Explore every episode of the podcast Mountains of Magic - A Walt Disney World Tips Podcast for Newbies
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ep 258 - My TOP Run Disney Tips - How to register, what to bring, where to stay, and more! | 14 Feb 2025 | 00:26:26 | |
Today we are talking RunDisney. Whether you are looking to run Dopey, do a Princess 5k, or knock out a Wine and Dine half marathon, I've got some must have tips for you to make your experience go smoothly. I'll share tips for registration and what to do if you don't get in, a common misconception when it comes to picking your hotel, and what you'll want to be sure to pack in your race bag. If you have dreams of RunDisney, don't miss this episode! | |||
| Ep 257 - Top 5 Tips for Saving Money on your 2025 Walt Disney World Vacation - Cheapest weeks to go to Disney, saving 5% and more. | 11 Feb 2025 | 00:22:43 | |
Looking to save money on your upcoming Disney trip? Today I have my 5 favorite tips for saving on your Walt Disney World vacation. I'll share the least expensive weeks to travel for the remainder of 2025, free perks to enjoy on property, how your form of payment can help you save on other parts of the vacation, and my favorite method, the BOUNCE BACK OFFER. Listen in, and reach out if you are ready to book an adventure for 2025. | |||
| Ep 248 - How to Rope Drop Hollywood Studios in 2025 and use Lightning Lanes when staying on or off property. | 10 Jan 2025 | 00:15:33 | |
If you are planning a Walt Disney World trip in 2025, don't miss this episode. I'm sharing my strategy for "rope dropping" Hollywood Studios, or what to ride as soon as the park opens. I'm suggesting you head to Slinky Dog Dash first thing, or Rock N Rollercoaster or Tower of Terror if you are a thrill seeker. I also share my top 3 picks for Lightning Lane Multipass at this park. Come back for the rest of the series to hear my strategy for Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom. | |||
| Ep 158 - A Disney World Vacation on a Budget of $1500 - Disney Money Saving Tips | 01 Mar 2024 | 00:17:37 | |
Today I'm talking Disney moving saving tips. Can Disney World for a family of 4 on a 1500 dollar budget be done? Earlier this month I explored a $5000 Disney budget but what if that isn't feasible for you? | |||
| Ep 157 - Club Level at Disney World Resort Hotels | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:13:31 | |
Have you ever wondered what's included with a club level room at Disney Deluxe Resorts (and one moderate hotel) ? Today I'm diving in to all that's included with a club level upgrade. I'll be chatting about the concierge service, club level lounge, food offerings, what pricing looks like and what hotels offer club level. I'll also dive in to who club level may be a good fit for and how to piece it into your next Walt Disney World vacation. | |||
| Ep 156 - Coronado Springs Resort in Walt Disney World (Resort Series) | 23 Feb 2024 | 00:25:53 | |
It's time for my favorite moderate resort at Walt Disney World, the beautiful Coronado Springs. This resort has a moderate price point with a deluxe feel and is truly a Spanish inspired hidden gem. From tons of pools, dining locations, lounges. water views, butterfly gardens and more you could spend your whole vacation at this resort. I'm sharing all about the different room types and club level offerings, pro and cons, and a sample quote of what it costs to stay here. Listen in, and maybe I'll convince you to try this resort on your next trip. | |||
| Ep 155 - Caribbean Beach Resort in Walt Disney World | 20 Feb 2024 | 00:17:40 | |
The resort series continues with the largest Moderate Resort on Disney property Caribbean Beach. This tropical getaway will give you all the beach vibes mixed in with that Disney Magic. In this episode, I share all about the different areas of the resort, amenities and multiple pools, as well as why this is a great resort to try if you want to do some resort hopping and visit other hotels. (Hint hint, its the skyliner access). I also share a sample quote, and some pros and cons of staying at Caribbean Beach. Don't miss this one! | |||
| Ep 154 - $5000 Disney Vacation - Disney World with a family of 4 | 16 Feb 2024 | 00:18:12 | |
How much does a Disney World Vacation cost and what can you get for 5000 dollars? Today I am diving deep into those questions and looking at multiple scenarios for a family of 4 on a summer trip. Want to stay at a value resort over a moderate, what extra perks can you add? How can you make a $5000 budget work at a deluxe resort or on Disney Cruise Line? What if your budget is lower or higher than 5K? Can you still make Disney happen? I tackle all this and more on today's episode. Your dollars may go farther than you think! | |||
