I Moved To Disney World To Cure My Depression. Did It Work?

[@TomBrazelton]

Dude, I think the universe is steering you toward becoming a theme park KZbinr. Go for it!

[@timetraveler9218]

There are already hundreds of them and they are all the same. Don't turn into one of those parrot zombies

[@TomBrazelton]

@@timetraveler9218 Well, at least you're not strangely bitter about it?

[@timetraveler9218]

@@TomBrazelton Just trying to help this guy avoid an oversaturated market full of copy/paste corporate disney boot lickers

[@TomBrazelton]

@@timetraveler9218 I didn't say Disney. I said theme parks. But stay edgy, I guess.

[@timetraveler9218]

@@TomBrazelton They do it to universal as well. It's all the same, play nice to get free perks. All of the good honest reviewers are not getting the special treatment and changed their views. "Stay edgy" Go cry about it I guess Tom.

[@Clorice513]

You’re a very good speaker, story teller. I sat here and listen to the whole video. Very engaging

[@Thecaveandcognitionmusic]

Thoughts exactly. Gifted and skilled 👏🏼

[@annac.937]

This was great. Not another Disney Vlogger, just a guy who moved to Orlando to change his life. Much more deep and really pulls you in. Can't wait to see how you are doing.

[@koolbob23]

Hey Andrew! You should join ACE! We're a group of coaster enthusiasts that travel around the country going to theme parks. I live in Orlando now, but ACE members live all around the country and we host events at various parks with dedicated ride time, behind the scenes tours and more. There's hundreds of us!

[@LionMindset42]

Exactly what I was thinking!

[@danielvandersall6756]

Montu down the street at Busch Gardens Tampa would be a fantastic start. May as well experience the best.

[@RollerMan599]

im an ACE member its fun ngl

[@James-to6lh]

😅😅😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😅😊😊😊

[@ana1ysis]

Does ACE include people who are not specifically coaster enthusiasts? If not is there an organization that is general theme park enthusiasts?

[@othervideos4002]

I did the exact same thing. I went into a pretty bad depression after my dog died. After like 6 months of depression that wasn't getting better, I moved from the east part of Orlando (far away from Disney) to a townhouse right behind Magic Kingdom. I just decided to say F everything else and I went to a different Disney park every day. I stopped caring about my depression. I just did whatever I wanted every day. I drank beer when I wanted, I ate whatever I wanted, and I stopped working for a month. I rode rides and just walked around Disney's 4 parks, waterparks, downtown Disney, and Boardwalk. Within 3 weeks my depression was pretty much gone. I was happy again and I could sleep much better. My mind had something else to focus on. And I was getting a lot of exercise. I think this technique works pretty good for situational depression.

[@Florida-mAndrew]

Sometimes you get so sucked into a lifestyle, that you forget what the world outside your bubble is like

[@brian09ist]

Nice! Sorry to hear of your loss. I’ve been there myself. Disney is probably the best anti depressant on the market

[@citizenA-Z]

oh to have situational depression, bipolar sucks, hopefully ill get my appointment soon and some meds. yea finding someone you love really helps, just keep going you will find someone you compliment well and click with soon enough, its hard work finding them but worth it once you do

[@jordanmyers487]

You stopped working for a month and were able to afford going to Disney parks everyday? You must be loaded.

[@PH90IFY]

sorry to hear about your lose, ive been torn apart worse than i ever imagined by losing my young dog. nothing prepares you for that, RIP to both

[@theultimatepiemsater]

As a central Florida native for all my life I don't think I've ever found a video that accurately shows the novelty of having these parks close by really feels like. Most people really don't have that understanding since they knly see the parks as a vacation spot. But when it's your home it's different and like you said it just becomes a place you go to for the vibes for the most part.

[@alexanderhill1788]

BROOOOO!!! I did the same thing!!! Made the move 3 years ago. I live 15 minutes from Universal. It definitely helped me, but simply moving somewhere won't cure anything, however, moving to Orlando allowed me to live the life I always wanted. Weekends are for the parks, but the weekdays I spent bettering my life - working out, changing my diet, exploring the city, learning new things. Life's never been better. There's so much to see and do, and don't worry you'll find someone. Met a wonderful girl and actually proposed to her at the Grand Floridian. If you ever need any tips both in and out the park, I got you. I'm at the parks literally every weekend, so if I see you don't act surprised when hear someone say "hey look it's the guy from youtube!"

