#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!

November 15, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

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

November 5, 2019November 5, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

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!

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.

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

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

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!

October 4, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

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!

Adventures by disney · Aulani · Disney Cruise Line · Disneyland · Giveaway · Meg the Travel Agent · Universal Resort · Walt Disney World

October Giveaway!!

October 1, 2019October 1, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories1 Comment

Happy Fall, Y’all!!

Gone are the days of swimming pools & BBQ’s. Bring on all the pumpkin, trick or treating, crisp air & bonfires. As 2019 winds down, I have set a business challenge for myself for October and I need your help! My goal is 13 new reservations in October (spooky month, spooky number!).

This is where you come in! Any Disney or Universal package booked in the Month of October will receive an entry into a drawing for a $50 gift card for Disney or Universal! Travel can be anytime between now and the end of 2020. Disney Packages require 3 night stay and 3 day park tickets. Universal Packages require 2 night stay and 2 day park-to-park tickets. Any Disney Cruise, Adventure by Disney, and Aulani: A Disney Resort & Spa Package count. If this package is booked for a check in date in 2019, you will receive 2 entries! Perfect time to book a holiday reservation and see Disney decorated for Christmas or book a Very Merrytime Cruise!

Each day I will post on Facebook a countdown of my favorite hints and tips for Walt Disney World and Universal Studios so be sure to follow me at https://www.facebook.com/wdwdreamsintomemories/. These hints and tips will give you a great idea of all the knowledge I share with my guests when I am assisting with their vacation planning.

Already reserved or not planning on traveling in the contest time frame? You can still help me AND win a contest of your own! If you have traveled with me before you know that I get all my clients through referrals from satisfied guests. You know that I put everything I have into each guest’s reservation and that my level of service is unprecedented. These referrals are how I can continue to help more families and do what I absolutely love to do. Anyone who refers a guest during the month of October will receive an entry into a drawing for a Starbucks Gift Card (or Amazon for those of you who don’t need coffee to survive). There is NO limit to how many entries you can get – if you refer 3 guests, you will receive 3 entries.

BONUS: If I reach my goal of 13 reservations in October, I will do an additional swag giveaway. Both the referrers and the travelers will receive one entry and the winner will get the choice of a Disney or Universal gift. Gift Cards will go out after final payment is made for guest’s trip. If bonus is met, swag giveaway will go out as soon as drawing is completed.

(Previous Reservations do not qualify. I’m sorry, I appreciate you, but this is about 13 in October)

Don’t forget about our Minnie Box! Qualifying reservations will receive this gift from the “Disney Earmarked Agency” I work for! It is full of magic & surprises. It arrives just prior to your departure and will get your family even more excited about their trip!

THANK YOU for all your support. I look forward to helping turn more dreams into memories in October and for years to come!

Cruise Itineraries · Disney Cruise Line · Disney Dream · Disney Fantasy · Disney Magic · Disney Wonder · New for Disney Cruises

Disney Cruise Line Returns to New Orleans & Favorite Tropical Destinations in Early 2021

September 26, 2019September 30, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

Starting in early 2021, Disney Cruise Line will begin using New Orleans as a home port for several cruises. This makes for a great opportunity – the home port is a destination of it’s own. You can tack on a few days before or after a Disney Cruise to explore the home of Tiana & Prince Naveen!

The Disney Wonder will sail to the Western Caribbean, Bahamas, 14 night Panama Canal, and also a new port in Mexico where you can explore Mayan Ruins. The Wonder will also sail out of Galveston in 2021. From this home port you can sail to Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Key West (a favorite of mine!), Castaway Cay, & Nassau.

If you are looking for a more Tropical Itinerary, look no further than the Disney Magic, Fantasy, and Dream. In early 2021, they will sail to the Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, and Western Caribbean. The home port for the Magic will be Miami while the Fantasy and the Dream will leave out of Port Canaveral.

Which home port you sail out of can definitely enhance your trip. If you have never been to Miami and it is a place you hope to visit, sail an itinerary on the Magic and add a day or so before or after your trip. Of course, nothing beats sailing out of Port Canaveral and adding a few days at Disney World onto the front or back end of a cruise. I like to call that our “Surf & Turf” trips. They are my favorite – the best of both “worlds”.

Castaway Club Members can book these itineraries as early as September 30th for Platinum, October 1 for Platinum & Gold, and October 2 for Platinum, Gold, and Silver. They go on sale to the general public on October 3rd.

If you are interested in more information regarding one of these itineraries or to reserve, I would be happy to give you a no-obligation quote. My planning services are free of charge. I save guests time and frustrations by handling all their reservations, phone calls, and deadlines. I focus solely on Disney Cruises and do not book any other cruise line so I am very well versed in all things that need to be accomplished during you planning phase. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Disney Cruise Line Purchases New Land

September 21, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

With the upcoming addition of 3 new Ships and the itineraries they will add, Disney Cruise Line has decided they need an additional “Private” Beach.

