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Heading to Disney? Here is a step-by-step checklist of 5 things you should do before arriving at your resort. Be sure to save this so you can be prepared and organized for a great vacation! Create a My Disney Experience Account. Create a My Disney Experience  account and download the mobile app. Through this account you will: Link your resort reservation Connect with family and friends traveling with you View attractions, height requirements and wait times Purchase Lightning Lane passes View restaurants and menus Make dining reservations and complete online ordering See bus times Get maps and walking directions Complete online check in Get comfortable with this app prior to your trip. Make a list of your "must do" attractions. Check out restaurants and begin to think about which ones are the best fit for your travel party. Mark important dates on your calendar. If you are a resort guest, 60 days prior to your check-in date you can begin booking dining reservations. 7 days prior to your stay, you can book Lightning Lanes passes. If booking a resort package, the final payment will be due 30 days prior to check-in. Review the Disney park calendar Review the Disney park calendar . Make note of the opening and closing times of each park, extended evening hours, parades, and night show times. This will help you determine which park you would like to be at each day. Check the weather for your stay. Are you visiting during a hot or rainy season? Make sure you have everything you need to make the most of your stay. Below is a table that shows what you can expect during each month. As you get closer to your stay, be sure to check the weather app as well. Month Avg High / Low (°F) Rain Crowds Notes January 71 / 49 Low Low Cool mornings, mild days February 74 / 52 Low Moderate Warming up, great for outdoor days March 78 / 56 Moderate High (Spring Break) More crowded, comfortable temps April 83 / 60 Low High Warm, less rain, busy May 88 / 66 Moderate Moderate Hotter, humid starts June 90 / 72 High High Rainy afternoons, start of summer heat July 92 / 74 High High Hottest month, humid, storms likely August 92 / 74 High Moderate Similar to July, fewer crowds late in month September 89 / 73 High Low Still hot, hurricane season October 84 / 66 Moderate Moderate-High Pleasant weather, Halloween events November 78 / 58 Low Moderate-High Cooler, start of holiday crowds December 73 / 52 Low High (Christmas) Cool, festive, crowded later in month Prepare to travel the parks. Disney World requires a lot of walking. You'll want to make sure you have comfortable walking shoes. If anyone in your party has mobility issues, consider renting a scooter. ScooterBug will drop off a scooter right at your resort. Don't underestimate the need for a stroller, even for older kids. ScooterBug also rents strollers. Alternatively, strollers can be rented at each park, either daily or for the length of your stay through Disney. Work with a Disney Vacation Planner . Most Disney Vacation Planners do not charge any extra for their services and can help you with all of the steps to prepare for your vacation, as well as provide personalized recommendations. Many will even book your dining reservations for you if you like. Another benefit of working with a Disney vacation planner is having someone who can price monitor your trip. Disney often releases new offers, and if a new offer becomes available that can lower the cost of your trip, most will apply the offer for you automatically, saving you money. If you have booked your trip within the past 30 days, you may be able to transfer the booking to a Disney Vacation Planner . Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free, and I price monitor, saving you time and money! Request a no-obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

We are just two weeks away from the opening night of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! Today I'm sharing some fun, creative, and simple Disney-themed costume ideas that will make you stand out and keep you comfortable! Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  Tower of Terror Transform into a Tower of Terror Bellhop with this Hollywood Terror Hotel patch from Etsy, which can be ironed onto a tank or tee. Add these Tower of Terror themed ears , and you are set to go! This "Take the Stairs Shirt" pairs great if you want to add a little humor! Sassy Princess Crew Grab your girls and give a nod to your favorite princess with a sassy tank and a princess-themed set of ears! Cinderella Has anyone seen my glass slipper? tank Ears Snow White Original Princess tank Ears Aurora Being a Princess is Exhausting tank Ears Belle My Weekend is Booked tank Ears Moana Hei Hei is My Spirit Animal tank Ears Ariel Mermaid Hair Don't Care tank Ears Rapunzel I Have Magic Hair That Grows When I Sing tank Ears Jamine World Traveler tank Ears Tiana Tired of Kissing Frogs tank Ears Haunted Mansion Happy Haunts Feeling spooky? Dress as one of Haunted Mansion's 999 happy haunts! With the help of a Cricut Explore 3 you can DIY your own shirt or tank with glow in the dark heat transfer vinyl or wear this cute Haunted Mansion dress or Beware of Hitch Hiking Ghost Shirt . Accessorize with creepy claw clips ! Wilderness Explorers Channel your inner camper with this Wilderness Explorer t-shirt or tank and accessorize with a hat and bag . (The bag is a great place to stash extra candy as you are trick-or-treating around the park!) Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

Without a doubt, there are some fantastic table service dining options at Hollywood Studios. Sci Fi Dine-In theater remains my go to spot for family dining. Here's what keeps bringing me back! Theming The dining room immerses you in a 50s style drive in theater. Most tables are 50s style convertible cars positioned to view a big screen with vintage clips that are sure to give you feelings of nostalgia while introducing the kids to a new genre of entertainment! Prices If you are paying out of pocket, versus using a meal plan, the prices are towards the lower end for a table service meal. They also offer a 10% discount if you are using a Disney Visa card! Food My family has dined at Sci Fi Dine In Theater more times than I can count and the food has been consistently good. We have enjoyed salads, burgers, sandwiches, shakes and adult beverages. The menu is full of familiar favorites such as thick shakes, juicy burgers and crispy onion rings. A few tips: Reservations for this one go fast! If you are a resort guest, be sure to make your reservation as soon as your reservation window opens. For all other guests, you may make your reservation 60 days ahead of your visit. If you are unable to get an advanced dining reservation there is a walk up wait that may have availability. Priority car seating is given to guests with advanced reservations. So, if you are able to join the walk up list expect a table not a car. You will still have a great view of the screen and enjoy the overall vibe, so I wouldn't let this discourage you. The car outside the restaurant is a great spot for a picture. Hop in and see who can create the funniest pose! Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

