What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
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What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
Planning a trip to WDW takes a lot of thought and planning. Even with the best laid plans, one can encounter a bump or two along the way.
An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, like myself, is a 'one-stop-Disney-vacation-shop!' I can help you build your vacation from beginning to end! The best part is that my AMAZING services come at no extra cost to you, than if you'd booked it yourself.
What are the perfect number of days for a Disney World vacation?
It really depends on what you are looking for in your vacation! Generally, three to five days is enough to experience the four main theme parks, but you can always add on extra days to explore the other attractions and experiences available. If you’re looking for a more leisurely vacation, seven to ten days would be ideal to truly enjoy everything Disney World has to offer.
When is the best time to visit Disney World?
The best time to visit Disney World is typically during the off-season. This usually falls between early January and late February, as well as the months of September and October. During these times, there are usually fewer crowds and lower prices. However, it's important to note that the busiest times of year (like summer, Christmas and Easter) can still be enjoyable if you plan ahead and make reservations in advance.
Common mistakes we see when people try to book themselves at the Happiest Place on Earth
Mistake #1 – Not reserving table service meals in advance. You’ll absolutely need to make a reservation for sit down meals 60/180 days prior to your arrival. And, beware…they go fast, especially signature and character experiences.
Mistake #2 – Not using mobile order. If quick service dining is preferred, we encourage you to order using your device in advance. Payment via this method is contactless and all you have to do is pick up your order and go.
Mistake #3 – Not budgeting in advance. This is especially true for food and merchandise. Scope out menus ahead of time and don’t impulse purchase. Try to go in with a PLAN and a budget and stick to it.
Mistake #4 – Overpacking. You don’t need four pairs of shoes and two pairs of Mickey ears per day! Make and stick to a packing list, but don’t forget essentials! Sure, you can find them on property, but at a premium.
Mistake #5 – Overplanning. Prioritize your parks and attractions, but don’t pen anything in. Variables like weather and crowds could quickly derail a day that has been booked down to the minute. Be sure to plan for breaks with all of that walking!
Mistake #6 – Ignoring the forecast. Monitor the weather in Orlando prior to departure and adjust accordingly. Likely rain gear will be needed for summers, and a sweater, sweatshirt or jacket needed for cooler winter nights.
Mistake #7 – Visiting at the wrong time. As a rule of thumb, holidays, school breaks, summer, and weekends will bring the crowds. If they’re too much for you and/or you prefer a more relaxed vibe, check out other times of the year.
Mistake #8 – Wearing the wrong shoes! You should not purchase those cool new sneaks specifically for this trip. New shoes are culprits for a world of hurt, and bandaids. Stick with pairs that are broken in and comfy.
Questions To Ask Your Travel Agent about Disney World
1) What package deals are available for Disney World?
2) Are there any discounts or special offers I can take advantage of?
3) What are the best times of the year to visit Disney World?
4) Are there any seasonal activities or attractions I should be aware of?
5) How far in advance do I need to book my trip?
6) What are the best ways to save money while visiting Disney World?
7) Are there any particular restaurants or attractions that I should make sure to experience while there?
8) Are there any insider tips or tricks that I should know before I go?
9) Are there any special events or experiences that I can book ahead of time?
10) Are there any safety protocols that I should be aware of?
Disney Properties, How do you make the right selection?
Staying on Disney property is certainly our recommendation. At the end of the day Disney is always telling a story, right? Well, the resorts on property certainly aren’t an exception. Plus, staying on property comes with perks that hotels off site just don’t have. Added value! With more than 25 resorts, how do you select the one that is best for your family? Here’s a quick look!
Disney separates its resorts into four categories - value, moderate, deluxe and villas (usually part of the Disney Vacation Club). Pricing, features onsite and availability of certain amenities start off pretty basic and add on from there.
Value – Pretty basic rooms and baths. Recreation and dining are limited – think large pool and food court. Transport is typically going to be via bus.
