Get in the Picture - Everyone!!!

Update as of 10/11/2023…. The pricing for Memory Maker has increased to $185 for advanced purchase and $210 if you don’t purchase at least 3 days prior to your trip.

One of the best things about Disney world is their Photo Pass system and Memory Maker.  Here I will explain what these things are and some tips to help you make the most of them.

Disney's PhotoPass Service is the system used to take your pictures in the theme parks, on certain attractions and at some Character Dining locations. Memory Maker allows you to download all of those photos and videos for one price. If you purchase Memory Maker, you will have the rights to use your photos in any way that you'd like, including printing them from any service that you choose. In addition, you will also get on-ride videos and animated Magic shots that are only available to Memory Maker purchasers. 

I love the pictures that are included when purchasing Memory Maker - the Magic Shots are some of my favorites!

I also love the in-ride photos.  My hair is awesome in this pic!  :)  The pics are captured automatically based on your MagicBands.

And I love that in our Disney pics - unlike most vacations - I'm actually in the picture!  On other trips, I usually have the camera because I love torturing my children by making them take a billion pictures (according to them).  It's nice to be able to have myself included for a change.  You also have the choice to download them with frames and stickers which is fun.

If you feel like you've already spent enough money just getting to Disney World and don't want to spend money on your photos, not to worry!  Every single PhotoPass Photographer I've encountered has taken pictures using my own camera or phone.  When I went on my solo trip a while back, I didn't think it was worth the money to just have pictures of me alone so I didn't purchase the Memory Maker.  But I had the photographers take my pics and I came home with a couple hundred pictures.  

My favorite is this one - when I handed the photographer my phone, he asked if I'd like some candid photos as I visited with Cinderella, rather than just the staged photos.  I said sure and then had a great belly laugh when I flipped through the pics later and saw his "candid" photo.

You also need to only purchase 1 Memory Maker per group if you are traveling with others.  Even if you are on a different reservations, as long as you are linked in My Disney Experience, all pics will be captured and can be downloaded.  I can help you when the time comes to make sure you've got it linked.

Stop and take pictures - always!!  Especially if you've paid for the Memory Maker, you'd be silly not to take advantage of every opportunity.  So when you see a photographer, stop!  Even if you're not buying the pics, have them take one with your camera.

When you get your pics made, ask the photographers if they do any Magic Shots.  Some will offer it and some won't tell you what they're doing - which is fun when you look at your pics later.  But some will just not mention it at all, so be sure and ask.  I think the photographers move locations often and they just don't think about the Magic Shots unless you ask.

Also, ask for some fun and different shots...  your backs as you look up at the castle, getting a kiss on the cheek from Mickey, anything you can think of to make your pics unique and truly a memory you will never forget.

You can save some money on Memory Maker by purchasing it in advance of your trip (at least 3 days in advance). As of this blog post, it costs $169.  If purchased at the parks, it's $199.  Also, be sure to note that your PhotoPass photos and videos expire 45 days from the date they are taken, so you will want to download them before they expire. 

Also, I don't work for Shutterfly or get any money for advertising for them, but they have a really cute Disney theme you can use and once you purchase Memory Maker, you are free to use them in a photo book.  I LOVE our books from our trips - and I catch the kids looking at them pretty often too.

Give me a call if you have any questions about these great services!  I'd love to book a trip for you and give you even more tips to increase the Magic!!

Help!! I've lost my child!!

Losing your child in the grocery store or other smallish area is terrifying.  Now imagine losing them at Disney World with a million people and acres of land.  Not a spot you want to be in.  I've got a few tips to help you avoid this disaster and information on what to do if it does occur.

Prepare ahead of time by purchasing ID tags that the kids can wear.  Especially for younger kids (and even older ones when they're stressed about being lost), this is important as they may not know their parents' full names or phone numbers.  I bought some for our boys that attached to their shoes and the info was written in permanent marker.  I put them on before the trip and we didn't have to worry about remembering it each morning or trying to keep them dry.  It worked out perfectly.  And with MagicBands now, I know a lot of people print their cell phone numbers inside of them.

