The Perfect Disney Instagram

I think my blog has been lacking a little sprinkle of Disney magic so I'm back to tell you all about one of my favourite things to do in Disneyland Paris. There's no doubt that Disneyland is one of the most photogenic places on earth; in my eyes, you can never have too many photos of the castle, the parades or your favourite character interactions. The minute we take a photo we're proud of, we up the brightness, add a little saturation and voila, it's uploaded to Instagram for everyone to see, but who doesn't love seeing Disneyland on their feed? I absolutely love sharing my Disney photos with you over on Instagram so with this in mind, I thought I'd share my top 10 'most instagramable' photo locations in Disneyland Paris. 

1. In front of the Castle

It's the most obvious answer, so I thought we'd get it out of the way. It's very rare that you'll go to Disneyland and not find a photo of the pastel beauty on your phone, but what's not to love? It's the perfect thing to make your Instagram look pretty, and what screams 'I'M IN DISNEYLAND' more than a photo of you posing with Minnie Ears on your head, a big grin on your face and a beautiful castle in the background. 

2.The Raining Umbrella

Every time I visit Walt Disney Studios, I have to get a photo under this iconic umbrella. I was terrified of this when I was younger but if you don't mind getting a little splash of water on your shoes then it's the perfect opportunity for an Instagram pic. You'll find this beautiful Parisien backdrop near Rockin' RollerCoaster, but be careful not to stand too close as it can catch you off guard. 

3. Studio 1 Fountains

It's the first thing you see when you enter Front Lot in the Studios Park and what better way to start your adventure than a photo with Fantasia Mickey. This is definitely one of the most underrated photo locations in Disneyland Paris but it's one of my favourites. 

4. Snow White Wishing Well

I'm the biggest fan of the original Princess so it was pretty obvious that the Wishing Well was going to feature in this post somewhere. Again, it's one of the lesser-known photo opportunities in Disneyland Paris and it's rarely open to guests, however, if you're lucky enough to be able to make a wish down the well then I'd recommend doing your best Princess pose and making the most of this perfect Instagram opportunity. 

5. 25th Anniversary Photo Locations

You'll have to be super quick if you want to catch these photo locations as they'll be gone when the 25th Anniversary Celebrations end. It's my goal to have a photo taken with every single one because they provide the prettiest backdrops for your Disney pics. Is it sad that I match my outfits to these backdrops because they're just so damn cute?!

6. Cast Member Door

This is a photo opportunity that, surprisingly, not many guests know about  (I only found out about it on my Soiree trip last year). You'll find the famous Cast Member door on Main Street USA, but you'll have to look for it as it's very easily missed. It's as close as most of us will get to being a Cast Member and you can knock on the door, but I'm not promising that anyone will answer! 

7. Bandstand 

The Bandstand at the bottom of Main Street is the first thing you see when you walk into the Disney park and although it's a popular photo location with guests, it's still one of my favourites. However, lighting isn't always great so I recommend taking a photo here in the late-afternoon and if you can, get the castle in the background. 

8. Fantasia Gardens

The best part about this photo location is that you don't even need a ticket to get into the park. You'll find this stunning Mickey flower arrangement in front of the Disneyland Hotel and it'll add the perfect pop of colour to your Instagram. We had a photoshoot here one sunny summer evening and the pictures were perfect, they looked like they'd been taken by a Disney Photopass Photographer. 

9. Small World Gates

We always see people posting their selfies in front of the famous walls in Walt Disney World. However, Disneyland Paris has its own set of walls in the form of Small World Gates. You'll find these pastel gates next to Small World and if you hang around, you might just see some character friends too! 

10. Last on Main Street USA

As most of you know by now, being last on Main Street has become somewhat of a tradition on my trips. It's the most magical experience and something that can't be put into words until it has been experienced. We see Main Street as a hustling, bustling, social hub of Disneyland but when you're one of a few people who have stayed behind to take some photos of the Castle, the tranquility of the park is so calming. Wait around after Illuminations to catch a shot like this, but don't wait around too long as they will eventually ask you to leave. 

What's your favourite photo location in Disneyland Paris?

