Very Merrytime Disney Cruises - There's Still Availability to Book for this Christmas!!

Create a new family tradition: celebrate the holidays at sea and be immersed in a winter wonderland of fun!

Have you ever considered doing something fun like a Disney Cruise over Christmas? Now is the time to book as the availability on the Very Merrytime Cruises is dwindling. I checked today and there are still a few cabins available on these cruises (in November and December). Good news for my Oklahoma peeps - there are cruises out of Galveston this time of year. So you can save yourself airfare to Florida if you’re willing to drive to Galveston!

If you don’t know what a Very Merrytime Cruise is, then here are all of the details for you!

Onboard Festivities

Delight in seasonal magic at sea and discover a jolly fusion of holiday-themed entertainment, activities and décor.

Share in the magic with festive onboard decorations that include a life-sized gingerbread house, a 24-foot Christmas tree, garlands, poinsettias and shimmering lights, and experience numerous merriments sure to warm the hearts of the entire family, including:

• Deck the Deck Tropical Holiday Party
  Candy-cane limbo, dancing and games—share in the yuletide magic of the season during this jovial celebration.

• Mickey’s Tree Lighting Magic Ceremony
  Kick off the season during this festive gala where kids can help light the ship’s Christmas Tree.

• Santa Claus Meet-and-Greet
  Share hugs and snap photos with the one-and-only Kris Kringle before he takes to the sky to deliver gifts to the children of the world.

• Disney Character Greetings
  Meet some beloved Disney Characters in jolly holiday attire and take one-of-a-kind pictures to cherish throughout the year.

• Youth Parties
  Teens and tweens can party it up with new friends during music and dance extravaganzas that fill the air with joy.

• Storytime with Mrs. Claus
  Gather the children in the atrium to hear Mrs. Claus read well-known Christmas stories from her rocking chair by the tree.

• Themed Activities and Crafts for Kids
  Decorate stockings, create festive cards, embark on a holiday scavenger hunt and more—it’s Christmas cheer for the young and young-at-heart.

• Gingerbread House
  Made completely from edible ingredients, the ship’s gingerbread house is a life-sized treat that you can photograph, but can’t eat!

• Holiday Merchandise
  ‘Tis the season to pick up exclusive, holiday-themed Disney Cruise Line gifts for family and friends—and make Christmas wishes come true.

Plus, on December 24 and 25, enjoy these additional treats:

• Cookies on Christmas Eve

• Special holiday towel animals

• Caroling with the kids and crew

Holiday Cheer at Castaway Cay
A winter wonderland awaits you aboard each ship—as well as on Castaway Cay! Disney's private island paradise is transformed with "snow" flurries, a Christmas tree and more. Be on the lookout for Mr. and Mrs. Snowman, dressed in their island attire. Plus, the island's tram is decorated to resemble a reindeer, complete with antlers and a tail.

Sail dates for 2018 and 2019 are listed below. Remember prices are cheaper on a cruise the further out you book so it’s not too early at all to be thinking about booking for 2019! Also, my planning services are always FREE when you book your trip through me and it doesn’t cost a penny more than if you booked it yourself!! Need more info about a Disney Cruise? Check out my previous blog post about them here!

2018
Disney Magic

• November 10, 2018 – 7-Night Bahamian Cruise from New York

• November 17, 2018 – 7-Night Bahamian Cruise from New York

• November 24, 2018 – 6-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from New York to San Juan

• November 30, 2018 – 5-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from San Juan to Miami

• December 5, 2018 – 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• December 9, 2018 – 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami

• December 14, 2018 – 5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• December 19, 2018 – 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• December 23, 2018 – 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami

Disney Wonder

• November 2, 2018 – 6-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

• November 8, 2018 – 4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

• November 12, 2018 – 4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

• November 16, 2018 – 7-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston

• November 23, 2018 – 7-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston

• November 30, 2018 – 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

• December 7, 2018 – 7-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston

• December 14, 2018 – 7-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston

• December 21, 2018 – 6-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

Disney Dream

• November 9, 2018 – 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 12, 2018 – 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 16, 2018 – 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 19, 2018 – 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral (2-stops at Castaway Cay)

• November 23, 2018 – 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 26, 2018 – 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 30, 2018 – 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 3, 2018 – 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 7, 2018 – 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 10, 2018 – 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 14, 2018 – 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 17, 2018 – 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 21, 2018 – 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 24, 2018 – 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Disney Fantasy

• November 10, 2018 – 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 17, 2018 – 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 24, 2018 – 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 1, 2018 – 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 8, 2018 – 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 15, 2018 – 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 22, 2018 – 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

2019
Disney Magic

• November 10, 2019 - 5-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from New York to San Juan

• November 15, 2019 - 5-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from San Juan to Miami

• November 20, 2019 - 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• November 23, 2019 - 6-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami

• November 29, 2019 - 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• December 2, 2019 - 5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• December 7, 2019 - 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami

• December 12, 2019 - 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• December 16, 2019 - 5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• December 21, 2019 - 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami

Disney Wonder

• November 8, 2019 - 14-Night Eastbound Panama Canal Cruise from San Diego

• November 22, 2019 - 7-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston

• November 29, 2019 - 7-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston with 2 stops at Castaway Cay

• December 6, 2019 - 6-Night Western Caribbean Cruise

• December 12, 2019 - 4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

• December 16, 2019 - 4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

• December 20, 2019 - 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

Disney Dream

• November 8, 2019 - 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 11, 2019 - 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 15, 2019 - 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 18, 2019 - 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 22, 2019 - 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 25, 2019 - 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 29, 2019 - 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 2, 2019 - 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 6, 2019 - 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 9, 2019 - 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 13, 2019 - 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 16, 2019 - 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 20, 2019 - 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 23, 2019 - 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Disney Fantasy

• November 9, 2019 - 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 16, 2019 - 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 23, 2019 - 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• November 30, 2019 - 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 7, 2019 - 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 14, 2019 - 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• December 21, 2019 - 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral with 2 stops at Castaway Cay

Play Disney Parks App - A Fun Way to Wait!

As if you need another reason to go to Disney World or Disneyland, here's one!  Disney has released the Play Disney Parks App - available FREE to download and play on both iOS and Android.

I normally wouldn't recommend having your nose in your phone while at Disney.  But if you're there with long lines and you've wrapped around the same part of the line a few times, you'll be tempted to distract yourself.  This would be especially helpful if you have kids that get restless while waiting.  

This app was designed for families and guests to enjoy together. With group play that enables everyone to join in on the fun, guests will turn wait time into play time with all-new interactive experiences and activities created for select attraction queues, including: “Playset Party” at Toy Story Mania! in Disney California Adventure park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, “Off to Neverland” at Peter Pan’s Flight at Disneyland park and Magic Kingdom, “Rocket Race” at Space Mountain at Disneyland park and Magic Kingdom, and “Andy’s Boardgame Blast!” at the new Slinky Dog Dash coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And there’s even more to explore in the app!

Guests signed into their Disney account (available to guests 13 and over) can also earn, collect and share uniquely themed achievements, rewarded for playing games, answering trivia, completing challenges and experiencing select attractions across Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. And with the Disney trivia feature, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy as guests can discover fun facts about their favorite theme parks.

This first-of-its-kind Disney app will also allow guests to celebrate the songs of Disney in a whole new way. Access Apple Music®* from within the app to tap into a curated audio experience featuring official playlists inspired by beloved theme park lands, attractions and characters – and some favorite memories too. Apple Music subscribers will even be able to add favorite Disney tracks direct to their Apple Music library allowing them to live and re-live the magic of Disney parks music at home.

The app is intended to be used while actually at Disney.  So sadly, there's not much to do with it if you are stuck elsewhere.  But I did discover that the trivia questions work outside the parks, so pull it up and add a little Disney to your day!

Don't forget that if you book your trip with me, I'll plan it at no cost to you!!  Same price as you'd get booking yourself!!

