Fairy Tale Concierge is at it again! We're giving away another Universal Orlando vacation!
One very lucky winner will receive a 3 day, 3 night Universal Orlando vacation for up to 4 people! Better yet, you'll get to use the advisor of your choosing (hint, hint!) to plan the whole thing!
Details about this incredible giveaway will be posted soon! In the meantime, make sure that you're following my Facebook and Instagram pages for giveaway information as soon as it's posted! If you'd like even more information about travel news and updates, be sure to join my email list for exclusive information, travel news, and pixie dust straight to your inbox! Enter your email below to join! Can't wait to travel to Universal Orlando Resort? Become a concierge client and get personalized booking, planning, and more from yours truly!
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Disney Genie officially launched on October 19, 2021! Keep reading to learn everything you need to know.
Disney Genie
Like I explained before, this free component of My Disney Experience will be available for all guests. This complimentary service offers new features, including a tool that can map out an entire day based on your pre-travel choices. It will also help to reduce wait times in rides, pace your day, and build around existing plans. While Disney Genie is free, there will be 2 different ways to utilize paid Lightning Lanes to save time in lines. Lightning Lane entrances, available for a fee, will be used. Genie+ Disney Genie+ will be an add-on at 40+ attractions. It will cost $15 per person, per day. Using this service, you can select arrival windows for Lightning Lane entrances, one at a time throughout the day. Genie+ will also feature audio files and PhotoPass lenses. Genie+ will not sell out. Once you have Genie+, you can book the next available arrival window for your first experience via the My Disney Experience app beginning at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit. Once you’ve redeemed your initial selection (or the arrival window has passed), you can make another selection using the app, up to park closing. I can add this on to your ticket or package for the duration of your visit prior to travel, or you can choose to purchase for single days on your own in the My Disney Experience app. Individual Attraction Selections These are the headliner attractions. These highly demanded rides will offer Lightning Lane entry as an "á la carte" purchase. This option will be available for everyone—with or without Disney Genie+ service—and lets you choose a time to arrive at up to 2 attractions each day (booked one at a time). Purchase of Lightning Lanes for these headliners will be only be via Disney Genie in the My Disney Experience app on the same day of your visit. Pricing will vary by date, attraction and park. Prices and availability will be listed in the My Disney Experience app on the day of your visit. You can only purchase individual selections for up to 2 different attractions per day. These will have a limited, and can sell out. Guests at Disney resorts will have "first dibs" on attractions.
The photo below outlines which rides are included with the Genie+ add-on, and which are included with the “a la carte” premium Individual Attractions.
Tips
Disney Genie, as well as its paid components, only work if you have the most updated version of My Disney Experience app. Update this the day before you travel, and double-check that it's the most updated version before you use any part of Disney Genie. We also learned that it's MUCH easier to add Genie+ prior to travel, rather than adding by day once you're already there. I have already added Genie+ for all currently booked clients who have requested it. If you have questions about how I can add Genie+ to your trip, contact me. For more information about becoming a concierge-level client, click here.
Walt Disney World is officially 50 years old!
I was fortunate enough to be in Magic Kingdom on its actual 50th anniversary. While it was magical and emotional, it was also crowded. Read along to find out how I skipped all of those crazy lines and what I did instead!
The Crowds
I've been planning this trip for a long time. I predicted that the crowd situation would likely look intense, and I was right. However, what I wasn't prepared for were where the crowds actually were. I personally prefer my "merch" in the forms of things I can use in my daily life. (Water bottles, coffee mugs, hoodies, etc.) After over 20 personal trips over the last 31 years, I've learned what I use the most. Anyway, I never got super into things like popcorn buckets, pins (I do have a few), or other items that I otherwise can't use in my daily life. If you saw the INTENSE lines on the news, TikTok, IG, etc., those were lines for merchandise and popcorn buckets. No joke. As of 8:15 a.m., the Emporium and Main Street Confectionary were literally full for the day and were not accepting anyone else into their virtual spots. With those people in lines for merch, as well as people who didn't mobile order food in advance (more on that soon), lines for rides were crazy short all day. While most people were extremely polite, I sadly saw some very ugly behavior on October 1st, too. Literally fighting over merchandise, folks screaming at Cast Members, complaining about having to wait for food, you name it. Please, no matter where or when you're traveling, remember to BE KIND.