Lots of Love,

Meg

xox

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My Top 10 Places to Eat in Disneyland Paris

I'm back again with another Disneyland Paris post! And this time, it's all about food.
It's so important to keep yourself refreshed when you're in Disney, even though the magic may be just a little over whelming. Disney is amazing for food, because it has options for everyone; you can either eat in your hotel, or go into the parks and grab something there. In both Disney Parks there are restaurant options and fast food options; so whichever you prefer, there's something for everyone. When we go to Disney, we normally have our breakfasts in the hotel (because Disney breakfasts are literally to die for) and then we test out different restaurants around the park for our other meals in the day. Because I've been to Disneyland Paris quite a few times over the years, I'm lucky enough to have tried out quite a few of the foods they have on offer. So, in no particular order, here are my top 10 picks of places to eat!

Enjoy!

Auberge De Cendrillon

This restaurant provided me with some of my fondest Disney memories. It's they only restaurant where you will be able to experience a character dining meal with the Princesses; old and new. They cast members working there create a truly magical experience for all the guests, and it's perfect for any little Princesses who would like to visit. Based in Fantasyland, just opposite Small World, Auberge serves traditional French cuisine, but if that's not your thing, I'd personally just go for the experience with the Princesses because it's something I'll remember for the rest of my life. As soon as you walk in, you're greeted by Perla and Suzy, and you're whisked away into the magical hall awaiting the arrival of the Princesses. I can't even put into words how magical it was. This restaurant is extremely popular so I recommend to make a reservation in advance. These can be made up to 2 months prior to your arrival date. 

Annette's Diner

This is my favourite place to eat in the Disney Village, I absolutely loved it. Serving authentic American diner cuisine, you won't be able to miss Annette's with it's flashing sign and 50's rock n' roll that just makes you want to dance. The burgers in Annette's are to die for, and the best part is that it's not too pricey either. Also, whilst your there, you definitely need to try some of their milkshakes; they're delicious. If that's not enough to convince you to go, the staff serve you on roller skates; yep you read that right ROLLER SKATES! Reservations aren't needed for this restaurant, so just turn up on the day and try not to dance to the music they're playing. 

Cable Car Bake Shop

This is the perfect place to go if you just want a quick snack, or if you're looking for some quick service. This isn't a restaurant as such, it serves sandwiches, salads, pastries and drinks for a quick refreshment before you continue on your adventures. We loved going in here, the decor is just so cute and it's very well priced as well so it was perfect for us. You'll find this cute American bake shop on Main Street! 

Restaurant Hakuna Matata

I absolutely love eating in this restaurant; it's lion king themed and serves the nicest food you could imagine. I mean, what more could you want really? You'll find Hakuna Matata in Adventureland, and you wont be able to miss it from it's noticeable sign. Serving Mediterranean cuisine, it's one of the many quick service restaurants around the Disney Park, and once again, it's reasonable in price so it doesn't break the bank. We return to Hakuna Matata every time we go to Disney. 

Café Mickey

I've been to Café Mickey twice, and I think it's one of the best restaurants to visit. Once again, it's a character dining experience with Mickey and his friends, and is a lot cheaper than Auberge, so if you want a character dining experience but don't want to spend a lot then this is definitely the place to be. Here you'll meet characters such as Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto, Goofy, Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, Piglet and many more! It serves Italian inspired cuisine and can be found just opposite the Disney Lake in the Disney Village. Again, I would recommend an advanced reservation for Café Mickey as it is very popular and can book up quickly.  If you arrive at your hotel, and spontaneously decide that this is somewhere you'd like to try, you can book in your hotel, but you're not guaranteed a space. This happened to us when we went in June. 

Casey's Corner

Found on Main Street, this serves THE BEST hotdogs you will ever have in your life. It's a quick service restaurant, but there tends to be a huge queue (because everyone loves Casey's) so it's definitely worth queuing. I absolutely love Casey's and it somewhere I visit every time I got to Disneyland Paris. 

Planet Hollywood

You'll notice Planet Hollywood immediately from it's significant entrance in the Disney Village. When I was a little girl, I'd always wanted to know where that blue dome lead too, and in the Summer, I finally found out. This was the place we dined in the most in the Summer, just because we loved it so much. It's the perfect place to dine if you've got a lot of fussy eaters because it's international cuisine which means it offers something for everyone. It's also very reasonably priced and the surroundings are amazing! 