Message, data and roaming rates may apply. Availability subject to handset limitations, and features may vary by handset, service provider or otherwise. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. Some features require separate theme park admission.

*Some features require Apple Music subscription and are only available on iOS devices. Separate terms and conditions apply.

10 Things I Hate About Disney World

You know I love Disney so this is a hard one for me.  But I've compiled a list of 10 things I hate - some are avoidable and some aren't.  Enjoy... 

1 - Crowds!!  There are some better times of the year than others but frankly with all that Disney has to offer, crowds are going to be big.  I think the days of finding the Magic Kingdom empty are in the past.  But I can certainly help you avoid the most crowded of days and with prior planning, you can do a lot to alleviate the problems crowds cause.

2 - Long Lines.  The main problem with the crowds is that they tend to all want to do what you want to do so your lines are long.  Again, prior planning helps.  When you book with me 6 months in advance, I can get you almost any dining reservation, so no waiting for your eats!  Also, with Mobile Ordering, you can skip the lines for Quick Service food!!  For attraction FastPasses - if I get them for you 60 days in advance, that gives you at least 3 lines a day you can skip (and more if you're smart and get a new FastPass when yours are used).  In the case where you do have a long line, Disney is wonderful with most lines being in the shade or air conditioning and a lot of them have interactive queues which are so fun!!

3 - Weather Issues (Heat/Humidity/Rain).  Here's one you can't control.  You can be prepared however!  Know that if it's summer, it will be hot and humid and don't let yourself become dehydrated.  Plan for afternoon thunderstorms by carrying cheap ponchos in your bag.  And don't be that amazing Mom that assumes it's Florida so even in January it will be warm and doesn't pack any warm clothes for your kid to run his first half-marathon!  Oops, that might have been me.  Point is - check the weather first and try to be prepared for anything!

4 - Extra Calories.  Even though you can control this, it's too fun to enjoy the amazing food and snacks.  You'll be walking a ton which helps a bit but I always come back with a souvenir of a few extra pounds.  If you know it's probable, you can get your workout program set up before you leave so you don't carry that extra weight for too long!

5 - Being Tired.  This one is like the extra calories and is totally avoidable if you make better choices than I do.  But I want to squeeze every single moment out of my Disney vacation and sleep just doesn't fit my plans.  I wouldn't suggest planning on going to work/school the very next day when you return.  Add a day or two at the end of your trip to get some actual rest!!

6 - Missing my pets.  I know I have some sort of issue, but I really miss my pets when I'm on vacation.  I recently found an amazing house sitter that will come and keep an eye on the kitties while we're gone, so hopefully you have something good like that!  But if not, guess what?  You can bring your dog with you to Disney!  There are a few resorts on property that will allow you to bring your dog for a small fee.  They can't go into the parks but they are welcome in your hotel room.  The housekeeping staff is notified and they won't go in and accidentally let your furbaby out.  Let me know if this is one you can relate to and I'll get you more info!

7 - Buses/Public Transportation.  Ok, so I don't necessarily hate this.  I LOVE the monorail and the boats.  And you all know my love for the Magical Express (when I'm on my way to Disney - not so much on my way out).  I threw this one in here for Don since he has a sincere hate for Disney buses.  They can be crowded and uncomfortable for sure.  But the convenience of someone taking me where I want to go for FREE without the possibility of me getting lost or having to park a mile away really outweighs the negative in my opinion.

8 - Spending Money.  This one is a touchy subject because I won't lie and say Disney is an inexpensive vacation.  But there are tiers of spending and even Disney on a budget is better than a lot of vacations I've been on.  I will work with any budget - just let me know your needs up front.  

9 - Sad Families.  I hear this one a lot and it is one I really do hate.  The families that people mention seeing that are obviously not feeling like they're in the happiest place on Earth most likely didn't plan ahead.  They thought their kids could walk 10 miles and didn't get a stroller.  They didn't get dining reservations and their favorite restaurant is booked.  They didn't take a poncho and are soaking wet.  So many reasons but most could be avoided.  Read through other posts on my blog for lots of tips to help avoid the Sad Family Syndrome!

