Tag Archives: Italy

Top 5 Adventures by Disney Itineraries for Chocolate Lovers

Ahh, the sweet taste of chocolate. From milk, to dark, and even 92%, these tasty morsels are always a delight to give – and receive, aren’t they? Adventures by Disney leads guests to exciting destinations around the world, and today we’re highlighting the top 5 Adventures by Disney itineraries for chocolate lovers which include chocolate making and tasting. On these trips, guests will learn about cacao, cocoa, beans, butter and bars.  

Let’s explore the top 5 Adventures by Disney itineraries for chocolate lovers.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica –This Central America paradise is nature at its finest, chocolate included. The beauty of the coastline, mountains, exotic wildlife, rainforest and “Pura Vida” lifestyle sets the stage for an incredible family vacation. And while in the rainforest, guests will see where chocolate is sourced and learn how it transforms from bean to treat. Chocolate making is a fascinating and detailed process. Did you know it’s made from the fruit of cacao trees? The beans from each pod are dried and roasted to create cocoa beans. Check out this Adventure Moment in Costa Rica and the Rainforest Chocolate Tour.

Italy & Switzerland

Italy & Switzerland – An authentic Swiss chocolate adventure is a highlight of this itinerary. Guests will begin their trip in Milan and embark on a breathtaking journey across Northern Italy and Switzerland, a country synonymous with chocolate. Activities include standing in the shadows of the Matterhorn, cruising across Lake Como, visiting the historical Palazzo Borromeo and its scenic baroque gardens, plus a train ride and zip-lining leading up to the chocolate tasting.

England & France

England & France – A tour of the Musée du Chocolat (Chocolate Museum) c’est délicieux! On this trip, not only will guests visit the Royal Crown Jewels, take a speedboat ride along the Thames River, enjoy a tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral, and walk the grounds of Windsor Castle, but following lunch at the Eiffel Tower they will meet a professional chocolatier and make their own chocolate. 

Rhine River Cruise

Rhine River Cruise – Beautiful European sights, and chocolate await guests on this delightful river cruise to Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Visits to the Rembrandt House Museum, the Van Gogh Museum or a walking tour of Heidelberg and the Heidelberg Castle offer inspiration from some of history’s greatest artists and architects, plus the landscape and architecture is spectacular. But let’s talk chocolate. At the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany guests will not only taste amazing chocolate, but will create their own chocolate bar!

The Rhine River Cruise: Christmas Markets itinerary adds the beauty of the season and the festive spirit of the holidays, and is fun for the entire family. Chocolate included, of course, at the Chocolate Museum.

For even more epicurean adventures, the adult-exclusive Rhine River Cruise: Food & Wine offers culinary delights around every corner, including the Chocolate Museum experience.  

Seine River Cruise

Seine River Cruise – This river cruise through France is stunning and includes sampling some of the region’s finest chocolate and cheese. Entertainment and activities, and optional bike rides, will fill the days, including a walking tour of Rouen where you’ll walk in the footsteps of Vikings and Joan of Arc. 

Which one of these Adventures by Disney itineraries for chocolate lovers would you most like to experience?

Schedule a complimentary consultation with me today so we can work some magic for you and your sweetheart to look forward to one of these Adventures by Disney itineraries for chocolate lovers.

Oh, and one more thing… Are you team milk or dark chocolate? Don’t forget to tell us in the comments below. I’ll go first. Team milk chocolate.  

Explore the Beauty and Culture of Italy with Disney Cruise Line

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

This summer, Disney Cruise Line is once again giving families the chance to explore incredible destinations around the world. Their grand tour of Europe begins in the Mediterranean, followed by cruises to northern Europe, Norway and Iceland. Here are highlights of the amazing destinations that you can explore in Italy with Disney Cruise Line:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Rome
For the first time in 2018, Disney cruisers can experience the inspiring history of Rome on a cruise that begins or ends in The Eternal City, offering more time to explore before or after the cruise. In Rome, which is also a destination during most of our Mediterranean cruises, families can explore the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Vatican. Don’t miss your chance to sample authentic Italian cuisine!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Milan
Also for the first time in 2018, Disney Cruise Line will call on Genoa, Italy, a gateway to the beautiful metropolis of Milan. As a global capital of fashion and design, Milan features top-name designer stores, boutiques, open-air markets and art galleries. You may want to bring an empty suitcase on the cruise to bring home your new belongings after a shopping excursion in Milan!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Florence
The Renaissance city of Livorno, situated along Tuscany’s western coast, is your gateway to Florence where you can explore the Piazza della Signoria, Santa Croce Square and the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge. For a firsthand look at Michelangelo’s David, make plans to visit the Accademia Museum.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Pisa
Livorno is also a short trip to Pisa, home to one of the world’s most famous monuments. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of many works of art and architecture in the city’s Square of Miracles (Piazza dei Miracoli). Of course you’ll want to take a photograph of yourself holding up the tower!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Naples
The age-old city of Naples is dotted with Medieval, Baroque and Renaissance-era churches and castles, plus a plethora of historical museums. It’s among the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, located nearby the ancient Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Naples is also recognized as the birth place of pizza, so be sure to grab a slice!

