In this guide, you’ll learn:

What a Disney travel agent does

How to become a Disney travel planner

Why joining a Disney Gold Earmarked Agency like Castles and Cruises Travel is the best way to launch your career

What Does a Disney Travel Agent Do?

A Disney travel agent (also known as a Disney travel planner) specializes in helping clients book unforgettable vacations to Disney destinations, including:

* Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
* Disneyland Resort in California
* Disney Cruise Line sailings worldwide
* Adventures by Disney guided tours
* Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii

As a Disney travel planner, your role includes:

Assisting clients in choosing the right resorts, tickets, dining, and experiences

Booking vacations, dining reservations, and Disney Lightning Lane MultiPass and SinglePass selections

Staying up to date on Disney promotions, events, and seasonal offers

Sharing insider tips, from Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique to Disney VIP tours

The best part? You can do it all as a work-from-home Disney travel agent with flexible hours and unlimited earning potential.

Step 1: Partner with the Right Disney-Authorized Travel Agency

You cannot become a Disney travel agent on your own—you must work through a Disney-authorized travel agency. The agency you choose will determine the quality of your training, level of support, and how quickly you grow your business.

That’s why Castles and Cruises Travel is the best choice for new Disney travel agents.

Why Join Castles and Cruises Travel as a Disney Travel Agent?

Castles and Cruises Travel is more than just a travel agency—it’s a Disney Gold Earmarked Agency, a designation given to agencies recognized by Disney for exceptional knowledge, client service, and performance.

Here’s why you’ll love starting your Disney travel planner career here:

* Disney Gold Earmarked Status – Recognition from Disney that proves expertise and excellence.
* Professional Disney Travel Agent Training – Learn everything you need to succeed, from resort details to client care.
* Onsite Disney Familiarization Trips – Experience Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and more firsthand.
* Generous Commissions – Competitive earnings that grow as your client base expands.
* Supportive Team Environment – You’ll always have mentors, tools, and resources to guide you.

✨ Bonus: Through our sister company, C&C World Travel, you’ll also have opportunities to book luxury and international destinations, thanks to their membership in the exclusive Virtuoso network.

Step 2: Complete Your Disney Training

When you join Castles and Cruises Travel, you’ll gain access to industry-leading Disney training, including:

* Disney’s College of Knowledge – The official Disney training program for agents.
* Ongoing Agency Training – Exclusive workshops and coaching from experienced Disney advisors.
* Marketing & Business Support – Strategies, tools, and guidance to attract Disney-loving clients.

Step 3: Grow Your Disney Travel Business

Success as a Disney travel agent comes from building relationships and marketing your services. With Castles and Cruises Travel, you’ll get support in:

* Social media inspiration to reach potential Disney clients
* Branding guidance to stand out from other travel agents
* Opportunities to earn extra commission as you grow your client base

Is Becoming a Disney Travel Agent Right for You?

This is a dream job if you:

* Love Disney destinations and travel
* Have strong organizational and communication skills
* Enjoy helping families plan magical vacations
* Want work-from-home flexibility and unlimited earning potential
* You may even be eligible for exclusive Disney travel discounts as you grow in your role.

Apply to Become a Disney Travel Agent with Castles and Cruises Travel. We can’t wait to meet you!

If you’ve been dreaming of turning your passion for Disney into a career, now is the time. With Castles and Cruises Travel’s Gold Earmarked status, unmatched training, and supportive team, there’s no better place to begin your journey as a Disney travel agent.

📧 Ready to apply? Email us at Hello@castlesandcruisestravel.com
with the subject line Disney Travel Planner to learn more.

The post How to Become a Disney Travel Agent (and Why Castles and Cruises Travel is the Best Agency to Join) appeared first on Castles and Cruises Travel Company.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to become a Disney travel planner, what the job involves, and why Castles and Cruises Travel, a Disney Gold Earmarked Agency, is the best choice for launching your Disney travel planner career.

What Does a Disney Travel Agent Do?

*A Disney travel agent (also called a Disney travel planner) specializes in booking Disney vacations, including:

*Walt Disney World Resort in Florida

*Disneyland Resort in California

*Disney Cruise Line sailings worldwide

*Adventures by Disney guided tours

*Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii

Your role would include the following:

*Help clients choose the right resorts, tickets, dining, and experiences.

