Magic Kingdom

It’s the place where dreams come true. Where little girls become princesses for the day, and boys can become pirates and go on adventures. Where a castle comes alive every night with lights, music and of course, fireworks. I’m talking about the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disneyworld, a place where even a grown woman can wear mouse ears and get away with it.

My sister channeled Minnie Mouse in this amazing polka dot dress.

For me, I’m a little bit jealous that I can’t get away with wearing a full-on princess dress to visit Cinderella’s castle. Magic Kingdom is full of whimsy, and I wanted to dress the part. I am wearing a cream chiffon and lace top, c/o Nowistyle, a hot pink mini from H&M, a Coach Legacy Penny bag in ultraviolet and comfy Ipanema sandals. The finishing touch to this look are my Minnie Mouse ears I bought in Disneyworld a few years back.

Every time I visit Disneyworld, there is something new. Last year, a whole new section devoted to our favourite princesses opened up in the Magic Kingdom: Fantasyland. The expansion saw the addition of two new castles, including Belle’s (above) and Ariel’s grotto and castle (below).

I was excited that there was even a new ride added, the Voyage of the Little Mermaid. Definitely a kiddie ride, but still a good addition to all the classics in Fantasyland.

I even had the chance to meet Ariel and showed her my homage to her in mani form.

Needless to say, she was surprised to see herself on my nails.

There were a couple new restaurants added, but the lines were too long. There’s even “Gaston’s Tavern” that boasts a Butterbeer-like drink. Sadly, no real beer to be found in the whole Magic Kingdom. I couldn’t stop laughing at the plaque on this fountain, “Tribute to Gaston An extravagantly generous gift to the humble people of my village from me, Gaston.”

Right around the corner from the new expansion is one of my favourite rides, Dumbo the Flying Elephant. The revamped ride features two carousels, fountains and an interactive play wait line.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an amusement park without the delicious goodies. These Mickey Mouse cake pops and candy apples were gorgeous and so cute.

… and the secret is out. The woman in the bake shop demonstrated how to get Mickey’s signature ears. After affixing the marshmallow ears, they can be dipped in chocolate, caramel or candy coating. I was so tempted to bite into one!

… but I saved my sweet tooth to the best dessert on a hot Florida day. If you’ve never experienced a Dole pineapple soft serve, I hope you get the chance to someday! Creamy, tangy and so sweet, it tastes like a perfect Hawaiian pineapple.

I’m not big on rides, but I always enjoy the classics like Pirates of the Caribbean, Aladdin, Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World.

Even though I love Alice in Wonderland (and own every piece of Alice Disney memorabilia), I get nauseous just looking at the teacup ride.

Throughout the trip, I was collecting Disney slider charms. My new silver charm bracelet definitely filled up.

One souvenir I had a hard time passing on were these personalized rain parasols. The purple one looked so cute, but I know it wouldn’t last long under Toronto’s torrential downpours.

Of course, I had to visit Winnie the Pooh’s house. He was out of honey that day and wasn’t home.

Magic Kingdom really comes alive at night with the Electric Parade. While the music is infuriating (note to self: bring headphones next time), I think it’s one of the most unique parade processions around.

As a prelude to the fireworks, Cinderella’s castle comes alive with projections from Disney classics and new favourites. It was creative and so dynamic.

The Wishes firework show is truly the perfect way to end your day. How can you not be happy after seeing a show like this?