Geek Bucket List Challenge

Item #1: Solo Disney World Trip

As I try to organize the To Do List of geek activities that I have been gathering over the past few months, I decided to ease into it by starting with one that doesn’t really take me out of my comfort zone. Is this cheating, considering that the whole idea of this project was to challenge myself? Probably. But since I am in charge, I am allowing it. While creating this list, many people suggested solo a Disney World trip, so that’s where we’ll start!

Like I said, this first task is not a challenge for me. I have been taking solo trips and doing things by myself for so long now that in some cases I prefer it to being with groups of people. People often tell me that they wish they had the confidence to take a solo Disney World trip on their own, but they never do because they are afraid it would feel or look weird. Well, that is simply not true! Disney World is the perfect place to practice being a solo traveler.

One of the first things I noticed when I started taking solo trips to theme parks is that the problematic parts of being alone (e.g. dining, feeling self conscious, transportation) are significantly minimized by the beautiful chaos surrounding you. Disney World is such a great place to work on being alone because everyone around you is completely consumed in making their own Disney Magic. Here are some of my tips and thoughts on how you can have an amazing Disney trip all by yourself:

1. Don’t feel ashamed to ask someone to take your picture. Chances are they want the same thing and will ask you to reciprocate! 
2. Afraid to eat alone? No problem! There are many options to help avoid this. Restaurants like Tepan Edo and Biergarten have group seating with other parties so you won’t feel alone. Another option, sit at the bar at places like Raglan Road so you are on the outskirts of the dining room. Choose a restaurant with a show; this provides your mind with a distraction so you can enjoy your meal. Or simply eat as you stroll the park, which is my preferred method. 
3. Utilize Photopass photographers. Now, downloading Photopass pictures is an expensive (although sometimes worth it) indulgence. That being said, if you give the photographer your phone, they will typically take some for you on that device as well, even if you are seeing a character. 
4. Give yourself permission to go slow or do as little as you want. As a rule, people try to pack their trip with as much as possible. If you are exhausted and hangry, are you really enjoying it?
5. Take advantage of Disney transportation. If you are coming with a rental or your own car, leave it parked! Let someone else deal with the driving and directions. Take a bus. Or a monorail. Hop on a boat. Ride the Skyliner. Seriously, the options are endless. 
6. If you are more extroverted and looking to meet like minded people, consider planning your trip around events like Dapper Day, Mickey’s Not So Scary, or RunDisney races. Universal Studios also has events like Halloween Horror Nights and A Celebration of Harry Potter (which has not returned yet post-pandemic). 
7. Sit down and watch a parade. Just do it. 
8. If you don’t mind spending extra, consider activities outside of the parks. Treat yourself to a massage at one of the luxurious spas. Go horseback riding at Camp Wilderness. Or, you could take one of the many “backstage” tours offered throughout Disney World. These are all great experiences that many people overlook. 
9.  A pool day costs you nothing extra (unless like me, the bar is your friend), but does wonders to help you recharge. In my opinion, a half or full day spent lounging at the resort is a great way to give yourself a break from navigating large crowds for a prolonged time. 
10. Please, please, please, meet a character. It doesn’t have to be Mickey or a Princess, but let out your inner child! You might feel awkward standing in line, but I promise looking back at the picture is worth it. My personal favorites are Gaston and Chewbacca! 

Everyone deserves the chance to experience Disney World alone! It grants you the freedom to make your own schedule. It gives you the opportunity to see and do the things that interest you without worrying about everyone else in your party. Please do not let the fear of being alone keep you from making magical memories for yourself! It might take some getting used to, but I guarantee you will not regret it!