Oklahoma is OK, but the other states are great too!!

My Oklahoma peeps pretty much have all heard about my Disney and Universal trip planning services and many have taken advantage of this FREE service. But I often hear (after the fact) that someone wished they could have used my services, but they don’t live near me so assumed that I couldn’t help them. No! Not true!!

Although I would love to visit in person with all of my clients, that’s not always possible even when they are local. We all have busy lives and sometimes schedules don’t work out. The thing is, it’s totally possible to plan and book the whole trip over the phone! I spend a lot of time calling, texting, emailing and facebook messaging my clients while we’re in the planning and booking phase.

Once it nears your trip, I’ll mail you a packet with any paperwork that you need to have. Disney will mail your MagicBands and Magical Express luggage tags.

So please, if you’re not local to me, still let me help you!! And if you’re one of my friends that lives out of the Oklahoma City area, please consider sharing this info with your own local peeps. Remember I have a referral program and will send you a $10 gift card to the restaurant of your choice if you send a booking my way!!

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!!

Rantings of a Frustrated Travel Agent

OK, so I should start by saying it’s not your fault.  You just don’t know how it works! 

In the past few weeks, I’ve had many potential clients contact me for information and pricing on Disney trips and Disney cruises.  But only a couple have actually booked a trip.

I know that there are times when the price isn’t what is expected or dates of availability don’t work out.  But lately, I’ve had a lot of people tell me thanks and then go book it on their own online.

My first instinct is to be frustrated.  Typically I’ve spent a decent amount of time finding out about what they want in a trip and then customizing a quote based on that.  And time spent doing that is something I do enjoy but when it boils down to it, it takes time away from my family.  That’s easier to justify when it becomes a job and I’m paid for it, but when a trip isn’t booked, I don’t get paid.  (Cue the Mom Guilt at that point). 

That’s something I think people just don’t quite understand.  I only get paid when I book a trip.  Now if the trip is not right for you, you decide not to go, circumstances change… I totally get it.  But to go book online with the info I’ve provided stings a bit.  

I truly think people just don’t know how it works though so I try not to take it personally. I do want to educate everyone on a couple of things though.  Click the links below to find out why you need a travel agent and how I actually get paid...

Do you really Need a travel agent to go to Disney?

How Do I get Paid?

Disney is no small business.   But when you book your trip through an authorized Disney travel agent (like myself!) you are supporting a local business.  Doesn’t cost you a penny more and in fact may save you money in the long run.  

The best benefit for you is that you have access to my expertise and one-on-one planning.  I am your direct link to Disney or Universal!  If you book yourself and need to make changes, have a question or just want to get some advice, you can call Disney/Universal.  But you’ll have a different agent every time that doesn’t know you or your situation.  And be prepared for a long wait on the phone. 

With me, I get to know what you want out of your trip and work to make it the best possible.  If there’s any need to call Disney/Universal, I will do that for you.  And there's a reason I only book Disney/Universal vacations.  I've been there, done that.  I don't book other areas because I'm not an expert!  Not to brag, but I do feel like an expert when it comes to Disney and Universal and I'd love to be your Fairy Godmother.

I really hope I haven’t offended any of you that might be reading this.  If you’ve asked me for information but didn’t book a trip, just know that I totally understand.  And honestly, before I became a travel agent, I most likely did the same thing in asking for info but doing it myself.  

Do me a favor and spread the word on this new knowledge - there’s no reason for you to plan alone when it costs you nothing to have an expert in your corner!!

Is Universal Better Than Disney?

Something that has been debated for a while amongst theme-park goers is the question of which one is better - Disney or Universal?  

To be honest, Disney has my heart and I won't ever be able to say that I think Universal is better.  However, depending on your family and situation, Universal might be a better fit for you.  I love all things Disney but I admit I'm pretty much a little kid when it comes to that stuff.  I know a lot of people that prefer Universal and today I'll talk about a few reasons why that might be the case.  Even I have to admit that in the following areas, Universal has the edge!

1 - Security Process

I am all for stringent security at the parks - I really do feel safe there and that's worth a lot.  But in this area, Universal wins hands down.  They have an almost airport like security area in which you send your bags through an x-ray machine and then you go through the metal detector.  When we visited, it was first thing in the morning and we were through security in a matter of seconds.  Also, since it's at the entrance to CityWalk, you go through once and you're good for both theme parks and all of CityWalk until you leave.  

Disney does a thorough, by-hand, bag check.  It's time-consuming and sometimes a bit frustrating.  If only everyone understood the process and got ready before their turn it wouldn't be a big deal, but not everyone reads my blog!!  :)  They also have metal detectors and they randomly send guests through them.  We typically waited 5-10 minutes to get through, which isn't much, but I really loved Universal's streamlined process.  Plus at Disney, if you leave a park and go to another, you get to do the security process all over again.

Universal's Security Checkpoint 

2 - Proximity of Parks to Each Other

Universal is smaller than Disney which can be a great thing.  If you stay on property, you can easily get to both Theme Parks and all of the CityWalk entertainment on foot.  They do have shuttles and water-taxis but it's nice to have the option to walk if you don't want to do public transportation (Don loves this option).  