What I Ate
I pre-ordered our breakfast, dinner, and snacks at 5:30 a.m. (We had table service lunch reservations.) While that may sound extreme, I mentally thanked myself for that all day long. I was also sure to hydrate constantly, and carried snacks in my park bag, just in case! (If you're wondering what's in my park bags, get my packing list here!) Breakfast - Fresh fruit waffle sandwich and French Vanilla Iced Coffee (Sleepy Hollow) Lunch - All-You-Care-to-Enjoy platter and 2 adult beverages (Liberty Tree Tavern) Snack - Pineapple Dole Whip cup (Aloha Isle) Dinner - 1971 Meal (Casey's Corner) One of the highlights of my day was seeing absolute legend Randy Morris play at Casey's Corner! Randy started as a pianist at Casey's Corner (then called Coke Corner) back at the park opening in 1971. He's since retired, but returned on the 50th to play again! It was incredible, and I'm getting emotional just typing about it!
What I Did
While these aren't the order we rode them in, we experienced:
Disney Enchantment
I was at Magic Kingdom on September 29th for the last-ever Happily Ever After, and I thought that surely nothing could top that show. This one absolutely did. Stunning. Absolutely stunning. This show made my jaw drop, gave me goosebumps, and made me laugh, cry, and sing along. The theme song, "You Are The Magic", is one of the best, most magical pieces written for a Disney attraction ever. This show is a must, MUST see. I was so glad to get up close to the Castle (we were in front of the hub grass) for the premiere, but next time I definitely want to watch from Main Street USA. Did you know that there are projections along Main Street during this show?? Depending on where you watch, you'll have a completely different experience!
Overall Impressions
This was a once-in-a-lifetime event, and I'm so incredibly thrilled that I was there to experience it. The heat, the crowds, the exhaustion...they were all well worth it. The World's Most Magical Celebration lasts for 18 months, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to experience everything that the 50th Anniversary has in store, including cavalcades, nighttime spectaculars, shows, and merchandise (did I mention that the infamous Starbucks cup that people were punching each other over is already back in stock???? LOL!!) There is tons of fun, excitement, and magic to be had. If your trip isn't on the books yet, contact me to get started or schedule a complimentary vacation consultation to get more information!
What I Wore
I opted not to do a DisneyBound for the 50th, and instead relied on a few of my tried and true favorites. I wore a pink version of my favorite FunkyMonkey park sandals, a pink "bunny ear" scrunchie at the bottom of my Dutch braid, rose gold Mickey earrings, (mine were "Hey June" brand and a gift from a friend, but I've linked something similar), and my favorite Disney Parks Attractions Loungefly mini-backpack. You can find each of these right on Amazon and can shop them from these links or from the photos below!
Looking for a special way to celebrate the fireworks at Walt Disney World? Now you can choose from FIVE dessert parties and TWO dinner packages!
From sweet treats to international fare, there’s no shortage of options for making the most of the nighttime spectacular experience. To make your evenings even more magical, a new lineup of Appetizing Occasions will be returning just in time for “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.”
Disney Enchantment, a brand-new, dazzling nighttime fireworks spectacular, debuts October 1st at Magic Kingdom. To enrich the experience of this immersive show, there’s a full menu of dessert party options that include viewing locations from the heart of the park to the Seven Seas Lagoon.
Learn more about Disney Enchantment here.
Celebration at the Top: 50th Flavors and Fireworks at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
$129 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Dress code requirements apply. Beginning October 2nd, a sophisticated evening awaits you at this event, where you'll be welcomed to the private Sonoma and Napa Rooms at California Grill to sample specialty drinks, canapes, sushi and small plates. After an elevated cocktail hour, step outside to the observation deck on the 15th floor for a unique viewpoint of Disney Enchantment, complete with the synchronized music. The event continues back inside after the show with petit-fours, cordials and coffee.
