Looking Glass Travel with Katelyn

06/25/2024

🎄😃🎄😃Can you believe it? We're already halfway to Christmas! As we count down the days, let’s dream about the most magical time of the year at the Walt Disney World theme parks. Each park brings its own unique sprinkle of holiday magic, but if you could only visit one, which would it be?

🏰 Magic Kingdom: Main Street, USA decor is dreamy!

🌐 EPCOT: Festival of the Holidays is a cultural delight!

🌳 Animal Kingdom: Magical Menagerie is a walking wonder!

🎬 Hollywood Studios: Classic decor is full of nostalgia!

🤔 It’s such a hard choice! Book a vacation package that includes at least a four day base ticket and you can experience it all! Just a $200 deposit will secure your reservation and make you a holiday hero! 🎅Want to flex those gifting muscles? 💪 I'd love to help with my FREE planning to make this the most memorable holiday EVER for you and your favorite elves!

06/24/2024

🧚‍♀️🧚🏻🧚🏾‍♂️On International Fairy Day, let’s sprinkle some extra pixie dust for the beloved fairy godmothers of Sleeping Beauty: Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather! These enchanting 'aunts' of Princess Aurora brought more than just color changing wands to the story. Probably most known for their debate over pink and blue for a dress color, they actually gave Aurora amazing gifts when she was born:

Flora gifts Aurora the gift of beauty 🌸

Fauna bestows the gift of song 🎶

Merryweather the gift of protection 🛟

06/22/2024

🛼🍔🎵It’s always the fabulous 50s at Mel's Drive-In at Universal Orlando! Got a craving for that classic diner vibe? Mel’s is your spot. With checkered floors and a jukebox at every booth, you’ll feel like you’ve walked onto the set of Happy Days.

And you know what they offer that most quick services places don’t...onion rings! 🤯

📲 Definitely utilize mobile ordering whatever you choose to eat at Mel’s (it’s a hot spot especially after the refurb it just had) and be sure to pose for some fun photos with the classic 1950's cars out front! So...fries or onion rings? 🍟🧅

06/21/2024

🧋🍓🍌🧋It’s National Smoothie Day, pals! Smoothies are the universe’s yummy way of thanking us for choosing fruit over ice cream by giving us pretty much the same end result. Joffrey’s cart at Disney Springs has an awesome list of smoothies to help fuel you while you buy up all the wonderful smelling soaps at Basin or all the newest Mickey ears at World of Disney. What is your go-to smoothie concoction?

06/20/2024

🌞🏖️🌴 Summer is here! Who says this season has to end? At Universal’s Endless Summer Resort, they keep the summer vibes rolling all year long! With its chill, beachy theme, this resort offers endless summer nights, right on Universal property and SPOILER ALERT...without breaking the budget! 🤑

🏄‍♀️🎣Choose between two unique areas: Surfside Inn and Suites for a laid-back beach vibe, or Dockside Inn and Suites for a coastal feel. Staying at either means you’re just minutes away from the parks and CityWalk, get all the benefits of staying on property like complimentary transportation, early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and more, all while keeping your vacation budget in check. Plus, there’s a Starbucks on-site to keep your energy up all day long.

06/19/2024

📣🛳️ Heads up, future cruisers! Picking the perfect stateroom on a Disney Cruise isn't as simple as eeny, meeny, miny, moe. Trust me, cruise staterooms are not created equally! From cozy inside cabins to sprawling suites with ocean views, the options can truly be overwhelming. 🤯

🤔 For example: did you know there are several categories, each with their own perks and quirks? Choosing the right one can make a big difference in your cruise experience. Oceanview or verandah? Near the elevators or tucked away for peace and quiet? The decisions are endless!

06/18/2024

📣Today, Disney Cruise Line released two seasons of thrilling itineraries, spanning sailings from fall 2025 to spring 2026.