[@DustyPoo62]

Same here bro! I thought what my girlfriend and I did was crazy at first but I’m slowly finding out this is a somewhat common trend. I’d love to link up with you guys

[@differentman1878]

Just talking to the camera and yet one of the most interesting and entertaining clips of ive ever seen. Well done.

[@mintman325]

As someone who is disabled and lives in a semi rural area with little public transportation I find it hard. I like Disney a lot because they have so many pressed coins my favorite hobby, and it’s one of the most accessible places ever. Everyone is so kind whether it’s an act they put on that day or not. I appreciate it. I probably asked, “where is your pressed coin machine?” like 75 times to different people and they always knew. My mom often comes with me for a day and I love spending time with her, I lean on my family a lot and happy they are supportive.

[@danalmont8340]

My son loves the pressed pennies too! So many different images!

[@Cherrysmith2809]

That sounds really fun.

[@ChefGoldblum22]

Do you live near Disney? If not I could go get some pressed pennies and mail them to you if you would like 🤷‍♂️

[@Iris5556]

I moved to Orlando 3 years ago and love it. I used to come home from vacation and be depressed. Now I’m grateful every day I get to live here.

[@Frank4202]

Dude! Haircut looks good. Glad you’re happy in Orlando.

[@austispencer555]

I did the same thing. I moved away from Michigan in 2022 to work for Disney via the College Program. It was meant to be an extended vacation to get away from my home life and lack of interest around me. There really wasn't much to do around me and I couldn't bear to do any more of the same stuff over and over. Go to the local store, only one amusement park-type place, and eat at your favorite places. The decision was surprisingly easy for me as my family wasn't the best and I was losing friends. I have been in Orlando now ever since I moved and genuinely have no plans to move back home. I met my current gf, my best friend, and countless friends and connections in the 2 years I've been here. My life completely changed because I allowed myself to not settle for the same life my previous generations had. This world is massive and it's your free will to visit and explore every inch of it. You won't regret it!

[@hanhb6047]

Change of scenery does wonders. And then the unexpected benefit is sometimes it opens doors. And also you end up meeting a fun new group of friends.

[@Miztique]

How is working for Disney? Are you still a cast member?

[@ChefGoldblum22]

I did the DCP in 2010 coming from Missouri, went back for a year, then moved back down asap lol but you are absolutely right about how people just settle....settling on NOTHING. Anyways, probably you see you in the parks without knowing it!

[@austispencer555]

@@Miztique I am! I currently work in Attractions in Pandora!

[@Miztique]

@@austispencer555 NO WAY!!!! I love Avatar and Pandora that's legit my dream job. Good for you dude!! I honestly wish I could work at Pandora but I heard you don't choose a station and that would be a huge commitment

[@annaz8441]

Your video was suggested very randomly on my feed, im glad youre living this life im actually a little jealous but happy for you even tho i dont know u :D thx for sharing you sound like a nice guy

[@designdoctor247]

it randomly popped up for me to...i appreciate your honesty

[@bundsta324]

It randomly popped up for me too. I have depression and moved to Florida 2 years ago. I love Disney and Universal so much…but I’m a 3.5hr drive

[@lifewithkaty317]

“Just starting a new life” Amen! Moved to Orlando almost 4 years ago and it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. Glad you are enjoying your new life! 😊

[@thelivingboris]

Brother i did the same thing, moved to Orlando after a life in Miami to do more themeparks and feel busier and maybe happier, it worked!! Subscribed man, best of luck moving forward!

[@TydiriumPilot]

I lived in Hallandale (right next to Miami) for 2 years and it was horrible! Orlando is much much better!

[@TheFaeSpiritt]

Welcome to Orlando!! There are passholder meetup groups for UO and the WDW parks! I’m sure there are some for the other parks too. There are very active ones on facebook. That would be a great way to meet new people. My husband and I still go to the parks at least a few times a month, but I hear you on the holiday crowds. We love it here and I am most excited about Epic Universe. That park is going to be unlike any we’ve seen before!

[@bubbytumby8509]

they were rude

[@EdgeyMama]

Kudos to you for making such a large life change. Recognizing your unhappiness and making a change to disrupt it. The transition will take time, but you did the hard part which was doing it!

