A little bit of honesty: that number is an exaggeration.
I have not been to the “Most Magical Place on Earth” one hundred times. I probably haven’t even been there ten times in total. Still, I have visited more than most people I know. I went a couple of times as a child, and I’ve been twice this year alone (once for my 21st birthday and once for Spring Break).
Before you ask:
Yes, I am aware that this edges dangerously close to “Disney Adult” territory.
No, I do not feel any shame.
Still, as I think about all the times I’ve visited Disney World, I find myself wondering why I want to go back. There’s certainly a lot to complain about - the long lines, the heat, the overpriced everything. I always leave with sore feet and sunburns. All of my trips have been flawed in some way.
There’s also a lack of anything new to see. Sure, the parks get updated every once in a while, but I’ve visited enough to know all the nooks and crannies. I know Main Street USA better than I know my childhood home. I can walk around Galaxy’s Edge without a map. I have favorite restaurants in every park. I know the entire soundtrack for The Haunted Mansion.
Admittedly, however, I find this familiarity comforting. It’s like rewatching a beloved movie; you know what’s going to happen, but you still find yourself on the edge of your seat. The killer’s identity still surprises you. You cry a puddle of tears no matter how many times you see your favorite character die.
Maybe this is why I keep going back. The “magic” is the same, but I’ve grown up with it. I know that Mickey is just a guy in a suit, but I still smile when kids get excited to see him.
Or maybe I just go back to eat Mickey waffles.
I loved hearing about your love for Disney! As you alluded to, it can be hard to admit in the day and age of the "Disney Adult," but I am glad that you stick to your opinions despite any potential judgment. I too absolutely love Disney, even going as recently as a few weeks ago! I truly relate to your notion of it being like a comfort movie that you watch over and over, because it really does feel like greeting a childhood friend when I return. I do wonder though, what is your favorite ride?
ReplyDeleteI think this blog will see a lot of foot traffic, especially right now when the Disney Adult is a niche trend and now since Covid is declining, people are wanting to get up and get out of the house to be around people and wait in lines again! I like the humorous approach to this blog. Yes, you love Disney and you just own it. I would actually keep up with this blog because I have been to Disney often and I am going again in June!
DeleteThis was fun to read, Maggie! You've done a great job describing why you love Disney, and your reasons make sense, even to a Disney curmudgeon like me!
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