The Park Hopper Show

Paul
  • 5.0 (1)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL

The Park Hopper Show is a magical place where Paul Routon Jr talks with travel agents who specialize in Disney vacation planning so you can get to know them and the parks better. And if you're wanting to take an unforgettable trip of your own, listen, and reach out to one of these park hoppers!

  1. MAR 20

    The Park Hopper Show - 056 - Disney's Riviera Resort and EPCOT Trip Report

    Solo Disney World Trip Report: Riviera Resort, Epcot Rope Drop, and the Land-Sea-Air Challenge Paul returns solo to the Park Hopper Show after apologizing for and removing the previous rambling episode, then shares a trip report from Orlando while juggling major life stressors, including his dad's heart surgery. He describes staying one night at Disney's Riviera Resort, praising the atmosphere, service, and early check-in, then spending a full day exploring via his self-made "Disney Transportation Land, Sea and Air Challenge" using the Skyliner, boat, and bus to visit Epcot, the BoardWalk, and Disney Springs. The next morning he rope-drops Epcot for early entry, rides Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, Frozen, and Guardians (retracting past criticism), but strongly dislikes the new Test Track and its queue. He highlights snacks, Living with the Land, Soarin', World Showcase, and a late-night flight delay at MCO before returning home for an archery tournament. 00:00 Apology and Reset 01:15 Life Updates and Trip Setup 02:07 Solo Disney Work Trips 04:52 All Star Roots to Riviera 07:22 Travel Day and Early Check-In 09:25 Riviera Room and Views 14:10 No Plan Disney Challenge 16:53 BoardWalk Stroll and Lunch 20:07 Disney Springs Snacks and Shopping 23:32 Fireworks Balcony Dinner 24:31 Rope Drop Epcot Strategy 27:17 Front Row Ride Rush 28:07 Cosmic Rewind Redemption 30:27 Test Track Letdown 34:57 Caramel Corn Comfort 35:57 Land and Soarin' Highlights 38:16 World Showcase Wandering 42:13 Offsite Chef Controversy 45:07 Airport Delays Reality Check 51:18 Trip Wrap and Next Time

    52 min

  2. 10/10/2025

    The Park Hopper Show - 054 - A Not-So-Scary Episode with Abbie Lyga

    Have Abbie book your magical vacation - for FREE -  abbiel@friendlikemetravel.com https://www.instagram.com/friendlikeabbie/ https://www.tiktok.com/@friendlikeabbie Exploring Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party with Abbie Lyga from Friend Like Me Travel Join the Park Hopper Show as they welcome Abbie Lyga from Friend Like Me Travel to discuss her recent visit to Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World. Abbie shares insights and tips on navigating this special, ticketed event, from character meet-and-greets to exclusive shows and trick-or-treating strategies. Discover the best times to attend, what to pack, and how to make the most of your time at Magic Kingdom. Abby also touches on her experiences with Disney resorts, character dining, and visiting the Nickelodeon Universe theme park. Perfect for Disney enthusiasts planning their next magical trip, especially during the holiday seasons. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:35 Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Overview 01:25 Tips for Visiting Disney During Special Events 02:18 Personal Experiences and Recommendations 05:00 Special Events and Attractions at the Halloween Party 07:46 Trick or Treating Tips and Experiences 09:52 Travel Tips and TSA Experiences 14:43 Gideon's Bakehouse and Disney Springs 21:24 Disney Food and Beverage Highlights 34:08 Staying at Disney Resorts 36:55 Zoo Food Prices: A Disney Comparison 37:37 Bluey: A Family Favorite 39:20 Disney Adventures with Toddlers 42:51 Nickelodeon Universe Experience 47:13 Essential Tips for Disney Trips 01:00:50 Character Dining at Disney 01:06:56 Halloween Party Tips and Reflections

