Going Beyond The Castle

Universal Orlando Unleashed: Thrills, Lands & Bites

Send us a textIn this exciting episode, hosts Fred Briley and Lori Talamo take you on a thrilling tour of Universal Studios Orlando. They dive deep into the park's wide array of attractions, from heart-pumping thrill rides to family-friendly experiences. Fred and Lori share their favorites, including the magical Harry Potter areas, the lively Simpsons Springfield, and the action-packed Marvel Superhero Island.They also offer insightful travel tips, including how to navigate the crowds, secure dining reservations, and make the most of your visit. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned theme park enthusiast, this episode is packed with helpful insights and the latest updates on Universal Orlando’s best attractions, shows, and promotions. Tune in for all the must-know details to plan your perfect Universal Studios adventure! Going Beyond The Castle - Episode # 21♥️🖤 Welcome to Going Beyond the Castle! Please be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes!👀 New to the Podcast? Start with our favorite episode:https://youtu.be/kC0jwcLCc7M💫 Join the Going Beyond the Castle family:Website: www.goingbeyondthecastle.comFacebook: https://fb.openinapp.co/5pn81Instagram: https://insta.openinapp.co/wm2nrTikTok: https://openinapp.link/vp62f✨ Planning a trip to a Disney park, Disney Cruise, or other destination? Have Fred and Lori book your trip for you (for free) and save you the time of getting those hard-to-get dining reservations, and ensuring you’re getting the best deal on your trip! Start planning your magical trip by emailing us at info@goingbeyondthecastle.com👂Prefer to listen to the podcast? Apple Podcast: https://apple.openinapp.link/zl1k8Amazon Podcast: https://amzn.openinapp.co/2idegSpotify Podcast: https://spotify.openinapp.co/htlgpPandora Podcast: https://openinapp.link/kseatStay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle

Spring Break Survival: Conquering Crowds at Disney & Universal

Send us a textThe dreaded question every Disney and Universal travel agent faces: "When is it not crowded?" For spring break travelers, the answer might be disappointing, but your vacation doesn't have to be. Fred and Lori tackle the reality of March and April crowds when schools across the country schedule breaks at different times, creating a sustained peak season at the parks. Rather than avoiding these periods, they share proven strategies for thriving despite the crowds. "Go in with the expectation that it's crowded. That way, if it's not, you're happy," Lori advises, sharing stories of clients who experienced surprisingly short wait times during traditionally packed holiday weekends.The hosts dive deep into maximizing early entry benefits that come with on-property resort stays, with specific guidance on arriving well before the perk begins and knowing which attractions to target first. They break down when Lightning Lane and Express Pass investments truly pay off (hint: Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios are must-haves during spring break) and how to strategically use mobile ordering to bypass lengthy food lines.For families battling Florida's heat, Fred and Lori offer creative solutions beyond the obvious advice. From taking advantage of the new complimentary water park day offered to Disney resort guests, to identifying the best indoor shows for midday breaks, to using cooling towels and finding hidden shaded areas throughout the parks—their practical tips come from years of personal experience navigating crowded parks.The episode concludes with alternative activities for when lines become unbearable, from engaging scavenger hunts and explorer badges to resort hopping and shopping districts. Their message is clear: with proper planning and realistic expectations, spring break at Disney and Universal can still be the magical experience your family deserves.Stay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle

The Final Countdown: Ranking Walt Disney World Resorts

Send us a textChoosing the perfect Disney World resort can make or break your vacation experience. In this comprehensive breakdown, we pull back the curtain on every Disney accommodation option to help you find your ideal home base.We start with the crème de la crème – deluxe resorts. From the Hawaiian paradise of the Polynesian with its iconic 'Ohana restaurant to Beach Club's legendary Stormalong Bay pool (complete with actual sand at the bottom!), each luxury option offers distinct advantages. We don't hold back on honest assessments either – Animal Kingdom Lodge may offer spectacular savanna views, but its remote location makes it a tough sell for park-focused travelers. Meanwhile, Wilderness Lodge transforms into an absolute Christmas wonderland during the holiday season, making it worth every penny from November through January.Moderate resorts offer that sweet spot between luxury and value. Caribbean Beach earns high marks for being the Skyliner hub despite its sprawling size, while Port Orleans French Quarter combines charming New Orleans theming with the perfect compact footprint. We share strategic room request tips to maximize your experience at each location and discuss transportation options that can make or break your park days.For budget-conscious travelers, we compare the value resorts with surprising insights. Did you know that all three All-Star resorts feature virtually identical rooms, food courts, and amenities? The only real difference is the decorative skin! Meanwhile, Art of Animation's family suites and Pop Century's Skyliner access make them standout options in the value category.Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime splurge or maximizing every dollar for multiple Disney adventures, our candid resort rankings will help you make the perfect choice for your travel style. What's your Disney resort strategy – maximize park time with a value resort or indulge in the full resort experience?Stay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle

Disneyland 101: First-Timer Tips with Stephanie Breeden

Send us a textCurious how Disneyland stacks up against Walt Disney World? This week, we’re joined by Stephanie—a Navy veteran and seasoned Disney traveler—who shares her love for Walt’s original park. From childhood trips with her grandmother to her recent visit for the Food & Wine Festival, Stephanie offers insider tips and unique insights.She breaks down her split stay between the luxurious Grand Californian and the vibrant Pixar Place Hotel, explaining how staying on property elevates your experience. Plus, discover the Disneyland-exclusive attractions that outshine their Florida counterparts—like the extended Pirates of the Caribbean, Avengers Campus, and the thrilling Indiana Jones Adventure.Stephanie also dishes on must-try dining spots, from Blue Bayou to the best churros, and even shares a surprise celebrity encounter in the Grand Californian lobby.Whether you're a Disney World fan eyeing California or a Disneyland newbie, this episode is packed with tips and magical details you won’t want to miss.Ready to explore the original magic? Tune in now and start planning your Disneyland adventure!Stay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle

Topiaries, Treats, and Tunes: Navigating Disney World in Spring

Send us a textSpringtime at Disney World blooms with possibility and magic! The refreshing temperatures (70s-80s) create the perfect backdrop for exploring the parks without summer's sweltering heat or winter's occasional chill. If you time your visit just right – especially in May after spring break crowds disperse – you'll enjoy one of the year's most pleasant, less crowded Disney experiences.The crown jewel of Disney's spring offerings is undoubtedly Epcot's International Flower & Garden Festival. This botanical celebration transforms the park with breathtaking character topiaries that come alive with light after sunset. Wander through the butterfly garden, indulge in seasonal treats from outdoor kitchens, and discover hidden surprises around every corner. For families, scavenger hunts like Spike's Pollination Exploration and the Easter Egg-stravaganza offer interactive entertainment beyond the rides, while music lovers can enjoy popular artists at the Garden Rocks Concert Series.Easter brings its own special touches to Disney World with elaborate egg displays crafted by master pastry chefs at select resorts. These incredible chocolate works of art feature intricate designs inspired by beloved Disney characters and attractions. Special seasonal treats appear throughout the parks too – from carrot cake cupcakes to Easter egg macarons – making spring a delightful time for Disney foodies.Whether you're capturing photos with the stunning Moana topiary, sampling innovative dishes at the festival booths, or simply enjoying shorter attraction wait times, spring at Disney offers a refreshing, vibrant experience unlike any other season. Don't forget to pack layers for cool mornings, sunscreen for warm afternoons, and inexpensive ponchos for those brief Florida showers. Spring truly showcases Disney magic in full bloom – have you planned your springtime Disney adventure yet?Stay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle

Park Updates & Plot Twists: The Latest from Disney and Universal

Send us a textDive into the latest Disney and Universal updates as we explore the exciting changes coming to both resorts this summer and beyond!Disney World is pulling out all the stops with both water parks operating simultaneously from late May through early September, plus the return of the popular H2O Glow night events at Typhoon Lagoon. We break down whether these water park experiences are worth your vacation time and discuss the upgraded amenities at Pop Century Resort, including their stylish new coffee bar that's elevating this value resort experience.The Magic Kingdom's upcoming Starlight Nighttime Parade marks the first nighttime parade in 10 years, featuring breathtaking floats showcasing Moana, Encanto, Frozen and more. We also explore Hollywood Studios' two new shows premiering May 24th and the exciting enhancements coming to Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin, including upgraded blasters with real-time scoring systems that promise to revolutionize this classic attraction.Disneyland fans have plenty to look forward to with Disney Junior Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live debuting in May, Rex from Toy Story joining Pixar Pier in June, and several new interactive experiences like Stitch's Interplanetary Beach Party Blast. We cover it all, including the upcoming Star Wars Nite special events.The real showstopper, however, is the continued reveals from Epic Universe. We share our excitement about the impressive craftsmanship in the Wizarding World's Ministry of Magic, the immersive How to Train Your Dragon experiences, and the Dark More monster transformation opportunity. With Universal now selling Express Passes specifically for Epic Universe attractions, we discuss which options might be worth the splurge for this highly-anticipated new park.Whether you're planning a summer vacation or just dreaming about future theme park adventures, this episode is packed with the latest updates to fuel your planning. Subscribe now and join our Facebook group to stay connected with all things Disney, Universal, and beyond!Stay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle

Ultimate Ride Showdown: DIsney vs Universal

Send us a textThe ultimate theme park showdown unfolds as we pit Disney and Universal rides against each other across 13 categories. Prepare for passionate debate, surprising verdicts, and a deep dive into what makes each park's attractions uniquely special.From classic experiences to cutting-edge thrills, we evaluate everything from dark rides to water attractions, themed areas to nighttime spectaculars. The results reveal fascinating patterns about how these theme park giants approach attraction design. Disney consistently delivers immersive storytelling and emotional resonance with experiences like Rise of the Resistance, where "the queue itself makes the ride what it is." Meanwhile, Universal excels with adrenaline-pumping experiences like Velocicoaster, which edges out Expedition Everest in our high-speed coaster category.The most heated debates emerge when comparing iconic experiences. Would you choose Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or Pirates of the Caribbean? Is Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind truly the ultimate coaster experience? Our perspectives illuminate how personal connection to franchises and individual preferences for thrills versus storytelling shape our theme park experiences.By the final tally, both hosts independently selected ten Disney attractions and three Universal attractions as category winners—but numbers don't tell the whole story. Universal's strengths in specific categories highlight its competitive edge, while Disney's dominance across multiple categories showcases its broad appeal. As we conclude, "It's dependent on the experience that you want. If we just want to go thrill ride, then I'm gonna go to Universal...but if I want the experiences, Disney."Join us next week for our special Earth Day and Animal Kingdom episode featuring guest host Ashley, followed by our Halfway to Halloween celebration before our month-long break. Subscribe now to continue going beyond the castle with us!Stay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle

Earth Day Magic: Happy Birthday, Animal Kingdom

Send us a textStep into the lush world of Disney's Animal Kingdom as we celebrate its 27th birthday and explore what makes this park a true conservation and cultural masterpiece. From the humble beginnings under Michael Eisner's vision to Joe Rohde's extraordinary dedication to authenticity, we unpack the rich history of a park that forever changed how themed entertainment approaches cultural representation.The majestic Tree of Life stands as both literal and figurative centerpiece of our discussion—a 145-foot tall engineering marvel built on an oil rig foundation, adorned with 300 meticulously carved animal designs that reward those who take time to look closely. We share our awe at this iconic structure and the technological wonder of the Tree of Life Awakenings projection show.Our journey takes us through each distinctive land, from the vibrant streets of Harambe in Africa to the mystical realm of Pandora with its bioluminescent wonders. We debate our favorite attractions—with Flight of Passage and Expedition Everest earning high praise—while acknowledging the simple joy of watching majestic animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris. Food lovers will appreciate our passionate endorsements of Flame Tree Barbecue's legendary offerings, Yak & Yeti's Asian-inspired delights, and those can't-miss snacks like street corn and pineapple lumpia.Beyond the attractions and dining, we explore what truly sets Animal Kingdom apart: its commitment to conservation, cultural authenticity, and the rewards it offers to guests willing to slow down and appreciate the details. As we look toward exciting changes with DinoLand transforming into Tropical Americas, we reflect on why this park deserves recognition as Disney's most underrated treasure—a place where education and entertainment blend seamlessly in a celebration of our natural world.Stay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle

Halfway to Halloween: Ghoulish Fun & Disney Magic

Send us a textThe smell of fall is in the air as Disney Parks gear up for their spectacular Halloween festivities. We're diving headfirst into the spooky season with our comprehensive guide to Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom.Having experienced this extraordinary event multiple times, we reveal why this ticketed party transforms an ordinary Disney day into an unforgettable Halloween adventure. From the moment you enter at 4pm (a full three hours before the party officially begins!), you'll discover a magical world where even adults can embrace the childlike joy of trick-or-treating.Speaking of candy – prepare to be astonished by Disney's legendary generosity. We share how you can collect enough premium chocolate to last well beyond Halloween night (and maybe even use it for your own trick-or-treaters – we call this clever strategy "Disney math"). The entertainment is equally impressive, with the incredible Boo-to-You Parade featuring characters you rarely see elsewhere, including the famous gravediggers from Haunted Mansion scraping sparks with their shovels across the parade route.Beyond the spectacle, we offer practical guidance on maximizing your party experience. Learn where to stand for optimal parade viewing, which attractions feature special Halloween overlays, and how to balance party-exclusive experiences with ride opportunities. For families with special dietary needs, we explain Disney's excellent allergy-friendly options that ensure everyone can participate fully.Whether you're planning your first Disney Halloween celebration or looking to enhance your annual tradition, this episode provides the insider knowledge to make your experience truly magical. And if you're considering visiting Disneyland instead, we briefly touch on Oogie Boogie Bash as well.Ready to experience the not-so-scary side of Halloween? Reach out to us at info@goingbeyondthecastle.com to secure your party tickets as soon as they become available. Don't wait – the most popular dates sell out quickly!Stay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle

We’re Back: Let’s Talk Updates & Exciting News!

Send us a textWelcome back to Going Beyond the Castle! After a refreshing four-week break, we're kicking off Season Two with exciting changes and tropical adventures waiting in the wings.The most thrilling news? We're welcoming Ashley as our new co-host! With parents who worked at Disney parks and a lifetime of Disney passion, Ashley brings authentic expertise and enthusiasm to our conversations. Her love for Animal Kingdom runs particularly deep—so deep she jokes she'd "pick up trash" just to work there.While we were away, Disney dropped major announcements worth unpacking. The Starlight Parade debuts July 20th, featuring a spectacular finale float paying tribute to the Main Street Electrical Parade. Disney's "Cool Kids Summer" brings expanded character experiences, including early entry character appearances and Stitch-hijacked Magic Shots. Food & Wine Festival dates are confirmed for August 28th through November 22nd, and we share our favorite booth recommendations from past experiences.We dive into firsthand impressions of Universal's Epic Universe, where surprisingly, Isle of Berk outshines Super Nintendo World for overall immersion and experience. The Toothless interaction receives particular praise, while we note that Nintendo areas might present challenges for those with sensory sensitivities. Universal's Express Pass now includes Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure—a game-changer for park strategy.Between discussions of throwing up on Soarin' (please aim forward!), flash photography etiquette, and the merits of Port Orleans French Quarter, we explore the ever-evolving landscape of theme park experiences. Looking ahead, we tease upcoming episodes featuring a first-timer's perspective on Disney World, an in-depth Epic Universe trip report, and Disneyland insights.Have questions about any of these destinations? Send them our way at info@goingbeyondthecastle.com or through our social media. Until next week, keep dreaming big and going beyond the castle!Stay up to date with all things Going Beyond the Castle at beacons.ai/GoingBeyondTheCastle