Best Family Vacation Destinations Beyond Disney World

Best Family Vacation Destinations Beyond Disney World

by | Oct 17, 2024 | All-Inclusive, Beyond Disney, Disney Cruise Line, Family Travel Tips, Walt Disney World

10 family vacation destinations to add to your bucket list — Living With The Magic Vacations guide

10 Best Family Vacation Destinations Beyond Disney

Planning the best family vacation destinations can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be! While Walt Disney World is undoubtedly a classic, the world is full of incredible family vacation destinations that deliver just as much magic, often with fewer crowds and more value. From tropical beach resorts to European adventures, we’ve rounded up 10 unforgettable options your family will absolutely love. Not sure whether a resort or cruise is the right fit for your family? We broke it all down here.

In no particular order…

 

Turquoise waters and white sand beach at a Yucatán Mexico vacation destination

 

XCARET

Hotel Xcaret is one of the best family vacation destinations in all of Mexico! This Riviera Maya resort uses an “All-Fun Inclusive” concept. That means your family gets access to multiple Grupo Xcaret parks — all in one price. Hotel Xcaret and Xel-Ha showcase stunning natural wonders. Xplor and Xavage deliver pure adrenaline! Every park offers something magical for every age. The resort celebrates authentic Mexican culture at every turn. Your family leaves with a deep appreciation for this vibrant country. No long Disney lines here — just unforgettable experiences and endless family fun! Xcaret is also one of our top picks on our Bucket List Family Vacations list — and for good reason!

Scenic canal and waterfront view in Italy perfect for a family bucket list trip

ITALY

Italyis one of the most stunning family vacation destinations in the entire world! Forget Epcot’s Italian pavilion — the real thing is so much better. The food alone is worth the trip. Think handmade pasta, authentic Neapolitan pizza, and gelato at every corner! Kids love the stories of gladiators and gondola rides through Venice’s canals. Rome, Florence, and Venice each offer their own unique magic. Italy’s efficient train system makes hopping between cities easy and stress-free. No park tickets needed — just pure culture, history, and unforgettable family memories around every corner!

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Universal Orlando theme park attraction perfect for families

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

Universal Orlando is a top family vacation destination for thrill-seekers of all ages! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter alone is worth the trip. Walk through Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley — it’s pure magic! Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure delivers non-stop excitement. The VelociCoaster will leave your family breathless! Epic Universe opened in 2025, adding even more incredible experiences. Classic rides like Despicable Me and The Simpsons keep younger kids happy too. On-site resort hotels make everything easy and convenient. Universal Orlando delivers a fresh, action-packed adventure your whole family will never forget!

Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay private island beach

PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

Perfect Day at CocoCay is one of the most exciting family vacation destinations in the Caribbean! Royal Caribbean’s private island packs an incredible amount of fun. It has the tallest waterslide in North America! The Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool keeps the whole family cool. Zip lines, a helium balloon ride, and floating cabanas add even more adventure. Pristine beaches and crystal-clear water make relaxing effortless. Pair it with a Royal Caribbean cruise and the experience gets even better. Wake up each morning to gourmet dining and world-class entertainment. Then step off the ship straight into your own private island paradise. It’s the ultimate family adventure combination!

Wondering whether a Royal Caribbean cruise or an all-inclusive resort is the better fit for your family? Here’s our honest comparison.

Crystal clear turquoise water and white sand beach at Beaches Turks and Caicos resort

BEACHES TURKS AND CAICOS

Turks and Caicos is one of the most breathtaking family vacation destinations in the Caribbean! Grace Bay Beach is consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches. The powdery white sand and turquoise water are absolutely stunning. Kids and adults love snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming with stingrays! Mudjin Harbor offers a more secluded, peaceful escape. Luxurious resorts, boutique hotels, and private villas give every family options. Our personal favorite? Beaches Turks and Caicos — an all-inclusive resort built specifically for families! Skip the theme park lines. Choose pristine beaches and laid-back island magic instead. Your family will never want to leave!

