5 Fantastic Disney Destinations Beyond the Theme Parks

July 12, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

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:

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.

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!

Characters/Meet & Greets · Cruise Itineraries · Disney Characters · Disney Cruise Discount · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Dream · Disney Fantasy · Disney Magic · Disney Wonder · Extra Magical Events · Themed Cruises

DCL Major Announcements

July 10, 2019 WDW Dreams Into MemoriesLeave a comment

Disney Cruise Line just won Travel & Leisure Magazine’s Award – Number One for Ocean Cruise Line! This is a vote made solely by their readers and the readers all agreed – Disney is Top Notch! Yes, there are so many cruise lines out there but let’s face it folks, you get what you pay for!

So many categories are taken into account when readers make these decisions. It is clear that the Food, Provided Activities, Ports-of Call, Cleanliness, and most importantly, their Customer Care & Service are the very best. The Crew & Cast Members really help make these sailings the most Magical on the High Seas and we are so grateful. They have guests returning year after year because of their attention to detail, kindness, and desire to entertain and please. As the President, Jeff Vahle, says, “they are the secret to our magic!”.

Also, because of the many repeat guests, Disney Cruise Line is always trying to find ways to make the Cruises new and exciting. Coming soon are three new ships as well as a new Private Island. They will also add New Orleans to their list of “Home Ports” and add the Hawaiian Islands, Puerto Rico, and Greece to Ports of Call. Big things happening for sure!

Looking for a Very Merrytime for Your Holidays?

Disney just added several new sailings for November and December of 2020. These cruises will be November 12th and December 30th (with the exception of 12/26 & 12/30 sailings).

These itineraries will be Bahamian or Caribbean Cruises and they will depart from Miami, Fl.

If you would like more information on these Very Merrytime cruises, check out more details here.

To book or inquire today, please feel free to contact me for a no-obligation quote! I would love to help you turn your family’s dreams of a Disney Cruise into fantastic memories that can be cherished forever. Booking a planning a Disney Cruise can be a little overwhelming and it is easy to miss things that make your trip easier and less stressful. That is where I come in! My services are free of charge. I am happy to look out for discounts that come up after you have booked and automatically apply them as well as keep track of all the important milestones so you do not have to. Disney Cruise reservations made with me will receive our Trademark Minnie Box as our special thank you!

(Based on qualifying minimum vacation package)

This is a gift mailed to you prior to your departure for your trip. It is tailored to each travel party and is full of magic and excitement. This is our way of saying thank you and showing just how much emphasis we put on customer service and satisfaction at Magical Vacations LLC. Let us assemble one for you!!

Cruise Itineraries · Disney Characters · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Dream · Disney Fantasy · Disney Magic · Disney Wonder · Themed Cruises

2020 Disney Cruise Fall Sailings – Reserve starting June 10th!

June 7, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

The Magic Starts The Moment You Realize You CAN Afford A Disney Cruise – Let Me Show You How!

Beginning June 10th, Disney Cruise Line will begin taking reservations for their Fall of 2020 cruises. The most preferred rooms get snatched up super quick so it is best to have a plan in place before the booking window opens. Here is when you can reserve the cruises:

June 10th – Castaway Club PLATINUM & Golden Oak Residents
June 11th – Castaway Club GOLD
June 12th – Castaway Club SILVER, DVC & AbD members
June 13th – Everyone can reserve!

Contact me today for a no-obligation quote. We can get all the details squared away now so that when the booking window opens, we can do our best to get your preferred options. My services are free of charge and you will receive all my knowledge and experience to assist in planning your cruise of a lifetime. Our Signature Minnie Box will be mailed to all qualifying reservations – a gift from the agency to you, full of magic and tailored to your travel party! I look forward to hearing from you!

#Adulting · Cruise Itineraries · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Dream · Extra Magical Events · runDisney

Castaway Cay 5K

May 30, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

If you’re going to run, why not do it in Paradise?!