*Book vacations, arrange dining, and assist with Disney Lightning Land MultiPass and SinglePass planning (all of the details!)

*Stay up to date on Disney promotions and special events.

*Provide expert tips to create stress-free and magical vacations including enhancements such as Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Disney VIP tours and personalized plans.

The best part? You can do all of this as a work from home Disney travel agent with flexible hours.

Step 1: Partner with the Right Disney-Authorized Travel Agency
You cannot become a Disney travel agent independently—you must work through a Disney-authorized travel agency. Choosing the right one will determine your training, support, and income potential.

That’s why Castles and Cruises Travel is the perfect choice for new Disney travel planners.

Why Castles and Cruises Travel is the Best Agency for New Disney Travel Agents
Castles and Cruises Travel isn’t just another travel agency—it’s a Disney Gold Earmarked Agency, which means Disney recognizes them for their exceptional knowledge, customer service, and sales performance.

Here’s what makes Castles and Cruises stand out:

*Disney Gold Earmarked Status – A top honor that proves their expertise in planning Disney vacations.

*Professional Disney Travel Agent Training – Learn everything from resort details to sales and client communication.

*Onsite Disney Familiarization Trips – Experience Disney destinations (and Universal Resorts) firsthand so you can offer real-world advice to clients.

*Generous Commission Opportunities – Earn competitive commissions and increase your income as your Disney travel business grows.

*Supportive Team Environment – You’ll never be on your own—you’ll have mentors and resources every step of the way.

BONUS! C&C World Travel is the sister company that advisors may also work with when they are ready to expand their expertise to other destinations. C&C World Travel is a member of the exclusive luxury travel network, Virtuoso.

Step 2: Complete Your Disney Training

When you join Castles and Cruises Travel as an independent contractor, you’ll get access to:

*Disney’s College of Knowledge – The official Disney training program.

*Ongoing Agency Training – Exclusive sessions with experienced Disney travel agents and our dedicated Disney advisor that is assigned to our agency.

*Marketing Support – Tools and strategies to attract and retain clients.

Step 3: Build Your Disney Travel Business
The more you promote your services, the more your business will grow. Castles and Cruises Travel helps you with the following:

*Social media tips to find Disney-loving clients.

*Branding guidance to set yourself apart.

*Opportunities and support to earn extra commissions as you expand your client base.

Is This the Right Job for You?
If you love Disney, have great organizational skills, and enjoy helping people, a Disney travel planner job could be your dream career. This is especially perfect if you’re looking for:

*Work from home flexibility

*Unlimited earning potential

*Opportunities for Disney travel discounts

*The joy of making vacations magical

✨ Ready to apply?
Castles and Cruises Travel is now accepting applications for independent Disney travel agents. With their Gold Earmarked status, unmatched training, and exciting travel opportunities, there’s no better place to start your magical career!

We want to hear from you! Email the following address with the subject line, Disney travel planner for more information.
Hello@castlesandcruisestravel.com</

The post How to become a Disney travel agent: Your guide to starting a magical career with Castles and Cruises Travel appeared first on Castles and Cruises Travel Company.

Disney Cruise Line

For families and Disney enthusiasts, the magic extends beyond the theme parks. Disney Cruise Line kicks off the new year in January with a four-night Western Caribbean cruise, sailing to the picturesque destination of Mexico. The Disney Magic temporarily sails out of New Orleans and there is still (limited) availability. Experience the enchantment of Disney at sea, complete with Broadway style entertainment, rotational dining, and, of course, our beloved Captain Mickey Mouse and his fellow Disney characters. Castles and Cruises Travel gives Disney Cruise Line guests their exclusive Magical Bonus Bucks to enjoy onboard.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean, a name synonymous with attainable luxury and exploration, invites travelers to set sail for five or seven days to discover the beauty of the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The itinerary includes stops at various ports of call, from the Cayman Islands to the shores of Mexico.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line departs from New Orleans every month of the year. With voyages ranging from 4 to 14 days, Carnival offers a variety of itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, as well as journeys through the iconic Panama Canal. Whether you’re seeking tropical beaches or an adventure through the Panama Canal, Carnival has you covered.

