So, you’re looking for a Silhouette or Cricut machine? Now what? It can be intimidating to choose a machine and get started. These amazing crafting machines can cut paper, vinyl, leather, wood, and more, depending on the make and model. If you’re just starting out, we have 10 essentials we think you’ll need to start crafting with a cutting machine.
Crafting Machine
If you haven’t chosen a machine yet, this is a good place to start. The major brands (in our opinion) are Silhouette and Cricut. They both offer a variety of models that can help you craft some incredible projects. It just depends what your interests (and budget) are. We prefer the Silhouette Cameo 4 or the Cricut Maker.
Vinyl
We love Expressions Vinyl! We have ordered from Expressions Vinyl for years and always had a great experience. They offer fast shipping and competitive prices. They have permanent and removable adhesive vinyl, heat transfer vinyl, color changing vinyl, and more. You can even receive $5 off your first order from Expressions Vinyl when you order here.
Once you have the crafting machine of your choice and some vinyl in hand, what can you put it on? Here are some ideas for fun and easy starter projects:
Key chains can be a quick and easy beginner project. You can add a name or small design to these. This pack of 50 acrylic key chains is inexpensive and will give you plenty of extra’s to practice on.
Coasters
We recommend this twelve pack of stone coasters to get started. You can choose a round or square design. You may want to spray some modge podge over the vinyl as a sealer, just to make sure the vinyl doesn’t peel with use.
Earrings
We love this 30 piece leather earring making kit! It actually includes all of the tools and templates if you want to cut them by hand, but many machines can cut the leather for a variety of shapes and designs. We like that this kit also comes with everything you’ll need for the earrings, from start to finish.
Heat Press or Easy Press
If you’re working with heat transfer vinyl, you may want to consider investing in a heat press or Cricut Easy Press. You can always use an iron to apply your heat transfer vinyl, but may have better results by using a heat press or easy press. The iron doesn’t apply heat evenly so the designs can be more likely to peel off or not stick at all.
Please note that this article contains affiliate links. We may make a small commission for purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!
How much do you know about Castaway Cay? No matter how many times you’ve been to Disney’s private island paradise, there’s a good chance that you still learn something new with each visit. If you’re looking forward to your first day at this little slice of paradise in the Bahamas, here are seven fun facts about Castaway Cay …
Photo: Disney
The island is reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests. If the Castaway Cay post office is open, be sure to stop by to mail a message (and brag) to friends back home. Also check out the merchandise you can only get on the island, like beachwear, hats and collectible pins with the Castaway Cay logo, at She Sells Sea Shells … and Everything Else!
You can walk right off the ship to the island. The dock built at Castaway Cay eliminates the need to tender, making the ship easily accessible throughout the day. Trams provide transportation to and from various points on the 1,000-acre island. All you’ll need is your Key to the World card to get on and off the ship as you please.
Photo: Disney
There’s something for everyone. Disney Imagineers designed Castaway Cay much like their ships, with unique activities and areas for every age group. Places for the family to spend time together are plenty, but when it’s time to do your own thing, kids can head to Scuttle’s Cove, teens to the secluded Hide Out and adults to the pristine Serenity Bay.
All that you need is included. From complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas to an all-you-care-to-eat lunch buffet and ice cream station, Disney has you covered. They even provide beach towels, wagons and strollers to make your day more comfortable. There isn’t much you’ll need to bring onto the island with you, except for of course plenty of sunblock and a good book!
Photo: Disney
There are plenty of Port Adventures options for your family. Just like in other Disney Cruise Line destinations, they work with local operators to offer excursions such as parasailing, deep sea fishing and boat tours. Plus, you won’t want to miss the activities exclusive to the island, including Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure, the Castaway Cay Walking and Kayak Nature Adventure and the teen-only Wild Side Adventure.
The island is stocked with toys for water sports enthusiasts. Water cycles, paddleboats, sea kayaks, sailboats, stand-up paddle boards, floats and snorkel gear are all available to rent. There’s also a watercraft ski adventure for the chance to drive a personal watercraft through mangroves and around the island.
Photo: Disney
You can stay cool even in the warm sunshine. Besides joining the water fun with one of the many activities listed above, the Pelican Plunge slide is a great way to cool off. When you need a break from the sun, shaded areas are located around the island, including covered seating near the lunch buffets and bars, In Da Shade Game Pavilion and private rental cabanas.
