Living By Disney

I'm finally announcing a big project I've been working on for a while that's been a long time dream of mine! I"m hosting a small group trip to Disneyland and Hollywood!!! It'll be next summer, August 8-13, 2027 and it's going to be full of magical, exclusive experiences that aren't open to the public. Listen as I share all the details of the trip and what it will include.

Then, check out the trip page for further details, pricing, and how to book to secure your spot!

http://lbdtrip.com/

I also share a big update on the future plans for the podcast. It's a great episode with lots to share!

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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I'm back from a preview where I learned all about Disney Cruise Line's next big ship, Believe, sailing next year. Today we're sharing all the details about this new ship, the mixed reactions to certain announcements, and my take on them, plus who this ship is right for and which cruise I'm personally booking. Believe does start booking this week, so listen to decide if it's right for you!

Disney Believe Sailings Opening Soon!

The sailing Serena mentioned is January 15-20, 2028, 5 nights

You can book with her agent using this link

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Today I'm sharing my recent trip to the Emerald Isle with Adventures by Disney! This was my first time in Ireland, and I'll share the full itinerary and what is included in your Adventures by Disney vacation price. We'll also break down the pros and cons of a group travel trip like this so you can see if it's something you would consider booking.

This was not a hosted trip, just my own personal vacation, and all opinions are my own. If you're looking for a travel agent to get more information about this or other international travel, I would suggest Jamie from Love of the Magic Vacations, who is the most well-traveled person I know and is my personal travel guru. Contact her at jamie@loveofthemagicvacations.com

The video recap I did with my favorite Ireland song
The Adventure by Disney Ireland webpage

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This week Serena dives into the full weekend of D23 Ultimate Fan Event (aka D23 Expo) to share the take home moments beyond the big park announcements. She's joined this week by friend and theme park journalist Megan DuBois, and together they recap the big moments that stood out- from conversations with Joe Rohde and Josh D' Amaro, to big moments with Disney Legends. Join us for a candid converation about this incredible event, and what it tells us about the future of the Walt Disney Company.

Serena's suggestions for listeners:

WorldBuilders by Leslie Iwerks now streaming on Disney Plus
Disney Legends Ceremony on Disney Plus
Floating Mountains by Joe Rohde

Connect with Megan on Instagram!

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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I was at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim last weekend, and the Horizons showcase was packed with major news for Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Line. In this episode, I’m breaking down the announcements that matter most for Florida trips — from the full story and attractions of Villains Land and the massive Piston Peak National Park expansion at Magic Kingdom, to Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom (including Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent and Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto), the new Monstropolis land at Hollywood Studios, the refreshed Carousel of Progress, and the first real look at the Disney Believe ship sailing from Port Canaveral in late 2027.

Because I was there in person — and got some behind-the-scenes time with Walt Disney Imagineering that I can finally talk about — you’ll hear both the official details and my firsthand take on what these projects actually feel like up close.

If you’re dreaming about future Walt Disney World vacations or a Disney cruise, this one is for you.

Link to video from Imagineering!

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There’s a version of us that only shows up at Disney — a little lighter, a little more present, and somehow more ourselves. In this episode of Living by Disney, host Serena sits down with Julie Voris, a lifelong Disney lover turned Walt Disney World cast member and photographer, for a conversation about joy and the people we get to become in the parks.

Together they explore why Disney gives us so much joy, how it invites us to drop the weight we usually carry, and what it means to live that joy out loud, both inside the parks and beyond.

This is a warm, honest conversation about permission, presence, and the softest, truest versions of ourselves. Whether you’re planning your next trip or just missing that feeling of home, this episode will leave you feeling seen… and a little more hopeful.

You can find more of Julie on her website, andfollow her on Instagram!

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D23 is right around the corner, and the speculation is heating up! Today Serena is sitting down with Drew the Disney Dude to share predictions for the Ultimate Fan Event in Anaheim. They're talking Tropical Americas, Villains Land, Piston Peak, Monstropolis, Disneyland Resort updates, and everything else Disney might drop during the Experiences Showcase!

Check out Drew's video on this topic here!

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Starting June 28, 2026, Walt Disney World is implementing major changes to transportation leaving Disney Springs. Buses and Sassagoula River Cruise boats to the resorts now require proof of a valid hotel stay, dining reservation, or Enchanting Extras booking. Social media has erupted with complaints, claims that resort hopping is dead, and accusations of Disney being greedy.

But what’s really happening? In this episode, we break down exactly who this change affects (and who it doesn’t), how the verification process works, and why Disney is cracking down now.

