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Transportation Options For Your Next WDW Trip

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Welcome Home!

With the departure of our beloved Magical Express, many were left wondering – What Now? But happily we can assure you, there are plenty of options still available to get you to and from the airport, safe and sound, even if there is a small cost involved. Here we’ll show you some of what is available, or when you book with an agent at Destinations To Travel, they can help you decide which option fits you and your family the best!

 

~MEARS CONNECT~

Mears Connect offers 2 Options

Mears Connect offers 2 options for transportation between MCO and your WDW Resort – Standard and Express. STANDARD SERVICE is a shared service with a monitored wait time, and limited stops. EXPRESS SERVICE offers a limited wait time, and a direct shared service (not considered a private service). Keep in mind both of these options do require you to retrieve your luggage and take it with you upon arrival to MCO. You can prearrange your transportation (or have your Travel Agent take care of this for you) so you can all set to go. Prices vary depending on number of guests and which option you choose.

 

~SUNSHINE FLYER~

Sunshine Flyer offers a fun take on traditional transportation (photo credit: Sunshine Flyer)

Sunshine Flyer brings the fun of the 1920’s rail travel. With its wrapped busses and drivers and staff dressed as engineers and conductors, no two vehicle designs will be the same, so you can experience a new photo opportunity and way to travel each time you use it. They offer either round trip or one way shuttle service. Current prices are: ROUND TRIP – $35/adult, $25/child (age 3-8) or ONE WAY – $17/adult, $12.50/child (age 3-8). Children under 2 can travel on the lap of an adult for free.

 

~PRIVATE TRANSFERS~

Private Transfers now available to add to your WDW resort reservation

Recently it was announced that Private Transportation can be added right into your WDW Resort Package! There are many options available, depending on the size and needs of your family. Note that this can be connected to your existing reservation once you have your flight information all set. Simply call and have it added, or let your Travel agent know and they can arrange it for you. Another advantage to consider is the ability to arrange this option for other airports, such as Sanford. So depending on your preferred airline, this is a great option to have at your disposal. Prices may be a little higher, but isn’t it nice to arrive in style?

 

~RIDESHARE~

Uber or Lyft may fit your needs

Of course there is always the good ol standby of using Uber/Lyft services. This option certainly gives you the most flexibility and control over your transportation, and for some, can be the most cost effective route to take. Keep in mind that your cannot pre schedule a pickup from the airport, but you can pre arrange to be picked up from your resort to head back. By booking your return trip in advance, you can usually lock in better prices.

 

There are certainly plenty of options to choose from, and there is one that will fit your families style (and budget!) available. Do we miss our Magical Express? YES! But who’s to say we won’t find a new favorite?

Have you used any of these transportation options yet? Tell us which one, and how was YOUR experience?

If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney Destination, Universal Studios, or Cruise vacation, I would love to be your planning partner!

Email me at : christinasmith@d2travel.com .

Looking for more Disney in your life? Come join us on Facebook at Living The Magical Life and Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith

 

3 Need To Know Tips On How To runDisney!

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Throughout the years, Walt Disney World has played host to numerous events and festivals. But, few have found the immense popularity of runDisney events. Traditionally held 4 times per year (January, February, March and November) each event offers a variety of distances, ranging from 5k up to a Full Marathon (January) and even a kids run. You will also find each has their own unique theme, such as Princesses, Star Wars, and even Villains which are evident in the medals you can aquire!

While many die hard runDisney fans and competitors have had to participate in these events virtually for the past year, there have been cheers of joy over the recent announcement that these events will become “In Person” events again, beginning with “Wine and Dine Half Weekend” November 4-7, 2021.

For those that are ready to share their love of running, these events offer a unique perspective of WDW, and many join up with friends to help cheer each other along the way. However, many people choose to to participate on their own… and make new friends throughout the event.

Ready to run? Well, I talked with some of my friends over at Destinations To Travel and they are providing some of their tips on how, from start to finish, you can take part in your next – or first –  runDisney event!

 

~Meet Casey Bolt~

A runDisney enthusiast with top tips for securing your race bib

When registration opens, it can be a challenge to secure those sought after Race Bibs! Casey’s advice?

“My tips for securing a bib would be pack your patience. It’s a stressful process. Make sure to have all your info ready ahead of time- credit card info, race distance, shirt size, emergency contact, etc. Also try to log into the registration area early- I’ve been let into the virtual queue up to 20 minutes before the registration start time. Use multiple devices if you can- it gives you a better chance of getting in. I usually have a computer, phone, and iPad trying at once. Then pray for pixie dust! If they sell out, keep checking back periodically. They reload additional bibs sometimes but in very small quantities so they will disappear quickly!”

