Use a Travel Agent: 5 Reasons to Skip DIY Booking

Use a Travel Agent: 5 Reasons to Skip DIY Booking

by | Jan 31, 2025 | Adventures By Disney, All-Inclusive, Beyond Disney, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland, Family Travel Tips, Royal Caribbean, Sandals and Beaches, Universal, Walt Disney World

Why Use a Travel Agent When You Can Book It Yourself? Here Are the TOP 5 Reasons

Attention vacation-goers!

As the travel industry continues to grow, savvy travelers are returning to personalized service. While DIY booking platforms offer convenience, more people are realizing the unique value a travel agent brings to the table. At Living With The Magic Vacations, we specialize in creating one-of-a-kind experiences that online algorithms simply can’t match. From exclusive insider access to seamless problem-solving, we help clients save time, avoid stress, and create unforgettable memories.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why use a travel agent when I can book it myself?”—let us show you how expert guidance can take your trip to the next level.

I'M READY FOR EXTRAORDINARY! LET'S START PLANNING!

REASON #1 – INSIDER KNOWLEDGE

Would you rather rely on the extensive destination expertise and industry connections of a professional travel agent—or spend hours searching the internet for information that may not be accurate or up to date?

After all, nothing beats the thrill of booking a hotel that’s 45 minutes from the airport or a flight with three layovers… just kidding.

Travel agents have the industry knowledge and resources to help you avoid common travel pitfalls, so you can spend less time stressing and more time relaxing.

REASON #2 – STRESS-FREE BOOKING

Would you rather have a travel agent handle all the logistics—from flights to transfers—or spend hours making international calls, sitting on hold, and translating foreign languages just to confirm your plans?

Travel agents take care of everything for you, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience at no extra cost.

REASON #3 – PERSONALIZED ITINERARIES

Would you rather have a vacation tailored to your unique interests and travel style—or take your chances with outdated brochures and generic recommendations?

The travel industry has changed significantly in recent years, and travel agents have access to the latest options, exclusive experiences, and hidden gems. Let us customize your trip so you never have to wonder, “What do we do now?”

REASON #4 – SAVE MONEY

Would you rather have a travel agent leverage industry connections to secure exclusive deals—or risk overpaying and getting hit with hidden fees?

No one likes paying more and getting less, especially when it comes to travel. Travel agents work within your budget to maximize value, secure perks, and provide peace of mind with flexible booking options.

REASON #5 – ELIMINATE UNCERTAINTY

Would you rather have a travel agent help you navigate ever-changing travel regulations and insurance policies—or wing it and hope for the best?

Travel agents stay up to date on the latest requirements, handle the fine print, and provide expert guidance to ensure your trip runs smoothly from start to finish.

I'M READY FOR EXTRAORDINARY! LET'S START PLANNING!

When planning your next trip, don’t settle for ordinary—choose extraordinary! A travel agent takes the stress and uncertainty out of planning, making your vacation seamless, personalized, and unforgettable.

Let us handle the details so you can focus on what truly matters—creating memories that last a lifetime!

A Disney Rite of Passage? We’ve Got Your Back!

A Disney Rite of Passage? We’ve Got Your Back!

by | Nov 26, 2024 | Disneyland, Family Travel Tips, Walt Disney World

—   A Disney Rite of Passage?   —

We’ve Got Your Back!

Make the magic happen.
 
We know, the thought of planning a Walt Disney World vacation can feel downright overwhelming. With 98 million Google results, how do you even begin? Whether you’re a Disney veteran or first-time visitor, our expert travel advisors are here to make the magic happen.
I'M READY TO MAKE THE MAGIC HAPPEN! LET'S GO!
WHEN TO GO:
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
 
In the past, we would have recommended visiting during the “shoulder season” of fall through early December to avoid the crowds and score the best deals. However, our Disney travel experts have noticed a shift in recent years – summer is now emerging as the new slow season!
 
While the Florida heat can be intense, the crowds tend to be lower and prices are more affordable compared to peak periods like school breaks and holidays. Plus, you’ll find plenty of special summertime events and entertainment to keep the whole family entertained.
 
Of course, no matter when you visit, booking at least 7 months in advance is key for securing the best dining reservations, tour and resort availability. Our travel advisors can help you navigate the ever-changing Disney landscape and lock in an unforgettable vacation. 
 
Just leave the details to us!
WHERE TO STAY:
ON-SITE ENCHANTMENT
 
Staying at a Disney Resort hotel unlocks so many perks – free transportation, Early Theme Park Entry, and more. With options from value to deluxe, we’ll match your budget and wish list. Imagine strolling to the parks or relaxing by the pool after a day of adventure. Sounds way better than a sketchy motel offsite!
WHAT TO DO:
DO IT ALL… 
OR DON’T SWEAT IT!
 
