Disney

Unlock the Magic: Exclusive Disney World Offers Await You!

Free dining at disney world

Free Dining Delights for Disney+ Subscribers!

I never thought I’d see the day when Free Dining returned to the Walt Dinsey World Resort, but never say never! Disney World is bringing back it’s popular Free Dining promotion to Disney+ subscribers. During select dates this summer you can indulge in the delectable delights of a FREE dining plan when booking a 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package. Imagine a cozy room at a Disney Resort hotel, theme park tickets with a Park Hopper option, and the icing on the cake – a complimentary dining plan!

This magical opportunity allows you to explore over 200 dining locations across all of Walt Disney World! From quick breakfast bites at your Disney Resort hotel to savoring snacks and mouthwatering meals at the parks, the possibilities are endless. And yes, those snack credits can be used on iconic treats like DOLE Whip or a Mickey ice cream bar! 🍦🥪

Elevate Your Disney Experience with Nikki’s Theme Park Concierge Services

But that's not all! Elevate your Disney experience with Nikki’s personalized Theme Park Concierge services. As your dedicated Travel Advisor, Nikki is here to turn your dreams into reality and take the stress out of the planning process!

Nikki will be your trusted guide, ensuring every moment is magical. From creating custom itineraries to securing the best dining reservations and sharing insider tips, she's got you covered. Whether it's using Genie+ to speed through the lines or discovering hidden gems, your VIP experience is her top priority.

Don’t forget Nikki’s amazing tips on how to get a Virtual Boarding Group for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Tron Lightcycle Run.

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Exclusive Offer: $25 Off Theme Park Concierge Services
Schedule your vacation chat with Nikki before January 20th, and enjoy a $25 discount on her Theme Park Concierge Service packages just for you!

A Few More Details

Disney's Riviera Resort

This incredible free dining offer is available for select travel dates between July and September 2024. It's applicable at select Disney World Resort Hotels and must include a minimum of 4 nights and a 4-Day park hopper ticket. To qualify for this fantastic discount, you must be a current Disney+ subscriber.

But Wait! There's More!

If you're not planning to travel to Disney World this summer, Nikki has another amazing promotion for you! Enjoy a discount of up to 35% off your room on your Walt Disney World vacation package! This offer is available for select dates between March and October 2024.

Ready to make your Disney dreams come true? Let's chat about these incredible offers and explore the many ways you can create unforgettable memories with your family. Imagine dining at 'Ohana, enjoying a Movie Under the Stars, and getting early theme park entry – the perks are endless!

We can't wait to hear from you! Have a truly Magical Day!

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Why You Should Plan Your 2022 Spring Break Early!

“When is the perfect time to plan my spring break trip with the kids?”

This is a question that I get asked a LOT. My answer is always “as SOON as you know you will be taking a spring break and have the school calendar.”

Was your last Spring Break trip not exactly what you planned?

I’ve got a tip for you on how to make it better…... PLAN EARLY! Do not wait to plan your 2022 spring break trip. I know it feels like the kids JUST got out of school and you are finally finding your summer groove. TRUST ME, you do NOT want to wait until the kids get back into school to plan your spring break trip in 2022. 

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There is so much pent up demand for travel

I’m seeing resorts fill up faster than ever before. If you want your pick of the best room and the best-priced options, planning early is key! The best way to save money on your spring break trip for 2022 is to get it planned early….like NOW.

Theme parks can make a great destination for spring break trips. There is something for everyone of every age at the Florida theme parks. Disney and Universal are packed full of rides. They also have GREAT amazing water parks to splash and play in. There is NOTHING wrong with hanging at the resort for a day or two. The resorts can often be a destination in themselves with their awesome pools, hourly activities, evening outdoor movies and even roasting smores around the campfire.

Are you ready to explore outside of the main Theme Parks in Orlando? Looking to connect with nature? Have you heard about Discovery Cove? This theme park is all about getting you closer to aquatic life. This all-inclusive park gives you opportunities to swim with dolphins, snorkel with fish and rays, hand-feed exotic birds and unwind on beautiful beaches. This experience is really all-inclusive as your breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages are included with your admission. They even provide your snorkel gear, towels, and wetsuits. It is a great way to have a more relaxed approach to a theme park and still feel like you are doing, seeing, and learning. 