At Disney, if you want to go from one park to the other, or head to Disney Springs, you can't walk.  The area is just too large.  

The maps below may look similar sized, but looks are deceiving.  Universal is around 800 acres and Disney World is 43 square miles!!

3 - Harry Potter!

OK, so I know that Disney has all of my favorite characters.  I mean they have Mickey Mouse after all.  But the thing about Universal and Harry Potter is that you feel like you are actually in Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley.  Disney has amazing theming but nothing quite so immersive as the Harry Potter areas.  This may all change when Star Wars Land opens up though!  I'll keep you posted!!

 

4 - More Rides for the Big Kids

To be quite honest, I'm happy as a little clam riding Small World, Winnie the Pooh, Peter Pan...  You name it.  But I know some people like a little more thrill from their rides.  Universal has that.  I won't ride a few of them since I'm a big chicken, but if thrills are what you're after, you can find them there.  Disney has a few too, but as a whole, I think Universal has the edge here.

So is Universal better than Disney?  You decide!!!  And please, give me a call to let me help you plan and figure it out.  Don't forget my services are free and I would love to help you make this decision!!

Coming in August - Universal's NEW Aventura Hotel! Booking now!

Universal’s Aventura Hotel, opening August 2018, is a modern and stylish place for you to stay. This perfectly priced hotel is within walking distance of Universal’s Volcano Bay!  Of course, walking paths and shuttle buses are available to get to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.  It's available to book today for your late summer vacation!

As with the other Universal on-site resorts, you'll enjoy Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay™ one hour before the parks open (valid theme park admission required).

The rooms will feature wooden (tile) floors, which is a first for standard rooms at Universal Orlando, and each will come with a tablet that will allow guests to control many of its features, such as the lights, television, and air-conditioning. Universal is promising this will be the most technologically-advanced hotel on-property.

There's also a Kids Suite - this 575 square foot room sleeps 5 and features a special interior area for the kids that includes two twin beds. You can put the little ones to sleep securely while you enjoy a few hours of downtime in a separate area that offers a king bed and a couch that converts into a deluxe, foam bed. 

Universal’s Aventura Hotel Introductory Offer

Book a 4-night stay or longer and you'll not only be among the first to stay at the newest on-site hotel, but you'll also receive a FREE $50 hotel dining credit* (per room). To take advantage of this introductory offer, you must book by June 15, 2018 with travel August 16 to December 20, 2018.  

And of course, if you book with Trips By Mouse, I will provide all of my planning services for FREE!  The cost is the exact same if you book with me or book yourself, so you'll want to make sure to take advantage of my expert planning.

Guest Room Amenities

• 600 guest rooms and suites; rooms start at 258 sq. ft.
• Flat panel television with HD channels and On Demand® in-room movies (fees apply)
• Coffee maker
• Mini refrigerator
• Iron, ironing board, hairdryer and in-room safe
• Two compartment bathroom – tub/shower with toilet, and separate compartment with sink and vanity
• Complimentary wireless internet access in each guest room and most common areas of the hotel (or upgrade to Premium Plus wireless internet access for optimal entertainment and business needs.)

Standard Room at Aventura

Pool:

Underwater speakers allow for Universal’s dive-in movie experiences!  The pool area also features a kids' splash zone and a fire-pit!

Pool at Aventura

Dining Options at Aventura:

FOOD HALL

The food hall is where unique, high-quality restaurants come together, offering a multitude of cuisines for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Throughout this expansive space are dining options sure to fit everyone’s palettes. Guests can enjoy their meals indoors or poolside, where the free WiFi flows.

LOBBY BAR

The lobby bar is contemporary, spacious and inviting. This breezy and comfortable meeting space is the perfect before or after dinner hangout.

ROOFTOP BAR - Bar 17 Bistro

Here, you can take in the views of the city and the theme parks - including Krakatau at Volcano Bay and Hogwarts at Islands of Adventure. All your drink favorites, some custom potions and delicious small plate specialties make the rooftop bar a cool hangout.

Rooftop Bar at Aventura

POOLSIDE BAR AND GRILL

You might spend a whole day in the relaxing surroundings of the hotel’s pool. And why not, when all your snacks and meals, along with frozen drinks, cocktails, beer and wine are right here?

STARBUCKS® COFFEE

Starbucks is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. The Starbucks at Universal’s Aventura Hotel is in the heart of the hotel lobby and offers their full menu of food and drinks.

Other Amenties:

A couple of other great amenities are an on-site Universal Studios Store, a Complimentary Fitness Center and a Virtual Reality game room where technology and motion tracking controllers deliver an experience unlike any other.

*Terms and Conditions of Dining Credit:  One (1) $50 hotel dining credit per room. Credit applies to food and beverage (excluding alcohol) at Universal’s Aventura Hotel restaurants only, days/hours of operation may vary. Hotel dining credit must be used in full during stay and excludes gratuities and applicable taxes. Offer is non-transferable and cannot be combined with any prior purchases. Any unused credit is non-transferable and non-refundable and forfeited if not used. All prices and options are subject to availability to change without notice and additional restrictions may apply.

