Welcome to planDisney, Olga. Much like
Rapunzel discovering the world outside her tower, visiting a
Disney park for the first time can feel like a big step into a whole new world. So let's help you plan a Disney adventure that feels comfortable and magical for you.
While all the characters are incredibly friendly and take a cue from Guests as to how comfortable they are with interactions, the good news is that you don't have to interact with them at all if you don't want to. The majority of characters at the
Walt Disney World Resort meet and greet in their own little areas that you will need to seek out, or, in your case, avoid. For example, Mickey Mouse meets in Town Square Theater in
Magic Kingdom Park. If you don't want to meet him, you simply wouldn't go into that venue. And while there are some times when the characters are out and about, they typically don't come up to you unless you invite them over or interact with them. Much like Rapunzel discovering the world beyond her tower, you can take your Disney adventure one step at a time.
Other places you would typically see characters include character meals (which aren't required), a few of the shows, and parades and cavalcades. However, in these situations, you typically see them from a distance and can simply use the
My Disney Experience mobile app to see when they are being offered during your visit and skip those areas, times, and venues. After all, even Rapunzel didn't explore every corner of the kingdom all at once.
In regard to
VIP tours, you can definitely look into booking one and let the Cast Member assigned to your group know that you'd like to avoid certain characters. While you may still encounter some in the distance, for example, if you're walking along Main Street, U.S.A. while the parade is going by, these Cast Members will tailor the experience as best as they can by learning your priorities and preferences. As Rapunzel learned, sometimes the adventure feels a little less overwhelming when you have the right guide by your side.
Olga, as someone who often doesn't seek out character interactions, I can tell you that it's pretty easy to avoid seeing them up close if that's your preference, or, like me, not a priority. And there is always a Cast Member with these friends to whom you can simply say a polite, "No thank you," if, for some reason, you happen upon a character walking near you through the parks. They want you to have a great time and will accommodate your request for no interactions. Like Rapunzel discovering that the world outside her tower wasn't quite as scary as she imagined, I hope you'll find that there are plenty of ways to enjoy the magic while still feeling at ease.
Best wishes with your dream trip. If you have any other questions,
I'll help you see the light. And remember, every great adventure starts with one brave step beyond the tower.
Now go find your floating lantern moment,
Matt