Lets Go Away! Travel Planning Stress FREE!

Lets trade the winter blues for some Caribbean Blues!!! Does the thought of navigating travel in a post Covid world stress you out? Well today we have a guest writer. Jennifer Williams from Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is here to help!!!

“Wow!  You have made planning our trip so easy and stress free!”

Words I never get tired of hearing!

There are dozens of reasons that travel can cause stress:

*Planning

*Unrealistic Expectations

*Safety Concerns

*Finances

*Air Travel

*Will the world back home keep spinning without you?

But travel doesn’t have to be stressful…

Even with the unique stressors each traveler experiences, the most common stressors for travelers occur in the “pre-game” stages–Planning for, Paying for and Packing for their dream vacation. For some, this is just too much and they choose not to travel. For others, they trudge through the motions and end up so stressed out before their trip they don’t fully enjoy it once they are finally in vacation-mode. Using an experienced travel agent can help reduce if not eliminate these stressors.

Planning for the big trip. This can easily become the most overwhelming part of travel. With an overabundance of online travel websites and options, finding the best price for the best dates can be too much for even the experienced traveler. Allow me to take over this part and utilize the wide range of vendors I work with to find you the best vacation possible. I will take the time and sort through the options and provide you with what I like to call the “Cliff-Notes” (because I am old). This abridged version of your options will generally include the top 2-5 choices to fit your vacay checklist.   All you have to do is look at the highlights, discuss with your travel party (if you choose, LOL) and choose your favorite package, and we’re ready to go!

Paying for the trip can be a lot to work out for anyone. My commitment to my clients is to get them the best options for their budget. I work to find options that satisfy the desires of my clients while not going over budget. On the reverse side of this–I am also transparent with my clients–if you come to me with an unrealistic budget for your dream trip–I’m going to help you see what you can get for your current budget vs. what you need to budget for your wishlist. Does the thought of one huge chunk of money being paid at final payment bother you–again, that’s an easy fix. I can create a #vacaylayaway plan to allow you to make payments on your trip reducing the final payment to a more palatable amount.

Finally, packing for the big trip! I know you’re sitting there thinking… “WOW you’re going to come and pack for us too?!” I wish I could–but I WILL make sure you have all the best tips and tricks based on my experience traveling to ensure your suitcase is filled with what you need. I am always available for questions about travel, including do you need a cocktail dress at Disney (no), does my husband need a collared shirt for dinners in Cancun (possibly), 1 or 2 bottles of sunscreen (3). 

My clients will say,the biggest perk of using a travel agent is to take the stress out of traveling. As we all can attest- travel can be stressful… planning for, paying for, and packing for your dream vacation.  When choosing who you’d like to work with, make sure you spend some time chatting and getting to know exactly what services they offer. While many agents will offer similar service: planning, activity & dining reservations, troubleshooting, etc.–you will want to make sure that you find someone you trust. Rather than trudging through the motions, entrust the planning to me, and get into TRAVEL MODE that much faster!

Are you ready to take the leap–and allow me to destress your vacation planning?  Contact me today!

Dream it, Plan it, Live it!

Jennifer Williams

MHA Travel Company

Jennifer.Williams@MadHatterAdv.com

www.facebook.com/jwmhatravel

www.instagram.com/jwmhatravel 

Jennifer is a Professional Travel Advisor with Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company.

Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.  They are a FULL Service AWARD WINNING Travel Agency!  Contact them TODAY!

Info@MadHatterAdv.com   or  1 – 844 – M – HATTER

Commemorating 20 Years at Disney California Adventure Park at Disneyland Resort

Disney California Adventure park opened on Feb. 8, 2001 – more than 45 years after Walt Disney opened his original theme park – as part of the largest expansion in Disneyland history at the time. Since then, the Disneyland Resort has become a world-class family destination with two theme parks, three hotels and the Downtown Disney District. 

For the past 20 years, guests at the Disneyland Resort have been captivated by the imagination, creativity and evolution of Disney California Adventure park. 

Today, while our beloved theme parks remain closed, we explore some of our favorite spots throughout the park, showing how “adventure is out there” – just waiting to be discovered.

