by J. Jewell Bates
(RTNS)–When we think of Disney World, the first thing that pops into the minds of most is the magical place to take our young ones to have the time of their little lives.
But what about us, the industrious adults dedicated to our careers and family? Don’t we deserve a chance to escape to land rife with fun and the ability to make our dreams come to life? **Hint**, the answer is an emphatic “yes”.
As a firm believer in the philosophy of work hard/ play hard; I was overdue for a brush with decadence. As my friend and I made our way to Orlando’s baggage claim; I wondered if Disney World was ready for my diva expectations.
My question was answered immediately as our Disney VIP guide took our luggage, escorted us to the Cadillac sedan, and whisked us away to an afternoon of cocktailing on a yacht. Throughout my stay, Disney World continued to rise to the challenge of bringing the grown folks fun. Vacationing like a rock star doesn’t come cheap, but Disney makes sure you get what you are willing to pay for…and then some.
So check the balance of your vacation club account, or the credit card saved especially for fun, and let’s discover a few ways to live la viva luxe…Disney World style. Do one or do them all…either way, it will be an experience.
Global Eats and Beats: Epcot Food and Wine Festival
Believed to be the world’s largest food and wine festival of its kind – this 46-day fall event at Disney’s Epcot Park is the ultimate fête for foodies. With dining experiences designed by signature chefs and nearly 30 international marketplaces featuring authentic cuisine from six continents…we nibbled our way around the globe.
Every night there were “Eat to the Beat” concerts that featured cross-genre entertainment perfect for grooving off some calories. There is nothing better than sipping a Grand Marnier slushy or Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial (found in the France pavilion) while enjoying the silky tones of “The Voice” winner Javier Colon.
Be sure to score a ticket for “Party for the Senses” held on select Saturdays during the festival at the WorldShow Place Events Pavilion. This high-end evening offers attendees stations of deluxe cuisine, complete with wine and spirit pairings, and entertainment by Cirque du Soliel center stage.
Cost: Epcot Entry fee (varies) plus pavilion food tastings ($4-$8)
Party for the Senses: starts at $145 per person (2012 pricing)
Check disneyworld.com for exact 2013 dates and pricing
VIP Tour Guide Service
Live the high life and have a Disney VIP guide take care of the details: luxury airport and park transport (you enter parks through the back, just like a celeb), itinerary creation, dinner reservations, snagging good seats for live shows…they just spoil you.
Cost: $275-$315 per hour (six hour minimum) plus theme park admission
disneyworld.com
Sip and Sail: I swear I heard Robin Leach say “here’s to champagne wishes and caviar dreams” when I boarded the Grand 1, Disney’s 52-foot, two-level yacht, for a VIP afternoon of sparkling wine and tasty amuse-bouche. As the captain and his first mate deftly launched from the Grand Floridian Resort and elegantly cruised on Disney World’s expansive Seven Seas Lagoon, our private butler, who was delightful and quite attentive, kept the party going. If toasting on a luxury craft is not enough, on select nights you can book a voyage during “Wishes” – a dazzling display of fireworks above the Magic Kingdom. The private butler and dining/cocktail service is extra – but if you are going to do it – why not do it with flair?
Cost: Starts at $520 per 60 minutes and maximum of 12 guests.
Reservations: 407- 824 -2682
Driving fast and fabulous: Richard Petty Exotic Driving Experience at Disney WorldGetting behind the wheel of an expensive, high-performance supercar was pretty high up on my bucket list. With a fleet of some of the world’s finest automobiles – like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Audi, and Porche – and a track specifically designed for the ultimate “petal-to-the-metal” experience – Disney slaked my need for speed. The only thing missing was the custom leather and rhinestone racing suit and thigh-high racing boots with 5-inch heels. Next time I’ll remember to pack it…
Cost: Starts at $169
Exoticdriving.com
Circus Done Sexy…
Whether you are a Cirque Du Soleil vet like me, or you’ve never experienced this theatrical joyride of music, fantasy, acrobatics and choreography – Cirque at Disney is a “can’t miss”. Cirque’s La Nouba (translated, “to live it up”) is performed in a theater specially built for the avant-garde spectacle and takes you into a vivid world where dreams and nightmares collide. Aim for a seat off the ground floor and toward the middle for a panaramic view (you’re gonna need it) and ladies – wait until you see the aerial ballet in silk. Muy caliente!
Cost: Starts at $64
disneyworld.com