Have your kids wear the same shirts if possible and wear bright or unique colors so they are easily spotted.  We had a minor scare during a parade when I lost sight of Andrew.  As I was frantically calling his name and spinning in circles, another guest pointed at my other two and said, "If he's dressed like those guys, he's behind that mailbox."  Sure enough, he had gotten scared from the noise of the parade and sat down to cover his ears.  I imagine I would have spotted him in another second but seconds are a lifetime when you're missing your child!

Consider the backpack leash.  I know, I know, most people are against them and I've never actually done it myself.  But the people who use them say their kids are happier since they aren't stuck holding a sweaty hand and feel like they have a little more freedom to roam.

When you first arrive at the parks, show them a Cast Member and have them pay attention to the fact that they are wearing a name tag.  If they get lost, they can ask a Cast Member for help.

Take a picture each morning on your phone of your kids before heading out.  That way, if they do get lost, you have a current picture including what they are wearing.  

Have a talk about staying together.  There's so much to see and do that there are times when it's a must to hold hands.  If they know going into the day that they may need to hold hands, you might avoid a meltdown when that time comes.

If you have older kids with phones, talk to them about a meeting spot if you get separated.  Sometimes phone batteries die or you just can't get reception.  Just don't pick Cinderella's Castle as your meeting spot.  Something that large makes it impossible to find someone.  Be specific - meet at the FastPass entrance to Peter Pan's Flight for instance.  Also consider downloading an App such as Find My Friends to keep track of older kids if they are exploring the park alone.

If you do happen to lose a child, don't panic.  Contact the first Cast Member you see.  As per usual Disney standards, they have procedures in place and will help you.  Just remind your child to stay put - no searching for you as you are probably going in circles.  And if they can't locate a Cast Member then have them ask a Mom with a child to help them get to a Cast Member.  

If you have other ideas to keep track of your kids, post them in the comments!!

Best Times of the Year to Visit Walt Disney World Resort

Now is the perfect time to decide on a date to visit Walt Disney World Resort in 2018.  Packages are available to book as of today!  The earlier you book, the better deal you will get.  And don’t forget - if a new special is offered that will reduce your cost, I will apply it automatically.  So booking early has tons of benefits and no risk!

Here are the best times to visit due to crowd, weather and what’s happening at the Parks.

Mid January through the beginning of March - except for President’s Day and the weekend following that due to the Princess Half Marathon weekend.  The weather in February is amazing and the crowds are super low.  

There are a couple of drawbacks to this time of year though.  If you are a family that likes to spend afternoons at the pool, it might be a little cool for that.  The pools themselves are heated but you may need to be in the water to not be a little chilly.  Also, the parks have shorter hours due to the lower crowds.  I feel like I get in many more attractions with smaller crowds though, so the shorter hours have never bothered me.  Most nights at least one park is open late so as long as you have a Park Hopper, you can still get the most bang for your buck.

End of August through September - except for Labor Day weekend.  This is a time when crowds are low.  But don’t expect brisk fall temperatures.  The heat is still blazing now and expect afternoon thunderstorms.  For you pool lovers, this might be a perfect time!  Disney does have amazing pools - I just can never drag myself away from the Parks to hang out there.  This is also a good time if your family is into the water parks.  Again, not for me or my family, but I know people love Disney’s water parks.  Also, Universal has a brand new water park at Volcano Bay which is definitely worth checking out.

October, November and December - except for the Holidays and the week leading up to them.  The weather is still warm but not sweltering, the crowds are low and the decorations are up.  You haven’t seen Christmas decorations until you’ve seen them at Disney.  The week after Thanksgiving is perfect and you’re good to go on crowds until about December 20th.  Why anyone would want to spend Christmas Day there is beyond me though - often the parks are at capacity on that day!

If these dates don’t work with your schedule, don’t worry!  I have been at times when the crowd level was highest and still had a great time.  You just have to be patient, plan ahead and take advantage of staying on site so that you can use extra hours and of course, I can help with that!  Let me know what dates you’re thinking about and I’ll get you a quote to give you an idea of cost.  I can’t wait to help you plan your Magical trip!!

What is this Magical Express You Keep Hearing About?

Magical Express is a complimentary service that Disney World provides to its guests that are staying on-site at a Disney hotel (except for the Swan, Dolphin and Shades of Green).  To some, it’s just transportation to the resort from the airport.  To me, it’s the first sign that I’m actually on my way to Disney World and of course fills me with happiness!

