If you are booking a child younger than two years of age and prefer to have the child sit on your lap during the flight, include the child in the number of children and select "< 1" from the Child Ages dropdown.
If you are booking a child younger than two years of age and prefer to have the child sit on your lap during the flight, include the child in the number of children and select "< 1" from the Child Ages dropdown.
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 Kylee Graumann
Kylee Graumann
I’ve always believed the best experiences begin with curiosity. Whether I’m researching the perfect luxury cruise, comparing adults-only all-inclusive resorts, or planning my own next adventure, I love diving into the details that turn a good vacation into an unforgettable one.
By day, I’m a seventh-grade science teacher in Oklahoma, where asking questions and solving problems is part of who I am. That same curiosity follows me into travel. I don’t just book vacations I research destinations, ships, resorts, and itineraries so my clients can travel with confidence.
As an advisor with Vincent Vacations, I specialize in helping travelers find experiences that truly fit them, whether that’s an expedition cruise to Antarctica, a river cruise through Europe, a relaxing beach escape, or a once-in-a-lifetime journey. I’ll handle the planning and details so you can focus on making memories.
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.
Kylee Graumann
What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
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I’ve always believed the best experiences begin with curiosity. Whether I’m researching the perfect luxury cruise, comparing adults-only all-inclusive resorts, or planning my own next adventure, I love diving into the details that turn a good vacation into an unforgettable one. By day, I’m a seventh-grade science teacher in Oklahoma, where asking questions and solving problems is part of who I am. That same curiosity follows me into travel. I don’t just book vacations I research destinations, ships, resorts, and itineraries so my clients can travel with confidence. As an advisor with Vincent... 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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I completed the Viking Fundamentals, Rivers, Oceans, and Expeditions courses, earning my Viking Certified Expert designation.
One thing I really appreciate about Viking is that there is not just one way to travel with them. Their offerings include river cruises, ocean voyages, and expedition cruises, so the experience can look completely different depending on where you want to go and how you want to explore.
Their river cruises are especially appealing for travelers who want to be right in the middle of the destinations they are visiting. Instead of sailing into a large cruise port and traveling into the city, many river itineraries bring you directly into historic cities and towns throughout Europe and beyond. It is a very destination-focused way to travel, with the convenience of unpacking once while visiting multiple places.
Viking Ocean offers that same destination-focused approach on a larger scale. Their ocean ships are designed for adults and are much smaller than the mega-ships many travelers picture when they think of cruising. Viking focuses much more on the places you are visiting, cultural experiences, enrichment, and time ashore than things like water slides, casinos, or huge onboard attractions.
And then there is Viking Expeditions, which takes that style of travel into places like Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Great Lakes. These voyages combine exploration with onboard experts, scientific learning, and opportunities to experience destinations that are very different from a traditional cruise vacation.
Who do I recommend Viking for?
I especially like Viking for travelers who are curious about the places they are visiting and want the destination to be a major part of their vacation.
It can be a great fit for couples, history lovers, travelers interested in culture and learning, adults who prefer a quieter ship experience, and travelers who like having many of the details of their trip already included rather than constantly adding extras along the way.
I also think Viking is worth considering for someone who says, “I don't think I'm a cruise person.” Viking feels very different from the huge resort-style ships people often associate with cruising. There are no casinos, no children under 18, and the focus is much more on exploring the world than filling the ship with attractions.
Completing Viking's training across river, ocean, and expedition cruising has given me a much better understanding of how these experiences differ, which itineraries make sense for different travelers, and what someone should consider before choosing one style over another.
That is especially important with Viking because choosing the right trip is not simply about finding a destination you like. A Rhine River cruise, a Mediterranean ocean voyage, and an expedition to Antarctica are three completely different experiences and I can help you figure out which one actually fits the way you want to travel.
Cunard Commodore
As a Cunard Commodore, I have completed specialized training focused on Cunard’s ships, accommodations, destinations, onboard experiences, and the different ways to travel with this iconic cruise line.
Cunard is one of those brands that offers something genuinely different. There is a sense of tradition and occasion to sailing with them that you simply do not find everywhere else. Think Afternoon Tea, beautiful ballrooms, Gala Evenings, live music, enrichment speakers, attentive White Star Service, and ships that still celebrate the romance of traveling by sea.
And then there is Queen Mary 2.
For someone who has dreamed of crossing the Atlantic by ship, a Cunard Transatlantic Crossing between New York and Southampton is an experience all its own. Queen Mary 2 is not simply another cruise ship she is an ocean liner designed for long-distance ocean travel, and the days at sea are part of the experience rather than something you are trying to fill between ports.
Cunard also goes far beyond Transatlantic Crossings. Their four Queens sail itineraries around the world, including Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, Canada and New England, longer voyages, and incredible World Voyages.
Who do I recommend Cunard for?
