What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
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What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
Planning a trip to WDW takes a lot of thought and planning. Even with the best laid plans, one can encounter a bump or two along the way.
An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, like myself, is a 'one-stop-Disney-vacation-shop!' I can help you build your vacation from beginning to end! The best part is that my AMAZING services come at no extra cost to you, than if you'd booked it yourself.
What are the perfect number of days for a Disney World vacation?
It really depends on what you are looking for in your vacation! Generally, three to five days is enough to experience the four main theme parks, but you can always add on extra days to explore the other attractions and experiences available. If you’re looking for a more leisurely vacation, seven to ten days would be ideal to truly enjoy everything Disney World has to offer.
When is the best time to visit Disney World?
The best time to visit Disney World is typically during the off-season. This usually falls between early January and late February, as well as the months of September and October. During these times, there are usually fewer crowds and lower prices. However, it's important to note that the busiest times of year (like summer, Christmas and Easter) can still be enjoyable if you plan ahead and make reservations in advance.
Common mistakes we see when people try to book themselves at the Happiest Place on Earth
Mistake #1 – Not reserving table service meals in advance. You’ll absolutely need to make a reservation for sit down meals 60/180 days prior to your arrival. And, beware…they go fast, especially signature and character experiences.
Mistake #2 – Not using mobile order. If quick service dining is preferred, we encourage you to order using your device in advance. Payment via this method is contactless and all you have to do is pick up your order and go.
Mistake #3 – Not budgeting in advance. This is especially true for food and merchandise. Scope out menus ahead of time and don’t impulse purchase. Try to go in with a PLAN and a budget and stick to it.
Mistake #4 – Overpacking. You don’t need four pairs of shoes and two pairs of Mickey ears per day! Make and stick to a packing list, but don’t forget essentials! Sure, you can find them on property, but at a premium.
Mistake #5 – Overplanning. Prioritize your parks and attractions, but don’t pen anything in. Variables like weather and crowds could quickly derail a day that has been booked down to the minute. Be sure to plan for breaks with all of that walking!
Mistake #6 – Ignoring the forecast. Monitor the weather in Orlando prior to departure and adjust accordingly. Likely rain gear will be needed for summers, and a sweater, sweatshirt or jacket needed for cooler winter nights.
Mistake #7 – Visiting at the wrong time. As a rule of thumb, holidays, school breaks, summer, and weekends will bring the crowds. If they’re too much for you and/or you prefer a more relaxed vibe, check out other times of the year.
Mistake #8 – Wearing the wrong shoes! You should not purchase those cool new sneaks specifically for this trip. New shoes are culprits for a world of hurt, and bandaids. Stick with pairs that are broken in and comfy.
Questions To Ask Your Travel Agent about Disney World
1) What package deals are available for Disney World?
2) Are there any discounts or special offers I can take advantage of?
3) What are the best times of the year to visit Disney World?
4) Are there any seasonal activities or attractions I should be aware of?
5) How far in advance do I need to book my trip?
6) What are the best ways to save money while visiting Disney World?
7) Are there any particular restaurants or attractions that I should make sure to experience while there?
8) Are there any insider tips or tricks that I should know before I go?
9) Are there any special events or experiences that I can book ahead of time?
10) Are there any safety protocols that I should be aware of?
Disney Properties, How do you make the right selection?
Staying on Disney property is certainly our recommendation. At the end of the day Disney is always telling a story, right? Well, the resorts on property certainly aren’t an exception. Plus, staying on property comes with perks that hotels off site just don’t have. Added value! With more than 25 resorts, how do you select the one that is best for your family? Here’s a quick look!
Disney separates its resorts into four categories - value, moderate, deluxe and villas (usually part of the Disney Vacation Club). Pricing, features onsite and availability of certain amenities start off pretty basic and add on from there.
Value – Pretty basic rooms and baths. Recreation and dining are limited – think large pool and food court. Transport is typically going to be via bus.
