What's new at Disney World and Universal Orlando?

This summer is a perfect time to head to Florida to check out the exciting changes at Disney and Universal!  

At Disney's Animal Kingdom, Pandora - The World of Avatar, is officially opening on May 27.  

Journey to a distant world where floating mountains defy gravity.  Where creatures come alive in a brilliant bioluminescent glow and mystical rivers flow.  Where you can fly on the back of a banshee and feel it breathing beneath you.

There are two new rides in this new land.  The Na'vi River Journey is a gentle boat ride through the rainforest.

The Avatar Flight of Passage is a breathtaking, first-person flight over the moon’s incredible landscape.

Admittedly, I wasn't a huge fan of Avatar as a movie.  It had amazing visual effects but the story just didn't interest me that much.  But I can't wait to check out the new land.  From everything I've read and seen of it, the visual effects Disney is using in the new land are unbelievable.  

Animal Kingdom also has a started a new nighttime show with Rivers of Light. This park's first nighttime show celebrates the beauty of all living things and features water, sound, dramatic lighting and special effects.

While I didn't get to see Rivers of Light on my recent trip, I did get a chance to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris on a sunset safari.  It was so cool to see nocturnal animals not normally seen on this ride.  And even knowing the sunset was a "Disney sunset" rather than a real one, it was one of the best sunsets I've seen.

 
 

Over at Magic Kingdom on May 14, a new show will light up the night sky above Cinderella Castle. Happily Ever After Nighttime Spectacular uses projection mapping combined with Disney storytelling, pyrotechnics and classic Disney characters in a show that will inspire guests to find their own "Happily Ever After". Two unique parts of this show will be an original score and original, hand-drawn animation of characters like Ursula, Aladdin and Tiana.

I'll miss Wishes but can't wait to see Happily Ever After!

 

At Disney's Typhoon Lagoon, Miss Adventure Falls is now open.  Have a splashing good time aboard this family-style raft attraction. You'll slide down on a white water rafting adventure past the lost and glittering treasure of the fabled Captain Mary Oceaneer. With a ride time of two minutes, this is one of the longest water attractions at both Disney Water Parks. 

 

Speaking of water parks, Universal Orlando is opening an entire brand new park on May 25 - Universal's Volcano Bay.  Universal Orlando Resort's third theme park features Krakatau—the fire and water volcano—that looks over this water playground full of thrills and relaxation. The park will feature all kinds of water rides, from slides to wave pools and rafting adventures to smaller places for your little ones. Volcano Bay provides unique TapuTapu wearables.  The TapuTapu devices will be used for everything from reserving your place in a virtual queue for the rides to activating special effects throughout the park. 

 
 

At Universal Studios Orlando, the new ride Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon is now open.  Visitors follow Jimmy Fallon—Host of NBC's The Tonight Show—on board a "flying theater" that zooms you around famous New York City landmarks. Pre-show activities let guests interact with Hashtag the Panda, listen to The Ragtime Gals and send their very own Thank You Note.

So what are you waiting for??  Give me a call and let's get you to Florida to check out all of this new excitement for yourself!!

An Uncomfortable Subject... How Do I Get Paid?

I know you’re afraid to ask… but how do I get paid doing this fun job?

I often hear that people don’t want to “bug me” so they just muddle through planning a trip themselves.  

But there are two things that should make you want to bug me and have your friends and family bug me too!

1 - I LOVE planning trips to Disney and Universal.  Every time I log in or call about a trip, I head right down memory lane.  Poor Don had to institute the “only once every three years” rule so I wouldn’t plan a trip each and every season.

2 - I actually make money doing this.  I know, it’s crazy that I’m paid to do something I truly love.  I would probably do this for free, but I have three growing boys that are seriously about to eat away every penny we have.

People always get a little uncomfortable discussing money, but let me give you the basics.  You pay Disney the same price whether or not you go online, call it in, or have a travel agent do it for you.  The exact same price.

If a travel agent books the trip, Disney then pays the agency a commission which I receive a portion of.   So even if I did nothing but book the trip, you aren’t paying a dime more than if you did it yourself.

The reason Disney is willing to give a portion of their profits to a travel agent is that they know that the Guest is more likely to enjoy their vacation.  There’s a better chance of Guests returning to Disney again and again if they are given guidance by someone with a knowledge and passion for their product.  Universal uses the same model. 

I’ve talked before about the reasons to use a Disney travel agent - you can look back at this blog post for a refresher - Do You Really Need a Travel Agent to Book a Disney Vacation?

So why would you not want to use a travel agent?  Let me answer some of the most common reasons…

*  I want the cheapest rate and can do that myself.  —  Nope!  You just aren’t going to find it cheaper on your own.  And I will monitor and possibly find a cheaper rate as it gets closer to your trip.  I will apply it automatically and let you know!  And if time is money, I’m saving you tons of it by doing the leg work for you.

*  I love Disney too and want to plan it all myself.  — This one is totally understandable as I feel the same way!  But the cool part is, I can book it and then let you take over the planning if you like.  I will still be there for questions and will still monitor for better deals.

*  How do I know you won’t up-sell me?  —  Trust me, I am the queen of getting a good deal.  I spend way more time then I should figuring out how to save a penny or a bit of time.  I will never lead you towards spending more just to spend more.  I want you to get the absolute most out of your vacation for the least money and hassle.

So PLEASE consider contacting me when you’re thinking about a trip.  And I would be so appreciative if you would forward my information to your family and friends.  Word of mouth is the best advertising I can get!  I’ve got those three boys to feed, you know…  :)

PS - if you refer a friend and they book a trip, your next meal is on me!  I'll contact you to find out your favorite restaurant and send you a $10 gift card to the place you choose!  Easy!!

I'm Going to Disney... Again?

I'm actually not going anytime soon (but do have trip planned for Marathon weekend in January - more to come on that in the future!).  But anytime I tell someone that I'm going to Disney, they always have the same reaction.  Again??  Yes again!  It's obviously not my home but I really do feel at home while there.  Something I really love is that the cast members at every resort I've ever stayed at on Disney property always say, "Welcome home" to me while checking in or returning after a day at the parks.  Insert warm, fuzzy feeling here!

This is the sign as you enter Magic Kingdom.  And it tells it all - I love visiting my favorite older attractions from years past. And since I'm not able to go as often as I'd like there tends to be something new each time I go.  Just this summer, Disney is opening the new Pandora land and it won't be too long until the new Star Wars and Toy Story lands open. So I'm always excited to experience new things.  The best part of the sign though is the Fantasy.  

I'll never get too old (I hope!) to believe in the Magic of Disney and the feeling that dreams and wishes do come true here.  Even if it's only for a few days, that's an amazing feeling.  Throw in the fact that I don't do dishes or laundry and it truly is a dream come true!!

Disney allows - and encourages - everyone to be a kid again.  I love traveling with my boys to a place where they can act Goofy and it's totally normal!  I wish daily for time to slow down and my kids to stop growing older and I feel like it really does happen when we're at Disney.

Here's proof:

So when people ask why Disney again, I feel like they never quite understand when I say that it feels like home.  I could go into the unbelievable customer service Disney provides, the amazing attractions and shows, the mouth-watering food, the wonderful resorts and pools...  But the main reason I return is a feeling that you won't know about until you've experienced it.  Call me and let me help you get that feeling for yourself!!

Why Should You Have Me Book Your Disney Trip?

I've talked about this before but just wanted to remind everyone why it's a good idea to use a travel agent (preferably me!) when booking a Disney trip!

My services are totally free.  You will pay the same amount as you would if you booked on your own.  Often times, you'll pay less using me because I will monitor upcoming specials and apply them to your trip if possible!  Plus, check out some of my other posts - I have lots of ideas that will help you spend less once you are there.

I can work with any client anywhere!  People often think they have to live near me to use my services and that's not the case at all.  Most of my communication is done over email and phone.  I can ship any documents to you (at my cost) that you may require.

I think it's obvious that I love all things Disney!  That love makes it fun for me to learn and research the new options at Disney and investigate any questions you may have.

Take advantage of my referral program!  Simply forward on my name, email, website...  to your friends and family.  I always ask new clients how they heard of me and if they mention your name (and of course, book a trip!), I will contact you to find out your favorite restaurant and send you a $10 gift card to it!

Character Greeting Tips

One of the most fun parts of a Disney vacation is meeting your favorite Disney characters.  A little planning helps as some of the characters have long lines.  Here are a few of my favorite character pics and then see below for tips to make the most of your time with your Disney pals.

This is one of my favorite character greetings to date.  Andrew had spent the week wearing his Mickey Mouse baseball cap.  Each time we went up to meet a character, he would turn his hat around backwards so he could get a big hug without bumping his hat into them.  When he saw Buzz, he threw his hat down and took off running.  Looking back, I imagine he totally jumped the line but Buzz gave him hugs and high-fives and it was THE BEST.  If you know Andrew, you know he's always been super shy, so to see him so excited was the cutest thing ever.

