Disney World is sunny and warm. Very warm. Extremely warm for many months of the year. And that sun is BRIGHT! As great as that sounds for those of us who are just coming out of winter, there is a downside. Here are a few tips to keep you comfortable, hydrated, and cool when visiting Walt Disney World, the happiest place on Earth.
- Dress in light, breathable fabrics that will dry quickly if you get wet (or sweat). Stay away from jeans, spandex or heavy fabrics. Dressing in layers is a great idea, also – many attractions and restaurants are located in air conditioned building and they can get quite cool. A light jacket or sweater that you can tie around your waist or stuff into a bag or stroller compartment is ideal.
- Sunglasses. Protect your eyes with sunglasses with UV protection. I usually pick of 3 or 4 cheap pairs of sunglasses before I travel – if I lose them (and I probably will) I’m not out too much money and I don’t feel like I have to backtrack and search for them.
- Drink water. Staying hydrated is key! If you only take one piece of advice from this article, then this is the most important one to follow. Bring a water bottle with you to refill throughout the day to save a little money. Remember, you can visit any counter-service restaurant for a free cup of ice. I like to bring a wide-mouth bottle or my resort refillable mug so I can pour the ice in and let it melt for a continuously cool drink throughout the day.
- Eat light during the day. A heavy breakfast or lunch will weigh you down and make you sleepy and sluggish – and who wants to drag their way through the Magic Kingdom!?! For breakfast, consider fruit and yogurt. For lunch, a salad is ideal! If greens aren’t your thing, a turkey sandwich or grilled chicken will give you plenty of protein without weighing you down. Want something a little more adventurous? Then try the tacos at La Cantina de San Angel (EPCOT, Mexico pavilion), the Vegetarian Plate at Tangerine Café (EPCOT, Morocco pavilion), or grilled salmon with cous cous and green beans (Magic Kingdom, Columbia Harbor House). Avoid eating too many fried foods or red meats, unless you plan on taking an afternoon nap.
- Take a break! It’s hot. You’re sweaty. You’re tired. By all means, rest. If you need just need a quick cool-down, then take in a show in an inside theatre. Attractions that are great for a 10-15 minutes (or longer) rest include Carousel of Progress, Philharmagic, Country Bear Jamboree and The Enchanted Tiki Birds. If this kids are getting hot but don’t want to sit down for a show, head over to Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak in the Fantasyland area of the Magic Kingdom (pictured above).
- Have a cool snack. You have my permission to eat ice cream before dinner! Seriously, is there anything better than a Mickey ear ice cream bar or a Dole whip in the afternoon? Minute Maid Frozen Lemonade or Frozen Strawberry Lemonade, fresh fruit, or strawberry shortcake from Sunshine Seasons in the Land pavilion at EPCOT are other great choices.
- Wear sunscreen and Mickey Ears (or a hat). The Florida sun is intense – not just in summer, but year round. Make sure to use plenty of sunscreen. Also, wear your Mickey Ears (or a hat) to protect your scalp from those rays. The thing about a burnt scalp is that you won’t know you have one until you shampoo your hair the next day and it feels like your head is on fire. It’s much better to prevent burns with a hat than try to treat them later. However, if you do suffer any sunburns, treat them with an aloe vera-based skin cream or other lotion for mild burns. If you notice any blistering or if you begin to feel ill or run a fever, visit a first aid station or an urgent care clinic right away. Guest services can direct you to the nearest location.
- Take a dip! An afternoon swim? Yes, please! When the sun is too much to take, head back to your resort to take a dip in the pool. You’ll feel completely refreshed and ready to head back to the parks for a fun evening. Better yet, head over to Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach for some serious fun in the sun!
But don’t let the sun and heat scare you off from having a great vacation at Walt Disney World! Contact me any time to plan your next Disney vacation at Erica@MickeyTravels.com.
Photo courtesy of Disney
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