Norwegian Cruise Line

For those eyeing the fall of 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line is available with multiple trips to the Western Caribbean. Ports of call offered include destinations like Mexico, Belize, Jamaica, and more. Norwegian promises a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.

River Cruises

American Queen Voyages, Viking, and American Cruise Line offer the opportunity to take a leisurely trip down the Mississippi River, allowing passengers to explore the ins and outs of Louisiana and Mississippi and the cultural hub, Memphis. As you sail along the river, enjoy the charming nuances of these Southern states and the beauty of the riverbanks.

Castles and Cruises Travel offers an an exclusive amenity with every sailing so reach out to your advisor asap.  With a variety of cruise options catering to different budgets and preferences, 2024 promises to be a year of adventure on the high seas. Bon voyage!

The post Set Sail from the Big Easy: New Orleans Cruise Options in 2024 appeared first on Castles and Cruises Travel Company.

Here is a list of some of our favorite travel deals for Black Friday 2023:

CRUISES – Ask your advisor about additional exclusive perks that may be included when you book through them!

Celebrity Cruises
From Nov. 10 to Dec. 5, cruise guests can enjoy 75% off a second guest with Celebrity Cruises, as well as up to $300 in onboard credit for nearly all itineraries through Apr. 30, 2026.

Norwegian Cruise Line
Throughout the entire month of November, cruisers can save 50% on all cruises, including bookings for the highly anticipated Norwegian Aqua, which makes its debut in 2025.

Oceania Cruises
For bookings made from Nov. 14 to Dec. 5, guests can save up to $5,400 per stateroom on select 2024 sailings around the globe, ranging in length from seven to 34 days.

Princess Cruises
Through Nov. 30, guests can benefit from three concurrent promotions: up to 50% off 2024 and 2025 vacations, 50% off deposits, and third and fourth guests sail free. The 50% off sale applies to all fare types including inclusive packages like Princess Plus and Princess Premier.

Disney Cruise Line
Up to 25% off of sailings departing out of New Orleans plus an onboard credit. Our guests receive an agency exclusive perk – MAGICAL BONUS BUCKS for all sailings.

Virgin Voyages
Between Nov. 16 and Nov. 30, cruisers can save 30% on all voyages for travel through the end of 2024, plus receive a Bar Tab of $600 for sailings of seven nights or longer ($300 for four to six nights, $125 for three nights or less).

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean’s Black Friday sale is for new cruise bookings and offers up to $750 instant savings, plus 30% off everyone in the cabin. Savings vary by ship and sail date.
Black Friday Sale applies to new bookings made between November 23 – 24, 2023 on sailings departing on or after December 23, 2023.

OUR FEATURED RESORTS & GROUP TOUR SAVINGS:

Velas Resorts
Our favorite luxury all-inclusive resorts in Mexico are offering up to 20% off on nightly rates and a variety of other complimentary services and deals, which vary by location, from Nov. 22 to 26.

Sandals and Beaches Resorts
Starting on Nov. 13, Sandals and Beaches are offering up to $750 in flight credits and $250 in resort credits for all bookings made by Dec. 21 when you book through C&C. Promo includes some iconic resorts such as the brand new Sandals Dunn’s River, Royal Curacao, and more.

Preferred Resorts in various destination around the Caribbean, Mexico, Africa, Asia, Europe, Hawaii, Central America, South Pacific – Percentage savings and/or resort credits which vary by location.

Walt Disney World
Kids Play & Dine Offer – Receive half off of Walt Disney World Theme park tickets and dining plans for select travel dates and select resort packages. Tip! Be flexible and let your C&C advisor help you find the best offer for your family.

Collette Tours
Through Nov. 28, Collette is offering guests savings of up to 20% off on travel between Jan. 1, 2024 and April 30, 2025.

Globus
During Globus 12+ days of savings (Nov. 12 to 28), travelers can save on both land tours and river cruises. With Globus, clients can save up to $1,000 on new bookings of tours and cruises in Greece, Ireland, Italy, North America, and beyond. With Avalon Waterways, clients can enjoy $500 off plus free air plus free gratuities on new bookings of select 2024 cruises across Europe.

Savings will vary by travel date, ship, or resort and there may be a limited number allocated. So reach out soon to capture the best deals for your 2024 travel!
Start the planning process here by submitting this expression of interest form:
Request a quote!