The sheer scale of Disney World can be dizzying. 47 square miles, 4 theme parks, 2 water parks – you’ll never see it all, and that’s okay! We recommend 5 full days to hit the highlights while still leaving room for spontaneity. With our strategic planning, you’ll conquer the top attractions and dining without the burnout.
DINE WITH DELIGHT:
TO DINING PLAN OR 
NOT TO DINING PLAN?
 
Trust us, get the dining plan! It makes mealtimes a breeze, with no worrying about budgets or restrictions. Our specialists will book your advance reservations too, so you can savor every bite.
CONCIERGE-LEVEL SUPPORT
WE TAKE AWAY THE OVERWHELM
 
Our Disney-savvy travel advisors will handle all the details, from resort selection to Lightning Lane bookings. With our insider intel and VIP connections, you’ll experience the magic like a true VIP – without the stress. Just pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Whether you’re dreaming of enchanting castles, thrilling rides, or unforgettable character experiences, we’re here to craft a personalized Disney adventure just for you. Let us handle the details while you focus on creating memories that will last a lifetime. Just click below and LET’S GO!
I'M READY TO MAKE THE MAGIC HAPPEN! LET'S GO!

Explore Enhanced Planning with Disney World’s New Lightning Lane Passes

Explore Enhanced Planning with Disney World’s New Lightning Lane Passes

by | Jun 25, 2024 | Disneyland, Walt Disney World

BOOK YOUR DREAM WALT DISNEY WORLD VACATION NOW

We’re excited to share some fantastic news from Walt Disney World! Many guests have expressed a desire for more pre-visit planning options for their theme park days. Responding to this feedback, Disney is set to enhance its Disney Genie+ service and individual Lightning Lane entry this summer, introducing new, convenient ways for visitors to plan ahead and maximize their experience. Stay tuned for these upcoming improvements that promise to make your Disney adventures even more magical!

On July 24, Walt Disney World will introduce new, simpler names to provide more clarity for everyone. Disney Genie+ service will become Lightning Lane Multi Pass, while individual Lightning Lane will now be known as Lightning Lane Single Pass.

We will also be updating Lightning Lane passes to help guests:

  • Make Lightning Lane plans before you’re here, for added confidence.    
  • Choose your experiences and times prior to purchasing, so you know what you’re getting.
  • Book Lightning Lane passes for multiple vacation days, all in a single day.

Here’s how Lightning Lane passes will work beginning July 24.

Lightning Lane Multi Pass
When guests purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass, they may make up to 3 Lightning Lane selections in a theme park, in advance of your visit. They’ll also be able to choose available times as they make their selections. On the day of their visit, once they use a selection, they may check the My Disney Experience app for availability to make an additional selection.

Lightning Lane Single Pass
Lightning Lane Single Pass will work much like it does today, where guests can secure a time to ride one of our most highly demanded attractions, but they’ll now be able to make their purchase and plan in advance.

How to Plan Ahead
Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel and other select hotels (Shades of Green Resort, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels) will be able to plan Lightning Lane passes up to 7 days in advance, for their entire stay (up to 14 days). All other guests can plan up to 3 days in advance. These advance purchase windows will let guests secure some of their must-do rides and experiences after they’ve had some time to decide what dining reservations they want to book and any other plans they may need to consider.

Guests may purchase a Lightning Lane Multi Pass, a Lightning Lane Single Pass or both. The app will also be updated to make it quicker and easier to purchase and plan, with fewer steps and a new option to purchase Lightning Lane Single Pass and Lightning Lane Multi Pass in one transaction.

Lightning Lane passes will blend features from our current services and the previously offered FastPass+ service, giving guests the choice to plan ahead and removing the hassle of planning during their vacation.

Disneyland Resort will also use the new Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass names beginning July 24. Based on the different ways we know guests visit Disneyland Resort, the way guests purchase, select and redeem Lightning Lane passes at Disneyland Resort will remain the same.

BOOK YOUR DREAM WALT DISNEY WORLD VACATION NOW
Why Becoming a Travel Advisor with LWTMV Might Be Your Best Career Move Yet

Why Becoming a Travel Advisor with LWTMV Might Be Your Best Career Move Yet

by | Jun 17, 2024 | Adventures By Disney, All-Inclusive, Aulani, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland, Family Travel Tips, Walt Disney World

Do you love travel and fantasize about a career that’s not just rewarding but truly captivating? Here at LWTMV, our travel advisors are all about passion for exploring the world and assisting others on similar adventures. Let’s explore why joining us as a travel advisor could be the career match of your dreams.