[@ActualFactualMagic]

After the pandemic, I took the opportunity to pack up my life and move to Orlando and work for Mickey. It was the best decision I have ever made. It's not perfect, but I experience some level of real joy every day, and these days, that is such a rare thing.

[@flexx7611]

Hey Andrew, your technique in storytelling is good. You are a natural. Had me watching the whole video with interest. I also live in Florida but in the south so traveling to Orlando is about 3 hours. My wish is to live in Windermere just minutes from the parks. I am also an introvert with close friends I could count on one hand so I can totally relate but I am also open to making new friends. I actually took my then girlfriend to disney on one of our first dates. We have now been married over ten years. I guess it was something magical in the air. 😂. I am still or just as adventurous as you are and its good to know you see value in living life, people get so caught up in the grind that they forget to chill and just enjoy life. Hope you find that special woman in your life soon. Keep sharing your stories. One love.

[@peanutismint]

You look young and this is what your young years are for. Well done for taking the leap and doing something that makes you happy. Even if you decide you miss your family or stop enjoying the theme park life, doesn’t seem like it’d be that difficult to move again. Best of luck!

[@brookeofstars]

I moved to Florida this year as well. My life changed drastically for the better.

[@bubbytumby8509]

how

[@springbrown9769]

​@bubbytumby8509 , right native here and I am depressed as hell. I've been to all the parks, I just can't afford the annual pass. So my stays are limited.

[@muriloj.7652]

Dude, your video was awesome! I can totally relate to everything lol from the daily grind to the hype of planning a theme park trip. I live super far away, but watching this gave me hope that maybe one day I can move to Florida and change things up, just like you did. Seriously, this hit me hard lol. Big congrats, man! I watched the whole video and I’m so happy for you! I’m actually going to Florida for the first time ever at the end of January so wish me luck! haha

[@Florida-mAndrew]

Nice, I hope you make it!

[@davidfeng3335]

The intro spoke to my soul. I just recently got an AP to Universal for the purposes of getting out of the house more and getting ready for Epic Universe. I hope to see you around at the parks!

[@landmarkcreations1183]

Good for you man. You wanted a change and committed to it. That’s more than most can say. Hair cut looks good too bro. Keep on keeping on 👍

[@Zero-yd7dm]

It’s funny you brought up your hair because I’ve never seen you before, and throughout the beginning you show your long hair - which didn’t look bad - but I kept thinking “wow his hair looks much better now!” Then you brought up your haircut and I agree that day wasn’t great for it (it never is for me too, takes a week or two). But I definitely think the hair in this video now is the best look for you vs long. But in the end it’s whatever YOU like more

[@Florida-mAndrew]

I've never walked away from a haircut happy lol. I always like it grown out more, which was partly why I liked letting it go long

[@bundsta324]

@@Florida-mAndrewI think your hair looks better the way it is now too :)

[@eattradetravel]

Now go check out the Resorts - Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Portofino etc.....Then onto a Cruise, since you are in the center of 5 Cruise Ports! 🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢

[@lucianoferraz7252]

What a nice video mate! Really enjoyed seeing how calm and polite you are. God bless you! Greeting from a theme park enthusiast from Brazil! I’ll be there in feb/26 for sure

[@GraceAdventure_s]

Yoooo. Thank you for this video because I think a lot of us relate. I’ve lived in Florida my whole life tho. I work hybrid, and I feel the same as you did. I recently started frequenting to Busch Gardens Tampa alone, and I don’t regret it. For personal reasons, 2024 has been a rough year, and Busch Gardens has made me so happy. I remember my passion growing up has been parks and coasters. My friends and family think I’m crazy and weird for doing so, but there are so many amazing people in the coaster community. I’m new as well, but welcome, and I look forward to seeing more videos from you.

[@LVR1313]

WOW! This is the best video I've seen in a long time. I loved the format and development of the story. Kudos for the courage to leave everything behind and get out of your comfort to create a new life without any guarantees. I would love to see more videos of the parks where you show those details that we don't appreciate because we are in a hurry to do as much as possible because time and money is limited. Once again, thank you for sharing this experiment to improve your life. THANK YOU

[@gothica69508]

Loved this so much~ I did something similar with moving from Cleveland to Chicago based on pure vibes and wanting to make the most of my one precious life. I really appreciate your openness here! 🥰 keep it up!

