Author Archives: siera

Two New Magical Offers Available at the Walt Disney World Resort for Spring and Summer 2023

Disney has just released two new discounts for travel this spring and summer!

Stay, Play and Dine with New Disney Dining Promo Card

Stay in the magic with this special offer—and make sweet summer memories to savor!

Get up to a $750 Disney Dining Promo Card when you purchase a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day vacation package that includes:

A room at a select Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort
Theme park ticket(s)

This offer is valid for arrivals most nights:

July 1 to July 10, 2023
August 1 to September 14, 2023

A lower-value Disney Dining Promo Card may also be available when you purchase this package during other select summer arrival dates.

Receive up to $150 per room, per night at the following Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Receive up to $100 per room, per night at the following Disney Moderate Resort Hotels:

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Receive up to $50 per room, per night at the following Disney Value Resort Hotels:

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Please note that a minimum 4-night stay with a minimum 4-day theme park ticket is required to qualify for this offer.

Save up to 25% on Select Disney Resort Hotel Stays

Stay in the magic with this special offer—and spring into fun or make sweet summer memories at Walt Disney World Resort.

Save on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels:

Save up to 25% on stays most nights April 10 through July 10, 2023
Save up to 20% on stays most nights March 1 through March 31, 2023

There’s magic all around you at Walt Disney World Resort. And you can enjoy even more enchantment with special benefits for Guests of Disney Resort hotels—including early entry to the theme parks 30 minutes before regular park opening to experience select attractions (with valid park admission and a theme park reservation).

Save up to 25% at the following Deluxe Resorts and Deluxe Villa Resorts:

Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Save up to 20% at the following Moderate Resorts:

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Save up to 15% at the following Resorts:

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Or, you can save 10% on most nights from March 1-31, 2023 and April 10-July 10, 2023 at the campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

Exclusive Gift through January 15, 2023

Plus, when you book a new vacation package with Siera by January 15, 2023, you will also receive a special gift from her friends at Craft Cookie Co. delivered to you during your visit!

To learn more or book your Walt Disney World Resort vacation, please email siera@destinationsinflorida.com or click here!

Early 2024 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries Return to Caribbean, Mexico & More

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Get ready to pack your sunglasses and sunscreen because in early 2024 Disney Cruise Line is going to be on island time! Gorgeous, tropical destinations are awaiting your family, including sailings to the Caribbean, Mexico, Bahamas and — my personal favorite — Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

With early 2024 Disney Cruise Line sailings departing from two home ports in the Sunshine State as well as voyages from Texas, Louisiana and California, you can escape the winter blues with a magical vacation at sea from wherever you are in 2024.

Early 2024 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries Return to Caribbean, Mexico & More — Image: Disney

Sun-Drenched Getaways from South Florida

The Disney Dream will begin early 2024 with an assortment of three- and four-night getaways to the Bahamas and five-night vacations to the western Caribbean, all of which will feature classic Disney Cruise Line experiences such as Broadway-style shows, innovative dining, character encounters and fireworks at sea.

All sailings from Florida will include a stop at Castaway Cay, a picturesque private island oasis reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests. Located in the turquoise waters of the Bahamas, Castaway Cay provides the ultimate escape with something for everyone in your family, including adventure, relaxation and quality time with the family.

Tropical Vacations from Central Florida

The Disney Wish will kick off 2024 with three- and four-night voyages to Nassau, Bahamas, and Castaway Cay departing from Port Canaveral, Florida, Disney Cruise Line’s home port located just one hour from Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. Cruises aboard the Disney Wish combine enchanting entertainment and numerous Disney Cruise Line firsts, bringing to life Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars stories around every corner of the vessel.

Also from Port Canaveral, the Disney Fantasy will continue seven-night sailings to the white-sand beaches of the eastern and western Caribbean. Eastern Caribbean cruises will visit Tortola and St. Thomas, while western Caribbean itineraries will feature the ports of Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman; and Falmouth, Jamaica. Every Disney Fantasy sailing also includes a stop at Castaway Cay, along with several days at sea, giving your family more time to enjoy all the fun and relaxation offered on board.

Caribbean Adventures from Texas and Louisiana

The Disney Magic will have two limited-time engagements in Galveston, Texas in early 2024. After ringing in the New Year from the Lonestar State, the ship will embark on Caribbean adventures ranging in length from four to six nights through the end of January. Upon returning for another month-long stint between March and April, the ship will sail cruises ranging from four to seven nights to the western Caribbean during the popular spring break period.

New Orleans will welcome the Disney Magic back for a second consecutive year in February 2024 with four-, five- and seven-night cruises to the Caribbean. The Big Easy is the perfect city to extend your vacation either before or after your cruise to enjoy jazz and jambalaya in the city that inspired Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Princess and the Frog.”

Mexican Escapes from California

After returning from its inaugural season in Australia and New Zealand, the Disney Wonder will arrive in San Diego, California in March 2024 to offer three- to seven-night voyages to Mexico, including the Baja peninsula. Known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches and saltwater adventures, your family can visit some of Mexico’s most prized destinations, including Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, along with stops to the inviting shores of Catalina Island off the California coast.