There is always something new and exciting in Central Florida

Both Universal and Disney World have recently opened or have scheduled to open new attractions so there will be so much more to explore this spring. From the Velocicoaster at Islands of Adventure to Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and all of the glittery 50th-anniversary decorations at Disney, you are sure to find new experiences around every corner of the parks in 2022. 

The beach makes a great spring break trip

Spring break can also be a great time to take the family on a beach vacation. There are so many resorts to choose from in Mexico, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and all of the Caribbean Islands. I know we can find the right spot for you. Yes, I know it has been HOT around the US lately, but don’t forget, it WILL be cooler, gloomier, and darker in early 2022. Planning your getaway now will help you fight off the winter blues in 2022.  

all-inclusive resort myths

If when I say Spring Break your mind goes to the wild parties we used to watch on MTV and you think no WAY that would be family-friendly, think again! Yes, there are some resorts that offer a high-energy college spring break experience. BUT did you know that many resorts actually have policies about spring break parties? And many of them won’t allow groups of college kids at the resort during the prime Spring Break season?

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There are also lots of resorts now that are VERY family-focused and would not appeal to the college spring break crowd. I would be so happy to talk with you more about the spring break experience at All-Inclusive Resorts throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. 

I really want you to know that if you are thinking about taking a spring break trip at all, DO NOT DELAY in getting your plans made. With my Travel Concierge Services, I’m here to help you have the easiest time planning your trip and will do my best to make sure your Spring Break trip meets or exceeds your expectations.

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If you use my services or not, please heed my warning to plan early! I can guarantee you that prices will increase, resorts will fill up, and airlines will sell out of their seats. We are not going to see huge sales, discounts or specials on spring break trips this year. The demand is just too high that the resorts don’t have to offer discounts as their rooms are filling up already.

Plan early for a happy, fun-filled Spring Break experience

The Magic Of Disney

Even after 40 visits to the Walt Disney World Resort, I still believe it’s one of the most magical places on Earth. From the big attractions to the little details, every visit to Disney World is filled to the brim with magic. What makes Disney extra special is the celebration of some of the best movies and shows of all time, attractions that capture the imaginations of people from ages zero to 100, and the training of cast members to be thoughtful and recognize guests celebrating special occasions. It’s a timeless theme park that manages to stay fresh and exciting.

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Think of your favorite Disney movie. Either you had one come to mind immediately or you thought of so many, you couldn’t choose just one. That’s because Disney makes fantastic entertainment and has so much to offer that there’s something for everyone. My personal favorites are The Princess Diaries and Wreck It Ralph. Both movies have characters I relate to deeply. I might not have been a kid when Wreck It Ralph was released but it makes me happy that young girls can see Vanellope Von Shweets being her unique self and be inspired to be themselves too. They also have super fun soundtracks! While neither of my favorites have their own rides, plenty of their other brilliant properties have been turned into immersive experiences. There isn’t much that tops being able to meet your favorite characters in person!

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A big part of why I love Wreck It Ralph is also why I love visiting Disney World with first-timers - the nostalgia. Wreck It Ralph makes me especially nostalgic for the video games I played growing up. This nostalgia truly comes to life every time I find myself in Hollywood Studios, competing for the highest score in Toy Story Midway Mania. No matter your age, Disney can make you feel like a kid again. There’s a sense of wonder on every ride and during every show because they’re so immersive and full of magical little details. The attractions that I’ve been able to revisit again and again bring back amazing memories. For instance, my mom and I got to check out Animal Kingdom before it was even open to the public, where we were shown the very first version of the Festival of the Lion King! The show remains my favorite Animal Kingdom attraction. Disney World manages to have the perfect combination of new and classic attractions. The classic attractions have so much charm and they are so intricately created that I notice something new every time. I think Haunted Mansion is a great example of this. From the delicious smells pumped into Soarin’ to the immersive story-driven experience of Star Wars Rise of the Resistance, Disney is always spreading a little extra pixie dust onto their creations.