[@tallflguy]

Coming from a Florida native, it’s soooo much more to Florida than the theme parks. I hope you get a chance to branch out. Key West, Miami, St. Augustine, Sanibel Island, all the state parks, the Everglades. Welcome to Florida!

[@XenonSwift]

Welcome to Orlando! I've been here for a couple years and it's been awesome. There's so much to do and see here. Glad you've enjoyed it so far.

[@onlytheouttakes]

Bro, I love how you went in depth even if it was something so nuanced about your feelings, or how you actually moved rather than just fluff and didn’t talk like a normal KZbinr. You just spoke your truth. This is exactly what I’m trying to do. Thank you for this video.

[@za3h91]

I myself just moved from Reno Nevada to Lake Mary Florida and I’m honestly the happiest I’ve been in a while. New experiences and everything cool is no longer hours away. It’s all 30 minutes away now.

[@blaster-zy7xx]

We moved to Florida and bought Disney APs our first year. Had them about 5 years and went many times. My favorite part was what you said, no running around to cram everything in because we have already done all the rides multiple times. The best part is doing the parks slowly and sitting to watch people or spending the time to notice the small details. Also. We learned to ONLY go when the crowds were way down. Didn’t even bother going in July or August when it is too hot and crowded.

[@amytih47]

Awesome, honest, no BS story of making life happen. Subbed 👍🏼

[@lizahermandez57]

I love your video. I like the look of your hair now, it becomes you. We live in Florida and the theme parks have never gotten old to me and my family. Orlando is full of people your age and not everyone likes to party. Stay true to who you are and you will find the right friends and a girlfriend. There are plenty of girls that feel the same way you do. It takes courage to share your story and I think you will help others by doing so. Congratulations on your new place and best wishes.

[@melodyca92]

As a Floridian who has been here my whole life and always wonders why people keep moving here, your perspective made it make sense lol

[@Florida-mAndrew]

Sorry for adding to the traffic 😅

[@Cargo_Bay]

@@Florida-mAndrew i-4 is where dreams go to die. But if you work from home, it's barely an issue!

[@pumpkinking446]

This really resonated with me as I went through almost the exact same process as you did from start to finish. It takes a lot of courage but the reward is well worth it. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

[@misterrider19]

I resonate a lot with what you talk about, and I've had this feeling for years that I'm not where I want to be (I live in the countryside, at my parent's house), so your video was quite good to watch, I might do this year this kind of drastic change and this might be the push that I needed. Thanks!

[@ana1ysis]

This guy’s communication skills are great. Great presentation. Great voice. Insightful, includes considerate details. He says he’s introverted but I’d definitely say introverted by choice if so.

[@fmaigh2622]

Subscribed! Looking forward to following your journey and adventures in Florida!

[@JacobNunez-w3j]

Awesome video! I’m from South Florida but went to school at BYU and then moved to Orlando. I love the more relaxed feel of the parks that you talked about when you live close by. You can just spend a few hours and still have a good time. Always looking to meet new friends at the park as well!

[@frostyfoods257]

Such a great genuine video. I love hearing about people on self improvement journeys like this

[@bp7151]

I worked at Walt Disney World back in 2007 when they had the careerstart program and worked in Fantasyland/liberty square, best experience of my life. Then in 2012 I had gotten married, and we moved from Arizona into the Disney bubble and I got a job at Universal. Then I had a family death that made us move back to Arizona and we struggled for many years. Now it's almost 2025 and both of us really want to live near the theme parks again and we've been saving to make it happen. I made it so I travel for work certain parts of the year so it's the opposite of remote work but it allows me to live whereever an airport exists. I am so glad this video popped into my feed. My happy places are arcades and theme parks. We spend a lot going to Disney World each year and other various theme parks and we still go more for the park experience. It's not always the rides but the atmosphere and energy of a place. I tried ignoring the feeling of moving back but other family has moved on and the area around us has gotten so expensive without being fun. Here's hoping 2025 is the year(plus I wanna be around for Epic universe)! Most people don't understand the appeal of theme parks but I don't like bars I like themed immersive places.

[@tenmike]

More videos please. You nailed it. You have a gift to share.

[@Finleypug]

Awesome video. I've thought about this very thing often. Thanks for the perspective and all that information. Very valuable for me

[@KeeperOfKale222]

Subscribed! Awesome video! I feel you on a lot of what you said. I would say I’ve always had some level of, maybe not full depression, but a malaise. Or at least that was until I moved to Oregon. I went through a pretty bad depression for a few years after moving there, so I moved back to the south and changed my attitude and am doing much better. God bless, and happy theme parking!

