Nikki Staniewski, Travel Specialist with MKP Travel

01/14/2025

🛍️ Let’s go shopping! Did you know that when you work with a travel agent, you get your very own personal shopper for vacations? 🧳✨ That’s right! I’ll shop around to find you the best deals 💸, the perfect packages, and all the magical extras 🌟—saving you time, energy, and from overwhelm—because it can be a LOT if you don’t plan vacations every day. Don’t go it alone, put me to work for you! 🙌

Now let’s have a little fun on this Shop for Travel Day! 🎉 Which type of trip is going into your bag:

🏰 Walt Disney World
🎡 Disneyland
🚢 Disney Cruise Line
🎢 Universal Orlando
🏝️ Something Totally Different – Maybe a tropical escape, a National Park road trip, or a European adventure? ✈️

This time of year there are great prices on cruises as well as the excitement for the opening of Epic Universe in Orlando is HUGE!!!

🤔 OK, of the choices above, what are you shopping for? And if you’re ready to “check out”, I’m here to help make that happen! Give me a call ‪☎ 717-850-3436‬ or send me a message

01/13/2025

✨ Who had a sticker collection as a kid? Binders filled with everything from puffy stickers to googly eyes 👀, and of course, the holy grail: scratch-and-sniff stickers. 🤩 If you’ve carried that sticker love into adulthood—or have little ones who are sticker fanatics ❤️—Disney offers plenty of ways to indulge in sticker fun, both FREE and for purchase. 🎉

🎁 Free Fun

🐠 At The Seas with Nemo & Friends, the Dory’s Friends Scavenger Hunt lets you search for sea creatures throughout the SeaBase and comes with stickers.

✨ Many Disney Cast Members carry fun character stickers to share, especially in places like Guest Services, park entrances, gift shops, and Disney Vacation Club kiosks.

🌍 Explore EPCOT’s World Showcase and visit the Kidcot Fun Stops to collect stickers, decorate, and create mini masterpieces inspired by each pavilion.

🎠 Head over to Magic Kingdom for the sweet-scented Smellephants on Parade at Storybook Circus. 🎪🐘

🌺 Plus, during EPCOT festivals like Flower & Garden Festival or Festival of the Arts, scavenger hunt maps (around $9.99) let you track down hidden characters or themed art. Finish the hunt, collect stickers, and score a fun souvenir prize!

I always loved stickers as a child, ok....maybe still a little 😉😁

➡️ How about you? Were (are) stickers your thing? Do you save them in a drawer or deck out your notebooks, binders and cups? 🎨

01/12/2025

🍕 Happy National Pizza Week! Let’s talk about this ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s quick, inexpensive, and always hits the spot—especially when you’re in the middle of a fun-filled day at Universal Studios. 🎢 Before the hunger panic sets in, pop into Louie’s Italian Restaurant. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick slice (or a whole pie!) 🍕 that everyone in your crew will love, and it won’t break the bank. 💰

This is Universal Studios, so stepping into Louie’s feels like walking onto the set of a classic mob movie. 🎬 With its vintage decor and cozy atmosphere, it’s a nice little escape from the hustle and bustle of the park. By the way, there’s more than just pizza on the menu here. 🍝 You can get Italian classics like chicken parm, meatball subs, salads 🥗 and more. Gluten-free pasta is available too! 🌟

Sometimes a quick bite is necessary when you are busy and on the run but a sit down meal is much more enjoyable when possible. Give me any of the delicious Italian food!

🧀 Your turn to share...about how often do you have pizza and what’s your favorite topping? Or is plain cheese your go-to?

01/11/2025

👋🥰 Hello, friends! It’s been a while since I introduced myself, so I thought now would be the perfect time to say hi and share a little about me! I’m Nikki , and I’m a travel professional who works with families, couples, and adventure seekers to plan vacations they’ll remember forever. Whether it’s your first trip or 20th, I’m here to make the process seamless, stress-free, and fun!

Here are a few quick facts about me:

I live in York, PA and love photography in my downtime.

I can’t start my day without a big cup of coffee (or maybe two!)

My happy place is Magic Kingdom, and my favorite travel memory is going to Barcelona to depart for our 14 night transatlantic cruise

I specialize in planning trips to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, and anything in the cruise realm but I love helping with other adventures too!

