Category Archives: United States

Discover Plaza de la Familia Beginning September 15 at Disney California Adventure

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

You’re invited to bring your family and friends to discover Plaza de la Familia, an all-new festivity beginning September 15 at Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure park that celebrates Disney·Pixar’s “Coco” and the everlasting bonds of family.

A highlight of Plaza de la Familia is “A Musical Celebration of Coco,” featuring an entertaining group of storytellers and original songs from “Coco” in a performance of dance and music. Our singing host, Mateo, is joined by an ensemble of Folklórico dancers and the GRAMMY®-winning Mariachi Divas, bringing to vibrant life three of the film’s enchanting songs.

In addition to daily performances of “A Musical Celebration of Coco” at Plaza de la Familia, you’ll also enjoy authentic Mariachi music on the Paradise Gardens Bandstand, The World of Coco exhibit, a Tree of Life interactive photo location and a delicious all-new menu of Mexican foods. Plaza de la Familia is inspired by the beautiful tradition of Día de los Muertos that celebrates loved ones who have passed and honors the familial bonds that last forever.

You can experience Plaza de la Familia, A Celebration of “Coco” for a limited time, September 15 – November 2 at Disney California Adventure Park, and look for Disney·Pixar’s “Coco” when the film arrives in theaters in 3D on November 22.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Enjoy Authentic Hawaiian Arts and Crafts at Aulani’s Ka Wa’a Luau

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

One of my favorite parts of KA WA‘A lu‘au at Aulani Resort actually happens before the show. When guests arrive for the luau, they will be greeted by hosts and hostesses with a special lei. Then, guests will be encouraged to mingle around the resort’s Halawai Lawn as live music and performers set the tone for the evening. Also available during this time are various traditional arts and crafts at Aulani’s Ka Wa’a luau for guests to not only observe, but also participate.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Be sure to check out the following Hawaiian arts and crafts at Aulani’s Ka Wa’a Luau:

Na Pua U‘i (The Pretty Flowers): You’ll learn the traditional art of stringing lei (or flower garlands) together, creating your very own to adorn your neck or wrist. Or, you can present the lei as a special token of aloha to a loved one.

Pa‘i ‘Ai (Pounded Taro): After observing the traditional mashing of cooked taro into a thick paste called pa‘i ‘ai, join in and experience the effort it takes to make poi the traditional way.

Kapala (Printing): Intricately carved bamboo stamps called ‘ohe kapala were traditionally used to decorate and embellish fine kapa (bark cloth). Create your own keepsake on a card using stamps inspired by traditional patterns of nature.

Kakau (Tattooing): Pick a kakau design and have a local artisan draw by hand on your arms, legs or even face! You’ll experience a contemporary take on the painstaking age-old practice of a traditional body art.

KA WA‘A lu‘au is offered on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings at Aulani Resort. What activities are you looking forward to experiencing?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Why You Need to Plan a Fall Getaway at Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Why You Need to Plan a Fall Getaway at Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando

As the fall season approaches, you can see the responsibilities piling up before your tan lines even have time to fade. But what’s the best way to beat those “daily grind” blues? And more importantly, how to fit it into your crazy schedule?

An island getaway featuring: you, a drink, the beach, and our favorite volcano. Universal’s Volcano Bay is waiting for you.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Come fall, summer temps make way for warm, breezy days. Perfect for a getaway at Volcano Bay without having to hide from the sun under an umbrella. So while your friends up north sip on hot cocoa as temperatures drop, post your picture-perfect drink on the beach photo and warm them up with some jealously.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Trying to avoid crowds? Coming in the fall means avoiding peak season, which means more room to float in the Kopiko Wai Winding River. Not to mention shorter wait times for select attractions, with some that even offer a “RIDE NOW” option. Less crowds, less waiting, more ride now. Something tells me I don’t need to say anything more than that.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

But before you start packing, I’ll go ahead and finish your itinerary. Volcano Bay is surrounded by five on-site hotels. Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort—Volcano Bay’s closest neighbor—is home to a vibrant, retro-style theming that will have your nostalgia at an all-time high.

Plus, you can “leaf” the fall views behind for a view that cannot be beaten: the mighty Krakatau.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Among its bowling alley, fire pits, and themed dining, this resort also boasts a walking path that will bring you straight to your island paradise. Plus, when you stay at any of our hotels, you can get into the parks one hour before the parks open and make the most of your time.

And while you’re here for your getaway, hop on over to Universal’s two other theme-parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. These parks have more than enough fun and thrills to fill up the rest of your getaway. They say don’t run away from responsibilities, but what if you ride a roller coaster away from them?

