5 Tips for Traveling With Children

5 Tips for Traveling With Children

Embarking on a family vacation is an extraordinary opportunity to create lifelong memories and bond with your loved ones. Picture the excitement on your children’s faces as they discover new places, experience different cultures, and immerse themselves in the wonders of the world.   Let’s delve into the enchanting world of traveling with children and we’ll provide you with tips, tricks, and insights to help make your family adventures smooth, enjoyable, and truly magical.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, discovery, and cherished moments that will last a lifetime!

Image item1. PLAN AHEAD
Starting with a Living With The Magic Vacations travel advisor is a great way to be prepared and we all know preparation is key when traveling with children. When recommending the perfect destination, we consider family-friendly activities, attractions, and amenities. We’ll also discuss other important aspects of your trip, such as transportation and accommodation, and ensure they are suitable for your little ones.

2. PACK WISELY
When it comes to packing for your family getaway, efficiency is essential. Pack essentials like medication, extra clothes, snacks, and entertainment (books, games, tablets) to keep your children comfortable and occupied during the journey. Don’t forget to bring comfort items that help your child feel at ease, like a favorite stuffed animal or a cozy blanket. We’ll even send you packing lists prior to your trip!

3. STICK TO A ROUTINE
While traveling, it’s helpful to maintain some semblance of a routine to ensure your children stay well-rested and happy. Try to stick to regular meal times and bedtime routines as much as possible. This will provide a familiar structure and help minimize any disruptions to your child’s daily routines.

4. BE FLEXIBLE
Traveling with children requires flexibility, as unexpected situations may arise. Embrace the spontaneity and go with the flow. Allow for extra time, be patient, and adjust your plans accordingly. Remember, traveling with kids can result in delightful surprises and unforgettable moments.

5. INVOLVE THE KIDS
Make your children feel included and engaged in the travel experience. Encourage them to help with planning activities or choosing restaurants. Let them have a say in what they would like to do or see. This will empower them and make them feel excited and invested in the family adventure.

 

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• • 1 • •
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
The Disney Cruise is the epitome of a perfect family vacation.
It offers a unique and enchanting experience that is sure to create lasting memories for every member of the family. With world-class entertainment, family-friendly activities, and outstanding service, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it’s meeting beloved Disney characters, exploring exotic destinations, or indulging in delectable dining options, the Disney Cruise caters to the young and the young at heart. From the moment you step on board, you’ll be immersed in a world of magic, where the joy and excitement of Disney come to life. It’s a vacation that brings families together and leaves them with a lifetime of cherished moments.
 
 
• • 2 • •
BEACHES RESORTS
Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa, All Inclusive Vacation
Beaches Turks and Caicos is the ultimate destination
for a perfect family vacation.
Nestled on the breathtaking shores of a tropical paradise, this all-inclusive resort offers endless fun and relaxation for everyone in the family. With a wide range of activities and amenities designed specifically with families in mind, there is something to captivate every age group. From the thrilling water park with winding slides and wave pools to the dedicated kids’ clubs and teen lounges, children of all ages can enjoy a world of excitement and adventure. Meanwhile, parents can unwind at the luxurious spa, lounge by the pool, or indulge in exquisite dining experiences. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a warm and welcoming staff, Beaches Turks and Caicos is an oasis where families can create treasured memories and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and togetherness.
 
 
• • 3 • •
HOTEL XCARET
Hotel Xcaret México - Grupo Xcaret
Hotel Xcaret is an ideal destination for a perfect family vacation in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
This extraordinary resort offers a unique blend of luxury, nature, and cultural experiences. Families can immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding natural landscapes, including stunning beaches, lush jungles, and captivating cenotes. The resort’s All-Fun Inclusive concept ensures guests have unlimited access to a variety of thrilling activities and attractions such as eco-parks, archaeological sites, and water sports. Kids will delight in the adventure-based children’s clubs, pools, and dedicated entertainment programs while parents can relax at the spa, enjoy fine dining, or simply bask in the resort’s serene ambiance. With its ecological approach, authentic Mexican charm, and endless opportunities for family fun, Hotel Xcaret promises a vacation experience that will create lifelong memories for all family members.
 
 
• • 4 • •
CASA DE CAMPO
Full-Service Marina, Yacht Club & Sport Fishing | Casa de Campo
Casa De Campo offers an escape to paradise for the entire family.
Situated in the stunning Dominican Republic, this luxurious resort provides an array of activities and amenities that cater to every member of the family. From the world-class golf courses and private beaches to the equestrian center and tennis courts, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Children can partake in supervised activities and games at the Kids Club, while parents indulge in relaxation at the beachfront spa or rejuvenating yoga classes. Families can come together to explore the vibrant culture and history of the island, embark on thrilling excursions, or simply soak up the tropical beauty by the pool. With its impeccable service, breathtaking surroundings, and endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation, Casa De Campo offers an unforgettable family vacation that will leave a lasting impression.
 
