Tips to Make the Most
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Of course, when you think of the holidays - there are so many options to add on to the traditional Disney favorites!!! This year take a minute to visit the all new festivities at Universal Studios, Orlando AND take advantage of round trip transportation for a day trip to Busch Gardens, Tampa bay - Christmastown!!! Universal The traditional holiday events such as Grinchmas and Universal’s Holiday parade featuring Macy’s will be met with an ALL NEW treat at Universal Studios!!! For the first time, Christmas is coming to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!!! In both Diagon Alley AND Hogsmeade, there will be Christmas décor throughout. Be ready to enjoy festive holiday entertainment (like the Frog choir and maybe even Celestina Warbeck!!!). Your day wouldn’t be complete without sampling the seasonal food and drink options – I can’t wait to see what new Butterbeer choices emerge!!! In the evening, prepare to be blown away with an all new evening show. A projection-mapping- night time show will display familiar scenes across Hogwarts castle!
If you’re looking for the return of the thrill rides – be sure to spend New Year’s Eve at Busch Gardens! The park will be open until 1am Jan. 1, 2018 – so be sure to “get your scream on” and welcome in the new year!!! I can't wait to see everyone's pictures this year!!!! Let me know what your favorite "holiday happening" is! P.S. Thank you to my favorite sister for sharing her amazing pictures of my even "favorite-er niece" during their own Busch Garden's experience -- Merry Christmas Jeff, Shell and Kara!!!!
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As the holiday season begins, the best place to celebrate (my personal opinion) is Florida!!! With so many places to visit it will be hard to decide where to go. This year, make way for some old favorites and some new debuts for Christmas and New Year’s!!! Walt Disney World
NEW FOR NEW YEARS EVE -2017! In addition to Disney’s Countdown to Midnight at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, you can bring in the New Year with two new events – a romantic Creole dining and a fun Pixar adventure for the entire family! Dining Down in New Orleans: As you arrive at the Contemporary Resort, make your way to the Grand Republic Ballroom and prepare yourself for an evening of fine dining! Inspired by Disney’s “Princess and the Frog” New Orleans themes, you’ll be surrounded by French Quarter décor, listen to a classic jazz band playing authentic sounds of N’awlins and enjoy a fine dining experience. At the end of the night, view the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks from a private viewing area. NOTE: This experience is for guests 21 and older. Pixar Party: Another possibility is to ring in the New Years with the entire family. Enter the Contemporary Resort’s “Ballroom of the America’s”. The décor is themed after family favorites like: “Andy’s Room” from the Toy Story series, and adventure in “Metro City” with The Incredibles and a fantastic journey inspired by Up. There are character Meet and Greets with Disney – Pixar Characters and fun activities, like face painting, and balloon artists. There is a buffet – style dinner with a DJ playing Radio Disney hits. At the end of the night, you can usher in 2018 by watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks from a special viewing area right in the Contemporary!
Disneyland
Some of Christmas fun will even start as early as September!! The Haunted Mansion will receive a holiday makeover inspired by Tim Burton’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” The World of Color will experience its own makeover as you see the “Season of Light” projection and water show. Not only will you see scenes and stories from your favorite Disney movies, but you will hear holiday music accompanying the show!  Disney Cruise Line Planning on spending the holidays on a Very Merry Christmas sailing? #1 – I’m totally jealous! #2 – Be sure you enjoy all these activities!!! Kids should be sure to check out the holiday themed activities and crafts! Enjoy decorating stockings, creating festive cards and participating in a holiday scavenger hunt. Teens and Tweens even have their own dance parties! In addition to Pirate Night, will also have a “Deck the Deck Tropical Holiday Party” with candy-cane limbo, dancing and games. Don’t worry – you won’t need a special costume for this party! Along with all your favorite characters, you’ll also get a chance to gather in the atrium and hear Mrs. Claus read Christmas stories as she rocks by the tree! And of course – nothing says Christmas like an island tram decorated to resemble a reindeer! Even Castaway Cay under-goes a North Pole transformation with Mr. and Mrs. Snowman, dressed in holiday outfits and even the occasional “snow” flurry! Let me know your favorite Disney holiday tradition!!!
