Asthejoeflies - Joseph Cheung, Specializing in Disney destinations

28/06/2024

June Destination of the Month - Alaska

WHO should go: Alaska is a bucket list item for lots of travelers and it’s likely on your list already. But if not - wildlife, glaciers, dramatic landscapes, peace and quiet - Alaska has it all.

WHAT to do: Since you’re typically following along with a cruise or a tour, a lot of things will be decided for you, but my favorite thing was just enjoying the beauty of the Inside Passage from the cruise ship - calm waters and rugged landscapes mostly untouched by people.

HOW to get to Alaska: You can fly in directly (probably to Anchorage) or of course you can take a cruise ship. Most cruises leave out of Seattle or Vancouver (both beautiful cities worth a day or two before or after your cruise). If you sail out of Seattle, with most cruise lines you won’t even need a passport, just birth certificate and ID.

WHERE to book: I’ve booked clients to Alaska on Norwegian, Royal, Celebrity, Princess, and of course Disney Cruise Line, but don’t sleep on taking a land tour with either with a company like Kensington or on your own. Cruise lines like Princess even will combine land tours with a cruise.

WHEN to plan a trip: You probably already know whether you’re going to Alaska in 2024, lol, but if you want to go next summer or even in 2026 the best time to plan is now! Most cruise lines have refundable deposit options and prices typically go up over time. If you’re thinking about it, reach out here or at [email protected] and I’d be happy to help!

31/03/2024

March Destination of the Month - Ireland

WHO should go: Nature lovers - this is the country for you. The Irish have justifiably earned their association with the color green - one visit to this beautiful country will prove that quickly. The cities are great and there’s a vibrant pub culture but the beautiful sights are what does it for me.

WHAT to eat: We found Ireland to be a very meat and potatoes type of country. Between that and fish and chips we ate quite well, but don’t sleep on the seafood. Also, whether you want to or not, you should probably try a beef and Guinness pie. Speaking of which, if you like beer, definitely check out the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. Half museum half brewery, we had a ton of fun there and we’re not big beer drinkers.

WHERE to go: Yes, spend a day or two in Dublin but then get out and explore. We rented a car and spent four days just driving around the entire country. The Ring of Kerry used to get all the publicity but we found the Di**le Peninsula to be more enjoyable (granted, we were there during shoulder season). The Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and the Rock of Cashel (note: not a rock) - we hit these all and just wanted more from the country! If you enjoy scenery while driving, get over your fear of driving on “the wrong side” and explore this beautiful country by car. If I can squeeze one more in - the Inch Strand - spectacular.

WHEN to go: Obviously, this is March’s destination of the month for a reason, but we traveled in November and it was great. We found the clouds and rain just made the scenery look that much more dramatic. Summers are milder than most places here in the US, but of course that’s when the crowds back up on the peninsula roads.

WHY visit Ireland: Irish people have a reputation for being super friendly and that was exactly our experience. Welcoming people. Beautiful sights. Food and drink. Less than a 6 hour flight from the East Coast. What’s left to ponder?

Di**le Peninsula | The Burren | Cliffs of Moher | Inch Strand | Cows | Guiness

01/03/2024

February Destination of the Month - Japan

WHO should go: Fans of Japanese culture will of course want to visit, but Japan will appeal to interests of all kinds: nature, skiing, culture, city lovers, tech nerds, and of course train aficionados (like my son). Especially great for adults and families with teenagers

WHAT to eat: You know sushi and teriyaki type dishes, but if you’re visiting Japan try to check out an Izakaya restaurant (it’s Japanese pub food but there a million things to try). Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake dish, katsu (breaded and fried meat), udon, the options are endless. We’ve also really enjoyed kaiseki - set menu meals. “If I had to eat only in one city for the rest of my life, Tokyo would be it.” - Anthony Bourdain

WHERE to go: Grab a JR Rail pass and hit a few cities - Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe are very doable in even just a week on Honshu. If you’re visiting in July and August and up for a challenge, hike Mt. Fuji. Visit Hokkaido if you’re up for an extra flight and relax in the hot springs while enjoying some ice cream

WHEN to go: If you want to avoid crowds avoid Golden Week, New Year’s, and . But with skiing in the winter, cherry blossoms in the spring, Mt. Fuji in the summer, and moderate temperatures in the fall - there really never is a bad time to visit Japan.

