Episode 678

A Guys’ Trip, a Birthday Celebration, and a Vacation That Almost Never Happened With Matt Robinson - Ep 678

This week, I’m joined by Matt Robinson, the son of my good friend and longtime Disney Geek Dan Robinson, to recap a very special father-and-sons trip to Walt Disney World.

Matt traveled with Dan and his brother Ben for a birthday celebration filled with great food, new attractions, Disney lounges, and a split stay at Old Key West and the new Polynesian Island Tower.

But before the trip could even begin, their flight was delayed repeatedly and eventually canceled, forcing them to spend the night in the airport and lose an entire day of their vacation.

Thankfully, some great planning, flexibility, and outstanding help from Disney Guest Services allowed them to recover nearly everything they thought they had lost.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • How Disney Guest Services helped rescue their vacation
  • Celebrating Ben’s birthday with Premier Lightning Lane passes
  • First-time dining experiences at Le Cellier, Olivia’s, and San Angel Inn
  • Churro Mickey waffles and the perfect Crystal Palace brunch strategy
  • Staying at Old Key West and the Polynesian Island Tower
  • Ranking Disney lounges, including Beak & Barrel, Wailulu, GEO-82, Nomad Lounge, and Steakhouse 71
  • Comparing the Wayfinder Burger and the Steakhouse 71 Stack Burger
  • New and refreshed attractions, including Buzz Lightyear, Big Thunder Mountain, Soarin’, Smugglers Run, and the Muppets coaster
  • Why there are always new Disney experiences waiting, even after many trips

More than anything, this episode is about the value of slowing down and enjoying Walt Disney World in a different way.

Instead of racing from attraction to attraction, Matt, Dan, and Ben made time for lounges, great meals, new resorts, and spontaneous experiences. And in the end, the most meaningful part of the trip was simply celebrating Ben’s birthday together as a father and two sons.

👑 Travelin’ Tiaras

Planning a Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, Epic Universe, or other magical vacation?

My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras, and they would love to help you plan a smart, stress-free trip.

Already booked? You may be able to transfer your reservation and still receive their planning tips, strategy, and personal support.

Booking or transferring your trip through the Travelin’ Tiaras is also a wonderful way to support the podcast.

📧 TravelinTiaras@gmail.com

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About the Podcast

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Geekin' On WDW | Trip Reports From A Community of Disney World Fans

About your host

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Curtis Stone