#Adulting · Christmas on A Disney Cruise · Cruise Itineraries · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Dream · Disney Fantasy · Disney Magic · Disney Wonder · Themed Cruises

Disney Cruise Line Wins Again!

© Disney

For the seventh year in a row, Disney Cruise Line has taken the #1 spot in U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 Best Cruise Line Rankings. That is a major accomplishment and to hit it 7 years in a row is a testament to just how magical Disney Cruise Line really is!

Disney Cruise Line ears this award year after year for a few simple reasons:

The Disney Name – You know you are getting top of the line service, food, accommodations, and activities because it is all backed by the Disney Name. They make sure that every aspect of your Cruise is as magical as possible. They truly care about every detail and the way they are perceived.

The Disney Activities – Whether you are the youngest or oldest of Disney Fans, there is something for everyone. The Broadway-Style shows are breathtaking, the experiences & meals with the characters are so special, the pampering is unmatched and the deck parties are unprecedented. Disney does everything with the Disney touch and if you love Disney World or Disneyland for the magical feeling you get, then this should be your very next vacation. Plus, it is not just for families or younger children. The ships that Disney is building have whole sections dedicated to adults including lounges & bars, spas, and pool areas including one with the bar stools in the water! It is that magical Disney touch that is added to every aspect & activity of an amazing vacation that can take you to many parts of the US, Caribbean, and Europe.

The Rooms – The rooms on this cruise line are among the largest for their categories. They give you more space and more storage. They also have SPLIT BATHROOMS! If you have ever cruised with someone who takes a little longer to shower or get ready, you know how valuable this is. You have a shower and a sink in one room and a sink with a potty in another. Twice the space to get ready = happy family members.

Special Sailings – Disney Cruise Line provides several different themed cruises throughout the year. They include Halloween & Christmas Sailings but also Character themed sailings like Marvel & Star Wars Days at Sea. More info on those Here.

Value – Yes, Disney Cruises are more expensive than some other commercial lines. However, those other lines cannot begin to offer the what Disney does. You truly get what you pay for in this instance. The cast & crew, the meals, the shows, the kids clubs, the activities, deck parties, excursions, rooms, cleanliness (Lowest report of viruses in the industry due to their diligence), and the magic make it worth every penny.

Don’t take my word for it – Try it! Even the shortest of cruises will have you wanting to return. Oh, and that is another amazing part about Disney Cruise Line; their loyalty and benefits for repeat customers is like no other cruise line. They want you to return and they show it with all of the perks they offer.

Contact me today for more information or to reserve your Disney Cruise. My planning services are free of charge and my knowledge and position can save you time and money. Plus, every cruise guest receives our Minnie Box delivered to their doorstep before you leave for your cruise! I look forward to speaking with you soon!

#Adulting · Animal Kingdom · California Adventure · Christmas in Disneyland · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Shows · Disney Travel Tip · Disney Wonder · Disney World Christmas · Disneyland · Extra Magical Events · Giveaway · Magic Kingdom · Mickey's Very Merry Christmas · New for California Adventure · New for Disney Cruises · New for Magic Kingdom · runDisney · Special Events in Disneyland · Walt Disney World

Disney Updates

Thanks to a very busy October with the gift card giveaway I ran, I have been crazy busy dedicating my time to new and current guests and unable to update my blog as much as I like. I wanted to do a little recap of all the things I would have posted about.

Disney Villain After Hours

The Disney Villains are returning to the Magic Kingdom in 2020 for more Evil Evenings at After Hours. This Extra-Ticket event is a fantastic time in Magic Kingdom. Lines are short, entertainment is fabulous, merchandise & food is themed after your favorite villains and you never know who you may run into! Treats such as popcorn & soda are all-you-care-to-eat at this event as well so you will not go hungry!

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Hades & Meg will be leading a stage show that will showcase some other Disney greats. Hades & Meg! Where else do you get to see these guys?!? So exciting. With this After Hours ticket, you can enter the park as early as 7 pm – this means you can catch the fireworks before heading off to enjoy attractions and Villainous fun! The events will take place select evenings from February 7th – July 10. This is a great add-on to any vacation package. You can get SO much done in the time you have because of the lower crowds.

