Derek with Magic Lamp Vacations

Derek with Magic Lamp Vacations Magic Lamp Vacations® is premiere, full-service travel agency.

While we're most known as being the worldwide Disney and Universal vacation-planning experts, we also love planning cruise vacations, all-inclusive vacations, Hawaii, Alaska, and Europe.

Disney fans, Halloween lovers, and thrill-seekers alike—get ready for a night of spooky magic at Disney California Adven...
04/09/2025

Disney fans, Halloween lovers, and thrill-seekers alike—get ready for a night of spooky magic at Disney California Adventure! Oogie Boogie Bash is coming back, and it’s gonna be bigger and better than ever! Here’s everything you need to know to make your night unforgettable:

🎃 Event Dates: The party runs on select nights from August 17th through October 31, 2025. With 31 nights to choose from, you’ll have plenty of chances to join the fun—but tickets sell out fast, so don’t wait to contact your favorite Travel Genie!

🎃 Early Entry Perks: Your ticket grants you access to Disney California Adventure as early as 3:00 PM, even though the party officially starts at 6:00 PM. Use this time to enjoy attractions before diving into the exclusive event activities.

🎃 Villain’s Grove: Step into the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, transformed into a mesmerizing and eerie Villain’s Grove. This immersive experience features stunning lights, sounds, and effects that bring Disney villains to life in a whole new way.

🎃 Interactive Treat Trails: Trick-or-treating gets a magical twist with interactive trails overseen by Disney villains. Collect candy while enjoying unique character encounters—perfect for kids and adults alike!

🎃 Exclusive Entertainment: Don’t miss the Frightfully Fun Parade, featuring the Headless Horseman and a lineup of Disney villains. Plus, enjoy Halloween-themed stage shows and attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark.

🎃 Costume Fun: Dress up as your favorite Disney character, villain, or Halloween creation! Costumes are welcome for all ages during this event, but be sure to follow Disney’s guidelines for a safe and magical experience.

🎃 Halloween Treats: Indulge in event-exclusive snacks and drinks that are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy. From pumpkin spice delights to spooky-themed desserts, there’s something for every foodie.

Whether you’re a Disney die-hard or a Halloween newbie, the Oogie Boogie Bash is the perfect way to celebrate the season in style. Get ready for a night of thrills, chills, and unforgettable memories!

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Attention, theme park adventurers and magic seekers! Universal Epic Universe is getting ready to take us on a journey be...
04/08/2025

Attention, theme park adventurers and magic seekers! Universal Epic Universe is getting ready to take us on a journey beyond imagination, and the sneak peeks are already blowing our minds. Here's why this park is going to be a game-changer:

🍔 Foodie Dreams Come True - If you're a fan of immersive dining, you're in for a treat! Imagine devouring Butterbeer Crêpes at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, diving into Dragon-themed delights in the Isle of Berk, or savoring futuristic bites at a galactic-inspired food court. The menu previews are so mouthwatering, they're practically calling for a dedicated Instagram highlight. Get your taste buds ready—every bite will be an adventure!

🛍️ Merch Madness - Calling all collectors and fans of epic swag! From playful items like the light-up Super Star Popcorn Bucket to the official wand stand and harness that will make you feel like you're stepping into another realm, this merch is pure magic. Whether you're a Nintendo fan, a Wizarding World enthusiast, or just someone who loves unique souvenirs, there's something for everyone. Start planning your shopping haul now, because these items are sure to fly off the shelves!

🌍 Save the Date! Mark your calendars for May 22, 2025—the grand opening of Universal Epic Universe. This park promises a whole new level of immersion with themed lands, cutting-edge attractions, and experiences that will make every visitor feel like the hero of their own story. It’s not just a park; it’s a universe waiting to be explored.

✨ Which land are you most excited to visit? Will you be trying all the foodie finds or hunting for the most magical merch? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Don't let your next cruise be a disaster! By using my expert planning services, you have the best chances at:💲Saving Mon...
04/07/2025

Don't let your next cruise be a disaster! By using my expert planning services, you have the best chances at:
💲Saving Money: I always hunt for the best deals. Even after booking.
💆Booking those excursions and special onboard activities. These reservation only events often fill up before the cruise even begins, so it's always important to book ahead.
🎉 Having fun! Let's face it, no one likes to have a bad vacation- let alone a bad cruise! Let me help you find the cruise line that fits your lifestyle and personality.

Where can I take you in 2025? Drop a location below to set up a complimentary 15 minute zoom call.

