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This year more than ever, I have clients talking about Alaska. Several have either already booked or are planning on it, including myself. So I thought it was time to talk a little more about this bucket list destination. With staggering mountain peaks, enormous wildlife, and remote wilderness lodges – Alaska offers jaw-dropping experiences that every traveler should have on their bucket list. Read on for some of the most quintessential (and mind-blowing) Alaskan experiences.  Flightseeing over Denali National Park & Preserve One of the best ways to experience Denali is by air, soaring hundreds of feet over the diverse landscape. Take in everything from rolling meadows and fields of flowers to jagged peaks and glaciers. If you do take to the skies, keep your eyes peeled for moose, wolves, and Dall sheep. Fancy an adventure? Your trained bush pilot can gently land on a glacier, in a meadow, or riverside for a picnic, giving you anything from impromptu fishing trip to a private hiking experience.  A Stay at Sheldon Chalet Accessible only by helicopter, Sheldon Chalet is the only five-star hotel inside of Denali, resting on the magnificent Ruth Glacier, having been grandfathered into the spot by Don Sheldon, who built a small outpost in the 1950s. It’s come a long way since then, and what began as a homesteading project turned into a family’s labor of love, with his ancestors opening up a five-room luxury property at 6,000 ft of elevation. There’s no Wifi and no cell service. What there is, however, is gourmet food courtesy of Chef Dave Thornhill, who has cooked for the likes of Barack Obama, Justin Timberlake, and Neil Young. There’s also the mind-blowing Aurora Borealis, delivering guests a nightly show hosted by Mother Nature herself. If that’s not enough, guests can enjoy mini mountaineering ropes courses, trek across the glacier, go sledding or snowshoeing, or warm up in the sauna.  Cruising the Kenai Fjords Rising from the water like something out of a science fiction movie, the tall moss-covered fjords and narrow rocky outcrops dot the waterways of the Kenai Fjords National Park. This national park contains the Harding Icefield, its outflowing glaciers, as well as coastal fjords and islands. Home to animals on land and sea, visitors to this region may spot black or brown bears, moose, gray wolf, or even porcupine. Touring this region by boat is truly magnificent, and provides visitors with a unique vantage point with which to explore Alaska. During a boat tour of the Kenai Fjords, passengers may spot seals, Steller sea lions, orca, gray whales, humpback whales, or even harbor porpoise. If visitors are really lucky, they’ll get to witness glaciers calving, as pieces of ice crumble from the massive glaciers into the frigid waters below.  Dogsledding Across an Icefield Dogsledding is embedded deep in Alaskan history, with the famed Iditarod race created to preserve and promote sled dog culture in Alaska. Today, visitors to Alaska don’t have to compete in a grueling race across the great state, they can simply board a helicopter and touch down on the Juneau Icefield, where a team of friendly pups will be waiting. Expect kisses, cuddles, and an enthusiastic jaunt across the ice field by a team of friendly (and furry) locals. This is an experience you (and any young travelers) will never forget.  If you’d like to experience these jaw-dropping experiences and then some, consider taking an Alaskan cruise. Many cruise lines including my favorites, Disney, Princess, Royal Caribbean, etc. offer excursions for these exciting adventures without the need to switch hotels every few days. Plus, you’ll have the added benefit of having all of your meals taken care of along with nightly entertainment.  Want to learn more about exploring The Last Frontier? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure.
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You may have experienced the magic of Disney at their parks, resorts or on a cruise. But did you know you can experience that same level of Disney magic all over the world, traveling to destinations on a guided group vacation? Adventures by Disney provides amazing experiences that will create a lifetime of magical memories for you and your fellow Adventurers.  Guided tours offer the convenience of being able to leave the details to the experts. There’s no worrying about how you’re going to get from point to point, booking the best tours, language barriers, etc. But when you travel with Adventures by Disney, they take it a step further.  On an Adventures by Disney vacation, you’ll see more than just the sights, you’ll become part of the story. Local experts and adventure guides share their personal stories and knowledge, immersing you in the vibrant cultures, rich traditions and daily customs of the people and places you visit, bringing a unique and authentic experience.  Adventure guides ensure that every detail of your trip is attended to. From checking you in to your hotels to recommending local dining options and not-to-be missed experiences, adventure guides will help you foster a lasting connection with every destination. Wherever in the world your travels take you, your trip will be hassle free. Transportation, transfers, baggage handling and activity fees during your trip are taken care of, so you and your group can relax and enjoy an amazing adventure.  When you travel with Adventures by Disney, you’ll receive special perks you just wouldn’t find if you were traveling on your own. You’ll bypass the lines at popular museums and attractions, enjoy private events and privately guided tours, gain backstage access and unique behind-the-scenes glimpses into exotic locales and select events around the globe. The activities include something for every member of the family. From adult-exclusive wine tastings and junior adventurer scavenger hunts to fun family favorites for everyone, you’re sure to discover something entertaining and engaging for everyone in your group.  No matter what tour you choose, you’ll experience Disney magic along the way with fun surprises that make every trip extra special.
