Blog Posts Categorized Tips

Universal 101: Islands of Adventure

11/13/2021 • Tips, Universal Studios Orlando • Welcome to Universal! Whether you are preparing for you first trip to Universal or have visited several times before, the Universal parks and resorts in Orlando are very impressive.  The two theme parks at Universal have so much to offer and in this two-part series includes the breakdown of what you can find in each park.  In this first installation is an overview of Islands of Adventure. Port of Entry: At the entrance of Islands of adventure stands the Pharos Lighthouse, which is based off the original in Alexandria.  This icon lets you know you are in for adventure and serves as an […]

Three Tips to Enjoy Your Day at Volcano Bay

10/27/2021 • Tips, Universal Studios Orlando • Universal Orlando opened its gates to the most incredible and advanced water theme park I have ever seen.  It is no wonder this is a very popular (and very crowded) park! Here are three tips to enjoy your experience and dodge some of the crazy crowds. Tip #1 When Should I Get There? I have three very different recommendations on when to arrive to make sure you get in and not have to deal with horrible lines.  Your best bet is to arrive at the park opening and claim your chair at Waturi Beach.  This works even better if you are staying […]

Touring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

5/8/2026 • Epic Universe, Reviews, Tips, Universal Studios Orlando • Are you ready for some Muggle Magic? Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the most immersive and impressive themed lands ever created. It is no wonder that this area is very popular and always crowded. In order to get the most out of the Wizarding World with the least amount of hassle, you must go in with a plan. By following the steps below, you are sure to experience all that your Muggle heart desires without the aggravation of lines, crowds and excessive waiting. Step 1 – Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Park Congratulations! You’ve been […]

What to Do at Disney When You Aren’t Riding the Rides

9/18/2021 • Disneyland, Tips, Walt Disney World • Over the years, there have been plenty of times I’ve been the one sitting out of the rides - whether I was pregnant or tending to an infant...or, quite frankly, just not interested in going on the Tower of Terror for the umpteenth time!  This past trip, as my mother-in-law and I were sitting off of a ride with the kids, we got to talking about why she loves Disney so much. It actually had very little to do with the rides! So, if you’re going on a trip to Disney anytime soon and you’re nervous there won’t be enough […]

Is Travel Protection REALLY Needed?

9/7/2021 • Cruises, Tips • When planning your next vacation, your Me and The Mouse Travel specialist will assist you with many details.  We are committed to saving families time, money, and stress. We are dedicated to providing each family a memorable and magical vacation where no detail is overlooked. After all the excitement of planning, it is difficult to consider there would be a need for travel insurance. Protecting your investment is part of the comprehensive service, with attention to every detail, that your travel specialist is here to provide. Prior to becoming a travel specialist, I lacked the knowledge and understanding about the importance of travel protection.  After […]

What is Included in The Cost of a Disney Cruise?

8/27/2021 • Cruises, Tips • The cost of a Disney Cruise includes so many benefits that it truly makes it a great value for your money. One of the most important inclusions is the outstanding Disney service that my family has come to enjoy whether traveling with children or on one of their adult-only cruises. What is included in the cost of your cruise? All meals are included when dining in 1 of the 3 main restaurants, Cabanas buffet, the pool deck quick service locations, and the restaurants on Castaway Cay. In addition, there are locations throughout each ship that offer snacks during the day. […]

Top 5 Things to do at Perfect Day Coco Cay Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Private Island

8/24/2021 • Cruises, Tips • As a long-time cruiser with Disney Cruise Line, I have always enjoyed the stop at Disney’s Castaway Cay.  On my recent, first trip on Royal Caribbean, this is where they had to reach the bar that Disney has set so high in the category of private islands.  I am happy to report that Perfect Day Coco Cay was everything and more than what I expected.  There is so much to do on this island and not enough time so with that in mind, here are my top 5 “must-do” activities: 1. Zip Lining – By far, this was my favorite […]

Top 5 tips for Preparing for a Disney Cruise – From the View of a Special Needs Parent!

8/20/2021 • Cruises, Tips • WE DID IT!!!  We accomplished a long-term “goal” of successfully traveling as a family on the Disney Cruise Line.  There have been many factors over the 20 + years since my husband and I went on our first Disney cruise that has stood in the way of successfully accomplishing this goal.  Fear was the biggest hurdle. As I have previously shared, my oldest son is living with Fragile X Syndrome. Would he tolerate the motion of the boat? Would he be able to tell us if he was feeling unwell or would he only display undesirable behaviors?  Would he want […]

Items Not Permitted on a Disney Cruise

8/17/2021 • Cruises, Tips • Packing for a vacation is an important part of the planning process, but rarely do people think about what they should NOT bring onboard a Disney cruise.  This is a broad overview of some of the items you should leave at home in order to provide a safe environment for all guests. If you have any questions about specific items, your Me and The Mouse Travel Specialist will be happy to assist. What NOT To Bring On Your Disney Cruise Absolutely no weapons or anything that may resemble a weapon. Includes explosives, ammunition, flares, knives or scissors exceeding 4”, or […]

Disney Cruise Line Discount Rates

7/27/2021 • Cruises, Tips • How many times have you had an itch to get on vacation, but the thought of making a reservation at the last minute would cost an arm and a leg? Disney Cruise Line may have a solution for last-minute planners. Many times, Disney Cruise Line releases promotional rates called IGT (Inside Guaranteed), OGT (Oceanview Guaranteed), and VGT (Verandah Guaranteed). Granted, you may receive a lower fare if you book as soon as Disney releases their new itineraries, but many people have a hard time planning that far in advance. If you happen to discover you have extra vacation days at […]