Moderate – Rooms here are larger and in different configurations as is the bath. View options, pools, recreation, and dining are a little more robust. Bus transport is typical here, but you might find a property with a boat.
Deluxe – Most posh rooms! Types and sizes can vary. The main draw is the proximity to the parks. This is as close as it gets! A park could be a quick walk or monorail ride away.
Villas – We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program (but can be booked for cash). Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is like a deluxe property.
Evaluate each category as described and make your selection based on the needs of your family. Need help in choosing which is best for you and your family? Let us guide you each step of the way!
More Details - Selecting a Resort on Walt Disney World Property
Each resort has been carefully crafted and immerses you in a story – and we LOVE that. Plus, staying on property comes with perks that hotels off site just don’t have. Added value! However, there are SO many resorts (more than 25!). So, how do you select the one that is best for your family? Well, we’re here to break it down for you, and as we go, remember the story! A hint or indicator of it is usually in the name.
Since the resorts are split into four budget categories - value, moderate, deluxe and villas (usually part of the Disney Vacation Club but can be booked for cash). Pricing usually follows this model as it sounds – value is a better price per night as compared to deluxe. Same goes for features onsite and availability of certain amenities. Let’s do a quick breakdown!
Value Category - Resort Level
The bulk of rooms in this category are standard and approximately 260 square feet. There is a basic bath setup (sink often in the open and toilet and shower/tub in a separate room) and bedding could be two doubles or a king. Some rooms in this category are family suites coming in at approximately 520 square feet. They have a similar set up as a standard but double the baths and add in some convertible sleeping options. From here things at both are about the same. Views can differ from parking areas and wooded areas to swimming pools – and naturally the better the view the higher the price. Speaking of swimming pools, the pools here are typically themed and could be interactive, but here’s your warning – no slides! Other forms of recreation can be limited – think poolside games, a playground, and an occasional movie outside at night. Dining options are slim too with your only options being a foot court or pool bar. Finally, transportation provided by Disney (a perk of staying onsite!) will usually be via a bus. The only exceptions to this are the Art of Animation Resort and Pop Century, which recently were added to the new-ish Skyliner route.
Includes: All Star Movies, All Star Music, All Star Sports, Art of Animation, Pop Century, and Campsites at Fort Wilderness.
Moderate Category - Resort Level
Standard rooms in this category are in the 300 square foot range with a similar bath set up as a value resort, but maybe an additional sink. Two queen beds or one king is the standard, but there might be a spot for a potential fifth person (otherwise four is max). Views are similar as well but throw in the possibility of a room facing/near a natural body of water. Pools, other recreation and dining options are a little more robust with the addition of “quiet pools,” water recreation, bikes, a health club (Coronado Springs), at least one table service restaurant and a lounge. Transport here is typically bus as well, but there might be a boat service from some resorts to Disney Springs.
Includes: Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans French Quarter, Port Orleans Riverside, and Cabins at Fort Wilderness
Deluxe Category - Resort Level
There are a variety of rooms and sizes here. We’re talking anywhere from 344 to 440 square feet. The bath situation can vary too and includes what you’ll find in a moderate, but probably in a different configuration for more privacy. If the room is larger, there might be several baths. Bedding configuration is like a moderate property with nothing smaller than a queen. However, it’s the views, recreation, dining, and transportation that sets a deluxe apart. Pools will have slides, hot tubs, or other water features. Spa services might even be available. There are more table service restaurants, room service and maybe even character dining your Walt Disney World onsite. Lastly, these resorts are typically in close proximity to a park (very attractive to some), so transportation options open up. Buses, skyliner and boats could still be available, but add walking and monorails to the list.
Includes: Animal Kingdom Lodge, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, Contemporary, Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Polynesian Village, Wilderness Lodge, and Yacht Club.
Villas Category - Resort Level
We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program but can be booked for cash. Villas can be found at some deluxe properties, but there are also three that are dedicated to Disney Vacation Club. Rooms are villa style with more amenities and can range from a studio all the way to a three bedroom. Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is similar to a deluxe property.