Eat Like a Scalawag – dinner!!! The fun begins when you enter your stateroom and find a gift of party bandanas for each guest. I tied this around my neck, while my son tied this on his head – whatever works for you! For your evening meal, your restaurant will have a transformed menu to fit the pirate occasion! No matter which restaurant you are in, they will serve the same menu – no worries – you won’t miss out! We were in Animator’s Palatte that night and the “show” around the restaurant was all pirate themed. Scenes from Peter Pan and Pirates of the Caribbean flashed across the walls – this turned into a great game to keep the younger ones occupied as we waited for our food. As each scene flashed on the walls – the kids had go guess which movie they were from!. The menu itself will resemble an old treasure map and the kids will have their own “pirate hat” to wear throughout the meal. Meal options will have fun themed names, like “Jolly Rogers Barbeque Rib Salad”, or “Pirates Gold-en Pot Stickers” (menu items are subject to change). Your servers, who will be dressed in pirate wear, will set the tone for the night with fun pirate themed jokes and “pirate talk” – be prepared to hear a lot of “Arrrrr matey!!” this evening! Pirates in the Caribbean Deck Party After the second dining, it will be time to PARTY!!!! Head to the main pool deck and be ready for some fun! This will be a great time to see Disney characters in their pirate gear – definitely bring your camera for meet and greets to snap a picture of your family with Mickey and his crew! Throughout the evening, there will be a pirate show and both trivia interactive games. At the end of the night will be a spectacular fireworks display (note that some itineraries do not allow for fireworks and the display could be canceled due to weather conditions) Tips to help your Pirate Night go smoothly!!!
2. Gather your pirate gear BEFORE you arrive on board. While Disney usually provides their guests with fun pirate bandannas, the rest of your costume is up to you. The shops on board will have a TON of accessories and costumes to help you get ready for the night, but the prices are a bit high. I totally recommend going to a costume shop after Halloween, and gathering your hats and eye patches then! 3. Take some time before you leave to introduce your kids to all the Disney Pirates. While Captain Jack Sparrow is the most recent on the big screen – don’t forget Captain Hook! I recommend scheduling some time to have some family movie nights BEFORE you leave and watch Peter Pan! If kids are younger, they might already know Jake and the Neverland Pirates – but it’s a good idea to at least let them see some pictures of Pirates of the Caribbean to give them an idea of who might be at the party. 4. If your child has sensory issues – you want to take some precautions to help block out things that might overstimulate them. Bringing an ipod and ear buds is a great way to let them enjoy the sights, but have soothing, familiar sounds playing in their ears. If you feel like it might be too much – I would actually recommend skipping the party. Instead – have something else that is fun and special for them to do. Maybe surprise them with a room celebration (decorations that your stateroom attendant can put up) and a special treat waiting in the room!
Let me know your favorite Pirate Night tips!!!
At least for a few more weeks! One of the best ways to end your enchanted Disney day on the perfect note is to relax with a beverage and go over all the “highs” of the day! If you’re staying in one of the monorail resorts, a fun twist is to try a different location each night! These are my Top 5 favorite drinks to sip while I unwind at the end of the day – each one quality ensured by your favorite Mouse Planner!
#2: Disney Springs pick! When it's time to take a break from the parks, you need to head to Bongo's Cuban Cafe, located in Disney Springs!!! Ask for the "Traditional Mojito" -- but be sure that you know what size you'd like!! I took our servers advice and went LARGE! I can tell you - it was worth it!!!
#5: Just for Fun! - At the Polynesian - ANYTHING at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is perfect. With so many fun tropical drinks to choose from – it’s hard to pick. But watch out – your bar order may trigger some surprises from the staff AND the room decorations!!! ULTIMATE PICK!!!! Disney has just extended it’s amazing Highway in the Sky Dine Around through September!!!. This was introduced during the holidays and became so popular, Disney continued the experience. Check in takes place at The Wave…of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. From there – enjoy a five course progressive dinner at each monorail resort!!