January 15th, 2020, the Disney Dream will set sail from Port Canaveral on a 4-night sailing headed to Castaway Cay. There, guests who ran in at least one race the weekend prior in Walt Disney World will be able to partake in the Castaway Cay Challenge.

Runners will run a 5K through Disney’s beautiful private island before being able to kick back and relax with family and friends. Each runner will receive a special medal that has not yet been revealed, all before the delicious buffet lunch served on the island.

The race is the cherry on top of an amazing Cruise and time in Disney’s Castaway Cay. What an awesome opportunity!!

#Adulting · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Dream · Disney Fantasy · Disney Magic · Disney Travel Tip · Disney Wonder · New for Disney Cruises

Disney Cruise Line Navigator App – Updated

May 29, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

Disney just made a huge improvement to their Disney Cruise Line Navigator App!

Now you can utilize the app before you board the ship! There are now new elements to the app, including the fun countdown above, that are both helpful and can get the whole family excited for their trip.

New additions include:

Manage several different parts of your reservation including modifying staterooms, making payments, and viewing deck plans
Check-in right on the app
Activities section where you can see activities both on the ship and at your ports of call
Additional Options section where you can look at your ground transportation, flight information, protection plans, and more

To learn more about the Navigator App – head over here. I consider it a “must-have” on the Disney Cruises.

I have super useful information that can really enhance your trip when it comes to checking in, protection plans, ground transportation & more! Contact me about reserving a cruise and let me help you get the most out of your stay. If you’re already booked, we may be able to transfer your reservation over to me. Plus all qualifying trips receive our Minnie Box delivered to your door before you travel! Our gift to you that is tailored specifically to your party & your trip.

Disney Cruise Line · Disney Dream · Disney Fantasy · Disney Magic · Disney Travel Tip · Disney Wonder · Merchandise · New for Disney Cruises

Speaking of In-Room Gifting…

May 23, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

You can now order gifts to the room for Disney Cruises through DisneyCruise.com

It is super simple and it will be so much faster and more accurate that faxing in your orders. Anything you would like would need to be ordered at least 3 days prior to sailing. Cakes need to be ordered 7 days prior to sailing. Follow these easy steps:

Go to DisneyCruise.com
Click “Already Booked” Drop Down Menu
On the Menu under “Before You Go” is Onboard Gifts
Enter your Cruise Information and you will be directed to a great menu of gifting options

Items for purchase include:

Flower Arrangements
Disney Cruise Line Merchandise
Sweets & Treats
Beverages (Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic)
Room Decor
Gift Packages…and more!

Take advantage of this great service and surprise your littles or loved ones on your next cruise! I am happy to help you add this to your next Sailing! Contact me today for a no-obligation quote. When you reserve through me, my services are free of charge and you receive fantastic customer service along with all my knowledge of Disney Cruises and their itineraries. Plus, I will meet all the deadlines and do all the paperwork so you can sit back and enjoy the fun parts of planning! All qualifying reservations will receive our Minnie Box! A special gift to you filled with magic and surprises, individually tailored to each family! See Ya Real Soon!

#Adulting · Cruise Itineraries · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Dream · Disney Travel Tip · Walt Disney World

New Disney Dream Sail Dates

May 19, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

The first time I set foot on the Disney Dream, I fell in love. The Dream & the Fantasy are my favorite cruise ships in the cruising industry. They have an excellent balance of things for kids, things for the whole family, but also plenty for just the adults. The adult area on these two ships are simply amazing and the teen area (for some day when mine are older) has got to be the coolest club on the high seas. I mean, they have their own hot tub and sun deck!!

A great option for guests that LOVE Walt Disney World but may want to try a Disney Cruise or those that want to do both but don’t cant travel for more than 7 nights or so, I suggest the Land & Sea option (or what I like to call Surf & Turf : )

This is a 3 or 4 night sailing that is paired with a few days at Disney World. The Disney Dream just added new sailings that cater to this type of guest perfectly!

