Caitlin McDonald - Travel Advisor with Living With The Magic Vacations

22/12/2024

DEAL ALERT!

If you've been on the fence about booking a Disney Cruise Line vacation, I'm here to tell you, NOW IS THE TIME!

◦Disney+ Subscribers save 50% for the third and fourth guests under 18 on select cruises on the Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, and Disney Wish January 3 - June 30, 2025.
OR
◦Pay only 50% of the required deposit at time of booking for select cruises June 2025 - May 2026.

The possibilities are endless! Not sure how to find an itinerary or ship that suits you? I will help you sift through all the dates, itineraries, ports, amenities, stateroom options, dining options, and anything else you can think of. I will be with you every step of the way! Send me a message and let's get started.

Discover the magic of the high seas with unbeatable Disney Cruise Line offers from Living With The Magic Vacations. Sail away on a dreamlike Disney adventure with our latest cruise specials, featuring exclusive perks and enchanting itineraries. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway or a c...

21/12/2024

Some people will say that they favor Walt Disney World over Universal Orlando Resort because it’s more toddler friendly, but I disagree with that! While Walt Disney World allows more lap riding on rides with smaller children, Universal Orlando Resort provides Child/Family Swap for just about every ride.

I know what you’re thinking! Caitlin, Walt Disney World allows child swap too! It’s a little different at Universal Orlando Resort, and actually I think I prefer it this way because it allows the entire family to stay together which is easier when you only have adults and multiple kids.

The entire family can wait in line together and when you reach a certain point in the line, a cast member will ask you which family member(s) is riding first. They will then direct you to the Child/Family swap area, hand the person that’s not riding a paper ticket, and the first family member will go ride the ride. When the family member comes back the next goes with the ticket and gets bumped to the front of the line. After getting off the ride your party reconnects in the Child/Family swap area and exits the ride together.

Still not sold on doing Universal Orlando Resort with toddlers and babies? Send me a message and we can talk more!

19/12/2024

I got the wonderful opportunity to sail on a preview cruise of the new Disney Treasure a couple of weeks ago! The ship is absolutely beautiful, and I can't wait to go back.

The Disney Destiny will be the next ship in the Triton Class (sister ship to the Wish and Treasure) and dedicated to Heroes and Villains. I can't wait to see the differences between all the ships!

If you're thinking about booking a Disney Cruise but aren't sure if the value is worth it, send me a message and let’s talk! Bonus tip: The earlier you book, the more you save!

15/12/2024

I recently stayed at Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Studios Florida so I could take advantage of the Early Park Admission, but the perks don't stop there:

✅ If you're traveling with a group larger than four, you can take advantage of the family suites.

🎳 Depending on what time of year you go, the parks may close a little earlier. Cabana Bay has a bowling alley so there's not shortage of entertainment!

🥤 When ordering lunch or dinner at Bayliner Diner, order a combo and then upgrade your drink to a Milkshake or Malt that you can pick up at the Malt Shoppe!

🌋 Cabana Bay also has its own walking path to Volcano Bay, which is Universal Studios Florida's water park.

There's a lot more waiting for you at Cabana Bay Beach Resort! Now for a limited time when you book a 4 night or more stay with 4 days or more tickets, you will receive up to a $1000 in free food and beverages!

Send me a message today to book now - April 10, 2025 with block out dates of December 20, 2024 - January 4, 2025.

14/12/2024

Imagine a beachfront Hawaiian vacation that combines the magic of Disney and their impeccable guest service with an authentic Hawaiian cultural vacation experience. Even better, there are typically fantastic promotions to make Aulani more budget friendly. What have you always been curious to know about vacationing at Aulani?

11/12/2024

Snack time at Disney California Adventure is an adventure in itself for kids! For a limited time (January 7 - March 20, 2025) kids ages 3-9 can visit Disneyland Resort for as low as $50 per child with a special 1-day, 1-park ticket. Here are a few of my favorite snacks:

Mickey Sourdough Loaf at Boudin Bakery

Jack Jack's Cookie Num Num at The Incredicoaster

Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Cone at Chili Cone Queso

Lobster Nachos at Lamplight Lounge

Jalapeno Cheese Filled Pretzel at Bayside Brews

Corn Dog at Corn Dog Castle

Which snacks do you love the most at Disney California Adventure Park? Let me know in the comments!

09/12/2024

The difference between a good vacation and a GREAT VACATION is an enthusiastic travel planner! There's no need to stress over park strategies, itineraries and reservations when you can have a Disney planning expert like me in your corner!

One of my favorite things about helping plan any Disney vacation is being able to customize every experience to each family. Want to visit 4 parks in one day? Let's do it! Have little ones and need a midday break for naps? I will make sure you don't miss a thing! Want to have a more laid back experience with late starts and pool day? I will help you pick the perfect resort with the perfect pool for you!

Planning is half the fun when you’ve got a travel professional’s guidance while creating a vacation filled with unforgettable moments. I’m ready to get to work for you, just send me a message!

07/12/2024

One of the things to take into account during a Walt Disney World vacation is RAIN. It's Florida, it's always going to rain, even if it's not in the forecast!