Dreaming of your next vacation to Disney or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure. Believe it or not, road tripping in Hawaiʻi is a thing! It just rarely involves being behind the wheel for more than a hundred miles. Seek out the Hawai‘i road trips less traveled and you could find yourself cruising stunning coastlines, winding through rolling countryside hills, or pulling into the overlooks of breathtaking valleys, waterfalls and canyons. While enjoying views and landscapes unique to our amazing collection of islands, please drive with aloha by following speed limits, respecting warning and informational signage at overlooks, and parking only in designated areas.  Kaua‘i: Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Parks Did you know Kaua‘i is home to the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”? It’s called Waimea Canyon. And you’ll want to make sure you take a mini-road trip of the canyon’s overlooks, beginning in the charming westside town of Waimea and traveling scenic Waimea Canyon Drive. The road will take you past lower-elevation lookout points before the main Waimea Canyon State Park overlook and its breathtaking views of the breadth of the canyon and Waipo‘o Falls. Waimea Canyon Drive continues further up into cool mountain forests of Kōkeʻe State Park, ending at the Kalalau Valley Lookout where you can get a glimpse down one of the valleys along Kaua‘i’s famous Nāpali Coast. There are numerous trails in both Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe for beginners and seasoned hikers as well.  O‘ahu: Windward Coast and North Shore Trade Honolulu’s cityscapes for a day of driving and exploring the island of O‘ahu’s verdant Windward Coast and beach-filled North Shore on Kamehameha Highway (Route 83). The two-lane highway winds alongside the foot of the verdant Koʻolau mountains and the coast’s picturesque shoreline, with lots of great stops along the way, including Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden, Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoliʻi Island, and ‘ono (delicious) lunch and snack stops, food trucks and fruit stands. Save some appetite for stops at Kahuku and Hale‘iwa towns’ popular garlic shrimp trucks and take time to stop at the North Shore’s world-famous beaches and surf spots. In the surf town of Hale‘iwa, you’ll want to hop out of the car and explore its main street shave ice stands, funky boutiques, assorted eateries and surf shops. To avoid traffic and crowds, make this trek on a weekday.  Maui: Upcountry Maui to Haleakalā Many Maui visitors wake up early every day to drive in the dark of the early morning to the top of dormant volcano Haleakalā for the iconic sunrise view from its crater-like summit depression. The experience is indeed mesmerizing. But you can experience the same road trip up Haleakalā Highway to Haleakalā National Park during daylight hours to explore the rest of the park’s scenic wonder and multitude of hiking trails with less of a crowd. You'll begin your journey in the rustic, farm-filled upcountry Kula district, where you can opt to join in on a variety of farm tours and explore the area’s botanical gardens. As the highway gains elevation climbing Haleakalā’s slope, you’ll take in sweeping views of Central Maui as well before hitting the trails.  Island of Hawai‘i: Hāmākua Heritage Corridor You can take a memorable day trip driving and exploring the Hāmākua Heritage Corridor. The beautiful drive alongside the sea cliffs and lush rainforests of the island’s Hāmākua Coast begins in the east side town of Hilo and ends at the Waipiʻo Valley Lookout. Along the way, you can visit several waterfalls, including Waiānuenue (aka Rainbow) Falls and ‘Akaka Falls, tour the biodiversity of Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve and Garden, stop at stunning sea-level Laupāhoehoe Point, and dine at local eateries in Honoka‘a town. The Heritage Corridor road trip finishes a few miles north of Honoka‘a with a breathtaking view of Waipiʻo, a valley deeply rooted in Hawaiian history and culture. Stopping to take in the view up top at the lookout is recommended, but please note that driving or walking down from the lookout into the valley via Waipiʻo Valley Road is strictly prohibited.  What Hawaiian Road trip sounds best to you?