They added the following itineraries for 2020:

3-Night Bahamian Cruises
Disney Dream from Port Canaveral, FL
New 2020 Sail Dates: Aug. 24, 27; Sept. 3, 2020

4-Night Bahamian Cruises
Disney Dream from Port Canaveral, FL
New 2020 Sail Dates: Aug. 30; Sept. 6, 10, 2020

More dates will be released for later in 2020 as well if you are looking to travel early in the school year or on one of awesome Halloween Sailings or Holiday Sailings. Stay Tuned!!

If you are interested on pricing for one of these great cruises alone or would like to pair it with a stay at Disney World, I would love to help! I have great knowledge about the Disney Cruises which can be an awesome advantage to you while planning. Contact me today for a no obligation quote – remember my services are always free of charge and qualifying reservations will receive our Minnie Box!

Disney Characters · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Travel Tip · Themed Cruises

The Spookiest Ship on the High Seas!

April 30, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

Every fall, Disney Cruise Line Sailings look a little….spookier! The cruises leading up the Halloween are transformed into “Halloween on the High Seas”.

This Not-so-Spooky event has your favorite characters dressing up in their Halloween Best, silly & spooky Halloween decorations throughout the ship, themed entertainment & parties in addition to all the usual fun, and probably the only Trick or Treating in the middle of the ocean! Check it out:

To get a quote of the “Ultimate Costume Party at Sea” contact me today! Get a free, no-obligation quote! My planning & reservation services are all free of charge and you get all the knowledge I have for Disney Cruises included as well! Let’s turn your Dreams into Spooky Memories!

Disney Cruise Line · Disney Travel Tip · Disneyland · Meg the Travel Agent · Savings Promotion · Universal Resort · Walt Disney World

Top Reasons to Contact Me for Your Disney Destination & Universal Travel Needs

April 27, 2019March 18, 2021 WDW Dreams Into Memories

All of your Favorite Leading Ladies & Gentlemen – they all had one thing in common; An awesome sidekick!

Anna has Olaf, Aladdin has Genie, Mulan has Mushu & you can have me!!

Think of yourself as the leading lady or gentleman and think of me as just that – your awesome Disney Sidekick. I am here to help you turn your dreams into amazing memories to cherish for years to come as well as to help you with anything that may come up while you plan. If you are thinking to yourself, “I want total control of my trip and don’t want anyone planning for me and I prefer to make my own reservations.” No worries – I can do as little or as much as you would like. I can help you plan the whole trip, or I can just hold the reservation for you and watch for things that will impact your trip like closures, discounts, and more! It is all up to you!

Why use me as your Disney Sidekick? Here are several reasons:

Knowledge

When I chose to become a Travel Agent for Disney Destinations & Universal Resorts, I had to go through many courses and trainings from both companies. I actually had to earn a degree from Disney’s College of Knowledge before I could speak to any guests. Now that I am an established agent, I have to attend on-site trainings and conferences as well as a form of continuing education throughout the year. I am updated daily to changes, new attractions, closures, special events, and more. I make sure I know everything I need to know to make sure each guest has a fantastic experience without any unwanted surprises.

Experience

In addition to the formal courses I had to take, there is also the decades (yikes) of experience I have had with both companies. I have been going to Walt Disney World since before I said my first word. I have been over 50 times and each experience was a little different. I have been as a child, as an adult without kids, on a bachelorette trip, on my “Disney-moon”, and now several trips with children of all ages. I know the resorts, parks, transportation, and magical extras quite well in addition to all the tips and tricks to have the smoothest and least stressful trip possible.

I have taken several Disney Cruises as well so I am very familiar with the ships and itineraries and would love to help you plan your first or fiftieth Disney Cruise.

I have also been going to Universal since I was very small. My Father was in a line of work that got us VIP tours a few times so I even know some of the behind the scenes things. Not to mention, Harry Potter is my favorite book series so I get “lost” in the Wizarding World at least once a year.