[@sergiocurvelo2384]

Great video. This is a interesting life experience. Orlando is magic.

[@ShawnGoogleTV-j1w]

Orlando is a pit of traffic and red light cameras.

[@sergiocurvelo2384]

@ No bad it all!

[@thomasdempsey8477]

Your story resonated with me. My family and I visited in 2019. We came down from Chicago for a Disney vacation and we were most impressed with how beautiful the whole area is. It seemed to fit our desire for a lifestyle change perfectly. It was a tough decision. We have 3 adult children, who are already set in their own lives, but we brought our 2 youngest sons. They were 8 and 18 at the time. It has been hard but worth it. Our boys are thriving and my wife and I have found good jobs and made some new friends. Going to the parks has been a plus. In the past we had Disney and Universal passes. Now we’ve got SeaWorld and Legoland. I highly recommend Lego. Other times we go hang out at Disney Springs or Icon Park. Living here has been a blessing. Best of luck to you in all you do 😊

[@wdwexploreandchill]

Walking around the property on my own is what helped me through my depression and it is still such an important part of me staying mentally good. I can get in a funk and realize I haven’t left the house in over a week, I work online and can do that anywhere so I walking for miles on Disney property is the best way I’ve found to reset and relax. 😉 Looking forward to seeing more from your channel!!

[@Markos_TR]

Massive congrats, Andrew, you really are living the dream! I always dreamed of living in Orlando when I was a kid. Also, as you’re into gaming and metal, there’s so many shows that cater for that in the area including the Welcome to Rockville festival, Warped Tour that’s coming next November, Hard Rock Live, House of Blues amongst other events. Hope that you’ll be able to provide more updates on your life there, updates about the parks, updates from the area as well as perhaps vlogs from various gigs and shows that you go to. Keep up the good work, Andrew!

[@orlando_en_glenn]

AMAZING VIDEO! Your story is absolutely inspiring and I want to say that I think you are very brave to take such a step in your life. At the same time, it is also very relatable, as I am in an exactly the same situation. Indeed, earlier this year I decided to move to Disneyland Paris, the only place in the world where I have ever felt truly happy. To hear how you experienced the first 100 days after your move makes me long for the time when I will move (which will be spring 2025). I will keep following you, and am already looking forward to the sequel to this video. Definitely keep us posted, very interesting! Good luck there, enjoy it; and again: big congratulations for the big step you've taken. That takes courage and boldness!

[@OneSingleCheezIt]

As someone else who has annual passes to all the parks, I would just suggest going a little less than you feel like, so that you don’t get bored. Maybe go every other day or something. Nothing wrong with relaxing and resting up at home for a park tomorrow. Also, something else that’s helped me enjoy the parks more is reframing why I’m there. Why you continue to go doesn’t have to be why you started going in the beginning. I often go literally just to people-watch and walk around, or spot any changes from last visit.

[@Spatialdigitalmedia]

Bro this is the first youtube in years I sat through and it kept my attention the whole time. Ive been living here for the past 30 years and watched this place grow from bearly nothing to this place of wonder and I myself work from home bored and thats mainly Im a retiered Disney manager seen and done all the themes parks as well worked at all of them lol over the years as most of the people that have lived here for some time but your story is awesome and my hat is off to you for searching out what make you happy and went for it. ,FYI dont allow the traffic to scare you back home over the past 5 years more and more people making that journery as you did . Welcome to Paradise lol

[@mydpga]

I love your story with this! I feel like I can relate to this after doing the Disney college program and always wanting to be back in that bubble! hope to hear more of your story.

[@Sam4G0d]

Loved your storytelling in this video! :)

[@erickfcc]

Dude, when I read the title, my first thought was, “what a loser.” As I watched your video, I realized you’re actually a really smart dude and I admire your initiative to get out of your rut. Moving to a new city and getting to know people is not the easiest thing to do. Kudos! The added benefit of going to all the parks as much as you want is great! I hope everything turns out well for you and you find someone special! God speed!

[@fahadalhamad465]

Thank you for sharing your story…. Believe me you are not alone I feel the same ( and your story is so inspiring) … hope to meet you someday when i visit Florida 🫶🏻

[@user-dn9gz5lu4y]

This is an amazing story and incredibly unique! This is why I love KZbin

[@NightWingZ24]

Great video man. You’re doing what you love and that’s all that matters. Happy for you.