I’m dying to try this one – if anyone gets to go before me – I would LOVE a full report!!! As Disneyland is about to launch its new Max Pass option (July 19, 2017), I’ve had so many people ask me about the differences between Walt Disney World in FL and Disneyland in Southern California. Growing up on both coasts, I’ve visited both and BOTH are amazing; but there are definitely differences to be aware of when visiting each! #1: Theme parks and attractions
#2: Magical Express Walt Disney World in Florida: If you’re arriving by plane and flying into Orlando International airport and staying on at a Walt Disney World resort, you are able to take advantage of Disney’s free transportation, the Magical Express, to and from your resort. Your bags will be taken from the airport to your resort and you will be whisked away in an air conditioned motor coach to your final destination – Walt Disney World property! Disneyland in Southern California: If you arrive by plane in Southern California, there are many options to get you from your airport to Disneyland property, but there is not a free Magical Express option. Depending on which airport you fly into, there are different transport options available – be sure to check which is best for your family!  #3: Fast Passes
Disneyland in Southern California: Disneyland also has Fast Passes, but guests are not able to “pre-select”. Instead, once you are inside the parks, you travel to the attraction that you would like to ride later, scan your admission ticket, then go ride another attraction while you wait for your Fast Pass time. NEW: I previously mentioned Disneyland’s “Max Pass” option has launched, and is available at a price of $10 per guest, per day. The MaxPass will work within the Disneyland app and allow you to select a FastPass electronically for an attraction instead of having to walk to each individual attraction every time you want a new Fast Pass. Max Pass also allows each guest to receive unlimited PhotoPass privileges, too, including attraction photos. The Max pass will NOT eliminate the traditional free Fast Pass system, it will simply be there as another option for guests. #4: Dining Walt Disney World in Florida When you are thinking about where to dine during your Walt Disney World vacation – your magic number is 180! All guests are able to make dining reservations 180 days in advance (from your check in date). If you are staying at one of Walt Disney World resort, guests are even able to secure those hard to find reservations and character dining 180 + 10 days out! While visiting the Florida location, you are also able to sign up for one of Disney’s Dining Plans. There are three versions of dining plans available for those staying at a Walt Disney World resort. The dining plans is purchased and added to your reservation before you arrive and provides you with an allotted number of meals, drinks and snacks for your stay.
#5: Magic Bands
Disneyland in Southern California Another difference between the two locations would be that Disneyland does not utilize the Magic Band system. Instead, your park ticket will be used for your theme park entry, photo pass option and Fast Pass / Max Pass options. So – while so many ask the question, “which is better” – I can honestly say BOTH! Disneyland is where the magic began - I can walk down Main Street and know that Walt's original vision is all around. Everything in Disneyland is just a step away and easily accessible for all ages. Walt Disney World is an opportunity to truly see the world without leaving the comforts of home. One morning I can explore an African safari and the next minute be in the world of Avatar -- unbelievable! Do you have a favorite location!
 Pirate’s League During the day, you can take the opportunity to visit the ship’s Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, which will be transformed into the “Pirate’s League” for this event. This option is available to entire families – not just little ones! You will be made over into your choice of pirate (they will have choices for you to look at when you arrive). Once you’re finished – be prepared to swear a pirate oath and be ready to plunder the seven seas! Eat Like a Scalawag – dinner!!! The fun begins when we entered our stateroom and found a gift of party bandanas for each guest. I tied mine around my neck, while my little guy tied his on his head – whatever works for you! For your evening meal, your restaurant will have a transformed menu to fit the pirate occasion! No matter which restaurant you are in, they will serve the same menu – no worries – you won’t miss out! We were in Animator’s Palatte that night and the “show” around the restaurant was all pirate themed. Scenes from Peter Pan and Pirates of the Caribbean flashed across the walls – this turned into a great game to keep the younger ones occupied as we waited for our food. As each scene flashed on the walls – the kids had to guess which movie was being shown!. The menu itself resembled an old treasure map and the kids had their own “pirate hat” to wear throughout the meal. Meal options had fun themed names, like “Jolly Rogers Barbeque Rib Salad”, or “Pirates Gold-en Pot Stickers” (menu items are subject to change). Our servers were dressed in pirate wear and totally set the tone for the night with fun pirate themed jokes and “pirate talk”. Be prepared to hear a lot of “Arrrrr matey!!” this evening! Pirates in the Caribbean Deck Party After the second dining, it will be time to PARTY!!!! Head to the main pool deck and be ready for some fun! This will be a great time to see Disney characters in their pirate gear – definitely bring your camera for meet and greets to snap a picture of your family with Mickey and his crew! Throughout the evening, there will be a pirate show, dancing, music, trivia interactive games and so much more!!! At the end of the night there will be a spectacular fireworks display (note that some itineraries do not allow for fireworks and the display could be canceled due to weather conditions). Tips to make sure everyone enjoys their pirate night!
