LOTS OF DISNEY, ORLANDO AND PLACES THEREABOUTS !!

Destin, FL Area Tours & Experiences

in Travel by

Are you planning a trip to the Destin, FL area? Are you looking for new experiences during your trip?

If you answered yes to both questions, check out these tour ideas and add something fun to your itinerary.

You can either book direct on your own or reach out to me and I can assist with any questions or reserving your experiences.

crystal@wishuponastarwithus.com

You can even search for different experiences or destinations once you click any experience listed below.

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Colorado Springs Tours & Experiences

in Travel by

Are you planning a trip to the Colorado Springs area? Are you looking for new experiences during your trip?

If you answered yes to both questions, check out these tour ideas and add something fun to your itinerary.

You can either book direct on your own or reach out to me and I can assist with any questions or reserving your experiences.

crystal@wishuponastarwithus.com

You can even search for different experiences or destinations once you click any experience listed below.

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My Experience Sailing on the Mardi Gras

in Cruise Vacations/Travel by

I spent 7 nights onboard Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship, Mardi Gras!  Listen in as my co-agent, Sara, and I talk about our experience being back onboard a cruise ship!


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SPECIALIZING IN LAND AND SEA TRAVEL
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Memory Maker/PhotoPass at Walt Disney World

in Walt Disney World by

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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LET’S TRAVEL!

SPECIALIZING IN LAND AND SEA TRAVEL
An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Travel Agency – EarMarked GoldProducer
Beach Vacations | Cruise Vacations | Theme Park Vacations | Babymoons
Tours & Experiences – Choose Your Destination | U.S. Destinations
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Holidays at Walt Disney World

in Walt Disney World by

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

in Walt Disney World by

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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The best of the Caribbean…

in International Travel by

Let me help you find the perfect accommodations in Saint Lucia, Turks & Caicos, Dominican Republic, Antigua, Jamaica and Aruba. OPEN NOW!

TRAVEL NOW. TRAVEL LATER. YOUR CHOICE.

Top 5 reasons to book your Caribbean vacation now…

  • Reduced rates and great deals at outstanding properties
  • Flexible cancellation policies up to within 48 hours prior to travel by most airlines and hotel partners through 2021 and beyond
  • Save your space! Limited availability at popular hotels, due to lower occupancy requirements, implemented for best social distancing practices
  • Fewer nonstop routes available and decreased airline capacity may result in price increases—take advantage of today’s airline rates
  • The islands are waiting for you!
Imagine waking up to this! 
There's nothing like hanging out in your very own hammock, feeling the breeze through your hair and simply letting your troubles melt away. 
Photo Credit: @beachhousetci|@bluehaventci|@sailrockresort|@amanyara_resort|@amanera

Boutique Luxury. All-Inclusive.

As Caribbean islands begin to open, now is the time to book your ultimate vacation getaway! Prices are low and availability is limited!

Entry requirements required, contact me for more details and to help you navigate the current vacation experience.

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Experience a Tropical Paradise – NO PASSPORT REQUIRED!

in Florida Locales/Travel by

You don’t need to go farther than Marathon, FL for the ultimate tropical paradise get away and, BONUS, no passport required!!

Setting a new standard for modern luxury resorts in the Florida Keys, Isla Bella Beach Resort boasts 24 stunning oceanfront acres with exquisite white sand and vibrant blue sea and every room and suite has a breathtaking ocean view and an expansive outdoor terrace to take it all in. Add in exceptional dining, a beautiful beach bar shaded by palm trees, five fantastic pools to choose from, and access to world-class fishing and adventure—and a new era has arrived in The Keys.

Isla Bella Beach Resort boasts access to some of the most exciting and fun adventures in the Keys. From the marina, hop on a fishing charter with some of the region’s most skilled and well-known fishermen. Go biking as the sun rises. Let a guide lead you on an unforgettable kayak expedition through mangrove tunnels and coastline. And that’s just the beginning…

Spend the day catching some rays at the beach, relaxing by one of 5 outdoor swimming pools, or pampering yourself at the full-service spa. All 199 rooms provide conveniences like sitting areas and coffee makers, plus free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Guests will also find balconies or patios, Netflix, and premium bedding.

Isla Bella Beach Resort also offers three distinct dining options—and settings—to choose from. Spend your day at the pool without missing a moment at the poolside grill. Relax with a cocktail under a canopy of palm trees at the Beach Bar. Or indulge at the signature Neapolitan-style Italian restaurant that boasts one of the resort’s most spectacular views.

Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa is located near the airport and on the beach. The area’s natural beauty can be seen at Vaca Key and The Turtle Hospital, while Island Hoppers Aerial Adventures and Conch Air (Bi Plane Rides) are popular area attractions. Dolphin Research Center and Crane Point Museum and Nature Center are also worth visiting.

This destination vacation is great for couples but is also family friendly. Contact me today to book your tropical get away!

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Welcome Back to the Magic!

in Walt Disney World by

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!

Me just "doing Disney"

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: Navigating a New Normal…

in Travel/Travel Agent by

I have written several blogs about the benefits of working with a Travel Agent. During the past few weeks, I have seen many cases where someone booked on their own and was challenged with the process of modifying their travel plans…

The benefit of using a Travel Agent, especially during times like these, is that I work for you and I am on your side!

Just as soon as cancellations and closures were announced I went to work for my clients that were directly affected and advised them of their options. I was able to successfully take care of all my clients with a quick email reply from them letting me know their decision about their upcoming travel plans. I worked however long necessary to take care of each and every client.

The events of the past few weeks have impacted us all in many ways, including the travel industry. The events of the past few weeks have impacted my small business…

What many people don’t know or realize is that my full-time job as a Travel Agent is not an hourly or salary job. I am an Independent Contractor, self-employed, with annual licensing and state certification fees as well as other business-related expenses. I often spend hours with my clients, planning experiences to help make their trip perfect for them, and then, when travel plans are cancelled, I work again to help you secure your refund or modify your dates, all before I see any compensation for my work.
You see, when you book a trip utilizing my travel planning services I am not paid by the supplier until after you travel, and if you don’t travel, I don’t earn any income...

For those, like myself, who do this full-time, our livelihoods were turned upside down in a matter of days. But travel isn’t just a job for me, it’s a career that I’m passionate about, and I feel that I have developed a level of knowledge, customer service, trust and connections that makes me valuable to my clients.

And, as a Travel Agent, I rely on you just as much as you rely on me! I rely on bookings and referrals from you to bring business my way. You influence my business and I need you now, more than ever, to help support my business moving forward.

I know travel may be the last thing on your mind right now, and I understand that. But what I’m asking now is that, when you are ready to travel again, instead of clicking that online booking service, I hope that you will reach out to me to help you with navigating a new normal…

And I want to say THANK YOU to those that have continued to book their future travel plans thru me or sent referrals my way – your continued support, while always appreciated, means even more now!!

For now, stay home and stay safe, and I look forward to helping you with your travel plans once we get through this together!

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