    1h 13m

  3. 09/25/2025

    The Park Hopper Show - 053 - Maine Street USA with Brianna Rothman

    Follow Brianna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelplanswithbri/ Request a FREE quote for your magical vacation: https://pages.smartmomstravel.com/trip-questionnaire-brianna-rothman Get your guide to the best time to visit Disney: https://pages.smartmomstravel.com/choosing-the-best-time-to-go-to-disney-br?hs_preview=cOOIPapk-186451460713 Disney Travel Tips and Secrets with Expert Brianna Rothman | Park Hopper Show In this episode of the Park Hopper Show, host Paul welcomes Brianna Rothman, a seasoned travel agent from Maine. Tune in as they discuss insider tips on planning Disney vacations, the benefits of using a travel agent, and navigating the parks with kids. Brianna shares her favorite Disney resorts, gives insights into lesser-known Disney desserts, and offers valuable advice on the best times of the year to visit. Don't miss this chance to learn about maximizing your Disney experience with expert guidance from a passionate Disney travel enthusiast. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:27 Brianna's Background and Love for Vacations 01:06 Disney Planning Tips and Brutal Truths 02:18 The Value of Using a Travel Planner 04:50 Maine Weather and Seasonal Changes 05:33 Christmas and Disney Decorations 06:55 Staying at Disney's Riviera Resort 08:45 Disney Transportation vs. Rental Cars 12:34 Traveling Without Kids and Couples' Trips 19:34 Deluxe Disney Hotels and Their Perks 23:19 Favorite Disney Dining Spots 27:06 Preparing for a Disney Trip 30:01 Comfortable Shoes for Disney 30:24 Running Shoes and Fashion at Disney 31:31 Chocolate and Peanut Butter Delights 33:29 Favorite Disney Desserts 37:34 Best Time to Visit Disney 41:43 Universal Studios and Halloween Horror Nights 43:18 Disney Rides and Experiences 53:26 Disney Springs and Paddlefish Heist 55:36 Adventures by Disney 56:32 Conclusion and Contact Information

    1 hr

  4. 08/25/2025

    The Park Hopper Show - In Defense of Cruising with Shana Matos

    If you would like to take a cruise - or a trip to the beach or a theme park, Shana would love to help! Check her out here: Email: shana@friendlikemetravel.com Travel Inquiry: https://app.tern.travel/public/forms/8yRHYCP4yWsR6d-L6n0CuQ/responses/8m0OwuVXkCvGSyOKnG7BDA/edit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theglutenfreetravelagent_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theglutenfreetravelagent/ ----- Exploring the Magic of Disney and Royal Caribbean Cruises with Shana Matos In this exciting episode of the Park Hopper Show, Paul brings on travel agent Shana Matos to sail away into the wonders of cruising. As a cruising specialist with firsthand Disney and Royal Caribbean experience, Shauna shares her insights on family-friendly cruises, the magic of Disney's specialized itineraries, and the amazing array of activities offered onboard. Discover safety measures, exclusive character meet-and-greets, the benefits of sailing without wifi, and special themed cruises like Halloween and the holiday season. Tune in to learn tips for both seasoned travelers and those considering their first cruise adventure. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:49 Shana's Love for Cruising 02:06 Comparing Cruising to Theme Parks 05:04 Disconnecting from Technology on Cruises 07:39 Kids' Activities and Family Time on Cruises 15:38 Special Themed Cruises: Halloween and Christmas 21:20 The Scale and Size of Cruise Ships 26:49 Safety on Cruises 27:17 Unexpected Man Overboard Incident 28:04 Disney's Quick Response and Rescue 29:47 Safety and Security on Disney Cruises 31:54 Family-Friendly Features and Kids' Clubs 35:07 Silent Disco and Adult Activities 39:25 The Luxurious Rainforest Room 46:35 Disney Water Parks: Fun for All Ages 52:38 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    57 min
  5. Special Edition - WED Talk - Marketing for Travel Agents

    07/11/2025

    Special Edition - WED Talk - Marketing for Travel Agents

    Mastering Disney Travel Marketing: Authenticity, Social Media & Strategic Sales In this bonus episode of the Park Hopper Show, Paul discusses enhancing Disney travel planning marketing strategies. Emphasizing the importance of authenticity, Paul shares tips on leveraging social media, including Instagram, YouTube, and podcasting, for effective outreach. He highlights the significance of knowing your target audience and differentiating your offerings to maximize income. Practical advice on creating engaging content, interacting with followers, and understanding financials in the travel planning business is provided to help Disney planners elevate their marketing game and ultimately drive more sales. For any questions or if you would like to BE MY GUEST on the podcast, PaulRoutonJr@gmail.com 00:00 Introduction to the Park Hopper Show 00:36 The Importance of Marketing for Disney Planners 01:15 Chris Rock's Marketing Lesson 02:14 The Impact of COVID on Disney Parks 03:08 The Struggle of Marketing Disney Vacations 04:44 The Power of Authenticity in Marketing 07:18 The Role of Social Media in Marketing 19:52 The Importance of Social Proof 26:25 Understanding Your Target Market 29:47 Scenario Analysis: Family of Four 30:48 Tacky Disney Adventures 31:50 Budgeting for a Disney Trip 32:28 Upgrading Your Disney Experience 35:09 Grandparents at Disney 38:09 Maximizing Your Commission 39:49 Social Media Marketing Strategies 45:14 The Power of YouTube 48:35 Podcasting for Marketing 55:12 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    1 hr
  6. The Park Hopper Show - Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay with Lilly