Moderate – Rooms here are larger and in different configurations as is the bath. View options, pools, recreation, and dining are a little more robust. Bus transport is typical here, but you might find a property with a boat.
Deluxe – Most posh rooms! Types and sizes can vary. The main draw is the proximity to the parks. This is as close as it gets! A park could be a quick walk or monorail ride away.
Villas – We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program (but can be booked for cash). Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is like a deluxe property.
Evaluate each category as described and make your selection based on the needs of your family. Need help in choosing which is best for you and your family? Let us guide you each step of the way!
More Details - Selecting a Resort on Walt Disney World Property
Each resort has been carefully crafted and immerses you in a story – and we LOVE that. Plus, staying on property comes with perks that hotels off site just don’t have. Added value! However, there are SO many resorts (more than 25!). So, how do you select the one that is best for your family? Well, we’re here to break it down for you, and as we go, remember the story! A hint or indicator of it is usually in the name.
Since the resorts are split into four budget categories - value, moderate, deluxe and villas (usually part of the Disney Vacation Club but can be booked for cash). Pricing usually follows this model as it sounds – value is a better price per night as compared to deluxe. Same goes for features onsite and availability of certain amenities. Let’s do a quick breakdown!
Value Category - Resort Level
The bulk of rooms in this category are standard and approximately 260 square feet. There is a basic bath setup (sink often in the open and toilet and shower/tub in a separate room) and bedding could be two doubles or a king. Some rooms in this category are family suites coming in at approximately 520 square feet. They have a similar set up as a standard but double the baths and add in some convertible sleeping options. From here things at both are about the same. Views can differ from parking areas and wooded areas to swimming pools – and naturally the better the view the higher the price. Speaking of swimming pools, the pools here are typically themed and could be interactive, but here’s your warning – no slides! Other forms of recreation can be limited – think poolside games, a playground, and an occasional movie outside at night. Dining options are slim too with your only options being a foot court or pool bar. Finally, transportation provided by Disney (a perk of staying onsite!) will usually be via a bus. The only exceptions to this are the Art of Animation Resort and Pop Century, which recently were added to the new-ish Skyliner route.
Includes: All Star Movies, All Star Music, All Star Sports, Art of Animation, Pop Century, and Campsites at Fort Wilderness.
Moderate Category - Resort Level
Standard rooms in this category are in the 300 square foot range with a similar bath set up as a value resort, but maybe an additional sink. Two queen beds or one king is the standard, but there might be a spot for a potential fifth person (otherwise four is max). Views are similar as well but throw in the possibility of a room facing/near a natural body of water. Pools, other recreation and dining options are a little more robust with the addition of “quiet pools,” water recreation, bikes, a health club (Coronado Springs), at least one table service restaurant and a lounge. Transport here is typically bus as well, but there might be a boat service from some resorts to Disney Springs.
Includes: Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans French Quarter, Port Orleans Riverside, and Cabins at Fort Wilderness
Deluxe Category - Resort Level
There are a variety of rooms and sizes here. We’re talking anywhere from 344 to 440 square feet. The bath situation can vary too and includes what you’ll find in a moderate, but probably in a different configuration for more privacy. If the room is larger, there might be several baths. Bedding configuration is like a moderate property with nothing smaller than a queen. However, it’s the views, recreation, dining, and transportation that sets a deluxe apart. Pools will have slides, hot tubs, or other water features. Spa services might even be available. There are more table service restaurants, room service and maybe even character dining your Walt Disney World onsite. Lastly, these resorts are typically in close proximity to a park (very attractive to some), so transportation options open up. Buses, skyliner and boats could still be available, but add walking and monorails to the list.
Includes: Animal Kingdom Lodge, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, Contemporary, Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Polynesian Village, Wilderness Lodge, and Yacht Club.
Villas Category - Resort Level
We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program but can be booked for cash. Villas can be found at some deluxe properties, but there are also three that are dedicated to Disney Vacation Club. Rooms are villa style with more amenities and can range from a studio all the way to a three bedroom. Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is similar to a deluxe property.
Includes: Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary, Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge, Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom Villas at Jambo House and Kidani Village, Beach Club Villas, BoardWalk Villas, Old Key West, Polynesian Villas and Bungalows, Riviera Resort, Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa, Villas at Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.
We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program but can be booked for cash. Villas can be found at some deluxe properties, but there are also three that are dedicated to Disney Vacation Club. Rooms are villa style with more amenities and can range from a studio all the way to a three bedroom. Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is similar to a deluxe property.
21 Fun Facts about Walt Disney World
Balloons Balloons have been a guest favorite since day one. Disneyland started selling them in 1955! And fun fact – if you pop your balloon while in the park just bring it back to the vendor and they’ll replace it! Ready to pick up yours? Then, let’s get planning! What’s the Disney souvenir of choice for you or your little ones? Balloon? Plush? T-shirt?
Beast and Belle Flower and Garden The Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot runs annually starting in the spring. Did you know that more than 500,000 plants, trees and shrubs are installed for the festival? A lot of people call it their favorite. Are you ready to find out? Our personal favorite Flower and Garden Festival topiary can be found in the France pavilion – Belle and Beast. If you’ve been, what was your favorite?
Boardwalk Staying on Disney property is special. Not only are you immersing yourself in a story and experience, but you might even be so close to the parks that you have this view! Ready to explore the onsite possibilities? Tell us, do you stay on Disney property? What is your favorite and why?
Carousel No visit to the Disney parks is complete without a ride on the carousel. With the backdrop of the castle, it stands as the most classic ride of them all. Ready to put this attraction on your must-do list? Do you know how to identify Cinderella’s horse?
Castle Fireworks Another Disney tradition is catching the nighttime fireworks! There have been many iterations over the years, and they just keep getting better and better. If you’re ready to see them in person, let’s connect! What has been your most recent fireworks show favorite?
Cinderella’s Castle Cinderella’s Castle as pulled straight from the movie, is said to have drawn influence from Versailles and Fontainebleau in France as well as Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany. Do you see the resemblance? The regal Cinderella’s Castle stands as our favorite castle from any park across the globe. Which castle is your favorite? What memories does it hold for you?
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Epcot holds a lot of festivals throughout the year and our favorite can be seen here – the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. Watch the park come to life in bloom each spring. Ready to schedule a visit to one of Epcot’s festivals? Topiaries? The fresh snacks? Scavenger hunt around World Showcase? What’s your favorite part of Flower and Garden?
Epcot Skyliner The Skyliner is the newest form of transportation on property having opened in September of 2019. It connects four resorts and two theme parks. The system is easy to navigate, convenient and the views while riding are mesmerizing. Ready to ride? Let’s get you there. The Skyliner has quickly become a transportation favorite among guests. Have you had the chance to experience it? Did you love it?
Expedition Everest There are a bunch of fun facts about Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Most notably, it’s the tallest attraction on property. But did you know that despite its name, riders aren’t actually navigating Mount Everest? Instead, it holds the fictitious name of Forbidden Mountain. Disney Imagineers created it just for the storyline of the attraction! Riding forward…Riding backward (in the dark)…An 80 foot drop. Yikes! Do you love or hate Everest, um Forbidden Mountain?
Haunted Mansion As you weave through the Haunted Mansion queue pay close attention. The names on the tombstones are those of Imagineers! Some even worked on the build of the attraction itself! Another fun fact, as you exit there’s a pet cemetery. Towards the back there’s a tribute to Mr. Toad! Besides it’s 999 happy haunts, there’s a hidden Mickey inside the Haunted Mansion! Do you know where it’s located?
Mickey Ears and Castle Ears for some are a must have collectible. During your visit to WDW keep an eye out for ears that pay tribute to certain attractions and characters. If you’re looking to jump on an even hotter trend, go for one of the many color specific ears. Rose gold and purple potion are two favorites. Get your ears on!
Mickey Waffles Some say that waffles just taste better when they’re in the shape of Mickey and consumed on property. There is an abundance of breakfast locations where you’ll find this icon! And, while the mouse himself is the most widely available, you might spot Stitch or Simba at some spots as well! We love Mickey waffles! What’s your favorite Disney snack?
Monorail There are three different monorail lines. The Epcot line connects guest to Epcot via the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC). The Resort line stops at Magic Kingdom, all three surrounding resorts and the TTC. The Express line is a direct connect between MK and the TTC. If the Express line is too long, hop on the Resort line if there’s a much shorter wait time and only make one additional stop at the Contemporary! The classic. The monorail. It’s our favorite. Is it yours too?
Pandora The stunning Pandora – World of Avatar. The film’s writer and director James Cameron played an integral role in the design of this land in Animal Kingdom as did producer Jon Landeau. They were joined by legendary Imagineer Joe Rohde. Did you know they left a little easter egg at the exit of Flight of Passage? Keep an eye out for it during your next visit! Flight of Passage. Pandora’s must-do attraction. Do you rope drop it? Or save it for your last attraction before close?
Spaceship Earth Spaceship Earth or as some call it, “the giant golf ball” is the very first ride that we take when visiting Epcot. We just can’t get over the fact that we travel in there! Imagineering at it’s finest. What is the first attraction on your list when visiting Epcot? What’s your favorite scene on Spaceship Earth? Rome burning? The Phoenicians?
Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge The most recent addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Galaxy’s Edge was announced in 2015. After over six years of concept development and construction, the first guests were welcomed in 2019! And, for reference, the timeline you’re entering when coming into the land is between the eighth and ninth film! Did you know there’s a hidden mini– Millennium Falcon ON the Falcon itself? Know where it is?
Teacups The teacups were our first ride EVER in the Magic Kingdom! We spun that thing so fast …you could hear the joy and excitement in our screams and laughs! What was your first ride EVER at a Disney Park? Share with us below. Ready to ride again? Let’s chat! Did you know the teacups were a Magic Kingdom opening day attraction? Can you name some others?
Tomorrowland Tomorrowland was a land that opened when the park itself opened on October 1, 1971. But it only featured two attractions, and Space Mountain wasn’t one of them! They were the Grand Prix Raceway and Skyway to Fantasyland, which, sadly, no longer exists. Rank your favorites! Choices – Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover and Carousel of Progress.
Tower of Terror The Imagineers on the attraction watched every single episode of The Twilight Zone for inspiration, and it can be seen in the attraction’s queue area. There are a ton of easter eggs and the attention to detail is incredible. You might even spot some props used in actual episodes! The story of the hotel is that it was struck by lightning, and that’s the state you see it in. Do you know what date that strike occurred?
Tree of Life We encourage you to take the time and explore the paths that surround the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. They’re often overlooked as most others head straight for the main attractions. Here you’ll get a break from the crowds, an up-close view and excellent photo ops! There are 300 animals carved into the Tree of Life.
And did you know, it's NOT a Small World After All! Disney World encompasses over 50 square miles.
A quick example itinerary for starting a 3 day trip to WDW
This itinerary is chock full of park days. Consider checking out each park during the day and night. If the park time below is too much, you can always return to your hotel for pool time, check out Disney Springs or visit a waterpark!
DAY 1
Fly into Orlando in the morning and transfer to your hotel. Take your time in getting settled at the hotel and enjoy dinner onsite before an early sleep. Or, if you're feeling up to it, head to the Magic Kingdom! Try to hit some opening day attractions and maybe catch the nightly fireworks (if available).
DAY 2
Grab a quick to-go breakfast from the hotel and head to Epcot Center, or head to Epcot and go straight to Les Halles in the France pavilion for breakfast. Even though World Showcase typically opens later in the morning (around 11am) as compared to the rest of the park, Les Halles is typically open and serving. Return to your hotel in the middle of the day for a nap or swim, then head back out Hollywood Studios. If running, try to catch Fantasmic or Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular!
DAY 3
Grab a bite from the hotel or head to the Magic Kingdom for breakfast. Enjoy the morning exploring the park then return to your hotel. Spend some time relaxing and exploring — take a nap, enjoy the pool, partake in some activities, if available. After that if you're completely relaxed and feeling like hanging in, grab dinner on site. If you're up for it, head to Disney Springs for some shopping and dinner.
I would love to create the perfect FREE Disney vacation package for you and your family / guests. If you like to reach out to me, please use my Disney World Travel Inquiry Form.
Get in touch with Anne King
Anne King
My love of travel started at a young age. Family road trips across the country and vacations in Hawaii is where it all began. After starting a family, we traveled frequently to the beach, Disney, and many places near and far. My husband and I also traveled to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe.
In early 2023 I left my corporate accounting career, which allowed me to focus on my traveling clients and seeing more of the world for myself. My adventures included Thailand, Maui, Walt Disney World, Puerto Vallarta, Curacao, Jamaica, Vancouver, Alaska & Amsterdam.
2024 began in Australia, with continuing adventures in New Zealand and Cancun. More destinations are already in the calendar!
It thrills me to see the world and know personally how to recommend (or not) those destinations to my clients. I would love to help you plan your next adventure: honeymoon, romantic getaway, girls trip or family vacation. I can help narrow down options, make suggestions, plan the details, and be a resource while you are on your trip. All at no additional cost to you!
Fill in the Travel Request Form on the website, or email/text/call me, and lets start planning your next great adventure.
Back by popular demand! Why download our guide? As an EarMarked Agency, we are recognized by Disney.
A Disney EarMarked travel agency is an agency that is officially recognized by Disney and has been given permission to provide Disney vacation packages and services. These agencies are specialists in planning vacations to Disney destinations and can help you find the best deals and packages for your trip. They can also provide personalized advice and help you plan your trip from start to finish.
As Authorized Disney Vacation Planners, we are knowledgeable in all things Disney vacations related.
An authorized Disney vacation planner is a professional travel advisor who specializes in Disney vacations. They are knowledgeable about all Disney destinations and resorts, and can help plan the perfect trip for you and your family. They can provide advice and assistance on EVERYTHING. From choosing the right resort and tickets, to planning the perfect itinerary. They can also suggest activities and attractions to make the most of your time in the Disney parks.
Anne King
What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
Dallas Travel Agent Near Me
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My love of travel started at a young age. Family road trips across the country and vacations in Hawaii is where it all began. After starting a family, we traveled frequently to the beach, Disney, and many places near and far. My husband and I also traveled to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. In early 2023 I left my corporate accounting career, which allowed me to focus on my traveling clients and seeing more of the world for myself. My adventures included Thailand, Maui, Walt Disney World, Puerto Vallarta, Curacao, Jamaica, Vancouver, Alaska & Amsterdam. 2024 began i... Read More >>>
An expert destination wedding travel agent near me with five star luxury travel packages with a luxury travel company, Vincent Vacations.
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Multi-generation family vacation before Christmas 2023
We had a great experience and would highly recommend Iberostar Tucan. The staff were super friendly and helpful. The rooms were clean a comfortable. Pool and beach were both well stocked with seating so there was none of that “reserving your seats at dawn or there will be no where to sit”. The food was good and could be great depending on your individual preferences. Personally, I really enjoyed the Japanese Hibachi grill experience and the smokehouse BBQ was excellent. My oldest son thought the Smokehouse pulled pork was the best he’d ever had. Tiffany loved the Crème Brûlée at the Mediterranean restaurant, my 16 year old son thought the pizza crust at the Italian restaurant was the best. Buildings 14 and 15 have the best views, facing the interior jungle. There is an abundance of wildlife in the “jungle”. We were greeted each morning by acrobatic monkeys swinging through the canopy right outside our balcony. Peacocks and Lemurs are a common sight throughout the resort. There was even a big iguana living beneath the patio of our building (14) that greeted us each day basking in the sun. Transportation via Amstar both to and from the resort was great. Vehicles were in excellent shape, clean, comfortable and professional driven. We arrange an outing to Tulum via Amstar and our guide spoke both English and German to accommodate some of the German guest joining us on our trip to Tulum. Overall the resort was in great shape. I saw no indications of any deferred maintenance or lack of attention to the buildings or grounds. As mentioned previously, the staff were super friendly and helpful. We were always greeted with a smile and a “how can we help” attitude. We will definitely return someday. -Steve W.
Sandals Antigua Honeymoon
We had an epic time on our Honeymoon in Antigua at Sandals Antigua Grand Resort! Call Anne she was our travel agent and she made the trip so easy to plan and even helped us with a crazy dilemma that happened with our plane being late. She turned disaster into a great night for us! Please call Anne of you need help booking any trip!!!
-Patrick E.
Jamaican Honeymoon
My husband and I worked with Anne for our honeymoon to Jamaica and she was FANTASTIC! She was so easy to work with and SO knowledgeable on every question we asked. She took care of everything for all of our travels which made it so easy for us. We had never been out of the country before so we were a bit nervous and she made everything so seamless and easy. We will 100% go through her for all of our travels in the future! -Mallory C.
My family and I went on an cruise that Anne set up for us. From the plane tickets, transport from airport to the hotel and from the hotel to the port terminal, the cruise itself and the trip home. Everything went smooth for us. I wasn't sure on a couple of things, but I shouldn't of because we had no problems at all. We enjoyed our trip and time together because it was all taken care of. Just too many things to take care, so it was great that it was all handled for us. We will use Anne again. -Oldguy
Hilton Hawaiian Village - Oahu
5-stars!!! Every detail of our family vacation to Hawaii was a total success because of Anne! As a type-A traveler who takes relaxation very seriously, I would recommend Anne for anyone looking to get the most out of their vacation dollar. To start, Anne met with me to discuss my travel goals and 'must have's'. She then provide thorough options for varying price points that were ideal for our objectives. There was no pressure and she was always available for questions. I even had a last minute request that she was flexible in accommodating. We had a seamless airport transfer and even got upgraded once we got to the hotel, when I mentioned Anne and Vincent Travel! We ended up with the best room in the hotel. What I was most impressed with was the availability, time, and dedication Anne had to ensure our trip was completely worry-free. At one point, there was a miscommunication with a tour company and Anne immediately started working tirelessly to get it resolved in my favor. Although it may not always be the case, we were able to receive a $1K refund due to her efforts. All while me and my family never skipped a beat enjoying our dream island vacation. I will be contacting Anne for all my future travel and would recommend her for anyone who is looking to make the most of their travels!
-Crystal G.
NYC for Christmas
Anne made the booking process seamless, we communicated our expectations and she more than delivered, and we’re not talking pizza! The travel app she provided with our schedule of events during our trip was super helpful and convenient as well. So don’t pull out your hair, when Anne can be there!
-Jennifer B.
Jamaican Getaway
Our vacations was really really good. Was a blast every day--something different on a regular. We did the free excursions. It was super awesome overall. Thank you so much for helping us out. We will definitely get with you on our next trip out for Ocho Rios.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya is the perfect option for a weekend getaway or short-stay vacation. Located only 15 minutes from Cancun Airport, it is easy to get to and you can be at the pool by afternoon on your day of arrival. Resort highlights: • Adults only • All-inclusive • New resort, opened June 1, 2023 • On-site brewery • Large pool • Daytime and nighttime activities on site
The room: I stayed at this hotel in March 2024 in a King Paradise Room. The room was spacious with bright and fresh décor and furnishings. There is plenty of space to stretch out and ample storage. There is a large walk-in shower and great lighting in the bathroom. I really appreciated the newness of the resort—everything was clean and fresh.
