For more information on travel planning with our exclusive travel agent sponsor, The Vacationeer, visit https://vacationeer.com/wdwnt/.

As a single mom, traveling with my children while they are young has always been a bit of a struggle. For single parents, cruising might be the best vacation option around, offering just enough freedom for kids and enough R&R for mom or dad, without the awkward feeling that often comes with traveling alone. And Disney stands out with its strong, structured program for single parents: The goal is to make single-parent families feel included, taking into consideration the fact that parents traveling solo want some “me” time — but not too much time, since it can be lonely to travel without another adult.

Disney has an excellent youth program. Each child is given an Oceaneer band with a GPS tracker when they board the ship. Kids must wear these bands during the entire cruise. The bands are scanned to check kids into and out of secure youth programs. Kids under the age of 8 are not allowed to check themselves out of the kids club. Kids 8-12 can check themselves in and out at their parents’ discretion. Disney Cruise Line utilizes its Navigator App for communication throughout the cruise. Parents are contacted through the app when needed. Single parents can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing their kids are safe and entertained during their alone time.

When choosing your destination, cruising with kids enables you to visit anywhere you want. With the convenience of only having to unpack once, you and your kids can explore an array of fascinating destinations and enjoy a variety of activities and experiences together. For those who just want to get away to spend time together, staying on the ship can present the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your kids. From splashing around in the pools together, to taking part in a craft lesson, or solving a mystery at the Midship Detective Agency, there is often just as much going on around the ship as there is ashore. Popular destinations for children include the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Norway, Hawaii, Alaska, and so many more! With several cruises also departing from San Diego, Galveston, New York, Fort Lauderdale, New Orleans, the UK, Barcelona (and the list goes on), you can leave the stress of coordinating airports and flights behind. Focus more on the itinerary that works for your family vs. the ship that you are sailing on. All Disney Cruise ships are amazing in their own ways, therefore, the exact ship that you are on is second to the itinerary you are taking.

When traveling with kids, I feel that Castaway Cay is not to be missed. You do not need a port excursion to have an amazing day, even though there are many excursions to choose from. Castaway has so many things to do, like the Pelican Plunge, meeting the characters in their beach attire, water playgrounds, Scuttles Cove, and more. We chose to rent snorkel gear and tubes for floating. While you are snorkeling, there are statues, buried treasure, and so many beautiful fish to see.

On our last cruise, we were celebrating three birthdays, so we did a couple of special things. I ordered birthday room decorations for the cabin from Disney Cruise Line. When we walked in for the first time, they were beyond shocked! This was such a fun way to kick off our vacation at sea. On my son’s 7th birthday, I took him and his 5 year old sister to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique to get birthday makeovers. My daughter did the Deluxe Carriage Package, which includes hairstyling, nail polish, makeup, a t-shirt, and a super cute Minnie Backpack with ears and a tiara. My birthday boy picked the Captain Mickey package, which is brand new and exclusive to Disney Cruise. His included hairstyling, Captain cinch sack, autograph book and pen, and the Captain Mickey costume and hat. They both loved their Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique experiences, and my son wore his Captain Mickey costume for the duration of the trip. On our last night, we visited Vanllope’s Sweets and Treats and got everyone a cupcake to wrap up our birthday celebrations.

Disney Cruises will host two special nights, Pirate Night and Formal Night. I personally like to dress in our best for formal night, but we didn’t go overboard. We loved going all out on Pirate Night. Disney Cruises Pirate Night is a themed evening when you will be able to let your inner pirate out by dressing up in pirate attire, feasting on Caribbean food, and taking part in a Pirate dance party! While it might be called Pirate Night, the pirate fun is an all day event! You will find Pirate Crafts, Pirate Trivia, and other Pirate inspired events during the day. They will prepare you by leaving Pirate handkerchiefs in your cabin the day of and your meal will be Pirate themed, with everyone singing and dancing! You won’t want to miss the chance to see all your favorite Disney characters dressed as pirates performing pirate dances and doing a short performance. The night ends with fireworks over the ocean (Disney Cruise Line is the only cruise offering fireworks at sea!), a pirate buffet dinner, and a dance party!

It can be tempting to jam as many activities into each day as possible, but for a single parent cruising with kids, that would be a huge mistake. Leave plenty of time in between activities for coordinated bathroom breaks, snacks, and naps instead of trying to drag cranky kids (or yourself) to yet another scheduled activity. Remember that the ship itself is your destination. Give yourself plenty of time to see and explore all that it has to offer!

Cruising as a single parent can be a great way to take a vacation. You’ll have the opportunity to relax and enjoy time with your kids without worrying about all the details of traveling. Plus, you’ll get to explore new places and make fun family memories together. As a single mom, a Disney Cruise Vacation has been the only vacation that when it’s over, I truly feel relaxed, everyone is happy, and we will all talk about our favorite moments until the next one! So what are you waiting for? Start browsing Disney cruises today, and get ready to set sail!

Interested in another kind of Disney vacation? The Vacationeers specialize in all things Disney and are ready to help guide you on your next adventure. Best of all, our expertise and service come at no cost to you. To receive a complimentary quote, click here.

The Vacationeer is the official travel partner of WDWNT.com.

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The winner will receive a 3 night/4 day stay at a Walt Disney World Moderate hotel, 4 Day Park Hoppers for 4 people, and our team will be ready to help you make it the most magical vacation ever.

What do you need to do to win? It’s easy! All you need to do is subscribe to The Vacationeer on YouTube (link is here), follow us on Instagram (@WDNWT), and visit www.vacationeer.com/giveaway to qualify. You must be subscribed to the YouTube channel and submit your entry by December 31, 2022.

After you’ve subscribed, be sure to tune into our channel for park updates, resort tours, and more! We’ll be sharing the winning details on our channel in 2023.

Interested in another kind of Disney vacation? The Vacationeers specialize in all things Disney and are ready to help guide you on your next adventure. Best of all, our expertise and service come at no cost to you. To receive a complimentary quote, click here.

The Vacationeer is the official travel partner of WDWNT.com.

