To escape from it all, a lot of people travel to Disneyland and Walt Disney World.
However, what occurs if Disney is taken out of the theme parks and into the real world?
Adventures by Disney is yours.
From as close as theme parks to as far away as the Great Wall of China, Disney's guided group travel division takes visitors on experiences they probably wouldn't have on their own.
Kyle Raser, senior manager for the Trip Operations Land and Cruise team for Adventures by Disney and National Geographic Expeditions, stated, "We started very small in some of our domestic locations, but it always had that idea of what is the story that we're wanting to tell, and how do we bring people to those locations and have them walk away, not only with a sense of I've been there and seen it, but then they go back and they can share and think more."
During an Adventures by Disney trip through Arizona and Utah this summer, my family and I discovered that these journeys are all about storytelling. This is what Adventures by Disney was like and what visitors may anticipate:
Once upon a time
We begin with a wonderful story, according to a famous adage from our founder, Walt Disney, Raser remarked.
These aren't fairy tales, though. Authenticity in storytelling is highly valued because Adventures by Disney places have very real histories and stories.
As a result, when traveling to Colombia, Southeast Asia, or Scotland, you won't see Mirabel, Raya, or Merida. However, Adventure Guides may make references to Disney movies like "Encanto," "Raya and the Last Dragon," and "Brave" when appropriate, which can help frame the locations, especially for children who are more accustomed to the films.
Our tour guides, Mike and David, told us that Radiator Springs was inspired by a number of places, including the Route 66 town of Williams, Arizona, as we pulled into the historic town. My daughters, who love "Cars," found that to be very relatable.
Who's telling the story?
In addition to the two Disney-trained expedition Guides who lead visitors on each expedition, locals are invited to offer their knowledge, insights, and experiences throughout the journey.
"In Egypt, we have an Egyptologist who is discussing the history, and we're studying the culture, so it really puts the right lens on it," Raser added. You're looking at a chamber that this individual believed in, not a pyramid. What did this chamber imply, and why were these many ceremonies taking place? Once more, the goal is to ensure that we are truly understanding and expressing gratitude rather than merely crossing things off a list and declaring, "Okay, I've been there and seen it."
Many of the in-destination storytellers on my journey over the Colorado Plateau were Native Americans, particularly Hopi and Navajo (Diné).During private meals on three different evenings, we took in cultural events.Additionally, we went on Native-led tours of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and Grand Canyon National Park..
"It truly provides an opportunity to engage in a way that allows me to not only read or listen, but truly experience it with you," Raser stated. "It's learning through their culture and through that immersion."
What's included with Adventures by Disney?
In-destination transportation, all lodging, the majority of meals, and a variety of professionally guided activities are all included in every Adventures by Disney vacation.
"We strive to provide a journey that has significant, memorable moments that customers eagerly anticipate. However, I believe that behind the scenes, we look for these little moments that are surprising and delightful but may have an equal impact," Raser remarked.
Hiking in Arches National Park was one of the many joys of our trip. We could climb up to Delicate Arch, which was about a 3-mile round trip, or we could take our time seeing more accessible arches. "It's not about a choose your adventure as much as making sure that everyone has a similar adventure, if needed," Raser stated, despite the fact that there isn't usually a lot of this or that time when groups are split up, especially when there are physical hurdles.
In Moab, Utah, we were rafting along the Colorado River when we had an unexpected water gun fight. It was just goofy and enjoyable, and the grownups enjoyed it just as much as the children did.
Free time is also provided to visitors. "We understand that if you're with your family, you may want that time where it's just your family," Raser said. "There are times when you need that time to kind of calibrate yourself." "To be honest, sometimes people just take a nap because they need the rest and there's a lot going on."
I was thankful that my kids had the opportunity to swim in the stunning pool at Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona, even though I had been worried what we would do with our spare time before our vacation. While I strolled just far enough along Bright Angel Trail to enjoy some views, my family slept in our hotel room at the Grand Canyon, just a short distance from the South Rim. During our free time, my children and I went horseback riding at Red Cliffs Lodge in Moab (which is not included). It was nice to have some alone time during our trip, especially with all the well planned group activities.
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