It’s funny how that same happiness can turn to sadness when I receive my notification of my Magical Express pickup time for the return trip to the airport.  I heard a friend call it the Tragical Express when it’s heading back to the airport and I totally agree.

Here are the things you need to know when you’re heading to Disney World via Magical Express.

First things first, even though it’s a free service, you do need a reservation.  So as soon as you know your flight times to and from Orlando, let me know and I’ll get you booked on Magical Express.  Also, this only runs from Orlando International so if you fly into a different airport, you’ll need other transportation.

A couple of weeks before your trip, you’ll receive your luggage tags in the mail.  You’ll get one tag per person but if you need more, just let me know.  These tags are Magical in their own way - once you tag your luggage and drop off at your departure airport, you won’t see your bags again until they are in your room!  No need to stop at baggage claim or drag them to the bus.  If you happen to have an arrival time after 10pm, you’ll need to collect the bags yourself.  But I’d call you crazy if you did that - go early and make the most of your day!

Don’t pack your MagicBands in your bags.  You’ll use them to board the Magical Express, get into your room and even the parks if you head out before your room is ready.

Once you arrive at the airport, just follow the signs towards the Magical Express area.  Trust me, you can’t miss it.

There are different lines for different resorts so just make sure you’re in the correct line. Wait time for the bus depends on when you arrived - we’ve waited as little as 5 minutes and as much as 30 minutes.

You'll then take around a 30 minute drive to the Disney World Resort area.  The buses stop at several resorts each so there’s a chance you may be the last stop.  In this case, plan on about an hour from the airport to your resort.  But no worries - you’ll be entertained the entire way with videos playing information about your upcoming great times at Disney World.

Once you arrive at your resort, the driver will unload your bags if you didn’t take advantage of the luggage tags.  If you did tag your bags then just hop off and start your fun!

The day before you leave, you’ll receive a notification under your room door giving you the time of your Tragical Express pickup.  It’s usually around 3 hours before your flight.  Don’t be late to the bus - it won’t wait for you!  You can leave your bags with bell services if you have a later flight and want to enjoy the parks a bit more before heading out.  Just leave enough time to retrieve them from bell services before your bus pickup time.

Some airlines allow you to do flight checkin and luggage check at your resort.  I’ll check into that if you’d like once you know your flight information.

Some FAQs

Child car seat - If you brought a car seat, you can store it under the bus but it can’t be used on the bus.

One way trips are allowed.

There is a bathroom on the bus.

Bad Behavior 101

There are some things people do that can make for a less than magical time for those around them.  Today's post takes a look at some of those bad behaviors and what we can all do to avoid them.

Pay attention when pushing strollers so that you don't ram them into the backs of others.

Don't take flash photos on dark rides - this ruins the ride for all others.

Throw your trash in the trash cans for crying out loud!  And if you have gum, don't toss it on the ground.

Follow directions!  And for kids that are too young to understand, you have to be paying attention to keep them safe.

Don't ignore and argue about height restrictions for rides.  If your child is too short, they shouldn't ride for safety reasons.

Don't just leave your stroller parked wherever you feel like.  There is designated parking and you'll come back to find yours has been moved if you left it somewhere else.

Don't feed and chase the wildlife!

There are a few places to get alcoholic beverages.  Know your limits and don't become that person that embarrasses yourself (and your family).

Stay off of your phone while on a ride. The light is annoying and distracting if you are trying to enjoy the haunted mansion or any dark ride.

Complaining loudly and rudely to cast members will get you nowhere fast.  If there's truly a problem they can help you with, they will.

Dress appropriately for a family park - no shirt, no shoes, no service!

No smoking in non-smoking areas.

Basically, be kind and considerate of others - always!

Shhh… You Didn’t Hear This from Me, But…

There are tons of fun little-known facts and secrets from Disneyland and Walt Disney World.  Here are some of my favorites - enjoy!

In Disney World, no trash can will ever be more than 30 steps away from you.  It seems that Walt went to other parks when he was designing the park and counted how long a person would hold onto a piece of trash before dropping it on the ground.  He came up with 30 steps.

Small pipes shoot the trash through the utilidors under the Magic Kingdom at 60 mph.