2. Gather your pirate gear BEFORE you arrive on board. While Disney often provides their guests with fun pirate bandannas, the rest of your costume is up to you. The shops on board will have a TON of accessories and costumes to help you get ready for the night, but the prices are a bit high. I totally recommend going to a costume shop after Halloween, and gathering your hats and eye patches then! 3. Take some time before you leave to introduce your kids to all the Disney Pirates. While Captain Jack Sparrow is the most recent on the big screen – don’t forget Captain Hook! I recommend scheduling some time to have some family movie nights BEFORE you leave and watch Peter Pan! If kids are younger, they might already know Jake and the Neverland Pirates – but it’s a good idea to at least let them see some pictures of Jack Sparrow and the Pirates of the Caribbean to give them an idea of who might be at the party. 4. If your child has sensory issues – you want to take some precautions to help block out things that might overstimulate them. Bringing an ipod and ear buds is a great way to let them enjoy the sights, but have soothing, familiar sounds playing in their ears. If you feel like it might be too much – I would actually recommend skipping the party. Instead – have something else that is fun and special for them to do. Maybe surprise them with a room celebration (decorations that your stateroom attendant can put up for an additional price) and a special treat waiting in the room!
Let me know if you have any more tips for how to have a swashbuckling time at
Pirate Night on Disney Cruise Line!!! Disney's newest land, "Pandora - World of Avatar", opened over the weekend and I have so much to share with you! We've had our "Ears to the ground" as our agents have been at the parks gathering information for you the last few days! From attraction descriptions, souvenir options and yummy new food and drink choices -- here are my top 5 tips that will help you enjoy your time there! Tip #1: Know the layout of PandoraWhen you enter the Animal Kingdom, you will need to make your way towards the Tree of Life to reach the path to Pandora. The map below (on the right) shows the park overview - Pandora is the land all the way at the bottom left of the map. The land is separated from the other parts of the theme park and you will be able to simply enjoy the beauty surrounding you without the noise of roller coasters. The World of Avatar itself is not a huge area – so be aware that crowd levels will increase as the day continues. We've read that cast members are keeping track of numbers of people who enter Pandora and people may be turned away due to intense crowd numbers.
Tip #2: Investigate the "Flight of Passage" attraction BEFORE you get |
 | Flight of Passage does have a Fast Pass option and if this is a MUST DO for your family, we highly recommend that you choose this as one of your options. There is a restriction on Fast Passes for this land. You cannot have a Fast Pass for BOTH the Flight of Passage AND the Na'vi River Journey. Take some time to read through both attraction's descriptions and talk your family, then make your Fast Pass decision. Once you decide upon your Pandora Fast Pass - the rest of your day's Fast Pass choices can come from anywhere in Animal Kingdom. |
| Before you decide to ride – here is a little information that might help your decision process. If you love Soarn’ – Flight of Passage can be explained as Soarn’ TIMES A HUNDRED! You will be riding on the back of a “banshee” and through virtual technology, you will experience your flight, complete with smells and mists of water (4D). For those of you who might experience motion sickness – this is less jolty than Star Tours, but there is a definite feeling of flying through the sky. After traveling through a detailed queue, you enter a room where you are “genetically matched” to an avatar. Then, you are brought to a room with your “banshee”. There are 16 “banshees” in a room and you ride as a single rider. If you're unsure if one of your little one would be alright riding by themselves - you might want to use Disney's Rider Swap. Once seated, a mechanism will enclose your legs and back so you will be secured to the attraction, and you are given 3D glasses. If you have small children, the glasses have a hard time staying on their heads. For boys and girls a hat might work, but be aware that they might need to hold the glasses on their face. |   |
NOTE: There is a warning that because of the way the ride is designed, not all body types and disabilities can be accommodated. If you are unsure about whether or not you will be able to ride – talk to a cast member BEFORE you enter the line. Anyone who is unable to ride will be turned away due to safety precautions. The minimum height restriction for this ride is 44 inches. Disney has recently placed a seat in front of the attraction in order for individuals to see if they would be able to ride.