 

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Breathtaking mountain and wilderness scenery on an Alaska family vacation

ALASKA

Alaska is one of the most awe-inspiring family vacation destinations in the entire United States! Forget cartoon characters — the real magic here is nature itself. Towering glaciers, serene fjords, and incredible wildlife await your family. A scenic cruise through the Inside Passage is absolutely unforgettable. Hiking through Denali National Park delivers adventure at every turn. Your kids will talk about spotting bears and whales for years! Indigenous culture and history add a rich, meaningful layer to the experience. Every Alaska itinerary is completely customizable for your family’s pace and interests. No Disney souvenir compares to the memories your family makes here!

Virgin Voyages cruise ship sailing to an exotic destination

VIRGIN VOYAGES

Sometimes the best family vacation destinations include a trip just for the grown-ups too! Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise experience unlike anything else. Every passenger is 18 or older — pure kid-free bliss! The dining options are incredible. The Test Kitchen brings Michelin-starred quality right to your table. Pink Agave serves mouthwatering Mexican cuisine onboard. The sprawling spa and hydrotherapy pools melt every ounce of stress away. No schedules, no queues, and no entertaining the little ones. Just freedom, luxury, and spontaneity at every turn. Mom deserves a vacation too — and Virgin Voyages delivers exactly that!

Scenic European river cruise passing through charming riverside towns

EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISE

A European river cruise is one of the most magical family vacation destinations you’ll ever experience! Glide along the Danube, Rhine, and Seine in total comfort. Charming riverside towns appear around every bend. Historic landmarks tell stories your kids will never forget! The best part? You unpack just once. Your ship is a luxurious floating hotel the entire trip. Gourmet dining and enriching cultural experiences are included every day. Wander Christmas markets in Germany. Sip world-class wine in the vineyards of France. Explore picture-perfect villages along the Moselle Valley. No Lightning Lanes, no mouse ears — just pure, unhurried European magic for the whole family!

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Cherry blossom trees in Japan on a family bucket list vacation

JAPAN

Japan is one of the most fascinating family vacation destinations on the entire planet! Tokyo’s neon-lit cityscape is an absolute sensory wonderland. Kids are completely captivated from the moment they arrive. Marvel at iconic Mount Fuji together as a family. Explore the serene gardens and temples of Kyoto. The food scene is legendary — fresh sushi, steaming ramen, and so much more! Japan blends ancient tradition with cutting-edge modern technology beautifully. Bullet trains make exploring multiple cities easy and exciting. Every single corner of this country delivers genuine wonder and discovery. No manufactured magic needed — Japan is the real thing!

Disney Cruise Line ship sailing to a magical tropical destination

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Disney cruise Line ranks among the most beloved family vacation destinations on the water! These state-of-the-art ships blend classic Disney magic with modern luxury perfectly. Broadway-caliber stage shows wow the entire family every night. Character encounters create memories your kids will cherish forever. The imaginative dining venues keep mealtimes exciting and delicious. Adults love the serene, kids-free retreat areas onboard too. Castaway Cay — Disney’s private island — takes the experience to a whole new level. White sand beaches and crystal-clear water await just steps off the ship. Every single detail onboard is thoughtfully designed for families. Disney Cruise Line truly delivers magic on the open seas!

New to Disney Cruise Line?
Our free guide — Magic at Sea: A Beginner’s Guide to Disney Cruise Line — walks you through everything you need to know before you book. Itineraries, ships, tips, and more!

Ready to Book One of These Family Vacation Destinations?

The world is full of incredible vacation destinations that deliver wonder, connection, and memories your family will talk about for years. Whether you’re dreaming of white sand beaches, open seas, ancient history, or pure adventure — we’re here to help you find the perfect fit!

At Living With The Magic Vacations, we specialize in taking the guesswork out of family travel. Our team has personally experienced these destinations, and we bring that knowledge straight to your family’s trip planning! Explore all the destinations we plan on our All-Inclusive Resort Vacations page and let’s start building something your family will never forget.

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The Ultimate Disney Dining Plan Cheat Sheet: Maximize Your Meals at Walt Disney World

The Ultimate Disney Dining Plan Cheat Sheet: Maximize Your Meals at Walt Disney World

by | Oct 4, 2024 | Family Travel Tips, Walt Disney World

a Living with the magic 

ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE

How To Maximize Your Walt Disney World Dining Plan

Embark on a culinary adventure that’s as magical as the fireworks over Cinderella’s Castle! Welcome to our ultimate guide on how to get the most out of your Walt Disney World Dining Plan. Whether you’re a seasoned Disney goer or planning your first enchanted journey, understanding how to leverage your dining plan can transform good meals into extraordinary memories. From character breakfasts to gourmet dinners, we’re here to help you navigate the delicious opportunities that await. 
 