Early 2024 Disney Cruise Line itineraries are now available for booking.

A Disney cruise brings families together to create long-lasting memories with original, musical live shows, spectacular fireworks at sea, incredible destinations and so much more.

Early 2024 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries

2022 Black Friday Travel Deals

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Are you ready to end 2022 in a new destination or start planning an adventure for 2023? There are some amazing deals available now that you can take advantage of to make your travel plans even more affordable. Check out all of these Black Friday travel deals and let your next vacation be your best one yet.

Save up to 50% at Discovery Cove in 2023

You can give your family the gift of paradise, and memories that will last long after the holiday season is over. Book an all-inclusive day filled with amazing animal experiences, plus unlimited food and drinks (including beer and wine).

Save up to 50% on visits through December 31, 2023! Book now- the most popular dates will sell out fast! This offer ends November 25, 2022.

Instant Savings, Kids Sail Free & More on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Embark on an epic adventure with bold offers, big memories and countless thrills onboard Royal Caribbean’s game changing fleet. It’s a vacation – and a deal – you’ll never forget!

Biggest Savings Ever: Score up to $600 off
Invite Everyone: Save 30% off every guest
Perks of Being a Kid: Kids sail free

Black Fri-YAY: Up to $300 Off + Incredible Discounts & More

Here’s something to SALEbrate: getting a jump (for joy!) on your holiday shopping! The Black Fri-YAY sale is ON, which means no waiting in line, online or… well, no waiting at all to get that good deal!

Ask me how I can get you up to $300 off nearly ANY package, $100 off United Airlines flights to Hawaii, hotel discounts up to 60% off, bundled transfers and tours, and more when you book travel through December 15, 2023 before Thanksgiving.

Up to 65% Off, Instant Credits and More at Sandals & Beaches Resorts

No other place in the world captures the imagination more than the Caribbean. Sandals all-inclusive resorts are set along the most gorgeous tropical settings and exquisite beaches in Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Antigua, the Bahamas, Grenada, Barbados and Curacao. Stay, play and indulge to your heart’s content at any of these Caribbean resorts and experience the best the islands have to offer- featuring unlimited gourmet dining, unique bars serving premium liquors and wines, and every land and water sport, including complimentary green fees at their golf resorts and PADI certified scuba diving. Learn more about Sandals Luxury Included Vacations today!

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Greatest Deal Ever

For a limited time, the second guest cruises FREE to Europe, Alaska, the Caribbean and beyond. Come aboard these award-winning ships and enjoy Free Unlimited Open Bar, Free Specialty Dining and more! Take advantage of the Greatest Deal Ever on all ships, all destinations, all over the world. But hurry, this offer won’t last!

Save Up to 15% at Disneyland Resort Hotels This Winter

You can save up to 15% at a Disneyland Resort hotel on select Sunday to Thursday nights now through December 22, 2022.

Make your visit even more magical by upgrading to a Walt Disney Travel Company vacation package- complete with Theme Park tickets- and you will enjoy a variety of special extras!

Book your magical vacation by December 15, 2022 for travel through December 23, 2022!

Secure your Sailing with Virgin Voyages & Let Me Do the Rest

Introducing LetsGoBook- a sharable link connecting your booking with my First Mates account. After using the link to secure your sailing date, I can update and customize your voyage, giving you access to review all the upcoming details. It’s also the perfect way to take advantage of Virgin Voyages’ Sail with Friends offer, which includes both you and your squad receiving a $50 cabin credit when you’re onboard – plus, I can oversee all the details and link your booking together. Explore Virgin Voyages today!

Double the Good Times at Universal Orlando Resort

You can enjoy four days of fun at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure when you purchase a 2-Park, 2-Day ticket. For even more theme park thrills, you can add Universal’s Volcano Bay at an additional cost.

Purchase by December 31, 2022 for travel through December 31, 2023.

Save Up to 30% with G Adventures Cyber Sale

Cue the confetti, it’s officially Cyber Sale season! Running through November 30, you can save up to 30% on a massive number of the best adventures all across the world, including select Antarctica Expeditions, when you travel by April 30, 2023. And if you’re looking to travel a little later, you can still save 10% on select trips departing between May 1 and June 30, 2023.

Featuring trips from all different Travel Styles, there’s an adventure on sale that’s guaranteed to get you squealing with joy. Immersive Classic trips. Majestic Expedition trips. Zen-inducing Wellness trips. Whatever adventure is chosen, you can feel good knowing it’s covered by Guaranteed Departures. Once you’re all booked and paid, that’s it, you’re going. That’s their guarantee.

Save 20% or More on Thousands of Hotels

With a minimum 20% off thousands of hotels worldwide, we can plan dream trips at dream prices. Book early and secure great deals for winter holidays or spring break next year.

Book by November 28, 2022 for travel through June 30, 2023.