We start by taking a step back in time, strolling down the idyllic Buena Vista Street. The boulevard depicts a typical Los Angeles neighborhood where a young Walt Disney lived and worked after arriving in Southern California in 1923.

Take a deep breath and soak in the great outdoors at Grizzly Peak. Once your moment of respite passes, think about braving Grizzly River Run, a one-stop destination for thrill-seeking rafters.

Peruse the boardwalk-inspired Paradise Gardens Park filled with retro-style fun. It’s even groovier at night!

Then, let’s enter the wonderful worlds of Pixar and discover four whimsical neighborhoods at Pixar Pier’s seaside waterfront—Incredibles Park, Toy Story Boardwalk, Pixar Promenade and Inside Out Headquarters. 

A favorite spot for foodies, eat your way through Pacific Wharf and enjoy the charming waterfront setting.

Slow down as you cruise through the vibrant Radiator Springs, taking in the majestic Ornament Valley and living the stories of your favorite “Cars” characters in Cars Land. No trip is complete without revving your engine on the high-octane Radiator Springs Racers!

It’s easy to feel like a star in Tinseltown when you step into the lights, cameras and action of Hollywood Land.

Looking ahead, Avengers Campus – an entirely new land dedicated to discovering, recruiting and training the next generation of heroes – will open at a future top secret date.

Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.  They are a FULL Service AWARD WINNING Travel Agency!  Contact them TODAY!

Info@MadHatterAdv.com   or  1 – 844 – M – HATTER

NEW Baby Giraffe Calves on the Disney’s Animal Kingdom Kilimanjaro Animal Safari!

(David Roark, photographer)

An adorable pair of Masai giraffes are now on the savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. You can see these 2 on the Kilimanjaro Safari.

Disney’s giraffes breed as part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and ensures responsible breeding of threatened and endangered species. You can see more about that on the National Geographic Disney+ series, Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom,

If you would like to experience the safari and see all the animals, contact Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company for a FREE QUOTE! Info@MadHatterAdv.com

Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.  They are a FULL Service AWARD WINNING Travel Agency!  Contact them TODAY!

Info@MadHatterAdv.com   or  1 – 844 – M – HATTER

Universal Holiday Tour!

I am excited to share a NEW experience this holiday season at Universal Orlando Resort. Universal Studios Orlando announced that they will be offering a limited access evenings-only tour for guests who want to experience all the holiday entertainment and options at the resort with minimal wait. This all-new “Universal’s Holiday Tour,” will cost $59.99 (plus tax) per guest and theme park admission with a 2-Park 1-Day Park-to-Park ticket is required. Annual Passholders receive a special discount on the tour with pricing starting at $49.99. Guests who purchase tickets for this event, which takes place select evenings through the holiday season will be able to enjoy the following: 

  • Enjoy priority access to Universal’s Holiday Experience Featuring Macy’s Balloons, where they can get up-close with larger-than-life parade balloons and stunning floats inspired by everything from iconic holiday staples to characters from popular animated films – and enjoy a special appearance by Santa Claus
  • Embark on a tour of the first-ever Holiday Tribute Store, featuring four incredibly-themed rooms – including one inspired by The Grinch – stocked with a variety of new merchandise
  • Meet and greet The Grinch at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous in Seuss Landing, where they can encounter the mean, green one himself and enjoy a delicious Hot Cocoa Bar Cap off the evening in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure with an exclusive showing of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” – a stunning projection of holiday spirit and Christmas moments inspired by the beloved “Harry Potter” stories
  • Guests will also receive a special, themed gift during the tour to commemorate their experience

I am so excited about this! We already have our Universal tripped BOOKED and I can’t wait to add this on!!!

Until Next time!

Mom Behind the Magic

Walt Disney World Resort Sweet Treats: August 2019

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Walt Disney World Resort has several new additions like the new Cookie Dough and Everything Sweet Food Truck coming to Disney Springs and plant-based Coconut Mickey Onigiri at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort. But this week, we have even MORE sweets to share with you! This month’s Sweet Treats features a few more sweet offerings at Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Music Resort. Read on to find out more!