The Power of Community:
Working with us means you’re part of a community of likeminded wanderlusters! Shannon Schwartz speaks to the deep connections formed, not just with fellow advisors but also with clients, creating a family-like atmosphere. This supportive network is vital, as Aly Hirst points out, offering flexibility and assistance whenever needed, which is essential for balancing both personal and professional life seamlessly.

Trust and Client Relationships:
The backbone of our success lies in the trust and lasting bonds we create with our travelers. Megan Keebaugh highlights the joy of clients returning and referring others, a testament to the dedicated and personalized service they receive. At LWTMV, we prioritize understanding and meeting the unique needs of each client, ensuring every trip we plan is as unique as the travelers themselves.

Collaboration Over Competition:
Here, it’s all about teamwork., as noted by Carrie Ladowicz. We foster an environment where knowledge is shared, and success is celebrated collectively. This collaborative spirit not only enhances our work culture but also pushes us to reach new heights together.

Professional Growth and Opportunities:
At LWTMV, we’re committed to your growth! Melanie Frodel appreciates the targeted training and firsthand travel experiences that enable her to specialize and excel in her role. These experiences boost our expertise and confidence, ensuring we deliver top-notch advice and services to our clients.

Flexibility and Personal Fulfillment:
The role of a travel advisor at LWTMV comes with remarkable flexibility, allowing our team members to tailor their schedules to fit their lifestyle needs, as Aly Hirst and Kristy Binns emphasize. Whether it’s managing family duties or chasing your travel dreams, our adaptable schedules mean your career can fit around your lifestyle, not the other way around.

Making Dreams Come True:
Ultimately, the true joy of being a travel advisor lies in making travel dreams a reality. Kelly Van Eerden shares how fulfilling it is to help clients explore destinations they’ve only dreamed of, enhancing their lives through travel experiences that were once thought beyond reach.

Joining LWTMV as a travel advisor is more than just landing a job; it’s embarking on a fulfilling career filled with adventure, personal growth, and the chance to touch lives profoundly. If you’re after a career that blends passion with flexibility, within a supportive community, your search might just end here.

Keen to be a part of our dynamic team?
Reach out today and kick-start your journey in helping others discover the world with LWTMV.

Apply Today (Disney Destination Specialist)
Apply Today (General Family Travel Specialist)

Pixar Fest at the Disneyland® Resort

Pixar Fest at the Disneyland® Resort

by | Jun 10, 2024 | Disneyland

Celebrate friendship and beyond at Pixar Fest at the Disneyland® Resort, starting April 26 and lasting through August 4, 2024.

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The Characters from Pixar films have taught us that friendships of every kind are always worth celebrating together—from a ragtag bunch of toys who are always there for each other and emotions learning how to appreciate each other’s differences to a family that sticks together from this life to the next—friendship and fun are integral to Pixar storytelling. Now your Pixar pals are bringing us all together again—for a festival of friendship that’s been re-imagined with even more fun!

It’s a party like no other throughout the Resort—from the Theme Parks to the Downtown Disney® District—even to where you lay your head. At the recently opened Pixar Place Hotel, you can see how some classic Pixar Characters were “brought to life” through concept artwork featured throughout the lobby and at the Sketch Pad Café.

Over at Disney California Adventure® Park, jam with Joe from Soul at the debut of the NEW Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration daytime parade. There will be music, dancing, and most importantly, appearances by some beloved Pixar Characters.

What's New at Disneyland in 2024

Cowboys, cowgirls and intergalactic space rangers are all welcome at Toy Story Midway Mania!® at Pixar Pier. Have a super time on the Incredicoaster. And race your friends at Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land.

At Disneyland® Park, go un poco loco at the return of Together Forever—A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular on select nights featuring a stunning fireworks show. It’s truly an experience to remember. Also, be on the lookout for daily dance parties and get down with some Pixar pals.

Take a voyage with some finned friends on Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage and team up with your fellow toys to fight Zurg on Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters

Make Edna proud when you and your friends flaunt the latest official Pixar Fest merch. And send your taste buds on a flavor adventure with limited-time Pixar-themed treats and eats throughout the Resort. So much of the Disneyland® Resort is being transformed with a Pixar twist of friendly fun waiting to be celebrated by you. This is a limited-time celebration you won’t want to miss. The party starts April 26, 2024 and lasts through August 4, 2024. So this year, go for laughter. Go for core memories. But most importantly, go together for friendship and beyond.

Disclaimer: Both valid Theme Park admission and Park reservations for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Entertainment, experiences and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Check for show times. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/Updates for important information to know before your visit.