Want more tips from Casey? Find her on Facebook at Destinations To Travel LLC, Casey Bolt and in her fact filled group Magical Miles with Casey Bolt

 

~Meet Paul Sul~

An all around Fitness enthusiast knows the top tips to prepare for your run

So, you have secured your place in a runDisney event! What now? Prepare and train. Here are some tips from Paul on how to start your training plan.

“When preparing for any distance run, the most important thing is to give yourself enough time to prepare and train, especially for someone who has never run over 3 miles.

Always, always, warm up with dynamic stretching to get loose and stretch after the run.

For a 5K, I would recommend anywhere from 6-8 weeks out at a minimum. As for training, it should include a combination of running/jogging and walking intervals. For the first couple of weeks, the goal is to build up your endurance. Walk for about Half a Mile (0.5) and then jog for 30 seconds and walk for 1 Minute and do this 3-5x, doing this 3-4 times a week. As you progress, you can lengthen your run/jog time to 45 seconds to 1 minute as well as recovery.
By doing these intervals, it helps build endurance and controls your breathing as well. “
Want More tips from Paul, like what kind of playlist can help motivate you along your training path? Find him at Destinations To Travel with Paul Sul, and in his group Dreamers… Assemble!
~Meet Marisa Alvarado~

A dedicated teacher who finds her escape through fitness and art.

You’ve planned, you’ve trained, and you have a killer playlist – so what can participating in runDisney event do for YOU? I’ll let Marisa put that into perspective!

” The image with the Ahsoka Tano medal was a full circle moment. I was registered for the Rival Run in 2020 (which was canceled due to COVID). That was supposed to be my first in-person event and was the catalyst for my running journey. Ever since then, I haven’t stopped running and pushing myself to conquer another challenge. While I’ve been running virtually every race (since the in-person events will be returning in the fall), I still feel the sense of community through these events. The support over social media has been incredible and I’ve been able to bond with fellow agents, Paul and Casey, over running and fitness in general. That sense of camaraderie has given me the courage to strive for more. With that, I’ve completed every distance that runDisney offers (from 5K through a full marathon … which was insanely difficult) and took part in every theme they’ve offered (Star Wars, summer series, Wine and Dine, Marathon, and Princess). Never in a million years would I have thought that I could make it, nor would I have ever even wanted to try but there’s something that keeps me coming back for more. I hope that I can secure a bib for my first in-person race because as Moana would say, “If I go, there’s just no telling how far I’ll go.” “

For more of Marisa’s inspiration, find her at Destinations to Travel LLC with Marisa Alvarado and on Instagram @behindtheearswdw 

 

Photo credit: Twitter

For some, a runDisney event is a fun way to expand out of their comfort zone. For others, it’s a part of what makes WDW even more magical. But no matter which category you fall into, it’s an experience worth having.

Tell Us…Have you ever participated in a runDisney Event? Or are you ready to participate? Let us know in the comments below!

 

If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney or Universal Studios vacation, I would love to be your planning partner! Email : christinasmith@d2travel.com . Looking for more Disney in your life? Come join us on Facebook at Living The Magical Life and Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith or on Instagram. 

New Park Bag Packing 101

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Ask a veteran WDW traveler for some park tips, and it’s likely that one of those tips will be to take a park bag with you. WDW allows you to take a bag – backpack, large purse, camera bag – into the parks with you. While people usually agree on taking a bag, some have different ideas on what to put in it. Here are few things that currently top the list of park bag essentials.

 

~Extra Masks~

Disposable mask vending machines are placed throughout property

 

Having extra masks for each person is not only convenient, but almost required. Between the Florida weather – including sudden afternoon rain showers and humidity – and some rides, being able to switch out a wet mask with a clean, dry one will not only be more comfortable, but more sanitary for you and your family. Disposable mask vending machines are available throughout the parks, and cloth masks are available for purchase at every turn in gift shops as well.

*Pro Tip – take an empty plastic sandwich bag with you to put wet/dirty masks in. When you return to the resort, wash them in the sink and hang them to dry overnight for fresh masks each day.

 

~Back Up Power~

Back Up Power Source

 

Now more than ever, having a power bank and charging cord is almost a neccesity. With the roll out of MagicMobile (available in your MDE App) which can replace MagicBands, it is more important than ever to make sure your device stays charged. Keeping a back up power source will help insure your device is always ready to capture those surprise Magical Moments that will live on in memories for years to come. There are locations throughout the parks for you stop, take a break and charge your device as well, but being able to stay on the go and power up at the same time is the best way to keep moving and save valuable time.

*Pro Tip – Forgot a portable charger? Don’t stress! There are Fuel Rod machines throughout property for purchase. While a bit pricey (approx $30) they come fully charged and can be exchanged at any time or charged at night and reused

 

~The Basics~

The Basics

Sanitizing and hand washing stations are front and center throughout the parks – but a little extra can’t hurt. Cast members are working diligently to keep guests safe and healthy, but we can certainly help them along. Hand Sanitizer and surface wipes come in handy, especially for peace of mind whether sitting down for lunch or hopping onto your next ride.

*Pro Tip – Anti Fog wipes (reusable or disposable) will also come in handy. If you already wear glasses, you may have already considered this but if not and you will be using sunglasses, these will be your best friend to avoid your glasses fogging up from wearing masks or going between air conditioned buildings to the warm Florida weather.

 

For more assistance on preparing for your trip to WDW, reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel. Your new Disney BFF will help make preparation a breeze!

 

What are your MUST HAVES in your park bag? Tell us in the comments below! 

 

If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney or Universal Studios vacation, I would love to be your planning partner! Email : christinasmith@d2travel.com . Looking for more Disney in your life? Come join us on Facebook at Living The Magical Life and Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith or on Instagram. 

Solo Trips to WDW

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Have you ever considered taking a solo trip to WDW? Have you ever done a solo trip to WDW? If not, let’s consider why you would ever think about it, and why it’s an amazing way to experience the Happiest Place on Earth!

 

Why Not?

~ Why? ~

For many who haven’t experienced a trip to WDW alone, a common question is “why would you”? Well, that may have a different answer for each person. Maybe your family isn’t as “Disney Crazy” (let’s call it passionate instead of crazy) as you are. Maybe you need a bit of time away from the real world. Whatever the answer is for you, I can promise that it may very well be the most INCREDIBLE experience you could ever hope for!

 

Treat Yourself To A Deluxe Experience

~Treat Yourself~

If you’re used to traveling with family, most of us have to be a little tighter with our budget. Now is the time to indulge! While you can’t go wrong with a fun stay at POP Century, or be immersed in Disney magic at any of the Value resorts, why not splurge and spring for a visit to a Deluxe Resort? With only one person to please, is it even possible to go wrong!?

 

What’s For Dinner?

~Easy Meal Choices~

There are dining options aplenty all over WDW. And most families have to take special consideration as to where they may choose to make dining reservations… does it have something the kids will eat, is there something for everyone to enjoy, is the price right? When it’s just you, the choices are limitless. With only one person to please, take the time and maybe even enjoy that Signature Dining experience you never had the chance to try before (and – bonus… you don’t have to share!).

 

Living The Solo Life

~ Living Your Happiest Life~

You know the feeling of trying to keep every member of your party happy… yeah, that one. We try, but it is one truth that carries over from the real world. You can’t keep everyone happy all the time.  One of the most perfect moments is the one you are enjoying. Rope Drop and close the park. Sleep in and leave early. Take a nap in the middle of the day, or ride Flight of Passage 5 times in a row. It’s a lot of fun to please 1 person, and there’s no wrong choice!

 

Relax by the Koi Pond during a visit to Epcot

 

~What Do I Need To Know~

Even the most seasoned WDW visitor can be a little thrown off by planning their first Solo Trip. It is as easy (or easier) as planning for your family. Choose your favorite resort, and whichever dates you want to go. Make your park reservations as soon as you book and ADRs 60 days out. If you like the idea of still having a Disney BFF in your corner, reach out to our friends at Destinations to Travel (and you’ll never feel alone throughout the whole process) Keep an open mind, let your imagination soar, and let yourself enjoy the Most Magical Place On Earth!

 

Have you ever done a Solo Trip to WDW? What are some of your tips? Share with us in the comments!

 

photo credit : Disney

 

If you’re looking to book a Solo OR Family Trip to WDW, I’d love to help! Feel free to join us on Facebook at Living The Magical Life, Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith, or reach out via email at christinasmith@d2travel.com

 

 

Making Memories on a Budget

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Let’s get right to the point. Vacations are not at the top of many peoples “Priority List”, and in all honesty they aren’t cheap.  And, I get it! We all have bills that come first, so that much desired trip to WDW tends to get put on the back burner. While I wish I could wave a pixie dust filled wand and make everyones trip the cost of the change we find in the laundry, I can’t… BUT I can give you a few tips to help make a dream come true trip a reality and a little easier on the wallet!