Would you like to explore Italy with Disney Cruise Line this summer? It’s not too late to book your vacation!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise 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. 

Port Excursions in Sicily with Disney Cruise Line

sicily

With the release of the 2015 Disney Cruise Line itineraries, there are many exciting new destinations that Disney Cruise Line will be sailing to! Along with these new destinations comes unique new port excursions as well. Check out the new port excursions in Sicily, available exclusively with Disney Cruise Line!

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and happens to be home to Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe. Beginning this year, Disney Cruise Line will stop in Catania, Sicily. This will be the gateway for guests to explore the island’s ancient churches, beautiful palazzos, lush gardens, magnificent beaches and Mount Etna.

Here is a little more information on the port excursions in Sicily, available with Disney Cruise Line:

  • Mount Etna Summit – Adventurous and active families will love the chance to summit to the top of Mount Etna. The excursion will start with a drive through the beautiful countryside and villages built along the slopes and then followed by a cable car ride further up the volcano. From there you’ll be taken by alpine guides in special motor vehicles, designed to navigate the “lunar“ landscape of black dunes, to the highest point available for visitation, just below the summit. At more than 8,800 feet above sea level, you can walk around, observe possible steam/gases, and learn about the volcanic system apparatus and lava flows.
  • Cooking Lesson at a Sicilian Home – One of the best ways to understand and immerse yourself in a culture is to learn from the locals! On this excursion, you will actually get to go into the home of a local for a hands-on cooking demonstration where you will learn how to prepare delicious Sicilian dishes and then enjoy your creations! This adventure, which takes place in one of the picturesque villages on the slopes of Mount Etna, is great for adults and older teens who love cooking (and eating!). There is also another adventure called “Sicilian Cooking for Families” for families with younger children.
  • Sicilian Puppets for Families – After a visit to a Puppet Lab to see how the famous Sicilian puppets are built, your family will learn the history of this folkloric art and then enjoy part of a show at the Puppet Museum. Adding to the cultural experience, you will hear the beautifully articulated, theater-style presentation in Italian while your English-speaking guide gives a synopsis of the intricate moves of the onstage scene.

Which one of these port excursions in Sicily would you most like to experience?

Siera is a Disney travel specialist. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information. 

Disney Cruise Line Will Add New Itineraries and Ports in 2014

In 2014, Disney Cruise Line will add new itineraries and ports, including an expanded collection of European cruises highlighting the Greek Isles. Plus, Disney Cruise Line will depart for the first time from home ports in Venice, Italy, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

 

Mediterranean from Venice and Barcelona

  • Departures from May 31 – Aug. 30, 2014
  • Disney Magic® returns to the Mediterranean with exciting new ports and popular destinations, treating your Clients to the best of Europe.
  • For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will use Venice, Italy, as a homeport for select sailings. During these cruises, the ship will overnight in Venice, giving your Clients the opportunity to experience an evening in the spectacular city.
  • Other new destinations include Katakolon, Rhodes, Heraklion (Crete), Santorini and Corfu, Greece, and Catania, Sicily.

 

Caribbean from San Juan

  • Departures from Sept. 20 – Oct. 11, 2014
  • Disney Cruise Line will homeport in San Juan for the first time in 2014, sailing four cruises to the Southern Caribbean, including Grenada – a new port of call for Disney.
  • Known as the “Spice Isle,” Grenada offers your Clients a lush and lively destination filled with spice estates, tropical gardens, beautiful beaches, thrilling diving, snorkeling, fishing and exploration through mountain landscapes and waterfalls.

 

Alaska from Vancouver

  • Departures from May 24 – Sept. 1, 2014
  • Disney Wonder® will sail 7-night cruises from Vancouver to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska. One special 9-night cruise calls on Sitka, Alaska – a first for Disney Cruise Line.

 

Disney Cruise Line will continue to offer a variety of sailings from Port Canaveral and Miami, Florida, in 2014. Most itineraries include a visit to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Email spreadingmagic@gmail.com today to book your Disney Cruise Line vacation!

2013 Tuscan Experience Tour with Sceptre Tours

Sceptre Tours is a great option for the best in unique custom luxury vacations to Italy!

Are you looking to go to Italy, but not sure you want to tackle a foreign county and foreign language on your own? Why don’t you consider a 2013 Tuscan Experience tour with Sceptre tours?

