Stepping into the world of Disney for the first time is a magical experience for anyone, but witnessing it through the eyes of our 3-year-old daughter was nothing short of enchanting. I want to share our experience as parents traveling internationally with a toddler and how it is very different from traveling with just my husband.
When we finally decided to take our daughter Zadie on an international trip, the first destination we agreed on was Hong Kong. It was the first country we visited when my husband and I were both single. Planning an international trip with a toddler can be daunting, but careful preparation made our journey smooth. We chose a flight with favorable departure and arrival times to suit our daughter’s routine. We opted to stay at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel to immerse ourselves fully in the Disney magic from the moment we arrived. Packing for a 3-year-old requires thoughtful consideration. Besides the usual clothing and toiletries, we included favorite snacks, a compact stroller, and a few beloved toys.
Our daughter's excitement was palpable as we boarded the plane, and she kept asking why it took so long for the plane to take off. She was so well-behaved during the flight that I would rate her 10/10 for the plane experience. The moment we arrived at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, we were greeted by the iconic Disney magic. The grand lobby, with its Victorian elegance and whimsical Disney touches, set the tone for our stay. Our daughter was mesmerized by the Mickey-themed decor and the friendly cast members. We decided to begin our Disneyland adventure the following day so we could rest a bit and enjoy the hotel amenities.
The next day, we woke early for breakfast and went straight to Disneyland because we had a 1-hour early pass. The ticket was not cheap, but the experience was so worth it. Just make sure to travel on cooler days because it's a different story if it's summer.
We rode classic attractions like “It’s a Small World” and the “Mad Hatter Tea Cups.” Meeting beloved characters such as Mickey, Minnie, and the princesses brought pure joy to our daughter’s face. Our main objective was to visit the World of Frozen because our daughter loves Elsa and Anna. However, we didn’t get the chance to meet the characters live—maybe on our next visit.
Disneyland offers a variety of dining options to suit every palate. The Disney-themed meals and treats, like Mickey-shaped waffles and ice cream, were a big hit. To ensure a smooth Disney experience with a toddler, we had rest breaks and made sure our tummies, not just our daughter's, were full. We waited until the end of the Disneyland fireworks, and I was teary-eyed seeing my daughter and her daddy enjoying the show because it was her daddy’s first time seeing the show.
Our trip to Hong Kong Disneyland was a magical experience, filled with unforgettable moments. Watching our daughter’s eyes light up as she met her favorite characters and experienced the enchanting rides was priceless.
This journey was more than just a vacation; it was the beginning of a lifelong love for Disney magic. If you’re considering a trip to Disneyland with your little one, we hope our story inspires and guides you to create your own magical memories.