Receive a Disney Gift Card during Transfer Week

Do you want to get up to $100 FREE Disney Gift Card to spend on your upcoming Disney vacation? If you booked a Disney World package (by phone or online directly with Disney World), you can add me to your reservation to help plan the rest of your visit with Mickey Mouse. It is a simple process to get a FREE Disney Gift Card and a lot of free perks!

My services are FREE (Disney pays me to help you plan your visit)

The Disney Gift Card amount varies based on your package total:

$2,000- $2,999: Free $25 Disney Gift Card
$3,000- $3,999: Free $50 Disney Gift Card
$4,000-$4,999: Free $75 Disney Gift Card
$5,000+: Free $100 Disney Gift Card

To qualify for the transfer, the package must be booked within the last 30 days and not yet paid in full. The gift card will be delivered at check in.

Support Give Kids the World Village

Did you know that a portion of every booking is donated to Give Kids the World Village? Give Kids the World Village is an 89-acre, nonprofit “storybook” resort in central Florida. This resort is located right down the road from Disney World. GKTW works with Make a Wish chapters to provide children with critical illnesses and their families a week long, cost free vacation. The families stay at GKTW Village and spend their days at the Orlando theme parks. And, in honor of Giving Tuesday, we are doubling our donations for all vacations booked through the end of the month.

Which one of these Black Friday travel deals are you most excited about?

Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information today!

Start Your Holiday Shopping at ShopDisney

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shopDisney Holiday Shop is officially here! It’s your destination for festive finds for the entire family.

The holidays are quickly approaching! Get a head start on your holiday shopping this year at ShopDisney and have gifts for the whole family delivered right to your door!

You’ll be cozy for all your galactic holiday outings in this cute Christmas cardigan. Featuring artwork of Ewoks, candy canes, presents, and snowflakes this zip-up sweater will keep you warm this merry season.

The holidays will definitely be more fun in the company of some of your favorite Pixar characters. Sulley, Carl Fredricksen and Buzz Lightyear have all been reimagined as nutcrackers in the festive design of this bite-sized simulated leather bag by Danielle Nicole.

Pay tribute to one of Disney’s greatest Christmas stories of all time, The Santa Clause, with this fun mug. Designed after Santa’s mug in the film, this hot beverage holder features reindeer feet and Judy the elf’s hot cocoa directions ”not too hot extra chocolate shaken not stirred” on the front.

An iridescent sparkle covers the outside of Arendelle’s regal residence. Little fans will love recreating their favorite Frozen 2 scenes with this Arendelle Castle Playset that comes with a cast of characters and opens up to reveal an array of rooms. Press the top window to activate music and lights!

All aboard the Christmas special as Mickey and his friends take a ride on this festive train set by Lionel. Celebrating the 2022 ”Happy Holidays,” the set includes a locomotive and four carriages all featuring seasonal decorations and slogans, plus 32 pieces of track. With its authentic train sounds, including bell and whistle, you’re unlikely to have a silent night, but you will have fun!

Celebrate the holidays with some of your favorite Marvel super heroes. These comfy pants feature an allover festive print of Hulk, Captain America, Captain Marvel and Spider-Man that will have you slumbering in peace all through the holiday season.

Bake your own happiness this holiday season with these fun measuring cups. This set includes four measuring cups, with lid and base, that stack into a Christmas tree, perfect for adding a festive touch to your kitchen.

This ”Toy to the World” nightshirt is nutcracker sweet. Featuring favorite Pixar characters depicted as nutcrackers, and bright joyful colors, it is as festive as it is comfy. It’s just the thing to make holiday dreams come true.

LEGO advent calendar — Image: ShopDisney

Build up to the holidays with the LEGO Guardians of the Galaxy Advent Calendar! Open a different door each day of December to discover a surprise gift. There are 6 minifigures waiting to be revealed, plus mini builds and accessories. As the big day approaches, bring it all together to recreate favorite scenes and Marvel adventures of your own.

Get into the Christmas spirit with this festive mini backpack by Loungefly. This cute carryall features an allover print of holiday treats, striped shoulder straps, and a sequin Mickey Mouse front pocket with 3D ears for extra sweet holiday style.

Who are you shopping for this holiday season? What’s on their wish list?

Sail the Adriatic Sea with Adventures by Disney in 2024

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Since 2005, Adventures by Disney has taken guests on amazing adventures around the world. Guests can set sail on Adventures by Disney expedition cruises exploring Antarctica, the Arctic and the Galapagos Islands. And in 2024, they will add a new destination and expedition cruise through the Adriatic Sea to complement their vast array of global itineraries: the Adventures by Disney Adriatic Expedition Cruise.

Adventures by Disney will take you to Croatia and other stops along the beautiful and picturesque Adriatic Sea in 2024. And there will be not just one departure, but two that same year! This famed waterway filled with captivating history, exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views provides the perfect setting for an enchanting adventure.   