For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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Last summer, Disney announced that Genie+ would be the new “paid Fastpass” replacement at Disney Parks. Genie+ launched on October 19, 2021, at Walt Disney World, and then on December 8, 2021, at Disneyland.

The initial rollout of Genie+ did not go well as many guests experienced technical issues and then had to face long waits at Guest Relations.

But one of the many perks of having a travel agent help with your vacation is not having to worry about figuring out how this new and confusing system works. The Vacationeer is here to help with this complete guide to the new program.

You Have the Fun While Disney Genie Service Does the Work

The complimentary Disney Genie service creates your best Disney day inspired by your party’s top interests. Upon launching the Disney Genie service in the app, you’ll have the opportunity to share what you’d like to do in a few easy steps. You can plan specific attractions, foodie experiences and entertainment, and special interests like Disney princesses, villains, Pixar, Star Wars, thrill rides, and more.

The Disney Genie service will then grant you a personalized itinerary that seamlessly and smartly maps out your special day — with updates that continue from morning to night. When you let Disney Genie be your guide, you’ll have quicker access to up-to-date park information, so you can be more spontaneous and have more fun — in the moment and on the go.

What’s Included in the Disney Genie?

Be sure to download the latest version of the My Disney Experience app, so you can take advantage of the new features:

• Tailored Recommendations – You’ll receive attraction and dining recommendations inspired in part by what you told the Disney Genie service you’re most interested in doing. It even displays a good time to go to an experience and an idea of the forecasted wait. Need to swap a recommendation out? No problem. Like many popular navigation apps, Disney Genie will continue to offer new suggestions throughout the day, so you can make the most of your time during your visit.
• A Personalized Daily Itinerary – Your “My Day” tab is where you’ll find Disney Genie recommendations and any plans you’ve made, including dining reservations, Disney Resort hotel reservations, and activity bookings. You’ll also be able to virtually chat with a Cast Member who can help answer any questions that arise.
• A Custom Tip Board – This new feature will let you see estimated wait times for your top attractions, entertainment, and dining. You’ll also be able to order food, make dining reservations, check into a restaurant, request to join an available virtual queue (currently at Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure), and even book arrival times for our new Lightning Lane entrance at select experiences if you’ve purchased Disney Genie+ service.

Take Your Day to the Next Level with Disney Genie+

Want even more convenience and flexibility? Consider purchasing the Genie+ for $15 per ticket per day. Please see below for features you get by purchasing the Genie+.

Enjoy the Magic You Want with Less Wait – Save time waiting in line by purchasing Disney Genie+ service! This new service at more than 40 attractions and experiences throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks lets you select the next available arrival window for the new Lightning Lane entrances.

You can make one selection at a time throughout the day—from classics like Haunted Mansion and thrill rides like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad to newer favorites like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run (experiences subject to limited availability).

With Disney Genie+, you can select Lightning Lane arrival windows across multiple theme parks for those who have the Park Hopper option.

Please note you can only use the Lightning Lane queue one time for each qualifying ride. For example, if you use the Lightning Lane for Haunted Mansion on a particular park day, then you can not use the queue again for this same ride on the same park day.

Plus, you’ll also enjoy these additional features:

• Disney PhotoPass Lenses – Access special Disney PhotoPass Lenses for your mobile device, allowing you to explore magical new augmented reality effects.
• Audio Tales – Discover the parks in cool new ways through fascinating fun facts and behind-the-scenes insights you can listen to during your visit.

When to Select Attractions? Once you have Disney Genie+ service, you can book the next available arrival window for your first experience via the My Disney Experience app beginning at 7:00 a.m. 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. As a note, the app will notify you when you can make your next selection.

Individual Lightning Lane Selections

For some of the most highly demanded attractions, Disney will offer Lightning Lane entry as an “á la carte” purchase. This option will be available for all Guests — 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).

Price

Pricing and availability will vary by date, attraction, and park. Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app on the day of your visit for current prices and attraction availability.

How to Purchase?

Purchase via Disney Genie service in the My Disney Experience mobile app on the same day of your visit.

When to Select Attractions?

You can purchase individual selections for up to 2 different attractions per day.

• Onsite Disney Resort Guests can make purchase and book at 7:00 a.m. each park day.
• All Other Guests can purchase and book when the park they are going to that day opens.

A valid theme park ticket and park reservation are required to attend the park you want to attend.

All rides will still have traditional standby queues or virtual queues available where applicable! Disney Genie + and Individual Lightning Lane Attractions are an optional purchase!

Below is a list of the Genie+ participating rides and the individual selection rides.

Ready to Book your next Disney World Vacation?

At The Vacationeer, we focus on providing our clients with the best Disney vacations possible. We are happy to answer your questions, give you insider tips and tricks, make your time-sensitive reservations, and provide you with the lowest costs available. Best of all, our services are 100% commission-free!

As a testament to our growing and satisfied client base, Disney recognizes The Vacationeer as an EarMarked Platinum Producer and an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. You can be confident we will put our hearts and minds into planning a trip that you and your family will remember forever!

Contact us today to learn how The Vacationeer can bring some extra magic to your next Disney vacation! Click here for a free quote.

The post Genie+ Can Get Confusing, But The Vacationeer Can Help Grant Your Wish appeared first on WDW News Today.

You’ve arrived at your hotel and unpacked your bags. Now it’s time to figure out what to take with you to the theme park the next morning. But hold on, do you even know what you can — and can’t — bring into Walt Disney World parks? This is definitely something you should know.

Disney’s policies are pretty straightforward, but there are some restrictions that may catch you off guard. Let’s take a look at what’s allowed and what’s prohibited so you’ll be prepared for the security check at the gates.

What You CAN Bring into Walt Disney World Parks

All guests are required to go through a security checkpoint before entering Disney’s theme parks and water parks. Bags, clothing, and other personal items are subject to screening. With this in mind, it’s crucial that you bring only items that are allowed inside parks so you won’t be turned away.

Remember, just because you can bring something to the park doesn’t mean that you should. The more stuff you take, the more you’ll have to carry around all day long (or put in a storage locker). Lessen the burden and bring only what you really need.

With that said, here are the items that Disney allows you to bring into the parks.

