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Disney Parks Podcast

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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

 

16 Restaurants Around WDW To Enjoy A Traditional Thanksgiving Feast

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As the “forgotten holiday” of Thanksgiving quickly approaches, I wanted to give this Fun, Family and Food Filled day a little bit of love. The week surrounding this holiday is generally one of the busiest weeks of the year at Walt Disney World Resort, and while nothing is impossible, your best option if you want to visit the parks during this week is to book early ( as in, prepare this year for next). With these higher crowds comes higher demand for dining. Many WANT that traditional Thanksgiving Feast, and reservations can be hard to snag, but here is a list of 16 places all across WDW property where you and your family can enjoy a traditional meal – maybe even some you never knew about!

 

~RESORTS~

Coronado Springs Resort

 

~ Coronado Springs Resort : Toledo, Three Bridges Bar and Grill

~ All Star Resorts : Intermission Food Court, World Premier Food Court

~ Boardwalk Resort : Trattoria al Forno

~ Riviera Resort : Toppolinos Terrace

 

~DISNEY SPRINGS~

Disney Springs

 

~ Raglan Road

~ The Edison

~ Maria and Enzos

~ Earl Of Sandwich *(Holiday Turkey Sandwich)

 

~IN THE PARKS~

Liberty Tree Tavern

 

~Animal Kingdom~

~ Restaurantosaurus

~ Satu’li Canteen

~ Tiffins

~ Tusker House

~Magic Kingdom~

~ Liberty Tree Tavern

~Hollywood Studios~

~Hollywood and Vine

 

And of course, there’s always the option of enjoying a Turkey Leg! Stop by Yak & Yeti (Animal Kingdom), Tortuga Tavern, Prince Eric’s Village Market, Liberty Square Market (Magic Kingdom), or Fife and Drum Tavern (EPCOT) for one of these park staples.

*Pro Tip – If you don’t immediately get the reservation you want, don’t give up! As Thanksgiving Day approaches, more restaurants often reveal holiday menus, and quite often reservations open up and become available.

It’s never too soon to start planning a Thanksgiving Vacation to WDW. By staying on property, you can have an edge with your reservation window opening 60 days prior to check-in, and allowing you to book dining for the entire length of your stay! And you can even get help with getting those reservations for FREE when you book with one of the agents at Destinations To Travel.

Have you ever enjoyed a Thanksgiving Trip To WDW? Where did you enjoy your Thanksgiving Day Meal? Tell us your MUST DO Holiday Dining choice!

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 or on Instagram.

EDU-TAINMENT! Exploring Animal Kingdom With Families

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Animal Kingdom – One of the most intricately themed of all 4 WDW Parks. Along with over 50 species of Animals you’ll see more than 4 million trees, plants, shrubs, vines, epiphytes, grasses and ground-coverings from every continent on Earth (except Antartica)! Let’s add in one of the best “Mountains” to ride – Expedition Everest – and the land of Pandora, and amazing shows, you have a full day ahead of you. But why is it so amazing for families? If you have school age children, there is so much to learn and they won’t even know it!

 

~Conservation Station~

Hop On the Train To Conservation Station

After your journey through the Kilimanjaro Safari, hop on the train and head to the Conservation Station. Here you will find the vetrinary and conservation headquarters. You can meet wildlife experts, observe ongoing projects and learn a little about what goes on behind the scenes at the park. This area also serves as a rehabilitation center and nursery. Stop by the Affection Section to pet and play with some of the animals, participate in some of the interactive activities, and view the terrariums of some reptiles, invertibrates and amphibians.

 

~Tree Of Life~

The Iconic Symbolof the Park: The Tree Of Life

 

Ten artists and three Imagineers worked full-time for 18 months to create the 325 animal carvings on The Tree of Life. It is topped with more than 103,000 transparent, five-shades-of-green leaves that actually blow in the wind. Take a walk underneath this incredible structure and enjoy a break from the heat to watch “It’s Tough To Be A Bug”. For a little family friendly competion, have everyone see how many different animals they can find engraved into the tree (and whoever finds the least buys the next round of Dole Whips!)