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Each park is its own little world but all have the uniquely Disney atmosphere. Part of that has to do with the cast members. Cast members are always trying to make sure you’re having the best time possible. I have especially great memories of cast members on visits when I was celebrating something. On our honeymoon, hubby and I got to skip the wait for riding Expedition Everest! We were in the single rider line and were happy to ride separately but once the cast member learned we had just gotten married, he insisted we ride together. It was a super sweet gesture I will never forget. Outside of special occasions, I’ve seen cast members go above and beyond. Another unforgettable experience was when my friend Katie and I got to help open Dinoland. We couldn’t believe we got to start our day radioing the rest of the park to say Dinoland was open and eating free Mickey bars! 

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No matter when you go to Disney World, you’re bound to make memories that last a lifetime. Ready to start planning your next magical getaway? Now is the perfect time for us to start planning a summer vacation!

I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of Disney!

Spring Break!

Last March marked the beginning of the COVID-19 shutdown, halting travel just as people were ready for their spring break trips. This March, spring break travel is possible again! With extra safety precautions, that is. Your trip may look different but a year later, we can rest assured that we now know the proper precautions necessary to keep everyone safe.

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I’ve been working closely with resorts that are taking COVID precautions seriously and accommodating guests accordingly. Airlines in the U.S. are requiring negative COVID tests within 72 hours of your trip back from any international destination. Several resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean are offering on-site testing for this reason, usually free-of-charge. If you do test positive, these resorts also offer complimentary quarantine stays with in-room food and beverages. Countries that do not require testing to enter (like Mexico and Costa Rica) do require insurance with higher medical coverage. 

CHECK OUT WHAT NIKKI HAS TO SAY ON MEXICO

I feel for the travellers whose 2020 spring break trip was cancelled, especially because some of my very favorite travel memories growing up were made during such trips. I was lucky enough to get to travel to Florida regularly. I always insisted on visiting Disney World whenever I was in the state but I also spent a lot of time on the Florida coast. I look back fondly on the road trips we’d take to get there because my family never flew - half the fun was getting there! I also loved the trips we’d take with my neighborhood. We’d eat delicious meals together around the bonfire and play games by the pool. The adults would be off doing their own thing so my friends and I would get to have some independence. I remember looking for crabs on the beach at night with our flashlights.

Hear all about Nikki’s childhood spring breaks to Florida Beaches

You can have an equally fun and casual vacation in Hawaii (Hear why Nikki Dreams of Hawaii) . Hawaii has so many outdoor options for dining and entertainment. A condo stay is perfect for this spring break, since you aren’t totally secluded but you aren’t too close to anyone either. You’ll also have access to pools, lazy rivers, and hot tubs, all outdoors! You don’t need to retest to come home from Hawaii or from the theme parks in Florida. Disney World and Universal Studios are a great spring break option for repeat visitors to either of these parks. If you’ve been wishing you could have a more relaxed vacation but you and your family still want to visit Disney or Universal, now is the time to go. Lowered capacity at these parks means less lines and less stress.
Ready to make some spring break memories with your loved ones? Contact me to start booking your trip today!

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Dream Now Travel Later

So much has changed in the travel world (thanks COVID), that my travel dreams for 2021 look pretty different now. While the pandemic meant some plans had to be cancelled, there have been some positive changes, like the more organized boarding process that I hope stays in place long term. Also, temperature checks and extra cleaning measures that are now in place gives me assurance that everyone around has been declared healthy enough to travel. 

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Back to my travel dreams for 2021. The midwest has its charms, but it’s a little hard to remember that right now. I look outside my window and see white snow. What I’m really dreaming of is the white sands of a Maui beach. To tell you the truth, I never really understood the draw of Hawaii until I went myself. Now that I have, I can honestly say that a piece of my heart permanently resides on Maui. 

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My first trip to Hawaii was to Oahu with my mom. We made two key mistakes: only staying four nights and not renting a car ahead of time. It takes 15 hours to fly from the midwest to Hawaii. Now add to that the six-hour time change and by the time we were acclimated to the time difference, it was time to leave! Something I know is NOT on most people’s dream travel list is a too-short trip to Hawaii. Don’t worry, I travel and make all the mistakes on my own trip because I don’t want you to have any issues on yours.  