Dreaming of your next vacation to Hawaii or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure. Who’s ready for spring? I know I sure am and the horticulture and festival teams at Walt Disney World Resort are already working behind the scenes to prepare for the 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. This year’s festival runs March 1 to July 5 – a total of 127 days! – and features a plethora of colorful blooms, good tunes, fragrant scents and fresh flavors.  The highlight of the festival are the Disney Character topiaries, which offer a perfect backdrop for springtime photos with family and friends. New this year will be a Princess Tiana topiary gracing the American Adventure and Encanto topiaries of Mirabel, Antonio, Isabela, and Luisa will make a grand appearance near the main entrance. The festival will also feature favorites such as Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs; Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Captain Hook, and Tick Tock Croc; Figment; Anna and Elsa; and more.  The Garden Rocks Concert Series returns to the festival this year, featuring internationally recognized artists on the America Gardens Theatre stage. This year's lineup includes:
Guests can also make a reservation for a Garden Rocks Dining Package at Biergarten, Coral Reef, Garden Grill or Rose & Crown restaurants and enjoy a 4-course meal and guaranteed seat for that day’s performance.  The festival will play host to 15 Outdoor Kitchens, each offering a specialty menu of creative cuisine and libations. Savor, sip and satisfy appetites large and small!  In addition to over 100 topiaries, the festival will feature gorgeous gardens and unique exhibits that the whole family will enjoy. You'll be able to connect with nature while wandering through family-friendly and interactive gardens geared specifically to kids. If you love a good scavenger hunt, good news: Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration is coming back for 2023. Guests of all ages will be able to follow Spike the Bee’s pollination trail, looking for him in the gardens along the festival trail and collecting stickers along the way.  Finally, Guests can bring festival memories home with garden-inspired merchandise collections featuring vibrant apparel, drinkware, garden tools and much more. This season, collections will feature Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Orange Bird, Figment and Spike the Bee.  Will you be going to Epcot's International Flower and Garden Festival this Year? Maybe I'll see you there!
Dreaming of your next vacation to Disney or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure. A perfect Caribbean vacation consists of breathtaking beaches, authentic restaurants, vibrant towns, great shopping, and abundant activities. And with a wave of new hotels opening this year, it will be hard to decide which Caribbean destination to visit first. Here are some of the most anticipated resorts that you’ll want to visit this year:  Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – Dreams Flora, part of Apple Leisure Group’s AMR Collection, which is now part of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection, is the fastest-growing portfolio of all-inclusive resorts in the region, and that include another soon-to-debut property in Punta Cana: the Dreams Flora Resort and Spa, debuting in February in a lush setting on Punta Cana’s Cabeza de Toro beach.  Ocho Rios, Jamaica – Sandals Dunns River is probably the most anticipated all-inclusive debut of 2023: the return of Sandals to Dunn’s River. The new property, a transformation of the former Jewel Dunn’s River resort, will have 250 rooms and suites, five pools, two river pools, nine bars, 12 restaurants and even complimentary greens fees at the Sandals Golf and Country Club in Ocho Rios. It is opening May 24 and already taking reservations.  Isla Mujeres, Mexico – Secrets Impression is part of the AMR Collection’s new “Impression” sub-brand, one that offers a more luxurious, elevated experience than the traditional Secrets; and it’s opening its doors in a boutique-style, adults-only, all-suite resort on tiny, fabulous Isla Mujeres off the coast of Cancun. It’s opening March 15.  