10 - LEAVING!  The hands-down absolute worst part of Disney World for me is that I can't just live there.  I swear I can tear up just thinking about walking out of Magic Kingdom on the last night of my trips.  The best cure for this - start planning another trip!  Until I can go again, let me help you.  It eases my pain just a little...  :)

Disney World - What Will it Cost??

Want to know how much moolah it will take to get you to Disney World?  Well, read on!

It's been over a year since I gave an example price of a family trip to Disney World.  Prices change all of the time, so I thought I'd update you on the most recent costs today!  

The main reason that people tell me they aren't traveling to Disney World is the cost.  While I admit it can be pricey, you can make a couple of choices that will lower the cost.

It sounds great to stay in a Moderate or Deluxe resort (and I highly recommend you do if you're able!).  But if cost is stopping you, consider a Value resort.  They are still on Disney property so you don't lose any of the perks of staying on-site.  Disney customer service is the highest standard no matter which resort you choose.  Cleanliness and safety are top-notch across the board.

Here is an example of affordability...  I pulled up a quote for the following:

•  A family of four - 2 adults and 2 kids, ages 4 and 6
• February 24 - March 1 (5 nights lodging)
• All-Star Music
• 4-day base Theme Park Ticket
• Complimentary Magical Express
• MagicBands
• My support and knowledge to enhance your experience

The cost of this family's trip would be $2325 at today's prices for everything listed above.  My family has taken a quick trip to Dallas or Kansas City that has set us back nearly that amount.  

I can't guarantee at the time that you wish to travel that there will be a special, but this price is not based on any of the current Disney specials.  It's the current standard rate for a vacation at the end of February 2019.  You might get lucky and travel during a time of a special rate - always check my Specials page for current dates.

You can always upgrade to a Moderate or Deluxe resort, and depending on the special available, it may not be much more.  You can also spend a little more if you want a Park Hopper ticket, but if you don't plan to do more than one park per day, then the base ticket is a great deal.

If you drive, be aware that Disney is now charging a parking fee at the resorts.  If you fly, then of course, you'll also be paying for flights.  We usually fly on Southwest with points so if you plan far enough ahead, you can do the same!  

You will also need to plan food, photos, stroller rental and souvenir costs. I have lots of tips to help keep these prices down so be sure to ask!!

Planning ahead has tons of perks - dining reservations and FastPasses are available.  You'll also be able to save up and possibly pay for the entire trip before traveling.  Nothing is better than a vacation where you know it's already paid off and you can just enjoy yourself!

Give me a call or shoot me an email.  I'd love to check prices for your situation!!  Remember - I don't charge anything extra for helping you.  As long as I book your vacation, Disney pays me and it costs you the exact same thing if you booked it yourself.

Want to Spend Several Hours at Magic Kingdom with No Crowds??

Your Kingdom awaits!  When the crowds clear and the gates close, rediscover Magic Kingdom park after dark.  It sounds too good to be true, but there is a way to experience Magic Kingdom without a crowd.  

Be among a limited number of Guests to enjoy a unique, 3-hour park experience—featuring more than 25 popular attractions and Character Greetings, with little-to-no wait!   Disney After Hours gives a limited number of Guests—including you—access to dozens of unforgettable experiences in Magic Kingdom park.

For 11 select nights from June 2018 to September 2018, don’t miss your chance to skip the wait times.  Because ticket sales are extremely limited, you'll basically walk up to each attraction with practically no wait.  Times are either from 10pm to 1am or 9pm to midnight.  And you'll actually be able to enter the park at 7pm, but the regular crowd will be there until closing.

But wait - there's more!  Ice Cream, Popcorn and Select Beverages are Included!
In the midst of the laughs and thrills, be sure to chill out with ice cream novelties and select bottled beverages—included in the cost of admission—available at carts stationed throughout the park. In addition, you can also purchase select menu items at Main Street Bakery and select locations throughout the park.