Get ready to savor the magic, delight in global cuisines, and make every meal at Disney a joyful part of your adventure. Let’s dive into the flavors of Walt Disney World like never before!
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1. Buffets: Teen-Approved and Totally Worth It!
Connect with your teens over a feast fit for their endless appetites! Disney’s buffets offer awesome value with a smorgasbord of options that everyone will dig into.

2. Lunch Over Breakfast: The Smart Move
Swap out that breakfast quick service meal for lunch—you score an entrée and drink that are heartier than what is typically offered at breakfast. Kick off the day with something light like a granola bar from home or a pastry snagged with a snack credit, and save those meal credits for some seriously good eats later on.

3. Drink Upgrade Magic
Make every meal a bit more special by upgrading your regular drink to a cool cocktail or a fancy non-alcoholic beverage. Plus, skip the bottled water—grab some free ice water at any counter service. More delicious, more fun, and smart credit use!

4. Character Meals: Get the Most Bang for Your Buck
Dive into the magic with character meals—if they’re just one credit, you’re golden! Your travel advisor’s got the inside scoop on which ones offer the best experience without breaking the credit bank.

5. Snack Credits: Not Just for Popcorn!
Think beyond popcorn and ice cream bars. Your snack credits can unlock a whole world of tasty treats to nibble on through your adventures. Look for the purple and white dining plan logo!

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6. Double Up on Drinks
Use your resort mug for a fill-up at the hotel, and grab a bottled drink for later. It’s all about getting the best perks from your plan!

7. Meal Credits: Share the Love
All your group’s meal credits are pooled together, ready to use from the moment you arrive until the stroke of midnight on your checkout day. So, even if your room isn’t ready, you can still plunge into your foodie escapades.

8. Smart Ordering with Mobile
Take a sneak peek at menus and prices with mobile ordering before you decide. Knowing what’s what helps you max out every single meal credit for ultimate satisfaction.

9. Swap Sides for Snacks
Trade in standard sides like fries for something healthier and packable like carrots, apple slices, or grapes. Not only does it bump up your meal’s health factor, but you also get a handy snack for later.

10. Pizza Party Hack
Feeding a crew on a budget? Grab a large pizza at the hotel food court. It’s a steal since it serves up to six for just two credits—perfect for stretching those credits further and keeping everyone happily fed.

BONUS TIP:
Get ready to take your Disney dining plan to delicious new heights at this year’s Food and Wine Festival! Several of the Global Marketplaces at the festival will feature menu items that qualify as snacks under your dining plan. While not all items are included, keep an eye out for the distinct square purple and white “DDP” icon next to menu selections. This is an excellent opportunity to really maximize your plan, as many dishes are priced at $10 or more, making it both a savvy and indulgent way to explore the festival’s culinary offerings. Dive into diverse flavors and make the most of your Disney dining experience!

 

Unlock the Magic Beyond the Theme Parks: 7 Enchanting Disney Resort Experiences

Unlock the Magic Beyond the Theme Parks: 7 Enchanting Disney Resort Experiences

by | Aug 17, 2024 | Walt Disney World

Discover the Magic Beyond the Theme Parks at Walt Disney World Resort

When you stay at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you unlock a world of enchanting experiences beyond the theme parks. At Living With The Magic Vacations, we believe your Disney Resort stay should be just as magical as your time in the parks.

Let’s explore 7 hidden gems that will make your Walt Disney World vacation truly unforgettable:

 

