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!
1. 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.
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 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 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
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 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.
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!!
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.
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.
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 $1,000Disney Dining Promo Cardwhen they purchase a non-discounted5-night, 4-day vacation packagethat 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
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.
$1,000Disney 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 $1,000on a Disney Dining Promo Card. If a package includes more than $1,000on 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.
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
Travel Advisor
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
This holiday season, celebrate at Walt Disney World in 2 parks. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will return to Magic Kingdom beginning November 9 and for the first time, Hollywood Studios will be hosting Disney Jollywood Nights.
It’s a holiday vibe like never before. Sights of sparkling décor, sounds of modern beats over classic holiday songs, tastes of craft cocktails, and decadent dishes. It’s nostalgic and it’s glitz and glam galore. This is Disney Jollywood Nights – a new, separately ticketed event from 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. on 10 select nights November 11-December 20, 2023.
Get ready to dress in your holiday glam best or festive flair, dance the night away to merry mashups, indulge in divine treats and bubbling spirits, and snap selfies with iconic characters during this new festive event. For an extra dose of cheer, the party wraps with the return of the nighttime spectacular, Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! You’ll be in fa la la la la la la la land before you can say Tinseltown!
Experience holiday vibes throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios with entertainment areas inspired by different genres
Guests will be welcomed to Disney Jollywood Nights with a DJ spinning a mix of holiday tunes. Commissary Lane comes to life with a lively Latin Street Fair. Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy host a live holiday special at Theater of the Stars with some of their Disney friends. And… what’s this? Hyperion Theater will host a spirited sing-along – more details to come.
Encounter glitz and glamor galore at two limited-capacity entertainment experiences – a jazz lounge at The Hollywood Brown Derby and an other-worldly soiree at The Hollywood Tower Hotel Courtyard.
Wrap up the night and enjoy the return of a festive favorite, Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! This Santa-sized nighttime spectacular is jam-packed with music, fireworks, special effects and dazzling state-of-the-art projections.
Snap selfies with unique photo opportunities throughout the night
Pose with friends for holiday-themed Magic Shots and two new Disney PhotoPass experiences throughout the night. Complimentary digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos captured during the event are included with the price of the ticket.**
Meet Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the rest of the iconic gang in Animation Courtyard on a hot set with holiday props. Get into the spirit with fave throwback friends like Powerline Max and Phineas and Ferb at Echo Lake and strike a pose with Edna Mode and chill with one of her super friends at Pixar Place.
Enjoy after-hours access to some of your favorite rides and coasters under the stars
Enjoy after-hours access to some favorite rides and coasters like Slinky Dog Dash, Rock N’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and more. (Star Wars: Rise of Resistance will use a virtual queue* during Disney Jollywood Nights.)
Indulge in delicious holiday tastes and sips exclusive to the party
Guests can buy specialty offerings throughout the party like Spicy Korean Chicken on a Mini Funnel Cake, sweet delights including a colorful Christmas Tree Cookie Stack inspired by the iconic Echo Lake Christmas Tree, and classic cocktails and holiday beverages that can be enjoyed during the party.
Experience the Holiday Magic at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
On 25 select nights, Nov. 9-Dec. 22, this separately ticketed event will welcome guests to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Magic Kingdom. Holiday magic is unwrapped with the return of festive favorites like the Christmas extravaganza stage show, “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration”, the sparkling spectacular “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks” and the merry must-see “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.” Guests can also look forward to enjoying some of their favorite classic and thrill attractions, including Tron Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise, which will use a virtual queue* during the event.
Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are limited and can be purchased online beginning July 6. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green can begin purchasing tickets as early as June 29 on the Walt Disney World website. Ticket prices will range from $159-$199 per person. The party dates are:
Enjoy All That’s Merry and Bright Across Walt Disney World
Can’t get enough of holiday happenings? There’s SNOW much to look forward to this wintry season at Walt Disney World Resort. Keep reading to learn how you can celebrate this festive season, beginning as early as November 9.
Additional Holiday offerings at Walt Disney World Resort
Don’t worry! They didn’t forget the rest of the Walt Disney World Resort during the holiday season. Check out the information below to learn more about where else you can celebrate!
