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I went to Walt Disney World for the first time and it wasn’t at all what I expected

I was sure the magic in me had died long ago, as a burned out 35-year-old dad – so was the hype over the ‘most magical place on earth’ even real?

As a sceptical 35-year-old and rapidly approaching my grumpy dad era, I wasn’t convinced that the Disney magic would win me over on a recent trip to Walt Disney World.

Well, I was about to very quickly be proven wrong. As I touched down in Florida, I was sure that I’d be the quietly excited, loudly exhausted adult that looked forward only to the thrill rides and breakfast buffets.

I’m getting used to being wrong; Walt Disney World isn’t just for kids. It sneakily rewires grouchy grown-ups, too.

Somewhere between a zippy run on the first ride of the trip – a hello-goodbye to Dinosaur before it closes for good in February 2026 – and an unexpectedly emotional meet-cute with Eeyore at the Crystal Palace’s character dining experience, the magic found me once again. It’s not just the experiences either; I couldn’t help but be swept up by the infectious enthusiasm of other parkgoers.

READ MORE: Disneyland Paris confirms Frozen land opening date – and we got a first lookREAD MORE: I was one of first onboard Disney’s new cruise ship – one thing was instantly obvious

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge was my base, with its huge beds and views of giraffes from the rooms. After keeping jet lag at bay and sinking into the first full night of sleep I’ve enjoyed since becoming a parent three years ago, I was ready for my first taste of Disney magic and headed to Animal Kingdom park. (Walt Disney World is actually made up of four theme parks; Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT and Animal Kingdom).

The new Zootopia experience, ‘Better Zoogether!’ set the tone for the rest of the week. Launching just as Zootopia 2 hit cinemas, the attraction was a sugar rush of fun, silliness and wholesome humour. I found myself unable to resist chuckling along and wasn’t ready for some of the clever effects that made for some fun surprises (I won’t spoil them here though!).

Next on the itinerary was a trip to the themed Pandora – The World of Avatar, where I was taken aback. The spectacular surroundings immersed me in a land unlike any other experience I’d had before.

That ended up being the theme of the week; every attraction had its own way of absorbing you in the world it represented and the story it told the guests. In World of Avatar, the visually stunning Na’vi River Journey and then the truly groundbreaking Avatar: Flight of Passage were great examples of how you can get swept into those worlds.

READ MORE: I went to Disney’s private island for a day – I wasn’t ready for what was on offerREAD MORE: I’ve been to Disney World 12 times but the Black Friday price is so good I’m booking again

A self-professed fan of all things from a galaxy far, far away, I was always going to enjoy the attractions in Galaxy’s Edge, the Star Wars themed land, but Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance was arguably the best of the narrative-driven attractions I’ve ever been on. Each time I thought the ride was either ending or taking a certain direction, it both physically and thematically shifted.

Wandering around these massive playgrounds built to resemble the stunning worlds of blockbuster movies was the one thing I was most excited for. They lived up to the hype and then some – seeing the Millennium Falcon in Galaxy’s Edge, not knowing it was coming, literally took my breath away.

But there was another heartwarming feeling I didn’t expect. I was transported back to my younger self. All of the characters wandering the resort – whether it was Kylo Ren, Buzz Lightyear or the various Disney Princesses – encapsulated all the charm and wonder I felt as a boy.

Is this what it feels like to be a ‘Disney adult’? If it wasn’t, then the shows – including the delightfully camp Villains: Unfairly Ever After – and stunning fireworks displays got me as close to becoming one as I’m ever likely to.

The thrill rides too were truly brilliant – the Tower of Terror was my personal favourite, offering a unique adrenaline rush that I couldn’t help but laugh the whole way through, and TRON Lightcycle/Run was as fast and exhilarating as you’d expect. As a huge Marvel fan, the Guardians of the Galaxy ride lived up to the hype – not even a touch of motion sickness could dampen the feel-good vibes.

Then there’s the food. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to come to a theme park and enjoy fine dining. But tastes and smells of culinary excellence from across the world were truly astounding here. From the uniquely moorish bread at The Boathouse in Disney Springs – if you know, you know – to the opulent Hollywood Brown Derby’s upscale dinners, you don’t have to simply eat fast food all week. But if you choose to, the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater restaurant in Hollywood Studios has a unique diner experience.

But the most magical experience of the week had to be the Happily Ever After fireworks display. Being sat in front of Cinderella Castle as the night sky engulfed everything around it became a spectacular memory I’ll never lose. The combination of a medley of Disney’s greatest uplifting musical numbers and a truly impressive fireworks show made for a surprisingly emotional evening.