He's widely known for being the voice of Tony the Tiger, but Thurl Ravencroft provided many other voices - the drunken pirate, the singing dog, and one of the minstrels in Pirates; Fritz in the Tiki Birds; Buff the buffalo head in Country Bear Jamboree; and you can hear -- and SEE -- Thurl as busted bust singing Grim Grinning Ghosts in The Haunted Mansion.

Sleeping Beauty castle at Disneyland has a working drawbridge.  It has only ever been lifted twice in its existence. The first time was on the park's opening day, and the second time was in the 1980s, when Fantasyland was being refurbished.

Check out the phones at Disney World - one in Tomorrowland under the Tomorrowland Transit Authority and one under the Astro Orbiter.  There's also one in the candy shop on Main Street.  Pick them up and listen to the interesting conversations.

Inside the Matterhorn at Disneyland, there is a quarter of a basketball court. Walt Disney did not like to waste any space, so he asked the Matterhorn climbers what they would like inside, and they voted for a basketball court! Later on, a ping pong table was added as well. Employees are allowed to take their breaks there and have some fun!

Noseeum green is a very specific color that Disney Imagineers created. All of the buildings and unattractive things such as trash cans are painted in this color so that they're less noticeable. Noseeum is supposed to be the most unobtrusive shade of the spectrum and is meant to disappear into the background.

The creepy organ music you hear in the stretching room of the Haunted Mansion is just “Grimm Grinning Ghosts” slowed way down.  You are hearing one song on the whole ride starting very slow and getting faster as the ride goes on.

While at Disney World before the nighttime castle fireworks, find the wire that goes from the top of the castle down to the restaurant rooftop on the right.  Sit under it during the show and TinkerBell will fly down that wire and right over the top of your heads!

Steve Martin started out selling guidebooks at Disneyland on the weekend. During his free time there, he would visit the Magic Shop. By August 1960, he was working in the Magic Shop showing off all of the tricks he had learned over the years.

At Hollywood Studio’s Muppet attraction if you go to the “ticket office” it says closed, but there’s a sign that says “Key Under the Mat.” If you lift the mat, there’s a key! Great photo op!

The large bell in Liberty Square at Disney World was made from the same mold as the actual Liberty Bell.

There is only one horse on Cinderella’s Carousel at Disney World that has a gold ribbon on its tail.  The Fairy Godmother claims that’s because it’s Cinderella’s favorite horse.

Disneyland allows feral cats to roam the park at night to keep the mouse population under control. There’s even feeding stations set up throughout the park to keep the kitties fed. The cats are all spayed/neutered, given regular shots, and taken well care of.

Disney World is huge. It covers 43 square miles. To put that into perspective, its about the size of the City of San Francisco. Or for those on the East Coast, its about the size of Manhattan – times two.  All 43 square miles were purchased for just $5 million dollars.

All Disneyland and Disney World attractions created since 1965 have been designed so that the human body cannot reach out and touch anything. To make sure of this, they use a special vehicle as a test. This is called the "Envelope of Protection" and ensures that even if you simply MUST throw your hands up with excitement on Thunder Mountain Railroad, you won't find your hand, moving up to 45 miles per hour, coming into contact with any part of the ride.  This played a role in the banning of Selfie Sticks in the parks, as they would extend beyond this safe and cozy envelope.

Gum isn’t sold anywhere on Disney World property. This saves Disney employees countless hours scraping it off of pathways, railings and tables.

There are often long lines to enter Animal Kingdom, especially at opening. To avoid them, head into the Rainforest Cafe entrance to the far left. From there, go through the gift shop and enter the park through this secret entrance.

The core of the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom is actually an off-shore oil rig, turned upside down. It was just the right shape and strength needed to support the tree.

One of the dramatic experiences of Kilimanjaro Safari at Animal Kingdom is driving past Pride Rock. There it’s common to see a lion or two perched on a picturesque ledge. To make this a recurring reality, the imagineers have piped chilled air through tiny holes on the ledge in order to entice the lions to hang around that perfect spot for a photo.

Likewise, food is hidden in trees, and behind hallowed out logs and rocks all along the path the safari vehicle takes. This encourages the otherwise shy animals to get up close and personal.

If the sign for Tower of Terror says there is a 13 minute wait – there is no wait.