| Ep 153 - Resort Series - Port Orleans French Quarter in Walt Disney World | 13 Feb 2024 | 00:12:09 | |
The resort series continues with this Moderate Disney Resort Port Orleans French Quarter. This resort is the smallest of the moderate resorts and every room is a short walk to the lobby or transportation. And let's not forget to mention the must have Beignets! I'm sharing all about the pros and cons to this resorts, who may want to stay here, as well as room types and a sample quote. Listen in if you are looking for a little Louisiana flare on your next vacation. | |||
| Ep 152 - Resort Series - Port Orleans Riverside Resort in Walt Disney World | 09 Feb 2024 | 00:21:25 | |
The resort series continues with this Moderate Disney Resort Port Orleans Riverside. This resort is a mix of the Bayou and Antebellum style mansions with a fun southern flare added in. I'm chatting about all the amenities and different room types at this resort, including the Royal Princess Rooms, as well as giving you a sample quote and sharing my pros and cons list. Take a listen, and come back next week for more resort chats. | |||
| Ep 151 - Resort Series - Fort Wilderness Resort in Walt Disney World | 06 Feb 2024 | 00:13:21 | |
Today I am continuing my Disney resort series and sharing all the details you want to know about Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. I share location, amenities, your different camping options from tent to RV's, as well as info about the Cabins. I've got some tips for you when it comes to transportation, and staying around the holiday season. If you are looking to combine a love of the outdoors with some Disney magic, listen in! | |||
| Ep 150 - Universal Orlando 101 and Epic Universe News | 02 Feb 2024 | 00:17:55 | |
We have more details on Universal's newest theme park EPIC UNIVERSE and I'm sharing all the official details with you today. I'm talking about Super Mario World, another Harry Potter themed land, some spooky areas and How to Train your Dragon fun. And did I mention a hotel IN THE PARK? If you are new to Universal Orlando and what they offer, I also share a quick overview of what you will find in each theme park. | |||
| Ep 149 - Resort Series - Art of Animation Resort in Walt Disney World | 30 Jan 2024 | 00:19:53 | |
Today I am continuing my Disney resort series and talking about my favorite value resort, Art of Animation. This resort is themed after your favorite Disney movies (Finding Nemo, Cars, Lion King, and The Little Mermaid) , plus you get the added benefit of being at a value resort and on the skyliner route. Take a listen today, and I'll share all about the amenities, transportation, and theming and family suites, as well as pros and cons and a sample quote. Is this Disney Value Resort right for you? | |||
| Ep 247 - How to Rope Drop Animal Kingdom in 2025 and use Lightning Lanes when staying on or off property. | 07 Jan 2025 | 00:15:57 | |
If you are planning a Walt Disney World trip in 2025, don't miss this episode. I'm sharing my strategy for "rope dropping" Animal Kingdom, or what to ride as soon as the park opens. I'm suggesting you head to Flight of Passage first, but that's not the case if you aren't staying on property. I also share my top 3 picks for Lightning Lane Multipass at this park. Come back for the next 3 episodes to hear my strategy for Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom. | |||
| Ep 148 - Using Disney DAS - Disability Access Service in Walt Disney World | 26 Jan 2024 | 00:42:15 | |
If you are heading to Disney World as someone, or with someone who may need to use the Disability Access Service, this is a great episode for you. My friend Michaela joins me and shares how she went above and beyond to create a magical and comfortable vacation for her son and her family and what the process of signing up for and using DAS looks like. She has no many great tips not just for those using DAS, but for all of us to be realistic in our expectations, and enjoy those little moments. Don't miss this one! | |||
| Ep 147 - Resort Series - Pop Century Resort in Walt Disney World | 23 Jan 2024 | 00:17:39 | |
Want to take a little trip back in time? Love Pop Culture? Look no further than Disney's Pop Century. This hotel takes you through the decades with fun facts and over the top theming, plus you get the added benefit of being at a value resort and on the skyliner route. Take a listen today, and I'll share all about the amenities, transportation, and theming here at Pop, as well as pros and cons and a sample quote. Is this Disney Value Resort right for you? | |||