It was at this point that I truly shed the stressful reality of modern life as a father of two – all the pressures melted away as I got lost in the wonder. Well played Mickey Mouse, well played.

Just another theme park? Not on your life. I’m completely converted and can see why some people will return for holiday after holiday; the magic within me was relit all over again.

Book the holiday

Stay two weeks at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort from £3,343 based on two adults and two children sharing a Standard Room, arriving on 17 August 2026. Includes Disney 14-Day Magic Ticket, Memory Maker worth $210 and complimentary transportation. Based on bookings made by 31 March 2026. Excludes flights but these can be added to your package to save £500 per booking when booked by 26th February 2026. Find out more and book at disneypackages.co.uk.

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I’ve been to Disney World 12 times but the Black Friday price is so good I’m booking again

Walt Disney World super fan Scott Wells shares how to save on your 2026 holiday with these Black Friday deals

2026 is fast approaching which means that holiday planning is underway, and there’s always one place I look forward to returning to every year, Orlando, Florida. You could say I’m somewhat of a theme park fan. I have unashamedly visited Walt Disney World over 12 times in my life, and it doesn’t look like I’m going to slow down, thanks to the Walt Disney World Resort Black Friday deals that are on offer this year.

From hotel stays, dining deals, and ticket passes, you can save over a whopping £500 for you and your families. The magical area of Walt Disney World Florida is made up of six phenomenal theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and two waterparks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.

Walt Disney World Resort has launched a brilliant offer for selected 2026 holidays where guests who book their hotel and park tickets package by 31st March 2026 on selected travel dates can experience up to 25% discount.

The offer is applicable to selected Disney Resort Hotels and up to 25% discount on Disney 14-Day Magic Ticket that includes the amazing Disney Memory Maker. Plus, if guests book a flight-inclusive package by 26th February 2026, they will save an extra £500.

One of the best parts of this deal, besides the savings, is that it includes Disney Memory Maker. This is a photo package that allows unlimited downloads of all of your professional photos and videos from around the parks, character meets, and attraction pictures. This service usually costs around £160 ($210), so having this included will immediately have you saving even more money.

Another of the biggest offerings is a 20% saving off a range of tickets through Attraction Tickets.

Attraction Tickets is the place not only I, but many theme park fans return to to book their tickets year after year as they have great offers all year round. However, their Black Friday deal is one not to miss out on.

Not only do they do an option of the Walt Disney World 14-day Disney Magic Ticket with Memory Maker, but they also have deals on single-entry, multi-attraction, and combo passes so you can save on whatever your plans for you exciting trip are.

The offer runs from 6th November, to December 1st 2025, with up to 20% off the likes of Universal Orlando and more using the code BLACKFRIDAY.

We all know these types of holidays aren’t always the most affordable, so if you’ve not started planning your holidays for 2026, then now is one of the best times as you can find yourself big savings during the Black Friday period. I’ll see you at Cinderella’s castle.

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I’ve been everywhere twice – avoid these three European cities where locals hate you

Francis Hellyer, the founder and CEO of tickadoo, claims to have “been everywhere twice, and have some properly controversial opinions about Europe’s “best” cities”

A seasoned traveller and experienced jet setter has warned against travel to three places where “locals hate you” and food is “overpriced”.

Francis Hellyer, the founder and CEO of tickadoo, claims to have “been everywhere twice, and have some properly controversial opinions about Europe’s “best” cities.” When it comes to the “overrated” that he thinks are best to avoid, he highlighted three classic cities that receive millions of visitors each year.

Paris

“Unless you enjoy paying €15 for terrible coffee while dodging selfie sticks at the Eiffel Tower. The locals hate you, the metro smells like regret, and don’t get me started on Gare du Nord,” Francis told the Mirror.

If Francis isn’t alone in his dislike of the French capital, then the City of Love is responsible for a lot of very disappointed tourists. Paris received 48.7 million visitors in 2024, a post-pandemic high that surpassed the 2023 figure of 47.5 million.

Do you agree with Francis’s list? Let us know in the comments below or by emailing [email protected]

READ MORE: I found a pretty UK village ‘taken over by tourists’ as locals say they’ve been forced outREAD MORE: Warning to Brits as Canary Islands placed on ‘no travel’ list

One cohort that has a famously difficult relationship with the city is the Japanese. A phenomenon called Paris Syndrome refers to the severe form of culture shock that affects some Japanese tourists. Visitors with highly idealized expectations, often fueled by media portrayals, can experience extreme disappointment and psychological distress when confronted with the realities of Paris, such as less polite service and dirtier streets than they’re used to back home.