The rear entrance of Epcot is located between France and United Kingdom. From there beautiful walkways take you to the Beach Club, Boardwalk and Swan and Dolphin resorts and then onto Hollywood Studios.

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin features a camel that spits water at passing park-goers. Many are fooled into thinking this electronic machine just has great aim.  But there is actually someone paid to sit nearby the camel and operate it. When the operator thinks they can hit passing guests they command the camel to spit.

When you venture to Tom Sawyer’s Island take a careful look through the attraction - if you see a paintbrush you want to grab it! Then, find the nearest park employee and hand over the paintbrush in order to receive free fast passes for one ride.

Strategically placed devices called “smellitizers” are dispersed throughout the parks and emit certain scents like the smell of cookies and vanilla on Main Street.

When walking through the line for Star Tours, listen for a robot paging “Egroeg Sacul“. Spell it backwards and you have George Lucas.

Walt Disney World’s original name was going to be Disneyworld, following after Disneyland. But after Walt died, his brother Roy decided it needed to be named after his brother. It’s been Walt Disney World ever since.

Whew!  You made it to the bottom of a long post!  You must be a Disney Super Fan.  Want to go check out the Magic for yourself?  Give me a call and I’ll hook you up with the great summer specials currently happening!

Disney World for Less than $2000 for a Family of Four? Yes!

The main reason that people tell me they aren't traveling to Disney World is the cost.  While I admit it can be pricey, you can make a couple of choices that will lower the cost.

It sounds great to stay in a Moderate or Deluxe resort (and I highly recommend you do if you're able!).  But if cost is stopping you, consider a Value resort.  They are still on Disney property so you don't lose any of the perks of that.  And Disney customer service is the highest standard no matter which resort you choose.  Cleanliness and safety are top-notch across the board.

Here is an example of affordability...  I pulled up a quote for the following:

•  A family of four - 2 adults and 2 kids, ages 4 and 6
• June 5 - June 10 (5 nights lodging)
• All-Star resort (Music, Sports or Movies)
• 4-day base Theme Park Ticket
• Complimentary Magical Express
• MagicBands
• My support and knowledge to enhance your experience

The cost of this family's trip would be $2333 at today's prices for everything listed above.  My family has taken a quick trip to Dallas or Kansas City that has set us back nearly that amount.  

I can't guarantee at the time that you wish to travel that there will be a special, but this price is not based on any of the current Disney specials.  It's the current standard rate for a summer vacation.

Another example using a current special that Disney is running is even less.  If your travel dates are in the Fall, you might be able to use this special (based on availability):

• A family of four - 2 adults and 2 kids, ages 4 and 6
• August 20 - August 25 (5 nights lodging)
• All-Star resort (Music, Sports or Movies)
• 4-day base Theme Park Ticket
• Complimentary Magical Express
• MagicBands
• My support and knowledge to enhance your experience

The cost of this vacation package is $1971 at today's prices!  

You can always upgrade to a Moderate or Deluxe resort, and depending on the special available, it may not be much more.  You can also spend a little more if you want a Park Hopper ticket, but if you don't plan to do more than one park per day, then the base ticket is a great deal.

Give me a call or shoot me an email.  I'd love to check prices for your situation!!

What Does Lack of Planning Cause? Just Ask Grumpy!

Don't let Grumpy take over by getting hungry, hot or flustered on your Disney trip due to lack of planning.  Even though you're in the Happiest Place on Earth, you're not a magical creature and humans do sometimes get Grumpy.  

There tend to be 5 main reasons why people turn into Grumpy:

• Hungry
• Thirsty
• Hot/Cold
• Tired
• Just Too Much

Hungry - This one seems like a no-brainer but it can definitely sneak up on you.  You're probably walking a lot more than normal and even if you're not typically a snacker, one might be a good idea since you're burning extra calories.  And it just takes one line that is a few minutes longer than you expect for you to eat lunch a little later than normal and that hungry monster rears its head.  

Keep snacks with you - Disney lets you bring in your own food!  Also, if there's a restaurant that you really want to eat in, be sure to let me know so I can get you reservations.  Hunger gets much worse when you walk up without reservations and hear that the standby line is longer than you expected.

Below is one of my favorite photo sequences.  The before shot is Luke having a complete meltdown at a dinner that we got to later than we expected.  The after shot is his happiness when the awesome Cast Member saw his meltdown and brought him dessert.