Includes: Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary, Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge, Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom Villas at Jambo House and Kidani Village, Beach Club Villas, BoardWalk Villas, Old Key West, Polynesian Villas and Bungalows, Riviera Resort, Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa, Villas at Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.
We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program but can be booked for cash. Villas can be found at some deluxe properties, but there are also three that are dedicated to Disney Vacation Club. Rooms are villa style with more amenities and can range from a studio all the way to a three bedroom. Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is similar to a deluxe property.
21 Fun Facts about Walt Disney World
Balloons Balloons have been a guest favorite since day one. Disneyland started selling them in 1955! And fun fact – if you pop your balloon while in the park just bring it back to the vendor and they’ll replace it! Ready to pick up yours? Then, let’s get planning! What’s the Disney souvenir of choice for you or your little ones? Balloon? Plush? T-shirt?
Beast and Belle Flower and Garden The Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot runs annually starting in the spring. Did you know that more than 500,000 plants, trees and shrubs are installed for the festival? A lot of people call it their favorite. Are you ready to find out? Our personal favorite Flower and Garden Festival topiary can be found in the France pavilion – Belle and Beast. If you’ve been, what was your favorite?
Boardwalk Staying on Disney property is special. Not only are you immersing yourself in a story and experience, but you might even be so close to the parks that you have this view! Ready to explore the onsite possibilities? Tell us, do you stay on Disney property? What is your favorite and why?
Carousel No visit to the Disney parks is complete without a ride on the carousel. With the backdrop of the castle, it stands as the most classic ride of them all. Ready to put this attraction on your must-do list? Do you know how to identify Cinderella’s horse?
Castle Fireworks Another Disney tradition is catching the nighttime fireworks! There have been many iterations over the years, and they just keep getting better and better. If you’re ready to see them in person, let’s connect! What has been your most recent fireworks show favorite?
Cinderella’s Castle Cinderella’s Castle as pulled straight from the movie, is said to have drawn influence from Versailles and Fontainebleau in France as well as Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany. Do you see the resemblance? The regal Cinderella’s Castle stands as our favorite castle from any park across the globe. Which castle is your favorite? What memories does it hold for you?
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Epcot holds a lot of festivals throughout the year and our favorite can be seen here – the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. Watch the park come to life in bloom each spring. Ready to schedule a visit to one of Epcot’s festivals? Topiaries? The fresh snacks? Scavenger hunt around World Showcase? What’s your favorite part of Flower and Garden?
Epcot Skyliner The Skyliner is the newest form of transportation on property having opened in September of 2019. It connects four resorts and two theme parks. The system is easy to navigate, convenient and the views while riding are mesmerizing. Ready to ride? Let’s get you there. The Skyliner has quickly become a transportation favorite among guests. Have you had the chance to experience it? Did you love it?
Expedition Everest There are a bunch of fun facts about Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Most notably, it’s the tallest attraction on property. But did you know that despite its name, riders aren’t actually navigating Mount Everest? Instead, it holds the fictitious name of Forbidden Mountain. Disney Imagineers created it just for the storyline of the attraction! Riding forward…Riding backward (in the dark)…An 80 foot drop. Yikes! Do you love or hate Everest, um Forbidden Mountain?
Haunted Mansion As you weave through the Haunted Mansion queue pay close attention. The names on the tombstones are those of Imagineers! Some even worked on the build of the attraction itself! Another fun fact, as you exit there’s a pet cemetery. Towards the back there’s a tribute to Mr. Toad! Besides it’s 999 happy haunts, there’s a hidden Mickey inside the Haunted Mansion! Do you know where it’s located?
Mickey Ears and Castle Ears for some are a must have collectible. During your visit to WDW keep an eye out for ears that pay tribute to certain attractions and characters. If you’re looking to jump on an even hotter trend, go for one of the many color specific ears. Rose gold and purple potion are two favorites. Get your ears on!