What are your favorite fun facts about Castaway Cay? How many days until your next Disney cruise?
Are you ready to start planning a tropical getaway next year? Fall 2021 Disney Cruise itineraries are now available and can be booked beginning Thursday, July 30, 2020 (and even sooner for Castaway Club Members)!
You can be among the first to book special, holiday-themed sailings with a tropical twist. You can celebrate the season during your vacation with one of the Halloween on the High Seas cruises or Very Merrytime cruises.
Guest favorite itineraries to the Caribbean and Bahamas will continue to depart from Florida and Texas, with most routes including a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise. There will also be Baja and Mexican Riviera itineraries that will sail from California for a limited time. Or, you can explore Bermuda-bound voyages from New York.
The Caribbean
Get ready to island hop and soak up an invigorating mix of sun, sand and turquoise waters on a 4-, 5-, 6-, 7- or 8-night tropical cruise to some of the Caribbean’s most popular port ports of call.
WESTERN CARIBBEAN
2021 Disney Wonder 4-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston: 11/19, 11/29, 12/3, 12/13, 12/17
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Galveston, Texas
2021 Disney Wonder 4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston: 12/27
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Galveston, Texas
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami: 11/8, 11/22
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico Day 5: At Sea Day 6: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami: 12/11
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Disney Castaway Cay Day 6: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami: 12/29
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico Day 5: At Sea Day 6: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 6-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami: 12/20
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico Day 5: Costa Maya, Mexico Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Wonder 6-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston: 12/21
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Galveston, Texas
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Halloween on the High Seas Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/9
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 5: Falmouth, Jamaica Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral with 2 stops at Castaway Cay: 11/21
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico Day 5: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/5
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 5: Falmouth, Jamaica Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/19
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Falmouth, Jamaica Day 5: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 6: Cozumel, Mexico Day 7: At Sea Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
EASTERN CARIBBEAN
2021 Disney Magic 4-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from San Juan ending in Miami: 11/4
Day 1: San Juan, Puerto Rico Day 2: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Halloween on the High Seas Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/2, 10/30
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Tortola, British Virgin Islands Day 5: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Very Merrytime Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/14, 11/28, 12/12
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Tortola, British Virgin Islands Day 5: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/26
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Tortola, British Virgin Islands Day 5: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 8-Night Halloween on the High Seas Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/16
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Philipsburg, St. Maarten Day 5: St. John’s, Antigua Day 6: San Juan, Puerto Rico Day 7: At Sea Day 8: Disney Castaway Cay Day 9: Port Canaveral, Florida
The Bahamas
Cast off from Galveston, Miami or Port Canaveral to sun-drenched destinations designed for relaxation and fun—including Disney Castaway Cay, our private island paradise.
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/10, 12/17, 12/31
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/5
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/11
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/3, 12/24
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 12/26
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/31
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/1, 12/27
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/15, 11/22, 11/29, 12/6, 12/20
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/8
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 11/18, 12/2
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/13
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 12/16
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 5: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 5-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral with 2 Stops at Disney Castaway Cay: 11/6
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Disney Castaway Cay Day 6: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 11/13, 12/6
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Key West, Florida Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 6: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 11/27
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: Key West, Florida Day 6: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Wonder 6-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Galveston: 11/23, 12/7
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Key West, Florida Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Galveston, Texas
2021 Disney Wonder 6-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston: 12/31
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Key West, Florida Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Galveston, Texas
Baja
Unwind on a short or long escape to the stunning Mexican beach towns of Ensenada and/or Cabo San Lucas. Each location offers countless activities for thrill seekers and nature lovers alike.
2021 Disney Wonder 3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Baja Cruise from San Diego: 10/8, 10/15
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: Ensenada, Mexico Day 3: At Sea Day 4: San Diego, California
2021 Disney Wonder 4-Night Halloween on the High Seas Baja Cruise from San Diego: 10/11, 10/18, 10/27
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Day 4: At Sea Day 5: San Diego, California
2021 Disney Wonder 5-Night Halloween on the High Seas Baja Cruise from San Diego 10/22, 10/31
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Ensenada, Mexico Day 6: San Diego, California
Mexican Riviera
This leisurely week-long sailing provides the perfect way to experience the culture, cuisine and recreational activities of 3 coastal destinations along Western Mexico—and the first-rate entertainment and amenities aboard your cruise ship.