    07/02/2025

    The Park Hopper Show - Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay with Lilly

    Exploring Kentucky Kingdom & Hurricane Bay with My 9-Year-Old Daughter | Family Podcast  **Editor's Note - I am aware that I misspoke and referred to Dollywood as "Dolly World" and apologies go out Ms Parton and everyone affected.*** Join us for a delightful episode as we chat with my youngest daughter, Lilly, about our adventures at Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay. From thrilling rides like the spinning squirrel and the terrifying triple bump slides to the refreshing lazy rivers, we cover all the fun and excitement this local theme park offers. Lilly also shares her thoughts on the best snacks, including a must-try cinnamon bread, and our favorite strawberry lemonade icy mix. Don't miss out on our family banter, memories, and tips for making the most out of your visit. Perfect for families planning a visit or reminiscing about their own theme park experiences! 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 01:04 Meet Lilly: The Food Lover? 02:14 Kentucky Kingdom Adventures 03:01 The Spinning Squirrel Ride 05:26 Teacups and Bumper Cars 11:22 Hurricane Bay: The Water Park Experience 16:20 The Adventure River 20:56 The Wave Runner Slide 27:33 Lazy River Adventures 29:09 Math Time with Dad and Lilly  30:09 Splash Zone Thrills and Spills 36:37 Cinnamon Bread and Snack Time 39:58 Icy Delights and Childhood Memories 47:53 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

    48 min

  7. 05/30/2025

    The Park Hopper Show - Epic Universe Trip Report with Courtney Miller

    To have Courtney plan your amazing vacation - or just for a good social media follow, check her out here: www.courtneyscrazyamazingadventures.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/CourtneysCrazyAmazingAdventures  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneyscrazyamazingadventure/ Email: ccaatravel@gmail.com Exploring Universal's Epic Universe: Insider Tips, Rides, and More! Welcome to another exciting episode of the Park Hopper Show! In this episode, we're joined by our returning guest Courtney Miller from Courtney's Crazy Amazing Adventures. Courtney shares her firsthand experience from her recent visit to Universal Studios' new Epic Universe park. We discuss everything from the new rides, immersive lands like Harry Potter's Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, Isle of Berk from How to Train Your Dragon, and the spine-tingling Dark Universe. Courtney also offers exclusive tips on the best times to visit, must-try food options, and how to efficiently navigate the park. If you're planning a trip to Epic Universe or just curious about the new park, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:21 Courtney's Epic Universe Experience 03:38 Exploring the New Harry Potter World 13:33 Dark Universe: A Spooky Adventure 20:00 How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk 29:07 Super Nintendo World: A Gamer's Paradise 34:16 Super Nintendo World Excitement 34:52 Magic Bands and Interactive Experiences 36:56 Staying at the Universal Helios Grand Hotel 48:58 Dining and Food Experiences 57:17 Celestial Park Rides and Attractions 01:02:05 Final Thoughts and Travel Tips

    1h 11m

  8. 03/18/2025

    The Park Hopper Show - 049 - The Redemption of Spirit and Disney Hot Takes

    Paul's Solo Adventures: Disney Trips and Airline Tales In this solo episode of The Park Hopper Show, Paul shares his recent experiences with Spirit Airlines, expressing his journey from disdain to redemption. He discusses his trip to Orlando, including highlights like visiting Disney's Magic Kingdom, trying new attractions such as Tiana's Bayou Adventure, and enjoying unique treats like the Frozen Mission to S'mores. Paul also shares some hot takes, including his views on the improvements in Tiana's ride over Splash Mountain, the removal of virtual queues, and his fond nostalgia for the 25th-anniversary Disney Castle Cake. Tune in for personal insights, travel tips, and a love for all things Disney. 00:00 Introduction and Call for Guests 00:32 Spirit Airlines: A Year Later 05:24 The Disney Day Experience 08:00 Hot Takes on Disney Rides 17:01 Nostalgia for the Disney Castle Cake 21:34 Conclusion and Invitation

    22 min
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About

The Park Hopper Show is a magical place where Paul Routon Jr talks with travel agents who specialize in Disney vacation planning so you can get to know them and the parks better. And if you're wanting to take an unforgettable trip of your own, listen, and reach out to one of these park hoppers!

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