Originally published with TravelTalk Magazine in April 2023.
You can head to that article by using this link.
FAMIL REPORT: Kylie Brady joyously reports from the Disney 100 mega-famil | Traveltalk (traveltalkmag.com.au)
Kylie was among the lucky agents to enjoy Disney's 100-year celebration at Disneyland Resort California.
Kylie proves nobody is too old for a photo with Mickey and Minnie.
We sat watching the fireworks shooting up into the night sky, dazzling as they rained down on the Disneyland Castle.
The castle itself was illuminated in vibrant colours, as the story of Disney was projected onto its façade. The celebration of the Walt Disney Company's 100th anniversary was in full swing, and I was so glad to be invited along for the ride.
Walt Disney and his brother Roy started the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio in Hollywood 100 years ago, which evolved into one of the largest mass media and entertainment conglomerates in the world.
Our position at the head of Main Street was in full view of the Disneyland castle. It had been roped off and reserved especially for us, the lucky 100 agents, industry specialists and Disney cast members who had been invited to participate in the Disney 100 Mega Famil. Many of them won
their place, like me, by being passionate sellers of Disney products.
Hosted by Disney, along with United Airlines, Visit Anaheim and several local hotels, we had an exciting yet exhausting five days, squeezing all the magic we could from our visit to the 'Happiest Place on Earth.'
Lightning lane access, character dining, a private photo session in front of the castle before the park opened, exclusive ride access, hosted meals, and a platinum party in honour of the special centenary celebration were all part of the extra special event.
Disneyland California welcomes millions of travellers of all ages every year.
For years I’ve loved planning Disney trips with clients. I first went to Disneyland 22 years ago, very soon after September 11 rocked our world. This time, things were very different with the USA heading into Spring Break, meaning the park was very crowded.
I was able to make the most of my four-day park hopper Genie ticket, maximising the time I spent within the park using the Disney app, which was a valuable learning experience in itself.
Like the theme for Disneyland's newest ride - Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway - visiting Disneyland is like stepping into a magical fantasy land. The attractions take you on a journey through a cartoon or movie and have you living everything your inner child fantasises.
A drawcard for all ages, Disneyland holds a special place in so many people’s hearts. Whether you love the original Mickey Mouse or are more enamoured with modern franchises such as The Avengers, Cars or The Little Mermaid, you will find your favourite within the two Disneyland theme parks at Anaheim.
One-hundred years ago, it all began with two brothers named Disney.
For me, I could not go past Star Wars. From the minute I walked into the Galaxy’s Edge-themed zone, I was transported into the movie backdrop. Staff are in costume and even the toilets are themed.
The 'Rise of Resistance' attraction takes amusement rides to the next level, making full use of virtual reality technology. Join the Resistance in an epic battle against the First Order as you board the spaceship and it twists, turns, and heart-stoppingly drops its way through space.
You’ll be hooked on the adrenaline and want to ride it again. By the end of the day, you’ll find even the most hardened soul chasing Mickey Mouse down the street for a photo, as I did.
I was truly honoured to be invited to this magical celebration and can’t wait to share my knowledge and passion for Disneyland with my future clients.
Follow more of my adventures via Instagram at @kb4travel