Pizzeria Bella Note

If you're like me, and love Italian food, then you'll love this restaurant. I wasn't able to dine here when we visited in the Summer, but when I visit with my family, it's somewhere we always visit. You'll find Bella Note in Fantasyland, serving pizza, pasta and lasagna (I'm getting hungry just thinking about it). I don't think I've ever had a nicer Pizza in my life. It's a quick service restaurant, so amazing if you're on the go! 

Toad Hall Restaurant

Another quick service restaurant, serving good ol' fish & chips in Fantasyland. If there's one thing I love, it's fish & chips so this place was perfect. Sadly, it was closed for refurbishment when we went in the Summer, but now it's back open and better than ever. I'd definitely recommend trying here, I absolutely love it and the surroundings are so homely and cute! 

Disney Blockbuster Café
I remember eating here when I went to Disneyland Paris for the first time, and it's somewhere I have returned ever since. Another quick service restaurant, serving delicious sandwiches, salads and pastries, it's the perfect place to go if you're in a rush and looking for a quick bite to eat. You'll find Blockbuster in the Disney Studios! 

So, there you have it, my  top 10 places to eat in Disneyland Paris. If there's any advice I can give you about eating in the parks, it's to book your character dining meals in advance to avoid any disappointment when you arrive, make some form of meal plan (decided where you'll be eating and on what nights so that you know to take enough money) and definitely time your meals right. I recommend going for meals just as the parade is happening because that's when the restaurants are quietest and also just before or after Disney Dreams. 

I'll leave the link to Disney restaurants HERE so you can look at all the restaurants I've mentioned in this post, and all the other places that Disney has to offer!

Lots of Love,

Meg

xox

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My Top 10 Rides at Disneyland Paris

Okay, so first, I would just like to say how much I dislike this photo, but we all look like we're having a ball, so I guess this is going to do. 

It's been a while since I've done a Disney post hasn't it? And because you guys know that it's my favourite thing to speak about, I'm going to be talking about my top 10 favourite rides in the Disneyland Paris park (both the Walt Disney Park & the Studios). Now, before I start with my countdown of my favourite rides, you must know that this is my opinion, and therefore not everyone is going to agree. But, because I love all of the rides at the parks, I'm picking out my favourites on the basis of the rides I love going on the most. Less of the rambling and more of the countdown...YAY!

1) Big Thunder Mountain
This, without a doubt, is my most favourite ride at the park. It's always been the ride I've been most scared of, because I'm not really a roller coaster kind of gal. I remember going on this when I was younger; my mum had warned me that I wouldn't enjoy it, but I pestered to go on it and when they eventually gave in and took me on the ride, I cried the whole way around. When we went in the Summer, my friends reluctantly dragged me on it, and I actually fell in love. I don't understand how I could ever have hated this ride. I especially recommend going on this of a night when Disney Dreams is happening, because watching the fireworks from the top of BTM is really something to experience. If there's one thing I miss the most, it's the thrill from going on this every night.

2) Peter Pan's Flight
I felt so bad for not putting this as No.1 because, as you know, Peter Pan is my most favourite Disney character. This is, without a doubt, the most magical ride in the Disney Park. I especially love the part when you fly through London in the night time, and the lights represent the starry sky. I went on this every single day when we went in the Summer, and I love more and more every time I go on it.

3) Phantom Manor
Yet again, another ride I was petrified of when I was younger. I can never understand why, because it's really not that scary at all. I just love the special effects, they're amazing. If you actually look up the story behind the ride, it's really really interesting, I love the whole spookiness about it! The cast members who work on the ride really get into the character, they make the experience just that little more spooky, and we particularly enjoyed pulling funny faces at them when they tried to scare us!

4) Pirates of the Caribbean
This was our favourite ride to try and get photos on. I especially love the fact that you pass through a restaurant on your way through the ride, it's absolutely great! This ride is the best ride to go on in any type of weather, it cools you down in the summer, but is also perfect to warm you up in the winter. The big drop at the end is such a thrill, I love it! Plus, the cast members, alike Phantom Manor, are so in character and really make the experience magical!

5) Buzz Lightyear Lazer Blast
Definitely the most competitive ride in the park, but also one of my favourites. I went on this when it first opened, and I absolutely loved it. I first expected it to be scary, but it's nothing like that at all. Going on it with your friends is the best, I think me and Charlotte fell out for about five minutes on the ride, because she kept moving the cart as I was trying to shoot and vice, versa. But it was so so much fun. Also, don't forget the photo opportunity like we always did!

