quick service meals are a little tricky but with a little research, a little asking a cast member, and a little reading labels, it is possible. We have always had a great experience and will continue to keep going with my daughter’s allergies. We still use our best judgment and take her EpiPen, but we find comfort in knowing Disney takes such a big effort to make all of their visitors comfortable. If you have any questions or would like to bend my ear on the allergy system at Disney please feel free to ask.

For more information on Special Dietary Request take a tour here on the Disney site.

Special Dietary Requests/ Walt Disney World Resort

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I’m baaaack and I am ready to snack around the world or at least the World Showcase.  Have no fear though, because while we are scouring all of Epcot for the best snacks around, we will stop in many areas throughout the park, not just the World Showcase.  I only kept one rule in mind while creating this list, every item must be an eligible snack on the Disney Dining Plan.   So, who is with me?  Are you ready to hear about my top 6 snacks at Epcot?

Top 6 Snacks at EPCOT

#6-Starbucks

Ok so you might be thinking that a mega-chain like Starbucks does not belong on the best of the best Epcot list of snacks, but it is super exciting for those of us who have been wanting decent coffee in the parks for years.  I can remember my very first trip to Disney World as a mother and I will never forget desperately looking for the elixir of life, better known to many as coffee.  When you have a child who hasn’t slept for more than a three-hour stretch at one time since birth, you sometimes wish that the family from Meet the Robinson’s really did invent those caffeine patches.  But nooooo, I couldn’t find a single one of those caffeine patches anywhere on Disney property, nor could I find any coffee in the theme parks that resembled the liquid gold that had been keeping me bright-eyed and bushy-tailed since my son’s birth.  So needless to say, getting a Starbucks in every theme park was a HUGE deal to me and I am sure that my husband would like to thank the people behind this decision as well.

Now I realize you probably didn’t need that soliloquy about my need for coffee, but the thing you do need to know about Starbucks is that you can basically get any latte or coffee on the menu for one snack credit AND you can even add an extra espresso shot to your drink of choice at no extra cost.  Now that is what I call maximizing a snack credit.  If you see me in Future World with my Starbucks cup, please note that it is now probably safe to approach me and give me a hug for this great tip.

#5-School Bread

Tucked away into Norway is the Kringla Bakeri og Cafe where a foodie favorite is served to the masses daily.  School Bread is a treat that is recommended as one of the best snacks in Epcot on every message board, chat, or Facebook posts about snacks and I can understand why.  The basic sweet roll is filled with mild, not too sweet pudding and topped with a thin layer of icing and a bit of toasted, shaved coconut.  If you love pastries, this one is a real treat.  The only thing that kept it from falling closer to the top of my list is because it is served cold and to me that typically makes a pastry taste a bit stale.

#4-Specialty Popcorn

Y’all already know that my family has a thing for popcorn and Epcot really delivers by dishing up a specialty popcorn kiosk in the Imagination Pavilion right beside Journey Into the Imagination.  This snack cart offers up gourmet flavored popcorns that are bursting with flavor; these are not the standard prepackaged versions we have gotten throughout the parks, these are freshly popped and coated versions that are worth being on every park’s top 5 list.  There are three different flavors for your tasting pleasure: cheddar cheese, sour cream and chives, and buffalo and bleu cheese.  The cheddar cheese is coated in what resembles a sharp cheddar sauce, yet the popcorn has stayed nice and crunchy without getting soggy like it would with most coatings.  The sour cream and chives is even more robust and popping with flavor; it has the nice smoothness of the sour cream and the bite of the chives without being powdery or artificial tasting.  My favorite of the three flavors is the buffalo and bleu cheese.  I have always loved spicy foods and the buffalo and bleu cheese combo has always been one of my favorite profiles because it combines the salty goodness of the bleu cheese with the tangy, brightness of the vinegar based buffalo sauce.  No matter which one you think sounds like the perfect pick for you, I promise that you won’t regret this use of a snack credit.