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Finally, what’s a getaway without an escape from making dinner too? We’ve got you covered at Universal CityWalk, where you’ll find anything-but-ordinary dining experiences like The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar and The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. Sit back, forget the pre-dinner tornado that happens at your house, and why NOT order another milkshake? After all, it is your getaway.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

At Volcano Bay, fun in the sun doesn’t just stop after summer is over. A getaway is the perfect way to experience all that Universal Orlando Resort has to offer this fall.

So, while some of your friends will spend their fall watching leaves plummet to the ground, you can plummet 125 feet on the Ko’okiri Body Plunge.

Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

13 Things to Do at Volcano Bay Water Park at Universal Orlando Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Picture this: You walk into Universal’s Volcano Bay and are instantly transported to a faraway Polynesian island. Your eyes light up as you realize 18 attractions are now yours to experience, and the best part is – you don’t have to stand in long lines to ride them.

With the power of TapuTapu, your wearable holds your place in line for you while you check off your must-do list of everything else this paradise has to offer. Here are 13 things to do at Volcano Bay with all the extra time you’ll have while not standing in long lines…

1. Hang out at Waturi Beach

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Volcano Bay’s Wave Village is home to Waturi Beach. Soak in the sun, swim, splash, and relax in sparkling waters and warm waves while the mighty Krakatau towers above.

2. Take a Stroll Through the Krakatau Volcano

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Take the walking path out over the wave pool and peer up at the mighty Krakatau Volcano as you walk through its rushing waters.  Just look at that view!

3. Float Down Kopiko Wai Winding River

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

In the River Village, you can find this waterway full of surprises. Take in the tropical landscape as a tube ride or as a relaxing float.

4. Grab a Bite to Eat

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

This is so far from your average water park food. Four world-class eateries all offer TapTu Pay to go with island-inspired dishes. Savor some slowly-smoked, glazed Hawaiian Ribs with boniato mash and sweet plantains. Or Coconut Curry Chicken made with braised chicken, green coconut curry sauce, white rice, sweet coconut and fresh cilantro. Or… well, I could go on, but it’s just going to make me more hungry.

5. Look for Ride Totems That Say “Ride Now”

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Just because you’ve registered one attraction on your TapuTapu wearable, doesn’t mean you can’t ride another if the ride’s totem instructs you to “Ride Now.” Feel free to head straight for the loading area without giving up your current return time.

6. Relax at Puka Uli Lagoon

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Located in the Rainforest Village, this lagoon features elements that will delight even the tiniest Waturi, like bongo drums and spraying water.

7. Test Your Nerve on TeAwa Fearless River

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Was that winding river too chill for you? Race along a roaring, watery stream of churning rapids and choppy waves on the Rainforest Village’s whitewater ride.

8. Let Your Kids Play at the Tot Tiki and Runamukka Reefs

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

With bubbling geysers, water guns, dump cups, tikis, whales, and small slides, these River Village favorites are the perfect place to take your little ones.

9. Enjoy a Drink

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

You know you’re on island time when you’re relaxing by the water with a cold beverage in your hand. And know that you’ll never lose your way, just look for the blue or red sails of Volcano Bay’s two unique bars to guide you.

10. Let TapuTapu Up Your Photo Game

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Use your TapuTapu wearable to tap any of the photo “selfie stations” throughout the park for picturesque views of you and your friends and family.

11. Shop For Your Next Bathing Suit or Souvenir

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

With its distinctive island feel, Volcano Bay merchandise is a great souvenir to take home with you. No matter where home is, picking some up will instantly transport you back to the tropics of Volcano Bay.

12. Kick Back in a Private Cabana

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Relax, unwind, and enjoy extra-comfy seating, concierge service with food delivery and more. These fill up fast, so be sure to check for availability and reserve one before you arrive.

13. Discover the Hidden Secrets of TapuTapu

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Look for symbols like the one above throughout the entire park. When you find them, touch your TapuTapu wearable for surprises like sprays of water and lights.

While your TapuTapu holds your place in line for you at any of the 18 attractions in park, you can enjoy all of the experiences above.