Passion

I live and breathe the Magic of Disney. I have personally felt how it can bring people together. I am so passionate about helping guests with their trips because I want each guest to feel the magic and wonder that I feel when I am in Disney World.

Planning, Prepping & Tips

What should I bring in my park traveling bag? What should I leave home? What activities can I do with a small child while everyone else is riding the “big” rides? When can I check in for my Disney Cruise and why do it ASAP? What are the best FastPasses and how do I get them? Should I bring my kids with me to our Palo Reservation? How can I get a Cinderella Castle Reservation? What is the most romantic restaurant in Disneyland?

These are questions I get frequently and when you reserve with me I can help you with them and many, many others.

Perks

Travel Agents do have some fun things they are able to do for their guests – for example; If you are not staying at a Universal Resort but you would like to visit the parks, tickets that are purchased through me will get you into the parks an hour prior to the general public. This is usually only a perk reserved for resort guests but the tickets purchased from me through my agency will allow you to do that!

Time

Planning a Disney Cruise or a Disney World/Disneyland trip takes a lot of time. There are so many options to choose from, reservations to make (at an unbelievably early hour) phone calls to make that sometimes have high wait times…etc. Let me do that for you! Changing reservations or adding/taking away options often requires a phone call to Disney – I can do that for you as well.

Surprises!

Qualifying reservations receive our Minnie Box (or Adventure Packet for Universal)!! This is a super fun surprise that is unique to the wonderful agency I am a part of – Magical Vacations LLC. This is a box that will be mailed to you prior to you leaving for your trip. It is full of magic and surprises tailored to your family’s vacation.

Just Me!

You may need to contact several different departments of Disney to get your trip all set up – The Disney Cruise Line for your cruise needs, Guest Services to modify Magical Express & transfer you after a cruise or a flight, multiple different numbers to contact if you want to add Bibbidy Bobbidy Boutique, golf, spa experiences…etc. When you reserve through me, I am your one point of contact – Just me! Just let me know what you need and I make all the calls and sit on all the holds!

Money

Yes – Travel Agents can save you money! My knowledge alone can help you make informed decisions that can easily save you money. In addition, like I said earlier, I do watch closely for discounts released after you reserve and if your trip qualifies, I can have it applied to your trip. I do have guests that book their trip through me and make all of their own reservations themselves. They handle their entire trip because that is what they like to do. I just hold the reservation for them and watch for discounts.

I just saved a guest over $1000 last week when three different promotions were released. There were limited rooms to the offer but I was able to modify her reservation and have it changed before most even knew about the promotion. $1000! That is a lot of Mickey Head Ice Creams!

Contact me!

Now that you know the many wonderful things I can do to make your trip as magical and memorable as possible, contact me! I would love to help you and your family turn your Dreams into Memories!

Already Booked?

If you are already reserved for your Disney Cruise, Aulani, Adventures by Disney, Disney World or Disneyland trip but you would like me to assist you going further, let me know! We may be able to transfer your reservation over so that I can help you with anything you need going forward.

Giveaway · Meg the Travel Agent · Walt Disney World

Disney Shirt Giveaway

March 25, 2019April 4, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

I started this journey with Disney and Universal because they are both something I am really passionate about. I absolutely love planning my family & friend’s trips. I get silly excited helping them and talking about their upcoming plans.

I started the blog and all of the other social media outlets because I wanted a way to get my name and my new journey “out there”. I knew that once potential guests could see how much I had to offer and how knowledgeable I am, they would know that I would be an excellent agent for their trip. Now that I have some great followers, I would love to use the opportunity to reach more people and reward someone in the process.

I would like to give away a Disney T-Shirt. These shirts are great for every day wear but we especially love wearing ours in the Disney parks. Below is the image that will be put on the t-shirt. Winner can choose between a gray or black shirt and they can choose the size – any size for child or adult. Winner can also choose the color of the image. Some of the entries can be done each day so share and win!

Disney Shirt Giveaway