Mickey Waffles Some say that waffles just taste better when they’re in the shape of Mickey and consumed on property. There is an abundance of breakfast locations where you’ll find this icon! And, while the mouse himself is the most widely available, you might spot Stitch or Simba at some spots as well! We love Mickey waffles! What’s your favorite Disney snack?
Monorail There are three different monorail lines. The Epcot line connects guest to Epcot via the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC). The Resort line stops at Magic Kingdom, all three surrounding resorts and the TTC. The Express line is a direct connect between MK and the TTC. If the Express line is too long, hop on the Resort line if there’s a much shorter wait time and only make one additional stop at the Contemporary! The classic. The monorail. It’s our favorite. Is it yours too?
Pandora The stunning Pandora – World of Avatar. The film’s writer and director James Cameron played an integral role in the design of this land in Animal Kingdom as did producer Jon Landeau. They were joined by legendary Imagineer Joe Rohde. Did you know they left a little easter egg at the exit of Flight of Passage? Keep an eye out for it during your next visit! Flight of Passage. Pandora’s must-do attraction. Do you rope drop it? Or save it for your last attraction before close?
Spaceship Earth Spaceship Earth or as some call it, “the giant golf ball” is the very first ride that we take when visiting Epcot. We just can’t get over the fact that we travel in there! Imagineering at it’s finest. What is the first attraction on your list when visiting Epcot? What’s your favorite scene on Spaceship Earth? Rome burning? The Phoenicians?
Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge The most recent addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Galaxy’s Edge was announced in 2015. After over six years of concept development and construction, the first guests were welcomed in 2019! And, for reference, the timeline you’re entering when coming into the land is between the eighth and ninth film! Did you know there’s a hidden mini– Millennium Falcon ON the Falcon itself? Know where it is?
Teacups The teacups were our first ride EVER in the Magic Kingdom! We spun that thing so fast …you could hear the joy and excitement in our screams and laughs! What was your first ride EVER at a Disney Park? Share with us below. Ready to ride again? Let’s chat! Did you know the teacups were a Magic Kingdom opening day attraction? Can you name some others?
Tomorrowland Tomorrowland was a land that opened when the park itself opened on October 1, 1971. But it only featured two attractions, and Space Mountain wasn’t one of them! They were the Grand Prix Raceway and Skyway to Fantasyland, which, sadly, no longer exists. Rank your favorites! Choices – Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover and Carousel of Progress.
Tower of Terror The Imagineers on the attraction watched every single episode of The Twilight Zone for inspiration, and it can be seen in the attraction’s queue area. There are a ton of easter eggs and the attention to detail is incredible. You might even spot some props used in actual episodes! The story of the hotel is that it was struck by lightning, and that’s the state you see it in. Do you know what date that strike occurred?
Tree of Life We encourage you to take the time and explore the paths that surround the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. They’re often overlooked as most others head straight for the main attractions. Here you’ll get a break from the crowds, an up-close view and excellent photo ops! There are 300 animals carved into the Tree of Life.
And did you know, it's NOT a Small World After All! Disney World encompasses over 50 square miles.
A quick example itinerary for starting a 3 day trip to WDW
This itinerary is chock full of park days. Consider checking out each park during the day and night. If the park time below is too much, you can always return to your hotel for pool time, check out Disney Springs or visit a waterpark!
DAY 1
Fly into Orlando in the morning and transfer to your hotel. Take your time in getting settled at the hotel and enjoy dinner onsite before an early sleep. Or, if you're feeling up to it, head to the Magic Kingdom! Try to hit some opening day attractions and maybe catch the nightly fireworks (if available).
DAY 2
Grab a quick to-go breakfast from the hotel and head to Epcot Center, or head to Epcot and go straight to Les Halles in the France pavilion for breakfast. Even though World Showcase typically opens later in the morning (around 11am) as compared to the rest of the park, Les Halles is typically open and serving. Return to your hotel in the middle of the day for a nap or swim, then head back out Hollywood Studios. If running, try to catch Fantasmic or Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular!
