Disney Hour Express

Episode 109: Best Quick Service Dining at Disney World (& Snow White Live Action Review)

In this episode of the Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob explore the best quick service dining options at Walt Disney World, sharing personal experiences and insights about various restaurants. They discuss the significance of quick service dining, especially for families on the go, and highlight their favorite spots.  The conversation also touches on the challenges of dining plans and the importance of finding suitable dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. This episode also includes with a discussion about the live action adaptation of Snow White, comparing it to the animated classic. In this conversation, Abbie and Rob give their reviews, focusing on the origin of the character's name, casting choices, and performances, particularly highlighting Rachel Zegler's talent. The episode concludes with the trip around the Disney and Universal Parks, including new shows coming to Disney World and Universal's Express Pass released for Epic Universe but excludes major rides. 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Disney Hour Express02:58 Celebrating Mom and Pop Business Owners05:47 Exploring Quick Service Dining at Disney09:11 Magic Kingdom Quick Service Restaurants Overview12:01 Dining Plan Insights and Quick Service Choices15:01 Favorite Quick Service Locations and Experiences18:04 Casey's Corner and Other Notable Quick Service Spots20:55 Unique Quick Service Options and Final Thoughts25:28 Introduction to Quick Service Dining26:11 Exploring Animal Kingdom Quick Service31:49 Transition to Hollywood Studios Quick Service38:45 Diving into Epcot Quick Service Options44:12 Resort Quick Service Dining Highlights48:06 Discussion on Live Action Snow White50:34 The Origin of Snow White's Name51:09 Casting Choices and Performances52:48 The Dwarves: CGI vs. Live Action54:57 Progressive Themes in Snow White56:50 Disney's Marketing and Entertainment Experience57:49 Upcoming Changes at Disney Parks01:00:11 Universal's New Attractions and Changes01:01:58 The Dark Universe Makeup ExperienceDisney, quick service dining, Walt Disney World, family travel, dining plan, Disney parks, restaurant reviews, travel tips, Disney enthusiasts, theme parks, Disney, quick service dining, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Epcot, resort dining, Snow White, Snow White, Disney, Rachel Ziegler, CGI, Dwarves, Progressive Themes, Disney Parks, Universal Studios, Attractions, Makeup Experience

Episode 108: To Animal Kingdom Or To Not Animal Kingdom, That Is The Question

In this episode of Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob answer the question, "Is it worth going to Animal Kingdom in 2025?" They delve into the ongoing construction, the importance of conservation, and the unique experiences that await visitors. The conversation highlights the excitement surrounding new rides, nighttime events, and special celebrations, making a compelling case for why Animal Kingdom should (or should not) be overlooked in 2025. This episode also touches on recent Disney news and updates about Universal's Epic Universe and Fan Fest events, highlighting the excitement surrounding new experiences in both parks.To reach Abbie and Rob, please head to their website - https://familytravelplanner.com/And follow Abbie and Rob on all of their socials - https://linktr.ee/familytravelplanner
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Disney Hour Express00:54 Exploring Disney's Animal Kingdom03:49 Construction and Changes in 202507:01 New Attractions and Experiences09:47 The Importance of Conservation12:56 Nighttime Magic at Animal Kingdom15:51 Unique Animal Encounters19:03 Rafiki's Planet Watch and Educational Experiences21:53 Celebrations and Special Events25:11 Final Thoughts on Visiting in 202531:39 Animal Kingdom: More Than Just a Zoo37:34 Dining Experiences at Animal Kingdom42:51 Future of Animal Kingdom: Attractions and Experiences45:50 Disney News: Updates and Changes55:11 Universal News: Epic Universe and Fan Fest
Disney, Animal Kingdom, 2025, attractions, conservation, travel tips, family experiences, Disney Hour Express, new rides, entertainment, Animal Kingdom, Disney, theme parks, dining, attractions, Universal Studios, Epic Universe, family-friendly, conservation, quick service
 

Episode 107: Snow White: From Screen to Theme...Park

In this episode of the Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob delve into the enchanting world of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, exploring its historical significance as Disney's first animated feature film. They discuss the production challenges, innovative techniques used in animation, and the cultural impact of the film. The conversation also touches on Snow White's presence in Disney parks, the popularity of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train ride, and unique dining experiences featuring the beloved character. Personal anecdotes and adaptations of Snow White are shared, highlighting the timeless appeal of this classic tale. This conversation explores the evolution of the Snow White franchise, including the upcoming live-action film and the controversies surrounding its casting. The hosts discuss the excitement for the film, the various adaptations of Snow White, and the broader implications of casting choices in modern cinema. They also touch on updates from Disney Parks and the new ticketing options for Universal's Epic Universe, highlighting the ongoing developments in family entertainment.To reach out to Abbie and Rob, head over to their socials:https://linktr.ee/familytravelplanner
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Disney Hour Express02:03 The Legacy of Snow White06:31 Production Challenges and Innovations09:05 Cultural Impact and Reception10:35 Snow White in Disney Parks15:04 The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train18:48 Character Dining and Experiences21:00 Personal Memories and Iterations of Snow White27:19 The Evolution of Snow White29:42 Controversies in Casting and Representation31:56 Excitement for the New Live Action Film35:20 Disney's Expanding Universe39:52 Updates from Disney Parks46:37 Universal's Epic Universe News
Keywords
Disney, Snow White, animation, Disney parks, family travel, Disney Hour Express, Disney movies, character dining, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Disney history, Snow White, Disney, live action, casting controversy, Disney Parks, Universal Studios, Epic Universe, movie adaptations, family entertainment, film history
 