The video below gives a great example of how to get on and off the ride seat, as well as demonstrating how the locking mechanisms work.
The video below gives a great example of how to get on and off the ride seat, as well as demonstrating how the locking mechanisms work.
Tip #3: Enjoy the Na'vi River Journey
With so much talk about the "Flight of Passage", be sure to not pass up the Na'vi River Journey. This is a slow, gentle attraction that will be great for the entire family and there are no height restrictions. You begin your journey as you step into a small boat. These are similar to Small World, or Pirates of the Caribbean - but definitely smaller sized. Your boat will then tour you through Pandora where you will see a glimpse of the Na’vi world, including a Na’vi hunter and the Shaman of Songs. The ride is in an enclosed area in the dark, so it's a great way to get out of the heat of the day!
Tip #4: Have a souvenir talk with everyone BEFORE you enter the land
Before you enter Pandora – I would have a conversation about souvenirs with the kiddos! There are so many new items that it would be a good idea to set some limits going in. Here are two items that I already know my son and I will be “discussing”:
Banshee “pets” – these are being sold in the store beside Flight of Passage. When you purchase your new “pet” – there is an interactive experience to be “bonded” with one (you don’t have to go through the bonding, it’s optional. You could buy one and skip the line, instead!). Your Banshee comes with a metallic shoulder pad that is controlled with a hand device. As of when this was posted, the cost was $49.99 and you could use your Annual Pass discount!
Na’vi Translators – You are able to purchase this device and learn to pronounce 90 Na’vi words by using interchangeable translation cards. The translator comes with 15 translation cards and additional cards are sold in trading card packs with 8 randomly selected cards. The device lights up and has a clasp that can be attached to a belt or backpack.
Banshee “pets” – these are being sold in the store beside Flight of Passage. When you purchase your new “pet” – there is an interactive experience to be “bonded” with one (you don’t have to go through the bonding, it’s optional. You could buy one and skip the line, instead!). Your Banshee comes with a metallic shoulder pad that is controlled with a hand device. As of when this was posted, the cost was $49.99 and you could use your Annual Pass discount!
Na’vi Translators – You are able to purchase this device and learn to pronounce 90 Na’vi words by using interchangeable translation cards. The translator comes with 15 translation cards and additional cards are sold in trading card packs with 8 randomly selected cards. The device lights up and has a clasp that can be attached to a belt or backpack.
Tip #5: Dining is available inside Pandora (including alcoholic beverages)!
| While you are exploring Pandora, know that there are two options for when you get the munchies. NEW!!!!! Disney’s new Mobile Food and Beverage Ordering will be available for use in the Quick Service Restaurant located in Pandora. This can be found on your My Disney Experience app and allows you to avoid lines. The process is super easy, but cannot be used if you will be paying with Disney Gift Cards, or if you are using Disney's Dining Plan credits. Let me know if you want more information on how to use this new Dining Feature!!! |  |
| Satu’li Canteen – This is the Quick Service Restaurant that is located in the World of Avatar. This location serves breakfast, lunch and dinner – and everything is a good amount of food for the money. According to our Ears sources, the hash was delicious and I have to admit - my husband is chomping (literally) at the bit to try the oatmeal with whiskey soaked raisins (must be 21 or older for this one!) | |
 | Pongu Pongu Lounge – This is a walk up beverage location (similar to the size of Aloha Isle in the Magic Kingdom). Be ready for some amazing drinks, like the “Night Blossom” – a mixture of limeade with Apple and Desert Pear flavors topped with Passion Fruit Boba Balls; this is available in BOTH alcoholic AND non- alcoholic versions – fun for the whole family!!! There is ONE snack sold here, at the time this was posted, Pongu Lumpia – so if you are looking more for food items – bypass this line and head straight to the Canteen! By midday - the line was reported as being long with no shade while you wait; you might want to come back later when the sun has drooped a bit. |
I'm already putting together my park plan for our October trip!!! For all you Avatar fans- I'd love to hear more tips that you have for visitors to this new land!!!!!
