Disney World in Orlando will always be a place where my most prized memories are held. It's where I went on my first vacation with a friend. Traveling is already quite exciting in its own right, but being able to go with your childhood best friend? My 9-year old self couldn't think of anything better. Even now, at the age of almost-20, my heart would skip a beat at the chance to meet a Disney prince (or princess) in person. And I know that at the age of 80, I would still wait an hour in line to ride Splash Mountain (in explicit disregard of any health warnings).
With that said, here are four reasons I'll never tire of Disney World:
1. Main Street USA
Every part of Disney World seems the "most crowded", but Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom probably wins that title. Understandable given that it's just beyond the magical entrance through which thousands of visitors pour everyday. Here, you'll see no shortage of brightly lit shops selling Disney merchandise, employees carrying bouquets of - not flowers - but balloons to children's longing eyes and probably a whole ton of baby strollers. Some people breeze through Main Street and head straight for the rides, but don't forget to look ahead at Cinderella's Castle, beaming in all its magnificence.
2. Two words: Space Mountain
Space Mountain is what I call a quasi-rollercoaster. This ride in Magic Kingdom's Tomorrowland lacks the loops and heights you see at Six Flags or Universal's The Hulk but still has all the electrifying twists and turns that get your adrenaline pumping. I will never forget the one time I went on this ride six times in a row at Disneyland Hong Kong. If you want to ride Space Mountain, be sure to get those fast passes because it's one of the most popular Disney attractions!3. The fireworks
It's difficult to stress the wonder of Disney's fireworks because fireworks aren't really an unusual sight to the average American. They are shot off at the end of select baseball games. On New Year's Eve. And of course, on Fourth of July. However, there's something about Disney's fireworks that, just like Disney itself, makes it memorable and that much more special. Some of them are displayed to the tunes of Disney songs in the background, and they all help to create the picturesque image of Cinderella's Castle that is a trademark of Disney World itself.4. Epcot's World Showcase
This might be one of my favorite places in the whole world, right up next to Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Although each country's attractions may not most accurately represent that country, Disney does a fairly impressive job of replicating and showcasing the overall beauty and culture unique to the country. You might not experience major cultural shocks (mind you, you're not actually in Germany, Morocco or Mexico), but the World Showcase is a nice change of scenery that allows it to stand apart from the rest that Disney has to offer.Since that very first visit, I've had the chance to go back a few more times, but here's what I find strange: Disney World never gets old. I would go right now if given the chance and probably every opportunity I could in the future. Of course, I also dream of traveling the entire world to places like Vienna, Tokyo and Morocco. However, there's something about Disney World that, to me, makes it a classic. Not only are the parks a never-ending reminder of my favorite movies and shows as a kid; the entire place is an atmosphere swelling with joy and enthusiasm, not to mention all the creativity and innovative splendor.