After spending Thanksgiving week in Disney World, I'm reminded of why everyone calls it the "happiest place on Earth." I'm no stranger to this magical place; my parents took me and my siblings almost every year until I reached high school. Some of my best childhood memories took place there, whether it was sneaking onto Space Mountain when I was five or meeting my lifelong idol, Winnie the Pooh. My love for Disney died down as I got older, but this recent trip with my family reminded me of the incredible memories I had there and of how magical a place it really is, and here's why.

1. The Parks

I think it's safe to say that the main reason people go to Disney is to see Cinderella's Castle, ride the Tower of Terror, or see one of the incredible shows they offer. Disney World offers fun for the whole family within their four parks, two water parks, and downtown area that has restaurants and shopping. With thrilling rides like Rock 'n' Roller Coaster to more relaxed ones like It's A Small World, you can truly do it all (as long as you have Fast Passes!).

2. The Characters

What could possibly be the most exciting part of a day at Disney for children, and even some adults, is meeting their favorite characters. Considering the amount of parades and meet and greets in a given day, you're bound to run into your favorite character at least once during your Disney trip.

3. The Staff Members

From the bus drivers to the janitors to the ride operators, every person working at Disney makes it their mission to make sure guests are happy. Their constant smiles, positive energy, and willingness to help make the experience even more magical.

4. The Hotels

One my favorite parts of a Disney vacation is getting to experience a new hotel atmosphere. The different themes among the hotels on Disney's property offer additional fun for guests, such as boat and horse transportation or movies under the stars.

5. The Food

Disney World offers a wide range of incredible dining choices, both in and out of the parks. My favorite places to eat were those in Epcot's World Showcase, which immerses guests in the cultures and cuisine of countries like Italy, France, Mexico, and Japan. With unique souvenirs, lifelike landmarks, and cast members from the country you're in, you'll forget you're in the United States and not at Germany's Oktoberfest.

6. The Atmosphere

While Disney offers fun rides, incredible food, and welcoming staff members, what I love most about it is how they collectively create a magical, incomparable atmosphere. People are right when they say you can't be sad in Disney because it gathers hundreds of thousands of people together to share in the joy it brings.