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Save 25%* on a 3-Park, 5-Night Hotel & Ticket Package

The post Universal Orlando Vacation Discount! appeared first on Castles and Cruises Travel Company.

The cost of Genie+ is $15 per person per day (plus tax.)  It can be added to a Walt Disney World vacation package before you arrive in Disney World or it can but purchased in the app for the day(s) that you wish to have it.

Lighting Lane reservations are made in your My Disney Experience app starting at 7:00 am on the day of your park visit. If added it to your Disney package, Disney Genie+ will populate into your app and you will be ready to book your first LL reservation each morning. If you prefer to have Genie+ only on select park days instead of adding it to your package, you may purchase it in the app starting at midnight the night prior to your park visit. As part of the Genie+, you may choose from a list of 40 attractions. Aside from those 40 included attractions, there are Individual Lightning Lane attractions (2 per park) that are available for an additional purchase. Disney resort guests may purchase up to 2 Individual Lightning Lane reservations at 7:00 am. Guests may purchase these very popular Individual Lighting Lane selections whether or not they purchased the whole Genie+ system. If you purchase the Genie+ and you also want to purchase 2 Individual LL attractions, you will start your day with 3 LL reservations (one of the 40 included attractions plus 2 of the paid attractions.) If you did not purchase Genie+ but want to purchase the Individual LL attractions, you may do so.

The Individual Lightning Lane attraction selections are the following:

Magic Kingdom

• 7 Dwarfs Mine Train
• Space Mountain

Epcot

• Frozen Ever After
• Ratatouille

Hollywood Studios

• Rise of the Resistance
• Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Animal Kingdom

• Flight of Passage
• Expedition Everest

It is very important to choose your first Lightning Lane at 7:00 am on the dot. You may choose your second LL reservation after your tap in to redeem your first LL reservation OR after two hours have passed (from park opening.) Start your two hour countdown from the official  park opening time. Continue to book subsequent Lightning Lane reservations in the same manner (after redeeming your current LL reservation or after two hours have passed.) It is important to do some research and have a plan of which Lightning Lane reservations you will book first and earlier in the day. The popular attractions will likely be fully distributed early in the day and you don’t want to miss out.

Should you use Genie+? Yes! Your travel advisor can help you choose the best way to incorporate it into your Disney plans including recommendations on which Individual LL selections will serve you best.  It will definitely save you time and help you achieve more of your Disney goals.

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Imagine staying in resort where your hotel becomes part of the adventure. Choose from a beachfront resort with South Pacific vibes, a charming retreat inspired by New Orleans’s southern hospitality, or a playful resort straight out of your favorite childhood movies, complete with larger-than-life details. With over 25 Walt Disney World Resort hotels at various price points, finding the perfect resort is what we love to do for our Disney World guests.

Value

If your family size is four or fewer, Pop Century is a resort the whole family will love without breaking the bank.
With sections of the resort themed for each decade from the 1950s to 1990s, you’ll see fun nods to movies like Lady and the Tramp and The Jungle Book. The renovated rooms have a modern, innovative design to make the most of the space, including a pull down Murphy bed that converts into a dining table. You’ll find lots of drawers, cabinets, and nooks to organize all your stuff.
At Pop you’ll have direct access to the Skyliner, Disney’s newest form of transportation. The Skyliner gondolas will fly you to Epcot, Hollywood Studios as well as other Disney resorts with great dining options like Boardwalk, and Yacht and Beach Club. Bus transportation is available to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.

Pop Century has three pools (our favorite is the bowling pin shaped pool in the 50s section that’s always playing great oldies!), a large food court, and a fun pool bar called Petals.
If you choose to stay at Pop, be sure to book a preferred room—it will typically only run $15-20 more per night, but will ensure you are in a building that isn’t far from the main hub of the resort with easy access to the dining, lobby, pool, and park transportation. If your family has more than four people or if you just want more space to spread out, consider staying at Pop Century’s neighboring hotel Art of Animation. It has many of the same great qualities as Pop, but features incredible family suites that sleep up to six. These suites have two full bathrooms, a separate bedroom, and a kitchenette.