This particular blog topic is brought to you by my very own teen – Mackenzie Clark!! As we are in the process of deciding what our next cruise option would be – a 5 OR 7 night Alaskan Cruise - my daughter came up with this little morsel. “Mom, wouldn’t it be better for us to go on a 5 night cruise at the Concierge Level vs. a 7 night cruise – Non Concierge?” Against my better judgement – I asked her to explain why she thought that. Of course – she made perfect sense (now I have to go tell her that she might have a point). In a nutshell – here are her top 5 reasons why everyone should become a “Cruise Concierge Connoisseur”!
#1: Early booking window!
| When you cruise concierge level, you get the advantage of requesting your on-board activities and excursions 125 days before your sail date. These are submitted even before the Castaway Club members (those who have sailed on Disney Cruise Line multiple times). If you are a first time (non-concierge) cruiser, the earliest you are able to sign up for activities would be 75 days before your departure date. As a result, many excursions, cabanas on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, or character activities could have booked by the time your booking window opens. By cruising as a Concierge guest, your are much more likely to score the high demand excursions - like swimming with the dolphins, or a day at the Atlantis resort to enjoy the water slides!!! |   |
#2: Exclusive Port Arrival / Check in
This is what is tipping the scale for me – the ease of check in the day that you arrive. Concierge cruisers do NOT have to choose a Port Arrival time. Instead, your group can arrive at any time and have access to a private check in area AND a private waiting area. As soon as the ship is ready to board, a Cruise line representative will escort you through a roped off area to the front of the boarding line. You will have your family picture taken and will be allowed to embark ahead of everyone in the general boarding lines. No muss – no fuss - and most of all – no crowds!!!!
#3: Dedicated Concierge Team
 | Once you are on board – the service doesn’t stop! You will have a Concierge team dedicated to making your stay even more enjoyable!!! And if you are travelling with the very young, or elderly – travelling Concierge level is priceless. Your team will make / change dining reservations for you, sign you up for on – board classes, take care of Photo Pass options, even help with clothing suggestions for brunch at Remy and Palo! |
While we were on board the Dream – one of our Concierge team overheard my grandmother make a comment about wishing she had a Caffeine Free Diet Coke. Without being asked, he called every location on the ship and acquired Caffeine Free Diet Cokes for her and had them delivered to her stateroom. I couldn’t believe the level of service that we were given – this was truly the “Disney Difference” that makes these trips
so special!
so special!
#4: Concierge lounge
Another one of my favorite parts about Concierge cruising is the Concierge Lounge. On each ship, there is a private lounge accessible only to Concierge guests. You use your Gold Key to the World card to gain entry and once you are inside – amazing things await! Instead of navigating the morning crowds and paying large amounts for specialty coffee each morning – stroll to the lounge and take advantage of the free deluxe coffee machine. Snacks and beverages are laid out all day for you to enjoy and one of your Concierge Team will be the host – if you don’t see something, let them know! Enjoy complimentary cocktail hours before each evening dining and be sure to grab your complimentary popcorn at the lounge before you go the movies, instead of paying for it at the concession stand!
#5: Express Debarkation
| Now it’s time to say, “See ya real soon” to Mickey – and your Concierge Team is there to make your Debarkation Day as smooth as possible. You can take care of your on board account right there in the Concierge Lounge – no need to go to Guest Services for last minute items! Once you have all your carry on luggage and are ready to leave – a member of your concierge will whisk you down an express elevator and lead you to the front of the line. No waiting and no crowds again – heaven!! |  |
I’m not sure I can say “No” to these arguments – this is definitely going to be a tough choice. OK everyone -- time to weigh in - what direction you think the Clarks should take!