WHY visit Japan: If the above hasn’t convinced you - here’s an off the beat reason - Japan is one of the most efficient cultures we’ve ever visited - the subway and rail system is one of the best in the world (and on my son’s bucket list!) Beyond that, Japanese culture is something that needs to be experienced in person - put it on the list! Oh and it just happens to have one of the best Disney resorts in the world 🙂

Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo | 3400m up Mt. Fuji | teamLab Borderless, Tokyo | Snow crab, Sapporo | Hokkaido soft serve | Otaru Snow Light Path Festival | Tokyo DisneySea

01/02/2024

January’s Destination of the Month - where else - Walt Disney World

WHO should go: Disney World is for all ages, but there are two ages I particularly enjoy. Under 5s still think everything and everyone in the parks, like characters, are real which is a magical experience (bonus: kids under 3 are free). Another great age: older grade school children when they are into the thrill rides but still not too “cool” for Disney.

WHAT you need to know: Disney World can be intimidating and complicated (four theme parks, two water parks, an extensive shopping center, and 20+ hotels: how could it not be?) - but a good travel agent (shameless plug, [email protected]) and research beforehand with good resources (another shameless plug, podcast) can really prepare you.

WHERE to stay: We love staying on site “in the bubble” at a Disney resort hotel but there are plenty or other options to fit any budget or preference. But Disney hotels get perks like early entry and free parking - plus with Disney’s extensive transportation system and you can just stay inside the magic the entire time. Deluxe resort guests even get extended evening hours in the parks - perfect for those who hate long lines.

WHEN to go: Want to avoid the biggest crowds? Go in shoulder season (early Feb., May, Sept.). If you love the holidays, early Dec. after Thanksgiving is a great time to go. Summer has been less busy the past few years but it’s hot! Looking for the best 3 day weekend of the year to go? Labor Day is your weekend.

WHY visit Walt Disney World: It’s one of the most visited US destinations for a reason - it’s brought happiness and joy to countless families over the years and continues to do so. With wonderfully themed lands, exciting attractions, and some of the best customer service on the planet, it’s one of my favorite places to visit!

Journey of Water @ EPCOT, Tree of Life @ Animal Kingdom, Tower of Terror @ Hollywood Studios, Cinderella’s Castle @ Magic Kingdom, Gran Destino Tower @ Coronado Springs Hotel

07/01/2024

One million downloads!

Thank you to all our listeners over the years from both and - we hope we've helped all of our listeners save money, time, and stress as you've planned your Disney vacations, whether you've download all of our 300+ episodes or just one.

In honor of the milestone, here are some of our favorite episodes:

Genie+ 101 (Youtube): https://youtu.be/bFtV64mECoo?si=hFBw79ZYWwI73d0A

Disney Splurges! (Episode 300): https://open.spotify.com/episode/4FUc3470uPq0OqHZe1Ez8l?si=KAzlImroQhWg-fvaFk-zmA

Happy 40th Birthday to EPCOT: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ZqQqSLE5LEyU5a3k14pSp?si=peQVxHTxRpa9neBROKHhJg

And one of our all-time favorites, How to Deal With Disney Withdrawal 😂: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5qD1gZ6DbyV2kPhVObppLs?si=AwDGbg_DQ9WkPRQ7z2uKIQ

Thanks for listening!

30/12/2023

I've officially closed the books for client travel in 2023 (unless you need to go somewhere in the next two days 😂)

Miles were flown, roller coasters were screamed on, seas were sailed, and lifelong memories were made.

Happy new year to you and your loved ones and here's to a travel filled 2024 for us all!

01/12/2023

Top 20! Excited and humbled to announce that I'm honored to be one of the Top 20 for sales in 2023. A bit wild to think about being in the Top 20 for two years in a row with so many great agents in this 1700+ person company, including the other amazing honorees this year.

To all of my clients, past, present, and future - thank you so much for trusting me with your family's vacations. The memories we create when we travel last a lifetime. Here's to many, many more happy memories for you and your loved ones.

Thanks!

07/09/2023

"Well, I'm back"

School's in session tomorrow so summer's over - we had a great one and hope you and your family did too.

I know my clients who traveled this summer had epic trips as well - thanks to you all I made it into the Top 15 in sales at Travelmation for *both* July and August.

It's not too early to start planning Summer 2024, or book the new Disney Treasure, or to prepare to go on an adventure. Reach out [email protected] and I'd love to help. Happy fall everyone!

Pictured:
Hobbiton | USWNT vs. Portugal | Muriwai Beach | Sydney Opera House | QVB in Sydney | The Three Sisters | The Halcyon

15/06/2023

Disney World DISCOUNTS for the fall!