“Everyone loves Paris because of the Eiffel tower, the Mona Lisa, and the late 1800s architecture. In all honesty, most of the people I encountered there were the rudest, most miserable people I’ve ever had to deal with. The food in Paris was subpar, and there was nothing good about the food. London has a lot better cuisine than Paris,” one unhappy customer wrote on Reddit.

Venice

“Venice in summer is basically Disneyland with pigeons,” Francis said.

He is not alone in feeling like this. A popular protest Instagram page called ‘Venice is not Disneyland’ calls out the bad behaviour of tourists. “In the beginning, it was kind of a joke between friends. It started because we would see the wildest things happening around Venice! Like tourists taking a bath in the canal or eating and sleeping anywhere,” the anonymous person behind the page told Spotted by Locals.

“It is not just about tourists though! Many locals are also behaving inappropriately, like leaving old electrical appliances in the streets. So we decided that we need to talk about this on social media to show just how far that would go.”

When asked what common tourist issues occur in the city, they said: “A very common one is taking a bath in the canals! You might think it’s an innocent activity, especially on a hot summer day, but we should really avoid this. To begin with, the water is unsafe and dirty, so it’s not ideal for sanitary reasons especially if you’re going to a restaurant or hotel afterward! And also, canals are used for transportation, so taking a bath can be very dangerous for you and others. It’s really like chilling in the middle of the street – you wouldn’t do that in any other city.”

Amsterdam

According to Francis, “Amsterdam is just stag dos and overpriced chips.”

The Dutch capital is one of the most-visited cities in Europe. Its 800,000-person population welcomes up to 20 million tourists a year. It is clear to see why, given its world-class museums, beautiful green spaces and tranquil waterways.

However, in recent years, Dutch locals have grown increasingly tired of Amsterdam’s reputation as a destination for stag dos and bad behavior. To such an extent that authorities have taken steps to mitigate the effects of rowdy visitors. Smoking marijuana and drinking in public is illegal and considered poor etiquette by Amsterdam natives. Similarly, taking photos of sex workers in the Red Light District is strictly prohibited.

In 2023, the city council banned cruise ships from its city centre in July to prevent overtourism in its most popular areas. The same year it launched a “stay-away” digital campaign, targeting men aged 18 to 35 in the UK, attempting to curb visitors coming for drugs, alcohol and sex.

As for the cost of chips, a portion goes for between €3.50 and €6.50, according to Amsterdam Tips.

Some alternatives

As much as Francis isn’t a fan of the Dutch, French and Italian heavy hitters, there are some European cities he loves. They include:

  • Prague – All the beauty of Paris, half the price, triple the beer quality. Try the fried cheese.
  • Porto – Lisbon’s cooler older brother who doesn’t need to show off. Proper city. Great locals.
  • Cardiff – Yes, Cardiff. Arcades, castle, rugby, brilliant nights out. Fight me.
  • Ljubljana – Slovenia’s capital that nobody can pronounce but everyone falls in love with. Like a fairytale that serves excellent wine.
  • Birmingham – Genuinely. More canals than Venice, curry better than Bradford, and they’ve finally sorted the Bullring out.
  • Ghent – Bruges without the coach parties. Medieval as hell, students keep it lively.
  • Split – Where Romans built a palace and Croatians turned it into the world’s best bar crawl.

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I was one of first onboard Disney’s new cruise ship – one thing was instantly obvious

The Disney Destiny has a heroes and villains theme with plenty of fun character interactions, a new Hercules show, and themed bars including one inspired by Cruella DeVil

I’d barely been onboard the Disney Destiny for a few hours but I’d already seen Marvel villain Loki attempt to take command of the ship, eaten my weight in ice cream while looking out at sea, and searched out my go-to cocktail spot in the ship’s Cruella DeVil themed bar.

I was lucky enough to be one of the first people onboard Disney Cruise Line’s seventh ship ahead of its sailings from Florida this month, and very quickly, it was obvious that it offers up a huge amount of fun for guests.

One of the biggest underrated perks of a Disney cruise is the character meet and greets. There are so many slots available throughout the day, and you can check the Disney Navigator App to see when and where your favourite characters will appear. Just on a two-day sailing I managed to meet Cruella DeVil, Maleficent, Belle, Mickey, Captain Hook and Smee, as well as getting a cheeky dance in with Mickey, Donald and Goofy at one of the onboard dance parties for families.