Moderate

You’ll find that Disney’s moderate options are mostly sprawling resorts with multiple internal bus stops, but there is one exception: Port Orleans French Quarter. This resort is smaller and easier to navigate than the other Moderates, which is why it’s my top pick in this category if you’re traveling with small kids and pushing a stroller. With only one bus stop, you’ll save precious time by heading directly to the parks after boarding the bus. This resort runs along the Sassagoula River and offers boat transportation to Disney Springs. The theming here is lovely and peaceful, with a quieter atmosphere than many other value and moderate resorts. Cobblestone “streets,” fountains, and gardens abound, and you might even catch a horse-drawn carriage making its way through.

The recreation area at Port Orleans French Quarter is on par with many of the deluxe resorts, boasting a large pool, hot tub, a fun water slide, and a splash pad for the kids. There’s also a playground if the kids need to burn off some energy. When it comes to dining, French Quarter has a great quick service food court called Sassagoula Floatworks, as well as a lounge adjacent to the lobby. But the most important thing you need to know is that this resort is the home of Mickey Beignets. Don’t miss out on this iconic and delicious treat if you stay here!

Deluxe

There are so many outstanding deluxe Disney resorts that I have to recommend two in this category.
Let’s start with Disney’s Polynesian Resort, which is my top pick if you have small kids.
The lush landscaping, tiki torches, and waterfront views at the Polynesian will make you feel like you might have landed in Hawaii instead of Florida. You’ll find an abundance of incredible dining options at Poly including fan favorite ‘Ohana. The Pineapple Lanai by the pool serves Dole Whip and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is the perfect place to grab a cocktail!

Located on the monorail line, Polynesian guests have easy access to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot, as well as the other monorail resorts and their fantastic dining options. There is also boat service offered to and from the Magic Kingdom. The guest rooms here have just undergone a renovation to feature an adorable Moana theme. The rooms are spacious with a fifth sleeper. Both pools at Poly have a zero entry area that’s perfect for little ones, but the Lava pool also features a water slide and a view of Cinderella’s castle in the distance that can’t be beat. My kids will tell you that the Polynesian has their favorite splash pad—it’s huge and has two fun slides and lots of water features. And they love playing in the sandy beach area, which is an incredible place to watch the fireworks from at night.

My other favorite Deluxe is the Yacht and Beach Club. I recommend staying here if your kids are a bit older and can take full advantage of Stormalong Bay, which is basically a small water park right at the resort featuring multiple pool areas, a lazy river, an enormous water slide, and a sand bottom pool. My kiddos have spent hours building sand castles at the sand bottom pool.

You’ll have plenty of excellent table service and quick service options just steps away when you stay at this resort. Beaches and Cream restaurant is one of our top picks for a table service dining with its fun atmosphere, excellent prices, and Instagram-worthy desserts. If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, Yachtsman Steakhouse is your place.

Arguably the biggest perk of staying at Yacht and Beach Club is the ease of access to TWO theme parks. Epcot is a mere five minute walk away, and you can walk to Hollywood Studios in about 15 minutes. The Friendship boats are also just steps away and a great way to get around when you’re feet are tired at the end of the day.

With so many options to choose from, there’s truly a Disney World resort perfect for every Disney vacation!

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On May 28^th, Disney World started rolling out information on some of the Health and Safety measures which they will be implementing when the parks start their Phase One 2020 reopening on July 11^th and 15^th.  This news was met with an avalanche of reactions, both positive and negative, that have thrown many guests with upcoming reservations into a quandary when it comes to the question:  should we still go?

As an Earmarked Agency that carries an Authorized Disney Travel Planner designation, Castles and Cruises Travel has been on the receiving end of many calls from clients looking to us to tell them what to do.

The reality is whilst, as a Travel Advisor, I can’t decide for my clients, what I can do is present information in an objective way and, if asked, share my personal opinion.

Would I go, you ask?  Read on below!

NOTE:  The views expressed below are the opinions of the author – they provide an insight into a personal perspective and, having read them, invite you to form your own opinion to guide your decision.

Question: Would I Still Go?

Yes, I definitely would.  Why?  Because none of the measures announced sound out of place in the context of our new global reality, our “new normal”.  Enhanced sanitation, distancing, smaller crowds, contactless transactions, temperature screening, and wearing of masks are all measures being recommended by health authorities around the world as the best ways to stay safe in public environments.