DAY 3
Grab a bite from the hotel or head to the Magic Kingdom for breakfast. Enjoy the morning exploring the park then return to your hotel. Spend some time relaxing and exploring — take a nap, enjoy the pool, partake in some activities, if available. After that if you're completely relaxed and feeling like hanging in, grab dinner on site. If you're up for it, head to Disney Springs for some shopping and dinner.
I would love to create the perfect FREE Disney vacation package for you and your family / guests. If you like to reach out to me, please use my Disney World Travel Inquiry Form.
Get in touch with Jessica Riediger
Jessica Riediger
For years I used to say "If I weren't in education, I would be a travel agent!" and in 2017, my dream of becoming a travel consultant came true! After years traveling to Italy, Mexico, Russia, and taking Caribbean and Alaskan cruises I became an Independent Consultant.
One of my favorite destinations is the Amalfi Coast in Italy. Is this on your bucket list? I'd love to make this a reality for you!
Alaska was so incredible that I've cruised there twice. Helping clients select the perfect itinerary, cruise line, and ship brings me so much joy.
I love relaxing at a great all-inclusive resort as well as snorkeling and scuba diving throughout the Caribbean. My daughter's favorite destinations are the beach and Disney, so those are frequent stops on our travels.
Mayan ruins are a popular attraction in the Riviera Maya. Pictured above is the beautiful beach that the ruins of Tulum overlooks.
I am a Certified Destination Wedding, Honeymoon, & Romance Travel Specialist. I also specialize in Alaskan Cruises as well as family travel. I've taken my own daughter on many of my travels, so I very well understand what it's like to travel with little ones!
Would you love to take your family to Disney? I would love to help you! Character Dining, Fast Passes, Magic Hours, Memory Maker, Dining Plans... let me help you sort through the lingo and plan a magical trip for the whole family.
I also specialize in accessible travel. My background as a School Psychologist gives me a unique understanding of clients with special needs and I enjoy working with individuals and families to ensure their needs are met while traveling, and that traveling is an enjoyable experience for all! I firmly believe that ANYONE can travel, with good planning and thoughtful attention to all of the details.
Some resorts offer beach wheelchairs for guests with ambulatory needs. I work with clients to ensure that their needs are met as they travel.
I would be so honoredto assist in planning your next trip! Whether it's a milestone celebration, summer vacation for your family, or honeymoon-contact me to get started! I offer consultations at no charge, and there is no fee for my services. I look forward to working with you soon!
Beaches Turks and Caicos holds a special place in my family's heart. All-Inclusive resorts are a great way for families to spend time together!
Back by popular demand! Why download our guide? As an EarMarked Agency, we are recognized by Disney.
A Disney EarMarked travel agency is an agency that is officially recognized by Disney and has been given permission to provide Disney vacation packages and services. These agencies are specialists in planning vacations to Disney destinations and can help you find the best deals and packages for your trip. They can also provide personalized advice and help you plan your trip from start to finish.
As Authorized Disney Vacation Planners, we are knowledgeable in all things Disney vacations related.
An authorized Disney vacation planner is a professional travel advisor who specializes in Disney vacations. They are knowledgeable about all Disney destinations and resorts, and can help plan the perfect trip for you and your family. They can provide advice and assistance on EVERYTHING. From choosing the right resort and tickets, to planning the perfect itinerary. They can also suggest activities and attractions to make the most of your time in the Disney parks.
Jessica Riediger
What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
Edmond, OK Travel Agent Near Me
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For years I used to say "If I weren't in education, I would be a travel agent!" and in 2017, my dream of becoming a travel consultant came true! After years traveling to Italy, Mexico, Russia, and taking Caribbean and Alaskan cruises I became an Independent Consultant. One of my favorite destinations is the Amalfi Coast in Italy. Is this on your bucket list? I'd love to make this a reality for you! Alaska was so incredible that I've cruised there twice. Helping clients select the perfect itinerary, cruise line, and ship brings me so much joy. I love relaxing at a great all-inclus... Read More >>>
An expert destination wedding travel agent near me with five star luxury travel packages with a luxury travel company, Vincent Vacations.