6) Star Tours
I'm not the biggest Star Wars fan, just at the main fact that I've never actually seen any of the films *Shock* *Gasp*. However, my Mum is, so this was the top of her list when we went a few years ago. I hated it at first, but since I've grown up, I've started to love it. The ride itself is basically a simulator, and you're all strapped in and it takes you on a little story where you battle and fly and it's just so much fun!!

7) It's a Small World
Controversial I know. This was the first ride I ever went on when I first visited Disneyland Paris 13 years ago, and to this day it still remains as one of my favourite rides. A lot of people are creeped out by it, I don't really understand that. It's one of the most heart-warming lovely rides, and I especially love the part when all the boats bump into one another at the end of the ride.

8) Ratatouille: The Adventure
This is the newest ride to emerge at the Disney Studios, and we were very much looking forward to trying this out. There are a lot of mixed opinions on the ride, but I personally loved it. It was unlike anything else in the park, and the 4D experience made it very worthwhile. Also, I can't even begin to tell you how cute the little carriages are that you travel in, they're all little mice, and it's the most adorable thing ever. The way the ride works is very clever, and I would recommend going in the single rider queue if you want to avoid the large queues.

9) Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop
Once again, amazing for the single rider service. If Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is not your thing, which is certainly isn't for me, then this is the next best thing in the Disneyland Parks. It gives the most amazing view of the resort, as well as providing a little bit of a thrill. I personally really really loved this ride, and it was the most hilarious thing being sat opposite my friends.

10) Mad Hatter's Tea Cups
I'm picking this ride because of how pretty it is, plus I love a good classic. The teacups were the ride we would always go on when we just wanted to relax for a little bit, or when I wanted to take some nice photos. This is definitely the most picturesque ride, and also so much fun. It really took me back to being a little girl when my grandad would take me on it and would spin me round really really fast. I loved this the most. It especially looks very pretty at night!

So, there we have it; my top 10 rides at Disneyland Paris.
I hope that's given some people an idea of what is good to go on, and the different type of rides there are for everyone in the family. If you have any questions about the rides, or the park in general, don't hesitate to leave a comment and also let me know what your favourite rides are!

Lots of Love
Meg
xox

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My Top Disney Store Gifts for Under £20

There's nothing I love more than Disney. But you guys already knew that.

I've been looking to buy presents for my friends, and I got a lot of the things from the Disney Store. If you're ever stuck to buy anyone anything, you can guarantee that Disney is the place to go (it is if your ever stuck as to what to buy for me). As I know a lot of people are on a budget this year for Christmas, I thought I'd pick out a few of my favourite products that we have in store at the moment, which would make perfect presents for your female friends. (If you would like me to do a post on what you can get for males then leave me a comment below!). And here's the best part; everything is under £20!! I would be so happy to receive these under the tree this year. 

The products included are:

Minnie Mouse Tote Bag

Minnie and Mickey Pyjamas

Minnie and Mickey Slippers

Aristocats Marie Mug

Aristocats Marie Tsum Tsum

Donald Duck Mug
Donald Duck Teddy
Snow White Notebook

Peter Pan Mug

Minnie Mouse Teddy

Alice In Wonderland Cosmetics Bag
Bambi Pyjamas
Bambi Slippers
Elsa Phone Case
Dumbo Phone Case
Chip & Dale Tote Bag

Hope you'll get some inspiration from these gifts!
Disney will also box the mugs for you for £1 with tissue paper and cute stickers, or they will put it in a lovely little gift bag which range from £2.00 onwards, so there's always some pretty good deals around!

What's on your Christmas List this year?

Lots of Love,
Meg
xox

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Things to know before you go | Disneyland Paris

So, you've booked your holiday to Disneyland Paris, but now you have the horrible wait until you venture into a world beyond your wildest dreams and spend a few days in the residence of Mickey Mouse. I thought I'd do a little blog post with a few things that you should know before you go!

