Walt Disney World

Recently, my in-laws gave our family an incredible gift—a magical vacation to Walt Disney World! They managed to snag not one, but two of the coveted over-water bungalows at the Polynesian Resort. Although the hotel is a favorite among my family and friends, I had never stayed in this tropical paradise.

But, as I chased my toddlers through the kiddie pool, under the waterfall, and down the waterslide, I realized that I had splashed here before…

Growing up in a family of six, immediately after completing check in my dad would lead us on a grand adventure to every corner of a property. We’d explore business centers, ballrooms, the highest floors, the lowest floors, and of course, the pool—always the pool.

On our Summer trip to Disney World as kids we stayed in the Treehouse Villas, but knowing my dad we probably swam in every pool on the vast property. The memory of him leading his four little girls onto elevators, buses, and monorails in search of the best spots made me smile. I also realized, that I’ve inherited a bit of that audacious spirit, poking around the many destinations that I’ve visited since.

Traveling as a family has a unique way of weaving together generations, creating shared experiences that bind us closer. With kids, sometimes you just need to get moving, and you end up seeing some unique sides of any property. Sometimes you end up finding an echo-y hallway and wreak havoc on anyone tragically passing by.

Thanks to my in-laws, I got to appreciate my past in this magical place and experience it freshly with the Littles in my life now. And there are some sight, sound, and smell memories that none of us will ever forget. #pottytrainingatDisneyWorld

Exciting and private, the Bora Bora Bungalows Disney's Polynesian Village Resort