| Ep 146 - Resort Series - All Star Movies Resort in Walt Disney World | 19 Jan 2024 | 00:14:28 | |
Today we continue with the resort series and talk all about All Star Movies Resort at Walt Disney World. This is my favorite theming out of all the All Star Resorts, and I share with you the pros and cons of staying at this value resort, as well as amenities, extra activities, room types and a sample quote. Find out if this is the right resort for you, and check out the other episodes in the resort series. | |||
| Ep 145 - Changes to Walt Disney World in 2024 - Park hopping, Park pass reservations, and Dining Plans | 16 Jan 2024 | 00:12:31 | |
Disney rolled out some big changes last week and I'm here to recap them for you. I share all the new rules for park hopping, the removal of the park pass reservation system for Most guests, and the basics of the new Disney Dining Plan and Quick Service Dining Plan. I also share how these changes might affect your upcoming trip. If you have plans to head to Disney World in 2024, and you haven't been in a while, don't miss this episode! | |||
| Ep 144 - Resort Series - All Star Music Resort in Walt Disney World | 12 Jan 2024 | 00:15:54 | |
Today I'm continuing the series on Disney Resort Hotels with the value All Star Music Resort. This is a great hotel option for families on a budget, or who want that over the top Disney theming without breaking the bank. I'll share about resort location, amenities, room type, pros and cons, and even give you a sample quote for a summer stay. And you don't want to miss the family suites here that can sleep 6. Listen up to find out if this is the resort for you! | |||
| Ep 143 - Resort Series - All Star Sports Resort in Walt Disney World | 09 Jan 2024 | 00:16:31 | |
Today I'm starting a brad new series all about Disney Resort Hotels and we are starting off with the All Star Sports Resort. This is a great hotel option for families on a budget, or who want that over the top Disney experience without breaking the bank. I'll share about resort location, amenities, room type, pros and cons, and even give you a sample quote for a summer stay. Listen up to find out if this is the resort for you! | |||
| Ep 142 - Best Time to go to Disney World in 2024, Current Promotions and Deals, Crowd Levels, and More! | 05 Jan 2024 | 00:20:46 | |
Planning to head to Walt Disney World in 2024? Here are a few things you might want to consider. Whether your biggest factor is finances, crowds, or following a school calendar, I've got tips for you on dates you'll want to know about and current deals that Disney just released to help you save some money on your vacation. | |||
| Ep 141 - My Travel Plans for 2024 and Where my clients are headed. | 02 Jan 2024 | 00:15:13 | |
Vegas, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Hawaii, Disney Cruise Line. I'm sharing all about my planned travels for 2024, as well as where my clients are headed in the upcoming year. If you need some ideas for places to visit or resorts to stay at, this is the episode for you. (Hint, lots of love for Beach Club this year.) I'm excited to be back for 2024, and can't wait to share more Disney and travel content with you all. Happy New Year. | |||
| Ep 140 - Listener Questions. Where to stay at Universal, the Disney park to skip, how Travel Agents get paid, where to eat in Epcot and more. | 15 Dec 2023 | 00:22:02 | |
Today is one of my favorite episode types, listener questions! I'm answering your questions about Disney and Universal today that include, Disney parks to skip with young kiddos, travel insurance and cancelation policies, how early entry works differently at Universal, cancelling dining reservations and more. Thanks so much for tuning in to the podcast. Happy Holidays! | |||
| Ep 139 - Tips from clients traveling to Disney World and Universal | 12 Dec 2023 | 00:17:07 | |
On this episode, you are getting tips from some of my clients who recently traveled to Disney World and Universal Orlando. They share pros and cons about their resorts, which include Riviera, Coronado Springs, Art of Animation, Drury Plaza, and Dockside Inn and Suites, tips from their trips, and their favorite magical moments. So tune in today, and get advice from more than just me! | |||
| Ep 246 - All the Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line and Universal Orlando Deals for 2025 - Save Money at Disney! | 03 Jan 2025 | 00:17:22 | |