One huge regret I have is not taking advantage of this event when I was at Disney World for agent training.  It was brand new and I thought the people that did it were huge suckers.  They had a ticket for the day and were going to pay extra for just 3 hours??  But the next morning they came in completely thrilled with money well-spent.  They had NO lines or waits and ate about 20 Mickey bars each.  The current price on this ticket is $119 each (purchased in advance - it's $124 the day of the event if available), so would be a large chunk of change for a family for sure.  But if I ever end up at Disney alone again, you can bet I'll be doing this.  You could also do this on a day when you don't have a regular park ticket - you only need the After Hours ticket to enter.  

Fantasyland - Have you ever seen it so empty?!

Winnie the Pooh - NO one in line!

No Line for Princess Pics!

Pirates - empty!

Some of the Snacks you can get!

Here's a review on After Hours from a Guest who has enjoyed it...  "It’s literally an empty park. And the staff is so nice.. Passing out ice cream bars and waters and sodas willy nilly.. The ride operators, just say stay on, if you want! They let us ride on thunder mountain train car as they backed it into the parking spot for the night.. and we rode seven dwarves like 7x in a row without getting off…"

Sounds amazing!!

There are also photographers on hand, so if you have a Memory Maker you'll get some awesome shots in an empty-ish park!

Last week, my blog post focused on what to do at Disney World if you only had one day.  If you did this on a day when the Disney After Dark tickets were offered, you could do even more!!  

Of course with any of these "extra" ticketed events, there's no guarantee that they'll keep doing it.  But if you're planning a trip be sure and let me know if you're interested.  I'll check the current dates and see if it's available!

Just One Day?? What to Do?!

Andrew gave me a good idea for a blog post this week...  If I had just one day to spend at Disney World, what would I do?  A normal person might just answer with their one or two favorite rides and call it good but you know I'm not normal.  I have thought and thought about this and knowing I would want to squeeze every possible second out of the day, I've come up with the following plan of what I would do!

First of all - I've preached this before - be at the parks at OPENING!!  In fact, be early.  I'd start my day at Magic Kingdom and I'd be there about an hour and a half before opening.  Yes that's early, but they open Main Street an hour before the rest of the park.  To make my one day plan work, I'd want to be through security, maybe have a snack on Main Street and be ready to head into Fantasyland as soon as the rope drops.  I'd save my FastPasses to use at my next park since I won't be at those when they opens.  

At Magic Kingdom, I'd be sure to ride Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain as soon as possible.  Those tend to have the longest lines and although I'd want to hit my other favorites (Pirates, Haunted Mansion, Peter Pan...), I could do those later without hopefully quite as long of a wait.  

Running from one ride to the other, I'd grab a Dole Whip (being sure to use Mobile Ordering to move quickly).  IF I found a character with a short wait, I'd get a couple of pictures but would probably have to skip most of those on this trip.  I'd for sure have to get a pic in front of the Castle though!

On to Animal Kingdom next by way of Disney bus transport.  (Luckily, the bus times are on the My Disney Experience app now so I could really wait until the last second to run for the bus).  Once at Animal Kingdom, I'd need to use a FastPass since I want to ride Flight of Passage.  Waits are still ridiculous for it so this would be a perfect use of it. 

The moment I scanned my MagicBand for my Flight of Passage FastPass, I would pull up the app and look for a Slinky Dog Dash FastPass at Hollywood Studios which is where I'll head next.  I could certainly use my other 2 FastPasses at Animal Kingdom, but let's just say I'm there on a day when lines aren't overall that bad. 

After riding Flight of Passage, I'd hit Dinosaur and the Safari.  Not that I don't love the other rides but I'd head out after that.  If Everest had a short wait, I might hop on it - but honestly I wouldn't be too sad if I couldn't.  I love and hate that ride.  It's really cool but that last drop makes me question why on earth I would ride it every time.  

I'd grab lunch - using Mobile Ordering again - and eat while heading to the bus.  Next stop - Hollywood Studios!  

Now, I know at this point I would completely regret using my FastPass on Flight of Passage if I wasn't able to get one for Slinky Dog Dash.  But the wait on it is typically a little less than Flight of Passage at this point so I'm going for time-savers here.  Whatever the wait is at Slinky Dog, I would do it.  So let's hope it's short!!  