Bags for Personal Items

Guests can bring nearly anything into the parks as long as it’s not on Disney’s restricted list.

Many people just bring their wallets and cell phones and simply carry them in their handbag, backpack, or pocket. However, you may wish to pack some additional items like sweatshirts, sunblock, medicine, phone chargers, cameras, diapers, baby formula, toys, Mickey Ears, etc. In those cases, you’ll need some type of bag to carry your belongings.

Disney allows backpacks, fanny packs, totes, pocketbooks, and other types of bags and carrying cases into the parks. So long as it doesn’t exceed 24″ long x 15″ wide x 18″ high, any type of bag is allowed. Anything larger is strictly prohibited.

Food and Beverages

There are dozens of fantastic dining and snack locations throughout Disney’s theme parks and water parks. Yet, despite the diversity of restaurants and menus, some guests may still wish to bring their own food. Are they allowed to?

Yes, you are allowed to bring food and beverages into the theme park and water parks. But there are a few caveats.

Outside food and drinks must be for your own consumption. It must not require heating or reheating, refrigeration, processing, or have a pungent odor.

Alcoholic beverages and glass containers are prohibited inside the parks.

Coolers are allowed, but they mustn’t be larger than 24″ long x 15″ wide x 18″ high. Loose ice is prohibited, but reusable ice packs are permitted (and recommended) by Disney.

Guests often bring their own refillable water bottles, sandwiches, and snacks into the parks as a way to save time and money, or to accommodate personal preferences or food allergies.

You should always inform security of any food or beverage items you have as you enter the park.

If you have questions about Disney’s food policy, need informed restaurant recommendations, or if you’re ready to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation, then please contact the Authorized Disney Vacation Planners at The Vacationeer.

We can answer your questions, help you plan and book your magical vacation, and get you the biggest discounts on your trip. Plus, you’ll never pay a fee for our services. Contact us today!

Strollers and Mobility Devices

There are a few options when it comes to strollers: rent one inside the park, rent one via a local (non-Disney) stroller provider, or simply bring your own. Disney does allow guests to bring their own strollers.

If you plan on bringing your own stroller to the park, be aware that strollers exceeding 31″ in width and 52″ in length are strictly prohibited. Stroller wagons are also prohibited, as are any type of trailer-like object that is pushed, pulled, or towed.

Manual or electrically-powered mobility devices are allowed into Disney parks, so long as they are for a single rider, operate at a walking speed, have at least 3 wheels, and do not exceed 36″ in width and 52″ in length.

What you CAN’T Bring into Walt Disney World Parks

Now that you have a general idea of what you can bring into Walt Disney World parks, let’s take a look at the items you can’t take into the theme parks and water parks.

Note: This list is subject to change, so check for updates before you arrive.

• Weapons of any kind (firearms, knives, ammunition)
• Objects and toys that look like weapons
• Self-defense and restraining devices (mace, pepper spray)
• Fireworks and other flammable or explosive objects
• Noisemakers, whistles, horns, and megaphones
• Fog and smoke machines
• Illegal substances
• Marijuana and marijuana-enriched products
• Alcoholic beverages
• Glass containers (small jars of baby food are permitted)
• Loose ice and coolers larger than 24″ L x 15″ W x 18″ H
• Plastic straws (prohibited only in Disney’s Animal Kingdom and water parks)
• Balloons (prohibited only in Disney’s Animal Kingdom and water parks)
• Selfie sticks
• Folding chairs
• Large tripods and monopod stands
• Costumes and non-medical masks
• Inappropriate or offensive clothing, body art, or attire
• Backpack, handbags, totes, and various bags larger than 24″ L x 15″ W x 18″ H
• Strollers larger than 31″ W (79 cm) x 52″ L (132 cm)
• Stroller wagons and stroller trailers are prohibited
• Recreational devices (skateboards, scooters, inline skates, remote-control toys, drones, etc.)
• Swim noodles and non-Coast Guard approved water floats (at water parks)
• Pets and other animals (with the exception of service animals)

Prohibited Activities
Here’s a list of the activities Disney prohibits in the parks.
• Unapproved photography or recording of any kind for commercial purposes
• Selling items
• Distributing materials or solicitations of any kind
• Using banners or signs for commercial purposes or to incite crowds
• Conducting demonstrations, speeches, or events
• Using profanity
• Engaging in dangerous activities
• Disrupting park operation
• Feeding the animals
• Unauthorized entry into prohibited areas
• Portraying costumed characters

Stick to Disney’s property rules and regulations, and you won’t have any problems!

Ready to Book your next Disney World Vacation?

At The Vacationeer, we focus on providing our clients with the best Disney vacations possible. We are happy to answer your questions, give you insider tips and tricks, make your time-sensitive reservations, and provide you with the lowest costs available. Best of all, our services are 100% commission-free!

As a testament to our growing and satisfied client base, Disney recognizes The Vacationeer as an EarMarked Gold Producer and an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. You can be confident we will put our hearts and minds into planning a trip that you and your family will remember forever!

Contact us today to learn how The Vacationeer can bring some extra magic to your next Disney vacation! Click here for a free quote.

The post What You Can — and Can’t — Bring into Walt Disney World Parks appeared first on WDW News Today.

Booking a trip to Walt Disney World can be stressful, especially if it’s your first time. It makes sense to work with a Disney travel agency that has the experience and professionalism to help you through the process.

As you research different travel agencies, you’ll probably encounter some touting themselves as an “Authorized Disney Travel Planner” or “EarMarked.” What is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, and how are EarMarked agencies different from other travel agencies? Let’s examine these terms and distinctions to clear up the confusion.

Why Work with a Disney Travel Agency?

There are lots of options when it comes to booking a Disney vacation. You can book directly with Disney, go through a third-party travel website, or book your trip with a travel agency.

We are confident that the latter option will provide you with the most value. Here’s why.

Your Disney travel agent acts as a personal advisor and a one-stop shop for all your Disney needs. They answer your questions, give you advice, and provide you with insider tips based on their own experiences visiting the park.

From theme parks to resort hotels, restaurants to transportation, payment plans to My Disney Experience accounts, your Disney travel planner can advise you on all aspects of your vacation. You will work together to create a vacation package that’s tailor-made to your goals.

When you’re ready to book, your Disney travel planner will make all of the time-sensitive reservations – park tickets, hotels, dining, VIP services, ground transportation, stroller rentals, and more.

They will also scout out the best promotions and then apply the lowest rates to your vacation package.

Best of all, the services of a Disney travel agent are 100% commission-free. They provide all of this value and you never pay a dime!

Not All Travel Agencies Specialize in Disney Destinations

Any travel agency with IATA or CLIA membership can register with the Disney Travel Agent system and apply to sell Disney vacations. But while general travel agencies have the ability to sell Disney trips, they aren’t laser-focused on Disney Destination sales.

This doesn’t mean that these agencies are incapable of providing you excellent service. However, it’s important to make the distinction between general travel agencies and those that are specifically focused on Disney trips.

The difference between having a good Disney vacation and a magical one lies in the details. When the entire business revolves around Disney, you can be confident that your Disney travel planner knows everything about your Disney destination and has the experience to book your trip exactly how you want it.

Seek out a well-regarded and established travel agency that specializes in Disney vacations. Make sure they are licensed sellers of travel and are commission-free. And if you’re someone who never settles for anything but the best, or you just want the extra assurance that things will be handled correctly, then consider working with an EarMarked Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

The Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Difference

Although there are plenty of Disney travel agencies with excellent track records, not all of them are EarMarked as Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agencies. Disney bestows this designation on a select number of agencies as a way to recognize their excellence and to rank them among the best in the industry.

How does an agency become EarMarked as an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner?

To be included in Disney’s EarMarked Program (and accepted as an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner), the travel agency must specialize in selling Disney Destinations. They must also demonstrate a multi-year track record of achieving high sales volume.

What is the actual sale volume required to be included in the EarMarked program? Disney doesn’t disclose this figure publicly, but they do contact the agency and invite them into the EarMarked program once the goal is reached.

Customer satisfaction is also an important factor. The agency must meet Disney’s requirements of excellence and demonstrate a history of providing value to its clients. You can’t have satisfied clients without providing them with superior customer service.

Disney travel planners within EarMarked agencies are required to have a broad understanding of Disney Destinations. It’s true that most Disney travel planners start out as Disney fanatics and enter into the profession with lots of existing Disney knowledge. Even so, new hires are instructed to complete the Disney College of Knowledge coursework before starting on the job.

The Disney College of Knowledge online classes are a series of comprehensive training courses about the ins and outs of Disney’s theme parks, resorts, vacation packages, cruises, and more. Disney College of Knowledge graduates are better equipped to advise their clients after successful completion of the course. You can never have too much knowledge about Disney Destinations!

The Vacationeer is Ready to Book your next Disney Vacation

At The Vacationeer, we focus on providing our clients with the best Disney vacations possible. We are there to answer your questions, provide insider tips and tricks, make your time-sensitive reservations, and provide you with the lowest costs available.

Our “Vacationeers” are some of Disney’s most passionate fans. We keep up with the latest promotions and park developments, and we regularly visit the parks ourselves. Vacationeers know everything about Walt Disney World because it’s our job to do so!

As a testament to our growing and satisfied client base, Disney recognizes The Vacationeer as an EarMarked Gold Producer and an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

You can be confident we will put our hearts and minds into planning a trip that you and your family will remember forever!

Contact us today to learn how The Vacationeer can bring some magic into your next Disney vacation! Click Here for a free quote.

For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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If there’s one thing not to love about Disney vacations, it’s the cost. But did you know that Disney allows you to spread the total cost of your trip over multiple payments? That’s right, you’re able to lock-in your availability with a deposit and then design an interest-free payment plan for the remaining balance.

Let’s explore how this flexible layaway plan can fit within your budget and make going to Disney World a reality.

Paying the Deposit

As we emerge from the pandemic, Disney continues its phased reopening and demand for Disney vacations is growing by the day.  The desire to travel and have fun again is stronger than ever.

Yet, for many of us, we’re not sure if it’s the right time to spend our money or if we can afford a trip in the first place. It can be a challenge to save for a Disney World vacation but it’s even more challenging now.  

Fortunately, Disney offers us a way to ease the financial burden.

To begin with, Disney requires a deposit of $200 to book a vacation package. This amount is due within 3 days of making a reservation.

Once you have paid the deposit, Disney then gives you plenty of flexibility with how to pay for the rest of your trip.

Please note: If you book a Disney trip within 30 days of your expected arrival date, your full payment is due when the reservation is made (and you won’t be able to take advantage of this payment plan).

We highly recommend that you book your trip at least a few months in advance of your arrival. This will allow you more time to pay down your balance and give you a better chance of securing the reservations you want before they’re scooped up by other guests.

As the saying goes, the early bird catches the worm!

Ready to get a jumpstart on your Disney World vacation? If so, please contact the commission-free Authorized Disney Vacation Planners at The Vacationeer. We can help you plan and book every aspect of your magical Walt Disney World vacation, make sure you get the biggest discounts, and set up a payment plan that fits within your budget. Contact us today!

How Flexible is Disney’s Layaway Plan?

Disney’s layaway plan doesn’t really have any specific guidelines other than the deposit amount and when the final payment is due. Instead, they leave the decision-making up to you.

As you book your trip, you’re required to pay the deposit, and then you’re able to set up a payment plan that allows you to make as many interest-free payments as you choose.

You decide the amount you want to pay, and the date you wish to pay it. A Disney vacation specialist can help you implement the plan.

Your final payment (remaining balance) is due no later than 30 days before you’re scheduled to arrive at Disney World.

Ways to Create your Disney Payment Plan

As we said, the final payment is due thirty (30) days before your check-in date. Otherwise, Disney is pretty flexible with how you pay for your trip.

You’re free to design any type of installment plan that works for you, so long as each payment is $20 or more.

Some people schedule their installment payments to coincide with their paychecks (every 2 weeks) while others prefer to make a payment once per month or once every few months.

You could also just make one lump sum payment as the 30-day deadline approaches.

There is no right or wrong way to set up a layaway plan for Walt Disney World. Whatever you decide is ultimately your call to make.

