All About the Disney Genie Service

Published on October 11, 2021 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

ALL INFORMATION BELOW IS OBSOLETE EFFECTIVE JULY 24, 2024

Updated: June 21, 2024

There are 3 options for the new Disney Genie Service with access via your My Disney Experience Mobile App.

Disney Genie Service
Disney Genie+ [Lightning Lane]
Individual Attraction Selections [Lightning Lane – 2 per Guest, per day]

Beginning June 27, 2023, Guests at Walt Disney World Resort will purchase Disney Genie+ service based on how they want to visit the parks. Guests will be able to select either a single-park option or a multiple-parks option, subject to availability. With this update, prices may be lower at some Walt Disney World theme parks compared to others.

MAKING YOUR SELECTION FOR SINGLE-PARK OR MULTIPLE-PARKS OPTION:

When purchasing Disney Genie+, guests will have the option to select either a single park, or multiple-parks option. Prices will vary by park and date.

The multiple-parks option will be the most expensive, and will operate the same way as the original Disney Genie+ option.

For the single park Disney Genie+ option, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and EPCOT will be priced lower than Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom.

Example pricing is as follows:

Multiple Parks – $27
Magic Kingdom – $27
EPCOT – $18
Disney’s Hollywood Studios – $24
Disney’s Animal Kingdom – $16

Pro Tip: For single-park selections, until January 9, 2024 when Park Pass Reservations are no longer necessary for date based tickets, be sure to select the park that you have your Park Pass Reservation confirmed for.

Disney Genie, Disney Genie+ and Individual Attraction Selections are now available for all Guests.

Disney Genie Service is a free service that is available to all guests with valid theme park tickets and offers a personalized day planner, tip board, wait times, virtual assistant, mobile order, virtual queues and more. No action is required to use the Disney Genie Service. Standby lines will be available to all guests. Ahead of or on the day of your visit, you can input your “Top Picks” for attractions, entertainment and dining, as well as your park hopping plans, and Disney Genie will generate a recommended itinerary based on your selections.

Pro Tip: Disney Genie recommendations are just that — recommendations. If Genie adds something to your itinerary that you’re not interested in doing, you can remove it and Genie will re-optimize your day with new recommendations.

Disney Genie+ is an additional purchase that can be added on the day of your visit via the My Disney Experience app, one day at a time, subject to availability, for an additional fee per ticket, per day. Disney Genie+ offers a next-available time to arrive at a variety of attractions using the Lightning Lane entrance – one at a time, throughout the day – to help you navigate through longer wait times. Lightning Lane is offered at more than 40 attractions throughout all 4 theme parks. Guests may use Lightning Lane for one attraction at a time, no more than once per attraction, per day. Disney Genie+ also includes AR PhotoPass lenses and a series of audio tours.

Pro Tip: Popular attractions fill up quickly and, if you want to maximize your morning, you’ll want to confirm your first Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane reservation as early as possible starting at 7 am each day. The quickest attractions to ‘sell out’ in each park are Slinky Dog Dash at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Test Track at EPCOT, Peter Pan’s Flight at Magic Kingdom, and Na’vi River Journey and Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

NOTE: With the purchase of Genie+ you will receive your attraction photos, where offered. It is important to note that the PhotoPass with Genie+ will be for attraction photos only. Magic Shots and pictures around the parks will not be part of the photo benefit when purchasing Genie+. To ensure you receive all of your vacation photos, be sure to ask me about Memory Maker!

Individual Attraction Selections: This is an additional, day of, purchase to help you skip the lines to some of the most popular headliner attractions, such as Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Avatar Flight of Passage, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and more. Pricing is dynamic and will vary by date, attraction and park, per attraction, per person. Pricing will be displayed before purchasing your Individual Attraction Selection. This option may be purchased at up to 2 different attractions each day per Guest.

Pro Tip: While you can only reserve one Lightning Lane reservation at a time, it is possible to hold multiple reservations by utilizing the 2 hour window to your advantage, particularly if you plan to get a late start to your day. To do this, book a Lightning Lane return time that is more than two hours after park opening. When it’s time to book your next one (two hours after park opening time), choose another Lightning Lane reservation more than two hours into the future. This sets you up for eligibility for two Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane reservations at a time for the rest of the day. Continue to do this and you’ll get even more simultaneous entitlements. Note, this method will require you to rely on the standby queue or paid Individual Attraction Selections until it’s time to begin redeeming.