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Rainbow Unicorn Cupcake – Available August 15-18 at Magic Kingdom Park

Head on over to Main Street Bakery to try this limited time rainbow confetti cupcake with white buttercream, sparkly crispy pearls, fondant ears, and a rainbow fondant horn.

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Monster Brownie Sundae – Available through August 31 at Magic Kingdom Park

This crazy dessert can be found at Plaza Ice Cream Parlor. This cookie dough ice cream comes sandwiched between two brownies topped with caramel, hot fudge, candy-coated chocolates, whipped cream, and a cherry and is served in a waffle bowl.

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Pride Cone – Available through August 18 at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Celebrate love with this purple cone topped with Dole Whip Strawberry and a white chocolate rainbow Mickey! You can find it at Pineapple Lanai.

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Fall Treats at Disney’s All-Star Resorts – Available Aug. 25-Nov. 30

Try one of these FABULOUS fall treats coming to all three of Disney’s All-Star Resorts. Find them at Intermission Food Court, World Premiere Food Court, and End Zone Food Court.

  • Jack’s Hallow-Lime Cupcake – Vanilla cupcake with lime whip cream, a chocolate Jack Skellington, and a dropper of “liquid goo”
  • Queen’s Poisoned Apple Tart – Butter tart filled with cinnamon apples and topped with a spiced panna cotta glazed with green icing
  • Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake – Vanilla cheesecake with whipped pumpkin panna cotta, pie crust crumble, and chocolate ganache (Only available at World Premiere Food Court and Intermission Food Court)
  • Chai Tea Cupcake – Chocolate cupcake with colored chai tea buttercream and dark ganache (Only available at World Premiere Food Court and Intermission Food Court)

 

Ready to Book YOUR Adventure?

Contact a Mad Hatter Adventures Travel Advisor TODAY!!!!  Info@MadHatterAdv.com or 1-844-M-HATTER

Mad Hatter Adventures is a FULL SERVICE, AWARD WINNING Agency.  They are an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.  Contact them TODAY for ALL your travel needs!  Info@MadHatterAdv.com   1-844-M-HATTER

*Content and Photos from Disney Parks Blog

Christmas is July for Walt Disney World!

Celebrate the holidays in the Most MAGICAL Place on Earth!!! Check in December 21, check out December 26, 2019, and enjoy an itinerary full of festive fun in between.

Check out the included Yuletide offerings:

Saturday, December 21, 2019: EXCLUSIVE nighttime access to ride Avatar Flight of Passage, Na’vi River Journey, and Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. Plus, catch an EXCLUSIVE showing of the park’s new Rivers of Light: We Are One show.

Sunday, December 22, 2019: Tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom park.

Monday, December 23, 2019 or Tuesday, December 24, 2019 (one night per reservation): Access to an EXCLUSIVE reserved viewing area to watch Epcot Forever, an all-new nighttime spectacular. Plus, each Guest (ages 3 and up) will receive a digital $50 Epcot Theme Park Dine Promo Card to use at participating Epcot locations.

Wednesday, December 25, 2019: An Ultimate Disney Christmas gift delivered to your hotel room.

This package includes a 5-night stay at a select Disney Resort hotel and a 4-day theme park ticket with Park Hopper option.

For example, for just $199 per person, per night (total package price of $3,980), a family of four can stay in a standard room at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort!

This package is very limited, contact us today!

Info@MadHatterAdv.com

Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company

Www.MadHaterAdv.com

Info@MadHatterAdv.com

1-844-M-HATTER

Universal Studios HOLLYWOOD Edition!

I’m going to HOLLYWOOD!

Saturday is my husbands birthday.  I am accompanying him on a business trip to California.  Before he has to start work at his conference, we are spending Saturday at Universal Studios Hollywood.  I got him a VIP Experience for his birthday!

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We love Universal Studios Orlando so we are excited to experience Universal Hollywood!

Here is what we can expect on our VIP Experience!

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The VIP Experience is the most exclusive way to go behind the scenes at the world’s largest movie studio and Theme Park. It’s the ultimate way to visit Universal Studios Hollywood.

Exclusive Backlot Access

Tour the movie industry’s busiest sets in a special trolley, where you can disembark to explore areas not open to the general public.

  • Visit actual sound stages where blockbuster movies and TV shows are filmed.
  • Visit our World Famous Property Department, home to thousands of set pieces and decorative items used for film and television production.

Exclusive Theme Park Benefits

Enjoy VIP privileges with escorted express access to rides and attractions, such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™.

  • Begin your day in our exclusive VIP lounge with light snacks and refreshments
  • Savor a gourmet meal in our private VIP dining room, prepared by Universal’s very own executive chef
  • Enjoy valet parking and VIP entry to the Park
Expert Tour Guide
Our expert VIP guides will immerse you in the past, present and future of Universal’s Backlot.

  • Our VIP guide will escort you through the express line at rides and attractions, such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™.
  • They will also find you the best seats at seated shows.

Here is a video of some of the highlights!

 

Be sure to check back for all of our adventures!  You can also follow along on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/madhatteradv/

Ready to Book YOUR Adventure?  Contact a Mad Hatter Adventures Travel Advisor TODAY!!!!  Info@MadHatterAdv.com or 1-844-M-HATTER

Mad Hatter Adventures is a FULL SERVICE and  AWARD WINNING Agency.  They are an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.  Contact them TODAY for ALL your travel needs!  Info@MadHatterAdv.com   1-844-M-HATTER

 

New MagicBand Options Coming Soon at Walt Disney World Resort

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There is a certain magic and anticipation that comes with planning your visit to Walt Disney World Resort, especially when it is time to choose a MagicBand customized with your name and favorite color. And soon, they will be adding even more beloved wearables you can customize!

Soon, Disney Resort hotel guests and new and renewing Annual Passholders will have the option to upgrade, at a discounted price, from a complimentary solid-color MagicBand to one of more than 30 new MagicBand options featuring favorite Disney characters and designs. These new MagicBand options will be available for pre-arrival purchase at a special price that reflects a $14.99 discount off the regular retail cost through the My Disney Experience website.

Check out the video below to get a sneak peek!

 

A colorful selection of complimentary MagicBands is still available for guests who choose not to upgrade to one of the new options, and these new design options can also be shipped to guests’ homes (U.S. addresses only) if ordered 11 or more days ahead of arrival and can be personalized if done so at least 6 or more days ahead of arrival.

No date for the new process has been given at this time.  Stay tuned for more information as we get it!

Ready to Book YOUR Adventure?  Contact a Mad Hatter Adventures Travel Advisor TODAY!!!!  Info@MadHatterAdv.com or 1-844-M-HATTER

New Merchandise Coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort and Disney’s Hollywood Studios

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New merchandise items coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at the Disneyland Resort and Disney’s Hollywood Studios were revealed each day during Star Wars Celebration. Favorites included our adorable Porg, a Kowakian Monkey-Lizard with its iconic laugh, a Resistance Rank Badge set, a Wookie bag and a variety of other items.

“Most of these products have never been seen before by any of our fans,” Devon Figge of Merchandise Events at Walt Disney World Resort said. “They’ll see the same product no matter where the come – so, they can visit us on either coast and live their Star Wars story.”

If you’re as excited as we are about these Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge items, here are locations you’ll want to visit:

Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers – Guests come to the workshop to meet with the Gatherers – a secretive group of people who have dedicated their lives to restoring balance in the galaxy by passing on their knowledge of Jedi lore and the Force. The workshop Master guides guests to customize and build their own unique lightsabers, and instructs them on the ways of the Jedi.

Droid Depot – Visitors to Mubo’s workshop can choose parts and construct their own individual astromech droids to accompany them on their journey, and then take them home with them.

First Order Cargo – A spaceport hangar bay serves as the temporary base and landing spot for the First Order. First Order officers have brought in crates of gear, uniforms and other supplies to win the hearts and minds of locals and visitors to Black Spire Outpost.

Resistance Supply – Resistance members and local sympathizers oversee a makeshift stall that supplies Resistance uniforms, pins, badges, hats, helmets, jackets, maps, tools, training supplies, food rations and other items.