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10 Reviews & Success stories
Destination Wedding
First of all, thank you so much for putting together such a wonderful package for both John and I on our special day. The trip was completely completely amazing from start to finish. All the extra details that you provided for us were absolutely perfect. From the minute that we landed to our transportation to the resort were phenomenal.
The minute that we arrived at the resort, we were completely amazed at our surroundings in the fabulous views. The staff at the resort from the concierge, the front desk and housekeeping were absolutely amazing and took care of us and all of our needs. The extra details that they put into our stay were phenomenal. The meals at both restaurants were absolutely fantastic. I think we must’ve tried everything on the menu and definitely did indulge the entire time we were there. This resort was an absolute gem of a place and definitely the staff made us feel extra special all the time. I got to enjoy the spa while I was there and it was amazing. The staff at the spa even came around while we were at the pool, relaxing and offered free mini massages and facials.
As far as the wedding- Lorena, the wedding coordinator- did an amazing job and putting together a wonderful photographer, make up artist and hairstylist for myself and our special day. We enjoyed a private dinner on the beach and danced into the evening hours. I definitely would recommend this resort to any of your clients in the future. It was by far the most amazing relaxing experience that we both will definitely want to do again.
Thank you so much for everything and it was such an amazing experience working with you.
-Mindy
Very professional
Jessica Riediger arranged my last trip. It was tricky involving three states and three different airlines in ten days. The likelihood of glitches was great. There was a slight delay in my flight leaving from OKC but after that, everything went very smoothly. I had a wonderful trip. Jessica was wonderful in arranging all of the details and helping me to understand the best way to navigate the connections etc. I appreciated her highly professional assistance and highly recommend her to anyone planning travel. -C. Eugene Walker
St. Lucia
Jessica is the best. She put us in the most incredible vacation spot we could imagine. She took care of everything. And when we had some trouble on the way home she went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of. -Paul R.
Now Sapphire - Thanks for a great trip and getting us rescheduled from June!
Just got back from Now Sapphire. It was beautiful & the staff has done an amazing job with COVID, social distancing, etc. Thanks for a great trip and getting us rescheduled from June. Jessica was amazing! -Mendy Applegate
Destination Wedding
Jessica took great care of us for our destination wedding. She provided us with multiple options and gave great advice on pros and cons for all of them. She provided continuous feedback on the entire process and answered all questions and concerns rapidly and professionally. Once our decision was made, she helped make sure all of our guests were taken care of and booked successfully. Jessica has now booked two separate vacations for us and will be our continued go-to for all our vacation needs.
-Jared
Dream Wedding
I have used Jessica Riediger to plan all my travel with my destination wedding being the latest and GREATEST!! Bora Bora!! Jessica knows what her clients want and she always provides me with good, better and best options to choose from. She always explains which she prefers and why - plus details on the food. For the wedding, Jessica booked our entire ceremony, scheduled dinner reservations, set up airport arrival and departure transportation, the entire trip was hassle free because she took care of all the details!
Her attention to detail is unmatchable!
Thank you Jess for making my wedding a dream come true! Next trip is to Disney World for Christmas and for that, Jess has me covered plus 4 others traveling along.
-Kelsi
great affordable getaways
Jessica is very easy to work with and she finds great deals that my family can afford!
-Ty, Jones OK
Best plan ever
Jessica did all the work for us. All we had to do is enjoy our vacation. We will never not use her again. Best plan we made was to let her plan it for us. -Tim, Fort Worth TX
Highly recommend!
We worked with Jessica on a trip to Mexico. She's great! She makes sure to take your family interests in mind when working with you to book a trip and handles all the details. Highly recommend! -Sarah, DFW TX
Coolest family trip!