#3-Creme Brulee

Les Halles Boulangerie and Patisserie in the French Pavilion is the home of some of the best snacks on property, but it really wouldn’t be fair to the competition to have the whole top 5 from the same location.  Some of the most amazing sweet snacks here include the creme puff, the chocolate eclair, and the napoleon.  However, my favorite sugary option here is the creme brulee.  The creme brulee here has the classic, crunchy, caramelized sugar crust and a smooth vanilla creme in the middle.  The thick caramelized crust is the star of this snack, so make sure you get an extra spoon (not for sharing this snack, but just in case the plastic spoon happens to break while you are cracking through that delectable, crunchy crust).

#2-Caramel Corn

Oh, the Karamell-Kuche in the German pavilion… Does it get much better than a place that is dedicated to caramel treats? Seriously, you can’t even walk by this place without smelling the heavenly aroma of Werther’s original caramel.  Y’all know my family loves popcorn, so I’m sure you are not surprised some type of popcorn has landed so high on my list. However, popcorn fanatic or not, I don’t know a single person that has tried the heavenly caramel corn at Karamell-Kuche and walked away without purchasing at least a small bag of this creamy, buttery caramel corn. Come to think of it, I know quite a few people who won’t eat popcorn anywhere else, yet end up eating over half of my bag of the crunchy and fresh caramel corn (I’m looking at you, hubby). The next time you are in the German pavilion, you must stop by and watch the cast members make this fresh and grab a bag to go(or two if you have someone with you who swears they don’t like popcorn).

#1-Croissant Doughnut (a.k.a. The Cronut)

Oh y’all!  I can’t even get that title typed out without salivating. Seriously, this croissant donut is just too good to even explain. Note that it would be very easy to miss, but every Disney food/snack lover should get out their park map and immediately mark the Refreshment Port as a must stop location. If you are headed into Canada, this snack spot is tucked away to the right before you reach Le Cellier. The menu changes a lot, but for well over two years they have been serving up what is lovingly known as the Cronut in most places, but because that term is trademarked Disney calls it the Croissant Doughnut. What makes this a family favorite is that it is always served up fresh out of the deep fryer and the flaky layers are buttery and soft but the exterior has the crunch of a good, homemade cinnamon and sugar toast.  It’s the perfect combination of incredible pastry and sugary sweetness. My mother prefers it served a la mode, but I don’t care for the added sweetness. No matter how sweet you prefer your snacks, do not miss the opportunity to try this unique and delicious snack. I think if Mary Poppins were allowed to stroll over to the Refreshment Port, she would agree with me when I say that this snack is “practically perfect in every way”.

Ok friends, now you have my carb loaded list of my top 6 snacks in Epcot. How does it compare to your favorites in and around the World Showcase? Did I leave off your favorite or did you read this and need to wipe the drool off of your keyboard?  Please chime in and let us know what you think. We can’t wait to hear what your favorites are because we will be using guest comments and our current lists to create our Grand Finale Top 10 snacks in all of Walt Disney World post at the end of the series.  Stay tuned for the top snack list for Hollywood Studios coming up in 2 weeks on Walt Express. Until next time, I hope your days are filled with faith, trust and pixie dust.

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

Don’t forget to check out: Top 8 Must-Have Snacks at the Magic Kingdom

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Tusker House Restaurant: A Disney World Dining Review

In a previous post, I have written about some not as well-known experiences that my family has had in Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World. Today, I would like to share some of my favorite things about the character dining at Tusker House inside the Africa section of Animal Kingdom.

Location

The first thing you will notice when you enter the dining area is that it is off the main path and has more room for you to stretch out as you get signed in for your reservation. We have always done breakfast, and I love this time of day in the park as it is so serene and shady with the trees everywhere.

What to Expect

When you get seated, you will notice that the tables are spaced out well and it has a large dining room. It is buffet style, which I like, because you are not waiting on food or anyone to take your order. Especially for breakfast when the kids are “hangry”, I mean hungry, the buffet is a great option. My daughter loved the serve-yourself size buffet lines that are just her size. They offer some very interesting and new African style breakfast options, as well as your classic American flavors, including Mickey pancakes. There are over 45 items in the buffet! I love this because I get to try something new that I would not have the option to try at any local restaurants in my hometown, and you don’t have to worry if you don’t like it, because it is buffet.