Planning your Disney adventure with a toddler? We’ve got you covered!Magic Kingdom isn't just for the big kids—it's pack...
04/07/2025

Planning your Disney adventure with a toddler? We’ve got you covered!

Magic Kingdom isn't just for the big kids—it's packed with enchanting experiences designed for your little Mouseketeers! From flying high with Dumbo to splashing around at Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station, there's no shortage of pint-sized fun.

Swipe through our carousel to discover the best rides for toddlers! And for the ultimate magical experience, let our Travel Genies wave their wand! They’ll help you plan the perfect Disney getaway with all the toddler-friendly details you need.

04/07/2025

Did you know that I offer referral awards for followers, fans and clients that refer clients who successfully book and travel adventures with me? By referring clients to me, you get a $25 gift card of your choice! It's never too early to start earning extra Holiday funds!

Do you know anyone that wants to travel? Have them email me at [email protected]

04/06/2025

I'm so excited to announce I booked 2 clients on the Virgin Cruise Line's Scarlet Lady! They will be embarking on a 5 night western Caribbean cruise out of Miami. The best part? By tracking sales, I was able to save them 80% off the second traveler AND get them $150 in drink credits.

Where can I take you on the high seas? I am a certified planner for Virgin Cruise Line, Disney and Adventures by Disney. I am currently earning certification from Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Norwegian. Contact [email protected] to plan your next high seas adventure!

04/05/2025

When your travel party suggests you downgrade from Deluxe to Moderate or Value to "save money", but you just aren't willing to sacrifice the extended evening hours, prime proximity to your favorite parks, luxury dining, large guest rooms or amazing facilities.

Today’s the day you step aboard your floating kingdom of thrills! Here’s what you can expect on a Royal Caribbean embark...
04/04/2025

Today’s the day you step aboard your floating kingdom of thrills! Here’s what you can expect on a Royal Caribbean embarkation day:

1️⃣ Drop Off Your Bags with Ease: Once you arrive at the port terminal, hand off your suitcase (with luggage tags attached) to the porter. Your bags will be scanned, loaded onto the ship, and later, magically appear outside your stateroom—talk about stress-free travel!

2️⃣ Check-in Excitement: Flash your passport and SetSail Pass—you’re officially one step closer to vacation bliss!

3️⃣ Muster Up for the Drill: Safety comes first on Royal Caribbean! Take part in a quick and easy muster drill to learn all the essentials—because being prepared is always in style.

4️⃣ Dining Dreams Kick Off: Start exploring Royal's epic dining options—whether it’s a quick bite at Windjammer or a poolside burger.

5️⃣ Get to Know the Ship: Scope out everything from the rock climbing wall to the FlowRider surf simulator, because you’ll want to hit the ground running (or sliding). Make sure you have your swim suit packed in a carry-on bag!

6️⃣ Your Bags Magically Arrive: Luggage delivery is seamless—you’ll find your belongings waiting in your stateroom while you’re off adventuring.

7️⃣ Say Hello to Vacation Mode: They will have the Sail Away party on the pool deck where you can wave to all the people on stuck on land as you sail away! Watch as the dock fades away and the open sea greets you—cue happy dances and toast-worthy moments!

Embarkation day on Royal Caribbean is all about excitement and discovery—where the adventure begins and the fun never stops! Ready to plan your cruise? Our Travel Genies can help you find the perfect ship, stateroom, and itinerary so all you have to do is pack your bags and enjoy the ride!

Dreaming of a magical escape to Disney’s private island paradise? Castaway Cay is where relaxation meets adventure! Whet...
04/03/2025

Dreaming of a magical escape to Disney’s private island paradise? Castaway Cay is where relaxation meets adventure! Whether you’re diving into turquoise waters or feasting on BBQ delights, this Bahamian oasis has something for everyone.

✨Snorkel Your Heart Out: Dive into crystal-clear waters filled with colorful fish, coral reefs, and even hidden Disney surprises—like a sunken Mickey statue!

✨Get Wowed at Pelican Plunge: This floating water play area has slides and splash zones that’ll keep you laughing and drenched. Kids AND grown-ups will love it!

✨Feast at Cookie’s BBQ: Refuel with mouthwatering grilled goodness that includes burgers, ribs, chicken, and sides. Plus, it’s included in your cruise—win-win!

✨Bike Around Paradise 🚲: Pedal through lush trails, scenic views, and hidden gems. Bonus: The island is flat, so no sweat (well, maybe a little—it’s the Bahamas)!