⭐️Bookings open to the public on June 28, 2024. Clients that are Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club and select other affinity groups may take advantage of the following early booking windows:

~Pearl Castaway Club Members: Monday, June 24, 2024
~Platinum Castaway Club Members, Golden Oak and Club 33 Members: Tuesday, June 25, 2024
~Gold Castaway Club Members: Wednesday, June 26, 2024
~Silver Castaway Club Members, Disney Vacation Club and Adventure Insiders: Thursday, June 27, 2024
~Bookings open to all Guests: Friday, June 28, 2024

📨Let's get your adventure started! lookingglasstravel.com/contact.html for more info!

06/18/2024

😋 Just because you aren’t staying at a particular resort doesn’t mean that you can’t dine at their amazing restaurants. IN FACT, I encourage all my guests to get out and explore ALL the resorts and eat their way through all of their menus. Some of the best dining options are actually at Disney resorts rather than in the parks or in Disney Springs. Kona Cafe at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has amazing dishes with a unique island flair AND even better, reservations are fairly easy to get. 🥞 How about a macadamia nut pancake breakfast and then hop on the monorail to Magic Kingdom to start your day? 🍱Or enjoy sushi with your Ohana and watch the fireworks from the beach? What resort restaurant have you tried on a whim that’s completely blown you away? 🤯

06/16/2024

06/15/2024

⚡️🏁🏎️🛻 Ka-Chow! Got a fan of Tow Mater, Lightning McQueen and the rest of the Cars gang in your pit crew? Buckle up because Disney California Adventure Park’s Radiator Springs Racers is a MUST-DO! This isn't just any ride; it’s a high-speed race through the iconic Ornament Valley that is so well done you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right inside the Cars movies.

Just a couple of pro tips to make your visit even better:

📏 Racers need to be at least 40 inches tall

☀️ Ride first thing in the morning for the shortest wait

⚡️ Purchase Individual Lightning Lane to bypass the standby line

📸 Smile for the photo!

06/14/2024

🎉 Today in Disney history we celebrate the dedications of the Disneyland Monorail and Matterhorn Bobsleds, as well as the opening of Alice in Wonderland with some “Did You Know” facts:

🚝 Disneyland Monorail: Is there anything more “Disney” than the monorail?! Pro-tip: you can ONLY ride the monorail if you have a Disneyland park ticket 🎟️.

🛷 Matterhorn Bobsleds: On this thrill ride, you’ll narrowly escape a Yeti encounter ❄️. (For Walt Disney World veterans, think Space Mountain 🌌 with an Expedition Everest vibe 🏔️). Did ya know there is a hidden basketball court 🏀 inside the mountain?!

🐇 Alice in Wonderland: This classic dark ride is an indoor/outdoor experience that puts you inside the movie 🎬. Definitely a must-do at Disneyland! 🌟

06/13/2024

🧙‍♀️ Have some little Harry Potter fans who aren’t quite ready to tackle Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey?
🦉 Give Flight of the Hippogriff a shot. Located in Islands of Adventure in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade, you’ll work your way through Hagrid’s pumpkin patch 🎃 and even catch a quick glimpse at our old pal, Buckbeak. 🐦

⚠️ A few words of warning: riders must be at least 36 inches to ride, and riders under 48 inches need an adult rider. While adults may feel a little cramped in the ride vehicles, just know that the ride is short and sweet and included with the Express Pass.

06/12/2024

🚢🌹✨ When we talk about Disney Cruise Line vacations we talk a lot about “me and we time.” The beautiful mix of doing things as a family and also having the freedom to do things on our own. 🥀 The Rose lounge aboard the Disney Wish is the perfect example of subtle Disney theming (we see you, enchanted rose). Guests can enjoy some drinks, ambiance and relax in this upscale adult atmosphere. Can you imagine a family vacation where EVERYONE gets to do what they want to do?! Stop wishing on rose petals. I can make that happen for you, and no spells necessary!

🚢🥀✨ Who else loves finding these adult-centric spots on a Disney cruise? The Rose Lounge is just the beginning. Share your favorite grown-up Disney cruise experiences or reach out if you want to plan one! Message me today!