It didn't help that we all were laughing at the poor kid.  Seems cruel, I know, but you had to be there!!  Anyway, look how well he recovered at the sight of sugar.  I don't know what it is about the food and treats at Disney - sugar rush, sheer deliciousness or a secret ingredient which is Disney Magic but we always feel better after eating.

Thirsty - Again, should be obvious but still sneaks up.  Especially in the hotter months, you can become dehydrated quickly.  Water, water, water should always be on your mind.  We always take in our own bottles of water which Disney also allows!  This way we can throw them all in our backpack if we hop on a ride and don't have to worry about a cup spilling.  Disney does offer free water at Quick Service locations but it's in the form of a small cup and you have to stand in line.   And if you're like me and have a teeny, tiny addiction to caffeine, be sure and keep your levels up!  A caffeine headache is magnified in crowds it seems.  Take advantage of another freebie Disney offers by heading over to Club Cool at Epcot where you can try lots of Coke products (for Free!) from around the world.  Be sure and try the Beverly.  It's yummy.  Honest.

Hot/Cold - I know you're probably laughing at "cold" but I've been in February without a great jacket and got chilly.  Pretty much anytime the temperature isn't perfect, I can get Grumpy.  So plan ahead and do what you need to be comfortable.  I have no problem carrying a light jacket in my backpack just in case.  And to beat the heat, take advantage of any air conditioning you can.  Many, many rides have indoor queues with A/C.  If you find yourself getting too warm, take a break inside a store or sit down in the shade with Dole Whip!

Tired - I personally don't get tired at Disney.  Yeah, yeah, you don't believe me but I don't!  My family on the other hand...  Let's just say they claim going at my pace makes them need a vacation when we get home.  If you're the same way, take breaks.  Go back to the resort and swim, nap or whatever else recharges you.  Scheduling a couple of sit-down table service dining reservations can help with a small break without leaving the parks.  If you have a stroller (which you should!) then smaller kids can nap while you're on the move.  Older ones may need to head back to the resort for a bit to get to a quiet spot.  This is when staying on property is such a good idea. 

Just Too Much - What?  Not for me.  But for others, maybe.  Some people just get sensory overload and need a break whether they're tired or not.  Could be you just need to get to a quieter section of the park.  Could be you just need to get away from the sounds and excitement of the parades or fireworks.  Trust me, you can force your kids to watch the fireworks while they scream and cry or you can skip it that night and have a much more peaceful evening.  

Whatever your family needs, try to stay ahead of it.  If you know that your kid's Grumpy trigger is hunger, for heaven's sake, carry some snacks!  If you know you'll have one that needs a nap, schedule it in.

I can help you plan for whatever you need - just let me know!  And let's all try to be Happy rather than Grumpy!!

What's new at Disney World and Universal Orlando?

This summer is a perfect time to head to Florida to check out the exciting changes at Disney and Universal!  

At Disney's Animal Kingdom, Pandora - The World of Avatar, is officially opening on May 27.  

Journey to a distant world where floating mountains defy gravity.  Where creatures come alive in a brilliant bioluminescent glow and mystical rivers flow.  Where you can fly on the back of a banshee and feel it breathing beneath you.

There are two new rides in this new land.  The Na'vi River Journey is a gentle boat ride through the rainforest.

The Avatar Flight of Passage is a breathtaking, first-person flight over the moon’s incredible landscape.

Admittedly, I wasn't a huge fan of Avatar as a movie.  It had amazing visual effects but the story just didn't interest me that much.  But I can't wait to check out the new land.  From everything I've read and seen of it, the visual effects Disney is using in the new land are unbelievable.  

Animal Kingdom also has a started a new nighttime show with Rivers of Light. This park's first nighttime show celebrates the beauty of all living things and features water, sound, dramatic lighting and special effects.

While I didn't get to see Rivers of Light on my recent trip, I did get a chance to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris on a sunset safari.  It was so cool to see nocturnal animals not normally seen on this ride.  And even knowing the sunset was a "Disney sunset" rather than a real one, it was one of the best sunsets I've seen.