I later heard from other passengers that there’s even a secret parlour on board where you can meet the Princess and the Frog’s Dr. Facilier; but be warned, only a handful of guests can get in, and they’ve all been warned to stay tight-lipped about what awaits!

It’s the sort of character time that any Disney fan dreams of – but in the parks sometimes it can be tricky to fit them in amongst trying to get on all of the rides too, so here it’s a much more relaxed way to have those magical moments.

There’s so much more to the ship than just the characters though. The top deck boasts multiple pools including one right by a huge screen where you can watch Disney films, while the adults-only areas include plenty of loungers and breathtaking ocean views for a bit of peace and quiet. (If you’re after the latter, then don’t miss out on a trip to the spa!).

Throughout the day there are plenty of fun events including Disney and Marvel themed quizzes, live music, and fun activities including a ‘Diaper Dash’ where parents can race their babies which is inevitably adorable and chaotic.

I managed to also brave a ride on the AquaMouse water slide where you’re in a dinghy being propelled around the tubes above the ship. A word of warning; you get absolutely drenched, but then again who wants to go on a water slide and stay dry?

Come evening time, you can sip on cocktails at DeVil’s or brave mortals can head to the Haunted Parlour where paintings come alive, ghostly apparitions make themselves known, and the cocktails are so pretty you’ll want to take a million photos before you drink them. At DeVils, a cosy lounge inspired by Cruella with live piano music, you’ll find a creative drinks menu including the Fearless Sir Galahad, a smokey mocktail resembling an Old Fashioned, and the Perfectly Wretched which served alongside ‘edible’ make-up treats.

For us Brits, the Cask and Cannon pirates-themed pub is a must visit – and yes, you can get a decent pint!

For those who love the theatre, the brand new Hercules show that’s exclusive to the Destiny is a must-watch. The cast were brilliant, the atmosphere was so fun and some of those special effects were genuinely jaw-dropping. The theatre feels very ornate so you forget you’re on a cruise ship and not in the West End.

There’s also an impressive production of Frozen which again does the film justice with a talented cast, special effects and plenty of fun surprises for the audience (I won’t spoil it!).

I was impressed by how much is actually going on in the evenings, from the pirates’ night with a whole show and live music, to those all-important fireworks at sea! (Disney Cruise Line is currently the only cruise line to offer this). Even when we set off, there was a fun Sail Away party with Mickey and friends appearing for a cute little dance show.

All of that fun and activity can work up an appetite, but don’t worry; you can absolutely eat your way through this holiday. Marceline Market is the main buffet (head here for Mickey waffles at breakfast), while Mickey’s Festival of Foods has stalls serving up everything from tacos to barbecues.

For evening meals, what’s great about Disney cruises is that you’re on ‘rotational dining’, so you’ll get a spot at the main restaurants without needing to fight for a booking. Disney Destiny is the first ship to offer the Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King restaurant, where you get to listen to live performances of the film’s iconic songs while tucking into your food, while World of Marvel offers up some fun interactions including a chance to show off your Marvel knowledge with a quiz.

If you fancy an adults-only meal (because these cruises don’t just cater to families), then the all-inclusive brunch at Palo Steakhouse is a must. Honestly, I thought they were kidding when they told me I could order a bit of everything, so I did – I practically had to roll out of that restaurant but it was so worth it. Don’t expect small portions! It’s worth noting that while most food is included in your Disney cruise price, Palo Steakhouse comes at an additional cost.

As for those with a sweet tooth, there is so much ice cream available around the ship that I honestly believe that by the time I left I was about 80% sugar. (Edna A La Mode Sweets is a must-visit to build up your own epic treats).

When that sugar crash inevitably hits, the Destiny’s staterooms have everything you could need to unwind. Big bed? Check. Heroes and villains theming? Check. Bathrooms, amenities, and plenty of storage? Check, check, check. My stateroom had a balcony and I was impressed by how large it actually was – the perfect spot to take in those ocean views especially when we sailed towards Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay!

Book the holiday

Virgin Atlantic Holidays offers four nights on the Disney Destiny from £5,384 for a family of four. Includes direct Virgin Atlantic Economy Classic flights from London Heathrow to Miami, room-only stay at Sonesta Fort Lauderdale in a Deluxe 2 Double Ocean View Room for one night before boarding, followed by a Disney Destiny sailing visiting Nassau and Castaway Cay.

