Soarin' Around WDW

Episode 94- Treasured Attractions: Kilimanjaro Safaris Pt 2

Jambo, Flight Crew! We are back for Part 2 of our deep dive into one of Disney’s most unique and immersive attractions: Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Last episode, we explored the origins of the attraction, the creation of Harambe, and the original poacher storyline. This week, we head back out onto the savanna to focus on what truly makes Kilimanjaro Safaris so special: the animals, the ever-changing ride experience, and the incredible Imagineering details hidden throughout the attraction. We also share personal memories from riding the attraction over the years, including my own experience doing the Wild Africa Trek tour back in 2015 and why Kilimanjaro Safaris remains one of the most re-rideable attractions in all of Walt Disney World. Plus, we tease some upcoming content as we begin preparing for our trip to Disneyland Paris and ask listeners what questions they want answered about international Disney travel. Whether Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of your favorite attractions or you simply love learning more about Disney parks history and Imagineering, this episode is packed with stories, details, and appreciation for one of Disney’s most ambitious attractions ever created. Thank you so much for listening and for all of your continued support. We’ll catch you on the next safari truck! Follow along & connect with us: 📸 Instagram: @soarinaroundwdwpod 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SoarinAroundWDWPod/videos 💌 Email: soarinaroundwdwpod@gmail.com ✨ Patreon bonus content available now! https://www.patreon.com/c/SoarinAroundWDWPodcast

Episode 93- Treasured Attractions: Kilimanjaro Safaris

Jambo, flight crew! Step with us into the savanna as we kick off a brand-new Treasured Attractions deep dive on one of Disney’s most ambitious experiences: Kilimanjaro Safaris. In Part 1, we trace this iconic attraction all the way back to Walt Disney’s original dream of bringing real animals into the parks, and how that vision finally came to life with the opening of Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 1998. Before you even board the safari truck, we explore the incredibly detailed backstory of Harambe, the fictional East African village that most guests walk through without ever realizing the depth of its history. From colonial roots and burned-out fort walls to modern tourism and conservation efforts, this land is packed with storytelling that sets the stage for everything to come. Then, we head into the attraction itself. Uncovering the original, much more intense storyline involving poachers, Little Red, and a finale that shocked early guests and changed the ride forever. We also dive into the sheer scale of the savanna, how Imagineers built an entire ecosystem from the ground up, and the hidden design tricks that make it all feel real. This is just the beginning. In Part 2, we’ll get even closer to the animals, reveal behind-the-scenes secrets, and share tips to make your next safari unforgettable. So grab your gear and get ready… your safari begins now. 🌿🦒

Episode 92- Disney on a Budget: Smart Ways to Save + Our Full Trip Cost

Planning a Disney vacation but worried about the cost? You’re not alone! And the good news is, it doesn’t have to break the bank. In this episode, we’re sharing exactly how we make Disney work for our family of four without sacrificing the magic. From booking strategies and where to stay, to food, souvenirs, and some of our favorite underrated money-saving hacks, we’re walking you through everything we do before the trip to keep costs down. Then, we’re pulling back the curtain and getting into full price transparency. We’re breaking down what we actually spent on our recent Walt Disney World trip, covering everything from resort and tickets to flights, food, Lightning Lanes, and merch, so you can see what a realistic Disney budget looks like. Whether you’re planning your first trip or trying to make your next one more affordable, this episode will help you feel more confident, prepared, and in control of your Disney budget. Because “budget” doesn’t mean bare bones, it just means being intentional. ✨ In this episode: * Our best pre-trip money-saving strategies  * On-property vs. off-property considerations  * Travel, food, and souvenir budget tips  * Gift card + rewards hacks we actually use  * Our full Disney trip cost breakdown (every category!)  If you’ve ever wondered “what does a Disney trip really cost?”, this one’s for you. Links: Fetch referral code: https://referral.fetch.com/vvv3/referralqr?code=GQF11 [https://referral.fetch.com/vvv3/referralqr?code=GQF11] Disney Visa Inspire Card (I upgraded :D ) https://www.referyourchasecard.com/200m/L4C4N8BIM7 [https://www.referyourchasecard.com/200m/L4C4N8BIM7] Ibotta: https://ibotta.onelink.me/iUfE/1005cd3f?friend_code=wbjjyng [https://ibotta.onelink.me/iUfE/1005cd3f?friend_code=wbjjyng]

Episode 91- Generations in Bloom: Garden Rocks & Family Roots

In this very special episode of Soarin’  Around WDW, we’re joined by a guest who brings decades of Disney memories to the table, my step-mom Doreen! From attending the 1964–1965 World’s Fair as a young girl to experiencing the early days of Walt Disney World, her story is a true walk through Disney history. We take a trip down memory lane as Doreen shares her first visits to the parks, favorite childhood attractions, and what it was like introducing her own kids (and now grandkids) to the magic. From unforgettable family trips and Halloween parties at Magic Kingdom to multi-generational visits spanning decades, this episode is all about how Disney magic grows with your family. Then, we dig into one of her favorite offerings: the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival! We explore the history of the festival, how it’s evolved over the years, and what makes the 2026 festival so special, from stunning topiaries and Outdoor Kitchens to the always-popular Garden Rocks Concert Series. Plus, we share our own festival experiences, favorite musical acts we’ve seen over the years, thoughts on the Garden Graze, and whether the festival has stayed true to its roots. Whether you love the flowers, the flavors, or the music, this episode is a celebration of Disney across generations 🌸🎶

Episode 90- Parks of the Future Part 5 (2/2): Aegean Eats & Entertainment

We’re back to wrap up our Greece Pavilion concept in this second half of Parks of the Future Part 5! If you joined us last week, you experienced the thrills of Fire of the Aegean, and now it’s time to bring the rest of this EPCOT pavilion to life. In this episode, we shift from thrills to atmosphere as we fully design the heart and soul of the pavilion: the dining, entertainment, and guest experiences that make World Showcase so special. From the whitewashed seaside villages of Santorini and Mykonos to the rich history of ancient Greece, we’re blending authentic culture with a touch of Disney magic. We imagine a brand-new stage show, “Hercules: Rise of a Hero,” bringing the energy, humor, and music of Disney’s Hercules to EPCOT with a Broadway-style production full of audience interaction, iconic songs, and larger-than-life storytelling. Then, come hungry! Because we’re diving into two all-new dining locations: 🥙 Agora Grill, a quick-service spot serving up classic Greek favorites like gyros and fresh salads 🍽️ Olive & Lyre, a table-service experience featuring traditional dishes, shareable spreads, and live music inspired by real Greek tavernas We also talk character meet-and-greets, the importance of live entertainment in the parks, and how to balance authentic culture with Disney IP in a modern EPCOT. So, would you grab a gyro and catch a show? Or head straight back to the coaster? Let us know what YOU would add to a Greece pavilion and don’t miss our Would You Rather debate this week! 🇬🇷✨ The pavilion is complete… now it’s your turn to explore.