The one-of-a-kind, eight-day, seven-night round-trip sailing from Venice, Italy, is sure to inspire a lifetime of memories. You’ll board the PONANT Le Bougainville ship, a small purpose-built ship designed to access remote location, to visit seven ports in Croatia and Montenegro before returning to the Floating City. Just imagine the breathtaking views, historical sites and the exquisite cuisine awaiting you!

When sailing the Adriatic Sea with Adventures by Disney, you’ll have the chance to:

Discover the islands adorning the Adriatic coast with stops at Korcula to taste the famed Mali Ston oysters or Hvar to kayak along the Pakleni Islands. 
Enjoy delicious food, Croatian wine, captivating architecture and culture unique to the region. 
Bike through vineyards and lavender fields of the UNESCO Stari Grad Plain (also known as Hora or Ager). 
Taste local delicacies such as Dalmatian Prosciutto, aged by the bura, a northerly-blowing wind common in the winter months. 
Explore picturesque Boka Bay in Montenegro by catamaran or strolling the cobbled streets of Old Town Kotor. 
Wander medieval Croatian port-towns awash in warm limestone and distinctive, red-tiled roofs, and visiting the world-famous Predjama Castle in Slovenia. 
Delve into the massive underground labyrinth at Slovenia’s Postojna Cave and discovering the “dragons” that call it home. 
Step back in time to learn about time-honored Croatian traditions including methods of pressing olive oil.

As with all Adventures by Disney trips, Disney-trained Adventure Guides will deliver their signature service and storytelling so you can enjoy a hassle-free vacation. And speaking of hassle-free, I love unpacking my bag just once while seeing the world!

Up to six Adventure Guides will accompany guests on the Adriatic Expedition Cruise and will lead unique, themed activities both aboard and ashore.  And did you know they have events just for kids on the trip? While the Junior Adventurers enjoy a “Pirates of the Adriatic” swim party or a Dalmatian Dash scavenger hunt, the adults can participate in a cocktail workshop, try out a fitness class, or simply relax on deck overlooking the exquisite sites. There is also a multi-sensorial underwater lounge on board … now that just sounds cool! The full itinerary is simply amazing.

Announcing 2024 Itineraries: Expedition Cruising with Adventures by Disney   

Also in 2024, guests will have more opportunities to explore Antarctica, the Arctic and the Galapagos Islands with added expedition cruises to these destinations: 

Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruise: This southern region itinerary offers the chance to discover the pristine splendor of Antarctica and Argentina’s beautiful Patagonia region. Here, the magic of wildlife takes the stage as guests observe animals such as penguins, seals and whales in their natural habitat. Dates: Dec. 17-28, 2023, and Feb. 17-28, 2024. 
Arctic Expedition Cruise: This expedition cruise in the northern polar region features the Arctic waters and surrounding landscapes of Svalbard. Guests will sail past deep fjords, discover the human history of the Arctic, marvel at massive glaciers and see amazing wildlife including polar bears, reindeer and walruses. Date: July 1-10, 2024. 
Galapagos Islands Expedition Cruise: This island-hopping expedition cruise through the Galapagos Archipelago is an immersive family adventure. Guided by expert naturalists, guests will discover more about the amazing ecosystems and unique species endemic to the islands as they experience the unmatched views of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Dates: March 17-25, June 9-17, July 14-22, Aug. 7-15, and Dec. 18-26, 2024.

Guests can also extend their expedition cruise vacations in select cities through an Adventures by Disney Escape, a series of short-stay getaways that are big on adventure. Escapes often complement a trip — immediately before or following an existing itinerary — and are ideal for those wishing for a deeper dive into a region’s culture, history and landscape. The four-day Buenos Aires Escape is a great way to discover the cosmopolitan capital of Argentina before embarking on the Antarctica Expedition Cruise. The six-day Amazon Escape takes guests on an exploration of the Amazon rainforest prior to the start of their Galapagos Islands Expedition Cruise.   

Traveling with Adventures by Disney    

With exceptional service, storytelling and authentic cultural experiences, all Adventures by Disney vacations are designed to appeal to the interests and needs of the entire family, allowing parents, grandparents and Junior Adventurers to discover the world together. From hassle-free travel, to engaging storytelling, to magical moments sprinkled throughout the vacation, all adventures are designed to give families the chance to focus on what matters — enjoying time together as they experience the magic of the world. 

Ready to set sail in 2024? Travelers interested in booking a 2024 expedition cruise can take advantage of Adventure by Disney’s early booking offer, with savings of $1,000 per person on select 2024 Antarctica Expedition Cruises and $750 per person on select 2024 Antarctica Expedition Cruises.

Additionally, travelers on eligible 2024 Expedition Cruise departures can also save 50% per person on the nonrefundable deposit required at booking.

20% off Select Disney Dooney & Bourke Bags on ShopDisney

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Are you a fan of Disney Dooney & Bourke bags? We are excited to share the all new Dooney and Bourke Jungle Book collection available now.

Plus, you can upgrade your look with skillfully crafted bags, wallets and more. For a limited time, select Dooney & Bourke bags are 20% off!

Take 20% Off Select Dooney & Bourke Handbags & Accessories!