2021 Disney Wonder Halloween on the High Seas Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego: 10/1
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Day 4: Mazatlán, Mexico Day 5: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Day 6: At Sea Day 7: At Sea Day 8: San Diego, California
Bermuda
Soak up the sights of the Big Apple before commencing your tropical adventure at King’s Wharf—home to the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, the Royal Naval Dockyard and Crystal & Fantasy Caves.
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bermuda Cruise from New York: 9/29, 10/4, 10/9, 10/14, 10/19
Day 1: New York, New York Day 2: At Sea Day 3: King’s Wharf, Bermuda Day 4: King’s Wharf, Bermuda Day 5: At Sea Day 6: New York, New York
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bermuda Cruise from New York ending in San Juan: 10/30
Day 1: New York, New York Day 2: At Sea Day 3: King’s Wharf, Bermuda Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Tortola, British Virgin Islands Day 6: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Canada
Sail roundtrip from New York on a 6-night cruise that will bring you to the beautiful seaside cities of Halifax (Nova Scotia) and Saint John (New Brunswick), Canada during the most vibrant time of year.
2021 Disney Magic 6-Night Halloween on the High Seas Canada Cruise from New York: 10/24
Day 1: New York, New York Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Saint John (New Brunswick), Canada Day 4: Halifax (Nova Scotia), Canada Day 5: Bar Harbor, Maine Day 6: At Sea Day 7: New York, New York
Pacific Coast
Cross 2 bustling metropolis cities off your list during this 4-night cruise to San Diego, a locale famous for its historic Gaslamp Quarter, laid-back beaches and 1,800-acre zoo.
2021 Disney Wonder 4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from Vancouver to San Diego: 9/27
Day 1: Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada Day 2: Victoria (British Columbia), Canada Day 3: At Sea Day 4: At Sea Day 5: San Diego, California
Transatlantic
Jump-start your 11-night journey in Dover, England before traveling on to scenic Bilbao and La Coruña in Spain, and sun-swept King’s Wharf in Bermuda.
2021 Disney Magic 11-Night Westbound Transatlantic Cruise from Dover ending in New York: 9/18
Day 1: Dover, England Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Bilbao, Spain Day 4: La Coruña, Spain Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: At Sea Day 8: At Sea Day 9: At Sea Day 10: King’s Wharf, Bermuda Day 11: At Sea Day 12: New York, New York
Panama Canal
Embark on an incredible expedition from San Diego to Galveston on a 14-night cruise through the Panama Canal. You’ll visit beautiful beaches in Mexico, Grand Cayman and Colombia.
2021 Disney Wonder 14-Night Very Merrytime Eastbound Panama Canal Cruise from San Diego to Galveston: 11/5
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Day 4: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: At Sea Day 8: At Sea Day 9: Panama Canal Day 10: Cartagena, Colombia Day 11: At Sea Day 12: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 13: Cozumel, Mexico Day 14: At Sea Day 15: Galveston, Texas
Are you planning a fall 2021 Disney Cruise Line vacation? Where would you like to visit?
We also have an exclusive offer just for our readers! If you book a fall 2021 Disney cruise with us by Friday, August 7, 2020, you will receive your choice of an onboard credit or in-room gift!
11 Tips for Visiting Universal Orlando Resort This Summer
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
The parks, hotels, and CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort are open and starting to welcome guests back. Things may look a little different in the parks from your last visit with new operational guidelines, but it’s still the same Universal that you know and love. You will find fun, new ways to experience the parks. The rides are just as thrilling, the pools just as relaxing, the characters just as entertaining, and the food just as good. Here are 11 tips for visiting Universal Orlando Resort this summer, including how to make your visit easier and more convenient.
1. Download and Use the Universal Orlando Resort App
Photo; Universal Orlando Resort
Take a minute (if you haven’t already) to download the Universal Orlando Resort app. It will help you navigate around the crowds, trim down your time waiting in queues, minimize physical interactions, and so much more! Here are the top features of the Universal Orlando Resort app:
Virtual Line experience for attractions
Mobile food and drink ordering for select restaurants
Interactive park map
Virtual wallet where you can purchase and house your park tickets, Express passes, and also set up your TapuTapu for your visit to Volcano Bay
Wait time alerts that you can set for when the times drop
Download it for FREE from the App Store and Google Play. Data and other charges may apply; check with your wireless provider’s rate plan for details.