✨Stingray Adventure: Meet and interact with friendly stingrays in a shallow lagoon—feed them, watch them glide, and experience up-close ocean magic!

✨Chill at Serenity Bay: Adults, this one’s for you! Kick back with a fruity drink and soak up the peaceful vibes of Castaway Cay’s exclusive adults-only beach.

Want to make your Disney Cruise planning a breeze? Our Travel Genies specialize in crafting the perfect magical getaway for you and your crew. From securing the best staterooms to insider tips about Castaway Cay, they’ll wave their wand and handle all the details so you can focus on the fun! 🪄

7 Reasons Disneyland is Better Than Disney World (Don’t @ Me, Florida Fans!)1. The OG Magic Kingdom: Disneyland is where...
04/02/2025

7 Reasons Disneyland is Better Than Disney World (Don’t @ Me, Florida Fans!)

1. The OG Magic Kingdom: Disneyland is where it all began—Walt Disney himself strolled these streets and sprinkled his magic here. Florida has a bigger castle; Disneyland has Walt's legacy.

2. Size Matters (In a Good Way): Smaller parks mean less walking and more time riding! At Disneyland, you’re spending less time on foot and more time in line for churros.

3. Park-Hopping Made Easy: Disneyland parks are so close you could skip there—no boats, monorails, or cross-state treks required. It’s practically teleportation!

4. Corn Dog Kingdom: Disneyland’s corn dogs have reached near-mythical status. Fresh, crispy, and iconic—truly a snack fit for royalty.

5. Quirky, Classic Attractions: Disneyland has rides you won’t find anywhere else—like Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and the Matterhorn Bobsleds. These throwbacks are as charming as they are unique! And Disneyland’s Pirates of the Caribbean is longer, spookier, and has skeletons lounging in bed. Your move, Florida.

6. Characters Just Roam Freely: At Disneyland, Mickey, Goofy, and friends often just stroll around the park. It’s like bumping into celebrities—except these stars give hugs and high-fives!

7. West Coast Weather Wins: Sunny California days beat Florida’s humidity any day. No need to shower after walking one block!

All of the parks are amazing, but Disneyland has that extra sprinkle of pixie dust (and corn dogs). Let the Travel Genies wave their planning wands so you can focus on the fun—and maybe bump into Mickey while you’re at it!

The Ministry of Magic is about to cast its spell at Universal Epic Universe, and fans everywhere are gearing up for an a...
04/01/2025

The Ministry of Magic is about to cast its spell at Universal Epic Universe, and fans everywhere are gearing up for an adventure straight out of the Wizarding World! 🪄

Set to open on May 22, 2025, this incredible attraction is shaping up to be one of Universal Epic Universe’s biggest crowd-pleasers. Whether you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan or just looking for the next great adventure, the Ministry of Magic is calling your name! Grab your wand (and your tickets) and get ready to experience wizardry on a whole new level.

Hidden Mickeys are like tiny doses of pixie dust scattered across the Disney parks, adding an extra layer of enchantment...
03/31/2025

Hidden Mickeys are like tiny doses of pixie dust scattered across the Disney parks, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your visit. These cleverly concealed Mickey Mouse shapes were born out of a playful experiment by Disney Imagineers.

Back in the early days of EPCOT's creation, the park was designed to have a more serious, futuristic theme, and Disney characters weren’t intended to be part of the experience. But the Imagineers, with their mischievous streak, couldn’t resist sneaking in their favorite mouse.

So, they hid subtle Mickey silhouettes in the architecture, artwork, and attractions, and thus, the tradition of Hidden Mickeys began. What started as a secret joke among creators has now become a beloved treasure hunt for Disney enthusiasts worldwide.

Some top spots to hunt these Disney Easter eggs:

✨ Magic Kingdom: On Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid, keep your eyes peeled in the queue area. The rocks hide one of the most charming Hidden Mickeys. There’s also a magical surprise in the dining room of Be Our Guest Restaurant, where elegance meets playful design.

🦒 Animal Kingdom: If you explore the carvings on the iconic Tree of Life, you might stumble upon a Hidden Mickey hidden among the leaves and animals. The tree itself is a masterpiece, and these Mickeys add an extra dose of wonder.

🌐 EPCOT: Over at the Living with the Land attraction, sharp-eyed visitors have spotted Mickey shapes cleverly planted in the greenhouse’s vegetation. It’s a bit of Disney magic amidst nature.