NOTE: For larger groups of 10+, you will need to have 2 people ready to purchase the Individual Attraction Selections and split your group into 2 or more groups. The system will only recognize a maximum of 10 Guests per purchase.

**View Larger Version >>>** **Walt Disney World Lightning Lane Attractions PDF**

The purchase of Disney Genie+ service is available in addition to standby entrance.

*Attractions with Lightning Lane entrances that are Disney Genie+ and individual purchases are limited in availability, subject to change or closure, may vary by date, are not guaranteed and may not be available at all on the date of visit or at the time you make a selection.

For the full list of experiences offered through Disney Genie+, please check the My Disney Experience mobile app on the day of your visit, as attractions are subject to change.

Pro Tip: Guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels who want to avoid the upcharge of Individual Attraction Selections should take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry for Disney resort hotel guests. Disney hotel guests are able to enter all four theme parks 30 minutes before official park opening time. Head straight for the two Individual Lightning Lane attractions (do the more expensive one first — it will fill up the fastest) and you should be able to ride both attractions quickly without having to pay. To maximize your Early Theme Park Entry time, plan to arrive an hour and 15 minutes ahead of the ‘official‘ park opening time.

Note: If you opt to not purchase Disney Genie+, you will still have access to the complimentary Disney Genie service, which includes personalized itinerary planning in your My Disney Experience Mobile app and standby access to park attractions.

MORE PRO TIPS:

Make Sure You Have Plenty of Battery for Your Phone

Using Disney Genie all day means you’ll be spending more time on your phone during your park days than you might have previously. Be sure to fully charge your phone and bring an extra battery pack.

When in Doubt, Ask the Guest Experience Team

Disney has stationed a number of Guest Experience Teams around all four parks. If you need help with Disney Genie, look for the blue umbrella and blue-shirted Cast Members.

Don’t Rely on Posted Wait Times

Many times, posted wait times are not 100% accurate. In the ‘Tip Board’ section of your My Disney Experience Mobile App there’s an Experiences tab that provides, by theme park, standby wait times, next available Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane times [$] and next available Individual Lightning Lane times [$$] that you can quickly reference to determine the best plan for your next experience.

Take Advantage of the Dining Tab in the Tip Board

Don’t miss one of the best new features introduced by Disney Genie – the Dining tab. In the ‘Tip Board’ section of your My Disney Experience Mobile App there’s a Dining tab that enables you to see, by theme park, walk-up wait times, next available table service reservations, and next available mobile order arrival windows, all at a glance.

FAQ’s:

When can Disney Genie+ be added to existing vacation packages?

Disney Genie+ can be added on the day of your visit via the My Disney Experience app, one day at a time, subject to availability.

Can I purchase Disney Genie+ for partial days of my vacation?

Yes, you can choose each day to add Disney Genie+ via your My Disney Experience mobile app starting at 7 am EST each day.

Can Individual Attraction Selections be purchased prior to my check-in date?

No, Individual Attraction Selections can only be purchased same day beginning at 7 am ET for resort hotel Guests. Guests off-property must wait until park opening.

If I want to “skip the line” at the parks, which do I need?

You need Disney Genie+, at a minimum, to skip lines at more than 40 attractions. If you’d like to skip the lines at the top headliner attractions, you will want to purchase Individual Attraction Selections at 7 am ET each morning of your vacation via your My Disney Experience mobile app.

Can I still enjoy attractions without Disney Genie+ or Individual Attraction Selections?

Yes, standby lines and virtual queues are offered without Disney Genie+ or Individual Attraction Selections.

Will Disney Genie+ “sell out”?

No, Disney Genie+ will be available to all guests who would like to purchase the feature.

Can I purchase Individual Attraction Selections without purchasing Disney Genie+?

Yes. You do not need to purchase Disney Genie+ in order to purchase Individual Attraction Selections.

Can Individual Attraction Selections be made for more than one park? For example, can one be for Magic Kingdom and the other EPCOT for the same day?