2. Avoid Crowds with the Virtual Line Experience
Want to avoid crowds AND get a place in line faster on your favorite rides? The Virtual Line experience is the answer and it’s now available for even more attractions than before. You can access it via the app under “Virtual Line Experience” in the menu or per attraction on the interactive map. You then select your “Return Time”, show up, and ride. It’s that easy! The Virtual Line experience for attractions open throughout the day, so make sure to check the app often to see what is available. And while you’re waiting, you have free time to experience other rides, shows, or grab a bite to eat. Heads up, you have to be in-park to access the Virtual Line experience feature on the app.
3. Order Your Food Ahead of Time with Mobile Order
If you haven’t tried mobile order, prepare to have your theme park life changed. When your stomach is rumbling, jump on the app and select “Order Food and Drinks” from the menu. Then you select the venue and order your food. You can either do this for a quick pick-up and go, or for a quick-service restaurant where you will be seated in a special section for mobile orders.
This is always one of my top recommendations for visiting the parks. Do your research and create a must-do list with all of the attractions, shops, shows, etc. you definitely want to do. Planning out where to start and using the app to navigate wait times and the Virtual Line experience will help you to do everything you are looking to do during your visit.
5. Get a More Personalized Experience With Social Distancing
Social distancing may slow down the queue for wait times temporarily, but it may make the rides and show elements even more special. For example, not having people right next to you in the queue may actually allow you to enjoy better conversations with your party as you wait. The spaced seating on the ride vehicle makes it feel like you have the ride to yourselves. Smaller groups and spaced standing through Poseidon’s Fury allows for a more intimate show. And having more space around character meet and greets allowed for no unexpected-guest photobombs in the background.
6. Take a Break in the U-Rest Areas
In addition to planning out what you want to do, make sure to slot in time to take breaks. There are new U-Rest areas sprinkled throughout the parks and CityWalk, where you can recharge with a drink or snack with your face covering off. You can find them in the following locations:
The Eighth Voyage of Sindbad Stunt Show Theater in Lost Continent (the show is no longer available)
7. Take All the Photos!
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
One thing you may find yourself doing more than usual at the parks is taking an exponentially large amount of photos. We’ve all missed the parks so much, and you’ll probably want to capture it all and share it with friends and family. Plus, it is pretty fun to take pictures in this new social distancing world. With more time saved with the Virtual Line experience and plenty of people-free space around you, you can capture some really great memories!
8. Early Park Admission Means More Time and Fewer Crowds
A huge benefit of staying at one of Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels is Early Park Admission into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This magical experience holds even more meaning and value today. Here’s what it is: if you stay at one of Universal’s hotels, you get exclusive access to the parks one hour before normal guest park hours with little to no crowds. Um, sign me up. Plus, when staying at the hotels, you don’t have to go through the check-in process at the entrance of CityWalk. You get a special wristband that shows you already had your temperature check and can go directly to the parks.
I don’t know about you but I’m craving a relaxing day at the beach, but preferably with minimal crowds of people right next to me. Look no further than Universal’s Volcano Bay. They have the same new and helpful operational guidelines in place at the water theme park. Now, you may be asking yourself, “How do they expect us to wear face masks at Volcano Bay?” Good question, because I had the same one. I discovered you don’t have to wear a mask while you’re in the pools, slides, or eating/drinking. However, they should be worn when not doing these activities. Catch me poolside this summer with a Waturi Fusion ice cream and working on that stylish new trend of face-covering tan lines.
10. New Guidelines Aren’t the Only Things That Are New
The parks may have been closed for a couple of months, but select Team Members have been hard at work creating new experiences for you to come back to. There are new “Love is Universal” and anniversary merchandise to snatch up (have you seen the themed face masks!?); new food and beverage offerings that will be rolled out soon (there’s a new anniversary Voodoo Doughnut!?); and even new entertainment attractions with The Bourne Stuntacular and the new Raptor Encounter (the baby raptor Sierra is the cutest, am I right!?).
11. Here’s What to Bring
With my many years of going to theme parks, I’ve tried to perfect the essentials on what to bring. Now, with our current situation and operational guidelines, I found myself faced with a new challenge: what all to bring along to minimize physical contact but still have everything I need for a comfortable visit. Here are my recommendations:
Aface covering with a light and breathable fabric. This isn’t just my recommendation, it’s a requirement when visiting the parks, CityWalk, and hotels. Major kudos to those with fun themes and designs. You’ll look awesome as you’re rocking out on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit (yes, they’re required to be worn on rides, too). The good news is if you forgot your face covering, you can ask a Team Member for a replacement.
Your own personal hand sanitizer on a keychain. There are also hand sanitizer stations when you first enter through CityWalk, when you’re about to board a ride, and at restaurant entrances.
This has always remained true, but bring water to stay hydrated! You may find yourself being especially thirsty when wearing your face covering, so make sure to bring a water bottle with you.
Bring a small bag or carry a lanyard for your belongings. You’re still going to need to put items in lockers for certain attractions that require them. Team Members check the locker queues for social distancing and regularly clean them, but try to only bring the essentials if you want to minimize using them and save time.
Are you planning to visit Universal Orlando Resort this summer? We hope you enjoy these tips for visiting Universal Orlando Resort this summer!
2020 hasn’t quite turned out how many of us had planned, but 2021 should be a pretty magical year at the Walt Disney World Resort. From the 50th anniversary of Magic Kingdom in October to experiences being able to return to normal, it will be a great time to enjoy the magic in the parks. Here are five additional reasons you may want to book your 2021 Disney World vacation as soon as possible.
Park Pass Reservations
Disney’s new park pass system is currently in place through September 26, 2021. If there are any restrictions on theme park capacity, this system will be used for crowd control. You will need a theme park reservation to be allowed entry into the parks. Valid theme park admission is required in order to make these new park pass reservations.
You do not have to have your vacation package paid in full to make these park pass reservations. As long as you have applied your $200 deposit, you can make your park pass reservations equivalent to the number of days of park tickets in your vacation package.
Availability
As soon as you book your 2021 Disney World vacation, your availability (and price) and guaranteed. You don’t have to worry about your preferred resort and/or room category selling out.
We are already seeing limited availability for 2021. Between all of the guests who were affected by the park closure this year and those who were already planning for 2021, rooms are limited. Since select Walt Disney World Resort hotels (All Star Resorts, Port Orleans Resorts, etc.) have not announced their re-opening dates yet, Disney currently has more limited availability than normally would otherwise, as well.
Pricing
You also guarantee your pricing as soon as you have paid your $200 deposit to book your 2021 Disney World vacation. If Disney raises ticket prices or hotel rates, you won’t be affected! It doesn’t matter if your vacation is paid in full or just has the minimum $200 deposit applied.
Worried about discounts? You won’t miss out on any future special offers either. Discounts can be applied to your reservation, as long as there is availability, anytime after you are booked. If you book with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, we automatically take care of this for you! It’s just one of the many FREE services included when you book your vacation through us.
Payment Plan
You can book a Disney World vacation package with just a $200 deposit. The remaining balance isn’t due until 30 days prior to arrival so you have plenty of time to pay off your balance.
You can create a payment plan to make weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly payments that best fit your financial situation. If you receive a bonus at work or have a tax refund, you can always make a larger payment towards your balance, as well.
Disney has an amazingly flexible change and cancellation policy. You can make any changes that you’d like to your package, without any type of penalty or change fee, up to 30 days prior to arrival. Would you like to change your travel dates as we get closer? Waiting for the All Star’s or Port Orleans Resorts to open? Hoping to add a Disney dining plan? Need to change your park tickets? No problem! You can do any of that and more quickly and easily while keeping your deposit in tact.
If for any reason, you aren’t able to travel, you can also cancel up to 30 days prior to arrival for a full refund. Just remember, refunds are given back to the original method of payment. So, if you’re paying with Disney gift cards, just be sure to hang onto them!
Are you ready to book your 2021 Disney World vacation now? We’d love to help you plan a magical and memorable vacation at no additional cost to you. Take advantage of our free services by calling (734) 771-1290 or emailing siera@destinationsinflorida.com today!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. We may make a small commission from purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!
Get ready to sip, savor, and stroll across six continents at the 2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival! It’s time to celebrate the best in global food and drink at EPCOT’s longest festival ever!
This year’s festival will be understandably different from what it was in the past. What has not changed is the chefs’ focus on authenticity through ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentation to honor the diverse global cuisines. And the beverage team has, once again, thoughtfully paired wine and beer with selections at each marketplace for the perfect sip.