As expected, Disney just released a variety of discounts for this fall and I spent two hours this morning rebooking all of my clients who were eligible into the new, cheaper rates.

There are general, annual passholder, Disney+ subscriber, and Florida resident discounts - you're probably eligible for at least one of those :)

If you're thinking of going to Disney, fall is a great time to go, better weather on average, the parks are decorated (Halloween or Christmas, depending on when you go), and there are some shoulder weeks with GREAT crowds. If you're interested, reach out to [email protected] today.

17/03/2023

Hey that's us!

01/03/2023

✈️➡️🌐➡️🎸➡️🏰➡️🦏➡️⛱➡️🛳➡️🏝➡️🛳➡️✈️

The toughest clients are always the ones you love the most - sent this family on an epic 10 day Disney land and sea trip starting in Orlando and ending in Miami on the Disney Dream. The trip wasn't perfect but despite some challenges including the busiest Disney World has been in 2023 (Genie+ sold out!) we made memories to last a lifetime. Here are 10 pictures from our trip, one from each day. Enjoy!

PS - Thanks to all my other clients for your patience on my extended break. I'm back to work and ready to help you and your families make memories of your own :)

22/01/2023

Woops! Eclipsed the Scarlet Lady by mistake, party foul. Thanks to for sponsoring the Gold producers lounge - looking forward to sailing them someday soon!

18/01/2023

Here's a Genie+ primer you can bookmark and watch before you take your trip!

What is Genie+? What is a Lightning Lane? And what does a working understanding of those two (and many more questions) do to help you improve your Walt Disne...

05/01/2023

Everyone's excited about the new Disney Dining Card promo (get up to $150 *per night of stay* on a Disney dining card for select full priced stays this summer). It's fine, but the real winner in my mind is the quietly released spring room discount - up to 25% off stays April thru June. I saw a standard room at the Boardwalk this June for $436/night before tax which is a great rate for that hotel. We loved our stay at the Boardwalk last year (pictured).

When clients book through me, they pay the same prices that Disney charges, with the added benefit of having someone to walk you through all the ins and outs of complicated Disney planning AND someone to monitor discounts for you.

This morning I saved clients hundreds of dollars each on average just by rebooking them into the newly released discounts (I just finished working on all their reservations and then came to post this ha).

If you're planning a trip to Disney please reach out for a quote, I promise to make your life easier and to save you as much money as I can!

📩: [email protected]
🌐: https://bit.ly/asthejoefliesform

04/01/2023

If you're thinking of visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland in 2023, here's what's coming and some suggestions of good times to go - please like and subscribe :)

We chat about what’s coming to the Disney Parks in 2023 and discuss when our ideal times to visit both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort this year woul...

02/01/2023

I don't normally get too into these kinds of things but must say it's *pretty rad* that Travelmation is now earmarked Diamond for Disney Destinations - apparently there are less than ten agencies that qualify for that designation.

Happy to do my part to help book people's Disney vacations :) Reach out if you need anything!

30/12/2022

What a year! It's been a blast helping so many families and friends meet their vacation goals this year. Thanks to each and every one of you who trusted me to help get you to where you wanted to go, whether it be 🏰,🛳, or 🏝.

Thanks to you all taking all these trips I was honored to be named one of the Top 20 agents this year - out of over 1000. I was also one of three nominees for Travelmation Travel Agent of the Year - something that was only possible because we worked together. THANK YOU! 🎉

If you're looking to travel in 2023 or beyond, I'd love to help you and your loved ones plan your trips - and it's all no cost to you. Disney, cruises, all inclusives, whatever you need - please don't hesitate to reach out.

Happy new year everyone and here's to a travel filled 2023!

📩: [email protected]
🎙: https://youtube.com/
🌐: www.asthejoeflies.com

14/10/2022

Friday news dump:

Honored and thankful to be one of three nominees for Travelmation Agent of the Year. It's been a fun year - thanks to all the clients and families who have helped to make this possible. We have over 1000 agents so it really is humbling to be nominated.

Winner announced at the Travelmation Retreat in early 2023!

Congrats to fellow nominees Travelmation - Jordana Izzo - Specializing in Family Vacations and Travelmation - Mindy Maitland, Specializing in Vacation Destinations 🙂

28/07/2022

July got a bit out of hand so this post is super late, but wanted to thank all my clients for helping me be one of the top agents on my team for the first half of 2022 and in the top 15 in paid sales in ALL of Travelmation back in June!