If you are traveling during this time and would like to discuss adding it to your vacation package, contact me today!

After Hours

After Hours dates for Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom have been released for next year. Here are the dates that are currently available –

Magic Kingdom

  • January 23, 27 & 31
  • February 3, 10, 17 & 24
  • March 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
  • April 5, 13, 20 & 27
  • May 5, 11, 18 & 25

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

  • April 1, 7, 14 & 22
  • May 2, 9, 16, 19 & 26

This event also allows guests into the parks at 7pm, has lower wait times, and provides complimentary ice cram novelties, popcorn and select beverages.

runDisney Race Calendar

Dates have been released into 2021 for your favorite Disney Races. Below you will find Disney’s graphic with dates including when they go on sale.

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These race entries can be added to a Disney vacation Package. If you are interested in an upcoming race, contact me and we can discuss putting this together with a resort stay & ticket package.

Disney Wonder Update

The Disney Wonder has added new spaces for guests to enjoy and they look fantastic. The French Quarter Lounge is a new space for families to enjoy. This lounge brings your favorite Bayou Princess to life and has several nods to “The Princess and The Frog”. If you are looking for an “adult only” area, cafe cove is the newest spot added to the ship. In addition, Disney’s Teen guests will enjoy a club exclusively to them at Vibe. Here is a short video that discusses these wonderful new enhancements:

In Holiday New, Disney World & Disneyland both came out with some great announcements:

Disney World – Magic Kingdom

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Mickey’s very Merry Christmas Party is a truly magical event that begins in just a few short days. This year, a new Fireworks show will debut! “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmas Fireworks” will have you swept up in Holiday magic with an amazing projection show set to some of your favorite holiday classics. This is a great way to get into the Christmas Spirit!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will take place select nights in November and December. Let me know if you would like to add this event to your vacation!

Disneyland

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In just a few short days, the Festival of Holidays will begin at Disney California Adventure. This festival celebrates the holidays by sharing the festive culture of Southern California. There will be dance parties, a Holiday Foods Marketplace, Live Music, and so much more. This runs through January 6. I will be visiting this weekend and will be sure to report back!

Lunar New Year and Food & Wine Festival – Returning in 2020

This year from January 7 – February 9, come celebrate the Year of the Mouse with beautiful decor, delicious cultural cuisine, multicultural performances, and a crowd favorite; “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession”.

February 28 – April 21, Guests can experience Food & Wine Festival at California Adventure. Live entertainment, culinary seminars and delicious bites & sips await you at this annual festival. Kid’s can get in on the fun with a “hands-on” cooking experience with chef Goofy!

If you are planning a trip to Disneyland, these dates are a great time to travel there. One of the many festivals or experiences can just add that much more magic to any vacation!

October Gift Card Giveaway

Drum roll Please!!! Miss Kristen Mayle, you have won a gift card for your vacation in 2020. Thank you for trusting me to reserve your trip and help you plan!!

That is all for today! I will be traveling to Disneyland this weekend with the Agency I work for and look forward to sharing all that I learn and see with you!

#Adulting · Adventures by disney · Adventures by Disney Discount · Aulani · aulani discount · Disney Dining · Disney Travel Tip · Disney World Resort · Free dining · Giveaway · Meg the Travel Agent · Resort Discount · Savings Promotion · Walt Disney World

Early 2020 Promotions Just Released!

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Disney has just announced several new discounts for this winter and spring. There are a few different ones available but the offers are limited so if you think you may want to take advantage, contact me today! Any of these offers would be fantastic to take advantage of. Add in the fact that if you book this month, you are entered in my $50 gift card giveaway and you can really save some $$! Here is what was announced:

Walt Disney World

Book now through January 1, 2020 and receive one of two offers:

  • For travel January 1, 2020 – March 7, 2020, get a FREE dining plan for kids ages 3-9 when adults purchase their dining package. This also includes a Frozen Welcome Pack which comes with a voucher for one stroller rental for the length of your stay, one in-park 5×7 photo print per room and one merchandise bag per room including a plush, book and 2 treats.
  • For travel January 1, 2020 – April 25, 2020 on most nights, save up to 25% on your room. Add a 6-day or longer theme park ticket to your vacation package and each member of your family ages 3+ will receive a $30 Disney gift card!