So what will it be? Thrills? Chills? Food? Drink? Tell us where you’re heading first in the comments below and start planning your Volcano Bay vacation today.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Top Six Tips for Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Park

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Top Six Tips for Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Park

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is almost here, and that means it’s time to get your tickets for a frighfully delightful Halloween tradition – Mickey’s Halloween Party! Here’s a great tip: Purchasing tickets in advance can save you money on several of the party dates! And on select nights, Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders can save even more. Here are our top six tips for Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland park:

  • Mickey’s Halloween Party is a great time to capture one-of-a kind moments with the whole family dressed in costume and posing with some of their favorite Disney characters, who are also decked out in Halloween costumes. New this year, souvenir Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the event are included with your ticket, with unlimited PhotoPass downloads to enjoy later.
  • Pick up a special map at the Main Entrance or use the Disneyland app to locate the trick-or-treat stations throughout the park. The whole family can enjoy the trick-or-treat stations – and be sure to look for healthy treats, too!
  • Presented exclusively during Mickey’s Halloween Party, the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow leads the Frightfully Fun Parade down Main Street, U.S.A. This eerie Halloween spirit holds a flickering jack-o-lantern to light his way as he rides in search of a new head to call his own.
  • New this year, your Mickey’s Halloween Party ticket allows you to visit both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks! Entry to either park begins three hours before Mickey’s Halloween Party starts.
  • Be sure to check the costume guidelines here when you are planning your party costume.
  • Savor a spooky feast with Mickey’s Halloween Party Dinner Package! Available only on party nights, this special package at Blue Bayou Restaurant also includes a voucher that provides access to the Frightfully Fun Parade reserved viewing area. Click here for more information.

Are you planning to attend Mickey’s Halloween Party this year? Get your tickets now and save!

Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets are subject to availability and are valid only for specific event dates and hours. Space is limited. Advanced purchase savings available only for select party nights and only until one day prior to applicable event date. Limit eight (8) tickets per person, per event date. Tickets are nonrefundable and may not be resold. May not be combined with other discounts. Costumes subject to Disney guidelines at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/events-tours/mickeys-halloween-party/ and should not be obstructive or offensive. Ages 2 and under: no ticket required. Entertainment may be cancelled due to inclement weather or otherwise. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.

Disney PhotoPass service is subject to the PhotoPass terms found in https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos captured during the Mickey’s Halloween Party must be linked to your Disney account and may be downloaded pursuant to the expiration policy at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-expiration-policy/. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Downloads are restricted to personal use by Disney account holder only and may not be used for a commercial purpose. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Halloween Horror Nights 27 Upgrades That You Won’t Want to Miss

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 27 is an event anticipated by many, and this year is no exception. With nine haunted houses, five scarezones and two live shows, I’d go ahead and pick up some throat soothing tea for the screams that are about to be had. But if you’re always searching for more scares, we have you covered with upgrades that will make this years’ Halloween Horror Nights one you’ll remember forever. I dare you to try these three eerie extras…

1. Make a Reservation For BOO

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

All that screaming takes a lot of energy. Fuel up for the fear at the Halloween Horror Nights Scareactor Dining Experience. Buy a ticket to reserve your table at the Universal Studios’ Classic Monsters Cafe, the spooky restaurant whose décor pays homage to Universal’s horror movie history.

But what makes up the perfect pre-scare meal? I’m glad you asked. At this Scareactor Dining Experience, you’ll enjoy a special buffet menu unlike anything your mummy makes. And whatever you do, watch out for scareactors because you never know who could be right around the corner…

2. Say R.I.P. To The Person You Used to Be

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

If you live and breathe Halloween Horror Nights, the R.I.P. tour is to die for. This blood-red carpet treatment tour will have you buried in the benefits like: VIP entry to all haunted houses and participating park attractions, exclusive access to a pre-tour reception (with light appetizers and scareactor meet and greets), reserved seating at Bill & Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure,  a commemorative R.I.P. Tour credential and lanyard, exclusive cash bars and more.

For a Halloween Horror Nights first timer or long time alum, the R.I.P. Tour is so worth it.

3. Creep It Real at the Unmasking the Horror Tour

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Are you dying to know what it takes for the Halloween Horror Nights Art and Design team to transform some of the biggest names in horror into immersive haunted houses? Then the Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour is for you. And, if you’re anything like me—and even a loud sneeze at the office makes you jump—this scareactor-free, lights-on daytime tour is right up your alley.

Each tour features a guided walkthrough of select houses, shining a light on the darkness of Halloween Horror Nights. You’ll receive a commemorative Halloween Horror Nights lanyard and hear about all the creative efforts that go into delivering the spookiest experience possible. And for my fellow scaredy-cat, this tour is the perfect practice round to get you ready for the night of screams that is Halloween Horror Nights 27.

So there you have it, you know how to take your Halloween Horror Nights 27 to the next level of terrific and terrifying. Buy your tickets now and have your best Halloween Horror Nights yet.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month 2017 Includes Disney World Restaurants

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month 2017 Includes Disney World Restaurants

As part of the one of the most-anticipated dining events in Central Florida, for the first time, select Walt Disney World restaurants are part of Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month 2017 that kicked off August 25 and runs through October 1.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Magical Dining Month 2017 celebrates Orlando’s amazing culinary scene and gives us a chance to showcase the talent of Disney chefs with special prix fixe dinners. Participating Walt Disney World Resort hotel restaurants include:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Magical Dining Month 2017 menus feature three courses for $35 per person, including appetizer, entrée and dessert and cannot be combined with other offers, packages or discounts. One dollar from each meal supports Freedom Ride and BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

To view all participating restaurant’s menus, go to Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month 2017, select an area and restaurant, then click on the fork.