Depending on the other wait times, I would also want to hit Toy Story Mania and Rock'n'Roller Coaster (taking advantage of the Single Rider Line).  Also after each FastPass I used, I would check and see what's available for later in the day.  You never know when one will open up and I'll grab any I can.

Back to the buses - should probably grab a Mickey Bar to eat on the way - and off to Epcot.  Hopefully I was able to get a FastPass for Test Track after using my last one.  If not, there's a Single Rider Line there too which is usually quick.  And you naysayers may scoff at my other must-do there, but it's Spaceship Earth.  I could rest my surely sore feet by this point and enjoy the smell of Rome burning - isn't that one of your favorite smells, too??

I'd hit Club Cool for some free caffeine as I'm sure I'll be moving a bit slower by now.  Fueled up, it's back to Magic Kingdom by way of the Monorail.  I know, I know, I've already been to Magic Kingdom.  But I honestly can't think of a better day than starting and ending it there.  

Assuming I've made it by dinner-ish time, I'd go straight to Casey's Corner for the world's best hot dog.  I've surely been smart enough to plan this on a day when Magic Kingdom is open late and will now make my way around all that I missed in the morning.  Making sure to stop and watch the Fireworks, I'd run from ride to ride until they kick me out. 

Did you know that if you are in line before the park officially closes, they won't kick you out but will let you wait in line and ride?  I did that once on Seven Dwarfs Mine Train - park closed at 11pm and I got in line at 10:45pm.  It was an hour long line at that point so I was one of the last to leave the park.  

Leaving the Magic Kingdom is always a really sad thing for me.  But being able to leisurely stroll out with very few people makes it a little better.  I feel like I can soak it all in one last time.

Now if I only had a day to test out my plan...  If this ever happens, I'll be sure and let you know!  Of course, I HIGHLY suggest taking more than one day to do Disney World.  Give me a call and I'll help you plan a much less hectic schedule.  

** Stay tuned next week for a blog post on Disney After Hours at the Magic Kingdom.  It's a special ticketed event that would make this day much easier to do.  I'll explain it all then!!

Disney Cruise Line!

Let me start by saying that I haven't had the good fortune YET to take a Disney Cruise.  But I was lucky enough to get to tour the Disney Dream when I was in Florida last year for an agent education program.  I took a few pics of the ship and would love to share those with you.  Based on all that I saw, I can't wait to set sail someday soon!!

We were in Port Canaveral, but Disney sails out of Galveston, San Diego, Miami, New York and many other departure ports.  The ships sail anywhere you can imagine - including Europe and Alaska!  Be sure and save some time by doing as much of your check-in as possible online before you get to the port - I can help with that!

There are 3 pools on this ship - one of them is an adult-exclusive pool.  Keep in mind that while the other pools are kid-friendly, you can't swim in them unless you are potty-trained!  Swim diapers are only allowed in the splash area (Nemo's Reef on the Dream).  The main pool has a 24-by-14-foot LED screen called Funnel Vision on which you can watch classic Disney animated features or live-action movies.  

For the thrill seekers, be sure and take a ride on the AquaDuck which is an exciting 765-foot-long water coaster that transports Guests on an exhilarating journey up, down and around 4 decks, over the side of the ship and through the Forward Funnel

Trust me when I say you won't go hungry.  There are 3 different restaurants that you rotate through each evening for dinner and you keep your same wait-staff since they rotate with you!  If you want something more casual, there are a couple of quick-service type restaurants on board.  And don't forget, there is 24-hour complimentary room service!!  If I ever do make it on a cruise, I'll be eating my weight in Mickey bars for sure.

There are a few food items that aren't included in your cost of the cruise...  Vanellope's Sweet and Treats sells ice cream, gelato and candy.  But looking at the price list, it's not that expensive.  If you want something a bit different than the standard ice cream that is compliementary, check this out.  There are also 2 adult-exclusive restaurants (Palo and Remy) that aren't included.  Might be worth it for some time alone though!

