In June, I paid $623 to stay in a standard-view room at Disney's BoardWalk Inn, one of the several hotels along Disney's BoardWalk.
27.09.2023 - 13:25 / forbes.com
Picture a Disney experience where you are whisked from ride to ride through secret, behind-the-scenes roads. Imagine embarking on a private Wild African Trek or relishing the Indiana Jones stunt spectacular, followed by an exquisite dinner on the set. This was just a part of a lavish $50,000 Disney itinerary masterfully arranged by Jonathan Alder, the seasoned CEO of luxury travel agency Jonathan's Travels.
In Alder's world of opulent travel planning, a high-end Disney event transcends the typical theme park experience. From private, direct transportation across all four parks to unique, bespoke experiences tailored to the preferences and dreams of the clients, every moment is infused with magic, wonder, and exclusivity.
It can mean privatizing a ride or even an entire theme park for the ultimate personalized adventure. He fondly recalls the Expedition Everest Dessert Party, an after-hours extravaganza filled with mesmerizing Himalayan entertainment and thrilling roller coaster rides. The possibilities are endless and delightfully customizable for such elite Disney itineraries.
"There is so much more that can be done with a high-end Disney event, such as privatizing a ride after hours or even an entire theme park," said Alder.
The creation of such a lavish and unique Disney experience is no small feat. According to Alder, the secret lies in cultivating key contacts within Disney. Working in tandem with Disney's dedicated meetings and event department is essential to seamlessly coordinate and realize these extraordinary events, ensuring every intricate detail is meticulously planned and executed for an unforgettable adventure.
"Getting the right people to help coordinate something truly amazing is the key to everything," he said.
Beyond the grandeur of private parties and exclusive ride access, the zenith of Disney exclusivity, as Alder shares, is the buyout of an entire theme park. This unprecedented level of exclusivity allows for unparalleled customization, especially in terms of food and beverage, crafting a unique, once-in-a-lifetime Disney celebration unavailable to the general public.
With the stars aligned and permissions in place, privileged guests might even find themselves spending a magical night in the revered castle suite, further elevating the extraordinary Disney experience. "Though very rare and with a lot of permission needed, we can make it happen for the right event," said Alder.
From the tender age of ten, Jonathan immersed himself in mastering the nuances of Disney travel. His adulthood has been marked by over a thousand visits, accompanying a wealth of bespoke Disney itineraries crafted meticulously for his clients. As an Orlando local, Jonathan seamlessly navigates the vibrant
In June, I paid $623 to stay in a standard-view room at Disney's BoardWalk Inn, one of the several hotels along Disney's BoardWalk.
I've been exploring theme parks across the country (and the world) for over three decades, and there are so many options beyond Disney and Universal.
Like so many other things, visiting Walt Disney World was made more complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to purchasing a ticket, guests of the Central Florida resort were required to make a reservation for the theme park they wished to visit each day. If you had a ticket with Park Hopper privileges, you could only visit a second park after 2 p.m.
As a former Disney World employee, it should come as no surprise to learn that I love all things Disney — including the merch. But as a broke college kid, I certainly didn't enjoy the lofty price tags.
Want to get a jump on planning next year’s vacations? OvationNetwork, a luxury travel agency that’s part of the Virtuoso group of travel advisors, recently revealed its list of the 24 best places to travel in 2024. Among the destinations recommended are Sardinia, Italy; San Sebastián, Spain; Jeju, South Korea; and Ha Long, Vietnam (above), a UNESCO World Heritage site where a junk boat voyage is a must.
As a former Disney World park employee, current annual passholder, and Orlando local, I've witnessed people make decisions during their visits that could impact their entire vacation.
Thousands of people once lived on small boats in a floating village in Hong Kong.
On Thursday, Disneyland Hotel opened The Villas, one of the most luxurious additions to the property.
A woman is suing Disney World, claiming that she was left with permanent injuries and vaginal bleeding after riding the biggest slide at its Typhoon Lagoon.
As a frequent theme-park guest, I've been fortunate enough to try character-dining experiences at both Disney World and Universal in Orlando, Florida.
I've been visiting Disney World for over three decades, but I recently stayed at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando in Disney World's Golden Oak neighborhood for the first time.
I've been going to Disney World for almost 30 years. I often visit the parks with my family or friends, but I actually prefer to explore as a solo traveler.