It's been a pleasure and honor helping so many of you plan your trips. This year clients have traveled to/on:

- Walt Disney World (natch)
- Disneyland Resort
- The brand new Disney Wish
- Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Lines, and Seabourne Cruise Line
- Beaches in Turks & Caicos
- Universal Orlando

And a whole lot more. If you're looking at 2023 travel or even a last minute trip this fall, please reach out at [email protected] and I'd love to help.

And once again a big THANK YOU to all my clients!

05/04/2022

It's Disney World discount time again! Disney just released discounts for Disney+ subscribers of up to 25% off for stays from July 8-Sept 30 , including at the Boardwalk Inn where we stayed in February (pictured below). In the hour since the discount was released, I rebooked all of my eligible clients' reservations for a savings of $820 on average per client. This is the standard service all my clients can expect when they book their travel with me - and it doesn't cost an extra penny more than what Disney charges.

Speaking of which, I want to take this opportunity (since I don't post very much) to thank all of my clients - March was a very busy month but I was excited to help people plan a LOT of vacations - to Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, Prague, the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser, Seabourne Cruises, and a whole lot more. I really appreciate everyone who has given me a chance to make their vacation plans a reality.

If you're looking to plan a vacation, please don't hesitate to reach out at [email protected] or on my booking form.
http://tinyurl.com/asthejoeflies

06/01/2022

Disney World release a bunch of discounts running from March-July today. I spent all day on hold (both on the phone and on the computer since apparently Disney has made that a thing now) rebooking eligible clients into cheaper rates - an average of about $230 per client that I could rebook.

Not all stays are eligible but part of what I do as a travel agent is make sure I get all my eligible clients the discounts they qualify for.

I'm done with all that now, so if you're looking to book a trip during that time period or whenever - hit me up and I'd be happy to help! [email protected] or fill out the form on asthejoeflies.com

Pictured: Art of Animation where I booked a family suite today

31/12/2021

It was a fun year booking travel for so many families this year. Thanks to everyone who trusted me with your trips and for allowing me to be a small part of your family memories. For anyone looking to plan travel in 2022 (or 2023, thanks Omicron) to Disney, Universal, or beyond - I'd love to help out.

It's *no cost to you* and it also turns out I really enjoy helping people plan trips! Go figure 😂

Contact me at [email protected] or check out my finally revamped website asthejoeflies.com.

(PS - thanks to my sister in law for updated graphic)

27/10/2021

The 50th anniversary celebration is in full swing and going on for a loooong time. If you're looking to go, reach out [email protected] and I'd be happy to help!

Join in the glow of The World’s Most Magical Celebration as Walt Disney World® Resort celebrates 50 years. Learn More - https://tinyurl.com/3h8xzmb6 -

17/06/2021

As of today, every Disney park in the world is open again for the first time since last year! Disney World also keeps bringing back lots of things that have been missing, including fireworks which return July 1st.

If you're looking to book a Disney vacation, please consider using me as your travel agent. It's no cost to you and I can help you navigate all the changes that have happened at Disney over the last year so you're fully prepared to enjoy your vacation.

If you're looking to minimize stress and cost while planning your vacation, e-mail [email protected] for a no obligation quote today.

I can also help you booking Universal, cruises, or really any travel you plan to pay with cash.

23/04/2021

If you're ready to travel back to Disney World again, you can still take advantage of a limited time promotion Disney is running. Get 2 extra days added to your ticket when you buy a 4-night/3-day room-and-ticket package at select Disney Resort hotels, valid for arrivals most nights July 4, 2021 through September 25, 2021.

This deal ends on 5/2 so don't sleep.

E-mail [email protected] if you're interested in this, Disneyland, Universal, or even Disney Cruise Line for 2022!

P.S. - Working with me as your travel agent would be no cost to you!

23/03/2021

Starting to finally believe that I will get to Castaway Cay again in the near future (pictured below)! Disney Cruise Line is opening up their Summer 2022 sailings for bookings. I'm planning to rebook my 2021 cruise to Alaska to next July.

If you're thinking of sailing again (on Disney or any cruise line), you can let me wait on hold for you for hours so you don't have to worry about it yourself. I'll help you find the best deal and the best stateroom. On some cruises you may even qualify for an onboard credit.

Send me a message or e-mail me [email protected] - we're not quite on the other side of things yet but I believe by summer 2022 we will be!