Mike J, Virginia
- 7/25/2025
About Me
I was born and raised in the musically-talented, soccer-obsessed, richly-historical city of Liverpool, England. After spending a number of years working with inner-city young people (as a youth worker and then as a teacher), I decided to pursue vocational Christian ministry. This path took my wife and I to Northern Virginia, where I attended seminary and became a pastor of a local church. When I’m not talking about the good news of Jesus, I’m probably watching Liverpool Football Club or dreaming about Walt Disney World.
About My Family
Once upon a time, in a faraway land, I met someone who shared my passion for Disney. Less of a Princess, and more of a Jedi Knight, I realized that my dream wouldn’t be complete without her in it. Over 15 years later, she is still my Happily Ever After and I’m honored to call her my wife. We have two young children — a rambunctious pirate and a beautiful princess. They’re mad, bonkers, completely off their head. But I’ll tell you a secret: all the best people are. Experiencing the magic of Walt Disney World through their eyes is my happy thought.
About My Disney Experience
I grew up on a steady diet of Disney movies and soundtracks. However, despite countless wishes upon a star, my childhood passed without a trip to Walt Disney World Resort. Still, I never stopped believing that “adventure is out there!”, and at the age of 20, for the first time in forever, my dream came true. Walt Disney lamented that “Too many people grow up.” Thankfully, I wasn’t one of them. Walt Disney World Resort brought out a childhood wonder and joy in me. It still does! I’ve been back many times since — on my honeymoon, to celebrate my anniversary, to take my children — and the magic of Disney has only become more enchanting. I have experience planning a variety of Walt Disney World Resort vacations and I’m eager to help you have the best day EVER!
Questions I’ve Answered
- On Jul 21, 2025
Heather from OH asked“Hello fellow Disney friends! I’m bringing my mother-in-law to Disney for her very first trip to the parks. What’s one underrated experience or tip you always recommend to first-timers that most people overlook when planning their Disney vacation?”Mike AnsweredHi, Heather! Welcome to planDisney.Bringing your mother-in-law to Walt Disney World for her first trip is such a thoughtful and fun way to share the magic! Watching someone take it all in for the... - On Jul 21, 2025
Pablo from Valencia asked“Good morning, I would like to know if on the day of my arrival at the hotel I have access to the park with early entrance. Thank you.”Mike AnsweredHey, Pablo! Welcome to planDisney.Early Theme Park Entry is one of those magical perks that really makes staying at a Disney Resort hotel extra special. It’s so cool being able to step onto... - On Jul 20, 2025
Julianne from NC asked“How early do they display the gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian? We will be there on Nov 10th”Mike AnsweredHi, Julianne! Welcome to planDisney.Christmas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is something truly special. The garland-lined staircases, twinkling lights, and the elegant Victorian...View Related Videos
Holidays at Walt Disney World | planDisney Podcast – Special Episode
- On Jul 20, 2025
Alisha from MA asked“We are doing a split stay between The Dolphin and Caribbean Beach. Will Disney transfer our luggage? Thank you!”Mike AnsweredHi, Alisha! Welcome to planDisney.A split stay sounds like such a fun way to experience more Disney magic, and you’re in for a treat at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort! With its laid-back...View Related Videos
- On Jul 20, 2025
Cathy from IL asked“Our daughter is staying at Art of Animation. We all staying at Port Orleans. Can we swim at their pool and they swim at ours? Can we all meet at Port Orleans and take boat to downtown Disney? ”Mike AnsweredHi, Cathy! Welcome to planDisney.It sounds like you’ve got a magical family trip planned! Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter and...View Related Videos