New this year, a digital Festival Guidebook is available on the My Disney Experience mobile app! Check out the listing of the more than 20 festival-exclusive marketplaces and discover all the family fun activities like the return of Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak scavenger hunt; entertainment including the merry Mariachi Cobre and the rhythmic JAMMitors crew; plus, a peek at the limited-edition 25th anniversary merchandise for purchase. Download the app today to learn more.
Although pools and water parks are a great way for little ones to stay cool at the Walt Disney World Resort. Sometimes, you just need to take a break at one of the kids’ water play areas at Disney World. These charming areas offer slides, water spouts, fountains and spillover buckets that often reflect a fun theme inspired by a Disney film or resort.
Here are just five of our favorite water play areas at Disney World:
Casey Jr.’s Splash N Soak Station at Magic Kingdom Park – The Casey Jr. train from “Dumbo” has pulled into town and its animal passengers are ready to cool off. Here, kids can take a break from the heat and get squirted by elephant trunks and other circus animals.
“Alice In Wonderland” Water Play Area at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – One of the newer kids water play areas, this “Alice In Wonderland”-themed area debuted at the resort last fall. Here, water overflows from teacups and the Mad Hatter’s hat. Kids can also enjoy small water slides or squirt one another with small water hoses.
Uwanja Camp at Samawati Springs Pool, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village – This water play area is themed after an animal observation site and offers a chance to cool off with leaky buckets, water cannons, a slide and more.
Shipwreck at the Fuentes del Morro Pool, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort – This shipwreck-themed splash area lets kids have fun on a “sinking” ship that’s complete with mini slides, leaky sails, buckets, and a crow’s nest.
Luna Park Pool, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn – The carnival-themed Luna Park Pool offers the Keister Coaster water slide, and a chance for kids to cool off under the spouting trunks of grinning elephant statues. Children can even splash about in their own kiddie pool.
UPDATE: As of Friday July 24, 2020, Halloween Horror Nights has been cancelled for 2020. We can start looking forward to the return of the event in 2021, better than ever!
Halloween Horror Nights 2020, the World’s Premier Halloween Event, will return to Universal Orlando Resort on select nights from September 10 through November 1, 2020. Now in its 30th terrifying year, Halloween Horror Nights 2020 brings together monstrous haunted houses, sinister scare zones and outrageous live entertainment. Halloween Horror Nights 2020 will take place select nights September 10-November 1, 2020 at Universal Studios Florida. Advance purchase is required.
Halloween Horror Nights 2020 offers haunted houses, scare zones, exclusive merchandise, and so much more!
Haunted Houses: Make your way through terrifying haunted houses inspired by the biggest names in horror, plus Universal’s own twisted creations.
Scare Zones: Scareactors will prowl the streets of Universal Studios Florida which will be transformed into pulse-pounding scare zones.
Entertainment: Catch outrageous live entertainment that will have you crying out for more.
Attractions: Experience some of the park’s most exciting rides and attractions which will be open during the event.
Merchandise: Wear your terror with themed merchandise available online and at the event. You’ll be able to shop for hats, shirts, hoodies, mugs and more.
Food and Drinks: Feed your fear at select dining locations, some featuring food themed to this year’s haunted houses and specialty drinks concocted just for the event.
Image: Universal Orlando Resort
Halloween Horror Nights 2020 Vacation Package
You can book a Halloween Horror Nights vacation package to purchase your hotel accommodations, park tickets, and event ticket altogether. Plus, when you book by July 22, 2020, you’ll receive a second event night FREE. Package includes:
4-Night Hotel Accommodations
3-Park 4-Day Park-to-Park Promotional Ticket to Universal Studios Florida AND Universal’s Islands of Adventure AND Universal’s Volcano Bay (Valid for bookings Now – 8/13/20 and travel 9/10/20 – 11/1/20)
2020 Halloween Horror Nights Flex Plus 1 Night Free Promotional Ticket (Valid for bookings Now – 7/22/20 and for use on any 2 nights 9/10/20 – 11/1/20 (Blockout Dates Apply))
Early Park Admission to one (1) Universal Orlando theme park as determined by Universal Orlando one hour before the parks open (valid theme park admission required; select attractions)
Access to select live entertainment venues at Universal CityWalk
Starting prices at Universal Orlando Resort Hotels are based on Sunday–Thursday travel Sept. 10–24, 2020.