Want to save money on your next Disney World or Disney Cruise Line trip? Today I'm sharing all the deals that have been released for 2025 for Disney destinations and Universal. There are discounts on rooms, half off deposits, free park tickets and free dining plans! Don't miss this episode and let's start planning your 2025 Disney vacation or next adventure. Reach out to me for a quote today! Get A Quote | |||
| Ep 138 - Room Requests and Upgrades at your Walt Disney World Hotel | 08 Dec 2023 | 00:19:41 | |
Once you have narrowed down what Disney hotel you want to stay at, there are still more decision to be made. Do you want a standard view, preferred room, club level, or fireworks view. There are multiple room types at your Disney resort, and today I'm breaking down what's available, what you'll have to pay for, and what you can call in and request for free. | |||
| Ep 137 - Disney Adult Holiday Gift Guide - Gift ideas for the Disney fan in your life, or yourself! | 05 Dec 2023 | 00:16:02 | |
Need a Christmas gift idea for the Disney lover in your life? Today I'm sharing 10 ideas for some out of the box gift ideas, some small shops with great Disney merch, and if all else fails how you can also gift a trip! | |||
| Ep 136 - Imagineer for a Day with my mom and sister | 01 Dec 2023 | 00:16:14 | |
What if you could create your own land to be added to the Walt Disney World parks? Today, my mom and sister join me, and we discuss what rides, restaurants, and theming we would add. Let me know on social media what addition you would make! | |||
| Ep 135 - How to get a US Passport in 2024 | 28 Nov 2023 | 00:14:27 | |
Looking to travel out of the country in 2024? You'll want to get started on securing a passport now if you haven't already. Today, I'm sharing the steps my family went through to get our passports this year, as well as a few tips that hopefully help you feel confident that you are doing it right. Hope this helps you get started on planning your next trip! | |||
| Ep 134 - Disney Cruise Line 101 and questions to ask before booking a cruise | 24 Nov 2023 | 00:21:02 | |
Looking to try out a Disney Cruise ship? There are multiple questions you'll want to answer before you book. Today, I'm diving in to the 6 different ships, where they go, how long they will cruise, and things you'll want to consider when choosing your room. If you haven't cruised with Disney before, be sure to listen in and answer these questions before your trip planning process (which I can help you with!) | |||
| Ep 133 - Getting to Disney World from MCO - Disney airport transfers | 21 Nov 2023 | 00:14:41 | |
What's the first ride of your Disney vacation going to be? The airport transfer of course! But how are you going to start your magical vacation? Today I'm looking into 3 options for you and comparing services and prices. I'll share about Uber and Lyft, Away We Go private transfers and Mears Connect shuttle service. While there are lots of other companies out there, this will give you an idea of your options and pricing to get to and from the airport. | |||
| Ep 132 - Quick Tips for your Universal Orlando Vacation | 17 Nov 2023 | 00:18:37 | |
Headed to Universal Orlando? I've got some quick tips for you to make your trip to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, or Volcano Bay the best it can be. I'm talking Early Park Entry, Resort Hotels, lots of added perks and what you'll want to be sure to bring a long. Take a listen, and check out my instagram page to see these and many more tips! | |||
| Ep 131 - A price breakdown of staying ON or OFF property at Walt Disney World. | 14 Nov 2023 | 00:22:04 | |
Is it cheaper to stay at an off property hotel while at Disney World? Today I'm crunching the numbers and sharing a sample quote for a week long vacation in the summer. What does a value, moderate or deluxe resort cost at Disney vs staying at an off property hotel? | |||
| Ep 130 - 10 things that make Disney World Hard - Don't let these ruin your trip | 10 Nov 2023 | 00:19:40 | |
Heading in to your Disney trip with one of these 10 could really derail it. Today, I'm sharing 10 things I've seen others complain about that can make Disney World a little difficult. But have no fear, I've got options and shifts in perspective to offer to help you make the most and some great magical memories. So listen in, and avoid these 10, unless of course you are a family of 5. Keep them around! | |||
| Ep 129 - Comparing Walt Disney World and Disneyland and some unpopular opinions | 07 Nov 2023 | 00:23:12 | |