Yes, with a Park Hopper ticket type, Individual Attraction Selections can be made for more than one park in the same day. For example, you could purchase Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom and Frozen Ever After at EPCOT. The second park selection must be after 2 pm ET which is when park hopping opens.

Does Disney Genie+ open at 7 am ET for all guests, or only for those staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels?

All Guests with Disney Genie+ can select their first Lightning Lane attraction beginning at 7 am ET.

Do Individual Attraction Selections open at 7 am ET for all guests, or only for those staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels?

Guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Shades of Green® Resort or the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels can purchase Individual Attraction Selections on the day of their visit, starting at 7 am ET. All other Guests can purchase Individual Attraction Selections on the day of their visit, starting at each park’s opening time.

Can I modify a Disney Genie+ selection?

Yes, you can modify your selections to an available time/attraction, based on availability.

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Memory Maker/PhotoPass at Walt Disney World

Published on April 12, 2021 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

UPDATE: Effective April 8, 2021, face coverings may be removed for photos, including photos taken by PhotoPass photographers.

Capture priceless memories with Disney PhotoPass and have access to all of your vacation photos when you add Memory Maker to your Walt Disney World vacation package!

If you would like to take advantage of the advance purchase discount by adding Memory Maker to your Disney resort package now, please let me know.

Get Everyone in the Picture

Let Disney PhotoPass create picture-perfect memories of your whole family, plus capture photos and videos at select attractions and be sure to ask your PhotoPass photographer about “magic shots” too!

Linking Your Photos

It’s easy to link your photos to your Disney account! You can use your MagicBand, Disney PhotoPass card, theme park ticket or annual pass. When you wear your MagicBand to the park, your attraction photos will even be automatically linked to your account. runDisney photos can also be linked to your account using your bib number.

Snap Up Unlimited Photo Downloads for Your Vacation

Enjoy unlimited, professional photos captured by Disney PhotoPass for just one price with the purchase of Memory Maker. Includes family photos captured throughout the parks – from iconic park locations to participating attraction locations – that are easy to share.

My Memory Maker/PhotoPass Photos and Videos

Super Zoom Magic Shot – Magic Kingdom

Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin Ride Video

Super Zoom Magic Shot – Animal Kingdom

If you would like to take advantage of the advance purchase discount by adding Memory Maker to your Disney resort package now, please let me know.

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SPECIALIZING IN LAND AND SEA TRAVEL
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Beach Vacations | Cruise Vacations | Theme Park Vacations | Babymoons
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Holidays at Walt Disney World

Published on November 30, 2020 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

I spent my Thanksgiving holiday at Walt Disney World Resort and participated in a live with our agency owner to talk about my experience with getting back to the magic!

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Park Hopper Option Returns to Walt Disney World January 2021

Published on November 20, 2020 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

As the phased reopening of Walt Disney World Resort continues, another exciting milestone is approaching that many Guests have been looking forward to: the return of the Park Hopper option!

Guests with a ticket, package or pass that includes Park Hopper® benefits will get the chance to see and do more during their visit, which could mean a morning on the savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and an evening stroll by Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park or starting the day living your Star Wars adventure at Disney’s Hollywood Studios before an afternoon traveling around the world at EPCOT.
Please note that the ability to visit another park will be subject to the park’s capacity limitations.

YOU CAN SIMPLY CHECK YOUR MOBILE APP FOR PARK HOURS FOR THAT DAY, CALL 407-560-5000 TO CHECK PARK AVAILABILITY OR CHECK ONLINE >> WALT DISNEY WORLD PARK HOPPER HOURS

How It Works
Starting January 1, 2021, Guests who purchased a ticket or annual pass with the Park Hopper benefits will be able to visit more than one park per day, with some new modifications as part of an ongoing focus for health and safety. These modifications are designed to help with continue to manage attendance in a way that fosters physical distancing. Additionally, other enhanced health and safety measures remain in effect, including face coverings required for all guests ages two and up.

Specific Park Hopper hours will be set during which this option will be available. Park Hopper hours will start at 2 PM each day and end at the park’s scheduled close time. Guests will soon be able to check DisneyWorld.com/ParkHours and the My Disney Experience Mobile App for the most up-to-date Park Hopper hours, as they could start earlier at a later date, depending on the day and park.