[@earndoggy]

It looks like you made a good choice for what you wanted. I would have gone the opposite way, LOL, I want a place deep in the mountains where I don't see anyone else unless I actively look for someone. The key is you actually did something, instead of fussing around you took action. I think that's great!

[@coldbrewedjules]

I’ve never seen your content before but this was suggested to me, I really enjoyed hearing your story! Super happy for you! Love what you said about people who think they don’t enjoy theme parks- I love them but understand when people say they don’t because I know they’re just picturing that ugly side of them 😂 but there’s so much more to them if you know how to hack it

[@JonasBaert.]

What an Amazing story, thanks for sharing. Have fun in Orlando :)

[@MalakaiBlack82]

so happy for you, you are living the Dream. I‘m stuck over here in Germany, but i enjoy my 2-3 weeks of Orlando or California each year. Must be so great to enjoy some parks after work.

[@gregoryphi]

Good for you for stepping out and going for it. Thanks for the video man! I hope things only get better for you from here.

[@thegaminggoldfish7260]

Your story sounds a ton like mine. I lived in CT my whole life and decided to move to Orlando early 2023. Your story of going to the parks sounds exactly like mine. I think for me the biggest struggle has just been missing my friends from CT, but at the same time i know the my happiest life is down here. I feel like i have the world available to me now, where in CT things felt so closed off. Congratulations on the move man. Life will still happen. It’s daunting to live your entirely life and go somewhere different. But always keep it a day at a time. Do what you need.

[@adama4791]

I can relate greatly to your “what am I doing with my life” moment. I was working a ton and then because I’d get done at weird hours I’d play a ton of video games. I’d play video games for much of Saturday too. Then I got cancer. I was 25. I beat cancer and I said I’m not going back to just video games like before. Now I’m also blessed with a new nephew and I love spending time with him, taking him to the zoo etc.

[@SusannahPerri]

I think it’s great that you did that! You are young and unattached, work hard and make your own money, you can live wherever you want. For years my adult son and I had an annual passes to Disneyland and would go there several times a year (from SF Bay Area). The great thing about that as you say, is you don’t have to stand in line with the crowds, you can take your time, actually explore the areas that are just fun to be in, but not sought out by tourists. The parks are clean, safe and you have lots of choices and you keep moving/walking, which is much better than just sitting at a desk or doing things alone in your home. Enjoy your life and keep being you!😊❤

[@darcybower]

Loved to hear your story, it is so inspirational! I can really relate to everything that made you move to Orlando because I also feel like wasting my life away on a regular basis. Only thing that keeps me sane is seeing my friends from time to time and planning my upcoming trips :') I'm so happy for you, congrats!!

[@Cargo_Bay]

nice story! Your dad sounds great for pushing through that trip in a short and efficient manner. At some point, you may grow bored of Orlando area too, but kudos to you for trying something new and having the means to do it. But there's no shortage of things to do in Orlando area (or even a few hours away).

[@aeiro5390]

I'm not a theme park person but the depression/feeling like my life is wasting away hits close to home for me. I am also planning on moving over 1000 miles from where I live after a really rough year in 2024, and it was very helpful to hear your perspective to prepare for my move - thanks for sharing. I've done big moves in the past to get myself out of a funk, and it doesn't always help (sometimes it feels like I'm running away from my problems rather than confronting them), but moving is a big change that can force other changes in my life too.

[@EricSchnabel]

I'm about 6 years ahead of you in a similar timeline. Two years ago I applied for and was hired by one of the theme parks I moved here to frequent. This has been the best decision of my life (even if I had to give up 100% work from home).

[@alternativegirl25]

This is my dream, I love vacationing in Orlando and have planned a week every year for the last 10 years. I’m Canadian so moving there isn’t possible. Good for you for chasing bliss.

[@erinobrien6651]

Good luck with everything! Really inspiring.

[@tmech455]

Glad to hear from you again. I'm also severely introverted, but I would still go to clubs just to see a band I liked. As long as I enjoy the music, I'd consider it a good night.

