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