There are also several market stalls which sell a variety of merchandise such as:

  • Toydarian Toymaker (toys)
  • Creature Stall (interesting critters that you can take home with you)
  • Black Spire Outfitters (clothing)
  • The Jewels of Bith (accessories and other trinkets to treasure)

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens on May 31 at the Disneyland Resort and August 29 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

You can keep up to date on all things Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with our exclusive “Building Batuu” story series and special page dedicated to Star Wars at Disney Parks.

Ready to Book YOUR Adventure to Star Wars Land?  Contact a Mad Hatter Adventures Travel Advisor TODAY!!!!  Info@MadHatterAdv.com

Mad Hatter Adventures is a FULL SERVICE and  AWARD WINNING Agency.  They are an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.  Contact them TODAY for ALL your travel needs!  Info@MadHatterAdv.com   1-844-M-HATTER

*Information, Photos and Video from Disney Parks Blog

Disney Cruise Line and Captain Minnie Mouse Inspire Next Generation of Female Ship Captains

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With a collection of new initiatives, Disney Cruise Line is making a splash to inspire the next generation of female leaders in the maritime industry. The debut of Captain Minnie Mouse, new nautical youth programs and new scholarships are designed to empower girls and young women to pursue careers in the cruise industry and chart a course for success.

Introducing Captain Minnie Mouse

We know how Disney characters have a unique ability to inspire and connect with children. Now at Disney Cruise Line, Captain Minnie Mouse will encourage young girls around the world to consider a career in the maritime industry. She will spread the message of exploring new horizons, both by land and by sea.

Captain Minnie Mouse, in her crisp new uniform with smart white trousers or skirt and a bold red jacket emblazoned with captain’s insignia, will make the rounds on all Disney ships starting in April.

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Empowering Women through Maritime Scholarships

This year, Disney Cruise Line will sponsor four scholarships at the LJM Maritime Academy in The Bahamas for female cadets who aspire to be ship captains and shipboard leaders. The scholarships, one for each of the ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, include two years of study at the academy and one year of service aboard a Disney ship.

Nautical Fun for Children at Sea

Onboard Disney Cruise Line ships later this year, Captain Minnie Mouse will appear in an all-new youth activity where young captain hopefuls practice STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) skills in a fun maritime-themed activity. Children will hone their STEM and problem-solving abilities – skills that play an important role in the maritime industry – in a series of engaging, hands-on activities.

The interactive experience will be a journey of discovery, exploration and imagination that will be offered in Disney’s Oceaneer Lab aboard all Disney ships.

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Why Knot – Taking Nautical Fun Ashore

As part of a commitment to encourage future generations to pursue careers in the maritime industry, Captain Minnie Mouse will visit children in some of Disney Cruise Line’s homeports and ports of call. Children will have an opportunity to meet Captain Minnie Mouse and be inspired by her “can do” qualities and ability to tackle any goal she sets her mind to.

As part of these local community visits, Captain Minnie Mouse will be accompanied by a female Disney Cruise Line officer or crew member to showcase their roles in the maritime industry and raise awareness about career choices for women aboard a cruise ship.

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Exclusive Captain Minnie Mouse Merchandise

To celebrate the excitement of Captain Minnie Mouse at the helm, Disney Cruise Line is unveiling a special line of merchandise, exclusive to the Disney fleet. Items in the nautical-themed collection of apparel and gifts tout the tagline, “You Can Call Me Captain.” A brand-new Captain Minnie Mouse plush will be introduced this summer.

Captain Minnie Mouse - PANDORA Jewelry Charm

Captain Minnie Mouse also takes the spotlight on a new PANDORA Jewelry charm, available for purchase exclusively onboard.

Ready to set sail on a Disney Cruise?

Contact Mad Hatter Adventures Travel Company and you can get up to $1000 in on board credit when booking a new reservation with them!

Mad Hatter Adventures is a FULL SERVICE and  AWARD WINNING Agency

They are an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

Contact them TODAY for ALL your travel needs!

Info@MadHatterAdv.com    1-844-M-HATTER

*Information and Photos from the Disney Parks Blog