The Jungle Book Dooney & Bourke

You’ll be able to fit more than just the bare necessities in this spacious Dooney & Bourke tote inspired by Disney’s beloved 1967 classic The Jungle Book. The film’s colorful cast of characters, including Mowgli, Baloo, King Louie and Shere Khan, are pictured in the vibrant allover print on this simulated leather bag that has a removable leather tag with the movie’s name.

Disney Princess Dooney & Bourke

Make every day a royal occasion with this colorful backpack from Dooney & Bourke. The allover design features stylized Disney Princess artwork with cute renditions of Rapunzel, Belle, Jasmine, and more! You’ll carry it around happily ever after!

Mickey and Minnie Mouse Dooney & Bourke

Mickey and Minnie will serve up delicious memories of the 2022 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival with this special edition satchel by Dooney & Bourke. The coated cotton design of this stylish bag shows the couple enjoying the culinary delights and sights of the popular event.

Figaro and Cleo Dooney & Bourke

This tote bag by Dooney & Bourke is positively purrr-fect. The large carryall features an allover design inspired by Disney’s animated classic Pinocchio with Figaro, Cleo, and Geppetto’s clock and is finished with goldtone hardware and leather details.

Kuzco Dooney & Bourke

Feel as confident as Kuzco with this stylish tote bag by Dooney & Bourke. This allover print features a variety of pastel colored llamas and Kuzco in his llama form and is finished with goldtone hardware and leather details.

Disney Vacation Club Dooney & Bourke

Show your status as a Disney Vacation Club Member with this roomy tote by Dooney & Bourke featuring a pattern of Mickey traveling amid Disney Vacation Club patch designs. A top carry handle and multiple pockets make this bag perfect for keeping essentials safe and handy on-the-go.

Do you have a Disney Dooney and Bourke? Which design is your favorite?

My 10 Favorite Things About the Disney Wish

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I recently had the opportunity to experience Disney’s long awaited, fifth cruise ship in the fleet, the Disney Wish and am so excited to share with you my experience sailing on this incredible new vessel. The Disney Wish is Disney’s largest ship to date and features the motif of enchantment throughout the staterooms, dining options and guest areas onboard. It truly is Disney’s best ship yet!

Without further ado, here are my ten favorite things about the new Disney Wish:

New Immersive Dining Experiences

The Disney Wish introduced three new restaurants to Disney Cruise Line: Arendelle, Worlds of Marvel and 1923. Both Arendelle and Worlds of Marvel offer an interactive dinner show experience, complete with characters! 1923 is a beautiful restaurant paying homage to the Walt Disney Animation Studios, being named after the year it was founded. The menus at each of these restaurants had a nice variety of themed dishes, like the churros in 1923, kjottkake in Arendelle and golden mystic pasta in Worlds of Marvel.

I also really enjoyed the new quick service dining options added to the pool deck through Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods. We still enjoyed the guest favorite, all you can eat ice cream cones Disney Cruise Line is famous for, but were able to try delicious new quick service options like Donald’s Cantina and Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue.

Disney’s Oceaneer Club

Disney’s Oceaneer Club is probably every child’s favorite part of a Disney Cruise Line vacation! The Disney Wish has introduced an even more immersive and interactive kids club experience than we have seen on the other ships.

Kids can learn what it takes to be an intergalactic creature handler in Star Wars: Cargo Bay as they manage some mischievous creatures from across the galaxy, including a porg, Loth-cat, worrt and more. Then, throughout the cruise, they can track and study these exotic beings through a series of special assignments using augmented reality-enabled data pads. They may even receive an important mission to deliver a pair of secret stowaways—Rey and Chewbacca—back to the Resistance!

The Wish is the first ship to offer the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab where young cruisers can design their very own roller coaster ride and then virtually experience it!

Marvel fans can train as “recruits” to become part of the next generation of super heroes at Marvel Super Hero Academy. Kids can digitally choose a super hero suit to test out, along with their skills, in “Avengers: Mission Training,” a gesture-based technology game.

Young royals won’t be able to get enough of Fairytale Hall, comprised of three themed spaces including Rapunzel’s Art Studio, Belle’s Library and Anna and Elsa’s Sommerhaus. Your kids can have the “best day ever” making arts and crafts, enjoy some reading or acting out stories with the help of an enchanted painting or find some icy powers along with everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf.

Mickey and Minnie’s Captain’s Deck is such a fun and safe play area for the littlest cruisers. They just might even have the chance to meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in this nautical themed space.

AquaMouse

The AquaMouse is Disney’s first-ever attraction at sea. This water slide features scenes from Mickey Mouse animated shorts, music, lighting and special effects as you slide through 760 feet of twisting tubes above and around the pool deck. We found this activity fun for cruisers of all ages, as long as they met the height requirement of 42 inches. The line can be long, especially on the days you’re out at sea.

Senses Spa

Disney has completely elevated the Senses Spa experience onboard the Disney Wish! This Senses Spa has all of the guest favorites like the scented showers, saunas, and heated loungers, but also added this gorgeous outdoor space with large swings for two, loungers for two, hot tubs and more.