With the updated Park Hopper experience, Guests must make a Disney Park Pass reservation for the first park they plan to visit AND enter that first park prior to visiting another. At this time, a park reservation is not required after the first park, however, reservation requirements are subject to change.
Please note that the ability to visit another park will be subject to the park’s capacity limitations.

YOU CAN SIMPLY CHECK YOUR MOBILE APP FOR PARK HOURS FOR THAT DAY, CALL 407-560-5000 TO CHECK PARK AVAILABILITY OR CHECK ONLINE >> WALT DISNEY WORLD PARK HOPPER HOURS

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
To help manage attendance, upon the return of the Park Hopper option, only guests with an initial Disney Park Pass reservation for Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be able to experience Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – Guests visiting from another theme park will not be able to request to join the virtual queue.

Ticket Modifications & Cancellations
In light of these updates, if you have a ticket that includes the ability to visit more than one park per day and you wish to modify or cancel your ticket, please let me know and I will take care of any necessary changes for you.

Park-to-park transportation is also planned to resume in 2021, with operations beginning each day shortly prior to the start of Park Hopper® hours.

Remember to check the Walt Disney World Know Before You Go web page for the most up to date information regarding health and safety protocols to insure the best experience possible!

Come experience the magic for yourself, request your quote today to book your Disney vacation!

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Welcome Back to the Magic!

Published on July 28, 2020 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

UPDATE: Effective June 15, 2021, face coverings are optional for fully vaccinated Guests in most areas, outside and inside, as well as when experiencing attractions and shows.

Since Walt Disney World in Florida reopened its properties on June 22, 2020, I have been back to the magic several times already!

I have experienced all resort hotels currently reopened as well as all 4 parks and, while some things are different, so much is still the same and Disney magic is still there! One of the biggest and most noticeable differences, due to capacity limits, is crowd levels – the resort hotels and parks are empty in comparison to “normal” and, while this is amazing for those “doing Disney” right now, it is a bit eerie and the vibe just doesn’t feel as magical at times but I didn’t realize just how much I missed the magic until I was back on property because the magic is definitely still there!!

Staying on property will offer the most healthy and safe experience as Disney has implemented many new touchless features, such as online check-in that allows you to skip the front desk on arrival, and enhanced cleaning protocols.

`If you complete your Online Check-in you can use your MagicBand or MDE Mobile App to open your door to your room, no need to stop at the front desk.`

`Enhanced cleaning protocols to help keep you healthy and safe!`

All Guests that I have had contact with have been great with wearing face coverings properly and maintaining physical distancing and Cast Members are attentive with reminding Guests to replace or adjust their face coverings when needed.

Disney has always been exemplary with sanitation and cleanliness and even more now! Cast Members are constantly working to keep touch points clean. There are sanitizer stations throughout the parks and resort hotels and rides are closed at various times throughout the day for additional cleaning. Even at resort hotel pools you are asked to fold your lounge chairs closed or tip your chairs towards the table when done so that Cast Members and other Guests know that these areas have been used and need sanitized.

`Face coverings and temperature checks are required to enter each park and remember to maintain physical distancing for your health and safety.`
**`Signing throughout the parks and resort hotels offer information and reminders about health and safety protocols that have been implemented.`**

To maintain physical distancing protocols, there are markers throughout the parks and resort hotels, at every ride and store – anyplace where a line could potentially form – and Cast Members are often on the side of the lines at certain spots to ensure everyone is maintaining physical distancing. In addition, there are now plexiglass partitions between many spaces where you could come into direct contact with other Guests, even for complimentary transportation.