 
• • 5 • •
HYATT ZIVA CAP CANA
Hyatt Ziva & Zilara Cap Cana Raise the Bar - Recommend
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is a true tropical paradise.
This all-inclusive resort is ultimate destination for a perfect family vacation in the stunning Cap Cana region of the Dominican Republic. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious amenities, it offers a haven of relaxation and fun for the whole family. Children can enjoy supervised activities and games at the KidZ Club, while parents indulge in spa treatments or take part in water sports and fitness classes. The resort’s multiple pools, including a water park with exhilarating slides, provide endless entertainment for all ages. Gourmet dining options cater to even the most discerning palates, ensuring that every family member is satisfied. With its warm and welcoming staff, breathtaking setting, and exceptional service, Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana promises an unforgettable family vacation filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories.

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BONUS! Do you need some to unwind AFTER your family vacation?
DON’T WORRY. WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.
Girls Getaway Weekends
Time with girlfriends is proven to release happy hormones and decrease stress. A happier, healthier you is just a plane ride away! We have two amazing Girls Weekends available to book right now!
August 7-11, 2024
Virgin Voyages
Valiant Lady 
Join us aboard the brand new Valiant Lady as we set sail Key West and Virgin Voyages private club, Beach Club at Bimini! The name of the game for this year’s Girls Getaway Weekend (our 9th!!) is fun, sophistication, and relaxation!
 
Virgin Voyages sets itself apart from traditional cruises with an adult-only experience not to be missed! From elevated dining experiences to world-class entertainment, gourmet dining (did we mention no buffets?), and amazing destinations, this Girl’s Getaway Weekend will be one for the books!!
Walt Disney World: Kids (Ages 3 to 9) Play & Dine for 50% Off

Walt Disney World: Kids (Ages 3 to 9) Play & Dine for 50% Off

You can save on a magical family vacation this spring! Children’s (ages 3 to 9) theme park tickets and dining plans are half off with the purchase of a nondiscounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package for you and your children that includes a room at a select Disney Resort hotel, as well as theme park tickets and a dining plan.

 

Book now for arrivals most nights from:

  • March 3, 2024 through March 24, 2024
  • April 7, 2024 through June 30, 2024

 

Eligible Disney Resort Hotels
Select Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts
  • Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  • Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
  • Disney’s Beach Club Villas
  • Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
  • Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  • Disney’s Old Key West Resort
  • Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
  • Disney’s Riviera Resort
  • Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
  • The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Select Disney Deluxe Resorts
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Disney’s Beach Club Resort
  • Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
  • Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
  • Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
  • Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Select Disney Resort Hotels
  • The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
  • Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
  • Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
  • Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
  • Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
  • Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
  • Disney’s Pop Century Resort
  • Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
  • Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

 Savings based on the nondiscounted price of the same package. The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package. Child must stay in room with adult. Offer excludes select room types. Advance package reservations are required. Theme park tickets valid for admission beginning on date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of stay and ticket. Some Table-Service restaurants may have limited or no availability at time of package purchase. See Important Details.

Valid for Arrivals Most Nights

  • March 3, 2024 through March 24, 2024
  • April 7, 2024 through June 30, 2024

Package Includes

  • Room
  • Theme park ticket(s)
  • Dining plan

Length of Stay Requirements

  • Minimum – 4 nights
  • Maximum – 14 nights

Important Details

  • Children’s (ages 3 to 9) theme park tickets and dining plans are half off with the purchase of a nondiscounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package for you and your children that includes a room at a select Disney Resort hotel, theme park tickets and a dining plan.
  • Savings based on the nondiscounted price of the same package.
  • The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited.
  • Everyone in the same room must be on the same package.
  • Child must stay in room with adult.
  • Advance package reservations are required.
  • Theme park tickets valid for admission beginning on date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of stay and ticket. Visit disneyworld.com/usage for more details.
  • Table-Service restaurants may have limited or no availability at time of package purchase.
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
  • Offer excludes the following room types: 2-bedroom suites, 2-bedroom villas, 3-bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Bungalows at Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.
  • Dining plan excludes gratuities.
  • Children ages 3 to 9 must order from a children’s menu, where available.
  • Dining plan must be purchased for entire length of stay and for the entire party (ages 3 and up).
  • Starting with visits on January 9, 2024, theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets. For other admission types, theme park reservations may be required.
Book Early and Save More—Up to 25%—on Rooms at Select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels in the New Year

Book Early and Save More—Up to 25%—on Rooms at Select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels in the New Year


Book early—by December 15, 2023—and save more on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels in the new year!