🚀 Hollywood Studios: Take a close look at the gears in Star Tours: The Adventures Continue. Among the droids and intergalactic scenery, you might just find a Mickey winking at you.

🛌 Disney Resorts: The fun extends beyond the parks to the resorts. At Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, for example, Hidden Mickeys can be found in the chandeliers and even on the bedspreads in guest rooms.

The best part? They're not officially documented, so every Hidden Mickey you find is like uncovering a Disney secret. Forget "Where's Waldo"; this is "Where's Mickey?"—and it’s way more magical!

Share this with your Disney obsessed friends!

There are an amazing FIVE chances to save on a Walt Disney World vacation with additional options for those wanting to v...
03/29/2025

There are an amazing FIVE chances to save on a Walt Disney World vacation with additional options for those wanting to visit Disneyland. For my clients, I have something that will make you extra "hoppy"! Skip the chocolate bunny and add Mouse Ears this year. Type SPRING in the comments below to receive more information on these amazing offers before they hop away.

Ready for the ultimate family getaway? Royal Caribbean’s fleet has some incredible ships designed with families in mind—...
03/28/2025

Ready for the ultimate family getaway? Royal Caribbean’s fleet has some incredible ships designed with families in mind—and we’ve narrowed down the top three that you’ll absolutely love!

🌟Icon of the Seas - This ship redefines the word "iconic" for families! With the largest water park at sea, Thrill Island, and an entire neighborhood dedicated to kids and teens, there's endless fun for all ages. The AquaDome provides jaw-dropping shows, while Surfside offers a haven for parents and little ones to bond over splash pads and dining tailored for families. Icon of the Seas is truly built for creating magical family moments.

🌟Wonder of the Seas - Wonder no more—it’s the perfect family-friendly ship! With the revolutionary Wonder Playscape, a vibrant space for kids to climb and play, and the Boardwalk featuring carousel rides, dining, and entertainment, the fun doesn’t stop. Add in the Ultimate Abyss slide and FlowRider surf simulator, and your family adventure just leveled up.

🌟Odyssey of the Seas From bumper cars and trapeze at the SeaPlex to game-changing dining experiences for every palate, this ship is a family-friendly masterpiece. Don’t miss the sky-high views from the North Star observation capsule or the immersive entertainment in the Two70° lounge. Odyssey delivers high-tech fun with a side of relaxation for everyone.

On the other hand, Utopia of the Seas = Not as family-oriented. While Royal Caribbean’s newest ship is a marvel, Utopia of the Seas leans heavily into an adult-centric vibe. Think lively nightlife, high-energy parties, and sophisticated dining—not quite the family-friendly focus you’ll find on Icon, Wonder, or Odyssey.

Planning a family cruise can feel overwhelming with so many options to choose from—but that’s where the Travel Genies work their magic! ✨ These cruise experts can help you pick the perfect family-friendly ship, book exciting excursions, and secure the best staterooms to fit your needs. With their insider tips and stress-free planning, your only job will be to pack your bags and get ready to make unforgettable memories!

Schedule a consultation today!

Picture this: You’re lounging by the pool with a tropical drink in hand, your kids are off having the time of their live...
03/27/2025

Picture this: You’re lounging by the pool with a tropical drink in hand, your kids are off having the time of their lives at themed kids’ clubs, and Mickey just walked by waving like you’re lifelong friends. Welcome to a Disney Cruise—the ultimate family vacation that truly has something for everyone.

Here’s why Disney Cruises are a total game changer for families:

✔Non-Stop Fun for the Kids - From meeting their favorite Disney characters to sliding down the AquaDuck water coaster, there’s no such thing as boredom aboard a Disney ship. Plus, the youth clubs are so fun that your kids might not want to leave (giving parents some much-needed “me-time”).

✔Dining Done Right - Rotational dining means your family gets to explore different restaurants every night—with immersive themes like dinner in Arendelle or dining under the sea. And the best part? The servers travel with you and remember exactly how your picky eater likes their mac and cheese.

✔Broadway-Caliber Shows - You’ll be singing “Let It Go” at the top of your lungs at spectacular shows inspired by Disney classics. These performances aren’t just for the kiddos—adults will be just as enchanted.

✔Port Adventures for All Ages - Whether it’s snorkeling, exploring private islands like Castaway Cay, or enjoying cultural excursions, every port day is packed with adventure.