Aulani: A Disney Resort & Spa

Book now through November 13 and travel most nights January 5, 2020 through February 29, 2020 (Get away from the cold!)

  • Save up to 30% on 5 or more consecutive nights
  • Save 25% on stays of 4 consecutive night
  • Plus, enjoy a $250 Resort Credit on stays of 5 or more nights or a $150 Resort Credit on stays of 4 nights.

Adventures by Disney

Book now through March 25, 2020 for select departures January 5 through April 30, 2020 and save up to $400 PER PERSON on select Disney Destinations around the world.

Destinations include Africa, Australia, Europe, Asia, North America, Central America, South America – you can travel to almost any corner of the Earth with Disney’s attention to detail, customer service, and the desire to provide magic to every member of the family.

Take advantage of one of these promotions to save big on your Disney Dream Vacation. Qualifying reservations will also receive the Minnie Box! Our gift to you for choosing us to be your planners. It is full of magic and surprises and is specially tailored to each family. I look forward to helping you turn your dreams into memories!

#Adulting · Disney Travel Tip · Disneyland · Downtown Disney District · Special Events in Disneyland

Disneyland’s Downtown Disney District

© Disney

Disneyland’s Entertainment District has so much to offer. Disney has written up a quick guide for guests to have so that they can enjoy all that there is to offer.

Directly From Disney:

PLAY!

  • Step into the Star Wars universe with the hyper-reality, multi-sensory Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire by ILMxLAB and The VOID. Your Clients will go undercover as a stormtrooper to capture Imperial intelligence vital to the budding rebellion’s survival!
  • Bowl a few frames at one of the 20 lanes at Splitsville Luxury Lanes, a one-of-a-kind dining and entertainment destination. Your Clients can pop in anytime for lunch or dinner and enjoy the outdoor patio with live entertainment!
  • After dark, Downtown Disney is bustling with live music at the main stage, strolling performers throughout the promenade and “meet the artist” events on select dates in WonderGround Gallery.

SHOP!

  • Sprinkled with pixie dust, magical moments and eye-catching collections, the redesigned flagship World of Disney store is where your Clients can step into the art of Disney storytelling and shop the biggest selection of Disney wares on the West Coast.
  • The Disney Dress Shop has quickly become a fan-favorite boutique with retro-designed apparel and accessories inspired by favorite Disney characters and theme park attractions.
  • The family-owned boutique, Sugarboo & Co., features charming home goods, paper products, handmade ceramics, candles, bath apothecary and stamped jewelry—all with a touch of whimsy.
  • For pampering products, head to Rinse Bath & Body Co., a new boutique featuring natural products, handmade soaps, body oils, bath bombs, lip balms and more. 
  • Disney Home offers fans a curated assortment of Disney-themed treasures for the home—from glassware and linens, to kitchen goods and more. 

EAT!

  • Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes opened its first California location in the heart of Downtown Disney. Along with award-winning burgers, signature CrazyShake milkshakes, hearty salads and appetizers, the atmosphere gives a trendy New York diner vibe, 
  • Popular craft brewer Ballast Point Brewing Company’s first Orange County location serves 50 of its innovative beers across 100 taps, including its flagship Sculpin IPA and limited-edition beers exclusive to Downtown Disney. Your Clients can pair their favorite beer with brewpub-style dishes! 
  • Enjoy expertly-crafted Italian meals at Naples Ristorante e Bar renovation. Its recent renovation upgraded the restaurant’s beautiful two-story dining venue, featuring twinkling chandeliers upstairs, a modern feel downstairs, gorgeous patios and an open kitchen.
  • Next door, Napolini offers create-your-own Neopolitan-style pizzas, to be enjoyed with a fresh salad and Italian soda on the patio.
  • The family-run scoop shop, Salt & Straw, is known for its taste-provoking, imaginative creations—handmade in small batches using local, organic and sustainable ingredients.
  • Wetzel’s Pretzels’ flagship location features a bright, breezy California-inspired design—complementing its full line of popular pretzels, Wetzel’s Dogs, Bitz, and fresh and frozen lemonade. “

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There are so many wonderful opportunities to explore at Downtown Disney District. Plan a trip to Disneyland today and take full advantage of all that the Downtown Disney District has to offer. If you have a trip planned to Disneyland, be sure to check it out. If you do not yet have a trip planned and would like to look into pricing or have other questions, contact me today! My services are free of charge and qualifying orders will receive our Minnie Box. A gift to you as a thank you for letting us be a part of your magic. Full of wonder & surprises, our Minnie Box will provide treats and guide you through your stay. See ya Real Soon!