`No Finger scans for park entry, just touch your MagicBand to the kiosk. You can help protect the magic by not touching items unless you plan to purchase. Seating in all dining venues are spaced for maximum physical distancing. Wilderness Explorer is still offered at Animal Kingdom park!`

**`Plexiglass partitions have been placed in all ride queue lines to help maintain physical distancing protocols for your health and safety. Even Soarin' has seat spacing now!`**

**`Partitions and blocked seats help insure physical distancing on Disney buses and the Monorail for your health and safety.`**

Something you will notice that has changed is character experiences… There are characters still in the parks and all 4 parks have “Character Cavalcades” or, as I like to call them, “pop up parades”! These character experiences are not announced in advance to ensure that crowds do not gather but here’s a #wishtip – when you hear the music get louder that is your signal that a character cavalcade is on its way and at Animal Kingdom Park these “pop up parades” are on the river, which runs through the park, and you can wave to the characters as they pass under the bridges on the walkways.

While there are no traditional character meet & greets right now there are still plenty of character interactions!

In Epcot you can take a selfie with Mary Poppins or Alice in Wonderland in England or find Joy or Pooh playing in the fenced grassy areas.

In Hollywood Studios you will find Stormtroopers, Chewbacca and Rey in Batuu where you can also take a selfie with each.

At Magic Kingdom you can snap a selfie with Captain Jack Sparrow in Adventureland.

At Animal Kingdom, however, I didn’t see any opportunities for character interactions other than the “pop up parades” when I was there.

And, if you purchase Memory Maker, there are also new and fun “magic shots” in all 4 parks and the PhotoPass Photographers have all been super fun and are working to offer some great photo opportunities.

Each park offers at least 2 Relaxation Stations where you can sit for a bit and remove your face covering. Some are air conditioned but all offer some type of shade.

Even with lower capacity levels I still suggest planning to arrive just before the scheduled park opening time, especially for Hollywood Studios if you want a Boarding Group for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and head back to your resort late afternoon to enjoy the amazing pools on property. Currently, most parks and other experiences are closing earlier than normal but most pools will remain open until 9 – 11 pm.

For dining, it is very important right now, due to limited capacity requirements, to secure advance dining reservations for sit-down dining experiences. I saw many Guests turned away, even at locations that would sometimes previously accept walk-up’s (I always recommend advance dining reservations for my Guests to insure no disappointments!). You can use the QR Code at the host stand to check in or you can also use your MDE Mobile App to check-in for your dining experience 15 minutes in advance and restaurants are offering digital menus that you scan by QR code to insure a more touchless experience.

And, there are also 2 Character Dining experiences available, Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera at Disney’s Riviera Resort [Breakfast à la Art with Mickey & Friends] and Garden Grill at Epcot [Chip ‘n’ Dale with their Disney pals], modified for your health and safety but still so magical!!

**`Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera Breakfast à la Art with Mickey & Friends`**

**`Garden Grill Chip 'n' Dale with their Disney pals`**

For Quick Service dining experiences, be sure to always use your MDE Mobile App to place your order by either logging in to your account or scanning the QR code at the dining location. You will then be notified when your food is ready and that is when you will be allowed into the dining venue, again, due to current limited capacity requirements.

If you have questions about anything when in the parks or at the resort hotels just ask any Cast Member. They have all been great with answering questions about anything and everything that is new and different and, if they do not know, they will find out for you.

My final piece of advice or tip – now is a GREAT time to “do Disney”!

Limited capacity provides
- Shorter wait times and ride cars all to yourself
- Common areas at resort hotels and parks are less crowded
- Pixie Dust (i.e.: magical surprises) is still there

Even though some experiences have changed there is still so much that hasn’t changed (park maps are still available!) and the [necessary] changes implemented to help insure that we can all continue to experience the magic in a healthy and safe way are still just as magical!!

Remember to check the Walt Disney World Know Before You Go web page for the most up to date information regarding health and safety protocols to insure the best experience possible!

And be sure to check out Wish With Crystal Travel, LLC to see all that I have already experienced, including live videos of “Character Cavalcades”, as well as my future experiences!

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Travel – FACTS not Rumors…

Published on April 1, 2020 in Airlines/Aulani/Cruise Vacations/Disney Cruise Line/Disneyland/International Travel/Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

As a Travel Agent specializing in Disney and Universal vacations, I have been working to take care of my Guests directly affected by resort and park closures as well as cruise itinerary cancellations for Disney Cruise Line.

While working with my Guests I have received many questions related to rumors posted on other blogs and social media pages. I am here today to explain the current situation with information direct from Disney and Universal – this is not rumor, this is FACT!

