Episodes
In this episode, Bruce and Konstantina discuss various restaurants in Disney World, evaluating whether they are worth the price. They cover Be Our Guest Restaurant, Cinderella's Royal Table, Liberty Tree Tavern, and The Crystal Palace. The conversation also touches on character dining and the ambiance of the restaurants.  Chapters 00:00 Evaluating Disney World Restaurants 03:33 The Research and Discovery Process 08:17 Character Dining and Ambiance 24:12 Dining Experience at Skipper...
Published 05/31/24
In this episode, Bruce and Connie discuss their experiences at Universal Studios, focusing on attractions that Disney fans will enjoy. They cover five attractions, including Men in Black Alien Attack, Revenge of the Mummy, Universal Orlando presents Horror Makeup Show, and ET Adventure.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Universal Studios Experience 03:30 Attraction 1: Men in Black Alien Attack 09:12 Attraction 2: Revenge of the Mummy 12:21 Attraction 3: Universal Orlando presents...
Published 05/28/24
Bruce takes over the podcast and plays a game called 'Are You In or Are You Out?' where he asks Connie if she's in or out on various attractions at Disney and Universal.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Game Announcement 06:24 In or Out: Jungle Cruise 08:44 In or Out: The Incredible Hulk Coaster 11:02 In or Out: Ratatouille in Epcot 15:16 In or Out: Soarin' Around the World 21:52 In or Out: Hogwarts Express 23:45 Exploring Silent Experiences and Introverted-Friendly Options in Theme...
Published 05/25/24
In this episode of Unlocking the Magic, Bruce Irving takes over the podcast to discuss overrated attractions in Walt Disney World. He goes through a list of 20 attractions and shares whether he thinks they are overrated or underrated. Some of the attractions discussed include Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin, Dinosaur, Carousel of Progress, Mad Tea Party, and Mission Space. Bruce and Konstantina share their opinions on each attraction and provide insights into their...
Published 05/17/24
In this episode, Bruce and Constantina answer listener questions and discuss various topics related to Disney World. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Unlocking the Magic Podcast 02:11 Answering Basic Questions About Disney World 03:34 Explaining Tonga Toast 07:44 Parking Fees and Rope Drop 11:00 Understanding Audio Animatronic 23:10 Port Orleans French Quarter as a Halloween-Themed Resort 24:03 Is One Night Enough for Mickey's Halloween Party? 30:41 Choosing Between the Boardwalk...
Published 05/10/24
In this episode, Bruce Irving celebrates Star Wars Day by sharing 10 essential Star Wars experiences at Disney parks. He discusses the immersive nature of Disney parks and how each visit can be a new and unique experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Celebrating Star Wars Day 05:20 Chapter 1: Immersive Adventures in Star Wars Galaxy's Edge 08:40 Chapter 2: Building Your Own Lightsaber: A Unique Experience 13:26 Chapter 4: Indulging in Star Wars-Themed Treats at Disney Parks 21:50...
Published 05/04/24
In this episode, Bruce and Constantina discuss their experience at Club 33 in Disneyland. They talk about the history of Club 33, the exclusivity of membership, and their expectations before visiting. They describe the ambiance, decor, and service at Club 33, as well as the dress code and the guest book.   Join Club UTM :  https://www.clubutm.co This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com   Join Team Tonga:  ...
Published 04/26/24
In this episode, Bruce and Connie discuss the significance of the 1964 New York World's Fair for the Walt Disney Company. They share clips of Walt Disney himself talking about the audio animatronics and attractions that were showcased at the fair. They also highlight the impact of the fair on the development of Disneyland and the inspiration it provided for future projects. The episode concludes with shout-outs to listeners who left reviews and a reminder to check out their Adventures by...
Published 04/22/24
Bruce and Connie share their experience on an Adventures by Disney trip to Southern California. They talk about their initial hesitations about group travel and how it turned out to be a positive and enjoyable experience. They express their gratitude for the people they met on the trip and the intimate connections they made. They discuss the key takeaways from the adventure, including the importance of being present, the abundance of food, the VIP treatment, and the appreciation for the...
Published 04/12/24
In this episode, Bruce and Connie discuss the do's and don'ts of visiting Disney's water parks. They share their personal experiences and offer tips on familiarizing yourself with the park, arriving early, packing snacks, checking height requirements, and more. They also mention the option of renting a beachcomber shack or polar patio for a more comfortable experience. The episode concludes with a review of tips from a 2019 Disney article on visiting the water parks. Chapters 00:00...
Published 04/05/24
In this episode, Bruce and Connie discuss various aspects of Walt Disney World and whether they are worth the price. They cover topics such as renting a car, Disney Genie Plus, Be Our Guest Restaurant, Columbia Harbor House, and the fruit waffle at Sleepy Hollow.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Worth the Price in Walt Disney World 05:48 Renting a Car in 2024 09:34 Disney Genie Plus 13:49 Be Our Guest Restaurant 22:21 Fruit Waffle at Sleepy Hollow 22:50 Sleepy Hollow Dining 24:33 Disney...
Published 03/29/24
In episode 447 of 'Unlocking the Magic,' hosts Konstantina and Bruce take listeners to the 'Be Our Guest' restaurant at Magic Kingdom to share their dining experience. Despite initial hesitations associated with princesses and formality, Bruce hints that there may be a pleasantly surprising take on this Disney dining experience as they share their story. 00:00 Opinions on restaurant experience and value offered. 05:43 Cursed prince seeks true love to break curse. 08:03 Epcot's opening was...
