Blog Posts Categorized Tips

The Alaska Experience Most Cruisers Miss: How An 8-hour Transfer Became The Highlight Of Our Alaskan Vacation

9/9/2026 • Blog, Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Tips • When most people think about the end of their Northbound Alaskan cruise, they think about getting from the cruise port to the airport as quickly as possible. But what if that transfer could become one of the highlights of your vacation? After disembarking our Royal Caribbean cruise in Seward, we faced a common challenge for Alaska cruisers: the cruise port and Anchorage Airport are roughly 120 miles or two to three hours apart. While there are plenty of transportation options available—including motorcoaches and scenic trains—most take you directly from point A to point B without giving you the opportunity to […]

Top 10 Reasons to make Disneyland your first (or next) Disney Vacation!!

9/2/2026 • Blog, Disneyland, Tips • I am a firm believer that every family should consider starting their Disney Vacation story with a trip to Walt Disney’s Original Park, Disneyland, built over 70 years ago on orange groves that Walt bought in Anaheim, California. After dreaming about a park where parents and children could experience the fun and magic together since his children were little, Walt Disney risked everything on his dream. So, without further ado, here are the top ten reasons that I think you should start planning your magical vacation to Disneyland today!! 10 Dinosaurs YES, Dinosaurs can be seen on your Disneyland train […]

What to Do in Vancouver Before Your Cruise: The Perfect Pre-Cruise Itinerary

8/19/2026 • Blog, Cruises, Tips • Don’t Just Pass Through Vancouver — Make It Part of Your Vacation! If your cruise vacation begins in Vancouver, Canada, you have an amazing opportunity to add an unforgettable destination before you ever step onboard your ship. Many travelers fly into Vancouver the day their cruise departs, but we always recommend arriving early whenever possible. Adding a few extra nights before your cruise gives you time to relax, adjust after traveling, explore the city, and start your vacation stress-free. At Me and The Mouse Travel, we love helping our clients create a seamless vacation from hotel suggestions to city experiences […]

Thinking About Booking a Sandals Resort During Hurricane Season? Read This First

8/5/2026 • Blog, Sandals & Beaches, Tips • Thinking About Booking a Sandals Resort During Hurricane Season? Read This First If you've been dreaming about a Sandals vacation, honeymoon, or destination wedding but noticed your travel dates fall during hurricane season, you're not alone. One of the most common questions I receive is: "Should we still book?" The short answer? Usually yes, but with a plan. As a Gold Certified Sandals Specialist who has visited every Sandals resort multiple times and helped plan countless Sandals vacations and honeymoons, I help clients navigate this decision every day. Hurricane season doesn't automatically mean you should postpone your dream vacation or […]

A Different Way to Experience Disney Fireworks: Disney Fireworks Cruises

7/15/2026 • Blog, Tips, Walt Disney World • For many families, ending the day with Disney fireworks is a must-do experience. While most guests enjoy the nighttime spectaculars from inside the parks, one of Disney's Enchanting Extras offers a completely different perspective. A Disney Fireworks Cruise allows guests to enjoy the magic of Happily Ever After or Luminous: The Symphony of Us from the water, creating a unique and memorable way to end the day. One of Disney's Enchanting Extras Collection experiences is a private Fireworks Cruise. Available for both Magic Kingdom's Happily Ever After and EPCOT's Luminous: The Symphony of Us, these specialty cruises allow your group […]

Beyond the Parks: Discovering Disney’s Hidden Magic at Colors of Coronado

7/8/2026 • Blog, Reviews, Tips, Walt Disney World • There is SO much magic to experience both inside and outside of the theme parks! Whether you’re a first-time visitor wanting to soak in all the resort amenities or a seasoned Disney traveler looking for something new to add to your next Walt Disney World Resort vacation, I have the perfect “Magical Extra” for your itinerary. On a recent girls’ trip, I wanted to share a fun and unique experience with my friends—something beyond rides and shows. After an amazing character breakfast at Tusker House Restaurant and a few favorite attractions at Disney's Animal Kingdom, we hopped on the bus […]

Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties, What’s the difference?

6/10/2026 • Blog, Holidays & Events, Reviews, Tips, Walt Disney World • You've decided you want to book one of the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties for your next vacation, but soon realize there are three different options. So which one is right for your family? With all three options you are going to get a buffet of absolutely delectable treats, beverages, and a selection of beer and wine for those of age. The three options include: Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties: Post-Party Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties: Pre-Party Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties: Seats and Sweets So, what’s the difference? The biggest difference is the price. The Pre-Party and Post-Party options […]

Step Into the Magic: Why The Helios Grand Hotel Is the Ultimate Universal Orlando Stay

6/5/2026 • Blog, Epic Universe, Reviews, Tips, Universal Studios Orlando • Everyone is flocking to experience Universal Orlando's newest park, Epic Universe. Where better to stay than at the steps of the park for immediate, immersive action? Welcome to the Helios Grand Hotel at Universal Orlando, a destination that delivers both supreme convenience and comfort. Think of it as a luxurious launchpad for those unforgettable days at Epic Universe. Premier proximity Helios sits just steps away from the private entrance to Epic Universe, giving you quick access to thrilling rides, captivating lands, and gorgeous views of the park both day and night. As day guests enter the main gates and flock […]

The Biggest Mistakes Families Make When Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation (and How to Avoid Them)

6/3/2026 • Tips, Walt Disney World • A Walt Disney World vacation should feel magical from the very beginning, not overwhelming, rushed, or filled with second guessing. Over the years, Walt Disney World has evolved into a destination that truly benefits from thoughtful planning. From selecting the right resort to navigating park strategies and dining, the details matter and can significantly shape your overall experience. We often see the same planning missteps come up again and again. The good news is that with the right approach, they are all completely avoidable. At Me and the Mouse Travel, our specialists work with families to design seamless, well paced […]

A Magical Game Day: Watching Football Playoffs at Disney

4/29/2026 • Blog, Tips, Walt Disney World • Our house is a Chicago Bears football household through and through so we had already planned a trip in January not thinking the Bears would still be alive and playing. Imagine our excitement when our already-planned January Disney trip just happened to line up with a playoff run. After years of waiting, the Bears went on an incredible winning streak and suddenly found themselves in the NFC Divisional Round against the Los Angeles Rams, right in the middle of our vacation. Of course, there was no question. We had to find the perfect place to watch! Tucked inside Disney’s Coronado […]