Walt Disney World Resort in Florida:

UPDATE – MAY 24, 2020 – Plans Unveiled for the Phased Reopening of Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, Resort Hotels and Disney Stores

I have advised all my Guests with upcoming travel plans of the current situation and offered the options available to them at this time. Each Guest must choose how to move forward with what works best for them and their family. I can help you book now.

Disneyland Resort in California:

UPDATE – April 2, 2021 – Disneyland Resort Reopening on April 30, 2021
I have advised all my Guests with upcoming travel plans of the current situation and offered the options available to them at this time. Each Guest must choose how to move forward with what works best for them and their family. I can help you book now.

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa:

UPDATE: September 24, 2020 – Aulani Resort will plan to begin a phased reopening on November 1, 2020
I have advised all my Guests with upcoming travel plans of the current situation and offered the options available to them at this time. Each Guest must choose how to move forward with what works best for them and their family. I can help you book now.

Disney Cruise Line:

UPDATE: July 23, 2021 – Disney Cruise Line Resumes Sailings on the Disney Dream
Disney Cruise Line announced plans for a return to service, beginning with the Disney Dream, which will depart Port Canaveral starting August 9, 2021. New health & safety updates will be in effect for all sailings. I can help answer any questions you may have or assist you with booking your next cruise now.

UPDATE: June 8, 2021 – Disney Cruise Line Extends Suspension of Sailings
As Disney Cruise Line continues to refine protocols for an eventual return to service, they have announced the cancellation of additional 2021 sailings.

Disney Dream departures through 8/6/21
Disney Fantasy departures through 8/28/21
Disney Wonder departures through 9/19/21
Disney Magic departures in the U.S. through 11/4/21

UPDATE: May 14, 2021 – Disney Cruise Line Suspends All Departures through July 2021
As Disney Cruise Line continues to refine protocols for an eventual return to service, they have announced the cancellation of additional 2021 sailings for all Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy sailings through July 2021, and all Disney Wonder sailings through July 12, 2021.

UPDATE: April 6, 2021 – Disney Cruise Line Suspends All Departures through June 2021, and Disney Magic European sailings through Sept. 19, 2021
As Disney Cruise Line continues to refine protocols for an eventual return to service, they have announced the cancellation of additional 2021 sailings.

UPDATE: February 24, 2021 – Disney Cruise Line Suspends All Departures through May 2021 and Disney Magic Sailings thru August 10, 2021
As Disney Cruise Line continues to refine protocols for an eventual return to service, they have announced the cancellation of additional 2021 sailings. Sailings are cancelled aboard the Disney Fantasy, Dream and Wonder through May 2021; and Disney Magic through Augsut 10, 2021. Additionally, based on the conditional sail order provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Disney Cruise Line must cancel sailings longer than 7 nights.

UPDATE: January 27, 2021 – Disney Cruise Line Suspends All Departures through April 2021 and Select Disney Magic and Disney Wonder Sailings in May 2021
As Disney Cruise Line continues to refine protocols for an eventual return to service, they have announced the cancellation of additional 2021 sailings. Sailings are cancelled aboard the Disney Fantasy through April 24; the Disney Dream through April 30; the Disney Magic through May 6 and Disney Wonder through May 12. Additionally, based on the conditional sail order provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Disney Cruise Line must cancel sailings longer than 7 nights.

UPDATE: January 12, 2021 – Disney Cruise Line Sailings Suspended Through March 2021
As Disney Cruise Line continues to refine protocols for an eventual return to service, they have announced the cancellation of all sailings through March 2021.

Adventures by Disney:

UPDATE – April 1, 2021 – Adventures by Disney Departures Suspended Through April 2021
With the well-being of our Guests and Guides as our top priority and in line with direction from health experts and government officials, Adventures by Disney has decided to suspend most of our adventures through the end of April.

Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations (Florida & California):

Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations in California will reopen on April 16, 2021

UPDATE: June 5, 2020 – Universal Orlando Resort Hotels and Parks are open and welcoming Guests again!

Other Cruise and Land Vacation Destinations:

While I do specialize in Disney and Universal vacations, I also help book and plan other cruise and land vacation destinations and I have been keeping my clients that have been directly affected by closures and cancellations updated about their options.