Disney World is my go-to place for family fun and memories. My husband and I have been taking the kids since they were babies. We have stayed at and visited most of the resorts. With more than 25 Disney Resorts to choose from, Disney's Yacht Club Resort often makes the short list of fan favorites. It is definitely one of ours! Why Choose Disney's Yacht Club Resort? Disney's Yacht Club Resort is situated in the Epcot area, right beside its sister resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort . The New-England style nautical theming will transport you to a world of seaside charm and elegance. This stunning resort is packed with a plethora of perks that will make your Disney experience unforgettable. Here are just a few reasons my family keeps coming back to Disney's Yacht Club. Sunrise from a first floor resort view room at Disney's Yacht Club Resort Stormalong Bay Disney Yacht Club is home to Stormalong Bay. This pool is arguably the BEST at any Disney resort. It features a lazy river and a sand-bottom pool area. Guests receive wristbands upon arrival to ensure only those staying at Disney's Yacht and Beach Club have access. Campfire and Movies Under the Stars While all resorts offer Movies Under the Stars and most have campfires, I love the setup at Disney's Yacht Club. Adirondack chairs are arranged right on the beach. Sometimes, you might even find a pop-up glow party here! Fireworks Epcot fireworks can be viewed from the Boardwalk area in front of this resort, as well as from many rooms. Watching the fireworks from the comfort of your room is a magical experience! Fireworks viewing from a resort view first floor room at Disney's Yacht Club Resort Accessibility The Yacht Club is a very short walk to Epcot and a quick ferry ride to Hollywood Studios. If you're up for a slightly longer walk, there is a scenic path that can take you to Hollywood Studios from the resort. Epcot at night Sunsets You can see beautiful sunsets over Crescent Lake while walking along the Boardwalk, or from many resort rooms. These moments make for wonderful photo opportunities. Sunset at Disney's Yacht Club Extended Evening Hours The Yacht Club is a Deluxe Resort. On select nights, extended evening hours are offered at select parks. If you plan to take advantage of these extended hours at Hollywood Studios or Epcot, this location is ideal! Guardian's of the Galaxy queue during extended evening hours Beaches and Cream Soda Shop While this deluxe resort has many food offerings, including a character breakfast, Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is a unique 50s-style ice cream shop. They serve delicious sandwiches, but the main attraction is the ice cream. This is the spot where you will find Disney's famous Kitchen Sink sundae. This sundae, made for sharing, is big in every way. It comes out with a special announcement and flashing lights. The Kitchen Sink at Disney's Beaches and Cream Soda Shop With all these fantastic features, it's no wonder that Disney's Yacht Club Resort is a favorite among families. Whether you're splashing around in Stormalong Bay or enjoying a cozy movie night by the beach, your family will create memories that last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Let's make your Disney dreams come true! Planning Your Disney Adventure Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free, and I price monitor, saving you time and money! Request a no-obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe so you never miss a new post!

During the fall and winter months, Magic Kingdom closes at 6 p.m. on several evenings for special ticketed events. This means guests pay full price for park tickets, but their visit is shorter than on typical days, which leaves many questioning, are early closure days the best days to visit Magic Kingdom? August through October the park hosts Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party followed by Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party November and December. The parties offer holiday ride overlays, character meet and greets, parades, fireworks, treats and lower crowds. While the official start time of the party is 7 p.m., eager ticketed guests can arrive as early as 4 p.m. Attending the Disney holiday parties has become a tradition for my family over the past few years. We love the parties for the holiday fun and low crowds, but the 4 p.m to 6 p.m. time frame when there's the overlap of day guests and party guests hasn't been my favorite. Around 6 p.m when the day crowd leaves it's so much less crowded and that's when we can really kick back and enjoy. This has left me wondering, what it is like on the flip side? What do the morning guests experience before the party guests arrive? This year I decided to find out for myself. I took my husband and two girls to Magic Kingdom during the day on opening night of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween party to check this out. So, here's a snapshot of what our day looked like. Magic Kingdom opened at 8 a.m. We arrived a little before 8 a.m, scanned our magic bands for early entrance (this is a perk available for resort guests) at about 7:55 and walked towards Space Mountain. We were able to walk right on Space Mountain with no wait at all. Afterwards, we filled up our popcorn bucket and got pixie dusted! The cast member told us we were his first customers of the day and said anything we wanted was on him. We thanked him, grabbed a few waters to go with the popcorn and headed to Tiana's Bayou which had a 10 minute wait. Next, we walked over to Haunted Mansion where the time posted was 13 minutes. Pirates of the Caribbean was our next stop. There was a very short wait there as well, about 10 minutes. Unfortunately, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train was closed, so we missed out on that ride. Tron consistently had a 40 to 60 minute wait throughout the day, which isn't a horrible wait for Tron, but longer than we were willing to wait for Tron given it's not one of our favorite rides. We rode a few other rides we could walk on to with a little or no wait. We spent time shopping, and when we were hungry, we went to Tony's Town Square and got on the walk up list and they sat us right away. When checking the my Disney experience app, I did notice most restaurants did have availability so I was not worried about making reservations ahead of time for this visit. Tony's Town Square Overall, I noticed the crowd was visibly thinner than what I had experienced at