On board, you'll find all of your favorite characters for Meet and Greets!  Some require a ticket (it is free but you need a reservation) and some you'll find randomly throughout the ship.  We were lucky enough to be greeted by Mickey as we boarded the ship!

Although you want to spend your vacation with your family, it's nice to have an option if you want to do the adult-exclusive dining or other activity.  Disney Cruise Line provides Disney-themed youth clubs, areas and immersive interactive programs and activities designed to allow your child’s imagination to soar while aboard the Disney Dream.  Honestly, after seeing the youth clubs, I imagine I would have a hard time dragging my boys out of them!  

The Small World Nursery is adorable for children aged 3 months to 3 years.   It does have an additional charge though and you need reservations.

Have someone traveling with you that loves sports?  So does Goofy!  There are a lot of options for the sports-lover to enjoy.

If you're into nightclubs and dancing, you have several options!  Take advantage of the kids' clubs and hit the dance floor!!

There are 2 theaters on board - a movie theater and a theater for a Broadway caliber show.  Currently the Dream is doing Beauty and the Beast.  

There is so much more to a Disney Cruise that I haven't even touched on here.  Most itineraries sail to Disney's private island - Castaway Cay.  You also have the option to book some amazing Port Adventures in the ports that you visit (these are an additional charge).  You'll also enjoy Fireworks at sea, Deck parties, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Spa and Fitness amenities, Midship Detective Agency, Shopping...  And did I mention free Mickey bars??  

The least expensive rates on a Disney cruise are when the itineraries are first released.  So if you're thinking of taking a cruise, let me know as soon as possible so that we can get you the maximum fun for the least price.

Oh and if you're like Don and a bit of a germaphobe, you need to know about these awesome automatic hand washers that you have to use to get into the buffet line.  Now you have no excuse to not sail with Disney!!  Call me - my services are FREE to you!!

Location, Location, Location: Where to Stay at Disney World Based on Your Favorite Park

If you've read any of my previous posts, you know that the Magic Kingdom is far and away my favorite Disney World park (also my favorite place anywhere).  But some of you probably have a different favorite and you're wondering where to stay if you plan to spend most of your time at your favorite spot.

You're in luck - you'll find the answer here today!  Below are the resorts I would stay in for each park.  It's mostly based on location but in the case there's more than one resort to choose from, I picked the one I like best.  I've also included a runner-up to stay in if you prefer something different due to cost or decor or whatever floats your boat.

Magic Kingdom

Contemporary

Contemporary

Polynesian

The Contemporary is the perfect location to stay if you are spending a lot of your time at Magic Kingdom.  Also, we should be friends if that's the case...  You have 2 great options to get to the park - you can walk or ride the monorail.  The Polynesian is beautiful and has the monorail, but you can't walk to MK from there.  Bonus though - they have Dole Whip on site!

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Coronado Springs

It only makes sense that the Animal Kingdom Lodge would be a great place to stay if Animal Kingdom is your favorite park.  It's close to the park PLUS if you love animals, you'll see a bunch at your resort!!  Both of these locations use bus transportation to get to the park, but it's not a long drive.

Epcot

Beach Club

Yacht Club

You can walk to Epcot from both the Beach Club and the Yacht Club.  They also share an amazing pool area.  I would choose the Beach Club mainly because the Yacht Club seems more like a "conference" hotel and less Disney.  But both are in a great location for Epcot!

Hollywood Studios

Boardwalk Inn

Pop Century

The Boardwalk Inn is in a perfect location - you can actually walk to both Hollywood Studios and Epcot from here.  They also have boats or buses if you'd rather.  I love the Boardwalk because they have a fun boardwalk area with lots of restaurants and entertainment.  Pop Century is a really fun resort for kids - tons of great photo ops.  

Future Stays

If you're planning to stay after mid-2019 I would add into this list Art of Animation and Caribbean Beach for enjoying Epcot or Hollywood Studios.  Disney is currently in the process of the construction of the Skyliner.  This will be a gondola system that will connect those 2 resorts (along with Pop Century) to those 2 parks.  Construction is rumored to be done sometime before Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opens in the Fall of 2019 at Hollywood Studios.