Cruise Lines:

UPDATE: April 6, 2021 – Currently, many cruise lines have suspended all sailings each with different dates to resume sailing. Please check with your Travel Agent or whoever you booked thru for specific details about your specific reservations.

Land Destinations:

As for land vacation destinations, it depends on the destination, please check with your Travel Agent or whoever you booked thru for specific details about your specific reservations.

Airlines:

Airlines are still operating but on a limited schedule and are adjusting travel dates and times based on occupancy of certain itineraries. Please check with your Travel Agent or whoever you booked thru for specific details about your specific reservations.

If you booked your travel plans thru a Travel Agent and they have not yet reached out to you this is likely because your travel dates are not yet directly affected and they are working to take care of their clients with travel plans that are currently directly affected by closures and cancellations, April and some May travel dates. Please be patient, in this type of situation, it is typically in your best interest to wait until your trip is cancelled by the supplier before making any decisions about cancelling or rebooking your future travel plans.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions or if you would like more information about anything. I will share as much as I know and can share. I will also post updates as they become available on my social media platforms, please see the links to each below.

(i.e.: If you are not my client I cannot legally or professionally advise you about your current travel plans, you will need to reach out to whoever you booked thru. But, if you are not yet booked for future travel and wish to discuss future travel plans, I can assist and advise to the best of my ability with the information I have available).

While the White House has issued an April 30, 2020 social distancing guideline, please follow this or the guidelines set by your local state or county. If you are not an essential employee, please stay home. These guidelines are being implemented for the safety and well-being of everyone and the more of us that follow the guidelines the better off we will all be in 14 – 30 days and we will then [hopefully] be able to get back to a more normal way of life again very soon!

Stay healthy, stay home and practice social distancing!

CDC / WHO

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Working with a Travel Agent for Your runDisney Experience

Published on February 21, 2020 in runDisney/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

You train hard for your runDisney experience, let the planning be taken care of by a Travel Agent Specializing in Disney destinations and experiences!

It’s the best of both worlds when you work with a Travel Agent that specializes in Disney who also knows all about runDisney – they can expertly assist you with ALL of your plans!

As a runner you are dedicated to your training and preparing for your runDisney experience. Your training should continue to be your main focus and you shouldn’t need to stress over the details of your travel plans.

There are many avenues for finding a Travel Agent and many that specialize in Disney and runDisney, but you want to be sure to find the “right” Travel Agent to help you with your runDisney travel plans!

runDisney races are unique. You want someone who will partner with you and help you navigate the process. When running at a runDisney event, you do have to earn your placement. This system is in place to be inclusive of all people that want to join in.

And be cautioned – if your Travel Agent offers you higher corral placement that hasn’t been earned or unusual package requirements outside of those required by runDisney – BEWARE. Just like in any industry, there are some people who take advantage of the system and this affects everyone and can cause disqualification to participate.

Even if a Travel Agent is recommended by others in runDisney groups, be sure to check reviews before selecting your Travel Agent.

Do they have extensive travel planning experience?
Do they take the time to understand your wants and needs rather than a “one size fits all” experience?
Do they have personal experience with runDisney events?
Do they have personal experience with resorts on property so that they can offer the best recommendations for you?

Once you decide on the best Travel Agent for you, it’s not out of line to expect the following:

ACCURACY – All information for your reservation and race registrations should be accurate and correct. Having extra people on your reservation or other inaccuracies should be brought to the attention of your Travel Agent. You should have no surprises at check-in.

Are your travel dates correct?
Are you booked at the resort hotel with the park ticket type, dining plan and race bibs that you requested?
Are all names on your reservation the same as you requested for your travel party?

RESPONSIVENESS – A good Travel Agent will respond to your emails and phone calls efficiently and effectively and will help you beyond just making your reservations. A good Travel Agent is there to help you with as much or as little as you want or need.

Having a Travel Agent to help guide you thru the runDisney process can add value to your experience! They have a passion for what they do, so it is a win-win for you. Make sure your Travel Agent is a good fit while being knowledgeable, ethical, and responsive to your needs.

Contact me today to assist you with your runDisney plans – Happy Running!