Going deeper, we'll explore how the last 10+ years — especially the COVID-era population boom, remote work migration to Central Florida, and the explosion of Annual Passholders and locals — have fundamentally changed how people use the resorts and transportation system. What started as occasional “beignet runs” or convenient loopholes has scaled into real capacity problems for paying resort guests.

Is this the end of the magic for locals and passholders, or a necessary step to protect the experience for guests paying hundreds per night?

If you love thoughtful Disney discussion that goes beyond the headlines, this episode is for you. I'll share personal stories from living minutes from the parks and offer a balanced perspective on why prioritizing resort guests might actually be the right move.

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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Join us on Living by Disney for a delicious deep dive into Disney Parks food nostalgia and current favorites with Carly Caramanna!

In this episode, we sit down with veteran theme park journalist, food writer, passionate Disney enthusiast, and good friend of the show Carly Caramanna. As co-author (with Julie Tremaine) of the highly anticipated The Unofficial Disney Parks Retro Cookbook— releasing October 13, 2026 — Carly shares the stories behind 60+ nostalgic recipes inspired by legendary Disney dining spots. From opening-day classics and beloved ’90s gems to more recent favorites we miss too much, this book brings the magic (and the flavors) of Disney Parks history straight to your kitchen.

We explore what inspired the book, some of the most fascinating untold stories behind the dishes, and practical tips for home cooks. Then, we shift to the parks themselves as Carly — a true Disney foodie expert — shares her go-to recommendations for the best eats at Walt Disney World right now, including quick-service favorites, table-service standouts, hidden gems, and must-try treats.

Whether you’re a longtime Disney fan craving retro flavors, planning your next trip, or just love great theme park food, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and practical advice.

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode!

Pre-order The Unofficial Disney Parks Retro Cookbook todayand start planning your own Disney dining adventures!

Follow Carly @adventuresbycarly for more of her Disney and travel insights.

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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Planning a Disney World trip this summer? Don’t let the brutal Florida heat ruin your magical vacation! In this episode of the podcast, we’re sharing your complete Disney World Summer Survival Guide — packed with practical strategies to stay cool, comfortable, and happy even when the temperatures soar.

Discover how to master your daily schedule by starting early, taking smart midday breaks, and returning in the evening for cooler temps and beautiful nighttime vibes. Learn which rides to tackle when, the best ways to use water rides and splash areas for natural cooling, and why slowing your pace might actually help you enjoy the day more.

We also cover the must-have gear you need in your park bag — from handheld fans and electrolyte packets to stroller sun covers and cooling towels — plus important health tips to keep your whole family safe and hydrated.

Whether you’re visiting with kids, as a couple, or solo, these battle-tested tips will help you beat the heat and create unforgettable Disney memories this summer.

🎧 Tune in now for your ultimate guide to surviving (and thriving) at Disney World in the heat!

• Intro & Why Summer Strategy Matters
• Mastering Your Daily Schedule
• Smart Ride Timing
• Cooling Activities & Water Fun
• Must-Have Gear & Packing List
• Health, Safety & Mindset Tips

If you're heading to Walt Disney World soon, this episode is a must-listen!

Amazon Must Haves:

https://a.co/d/08ZrWDm5

Here's the master list of places to cool off by park:

Magic Kingdom

• Indoor Shows & Attractions:

• Carousel of Progress (long, seated AC show)
• Mickey’s PhilharMagic (3D show)
• Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor (interactive comedy show)
• Country Bear Jamboree
• Enchanted Tiki Room
• Hall of Presidents (when open)
• Space Mountain (long indoor queue + dark ride)
• Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin
• Pirates of the Caribbean (cool indoor queue and ride)
• It’s a Small World
• Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid
• NEW Jessie’s Roundup

• Water Play & Kid Areas:

• Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station (Fantasyland) — interactive splash pad with circus train theme
• Dumbo Indoor Play Area — air-conditioned playground near Dumbo ride (great for parents to sit while kids play)

EPCOT

Indoor Shows & Attractions:

• The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion (ride + massive aquarium + Turtle Talk with Crush)
• Journey into Imagination with Figment + ImageWorks (interactive play area afterward)
• The American Adventure (long seated show)
• Impressions de France / O Canada (circle-vision films)
• Living with the Land (boat ride through greenhouses)
• Soarin’ (in The Land pavilion — big AC area)
• Awesome Planet (film in The Land)
• NEW GoofyCore
• Gran Fiesta Tour