PLEASE give me a call if you'd like more info on any of these resorts - or any others!  I love finding the perfect fit for each guest's situation.  And my services are FREE!!

runDisney 2019 Race Registrations Coming Up

Remember that one time that I lived out my dream of running a race at Disney World?  Best.  Day.  Ever!  Well it's your turn now!  

Race registrations for 2019 events have been on hold while runDisney implemented a new race registration system. But they are scheduled now!  Under the new system guests will be able to register for races using their Disney account. Guests will also be able to register multiple participants at the same time and use payment options such as Disney gift cards. Registration dates are as follows:

-- 2019 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend - January 9-13.
Registration begins at 11am CST on July 19, 2018.

-- 2019 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend - February 21-24.
Registration begins at 11am CST on August 7, 2018.

-- 2019 Star Wars Rival Run Weekend - April 4-7.
Registration begins at 11am CST on August 28, 2018.

Take a look at my previous blog post about my experiences at a runDisney event by clicking here!  Remember that my planning services are completely FREE if you book your trip through me.  And having done a race here myself, I have lots of tips to help you.

Keep in mind that on my previous blog post, I mention to sign up for an active.com account to make registration day smoother - that's no longer the process.  Just use your Disney sign on!!  If you're thinking of registering and want to chat before you do or want me to be available if you need help that day, just give me a shout.  It's non-refundable so make sure you want to do it before signing up!

Let me help you make a bunch of wonderful memories with very few blisters...  Call me today and let's get you an awesome medal!!

I Hate to Brag But...

Talking up my skills is something I find difficult in the marketing of my business.  I always feel like I'm bragging or pretending like I know everything when we all know that NOBODY knows EVERYTHING!  

But today I just want to remind you why you should give me a call when you're planning a trip to Disney or Universal.  Or if you're even remotely considering a trip - I'd love to try to talk you into it!  :)

First and most important - I LOVE what I do.  I love everything about Disney and Universal travel.  I love the research, I love the planning, I love the parks!  So when I say I want to help you, I truly mean it.  Yes, it's a job and if you book through me, I'll get paid which is an amazing perk - but I honestly love doing it.  

Even if you are an expert on these types of vacations, you would be helping to support my small business!  Giving me the chance to help you doesn't mean that I just take over and you are out of the loop.  Some of my favorite clients are experts themselves and just use me to verify their plans or answer a question about something they may have forgotten or aren't familiar with. Plus, I'm the one point of contact rather than having to call Disney or Universal and talk to a different agent every single time.  And don't forget about the long wait times to call in sometimes - I'll help as quickly as I can every time and you don't have to tell your whole vacation story when you call in.

What are the other benefits of using a certified travel agent like myself?  

• I work for FREE!!  Ok, so not really.  Disney and Universal both pay me a commission.  But that commission is NOT added on top of your vacation cost.  You will pay the EXACT same thing to Disney or Universal regardless of if you book through me or do it yourself.  
• I research the best dates for the best value/best crowd level/best weather for your time frame.
• I monitor the specials that Disney releases.  Doesn't happen often, but if a special comes out after you've booked that can be applied to your trip, I will do that for you!
• I will get up before sunrise on the day of your FastPass and Advanced Dining Reservation windows.  I will talk with you before that day to find out what you'd prefer so that you get as close to what you want as possible!
• I am available anytime to chat about your trip.  It's really hard to say "here's what to do on your trip" as all families are different.  I love getting to know my clients and helping them decide on a plan.
• I am also available at any time for questions - and if I don't know the answer (it happens!), I have a direct line to Disney and Universal.  I also have relationships with a large number of other travel agents that may have ideas to help us in an unusual situation.  
• Have a problem on your trip?  Call me!  It's a nice feeling knowing you aren't in it alone if a problem arises.

Again, I don't want to brag but I do have these awesome pins that speak for themselves when they say I'm a graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge!

Please give me a call and let's talk about your vacation needs.  And I'd appreciate it immensley if you would give my information to anyone you know considering a trip.  THANK YOU!!