3 Things I learned from Disney World

I recently traveled to Disney World with my son Carson. When there, I saw the 'Magic' through the eyes of a 6-year old. But I also saw a marketing machine that's beyond compare. Here are a few lessons I took away from the trip.

Keep it full of surprises

Each day, Disney opens early one of its theme parks. These 'Surprise Mornings' allow you to get in your favorite rides without the hassle of long lines. Beating the crowds and being in on the 'secret', makes you feel like you're on the inside track.

Add value for loyalty

Disney on-site resorts include value-added perks to entice you to stay. You get free bus transportation. You can participate in the FastPass program-a way to avoid long lines at the most popular rides. You can even set up your room key as a charge card. Rather than discounting the room price, Disney adds value to the experience of staying on-site-thus building loyalty.

Spread the vision

During our last family visit, my wife got sick. A maid learned this from Carson (3 at the time) and the Disney wheels went into motion. She called and had a VCR machine brought up with 3 tapes. Then, a vat of Disney's home-brewed chicken soup (Did you know that Disney makes chicken soup only for on-site guests who are sick?) and 4 bowls arrived. I'll never forget our family eating chicken soup & watching videos that day. That's the day Disney created magic for us.