Published 03/22/24
Bruce and Connie play a game of Disney trivia, covering topics such as the Carousel of Progress, Tree of Life, Haunted Mansion, and more. They also share shoutouts and cast member compliments from their recent park visit. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:50 Taking a Break and Going to the Parks 02:16 Not Releasing Old Episodes 03:09 Trivia: True or False 04:08 Shout Outs and Cast Member Compliments 05:34 Listener Reviews 07:50 Carousel of Progress Trivia 08:45 Tree of Life Trivia ...
Published 03/15/24
In this episode, Bruce and Connie discuss the best attractions and lands to experience at Disney parks at night. They highlight the immersive experiences and stunning visuals that come alive after dark.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:48 Disney at Night 07:44 Pandora - The World of Avatar 10:08 Haunted Mansion 12:17 Tower of Terror and Sunset Boulevard 16:33 Toy Story Land 21:15 Tron 24:34 Magic Carpets of Aladdin 25:01 Being a Kid Again 25:28 Awkwardness of the Queue ...
Published 03/01/24
In this episode, Bruce and Konstantina discuss underrated restaurants in Walt Disney World. They highlight restaurants that are often overlooked but offer great food and ambiance. The hosts emphasize the importance of low expectations and doing research before choosing a restaurant.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Underrated Restaurants 04:01 The Fun of Eating in Walt Disney World 06:47 Underrated Restaurant: Nine Dragons Restaurant 09:08 Underrated Restaurant: Chefs de France ...
Published 02/23/24
In this episode, Bruce and Connie discuss their recent Disney Cruise Line adventure. They share their excitement about Disney cruising and dispel the misconception that it's only for kids. They talk about the process of boarding the ship and their experiences in the staterooms. They also discuss the dining options and the abundance of food on the cruise. They highlight the importance of family time and the magical entertainment provided on the ship.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and...
Published 02/16/24
In this episode, Bruce and Connie review the hidden gem restaurant, Spice Road Table, in Epcot. They discuss the ambiance, delicious food, and great views that make this restaurant a must-visit. They also share tips and strategies for enhancing the dining experience, such as trying a variety of dishes and ordering the specialty drinks.    Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Listener Reviews 03:04 Hidden Gems in Epcot 07:47 Spice Road Table: A Unique Restaurant in Epcot 10:37 Ambiance...
Published 02/09/24
In this episode, Bruce and Connie explore various attractions, restaurants, and experiences at Hollywood Studios. They discuss their opinions on each location and whether they are 'in' or 'out' on them. From PizzeRizzo to Muppet Vision 3D, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater to Star Tours, they provide insights and recommendations for each. They also touch on the Hollywood and Vine buffet, Epic Eats funnel cake, and the Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge. Overall, they emphasize the importance of taking the...
Published 02/02/24
In this episode, Bruce and Konstantina discuss the best and worst restaurants, rides, and areas in Walt Disney World for introverts. They share their opinions on various dining options, including the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater as the best for introverts and the 50s Prime Time Cafe as the worst. They also discuss the Coral Reef Restaurant, Abra Kadabar, and more. In terms of rides, they mention the Haunted Mansion and People Mover as the best for introverts, while Space Mountain and the Walt...
Published 01/26/24
In this episode, Connie and Bruce discuss their favorite snacks at various Disney parks, including Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Polynesian Resort, and more. They highlight unique and must-try snacks such as the Pongo Lumpia at Pongu Pongu, maple popcorn in Canada Pavilion, and the Ohana Bread Pudding. They also mention the Croque Glace at L'Artisan de Glaces, the Cheshire Cat Tail at Cheshire Cafe, and the corn dog nuggets at Casey's Corner. Other snacks discussed include the Beverly at...
Published 01/19/24
While the goal is to have a memorable and enjoyable vacation, sometimes certain actions or decisions can lead to a less-than-ideal experience. Obviously there are things that are totally out of your control, such as getting sick but there are definitely actions that you can stay ahead of in order for you to avoid vacation blunders. In this episode, we felt it would be good to share those actions in order for you to be mindful and avoid them on your next trip. Because let's face it,...
Published 01/12/24
hosts Bruce and Konstantina give their listeners an engaging and fun-filled journey into the future of Disney in the year 2024. From discussions of Tiana's Bayou Adventure to the Haunted Mansion-themed bar on Disney Cruise Line's new ship, Disney Treasure, they cover anticipated updates and share exciting Disney news while maintaining their trademark camaraderie and banter.   Join Club UTM :  https://www.clubutm.co     This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  ...
Published 01/06/24
Bruce and Konstantina join guest Walt in a nostalgic journey through Disneyland's holiday magic, discussing the park's iconic attractions and Walt Disney's own Christmas traditions. The episode features engaging conversations on Disneyland's historical aspects, firework safety evolutions, and the hosts' anticipation of their upcoming holiday visit to the theme park.   Join Club UTM :  https://www.clubutm.co     This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  ...
Published 12/21/23
In this episode, we play a fun game of "Would You Rather" with a Disney twist. We discuss topics like choosing between the original Living with the Land or the holiday-themed version, deciding which Christmas tree to admire at the Grand Floridian or Wilderness Lodge, and even debating whether to go left to Mexico or right to Canada in Epcot's World Showcase. We also dive into the controversial topic of movie remakes versus sequels to movies we love. It's a lively discussion that you won't...
Published 12/15/23
Bruce and Konstantina engage in a 'Would You Rather' game, bringing fun and differing opinions for the listeners to enjoy. This episode invites the audience to play along, choose sides, and delve into varied preferences regarding park visits and dining experiences. Join Club UTM :  https://www.clubutm.co     This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com   Join Team Tonga:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​   Join Team Talks:  ...
Published 12/08/23