[@Bungletronics]

I’m probably the only one here to notice your Archspire shirt. I saw them over the summer for the second time and they are by far one of my favorite bands. I’m excited to see who becomes their new drummer! I relate to a lot of what you talk about here and I also watched your recent video at the 5/6 month mark post move. I’m about 90min from Disneyland and 40 from universal Hollywood. So, it’s a little more of an investment for me to hit the parks but I love it. While I don’t want to move to Orlando because of the excessive heat, I think if I could spend a year there going to parks daily I’d enjoy it. It’s a nice “escape” for me and I do travel to Disney world by myself every couple of years. It’s a good way to be in a bubble for me where I don’t have to drive for a week or so. I have the freedom to explore tons of place and things. It’s great. I’m looking forward to more of your videos.

[@laurenpfeil6113]

I feel like im almost left speechless. You're living my dream! Im in the exact same situation you were in and ive been thinking about moving to Orlando for a while now and ive made it one of my new years resolutions to make it happen!! Its always good to make new friends ajd reach out to people! I feel like there should be a group made just for the people on here that have all moved to orlando for a happier life! Yall have given me so much inspiration and im so excited to make it happen! Thank you for sharing your story Andrew and maybe one day we'll see each other in the parks!! 🎉🤗

[@Florida-mAndrew]

Glad you enjoyed. Hope you make it! let me know if you have any questions about the move

[@laurenpfeil6113]

@Florida-mAndrew thanks for responding! Yes, honestly I would love to know about the details! I live in San Diego California right now so it be moving from one coast to another for me haha but I'm just trying to save up the money and figure out my income situation. I don't work remote unfortunately, but looking into things! If you have any recommendations, I'd love to hear!

[@Florida-mAndrew]

@@laurenpfeil6113 Unfortunately I don't know much about what industries thrive in Orlando, except tourism of course... I probably spent a total of ~$8k on my whole move, including moving expenses, first months rent / deposit, new registrations, and all my annual passes. It can probably be done cheaper or more expensive, depending on how you do it.

[@laurenpfeil6113]

@Florida-mAndrew ahh good to know!! Omg I didn't even think about new registration and all that for my car and such. Ahh yaa there's a lot that goes into it. I need a check list🤣

[@deborahdukes6096]

I love going to WDW just for the sake of getting outside and getting lots of exercise. First trip to WDW was in 1976 as a kid and it still never gets boring! I live close enough that I have a FL resident annual pass. Whenever I go I can always count on it lifting my spirits! The sunshine and exercise are the key ! So glad you found your happy place ! 😊

[@OZARKMOON1960]

Very wise words from someone over half my age. My last 10 years of working - before finally retiring - were doing work from home and it can be very isolating. Especially after I became unable to drive, there would be weeks I hard stuck my head outside to get the mail out of the mailbox (special home delivery). I wish I had done what you did when I was in my 30s. I wouldn't be stuck in this place with tornadoes and ice storms and...well you get the point. Look forward to hearing more about how things are going. And make sure mom gets a few clips of Faye for us!

[@meghanteress]

i love the haircut! i think it suits you really well. keep up the cool content! i think you’re meant to be living your theme park dreams!

[@VillainsofHorror]

Me and my wife moved to SoCal a few yeas ago, after watch theme park videos online for years. It's true, it's a totally different vibe going to the parks once you are a local. Best decision we ever made.

[@leonardosegura9729]

Man what an amazing story telling talent you have and I congratulate you for making this big move! I am sure this new lifestyle will definitely be the best decision you have made. It sounds like you are living a dream, and that overall you are truly living not just existing anymore, as it is true that most of us are glued to our phones, screens, iPads, laptops scrolling videos on KZbin or Instagram and it does get lonely and a waste of precious life. I wish you live an excellent life there as an Orlando local and enjoy the fun that those world class theme parks offer.

[@KevinHayn]

No idea how your video got recommended, but I love your style and content. Best of luck! You should try a cruise given your new location.

[@nathanielseymour8108]

I'm glad it worked out for you and thanks for sharing the experience. That must be nice being able to bike to all those theme parks. I personally go to Disneyland at least once a month but can't exactly bike there from where I live (L.A.). I've also met people that go there once a week, but every day......wow! I can also relate to the overall social situation. Most people here I'd describe as easy to meet / hard to stay in touch with. That makes me extra thankful for the close friends I have and I hope things keep going well for you.

[@be_kind_of_frogs7284]

If you ever wanted to try to bring your cat down, asking a vet for anxiety meds could be the way to go. My aunt was moving from WA to TX and had a 20 year old cat. She said her cat did really well on the meds the whole drive.