St Thomas, US Virgin Islands – The New Westin St Thomas, a dramatic transformation of the former Marriott Frenchman’s Reef in St Thomas. Set on the signature hotel site in St Thomas, the new Westin Beach Resort and Spa will have 392 rooms (28 suites), broad meeting space and a dazzling pool deck. So much has changed since the original property shuttered after Hurricane Irma in 2017 — and the property now finds itself in one of the booming tourism destinations in the whole Caribbean. It’s now accepting reservations for stays beginning May 15, 2023.  Nassau, Bahamas - Goldwynn Resort, the Bahamas' newest property and the first Bahamian member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World., recently opened its doors, bringing another name to Cable Beach in Nassau, Bahamas. The resort is a 15-minute drive from the airport and 10-minutes from downtown Nassau. It features 81 residential-style accommodations ranging from studios to three bedrooms along with three separate Edge suites. The property features Amara, an open-air eatery on its infinity-pool deck; Matching, a light-fare and libation eatery with views of Cable Beach; and Atria, a casual hub that includes a five-story art installation by Bahamian master artist, Kishan Munro, along with its spa, called the Rhizophora Spa, featuring three treatment rooms, a nail salon, an outdoor cabana, and more.  Palm Beach, Aruba – Embassy Suites by Hilton – This is Hilton’s second hotel in Aruba (the brand also has the signature Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort on Palm Beach) is set near spectacular Eagle Beach, with several pools (including one for kids and one that is adults-only) and, most importantly, the brand’s signature: large, eminently comfortable suites. The resort is opening on Feb. 16.  Ambergris Caye, Belieze – Margaritaville Beach Resort is the first boutique Margaritaville resort in the Caribbean, this Ambergris Caye-area resort will also be a residential resort that guests will access only by boat. Amenities will include two pools, a bocce court, pickle ball, a spa restaurant and two bars.  Dreaming of your next vacation to Disney or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure.
When it comes to taking a cruise on river or ocean, it’s pretty tough to go wrong. Both offer incredible views, luxurious amenities, and the opportunity to explore interesting ports. But each one comes with its own unique perks, and depending on your specific needs for your next trip, you might find that one is a slightly better fit than the other. So what are the major differences?  One big difference can be summed up in one word: intimacy. River cruises tend to be much smaller (190 max vs. up to 6,200 on the largest ocean cruises), and as a result, you’re much more likely to be interacting with other passengers and crew members. That smaller scale translates to all areas of the river cruise. You dine on a regular schedule at tables with other passengers (wine is included in the price of the cruise). Instead of 50 different things to do on board, amenities tend to be more modest with river cruises — think libraries, a workout room, cultural programs, and free Wi-Fi vs. ten kids’ playrooms, glitzy Broadway shows, and a skydiving simulator. There tend to be fewer kids on river cruises, making them popular for couples seeking quiet and relaxed time together. You stop almost every day at a new port with river cruises, often for walking tours through quaint towns with little tourist traffic, and you’re always in view of land. With ocean cruises, you can go days without seeing land, and ports of call and excursions tend to be more exotic and high adventure.  Because of their larger size, ocean cruises offer plenty of options for many ages, from young kids to octogenarians, and they are often more able to accommodate a wide variety of special health needs. For this reason, they tend to make the best option for multi-generational family gatherings that include young children. For the traveler who is into high-octane adventure, ocean cruises provide a wide variety of activities on board, as well as exotic and more daring day excursions.  River cruises do tend to be more expensive per person — but that price also includes extra things. like drinks and excursions. Ocean cruises have a lower sticker price per person, but you are charged extra for alcohol, excursions and other amenities. Here are a few questions to consider when you’re getting ready to plan your next sailing vacation:
 Dreaming of your next vacation to Disney or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure.
