Pure Fun

Disney in grand style

The luxuries of a park for those who don't want lines, but just the best

By Paulo Basso Jr

Every night the scene repeats itself in Orlando (USA). As soon as the sun sets, thousands of people gather in front of Cinderella’s Castle to watch the Disney Enchantment, a show of fireworks and lights that colors the Magic Kingdom‘s sky amid one of the most awaited moments of those who go to the Disney World.

There are, however, those who observe all this from privileged views, without having to spend long minutes standing or with children’s balloons obstructing their view. It can be from the balcony of a restaurant at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando, located on the premises of Mickey’s complex, or even from the pool or bungalow of one of Disney’s luxury hotels.

For those going as a family group, using the exclusive services is the best way to travel in comfort to the region. Even more so now that Disney World has just completed 50 years and has been attracting crowds for “The Most Magical Celebration in the World,” which is a party that continues until early 2023.

A trip to Orlando surrounded by indulgences begins as soon as you land. Aboard Lincolns and other elegant sedans, companies such as Mears and Ace Luxury provide transfers between the airport and the hotel for around US$ 130. A limousine starts at US$ 220.

You can also get in the mood right away and call a Disney Minnie Van, which is an SUV painted red and white like Minnie’s dress. The round-trip travel from the Disney resorts, offered on the Lyft app, costs US$ 155 for up to six people.

When choosing where to stay, there are many options. More than just having a privileged view of the firework show, those staying at the Four Seasons, with daily rates from US$ 1,220, have a pool with a water slide, spa, breakfast with Disney characters and exclusive transfers to the parks. A lobby with a very high ceiling decorated with a crystal chandelier welcomes those who arrive at the hotel, which also has private residences – that’s right: it’s possible to live at Disney World.

The Mickey complex also has its own luxury resorts, starting at US$ 438 a night. This is the case of the Victorian-style Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, which is the setting of the award-winning Victoria & Albert’s Restaurant, and the Polynesian Village Resort, with bungalows on the water and rooms inspired by the character Moana.

It is also worth considering the Animal Kingdom Lodge, from where the animals that live in the Animal Kingdom can be observed from the balconies of the rooms.

Or, the Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, which has villas with glass decks overlooking the Disney Enchantment show – with the sound transmitted through speakers.

Among Disney’s best hotels, the newest is the Riviera Resort, whose decor is reminiscent of Walt Disney’s travels along the coasts of Italy and France. In mid-2022, the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will open, which aims to offer an experience similar to boarding a spaceship, with a fixed stay of two nights and Star Wars attractions. Packages will cost US$ 2,418 per person.

Independent of the choice, those staying at one of these resorts will find a voice assistant in the rooms, from which they can hire services, make reservations and ask questions – such as where to watch the fireworks show in comfort. Just say “Hey Mickey” and wait for the magic to happen.

Once settled in, it’s time to enjoy the parks. There is a service called Disney Private VIP Tours, which includes a private guide and a series of gifts, such as access to the leisure centers behind the scenes. Widely used by celebrities and families, the package costs between $425 and $850 an hour, depending on the time of year. The minimum contract is seven hours, and the price, which is for up to 10 people, includes rides without lines and access to isolated areas to watch the parades.

Slide photos and see the new Disney Enchantment show, the Private VIP Tour and Be Our Guest Restaurant

A tip, first thing in the morning, is to ask the guide for reservations at the most popular restaurants, such as Be Our Guest or Cinderella’s Royal Table, in the Magic Kingdom, Morimoto Asia, at Disney Springs, or Jiko, with the largest cellar of South African wines in Florida, at the Animal Kingdom Lodge hotel.

To celebrate the 50 years of Disney World, don’t forget to request for new features to be included in the trip, such as the Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure simulator at Epcot and a tour of the most remarkable places in the complex’s history. Take your time.