Here are other favorite character pics:

Tips to get the most fun out of your character greetings:

* Be sure and get a FastPass if your favorite character has one available.  If your kids are desperate to meet Anna and Elsa, you really need a FastPass.  Wait times are often over an hour for them.

* Don't waste time.  It drives me nuts when the group in front of me gets to the front of the line and waits until it's their turn to start digging in bags for cameras, autograph books...  Be ready!  May not seem like a big deal but if a minute is wasted on each group going thru, the lines get unnecessarily long.

* Be ready with your phone if you want the photographer to take a picture with it.  I love Memory Maker and Disney's Photopass service, but sometimes I want a pic on my phone so that I can immediately post it on social media.  Photographers are awesome and are always willing to take other pictures using your phone/camera.

* Be prepared for your little one to wait in line, be super excited to see the character and then refuse to go near them for pictures.  Sometimes it's all a bit overwhelming to them.  The photographers are great at getting candid shots and if you can just coax your child into getting into the general vicinity of the character, you can probably still get good photos.

* Be creative.  Characters that are able sign will sign other items besides autograph books.  I've heard of them signing hats, MagicBands (I can't believe I've never done this!), shirts (as long as you're not currently wearing it), hats and postcards.  Be sure to bring your own pen - sharpies work well on everything except autograph books.  Use a regular pen for those.

* Check the times.  Most characters have posted times as to when they'll be where.  Get to them early.  If you wait until late in the time frame, you may be told that even though the character is still there, the line is "closed" to new arrivals.

* Visit with them.  The characters that are able to speak will answer questions about themselves and their stories.  Super fun and can be quite funny - in the case of Gaston, Cinderella's Step Sisters, Peter Pan...

* Book a character meal.  If you want to meet Mickey but don't want to worry about getting a FastPass or waiting in line, you can book a breakfast.  You'll get a few minutes during your meal where you are guaranteed to meet and visit with characters and get photos.

Have fun and enjoy your time with the characters.  Where else can you get a warm hug from Olaf?  When you're ready to go get that hug, give me a call!!!

 

 

 

Should You Stay On Property at Walt Disney World Resort?

If you've ever wondered if it's worth it to stay on property at Disney World, the answer is YES!! You can do the trip a little cheaper staying off the resort but the benefits to staying on site completely outweigh the amount in my opinion.  

Watch this great video and then read below for details...  And if you're thinking, "Aw.  It's a crummy commercial," then just watch.  I love this commercial!!  

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So now that you're happily humming Disney music, let me give you a few more details about the benefits.

Location, Location, Location.  It may seem obvious, but if you're staying closer to the parks and fun, there's more time for fun!  And after a long day, it's nice to know that you don't have to find your way out of the resort area and to your non-Disney hotel.  

Middle of the Magic.  If you're like me, then you want to feel like your whole vacation is Magical, not just the time in the parks.  When you stay on-site, the Magic never stops.  Disney has the absolute best customer service in the world and it's obvious at the hotels.  Many of the hotels have character meals and they all have special events such as outdoor movies and activities.  Polynesian even has Dole Whip on site!!

Extra Magic Hours.  Each Day there are Extra Magic Hours at a park.  That means that only guests staying on Disney property are allowed to be in the park.  Shorter lines and less crowds are always a bonus!!  

FastPass Early Selection.  Guests that stay at a Disney resort can book FastPasses 60 days in advance of their trip.  Other guests must wait until 30 days prior.  This means that the FastPass that you really want and need for Frozen Ever After or Snow White's Mine Train will most likely be gone before the 30 day window opens up.  I've never had trouble getting these FastPasses when I reserve for my clients 60 days out.

MagicBands.  MagicBands are your room key, your FastPass ticket, your admission into the park and your money if you choose to use it to pay for food and other items.  So you truly don't have to carry anything with you.  These are free to guests on site and available to other guests for a fee.

Parking and Transportation.  If you are driving into Orlando, parking is free at the hotel and the parks for on site guests.  Others will pay a parking fee.  But the best part is that you really don't have to drive once you are there.  Disney provides free transportation by monorail, bus and boats to all parks and hotels.  I LOVE just sitting back while someone else drives me around.  Maybe I need a chauffeur in daily life?

Magical Express.  If you're flying into Orlando, then guests staying at Disney World enjoy complimentary transportation from the airport to the resort and back.  It's a wonderful, stress-free way to get to Disney after dealing with airports.  Sadly, it does return you to the airport after your stay which always makes me sad.  I've heard others call it the Tragical Express when it takes you away from your Happy Place!!

Summer is coming - give me a shout and let me plan a Magical on-site vacation for you!!