Price is based on a family of four (two adults and two children aged 3–11) travelling and sharing an Inside Stateroom and includes all applicable taxes and fuel surcharges. Price is based on a departure on 30th September 2026.

Virgin Atlantic Holidays is a member of ABTA and is ATOL protected. To book, visit Virgin Atlantic Holidays or call 0344 557 3859. Prices subject to change and availability. Virgin Atlantic Holidays terms and conditions apply.

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I went on 57 rides in Disney World and Universal in 2 weeks — one is the best by far

Disney World and Universal have an incredible selection of rides whether you’re into thrill rides or gentler kid-friendly ones

I spent an incredible two weeks visiting both Disney World and Universal in Florida. The two parks are enormous and there’s more to do in both of them than anyone can possibly do in a fortnight.

Disney World’s scale, especially, is hard to believe. It is effectively its own city or county. It is comparable in size to San Francisco in the USA or Manchester in the UK and is twice the size of Manhattan. It has its own roads and transport system including ferries, a cable car network and 490 buses. For comparison, the entire Cardiff Bus network has 171 buses.

Around 58 million people visit Disney World every year. Estimates from the ONS indicate that there were around 42.6m inbound visits to the UK in 2024. Disney World employs 80,000 people, making it the largest employer in the state of Florida.

Universal seems small in comparison but by any other measure Universal itself is also huge. And its comparatively smaller size gives it plenty of advantages, particularly in allowing guests to “hop” easily between some parks on foot, something that’s not possible in Disney World.

Of course, both Disney World and Universal, which are both near Orlando, are about far more than rides. There are countless shows on everything from Beauty and the Beast to Indiana Jones, as well as parades, fireworks and character meets, not to mention thousands of shops. But for many people the rides take centre stage.

In two weeks, I did more than 50 of them. I was travelling with young children so I got to sample the “thrill” rides as well as those for younger children. Both are a huge part of the Disney and Universal experiences and many of the kids’ rides are just as enjoyable as the more adrenaline-pumping (and, at times, frankly insane) flagship roller coasters. So I’ve included both in the list to help you make the most of your trip, especially if you’re visiting as a family. But one ride will live in the memory more than any other. Here are my top 10 rides from both Disney World and Universal, ranked in order:

10. Ko’okiri Body Plunge – Volcano Bay, Universal

At the heart of Universal’s Volcano Bay water park is the volcano itself. And going from the top to the bottom via a 125ft drop, 70-degree fall through a dark tube is this body plunge ride. You start to realise how scary this drop is going to be during your long climb up the stairs to the top – it’s way higher than it looks. You begin the ride by climbing into a one-person pod at the top. Then, with no warning, the floor gives way and you plummet to the bottom at blistering speed, emerging into a pool at the bottom. Watch it here:

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9. Avatar Flight of Passage – Animal Kingdom, Disney World

The queue for this ride is an event in itself. You pass through an “active ACE (Alpha Centauri Expeditions) research lab” complete with working experiments and a life-size Avatar in a tank before you reach the linking chamber where you have fun while linking to your avatar. This journey builds up a huge amount of anticipation for the ride itself but nothing prepares you for what is to come. You put on 3D glasses and board your own mountain banshee before embarking on a totally immersive flight. Though your seat doesn’t actually go anywhere (though it does tilt and turn to an often- terrifying degree) the ride is completely immersive and you really feel like you’re flying. It’s a Disney must-ride! Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts at Universal Studios is a similarly brilliant experience.

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8. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment – Epic Universe, Universal

Monsters Unchained is the marquee attraction of Dark Universe at Universal’s new Epic Universe and tells the story of Dr Victoria Frankenstein’s attempt to control Dracula in her “ultimate challenge”. Like Avatar above, the build-up to this ride is as much of an attraction as the ride itself, building suspense as you go, not least when riders are shown a model of the chair they’ll be sitting on being hurled around by an enormous robotic arm as a crazed scientist Igor raves at them on a screen. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Universal Studios is a similar style of ride and just as good.

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7. Haunted Mansion – Magic Kingdom, Disney World

In some ways, Haunted Mansion is a much gentler version of Monsters Unchained. There’s far less motion to the two-person Doom Buggy carriages that take you through the mansion as the disembodied voice of a ghostly host guides you through so it’s kid-friendly (though obviously there’s a major supernatural theme). The part of the ride where ghosts dance as a pianist plays is fantastic. I loved this ride, all the more so for being able to experience it with my nine-year-old daughter and five-year-old son.