🎉If you’re new here, WELCOME! This is where I share tips, updates, and inspiration for your dream vacations. If you’ve been here a while, THANK YOU for being a part of our community.🥰 Either way—tell me in the comments:

What’s the #1 destination on your bucket list right now? ✈️

Let’s get to know each other better! Feel free to ask me questions, share your travel dreams, or just say hi below. I’m so happy you’re here! ✨

01/10/2025

Another update from our friends at Universal. 🙏

Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk will be open on Friday, January 10 and will resume regular operating hours. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to those impacted by the recent and ongoing fires, as well as our deepest appreciation to the first responders for their valiant and ongoing efforts during this difficult time.

01/10/2025

Shrek & friends are BACK! 🧅💚 After Shrek 4-D closed back in 2022, fans wondered what was next for our swamp-loving ogre. Now, he’s returned in a BIG way with immersive experiences and interactions in Universal Orlando’s DreamWorks Land! 🎉✨ Here are just a few things to look forward to:

🛝 Shrek’s Swamp - A play area where little ogres can get the wiggles out and even splash around! No worries, there are walk-in drying machines nearby! 🌬️

📸 Shrek’s Swamp Meet - Get your photo taken with the big green guy himself, Princess Fiona and Donkey. At least when they aren’t busy making waffles! 🧇

🥨 Swamp Snacks - Treats and snacks fit for an ogre...including a Shrekzel, a Shrek-shaped pretzel!

Who doesn't love Shrek merch? Sign me up !!!

🍿🎥 It’s been a minute since there was a new Shrek movie, so be sure you watch it before your visit to brush up on the story and characters to make the absolute most of your time in this fun and interactive new land. In fact, I have the ✨Ultimate Universal Watch List ✨that I send to all of my visiting guests so they can plan family movies nights leading up to their vacation. Be my guest and I’ll send it to you too! Give me a call ‪☎ 717-850-3436‬ or send me a message when you’re ready to get your trip on the books!✈️

01/09/2025

💡🏰You know what’s something fun and totally different to do on a non-park day at Walt Disney World? The Aerophile hand-painted helium balloon 🎈✨ at Disney Springs!

From 400 feet above Disney Springs (don’t worry, you’re tethered and it’s smooth sailing), you’ll get breathtaking panoramic views 🌅👀 of Walt Disney World. See if you can spot the theme park landmarks 🎡🎢 or just soak in the experience. Talk about an Instagram-worthy moment! 📲

At around $25 per person, this won’t break the bank either. Whether you’re a couple looking for something romantic 💕✨ or a family looking to create a core memory for the kids🎉, a trip on Aerophile just might be what you’re looking for. 🎈🏰

We did this a few years ago and it was a lot of fun. I am terrified of heights but it's calm enough and feels safe so even those scared of heights can enjoy it!

🤔🎈 What about you? Sound fun or would you rather drop that money at the Ganachery? 🍫 If you’ve done it before, what did you think? Talk to me! ⬇️

01/08/2025

Sharing so that others will have this information. Be safe everyone!

Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk will be closed today as a result of the extreme winds and fire conditions. We will continue to assess the situation and expect to open for business tomorrow.

The safety of our team members and our guests is our top priority.

01/08/2025

✋Okay, hear me out. If you’ve ever watched a runDisney weekend kick off and thought, “That looks so fun, but I’m not a runner so…” 🏃‍♀️🎉—I’m here to tell you, you don’t have to be! 🛑❗ Just like we learned in Ratatouille, “Anyone can cook,” the same is true for runDisney events: Anyone can run! 🏃‍♂️✨ And by “run,” I also mean walk, jog, stroll, or do whatever pace feels right for YOU in the shorter events. 🚶‍♀️🏃‍♀️✨

Here’s why you should definitely sign up for a 5K at least once:

🎶 The vibes are dreamy! Imagine Disney music, character meet and greets, 📸 and cheering crowds encouraging you every step of the way. 👏💖 It’s not about speed—it’s about having a great time! 🥳✨

🏅 Whether you cross the finish line after 3.1 miles or 26.2, that shiny runDisney medal is waiting for you. And trust me—it’s worth it! ✨✨

At the risk of repeating myself, it’s for EVERYONE. 🙌 MANY participants walk the 5K and even the 10K. You don’t need to be a pro athlete! 🏅💪

When I was still running I wanted to do one of these events but never quite made it. I definitely am still up for a 5k though

🚷What’s holding you back from doing a runDisney event? Can I help answer some questions for you? Drop them in the comments or give me a call ‪☎ 717-850-3436‬ or send me a message

01/07/2025

🎬✨ On January 7th, 2008, Disney’s MGM Studios officially became Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and wow—what a transformation this park has undergone! From celebrating the golden age of Hollywood to becoming the epicenter of immersive lands like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land, Hollywood Studios continues to evolve.

But the changes aren’t stopping anytime soon. 🚧✨ Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming next:

🦹‍♀️ Unfairly Ever After - a new Villains show
🧜‍♀️ The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure show
👹🎢 Monsters, Inc. Land
🎭🎸 Muppets take over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
🎬❌ Muppets 3-D Vision is closing permanently

Love Monsters Inc and cannot wait to see what amazing creations they come up with!

🤔What do YOU think about Hollywood Studios’ evolution? Are you a fan of its Hollywood glam past, or are you happy with the changes? Let’s chat in the comments about what you’re most excited for in this ever-evolving park! And...do you think it will have yet another name change??

01/07/2025

Proud to announce I have increased my knowledge of Virgin Voyages. Who is ready to set sail?

01/06/2025

😵‍💫📲After the hectic holidays with all the online shopping, emails, notifications, and screen time, doesn’t a low-tech winter escape sound like a dream? 🌴✨ At Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, the only thing you need to plug into is paradise. 🏖️🌺 Whether it’s floating down the lazy river , basking on the beach 🏝️☀️, or soaking in the infinity pool, you’ll find serenity around every corner.

And when you’re ready for some action, activities like hula lessons, lei-making 🌸, and fireside storytelling 🔥📖 will make you so happy that you traded screen time for lifetime Hawaiian memories.

There’s no shortage of low-tech fun for the kids either, and they will not be bored. From the Menehune Adventure Trail (a scavenger hunt) 🔍 to Aunty’s Beach House, Aulani makes leaving those devices behind easy for everyone. 🏖️💫

I love a good lazy river and who wouldn't love a few rounds of that relaxed in an inner tube?!

❌🔌When’s the last time you truly unplugged? Does the idea of trading screens for sunsets sound like exactly what you need after the holidays? Let’s chat about how Aulani can give you exactly that!

01/06/2025

🎒🤔Is there anything more debated than what to pack in—or what to use as—your park bag?! You’ll see a little bit of everything when visiting the Disney parks. Some go with the full-size backpack loaded with everything you could possibly need during the day. Others opt for a Loungefly mini backpack, perfectly sized for the necessities and a little room for souvenirs. And then there are the f***y pack/cross body enthusiasts who only bring the bare minimum.

But really, what are the absolute must-haves for a Disney park bag?

☀️ Sunscreen
🔋 Portable phone charger
💳 Wallet
🕶️ Sunglasses

And I personally can’t leave my room without a hat, Chapstick (or the like) and hand sanitizer!

Everything else (❌🍬except gum!) can probably be found at the parks, so enjoy the freedom of lightening your load and keeping it simple! What else is a must-have in your Disney park bag? 🎒☀️ And bonus question, what is your bag of choice? PS I do LOVE a good Loungefly bag

01/05/2025

Allow me to prove you wrong if you think you’d be bored on a Disney Cruise or that it’s just one big floating character meal. It’s packed with activities and experiences for EVERYONE, and here’s just a glimpse of your options:

🎨 Animation classes
✂️ Crafts
❓🎲 Trivia & Bingo
🍹 Mixology classes
🍷 Wine tastings
🎭 Broadway-style shows
🎬 First run movies
🌊 Adults-only pools
💆‍♀️ Spa treatments
🍸 Bars & lounges (so many!)
💦 Waterslides
🏋️‍♀️ Fitness center
🍽️ Fine dining

And that’s just the start. I didn’t even touch on the ports and excursions!

My favorite part of any cruise is relaxing and watching the ocean, hearing the call of it's magic. Disney is no different for that wonder!

🚢✨😎 So, bored on a Disney Cruise Line vacation? Not a chance. Tell me, which type of onboard activity speaks to you? Let’s chat in the comments! If you’ve sailed Disney, help me convince the doubters! 🙌⚓

01/03/2025

📝✨🏰If visiting Disneyland has been sitting on your bucket list for years, I’m here to tell you—2025 is THE year to make it happen. Here’s why... it’s Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary! 🎉🎂They’ve got some exciting things happening later this year like a brand-new show, “Walt Disney: A Magical Life”. Offering a heartfelt nod to the visionary who started it all, and this one is not to be missed. Walt finally gets his own animatronic!

➡️ Plus there’s this...if you’ve been to Walt Disney World but not Disneyland, you’ll love how intimate and nostalgic this park feels even all these years and updates later. Walking down Walt’s Main Street, USA, knowing he actually walked there too? Goosebumps! 🫶✨

Share what draws you to Disneyland. Is it the ease of park hopping, Cars Land, nostalgia?

Whether it’s seeing Sleeping Beauty Castle up close, riding the original Pirates of the Caribbean, or indulging in churros and corn dogs that are practically legendary, Disneyland is a "must." When you’re ready to finally fulfill that bucket list dream, Give me a call ‪☎ 717-850-3436‬ or send me a message . In the meantime, tell us what draws YOU to Disneyland!

01/02/2025

C’mon, who decided to deem National Buffet Day the day after many of us resolved to get into better shape?🤷‍♀️🥗 But here we are and if there’s one thing Disney knows how to do, it’s how to serve an epic buffet. Today, let’s talk about the options you have OUTSIDE of the parks at the Walt Disney World Resort hotels. Here’s a solid line-up for breakfast, lunch and dinner options:

🍳Boma at Animal Kingdom Lodge for breakfast. No characters here, but the food selection is amazing!

🍓1900 Park Fare at Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for an early lunch (they serve breakfast/brunch until12pm before closing until 4pm for dinner). Lot’s of variety, strawberry soup and plenty of character!

🌺‘Ohana at Polynesian Village Resort for good food (OK, not a true buffet, but it is all you care to enjoy), incredible ambiance and stick around for fireworks viewing along the beach!

Everyone knows Tigger is my all-time favorite so I would have to go with the buffet at Crystal Palace. I love meeting all the characters!

🧐 Now, I’m curious—what’s your buffet style? Are you a "try a little of everything" person, or do you stick to your favorites and go for seconds? Or if you’ve been to these buffets before, tell me—which one gets your vote for the best (or dare I say worst) meal? 🫣Let’s discuss! ⬇️

01/01/2025

😱✈️ Have you SEEN airline baggage fees lately?! With more airlines charging for checking luggage 🧳💸(and increasing the prices of doing so), there’s more reason than ever to consider going to just carry on when flying. But HOW do you go from packing the whole house to one carry on and one personal item? 🎒💼 Here are some pro-tips:

🖤🤍✨ Pack neutral colored layering items and swap them around in different combinations. A couple leggings, a cardigan, some lightweight shirts that can be layered, and voilà…you’ve got several combos that will get you through a few days.

🧼🧴 Stock up on those mini toiletries or use what is available at your hotels. You won’t likely need an entire bottle of anything.

🧥❓ Do you really need a sweatshirt, fleece, AND jacket? Choose the most versatile one and pack it.

🎒✨ Find a good travel backpack and stuff that bad boy! The compartments are great for keeping everything organized like cords, snacks, and other items that can easily get lost in a backpack.

🧳✨ Lots of people swear by packing cubes. Splurge on the compression cubes, roll your items, and see how much more you can get in those mini suitcases.

Although I'm not a shoe lady I still do need a checked bag for any vacation of significance. A short one with laundry access I can probably skirt by with a carryon.

💡✨ What other tips do you have for packing light? Or are you in the “pfff, charge those extra bags to my card, I need ALL of my stuff” camp? 💳😎

01/01/2025

Happy New Year, friends! 🎉✨ I know we’re all still a little dazed from last night’s countdown and maybe a bit too much onion dip 😋 (no judgment, same here). But hear me out—there’s no better time than right now to start thinking about making your own magic by booking your 2025 vacation. Why? It helps with the post-holiday blues and definitely has its benefits, such as:

🗓️Better Availability: Booking early gives you first dibs before everything gets snatched up.

🤑Budget-Friendly Planning: Planning ahead means more time to save, strategize, and snag deals as they come along.

⏳That Glorious Trip Countdown: Having a trip countdown is a form of self-care!

Getting a head start on that trip planning allows you to plan out payments and make sure we check all the boxes on that perfect trip for YOU!

Whether it’s to sail on a new Disney cruise ship, go “home” to Walt Disney World or be part of the 70th anniversary celebration at Disneyland in California, let’s make 2025 unforgettable from DAY ONE! Give me a call ‪☎ 717-850-3436‬ or send me a message. I’m ready to go to work for you! 👩‍💻