 

~Rides, Shows, And More~

Expedition Everest : One of the Mountains to Conquer!

It’s not all just walking trails and animals! Try to escape the Yeti on Expedition Everest (Fun Fact – Disney Imagineers went to great lengths to create an attraction rich in storytelling, authenticity and detail – even traveling to Nepal to research the region’s architecture and culture!) Be sure to take a break from the heat and watch “The Celebration of the Festival of The Lion King” show. Take a trip back in time on “Dinosaur”, or stop by and play traditional carnival Midway games in DinoLand USA – another great opportunity to learn about our prehistoric past.

 

Many don’t give this misunderstood park enough credit. If your are traveling during the school year with children, this park is an excellent tool for reports, and Mom and Dad can learn things too! Adults can stroll through and enjoy the beauty that this stunning park offers us. If you’re looking for help on how to best plan your WDW Vacation and make the most of your day at Animal Kingdom Park, reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel!

 

Tell Us what YOUR favorite part of this park is!

If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney or Universal Studios 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 or on Instagram.

 

Prepare To Set Sail With Disney Cruise Line

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Disney Fantasy Docked at Castaway Cay

 

It’s a great day to say WELCOME BACK DCL!!! It’s so exciting to see the return of cruise ships sailing, even if it isn’t exactly the same as it was in the past. Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or preparing for your first time setting sail, here are few tips you need to know before embarkation.

 

~KNOW BEFORE YOU GO~

Blanket Designs created by Stateroom Host/ess

For those of us who know and love cruising with Disney Cruise Line, we are ready!! But preparing to board that magical vacation at sea looks different than it used to, and it is absolutely neccessary to be aware of requirements for all ages in you traveling party. We recommend using one of the amazing agents at Destinations To Travel who will help keep you updated on all the changes and requirements prior to boarding. But if you enjoying the planning yourself, be certain to visit the Know Before You Sail page. This will consistently be updated with the most recent testing and vaccination policies, so you won’t be surprised upon your port arrival.

 

~Enjoy Relaxing Family Fun~

Family Pool area aboard the Disney Fantasy

Whether you have little ones, teens, tweens or it’s just adult fun for you, take time to explore the pool areas on the ship. In addition to the main pool (which is next to a large screen which runs Disney favorite movies all day and into the evening), most ships have their own fun slide or experience! Sailing on the Dream or Fantasy? Check out the AquaDuck Water Coaster. Or if you’re on the Disney Magic, be sure to try the AquaDunk – a 3 story body slide! The Disney Wish (setting sail in 2022) will have the first water attraction at sea called the AquaMouse!

 

~Stay Flexible~

Although rare, be prepared for the possibility of port changes

Even the best laid plans can hit rocky waters. You’ll want to be prepared for the possibility of Port Of Call Changes. Though very rare, occasionally rough seas, ship issues, or even sudden changes in the country where your port of call is located, could cause a last minute change in your original itinerary. BUT – be willing to go with the flow. Many times the very thing we were looking for comes when we weren’t expecting it. Rest assured that no matter where your cruise takes you it will be amazing! You’re on vacation after all, so relax and let the waves take you away.

 

~Book Early~

Quiet Cove aboard the Disney Fantasy

So, you’re ready to experience the relaxation, beautiful Ports of Call, the fun and the food. What next? BOOK EARLY! Prices will never be lower than when booking opens for any itinerary! Whether you want to sail the Carribbean, or see the stunning sites of Alaska, Disney Cruise Line is ready to welcome you and your family aboard.

 

Have you ever been on a Disney Cruise? Tell us where you went! Or if your considering setting sail, what is your ideal itinerary?

 

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.