So excited to be taking a trip to a Disney destination- but also a little nervous about the cost? You want to be able to go on your dream trip, come home with fun souvenirs AND not break the bank. Here are a few ways that you can save ahead of time AND while you are on vacation.
Option #1: Coupon sites
You can start your savings journey by signing up for online coupon sites, or even download mobile apps. There are so many sites that you can register with and save money just by shopping for your everyday items. How much you save at each one would depend on your individual shopping styles. Over time you will be able to be able to accumulate funds towards your dream vacation!
https://ibotta.com/register?friend=rpb4q
https://www.checkout51.com/
http://mobisave.com/
https://savingstar.com/
https://www.yaarlo.com/
https://ibotta.com/register?friend=rpb4q
https://www.checkout51.com/
http://mobisave.com/
https://savingstar.com/
https://www.yaarlo.com/
Option #2: Disney Gift Cards
 | You probably have credit cards already in your wallet that unbeknownst to you could add up to Disney savings! You can use your existing credit cards to buy Disney gift cards. Each time you make a payment towards your vacation balance – you can plug in the gift card number --- the same as you would a credit card. If you have multiple gift cards that you would like to use at one time – be sure to visit Disneygiftcard.com, where you can load all your cards onto one. |
Target “Red Card”
Each time you visit your friendly neighborhood Target – take minute and add a Disney gift card to your purchase. By using your Red Card – you save a percentage off your purchase – decreasing the price of each gift card. REMEMBER: If you want to buy large amounts of gift cards – order them online and ahead of time!!! If you try to purchase too many at one time while you are actually at Target, your Red Card could freeze.
Costco and Sam’s Club
Time to stock up on family groceries!! These are a couple more places to pick up those Disney gift cards! Both of these organizations have discounts on Disney gift cards, as well. However, these are often seasonal – so start checking early!!!
American Express
If you have an AmEx card – you know that you get a percentage back at grocery stores, so you can purchase Disney Gift cards AND still get your gas points!
Each time you visit your friendly neighborhood Target – take minute and add a Disney gift card to your purchase. By using your Red Card – you save a percentage off your purchase – decreasing the price of each gift card. REMEMBER: If you want to buy large amounts of gift cards – order them online and ahead of time!!! If you try to purchase too many at one time while you are actually at Target, your Red Card could freeze.
Costco and Sam’s Club
Time to stock up on family groceries!! These are a couple more places to pick up those Disney gift cards! Both of these organizations have discounts on Disney gift cards, as well. However, these are often seasonal – so start checking early!!!
American Express
If you have an AmEx card – you know that you get a percentage back at grocery stores, so you can purchase Disney Gift cards AND still get your gas points!
Option #3: Disney Visa Card
 | Think about signing up for a Disney Visa card. Each time you use your card, you accumulate Disney “Rewards points”. Before you leave for your trip, load your points onto a “Rewards card”; your Rewards card can then be used like cash, at select locations, while you’re on your Disney vacation. Additionally, your Disney Visa card has discounts in qualifying restaurants, stores, spa services and tours. Don’t forget to ask at every register to see if a Disney Visa discount applies! |
Option #4: Ears of Experience's Price Watch Service!
Book your vacation through Ears of Experience and you have access to our "Price Watch" service. Disney has a variety of promotions available and I can help identify which will be the best option to save you the most money. Whether it is a military discount, new ticket type, or room discount - you never know when new options will be announced. Because Disney is constantly updating their promotions, Ears of Experience has their "Ear" to the ground! Even if a new promotion comes out after you book, I will check to see if your reservation is eligible to try and save you money!
Surprise-- You're going to Disney!!! There's nothing better than watching the smile on your little one's face grow until they are bursting with excitement...they get to meet Mickey! So -- how in the world can you plan an amazing surprise without tipping your hand!
Here are 5 ways to get to get you started on the path to "Surprise Success"!
Here are 5 ways to get to get you started on the path to "Surprise Success"!