Disney cruises have so much to offer that it's easy to get overwhelmed and forget some important details, especially if it's your first time sailing. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a magical first time at sea.  Pick the Best Stateroom While inside staterooms are the most affordable, keep in mind there are no windows or views outside from these staterooms. If a view is important to you, ocean view staterooms are available for just a little bit more. However, if you are a photo buff or like a little extra room to sit and relax in your room, a verandah stateroom is the way to go. The location of your room can also make a difference if you are prone to motion sickness. The lower and more central you are in a ship, the less roll and sway you will feel. Get Trip Insurance Many people forgo travel insurance to save money. However, if you or someone in your party needs some kind of medical attention while on the cruise (especially when you’re out of the country), the cost can really add up. Travel insurance helps cover these costs. Travel insurance also covers cancelled trips (due to flight delays or cancellations, work schedule changes, illness or jury duty), emergency evacuations, lost or delayed luggage, phone assistance, hazardous sports, identity theft, and more.  Use Your Personal Navigator App There is so much more to do on a Disney Cruise! The Personal Navigator is your schedule of events listing all of the entertainment options for the day. It's available on your phone with the Disney Cruise Line App. You can download the Disney Cruise App before getting on the ship. It’s free and so useful! Along with a digital version of the Personal Navigator, it has a map of the ship and offers a way to communicate with the other guests in your group through its own texting system. Complete Your Online Check-In as Soon As Possible Make sure to check-in as soon as possible (30 days prior to your cruise). Not only is it important to complete and print your cruise contract. But, this is also the best time to book excursions, specialty dining, spa times, and nursery reservations. Select an Early Port Arrival When completing your online check-in, you’ll be asked to schedule your port arrival time. Disney schedules arrival times in 15 minute intervals to control traffic flow. Pick the earliest boarding time available so you can get on the ship as early as possible and start your vacation!  Remember Travel Documents If you are on a closed-loop cruise, which means that you embark and disembark at the same port, you are required to bring a photo ID and your birth certificate. However, to get off the ship in a foreign location, you also need your passport. If you’re on an international cruise, you’ll definitely need your passport. Tip: While it may not be required on a closed-loop cruise, it is strongly recommended to travel with a passport, just in case things don’t go as planned. If you need to cut your trip short and travel from ANY location outside of the US, a passport will be required. Plan for Tipping At the end of your cruise, your stateroom account is charged a tipping fee for housekeeping and dining. If you want to know how much you’ll be charged before you cruise, check out Disney Cruise Line’s Tip Calculator. If a certain crew member really impressed you and you would like to tip him or her a higher amount, you will be provided with envelopes in which you can place cash for an additional tip for one or more member of your service team. By the same token, if a member of your service team disappointed you, you can visit Guest Relations on the last night of your cruise and lower the tip amount.  Don’t Pack Essentials in Luggage Your bags will be delivered to your stateroom after you board the DCL ship. So, pack anything you’ll need immediately in your carry-on, swimsuit, dinner attire, basic toiletries, medications, etc. On the last night of the cruise, you’ll pack your luggage and leave it outside your stateroom door. Cast Members will take your luggage and send it to the airport or to your next destination if you’re doing a land and sea vacation. This means you won’t see your luggage again until you get to your next destination whether it’s home or another hotel. Pack what you’ll need in your carry-on, and don’t forget a change of clothes for the next day. Avoid Sea Sickness Disney Cruise Line ships are huge, and many people don’t even feel the rocking. However, if it’s your first cruise and you’re not sure, bring along some motion sickness pills or call your doctor for a prescription for motion sickness patches. Motion sickness pills are also available onboard, but are more expensive. So, bring them with you just in case! Know Your Dining Options Disney Cruise Line dining is sure to satisfy your appetite 24 hours a day. Disney's innovative rotational dining system lets you rotate to one of 3 themed restaurants each evening, while your servers follow you from venue to venue. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at Cabanas buffet as well as quick service pizza, ice cream and sandwich offerings available morning, noon or night. And don’t forget Disney Cruise Lines’ 24-hour room service for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. You can even have Mickey Ear ice cream bars delivered to your stateroom!  Enjoy the Theaters Each evening of your cruise, Disney offers live entertainment in the Walt Disney Theatre. Many are Broadway-style musicals that should not be missed. In addition, each ship has its own movie theater that offers several current movies each day. Explore the Ship The Disney Cruise Line ships are like no others. Each one is unique with intricate details including tons of Hidden Mickeys. Don’t just run around the ship going from activity to activity; take time to enjoy the beauty of the ship which transports you to the golden age of cruising.  Dreaming of your next vacation to Disney or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure.
Sometimes timing is simply not on your side. Like when you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway, but can’t get any time off until Hurricane season… Or when you’ve finally booked that European family holiday, only to discover that all the hotels and attractions are sold out. I’m here to tell you that there’s a holiday for every season, and not only that – some destinations truly shine certain months over others! Here are some prime-time vacation spots for each season:  Spring A fantastic season for travel to so many destinations, spring offers warm weather, fewer crowds, and increased hours of daylight. While it’s synonymous with rowdy spring-breakers, Cancun is so much more than blaring music and foam parties. Spring in Mexico’s Quintana Roo region means a combination of warm temperatures and low rainfall and is one of the best times to visit. Skip the summer crowds and visit the majestic Grand Canyon, with springtime making the Arizona heat much more tolerable. Lookout points are easily accessed without the throngs of visitors that descend on the park in the summer, wanting to marvel at the UNESCO-designated heritage site for themselves. If you’re looking to save on your visit, head to the Grand Canyon during National Park Week in April, when admission fees are waived to every national park in the country.  Summer A popular time for travel, summer is often when families pack up and go exploring – be it long or short distances. Vancouver, Canada shines in the summer months, with tourists and locals alike packing beaches, patios, parks, and trails. Visitors can scale the Grouse Grind (affectionately known as ‘Mother Nature’s Stairmaster’), go whale watching, take a day trip up to Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, or simply stroll the streets in search of their next meal - the restaurants in Vancouver are diverse, delicious, and plentiful! Summer is an ideal time to visit Bali, Indonesia, due to it being the dry season. Explore the outdoor temples, beaches, and don’t miss Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Nusa Penida. While most travelers stick to stunning and serene beachfront resorts (for good reason!) there’s something for everyone in Bali, including an active volcano in Kintamani, and roaring nightlife in Kuta.  Fall Whether you’re staying local or venturing across the world – Fall offers stunning scenery, mild temperatures, and often very few crowds to contend with. Visiting the Greek islands in early fall (specifically September) means gorgeous weather but without the large crowds. With kids back in school everywhere from North America to continental Europe, there’s plenty of availability at hotels, villas, and restaurants. Consider visiting Naxos, a gem in the Cyclades, where you can go on sailing tours, visit an olive oil press and museum, and spend lazy days under a beach cabana. For a quintessential tour of fall foliage, you may want to join other autumn-lovers on their pilgrimage to Stowe, Vermont. A classic small-town embodying the charm of a Hallmark movie, Stowe is nestled at the base of Vermont’s tallest mountain and delivers a plethora of vibrantly tinged trees and rolling hillside scenery. Go for a scenic drive along the countryside, take in the views on a hike of Stowe Pinnacle, awaken your adrenaline junkie with a zipline through Smuggler’s Notch, or rent a canoe and paddle one of the many lakes, with the bright leaves as your backdrop.  Winter From curling up fireside with a cup of hot cocoa to escaping the cold altogether, there are ample holiday options throughout the winter season! If you’re looking to escape the cold, Turks & Caicos has got you covered. The coldest month is January, with average temperatures hovering around 80 degrees, and still mild enough to lounge by the pool or at the beach. The famous Bahamian festival Junkanoo runs from the end of December to the beginning of January, annually – and visiting during this time is a great way to experience the culture and history of the Bahamas. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or just interested in the apres-ski festivities, Breckenridge, Colorado delivers. With five hills, 34 lifts, and 187 trails, there’s a run for just about everyone, from the bunny hill to the Inferno, a Double Black Diamond run. Skis or snowboards, not your thing? How about mushing a team of sled dogs through a snowy trail, enjoying a Snowcat tour of the trails, snowshoeing under a canopy of trees, or strolling the shops along Main street.  Whatever the season, let’s plan a vacation that you’ll never forget!