As I mentioned above, this restaurant keeps in the African theme, complete with ethnic cuisines. Of course, you will see all of your favorites such as scrambled eggs, bacon, cereals and more. You will also see a great variety of items such as spit-roasted ham, beef bobotie, basmati rice, and spiced corn beef hash. The coconut sweet potatoes will have you traveling back to the buffet line very quickly! Coffee is brought out to the table in a large coffee pot, so you will be sure to be ready to take on your day in Animal Kingdom. For the kids, there is always plenty of “monkey juice”. This juice is an exotic blend of mango and passion-fruit.

Don’t forget to grab a piece or two of the large variety of breads that are also available. My personal favorite: banana-cinnamon bread pudding with warm vanilla sauce.

The Characters

The other thing that makes this breakfast so special is the characters. Although they don’t guarantee characters, we had Safari Mickey, Goofy, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck to stop by our table to visit awhile. The best part is they are dressed in their safari gear! So adorable! I love that this meal gives you flexibility to eat at your own pace or speed it up, depending on what all you want to accomplish in your day. We love to sit and enjoy the meal while the kids interact with the characters. Be sure to bring your autograph book and pen! You don’t get to see Safari Goofy everyday!

Walt Express TIP!

We did not plan it this way, however it worked out nicely that as soon as we were ready to leave, the next Lion King show was getting ready to start. There was no line and the Lion King Show entrance is RIGHT NEXT TO TUSKER HOUSE! Next time we go, I will make sure I schedule the same breakfast time so we can get to the first show that is not very crowded.

Another great attraction in the same area is the Kilimanjaro Safari!

Let me know what you think about Tusker House if you have been there before! Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant: A Disney World Dining Review

The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre is located in Hollywood Studios and brings a perfect ending to a great day in Hollywood Studios. It can also be a perfect place to rest in the middle of the day for lunch. The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre is open for lunch and dinner and Disney Dining Plans are accepted.

What to Expect

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre offers delicious food in a very special atmosphere with its 50’s style drive-in dining. The seating is unique, with small round Flying Saucer Tables or, my personal favorite, convertible-top cars. Did you know, that if you have a reservation, you are guaranteed a convertible? You won’t find an experience like this one anywhere else on Disney property! We recently had the pleasure of going back in time to dine at this amazing restaurant!

As soon as you arrive, you will be whisked away to your “convertible” car (or table). Each convertible will accommodate up to 6 people. Your carhop will be around shortly to get those drink orders. As you take a peek at the menu, the movie is about to get started! You will be taken back in time to the 50’s when going to the drive-in was “the thing”. Keep in mind, these are older movies and ARE science fiction, which could scare younger movie goers. There is nothing that is too intense, but just keep that in mind. My son was 8 and was absolutely enthralled in the entire experience. He LOVED being able to watch the old movies while dining.

Of course, Mom had to ride in the back seat! How rude!

The Menu

Let me just say, we were very surprised by the menu choices here. From pastas and steak to burgers, there is something here for everyone. We, of course, HAD to try the burgers. We were NOT disappointed. These entrees are large enough to share, although no one in our party was willing!

The specialty burger was the SOUTHERN BURGER, with homemade pimento cheese, bacon and a friend green tomato. It was MASSIVE and quite delicious. The “specialty” changes seasonally.

Also ordered from our table, was the BBQ Burger with beef BBQ, onion straws and jalapenos! The little one wasn’t in the mood for burgers, so a child’s chicken tender meal was ordered. Not a crumb was left!

Dessert

This dessert should not even be legal to serve. A Sci-Fi original, the CANDY BAR was by far, the most delicious dessert I believe I have ever had the pleasure of tasting (and by tasting, I mean completely devouring).

In case you didn’t see that picture, let’s get a little more up close and personal.

We had a wonderful AND delicious experience at Sci-Fi Dine In Restaurant in Hollywood Studios and would totally recommend this little jewel to anyone visiting this park!

Tips

• One table service per person on the Disney Dining Plan.
• Be sure to request a “convertible”!
• This dining experience books up very fast, grab those reservations as soon as you can!

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Have you experienced this fabulous dining experience? What did you think? Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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Disney 101: How To Get The MOST Out Of The My Disney Experience Website

Benefits of MDE (My Disney Experience)

There are many benefits of My Disney Experience and I am here to show you the easiest and most beneficial way of using it. First, let’s talk about what this awesome website can do. I will let you in on a little secret…there is a My Disney Experience APP for your phone that will be your best friend (or personal tour guide) while visiting Walt Disney World! For now though, we are discussing the actual My Disney Experience website.

• You can make Dining reservations.
• You can book your Fastpass + options.
• You can find out when special events will be in the parks.
• You can completely personalize your whole Disney experience all via the website and APP.
• You can link your family and friends to your My Disney Experience, letting them help with the planning process!
• THIS is the first step in creating your magical vacation! This website and the My Disney Experience APP go hand in hand!

For me the best part of this website and APP is that I can visit it at anytime to get my warm and fuzzy “Disney feels”. 🙂 I visit it quite often!

Step by Step Guide

Let me walk you through step by step of how to get started with My Disney Experience. (Of course, after you have created your account.) If you have not created an account already, you can do so right here: Setup My Disney Experience. It is FREE!

• If your reservations are not linked make sure you link them properly. Take the following steps below to link your resort reservations. When your resort reservations are linked scroll to the bottom of the same exact page and link your dining reservations, Fastpass + and Memory Maker if you already have them. Don’t fret! If you are staying off Walt Disney World resort property, you can still use and need My Disney Experience.
• Go to My Itinerary so you can check the park opening hours for the days you are visiting, if you are staying on Walt Disney World property you can also see which parks are offering extra magic hours. You can go through and create a plan by seeing which parks are open longer on which days. This is a great starting point. From there you can make your Dining Reservations and Fastpass + options.
• Scroll down on the left side and find out how to look for park hours.

You can do a lot of things through My Disney Experience but, these few steps can get you started on your magical Disney journey.

Tips and Extras

• When you make your travel reservations with a Disney Travel Planner they can help you with My Disney Experience, but you have full control! Your travel planner will handle as much or as little of the planning as you wish. (You can read more about that, HERE!)
• Your login for the My Disney Experience website will also be the same login you will use for setting up your My Disney Experience APP!

Don’t be scared of My Disney Experience! It is there to help you plan your magical vacation! Want to know how to use the My Disney Experience Phone APP? Tune in for more right here!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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My kids beg to see this hilarious and lively musical show on every trip to the World! You will spend 2 hours watching a rip-roaring “hootenanny” that includes the best of the “Wild West” and Vaudeville comedy. Not to mention, some of the best food that Disney World offers. Hoop-Dee-Doo should definitely be on your “DO NOT MISS” list.

We are going to give you the “lowdown” on this “showdown” that begins at “sundown”!!

Getting There and What to Expect

Seating begins immediately when doors open at 4:00 PM, 6:15 PM and 8:30 PM, and the show begins 20 minutes later. The show is located in Pioneer Hall at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. You will need to allow for extra time if traveling by Disney’s transportation service, which I do recommend. The best way to get there is by going to Magic Kingdom and then catch a bus or boat to Fort Wilderness-not a big deal at all!  Allow for plenty of time to look inside at the awesome gift shop with lots of one-of-a-kind goodies! You may want to check out the campground area as well. There is a lot to explore and see!

PLEASE COME HUNGRY!

You will not hear me say this but once…but, do NOT stop on the way for a cake pop or rice krispy treat!! I understand this will be hard, but you will thank me later.  Trust me!

At the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue, you will be served an ALL-YOU-CARE-TO-ENJOY family style buffet. “Family Style” means that your server will bring everything to your table-no need to get up. You wouldn’t want to miss the show, now would you? Your feast begins with fresh baked cornbread and the best butter this side of the cow pasture. Then, BUCKETS, yes, I said buckets…of fried chicken and smoked BBQ pork ribs.

You will also feast on yummy sides such as a tossed green salad, corn on the cob and baked beans. Then, the real treat comes. Homemade Strawberry Shortcake! Again, let me stress this: ALL YOU CARE TO ENJOY. Just politely ask your server for more if you like it as much as my family does.   Friends, this is a down-home, country feast better than Sunday dinner at Grandma’s.  

This is also one of the few restaurants that your alcoholic beverages ARE INCLUDED! Draft beer, wine and Sangria are available at no extra charge…to those cowboys and cowgirls who are 21 years of age or older, of course. For those that are not quite old enough for the adult beverages, don’t worry! There will be plenty of tea, milk and soft drinks.

Dinner AND a Show

While you are dining on this fabulous feast, the hilarious Claire de Lune, Johnny Ringo, Dolly Drew, Six Bits Slocum, Flora Long and Jim Handy will hit the stage to entertain you. So be prepared to stomp your feet, clap, and hoot and holler right along with them. If you have a special celebration, please let them know. Acknowledgements are made during the show! How cool is that?

Know Before You Go

There are a few things you need to know before you go, just so you don’t get thrown into the jail!

➽If you are on the Disney Dining Plan, this will be 2 table service credits and you will be seated in Category 2 or 3.

➽If you are paying out of pocket, prepayment is required. Prices DO include taxes AND gratuity. You will need to make a reservation, it does fill up fast. There are 3 categories in the seating arrangements. I have to say that there is not a bad seat here. There are HUGE tables to accommodate larger parties, so everyone gets a great view. Plus, the performers are extremely interactive!

Please be aware that seating in Category 3 is upstairs on the balcony and there is not an elevator.

Category 1        Category 2          Category 3

Ages 10-Older           $72                        $67                          $64

Ages 3-9                     $43                         $39                          $38

➽This restaurant can accommodate special dietary needs. Be sure to mention any special needs when booking, or let your Disney Travel Planner know in advance.

➽Wheelchair and EVC’s will be seated in Category 1 sections.

➽Reservations are HIGHLY recommended. You may make reservations through your Disney Travel Planner or by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE. If you are staying in a Walt Disney World Resort, reservations are available to make 180 days prior to your stay!

➽Bring the ENTIRE family! Everyone from grandma to your toddler will have a great time. They even bring the ol’ wash boards out! The louder you are, the better.

YEE-HAW Partners…I hope you have enjoyed this review of the REVUE! As always, Disney provides great entertainment and great food that go hand in hand!

I hope to see you soon at THE HOOP DEE DOO REVUE!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

photo credit: Hoop Dee Doo Revue via photopin (license)

photo credit: Hoop Dee Doo Revue via photopin (license)

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Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: A Disney World Resort Review

Are you ready for a “different” and more relaxing resort for your next Disney World vacation? This resort is truly something to behold. Rich decor, delicious eateries, lush accommodations and on the monorail! What more could you ask for? Maybe a view of Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks show? You got it!!

The Poly

When you think of the ultimate in luxury, you think of a rich tropical setting. Luckily, Disney had the same thought when building this Deluxe Resort. This Poly (as locals like to call it) has been around since the beginning of Walt Disney World in 1971. It has quite the rich history as well! Many do not know that this resort is where John Lennon officially was the last to sign the papers to end The Beatles while on vacation with his family in 1974. I wonder if it was a “Hard Days Night” after Lennon made the decision to sign the dotted line?

The Polynesian is also one of the “Monorail Resorts”, meaning when you are a guest here, you are able to take the monorail to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, or one of the other monorail resorts (Contemporary and Grand Floridian). Please note, there are several different monorails and you may have to switch monorails depending on your destination! You also can take the boat to the Magic Kingdom or as with all resorts you also have the option of taking the buses to the parks as well. All modes of available transportation are available while vacationing here.

Accommodations and Room Types

The Polynesian is one of the largest resorts in the Magic Kingdom area and has 847 guest rooms on property. It is also home to one of the newest DVC expansions with the most coveted Bungalows on Seven Seas Lagoon. But since we’re looking more into the regular rooms, we’ll leave the bungalows for another day.

There are four different room types, similar to the other Disney Resorts. Standard View, Lagoon View, Pool or Marina View and Theme Park View. The price of the rooms depends on your views, with the least expensive option being the Standard, and the most expensive being Theme Park views. Whether or not the view is worth the price is up to each individual. But to be able to see Magic Kingdom’s Fireworks show with the songs being played on your television in your own room could be paradise in itself!

The rooms are all similarly situated at 415-476 square feet, with either two queen size beds or a few king size beds scattered throughout. The rooms also have an armoire, table and chairs, small fridge, coffee maker, safe, hair dryer, and iPod dock. The rooms can accommodate a family of 5 with a child under the age of 3.

If you would love the amenities of a Deluxe Resort, but don’t care what the view is out your window, then the standard view will be perfect. Usually this means you might get a nice look at the parking lot and a bit further away from the pools and activities. The Lagoon View is a view of the lake of course! And the best of the best and most sought after is the Theme Park View! Here you get a picturesque view of Cinderella’s Castle and in the evening can hopefully get a glimpse of the Magic Kingdom Fireworks show. However, if you have little ones traveling with you, remember the noise of the fireworks will be more present in the rooms facing Magic Kingdom if you’re trying to get them to go to bed! Just close those curtains!

Club Level Option

Now, for the best of the best, there is CLUB LEVEL. It is pricier, but well worth the extra cost! At Club Level, here is what you will receive:

• Evening turn-down
• Secured key access to the club-level lounge, serving refreshments 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily
• Complimentary fax assistance
• Access to Concierge service at the King Kamehameha Club
• Complimentary health club access
• Complimentary newspapers in Club Level lounge
• Personalized Front Desk and Guest Services

All of these rooms are situated in different buildings, called longhouses. Depending on your need, there are advantages to each one. There are many to choose from with 11 longhouses on property (Tonga, Aotearoa, Fiji, Tuvalu, Hawaii, Samoa, Niue, Rarotonga, Tokelau, Tahiti, and Rapa Nui.) You might need to brush up on your Geography because each name of the longhouses represent authentic Polynesian Islands!

Dining Options

Now, let’s talk about why many people who are not staying at the Polynesian come here…the food! Lucky you if you’re a guest here, you will have access to some of the best meals on Disney World property!

There are 3 different Quick Service restaurants for you to choose from. For those delicious Dole Whips, you can get them here at Pineapple Lanai! If you need a quick meal, Captain Cook’s is a great place to grab something on the go. We recommend the Pulled Pork Nachos! Finally, if you get hungry lounging by the pool or need a refreshing cocktail, you can head over to Barefoot Pool Bar!

If you’re looking to have a meal that your whole family can sit together, there are 8 delicious options! To start your day off right you can dine at Kona Cafe (we love the Tonga Toast, French Press Kona Coffee, and Liliko’i Juice!) If you love buffets, there’s a few to choose from here too! The much loved ‘Ohana is a fan favorite with the amazing service and bread pudding for dessert! They also have a wonderful character breakfast with your favorite friends from Lilo and Stitch!

The other buffet is the Luau Cove which you can enjoy close to the pool and amenities. If you’re wanting a more causal dining experience, but not quite as casual as quick service, they also have a few options here as well. Kona Island is a great place to get your sushi fix! The Tambu Lounge is wonderful as well as the Disney Fan Favorite’s; Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace. While you dine on unique South Seas culinary delights, pair it with an equally unique drink like the “Dark & Tropical Stormy”. Here’s a little tip, some of the drink orders trigger fun little extra magic experiences!

Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show

Finally, if you’re looking for a dinner and a show and can’t quite make it to Hawaii, look no further than the Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show. This luau is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate with Hula Dancing, Fire Dancing, and drummers. This all you care to eat buffet will have everything for every appetite from Island Pulled Pork to fresh salads with mango-poppy seed dressing. And for the little ones they have mini corn dogs and of course pizza! This dinner show is two dining credits on the Disney Dining Plan.

Recreation

Now that’s you’ve eaten your fill, after waiting the 15 minutes your mom told you to, go check out the pools! The newly refurbished Lava pool boasts an impressive 142 foot long water slide along with a towering volcano! It also has zero depth entry similar to a beach, so for those little ones, or those who just want a quick dip, you can take your time getting into the water.

If you’re looking for a little more action, you can also have a game of volleyball, or stretch your legs on the beautiful running trail. There’s also lots of play areas for the little ones like Lilo’s Playhouse or the fun for all ages campfire with some favorite furry friends! Or if your more of the water craft type, you can rent motorized boats or go fishing! You can do as much or as little as you’d like while you’re in paradise!

Shopping

With three shops nearby, you can shop till you drop! BouTiki, Disney’s Magnolia, Palm and Oak Trail Pro Shop and of course, Moana Mercantile make for some pretty amazing experiences!

Walt Express Tips

Now, here is my little tip for you that is a horribly kept secret! If you don’t want to brave the crowd in Magic Kingdom for the nightly fireworks show, you have the most perfect viewing spot right on the beach of the resort! Get there a little before 9 pm and you’ll have the best view of the Electrical Water Pageant as well! Two beautiful night time shows for the price of, well, none! You do not have to have a reservation for the Poly to enjoy these shows, but it is asked of those who are not guests of the resort to be respectful of those who are. This is a great way to see the fireworks show at least once, and they pipe in the music to the beach to give it that extra magic!

Staying at the Polynesian Village Resort will be an unforgettable experience you and your family will remember for a lifetime!

Have you stayed at this awesome resort? Join in on the discussion, join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

The post Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: A Disney World Resort Review appeared first on WaltExpress.com.

If you’re a frequent Walt Disney World visitor, there is a restaurant that you prefer to dine at over and over again. Whether it be because of the food, the atmosphere or the character experiences, something draws you to reserve your seats 180 days in advance. For my family, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is that restaurant. Akershus is located in the Norway Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner – all of which has a variety of your favorite princesses to meet and greet.

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: A Disney World Dining Review

The Menu and Our Experience

The breakfast includes your typical American dishes like eggs, warm meats, and pastries; as well as Norwegian breakfast items. The lunch and dinner has dishes that channel its Norwegian roots and provides an intensity of flavor that I find are unmatched.

During our last visit to the Mouse House in May, we decided to have lunch at Akershus for my daughter’s 5th birthday celebration. My mom and I both ordered the oven roasted chicken breast on a bed of sauteed garden vegetables, fingerling potatoes, and a red pepper puree. I had never tasted red pepper puree, and I was quite worried that my palate would disagree with it. After my mom took a bite and confirmed it’s deliciousity (that’s not a word, but it sounds much more appropriate than deliciousness), I cut off a fork full of perfectly cooked chicken breast and dipped it into the red pepper puree. The resulting reaction was like realizing that I have a purpose in life, and for that moment, that purpose was to eat every last bite of my oven roasted chicken breast. Minus the bones, of course. I also thoroughly enjoyed the fingerling potatoes, although I wasn’t a fan of the garden veggies. No fault of Disney’s, as I’m a picky eater that turns her nose up at all things green.

In addition to the oven roasted chicken breast, guests can order between pan-seared salmon, traditional Kjøttkake, stuffed pasta, braised pork shank and several other authentic Norwegian offerings. As you can see, Akershus offers a nice variety of entrees that you don’t normally find at other table service restaurants.

The kid’s menu, unfortunately, does not offer as many choices. Kids can choose between cheese pizza, meatballs, and elbow macaroni. My daughter decided upon the pizza, like she normally does. She goes crazy over Disney pizza.

Update

Disney has now added the “kid check meals” to this menu. Akershus includes the following items for children:

• Grilled Chicken Breast
• Junior Beef
• Salmon

Just Desserts

For dessert, we were given this platter of Norwegian goodies. My taste buds drooled over the sweet and savory chocolate mousse, while my daughter scarfed down the traditional ice cream topped with strawberry sauce. Unfortunately, none of us cared for the apple cake with cardamom whipped cream.

Like I mentioned earlier in this article, we were there to celebrate my daughter’s 5th year of being a part of our lives. We had a FANTASTIC waitress named Anna who not only delivered a cupcake with a lit candle, but a birthday card signed by all the princesses and herself (in Norwegian). Anna also sang Happy Birthday in Norwegian. How cool is that?! Anna went above and beyond all expectations, and she deserves every good thing that comes into her life. I’m so glad that I managed to catch that moment on video!

The Character Experience

When you first enter the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, you are guided to a line where you meet Princess Belle from Beauty and the Beast (my favorite). The photo is available through PhotoPass/Memory Maker.

One of the princesses that makes their way to your table is the beautiful Princess Aurora from the classic Disney film Sleeping Beauty.

Next, Ariel flipped her fins (well, she traded those in for human legs) over to our table, where she filled the atmosphere with her bubbly personality. She probably spent the most time with my daughter compared to the other princesses.

Cinderella also graced us with her kind presence. This would be the first of three separate times we saw Cinderella during our stay!

Last, but not least, we met the princess that started it all – Snow White.

While these are the usual princesses who are scheduled to appear at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, other characters may show up, like Mulan, Jasmine, and Mary Poppins!

A Few Tips

• Akershus is one table service credit on the Disney Dining Plans.
• Reservations are highly recommended.
• Admission to Epcot is required.
• Some of the dining experience is offered on a buffet, while the “main entree” will be family style-at your table.

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

Thank you Amber from Beautifully Bella Faith for giving us some awesome tips! 

The post Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: A Disney World Dining Review appeared first on WaltExpress.com.

Best Restaurants for 1st Timers at Disney World

We chose these specific dining experiences because they are in the parks, and easier to get to for 1st time visitors to Disney World. These are also all character dining experiences, meaning you can dine AND meet characters-saving lots of time (while dining on a delicious meal)!  Read up on our choices for Best Restaurants for 1st Timers at Disney World. Each one is unique to Walt Disney World and will add a little magic to your vacation.

Tusker House in Animal Kingdom

Tusker House is an amazing experience! You will not find Safari Mickey and his friends anywhere else. The food is quite delicious, all served on a buffet. For a complete review, click: TUSKER HOUSE.

One table service credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot

Do you have a princess lover going with you to Disney World? Well if you do, this is the place for you! Askershus is located in the Norway pavilion of Epcot and is a fabulous fairy-tale dining experience. Why wait in lines to see all of your favorite princesses when you can take a pic with them while you dine. This is always a must do with any princess fan, you will not be sorry! Make sure to check out the menu before you go!

One table service dining credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

Garden Grill in Epcot

This one is pretty unique, just because you will dine with Farmer Mickey and his friends. You will be served your meals “family style”, which simply means no trekking back and forth to the buffet line. It’s all you care to enjoy, and the servers will gladly bring you all that you can handle! A win win!! For more info on this dining experience, simply click: GARDEN GRILL.

One table service dining credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

Hollywood and Vine Seasonal Dine in Hollywood Studios

Every day for lunch and dinner, you will find Minnie Mouse in her “seasonal attire”, waiting for your arrival! This delicious buffet meal will have all of your favorites, including a children’s buffet! Perfect for picky eaters. SEASONAL DINE.

One table service dining credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

Be Our Guest in Magic Kingdom

Now, Be Our Guest is a little difference experience. This restaurant is the number 1, most popular restaurant in all of Disney World. With that being said, it books up extremely quickly. There are actually three ways to enjoy this magnificent restaurant.

Breakfast and lunch are both considered quick service meals, even though they do require a reservation. This is the ONLY restaurant that requires a reservation for a quick service meal. You also have the option to pre-order your meals for breakfast or lunch 30 days prior. When you are checked in and seated, your food will “magically” appear!

At dinner, you will have the traditional service, as in a server for your table. Sometimes, the Beast will greet his guests! This is an extra special treat is not guaranteed, though!

• Breakfast-One Quick Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan
• Lunch-One Quick Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan
• Lunch-One Table Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan

Okay so there you have it! These are my opinions on the best restaurants for first-timers! Now it’s your turn; which restaurants would you add?

Tips:

• Don’t try to incorporate all of these restaurants into your plans on the first trip.  It’s impossible to do everything in one trip. Pick a few you think you can’t live without and go from there. 
• Be sure to bring autograph books and a camera to character meals!
• KNOW before you go! Here’s the scoop on the DISNEY DINING PLANS!

Join our Facebook group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE, and let us know about your first dining experience!!

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