It's a tough one isn't it? There are so many to choose from - fans are spoilt for choice. Husband's favourite - a solid slide on in to Galaxy's Edge for some Star Wars and out of this world fun at Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios, Orlando.
Our daughter's land of choice? Definitely Toy Story land, again, in Hollywood Studios. Her love of Lotso will live on forever despite being now 11. Also, just to add, I 100% think Disney are missing a trick not having a giant pink, strawberry-scented bear out for meet and greets but does anyone out there know why this is the case? He does appear at Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party over at Magic Kingdom every now and then because of course he is technically a 'villain' but he'd still be a welcomed character meet in the movie franchise land.
Myles is definitely partial to some Star Wars loving like his dad, and Calvin can't see past the nostalgic vibes of the Magic Kingdom's Main Street. The smell of sweet candyfloss, Casey's Corner hotdogs, Mickey-shaped balloons and gift shops galore.
So where does that leave this 40 year old mum of three? It would be easy for me to sit on the fence and say 'I love them all' - because that's not a lie. There's nothing about Disney that's not to like for me, and when it comes to theming, the imagineers have it nailed, but I'm forcing myself to choose here.
Animal Kingdom is the fourth park of choice for us a family - for no reason other than the others hold more of a special place in our hearts.
The Magic Kingdom stirs up all the feels for me. It reminds me of being a kid and visiting for the first time, it reminds me of a school trip to Paris, it reminds me of visiting as an adult when my husband and I first met as a young couple (Disneyland Paris I might add), then it reminds me of visiting as a wife and mum of babies and toddlers, with extended family, and again as a more grown up family of five with some teens in the mix.
I've really done it all sorts of ways and although the company and ages change - the park remains unchanged with assurances that fun is right in front of you.
Hollywood Studios, which growing up was MGM Studios for me, has become our favourite park for lands mentioned above. Galaxy's Edge and Toy Story Land are 'our' places - and each time we visit, yes we have the green and blue milk and yes, we have Woody's Toy Box for lunch - some things will never change. But I also love the stroll down Sunset Boulevard towards the Hollywood Tower of Terror, Mickey ice cream sandwich cookie in hand, and I love the Muppets area (RIP!)
Epcot is another firm favourite for us. We love the different pace here. Yes, we've raced around the world running back and forth for back-to-back Lightening Lanes for Ratatouille in 'France' followed by a speed march to 'Norway' for Frozen Ever After, but generally we can relax here, take in the countries and cultures and of course sample food and drink along the way. There's definitely something for everyone.
Tip - do grab the beer flight in Belgium, do sample the Funnel Cake in USA and do guzzle the plum wine in China... don't bother with the shaved ice in Japan though - they look fabulous but cost a fotune for effectively colourful water that don't have much flavour. We had probably been spoilt by the grape and cherry flavoured slushes at Icon Park on International Drive to be fair - DO get these, epic!
So yes, this does leave Animal Kingdom lagging in the Disney Parks for us but really only because we haven't had time to build up as many memories here - yet! We have hilarious ones though including an ear wig in Dion's ear! Yes really - sorry guys, we can't guarantee this animal encounter in your ticket price though!
So it's interesting to say that my favourite land could quite possibly be Pandora - The World of Avatar in Animal Kingdom. Like any of the Disney themed lands, you're instantly immersed. The path that leads into Pandora is subtle and your surroundings start to change - the plant life, the sounds, the smells, and before you know it the small details from colours to lampposts - it all becomes other-worldly and magical.
Blue vegetation 'growing' on tree trunks, tropical flowers surround you, and the sounds of falling water fills the air. It's simply beautiful.
I could spend time here without riding anything, or eating or drinking - although don't hold me to that. Those Night Blossoms are quite possibly one of the loveliest drinks. What's a Night Blossom you might ask? It's a refreshing frozen drink available at Pongu Pongu made with limeade, apple and dessert pears, topped with passion fruit boba balls. And if you feel like splashing out, add some rum too. You won't regret it, but your wallet might because one is never enough.
Where's your favourite location at Walt Disney World? Do you have a favourite park? Let me know, I'd love to hear from you.
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