 

Why EPCOT IS A Perfect Park For Families

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It breaks my heart that one of the most overlooked parks is EPCOT – especially by those with children. Often viewed as an “adult” park, (mainly due to the idea of  “Drinking Around The World”) there are so many edutainment opportunities that are often overlooked or forgotten about. From Future World, to World Showcase, there’s an abundance of opportunities to learn and explore for both adults and children alike! Here are a few reasons why a day at EPCOT is not to be overlooked.

 

~Future World~

Spaceship Earth – The iconic geodesic sphere that greets many guests as they enter the park

Future World – This iconic feature is the first vision of many guests as they enter the park, and it hosts a ride that takes you through time and the evolution of communication. But in addition to this beautiful attraction, Future World hosts The Land Pavillion – home to the immensely popular “Soarin’ Around The World”. Also found here is “Living With The Land” – a leisurely boat ride that focuses on agriculture and takes you through the 4 working greenhouses that help supply some of the restaurants on property! You can pop over and spend some time with Nemo and Friends at the “The Seas with Nemo” – an adorable ride that takes you below the water. In addition, you can visit SeaBase, which hosts rehabilitating manatees among other undersea creatures, and includes a 360 degree view of sea life when you “enter” the aquarium. Make sure you secure a reservation at Coral Reef Restaurant, with floor to ceiling viewing windows to the aquarium – Best View in town! Looking for some excitement? Head to Mission Space and choose either the Orange or Green Mission, and then take a drive on Test Track!

 

~World Showcase~

The Stunning Moracco Pavillion in EPCOT’s World Showcase

After exploring Future World, head over to World Showcase! With 11 countries represented, there is no shortage of incredible (and beautiful) places to explore –  and learn about! This is a great way for those children that may need to write a report about something they learned while absent from school. There are Scavenger Hunts available for families to take part in,  and of course the rides – the ever popular “Frozen Ever After” found in Norway, “The Grand Fiesta Tour” inside the Mexico Pavillion, and “Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure” (coming October 1, 2021) in France!

 

~Food, Food, FOOD!~

Regal Eagle Smokehouse at The American Pavillion

It was almost as though much of this park was thought out with families in mind… especially those with young children who aren’t quite adventurous eaters. The numerous Festivals (Arts, Flower and Garden, Food and Wine & Holidays) offer a vast array of opportunities to sample small plates from around the world – on a snack budget! The Table Service options available in every “country” cannot be beat whether you want to eat in Japan, Germany or Mexico. And the Quick Service options, also available in each country, make sure that every person in your party will never go hungry (*PS – The Mac and Cheese at Regal Eagle Smokehouse is AMAZING!!)

 

EPCOT is truly a park to EXPLORE, not just visit. Take your time, soak it all in. I promise, if given the chance, you and your family can find a newfound adoration for all this park has to offer. Looking for assistance in planning your next WDW vacation? Reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel!

Tell Us, is EPCOT a must do park for you and your family, or do you pass it by?

Will it be in your plans for next time?

If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney or Universal Studios 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 or on Instagram.

 

 

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. 

Summertime Park Bag Essentials

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That time of year is upon us. Summer! Longer days, shorter nights, tank tops and shorts… and in Florida – heat and humidity. It’s true that the summer heat can be tough to handle. Proper preparation and planning is crucial to both make the most enjoyable time of your family vacation to WDW, AND to keep you and your family safe. If you prefer to hit the parks for rope drop and stay to close the parks, packing your park bag properly will be a step in the right direction to ensure both of these bases are covered. Here are a few Summertime Park Bag Essentials to include on your packing list!

 

 

~Reusable Water Bottle~

Keep a water bottle with you to stay hydrated

 

Water can be readily obtained throughout the parks. By carrying a reusable water bottle with you, you can easily refill them wherever you may find yourself in need, without having to wait in line at a quick service location. Many have built in filters (if you aren’t a fan of the Florida water). Definitely consider filling up prior to getting into line for your next ride, so you can continue to drink while you wait. With a bottle that closes securely, there is less waste, and less opportunity to spill. When you’re finished, close it up, throw it back in your bag, and enjoy your ride!