Question:  Won’t it be less Magical?

Personally, I don’t think so.  The Walt Disney Company has spent the last 96 years making Magic synonymous with the Disney brand and the Disney Theme Parks are key vehicles for delivering that Magic in a tangible way: magical moments, magical experiences, magical memories.  I am therefore confident that Disney is going to do whatever they can to deliver the magic during this time. And I think guests will be pleasantly surprised by how they do that because exceeding expectations is something that Disney truly excels at!

Question:  What do you think the biggest advantage of going will be?

I’m a germaphobe at the best of times!  And not a big fan of huge crowds.  So navigating the Disney Parks with significantly less crowds and experiencing an environment which is being cleaned and sanitized in an even greater way, and with significantly higher frequency, sounds ideal to me

Question:  What do you think the biggest disadvantage will be?

I think adjusting expectations is going to be a huge challenge.  There are several things which have joined together to comprise the must-do list for a perceived “Perfect Disney Parks Experience”.  And some of those things (fireworks shows, character meet and greets and character dining, for example) may have limited availability or may remain closed.  Is it possible to have a magical experience without them?  Absolutely!  I have many clients who skip fireworks to avoid the crowds or because their kids are just too tired or because the noise may be upsetting and they still have a magical time!  Same for character meet and greets and meals and other Disney Parks offerings.  The reality is that Disney invests heavily in cultivating their park environments to be magical and having a fantastic, memorable experience is not predicated on a to-do list – it’s about being there, being present, and spending time with loved ones whilst soaking in the energy and magic of this happy place.

Ready to head to Disney World?   If you don’t currently have a reservation and would like to book one, please get in touch! Our Dream Makers use their expert knowledge of  Walt Disney World, to help you plan a truly magical experience that’s customized to your family’s needs!

The post Should We Still Go? The Key Question Facing Many Disney World Guests with Upcoming Reservations! appeared first on Castles and Cruises Travel Company.

Did you know that the Disney World resort you choose plays an important role in determining how quickly you get to the theme parks?

In addition to the complimentary bus transportation service provided to all Disney Resorts, some resorts offer direct walking paths (for true express access to the parks) or additional complimentary transportation options (like the monorail, Skyliner or water taxi service) that can get you to the parks a lot quicker than the bus service!

Plus, choosing the right resort can make a huge difference to your family’s day – especially if you have little ones that you would like to take back to your resort for a nap if you’re planning on enjoying a fireworks show or late night extra magic hours!

Here’s our list of recommended resorts for each theme park so that you can minimize your travel time and maximize your fun!

Park:   Disney’s Magic Kingdom

Recommended Resort:   Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Why: This iconic Disney  Resort has a dedicated walking path that leads directly to the Magic Kingdom!  A quick 10-minute walk and you’re at the park entrance!

Bonus:  The Contemporary Resort also offers direct monorail access to the  Magic Kingdom and connecting monorail service to Epcot for an iconic Disney Transportation experience.

Resort Update:  As of Late 2020, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort has also added a direct walking path to the Magic Kingdom!  The walk time averages between 12 – 16 minutes (depending on your pace) which makes this monorail resort a fantastic option if the Contemporary is not available!

Park:  Disney’s Epcot

Recommended Resorts:  Disney’s Yacht Club, Disney’s Beach Club, and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Why:  All have a direct walking path to Epcot!  A quick 10 – 15-minute walk and you’re at the international gateway entrance! Perfect for those visiting Epcot during one of its signature  festivals (like the International Food and Wine Festival or the Flower and Garden Festival)

Bonus:  These resorts also offer a water taxi service to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  You can also walk to Hollywood Studios from these resorts!

Honorable Mention:  Disney’s Riviera Resort – features direct Skyliner access to Epcot (a quick 9-minute ride)

Park:  Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Recommended Resort:  Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Why:  The direct Skyliner service between this resort and Disney’s Hollywood Studios gets you to the park in a speedy 6 minutes!

Bonus:  You can also use the Skyliner system from this resort to get to Epcot – About a 14-minute journey.

Con:  Bus service to both Hollywood Studios and Epcot is reduced at this resort.