Water Play & Kid Areas:

• Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana — interactive walking trail with splash elements (you can get wet or stay dry).
• Small splash/mister areas near some pavilions (check near Imagination).
• Indoor playground near Mission Space
•

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Indoor Shows & Attractions:

• For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration (great AC theater)
• The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure (newer version, comfortable theater)
• Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (perfect for little kids)
• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (mostly indoor queue + ride)
• Toy Story Mania! (indoor queue + ride)
• Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
• Tower of Terror & Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (indoor queues)
• Villains Show
• Walt Disney Presents (exhibits + AC theater)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Indoor Shows & Attractions:

• Festival of the Lion King (excellent large theater show
• Finding Nemo: The Big Blue... and Beyond! (theater show)
• Better ZooGether (3D show in Tree of Life)
• Na’vi River Journey (Pandora boat ride, cool dark atmosphere)

Water Play:

•

• Kali River Rapids (get soaked for major cooling)

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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Join me as I recap all the exciting new summer openings at Walt Disney World! In this episode, I share my personal reviews of the brand-new Mandalorian & Grogu mission on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, the rethemed Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring The Muppets, Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT, Bluey’s Wild World at Animal Kingdom, the stunning new Animation Courtyard at Hollywood Studios, and more.

Organized park-by-park for easy listening, I also dive into my experience at the recent media event and the insightful Q&A with Walt Disney World leadership — including why it feels like Disney is truly focusing on better guest experiences and transparency.

Whether you’re planning a trip or just love the latest Disney news, this episode is packed with honest reviews, highlights, and summer magic!

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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If you enjoyed today's show please consider leaving us a review and let us know what you thought! The feedback would be so helpful and good reviews really help the show get more listeners.

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Welcome to the Living by Disney podcast! In today's episode Serena is sharing about her chef-led culinary food tour at Disney's Animal KIngdom park. Along the way she'll share the 7 new snacks and sips you'll want to try on your next trip, as well as Nomad Lounge's brand new menu items, and what it's like to experince a signature dining experience at Tiffins.

Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/jmQ6qD9c0I4

But more than that, you'll hear first hand from Exective Chef and Culinary Director of Animal Kingdom, Gregg Hannon, who sat down with Serena and Lou Mongello to share his perfect foodie day at Animal Kingdom.

Plus you'll hear the stories of both chefs and Walt Disney Imagineers who bring the park to life and how they're preparing for the new Tropical Americas land. It's a great episode to put on and chat about one of the best and beautiful theme parks in the world!

Thanks to Disney Parks and Disney Eats for hosting us!

And thanks to:

Joan Hartwig

Gregg Hannon

Camilo Velasco

Bryan Maroun

Kellie Matthews

Dawn Richards

Daniel Contreras

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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Get ready for the ultimate guide to Cool Kids’ Summer 2026 at Walt Disney World (May 26 – September 8)!

In this episode, I break down all the exciting new experiences: Bluey’s Wild World at Animal Kingdom, the Muppets-themed Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Mandalorian & Grogu updates on Smugglers Run, Jessie’s Roundup Revue, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, GoofyCore parties, H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon, and so much more.

I share exclusive insights from my interviews with Disney Senior Marketing Strategy Managers Peco Pizarro Arista and Liliana Lorenzo, plus my behind-the-scenes preview of the new Muppets songs. You’ll also get practical planning tips for Florida residents and out-of-state families — including how to beat the heat, make the most of resort perks, and create unforgettable summer memories without the stress.

Whether you’re a local planning a shorter trip or coming from farther away, this episode has everything you need to plan your best Cool Kids’ Summer yet!

Check out the video version on my YouTube channel!

http://youtube.com/@livingbydisney

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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Have you ever wondered is Disney Vacation Club is worth it? Or maybe even what exactly it is? Today Serena is joined by her friend and DVC member Megan DuBois to break down exactly how DVC works and what it costs. You'll also hear how you can try it out and see if it'll be a good fit for your next vacation.

You can connect with Megan on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/minglingwithmegan/

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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If you enjoyed today's show please consider leaving us a review and let us know what you thought! The feedback would be so helpful and good reviews really help the show get more listeners.

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Should You Buy a Disney World Annual Pass in 2026? Honest Pros, Cons & New Summer Perks for Passholders

In this episode of Living by Disney, I’m breaking down the big question so many of you are asking right now: Is a 2026 Walt Disney World Annual Pass actually worth it for your family — or should you stick with single-day tickets?

