When someone says the word “Disney,” fun, magic, childhood and Mickey Mouse come to mind. There is a reason why Disneyland and Disney World are referred to as “the happiest place on Earth.” Those places allow us to take a break from bleak reality and plunge us into a world of bliss. But, does the way we perceive Disney change with age and time?

As a Kid:

1. You are so excited about going to Disney.

This is your first time to going to Disney. You are a little child with a big heart and imagination. All of your favorite Disney princesses, characters, and attractions will be there. You will also have a blast with your family.

2. You have no responsibilities.

All of the planning and worrying goes to the adults. The only thing kids have to be concerned about is what they want to do and who they want to meet. Timon and Pumbaa’s famous phrase, “Hakuna Matata,” describes the lack of worrying kids have.

3. You believe the Disney characters are real.

As a child, meeting Disney characters is like meeting a well-known actor or athlete. That is how I felt when I met Ariel, the most famous mermaid.

When I was six years old, I loved anything and everything water-related. I loved swimming and going to the beach. For my fourth birthday, my grandmother bought me a VHS tape of “The Little Mermaid." Ever since that day, I would watch it twice a day, every day. Ariel was my role model, and I could not wait to meet her.

While in line for the meet and greet with Ariel at Disney World, I was jumping up and down like it was Christmas morning. When it was my time, I was completely star struck. I did not know what to say, because I was astounded by seeing my favorite Disney princess in person. Nevertheless, she was very nice about it and made me comfortable. Ariel’s kindness and warmth made this childhood memory something I will always cherish and hold near to my heart.

4. You cannot wait to see the attractions.

Even if you knew exactly what you wanted to do, you will not be prepared by the overabundance of rides and attractions at Disney. You want to do everything and have the trip of a lifetime.

As an Adult:

1. Going to Disney still has you excited.

You are an adult. You no longer believe in the same things you believed in as a child. Nonetheless, you know you still have that inner child. By going to Disney, you will awaken the child in you and zeal for life.

2. It can be a pain (Physically and Monetary) planning a Disney trip.

Making plans for a vacation can be difficult, but planning a trip to Disney is much harder than it looks. Depending on the day(s) you go, one ticket can cost $90 to $190 per person. Not only can the cost be a hurdle, but it can also be challenging to get tickets and other essentials (like a hotel and transportation).

3. You know the Disney Characters are not real.

When you were a child, you believed everything was real at Disney. As an adult, you know that is not true. Sometimes, you wish you could have the child-like innocence and belief again.

However, that will not dampen your spirit. You will still meet Disney characters and live in the moment. That is exactly what I did when I went to Disneyland two weeks ago. At the Star Wars Launch Bay, I met Kylo Ren, Commander of the First Order and ruler of the Dark Side. I knew an actor was playing him, but I just went with the flow. He kept checking on me and my dark side colleagues in line. He was so serious, even though we were all giggling like schoolgirls.

Before I knew it, it was my time to meet Kylo. He asked me, “Are you prepared to join the dark side, young one?” I said, “Yes,” and sealed my fate. He kept circling around me and eventually posed for a picture. Before leaving, I told Kylo, “I promise to be the best solider on the dark side.” That was when the Disneyland worker told me, “You are only second to me. I am the best.” I laughed and left the room. I will always remember this as the day I did not choose the dark side, it was the dark side (and Kylo Ren) who chose me.

4. You cannot wait to kick back and chill.

Finally, all of your planning and worrying was worth it! You can ride as many roller-coasters as you want, you can eat at any place, and best of all: you can do whatever you want because you are an adult! Now is the time to kick back and chill.

Final Verdict:

No matter how old you are, Disney has a timeless magic. Old or young, you will always find a way to enjoy yourself. Memories can be made riding on the attractions, talking with the characters, or spending time with loved ones. The way we perceive the experience will change, but the way we enjoy our time at the “happiest place on Earth,” will never change. Thank you Disney for making the roller-coaster of life more magical and fulfilling.