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Author Archives: Jennifer Retzlaff

My name is Jennifer Retzlaff and I became a lifelong Disney fan during my first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of my life. I live in Iowa with my husband and two kids who are growing up too quickly for my liking. I started introducing my love for Disney early to my family with a Disney honeymoon and then trips when our youngest of 18 months. Since then, our family has been to Walt Disney World over five times and we continue to plan and dream for the next trip. I love the magic that Disney brings to people through the theme parks, cruises, adventures and movies they create. As a teacher, I try to bring that magic into my classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” I recently reached a dream of mine as I joined Magic Vacation Planner as a personal travel advisor. With this team, I can now help others plan magical vacations. As a passionate writer, I also have my own blog at magicalvacationsbyjen which is also where you can follow me on instagram for trip reviews along with tips and tricks for your next magical vacation.

How to Spend Your Check-in Day Without A Park Ticket

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We get it.  You have planned a trip to Walt Disney World for weeks, months or even years and all you want to do is head right into one of the parks.  This is a great option; however, if you don’t want to pay for a park ticket on your arrival day, we have some fun activities you can do ...

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Signs Disney World is Heading Back To Normal

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Things are constantly changing in Walt Disney World since it reopened to guests back in summer of 2020.  When Disney reopened, things looked a little different as they made adjustments to help keep guests and cast members safe.  We are slowly seeing more and more return to what we would consider normal operations.  Take a look at the signs we ...

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Don’t Miss This In Walt Disney World

A happy family explores Magic Kingdom, strolling past Cinderella Castle under sunny skies, making magical memories together.

When planning a vacation to Walt Disney World most everyone knows the big must-do experiences.  Watch the fireworks, eat the castle, ride Rise of the Resistance etc, but what are those hidden gems you should be doing while visiting but you often skip right over?  We have a few don’t skip tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World ...

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Pros and Cons of Disney’s Hollywood Studios Quick Service

Dining is an important part of any Walt Disney World vacation.  We are diving into the pros and cons of some of Disney’s Hollywood Studios top quick-service locations.  We hope this will help you better prepare for your next visit and prevent anyone from being hangry. Woody’s Lunch Box Woody’s Lunch Box is located back in Toy Story Land and ...

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September Will Be Different In Disney World- Here’s How

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Walt Disney World constantly seems to be changing and September won’t be any different.  We have how this month will be different in Walt Disney World so you know what to expect when you visit. Experiences Are Opening and Reopening September will bring the opening of the long awaiting Space 220 restaurant.  Opening on September 20th, this dining location in ...

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Make Sure You Pack This For Your Trip To Disney World

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You have booked the trip, have your dining reservations ready to go, park passes are made and now it is time to pack.  What exactly do you need to make sure to pack for your Walt Disney World vacation?  The good news is Disney typically has everything you might need available or it will be a quick Uber/Lyft ride to ...

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Top Rides in Walt Disney World Right Now

Walt Disney World has some amazing rides to experience throughout all four parks.  We have a list of what we think are the top rides in each of the parks.  Take a look at the list and let us know what you think.  Was your favorite ride included in the list? Animal Kingdom Animal Kingdom has some awesome choices that ...

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What’s Open, Closed and Coming In Disney This September

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A lot has been going on in Disney as they prepare for the 50th anniversary next month.  We have a run down on what continues to be closed, what is supposed to open this month and future months as 2021 wraps up.  Hopefully this will help you as you plan your next trip. Closed Throughout all four parks, live entertainment ...

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Eat This, Not That In the Magic Kingdom

Dole Whip pineapple soft serve swirled in a clear cup with black spoon, served outdoors near an iconic Disney World building.

Being the most visited Walt Disney World park, you would think that Magic Kingdom would have numerous outstanding food choices for guests.  This isn’t exactly the case.  We have what you should eat and not eat when it comes to table service, quick service and snacks at Magic Kingdom. Table Service:  Eat This If you are looking for an excellent ...

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August Recap- All the News You Don’t Want to Miss

You wouldn’t think that August would be a busy month for Disney news, but this month was filled with breaking news we never saw coming.  Take a look at our recap of all the news that August brought to us from Walt Disney World. Animal Kingdom Lodge Opened It was fantastic to see Animal Kingdom Lodge welcome guests once again.  ...

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