06/11/2024

👋 Hola! Bonjour! Hallo! Jambo! Ciao! How about some fun facts about “it’s a small world”? 🩵💛💚🩷

✔️It was part of the 1964 New York World’s Fair 🌎🎡

✔️Its music was written by the legendary Sherman brothers 🎶

✔️The Disneyland version includes characters from some of our favorite Disney movies like Cinderella, The Three Caballeros, The Little Mermaid, Toy Story, and more 👸🦜🧜‍♀️🤠

Mary Blair created the iconic designs, and you can find more of her work around Disney’s Contemporary Resort 🎨



😍😠 Many people have, let’s say, strong opinions about the song, but it IS a classic and “the happiest cruise that ever sailed” should be experienced at least once.

06/10/2024

🍔🥢Did you really visit Magic Kingdom if you didn't stop by the Adventureland Spring Roll Cart for some cheeseburger spring rolls? These savory snacks have gained almost legendary🌟status among Disney fans. If you’re just discovering them now, imagine all the goodness of a cheeseburger packed into a crispy spring roll. There will also be a second flavor to choose from (usually pizza) but it varies. 🍕

06/09/2024

🕷️ Hey, Spider-Man super-fans: Did you know that Disneyland is where it’s at for the ultimate Spidey experience? Over at Disney California Adventure Park’s Avengers Campus, aspiring web-slingers can live out their superhero dreams in ways you’ve got to see to believe! From watching Spider-Man soar through the sky in an incredible aerial stunt show to helping Peter Parker in the interactive WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure ride, the adventures do not disappoint! And let’s not forget about the merch (hello, spider bots!🤖) and the chance to meet Spider-Man himself. 🕸️

06/07/2024

🍫🍦 Hey, it’s National Chocolate Ice Cream Day! Next time you're wandering around the Italy Pavilion in EPCOT, make a beeline for Gelateria Toscana. Seriously, their chocolate gelato is possibly the richest, creamiest you’ll ever have. Warning though, it may ruin all other ice creams for you—in the best way, of course! But it’s not just chocolate they have, their menu is surprisingly extensive!📜

🍨🍦So, what’s it gonna be for you? Cup or cone? 🍹Or a frozen cocktail? (they have those too!) Drop your pick in the comments!

06/05/2024

📣 Pin traders, listen up! You might have your Disney pin trading game down to a science, but did you know Universal Orlando Resort is also in on the action? Yep, pin trading isn’t just a Disney thing!

Now, it’s a bit different at Universal. The trading spots are fewer, and the rules aren't quite the same (pin size is a factor), but it is a “thing” and can be a lot of fun! Plus it’s just a natural fit here since lanyards are well used by all on a Universal Studios vacation.🎢

🤔 Did you know about this? If so, got any tips for first-time Universal pin traders? Drop your pointers below! 👇

06/04/2024

🌟🎉 Welcome, "F" Family, to Disney's Art of Animation Resort! 🌟🎉

🏰✨ Get ready to step into a world of imagination and magic, where every corner is filled with colorful characters and enchanting stories. From the whimsical settings to the delightful details, there's so much for you to discover and enjoy.

📸 Don’t forget to capture every magical memory and share your experiences with me! I can't wait to see all the joy, laughter, and special moments you'll create during your stay.

Let the adventure begin! 🎠🎇🌈

06/04/2024

Disney really TURNED IT UP 🎵 with the All-Star Music Resort! Whether you’re looking for show tunes 🎭, country 🤠, jazz 🎷, rock 🎸, or calypso 🏝️, your signature musical taste is represented! Not only is the theming fun 🎉, but guys, the price can’t be beat 💰.

The All-Star resorts are the most affordable on-property options, but that doesn’t mean you are getting a bottom of the barrel room. Standard rooms 🛏️ have recently been renovated AND this resort is also home to family suites that sleep up to 6 (plus an infant 👶)! Families, Disney sees you!

06/03/2024

🚢🚲🏝️ Disney Cruisers, have you ever considered renting a bike while on Castaway Cay? Exploring the island on two wheels is the ultimate way to see all those hidden nooks, crannies and lookouts that you'd miss just lounging on the beach. Plus, at times it can feel like you're the only ones there—talk about VIP feels without the cabana rental cost! (Speaking of cabanas, a one hour bike rental is included the cost if you’re able to snag one).

