Romantic Notions at Walt Disney World

By Rose Folan
ALL EARS® Feature Writer

Feature Article

This article appeared in the January 21, 2003, Issue #174 of ALL EARS® (ISSN: 1533-0753)

You might not immediately think of Walt Disney World as a romantic place, but it's long been a top honeymoon destination. Maybe those newlyweds know something, hmmm? There *must* be something romantic going on.

The first thing to remember is that WDW is more than just the parks. Not that the parks don't have their romance (we'll get to that later) — but Walt Disney World offers us romantics so much more.

In case you haven't considered the options beyond the parks before, take a look at some of what WDW has to offer: world-class dining, nightlife, spas, beaches, and sports, including golf, tennis and horseback riding. Don't forget the resorts themselves. Disney's luxury resorts are practically destinations in themselves — each has so much to see and do that you could literally spend your entire vacation at the resort and never visit the parks. (OK, considering who we are we'd probably never do that — but we could…)

Even if you're traveling as a family, you can — no, definitely should — spend some time as a couple. During a vacation, spending 24/7 together can be stressful. It's great for both adults and children to have some time to themselves. WDW provides some excellent options for child care while the adults go off to play by themselves for an evening. (Just take a look at the AllEarsNet Child Care FAQ [http://allears.net/pl/childfaq.htm] to see what is available and review the comments from readers who have tried the services.)

During our first visit, my husband and I stayed at the Boardwalk Inn. One of our most romantic experiences occurred the night we arrived. In fact, it could be the reason I think WDW is such a romantic place. Here's what happened.

Our flight was delayed several hours, so by the time we finally got settled in to our room at the Boardwalk and had a bite to eat, it was very late. We decided not to stay in the hotel, but to venture out and explore. After all, we had finally made it to WDW!

On that very humid September evening, we strolled hand-in-hand along a mostly deserted Boardwalk. We walked a while and then stopped under one of the beautiful, old-fashioned street lamps near the bridge to the International Gateway to Epcot so we could videotape our first greetings from the "World." There in the semi-darkness, we proclaimed that we were indeed at Walt Disney World. Later, walking out to the lighthouse by the Beach and Yacht Club, we looked across at the sparkling lights on the Atlantic Dance Hall, the Boardwalk Inn, and the ESPN Club, their reflections glistening on the water. In the distance we could hear muffled laughter and music coming from the clubs, but from where we stood the only sound was the water gently lapping against the pier. On the way back to the resort, we passed other couples who also seemed to be sharing quiet, private, romantic moments. I'll never forget that night.

Have I convinced you yet? Are you ready to hear about some of the romance that's yours for the taking at Walt Disney World and its resorts? Good! Here we go:

* Strolling along the beach between the Grand Floridian and the Polynesian after dark

* Soaking in a hot tub late at night after everyone else is asleep

* Spending the afternoon at a spa

* Watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks from a hammock on the Polynesian's beach

* Stealing a kiss inside Cinderella Castle

* Sitting together watching the sunset from anywhere in the World

* Dining outside at the Rose & Crown Pub at World Showcase

* Waiting on a bench near Main Street for the crowds to leave after the fireworks

* Cuddling close in a Doombuggy

* Listening to the crickets as you stroll the path along the Sassagoula River behind the Port Orleans Resort

* Walking the grounds at the Wilderness Lodge or sitting together in its beautiful lobby

* Riding on Cinderella's Golden Carrousel late in the evening as all the lights around sparkle and gleam

* Screaming and laughing together as you plunge down the waterfall on Splash Mountain

* Taking a fireworks cruise

* Walking or sitting at World Showcase, especially after dark

* Renting a surrey bike for just the two of you

Whatever you choose to do, part of the romance of WDW will be in leaving the real world behind. Let the Magic happen. You can have fun together and enjoy each other's company while you relax and escape life's demands. What could be more romantic?

-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-

Editor's Note: If you're heading to WDW for Valentine's Day, be sure to take Rose's romantic tips along! Disney also suggests other romantic options, such as the Grand Romantic Evening — a private spa experience in a candlelit couples room at the Grand Floridian's spa. There are also romantic 30-minute horse-drawn carriage rides at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. For more details on these Valentine's Day ideas, visit: http://allears.net/news/hnews.htm#760

Enjoy Rose Folan's other ALL EARS® features at: http://allears.net/btp/rose.htm

-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-

Editor's Note: This story/information was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all current rates, information and other details before planning your trip.