Earlier this year, Disney Cruise Line purchased a new patch of land in the Bahamas. The beautiful island of Eleuthera has a lush area called Lighthouse Point. It is here where Disney will start constructing as soon as Environmental Plans and assessments are completed.

Since 2007, Disney has been putting a lot of focus on conservation and protecting our environment. Disney has been donating millions each year to protect and rehab coral reefs, especially in the Bahamas. The Government of the Bahamas and Disney have agreed upon the practices that they will use to construct on the land as well as the pier. Disney is looking to leave as little footprint as possible, agreeing to only develop 20% of the property and use sustainable building practices throughout construction. Also, instead of dredging a typical cruise ship channel, Disney Cruise Line will be building an open-trestle pier to lessen the impact on the environment.

One of the most exciting parts of the development of this island is the Imagineer that will be a very large part of design. Joe Rohde was at the forefront of design for Animal Kingdom and he also helped design Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii. When Joe is part of a project, you can feel the dedication and the love that went into it so I cannot wait to see what he does with this beautiful land. He has already spent a lot of time in Eleuthera meeting with locals and gaining knowledge of the art & culture. This will definitely be reflected in Lighthouse Point which is set to celebrate the culture of The Bahamas. Here is a video where Joe discusses this project and also gives a glimpse of Lighthouse Point-

Disney Cruise Line is hoping to begin construction in 2020 with completion around the end of 2021 or early 2022. Stay tuned for details!!

If you are interested in information on taking a Disney Cruise, I would love to help you and your loved ones plan a trip. Contact me today for a quote and for more information. My services are free of charge and I can provide you with some valuable planning advice through your booking journey. With me, you do not have to worry about calling in to make changes or add reservations – that is what I am here for. I anticipate those dates, make sure you are ready to book, and take care of it all at a very quick pace. All qualifying cruise reservations will receive The Minnie Box! A signature gift from the Agency I work with that is full of goodies and magic. Your vacation starts the moment you tug on the big yellow bow and open your gift. I hope to talk to you soon!

Disneyland · Hollywood Studios · Merchandise · New for Disneyland · New for Hollywood Studios · Star Wars · Walt Disney World

Star Wars Land Merchandise

September 20, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

I am in the process of writing up my trip report including a lot of information on Star Wars. I loved everything about it – the theming, the shops, the restaurants, Smuggler’s Run, the food, and of course, the Merchandise! There were the neatest things in these stores. These are items that have not been sold before and were created just for Galaxy’s Edge. I was so excited to see and play with them and we brought home quite a few souvenirs. While I write my trip report, I wanted to share this video with you. This is from D-23 and they share a lot of what is up for purchase when you visit Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World or Disneyland. Check it out!

My Trip report and a further, more in-depth look of Star Wars Land should be up this weekend but I thought this was fun in the meantime! Enjoy!

If you are ready to visit Galaxy’s Edge to build your own Droid or take home some of this other amazing Star Wars Merchandise, contact me today and Let’s Turn Your Disney Dreams into Magical Memories!

Animal Kingdom · Disney Travel Tip · Extra Magical Events · Magic Kingdom · Walt Disney World

New Dates Announced for more ‘Extra Magic Hour’ Evenings

August 30, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

Disney After Hours has added several dates to both the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom calendars.

After hours is a time for guests to enter the parks when most guests are heading out. The park is open late for just these specific ticket holders. Guests will have access to many of their favorite rides and will also receive unlimited ice cream novelties, popcorn, and fountain beverages. Here are the dates as posted directly from Disney:

Magic Kingdom Park

November 18, 2019
December 9, 2019
January 6, 2019
January 13, 2020
January 17, 2020
January 20, 2020

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

October 5, 9, 19, 26 and 30, 2019
November 5, 13 and 19, 2019
December 7, 14 and 18, 2019
January 9, 16, 22 and 30, 2020
February 6, 13, 19 and 27, 2020
March 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2020

If you have a trip planned during this time, this is an excellent way to see a lot of a park in a short period of time. We experienced it in the spring and we did every ride the kids wanted to and also several meet and greets. At one point, it felt as if we were the only guests in the park. It was truly awesome.

If you do not have a Disney Vacation Package scheduled yet, contact me today! I would be happy to assist you in getting your trip planned and reserved. My services are free of charge and I can save you lots of time and money too! Contact me today!

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

Disneyland’s Downtown Disney District

August 27, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

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. “

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

August 26, 2019August 26, 2019 WDW Dreams Into Memories

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!