  • Save up to 25% on stays most Sunday to Thursday nights from January 9, 2024 through February 22, 2024—when you book by December 15, 2023
  • Save up to 30% on stays most nights February 25, 2024 through March 24, 2024—when you book by December 15, 2023

Not ready to book? Other savings are available when you book after December 15, 2023.

When you stay in the magic at a Disney Resort hotel, youcan enjoy the same legendary detail, storytelling and service found in the theme parks—along with an array of benefits.

Valid Travel Dates
Most Sunday to Thursday nights from January 9, 2024 through February 22, 2024; and most nights February 25, 2024 through March 24, 2024

Length of Stay Requirements

  • Minimum – 1 night
  • Maximum – 14 nights

Important Details

  • Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts, and Studios at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts.
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
  • Advance reservations required.
  • Offer excludes the following room types: 3-bedroom villas, Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
  • Valid admission is required to enjoy theme parks and is not included in this offer. Starting with visits on January 9, 2024, theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets. For other admission types, theme park reservations may be required.
Play, Stay and Enjoy a Disney Dining Promo Card This Holiday Season—and Beyond!

Play, Stay and Enjoy a Disney Dining Promo Card This Holiday Season—and Beyond!

 

Ready to immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season? Look no further than Living With The Magic Vacations! We have an incredible offer just for you. Guests who purchase a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day vacation package at select Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort will receive up to a $1,000 Disney Dining Promo Card!

Imagine waking up in the luxurious comfort of a Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort, surrounded by enchanting holiday decorations and immersed in the holiday spirit. As you step out of your beautifully appointed room, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the magic, ready to explore the wonders of Walt Disney World.

Indulge in delicious meals at a wide range of Disney restaurants throughout your stay. Whether it’s a character dining experience, a quick snack, or a fine dining extravaganza, this promo card has got you covered! 

Immerse yourself in the dazzling holiday festivities as you explore the incredible Walt Disney World theme parks. From the enchanting Magic Kingdom with its iconic Cinderella Castle, to the future-focused Epcot, the wild adventures of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and the magical Hollywood Studios – there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Experience breathtaking shows, exhilarating attractions, and unforgettable character encounters that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.  

For arrivals most nights October 27 to November 1, 2023; November 25 to November 29, 2023; December 9 to December 25, 2023; and arrivals most Sunday to Tuesday nights January 9, 2024 to March 5, 2024

 

Guests get up to a $1,000 Disney Dining Promo Card when they purchase a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day vacation package that includes:

  • A room at a select Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort
  • Theme park ticket(s)

Or, choose from other great accommodations that are eligible for this offer (Disney Dining Promo Card values vary by Disney Resort hotel).

This offer is valid for arrivals on:

  • Most nights October 27 to November 1, 2023
  • Most nights November 25 to November 29, 2023
  • Most nights December 9 to December 25, 2023
  • Most Sunday to Tuesday nights January 9 to March 5, 2024

Important Details About This Offer

  • Minimum 4-day theme park ticket required.
  • Minimum 4-night length of stay required.
  • Tickets are valid beginning on date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of ticket. Visit disneyworld.com/usage for details.
  • $1,000 Disney Dining Promo Card for stays at select Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts. The value of the Disney Dining Promo Card is determined by Disney Resort hotel and length of stay.
  • One Disney Dining Promo Card per room—valid for room-and-ticket packages that include up to $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card. If a package includes more than $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card, the value will be distributed across more than one Disney Dining Promo Card.
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
  • Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, and Club Level Rooms & Suites at Disney Deluxe Resort hotels.
  • Gratuities are not included.
  • Theme park reservations are required. Through January 8, 2024, to enter a theme park, both a theme park reservation and valid admission for the same park on the same date are required for Guests ages 3 and up. View the theme park reservation availability calendar.

Important Details About the Disney Dining Promo Card

  • The digital Disney Dining Promo Card is redeemable at select participating food and beverage locations at the Walt Disney World Resort. Locations that are unable to accept the Disney Dining Promo Card include, but are not limited to:
    • Merchandise locations and candy kitchens
    • Dining locations at Walt Disney World Swan Hotel, Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel and Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Hotel
    • Dining locations at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
    • Dining locations at Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels
    • Dining locations at Walt Disney World Official Hotels at Bonnet Creek
    • Dining locations at Walt Disney World Gateway Hotels
  • The digital Disney Dining Promo Card will be sent to you via email after you check in at your Disney Resort hotel.
  • The digital Disney Dining Promo Card is not valid after March 21, 2024.
  • Issued by, and represents a legal obligation solely of, Disney Gift Card Services Inc.
  • Lost, damaged or stolen cards may be replaced only if original proof-of-purchase receipt and complete card number are provided.
  • For card balance inquiries, call (877) 650-4327.
  • View terms and conditions.

