Author Archives: siera

Everything You Need to Know About MagicBand+

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+.

This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission for purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!

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.

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!

Where to Find a Dole Whip at Disney Destinations

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Happy Dole Whip Day! Did you know that Disney Parks celebrates Dole Whip day every third Thursday in July? Dole Whip is an iconic Disney Parks treat available at both the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii and even onboard Disney Cruise Line. The classic Dole Whip is pineapple flavored, but there are variations available including raspberry, coconut, and watermelon flavors.

Dole Whip at Walt Disney World Resort

Magic Kingdom Park

Aloha Isle (Located in Adventureland)

Pineapple Float: DOLE pineapple juice served with a choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl (available with Tiki Sipper for additional cost)
Raspberry Swirl Float: DOLE Whip and raspberry swirl served with DOLE pineapple juice
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake served with choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl
DOLE Whip Cup: Choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl
Coconut Cup: Choice of coconut or coconut and DOLE Whip swirl
Raspberry Swirl Cup: DOLE Whip and raspberry swirl

Storybook Treats (Located in Fantasyland)

Soft-serve Cup: DOLE Whip lime, chocolate, or vanilla soft-serve, or swirl in a cup
Snow White Cone: DOLE Whip lemon in a blue cone garnished with a chocolate bird and sugar bow

Sunshine Tree Terrace (Located in Adventureland; Mobile Order available)

DOLE Whip Orange Cup
Orange Cream Soft-serve Cup: DOLE Whip orange and vanilla soft-serve swirl
DOLE Whip Strawberry Cup
DOLE Whip Float: DOLE Whip or vanilla soft-serve with your choice of Coca-Cola, Barq’s Root Beer, Diet Coke, Fanta Orange, Fanta Strawberry, POWERADE Mountain Berry Blast, or Sprite
I Lava You Float: Fanta Strawberry Soda and passion fruit flavor served with DOLE Whip orange and topped with popping candy

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Tamu Tamu

Scar’s Lair: DOLE Whip and sour apple
Lion’s Lair: DOLE Whip topped with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and sour apple
Simba Sunset: DOLE Whip with strawberry
King’s Cooler: DOLE Whip with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and strawberry
DOLE Whip Float: DOLE Whip with DOLE pineapple juice (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)
DOLE Whip Cup (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)

Trilo-Bites

Trilo-Bites Twist: DOLE Whip orange with vanilla soft-serve

EPCOT

Refreshment Outpost (Available through November 19)

DOLE Whip: Watermelon, pineapple, or swirl (New)

Disney Springs

Swirls on the Water

Peach Bellini Float: Peach Bellini topped with DOLE Whip orange (New)
Orange Bird Cone: DOLE Whip orange atop an orange cone with sprinkles
DOLE Whip Flight: DOLE Whip orange swirled with DOLE Whip watermelon, DOLE Whip lemon swirled with blue butter cookie soft-serve, and DOLE Whip and Vanilla soft-serve swirl

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Contempo Café (Available July 21 through August 20; Mobile Order available)

DOLE Whip Cupcake: Yellow cupcake filled with DOLE Whip mousse and garnished with a cherry (New)

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Good’s Foods to Go (Mobile Order available)

Key Lime Swirl: DOLE Whip lime and vanilla soft-serve swirl topped with graham cracker crumbs
DOLE Whip Key Lime Martini: DOLE Whip lime served with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and garnished with a lime (New) (available July 21 through 24)

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Pineapple Lanai

“Tamatoa-inspired” Dipped Cone: DOLE Whip raspberry swirled with DOLE Whip orange in a white chocolate-dipped waffle cone and coated with “shiny” gold sugar (available July 21 through 24)
50th Celebration DOLE Whip: Your choice of DOLE Whip with a 50th white chocolate medallion, umbrella, and EARidescent glitter
Pineapple Float: DOLE pineapple juice served with a choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl
DOLE Whip with Rum Floater: DOLE Whip with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum

Barefoot Pool Bar and Oasis Pool Bar

Frozen Margarita with DOLE Whip Lime: Corazón Blanco Tequila blended with DOLE Whip lime and chili-lime seasoning
Frosty Pineapple: DOLE Whip with Captain Morgan Private Stock Rum

Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace

Spikey Pineapple: Barbancourt Pango Rum blended with DOLE Whip

Dole Whip at Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Park

The Tropical Hideaway (Located in Adventureland; Mobile Order available)

DOLE Whip
DOLE Whip Float: DOLE pineapple juice topped with DOLE Whip
DOLE Whip Swirl Float: DOLE pineapple juice topped with choice of two different DOLE Whip flavors: mango, watermelon, or pineapple
DOLE Whip Swirl: Swirl any flavors: mango, watermelon, or pineapple

Disneyland Hotel

Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill (Mobile order available)

DOLE Whip
DOLE Whip Float: DOLE pineapple juice topped with DOLE Whip (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)

Dole Whip at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

DOLE Whip Cup: Choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)
DOLE Whip Lime topped with Graham Cracker Crumbs (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)

Dole Whip at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii

Little ‘Opihi’s

DOLE Whip pineapple, mango, watermelon, and vanilla soft-serve
DOLE Whip Fresh Fruit Sundae with sprinkles in a waffle bowl topped with fresh pineapple (Moana-themed) or watermelon fruit (Stitch-themed)
Mickey and Minnie Waffle Bowl featuring DOLE Whip with sprinkles

Ulu Cafe

Churro Pineapple DOLE Whip with Li Hing fresh pineapple (New) (available July 19 through 21)
DOLE Whip (available with vanilla soft-serve swirl)

Dole Whip Onboard Disney Cruise Line

You can indulge in DOLE Whip at the following locations across the Disney Cruise Line fleet:

Frozone on the Disney Magic, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy
Sulley’s Sips on the Disney Wonder
Wheezy’s Freezies on the Disney Wish

I hope you enjoy all these tasty treats for DOLE Whip Day, from July 21 through 24, and every single day of the year too. Be sure to try all the flavors and combinations at Disney parks, resorts, and Disney Cruise Line. Happy snacking!

Is a Dole Whip a “must have” Disney destinations treat for you or someone in your family?

(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)

Amazon Prime Day 2022 Deals & Offers

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Who’s ready for Amazon’s Prime Day 2022? Amazon’s annual Prime Day returns July 12-13, 2022, offering Amazon’s lowest prices ever on select products.

Here are some of my favorite Prime Day 2022 deals:

Children’s Books

This Prime Day, save up to 70% on speakers, smart TVs, smart watches and more!

Save 40% on select product(s) with promo code 40AFKKN1 on Amazon.com

Save 60% on select product(s) with promo code 60QR47D5 on Amazon.com

Paint by Sticker Kids: Christmas: Create 10 Pictures One Sticker at a Time! Includes Glitter Stickers

Paint jolly holiday fun with stickers!
Step 1: Find the sticker
Step 2: Peel the sticker
Step 3: Place the sticker
…and watch your Christmas painting come to life!
Includes everything you need to create ten sticker paintings on study card stock. Plus, all the pages are perforated—making it easy to tear out each finished work to frame and share!

LCR® Left Center Right™ Dice Game – Blue Tin

LCR Left Center Right is a fun, fast-paced dice game that you won’t be able to put down! Each game includes 3 specialty marked LCR dice, 24 playing chips and instructions. Players roll the dice to determine where they pass their chips. The last player with chips is the winner and wins the center pot.

Don’t forget! In order to take advantage of any of these amazing Prime Day 2022 deals, you will need a Prime membership. You can even sign up for an Amazon Prime Free Trial! You can also take advantage of Amazon Explore: 60% off all virtual experiences for Prime Day.

You can also always find my travel essentials on my Amazon storefront here.

What are you hoping to find during Amazon’s Prime Day 2022?

This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission for purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!

Receive a Disney Gift Card for Summer 2022 Vacations

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Would you like to receive up to $100 in FREE Disney Gift Cards to spend on your next Disney Vacation? When you book a new qualifying vacation or transfer an existing qualifying vacation, you will receive up to $100 Disney gift card as our “thank you” for allowing us to be part of your magical adventure. That’s right, we’re giving you a Disney gift card for summer 2022 vacations.

