Growing up, like many girls, I adored Disney movies. Films with women as main characters who were strong-minded, fearless, and curious enough to explore new worlds.
It took me years to realise that the Yasmins, Megaras, and Ariels from my childhood—and the Moanas, Meridas, and Elsas of later years—were more than just characters on a screen. They planted the seed for my urge to travel, explore, and embrace life boldly.
So yes… I blame Disney for the strong, independent, and insanely curious woman I’ve become.
“…and always waiting for the man and the “happily ever after” part of the story”.
“…And Always Waiting for the Man?”
Anyone who grew up with ’90s Disney will know what I mean. Back then, we didn’t see princesses as feminist trailblazers or world travellers.
Disney movies told us girls should dream of being delicate, dependent, and waiting for “happily ever after.” with a partner. A crown or title wasn’t the goal—it was finding a prince to complete your life story.
Years later, as I began travelling, I realised that the person I’d become reflected the very characters I had watched on repeat. Only… I’d got it all wrong.
“I got out of my comfort zone, experienced a whole new world”
A whole new world
I started travelling solo at 24. Yes, I started late, but once you begin, there’s no stopping. Over the next five years, I moved abroad and visited places I’d only seen on screen.
I got out of my comfort zone, explored whole new worlds, and most importantly, learned to live for myself while doing the things that bring me joy—like connecting with nature and chasing adventures.
About time
It felt right to share this for the ’90s girls who haven’t figured it out yet. Those who still don’t realise that the seed of independence and curiosity was already planted in their childhood by Disney princesses.
Maybe it’s the wave of live-action remakes, Disney+ nostalgia, or the fact I’m simply getting older—but the lesson is clear: the courage to explore, travel, and live boldly was there all along.
“Imagine the number of women waking up every day and are now realising that the world is theirs to take? Beautiful!”
Blame Disney
So yes, let’s blame Disney. If I feel confident enough to start over in a new country, chase new experiences, and discover new worlds, it’s because I grew up empathising with women who were fearless, defiant, strong, and funny.
Imagine how many women wake up every day, realising the world is theirs to take. Beautiful, right?
Lesson Learned
For too long, I thought a princess’s role was to be dependent and submissive. Now, I want to celebrate that childhood exposure for what it truly was: inspiration.
The message is already imprinted in the minds of girls who grew up watching these films. They are reminders that happiness, adventure, and self-discovery are always possible.
Now, I want you to find time in your life to start watching some of these oldies again.
Movie Recommendations
If you want to relive this inspiration:
Hercules & Brave – epic stories with epic soundtracks that will make you want to take on the world.
Pocahontas – watch it as an adult to rediscover your love for nature and adventure.
Aladdin & Mulan – live-action or original versions, perfect for dreaming and travelling from your couch.
Little Chilean 