As I am writing this, I find myself in what I refer to as the “Disney Depression”. Just last week I returned home after spending a week in Walt Disney World, and I am still working on getting back into the groove of reality and adjusting to those chilly New England fall temperatures. What better way to battle the Disney Depression than by going through photos and remembering certain great aspects of my trip? I thought I would share some of my favorite moments from my trip to help anyone out there either looking forward to their Disney trip, fighting their own Disney Depression, or those just looking for a small dose of the World on a Monday morning.
Staying at Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter – This is by far my favorite resort and the one that I refer to as “home” at WDW. On this particular trip I had a room overlooking the Sassagoula River and reveled in the quiet atmosphere at night and the beautiful views in the early mornings. However, my favorite thing to do while staying at Port Orleans – French Quarter is to wander the quaint streets at night and to lounge by Doubloon Lagoon while sipping a drink and relaxing at the end of each day in the parks. If you have never stayed there before, I definitely recommend checking out this resort.
Lunch at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano – I have to admit that in a week at WDW I usually only spend about half a day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. As a result, I very rarely end up eating lunch in the park and wanted to change up my usual schedule this vacation. I had never eaten in Mama Melrose’s before, and I absolutely loved the experience – enough that I will probably be returning in the future. From the quirky décor to the interesting spin on Italian classics, this meal was delicious and not too heavy for a lunch in the parks. I would recommend the Whole Wheat Fettuccini which comes with sautéed vegetables and goat cheese. It was delicious!
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party – While I attend the Halloween party every year, this time I had one of the best viewing spots for the second running of the Mickey’s “Boo To You” Halloween Parade ever. While I loved trick or treating throughout the Magic Kingdom Park, watching Happy HalloWishes, and dancing along to the Villains Mix & Mingle show, my spot for the parade was the absolute highlight of the night. Sitting right across from the bridge to Liberty Square, I had a great vantage point for both the parade and the Headless Horseman. In addition, I was really excited to dress up as the tightrope girl from a portrait in the Haunted Mansion’s stretching room and was really pleased when a lot of people stopped to tell me that they loved it!
Breakfast At Tusker House – It has been years since I have eaten a character meal, and the only breakfast I have done before has been Chef Mickey’s. So, I was really excited to have the chance to eat at the Tusker House in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park’s Africa. The food ranged from traditional Mickey waffles and pastries to interesting quiches and traditional African faire like beef bobotie. Everything was absolutely delicious, and it was so much fun to meet Donald, Daisy and Mickey who were decked out in their safari attire.
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Presented by Chase– Last week I featured some of the highlights of this year’s festival, but there were so many other things I was able to taste and enjoy that it was one of my favorite Festivals to date. By far my favorite booths are still Canada and Ireland; however, I definitely recommend checking out Desserts & Champagne, Florida Fresh, and France if you have the opportunity!
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train – This trip was the first time that I was able to finally ride the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train! Last year around this time the ride was still under construction and was only just beginning to take shape and be slowly revealed from behind those big construction walls. The ride was amazing- so smooth and so intricately themed. Without giving anything away for those who haven’t had the chance to ride yet, the mine portion of the ride it so detailed and amazing. While I was able to ride during the day several times, there was an extra layer of ambiance when riding at night and being able to see everything from parts of Fantasyland and Tomorrowland to Cinderella Castle lit beautifully.
While these were some of my favorite moments from my recent vacation, there were so many other great memories that I am looking back on to help fight my “Disney Depression”. I hope that these little WDW glimpses helped to make your Monday morning a little more magical! Be sure to let me know if you have experienced anything that was on my list, or share some favorite moments from your most recent trip!
(Photos from the author’s personal collection.)
What were some of the highlights of your most recent WDW trip? Be sure to let me know by leaving a comment below, I would love to hear from you!
Caitlin Corsello was born and raised in New York. She graduated from Adelphi University with a Masters in Mental Health Counseling in 2012. Her love for Disney started as an infant and has continued to grow with family vacations to Disney parks almost every year since. She holds a particular interest in WDW’s parks and attractions, never passing up an opportunity to visit. She looks forward to continuing to explore and learn about all things Disney and to share that passion with readers.
