The Happiest Blog on Earth

The Magic of a Mom and Me, Dad and Me, or a Grandparent and Me Vacation

5/13/2025 • Blog, Cruises, Disneyland, Holidays & Events, Universal Studios, Walt Disney World • For so many of us, the best memories with our families aren’t necessarily grandiose presents or huge events but the small moments, the shared laughs, and the quiet talks we didn’t even plan. There’s something truly wonderful about those one-on-one moments, especially when that time is spent somewhere as magical as a Disney Park. A dedicated “Mom and Me” or “Dad and Me” or even a "Grandparent and Me" vacation to Disney isn’t just a getaway; it’s a way to strengthen your bond and create memories you will both cherish for years. Whether celebrating a birthday, a school milestone, or just wanting that special time together, these trips offer so many chances to reconnect in ways that the usual day-to-day doesn’t always allow. My daughter has been my travel buddy since she was little, and we've made a tradition of going somewhere just before Christmas - Disneyland, Walt Disney World, […]

Virgin Voyages Quick Tips!

5/6/2025 • Blog, Cruises • Whether this is your first Virgin Voyage, or you’re an experienced sailor, these helpful tips will make your voyage that much smoother! Forgot to add a Bar Tab? Want to add more Bar Tab to your account? Great news! You will still be able to add Bar Tab while at the port! Before you board the ship, visit any desk with a Bar Tab sign (like below), to add Bar Tab to your voyage. Bar Tabs are great ways to pre-pay your drinks (alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, juices, and non-alcoholic specialty drinks). Sometimes, bonus Bar Tab is offered with that purchase. Remember - Bar Tabs cannot be purchased onboard! Want to reserve a pool lounge chair? You can! But if your belongings are abandoned for more than 40 min, personal items (not belonging to VV) will be taken to Lost and Found. Any pool attendant can direct you! Forget to […]

Tipping at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando

4/29/2025 • Blog, Universal Studios, Walt Disney World • There are so many people on a Walt Disney World vacation that add to the magical feeling of your vacation that it’s easy to get confused on who to tip and how much is appropriate to thank them for helping you out so here’s a list of people to thank and general ranges for appropriate amounts to help answer your questions. Transportation Once you arrive in Orlando, if you are not renting a car, as many people don’t, you need to get to your resort and may have a rideshare driver, a shuttle service, or a private car driver. Rideshare apps will give you some options for tipping, usually 15-25%. Shuttle service drivers are usually tipped for handling your baggage – usually $1-3 per bag. Lastly, private drivers should be tipped between 15-25% of your ride fare of which some companies will charge an amount in advance. Bring along cash […]

Living the Suite Life on Royal Caribbean

4/22/2025 • Blog, Cruises • Have you ever sat on the bed inside your cruise cabin and thought “more space sure would be nice”? Well, it is possible, and it’s not that far out of reach when you sail with Royal Caribbean! My “kids” are both taller than me now, so we take up more space than in previous years. When planning our latest cruise, we knew space would be an issue, so I started comparing our normal cabins with different suite options and was surprised at how affordable a suite would be for us. Royal Caribbean has 3 different Royal Suite Classes - Sea, Sky and Star Class, and they vary by ship, so be sure to match what class and amenities you want with your ship when talking with your Me and The Mouse travel specialist. My family cruised on Allure of the Seas in a 2-bedroom Grand Suite, which is a Sky […]

Virgin Voyages New Circle Program

4/9/2025 • Cruises • We all have events in our lives we would like to celebrate with those closest to us. Virgin Voyages wants to help you gather your “people” and step onboard one of their beautiful Lady Ships and celebrate a monumental birthday, anniversary, college graduation, bachelorette party, or just getting a group of friends together. For those that are familiar with the original Virgin Voyages Circles, we have exciting news for you. Virgin has enhanced this program with more flexibility and benefits when booking through a travel agent. Your Circle needs to be created at least 180 in advance of the sail date (but hurry, because it will move to 365+ days after the introductory period). The most enticing benefit is the 10% discount for the entire group and there are no minimums to the number of staterooms needed to fill a Circle. Plus, you can lock in the rate if you […]

Experiencing Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto

4/1/2025 • Walt Disney World • Looking for a unique, adult-only event on your next trip to Walt Disney World? Head over to the Polynesian resort for this lively experience with little touches of grown-up Disney Magic everywhere. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is one of Disney’s most unique lounges with Hawaiian vibes and unique Disney storytelling. The menu offers a variety of drinks, but the real magic is the theatrical service. Order a “Nautilus,” and the bar turns into a diving experience complete with lighting changes, ominous music, and water gun attacks on all of the guests. Order a “Black Pearl” for some special effects with some fog and theming built around the storytelling of this Disney legend. Think Jungle Cruise fun in an adult atmosphere! Not a drinker, but want to enjoy the atmosphere? Trader Sam’s offers some delicious appetizers and mocktails for the guests who might want to enjoy the experience, but not the […]