[@wawoah1942]

Love your speaking style, man. FL is really special for coaster fans ngl. Living in GA means that I can drive down to Orlando, but it takes a day, and as you said, really expensive. I've thought about moving down, and this video was recommended to me as if YT knows about me lol. Keep us updated haha

[@Joselo09111]

Wow this really opened my eyes! It’s ok to really like theme parks, I visit my parents in Orlando all the time, and I definitely took advantage of the annual passes. It changed my view completely, I too kinda want to Orlando even though it’s a 4 hour drive away

[@jaimeerindy4573]

This video was suggested to me completely randomly (well, semi-randomly, I watch all the big theme park vloggers), but I wanted to say that I found your story endearing! You are lucky that you have the income to this, but I think the biggest thing is that's it's very hard to find spaces in the world that are designed for getting together and putting phones down and living in the moment, but theme parks are still some of that. Enjoy your new life!

[@michaelskowron1333]

Hey man! I think it would be awesome if you could have a follow up video going over more of the move in detail and what it’s been like moving to Orlando! My girlfriend and I have been giving it some thought and really think we’d benefit from moving to live closer to the amusement parks too. We are just big planners and trying to figure out how to do it in the most efficient and affordable way!

[@moremercurial]

Welcome to FL! I just moved back after growing up here and living in another state for 8+ years. I love it more than ever and have found it so much easier to socialize. Congrats on starting this new adventure!

[@joeannabear]

I found this video in a time of my life that I feel stuck and thought I don’t think moving to Orlando rn would solve any of my problems, I love that mindset of getting out of your comfort zone.

[@Waittimes_and_Greattimes]

I live in Orlando and go to Universal or Disney almost every weekend. Happy to see you’re enjoying the parks!!

[@kediloaf]

How did your parents feel about your move? It sounds like you were ready to leave SLC, but I imagine leaving family behind would still be a big factor. Curious how you navigated this part of the decision!

[@Florida-mAndrew]

My parents were sad I was leaving, but supportive that I was doing what I wanted. I still have video chats with them every week

[@hopegold883]

Congratulations! What a feat of courage, effort, and strength!

[@angeliqueiuzzolino6164]

While the details vary, your story resonates so strongly for me. I lived near NYC for 15 years and my house and mental health were falling apart. Starting a fully remote job in 2021 allowed us to decide where we ACTUALLY wanted to live if we sold our shitty house. NY was too expensive to stay if we had to find a new place. My fam is all in Iowa but I didn’t really want to deal with snow anymore. We had visited Universal 3 times since 2019 at that point, and a bunch of stars aligned that made the decision to move to Orlando, arriving in Sept ‘22. But like you, it had 0 to do with Disney. We didn’t even go to WDW for the first time until this past Aug (and it was an awful time to go, but my niece bought us all tickets). Neither of us have that Disney nostalgia. We went to Uni 20 times in 2023 and I was starting to feel like I would get bored soon and not go as much. But thanks to the seasonal stuff like you mentioned, we went 40 times in 2024. We also now have SeaWorld & WDW passes but only because it’s a lot cheaper. It really is a very different feeling being on vacation vs being a local. I’ve also lost over 100 lbs since moving just because I’m so much more active. Just last night we went to MK, rode Tron & Peoplemover, and went home. Love it.

[@achievementpicklocked509]

Your honesty throughout is very refreshing to see. Congratulations on the move, you have the lucky ability to rock short and long hair.

[@strawberrymage]

Man I feel so stuck and empty about my life, this video is itching a nice scratch but it really does seem like a fantasy. You’re living the dream!!!

[@jamietaylor1664]

I could relate to a fair bit of what you discussed here. Good luck to you mate, and well done for going ahead putting into practice changes to make a better life for yourself

[@ian8lisle572]

Excellent video, like some others here mentioned this came across my recommended. I’ve been a on-again-off-again Orlando resident throughout college and am in the process of moving there myself for a new job. It’s an amazing city, plenty of things to do both in and out of the tourist corridor along I-4. Congrats on finding a place that suits your interests! I’ve been a member of the Themed Entertainment Association and IAPPA for work for years now, they’re primarily professional organizations but IAPPA has plenty of theme park “enthusiast” members like yourself, and I can say I’ve met some amazing people through it!