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Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood

Published on January 8, 2020 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

During the holidays I had the opportunity to experience the newest dining experience on property – Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood at Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood opened July 2019 and has been a hit from opening day! The new Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is quite amazing, feeling more like a Deluxe Disney property than a Moderate resort.

This unique rooftop dining experience is just one of three new options at Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort offering both food and beverage, with Toledo and Dahlia Lounge offering spectacular views as well!

The menu choices are inspired by the flavors of Spain and include tapas, steaks and seafood created in the on-stage tapas kitchen.

The atmosphere and experience was amazing and the service top notch! The food presentation was impeccable and everything was prepared to perfection!

We started our meal with an order of Tronchón Cheese Gratinado from the Cazuelas (Spanish for cooking pot) menu. This was essentially a cheese bread with tupelo honey and lavender, it was very flavorful and you could smell and taste the lavender.

Our entrées included Scallops (fava hummus, olives, harissa vinaigrette, roasted carrots, yogurt powder), Manhattan Filet (olive oil-potato purée, grilled onions, dates, sherry vinaigrette) and the Red Wine-braised Chicken (grapes, sherry vinegar, roasted tomato ‘bomba’ rice). In addition, we ordered the Roasted Cauliflower and Olive Oil-Potato Purée as sides to share.
My only critique was regarding the descriptions and recommendations from our server – – – my husband and I ended up switching plates once our food arrived because our server was not accurate with his information.

I would definitely recommend the Manhattan Filet (which is what I ended up eating) and feel that the Red Wine-braised Chicken is a heavier meal (which my husband ended up eating). And, definitely order the Roasted Cauliflower side dish – I am not a fan of cauliflower but this dish was amazing!

If you aren’t looking for a table service dining experience, but have the time, I highly recommend simply going to this new resort on property to check it out – the new lobby, Barcelona Lounge, Dahlia Lounge and Three Bridges Bar & Grill all offer amazing experiences and the feel of a Deluxe resort. And, yes, I have experienced and enjoyed it all!!

**I am in LOVE with the lobby area – the lighted panels randomly change colors and the tables all have charging ports!**

Barcelona Lounge

Three Bridges Bar & Grill

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Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Published on December 6, 2019 in Galaxy's Edge/Star Wars/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

I was there opening day for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, which was also Walt Disney’s birthday.

Below are photos I took during my experience as well as a couple videos. Be sure to also to check out my other Star Wars blogs for more information about
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and using Boarding Groups for the virtual queue option.

Ask me how YOU can experience Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance WITHOUT securing a Boarding Group for you or those traveling with you!

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The NEW Disney Skyliner

Published on October 1, 2019 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

The newest transportation option is the Disney Skyliner – magic in the sky!

Check out this video of my ride from Disney’s Pop Century Resort to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.

Magic is in the air at Walt Disney World® Resort with the new Disney Skyliner transportation system.

Disney Skyliner connects Epcot® and Disney’s Hollywood Studios® to four Disney resort hotels – Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and the forthcoming Disney’s Riviera Resort, set to open December 16, 2019. The system serves as a magic carpet, floating Guests through the air aboard approximately 300 gondolas, nearly half of which are wrapped in whimsical Disney scenes of beloved characters, fan-favorite movies, theme park attractions and more.

While riding Disney Skyliner, you will be treated to never-before-seen views of Walt Disney World Resort as you float along the treetops and waterways alike. The system provides bird’s-eye vantage points of Disney icons such as the Hollywood Tower Hotel and Spaceship Earth.

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Walt Disney World

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ALL INFORMATION BELOW IS OBSOLETE EFFECTIVE JULY 24, 2024

Disney Genie, Disney Genie+ and Individual Attraction Selections are now available for all Guests.

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Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

The NEW Disney Skyliner

Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World includes Theme Parks, Water Parks, Resort Hotels, Disney Springs, camping and a multitude of other entertainment options.

ALL INFORMATION BELOW IS OBSOLETE EFFECTIVE JULY 24, 2024

Disney Genie, Disney Genie+ and Individual Attraction Selections are now available for all Guests.

MORE PRO TIPS:

FAQ’s:

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Get Everyone in the Picture

Linking Your Photos

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