For the first time in forever, guests will be able to join Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, and the Snowgies in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom for Frozen Holiday Surprise, a brand new Frozen-inspired entertainment experience that will illuminate the castle in a whole new way. This delightful new offering can be seen during regular park hours and during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
Amidst the glowing holiday décor, a Merry Menagerie of winter animals returns to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park in the form of artisan-sculpted puppets.
EPCOT will celebrate with the return of “Candlelight Processional” during EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays beginning Nov. 24-Dec. 30. Other guest-favorite traditions like spirited storytellers, joyful musical acts and performers, and Holiday Kitchens return to World Showcase this festive season.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios will once again return the yuletide projection show on The Hollywood Tower Hotel this season. At Toy Story Land, you can once again spot Woody, Jessie and Buzz sporting their holiday best.
At Disney Springs, Guests can once again shop for their loved ones while enjoying the dazzling decor and the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll. Visitors who stop in Town Center won’t believe what they see – magical snowfall in Central Florida!
Guests can say hello to Santa Claus as he makes special appearances in all four parks, Disney Springs and even at a Disney Water Park, where you’ll find him dressed in his tropical holiday beachwear.
A Walt Disney World vacation is an unforgettable experience that you will never forget, but it can be tiring if you’re constantly on the go. A rest day is just what you need to recharge and prepare for more park fun. I know what you’re thinking, without the parks, what will we do all day? A day off from the parks doesn’t have to mean you’re sitting at the pool all day, there are so many great options to fill your day. The pool is my first choice to enjoy while you’re having a rest day though! The recreation team does an amazing job entertaining the kids with activities both in and out of the pool!
For recreation fans, enjoy the day on the course with traditional golf or foot golf, a mix between soccer and golf. If you don’t want to bring your clubs, they have some available to rent so you don’t have to worry about bringing them. My son was impressed with the quality of clubs so there is no need to worry about golfing with old ones. If you or your kids don’t enjoy golf (foot golf or traditional), you may want to use your free mini golf tickets that come with your vacation package! Walt Disney World offers 2 mini golf courses; you’ll find Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf located near the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts, and Winter Summerland Miniature Golf is located near Blizzard Beach. If bowling is more your game, try a game of bowling at Splitsville in Disney Springs.
Speaking of Disney Springs, you could spend your entire rest day there. They have a wide variety of shopping, restaurants, and experiences for you to enjoy. Catch the latest movie at the AMC Theater, grab a bite to eat while surrounded by dinos at T-Rex Cafe, ride the vintage amphicar at The Boathouse, or soar high above the Springs on Aerophile – a tethered hot air balloon. When you’re done exploring Disney Springs, catch the ferry boat to Port Orleans French Quarter for a beignet.
Your rest day is also a great way to enjoy all the resorts Walt Disney World has to offer. Plan a meal like Story Book Dining at Artist Point in Wilderness Lodge, or the hidden gem Sebastian’s at Caribbean Beach that you may not get to on a park day. Depending on which resort you stay at, you may not get to experience the Skyliner or the Monorail, so I recommend stopping at each hotel and trying a delicious snack or drink – it’s a great way to experience some of Disney’s culinary delights, as well as explore other resorts that you may love to stay at on your next Disney vacation.
If you haven’t been able to enjoy the fireworks at Magic Kingdom, try reserving dining at California Grill or even reserving a private specialty cruise where you can enjoy the show without the crowds!
Kelly Van Eerden - Jennison, MI
Lead Travel Advisor
Hi! I’m Kelly Van Eerden, a Lead Travel Advisor with Living With The Magic Vacations. I currently live in Jenison, Michigan with my husband, daughter, and son.
We love traveling as a family because it gives us time to spend time together without all the activities that life with older children brings. Walt Disney World will always have a special place in our hearts as one of our first family vacations, but we also love exploring new destinations! Some of our favorite places to visit have actually been new to us in the last few years. We took our first Disney cruise in early 2020 and my kids fell in love with cruising. We have also visited Universal (both Hollywood and Orlando) and Disneyland recently, and we all found something to enjoy. We love the thrills that the Universal parks offer as well as the Marvel and Cars Land at Disneyland.
1. PLAN AHEAD