You’ll have to examine your cash flow to determine how a layaway plan can fit into your monthly budget.  Just keep in mind that the further in advance you book your trip, the more time you’ll have to pay it off.

There’s no time like the present to start saving for your next Disney World vacation. Why not make your reservations now and get a head start paying for your trip? By the time you’re packing your suitcase, your Disney trip will be completely paid off!

Let The Vacationeer Create your Layaway Plan

The Vacationeer has been named an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and an Earmarked Gold Producer. Disney bestows this recognition on a select number of agencies that meet the highest standards of excellence.

With this achievement, you can be assured that our “Vacationeers” possess the experience and dedication to create the most magical vacation possible for you and your family.

We’re here to help you plan and book every aspect of your Disney World vacation. We’ll start by giving you a quote and then answer all your questions. Once your plans have been finalized, we’ll handle all of your resort and dining reservations. If FastPass+ makes a return (fingers crossed), we’ll book all of your ride selections at your behest.

The Vacationeer can even handle your stroller rentals and transportation needs. Plus, if you need insider tips, we’ll be more than happy to share some with you. After all, Disney is both our job and our passion!

And more to the point of this article, we can work together to set up an automatic payment plan until your entire balance is due.

The Vacationeer will never charge you an interest fee, service charges, or any type of commission for any of our services or for setting up a payment plan.

We also get you the best deals.

Your Disney vacation planner will monitor the discounts to make sure you get the lowest prices when you book your trip. If a bigger discount comes along after you book with The Vacationeer, we’ll automatically apply the saving to your account.

Not to toot our own horn, but it’s really an amazing service!

The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have and the more time you’ll have to pay off the balance. Contact The Vacationeer and start your planning today!

Click here from a free quote or call us now at (833) 469-8747.

The post Layaway Plan for Disney Vacations appeared first on WDW News Today.

We know that Walt Disney World vacations create memories that last a lifetime. So why not let Disney PhotoPass professionals capture these magical moments for you? 

With the purchase of a Memory Maker option, you’ll receive all of the high-quality photos and videos that are taken within Disney’s PhotoPass system while you’re at the park. You can share these photos with your friends and family and relive your in-park experiences forever. If there’s one vacation add-on that’s worth the money, it’s Memory Maker!

Let’s take a closer look at Disney Memory Maker and why it’s such a fantastic addition to your vacation package – especially right now, as Disney has a special Memory Maker offer available for a limited time.

What Is the Disney Memory Maker?

The Memory Maker option gives you unlimited digital downloads of all your Disney PhotoPass pictures for a set period of time.

You can find professionally-trained PhotoPass photographers in prime and picturesque spots throughout Walt Disney World Resort, such as Main Street U.S.A., Hollywood Boulevard, in front of Cinderella Castle, at the Disney Springs PhotoPass Studio, and more. On-ride action photos and video clips are also included! 

Disney Memory Maker photos can be printed, framed, and shared on social media. They are the perfect Disney souvenirs. 

How Does Memory Maker Work?

Once a Disney PhotoPass photographer takes your photo (or as you exit a ride with PhotoPass), your MagicBand, PhotoPass card, or personal QR code will link the images directly to your Disney account. It’s that easy!

Participating guests can view, download and share these PhotoPass memories on their Disney PhotoPass and My Disney Experience Mobile App. Keep in mind that PhotoPass photos and videos expire after 45 days, so be sure to download them all when you get home!

How Much Does Memory Maker Cost?

Disney offers three different Memory Maker options: 

Memory Maker One Day – $69 – This option includes one day of Disney PhotoPass photos and videos.

Memory Maker (Advance Purchase)  – $169 – With this option, you’ll receive all of your photos and video from your entire vacation. Purchase must be made at least 3 days prior to activation. This option ends up being the best value for most families visiting Disney World.

Memory Maker – $199 – You’ll receive all your photos, but you will pay a higher price if you don’t purchase Memory Maker at least three days prior to activation.  

Limited Time Offers for Spring 2021

Right now, however, you can get even more out of Memory Maker! Disney is running two special offers during the Spring of 2021.

1. Spring 2021 Memory Maker Extended Capture Offer

Activate your Disney Memory Maker now through May 19, 2021, and you’ll be able to download every photo and video you capture through June 18, 2021.

2. Spring 2021 Memory Maker One Day Extended Capture Offer

Get two days of Memory Maker for the price of one. Simply purchase and activate one day of Memory Maker before March 11, 2021, and receive the following day free! 

Do you have questions about Memory Maker? Would you like to lock-in your Memory Maker promotion before these deals expire? If so, please contact the commission-free Authorized Disney Vacation Planners at The Vacationeer. They can help you plan and book every aspect of your magical Walt Disney World vacation and make sure you get the best discounts. 

5 Reasons Why the Disney Memory Maker Is Worth It

There are a lot of reasons to add the Memory Maker option to your vacation package. Here are 5 reasons why it’s worth the cost.

1. High-Quality Photographs

All of Disney’s PhotoPass Cast Members are trained photographers. They use state-of-the-art camera equipment and shoot in a high-quality resolution. This ensures that all your Memory Maker images will be high-quality and suitable for printing, framing and sharing. 

2. Free Unlimited Digital Downloads

With the purchase of Memory Maker, you’ll get unlimited digital downloads of all the photos taken at PhotoPass locations. You’ll also receive your family’s on-ride action shots and videos. You can download your own photos and those of us to 25 members of your Family & Friends list who share media with you. Remember to download them right after your vacation, as your photos expire 45 days from the date they were taken.

All PhotoPass images can be downloaded to your phone or computer. Once you’ve downloaded them, you can print them, frame them, post on social media, or whatever else you wish to do with them. They are yours to cherish forever and save as souvenirs from your magical Walt Disney World vacation!

3. Everyone is in the Shot

When you take a group photo, one of your family members is often missing from the shot because they are the person taking the photo. Well, now you can get to take photos with everyone in your group because PhotoPass captures the image for you.

This is especially important during the pandemic. In the past, Cast Members would gladly take your camera or phone and snap a photo if you asked them to do so. Now, with the coronavirus, Disney no longer allows its employees to handle your items. 

Instead, Disney PhotoPass photographers have their own equipment and you can maintain a safe distance. 

4. Customizable and Creative

Disney “Magic Shots” add a little pixie dust to your photos. They might add a Disney character into your photo or add another type of magical element to your picture. The “Super Zoom” Magic Shots give you a distant bird’s eye view of the park. 

Memory Maker also lets you get creative.  After your photos have been downloaded, you’ll be able to go in and edit them with “Magic Maker.” This tool allows you to add borders around your photos, add captions and stickers to your images, and do other things to customize your images. The tool then allows you to save those edited versions if you choose to do so. Why not use Magic Maker to make your holiday cards next year?!

5. It’s Affordable

You can pay for your PhotoPass photos individually, but that would be quite expensive. In fact, the purchase of 10 digital downloads ($16.95 each) is equivalent to the cost of the entire Memory Memory (Advance Purchase). When you purchase Memory Maker, you’ll have complete access to all of your PhotoPass photos for one low price. 

The Memory Maker option is the perfect way to preserve your memories forever. It will provide you with convenience and tremendous value. For these reasons, the Memory Maker option is definitely worth the price!

Do you have questions about Memory Maker? Are you ready to book your Walt Disney World vacation with a Memory Maker option? If so, then please contact The Vacationeer for a free quote. They can plan the magical Disney family trip you’ve always dreamed of.  And best of all, their services are entirely free of charge!

The post Is Disney Memory Maker Worth the Money? appeared first on WDW News Today.

The first step to planning a Walt Disney World vacation is deciding the best time to visit. Work, school, and other family obligations will influence your decision, but there are other important factors to consider. These include the crowds, the cost (promotions), weather, seasonal events, park hours, and so forth. 

With the pandemic, choosing the best week to go to Walt Disney World in 2021 is no easy task. But let’s take a look at what we know about these factors from before the pandemic.

Crowds at Walt Disney World

Crowds are an inevitable part of the Disney experience. That said, some times of the year are less crowded than others.

Generally speaking, crowds are lower during non-vacation weekdays (i.e., when school is in session) and when the operating hours of Disney’s theme parks are shorter. Conversely, crowd levels tend to be at their highest on weekends, holiday weeks, when school is out of session (Spring Break, Summer Break, Fall Break, Christmas/New Year’s), and when the operating hours at Disney’s theme parks are longer. Checking a crowd calendar that estimates crowds each day at each park can also be helpful.

Based on these factors historically, we expect that the best times to visit Walt Disney World in 2021 will be:

• January 25 – February 11
• February 22 – March 5
• April 19 – 29
• Weekdays in May
• Last 2 weeks in August – End of September (minus Labor Day weekend)
• Weekdays in October and November (minus Thanksgiving week/weekends)
• Weekdays in December (minus the weeks near Christmas and New Year’s)

We expect the worst times to visit Walt Disney World in 2021 will be:

• January 1 -11; January 18 – 20
• February 12 – 21
• March 6 – April 11
• Weekends in May
• June, July, and the first 2 weeks in August
• Thanksgiving week and weekends
• The last two weeks in December (Christmas and New Year’s)

Disney has changed its ticket pricing to incentivize attendance with lower prices during less crowded times. While crowds have evened out more as a result, the trend remains intact for the most part. September and October are among the best times to visit, and holiday weeks, weekends, school breaks, and summer remain the most crowded times of the year.

Do you have questions, or are you ready to book your 2021 trip? Contact The Vacationeer today for a free quote and start planning the magical Disney family vacation you’ve always wanted.

Least Expensive Time to Visit Walt Disney World

In a typical year, the least expensive time to visit Walt Disney World is when demand is low. Walt Disney World runs special promotions throughout the year. These often include the free Disney Dining Plan offer and discounted vacation packages on hotel stays, theme park tickets, or a combination of the two. Disney’s promotions act as an incentive to entice more visitors during the slower times of the year.

The most expensive time of year to visit Disney World is when the demand is greatest. In addition to the timeframes noted above when the parks are most crowded, demand (and prices) tend to be higher when Disney hosts a special event or festival.

Month-by-Month Weather and Events

The central Florida region is prone to hot, humid, and stormy weather during the summer months and mild to cool temperatures during the winter months. Most people prefer Florida’s spring and fall weather, but the winter weather is still quite nice.

Here’s a rundown of what you can expect for each month:

January

• Average high: 71°
• Average low: 52°
• Days of precipitation: 5

January is Disney’s coldest month, but that’s not saying much. Once the New Year’s Eve crowds have cleared out, January is a nice time to visit Walt Disney World. The crowds are light and the temps aren’t bad (if you don’t mind wearing layers). It does get dark earlier and the operating hours are shorter. Epcot’s newest festival, the Festival of the Arts, begins in January and has quickly become a fan favorite during the winter months.

February

• Average high: 73°
• Average low: 54°
• Days of precipitation: 5

Early February isn’t crowded but, by the middle of the month, there’s a huge swell as schools are off for February break. Like January, the daylight hours and theme park operating hours are reduced.

March

• Average high: 78°
• Average low: 56°
• Days of precipitation: 5

The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival begins in March and the park experiences some of the best weather Florida sees all year. As long as you avoid the Spring Break crowd, March is a nice month to head to the park.

April

• Average high: 82°
• Average low: 63°
• Days of precipitation: 3

April brings beautiful flowers to the parks and the weather is generally pleasant. Disney gets crowded around Easter break as the parks fill up with vacationing families and college students. Kids can meet the Easter Bunny and Magic Kingdom hosts the Easter Parade on Easter Sunday.

May

• Average high: 87°
• Average low: 69°
• Days of precipitation: 7

Disney starts to really heat up in May. With the exception of Memorial Day weekend – which is infamous for its heavy crowds – May isn’t usually too crowded. If you like it warm (but not scorching hot) then this is a good month to come.

June

• Average high: 89°
• Average low: 73°
• Days of precipitation: 11

Crowds are moderate to heavy in June, and rain is fairly common. The parks are open longer so you may want to get an early start, then take a swim back at your hotel’s pool at lunchtime, and go back to the parks later in the afternoon.