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BOOK YOUR DREAM VACATION NOW

5 Reasons Why Disneyland Is Worth the Flight From The East Coast!

5 Reasons Why Disneyland Is Worth the Flight From The East Coast!

by | Jan 11, 2024 | Disneyland

Last summer, the Living With The Magic Vacations team embarked on an unforgettable adventure at the Disneyland resort in sunny Southern California.
 
Let me tell you, it was pure magic from start to finish!
For some of us, it was our very first visit, while for others, it was a heartwarming return to our beloved happy place. Each day was filled with enchantment as we delved into the wonders of Disneyland and California Adventure. We had the incredible opportunity to meet beloved characters, indulge in delicious snacks, and gather invaluable information to ensure we can plan the most magical vacations for our clients. It was a truly immersive experience that left us brimming with excitement and inspiration.
 
Get ready, because we’re armed with even more knowledge and passion to make your travel dreams come true!
 
Here are our top FIVE reasons why we think the flight out west is totally worth it!
PARK HOPPING: The main entrance to Disneyland is just a short 100 steps away from the main entrance to California Adventure. This means that park hopping is not only super convenient but absolutely essential!
 
Here’s the plan: Start off in one park, where you can meet all your favorite characters and experience must-see attractions. Then, hop on over to the second park in the evening to catch an amazing show and wrap up the day in style! While we typically advise our Walt Disney World clients against park hopping due to the added expense, at Disneyland, it’s one of our top recommendations! It’s a magical way to fully immerse yourself in the Disney experience.
CHARACTERS: Guess what? Disneyland takes the character experience to a whole new level, setting it apart from Walt Disney World! Brace yourself for some extra special and magical moments. Picture this: Peter Pan and Captain Hook engaging in an epic sword fight, Belle casually strolling through Fantasyland with a book in hand, or even a delightful tea party with the Mad Hatter, Alice in Wonderland, and Merida.
 
Here’s the best part: At Disneyland, characters roam around freely and interact with guests. Say goodbye to those long, traditional character queues; here, you’ll have the chance to encounter your favorites in unexpected and enchanting ways. Although there are still a few characters you can line up for, it’s these unique character experiences that made us absolutely fall head over heels for Disneyland!
 
It’s a whole new level of magic and immersion!
ATTRACTIONS: Did you know that the idea for Disneyland first sparked in Walt Disney’s mind while he was sitting on a park bench, observing his daughters joyfully riding a carousel? He had a vision of a park where he could actively partake in the attractions alongside his kids, rather than merely observing from afar. That’s why we adore Disneyland for families with little ones – there are more than 40 attractions that have no height requirements! This means the entire family can embark on exciting rides together and indulge in the pure magic and joy of it all.
 
But here’s the best part: Even if you have older kids, fear not! Disneyland and California Adventure have plenty of thrilling adventures to offer the most daring of souls. From family-friendly attractions to adrenaline-pumping experiences, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy at the Happiest Place on Earth! 

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WALKABILITY: Guess what? Not only is Disneyland a stone’s throw away from California Adventure, but the Disney resorts are also conveniently located nearby! Imagine this: at the Grand Californian Resort and Spa, you have access to a private entrance that leads straight into California Adventure. How cool is that? And that’s not all. Just outside Downtown Disney, you’ll find the monorail waiting to whisk you away to your magical destination. Plus, the Disneyland Hotel is just a few short minutes away. Staying in the magic has never been easier!
 
But wait, there’s more! As a bonus, guests staying at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels get to enjoy admission to Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park a whole 30 minutes before the general public. This means you can have early access to select attractions, dining, and shopping locations, giving you a head start on creating unforgettable memories. It’s all about adding that extra touch of magic to your stay at Disneyland!
THE SoCal EXPERIENCE: While we totally understand that staying at Disneyland for an extended period would be amazing, we typically recommend that guests spend around 3-4 nights with 2-3 days at the parks. This allows for a well-rounded Disney experience while still leaving room for more adventure. We know that some families have a long journey out West and might want to make the most of their trip by adding extra attractions. Luckily, Southern California offers a plethora of exciting possibilities!
 
How about a visit to Universal Hollywood for the ultimate studio tour, where you can explore the iconic Wizarding World of Harry Potter or immerse yourself in the brand new Super Nintendo World? If you’re up for exploring Los Angeles, there are famous attractions, iconic sites, and even the chance to catch a glimpse of celebrity homes on a glamorous tour.
 
And here’s an extra special treat: You can visit the park where Walt Disney first conceived the idea for Disneyland. It’s a piece of history you definitely don’t want to miss! If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, why not take a scenic drive down to San Diego? With so much to see and do, you could easily spend weeks exploring the wonders of Southern California. The possibilities are endless!

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