The Tuscan region of Italy is truly a celebration of the senses. Known for its scenic beauty, rich history, priceless art, culinary pleasures and fine wines, Tuscany reminds us that life is to be enjoyed. And there may be no better way to enjoy a visit to this region than with Sceptre Tours “Tuscan Experience,” a unique, yet affordable escorted tour ideal for small or large groups. In fact, because all departures are guaranteed, there’s no risk of this tour being cancelled; even for groups as small as 2! Guests traveling on the Tuscan Experience Tour will be reminded of just how beautiful life can be when they allow their senses to be heightened by the tastes, aromas, beauty and laughter that await them on this magnificent adventure. Guests on the Tuscan Experience will spend 5 nights at Villa Casagrande, a 14th century villa located in the heart of Pienza, and where each glorious day will begin. From wine tastings, Tuscan feasts, a 3-hour Tuscan cooking class and opportunities to sample some of the world’s finest hams, cheeses and salami, to strolls through ancient villages with their majestic squares, medieval and Renaissance architecture, cobblestone streets, beautiful fountains, and of course local artisans and shops, this itinerary delivers the full Tuscan experience. And because life is best enjoyed when we are rested, the itinerary was designed to allow you plenty of free time to spend as you wish- whether that means shopping, dining, strolling or enjoying an afternoon nap.

Would like more information on planning your 2013 Tuscan Experience tour? Contact me at spreadingmagic@gmail.com!

Kids Tour Free on 2013 European Shore Excursions with Royal Caribbean

Kids receive a complimentary 2013 European Shore Excursion when two adults in the same stateroom book the same excursion!

Through the month of May, you can book a European cruise and shore excursion and receive a complimentary shore
excursion for your kids 12 years of age and under. This offer is valid on sailings between May and November 2013
on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas ship, Brilliance of the Seas ship, and Serenade of the Seas ship.

Your reservations must be made at least 4 days prior to sailing to enjoy this fabulous offer.

Incredible scenery, medieval towns out of a fairy tale, ancient ruins and more – there’s something everyone can enjoy in Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s amazing European ports of call. Choose sailings from May through November 2013 on three great ships:
• Brilliance of the Seas: offering Scandinavia-Russia and Norwegian fjords itineraries from Harwich, England;
• Navigator of the Seas: Eastern Mediterranean itineraries from Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, and from Messina (Sicily), Italy.
• Serenade of the Seas: Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona, Spain.

Your kids will be wowed in more than one language!

Here is a list of the top 5 family tours for Europe:

  • Rome: Taste of Rome for Families
  • Salerno: Sorrento with Pizza Making for Families
  • Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik by Cable Car for Families
  • Gibraltar: Upper Rock Tour for Families
  • St. Petersburg: Paint Your Own Matryoshka Doll & Russian Tea Party for Families

This special offer ends May 31 so book today! You can get your free, no obligation quote at spreadingmagic@gmail.com!

Adventures by Disney Launches Tours Specifically for Multi-Generational Families

In 2013, Adventures by Disney encourages you to bring the whole family along on multi-generational departures to Italy, London/Paris and Ireland.

While all Adventures by Disney tours are designed for families, these specialized adventures are specifically tailored to support the needs of groups traveling with multiple generations.

Each departure features a professional photographer on-hand throughout the adventure to capture memory-making moments. And, you will experience the Disney Differences that Adventures by Disney is known for, including dedicated Adventure Guides, knowledgeable local experts, hands-on educational activities, VIP privileges, private ground transportation and extraordinary accommodations.

With all of the details planned in advance, it’s easy for grandparents and parents to relax and immerse themselves in the most valuable experience of all –quality time with their family.

Adventures by Disney presents three multi-generational departures, created with the whole family in mind:

The Emerald Isle

Aug. 13, 2013 – 8 Days/7 Nights

Dublin, Cashel, Killarney and Newmarket-on-Fergus

Families will feel like they have reached a pot of gold as they discover the treasures of Ireland with Adventures by Disney. With excursions through legendary castles and authentic Irish dancing lessons, one can’t help but embrace the luck of the Irish.

Cities of Knights and Lights

July 22, 2013 – 8 Days/7 Nights

London, Windsor, Stonehenge, Paris and Versailles

Your Clients will step into the stories of fairy tale characters and kings in two of the most magical cities in Europe. From Buckingham Palace to the Eiffel Tower, Westminster Abbey to the Notre Dame Cathedral, they will experience unforgettable sites through hands-on experiences designed just for families.

Viva Italia

July 18, 2013 – 9 Days/8 Nights

Rome, Orvieto, Tuscany, Artimino, Florence and Venice

From exploring the masterpieces of Rome to pasta-making with an Italian chef and floating along the grand canals of Venice, you will experience the spirit of Italy from the moment they arrive.

 

Email spreadingmagic@gmail.com today for more information or to book your Adventures by Disney vacation!