I hope you enjoyed today's show. I'd love to connect with you over on Instagram @mountains_of_magic or Facebook at Fantastical Vacations by Daniele. If you would like help in planning an upcoming Disney or Universal vacation, email me at danielerobbins@fantasticalvacations.com or fill out a quote form to get started planning the magic Get A Quote | |||
| Ep 245 - Rides at Universal Orlando that DON'T make me Hurl - Motion Sickness at Universal | 31 Dec 2024 | 00:24:03 | |
Worried about motion sickness at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure? Today I'm sharing what rides get a green light from me as someone who suffers with motion sickness. I'll go through each ride in the parks, tell you what to expect, and which ones I have personally ridden and not had motion sickness issues. Want to experience Universal Orlando for yourself? Reach out to me today to plan your next unforgettable vacation. I’m here to help you create the perfect holiday getaway with tips, tricks, and insider knowledge to make your trip magical. Listen now, and let’s get you one step closer to booking your Universal Orlando vacation! | |||
| Ep 128 - How to Rope Drop Magic Kingdom in Disney World in 2023 and 2024 | 03 Nov 2023 | 00:14:22 | |
Do you know the rules for Rope Dropping in Magic Kingdom? Do you know what side of the park is open first and how to get a double rope drop in if you are staying on property? Today I'm sharing all my secrets on where to start your morning in Magic Kingdom. Regardless of what you choose, I hope you can use this episode to get the most out of your early morning time and enjoy your walk down Main Street USA! | |||
| Ep 127 - How to Rope Drop Hollywood Studios in Disney World in 2023 and 2024 | 31 Oct 2023 | 00:15:18 | |
If there is one Disney World theme park you want to have a strategy for, I think it's Hollywood Studios. What ride should you rope drop? Should you use Genie +? Will Rise of the Resistance break down? (likely) But I'm chatting about all these questions today and helping you create a strategy to get the best use of the early morning hours and early theme park entry (if you have it) at Hollywood Studios! | |||
| Ep 126 - How to Rope Drop EPCOT in Disney World in 2023 and 2024 | 27 Oct 2023 | 00:13:33 | |
Heading to EPCOT to start your day? You will want to make sure you know what entrance you'll be starting at, because this will greatly change your rope drop strategy! Today I'm sharing where I would head first thing if I'm entering the front of the park, or coming in the International Gateway entrance. We'll talk crowds and where you may want to head to avoid them, and the ride I'm definitely not hopping on first. | |||
| Ep 125 - How to Rope Drop Animal Kingdom in Disney World in 2023 and 2024 | 24 Oct 2023 | 00:18:39 | |
How can you get the most out of your time at Animal Kingdom even if you don't purchase Genie plus? Today I'm sharing my strategy for an early morning at Animal Kingdom whether you are staying at a Disney Hotel with early entry, or are coming in off property. I'll share what rides to head to first, attractions you may want to skip first thing in the morning, and the importance of using your My Disney Experience app to check show times and closures. Listen in to make your own strategy for your park day! | |||
| Ep 124 - 10 things I didn't know about Disneyland Resort - Disneyland for first timers | 20 Oct 2023 | 00:23:23 | |
I had done a lot of research and watched a lot of videos on Disneyland, but here are 10 things I didn't know. Today I'm sharing how quick service works at Disneyland hotel, what mode of transportation you don't want to ride, what part of the parks shut down early, and just how tiny Sleep Beauty Castle really is. Listen in for tips for your Disneyland trip! | |||
| Ep 123 - DISNEYLAND trip report - California Adventure, Oogie Boogie Bash, Disneyland hotel and more fun! | 17 Oct 2023 | 00:45:42 | |
Today I'm sharing all about our recent 3 day Disneyland Adventure! We stayed at the Disneyland hotel, visited both Disneyland and California Adventure, and went to our first Oogie Boogie Bash. Hear about our California experience from a first timers point of view, and I've got lots of tips for you if you are normally a Disney World goer. Listen in and follow along for lots of ride, snacks, characters123 and Disney fun. | |||
| Ep 122 - Southern California Trip Report - San Diego Zoo, USS Midway, Coronado, La Jolla, Del Mar and beach fun | 13 Oct 2023 | 00:27:34 | |
Today I'm recapping the first half of our Southern California vacation last week. I've got tips on flying into LAX, sharing where we stayed in Los Angeles and Del Mar California as well as our visits to the San Diego Zoo, local beaches, and more. If you are planning a trip to California, or may have one on the horizon listen in. Or just come along today for a little getaway! Come back next week for the Disneyland portion of our trip recap. | |||
