Most of us in the gluten-free community know how well Disney treats its guests with special dietary concerns. And God knows...there's a ton of information online about dining gluten-free, the Disney way. But if you'd like to read a detailed review submitted to our sister site, GlutenFreeTravelSite.com, by a mom who's taken her gluten-free daughter to Disney World at least several times a year for many years now, you'll find it showcased as August's Featured Review on our site.
This is a family who literally almost moved to the Orlando area, in large part due to the ease of maintaining a gluten-free diet there. After all, it's not just the parks and resorts of Disney World that accommodate gluten-free diners so well...the gluten-free dining "magic" does, indeed, extend beyond the Disney parks and into the surrounding area. Many national chain restaurants with gluten-free menus have a presence there -- so you get a choice of literally whatever cuisine you're in the mood for.
This mom's review is based on her family's many experiences in and around Disney. Their travels have taken them to most restaurants in each of the four major Disney Theme Parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, as well as other restaurants within the numerous Disney resorts. Chances are, wherever you decide to stay -- whether it's in one of Disney's properties or just outside the park (as they do), you'll have PLENTY of safe and delicious gluten-free options that are convenient for you.
Right now is a particularly good time to price a Disney trip, since they have some amazing deals on Fall travel, typically one of their slower times of the year. And with the economy affecting even the relatively strong demand for all things Disney, deals are especially sweet right now. They're running a special for a package that includes 4-night/5-day accommodations at a Disney Value Resort, park tickets for a family of four, and a FREE meal plan for four. It's one welcome side-effect of the otherwise depressing economy. Take advantage of these deals while they're offered, because we may not see them for long. If you'd like help comparing different packages and deciding where to stay, you may want to call a travel agent I've personally had experience with. You don't pay a cent for her services, and Disney travel is one of her specialties. She can also help you navigate booking reservations at some of the best restaurants for gluten-free dining. Her name is Doreen Costa, and she can be emailed at dcosta@travelleaders.com or reached at Travel Leaders office outside Boston at 800-487-6110.
