Not many in our pack of seven families were Disney die-hards, but more than a few of us thanked The Mouse for accompanying the group in name and spirit on our seven-day journey that took us from San Jose to the Arenal Volcano region to the country's Pacific coast. Walt Disney Co. -- its worldwide brand recognition and its tendency to fiercely protect its reputation -- was the security blanket many of us parents were looking for in unfamiliar territory. The trade-off: Spontaneity and independence flew out the window of our 54-seat tour bus.
But at least Mickey himself wasn't seated among us.
I can certainly understand vacationing with families on one of these things, especially if you are going to a particular location for the first time. Most of us certainly depends on the Disney name to ensure that everything has been thoroughly checked and secured.
Disney reports that, yes, as suspected, it does investigate activities and hotels to make sure they meet safety standards and expectations. There are "detailed site inspections of all towns in all countries to be visited, as well as in-depth, first-hand research into the activities, dining venues, museums, parks, etc.," says Ed Baklor, senior vice president of Adventures by Disney.
I don't mind that at all. When I'm going to an unfamiliar place for the first time, I'd rather have a well-organized and structured tour. If I like the place, then I'll make a second trip later on my own with a lot more freedom to explore, but at least by then, I have an idea on what to expected. So something like the Adventures by Disney would be just perfect as an initial introduction.
Zz.
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