the holiday parties I have previously attended, but the wait times were longer at times. I believe this is because there are fewer other things pulling guests away from attractions to create the shorter wait times. For example, at the parties you will also find dance parties, character meet and greets and complimentary snacks (candy for Halloween, and cookies for Christmas). We visited during mid August which typically has lower crowds, but this crowd was thinner than I had experienced during my park visits earlier that week. Space Mountain Here are my takeaways: Pros of visiting Magic Kingdom on an early closure day: Thinner crowds Easier to get dining reservations Cons of visiting Magic Kingdom on an early closure day: Less time at the park due to the earlier closure Must go early (expect a crowd to arrive at 4 p.m.) No fireworks Here are a few tips to make the most of your early closure Magic Kingdom day: 1. Arrive Early Get to the park when it opens. If you are a resort guest, take advantage of early entry hours and enjoy an extra 30 minutes. 2. Take Advantage of Lower Crowds Utilize the early hours when crowds are lighter. Focus on high-demand attractions first, then enjoy less popular rides as the day progresses. 3. Enjoy Holiday Decorations, Merchandise and Treats Take time to appreciate the festive decorations throughout the park. Stroll through the shops. Check for specialty seasonal treats that may be available. You can plan ahead by checking menus. I also often post updates on Instagram and Facebook so be sure to follow me! 4. Consider a 4 p.m. Dining Reservation. At 4 p.m. the park will become much more crowded as party guests arrive. This is a great time to get out of the crowd and sit down for a meal before you leave the park. 5. Park Hop If you have a park hopper ticket, Magic Kingdom on a party day is a great first stop! Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

Did you know you can book an inside stateroom on the Disney Magic or Disney Wonder that features an oceanview porthole? These unique rooms, often called 'secret porthole rooms,' are categorized as inside rooms by Disney, but they actually have a porthole. There are only a few of these staterooms available on each ship, and you need to know their locations to book them! Disney cruise ships offer four main categories of staterooms: inside, oceanview, verandah, and concierge. The most economical category is the inside stateroom, which are interior rooms without an exterior view. These rooms are ideal for families looking to save money while still enjoying all the amenities and services of a Disney cruise On the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, Disney's first two ships, there is a hidden gem: the secret porthole staterooms. These rooms are actually oceanview staterooms with an obstruction, but they are categorized as 'inside rooms.' This means you pay the price of an inside room while enjoying a porthole view of the ocean. These rooms are very limited and are located forward on decks 5 and 6. You need to know the specific room numbers to book them, as Disney does not have a special category for these rooms. Room 6506 on the Disney Magic is sold as a 10A Deluxe Inside Stateroom. The obstruction is a platform outside the window used for cleaning the ship, which moves at times when docked. In the picture, you can see there is no obstruction because the platform was raised. In this picture, you can see the obstruction. The platform was down for most of our 5-night cruise, but in my opinion, it was still much better than not having a porthole at all. There was one point during the cruise we did see a worker on the platform, so we closed the curtains. During our 5-day cruise, we only saw a worker on the platform once. I s a secret porthole room the right choice for your next Disney cruise? I love that these rooms are located on decks 5 and 6, making it easy to take the stairs to the pool deck, kids club, dining, or theaters if you want to burn off a few ice cream cones. However, these rooms are located all the way forward, so if you struggle with motion sickness, this may not be the best location for you. When booking a Disney cruise, it's always a good idea to contact a travel agent who specializes in Disney cruises. They can help you weigh your options, assist with planning, and keep you informed of booking windows. Would you like to learn more about a cruise with Disney? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free, and I price monitor to save you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here   or email me Irene@mouseketrips.com  with any cruising questions! Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

What is the best age to take your kids to Walt Disney World? As a Disney travel planner, this is a question I get often. There’s no single “best” age to take your kids to Walt Disney World, it depends on your family’s interests and what you want out of the trip. The first time my husband and I took our two girls to Disney World they were 3 years old and not quite one yet. They have traveled at every age since, and are now in their tween and teen years. Each stage carries its own magic and challenges. Below are what you can expect and plan for at each age. Under 5 years old Younger children can have a wonderful time, especially with character meet-and-greets and attractions designed for little ones, such as The Seas with Nemo and Friends , Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh , Disney Junior Play and Dance and Under the Sea, Journey of the Little Mermaid . There will be plenty of rides available for them to enjoy, but they may not reach the height requirement for all of them. Children this age may need more breaks and naps, so planning ahead for this is a good idea. Children ages 3 to 12 are able to book makeovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. The magic is very much alive during the preschool age. Watching the wonder of children at this age is something very special. Consider a character meal such as Crystal Palace , Cinderella's Royal Table or Hollywood and Vine so favorite characters will come to you while you eat. Do plan on bringing or renting a stroller. While lugging a stroller on transportation isn't the funniest thing to do, you can bring them on the busses, skyliner, monorail and ferries. You will also have space to hold gear like, drinks, snacks and diapers. Disney World has complimentary Baby Care Centers at each park for families with infants and toddlers. 