Adults Only Trips to Disney

If you read my blog post last week (if you didn't, don't tell me!), then you know that I just returned from a solo Disney World trip.  I came back from that trip with several thoughts for those of you that might be considering a Magical vacation but think you'll go somewhere else because you aren't planning to take any kids with you.

First of all, without kids you are free.  I missed my family the entire time, but I was free to do whatever I wanted whenever I wanted.  One night I didn't even stop for dinner until well past 10:30pm.  If kids were there, we would have had a massive meltdown well before that time.  And my dinner one night was pretty much just what I bought at Goofy's Candy Co.  My kids would have loved it for sure, but I wouldn't have wanted to hang with them after that!

Spontaneity is much easier.  I was headed for the Haunted Mansion when I saw that it had been temporarily closed.  Checking the MyDisneyExperience app, I saw that Buzz Lightyear had a 10 minute wait.  I instantly changed my plans and took off at a very brisk walk for Buzz, enjoyed that and then back to Haunted Mansion.  I wouldn't have asked my kids to walk that much for one ride.  And I would have been frustrated at their lack of speed in doing so if they'd agreed!

I sat and watched every parade and fireworks show without anyone telling me they were bored or wanted to move on.  I visited every Princess and character meet and greet that I wanted without the boys teasing me for wanting to hug Cinderella.

The most hilarious moment was when I witnessed a young boy throw a spectacular fit outside of the Lego store in Disney Springs because he didn't get what he wanted.  By the end of it, his shoes and hat were in 3 different locations spread out among the crowd.  I tell you that kid deserved an Oscar.  I partially felt sorry for the parents and partially laughed my head off that it wasn't my kid.  Luckily they never did that (in public anyway) but it felt pretty good to know that wasn't happening to me.

There are tons and tons of amazing restaurants and bars at Disney that cater to the adult crowd.  I'm not much of a foodie, but if you are, then you're in for a treat at these places.  They will accommodate children of course, but are wonderful for adults.

You're also free to come and go as you please.  I tend to make my family go from open to close at the parks, but if you're looking for a bit more relaxation, you can go at a slower pace.  There are 2 amazing golf courses at Disney World and several spas to indulge in. 

Most resorts have a "quiet pool."  They aren't adults only, but with the appeal of the other resort pool which usually has slides, there are rarely children in the quiet pool.

To be honest, I would prefer taking my kids with me just because I love seeing Disney and all of the Magic through their eyes.  But trust me when I say you can have a perfectly Magical trip as grown ups.

If you're curious about all Disney has to offer for an adults only trip, please give me a call!  I would love to help you plan the perfect getaway!

 

That Time I Went to Disney World by MYSELF

So last week, I did something I would've never believed I'd do...  I went to Disney World alone.  Without my family.  All by Myself!  

Here are some pictures to prove it:

 

You may be wondering how I could be so cruel as to go there without my kids.  I thought the same thing before I went.  But it's not like I just yelled, "See ya suckers!" and took off for my Happy Place.  I went for training and really, truly, had no choice in the matter.  :)

I was offered a chance to go to Disney's Agent Education Program.  Of course since it's a training program for agents, families weren't allowed.  I really did agonize over the decision and went back and forth for a bit, but let me tell you - I'm so glad I went!  

Although I already felt like I was an expert at Disney World, there were tons of things I learned to help you make your trip even better.  We toured many of the resorts I hadn't been to and even were lucky enough to take a tour of Disney Cruise Line's Disney Dream.  

In the next few weeks, I will post specifics about what I learned, what's new and exciting at Disney World and even more tips and tricks that I learned from Disney Cast Members and the 40 other agents in attendance.  

I can honestly say I've NEVER come back from a work conference or training feeling pumped about my job - until now.  A Magical time was had for sure!

Hats Galore!

The best vacations are ones that you want to relive over and over in your memories and of course, pictures are a great way to do that.

I've made several photo books and even movies including all of our pictures and videos from our trips.  Don't worry, I won't make you watch them - but you can if you want!  :)

We like to do similar pictures on each trip and it's fun to see what changes and what stays the same.  On Disney trips, we've always had fun trying on silly hats.  And at Disney, there are LOTS of gift shops with LOTS of hats so we've tried on a bunch.  Scroll through these pics to see some of the many hats we've worn:

When you travel to Disney, be sure to take advantage of the Disney professional photographers, but take your own camera also.  Most of my favorite pics are quick shots that just happened to be in the perfect setting, light or circumstance.  

Stay tuned and soon I'll do a blog post on tips and tricks for using Memory Maker (Disney's photo service) and your own camera.  Call me today to book a trip and get started snapping your own pics!