July

• Average high: 90°
• Average low: 75°
• Days of precipitation: 13

July is characterized by sunny, humid weather and plenty of rain. The park gets crowded for Magic Kingdom’s Fourth of July Fireworks display, but they are really spectacular and worth the trip. If you don’t like crowds and hot weather, July is probably a good month to avoid.

August

• Average high: 91°
• Average low: 75°
• Days of precipitation: 13

August is all about air conditioning and the pool. Don’t forget that Walt Disney World has two amazing water parks. Crowds are heavy during the first half of the month but then start to taper off as kids get ready to go back to school.

September

• Average high: 89°
• Average low: 74°
• Days of precipitation: 9

Central Florida remains hot and humid in September, but it’s still a great month to head to Walt Disney World. The park is much less crowded because the kids have gone back to school.  Two beloved events, the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, usually start in August and run through all of September and October.

October

• Average high: 84°
• Average low: 68°
• Days of precipitation: 5

October is quite possibly the best month of the year to visit Disney World. The temperatures and humidity ease, the crowds are light to moderate, and the weather is just gorgeous. In addition, the Food and Wine Festival is still going on at Epcot, and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is hitting its stride.

November

• Average high: 77°
• Average low: 60°
• Days of precipitation: 4

The weather is fantastic during the month of November. Crowds tend to be fairly low during the first half of the month and you should be able to get on the rides without a long wait. However, Thanksgiving week is extremely crowded because schools are out on break. You’ll be able to check out Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party towards the end of the month. As long as you avoid Thanksgiving week, November is a great month to plan a Disney vacation.

December

• Average high: 74°
• Average low: 56°
• Days of precipitation: 4

December starts off with light to moderate crowds and a festive atmosphere. The beautiful decorations and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party make the first two weeks among the best times to be at Disney World. But the crowds swell around Christmas and New Year’s, making it hard to stay in a cheery holiday mood with so many people around.

Which Month is Best?

The best month to visit Walt Disney World will depend on your vacation goals and what fits into your busy schedule. But if you can choose your days carefully, you’ll be able to take advantage of shorter lines, better weather, and some of the seasonal events.

All things being equal, the best months for Disney World are September, October, November (minus Thanksgiving week), and early December.

The autumn months typically experience lighter crowds, comfortable weather, festive holiday decorations, and magical holiday events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas. It’s really a perfect combination!

Visiting Walt Disney World in 2021

2020 has proven to be a very difficult year for the travel industry, and Disney World is no exception.

Starting March 15, Disney shut down the park as the coronavirus pandemic spread throughout the country. The resort began a phased reopening on July 11 with a series of safety precautions that are still in place. These include reduced capacity, mask requirements, social distancing, hand sanitizing stations, scaled back entertainment and character options, and delayed restaurant and resort reopenings.

This “new normal” will likely be in effect for much of 2021. However, Walt Disney World is still very much open for business. It’s up to you to decide if it’s the right time for you and your family.

If you’re still on the fence about traveling in 2021, reach out to the Authorized Disney Vacation planners at The Vacationeer. They can give you the latest resort information and help you think about planning your trip, even if you’re not quite sure how to proceed at this point. Disney’s new reservation system actually allows you to book a last-minute trip, so that gives you some flexibility in 2021.

The Vacationeer will set you up with a vacation package specifically tailored to your family. They will get you the best promotional rates, re-book your trip in the event you decide to reschedule to a later date, and even set up a payment plan so you won’t have to pay upfront. And maybe best of all – the services of The Vacationeer are 100% commission-free!

Enjoy your trip!

The post When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Walt Disney World? appeared first on WDW News Today.

Planning a trip to Disney World is no easy task. The process can be especially confusing and stressful if it’s your first time to the resort. But, with the assistance of a Disney travel agent, it doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience.

A Disney travel specialist can help you plan and book all aspects of your trip. This includes your resort hotel reservations, dining plans, theme park tickets, FastPasses, and even things like your car and stroller rentals. They will also assist you with your touring plans, and make sure that you get the lowest rates so you never spend more than you need to.

Here are 7 reasons why you should use a Disney travel agent when planning your next trip.

Work with a Disney Expert

Your Disney travel specialist will be there to guide you through every step of planning and booking your trip. If this is your first time to Disney World, then you will have lots of questions. For example, you may have questions like:

• Which Disney resorts have the best pools, transportation options, etc?
• Is the Disney Dining Plan right for my family, or should we pay out-of-pocket?
• How many days do we need at Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios?
• What are the best rides for FastPass?
• Are the character dining experiences worth the cost?
• Where do we pick up the airport shuttle?

These are the types of questions that your dedicated Disney travel planner can answer for you. Based on their knowledge and your feedback, you will work as a team to craft the perfect trip. Your vacation package will be tailor-made just for your family and this will give you the best chance of having the most magical trip to Disney World possible.

Disney Travel Agents Really Love Disney World

People don’t just become a Disney travel agent on a whim. No, the people who join this profession are the most diehard Disney Fanatics you’ll ever meet.

Most agents started out by first planning their own Disney trips, and then volunteering to plan trips for friends and family. Many have a eureka moment and think, “gee, I really love sharing my knowledge and passion for Disney with other people. It would be amazing if I could plan Disney trips for a living.” That’s how most people get started in this profession.

Disney travel specialists are people-pleasers and 100% committed to what they do. You, as their client, are the direct beneficiary of their enthusiasm for all-things-Disney. You’ll receive the insider tips and expert advice that only an experienced and passionate Disney Fanatic could offer.

Unlike traditional travel agencies, most people who specialize in Disney travel live-and-breathe Disney parks. This is especially the case at The Vacationeer travel agency.

The authorized vacation planners at The Vacationeer are laser focused on Disney parks and totally dedicated to the success of their clients. This means answering your questions, listening to your goals, then working with you to make sure you end up with the best vacation possible. All this while ensuring you get the lowest rate, the reservations you want, and the best customer service imaginable.

They Search for Discounts and Special Promotions

There are plenty of ways to get discounts on Disney resort stays, theme park tickets, meals, and vacation packages. It will require some searching and some flexibility, but you can save quite a bit of money if you catch the right deal at the right time.