Dreaming of your next vacation to Disney or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure. There’s always something new at Disney Parks and Resorts and 2023 is no different. This year celebrates 100 Years of Disney and the Wonder of Mickey and Minnie at both Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California. Here are some highlights:  Disneyland Resort The celebration begins at Disneyland Resort on January 27th. At Disneyland Park, Sleeping Beauty Castle will be decked out for the event and and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railroad opens! Similar to Walt Disney World, this attraction will transport you into the wacky and unpredictable cartoon world of Mickey and Minnie, where you’ll board a train engineered by Goofy and embark on a zany adventure. When evening comes. Wondrous Journeys begins! During the show, Main Street U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty’s castle, the façade of It’s A Small World and Rivers of America will have lighting effect, projections and on certain nights, there will also be fireworks.  On February 24th, celebrate the return of this unforgettable spectacle that reminds us you don’t need wings to fly, shooting stars are for wishes and magic doesn’t end at midnight! On March 8th, a reimagined Mickey’s Toontown reopens with interactive play areas that will make this place the favorite location for the next generation of Disneyland fans!  At Disney’s California Adventure, World of Color – One will premiere on January 27th. This new version of dancing water and incredible special effects, celebrates the rich storytelling legacy begun by Walt Disney a century ago, bringing to spectacular life moments from favorite films including The Lion King, Soul, Moana and many more.  Walt Disney World There's some celebrating going on at Walt Disney World too! At Magic Kingdom Tron Lightcycle Power run will open this spring. This exciting new coaster has you climb aboard your very own Lightcycle and take off on a high-speed adventure, racing against the Grid’s most menacing Programs. Surge past your fierce opponents as you attempt to cross through 8 Energy Gates and secure your team’s victory—so you can survive to race another day. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios Andy's backyard is getting ready for more toys! Rodeo Roundup BBQ will open this spring. This new table service restaurant coming to Toy Story Land will welcome guests for delicious barbecue and toy-sized fun. At Epcot, get ready for Journey of Water |Inspired by Moana. This water maze, expected to open late 2023, will be an experience where guests can interact with magical, living water in a beautiful and inspiring setting. Moana’s Journey of Water will consist of a lush walk-through environment that engages and educates guests about the water cycle and how it sustains our world.  Florida and California Resorts Both resorts with also have treats and merchandise to help you celebrate Disney100. From Mickey ears, to hoodies, to cookies and cakes, there will be something for everyone!  So, are you ready to celebrate Disney100?
Dreaming of your next vacation to Disney or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure. I am often asked what the difference is between value, moderate and deluxe hotels at the Walt Disney World Resort. Here’s a quick reference detailing the differences:  Disney Value Resorts Disney's Value Resorts offer the magic and service of Disney Resorts at a great value and include all the benefits of staying at a Disney Resort Hotel. These family-friendly Resorts offer fun and whimsical architecture and decor, a large central themed pool area along with some satellite pools, and informal food court dining. Value Resorts include: Disney's Art of Animation Resort Disney's All-Star Movies Resort Disney's All-Star Music Resort Disney's All-Star Sports Resort Disney's Pop Century Resort  Disney Moderate Resorts Disney's Moderate Resorts offer uniquely themed environments inspired by places near and far. They're the perfect combination of value and amenities. These resorts feature incredible pools with fun slides, sit-down restaurants as well as food court dining and on-site recreation. Moderate Resorts include: Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Disney's Coronado Springs Resort Disney's Port Orleans Resort-French Quarter Disney's Port Orleans Resort-Riverside  Disney Deluxe Resorts Disney's Deluxe Resorts offer the highest level of quality, convenience and personalized service set in captivating surroundings with full amenities. These resort hotels offer spacious rooms and suites, world-renowned fine dining, enchanting pools with playful water slides, gyms, on-site recreation and valet parking. Deluxe Resorts include: Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney's Contemporary Resort Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Disney's Beach Club Resort Disney's Yacht Club Resort Disney's Boardwalk Inn Disney's Wilderness Lodge Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney's Riviera Resort  Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts offer spacious multi-room accommodations and flexible room arrangements. All Studios offer kitchenettes, and all one-bedroom and larger Villas offer full kitchens. These Resorts help larger or extended families and traveling groups feel right at home. Deluxe Villas include: Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas Disney's Beach Club Villas Disney's Boardwalk Villas Disney's Old Key West Resort Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney's Riviera Resort Villas  Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground Enjoy magic from dawn to dusk at the only campground at the Walt Disney World Resort. Make yourself at home in an air-conditioned cabin or stay in a "Big-Rig Friendly" campsites. Hike winding paths, explore nature trails on horseback and have the time of your life in the great outdoors with plenty of recreation opportunities including horseback riding, archery, carriage rides, and canoeing.  The Swan, Swan Reserve & Dolphin Resorts While these resorts are not Disney resorts, they are located on Disney property and have access to Disney’s complementary transportation system. There’s no overlooking the larger-than-life exterior and light-hearted interior of this deluxe-level Resort, located in between Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios and near Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Magic Kingdom Park. Character Dining, and 18 restaurants and lounges combined are just a few of the offerings of these hotels.  So, there you have it. With all the hotel options available at the Walt Disney World Resort, which one will you choose?
Dreaming of your next vacation to Disney or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure. |