5 to 10 years old Many families find that ages 5 to 10 are ideal. At this age, children are tall enough for most rides, have the stamina for long days, and are still young enough to experience the magic and wonder of meeting characters and character dining experiences such as Story Book Dinning at Artist Point . Don't underestimate the continued need for breaks and a stroller even for some older children. In addition to more adventurous ride opportunities, such as Avatar Flight of Passage or Space Mountain children at this age may enjoy some cultural experiences such as Kidcot . Children at this age are also old enough to enjoy experiences such as Droid Depot or Savi's Workshop . Tween and Teens Some families think tweens and teens are too old for Disney World and this is a HUGE misconception. Older kids and teens can enjoy all that Disney has to offer without limitations. Many do enjoy thrill rides such as Expedition Everest , Tron or Guardians of the Galaxy, but this is also a time when they really start to appreciate Epcot's World Showcase and festivals such as Food and Wine . We went to Food and Wine when the kids were 10 and 12. They got a passport with food offerings and planned out the food they wanted to sample from each country and lead the way. They were so excited to explore different foods as we traveled the world checking off their passport. At this age they are more independent and able to stay up later enjoying evening events such as extended evening hours and parties like Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party or Hollywood Studios After Hours. Tweens and Teens are also old enough to be independent at offerings like Colors of Coronado Painting Experience . They will also sit longer for meals so you can get more out of experiences like Space 220 . Older teens can enjoy Disney's Key's to the Kingdom Tour . Another huge plus is at this point you can ditch the stroller and extra gear. They can carry their own bag if they want to bring anything and you can travel a little lighter. Ultimately, the best age is when your family is ready to enjoy the experience together. If you’d like personalized recommendations based on your children’s ages and interests, I’m happy to help you plan the perfect Disney vacation! I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

Planning a Disney vacation is like setting off on a grand adventure filled with excitement, wonder, and a little bit of magic. But let’s be honest - it can also feel overwhelming. From choosing the right park to booking dining reservations and figuring out Lightning Lane passes, there’s a lot to juggle. That’s why I’m here to share how custom Disney vacation plans can transform your trip from stressful to simply magical. Whether you’re traveling with little ones or as a couple, having a tailored plan makes all the difference. Why Custom Disney Vacation Plans Make Your Trip Magical When you think about a Disney vacation, you probably imagine meeting your favorite characters, enjoying thrilling rides, and savoring delicious treats. But the reality is, without a plan, you might miss out on some of the best experiences. Custom Disney vacation plans are designed to fit your unique needs and interests. Imagine having a day-by-day itinerary that balances fun and rest, includes dining spots your family will love, and helps you avoid long lines. That’s exactly what a custom plan offers. It’s like having a personal guide who knows the parks inside and out, helping you make the most of every moment. Here are some benefits of custom plans: Personalized recommendations based on your family’s ages and preferences Optimized park schedules to minimize wait times Dining reservations at the best spots without the hassle Tips for hidden gems and special experiences you might not find on your own How to Create Your Own Custom Disney Vacation Plans Creating your own custom Disney vacation plan might sound tricky, but it’s easier than you think. Start by listing what your family loves most. Are you thrill-seekers who want to hit every roller coaster? Or do you prefer character meet-and-greets and shows? Knowing this helps you prioritize. Next, decide how many days you’ll spend at each park. Disney World has four main parks - Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each offers unique experiences, so spreading your time wisely is key. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide: Choose your travel dates - Consider crowd levels and weather. Book your accommodations - Staying on-site can offer perks like early park entry and extended evening hours for deluxe resort guests. Plan your park days - Allocate days based on your must-see attractions. Make dining reservations - Popular restaurants fill up fast, so book 60 days in advance. Lightning Lane Passes - These help you skip lines for top rides. Resort guests can book Lightning Lane Passes up to 7 days in advance. Add in rest and downtime - Don’t forget to relax and recharge. If you want to save time and get expert help, consider using a Disney Vacation Planner . Disney Vacation Planners can help guide you through the process and can handle as much of the planning as you like (even booking your dining reservations for you) Most Disney Vacation Planners are free to you. What is the Best Way to Plan a Disney Vacation? The best way to plan a Disney vacation is to start early and stay organized. Disney vacations are popular, and the earlier you book, the better your chances of securing the experiences you want. (This doesn't mean you can't plan an excellent last minute trip) Here are some tips that have worked wonders for me: Use official Disney apps - The My Disney Experience app lets you check wait times, book lightning lane passes, read menus and mobile order food. Set reminders for dining reservations - These open 60 days before your trip, and popular spots go fast. Consider park hopper tickets - These allow you to visit multiple parks in one day, giving you flexibility. Pack smart - Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, ponchos, and portable chargers are must-haves. Remember, flexibility is key. Sometimes the best memories come from spontaneous moments, so leave room for a little magic to happen. Insider Tips for Making Your Disney Vacation Truly Special To make your Disney vacation stand out, here are some insider tips I’ve picked up over the years: Book character dining experiences - These meals combine great food with meet-and-greets, perfect for kids and adults alike. For more tips, be sure to check out The Best Items for Character Autographs Arrive early - The first few hours after park opening usually have shorter lines. Stay hydrated and take breaks - Florida can get hot, so keep water handy and find shady spots to rest. For more tips, be sure to check out The Best Places to Beat the Heat at Walt Disney World. Capture memories - Use Disney’s PhotoPass or bring your own camera to document the magic. These small touches can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one. Making the Most of Your Disney Vacation Experience At the end of the day, a Disney vacation is about creating joyful memories with your loved ones. Custom Disney vacation plans help you do just that by removing stress and letting you focus on the fun. Whether it’s watching fireworks light up the sky or sharing a laugh on a favorite ride, every moment counts. If you want to make your planning easier and your trip more magical, I highly recommend exploring Disney vacation planning services for free expert advice and personalized plans that take the guesswork out of your vacation. So, are you ready to unlock the magic and start planning your dream Disney vacation? With a little preparation and a custom plan, your next trip will be filled with smiles, laughter, and memories to last a lifetime. I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

