A brief magical getaway to Disney World

Since we live in Tampa, I'm only a short drive away from Orlando. This is our second year with the Disney World annual pass because my brother wanted to go this year. I don't think we're renewing next year because we're looking into other annual passes at other amusement parks (probably the Sea World/Adventure Island/Busch Gardens package). I'll miss going to Disney World whenever we feel like it but I'll be sure to get my Disney fill the next few months until it expires.

We stayed overnight at the Omni Resort at ChampionsGate that's about four exits away from Disney World so it was a quick drive to and from the parks. I loved the resort because it felt like a mini-vacation with their incredible service, amenities and views.

We spent the morning and afternoon at the parks before checking into our resort. We spent a few hours enjoying their heated pools: a lazy river, a water slide and a general pool.

I don't like this picture at all but I'm posting this in the spirit of being transparent.

After the pool, we got dressed and went back to Magic Kingdom to enjoy the rest of the night.

The following day we went to Hollywood Studios to enjoy a few rides before heading to lunch at Sweet Tomatoes.
If you haven't been to Sweet Tomatoes, it's buffet that serves all sorts of salads, toppings, soups, pastas, fresh made breads and dessert. I love going here between the parks because it's super affordable and I can eat a lot of fresh vegetables.

After lunch, we went to Downtown Disney to walk around and enjoy Disney Quest: an indoor arcade filled with interactive games as well as video games.

All in all, I think it was a great mini-getaway to unwind. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

The two of them grabbing a bite in Epcot while I sip my coffee

The bf and brother shared the beef tacos while I took pictures and nibbled on chips.

(Staying true to my NO red meat for Lent vow)

Enjoying my side of Lentil Salad in "Morocco" 

Indulging in a Lemon Tart from the Boulangerie Patisserie 

(I can't wait to try to make this at home. The shortbread cookie shell was divine!)

Sitting in "Germany" while my boyfriend enjoys his Pilsner

Pagoda in Japan at World Showcase

Our room at the Omni Resort

Heading down to the heated pools

The gorgeous view from the lobby

Perfect picture of my brother coming down the slide

The heated Lazy River

Cinderella's Castle at Magic Kingdom

I let my brother "drive" for the first time. 

I loathe the day we have to teach him how to drive for real!

Taking a picture before the teacups started to spin. 

Outside the Rock'n'Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios

Before we got on the ride

I travel quite a bit and it's always important to me to maintain some sort of routine while I'm on break. It keeps me feeling refreshed and looking my best. 

Healthy Tips while Traveling

1. Stay hydrated! 

If I'm staying in a hotel, I always stop by the closest store and pick up a few large bottles of water. It's always cheaper than the water being sold in the hotel. I make sure I drink a few cups of water in the morning before I head out and drink a few cups before I go to sleep. During the day, I make sure to stay hydrated too. Carrying a bottle is not always feasible but I do try to if I can. 

At our resort, the bottled water sitting in a room cost $6.00. I read the label and it was imported from Italy. I bought two large bottles of water from Publix for $0.89. 

2. Research the restaurant options beforehand

I always have a good idea of what restaurant options are nearby where I stay. Amusement park food is notoriously unhealthy and overpriced. A large supermarket and Subway were right outside my resort so I had great go-to options. Near Disney World, I found a Sweet Tomatoes that serves fresh salads and soups.

There are a few great options in Disney World though like salads, and vegetarian sandwiches. My favorite restaurants to go to in Disney World are the Tangierine Cafe in Epcot which serves Moroccan food and Tusker's House in Animal Kingdom which is an ethnic buffet restaurant. 

3. Bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes

There is nothing worse than not being able to walk comfortably while on vacation. I know I've been guilty of trying to look cute and end up slowing down the group. 

4. Enjoy yourself and relax!

Since you ARE on vacation, it's ok to live a little. I chose to indulge on my Lemon Tart on Saturday and enjoyed every bite. I shared a bit with my brother too. I am super picky on what I choose to indulge on because I want my food to be worth it. 

What are some of your go-to tips when you travel?