1) Only certain hotels offer the Extra Magic Hours in the Park
Extra Magic Hours provide you with a chance to enter the Disney Parks two hours early so that you can meet and greet Mickey and his friends as well as visit some of the attractions that will get busier later on in the day. However, only Disney hotels have the advantage of these hours which are stated below:
Disneyland Hotel
Disney's Hotel New York
Disney's Newport Bay Club
Disney's Sequoia Lodge
Disney's Hotel Cheyenne
Disney's Hotel Santa Fe
Disney's Davy Crockett Ranch

2) Transportation
The Eurostar (travelling from London) takes you to the Marne-La-Vallée station, just a two minute walk from the main entrance to the Disney Parks and in the immediate vicinity of the Disney Hotels (As stated above, except the Davy Crockett Ranch). If you will be travelling from Paris, it's just a 35 minute trip on the RER A (express train) to get to the Disney Park Station. 

If the train is not your thing and you would prefer to fly, you should definitely take advantage of the VEA shuttle service between the main airports in Paris. It's only an hour trip, if traffic plays in your favour, and it should be included in your flight package (make sure that it is!) 

3) Arrival and Departure
Hotels checking in times tend to be different but the majority are between 2-3pm. However, if you do get there early, check in and your room is already available, they will happily give you the key to your room to allow you to start your Disney Adventure, so always make sure that you check. On your day of departure, you are normally asked to leave your room by 11am. There is a room where you can leave your luggage if you wish to do some last minute shopping or spend one last day in the park. However, this is not available at the Davy Crockett Ranch. 

4) Shopping
Although there are many shops dotted around the Disney Parks, the main place for some retail therapy is the Disney Village. It's the perfect place to venture just before Disney Dreams, or after as it is open until 1am. It offers many shows and bars as well as shops so you're sure to be entertained. 

If you're worried about having to carry all of your things around with you then don't be! Disney now offers a free shopping service; this means that you can leave your purchases at the shop and rest assured that they will be delivered directly to your hotel. This service is available for guests staying in the Disney Hotels and the Val de France Hotels (Hotel l'Eysée Val d'Europe and Pierre & Vacances City Aparthotel Val d'Europe) 

5) Getting Lost
If you're worried about getting lost, there's no need to panic. There are maps, in all different languages, available in both parks, as well as entertainment guides and character meeting points. All the staff are so willing to help you, they always have a smile on their face and cannot do enough for you. Also, don't worry about the language barrier, most cast members speak at least French and English. City Hall is also a good place to go if you need help. 

6) Birthday Celebrations
If there is going to be a birthday celebration whilst you are on your holiday in Disneyland Paris, it is possible to inform City Hall who will then give you a birthday badge with your name on it. Throughout the day, characters will wish you a happy birthday, making your day just that little more magical. 

7) Kids
If you're going to be taking the children to Disney, here are a few little things that you should know. Cots are available free of charge on request, as are basic accessories such as bottle warmers but these are all subject to availability on the day. In the Park, stroller rentals are available as well as baby care centres which allow you to change, feed, or look after your child. There is also a lost children point so if this does happen, you can be sure that your child will be in the safest of hands. 

8) Dining

There are many ways to dine in Disneyland Paris. Each Park offers a variety of restaurants, all of which offer vegetarian food to those who require it. Breakfast in your hotel can be booked when booking your holiday, as can your evening meal, meaning that this could cost you a little bit more.

The Disney Village also offers various different types of restaurant, all serving delicious food. I personally recommend Annette's Diner and Planet Hollywood. 

Character Dining experiences are also the perfect opportunity for you to meet different characters. These can be booked in your hotel, but need to be booked in advance as places are taken up quickly.

Another amazing experience is a diner show at Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show at the Disney Village. Lace up your boots for a wild wild evening as you prepare to indulge in a feast fit for a cowboy as you watch this fast and furious tribute to the Wild West. It lasts for approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, and you also get a really cool cowboy hat to take away with you. Definitely recommended. 

9) Shuttle Buses
There are Disney Shuttle Buses available from all hotels in the Disney area, taking you straight to the Disney bus station. However, if you're staying in the Disney Hotels, your hotel is only a short walk away from the Disney Park. 

10) Safety

Before you enter either the Disney Village or the Disney Park as well as your Hotels, your cases, your baggage and your body are checked. This is to ensure your safety.

I hope this helped some people. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask in the comments below!

Lots of Love
Meg
xox

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