After two years of cancelled plans and missed milestone celebrations, my family was ready for an extra special vacation. Alaska checked all the boxes. This is a destination rich in history, culture and beauty. We purchased the kids a few books to read about Alaska and in the summer of 2022 we traveled Alaska on a Disney Cruise. This cruise exceeded expectations. There are so many reasons to love cruising Alaska with Disney, I'm going to share just a few. Disney Cruise Line sets sail along the coast of Alaska May through September on the Disney Wonder. Sailings depart from Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada and run 5-9 nights depending on the itinerary. 1-Timing With cruises sailing through the summer months this cruise is ideal for families that are working around school and sports schedules or would like to escape the summer heat and enjoy some cooler weather. If you are sailing mid-summer expect warm weather leaving Vancouver, it's generally a great day for the pool deck. Most Alaskan ports will offer daytime highs in the 50s to low 70s. Some excursions may be a little cooler. Glacier Day will be cold. Glacier Day is a nice time to put on a winter coat, gloves and hat and enjoy some hot cocoa or an Irish coffee and an amazing view. Upper deck on the Disney Wonder leaving Vancouver. This is the perfect spot to enjoy the view and warmer temperatures on Day 1 of the cruise. On Glacier Day hot cocoa and cookies are served on the pool deck. Souvenir mugs and Irish coffee are available for purchase. 2-Nature and Wildlife Expert Aboard Prior to your journey through the fjord on Glacier Day, the Nature and Wildlife Expert aboard will share information on the journey, the glacier and wildlife you may see. Our Nature and Wildlife Expert was very knowledgeable and happy to answer questions . Our Nature and Wildlife Expert teaching us all about icebergs. On Glacier day he even directed us to view one as it was flipping over. Our Nature and Wildlife Expert describing where the ship would travel the following day. 3-Glacier Day! On Glacier Day we traveled through Tracy Arm. Most of the day we sat out on our verandah and took in the breathtaking views. Our onboard Nature and Wildlife Expert occasionally made announcements for things we should look out for over the loud speaker. On the pool deck there were a lot of photo opportunities with characters. Crew members brought a large piece of glacier ice on to the ship so you could touch it and take pictures with it. Glacier ice was brought aboard the Disney Wonder. Guests were able to touch and take pictures with the ice. It's easy to spot waterfalls traveling through Tracy Arm. Traveling through Tracy Arm we were close enough to land to look out for wildlife in the sea and on land. Our Nature and Wildlife Expert described the animals we may see the day before. The view from our verandah approaching the glacier. This is the view from our verandah approaching the glacier. 4-Frozen Deck Party One night of the cruise Disney hosts a Frozen night. This night features a Frozen themed dinner and deck party. The deck party includes sing alongs and SNOW! Frozen Deck Party 5-The Disney Wonder The Disney Wonder is Disney's second ship, joining the Disney Magic in 1999. This ship is the same size and layout as the Disney Magic. These two ships are Disney's smallest ships. I love the experience of being on a smaller ship especially for port adventure days. Fewer guests make getting off the ship and back on the ship much easier, and port adventures tend to be less crowded. Disney Wonder, Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada Disney Wonder, viewed from the Duck Tour in Ketchikan, Alaska. The Duck Tour is a bus that tours on land, then turns into a boat and takes you around in the water! 6-Port Adventures There are so many great options for port adventures that appeal to a variety of interests, ages and activity levels. You can explore nature in a variety of ways, including, zip-lining, Jeep and canoe adventures, hiking and rafting, boat tours, duck tours (this is a bus that first travels on land then travels in the water), helicopter tours, biking, and more. If culture and history interests you, there are many adventures available. You can check out the popular lumberjack show in Ketchikan, pan for gold, enjoy a salmon bake, or ride the White Pass Railway, just to name a few. Macaulay Salmon Hatchery in Juneau, Alaska Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska has trails for hiking. There's a great spot for pictures by the glacier with a huge waterfall. Ride White Pass Railway in Stagway, Alaska Historic Creek Street, Ketchikan, Alaska 7-Small Towns and Seaplanes The Alaskan ports we visited are very small towns. We learned on the Skagway streetcar tour that about only 800 people live in Skagway year round! Our tour guide shared so much information about life in this small secluded town. We found our guide very knowledgable and nice and as were all the people we met in these small towns. There are also very few roads in Alaska so most travel is done by plane. We saw many seaplanes. This was really fun, especially for my kids. Ketchikan, Alaska Skagway Street Car Tour Here's a seaplane taking off. 8-The Food We enjoyed the food we had at ports, but it was also really nice to have sit down meals aboard the Disney Wonder. My 8-year-old loves salmon and was excited to see it on the menu every night. For dessert, we were served baked Alaska, among many other tasty treats! Baked Alaska served at Tiana's Place Skayway Brewing Company is a great place to stop for lunch or a drink. If you are looking for a souvenir, be sure to check out the gift shop for t-shirts, hats and more. 9-The Midnight Sun You'll head north enough during the summer months to experience almost 24 hours of daylight. During our August cruise the sunset briefly around 11:30 pm on our second night. 10- Scenery at Sea This cruise travels close to the coastline so we were able to enjoy beautiful views of the Alaskan landscapes as we traveled. Would you like to learn more about an Alaskan cruise or any cruise with Disney? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here or email me Irene@mouseketrips.com with any cruising questions!