Disney Adult: Tequila Tasting at La Cava del Tequila

3/25/2025 • Blog, Walt Disney World • When most people think of Disney, images of Mickey Mouse, castles, and family-friendly attractions might come to mind. But Disney isn’t just for kids! For those looking to add a little more spirited adventure to their Disney experience, La Cava del Tequila in Epcot offers an incredible tequila tasting experience that’s perfect for the Disney adults looking to sip, savor, and learn. A Hidden Gem in Epcot Tucked away inside the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase, La Cava del Tequila is an intimate and secluded lounge known for its extensive tequila collection, handcrafted margaritas, and expert mixologists. The dimly lit, authentic ambiance makes it a fantastic escape from the Florida heat and the bustling park activities. While many guests stop by for a quick margarita (which many believe to be the best on Disney property), we are going to delve into a true hidden gem, the Tequila Tasting Experience. […]

Which Sandals Resort in Ocho Rios is Right for You? A Complete Comparison

3/18/2025 • Blog, Reviews, Sandals & Beaches • Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is home to three incredible Sandals Resorts, each offering a unique experience. Whether you're seeking modern luxury, boutique elegance, or a vibrant social scene, there’s a perfect match for you. In this guide, we’ll compare Sandals Dunn’s River, Sandals Royal Plantation, and Sandals Ochi to help you choose the best resort based on service, price, amenities, food, beach quality, nightlife, and overall vibe. Sandals Dunn’s River – Modern Luxury & Exclusivity Best For: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, couples who want brand-new, high-end accommodations. Overview: Recently fully renovated in 2023, Sandals Dunn’s River reviews consistently praise this resort for its modern, high-end suites, stunning ocean views, and luxurious feel. It is one of the newest and most exclusive Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, offering elevated service and top-tier amenities. If you’re searching for the best Sandals resort in Jamaica for a honeymoon, this is one of my top choices as […]

Beaches Turks & Caicos Review: The Good, The Bad & What You Need to Know Before You Book

3/14/2025 • Blog, Reviews, Sandals & Beaches • After visiting Beaches Turks & Caicos All-inclusive Resort multiple times in the past few years with friends, family and as a couple, I wanted to share an honest, detailed review to help you determine if this premium all-inclusive Caribbean family resort is the right fit for your family vacation, multigenerational trip or group getaway. Since this Caribbean resort comes with a premium price tag, it’s important to understand which room category to book, what dining experiences to expect, and whether the resort’s beach and amenities justify the cost. Let’s break it down! The Good: What Makes Beaches Turks & Caicos Stand Out? 1. The Beach & Water Quality – The Ultimate Draw It’s no surprise that the biggest reason travelers choose Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort is Grace Bay Beach—consistently ranked one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The resort sits along a prime stretch of 12 miles […]

Which Village at Beaches Turks & Caicos is Best for Your Family? A Complete Guide

3/4/2025 • Blog, Sandals & Beaches • Beaches Turks & Caicos is a dream destination for families, offering five unique villages, each with its own charm, location perks, and accommodations. Choosing the right village can make all the difference in your vacation experience. Here’s a breakdown of each village at Beaches Turks & Caicos to help you decide which one best suits your family’s needs. Key West Village For those who love a laid-back, luxury beachfront experience, Key West Village at Beaches Turks and Caicos, offers elegant, villa-style accommodations with a serene atmosphere. • Proximity: Steps from the beach and close to Schooners, Neptune’s, and Bayside restaurants. • Room Updates: Modern with a beach-house feel. • Best For: Families who want a quieter, more private experience with easy beach access. • Room Layouts: Offers multi-bedroom villas with separate living spaces, perfect for families who want privacy and flexibility. • Convenience: Further from the water park but great […]

Sandals Montego Bay vs. Sandals Royal Caribbean: Which One is Right for You?

2/28/2025 • Blog, Reviews, Sandals & Beaches • Jamaica is home to some of the most stunning Sandals Resorts, and two of the most popular are Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Royal Caribbean. Both offer a luxurious all-inclusive experience, but they have distinct vibes that cater to different vacation styles. Let’s break down what each property offers to see which one might be the best fit for your vacation: Resort Atmosphere & Activity Level • Sandals Montego Bay: Known as Sandals’ flagship resort, Montego Bay is lively and social, with a high-energy atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples who love an active scene with plenty of entertainment and beachside fun or a trip with a group of friends. • Sandals Royal Caribbean: More laid-back and intimate, this resort exudes British colonial charm. While still offering entertainment, it has a quieter, more romantic ambiance—perfect for couples seeking relaxation with a touch of elegance. Dining Options • Montego Bay: 12 restaurants, […]