 

~BOOK EARLY~

    Call as soon as the idea hits!

I cannot stress this enough. BOOK EARLY! When you book your vacation as soon as your desired travel dates are available, you are locking in those rates. To secure your vacation, all it takes is a $200, refundable deposit! Prices can go up at any time, without notice. But you will keep your lower rates. My favorite part of this is, it also allows you more time to save!

 

~WATCH FOR PROMOTIONS~

             Keep Your Eyes Peeled

While nothing is guaranteed, even WDW occasionally does release money saving promotions. A promotion can be applied to your existing reservation. Simply call and speak to a Cast Member (or if you are using the FREE services from our friends at Destinations To Travel, they will do it for you!) and see if your package qualifies!

 

~GIFT CARDS~

Use Discounted Gift Cards or ask for them as gifts!

Disney Gift Cards are a fantastic (and often overlooked) way to budget for your WDW Vacation. You can even find them at a discount using your Red Card at Target, as well as other locations such as some wholesale stores (BJs, etc). While the discount may not seem like much at the time, those savings add up… quick! Gift Cards can be applied as payment on your vacation package, as well as for food and merchandise at the resorts, in the parks and at most locations at Disney Springs. * Bonus Tip – If your family is looking for gift ideas for Christmas or Birthdays, ask them for a gift card!

I truly believe everyone deserves time away and something to look forward to. By working a “vacation fund” right into your budget and following the tips above, it can be done. And with plenty of time to experience the INCREDIBLE 18 Month Long 50th Anniversary Celebration! How will you Make Memories This year?

Do you have a favorite budgeting tip? Please share with us in the comments below!

photo credit : Disney

 

If a trip to WDW to celebrate the 50th Anniversary with Mickey and friends is on your mind, I would love to help! You can find me on Facebook at Destinations to Travel with Christina Smith, request a FREE, No Obligation Quote here, or join in the fun in our group Living The Magical Life.

Experience The Magic of A Couples Excursion To WDW

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It seems that as adulthood sets in, many people believe their time has come and gone to experience all this wonderful place has to offer. But for those of us that refuse to grow up, I assure you that is NOT the case! Don’t believe me? Let me show you.

 

~Choose Your Ideal Resort~

Sunrise over Port                           Orleans Riverside

On Property Disney Resorts are not “one size fits all”.  And planning as a couple can actually open up a whole new realm of possibilities. While Value Resorts offer wonderful, nostalgic memories, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts offer a more mature (and romantic) setting. This is a great time to watch a sunrise over Port Orleans Riverside, enjoy overlooking a safari at Animal Kingdom Lodge, or watch the sunset over Magic Kingdom with a drink in hand on the “beach” at the Polynesian!

 

~ Experience Incredible Dining~

The Ultimate                                          Dining Experience

Whether you are looking to expand your palette or just love food, you can experience dining on a whole new level on a couples trip. Enjoy Signature Dining without worrying what’s on the kids menu. Want to really splurge? Treat yourselves to Victoria & Alberts (a AAA 5 Diamond restaurant) located in the Grand Floridian. Maybe even spend some time sampling drinks from around the World (Showcase, that is) at Epcot. No matter what your preference, let your adult inner foodie out!

 

~Enjoy Real Downtime~

Enjoy Your Resort

You finally started your much deserved vacation. You’ve planned for months (or maybe you had free, expert assistance from our friends at Destinations To Travel). It’s tempting to GO, GO, GO… especially at WDW… but HOLD BACK. Yes, I said hold back! It’s important to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks together. Spend time enjoying your resort & the pool. Head over and experience evening adult entertainment at Disney Springs. Maybe even sleep in one morning! With no little ones in tow you have the freedom to take everything at a leisurely pace. It IS a vacation, after all!

 

~Take In All The Details~

Painstaking detail in                       Animal Kingdom

Enjoying WDW as a couple allows you to not only enjoy time together, but reconnect with each other on a totally different level. While taking the time to appreciate the many intricate details the Imagineers have painstakingly put into place, you get to experience the childlike happiness in each other when the magic hits. A couples trip to Walt Disney World is truly a whole new level of MAGICAL!

