I know there are tons of people out there who hate Walt Disney World.  I've heard claims that it’s commercial, impersonal, and some even believe that the Disney folks are “brainwashing” visitors. 

Say what you wish.  There are, though, some undeniably great things about a visit to The Place Where Dreams Come True.

Diversity

If you have the money to take your family around the world or reside in a huge metropolis like New York City, Tokyo, or Sydney, good on ya.  For the rest of us, Disney provides exposure to many different cultures.  On a recent walk through Magic Kingdom I heard at least five languages other than English.  Disney’s one of those special destinations that attracts people from all parts of the world; you never know who you may meet while standing in line for a ride, washing your hands in the restroom, or perhaps they’ll be the ones helping you buckle your seatbelt. 

Creativity

  During my trip to Animal Kingdom yesterday, several times I thought to myself, “How clever!”  The attention to detail is remarkable, from the building facades to the parodied Broadway musical posters.  The resort is teeming with great ideas and imaginative concepts.  A recycling can rolled around and conversed with guests, “reading” their t-shirt logos and bantering with them about the weather.  Epcot Center’s Soaring attraction employs all the senses, as riders smell lemon trees, hear the wind whistling through their hair, and see the world from the vantage point of hang-glider.  Throughout the day I kept asking, "How'd they do that?!"

Fun

Adults are so predictable, and many of us like our world to be that way, too.  Even we more adventurous spirits—the travelers and thrill-seekers—have our routines, and more importantly, expectations.  Disney World throws them all away and fills the day with surprises.  Just when I started to feel myself putting my “Adult” hat back on, something would catch me off guard and leave me in awe again.  And that’s why it’s such a fun place, not just for little kids, but for grown-ups too.  You just never know what to expect, and eventually you give in and stop looking for answers.  It’s this element of magic and mystery that makes Disney World so special.