It is a simple process to get a FREE Disney Gift Card and you’ll also receive a lot of other free perks with our company.

Discount Watching (to make sure you get the best deal possible, even after you are booked)
MousePerks (weekly tips and tricks to help you get excited about and prepare for your vacation)
VIP Dining Services (recommendations based on your preferences)
Exclusive Facebook Group with tips and updates added daily
Autographed Picture of Mickey Mouse (mailed within 30 days of travel)
Autographed Letter from Mickey Mouse (mailed within 30 days of travel)
Disney Parks Growth Chart (mailed within 30 days of travel)
Personalized recommendations based on your plans and interests
Always available to assist you with questions, planning and more

FREE Disney Gift Card Amount:

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

Package Total – Disney Gift Card Amount:

$2,000 – $3,999 / Free $25 Disney Gift Card
$4,000 – $6,999 / Free $50 Disney Gift Card
$7,000 – $9,999 / Free $75 Disney Gift Card
$10,000 and up / Free $100 Disney Gift Card

Have you already booked your vacation, but still want to take advantage of our free services AND get a Disney gift card? You can use Disney’s transfer option! Disney will allow you to add me as your travel agent to your existing reservation so you can still benefit from my knowledge and expertise as we plan the rest of your visit with Mickey Mouse.

*To qualify for the transfer the package must be booked within the last 30 days and not paid in full. The package must be booked directly with Disney Travel (online at disneyworld.com or by phone). The gift card will be sent to you electronically at check-in.

BONUS: Referral Rewards Program

Are you not planning to travel at this time, but would still like to receive a Disney gift card? Take advantage of our referral rewards program! If you have family or friends who would like to take advantage of my services and book a vacation with me, you can earn your choice of a Disney gift card or credit towards your next vacation for every referral who books and travels with me!

Are you ready to book or transfer your Disney vacation? Call Siera today at (734) 771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com to get started!

Book by August 25, 2022 for travel through September 30, 2022. Offer valid for new bookings only.

10 Best Themed Hotel Rooms in Orlando

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Are you planning an Orlando vacation and looking for a little extra fun in your hotel accommodations? Don’t miss the ten best themed hotel rooms in Orlando! With incredible rooms available at both the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort in addition to Legoland Florida Resort, there are accommodations to fit every style and budget.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

You’ll be surrounded in the artistry, enchantment and magic of Disney and Pixar movies when you stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. This Disney Resort hotel invites you to explore the storybook landscapes seen in such classics as Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King and The Little Mermaid. From delightfully themed family suites to wondrously detailed courtyards, Disney’s Art of Animation “draws” you and your family in to become a part of some of your animated favorites.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a value resort so they offer some of the most affordable accommodations at the Walt Disney World Resort. Some of the other benefits of this resort include the Disney Skyliner, the new gondola system offering a bird’s-eye view as it whisks you and your family away to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, in addition to the largest resort pool in Walt Disney World Resort.

Finding Nemo Family Suites

Venture into the “Big Blue” in the Finding Nemo section of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. You can hang ten with Crush or just keep swimming with Dory. Most centrally located at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, the Finding Nemo family suites can accommodate up to six guests through a bedroom with one queen-size bed; one double-size convertible TableBed; one double-size sleeper sofa; living room; 2 bathrooms and a kitchenette.

Cars Family Suites

Venture into Radiator Springs with life size models of Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater and more friends from the Disney-Pixar “Cars” franchise. The Cars family suites can accommodate up to six guests through a bedroom with one queen-size bed; one double-size convertible TableBed; one double-size sleeper sofa; living room; 2 bathrooms and a kitchenette.

Lion King Family Suites

Explore Pride Rock and remember “Hakuna Matata” means “no worries” in the Lion King section of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. The Lion King family suites can accommodate up to six guests through a bedroom with one queen-size bed; one double-size convertible TableBed; one double-size sleeper sofa; living room; 2 bathrooms and a kitchenette.

Little Mermaid Standard Rooms

You’ll feel like you’ve gone under the sea in the Little Mermaid section of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. The Little Mermaid standard rooms can sleep up to four guests in either two queen beds or one king bed.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside

Your little princes and princesses will truly feel like royalty in the royal guest rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside. These rooms feature fun regal touches from Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and Tiana’s princess pals, including a special fireworks display headboard, Aladdin’s magic carpet, and golden bathroom fixtures. Royal guest rooms can sleep up to four guests with two queen beds.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Are you ready to put on your supersuit and feel like a superhero with “The Incredibles?” The rooms at Disney’s Contemporary Resort were recently refurbished to include a new “Incredibles” theme. These rooms blend a sleek Monorail motif with some of our favorite characters from Pixar Animation Studios’ Incredibles films, including Jack-Jack, Frozone and Edna Mode. The custom artwork you’ll find in guest rooms and along guest corridors is modern, futuristic and oh so stylish, dahling, complementing the resort’s architecture while putting the Supers’ powers on display.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Can you feel that Pacific breeze blowing? That’s because we just stepped into one of the newly refurbished Moana themed rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort! These reimagined spaces feature a new color palette inspired by the Pacific Ocean and its many islands, including details, patterns and textures from the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Moana” – look closely and you might even spot some characters from the story! You’ll also see all-new furnishings and fixtures in these rooms. In the bathrooms, for example, Disney Imagineers took inspiration from the sandy ocean floor for the tiles and carved details in the vanity. The colorful patterns found throughout the room bring a whole new energy to the space, evoking undulating ocean waves and tropical flowers.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Your kids will love sleeping and playing among the dinosaurs in the Jurassic Kids Suite at Loews Royal Pacific Resort. There’s plenty of space for up to 5 guests in this 670-square-foot 2-bedroom suite featuring a standard king bedroom for two adults, plus a separate connecting room for the kids.

When your kids lay down in bed, they’ll feel as if they’ve stepped right into their very own gyrosphere ride, maneuvering through the jungle terrain. The kids’ room only opens into the adults’ room, connected via a door modeled after the dinosaur enclosure that can be opened or closed to contain your little wild things. Of course, the kids aren’t the only ones who can get in on the fun of the Jurassic World™ themed rooms. Mom and dad can have a little privacy in the master bedroom.

Plus, at this tranquil South Seas retreat, you can leave the rest of the world behind and unwind with all the benefits of being a Universal Orlando hotel guest, including free Universal Express Unlimited to skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (valid theme park admission required).

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Despicable Me Kids’ Suites at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel offer the children a place their own space to play and unwind while parents relax in a beautiful master bedroom. Your children will love the view and the appointments in these minions themed suites. These suites can sleep up to five guests with a rollaway (king bed in one room and two twin beds in the other) with 650 square feet of space.

Guests of Loews Portofino Bay Hotel also enjoy exclusive Universal Orlando Resort benefits, including free Universal Express Unlimited to skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (valid theme park admission required).

Pirate Island Hotel at Legoland Florida Resort

Ahoy Mateys! You can vacation like a pirate at the LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel, situated just 130 kid-steps from the LEGOLAND Park front gates in Florida! This hotel will transform your family vacation into a unique pirate adventure with immersive themed rooms, a resort pool, and a boat-load of interactive activities and live entertainment for the young bucs (and ol’ sea dogs) to experience during their stay.

Some of our favorite features include a welcome treasure hunt with a LEGO prize, LEGO bricks to build with during your stay, nightly pirate entertainment and so much more. Arrgh… you ready?!

Are you ready to book one of these themed hotel rooms in Orlando? Call Siera today at (734) 771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com to check pricing and availability on the room of your choice.

Six Reasons to Celebrate the Holidays at Disney World in 2022

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Happy Halfway to Holidays! It’s hard to believe that 2022 is almost halfway over and we are now halfway to the holiday season! The holidays at Disney are an extra special time of year at the Walt Disney World Resort! The parks and resorts are full of holiday decor, festive entertainment, themed merchandise and so much more during the holidays at Disney World. We are especially excited for the return of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Holiday joy will unfold at Magic Kingdom as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns this year! On 24 select nights, Nov. 8 – Dec. 22, 2022, this separately ticketed event will invite guests to Magic Kingdom for an evening of merriment.

Join Mickey and his pals at the Cinderella Castle stage for the ultimate must-watch Christmas extravaganza – “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration.” The show features nostalgic and modern medleys of holiday music paired with dance performances.
Minnie Mouse orchestrates a sparkling spectacle over Magic Kingdom as a part of “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks.” Full of holiday magic, the show includes dazzling castle projections, fireworks and seasonal songs.
With his famous flying reindeer leading the way, Santa Claus will join Mickey Mouse and friends in the must-see “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” as it makes its way through the park.
Speaking of Santa Claus, he isn’t the only one who likes cookies during the holidays. Partygoers can indulge in complimentary cookies and hot cocoa at locations throughout Magic Kingdom.
Magic Kingdom attractions will get a special dose of yuletide cheer. Holiday magic will once again transform the Jungle Cruise into the Jingle Cruise. And, as an exclusive treat for event attendees, Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Speedway, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor and Mad Tea Party will all receive a special holiday makeover.
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café becomes the coolest place to get down when denizens of the North Pole drop by for an intergalactic dance party!
Also at Magic Kingdom, dance the night away alongside favorite Disney characters during an out-of-this-world holiday show, “A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” on the Rockettower Plaza Stage.
The fun continues for young partygoers and Disney Junior fans of all ages at Storybook Circus during the “Disney Junior Jingle Jam” as Disney Junior characters take part in a fun-filled dance celebration.
NEW! In honor of the 50^th Anniversary celebration, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party attendees will discover three jolly new photo opportunities. Guests will also receive a special 50th Anniversary commemorative keepsake, themed for the holidays.

Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are limited and may be purchased online beginning July 7, 2022. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can begin purchasing tickets as early as June 30, 2022. Ticket prices will range from $149 – $199 per person. Event dates are:

November: 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 27, 29
December: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22

Holiday Themed Beacons of Magic

During the Walt Disney World 50^th Anniversary celebration, select theme park icons will continue to transform into Beacons of Magic, illuminating select nights with an EARidescent glow. And as a special yuletide surprise for guests, the magic will continue as each park celebrates the season with a delightful rotation of unique heartwarming holiday-themed displays.

Santa Claus

The holiday season will be an especially busy time for Jolly Old St. Nick as he makes special appearances throughout the Walt Disney World Resort. You can catch him cruising down Hollywood Boulevard in his candy-apple red convertible at Disney’s Hollywood Studios during the Santa Claus Merry Motorcade or voyaging across the Discovery River as part of a festive flotilla at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Santa Claus will continue to spread the joyous spirit of the season during visits to Magic Kingdom Park and Disney Springs, where guests may have individual time to take photos and share their Christmas wishes. Finally, at EPCOT, Santa Claus will join storytellers from around the world as a part of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth beginning November 25.

Festive Entertainment for the Holidays at Disney

festival finale of For the First Time in Forever show at Hollywood Studios during holidays at Disney

Disney’s Animal Kingdom will come alive with the return of a Merry Menagerie of winter animals realized in the form of life-size, artisan-sculpted puppets.
Just in time for the holidays, “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios adds a festive finale, featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, and celebratory songs of the season.
At Disney Springs, guests visiting Town Center will experience a magical snowfall, bringing the spirit of the North Pole to Central Florida.
EPCOT will celebrate the return of “Candlelight Processional” during EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays beginning November 25, a beloved long-standing tradition of heartwarming holiday performances at America Gardens Theatre.
This season, the Guardians will trade in their classic hits playlist for a mash-up of seasonal jams at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT. Guests will blast off to the tune of an awesome holiday single, bringing joy to Xandar and Terra, too.
Disney PhotoPass photographers can help guests enhance their Disney vacation photos with holiday-themed Magic Shots at all four Walt Disney World theme parks, a new Disney PhotoPass Lens and virtual backdrops at the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs.

Seasonal Flavors

holiday treats from Epcot during holidays at Disney

The Holiday Cookie Stroll will return to EPCOT this year, inviting guests to partake in a sweet scavenger hunt during the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. The festival will also herald mouthwatering menus of traditional and inspired adaptations of holiday dishes from around the world at special Holiday Kitchens, located throughout the park.
At Disney Springs, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar will become Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar and feature yuletide touches alongside festive food and craft cocktails.
Select dining locations throughout Walt Disney World will celebrate the season with tasty winter-inspired dishes.

Holiday Decor

gingerbread carousel at Disney's Beach Club Resort during holidays at Disney World

The 2022 holiday season will bring Christmastime cheer to every corner of the Walt Disney World Resort with whimsical décor that creates a nostalgic and joyous atmosphere. From twinkling trees and glittering ornaments to an abundance of tinsel and wreaths, the distinct personality of each Walt Disney World theme park shines even brighter during the holidays. The merriment will continue at Disney Springs with the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth, where elaborately themed Christmas trees will draw inspiration from beloved characters, and at resorts across Walt Disney World, where guests will encounter artisan-made gingerbread creations displayed in select locations. Have you ever seen the life-sized gingerbread house created each year in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or the carousel in the lobby of Disney’s Beach Club Resort?

What are you most looking forward to during the holiday season at the Walt Disney World Resort? Will you be celebrating the holidays at Disney this year? It’s not too late to start planning your visit!

2023 Disney World Packages Now Available

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Disney has officially opened Walt Disney World Resort vacation packages for 2023, for travel up to 500 days in advance. 2023 Disney World vacation packages include:

Accommodations at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel
Theme park tickets with choice of ticket length from 2-10 theme park days
Keepsake Luggage Tag (one per person)
Magical Extras

Plus, when you book your 2023 Disney World vacation package with me, you’ll always receive my world famous services including:

Discount Watching (to make sure you get the best deal possible, even after you are booked)
MousePerks (weekly tips and tricks to help you get excited about and prepare for your vacation)
VIP Dining Services (recommendations based on your preferences)
Exclusive Facebook Group with tips and updates added daily
Autographed Picture of Mickey Mouse (mailed within 30 days of travel)
Autographed Letter from Mickey Mouse (mailed within 30 days of travel)
Disney Parks Growth Chart (mailed within 30 days of travel)
Personalized recommendations based on your plans and interests
Always available to assist you with questions, planning and more

Here’s a little more information on the Walt Disney World resort hotels and theme park tickets to help you plan the best 2023 Disney World vacation for your family. We are still awaiting the return of Disney dining plans, but they can be added to existing reservations when they become available again.

Disney’s Value Resorts:

Disney’s Moderate Resorts:

Disney’s Deluxe Resort:

Disney’s Deluxe Villa Resorts:

I also have some recommendations for the best Disney resorts for kids and families, a list of the five best hotel pools and even shared 9 reasons why I think you’ll love staying at Disney’s Pop Century Resort!

Park Ticket Options (2-10 days available with vacation package):

One Park per Day
Park Hopper Option
Water Park and Sports Option
Park Hopper Plus Option

Although Disney has confirmed that dining plans will return, we are still awaiting the official date. With the lack of Disney dining plans, it can be difficult to budget for dining costs in the parks. I recently review the most affordable table service dining locations in the theme parks, Disney Springs and Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

Plus, with so much time to save for your vacation, you may also be able to use these easy ways to earn extra money for your vacation!

Please note that your check in date cannot be more than 500 days in the future. We can currently book through Saturday, October 21, 2023. If you are planning to travel later in 2023, please let me know and we can figure out exactly when your booking window will open.

Book your vacation package with just a $200 deposit
Remaining balance is due 30 days prior to arrival
Change or cancel without penalty up to 30 days prior to arrival
Travel protection is available for $82.50 per adult and $6 per child, must be paid in full at the time of purchase and is non-refundable
Memory Maker can be added for a discounted price of $169 up to 3 days prior to arrival
Theme park reservations are required to guarantee admission into the park of your choice each day

5 Reasons to Book Your 2023 Disney World Vacation TODAY

You only need a $200 deposit to book your vacation package.
The sooner that you book, the more time that you have to save to pay off your vacation.
As soon as you have booked, you can make your park reservations to guarantee admission into the park of your choice each day.
The earlier that you book, the better availability will be as far as room categories. The most economical categories and best views book quickly!
If you book by the end of the month, you will receive a FREE pair of Mickey ears for each child (under 10) in your room.

As an exclusive gift for my guests, each child in your family will receive a FREE pair of Mickey ears as my gift to you when you book a qualifying* 2023 Disney World vacation package by June 30, 2022.

* Vacation package must include a minimum three night hotel stay with three or more days of theme park tickets to qualify.

Are you thinking about giving the gift of a Disney vacation to your family? Here are 10 ways you can surprise them with the news!

I also have some fun ways you can bring a little Disney magic into your home. Whether you are counting down the days until your next visit or ready to book your next vacation, you can take a virtual Disney vacation, make some delicious Disney Parks recipes, or try the Ultimate Disney Fan Challenge right now.

Still trying to get through 2022? That’s ok! I am happy to help you with your travel plans whenever you’re ready!

Don’t forget, we can book ALL vacation destinations including Universal Orlando Resort, cruises, all inclusive resorts, and so much more!

Who’s planning to book one of the new 2023 Disney World packages?

Don’t Miss an Extra 15% Off Sale Items at ShopDisney through June 12, 2022

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Who doesn’t love a great deal?! There are so many ways to save money on a Disney vacation. One of my favorite ways is by purchasing vacation essentials (ears, bags, shirts) and souvenirs ahead of time! ShopDisney has so many items you will find in the parks, but you can save space and shipping by ordering them rather than buying them in the parks.

Shop Disney Parks items at shopDisney.com!

Plus, now through Sunday, June 12, 2022, you can take advantage of an extra 15% off your entire purchase of sale items (excluding swimwear, swim accessories, and towels) at ShopDisney when you enter code EXTRA15 at checkout!

Online Exclusive! Take an extra 15% off sale items with code EXTRA15

Here are a few more items to consider:

Heading to the Disneyland Resort in California? You’ll love exploring Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure Park where you can sling webs with Spider Man, battle Spider Bots, meet Marvel characters and so much more. You can even pick up some Marvel merchandise for your visit.

Find Favorite Marvel Character Merchandise at shopDisney.com!

You can find all of shopDisney.com Special Offers here.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission from purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!

Mother’s Day 2022 Gift Guide for Disney Moms

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If you are a Disney mom or shopping for a Disney mom, I have some amazing gift ideas you can share with your family or order for the special mom in your life. I love ordering from Etsy because most items are handmade and best of all, it supports another small business! Here are some of my favorite Etsy items for Mother’s Day 2022:

Disney Home Sign

All Disney loving moms can welcome family and friends into their home with an interchangeable “welcome to our home” sign from GracefulSigns. This personalized sign includes your last name and can be purchased with any number of heads between five and thirty-five.

Minnie Ear Display

Is mom looking for a unique and fun way to display her Minnie ears? She needs a display from UtterlyInspired. UtterlyInspired also offers other fun items for the home like a Mickey (or Minnie) toilet paper holder and Mickey or Minnie napkin holder.

Disney Garden Flags

If you’d prefer something for outdoor decor, be sure to check out PKDecor. We love their Mickey and Minnie garden flag and Cinderella Castle sign. PKDecor also offers Disney k-cup holders and organizers, like this Minnie Mouse k-cup display.

Disney Hair Accessories

Some moms like bow bands while others prefer scrunchies or knotted headbands. You can find some fun Disney hair accessories at shops like Thingamabows Shop or MagicAndDreamsEars.

Disney Apple Watch Accessories

You can order a Disney Parks engraved Apple Watch band for mom to show off her favorite character. You can also find fun Mickey and Minnie Apple watch charger covers.

Disney Apparel

Your favorite Disney mom can always use a new shirt, right? Grab a Happiest Mom on Earth shirt, Happiest Mama on Earth shirt, Disney Mom Life shirt, or another Happiest Mama on Earth shirt.

Picture Frame

Give mom what is sure to be one of her favorite gifts- a photo of a special memory. We love these personalized and engraved wood frames from TimelessEngravings.

Tumbler

Chances are that mom is always on the go so give her a tumbler she can take with her wherever she goes! Check out this Disney mom tumbler from OneSassyCraftyMama or this Happiest Mom on Earth tumbler from ENBCraftSupplies.

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission from purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!