Let’s mix things up

Let’s mix things up

Every year around the holidays, the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland is transformed into Halloween Town from the Nightmare Before Christmas! This got me thinking about what limited time event themes could be brought to Orlando to break up the monotony of some rides for new and returning guests! It will make visiting at different times of the year a little more special.

The first thing that jumps out which would be an easier change over is switching the Mexican Pavilion Three Caballeros river ride to a Coco Themed Attraction! Instead of seeing Donald and friends croon, we can enjoy the story of Miguel traveling through the land of the dead with Ernesto De La Cruz and Hector crooning along the way. Definitely a fun way to remember him!

Animal Kingdom could do a Spring change over from the It’s Tough To Be A Bug attraction to UP! As there is a screen and animal attractions, take a trip with Carl and Russell to Paradise Falls! Who wouldn’t want to see Kevin running through the auditorium? Maybe Doug will finally catch that squirrel. And let’s be honest, who really likes that attraction as it is, anyway. 

Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom has some great spots for dance parties in the midst of some of their rides! Why not bring in many a millennial’s favorite performing artist Powerline from A Goofy Movie for a true summer concert where their dance party is normally held! If nothing else, you could put Lester’s Possum Park where the Country Bear Jamboree is!

And last but not least, Hollywood Studios. While they’ve had many fantastic updates with Mickey’s Runaway Railroad and Star Wars land, there’s no reason we can’t mix things up every now and again. The Frozen Sing A Long (while being incredibly popular) could have a winter break to trek over to another park for the Christmas party. What would they put on that giant stage? How about using the new relationship with Lin Manuel Miranda and bring an Encanto short musical experience with parts of everyone’s favorite songs! 

Everyone likes a little change now and again and coming up with some different season options makes Disney not a once a year trip, but a multi season trip.

Sarah Tickner - Kansas City, MO

Sarah Tickner - Kansas City, MO

Travel Advisor

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Disney Holiday Discounts

Disney Holiday Discounts

Celebrate the holiday season—with an unforgettable stay at The Most Magical Place on Earth with 2 new offers.  

Disney+ subscribers can save up to 35% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays select nights, October 22 through November 2, 2023, and November 26 through December 25, 2023. Proof of a Disney+ subscription is required. You must be 18+ or the age of the majority in your jurisdiction of residence to subscribe to Disney+. The Disney+ subscriber must stay in the room. See Important Details.

Save Up to 35% For stays select nights, October 22 through November 2, 2023 and November 26 through December 25, 2023

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort — Family Suites

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Save Up to 30% For stays select nights, October 22 through November 2, 2023 and November 26 through December 25, 2023

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Save Up to 25% For stays select nights, October 22 through November 2, 2023 and November 26 through December 25, 2023

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Save Up to 20% For stays select nights, October 22 through November 2, 2023 and November 26 through December 25, 2023

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalow

Save Up to 15% For stays select nights, October 22 through November 2, 2023 and November 26 through December 25, 2023

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Little Mermaid Standard Rooms

Disney’s Beach Club Villas

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

 

If you don’t have Disney+ or the discount doesn’t apply to your dates, there still is something for you.  Stay in the magic this holiday season —and make delightful Disney memories to last a lifetime.

Save on rooms at select Disney Resort Hotels:

  • Save up to 25% on stays most Sunday through Thursday nights from October 2 to November 18, 2023, and most nights from November 19 to December 9, 2023
  • Save up to 30% on stays most nights December 10 to December 25, 2023

 

Savings

Most Sunday through Thursday nights from October 2 to November 18, 2023, and most nights from November 19 to December 9, 2023

Savings

Most nights December 10 to 25,2023

Resorts

Save Up to 25% Most Sunday through Thursday nights from October 2 to November 18, 2023, and most nights from November 19 to December 9, 2023

Save Up to 30% for stays most nights December 10 to 25, 2023

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Family Suites

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Disney Saratoga Spring Resort & Spa

Disney’s Yacht Club

Save Up to 20% Most Sunday through Thursday nights from October 2 to November 18, 2023, and most nights November 19 to December 9, 2023

Save Up to 25% for stays most nights December 10 to 25, 2023

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Save Up to 15% Most Sunday through Thursday nights from October 2 to November 18, 2023, and most nights November 19 to December 9, 2023

Save Up to 20% for stays most nights December 10 to 25, 2023

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Save Up to 10% Most Sunday through Thursday nights from October 2 to November 18, 2023, and most nights November 19 to December 9, 2023

Save Up to 15% for stays most nights December 10 to 25, 2023

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Standard Rooms

Disney’s Beach Club Resort – Villas

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa