Just got back from taking my 10 year-old to Disneyland and Universal for 5 days. I intentionally chose California over Florida to avoid Texas spring break crowds, and let me just say that was absolutely the right call. I was worried I might regret it, but all in all this was the best child-centric trip I've ever taken, and I'm glad to have checked Disney off my list in the most pleasant way possible.
Highlights:
- The Grand Californian. The service here was unmatched. Beautifully maintained property, excellent attention to detail, and the proximity to both parks made the whole experience a dream. Dining highlights were dinner at Napa Rose and the Princess Breakfast, which was also at Napa Rose. We didn't have a single bad meal the whole trip, but those two were standouts. The spa is also lovely, had a wonderful massage. I've stayed in more luxurious hotels, but this was everything I hoped it would be and more.
- Disney travel planner. Mine booked all of our reservations, including meals. He also helped me understand the best way to use Genie+ and to strategize each day to maximize our experience. I was super overwhelmed, having never been to Disney at all, but he created a detailed plan/itinerary and it all worked out perfectly. We ultimately ended up riding almost every single ride in both parks and the longest we ever waited was 45 minutes for one that didn't have a lightning lane.
- The VIP tour at Universal. Worth every single penny. Went right to the front of every line, were able to ride some things twice, enjoyed a quiet/private meal, and after the end of the studio tour, our guide went out of her way to take us back to Harry Potter and made sure our kiddo was chosen for the Ollivander's wand experience.
- California weather. The weather was a main character for the week. Gorgeous doesn't even do it justice. We never broke a sweat, there was exactly the right mix of clouds and sun, and the lightest of breezes. It was almost enough to make me understand why people live in CA.
- SNA. Super easy airport coming in and going out. Rental cars are attached to the terminals. Baggage claim was quick, security was efficient. I might never fly into LAX again.
Highlights:
- The Grand Californian. The service here was unmatched. Beautifully maintained property, excellent attention to detail, and the proximity to both parks made the whole experience a dream. Dining highlights were dinner at Napa Rose and the Princess Breakfast, which was also at Napa Rose. We didn't have a single bad meal the whole trip, but those two were standouts. The spa is also lovely, had a wonderful massage. I've stayed in more luxurious hotels, but this was everything I hoped it would be and more.
- Disney travel planner. Mine booked all of our reservations, including meals. He also helped me understand the best way to use Genie+ and to strategize each day to maximize our experience. I was super overwhelmed, having never been to Disney at all, but he created a detailed plan/itinerary and it all worked out perfectly. We ultimately ended up riding almost every single ride in both parks and the longest we ever waited was 45 minutes for one that didn't have a lightning lane.
- The VIP tour at Universal. Worth every single penny. Went right to the front of every line, were able to ride some things twice, enjoyed a quiet/private meal, and after the end of the studio tour, our guide went out of her way to take us back to Harry Potter and made sure our kiddo was chosen for the Ollivander's wand experience.
- California weather. The weather was a main character for the week. Gorgeous doesn't even do it justice. We never broke a sweat, there was exactly the right mix of clouds and sun, and the lightest of breezes. It was almost enough to make me understand why people live in CA.
- SNA. Super easy airport coming in and going out. Rental cars are attached to the terminals. Baggage claim was quick, security was efficient. I might never fly into LAX again.