 

Tell us, have you ever done a couples trip to Walt Disney World? What was your favorite part of the experience?

 

If planning a future couples trip to WDW is on your radar the Valentine’s Day, I would love to assist you! Reach out to me on Facebook at Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith or join us in Living The Magical Life. And be sure to “stay tuned” as we explore more on resorts, restaurants and experiences for adulting in Walt Disney World!

 

Disney World Room Only offer for 2020 – Save Up to 25%

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You can surprise your loved ones with a memorable Disney World getaway! With the help of this merry offer, they can save up to 25% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels—valid for stays most nights January 1 through April 25, 2020 when they book by January 1, 2020.

Plus, receive a $30 USD Disney Gift Card per person (ages 3 and up) on the reservation when they upgrade to a package by adding 6-day or longer theme park tickets―a wonderful opportunity for everyone to pick out their own special souvenir.

This special offer is valid for the Disney Resort hotels listed below.

Resort Category

Resort Savings

Select Disney Deluxe Villas

Save up to 25%

For stays most nights 1/1/20 – 3/8/20 and 3/29/20 – 4/25/20 when you book by 1/1/20

For stays most nights 3/9/20 – 3/28/20 when you book by 1/1/20

For stays most nights 1/2/20 – 4/25/20 when you book by 3/7/20
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Copper Creek Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

25%

20%

20%
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows – Studios Only

10%

10%

10%

Select Disney Deluxe Resorts

Save up to 25%

For stays most nights 1/1/20 – 3/8/20 and 3/29/20 – 4/25/20 when you book by 1/1/20

For stays most nights 3/9/20 – 3/28/20 when you book by 1/1/20

For stays most nights 1/2/20 – 4/25/20 when you book by 3/7/20
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

25%

20%

20%
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

10%

10%

10%

Select Disney Moderate Resorts

Save up to 20%

For stays most nights 1/1/20 – 3/8/20 and 3/29/20 – 4/25/20 when you book by 1/1/20

For stays most nights 3/9/20 – 3/28/20 when you book by 1/1/20

For stays most nights 1/2/20 – 4/25/20 when you book by 3/7/20
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

20%

15%

15%
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

10%

10%

10%

Select Disney Value Resort Hotels

Save up to 15%

For stays most nights 1/1/20 – 3/8/20 and 3/29/20 – 4/25/20 when you book by 1/1/20

For stays most nights 3/9/20 – 3/28/20 when you book by 1/1/20

For stays most nights 1/2/20 – 4/25/20 when you book by 3/7/20
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort

15%

10%

10%

The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room. Length of stay requirements may apply. See Important Details.

Important Details About the Room Discount

  • Additional per-adult charges may apply if there are more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts, and Studios at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts.
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
  • Advance reservations required.
  • Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

Important Details About the Disney Gift Card

  • Only available with a ticket package that includes a room and minimum 6-day ticket.
  • Everyone in the room must be on the same package.
  • One Disney Gift Card per reservation.
  • If you complete online check-in in advance, the Disney Gift Card will be emailed to you on the day of your arrival. Otherwise, you’ll be asked for your email address when you check in at the Front Desk of your Disney Resort hotel―and the Disney Gift Card will be sent to that email address. The email will contain a bar code for using the Disney Gift Card. If you don’t receive your Disney Gift Card in your inbox, please check your spam folder or stop by the Front Desk for assistance.
  • Disney Gift Card is usable only to buy goods and services at participating locations including Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Disney store locations in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico and shopDisney.com.
  • Not refundable or redeemable for cash unless required by law.
  • Not redeemable to purchase another gift card, or towards previously purchased goods or services.
  • Not a credit or debit card.
  • Does not expire and no fees apply.
  • Lost, stolen, or damaged gift cards cannot be replaced without required proof of purchase and complete gift card number.
  • Disney Gift Card Services, Inc. (“DGCS”) is the card issuer and sole obligor to cardholder and is not responsible for any unauthorized use of card.
  • Card is valid only if obtained at select Disney locations in the US, Canada or Puerto Rico or authorized third-party distributors.
  • Card is not valid and will not be honored if obtained from unauthorized sellers or resellers, including through Internet auction sites.
  • For balance inquiry, participating locations and additional terms and conditions (including arbitration agreement) for this gift card, visit DisneyGiftCard.com or call (877) 650-4327. DGCS reserves the right to change the terms and conditions of the gift card upon notice at DisneyGiftCard.com.
  • Purchase, use or acceptance of card constitutes acceptance of these terms.

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