Episode 106: Top Disney Resort Hotels of 2025

In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, Abbie and Rob discuss the top Disney resorts for 2025, including current discounts, refurbishments, and their personal recommendations. They explore the pros and cons of Value, Moderate, and Deluxe resorts, providing insights for families planning their Disney vacations. The episode also highlights exciting updates from Disney and Universal Parks, including new attractions and experiences.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Disney Resorts and Planning for 202505:43 Twerkin' Oscars08:30 Current Discounts and Offers for Disney Resorts12:46 Exploring Value Resorts: Options and Refurbishments24:09 Moderate Resorts: Are They Worth It?35:11 Exploring Deluxe Villas and Resorts37:54 Understanding Animal Kingdom Lodge and Its Complexities39:52 Construction Updates on Popular Resorts42:43 Choosing the Best Deluxe Resort for 202547:47 Dining Experiences at Animal Kingdom Lodge50:41 Final Resort Recommendations and Personal Preferences54:42 Exciting Announcements from Disney Parks01:01:43 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival Highlights
Disney, Disney resorts, travel tips, family vacation, Disney discounts, resort reviews, Disney planning, 2025 travel, Disney parks, travel agency
 

Episode 105: Essential Tips for Breaking Spring at Disney

In this episode of the Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob discuss essential tips for planning a Disney trip during the busy Spring Break season. They share insights on crowd management, dining reservations, and the importance of planning ahead to maximize the magical experience. The episode also covers recent Disney news and updates, including changes in character meet-and-greets and upcoming attractions.
To reach Abbie and Rob, please head to their website, which has links to all of their socials. https://familytravelplanner.com/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Spring Break Overview02:08 Oscar Buzz08:39 Planning Tips for Spring Break at Disney15:57 Navigating Crowds and Lightning Lanes21:53 Ride Recommendations and Strategies25:19 Planning Your Disney Park Day29:24 Ride Recommendations for Hollywood Studios32:06 Dining and Itinerary Planning38:22 Crowd Management and Special Events41:31 Latest Disney and Universal News and Updates50:05 Interactive Experiences at Universal50:37 Outro w Button.mp3

Episode 104: Disney Villains Should Be Seen and Heard

In this episode of Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob dive into the world of underrated Disney villains, discussing their unique characteristics and the reasons they deserve more recognition. They also explore the upcoming Villains Land at Disney parks, share exciting Disney news, and provide updates on Universal Studios and the highly anticipated Epic Universe. The conversation highlights the charm of Disney villains and the excitement surrounding new attractions and experiences in the parks.Follow us on our socials!https://www.instagram.com/disneyfamilytravelplannerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@familytravelplannerhttps://www.youtube.com/@FamilyTravelPlannerhttps://www.facebook.com/103630324497066https://www.linkedin.com/company/familytravelplanner
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Underrated Disney Villains11:28 Exploring Dr. Facilier from Princess and the Frog16:26 Madam Mim: The Chaotic Villain19:40 Shere Khan: The Complex Antagonist22:21 The Joy of Villains24:19 The Allure of the Dark Side28:11 Villains in Disney Parks32:01 New Disney Resort Developments34:25 Disney Ticketing Trends40:55 Upcoming Attractions and Refurbishments42:18 Toy Story Rides: A Comparison43:54 Disneyland Paris Updates46:50 Universal's Pterodon Flyers: A Unique Experience50:52 Epic Universe Ticketing and Promotions53:35 Air Quality Concerns at Epic Universe56:20 Wicked Attractions: Future Plans59:18 Universal Kids Resort: What to Expect01:04:03 Outro w Button.mp3

Episode 103: The Hidden Events of Disney

In this episode of Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob explore various lesser-known annual events at Disney parks, including Dapper Day, Red Shirt Pride Day, and National Polka Dot Day. They discuss the significance of these events, their history, and how they celebrate different communities and cultures. The conversation also touches on the Department of Defense Warrior Games, World Princess Week, and the birthday celebrations of Magic Kingdom. Additionally, they provide updates on Disney Cruise Line and Universal Studios, including food reviews and the legacy of the E.T. ride.
If you'd like to save a few bucks on the amazing scents at Magic Candle Company (https://magiccandlecompany.com/) use code FTPMAGIC to save 15%To reach Abbie and Rob, please head to their website. https://familytravelplanner.com/

Episode 102: The Debut of Strega Nona

Summary
In this episode, the Abbie and Rob discuss the latest updates from Universal Studios, focusing on the newly opened Stella Nova Resort and the upcoming Epic Universe. They provide insights into the resort's design, amenities, and dining options, while also comparing it to Disney resorts. The conversation includes details about room features, technology, and transportation options to the parks. Additionally, they explore annual pass holder benefits and ticketing for Epic Universe, along with some Disney news and updates.
To reach Abbie and Rob, please head to their website. https://familytravelplanner.com/

Episode 101: Travel Q's with Agents

This week, Abbie and Rob share what questions they get asked the most as owners of a travel agency that specializes in Disney vacations. Plus, we go over a bit of January news around the parks. We're talking hopper passes, best discounts, multipasses and more on this week's ep. Thanks for listening!If you have any Q's for Abbie and Rob, please reach out to them on their socials or website. https://familytravelplanner.com/

Episode 100: Hundreds and Hundreds and Hundreds

IT'S OUR 100TH EPISODE!!!! We made it! We're taking a look back into the history that is the Disney Hour Express and going over some of fave (and not fave) episodes. There's also a round of "We Listen and We Don't Judge"- Disney Edition. We can't only talk about our little podcast, so we're going around the parks and looking at all the theme parks news. Plus, we reveal the 3rd and final Secret Word for our $100 Disney Gift Card Giveaway. Thanks for listening! To enter the Giveaway, go to https://familytravelplanner.com/100th-episode-contest and fill out the form.