I especially like Cunard for travelers who appreciate the journey just as much as the destination.
It can be a wonderful fit for couples, history lovers, travelers who enjoy dressing up occasionally, people who love enrichment and learning while they travel, and anyone looking for a more classic and refined cruise experience.
I also think Cunard is worth considering for travelers who have already taken several cruises and are looking for something that feels different. You can attend an interesting lecture, enjoy Afternoon Tea, listen to live music, dress up for a Gala Evening, or simply find a beautiful place to watch the ocean go by.
Being a Cunard Commodore gives me a deeper understanding of the differences between their ships, staterooms and Grill Suites, itineraries, and onboard experience. Cunard is not about trying to pack every possible attraction onto a ship. For the right traveler, the ship, the traditions, and the actual experience of traveling across the ocean are part of the destination.
Seabourn Platinum-level travel advisor
As a Seabourn Platinum-level travel advisor, I have completed advanced training focused on Seabourn’s ultra-luxury cruise experience, including their ships, suites, destinations, onboard experience, dining, inclusions, and expedition options.
Seabourn is very different from a traditional large cruise ship. Their ships are smaller, all-suite, and designed to feel much more intimate. The experience is centered around personalized service, beautiful accommodations, exceptional dining, and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Many of the things that are add-ons on other cruise lines are also included with Seabourn, including premium spirits and wines.
One of the things I especially like about Seabourn is that luxury does not have to mean staying in the same familiar ports. Their smaller ships can visit destinations and hideaways that larger ships may not be able to reach, and they also offer true expedition travel aboard purpose-built expedition ships for destinations such as Antarctica and the Arctic.
I think Seabourn is a great fit for travelers who want a more intimate and elevated cruise experience without the crowds and constant activity of a large ship. It is especially well suited for couples, milestone vacations, experienced travelers, luxury travelers, and anyone who places a high value on service, food, beautiful accommodations, and destination-focused itineraries.
It is also a great option for someone who wants adventure without giving up comfort. Seabourn’s expedition voyages allow travelers to explore remote destinations by Zodiac, kayak, and on foot while still returning to an ultra-luxury ship at the end of the day.
My Platinum-level Seabourn training gives me a deeper understanding of the differences between their ships, itineraries, suites, traditional ocean voyages, and expedition experiences so I can help determine whether Seabourn is the right fit for the way you want to travel.
I like Silversea because it feels less like a traditional cruise and more like a luxury trip where the cruise just happens to be how you are getting from place to place.
The ships are smaller and more intimate, the service is extremely personalized, and every guest has butler service. Silversea is also much more inclusive than many cruise lines, so you are not constantly adding things onto the price once you are onboard. Their smaller ships can also visit ports that larger ships simply cannot, which is a huge part of the appeal for me.
I especially like Silversea for travelers who care just as much about the destination as they do the ship. Their itineraries reach more than 900 destinations, including places like Alaska, the Mediterranean, Antarctica, the Galápagos, the Arctic, and some much more remote areas of the world. Their expedition cruises take that even further with Zodiac landings, expert expedition teams, and more immersive experiences in places that are harder to reach.
Silversea is a great fit for couples, experienced travelers, milestone trips, luxury travelers, and anyone who prefers a quieter, more refined cruise experience over a huge ship packed with activities and crowds.
I also recommend Silversea to travelers who want to explore somewhere incredible but still want to come back to a beautiful suite, great food, and a high level of service at the end of the day. It is especially appealing for people who want luxury without giving up adventure.
National Geographic-Linblad Expeditions Specialist
I really like National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions because these trips are built for people who want to be fully immersed by experiencing it, learning about it, and understanding what they are seeing.
This is true expedition travel. The ships are smaller and designed to reach areas that larger cruise ships simply cannot, which means the experience can include remote coastlines, wildlife-rich areas, secluded coves, and places that would be difficult to access any other way. Depending on the destination, days can include Zodiac rides, kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and other hands-on ways to explore.
One of my favorite things about National Geographic–Lindblad is the expedition team traveling with you. You are not just being taken somewhere and dropped off to explore on your own. Their teams can include naturalists, scientists, historians, cultural specialists, undersea specialists, photographers, and expedition leaders who help you understand what you are seeing along the way. There are also presentations and conversations onboard that add so much context to the places you are visiting.
Photography is another huge part of the experience. Every expedition includes a National Geographic–Lindblad certified photo instructor, and select ships also sail with a National Geographic photographer. You do not have to be a professional photographer either they can help with everything from basic camera settings and composition to getting a better wildlife photo in the moment.
I also love that expedition travel is not always about following the exact same schedule every single day. In certain destinations, the expedition team may adjust plans around wildlife, weather, ice, or an unexpected opportunity. If whales suddenly appear or conditions are perfect for a Zodiac outing, there can be flexibility to take advantage of that. That sense of discovery is a big part of what makes an expedition different from a traditional cruise.