Whether you’re a once-a-year visitor wondering if the upfront cost makes sense, or a current passholder excited for the latest perks, I give you the unbiased scoop. We cover the current 2026 tier prices (Incredi-Pass, Sorcerer, Pirate, and Pixie Dust), blockout dates, reservation rules, and real break-even math. Plus, I factor in today’s parking reality (and how free parking with an AP can help the pass pay for itself fast).

The highlight? All the fresh V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days details running May 1 through July 31, 2026 (bigger than last year!): the returning Passholder Lounge at Restaurant Marrakesh in Epcot’s Morocco Pavilion, up to 40% off select dining, new collectible magnet, exclusive merch, and more. I share exactly who benefits most and when you might want to skip it entirely.

Link to the full list of discounts and perks:

https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/passholder-program/passholder-benefits-and-discounts/events-and-entertainment-discounts/

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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Six years after the COVID closures shut the gates on March 15, 2020, Walt Disney World still feels different. Today, we're taking an honest look at what’s still missing from the guest experience- from beloved nighttime spectaculars and atmosphere performers to everyday perks like Extra Magic Hours, Disney’s Magical Express, free FastPasses, and so much more.

We’ll talk about how the pandemic gave Disney the opportunity to quietly reset expectations and make permanent changes that continue to impact every visit. I cover the big losses, the smaller details that added up to real magic, and the projects that were cancelled or heavily delayed.

But this isn’t just a list of what’s gone. I also share why I’m feeling hopeful about the future and why I believe the best days at Walt Disney World are still ahead.

If you’ve ever wondered why your Disney trips don’t quite feel the same as they used to, this episode is for you.

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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Get ready for an action-packed summer at Walt Disney World! In this episode of the Living by Disney podcast, we break down all the biggest March 2026 announcements that will shape your next family vacation.

From the new leadership team at Disney Experiences to Cinderella Castle’s stunning new look, Buzz Lightyear and Big Thunder Mountain re-openings, the Muppets takeover of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Soarin’ Across America, Bluey’s Wild World, and a brand-new Disney Jr. show — we’ve got every opening date and detail you need.

Plus: Cool Kids’ Summer event (May 26 – Sept 8), ticket deals from $109/day, free dining offers, resort perks, and a behind-the-scenes look at the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival.

Whether you’re planning a summer trip with kids or just love staying in the know, this episode is your complete guide to making the most of Disney World in 2026.

Disney Unscripted video mentioned:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izHfsAX3kLg

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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Spring is here and that means it's time for the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival! This is your full guide to visiting, including all the best activities, my top 10 food and drink picks, and tips on when to visit and how to get the most out of your day.

Here's a link to the app Serena recommends to plan your food:

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wdw-food-wine/id1037609346

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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Value, moderate, deluxe, family, adult-only vibes- no matter your travel style, Serena has the top 10 Walt Disney World resorts that actually deliver for every type of guest. In this episode, she'll walk you through her favorites with real talk on prices, theming, food, location perks (hello Skyliner & monorail!), pools, views, and the honest downsides. Whether you’re booking your first family trip or hunting that perfect adults-only escape, this list has your next Disney home base. Tune in and start planning!

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Ever wondered which Disney World restaurants live up to the endless hype... and which ones are total tourist traps? In this episode of Living by Disney, we dive deep into the ultimate foodie debate: overrated vs. underrated dining spots across the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs!

Joining me is the no-holds-barred expert herself—Kristen from Wright Down Main Street YouTube channel. With her honest, straightforward reviews (and zero fear of calling out the flops), Kristen has built a loyal following by tasting everything and grading it like a real restaurant—not just on "Disney magic."

We start with Kristen's origin story: how she got hooked on Disney food content, what sparked her honest style, and the changes she's seen in the dining scene over the years. Then, we follow her personal list of the most overrated classics (the ones everyone waits hours for but might disappoint) and the criminally underrated hidden gems (the spots locals and repeat visitors rave about but most guests overlook).

Whether you're planning your next Walt Disney World trip, rethinking reservations, or just love a good food debate—this episode is packed with real-talk insights to help you eat smarter and save your appetite (and wallet) for the winners.

Kristen drops hot takes, favorite dishes, value breakdowns, and more. Don't miss it!

Subscribe to Wright Down Main Street on YouTubefor her full video reviews:

https://www.youtube.com/@wrightdownmainstreet and on Instagram at

https://www.instagram.com/wrightdownmainstreet

Link to book with Serena's Travel Agent, Jamie Rumph:

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