At Magic Kingdom Park, three dessert party options put you right in the middle of the magic to view Disney Enchantment. Each event includes 50th anniversary-themed delights at different times throughout the evening at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant. These events will begin on October 3, 2021.
Each of these 3 parties will include 50th anniversary-themed desserts, a variety of cheeses, and drink selections, including beer and wine for anyone ages 21+
As I previously shared, Disney's Ferrytale Fireworks: A Sparkling Dessert Cruise begins September 18th. Reservations are available now. On select Wednesday and Saturday nights. set sail on an iconic ferryboat for a magical evening on the Seven Seas Lagoon. Once onboard, you can enjoy bite-size signature sweets including build-your-own mousse, key lime tarts, cupcakes and specialty beverages. (Beverages both with and without alcohol are available.)
Kids can participate in an ultraviolet scavenger hunt. During the cruise, you'll get to experience observe the Magic Kingdom fireworks accompanied by stunning water views. $99 for adults and $69 for children ages 3 to 9 (tax and gratuity included)
Harmonious, one of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for Disney Parks, will light the EPCOT's World Showcase Lagoon beginning October 1st.
With choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics and lasers in a 360-degree view, Harmonious shows how Disney music and stories have the power to bring people from all around the world together. To celebrate there are two new package options available at World Showcase restaurants. Both of these experiences will be available October 1, 2021.
FREE Park Bag Packing ChecklistPark your park bag like a pro! Grab this checklist freebie! Thank you!You have successfully joined our subscriber list. The fan-favorite “Finding Nemo — The Musical” at Animal Kingdom has permanently closed after opening in 2007. But don't worry! A reimagined show, based on the same beloved characters, will debut in 2022! The reimagined show is still in the early stages of development. The musical retelling will feature new story material, as well as fan favorite songs such as “In the Big Blue World” and “Go with the Flow.”
Stay tuned for updates on this new show as we get closer to its debut next year! Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will debut in spring 2022 at Walt Disney World Resort. We recently learned a lot more about what we can expect. We already know the adventure will begin at the Galactic Starcruiser Terminal at Walt Disney World, where Guests will enter a launch pod and head out into space. It will be part live immersive theater, part themed environment, part culinary extravaganza, part real-life role-playing game—and so much more. Step off the launch pod and into your own epic Star Wars story, one where you decide your fate. While your story unfolds, you’ll have the power to choose your path. What's Included
Dining The Crown of Corellia Dining Room will feature fare from all over the galaxy along with familiar favorites from your home planet. Breakfast will include small plates and a variety of beverages including juices, coffee and Bubo Wamba Family Farms blue milk. Lunch will feature sandwiches, soups, mini flatbreads, salads, and sweets. On the first night, the dining room transforms for dinner into a table-service supper club with a special musical appearance. The second night, The Taste Around the Galaxy showcases courses inspired by iconic destinations throughout the galaxy. The meal includes group appetizers for the table, a choice of entrée and a specialty plated dessert. Arrange to sit at the captain’s table for an especially memorable dinner experience in a prime location. (An additional fee is required for Captain’s Table seating.) The Sublight Lounge is the perfect place to sip a beverage and relax. Looking to wager a few credits? Sidle up to the Sabacc gaming table and play a casual hand of holo-sabacc. During your planet excursion to Batuu, you can enjoy a quick-service meal at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo or other select locations at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Interactive Activities During your voyage, you won’t just meet new and familiar Star Wars Characters, you’ll interact with them. You'll also have access to special features in the Star Wars: Datapad experience available on your mobile device as part of the Play Disney Parks app. Throughout your adventure, you are encouraged to don your galactic best. But whatever planet’s clothes you choose to wear, be sure to save your very finest for the traditional end-of-cruise gala celebration. Lightsaber Training - Wield a lightsaber and face off against a remote training device in this exclusive interactive activity. (Must be at least 7 years old to participate.) Bridge Training - Explore the working bridge of the legendary Halcyon starcruiser and learn how the navigation, power, defense and other critical systems keep the Halcyon starcruiser safe. Batuu Excursion - Board a transport to Black Spire Outpost on Batuu. Your missions throughout Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge—including your adventures on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run—will influence events back on the ship. Cabins