Park:  Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Recommended Resort:  Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Why:  It is literally a quick 5-minute bus ride between Animal Kingdom Lodge and its namesake theme park

Bonus:   Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the best-themed resorts on property – its immersive design and beautiful theming will transport you to a faraway land.  It’s like having two vacations in one!  Plus you get to enjoy the sights of Zebras, Giraffes, Antelopes, Elks, Kudus, Gazelles, Wildebeests and other animals free-roaming the property’s savannah!

Honorable Mentions:

These resorts don’t offer direct access to a theme park, but they do offer bonus transportation options

Resorts:  Disney’s Pop Century, Disney’s Art of Animation,

Pros:  Access to the Disney Skyliner system for transportation to Epcot and Disney Hollywood Studios

Cons:  You do have to change stations at Caribbean Beach Resort when going to Hollywood Studios and Epcot. These resorts  also offer reduced bus service to Epcot and Hollywood Studios

Ready to plan your Disney Vacation?   Please get in touch! Our Dream Makers use their expert knowledge of  Walt Disney World to help you plan a truly magical experience that’s customized to your family’s needs!

The post Choosing the Right Disney World Resort Can Save You Time And Get You To The Fun Faster! appeared first on Castles and Cruises Travel Company.

This was a hard-learned lesson for me.  About 15 years ago, before I became a travel advisor,  I decided to try cruising for the first time – I wanted to see what the hype was all about.  I based my decision on price and destination and did not pay attention to the cruise line.  The result:  I didn’t enjoy my first cruise experience at all!  This had everything to do with the cruise line I chose for my cruise:  their “party hearty” vibe just didn’t sit well with me – too much noise, too many rowdy people, too hedonistic, too gaudy.

Added to that was the fact that I just felt “lost”. I had booked this cruise myself and not through a travel advisor and I didn’t really understand how cruising and being onboard “worked” – what was included, what wasn’t, what I could do, what I should pre-book, what options were available to me for dining/recreation/exploring ports-of-call, what I should pack/take/have – all the knowledge that as a Travel Advisor I now arm my clients with.

Luckily for me, I didn’t give up.  I had seen, read, heard too many wonderful glowing reviews about the joys of cruising and I chose to try again with a different line.  And long story short, twenty-something major cruises later, I am now hooked for life!

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or an experienced one looking to try something new, here’s a look at some (not all) major cruise lines to give you a sense of how they differ from each other:

DISNEY CRUISE LINE –  For The Ultimate Family Cruise Experience!

Cruising with Disney can be summed up in one word:  Magical!  Disney Cruise Line combines customer service excellence with Disney entertainment, Disney Characters and Disney Theming to deliver an experience that is memorable and truly special.

Noteworthy features:

• Disney staterooms are larger than most lines and they are the only line whose rooms have a split bathroom configuration – which is really convenient for families
• Adults are well catered for – there are several adult-only options (bars, lounges, restaurants, activities)
• The kids/teens clubs are beautifully themed and offer a fantastic range of supervised, planned activities
• Service and onboard experience second to none – Disney has been voted the #1 Large Cruise Line in the world 8 years in a row by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler, largely due to Disney Cruise Line’s ongoing commitment to excellence and delivering magical experiences

What experienced cruisers need to know:

There’s no casino (on any Disney ship); There is a greater emphasis on live activities vs built self-serve entertainment facilities, which is how Disney creates an experiential and immersive environment.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISE LINE – For Active, Adventure Seeking Families!

If your family doesn’t like to sit still, and loves being active and on the go, Royal Caribbean might just be your cruise line soul mate!  With its plethora of entertainment facilities and planned activities, Royal Caribbean literally serves up more than you can do in one cruise.

Noteworthy features:

• There’s something for everyone when it comes to fun, activity and entertainment. Royal Caribbean’s extensive list of facilities and scheduled events offers options for a range of ages, tastes and abilities, making it easy to find your fun
• There are several equally amazing quiet spots onboard where you can catch your breath and just (gasp) relax
• Whilst major activity facilities (like the wave riders and slides) and entertainment options used to be exclusive to Royal Caribbean’s newer and larger ships, they have embarked on a fleet-wide “Amplification” program. As a result, many of their older and smaller ships now have, or soon will have, similar features and facilities to their mega-ships
• Impressive range of included dining options to keep you fueled for fun
• Suites that are like apartments at sea! From 2 story split level or expansive layouts to exclusive suite-level service and facilities (like an exclusive restaurant and sun deck), Royal Suite Class will make you feel like Royalty.  And yes, there is a suite that comes with your own personal Genie (I’m not kidding!)

