Hiya Stephanie!
Thank you so much for sending us your question, and welcome to planDisney, the most magical place on the internet! As Walt Disney himself, "Disneyland will never be completed" and that EPCOT "will always be in a state of becoming." The Walt Disney parks were never supposed to be stagnant, and you are right that so many things have changed in the past few years! Personally, I like to collect the Theme Park maps given at the entrance of all theme parks, as they genuinely become windows into the past.
The Disney Resorts are one of my favourite things to visit on a Walt Disney World vacation, so I completely understand why you would like to experience each Resort's unique options. If you are coming to Florida and do not plan on renting a car, you will not have issues using the complimentary bus transportation to visit different Resorts. Indeed, the main challenge would be to benefit from complimentary parking while visiting a Resort if you rent a car.
Guests visiting select dining, shopping, entertainment and recreation experiences will benefit from complimentary day parking. Otherwise, you will have to leave your vehicle at Disney Springs or the Disney Ticket Transportation Center to enjoy the Resorts without any reservations.
Now, here are some offerings you must add to your itinerary when on your magical vacations! First, I highly recommend stopping by
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. Not only is the theming incredible, but you will be able to see some of your favourite animals from the Kilimanjaro Safaris right from the Resort! In addition, this Resort has some of my favourite dining options on Disney property.
Boma - Flavors of Africa is a must-try in my book, and
Sanaa's Indian Bread Service is famous amongst Disney fans. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to get a reservation at Boma - Flavors of Africa, or stop by
The Mara to try some Zebra Domes, the Resort's signature dessert! With its coffee mousse on a slice of angel cake, its layer of white chocolate and dark chocolate stripes, this dessert has become a staple in my family!
I hope this was helpful, Stephanie, and that you and your family will have the best day ever on your upcoming Disney vacation. If you have any other questions in the time leading up to your visit, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are always happy to help, especially from one fellow international Guest to another!
Have a magical day,
Ariane