Disney’s promotions spring up from time to time, so you’ll have to stay on top of the latest news from Disney and continue to comb through the deals to find one that fits with your vacation goals. Some people may prefer to search for these new promotions on their own, but it makes more sense to work with a professional who does this sort of thing for a living. 

Your Disney travel planner can monitor all the discounts and limited-time offers so you don’t have to. Since it’s their job to monitor all the discounts and new, limited-time promotions that spring up, you’ll have peace-of-mind knowing you are in good hands and they’ll get you the lowest rates available.

Are you looking for the best rates, or do you have any questions about booking a Disney trip? Contact the Disney travel agents at The Vacationeer today. They can help you plan and book every aspect of your magical Disney World vacation.

Book Your Reservations for You

 As you work with a Disney travel specialist, you can choose to be as hands-on (or hands-off) as you’d like to be. They are required to book your hotel reservations, theme park tickets, and dining plan package. Other than those three things, your level of involvement is simply up to you.

Booking Disney vacations are time-sensitive and time-consuming. Most clients just let their Disney travel planner take care of the details. It makes sense to just let them handle your time-sensitive dining and FastPass+ reservations while you just relax and plan your packing list.

You’ll sleep better at night knowing that your dedicated Disney travel specialist has you covered.

Ability to Change an Existing Reservation

What happens if you book your Disney trip and then, a month or two before your trip, some unforeseen circumstance arises that prevents you from going? It could be a medical emergency, a family matter, or even another pandemic (God help us). Will you be able to change your dates, or cancel the entire reservation? 

The good news is there’s no need to worry. Your Disney travel agent can simply re-book  or cancel your existing reservation up until 30 days in advance without penalty.

A Disney travel planner can also modify your trip to take advantage of a new promotional rate. In other words, they will continually monitor the Disney promotions, and, if a better discount (lower price) springs up after your trip has already been booked, then your Disney travel planner will go in and modify your reservation and apply that lower rate to your invoice.

This means that you’ll never pay more than you have to and you won’t need to constantly check the promotions yourself. Relax, they have you covered!

Set Up a Payment Plan

Guests are able to book their reservations up to 499 days in advance of their check-in date.

You are required to pay a deposit of $200 as you book your trip, but that’s all you need to pay right away. The remaining balance can be paid on layaway, and the final payment is due up to 30 days prior to your check-in date.

A Disney travel agent can set up any type of payment plan that works for you and your budget. As long as you pay the installments in increments of $20 or more, and you pay off the balance at least a month before you arrive at Disney World, your travel specialist can create any type of payment plan you wish. It could be weekly, monthly, or just a couple of bulk payments – it’s up to you.

This flexibility is a Godsend for those of us on a budget!

It’s 100% Free

Disney travel planners and their host agency receive a small commission for booking trips. However, this is paid out by Disney (not the clients).

As a client, you are the direct beneficiary of this policy because you won’t pay a dime yet you’ll still receive outstanding customer service. There is absolutely no catch, no hidden fees, no fine print – it really is 100% free.

Not only are Disney travel planners entirely commission-free, but their services put you in a position to receive the lowest rates that Disney offers. As I mentioned before, they will initially book your trip with the lowest rates, then monitor the deals and adjust your vacation package if a deeper discount becomes available. All this and they even book your timely FastPass and dining reservations.

With this level of service, you’d expect to pay a pretty penny. However, this is not the case. When you add up all these advantages, there’s really no reason to book your own trip, even if you’ve been to Disney many times before.

Contact The Vacationeer today for a free quote and start planning the magical Disney family trip you’ve always wanted!

The post Should I Use a Travel Agent to Plan a Disney Vacation? appeared first on WDW News Today.

Hey, fellow Disney fans! I am Jonathan de Araujo, owner of The Vacationeer Travel Agency. We’re so proud to be the new Official Travel Partner of WDWNT.

The Vacationeer is a team of 80+ Disney super fans who love nothing more than to plan our guests’ Disney Vacations for them (well, except for going on our own Disney Vacations, we love that slightly more…) Like you, we’ve been sorely missing the magic during the pandemic. But with the parks open again, we know many of you can’t wait to go back, and that’s where we come in!

Here’s what we offer our to every one of our guests:

• We’ll get you the best available pricing.
• We’ll apply new promotions, even after you’ve booked.
• We’ll advise you in booking your theme park reservations in the new Disney Park Pass system.
• Advanced Dining Reservations, done for you.
• Magical Express scheduling, done for you.
• We’ll book your special experiences, like Savi’s Workshop (returning September 20)
• We’ll provide expert itinerary planning to ensure you don’t miss your favorite attractions and experiences.
• FastPass+ reservations, done for you (when they return!)
• All of our services are absolutely free to you!

As you know, there are many changes in Walt Disney World right now, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the magic. If your child loves the characters, we’ll help you plan to see their favorites throughout the parks or at the currently-available character dining options. We’ll help you stay on top of what attractions, shows, experiences and restaurants are available; when the parks open and close; and how to make sure you’re getting the most from your trip. With the holidays coming, we can help you plan a magical Christmastime visit to the parks as well.

When you contact us, our team of Disney specialized travel agents will put their decades of Disney knowledge to work to make your next Disney or Universal vacation as magical as possible. We want to make sure that you spend as little time in line, and as much time as possible enjoying the magic with your loved ones. Our guests typically experience many more attractions than guests who plan their own Disney vacations, and they often save money as well.

Our goal is always to give you the Disney vacation of your dreams, and in the process earn the privilege of your repeat business or for you to tell a friend about the fantastic experience you had working with us. We’re always looking for ways to improve, so please feel free to reach out with any suggestions.

Whether it’s today, next month, or next year—when you’re ready to plan your next magical Disney World, Universal, Disneyland or Disney Cruise Line vacation, we’d be honored to have the chance to earn your business. You can get started today by requesting a free quote online, or by calling us at 833-469-8747.

Have a Magical Day!

The post The Vacationeer, New Exclusive Travel Agent Partner of WDWNT appeared first on WDW News Today.