The Minibar: You’ll find a unique mini-bar setup with a lime juicer, margarita glasses, and a cocktail shaker in your room. Don’t let the empty fridge throw you! Based on your room category and the number of nights of your stay, you will receive points to use in Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions. You’ll shop for your soda, snacks, beer & liquors like you do in a convenience store. This gives you the ability to completely customize your room’s minibar. It’s a bit confusing in the beginning, but makes sense when you work through the process.
The Pools: there are 4 pools on the property. The highlight is the main pool with the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Swim-up Bar. This is where you’ll find the foam parties, DJ’s, and games. Other pools are more quiet. There was plenty of pool chairs and cabanas. You won’t want to miss the famous floating avocado boat (additional charge) where you can munch on tacos, chips, salsas and guacamole while you are in the pool.
The Food: Everything I ate at the 3 a la carte and 1 food display restaurants was delicious! The food display is a spin on buffet dining where they keep the selections fresh by presenting smaller serving dishes in each area. There are plenty of choices, including a gluten-free bakery section. Every a la carte meal was fantastic with a steakhouse, an Italian restaurant, and a grill and brewery. Service was top-notch everywhere. The only downside in dining that I experienced was room service. You order on the app, and delivery was right on time—amazing!! However, my choices left a lot to be desired, and I would have been better off going to buffet (food display).
The Beach: Don’t be surprised…there is none. The waves come right up to the edge of the property. There is no room for beach chairs. At the time I was there, we weren’t even allowed to step on the sand. The water close to the property isn’t the prettiest. If you are a “pool person” and putting your toes in the sand isn’t a requirement for a fabulous vacation, you can still enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean—especially at sunrise in the morning and twilight in the evening.
Overall recommendation: I would highly recommend this property to a couple looking for a weekend getaway or a girl’s trip looking for lively pool activities and fun evening entertainment. Four nights would be plenty. More than that, and you may get bored. I was there during the week, and it was fairly quiet. As we were leaving on a Friday, the crowd and atmosphere was definitely getting more lively. If a beautiful beach and pristine clear ocean are a must, this isn’t the resort for you.
In January 2023, I left my Corporate America job after 15+ years. I traded accounting for adventure, and began my new career as an Independent Travel Advisor with Vincent Vacations. Our first adventure in my new life was a biggie! My husband and I planned a 2-week trip to Thailand to celebrate my new opportunities. I would go back in a minute, with several things I'd do again.
Here are my top 5 Thailand adventures that will hopefully inspire you to take the leap and plan your Bucket List Adventure.
#5 - Food: Thai food is one of my all-time favorite cuisines. So much flavor and so many options. Pad Thai in Thailand is 1000 times better than what you can get in the US, and I love our local Thai restaurants! Other favorites: Thai lobster, mango sticky rice, pork skewers and Thai basil chicken. We found inexpensive meat on a stick at the night markets to eggs, rice and chili for breakfast from 7-11. We dined in more luxury at The House of Smooth Curry (one of the many restaurants at The Athenee Hotel in Bangkok). Some of our favorites were the locally recommended places that didn't look like much, but the flavors were fantastic, like Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken in Bangkok.
#4 - Temples: We explored so many beautiful Buddhist Temples. What resonated the most with me was the detailed artistry that was done centuries ago. From Wat Phra Kaew (home of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Pho (home of the largest reclining Buddha) in Bangkok, to Wat Chiang Man (the oldest temple in Chiang Mai) and Wat Saen Muang Ma Luang (at hidden gem in Old City) in Chiang Mai, I was in awe. Pictures are beautiful, but to really appreciate the temples, you must visit in person.
#3 - Night markets: Southeast Asia is known for it's lively night markets. Stall after stall, and a sea of patrons strolling through--there's nothing like it. You can find dinner & dessert, get a pedicure, buy a new wardrobe, and mingle with locals and tourists alike. We went to several, and our favorite was Jodd Fairs market. Next time, I promise I'll eat the scorpion on a stick!
#2 - Elephant Sanctuary: While in Phuket, we visited the The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. While people back home were watching the Super Bowl, we were spending the day with 3 gentle giants. We fed them, scrubbed them with mud, and rinsed them off in their own private swimming hole. Do your research! You want to pick a sanctuary with high humane standards. NEVER RIDE AN ELEPHANT!
#1 - Islands and Beaches: There is no shortage of beautiful beaches in Thailand. Our first beach stop was the lively and popular Patong Beach in Phuket. It felt a lot like Honolulu--lots of people, lots of activities, and so much to see within walking distance of almost anywhere. Our last beach stop was Koh Samui. We saw the Angthong Marine Park limestone islands up close on a semi-private tour that included snorkeling, kayaking, and the most fabulous sunset. Highly recommend!
Amsterdam has a robust and easy to navigate mass transit system. The GVB transit system offers metro trains, buses, and trams. Purchase a ticket based on the number of days you will be in the area. For example, a 3-day ticket is 21 euros and is valid for unlimited travel on all routes for 72 hours from your first check in.
Follow the maps located near each stop, and you’ll be able to navigate to within a couple blocks of your destination. Apple and Google maps include the mass transit routes as well.
Do not stop in the bike lanes.
Amsterdam has approximately 2 bikes per capita. With approximately 900,000 residents, that is a lot of bicycles! The infrastructure is designed to give bike riders their own path on almost every street. So, you will find sidewalk, bike lane, car lane (and often tram tracks as well) in each direction of traffic flow.
The bike lanes are additionally marked with red pavement. And…bicycles have the right of way, not pedestrians. So, stay alert, keep your head on a swivel, and don’t stop in the bike lane.
Do not miss out on Dutch pancakes.
Amsterdam isn’t what I would call a foodie capital of the world. There are a few things they are known for in Amsterdam: frites, stroopwafel, bitterballen, kaasstengels, and Gouda to name a few. The top of the list for me was the dutch pancake. I was expecting the puffy pancake with the tall sides in a cast-iron skillet known to me as the Dutch baby.
The real Dutch pancake is about the size of a medium pizza and thin – somewhere just beyond a crepe on its way to an American pancake. Served plain, savory, or sweet and served for breakfast, lunch, and maybe even dinner, you can find them all over the city.
Don’t try to keep track of all the beautiful canals.
When you first arrive by metro, you’ll be greeted by the River IJ (pronounced “eye”) at Amsterdam Centraal. Pushing deeper into the city, you’ll find the intricate canal network which, quite literally, keeps the city from sinking! As you walk around this part of Amsterdam, at almost every turn you will find a bridge over a beautiful canal.
Embrace it, and take pictures of them all.
Pretty soon, you’ll be saying to your travel companions, “oh look! Another beautiful canal”. Your camera roll will thank you later.
Don’t miss the Anne Frank House and the Van Gough Museums.
Plan ahead and stay aware of when tickets initially go on sale for your dates. If you arrive in Amsterdam without a ticket, you will likely miss out.
Anne Frank House tickets:
Every Tuesday, the Anne Frank House releases tickets for the following 6 weeks and tickets are 16 euros for an adult ticket. A 30-minute introductory program is an additional 7 euros, and well worth it! The Van Gough museum tickets can be purchased online at any time, but likely sell out anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks in advance. There are many other museums in the city where tickets are easier to get within a few days of your visit, and all are fantastic. But if Anne Frank and Van Gough are on your must-do list (and they should be!), mark your calendars and purchase in advance.