Imagine waking up inside of a Star Wars story. The starcruiser features 100 well-appointed cabins and suites. Standard Cabin
I'm always looking for ways to keep you in the loop with all-things travel! I'm beginning a weekly series that will share what your most-purchased travel items were from the last week. Below are the Top 10 travel items that you purchased from Amazon from July 5-12! This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. #1 - Portable Neck Fan
amzn.to/3xEzKA2 #2 - FunkyMonkey Women's Sandals https://amzn.to/3ARaMiK #3 - 6 ft. Charging Cords https://amzn.to/3wyoWBZ #4 - Dual Port USB Charger https://amzn.to/2T9AhuK #5 - Water Bottle Carrier with Adjustable Strap https://amzn.to/3ASErbp #6 - Adidas Fanny Pack https://amzn.to/3wEIVyW #7 - AirPods with Charging Case https://amzn.to/3r4x2B4 #8 - Battery Operated Stroller Fan https://amzn.to/3xBDdiI #9 - Stroller Cup Holder https://amzn.to/3xCGRbY #10 - Portable Sound Machine https://amzn.to/3xCGRbY Remember, my clients all get a complimentary, comprehensive packing checklist before they travel. To get my complimentary park bag checklist, click here. To become one of my concierge clients, contact me!
Your theme park bag is one of the most important parts of your entire trip. Without a well-packed bag, your park day can get derailed quickly. After all of the time, money, and excitement you've put towards your vacation, that's the last thing that you want! I give to you one of my most coveted tips...how to pack your park bag!
Be sure to grab my FREE park bag packing checklist below!
The Bag
First things first, you'll actually need a park bag. The park bag that you choose will depend on who you're traveling with and which parks you're visiting. I've previously talked about the best park bags for every guest. I suggest starting there if you're trying to decide on what type of bag you'll need. However, today we're going to focus on what goes inside that bag! The Basics The first things you're going to carry with you are the obvious basics. This includes things like cash, credit cards, and IDs. I personally prefer not to carry my entire wallet, and instead use a zip-top wallet. If you're looking for a luxury version, this Michael Kors wallet is perfect. This Vera Bradley change purse is very similar to the one I carry. (Except mine has a Hufflepuff print!) Communication You likely always have your phone with you anyway, but make this is more important than ever. You'll use your phone to take photos, order food, check wait times, and can even house your tickets and park passes into there! Therefore, you're also going to want a portable charger in that bag, too. This is identical to my favorite charger! (I couldn't get a link to my exact charger, sorry! Health and Safety The next category we're going to make sure we have are anything related to health and safety. Face coverings* (if you're wearing them), hand sanitizer, and band aids. Hand sanitizer has long been a staple on my packing lists long before 2020, but now it's even higher on my list! Band-Aids are another good one to carry with you. In addition to their normal uses, you'll definitely want those to cover any blisters on your feet. There's nothing worse than touring with blisters! *This list previously recommended 2 face coverings per person, per day. As of April 18, 2022, face coverings have become optional at all Walt Disney World locations. You know your family best! Do what works for you and your travel party. Weather Florida is not only hot, but V E R Y humid. It's also full of unpredicted weather. It's not unheard of to have a beautiful morning and evening with a monsoon-level storm for an hour in the afternoon. For this reason, you'll need to be prepared, rain or shine. The first item you'll need, no matter the temperature, is sunscreen. (Don't make the major mistake that I made a few years ago!) With all of that heat, I also recommend either (or both!) a personal fan and a cooling towel. I also encourage all clients to carry ponchos with them. A poncho will allow you to get around during any downpours and are also a game-changer when it comes to water rides! Which brings me to my final category... Ready for Anything! There are a few items to include in that park bag that may not make sense when you read my checklist, but trust me on this! The first is a variety of Ziploc bags. Use one to keep face coverings (if you're wearing them) safe and clean while you're eating. Use a larger gallon size to hold wet ponchos. If you're riding Splash Mountain or Kali River Rapids, you can also keep cell phones in a sandwich size bag to help keep them extra dry. (I'm a big Ziploc fan, clearly.) I also recommend carrying a hydrating lip balm. Finally, I recommend a water bottle strap. This one doesn't necessarily stay in your park bag, per say, but staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do. If you found this list helpful, be sure to check out some of my other packing tips: Best Items to Beat the Heat New Items to Pack Click here to get a full, comprehensive vacation packing checklist. When the Disney Wish sets sail in Summer 2022, guests will be immersed in Disney’s rich legacy of enchanting storytelling. The Wish will bring life to the stories and characters of Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars. Check out what the Wish has in store for us! Bookings for this ship will sell out Q U I C K L Y, so if you'd like to receive a quote when bookings become available in May 2021, please contact me! Pools
Dining
Entertainment
Kids Clubs Children ages 3 to 12 will enter the reimagined Disney’s Oceaneer Club. Including:
Adults-Only Experiences
Accommodations Every stateroom on board the Disney Wish will be a luxurious, peaceful retreat designed with ample room for families, plenty of storage and upscale amenities. Most will feature Disney Cruise Line’s signature split-bathroom concept.
Setting Sail Summer 2022
The Disney Wish will sail its maiden voyage — a five-night cruise to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay — on June 9, 2022, followed by an inaugural season of three- and four-night cruises to the same destinations from Port Canaveral, Florida. Due to the anticipated demand for the Maiden Voyage of Disney Wish, there will be some unique Terms and Conditions for this sailing only. Bookings open to the general public on May 27, 2021. More details about the Disney Wish are on the horizon. Stay tuned!
Summertime (or hot weather season in Florida, which lasts much longer than summer!) brings its own set of challenges for the parks. Don't travel to Orlando without these items!
Water Bottle Strap
Carry your own water to the parks. I will say this until the cows come home! Don't pay upwards of $4 per bottle. Cups of water are F R E E at all quick-service locations. Use those to refill your own water bottle. I love this water bottle strap for carrying water with me! I don't like wasting precious park bag space for a bottle of water, but I always want to keep it nearby. A water bottle strap is an excellent alternative, plus it reminds you to keep sipping all day long. Stroller & Personal Fans A stroller fan will keep your little ones cool and comfortable. Just like how it sounds, you just clip it to their stroller and let them work their magic! For anyone over stroller age, you'll want a personal fan to carry with you. These neck fans are all the rage right now, and keep your hands free! Cooling Towels I was first introduced to these bad boys during a runDisney event, and now keep them handy for park days and long runs alike. If you're always hot, like me, you might even want to double up on these towels and a fan! Hair Ties If you've got long hair, like me, you're going to be throwing it in a braid, ponytail, bun...anything to get it off your neck! I always carry these hair ties with me in the parks to get my hair off my neck. Between the humidity, heat, water rides, and afternoon downpours, my poor hair doesn't stand a chance staying down! The Basics Of course, I always recommend that my clients bring hats, sunglasses, plenty of sunscreen (and aloe vera gel to be on the safe side!) Don't forget to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. (I've forgotten to do this, and I have photo evidence of my mistake!) Other Ways to Beat the Heat As you all know, I'm a big advocate for the mid-day break for a swim and a nap at the hotel. My 2021 hotel recommendations can be found here! Other ways to beat the Florida heat are indoor rides and attractions, lunchtime table service meals, or splash areas. (Though many splash zones are still currently closed.) All of my clients get my dining recommendations as well as touring plans to show them exactly where to beat the heat! Contact me to get all of my park tips and tricks! |
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