Jessica found us the perfect family trip that not only fit our budget, but was unique. She made sure we were well taken care of before, during, and after our trip. Will use her for all of our future travel. -Becky, Deer Creek OK
I recently sailed Alaska's 7 Day Alaska Itinerary out of Vancouver on the Disney Wonder. We had stops at Dawes Glacier, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. The weather was amazing-70's and 80's many days in the ports and really clear weather until the last day at sea. We saw whales, porpoises, seals, and bald eagles without ever even leaving the ship. It was an incredible experience for my children.
The ship was perfect-a great size for Alaska with plenty of activities, great cabins, and the food was excellent. The crew treated my kids so well and we loved seeing our waiters every night in the different dining rooms.
We had a great time, but there's a few things I wish I had done differently:
We tried to do character photos early. The lines are LONG at the beginning of the week but by the last few days the lines were much shorter and my kids were much happier after a short wait to see the characters!
I scheduled too many shore excursions. We booked the glacier cruise, 2 excursions in Skagway, 1 in Juneau, and another in Ketchikan. A few days before the cruise we canceled our excursion in Ketchikan (and weren’t charged for it) and I’m so glad we did. By the time our last port rolled around my kids were ready for a little more freedom and to be able to explore at our own pace. They napped when we pulled into port so when they woke up we explored the town on our own and had a great time.
We didn’t book a balcony. It’s better to go to Alaska in an interior room than not go at all, but it would have been great to have splurged and been able to use the balcony while my kids napped! From our window we saw whales, porpoises, seals and of course icebergs! The visibility from a balcony would have been even better.
I didn’t pack swimsuits for my kids. Really, I had no idea kids would be swimming in the pools in Alaska! But we had several warm days and the pools and splash areas were used every day. We managed to grab my oldest a swimsuit in port and she got to use the pools for the last few days.
Let's skip to the good part! There are 4 things I was glad I did that made our cruise just a bit more enjoyable.
We chose Disney Cruise Lines over other cruise lines. I’ve sailed on six different cruise lines, 2 of those in Alaska (now 3!). There’s nothing that compares for a family vacation than Disney Cruise Lines! The kid’s clubs, character experiences, family activities like crafts, animation classes, family dance parties, theme nights really set Disney apart from all the other cruise lines. There was something for all ages to participate in all day!
I booked the glacier explorer at Dawes Glacier. I was worried my kids (ages 2 and 4) were too young to appreciate it but they were amazed by being so close to a glacier and watching seals float around on icebergs! The deck hands even brought an iceberg onto the boat and gave each child their own piece to eat and play with. We bundled them up to up on deck after we reached the glacier and they were able to watch it calve. We got MUCH closer to the glacier and wildlife than we were able to on the ship.
We chose early dining. My kids absolutely loved the rotational dining! Their favorite drinks were on our table when we arrived each night along with crayons and a kids menu with coloring activities. Tianna’s was so fun with the Mardi Gras parade and it was such a neat experience to see our artwork come to life in Animator’s Palate! However, with the time difference, I know if we had late dining they would have been too tired to enjoy any of it.
We packed costumes for Frozen Night. The deck party is so fun and you even see all of the moms and dads really having the best time and singing along! Frozen night happens on glacier viewing day, so be prepared at both dinner and after dinner for special Frozen activities!
I've sailed Alaska 3 times on 3 different cruise lines! I would love to help you plan your next Alaska or Disney cruise! Jessica@VincentVacations.com
Utilizing a travel agent may seem as old-fashioned as suitcases without wheels, but rest assured that travel agents are a significant part of the travel industry. Travel agents and consultants provide an invaluable, and often free, service to ensure that your vacation, honeymoon, or destination wedding is the trip of your dreams. If something does go wrong, you have someone to call, text, or email who is in your corner and can contact airlines, resorts, or tour companies on your behalf.
A few things you should know about travel agents:
There is no fee for my services. I work off of commission, just like the online companies you have most likely booked with before. When you book with an online agency, they receive a commission from the hotel or resort. When you book with a local travel agent, we receive the commission instead.
I provide personalized service. During a consultation, I will ask you questions about your travel plans and preferences to help ensure that the resort, tour, or destination matches your travel style and expectations. I know what resorts have nightlife, and what resorts offer a quiet, relaxed vibe. The same goes for different cruise lines and itineraries as well!
