There’s something about Disney magic that always feels like coming home.
As an annual passholder, journalist, and lifelong fan, I’ve been lucky enough to experience the wonder of Disney Parks many times. Whether for press previews or some unforgettable holiday celebrations with my husband, I also recall one of my proudest moments when it comes to Disney World.
This was being named one of Disney’s Top 50 Teachers during their 50th anniversary celebration. That honor was a dream come true, not only because I was surrounded by inspiring educators and immersed in the imaginative world of Disney’s Imagination Campus, but because I got to share the moment with my biggest supporters: my mom, dad, and late grandfather, who proudly brought me a commemorative trophy.
It was full circle from those summers in Puerto Rico when my parents saved up to take my brother and me to Disney World, wide-eyed and full of joy. And, excited to take some fun breaks after a long school year away from Puerto Rico, just for a little bit of magic.
On a recent weekend, I planned an unforgettable girls trip to EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival with two of my closest friends and fellow teachers, Taylor and Cynthia.
Checking In: Coronado Springs Magic
We stayed at the beautiful Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, a stunning lakeside retreat with Spanish, Mexican and Southwest American flair. Our adventure started at the hotel’s lobby bar with celebratory drinks and laughter that carried into the evening, dressed up in our Mickey and Minnie ears—Cynthia as Cinderella, Taylor as Alice in Wonderland, and me as Aurora, naturally.
After a long drive, we headed downstairs to enjoy some craft cocktails at the luxe downstairs bar, Barcelona Lounge, where I enjoyed a delicious gin cocktail that I customized, as I selected everything from the gin to the bitters and added flavors. The girls were excited with their drinks as well, especially the spot’s espresso martini.
Afterward we ended the night at Dahlia Lounge, the rooftop bar where the views are as beautiful as the drinks. The knowledgeable bartender also helped us create our own old fashioned cocktails, as he listened to us explain what flavors we enjoy the most to make us the perfect old fashioned.
Between the views, the flavors, and the easy flow of conversation, we knew this weekend would be one to remember.
Rope Drop Adventures and Disney Thrills
The next morning, we “rope dropped” EPCOT, meaning we were lined up and ready at 8 a.m. sharp.
We started the day strong by being the very first guests on Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, a delightful and immersive ride through Gusteau’s kitchen. From there, we headed to Frozen Ever After, which was as magical and moving as ever; there’s something special about singing along to “Let It Go” with your closest friends.
We had a full day ahead to explore the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, a seasonal celebration that brings color, flavor, and international culture to life.
We wandered through lush gardens and admired topiaries shaped like beloved Disney characters, stopping at the outdoor kitchens to try everything from savory bites in Morocco to fresh fruit treats in Japan.
One of the highlights for me was us clinking glasses of bubbly in France while catching the charming Beauty and the Beast sing-along.
Cosmic Rewind: A Ride to Remember
That afternoon, we made our way to one of the most thrilling rides in the park: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. We had purchased a Lightning Lane earlier in the day and it was worth it for a ride known for its long wait times (Why? Because it’s possibly the best ride to experience at the park.)
I had the honor of riding this groundbreaking coaster with the first group to ever enjoy the ride during the 50th anniversary teacher celebration. Trust me when I say that I try my best to ride it every time that I visit the park. I even ended 2024 with a ride on the coaster during the park’s New Year’s Eve Celebration that led us to 2025, a bit before the countdown to midnight and the fireworks that accompanied that unforgettable night.
But, experiencing it again with Taylor and Cynthia brought a new energy and sense of awe. We laughed, screamed, and danced through space with Star-Lord and the gang, ending the ride exhilarated and happy with the song that was chosen. There’s always a surprise list of songs that are perfect for the roller coaster ride and match the fun and energetic vibe of zooming through the galaxy.
Why Disney Always Feels Like Home
As the day wound down, we looked out at the World Showcase Lagoon, grateful for every memory we made together.
Disney gave us a space to laugh, reconnect, and celebrate not just the end of the school year, but each other. And I recommend that you find your happy place, one where you just laugh and feel comfortable while being yourself and do the same.
You could even find out that your special place is Disney as well.
If You Go
To get more information on the parks and plan your own Disney experience, visit disneyworld.com or call 407-W-DISNEY.
EPCOT offers a variety of festivals throughout the year. For more information on the next festival, the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival starting Aug. 28, click here.