Please Support Small Business Saturday!

***  FREE STUFF for sharing this post - Be sure and read to the bottom of this!

Disney is no small business.   But when you book your trip through an authorized Disney travel agent (like myself!) you are supporting a local business.  Doesn’t cost you a penny more and in fact may save you money in the long run.  

The best benefit for you is that you have access to my expertise and one-on-one planning.  I am your direct link to Disney or Universal!  If you book yourself and need to make changes, have a question or just want to get some advice, you can call Disney/Universal.  But you’ll have a different agent every time that doesn’t know you or your situation.  And be prepared for a long wait on the phone. 

With me, I get to know what you want out of your trip and work to make it the best possible.  If there’s any need to call Disney/Universal, I will do that for you.

For more info on my services and that touchy subject of how I get paid (and how you support this local business) - click here:  An Uncomfortable Subject... How Do I Get Paid?

*** Please share this post to spread the word and support my business! I really, really appreciate your support!  So on Saturday, I will draw a name from the list of people that share this for a fun prize!

This is US

As much as I like the TV show This is Us, this blog post is about a different US - Universal Studios!  Sorry to disappoint those of you that were expecting info about the show!  :)

I've done a blog post previously that is mainly about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - check it out here.  

This post is about some of the other rides and attractions that Universal has to offer.  My main reason for going will always be to hang out with Harry, but they've got a lot of other fun spots too.

First of all, something that seems to confuse a few people - Universal is not a part of Disney.  They are two completely different companies.  I think the confusion comes from the fact that Disney has a movie studios type park in Hollywood Studios.  But Universal is not on Disney property - it's about 10 miles away.  

There are 3 parks now at Universal Studios - Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of  Adventure and Universal's Volcano Bay (which is a water park).  Both Universal Studios  and Islands of Adventure house Harry Potter areas - with delicious butterbeer at each!  Universal Studios is home to Diagon Alley while Islands of Adventure is home to Hogwarts and Hogsmeade.  To ride the Hogwarts Express between the two parks, you must have a park-to-park pass.

Universal Studios Florida

This is the newest part of The Wizarding World - Diagon Alley.  It has the most incredible ride around - Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.  The ride is a huge thrill mixture of roller coaster and virtual screens.  So. Much. Fun.  And the line to the ride is really cool as you make your way through the bank lobby into the vaults.

Here are a few other rides at this park that I highly recommend:

• Revenge of the Mummy - really good and thrilling with a great surprise near the end.
• E.T. Adventure - I LOVE this ride.  It is a super calm and pretty ride about the movie.  I love that you ride on your bike through the ride.
• Transformers: The Ride
• The Simpsons Ride - made all of us nauseous but I know a lot of people love it!
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon - new!
• Rip Ride Rockit - only Don was brave enough to ride this one.
• Terminator 2
• Men in Black - fun and you can compete against your family!
• Shrek 4D - really cute and funny movie with 4-D effects.

There are also a lot of great places to eat - the food at the Leaky Cauldron is delicious.  But save room for dessert - there's butterbeer ice cream or a giant donut in the Simpson's area at Lard Lad Donuts!

You're probably thinking this donut could feed more than 1 person.  Hmm...  Mine didn't.  :)

Universal's Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure has the original Wizarding World - you can visit Hogwarts and Hogsmeade.  Be sure to ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey - the line takes you through Hogwarts.  Once you've explored all of this world (and had plenty of butterbeer), head on out to check out the rest of the park.

Here are the rides at Islands of Adventure you need to be sure and check out:

• Doctor Doom's Fearfall
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• Skull Island:Reign of Kong
• Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls
• Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges

We've been to Islands of Adventure a couple of times but our kids were too young to like the thrill rides.  Plus this park has a lot of rides that are basically water rides and we're weird about not liking those.  So while the Harry Potter area is AWESOME, if I had only one day, I'd spend the majority of it at Universal Studios Florida.

But if you're wise and have listened to me, you'll have a park-to-park pass so that you can ride the Hogwarts Express.  If you hurry, you can hit a few rides here when you're done with the other park.

Speaking of ways to save time...  Universal offers a little different take on the line skipping pass.  Unlike Disney's FastPass, it is an extra charge.  But you get to skip the line once on all the rides - where Disney just gives you 3 to start.  If you're staying on-site at Universal, some of the resorts include an Unlimited Express Pass which is good on the rides as many times as you want to use them.  Well worth the money if it's a crowded day - and if you're staying on-site it just might be included!

Volcano Bay

You've heard me say before that my family really doesn't do water parks.  So while I don't have personal knowledge of Volcano Bay, I have done training on it from Universal Studios.  It's an amazing park and if you're into water parks at all, it's a must-do!

Be sure to give me a call if you're interested in a Universal vacation.  I'd love to plan and book your trip and make sure you're getting the best value for your money!!