It's that time of year again! If you are looking to check off your holiday shopping list for your favorite Disney traveler, look no further! I have the perfect gifts for every Disney traveler (with links!), whether they are headed to a Disney destination this year, or just want to feel like they are. Disney Wish Merrytime Cruise Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  Gifts For Travel Collapsable Sand Buckets Image from Amazon These collapsable sand buckets  are great for anyone headed off to one of Disney's private islands, Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Melissa & Doug Magnets Imagine from Amazon Did you know cruise doors and walls are metal? These Melissa & Doug Disney magnets  are great for cruisers. They can be used to decorate the cabin door and spaces inside the cabin. Loungefly Mini Backpack Image from Amazon Loungefly  has a themed bag that will fit every Disney style. These bags come in very handy as you are traveling both to and from your destination, but you will also see they are very popular at the parks and on cruises. Consider filling the bag will small Disney themed items such as Lip Smacker Disney Princess Flavored Lip Balm ,  Mickey Mouse Mad Libs , Mickey Mouse Sleep, Mask Mickey Mouse Pimple Patches , Minnie's Magic Glow Face Masks , Bicycle Disney Playing Cards . Blenders Sunglasses Image from Amazon I purchased this pair for my last Disney trip and couldn't be happier. They are reasonably priced, great quality and keep everything bright, not dim. The mirrored lenses also work well if you want to capture a castle reflection picture in your lenses! Summer Fridays: Your Glow, On the Go Summer Fridays is great for everyone in the family. It's clean, pregnancy-safe, suitable for all skin types. It includes hydration from ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E which makes it a great travel partner! There's lot's of great products to choose from. #SummerFridaysonAmazon Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask - Hydrating Face Moisturizer Image from Amazon Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 & Jet Lag Mask Gift Set - Multitasking Moisturizer & Face Mask & Antioxidant-Enriched Mineral Sunscreen Image from Amazon Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil - Tinted Lip Oil with Moisturizing Sheer Coverage, High-Shine and Deep Hydration American Tourister Disney Luggage Tags Image from Amazon These cute Mickey and Minnie luggage tags make for great stocking stuffers! Disney Havaianas Image from Amazon Disney Havaianas  are great for cruises, lounging by the resort pool, and throwing in your park bag in case it rains. A White Stanley Cup and Metallic Sharpies A white Stanley Cup  , Owala or any other water bottle and Metallic Sharpie Markers   from Amazon make a great gift for anyone looking to collect character autographs. For more character autograph ideas, check out this blog post. Portable Fan Image from Amazon Any traveler headed to Florida during the summer months will really appreciate a portable fan. This one comes with a lanyard, is very light, and has joined me on quite a few park visits. Minnie and Mickey Picnic Ears by Loungefly The front of the simulated leather padded ears are screen printed to look like strawberry pies and they smell like them too! Vintage-era Mickey and Minnie star on the reverse while other delicious details include a removable red checkered bow and a flower appliqué. CamelBak Quick Stow Flask Image from Amazon A collapsable water bottle is a great addition to a park bag. I like this CamelBak Quick Stow Flask . It will save space, money (fill with free cups of ice water available at quick service kiosks throughout the park), and it's very lightweight. I have four of these and no leaks! Luxury Gifts Once Upon a Vine Wine and JoyJolt Disney Glasses Image from Amazon Once Upon a Vine Wines can be found at Disney Parks and Resorts, but this wine can also often be found at your local beer and wine store. If you don't see it on the shelf, ask at the register, sometimes it can be special ordered! Pair a bottle with fun Disney glasses from JoyJolt. They carry an entire Disney Line. Check out their online store here . Magic Candle Company Candles Magic Candle Company Candles  are the BEST Disney scented candles. The scents capture the resorts and attractions perfectly. I will be gifting myself some new scents this year. The website frequently runs sales, so I would definitely check them out. Disney socks, Blankets, Wraps and More From Barefoot Dreams Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Did you know Barefoot Dreams has a Disney collection ? If you haven't yet experienced Barefoot Dreams, they create just about the softest fabric you can imagine. What better way to relax and watch your favorite Disney movie on a cold winter night, then wearing a cozy pair of Disney Barefoot Dream socks or wrapped in a Disney Barefoot Dreams throw or robe. You'll find gifts for everyone from babies to adults (even pets) on their online store . Corkcicle Disney Tumblers, Waterbottles and