Editor’s Note: In the second of a two part series, David Tewkesbury from the UK provides a total of 14 top tips for seniors coming across the pond from the UK to enjoy Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Many of these tips are not exclusive to Brits; they are useful for any Disney luvin’ senior planning to visit Walt Disney World.
To start at the beginning, here is a link the first seven of 14 Top Tips to Enjoy Walt Disney World – Hints for the Oer 50’s – A Brits Perspective.
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8. Enjoy the Shows and Parades at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World is known for its spectacular shows and parades. These are a great way to take a break from walking while still enjoying the magic of Disney. Be sure to check the schedule and plan to see some of these amazing performances. I always try and schedule 2 of each and put them early in my 2 week plan, so that if one is cancelled, I have another one. Do not leave it until your last night!!
9. Special Times of Year
If you have mobility issues or find it difficult to walk long distances, consider renting a scooter or wheelchair. Disney World is very accommodating to guests with mobility needs, and this can make your visit much more comfortable and enjoyable. And make sure you request Special Assistance for your flights.
11. Make Use of Senior Discounts at Walt Disney World
While Walt Disney World itself doesn’t offer senior discounts on tickets, some third-party vendors and travel agencies do. It’s worth checking around to see if you can find any deals. Additionally, some off-site hotels and restaurants offer discounts for seniors.
12. Capture the Memories at Walt Disney World
Don’t forget to capture the memories of your trip. Take plenty of photos and consider purchasing a Memory Maker package, which gives you access to all the professional photos taken by Disney photographers throughout the parks. This is a great way to ensure you have high-quality pictures to remember your trip by. And then when you get home, download them onto your computer or phone.
13. The Big Recommendation
My biggest recommendation is to book through a Disney trained and qualified travel agent. They will be able to help you find the right flights, the right hotel and even design your itinerary and plan to enjoy the holiday without overexerting yourself. They can help with dining reservations and park plans, explain the complexities of Lightning Lane or Express Passes, arrange mobility scooters to be delivered at your hotel and so much more.
And they do all of this for free! So get the best advice, help and support to make this holiday a magical experience.
14. How To Deal With Jet Lag
Jet lag when travelling from the UK is both inevitable and unavoidable. On the way to Florida (assuming you are on a day flight) it can be your friend as you will be up bright and early on your first few days due to the 5-hour time difference. Your body will no doubt wake you up at around 4am. This gives you time to get breakfast and get to the parks ready for rope drop.
As soon as you are onboard the plane in the UK, set your watch to Florida time and try to stay up until 9 or 10pm if you can (which will be around 2 and 3am uk time). It’ll help you get into the Florida time zone quickly.
Jetlag is less helpful on the flight home. Most flights from Florida to the UK are between 5 and 9pm, though the tampa flights tend to be around 1030pm. You’ll be on the plane for around 8 hours during which you will be served dinner and breakfast if you wish, so not a huge amount of time for sleeping.
We’ve already mentioned the best advice for jetlag both ways is firstly get into your new timezone as soon as you get on the plane.
On the way home, set it 5 hours forward. You can do this by either manually setting the time or telling it you are in your destination location.
BONUS: More Jet Lag Tips
Other helpful hints for managing jetlag on the way home include.
- Limit food and alcohol – your body wont thank you for eating a big meal at midnight (on the tampa flight home)
- Wear comfortable clothes to sleep in
- Take your shoes off (though be aware you will need to put them back on in a confined space!)
- Use the blanket and pillow if they help, getting warm will also support your bodies need to sleep
- Limit screen time and film time if you can
- Buy a neck pillow and take it onboard with you, It will help you sleep.
I also take some toiletries onboard with me, some soothing calming oils to help me sleep and toothbrush and paste so that I follow my home routine of brushing before sleep.
There you have it…14 top tips to enjoy Walt Disney World hints for the over 50’s – a Brit’s perspective.
Are you a Disney luvin’ senior and want to share ideas with other Disney luvin’ senjors on how best to enjoy Disney Parks, Resorts and Cruises all over the world? It’s easy. Join us over at the Disney for Seniors Facebook Group, the companion online community to this website!
David Tewkesbury, a UK-based Disney and Universal trained travel consultant, specializes in Disney vacations and cruises. He handles all aspects of planning, including searching for the best hotels and holidays, and offers tips for maximizing your trip. Find him on YouTube (Disney4Brits) and TikTok (Disney_David). Contact David at
david@everbudstravel.co.uk.