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My travel dreams for 2021 don’t stop with Hawaii! Mexico holds a spot in my dreams as well. One of my favorite trips is the trip my husband and I took to Mexico with six other couples. It was truly special because I was able to connect with my friends on a whole new level. Such a large trip will have to stay a dream for now, but family trips are totally doable in 2021! Mexico has so much to offer families and couples. Adults-only resorts offer breathtaking views over the water with top-notch room service. If you’re looking to spend time with your kids, there are shows and waterparks and your kids can even learn to surf!

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Just because traveling looks different in 2021 doesn’t mean it can’t happen. It’s totally possible and definitely worth dreaming about! I’d love to hear about your travel dreams and help you plan the perfect, stress-free and COVID-free vacation in 2021!

Best Tips for getting a Rise of the Resistance Boarding Pass at Disney's Hollywood Studios

The Best Tips for getting a Rise of The Resistance Boarding Pass-May the Force Be with You

I’ve scoured the internet and tried several of the “best” tips for getting a Rise of the Resistance (RotR) Boarding Pass at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida and am here to share with you what I’ve found works best!

At least what worked best in the winter of 2020. And it goes WAY behind just trying for a boarding pass at 7am. Things change quickly in the “World” and I’ll do my best to keep this updated for you!

My Disney Experience App

YES- there IS an app for your trip! The grand central station of your trip will be the My Disney Experience App. If you are using our Theme Park Concierge Services you already know this and know that we will walk you through all of the app’s quirks.

The top things you need to make sure are going on in your app to make your boarding pass for RotR possible are:

  • Have your party members all linked to your account

  • Have your dated tickets linked to your account

  • Have your Park Pass Reservation for the date you are visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Not sure if you have everything in order?

If you are a Travel With Nikki traveler just reach out to us. Not one of our travelers yet? What are you waiting for-sign up for a theme park package today! !

You can also reach out to Disney’s IT department at: 800-848-6413, be prepared for longer than normal hold times. Make sure all of your linking is done, and questions answered days before your visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Speed Matters

No, I’m not talking about the Falcon’s ability to make the Kessel run in less than twelve parsecs, I’m talking about the speed of your phone, iPad, or electronic device. (NOTE: You cannot use a computer. Boarding passes are only given out via My Disney Experience the app.) It is a good idea to check the Speed of the internet or cell phone data in various places at your resort. Resort Room Wi-Fi is generally slower than Wi-Fi in common areas and depending on your cell phone company, sometimes that is faster. I recommend using Fast.com to find out what is the fastest for your devcies. Once you have determined which are your fastest devices (use more than one to attempt your boarding pass collection!) and connection methods, make sure to be in position no later than 6:45am on the day you are visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Watch The Clock

Using a separate device from what you will use to secure your boarding pass, pull up the official clock provided by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. You will want to watch the clock and get your fingers ready to collect your boarding pass at EXACTLY 6:59:59am. It is common for all of the boardings passes to be gone within 5-10 seconds of 7am- Faster than any ship can make the Kessel run!

When the Clock Strikes 7am

Prior to 7am you’ll want to have your My Disney Experience app open to the main page and have scrolled down to the Square talking about “Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance- Request Access with Virtual Que”. As soon as you see the clock strike 6:59:59 click on the JOIN button and say a little prayer, think happy thoughts, do a good luck dance, or whatever you do to create good karma.

Check out MY walk-through video below to get an idea of how the process will work.

Last Opportunity

If by chance you miss out on a Boarding Pass for Rise of the Resistance at 7am, you can try the same exact procedures at exactly 12:59:59pm on the day you are in Hollywood Studios. The one caveat being that you must have already entered the park for the day. So no making it from your comfy bed, poolside, or breakfast reservation. (Unless you snuck back to your resort after your morning entry).

Lets Review the Steps to getting your Boarding Pass at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Rise of the Resistance

  • Have your app up to date and everything linked

  • Know where the fastest internet is

  • Keep an eye on the clock

  • Maximize your chances by having more than one day during your trip to Hollywood Studios


Now I know that sounds like a LOT of planning just to secure a boarding pass for one ride in one park. Keep in mind this is THE most popular ride at the Walt Disney World Resort, it has decreased capacity due to physical distancing measures, AND being so new it does still have the occasional Porg that gets in the way and cause mischief and the ride has to close down.