#Adulting · Disneyland · Hollywood Studios · New for Hollywood Studios · Star Wars · Walt Disney World

Galaxy’s Edge Gets Major Award

© Disney

So, this happened! I did not know a Land in a Theme Park could even win such an amazing honor but if anyone can do it, it is Disney!

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge was named one of TIME Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places in 2019! That is so huge! I can not wait to visit in a few weeks.

Excellent news: The agency I am a part of, Magical Vacations LLC, has hit a new level of awesomeness. Because of our dedication to our guests and the TYPE of customer service we provide, the owner has been requested to join a small number of other travel agency owners for an advanced showing of Galaxy’s Edge. She will gain access to the land tomorrow (2 days early!) and also will be present for the dedication of the land. This will give us access before the grand opening and I am thrilled to see what she has to share. Stay Tuned!

#Adulting · Halloween Horror nights · New for Universal · New for Universal Studios · Special Events at Universal · Universal Resort · Universal Studios

Halloween Horror Nights – New Details Released!

© 2019 Universal Studios

For all of you fear junkies out there, this is for you! The Firefly family is coming to Universal Halloween Horror Nights! Rob Zombie’s House of 1000 Corpses is the newest haunted house to join in the frightful festival.

Halloween Horror Nights is an extra-ticket event held on evenings from September 6th – November 2nd. There will be 10 haunted houses, 5 scare zones and several frightful acts of live entertainment. Here is a sneak peek into the other horros coming to the event-

  • Killer Klowns From Outer Space
  • Nightingales: Blood Pit
  • Stranger Things all-new Haunted House
  • Academy of Villains
  • Brutal Beasts of Yeti: Terror of the Yukon
  • Ghostbusters

Due to the terrifying nature of this event, it is not recommended for littles under the age of 13.

To purchase tickets to this event or to add it to a Universal Vacation Package, contact me today! Qualifying reservations will receive Magical Vacation’s Signature Adventure Packet – a great gift from us to you that is full of fun and adventure for your trip.

#Adulting · Epic Universe · New for Universal · Universal Resort · Universal Tip

HUGE Universal News!

© 2019 Universal Studios

Epic Universe

Like, “New Park” Huge News! Universal Orlando is adding a 4th theme park. So far, we have been told that it will offer completely epic experiences and be completely immersive (think The Wizarding World). Each part of the land will be dedicated to a different story. Guests will travel through these stories and go on amazing adventures. I cannot wait for them to confirm what these lands will be comprised of.

This new Epic Universe will be located on the other side of Kirkman Road. It will not be directly attached to the other parks. Epic Universe will have its own hotels, shopping, entertainment area, restaurants, and more.

Check back later as the details unfold!

#Adulting · Adventures by disney · Adventures by Disney Discount · Disney Visa Promotion · River Cruises · Savings Promotion

Adventures By Disney Guests – A Great Promotion was Just Released!

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You can save $400 per person on select staterooms on most 2020 Adventures by Disney® River Cruise sailings when you book through Oct. 15, 2019.  

This offer is valid on all 2020 Adventures by Disney river cruises, excluding Sept. 26, 2020 (Danube), Dec. 19, 2020 (Danube), June 14, 2020 (Rhine) June 28, 2020 (Rhine) and Aug. 9, 2020 (Rhine).

If you are a Disney Visa Cardholder you will also receive one free pre- or post-stay hotel night, depending on itinerary and sailing direction. 

© Disney

River Cruises Include –

  • The Danube River
  • The Seine River
  • The Rhone River
  • The Rhine River
  • Even the Rhine River: Food & Wine Cruise is included!

Let me know if you have any questions and Let’s Turn Your Adventures By Disney Dreams Into Memories!