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6. ET Adventure – Universal Studios, Universal

There are lots of gentle-ish flying rides across the two parks and you should also try Peter Pan’s flight at Magic Kingdom. But this was the pick of the bunch for me, especially for some pretty serious childhood nostalgia vibes. You sit on a bicycle as you try to avoid chasing police and secretive forces to get ET home. It’s wonderful.

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5. Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges – Islands of Adventure, Universal

There are lots of fantastic water rides across Disney and Universal and I could have picked any number of them here. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom is superb, featuring a major and thrilling drop at the end. Pirates of the Caribbean, also at Magic Kingdom, is also fantastic, with pirates so realistic I found myself checking with fellow riders that some of them were not in fact actors. Na’vi River Journey at Epcot is stunning, with the animatronic Na’vi Shaman seen towards the end of the ride reportedly the most advanced Audio-Animatronics figure ever designed by Walt Disney Imagineering at a reported cost of $23m.

Living with the Land at Epcot is a one-of-a-kind (very) gentle educational boat ride, as are It’s a Small World at Magic Kingdom and Jungle Cruise in the same park, one of very few rides which comes with a host (Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom is another). Jurassic Park River Adventure at Islands of Adventure is also brilliant – and exciting.

But I’ve gone for Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges at Universal’s Islands of Adventure as my pick of the bunch. It’s a great white water ride without being excessive so it’s kid-friendly. And it gets you absolutely soaked.

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4. Tron Lightcycle/Run – Magic Kingdom, Disney World

This exceptional ride sees riders climb aboard their very own Lightcycle and take off on a high-speed adventure, racing against the Grid’s most menacing “programs”. Part of the ride takes place in daylight under the ride’s domed roof where you soar at speed above the park-goers on foot below, with the other half of the ride in near darkness set against thrilling screens. Guardians of the Galaxy at Epcot was another futuristic contender for this spot, but the additional spinning on that roller coaster made it too much to handle and Tron was a much smoother and more enjoyable ride.

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3. Fearless River – Volcano Bay, Universal

If you thought you liked a lazy river, then wait until you try the Fearless River at Universal, which my family all took to calling the “crazy river”. We went around it so many times I lost count, with the kids refusing to leave for large parts of the day, usually to my secret delight. A strong current carries you around the river as you float in large rubber rings (or just swim) at a pretty fast pace, with big, chopping waves and churning rapids adding to the adventure. Life jackets are a must for adults as well as the kids. It’s amazing.

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2. Surf Pool – Typhoon Lagoon, Disney World

There are wave machines… and then there’s the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool. I’d seen so many videos of this before arriving at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and wasn’t convinced it was real until I saw it with my own eyes. The Surf Pool is the centrepiece of this Disney water park and is a relatively calm and enjoyable pool for the most part. But every 90 seconds a “sonic boom” is heard sparking immediate squeals and screams of excitement at what is to come: a six-foot wave that comes surging through the pool consuming everything in its path. Some experienced lagoon-goers are able to body-surf it. Others, like me, were just battered. At one point, it knocked me into a backwards somersault. I’ve never seen anything like it.

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1. Velocicoaster – Islands of Adventure, Universal

Of all the amazing rides throughout Disney World and Universal, this one stands out as the best. I’d been watching videos of it for weeks and was so nervous about riding it that I didn’t know I’d follow through with it until I was at the front of the queue and stepping on to the ride with a thumping heart.

Velocicoaster is the fastest and tallest launch coaster in Florida, launching to 70mph in 2.4 seconds. The Velocicoaster’s “top hat” is 155-feet tall, with riders plunging from its peak down an 80-degree drop. There are inversions and the “Mosasaurus roll” which inverts riders over water at 53mph to end the ride. A truly incredible experience that I will never forget. Other superb roller coasters I tried were Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure in the Islands of Adventure and Stardust Racers at Epic Universe. The Crush n Gusher water coaster at Typhoon Lagoon is also fantastic, as is the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom. For a gentler ride for younger children that’s still fun, try the Trolls Trollercoaster at Universal Studios.

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Everything Disneyland’s dress code bans including strict costume rules

With rides such as the Indiana Jones Adventure, the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, or the iconic Space Mountain, Disneyland competes with the world’s biggest attractions when it comes to adrenaline and thrills

Disneyland has a surprisingly extensive list of dos and don’ts when it comes to getting dressed up for a day in the Magical Kingdom.

The iconic theme park is firmly stuck at the top of many people’s bucket lists, and for good reason. With rides such as the Indiana Jones Adventure, the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, or the iconic Space Mountain, Disneyland competes with the world’s biggest attractions when it comes to adrenaline and thrills.

And, of course, it is the undisputed champion when it comes to sprinklings of magic. “The Happiest Place on Earth” delivers sparkle and joy with fireworks displays, parades and castles galore.

However, Disneyland has a strict set of rules to ensure that the park remains fun, friendly and safe for everyone. A big part of that is its dress code.

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For those who have saved and scrimped for a trip to Disney, the last thing they’d want is to be chucked out or refused entry. According to the Disneyland website, that could happen if you wear “attire that is not appropriate for theme parks”.

That includes but is not limited to:

  • Costumes may not be worn by guests 14 years of age or older
  • Masks may not be worn by guests 14 years of age or older (unless they are for medical purposes)
  • Clothing with objectionable material, including obscene language or graphics
  • Excessively torn clothing or loose-fitting clothing, which may drag on the ground and create a potential trip hazard
  • Clothing that, by nature, exposes excessive portions of the skin that may be viewed as inappropriate for a family environment
  • Clothing with multiple layers is subject to search upon entry
  • Visible tattoos that could be considered inappropriate, such as those containing objectionable language or designs
  • Bare feet

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Disneyland also has specific costume guidelines for special events such as Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party. Before brewing up ideas for your next disguise, it’s advised that you read the park’s rules carefully. They are:

  • All guests may dress as their favorite character, but may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other guests.
  • Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent.
  • Costumes may not contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
  • Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another Guest.
  • Layered costumes or costume props that surround the entire body are strongly discouraged and may be subject to additional security screening.
  • Costumes may not reach or drag on the ground (e.g., full-length Princess dresses)

There are also specific rules for guests of different ages.

For guests aged 13 and under

Costumes and some masks may be worn, as long as the mask does not cover the entire face and eyes are visible.

For guests aged 14 and older

  • Capes may be worn if the length does not go below the waist.
  • Themed T-shirts, blouses, sweatshirts and hats are acceptable.
  • Acceptable accessories include: transparent wings, plastic Lightsabers, toy swords and tutus.
  • Headwear may be worn as long as it does not cover the face.
  • Masks of any kind may not be worn, except for medical purposes.

A statement on the Disneyland website suggests that those who breach the rules will, most likely, be given a chance to change their outfit.

“Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into, and/or removed from, the event, unless his or her costume can be modified to meet the above standards. While we encourage creativity, we also value safety and good judgment. The above costume guidelines apply throughout the duration of Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party and/or other costumed events. Please note: all rules, regulations and guidelines are subject to change without notice,” it reads.

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Self-titled ‘hot mum’ branded ‘inappropriate’ for her Disneyland outfit

Jennifer, who goes by the handle ‘I’m Fit Jen’, is known for her bold fashion choices but not everyone was impressed with her latest outfit, which she wore to Disneyland

A self-proclaimed ‘hot’ mum has caused quite a stir with her outfit choice during a family trip to Disneyland Paris. Jennifer, known on TikTok as ‘I’m Fit Jen’, is no stranger to turning heads with her bold fashion choices.

The fitness fanatic previously claimed that she channels Julia Roberts’ character in ‘Pretty Woman’ when she goes to work, rocking a mini dress and heels. However, it was her recent visit to Disneyland Paris that really sparked conversation on social media.

In a TikTok video that has since garnered thousands of views, she showcased her outfit at the family-friendly theme park. Tattooed Jennifer posed in front of the iconic Disney castle, donning sparkly Minnie Mouse ears and sunglasses.

Author avatarMilo Boyd

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She matched the pink bow on her headband with a figure-hugging playsuit, reports the Daily Star. She finished off the look with pink trainers, a necklace and a handful of bracelets. As the glamorous mum lip-synced to a tune, she flashed a grin and cheekily stuck out her tongue at the end of the clip.

Jennifer posted another clip showcasing her Minnie Mouse ears, this time matched with a green crop top and denim booty shorts. Her steamy Disneyland clips have proved popular with supporters, with many flocking to the comments to heap praise on the mum.

Yet not everyone has been thrilled with her clothing selection. Some have declared Jennifer’s ensemble was simply “not appropriate” for the family theme park. Critics of Jennifer’s look suggested that she should wear something more than the playsuit.

On its website, Disney explains its approach to dress codes.

“The parks are a casual, family-oriented environment. We suggest you dress comfortably, wear good walking shoes and check the local weather report before you leave for the parks. Review our Pre-Arrival Tips to make sure you come prepared for a fun-filled trip!

“Ensuring that the parks are family-friendly is an important part of the Disney experience. In that spirit, we ask you to use your discretion and common sense.”

On its list of “attire that is not appropriate for theme parks”, it includes; “Clothing which, by nature, exposes excessive portions of the skin that may be viewed as inappropriate for a family environment.”

It continues: “Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into, and/or removed from, the event, unless his or her costume can be modified to meet the above standards. While we encourage creativity, we also value safety and good judgment.”

The footage has re-emerged as the world of celebrity embraces the braless and ‘naked’ frock phenomenon. Sydney Sweeney showed off her take on the trend, sporting a silver chainmail gown with nothing beneath.

Chloe Kelly also joined the movement as she sported a jewelled creation for Harper’s Bazaar’s Women of the Year awards.

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Incredible road trip across 6 European countries that everyone ‘must do once’

Want to see the most beautiful scenes in one trip? A must-do country European road trip will take you to six countries, where you will see the sea, mountains, castles and breath-taking views

Hopping on a plane and getting to your holiday destination in hours is a luxury, but one thing that everyone should do at least once in their lives is a road trip.

TikTok account Living Our Memories shared the perfect itinerary, where the key stops included France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium. The total route is 23 hours and 49 minutes, non-stop.

Gathering over a million views, the couple, who shared their travels with their 5K followers, captioned the video: “An epic road trip across 6 countries you must have to do at least once in your life.”

Champagne, France

First stop, the French region of Champagne, known for its scenic vineyards. Located in the northeast of France, their sparkling white wine is what makes them so well-known. Visitors can see the cities of Reims and Épernay, as well as the villages like Hautvillers and Méry-sur-Ay.

Wine lovers can make a pit stop and tour the famous Champagne houses such as Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger. Those who prefer adrenaline can do some outdoor activities such as biking through the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims.

Stausee Steg, Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein’s turquoise waters in the middle of the most gorgeous greenery scenes, facing the mountains. It’s the perfect place for a swim in the lake or a picnic with your loved ones.

If you’re feeling sporty or want to capture the perfect shot, you can hike the mountains and get the perfect scene. According to AllTrails, it’s best to bring water shoes for those who plan to swim or walk near the rocky edges.

Lake Eibsee, Germany

Nature lovers will love Lake Eibsee in Germany. The waters are crystal clear with views of the Zugspitze mountains.

Some of the activities for visitors are hiking the 7.5 km (4.6 miles) walk around the lake, as it provides stunning views. You can also rent a boat or a canoe to explore the lake and the surrounding islands. If you’re brave enough, you can also swim in the waters – but it’s super cold.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Located in Bavaria, Germany, in the foothills of the Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle is just the exact layout as the ones in the Disney movies. In fact, it’s best known for the inspiration behind Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

The 19th-century historic castle overlooks the narrow Pollat gorge, and it’s close to the Alpsee and Schwansee lakes. Therefore, it makes it an ideal place to visit on the way to the upcoming location of the road trip.

Tickets cost 20 euros (£17.36), but children under the age of 18 can access the castle completely free of charge.

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Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Luxembourg’s tourism has increased over the years, making it the perfect place for a city break or a day trip. The city has a unique blend of history and culture, with a lot to offer to visitors and locals alike.

Its historical sites include UNESCO World Heritage sites and famous landmarks such as the Grand Ducal Palace and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The best thing about Luxembourg is that you can enjoy it all year round, and the public transportation is free.

Dinant, Belgium

To conclude the road trip, what better way to do it than in Belgium? A more tranquil side of the country, with beautiful scenery and history. Its most popular tourist attraction is the Maison Leffe. The town’s location is also ideal along the River Meuse, as it overlooks the water and the pastel-coloured houses.

Visitors can walk through the cobbled streets, take a boat tour and even participate in water activities such as kayaking on the nearby Lesse River.

Bruges, Belgium

Perfect for a city break, a small yet fulfilling town with a lot to offer. If you’re a fan of medieval settings, this is the place for you. However, its popularity comes with big crowds and higher costs.

Bruges is also famous for its Belgian waffles, fries, chocolate and beer – so, come with an empty stomach to indulge the best sweet and savoury flavours.

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