Over at Magic Kingdom on May 14, a new show will light up the night sky above Cinderella Castle. Happily Ever After Nighttime Spectacular uses projection mapping combined with Disney storytelling, pyrotechnics and classic Disney characters in a show that will inspire guests to find their own "Happily Ever After". Two unique parts of this show will be an original score and original, hand-drawn animation of characters like Ursula, Aladdin and Tiana.

I'll miss Wishes but can't wait to see Happily Ever After!

At Disney's Typhoon Lagoon, Miss Adventure Falls is now open.  Have a splashing good time aboard this family-style raft attraction. You'll slide down on a white water rafting adventure past the lost and glittering treasure of the fabled Captain Mary Oceaneer. With a ride time of two minutes, this is one of the longest water attractions at both Disney Water Parks. 

Speaking of water parks, Universal Orlando is opening an entire brand new park on May 25 - Universal's Volcano Bay.  Universal Orlando Resort's third theme park features Krakatau—the fire and water volcano—that looks over this water playground full of thrills and relaxation. The park will feature all kinds of water rides, from slides to wave pools and rafting adventures to smaller places for your little ones. Volcano Bay provides unique TapuTapu wearables.  The TapuTapu devices will be used for everything from reserving your place in a virtual queue for the rides to activating special effects throughout the park. 

At Universal Studios Orlando, the new ride Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon is now open.  Visitors follow Jimmy Fallon—Host of NBC's The Tonight Show—on board a "flying theater" that zooms you around famous New York City landmarks. Pre-show activities let guests interact with Hashtag the Panda, listen to The Ragtime Gals and send their very own Thank You Note.

So what are you waiting for??  Give me a call and let's get you to Florida to check out all of this new excitement for yourself!!

An Uncomfortable Subject... How Do I Get Paid?

I know you’re afraid to ask… but how do I get paid doing this fun job?

I often hear that people don’t want to “bug me” so they just muddle through planning a trip themselves.  

But there are two things that should make you want to bug me and have your friends and family bug me too!

1 - I LOVE planning trips to Disney and Universal.  Every time I log in or call about a trip, I head right down memory lane.  Poor Don had to institute the “only once every three years” rule so I wouldn’t plan a trip each and every season.

2 - I actually make money doing this.  I know, it’s crazy that I’m paid to do something I truly love.  I would probably do this for free, but I have three growing boys that are seriously about to eat away every penny we have.

People always get a little uncomfortable discussing money, but let me give you the basics.  You pay Disney the same price whether or not you go online, call it in, or have a travel agent do it for you.  The exact same price.

If a travel agent books the trip, Disney then pays the agency a commission which I receive a portion of.   So even if I did nothing but book the trip, you aren’t paying a dime more than if you did it yourself.

The reason Disney is willing to give a portion of their profits to a travel agent is that they know that the Guest is more likely to enjoy their vacation.  There’s a better chance of Guests returning to Disney again and again if they are given guidance by someone with a knowledge and passion for their product.  Universal uses the same model. 

I’ve talked before about the reasons to use a Disney travel agent - you can look back at this blog post for a refresher - Do You Really Need a Travel Agent to Book a Disney Vacation?

So why would you not want to use a travel agent?  Let me answer some of the most common reasons…

*  I want the cheapest rate and can do that myself.  —  Nope!  You just aren’t going to find it cheaper on your own.  And I will monitor and possibly find a cheaper rate as it gets closer to your trip.  I will apply it automatically and let you know!  And if time is money, I’m saving you tons of it by doing the leg work for you.

*  I love Disney too and want to plan it all myself.  — This one is totally understandable as I feel the same way!  But the cool part is, I can book it and then let you take over the planning if you like.  I will still be there for questions and will still monitor for better deals.

*  How do I know you won’t up-sell me?  —  Trust me, I am the queen of getting a good deal.  I spend way more time then I should figuring out how to save a penny or a bit of time.  I will never lead you towards spending more just to spend more.  I want you to get the absolute most out of your vacation for the least money and hassle.

So PLEASE consider contacting me when you’re thinking about a trip.  And I would be so appreciative if you would forward my information to your family and friends.  Word of mouth is the best advertising I can get!  I’ve got those three boys to feed, you know…  :)

PS - if you refer a friend and they book a trip, your next meal is on me!  I'll contact you to find out your favorite restaurant and send you a $10 gift card to the place you choose!  Easy!!