 

~Cooling Towels~

Cooling Towels will be your best friend!

 

Cooling Towels will be your new best friend. Honestly! They are easy to find online, or even at your local superstore, are relatively inexpensive and can be reused often, even once you return home. Get each member of your traveling party one in their favorite color. Simply get them wet, snap them out and place them on the back of your neck. Most come in their own pouch, so you can place them back in there before putting them in your park bag to keep from getting anything else wet.

 

~Portable Neck Fans~

Portable and Rechargable Neckfans

 

Portable and rechargable, these neck fans can help keep you and your family cool. They come in numerous styles, and most have multiple speeds – some even have misters built in! Usually charged by USB ports, they can be charged throughout the day using the Battery Pack you most likely already have in your park bag to charge your phone.

 

~Safety First~

Midday Breaks

While all these tips can absolutely help make the most of your hot day in the parks, I can’t stress enough to not to take for granted escaping to some of the many air conditioned attractions, shops, and to even plan for a Table Service restaurant meal in the middle of the day to let you and your family recharge and cool down. And there is no shame in heading back to your resort for a dip in the pool and return to the parks later when the temps start to drop again.  Questions about how to best navigate the parks in the hot months of the year? Reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel!

 

What are your favorite tips for staying cool in the parks? What “Stay Cool”  items do you keep in your park bag?

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. 

Why Memory Maker Is A Must Do

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Let’s talk about a #truthbomb. We ALL want to save money on our vacation. And this is especially true for a trip to Walt Disney World. For many of us, these trips are “Once In A Lifetime” experiences, and while we are happy to save for that trip, we want to save on the extras where we can. One of the extras that is easy to brush aside is Memory Maker. But let’s talk about why, out of all the extras, this is one you shouldn’t pass on!

 

~Get Everyone In The Picture~

Whether it’s a Couples, Family, Solo, Multi Generation, First or 50th trip, it’s the perfect way to have everyone in the picture. It’s called Memory Maker for a reason. They can capture the special memories that you will treasure forever,  with everyone in the picture – Moms too! In addition, it will include all of your Attraction photos, including Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and more.

 

~Special Surprise Guests~

You never know who may pop up!

One of the BEST features – Magic Shots! These super fun, surprise photos add a touch of Disney Magic when they show up. You could find Mickey, Tinkerbell, Chip and Dale, or so many more of your favorite characters… and even Sven has made an appearance! Don’t hesitate to let the photographer know you would like some of these special photos. They will happily oblige!

 

~Where To Find Them~

Check for locations of photographers in your MDE app

While you’ll usually find PhotoPass Photographers near the icons in each park, they will move around. And there will be some in a few of the beaten path areas too. To see where they are located at any given time, simply check your MDE App, and from the drop down menu, select “PhotoPass”. It will pinpoint where to find them in each park. In addition, stop by the Disney PhotoPass Studio in Disney Springs for extra photos with special backgrounds and props… All included in your Memory Maker purchase!

 

~How (and How Much)~

If you are booking your WDW vacation with a Travel Agent (like our friends at Destinations to Travel), this will be a question they will ask you when they work up your free quote. But, if you are booking yourself, just let the cast member know, and they will add it to your package (current early purchase price $169 *subject to change). It is best to add it at least 3 days prior to the start of your vacation for the best price. Memory Maker can be added after the start of your trip, but the price will increase (currently $199 *subject to change), so by adding it in the beginning, you’ll save. All of your photos will be available to you to download to your mobile device or computer for 30 days… ALL of them! No need to decide which ones to purchase individually (or watch that bill add up)

 

Let us know if YOU are a Memory Maker Fan, or if you pass on this option. Will you be adding Memory Maker to your next Vacation?

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.