You can purchase a day pass, length of cruise pass or reserve a spa or beauty treatment. Another unique feature in this Senses Spa is the frigidarium. You can channel your inner Elsa and sit in this unique space. I promise it won’t take long to cool off!

Please note that Senses Spa is only available for adult guests ages 18 years and older.

Bonus: The Disney Wish also introduced Hook’s Barbery and unTangled Salon. At Hook’s Barbery, you’ll find men’s grooming services like hot shaves or beard trimmings as well as specialty whiskey tastings for guests age 21+ while at unTangled Salon, you can be pampered in a luxury salon experience offering manicures, pedicures and more.

Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge

The new Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge is a “must do” experience for any Star Wars fan! You can feel like you’ve really traveled to a galaxy far, far away inside this lounge that serves both alcoholic and non-alcoholic specialties. Be sure to keep an eye on the viewport behind the bar, you might get to experience a hyperspace jump to another planet.

Tip: Advance reservations are strongly recommended and available in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app as soon as you board the ship and connect to the DCL Wifi.

Beauty and the Beast Inspired Adults Only Dining Areas

In the aft of deck 12, you’ll find a few adults only spaces inspired by the classic (and my personal favorite) Disney film, “Beauty and the Beast,” including The Rose, Palo Steakhouse and Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallement.

The Rose is a beautiful lounge located outside of Palo Steakhouse and Enchante where you can enjoy a cocktail before or after your meal.

Palo Steakhouse has combined traditional Italian cuisine with a modern steakhouse for a special dining experience. In addition to fine dining at dinner, you can also enjoy an elegant brunch!

Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallement offers a fine dining experience for dinner in addition to two other high-quality dining experiences onboard, including a champagne brunch or 5-course dessert menu. Be on the lookout for Lumiere on your way to Enchante.

Hero Zone

Hero Zone is a brand new recreational space onboard the Disney Wish that transforms from a basketball court to the home of the Incredi-Games, an inflatable Incredibles themed activity course offering a variety of super hero themed obstacles. On the second level of Hero Zone, you’ll be able to enjoy table top games such as ping pong, air hockey, foosball and shuffleboard.

Be sure to check your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to see when the Incredi-Games (and Jack-Jack’s Incredible Diaper Dash) will be offered on your sailing. When the space isn’t being used for these activities, you can use it for free play of basketball and even soccer.

Grand Hall

All four other Disney Cruise Line ships have a beautiful atrium lobby, but the Grand Hall is exclusive to the new Disney Wish. The Grand Hall was inspired by a fairytale castle and features an elegant blue and gold color palette. The Grand Hall is home to a life size statue of Cinderella, her glass slipper, stage and glittering chandelier. Every so often, the wishing star in the middle of the Grand Hall will come to life and invite guests to make their own wish!

Elegant Staterooms

The staterooms on the Disney Wish feature the signature Disney Cruise Line characteristics we’ve all come to know and love (like the split baths and storage space under the bed), but these staterooms really resonate with the ship’s motif of enchantment.

Each floor has a different theme that carries from the carpet to the stateroom numbers and the furnishings throughout the stateroom. You’ll find Frozen, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and The Princess & The Frog, among others.

Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party

If you have had the privilege of experiencing a Disney cruise before, then chances are that you were able to enjoy pirate night onboard, complete with fireworks at sea! The Disney Wish still offers Pirate Night, but hosted by Captain Redd, a descendant of the infamous red-head from the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, and her band of buccaneers where they perform popular radio hits in addition to their own rendition of “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me).” If you’re a Pirates of the Caribbean fan, don’t worry, Captain Jack Sparrow can’t miss this pirate party, either!

Are you ready to experience the new Disney Wish with your family?! We would love to help you plan your next Disney Cruise Line vacation at no additional cost to you!

Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort Returns November 12- January 1, 2023

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Are you ready to celebrate the holidays at Universal Orlando Resort? The awesomest celebration of the season is back! The holiday season will return to Universal Orlando Resort beginning November 12, 2022 featuring a merry mix of festivities highlighting pop culture’s most beloved stories and characters and continue through January 1, 2023. Your unforgettable holiday getaway at Universal Orlando Resort will be complete with a unique range of memorable experiences including Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry potter, Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, Grinchmas and more!

Universal Orlando Resort invites you to unwrap the awesome and let loose this holiday season during its Holidays celebration, beginning November 12 and running daily through January 1, 2023. Throughout the entire destination, you can celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with an incredible collection of epic festivities featuring some of pop culture’s most beloved stories and characters – all brought to life in experiences that range from traditional merriments to irreverent twists on holiday classics that can’t be experienced anywhere else.

This holiday season, you’ll be able to witness a spectacular transformation of Hogwarts castle during “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade; meet “the mean, green one himself,” the Grinch, during Grinchmas; watch larger-than-life balloons and floats take the streets during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s and so much more.

Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The spectacularly themed lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will transform into wizarding wonderlands for the Holidays, complete with festive décor throughout the iconic streets of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley that includes themed decorations, garlands and lights. Guests can also enjoy special holiday-themed performances from the Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant croaking frogs, in Hogsmeade and the wizarding world’s most popular singing sensation, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, in Diagon Alley.
And once night falls in Hogsmeade, guests can revel in a spectacular projection of holiday spirit and Christmas moments inspired by the beloved “Harry Potter” stories in “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s

Fan-favorite characters from Illumination’s Despicable Me and DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar – along with larger-than-life balloons, dozens of colorful holiday floats and hundreds of festive performers – will fill the streets of Universal Studios Florida during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. Santa Claus even makes an appearance during the awe-inspiring parade – leading a picturesque finale that culminates with the lighting of the park’s dazzling 80-foot Christmas Tree.

Grinchmas

The spirit of Grinchmas comes to life at Universal’s Islands of Adventure with the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” – a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s holiday classic starring the maven of mischief himself, the Grinch.

The celebration continues in Seuss Landing, which will be adorned in whimsical yuletide décor, including oversized candy canes, twisting Christmas trees, wreaths and beautiful tinsel ornaments. While strolling the land, guests can enjoy special appearances by the merry Whos from Who-ville as they prepare for their favorite holiday throughout Seuss Landing – and even meet the mean, green one himself, the Grinch, for a special photo opportunity.

Mainheim Steamroller

The best-selling holiday artist of all time, Mannheim Steamroller, will return to Universal Studios Florida to fill the air with the iconic sounds of the season with live performances on December 3, 4, 10 and 11, 2022.

Additional Holiday Festivities Across the Resort

And there’s even more fun to be had this holiday season at Universal Orlando with holiday-themed merchandise, food and beverage offerings, character encounters, seasonal décor and celebratory activities at Universal’s hotels, and more. Additional details about Holiday offerings at Universal Orlando Resort will be revealed soon.

Special Savings on Select Vacation Packages at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort or Universal’s Aventura Hotel

You can receive 30% off on a special vacation package that includes five-night accommodations at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort or Universal’s Aventura Hotel, five days of access to Universal Orlando’s theme parks and exclusive hotel benefits like Early Park Admission.

This Special Vacation Package Includes:

5-Night Hotel Accommodations at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort or Universal’s Aventura Hotel
3-Park 5-Day Park-to-Park Vacation Package Promo Ticket^** to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay on the same day
Early Park Admission^† to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay up to one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required, select attractions)
Complimentary transportation and walking paths to Universal’s theme parks and Universal CityWalk
Complimentary delivery of merchandise purchased throughout the resort to your hotel
Resort-wide charging privileges with your room key card

Access to Universal Orlando’s Holidays celebration is included with regular theme park admission.

For more information about Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort, visit UniversalOrlando.com/winter.

Everything You Need to Know About MagicBand+

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It’s time to band together because the long awaited MagicBand+ is debuting July 27, 2022 at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida!

The original MagicBand was introduced in 2013 at Walt Disney World, making the guest experience in both the theme parks and resorts more convenient and hands-free for things like park and guest room entry, retail and dining, Disney PhotoPass and more. MagicBand+ will retain those popular features and add functionality that unlocks new moments of magic for you.

At Walt Disney World, MagicBand+ can do everything a MagicBand can do and more – from entering the theme parks with a tap* and connecting your Disney PhotoPass memories, to unlocking your Disney Resort hotel room and more.

But, Disney’s newest wearable also has great new features, including color-changing lights, haptic vibrations, and gesture recognition – plus it pairs to your smartphone using the My Disney Experience app. Once you get your hands on one, you’ll want to do it all – and there’s a lot you can do with MagicBand+!

Before you head out on these exciting new experiences, you’ll want to pick out the perfect MagicBand+ from an incredible lineup of more than 25 designs.

Shop Disney Parks items at shopDisney.com!

Disney Fab 50 Quest

As part of the Walt Disney World 50^th Anniversary celebration, you can interact with the Disney Fab 50 Character Collection throughout all four theme parks with the “Disney Fab 50 Quest.” Help Tinker Bell bring the sculptures to life across all four Walt Disney World theme parks using virtual pixie dust from Tink.

Jodi Benson, who you may know as the voice of Ariel in “The Little Mermaid,” recently embarked on the quest and caught up with a few familiar friends – Sebastian and Flounder!

Sebastian and Flounder are just a few characters you may meet on your quest!

You can wave your hand to sprinkle virtual pixie dust at each Disney Fab 50 Character sculpture for different reactions! To unlock even more during your quest, use the Play Disney Parks app to collect the sculptures and enter the worlds of your favorite characters through an augmented reality feature.**

Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters

On Batuu, the bounty hunting business is booming. MagicBand+ will be your guide to seeking numerous virtual bounties hidden across Black Spire Outpost with the Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters experience. Vibrations and lights on MagicBand+ guide you down the right path. When you find your Bounty, you can use the Play Disney Parks app’s augmented reality thermal viewer to reveal who’s hiding in the shadows.** Local guild master Raga Bua will reward you with galactic credits. Do you have what it takes to join the guild?

