Page 21 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – July/August 2020

Travel Spotlight: Judi Franken
Guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, were able to spot a new addition on the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna. A 2-month-old male Masai giraffe named Jabari (center) officially joined the giraffe herd in March 2019.
We sat down with Judi to learn more about her time as a Disney and Orlando Theme Park Specialist.
AAA Every Day: We hear you have a passion for all things Disney. Tell us about that.
Judi Franken: In 1991, I had the opportunity to visit Disney with a friend and fell in love. I had a job that I traveled throughout the U.S. After visiting Disney, I knew that it was a place where you can just be yourself. I loved that there are different types of eateries, as well as many shows to see and great rides. The cast members are there to help you in any way they can. You have the opportunity to meet people and it’s a safe environment for a family as well as a single traveler. They have resort hotels to suit everyone. And, if you don’t want to, you never have to drive.
AED: How long have you been planning Disney and other Orlando theme park vacations for other people??
JF: Well, I have visited Walt Disney World more than 100 times. I have been planning trips for friends and family for more than 16 years.
AED: Share with us one of your favorite memories from your trips to Disney.
JF: I have so many favorites, but the one that sticks out to me is when Animal Kingdom opened in 1998. The gorillas had a young one who was running around with
a blue baby blanket and acting just like a human child banging on a pail and throwing things. It was so cute!
I always think of this when I visit the park and over the years, the young gorillas have grown up before my eyes.
AED: For the average family with school-aged kids, can you give us your top three recommendations to help plan their Orlando vacation?
JF: First, research. Check out the Disney website and talk to friends who have visited. Then, speak to a AAA Travel Consultant. Second, figure out realistically when you want to go. Disney is usually busy, but school breaks and major holidays are the busiest. Third, plan! Create My Disney Experience profiles to make your planning much easier. You can choose which days you (and the kiddos) would like to spend at each park, what you want to do while there, select Fastpass+ options and make your dining reservations. Remember, with kids, you definitely won’t be able to do everything, so focus on the most important.
AED: Is Disney just for little kids or can adults have fun, too?
JF: Walt Disney World is for everyone. It is a vacation resort where everyone can feel comfortable. Every guest is treated like royalty. They have many great restaurants and unique festivals throughout the year. There are specialized seminars and backstage tours. There are kid- friendly rides, but there are also thrill rides! I don’t usually travel with kids and I’m tellin’ ya, I have a blast!
To plan your next Disney trip with Judi, call 518-426-1000 ext. 2217 or email jfranken@aaahv.com
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