Please feel free to share this with friends and family that may be interested. It is an amazing discount that will benefit them and not everyone knows all the wonder and magic that is included in an Adventure By Disney. If you are interested in learning more about Adventures by Disney, please click here.

Each Adventure By Disney Reservation will receive our Minnie Box – Our signature gift to you that is full of magic and excitement. It is tailored to each individual travel party and includes items that will make your trip even more special.

#Adulting · Islands of Adventure · New for Islands of Adventure · Special Events at Universal · Universal Discount · Universal Resort · Universal Studios · Wizarding World

New Wizarding World Vacation Package Now Available

Universal has just released a really amazing new opportunity for Potter Fans everywhere!

This exclusive vacation package will allow you multiple days in the parks to experience all that the Wizarding World has to offer including the NEW Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure!! Here is what is included –

  • 5- Night Hotel Accommodations (travel now till 12/20/19)
  • 3-Park, 2 Day Park-to-Park ticket & get 3 days Free!! (basically this means that you can visit Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure & Volcano Bay for 5 days and the ability to jump from one park to the next in the same day is a benefit with these tickets)
  • Early park admission to the Wizarding World and Volcano Bay – get in before the general public!
  • Special Keepsake Box filled with goodies as pictured below. Of course, this is in addition to our Adventure Packet that is sent to Magical Vacations LLC guests with qualifying package.
  • Breakfast at the Leaky Cauldron
  • Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks
  • Shutterbutton Photography Studio Session that includes a commemorative DVD album and one 8×10 print
  • Access to City Walk Entertainment (exclusions apply)
© 2019 Universal Studios

This is a great opportunity that has some really need benefits included. Contact me today to reserve this great package. The opportunity is valid when booked through 7/31/19 so contact me today!

#Adulting · Adventures by disney · Aulani · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Travel Tip

5 Fantastic Disney Destinations Beyond the Theme Parks

© Disney

Walt Disney World, Disneyland and the many other Disney theme parks are a wonderful destination! However, what happens when you want that Disney level of Service at a “slower paced” vacation? Or what if you want all the Disney character interaction but would prefer to see a different part of the world – a more tropical destination? a different country? I am happy to tell you that there are several other amazing Disney options beyond the theme parks.

Disney Cruises are a great way to immerse yourself in Disney theming and characters without ever stepping foot in a park. They have great destinations, port adventures, and there are characters and the true feeling of Disney throughout each ship. Some of the other parts of the world you can see on a Disney Cruise:

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  • Alaska
  • Bermuda
  • Bahamas
  • Caribbean
  • Europe
  • Hawai’i
  • Panama
  • Mexico
  • Pacific Coast
  • Transatlantic Cruises

Aulani is another fantastic Disney Destination. Nestled in Ko Olina, Hawai’i, Aulani is a gorgeous paradise with the trademark Disney Difference. There are so many things to do and see at the resort and on the island and so much is included with your stay. For more information on Aulani, look here.

© Disney

Adventures by Disney provides guests with a once in a lifetime trip to almost any corner of the Earth. You are accompanied by two guides who are the storytellers of your journey. They provide you with meal reservations, tours, and activities that fully immerse you in the culture of the area you are visiting. These are great for families and couples alike. They do tailor the trip to whoever is on the tour. Destinations that Adventures by Disney tour:

  • Asia
  • Africa
  • Australia
  • Europe
  • North America
  • Central & South America
  • River Cruises

They also can be added to a Disney Cruise for the ultimate immersive ship & port experiences. To learn more, please visit the Adventures by Disney Page.

Check out this great video provided by Travel Expert, Jeanenne Tornatore. She showcases her top 5 destinations beyond Disney Parks.

Disney Travel Professional YouTube Chanel

To learn more about any of these destinations or to receive a quote for the trip of a lifetime, contact me today! I would be happy to answer any questions, provide a no-obligation quote, and get you on your way to turning your Disney Dreams into Memories that will last a lifetime! I can be as hands on or off as you would like. Some guests I just hold their reservation so I can make them aware of anything that comes up – discounts, closures, changes..etc. Some guests, I do it all from start to finish and guide them the whole way. It is your vacation so it is up to you!

Qualifying reservations receive our Minnie Box. Our gift to you prior to your departure. It is full of magic and tailored to each guests travel. See ya real soon!