ENHANCE THE HORROR
You can be among the first to book one of these killer tours when you purchase a Halloween Horror Nights Hotel & Ticket package.
Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour: Lights-on VIP tour
R.I.P. Tour: Nighttime VIP tour
Warning: This event may be too intense for young children and is not recommend for children under the age of 13.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission for purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!
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Image: ShopDisney
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The Bourne Stuntacular in Universal Studios Florida delivers a hybrid form of entertainment that has never been seen before. Here are all the details about the all-new live-action stunt show.
You’ll Be Surrounded By Your Favorite Scenes AND Actual Props From The Bourne Films
As you walk into the queue of the attraction, one of the first things you will see are images of your favorite scenes from “The Bourne Identity,” “The Bourne Supremacy,” and “The Bourne Ultimatum.” You will also see Jason’s go-to form of transportation in “The Bourne Ultimatum” — his motorcycle.
Experience An Original Storyline That Takes Place Within The Bourne Universe
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
You’ll pass through security scanners into mission headquarters where you’ll be welcomed and briefed by Nicky Parsons (Julia Stiles), Jason Bourne’s main confidant who helps him remember his past. Nicky, who can’t be in the field, will ask for your help tracking Bourne to ensure he does not get fooled by rogue double agents.
Then, as you enter the theater, you’ll join Jason Bourne as he travels across three continents and the cities of Tangier, Washington D.C. and Dubai, to uncover classified information all while trying to evade capture at every turn.
Extreme Stunts = Extreme Action
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
The stunts in The Bourne Stuntacular are next-level and here are a few reasons why:
The principal stunt trainers have doubled for A-list celebrities in some of the most popular action films and TV shows of all time. They have been working closely with the cast to deliver stunts that rival what can be seen in blockbuster films.
By the time the show opens, the performers and technicians will have trained and rehearsed for more than eight months to prepare and learn the intricate technical systems and maneuvers.
Two high free-falls – one reaching 22 feet from atop a Dubai apartment building.
There is as much action behind-the-curtain as there is on stage, with performers interacting with high-tech props beneath the stage on lifts, from the sides on automated traveling scenery like an apartment high-rise, and from overhead on a helicopter, a wrecking ball, ladders, and much more. It got to the point where I realized I kept turning my head in every direction just to keep up with the movements.
Without giving away too many spoilers, there is a scene where the character of Jason Bourne is being chased on a motorcycle when suddenly both the screen and Bourne go from normal speed to slow motion.
Cutting-Edge Technology You Have to See to Believe
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
The Bourne Stuntacular features some of the most advanced technology of its kind, like automated vehicle-tracking-systems, pinpoint-accurate projection mapping, and more. Fun-facts about the tech:
There is an immense LED screen measuring 3,640-square feet at 130-feet wide and 28-feet tall. This is code for one really, really, really BIG screen.
Advanced projection mapping works seamlessly alongside the cinema of the show, projecting pin-point accurate images on top of moving scenes.
One of the largest action show structures ever created for a Universal show – the car lift – sits beneath the stage and measures nearly 20 feet tall. The lift is capable of lifting and rotating two vehicles 280-degrees and raising and lowering each car independently from seven feet beneath the stage to above stage level. Putting this into perspective, when I watched the show the first time I had no idea there was anything beneath the stage, let alone two cars and a 20-foot wide structure that they operate on. All I saw were two cars suddenly racing, which left me wondering, “how did those get on stage?!”
You Won’t Just Watch The Action Unfold – You Will Feel It
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
Rounding out the experience are captivating practical effects that will make you feel like you’re right by Jason Bourne’s side through the use of fire, smoke, wind and more, including:
Eight moving set-pieces ranging from a three-wheeled motorcycle, a tower in a Tangier marketplace, and the front entrance of a grand mansion.
Gusts of wind as a helicopter travels overhead, the blast of a steam boiler, and several other explosions, including flames reaching a height of 20 feet.
Plus, Universal’s Entertainment and Creative Teams have been working hand-in-hand with the filmmakers and producers that worked on the Bourne film franchise to create an authentic and action-packed experience that will fully immerse you in the world of Bourne.
Let us know in the comments below what you’re most pumped to see at The Bourne Stuntacular at Universal Orlando Resort. The chase is on!