05/29/2024

🤑🏨🎉SAVE A BUNDLE AT DISNEYLAND! Consider staying at a Disneyland Good Neighbor Hotel. Just steps away from the theme park gates, some are even closer than Disney’s own properties! Here are five reasons why they’re a smart choice:

✨The fantastic range of prices make a Disneyland visit more affordable. Save money without sacrificing location.

✨Some offer complimentary breakfast which helps stack your savings and leaves more time for fun in the parks.

✨Many feature fantastic pools and water play areas, perfect for a family fun day or relaxing after walking the parks.

✨Each Good Neighbor Hotel meets Disney’s standards for quality and guest service, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

✨With some located even closer to the parks than Disney’s own hotels, you can go all day long with just a short trek to your comfy, affordable, magical home away from home.

05/28/2024

🍔🦖🌎 If you’re looking for the perfect pit stop in the heart of Universal’s dinosaur territory, The Burger Digs is where it’s at! Offering not just juicy burgers, crispy fries and chicken sandwiches, but also an awesome view of some prehistoric pals. Located adjacent to and inside of The Discovery Center, which is full of dinos, it’s an ideal spot to relax and refuel before, during or after your Jurassic explorations.

📌PRO TIP: Avoid extinct-level hunger by mobile ordering through the Universal app. It's a great way to order without battling the crowds—or trying to read those fast-moving menu screens! 📲

05/24/2024

🐇or 🐢?
Drop your emoji in the comments 👇

I am definitely the 🐇 type 🤪

05/23/2024

🌛🌳🎭 What’s your take on Animal Kingdom evenings? Should this park have a nighttime show, or is its serene, early closure part of its unique charm?

🎶🚥On one hand, a nighttime spectacular with lights, music, and stories along the river could add a special finale to a day of adventure.

🌅 On the other, there’s something uniquely peaceful about Animal Kingdom winding down as the sun sets. The earlier closing time definitely respects the wildlife and honestly, gives families a more relaxed pace. When there is no option to burn the midnight oil, you tend to rest and relax at the resort more.

05/22/2024

👓👓👓

05/22/2024

🛂 🤔 Pondering passports? Although a birth certificate might suffice for closed-loop cruises (those that begin and end at the same U.S. port), a passport allows for smoother processing at international ports and can be a lifesaver should you need to fly back to the U.S. from a foreign port in an emergency. 🚨 Plus, some ports require passports if you want to disembark and explore. 🚖

😎 Who has a passport and if you do, tell us where it’s been stamped!
✈Mexico is in the books for me!

05/21/2024

🌴🏝️ Introducing Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows! 🏝️🌴

Opening December 2024, the new 10-story Island Tower will take you on a magical journey inspired by Polynesia and Disney!

🌊 Perfect Location: Overlooking Seven Seas Lagoon and within walking distance to the Disney Monorail, making it ideal for visiting Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.

🛖Stunning Design: Traditional Polynesian tattoo designs, including a beautiful Manta Ray symbolizing freedom and grace.

🐠Inspiring Lobby: Ceiling panels showcasing wildlife and cultural symbols from Polynesian Islands.

🏝️Unique Art: Collaborations with global artists, featuring preserved moss walls and sculptures from recycled materials.

✨Variety of Rooms: From duo studios to two-bedroom penthouse villas, accommodating 2-9 guests.

📅 Reservations Open June 6! Contact me today to secure this beautiful new addition before it sells out!

😍 Check out our little Moana who can't wait to stay here!

(Please note this video was NOT taken at the resort 😊)

05/20/2024

🫣Valid concern: “Will I be disappointed by Tom Sawyer Island?”

⏳💸Time is money at Walt Disney World and nobody wants to feel like they’ve wasted any. Most Disney theme parks are a blend of amazing technologically advanced, thrilling and sophisticated attractions mixed with some feel-good classics that represent a bygone era of simpler times and a slower pace. Tom Sawyer Island falls into the latter category and it shines!

🔎⛺️🛶Explore mines, discover a fort, have a picnic lunch, let kids burn energy at the playground, enjoy picturesque views and just “be”, secluded from the hustle happening in every other area of Magic Kingdom. If you feel that sounds like a hard pass, then Tom Sawyer Island probably isn’t for you.