Accessories Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Corkcicle offers some great Disney and Star Wars designs. Check out their online store . I especially like the Star Wars and Princess tumblers. Star Wars Stackable Drinking Glasses Image from Amazon May the fun be with you! Glasses don't get much cuter than these Star Wars Stackable drinking glasses from JoyJolt. Gifts for the Family Disney Board Games Image from Amazon Image from Amazon What's not to love about a Disney twist on a classic game? These would be great additions to family game night! Consider Disney Villains Clue, Chutes and Ladders: Disney Princess Edition , Uno Star Wars . or Stitch Yahtzee The Official Disney Parks Cookbook Image from Amazon Some of the best vacation moments happen during a great meal, and this collection of official Disney parks recipes is the perfect ingredient to sharing similar food, love, and laughter with friends and family at home! The Official Disney Parks Cookbook: 101 Magical Recipes from the Delicious Disney Vault is a great gift for the family or any foodie on your list. Pixar: The Official Cookbook Image from Amazon Launch your kitchen “to infinity and beyond,” with this inspiring, high-quality cookbook featuring more than 75 delicious recipes inspired by beloved Pixar films! This comprehensive, family-friendly cookbook features nearly every Pixar short and film in chronological order and includes a creative collection of colorful appetizers, mains, and desserts that fans will adore, from Ratatouille from Ratatouille to Trenette al Pesto from Luca ! Picnic Time Cutting Boards and Cooler Totes Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Picnic Time carries an adorable line of cutting boards and totes perfect for movie night or a family picnic. Check out their online store . Holiday Themed Gifts Disney Ornaments I love these ornaments from It All Started With A Flag . They make hand crafted wood ornaments for virtually every Disney resort and destination. The owner, who happens to be a former Disney Cast member, is very easy to work with and will personalize these ornaments for you upon request. This year, I ordered my daughters Boardwalk Resort ornaments and had their names and the year engraved on the back in celebration of our summer vacation. Disney Advent Calendar Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Lego Disney Advent Calendar , a 253-piece buildable toy packed with 24 days of characters, activities and surprises! Mini Brands Disney Advent Calendar includes 24 minis for an exciting holiday countdown. MAD beauty makes a 12 day advent calendar with bath and body goodies fit for any princess. Minnie and Mickey Lip Balm and Lip Scrub This lip balm and lip scrub set in holiday scents is perfect for a stocking stuffer. Gifts Sure to Please the Kids Disney Crocs Image from Amazon Yup, Crocs has a Disney line . You can order Disney Crocs and Jibbitz in a variety styles and Disney characters. Check out their online store . Princess Lip Smacker Glam Bag Image from Amazon The Princess Lip Smacker Glam Bag makes a great gift for any little princess. Winne the Pooh MAD Beauty Hand Warmers Image from Amazon These are perfect for cold walks to school or the bus stop. A set of Winnie the Pooh hand warmers from MAD Beauty makes for a great stocking stuffer. MAD beauty has a complete Disney line of bath, body and skincare products. Check out their online store . Alice in Wonderland Limited Edition Box Makeup Set Image from Amazon This Alice and Wonderland themed make up kit by Wet n Wild is perfect for any tween on your list. RUGGABLE Disney Classic Mickey Mouse Washable Rug Find hidden Mickeys at home! This kid friendly, pet friendly, washable rug comes in several different Disney designs. Star Wars Choose Your Own Destiny Chapter books Image from Amazon These books provide hours of fun and adventure. Check out Star Wars: An ObiWan & Anakin Adventure: A Choose Your Destiny Chapter Book , or other books in this series. Disney Pixar Storybook Collection: Tales to Finish: Color Your Own Storybook Collection! Image from Amazon What kids doesn't want to color their own storybook! This book is great for artists who love to read as well as reluctant readers who love to color. Disney "Up" House LEGO Set This Disney Pixar Lego set is great for LEGO enthusiasts ages 9 and up. Disney LEGO Celebration Train Image from Amazon This LEGO Disney Celebration Train includes a variety of loved characters and is for children ages 4 and up. MAD Beauty Disney Mulan Bath Milk Image from Amazon Know someone loyal, brave and true? This lotus flower and peony scented bubble bath milk will be the perfect gift. Be sure to check out the matching mirror and hand care set ! The Perfect Gift for EVERYONE A Disney Vacation Nothing makes a better gift than the gift of lasting memories. Check out this blog post to learn 5 fun ways to surprise your family with a Disney vacation . What memories will you create in the new year? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to help you plan your next Disney adventure! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here .