The more you know, the better prepared you are and the better your chances will be at securing a coveted spot on Rise of the Resistance. You will be SO HAPPY you got to experience this cutting edge attraction!

Nikki and Ryan give Rise of the Resistance two thumbs up!

Let us know if the above steps helped you and your family get a Boarding Pass!

Aloha Hawaii

Hawaii is a fantastic place to have a family vacation. Kelly and her family had so much fun at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa on the island of Oahu. They enjoyed days filled with ocean breezes, sunshine and the amazing adventure that is the Waikolohe Pool area of the Aulani resort. This Pool area is actioned packed with 2 pools for families, a lazy river, raft slide and body slide. Don’t worry adults, there is also an Adults only pool in its secluded section of the resort.

Kelly’s family loved the welcome basket in their room upon arrival courtesy of Travel With Nikki. The menehune scavenger hunt was a big hit with the kids. The half day Pearl Harbor tour was the perfect amount of time and Kelly’s family was so happy they didn't try to do the tour on their own. Snorkeling at Aulani’s private Rainbow Reef was a great way to introduce kids to snorkeling in a controlled environment and comes highly recommend by Kelly and her family. A short walk down to the Paradise Cove Luau was a fantastic addition to the trip and allowed the family to view a variety of traditional Polynesian and Hawaiian dances, and of course amazing Luau food!

Aulani provides a perfect family getaway that is filled with Hawaiian adventure and culture.

Christmas Disney Cruise-Bogle Family

We have used Tavel With Nikki for all 3 of our Disney Cruises. In November of 2017 we took our first cruise on The Disney Fantasy. Nikki did such a great job at helping us select our rooms, dining time, as well as activities. She was there every step of the way during our planning process. Her suggestions were amazing.

This Disney Cruise was the most amazing vacation! Disney is the way to go with families. No casinos, good food, nice sized rooms and endless amounts of entertainment and character interactions. Plus Disney’s Castway Cay is a very magical private island! You are never to old to enjoy Disney!!

We sailed on one of the Very Merry Christmas itineraries. A very Magical way to spend the holidays for sure. The Boat is decorated with every details from a large tree, thousands of lights, even a ginger bread house… and there is even an opportunity to make your very own ginger bread house while on board.  Mickey and crew get dressed up in formal wear and pose for perfect family pictures. 

We wanted to recreate a picture take from our 1st disney cruise back in 2008. Here is our magical recreation. My how time flies and our boys have grow. 

Disney also has a fun Pirate night and does fireworks at sea. One of a kind experience that you won’t want to miss! They even have a special late night pirate dinner buffet after the fireworks. They have huge turkey legs that are a must try, and of course lots of chocolate! 

 

Our family had an amazing time aboard the Disney Fantasy, the kids can’t wait to go back again and the adults are all having a hard time getting back to reality. When you are on the boat you are spoiled with no cooking, cleaning, or driving. EVERYTHING is done for you. Your job is to relax and enjoy every moment of your vacation! This vacation took vacation to a whole new level. The kids loved the children’s clubs, the adults actually had time to spend alone and everything was taken care of for us! It really was a Magic, Wonder, Dream, Fantasy come true! 

Orlando Trip 2016

In October of 2016 my husband and I took a vacation to the Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World. Nikki's detailed tips helped us out so much! Everyday we checked her lists and tips and did everything she suggested and had a great time with all of it! I don't know what we would have done without Nikki telling us the hints and tips of Disney.

Of the two locations Universal Studios was our favorite!! Harry Potter world is hands down the BEST place in the world! We truly enjoyed everything about it and it was great that our hotel was only a 5 minute walk to the park and 5 minutes to the City Walk! Everything was right there and it made it so easy to commute and enjoy our time without transportation everyday. Staying at the Hard Rock Orlando was a great option as if offered us the Express Pass for FREE! 

We would suggest that if you can, spend more time at Universal Studios! 2 days is a good length  to be able to do everything, but longer would be even better! For Disney World take advantage of those Fast Passes each day! It helps and will help guarantee a spot in whatever ride or show you'd like. 

We had a great trip! Everything was planned out and so detailed for us on Nikki's end we are so pleased to always be working with her on our trips.