Itinerary customization. Want to visit several cities in Italy? I can book all of your hotels and transportation for you AND help you decide how long to stay in each city. Dreaming of a destination wedding? I’d love to help you with that. Taking the kids to Disney and not sure what dining plan you need? Let’s visit and I can help you weed through those decisions.
The lowest prices.I have access to discounts and specials to help you get the lowest price. Find a lower price online? The vendors I work with value travel agents and are wiling to match online pricing if a lower price is found.
Flexible payment options. I can often accept low deposits with final payments due 45-60 days prior to the dates of travel.
Knowledge is power. As a travel professional, I am constantly working to keep my knowledge up to date. I participate in ongoing education and love to learn about new destinations and resorts! Travel agents visit resorts and destinations so that we have first hand knowledge of the places we send our valued clients.
Contact me for a free consultation or quote for your destination wedding or vacation!
Experience the nostalgia and elegance of the American Queen Steamboat Company
Luxury River Cruising on American Waters
The authentic paddlewheel boats, the sense of nostalgia, the culturally immersive activities and entertainment, the locally influenced menus-this is what makes the American Queen Steamboat Company truly something special. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the gems and jewels of America’s rivers and lakes, this is the experience you’ve been looking for!
What sets them apart?
American Queen Steamboat’s all-inclusive, culturally immersive concept and fleet of vessels sets them apart for the seamless experience they provide. They currently have 5 vessels cruising America’s lakes and rivers. While each has it’s own personality, they all share the nostalgic working paddlewheel, beautiful gingerbread details, well-appointed staterooms, and theaters where the culture and history of the river comes alive.
Look at these beautiful vessels! Can you imagine cruising down the Mississippi in this?
What’s included?
American Queen has thought of everything. They want you to have a seamless experience and once you set foot on the boat you don’t need to spend another penny to thoroughly enjoy your vacation. Everything has been taken care of for you! They’ll even deliver your luggage from your hotel room right to your cabin on board.
Every American Queen itinerary includes:
1 night pre-cruise hotel with breakfast
Transportation from the hotel to the vessel on embarkation day with luggage porterage
All meals with a culturally immersive menu with steak and lobster included
Unlimited drinks on board including unlimited wine, spirits, specialty coffee, and soda
Guided tours in each port
Daily entertainment and enrichment with local influences
A fleet of bicycles on board to use in ports
Pilot house tours
Unlimited wifi on board
Meals including unlimited spirits and wine are included.
Daily entertainment including educational opportunities are included.
Every port includes unlimited touring. Upgrade to Premium Excursions for a customized experience.
Well appointed cabins on every ship.
Comfortable and well appointed cabins on every ship.
How should I dress for my cruise?
Leave your formal wear at home! Every American Queen Steamboat itinerary has a country club casual dress code. You can be casual and comfortable while still enjoying a beautiful dinner and after dinner show every evening.
What rivers American Queen sail?
With 35 itineraries on 7 different rivers, there’s a destination for everyone! If you’re interested in blues, gospel, historical homes, the Civil War, or the stories of General Ulysses S. Grant or Mark Twain-there’s a perfect itinerary for you! River itineraries include the Mississippi (both the upper and lower), Snake, Ohio, Illinois, Columbia, Cumberland, and Tennessee Rivers.
Can I customize my experience?
Every guest should consider customizing their cruise experience through Premium Excursions or pre and post stays called “City Stays”.
Premium Excursions give you an opportunity to immerse yourself more deeply into a specific destination or interest. Examples of Premium Excursions may include a swamp tour, southern plantation tour, golf, cooking experience and more. Book these in advance with your travel agent to ensure your spot on these special opportunities.
Another way to customize your experience is to spend more time before and after the cruise in city of embarkation or debarkation. City Stays include accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities.
Email to start planning your luxury river cruise: Jessica@VincentVacations.com
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