To make a reservation for the Disney restaurants, visit www.disneyworld.com/dine or call 407-WDW-DINE. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Fantasmic Dessert and VIP Viewing Experience Now Available at Hollywood Studios

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

There’s a sweet new way to take in the spectacular sights and sounds of Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios—the new Fantasmic Dessert and VIP Viewing Experience package. The Fantasmic Dessert and VIP Viewing Experience is a great way to enjoy a reserved seat for the nighttime show and even have a delectable snack waiting for you.

Guests will check-in and pick up a delicious snack box, which features a mix of sweet and savory items, at the Fantasmic! theater prior to show time. A special light-up credential will allow Fantasmic! Dessert & VIP Viewing Experience guests to enter the special reserved viewing area.

The adult box features chocolate-covered strawberries, cheesecake, a chocolate cupcake, apple crisp, California trail mix and cheese and crackers. Kids will enjoy chocolate pudding with crushed chocolate cookies and gummy worms, confetti popcorn, grapes and a vanilla cake bite which features the star of Fantasmic! — Sorcerer Mickey. Guests will also receive a bottle of water and a specialty alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage in a light-up keepsake Fantasmic! cup.

The Fantasmic Dessert and VIP Viewing Experience is another great offering from the Enchanting Extras Collection, which allows guests to enhance their Walt Disney World Resort vacation. The Fantasmic dessert and VIP viewing experience cost is $39 for adults and $19 for children ages 3-9. Reservations can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dining or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Delicious Treats Available During Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2017

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Halloween kicks off early this year in Magic Kingdom Park, with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2017 on select evenings beginning August 25, fun-filled evening with trick-or-treating throughout the park, eerie entertainment and Disney characters that go bump in the night.

But it’s more than a dozen specially created treats – some available only during the parties, some all day in Magic Kingdom Park – that are most delectable (and Instagrammable). Here’s the sweet rundown:

New treats offered all day, every day, beginning Aug. 25-Nov. 1

  • Stop in the Main Street Bakery for a bright orange Mickey Halloween Cupcake with chocolate cake filled with purple marshmallow fluff topped with orange vanilla buttercream, sprinkles and a white chocolate scarecrow Mickey. The Mickey-shaped Cinnamon Roll takes on a spooky twist with orange icing and a chocolate spider web.
  • Plaza Ice Cream Parlor will scoop up pumpkin-flavored ice cream.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2017 Treats (party nights only):

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • Pumpkin Cheesecake Dome with a graham cracker streusel base, orange white chocolate glaze and a white chocolate Mickey can be found at Main Street Bakery and Gaston’s Tavern.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • Jack Skellington gets his own dessert at Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square – a vanilla panna cotta, chocolate cake, vanilla buttercream, white chocolate and dark chocolate crisp pearls, dark chocolate curls and a white chocolate Jack Skellington.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • The artistic Haunted Mansion Desserts – each with a different flavor and themed chocolate accent – can be tracked down at:
    • Aloha Isle – chocolate tart filled with chocolate ganache and topped with Oreo panna cotta and a white chocolate Haunted Mansion-inspired portrait.
    • Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies – chocolate tart filled with raspberry compote and topped with white chocolate mousse and a Haunted Mansion-inspired white chocolate portrait.
    • Liberty Square Market – chocolate tart filled with chocolate ganache and topped with peanut butter icing and a Haunted Mansion-inspired white chocolate portrait.
    • Storybook Treats – chocolate tart filled with lemon curd, strawberry compote and topped with strawberry mousse and a Haunted Mansion-inspired white chocolate portrait.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • A Pumpkin Mickey Waffle with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, sprinkles and caramel sauce will be offered at Sleepy Hollow.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café will offer Worms and Dirt, a chocolate gravestone with chocolate cake and chocolate mousse with a chocolate glaze topped with Oreo crumbs, and gummy candy.
  • Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies in Tomorrowland will dish up Candy Corn Ice Cream.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • Grab Chocolate Crisped Rice Treats and Vampire Mickey Brownies at various outdoor vending and kiosks throughout the Magic Kingdom Park.

For tickets, party details and official costume rules, click here.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2017 dates are August 25 and 29; September 1, 7, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26 and 29; October 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29 and 31, and November 1.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote.