Category Archives: Disney

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

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!

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!

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+.

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.

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!

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.