✔Parents’ Paradise - While the kids are off being pirates or princesses, parents can indulge in spa treatments, adult-only dining, and lounges—because Disney knows parents deserve magic too.

Planning a Disney Cruise can feel like navigating a labyrinth of choices, but that’s where the Travel Genies come in. From helping you choose the perfect ship and itinerary to snagging the best staterooms and coordinating port excursions, these experts have your back.

Their insider knowledge and attention to detail ensure your cruise is smooth sailing from start to finish—leaving you more time to daydream about that private cabana on Castaway Cay!

Send this to someone who NEEDS the ultimate family vacay!

Ever wondered what it’s like to experience Disneyland after the sun sets and the stars come out? Disneyland After Dark e...
03/26/2025

Ever wondered what it’s like to experience Disneyland after the sun sets and the stars come out? Disneyland After Dark events offer a unique, after-hours experience filled with exclusive entertainment, rare character meet-and-greets, themed food, and shorter wait times for attractions. But are they worth the extra ticket price? Let’s break it down:

🎉 What You Get:

✅Access to the park from 6 PM with the event running from 9 PM to 1 AM (or longer for some events).

✅Themed nights like Oogie Boogie Bash, Sweethearts’ Nite, 90s Nite, Star Wars Nite, and Pride Nite, each with its own unique vibe.

✅Exclusive entertainment, including themed cavalcades, fireworks, and activities.

✅Rare character appearances and photo ops you won’t find during regular park hours.

✅Special food and drinks crafted just for the event.

🤔 The Catch:

👎Time is limited, and with so much to do, it can feel like a race against the clock.

👎While crowds are smaller, popular activities and characters can still have long lines.

👎Tickets sell out fast, so you’ll need to plan ahead with your favorite Travel Genie.

So, is it worth it? If you’re a Disney fan who loves unique experiences, rare characters, and themed entertainment, these events are a dream come true. However, if you’re looking for a relaxed evening or are on a tight budget, you might want to weigh the cost against what you’ll realistically have time to enjoy.

Are you ready to embrace the magic of Disneyland After Dark? 🌟 Let us know which themed night you’d love to attend!

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two legendary coasters that deliver thrills in their own unique ways. Whether you're...
03/25/2025

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two legendary coasters that deliver thrills in their own unique ways. Whether you're a raptor chaser or a magical motorbike rider, here's the ultimate showdown.

The Stats:

🦖 Jurassic World VelosiCoaster:

Height: 155 feet

Top Speed: 70 mph

Length: 4,700 feet

Inversions: 4 (including a zero-gravity stall!)

Launches: 2 (0–50 mph in 2 seconds, 40–70 mph in 2.4 seconds)

Vibe: Pure adrenaline with a side of raptor chaos. This coaster is all about speed, airtime, and jaw-dropping inversions.

🏍️ Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure:

Height: 65 feet

Top Speed: 50 mph

Length: 5,053 feet

Launches: 7 (a record-breaking number!)

Inversions: None (but it does have a free-fall drop!)

Vibe: A magical journey through the Forbidden Forest, complete with animatronic creatures, immersive storytelling, and a vertical spike that’ll leave you spellbound.

So, which ride wins? It depends on your mood! Are you ready to feel the wind in your hair as you race through the forest, or are you craving the heart-pounding thrill of a raptor chase? Either way, Universal Orlando has you covered.

Which coaster is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

Let's talk about the Magic Lamp Difference. I know I talk a lot about it in my posts, but what exactly is it and how doe...
03/24/2025

Let's talk about the Magic Lamp Difference. I know I talk a lot about it in my posts, but what exactly is it and how does it help you? Read below to find out why my premium services are a cut above the rest:

💆Peace of mind. I am your PERSONAL Travel Genie. No call centers. No big box stores. It's just you, your travel party, and me the whole way through. We call ourselves Genies because we make your wishes come true.

🧾 Accountability. Because there is only one me and no one else, I am fully accountable for the successful groundwork of your trip. Paying for my services ensures that I hold true to my Magic Lamp Promise of always being your travel advocate - even when it lowers a commission or results in unfortunate cancellations or postponement. I will always make sure your investment is protected. Also no booking and running. I'm here the entire way.

✨😎 Celebrity treatment. I will treat you and your party like the VIP's you are! Daily itineraries, travel updates and more. VIP Package Planning super sizes these benefits with even more perks and customization like our Box of Wonders.

Bottom line. By paying for my planning services, you get more: More Value. More Sparkle. More Peace of Mind. Where can I take you this year and beyond?

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