Summer months can be a great time to visit Walt Disney World. Summer offers a slow down period for many families. Breaks from school and sports allows perfect windows of time for travel. Summer months in Orlando also bring rain and very, very warm weather. It's important to arrive prepared so you can make the most of your Walt Disney World vacation. Here are my must have items to help you save money, time and stay comfortable during your visit to Walt Disney World. Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  1.Start with a backpack with lots of compartments to keep you organized. I like this Adidas backpack . It has 4 outside zippered pockets and two side pockets for water bottles. When packing your bag, try to travel light. You don't want to be lugging around a ton of extra stuff, only bring what you anticipate you will need for that day. 2. Taking a collapsible water bottle will save you time and money. Camelbak makes a great quick stow flask or you can purchase the larger Camelbak hydration pack . Quick service kiosks will provide free ice water that can be used for refills, so for my family we have found the quick stow flask works just fine. I've had no issues with leaks with the Camelbak quick stow flask and these flasks take up very little room in my park bag. I can fit one flask into each water bottle pocket of my Adidas park backpack. 3. Having a personal fan will keep you cool while you are walking around the park or waiting for attractions. Aluan Handheld Mini Fan has a lanyard so it can be worn around your neck This fan is small, lightweight and powerful which makes it a great choice! You will need to remember to charge this fan at night, as the battery only last about a day. 4. Some travelers prefer cooling towels to personal fans. I have tried both, and while I prefer personal fans, Frogg Toggs does make a great cooling towel. Cooling towels are good options for anyone who doesn't like the idea of needing to recharge a fan, but keep in mind the towels do need to be frequently re-wet with cold water. 5. Summer months in Orlando are rainy. Summer showers are very common and usually pass quickly. If you are prepared with ponchos and water shoes the rain shouldn't cause much of a problem. Many times, the passing shower can even thin out the crowds a bit! You'll want to bring along a good reusable poncho. As showers come and go quite often, you may need your poncho more than once. This one from Frogg Toggs is inexpensive and large enough to fit over your park bag keeping you and your belongs dry through the passing showers. 6. Wearing or bringing shoes that can handle a little rain is a good idea. A quick way to ruin a park day is having to walk around in wet socks and tennis shoes. Consider packing a pair of Havaianas flip flops or wearing Crocs or Native shoes. You can find all of these in fun Disney designs. 7. Lastly, consider packing a few gallon size Ziplock bags . These will come in handy if items do get wet. You can neatly store wet ponchos in the Ziplock bags and keep other items dry.   Let's connect! I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here   or email me Irene@mouseketrips.com  with any questions!

Disney vacation planning styles vary. Some super planners spend hours researching, planning and preparing. Other travelers are more casual and arrive with little planning and just let the days take them where they take them. Most travelers fall somewhere in-between. All travelers do have a few things in common, we'd like our vacation run smoothly, be memorable (in a good way) and be hassle-free. Below are a few tips to help any Disney traveler prepare for a Walt Disney World vacation that is practically perfect in every way . Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  1.Don't underestimate the weather. Summer months in Florida are VERY hot. If you are visiting during warmer months come prepared with a personal fan , collapsible water bottle and plan for breaks. You can cool off by stepping into some indoor attractions with low wait times such as Mickey's PhilharMagic , It's Tough to be a Bug , Living with the Land , and Star Tours or by stopping for a cool drink. If you are visiting August through October be sure to prepare for a passing shower. Ponchos won't take up too much room in your park bag and are a great way to keep your hands free and keep you dry while you are walking around or waiting in line. It's best to keep an eye on the current weather conditions a week or so prior to your trip and arrive prepared. Having necessary items to combat the elements can work to your advantage. Often times a passing shower can thin out crowds! Pongu Pongu at Pandora 2. Wear the right footwear. Expect to do a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes are obvious, but also consider possible rain. Wet sneakers are no longer comfortable. Consider bringing along a pair of flip flops , crocs or native footwear if rain is in the forecast. Image from Amazon 3. Get to know the my Disney Experience app before your trip. I can't stress this one enough! Download the my Disney Experience app on your phone and get to know it. Prior to your trip you can check out menus, make dining reservations , view attractions (along with height requirements), plan ahead by looking at current wait times, and even chat with a cast member. Once you arrive you can mobile order, get walking directions to attractions, join restaurant wait lists, join virtual queues, and book lighting lanes using Genie + , just to name a few! 4. Don't over schedule, allow for spontaneous moments. With so much available, it's easy to want to do it all when planning your trip. If you plan every minute of your trip you are setting yourself up for potential disaster and disappointment. Instead, prioritize your must do attractions and activities. Schedule these and allow for some down time. This time can be used for some much needed rest, or the opportunity to explore activities you may not have realized existed prior to your visit. 5. Consider adding an after hours or holiday party After hours and holiday parties are special ticketed evening events with limited capacity. While this is an extra ticket purchase and expenses, these parties add a real bang for your buck. With lighter crowds, you are able to experience more in a shorter amount of time. You will not need a park ticket during the day so you can cut back on one day of tickets. You will also not need Genie + for the parties, in fact it's not even offered because there is not need. Spend the day relaxing by the pool, then head out for the evening event. 6. Choose the right resort for your budget and needs. With more than twenty-five Walt Disney World resorts in three different resort price categories there is sure to be a resort that is perfect for your budget and needs. Consider accessibility to parks, resort pools, amenities and features, dining, theming, and resort room space and sleeping arrangements. Standard Room at Disney's Polynesian Resort 7. Check the Walt Disney World Calendar. Be sure to check the Walt Disney World Calendar for park hours, firework and parade times, early entry and extended evening hours . Deluxe resort guests have access to extended evening hours at select parks on select nights. If you are staying at a deluxe resort, I highly recommend taking advantage of these. For no extra charge, you can stay and enjoy a lighter crowd as well as an extra opportunity to join a virtual queue! Virtual queue line for Guardians of the Galaxy during Epcot's After Hours 8.Book through a travel agent who specializes in Disney. Booking your trip through a good travel agent who specializes in Disney can save you money and time. Most travel will not charge you a penny more than what you would pay if you booked on your own through Disney. Disney pays travel agents a small commission on trips they book for their clients after their client travels. In addition, travel agents who specialize in Disney, visit often, are knowledgeable and are some of the first to know when new Disney offers are released. They can even apply these discounts to previously booked trips lowering the price of your trip after you have booked. They will give you peace of mind, knowing if something does go wrong, or you have any questions they are there to help! Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here .