Nighttime Spectaculars

MagicBand+ brings the magic of Disney nighttime spectaculars closer than ever before during “Disney Enchantment” at Magic Kingdom Park and “Harmonious” at EPCOT! MagicBand+ complements the magic in the skies, lighting up and vibrating in sync with fireworks, visual effects, and music. Your MagicBand+ will also engage as all four theme park icons transform into Beacons of Magic!

Tip: Before you embark on these experiences, make sure your MagicBand+ is charged, up to date and paired to your device.

If you’re planning to get one or even collect some, don’t forget that Disney Resort hotel guests may purchase MagicBand+ online at special prices before their arrival ($10 discount). Currently, MagicBand orders will ship within 10 business days of purchase, unless noted otherwise. Once your order has shipped, you will receive confirmation in your My Disney Experience account.

All guests can buy MagicBand+ at select stores across Walt Disney World and online at shopDisney, starting at $34.99 for solid colors and $44.99 for designs.

At Walt Disney World, you can purchase a MagicBand+ at the following locations:

Magic Kingdom Park: Emporium
EPCOT: Pin Traders – Camera Center
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Celebrity 5 & 10 and Tatooine Traders
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park: Discovery Trading Company
Disney Springs: Disney’s Pin Traders
Select merchandise locations at Disney Resort hotels

Although features and experiences across Disney Parks will vary, Disneyland Resort guests will be able to get in on the MagicBand+ fun later this year. Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting future for MagicBand+ at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts!

Current MagicBands will continue to be available, too, along with the complimentary Disney MagicMobile service that extends MagicBand features, such as park entry, to smart devices.

*With valid admission and park reservation

**To use the Play Disney Parks mobile app to enhance the MagicBand+ experience, guests must be logged into the Play Disney Parks app with the Disney account linked with their MagicBand+.

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Fall 2023 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries Available Beginning July 28, 2022

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Although it’s still summertime, it’s never too early to be dreaming of the holidays! Disney has just announced its fall 2023 Disney Cruise Line itineraries, which include special Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime voyages – and, for the first time ever – departures from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Fall 2023 Disney Cruise Line itineraries

Halloween on the High Seas cruises will return from mid-September through October 2023. Aboard these not-so-spooky sailings, guests will eat, drink and be scary with their favorite characters dressed in Halloween costumes, celebrate the season at Mickey’s Mouse-querade party, enjoy trick-or-treating at sea and more.

From early November through December, Disney Cruise Line ships will be extra merry and bright during Very Merrytime Cruises that celebrate the spirit of the holiday season. On these sailings, Disney magic will take on a whole new meaning with characters dressed in festive garb from head to (mistle)toe, a special tree-lighting ceremony, holiday décor, and special guests – Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Bookings open to the public on July 28, 2022. More details can be found on disneycruise.com.

New Adventures Aboard the Disney Dream

The Disney Dream will have new destinations on the horizon in the fall of 2023, which means even more fun for the whole family!

Following its inaugural season in Europe, the Disney Dream will set sail from New York City for the first time. Families will enjoy four-, five- and six-night sailings from the Big Apple to Bermuda, where they will explore the island’s renowned pink-sand beaches, world-class shopping, aquatic adventures and distinctive blend of British and Caribbean culture. Plus, a special four-night voyage on the Disney Dream will transport guests to the charming Canadian seaport city of Saint John.

Starting November 20, 2023, Disney Cruise Line will find a new South Florida home in Port Everglades, offering four- and five-night cruises aboard the Disney Dream to tropical locales in the western Caribbean and Bahamas. Families will enjoy stops in places like Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Nassau from Disney Cruise Line’s second year-round home port, along with visits to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island oasis.

Mexican Riviera Adventures from California

Beginning in mid-October 2023, the Disney Magic will find its home on the West Coast, setting sail from San Diego for voyages ranging from two to seven nights to Baja and the Mexican Riviera. Guests will experience the sparkling waters and beautiful landscapes of Santa Catalina Island, Calif., Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. An exclusive seven-night Mexican Riviera sailing will feature the breathtaking ports of Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, which are perfect for recreational water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

Tropical Vacations from Port Canaveral, Florida

While guests can sail from places like New York, Fort Lauderdale and San Diego in the fall of 2023, the Disney Wish and Disney Fantasy will continue sailing from Port Canaveral to tropical destinations in the Bahamas and Caribbean.

The Disney Wish will sail three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas, including visits to Nassau and Castaway Cay.

The Disney Fantasy will offer families even more time to experience Disney Cruise Line’s world-class dining, Broadway-style shows and spaces designed for the entire family during seven-night cruises to stunning destinations in the eastern and western Caribbean.

The only thing more magical than a Disney cruise with family is a Disney cruise with family for Halloween and the holidays! If this is a dream your family has, these fall 2023 Disney Cruise Line itineraries can make that dream a reality!