Happy 10th Birthday to Disney's Animal Kingdom

Is it possible? Can Disney's Animal Kingdom really be 10 years old?

In some ways, the Animal Kingdom still feels like a new park.... It seems like I discover something new every time I visit. There are so many special exhibits hidden along the walkways and ride queues. Maybe it just feels that it's all new because each season brings new and different plants. Maybe the exhibits never get stale or boring because the animals move around in their habitats. In any case, I still feel that there is so much more to explore.

On the other hand, Disney's Animal Kingdom has definitely matured into a very enjoyable experience. The first few months were challenging as the Disney team finetuned traffic flow and signage. Attractions have been added and updated throughout the last decade. And some of the latest additions are among the best -- the new Expedition Everest and "Finding Nemo: The Musical" are definite must-sees.

The Orlando Sentinel reports that there will be a special re-dedication ceremony when the park opens on April 22... I'll be watching for reports and will post them here. Happy 10th Birthday to all of the critters and cast members at Disney's Animal Kingdom!

Stroller Rental Price Increase

We probably should have expected it... Stroller rental prices have been the same for about three years. Last weekend, the price of Walt Disney World stroller rentals increased to $15/day for single strollers and $31/day for double strollers.

Here's a complete listing of the miscellaneous items at Disney World parks:

• Parking: $11 per day or $12 per day for camper/trailer
• Single Stroller: $15 per day, or $13 per day for length-of-stay rentals
• Double Stroller: $31 per day, or $27 per day for length-of-stay rentals
• Locker Rental: $5 per day plus $5 refundable deposit
• Wheelchair: $10 per day, or $8 per day for length-of-stay rentals
• ECV (electric cart): $45 per day plus $5 refundable deposit
• Kennel: $13 per pet per day

To get your refundable deposit back, you have to return the locker key or ECV to the rental location by the end of the day.

With single stroller rentals going so high, it might be worth the effort of bringing your stroller from home or even stopping at a nearby Target or Walmart to pick up a stroller for your stay. That could make your Walt Disney World vacation just a little bit easier!