  • Yoga Sessions:
     Start your day with tranquility and fun through our yoga offerings. For families, there’s Story Time Yoga where you can strike playful poses with the little ones. For seasoned yogis, try Disney Fit Yoga – a unique blend of traditional yoga and Disney music that will have you feeling centered and energized.
  • Cultural Immersion at Animal Kingdom Lodge:
     Step into the vibrant heart of Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Here, you can learn the rhythms of African drumming, discover the meanings behind intricate artworks, and gain a rich cultural understanding from our knowledgeable representatives.
  • Archery at Fort Wilderness: 
    Channel your inner Merida and experience the thrill of archery at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Take aim, feel the tension in the bow, and celebrate as you hit the target – a truly unique way to connect with the great outdoors.
  • Guided Fishing Excursions:
    For a peaceful and rewarding afternoon, join one of our guided fishing excursions available at eight Disney Resort hotels. Cast your line into serene waters and wait with bated breath for that tug on the line.
  • Arts & Crafts Workshops:
    Unleash your creativity with hands-on arts and crafts classes. Paint a masterpiece at Wild About Painting or craft your own Disney-inspired artwork during the Spanish Mosaic Art class. These activities allow you to create tangible keepsakes of your stay.
  • Surprise Disney Character Visits:
     Imagine the delight on your family’s faces when beloved Disney characters make an unexpected appearance at your resort. These spontaneous encounters bring joy and create unforgettable moments that only Disney can deliver.
  • Movies Under the Stars:
     As the day winds down, gather your loved ones and find a cozy spot for Movies Under the Stars. Sitting under a blanket of twinkling stars, surrounded by family and friends, watching cherished Disney classics – this enchanting experience will leave you with magical memories to last a lifetime.

At Living With The Magic Vacations, we believe your Disney Resort stay should be just as enchanting as your time in the parks. Let us help you unlock the hidden gems that will make your Walt Disney World vacation truly special. Contact us today to start planning your dream Disney getaway!

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Return to the Magic in 2025: Your Ultimate Girls’ Getaway at Walt Disney World

Return to the Magic in 2025: Your Ultimate Girls’ Getaway at Walt Disney World

by | Jul 8, 2024 | Walt Disney World

Our Story of Magic and Memories

At Living With The Magic Vacations, we believe in the power of travel to transform lives. Our favorite testimony to this belief? Our annual Girls’ Getaway Weekend. It all began in 2016 when a group of dear friends, all busy moms and professionals, decided they desperately needed a break—a chance to shed their daily responsibilities and rediscover that spark of joy and youth.

Choosing the “Happiest Place on Earth” as our retreat, we immersed ourselves in the wonder and nostalgia of Walt Disney World. From our first steps down Main Street, U.S.A., the magic was palpable, transforming us from stressed-out moms to princesses and adventurers. This escape wasn’t just a break from reality; it was a doorway back to our childhoods, filled with laughter and boundless excitement.

The success of our first getaway turned this into more than an annual tradition; it became our passion project, growing each year and continually inspired by the powerful transformations we witnessed in ourselves and others.

Who Can Dive Into This Magic?

Our magical Girls’ Getaway Weekend is open to all women aged 16 and up! It’s a perfect opportunity for reunions, mother-daughter vacations, or just a fabulous weekend with your best girlfriends. Our chosen Disney resorts offer luxurious accommodations for groups of any size, ensuring your stay is as spectacular as the park itself. And the best part? You don’t have to be an existing client of ours to join—this invitation is open to all who yearn to rediscover their inner child.

Embrace Your Royal Side: Premier Resorts Awaiting You

While any Walt Disney World resort can be your gateway to magic, we recommend a few favorites for the ultimate girls’ getaway experience. Whether it’s the retro charm of Pop Century Resort, the lush tropical paradise of Polynesian Village Resort, or the luxurious ambiance of the Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, we have meticulously selected properties that promise enchantment and fun in equal measure.

Booking your magical retreat through Living With The Magic Vacations means you’ll enjoy exclusive perks, personalized itineraries, and unparalleled attention to detail, allowing you to focus solely on making memories that will last a lifetime.

How to Join the Magic

Excited for 2025? So are we! While the full itinerary for our Girls’ Getaway Weekend is still in the works, you can secure your spot today. By reserving early, you not only guarantee your place but also benefit from the flexibility of monthly payments and opportunities for additional savings.

Ready to Relive the Wonder?

We invite you to gather your beloved sisters, friends, and family to join us for this exhilarating journey. Let’s make the 2025 Girls’ Getaway Weekend a celebration of friendship, laughter, and the timeless magic of Walt Disney World. With Living With The Magic Vacations, your dream vacation is just a wish away. Join us next August 14-18, 2025 for a Girls Getaway you’ll never forget!!

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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.

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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.

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