However, rainy days at Walt Disney World, are the BEST! The locals usually stay home which makes lines and wait times shorter. You can make the most out of a rainy Disney day, just arrive prepared!

Have you ever had a rainy Disney day? Let me know in the comments!

04/12/2024

Don’t skip Universal Studios Orlando just because you have preschool age kids or younger! There is a lot for little kids to do!

Camp Jurassic, If I Ran The Zoo, and DreamWorks Land are all great play areas for toddlers and younger that are too small to ride rides. We’ve utilized all three today and my daughter has had a great time!

Have you brought your little ones to Universal Studios Florida? If not, what’s stopping you?

03/12/2024

A great way to keep kids entertained when coming to EPCOT during a festival, is to pick up the seasonal scavenger hunt map!

It’s usually themed with a character and involves going to every country in the World Showcase to find the character with the object. Once you find the object you put the sticker on the corresponding country.

This year for Festival of the Holidays features Olaf and holiday traditions!

Have you been to EPCOT during a festival? If you have, which is your favorite?

02/12/2024

I got off the BEAUTIFUL Disney Treasure yesterday and headed to Walt Disney World with my husband and kids!

The parks are all decked out for Christmas! Have you ever been during the holidays?

It’s never too early to start planning for next year, send me a message and we can start today!

30/11/2024

While the internet is overflowing with deals, today is all about supporting small businesses. Thank you for every bit of support you've given me - I'm truly grateful! My business thrives when you:

🛫 Book a trip with me: When you book with me, you support someone who truly cares about giving you a fantastic vacation

👥 Refer me to friends and family: Word of mouth is everything for small businesses.

👍 Engage with my posts: A simple like, comment, or share can go a long way in helping my business grow.

🤔 Reach out for advice: Even if you’re just in the “dreaming” phase, I’m here for that too. You can always bounce ideas off of me!

30/11/2024

Still looking for the perfect gift? Before you spiral into all the Black Friday madness on Amazon, why not put something under the tree that they’ll never want to exchange? A family vacation somewhere fun!

Travel is the ultimate one-size-fits-all gift. No returns, no charging cords, and definitely no worries about it going out of style. Whether you’re thinking Disney 🏰, Universal 🎢, a cruise 🚢, or an all inclusive resort 🏖️, I’ll help you wrap up the perfect Christmas vacation surprise.

Wrapped gifts under the tree are always exciting, but revealing a trip can be just as fun with creative opening ideas! Send me a message today to start planning!

28/11/2024

Let me tell you why Disneyland is the best for toddlers: Mickey's Toontown. With interactive play areas (they can touch everything!), family-friendly attractions, safe spaces to run around, shady spots, dining options and restrooms, it truly is the ultimate toddler playground!

I loved taking my daughter to Disneyland when she was a baby and can't wait to take her back to experience Toontown as a toddler! I know she will love it because it combines her two favorite things: Mickey and playgrounds.

Disneyland is the ideal destination for your tiniest travelers and honestly it’s worlds easier on adults as well. Are you ready to book a Disneyland Resort Vacation? Send me a message today!

26/11/2024

I recently had clients sail to Disney Cruise Line's newest island destination: Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point! In fact, that 4-Night Caribbean cruise on the Disney Fantasy out of Port Canaveral put them on their 25th cruise, bumping them up to Pearl status in the Castaway Club.

Before they left, they mentioned wanting to book a family cabana because they were traveling with their kids and grandkids. We weren't able to snag one in their booking window, but when they got on the ship they were able to put their name on a waitlist at guest services. They ended up getting Cabana 17 and were very happy with everything, including their transfer from the ship to the Cabana that's included when you book.

What else would you like to know about booking a Family Cabana or Lookout Cay? If you're ready to book a Disney Cruise Line Vacation, let's chat! Send me a message today!

23/11/2024

A Disney Cruise might seem more expensive upfront compared to a Walt Disney World vacation, but let’s look at a few reasons why it’s actually an incredible value:

✅ Almost everything is included – meals, entertainment, kids’ clubs, and even character meet and greets. No need to worry about dining reservations or show tickets

✅ You don't have to worry about traveling between parks, resorts, and dining locations. On a Disney Cruise, your hotel, entertainment, and dining all travel with you. More time for fun!

✅ Broadway-style, top-notch performances are included in your cruise fare, so no extra ticket fees

✅ Pools, water slides, deck parties, movies under the stars, and unique activities like pirate nights – there’s something for everyone on a Disney Cruise!

When you add up the cost of park tickets, meals, and entertainment at Walt Disney World, the VALUE of a Disney Cruise becomes clear. Feel free to send this list to anyone needs to "get onboard" so you can book yours! When the time comes, feel free to send me a message!

21/11/2024

Two more days until I sail on the Disney Treasure!

Be sure to follow along in my stories and let me know if there’s anything specific you want to see!

21/11/2024

Celebrate this holiday season with Grinchmas cheer, dazzling lights at Hogwarts, and the magic of Macy's Holiday Parade!

As an added bonus, when you book a 4 night or more stay with 4 days or more tickets, you will receive up to a $1000 in free food and beverages! Perfect for sampling all of the yummy holiday treats.

Send me a message today to book now - April 10, 2025 with block out dates of December 20, 2024 - January 4, 2025.