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3/13/2024 • Blog, Walt Disney World •
For families like mine, the Disability Assistance Service has allowed us to navigate and enjoy the many attractions and characters throughout Walt Disney World. My oldest son was diagnosed at birth with Fragile X Syndrome, the leading cause of inherited intellectual disability and the leading known single-gene cause of autism. Although he enjoys all that Walt Disney World has to offer, it can quickly overwhelm him. My family is incredibly appreciative of this service. I have compiled a list of what are the most frequent questions (and answers too) while assisting guests in planning for their vacations. What is the Disability Assistance Service (DAS)? A service for Guests with a disability to schedule a return time that is comparable to the current standby wait for the given attraction. Guests whose disability is based on the necessity of using a wheelchair/scooter are not eligible for a DAS. Guests with additional needs […]
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2/18/2022 • Blog, Cruises •
Disney Cruise Line has adapted and changed quite a bit since relaunching after the COVID shutdown. Whether you are a first-time cruiser, or frequent Castaway Club member, knowing what to expect when you arrive for embarkation is imPORTant. PortMiami sits inside Biscayne Bay on Dodge Island. This port is among the nation's busiest ports, moving around six million passengers and transporting goods by the billions. Disney Cruise Line is one of the many companies that occupy PortMiami. When you cross the bridge and arrive on the island, you will see cruise and cargo ships galore! Right in the middle of it all is Cruise Terminal C - Disney’s terminal. When you pull up, those giant red and black stacks with a giant Mickey head will let you know you’re in the right place! Whether you are parking in the main garage directly across the way or being dropped off, you […]
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6/16/2023 • Reviews, Sandals & Beaches •
Barbados might be one of our favorite islands for so many reasons. The turquoise water is breathtaking, the cliffs on the north side of the island are magnificent, and the people are amazing! What’s not to love? We had visited Barbados pre-Sandals so when we found out Sandals was coming to Barbados, we were beyond excited and were finally able to take a trip there recently. The easy decision was going; the tough decision was figuring out which Sandals resort in Barbados we wanted to visit! There are two Sandals resorts on the island, so we had to make the choice. Now, I get to help you explore the differences between them to decide which one is right for you. The great part is the resorts back up to one another and is only separated by a sidewalk along the perimeter of the resorts. In addition to that, Sandals resorts […]
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2/11/2022 • Blog, Universal Studios, Walt Disney World •
Whether you are planning a Disney, Universal, Cruise, or an International vacation; and you are keeping it a secret, revealing the surprise is half the fun. While I don't keep all of our trips a secret, there are times when it just adds to the excitement. One of my favorite Disney World reveals for my kids was a scavenger hunt. After all the gifts had been opened on Christmas morning, I gave them a white envelope and inside was their first clue. The clues led them all over our house and yard and ended in the attic. Sitting just inside the door was a Minnie suitcase. Inside the suitcase was a note saying "Pack your bags, we are leaving for Disney World!" The girls had so much fun trying to decipher each clue and finding the next one. If you are planning a trip aboard the new Galactic Starcruiser, a […]
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2/8/2022 • Blog, Walt Disney World •
Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park opened its doors on April 22, 1998. This zoological theme park not only is home to some thrilling rides & attractions, it’s also home to several wild animals and exotic jungle trails. Its mission is to lead Walt Disney Parks and Resorts to care for animals and the environment as well as to connect people to nature and conserve our natural resources. As you enter the park, you’ll notice the lush greenery that lines the way to visit and view some wild animals, such as migratory birds, butterflies, and Komodo Dragons to name a few. You’re able to read and learn about these animals. Want to learn more about these wild animals, their habitat, and how to care for them? No problem! Hop on the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. It’s home to the Affection Station petting zoo, Habitat Habit!, an outdoor discovery […]
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2/1/2022 • Blog, Cruises •
Virgin Voyages launched their first cruise ship in the US in October 2021 and they have set the bar high for adult only cruising experiences. Virgin is different than other cruise lines for a variety of reasons. For me, it is a very laid-back environment that gives you the feel of sailing on a yacht vs a cruise ship. Again, it is adult only for anyone 18+, which provides a wonderful opportunity to reconnect. What’s included in the cruise fare? • All dining locations are included • No surprise costs at the end of your cruise and gratuities are included • Free internet onboard • Fitness classes • Soft drinks (Tea, filter coffee, non-pressed juices, water, and sparkling water, and Sodas) Dining and Lounges • The dining experience is beyond the typical cruise line with 10 different eateries all included. Menus have been created by Michelin star-rated chefs for experiences […]
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1/28/2022 • Blog, Cruises •
When you set sail on a Virgin Voyages adult-only cruise, you will find that dining is a huge part of your sailing experience. Virgin Voyages has re-imagined cruise ship dining for their guests in very pleasing ways. You will not find buffets, large dining halls, or assigned dining times on a Virgin Voyages cruise ship. Instead, you will find more than 20+ dining options using the freshest ingredients. All food is made to order ensuring the delivery of high-quality food options throughout the ship with less waste. This cruise ship never sleeps. If you are hungry for a late-night bite, visit The Galley, where you will find an American-style diner open 24 hours serving breakfast all day. The Galley has a casual atmosphere where you can grab a quick meal at a variety of food hall-style restaurants. Food choices include soups, salads, burgers, tacos, panini sandwiches, a sushi bar with […]
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1/14/2022 • Blog, Universal Studios •
Universal has a reputation as the perfect destination for thrill-seekers, foodies, Muggles, and Wizards, but what about toddlers? Will my family with varying ages be able to find entertainment for everyone- even the littles? Happily, I can answer- yes! My three children span ages 12 to 2 years old. With varying interests and thrill levels, we found that there was plenty to enjoy for each age. Here are some specific areas of interest and some tips to help you with your next trip to Universal with little ones! Tip #1: Ride the Hogwarts Express! Sure, the Hogwarts Express is like a train, but in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal, it’s so much more! The train will take you between Kings Cross Station in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure. This 10-minute trip is not only a mode of transportation, but also an attraction in itself! […]
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1/1/2022 • Reviews, Universal Studios •
When you think of theme-park food, it doesn’t usually conjure up images of delectable cuisine, but Mythos at Islands of Adventure (IOA) changed that perception for us and all by happenstance. Jason and I just recently took a trip to Universal Orlando Resort and wanted to hit up IOA to ride Hagrid’s after a very relaxing day at Volcano Bay. (Side note: Hagrid’s might be the best ride I’ve ever ridden. I highly recommend it). Anyway, we were making our way through IOA when we encountered the “towering rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and ancient figures carved” into the rock that is the restaurant which was intriguing in and of itself. We took one look at the menu and knew right away we had to eat there! We were extremely fortunate as they were able to seat us in the indoor dining room within 10 minutes without reservations, although they do […]
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12/26/2021 • Blog, Universal Studios •
For every Harry Potter fan, a visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando is a bucket list item but for true Potterheads. It's the extra Easter Eggs that are hidden that can make the experience truly magical. While magic appears around every corner in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, let’s explore the hidden items in Hogwart’s Castle that you’ll want to take note of on your next vacation. Here are my top 5 hidden items for you to find! 1. Mandrakes- The first hidden item is located outdoors, in the greenhouse. If your visit to Hogsmeade has low crowds, you may miss the Mandrakes, but pause just before you enter the castle and check out these restorative plants located behind a fence so that they cannot be accidentally pulled out of their pots, subjecting you to their screams. 2. Four Founders of Hogwarts: The Hall of […]
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