#1: After School Surprise!
This is a great option if you are leaving during the school week. Kids will wake up on a "normal" day - toothbrushing, breakfast and drop the kids off at school. Then, it's anything BUT normal for you! Once you're home, it's time to raid your closet and the kids drawers for the appropriate number of shorts, t-shirts, bathing suits etc. Pick up time!! When you pick your little's up from school, wear matching Disney family shirts, or hats to meet them and "Surprise! We're going to Disney TODAY!"
PREPARATION:
- Buy your matching shirts, hats etc. at least 3 weeks prior, so they are ready to go!
- Have a "Packing Checklist" to make the actual packing day go fast! (see me if you need one -- my daughter calls me the checklist Queen!)
PREPARATION:
- Buy your matching shirts, hats etc. at least 3 weeks prior, so they are ready to go!
- Have a "Packing Checklist" to make the actual packing day go fast! (see me if you need one -- my daughter calls me the checklist Queen!)
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#2: Sweet Morning Surprise!
If you are leaving on a weekend, you can start your morning with a "non traditional" breakfast, or end an evening with a sweet treat the night before the trip. Not only do you get crazy smiles as they get in the Disney spirit, but the fact that you are willingly giving them sweets is an added bonus!!! Arrange your sweets at the table and have a proclamation declaring "The _____ Family is Going to Disney!"
PREPARATION:
- order your cupcakes, etc ahead of time (If you are in the Chicagoland area -- I totally recommend Miss Joan's Cupcakes -- they are amazing!)
- write and print out your family "Proclamation"
PREPARATION:
- order your cupcakes, etc ahead of time (If you are in the Chicagoland area -- I totally recommend Miss Joan's Cupcakes -- they are amazing!)
- write and print out your family "Proclamation"
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#3: Holiday Surprise
Coupling your Disney surprise with a holiday is a great way to double the excitement! For trips to Disneyland or Walt Disney World, you can fill stockings with either Disney themed maps (let me know if you need any!), ornaments, small puzzles etc. You can also wrap a present filled with Mickey autograph books, Magic Bands, stuffed animals, or even Disney balloons! For a cruise -- schedule your character call for the holiday morning!
PREPARATION:
- acquire your "present" items ahead of time (If you are thinking about maps - Disney does not ship these -- give me a call and I can send some to you!)
- if "packing" balloons - be sure to pre-order if you have something specific in mind (sometimes local party stores run out of certain themes at the holidays)
PREPARATION:
- acquire your "present" items ahead of time (If you are thinking about maps - Disney does not ship these -- give me a call and I can send some to you!)
- if "packing" balloons - be sure to pre-order if you have something specific in mind (sometimes local party stores run out of certain themes at the holidays)
#4: Scavenger Hunt!
This one is especially great for a summer day! Wake up in the morning with their first clue at the breakfast table. You can make your hunt as long, or as short as you want. At each "stop" have a different clue getting them ready for the big Disney reveal at the end! There are a ton of Scavenger Hunt ideas on Pinterest. I have a fun one shared with me for a Valentine's Disney Cruise reveal -- this could be modified for any holiday or birthday - let me know if you would like a copy!
PREPARATION:
- Type up the Scavenger Hunt ahead of time
- Hide the prizes / scavenger goodies around the house
PREPARATION:
- Type up the Scavenger Hunt ahead of time
- Hide the prizes / scavenger goodies around the house
#5: Disney Countdown
If your little ones have a hard time with change and immediate surprises, this is a great option to let them get excited, but not overwhelm them with a sudden trip. You can "Surprise" them well in advance -- then share the excitement together as you count down the days until you leave. You can make changing the dates a morning, or an evening fun family event!
PREPARATION:
- Design your countdown (I have templates for the Christmas and countdown and the "regular" countdown - let me know if you would like a copy!)
PREPARATION:
- Design your countdown (I have templates for the Christmas and countdown and the "regular" countdown - let me know if you would like a copy!)
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Thank you to all my friends and fellow Ears of Experience agents that have shared their surprise ideas!! If you have a favorite surprise I'd love for you to share your "Magic" with us!