| Ep 121 - Southern California and Disneyland Vacation ON THE GO | 10 Oct 2023 | 00:15:26 | |
Come along with me and the family as we explore southern California and cities around San Diego. We hit the San Diego Zoo, beaches, La Jolla, Del Mar and more, and then finish out the week at Disneyland. Listen in to some trip highlights, and come back for Episode 122 where I'll start a full trip recap! | |||
| Ep 120 - Ranking my Favorite Disney World Quick Service Restaurants | 06 Oct 2023 | 00:16:11 | |
A quick meal is my jam in Disney World and being able to mobile order and get back to the fun is a must! Today, I'm sharing my top 10 favorite quick service locations in the parks and Disney Springs. Don't settle for run of the mill theme park food when these great options may be just a few more steps away. We're eating BBQ at Polite Pig, fried chicken in Magic Kingdom, Mexican at Pecos Bills, and healthier options in Pandora. Come hungry, and let me know what your rankings would be. | |||
| Ep 119 - Epcot Table Service Restaurants, Character Meals, Food in Space, and eating around the World | 03 Oct 2023 | 00:16:38 | |
Epcot has food to offer from all around the world, but what dining reservation should you go for? Today, I'm sharing my experience with Space 220, Coral Reef Restaurant and more while also filling you in on all the table service restaurants that are available around the World Showcase. Listen in to get an idea of which ones may be right for you! | |||
| Ep 244 - My Real Thoughts on Universal Orlando – Unpacking the Magic of the Holidays and some Unpopular Opinions | 27 Dec 2024 | 00:28:57 | |
Today I'm sharing my honest and unfiltered thoughts on Universal Orlando’s holiday offerings. From breathtaking décor to amazing character interactions, I dive deep into what I loved—and what left me scratching my head. I’m spilling the tea on my hot takes and unpopular opinions, revealing which holiday experiences truly stood out and which ones didn’t quite hit the mark. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Universal Orlando regular, this episode offers valuable insights and a fresh perspective on what to expect this holiday season and some things to try or skip any time of year. Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at the magic, with plenty of personal opinions that might just surprise you. Want to experience Universal Orlando for yourself? Reach out to me today to plan your next unforgettable vacation. I’m here to help you create the perfect holiday getaway with tips, tricks, and insider knowledge to make your trip magical. Listen now, and let’s get you one step closer to booking your Universal Orlando vacation! | |||
| Ep 118 - Ranking the Table Service Restaurants at Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios | 29 Sep 2023 | 00:15:47 | |
Looking for some great food and good atmosphere and Disney's Animal Kingdom or Hollywood Studios? Today I'm ranking the table service restaurants at both parks and telling you which ones are at the top of my list. Whether you want a great burger and shake while watching a movie, or an upscale experience that's far from theme park food, there is something at these parks for everyone. So come hungry and get ready to plan out your next Disney meal. | |||
| Ep 117 - Ranking the Table Service Restaurants at Magic Kingdom | 26 Sep 2023 | 00:20:16 | |
Want to know what reservation to snag on your Magic Kingdom day? Today, I'm ranking the 8 sit down restaurants at Magic Kingdom and sharing what you can expect, price points, location, types of food, and where I've been and had a not so great experience. I hope you learn more about each of these restaurants so you can decide which will be best for your travel party. Be on the lookout for more future episodes ranking Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. | |||
| Ep 116 - Mouse Minutes 4 - Time saving hacks in Disney World, New Experiences, Chill Restaurants, Talk about Coffee and more! | 22 Sep 2023 | 00:16:21 | |
It's mouse minutes part 4 where I share my must have Disney tips and fun facts to make your vacation a bit more magical. In today's episode, I'm sharing about some fun out of the box experiences you might want to try like floating down a lake in a car and getting a pedicure in the middle of a busy Magic Kingdom day. There are lots of tips in this episode for snagging dining reservations, or a great backup if you can't get what you want and so much more. | |||