National Geographic–Lindblad travels to some incredible places, including Antarctica, the Galápagos, Alaska, Iceland, the Arctic, Baja California, and many other remote destinations around the world.
I especially recommend them for curious travelers, wildlife lovers, photographers, nature lovers, families who value educational experiences, and people who want to spend their vacation exploring. I also think they are a great fit for travelers who have already done more traditional vacations and are ready for something that feels completely different.
I recently earned my National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions Specialist designation, which means I have completed additional training on their ships, destinations, and expedition experiences. I love being able to help clients figure out not only where they want to go, but whether this style of expedition travel is actually the right fit for them.
National Geographic–Lindblad is not what I would consider a traditional cruise vacation and that is exactly the point. It is for travelers who want the destination, wildlife, learning, and adventure to be the main event.
Princess Alaska Specialist
As a Princess Alaska Specialist, I have completed additional training focused specifically on Princess Alaska cruises and cruisetours. That means I understand the differences between their Alaska itineraries, ships, stateroom options, land packages, wilderness lodges, rail experiences, and the many different ways to combine a cruise with time exploring Alaska on land.
This is especially helpful because planning an Alaska vacation can get overwhelming quickly. Two itineraries may look very similar at first, but the amount of time in Denali, whether Fairbanks is included, the direction you travel, the lodge locations, and how much time you spend on land can completely change the experience.
I especially love helping travelers with Princess Alaska cruisetours, which combine a cruise with a land portion so you can experience both Alaska’s coastline and its interior. For travelers who want more than a traditional 7-night cruise, a cruisetour can add destinations like Denali, Fairbanks, scenic rail travel, and stays at Princess Wilderness Lodges.Who is this best for?
I especially recommend working with me as a Princess Alaska Specialist if:
Alaska is a bucket-list trip and you want to make sure you choose the right itinerary.
You are interested in combining a cruise with Denali, Fairbanks, or another land experience.
You are looking at several Princess cruisetours and cannot tell what the real differences are.
You want help deciding how many days you should spend in Alaska.
You want someone to explain the different ships, cabin categories, packages, lodges, and transportation options.
You want an Alaska vacation built around what matters most to you instead of simply choosing the first itinerary you find online.
My goal is to help make all of those choices easier and make sure the Alaska trip you book actually matches the experience you are hoping to have.
Princess Commodore Ranking
Princess is one of the cruise lines I recommend often because they do a really good job of balancing relaxation, great destinations, and enough to do onboard without making the ship feel overwhelming.
I really like the overall feel of Princess. There are plenty of activities, entertainment, dining options, and things going on throughout the day, but you can also find a quiet spot and simply enjoy being at sea. It does not feel like you have to be doing something every second of the day to enjoy the cruise.
The Medallion is also one of my favorite features Princess offers. It can unlock your stateroom as you approach, help you navigate the ship, locate the people you are traveling with, and even let you order food and drinks to wherever you are onboard. It is a small detail that can make the entire cruise experience feel easier.
I think Princess is a great fit for couples, first-time cruisers, experienced cruisers, multigenerational families, and travelers who want a more relaxed cruise experience without giving up good entertainment, dining, or destination-focused itineraries.
Princess also has a wide variety of ships, stateroom categories, packages, and itinerary styles, which is why knowing the differences between them really matters. The right Princess cruise can look very different depending on how you like to travel.
I am a Princess Cruises Commodore, which is Princess' highest level of travel advisor training. That training gives me a deeper understanding of their fleet, stateroom categories, onboard experience, destinations, packages, and the different options available when planning a Princess cruise.
For me, being a Commodore is not just a title. It means I can help my clients sort through all of those choices and find the Princess cruise that actually fits the way they want to travel.
4 Reviews & Success stories
Kylee Graumann has been absolutely amazing at helping me plan my husbands Birthday vacation! I had a few specific things we wanted but are sometimes hard to find and she researched, communicated with resorts etc to find us the perfect fit! I will not vacation again without her assistance. So thankful for someone who listens and works tirelessly to help you.
-Bree Young
Kylee Graumann is doing a wonderful job planning our cruise to Greece and Italy. She has secured the perfect cabins and has organized an itinerary that is ideal for us. Honestly, she has answered questions that we didn’t even know to ask! We will definitely work with her again!
-Lynn Meekins
Kylee has been great to work with, always very responsive and has bent over backwards to help in any way I’ve needed her. - Toni Baker
Kylee Graumann was EXCEPTIONAL in helping my boyfriend and I plan our Alaskan cruise! I’m in a wheelchair and she was able to get all our accommodations for flights, hotels, and the cruise itself no problem. She also was able to help us with travel insurance and worked with us on a flexible payment plan that best fit our budget. We couldn’t have asked for a better travel agent! She thought of everything!
