Last week we went on our holidays and instead of a nice relaxing break, chose to visit Disneyland Paris instead. We haven’t been to Disneyland for 10 years, so we were looking forward to some old favourites as well as seeing the new rides Disney had to offer.
We decided to travel via Eurostar as that is the quickest, most direct way to get there. Our alarms were set for 6am and we set off in the car and headed for Ebbsfleet ready for our 10.30 train.
Having not had a holiday since our honeymoon 8 years ago, I had completely forgotten about the check-in and security process. I loaded the buggy to jam everything we needed for the trip (as only a Mother can), completely forgetting it would all have to be unpacked again to get through security. Even the buggy had to be scanned, so trying to keep an excited 4 and 2 year old contained whilst all this was happening was a nightmare!
The lift to the platform only held two buggy’s, so it was a challenge getting the kids and the luggage down, and then we had to find our carriage position. As the train approached we heard a tannoy announcement from Mickey Mouse and then some Disney music, so you can imagine how the excitement levels escalated. We eventually got everyone and everything on the train and set off on our two hour journey.
We were a little disappointed that the kids didn’t get activity packs, but thankfully had the iPad with us so they could watch a film. The journey passed quite quickly and we were given our tickets and some forms to fill in by the Disney staff as the journey progressed. It was soon time to disembark and leave our cases to be transferred to the hotel so we could get on and explore the park, which is right by the station.
As soon as we saw the park, the little ones spotted Mickey Mouse and started bounding towards the entrance. Once inside the looks on their faces was priceless as we spotted Main Street and the Princess Castle at the end!
We spent much of the afternoon exploring the different zones and spotting Disney characters as we went. The boys enjoyed a visit to Pirates Cove and they all ran off their energy in Pocahontas Village Park.
We headed back to find our hotel at around 5pm and check in. We stayed at the Hotel New York, which was a stunning building both inside and out.
Our bags were waiting in our room and I set about unpacking and getting the kids ready for the evening. We made the decision to eat in the Disney Village and chose Ludwig’s Castle before heading out to watch Disney Dreams.
The meal was fairly basic, but the staff were lovely and kept the kids entertained, plus the food arrived really quickly.
As for Disney Dreams – it was amazing. Featuring music from Disney films both old and new it had you dancing, singing and clapping along in delight as images were projected onto the castle and fountains and seemingly came alive right before your eyes. I just had to buy the little ones some light up toys too!
Looks magical, I am so excited yet going ugh at the thought of our trip in 2 weeks xx
What a great first day at Disney! I haven’t been there for about 8 years, but you’ve made me want to go back and visit again!
Thank you for linking up with #100DaysOfDisney xx
What a fab first day at DLP! I didn’t know that Mickey came over the tannoy for the Eurostar – how blooming exciting is that!
We went to DLP back in 2010 – just for the day whilst on a short break to Paris – I mean, it would have been rude not to go!
I don’t care how old you are, that first glimpse of any Disney Castle is enough to put a smile on your face! Look forward to reading day 2!
Thank you for sharing this at the #100DaysOfDisney link party, you’re welcome to add more posts to it over the next 100 days! eep!!