CELEBRITY CRUISE LINE – For Travelers Who Like A Bit Of Luxury

For those looking to upgrade their cruise experience, Celebrity is the business class equivalent of the major cruise lines.  Known for service and sophistication, Celebrity is a perfect choice for those looking to indulge in a more selective and refined experience.

Noteworthy features:

• Celebrity’s onboard experience is crafted on the concept of a modern take on the “grand old days of ocean cruising”
• On all ships, the décor is amazing and unique – from tastefully decorated public spaces and rooms, to stunningly beautiful architectural details and accents, to amazing works of sculpture and art waiting to be discovered as you explore her decks
• Celebrity’s level of service is set to “pamper” – their attention to detail, and commitment to guest satisfaction, shines through and you will feel spoilt.
• Celebrity’s dining style leans towards providing guests with an epicurean experience so there’s a large focus on culinary experiences and offerings. Perfect for Gourmands and Oenophiles!
• For a Downton Abbey type experience, upgrade to a suite to be assigned your own personal butler. You’ll also enjoy complimentary pre-dinner aperitifs in a lush exclusive lounge, and a fixed table in an exquisite suite-only dining room!

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE – For Families Who Want A More Laid-Back Experience

Back in May of 2000, Norwegian introduced a concept called Freestyle Cruising – whereby guests have no fixed dining times for meals and the option of more relaxed onboard attire.  Still going strong today, Freestyle cruising helps Norwegian to offer a more unstructured cruise experience to those looking for a little more flexibility and freedom.  It’s a good choice for Royal Caribbean regulars looking to try another line.

Noteworthy features:

• With freestyle cruising, dining is more of a land-based experience: you choose the restaurant you wish to dine in and make a reservation, or you show up and wait for a table to become available
• You don’t have to “dress” for dinner – a casual dress code is valid from day to night
• Norwegian is family-minded, so there’s a range of family-friendly activity and entertainment options and facilities available on board (not as extensive as Royal Caribbean though)
• Norwegian is also famously known for its “Ship within a Ship” concept – the Haven is a large restricted-access area set aside exclusively for Suite Guests – it houses accommodation, a restaurant and bar, a private pool and sun deck, private spa access and dedicated staff. It is a perfect choice for those looking for an even quieter and more exclusive cruise experience that’s akin to sailing on a luxury private yacht.

AND FOR A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT CRUISE EXPERIENCE – Try A Viking River Cruise!

Smaller, more intimate, more experiential and definitely more immersive, River Cruising is a truly unique and unparalleled way to explore Europe!   A Viking river cruise lets you glide your way through the heart of European towns and cities using some of Europe’s most famous rivers (like the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine and the Douro).   Breathtaking scenery combined with stops where you literally step off your ship into the heart of iconic cities or charming towns, plus a small handpicked staff of experienced service professionals and guides, lends to a relaxing, exclusive and truly unique experience.   Added plus:  the smooth, gentle gliding nature of river cruising makes it a great cruise option for those prone to sea or motion sickness!

Noteworthy features:

• With a maximum guest capacity ranging between 100 and 250 guests, Viking’s Longships offer an intimate and highly personalized experience
• With so few passengers on board, you get to know your fellow travelers and many guests make life-long friends!
• Like with an ocean cruise, your cruise fare includes accommodation, dining, onboard activities and some beverages. The added plus: a lot more is included! Shore Excursions, Wi-Fi and Alcohol are just some of the additional amenities included in your cruise fare
• Viking is famous for its onboard Culture Curriculum which includes lectures on history and art, tasting of vintage wines, restaurant menus inspired by local cuisine, informative destination talks, and local folkloric shows and musicians. All of which lends to a truly immersive and enriched vacation experience!
• Apart from Europe, Viking also offers river cruises in Asia and Egypt

Ready to book your cruise?  Your Castles and Cruises Travel Advisor is ready to help you set sail!

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