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Formerly TouringPlans Travel
DISCOVER EXPERT TRAVEL TIPS AND PLANNING ADVICE
Plan Your Next Adventure with Expert Travel Tips
Discover how to create trips tailored to your style, interests, and schedule while saving time and avoiding stress. Whether it’s a relaxing getaway or an action-packed escape, our travel guides and insider tips help you make the most of every destination. Turn your travel dreams into reality with advice you can trust.


Why You Need a Disney Vacation Planning Expert
Planning a Disney vacation can feel like stepping into a magical maze. There’s so much to see, do, and experience that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Trust me, I’ve been there! That’s why having a Disney vacation planning expert by your side can make all the difference. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, expert guidance can turn your dream vacation into a smooth, stress-free reality. Let me walk you through why hiring a Disney travel planner is one of the smartest mov

Nicole Mangum
Mar 214 min read


Bespoke Vacation Planning Simplified: Customized Travel Planning Tips
Planning a vacation should be exciting, not overwhelming. Yet, when faced with countless options, destinations, and activities, it’s easy to feel lost. That’s where bespoke vacation planning comes in. Imagine a trip tailored just for you - every detail crafted to your tastes, interests, and pace. Sounds amazing, right? Today, I’m going to share some customized travel planning tips that will help you simplify your next getaway and make it truly unforgettable. Why Customized T

Nicole Mangum
Mar 174 min read


🌟 Walt Disney World 2026: Deals, Offers, and Exciting Openings
Walt Disney World has announced a series of special offers and exciting attraction reopenings for 2026, making it the perfect time to plan your magical vacation. From complimentary dining plans to refreshed rides and interactive experiences, there’s something for every Disney fan to enjoy. 🏨 2026 Disney World Offers & Savings 🍽️ Free Dining Plan Guests booking a qualifying Walt Disney Travel Company package can enjoy a free Disney Dining Plan . This applies to packages tha

Nicole Mangum
Mar 122 min read


Galentine’s Day Getaway Ideas: The Perfect Excuse for a Friends Trip
Who says February travel has to be about romance? Galentine’s Day has quickly become one of the most fun reasons to plan a trip, and honestly, we’re fully on board with it. Celebrating friendship with a getaway is the perfect way to recharge, reconnect, and create the kind of memories you’ll laugh about for years. Whether you’re dreaming of spa days, beach lounging, or adventure-filled days, a Galentine’s Day trip can be anything you want it to be — and the best part is, thes

Nicole Mangum
Feb 123 min read


Out of My Comfort Zone (In the Best Way): Why the Galapagos Changed Everything
Some trips check a box. This one changed how I see travel.
Stepping into the Galapagos pushed me beyond my comfort zone in the most unexpected and rewarding ways—from unforgettable wildlife encounters to moments of quiet reflection in one of the most remarkable places on Earth. This wasn’t just a destination; it was a reminder of why saying “yes” to new experiences can completely reshape how we explore the world.

Annette Jackson
Feb 105 min read


Common Travel Mistakes a Travel Advisor Helps You Avoid
Travel should be exciting, not stressful. Yet many travelers don’t realize how easy it is to make small mistakes that can lead to big headaches once you’re already on the road. From booking missteps to overlooked details, these issues often don’t show up until it’s too late to fix them. This is where working with a travel advisor makes a real difference. Here are some of the most common travel mistakes—and how having an expert on your side helps you avoid them. Booking the Wr

Nicole Mangum
Jan 223 min read


Why Disneyland Paris Belongs on Every Disney Fan’s Bucket List
If you think you’ve experienced all the Disney magic the U.S. parks have to offer, it may be time to look across the Atlantic. Disneyland Paris blends the heart of Disney with European elegance, stunning park design, and attractions you won’t find anywhere else. From its breathtaking castle and exclusive rides to beautifully themed hotels and exciting expansions, this destination delivers a fresh and unforgettable experience for Disney fans of every age.

Niki Alexander
Jan 194 min read


Travel Advisor vs. Booking Direct: What’s the Real Difference?
Planning a trip today looks easy on the surface. With endless booking engines, apps, and “one-click” deals, it can feel like doing it yourself is the fastest option. But what those platforms don’t show is what happens behind the scenes—or when plans don’t go as expected. Here’s a real look at the difference between booking travel on your own versus working with a travel advisor, and why more travelers are choosing expert support over search engines. Booking Engines: Convenien

Nicole Mangum
Jan 182 min read


Cruise or All-Inclusive Resort: Which Is the Best Fit for Your Family?
Planning a family vacation comes with a big decision right at the start: cruise or all-inclusive resort? Both offer incredible value, built-in convenience, and memorable experiences—but they shine in different ways. The best choice really comes down to your family’s travel style, ages, and priorities.
Here’s a side-by-side look to help you decide which option fits your family best.

Nicole Mangum
Jan 183 min read


Christmas in the Parks: Experiencing the Holidays at Disney & Universal
If you’ve ever wondered what the holidays are like inside the theme parks, this one’s for you. From Disney traditions to Universal’s festive flair, we’re diving into the different holiday celebrations and what makes each experience special in our newest blog.
After experiencing the holidays firsthand at both destinations, this guide breaks down what makes each celebration unique — from Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and EPCOT’s F

Nicole Mangum
Jan 187 min read


The Ultimate Double Stroller Guide for Travel: Tandem vs. Side-by-Side
Traveling with two little ones comes with enough decisions—choosing the right double stroller shouldn’t add stress. To find out what works best, two travel advisors recently hit the road together: one traveling with a side-by-side stroller (Zoe Twin²) and the other with a tandem stroller (UPPAbaby Vista). We tested them through airports, Walt Disney World parks and transportation, and a cruise ship, giving firsthand insights on what really works for family travel. Here’s what

Allison Hass
Jan 135 min read


Why January Is the Smartest Month to Book Your Next Vacation
If there’s one travel tip we love sharing every year, it’s this: January is hands-down one of the best months to book your next vacation. Whether you’re dreaming of a theme park getaway, a cruise, an all-inclusive resort, or an international adventure, January sets the stage for smart planning and great value. Here’s why travelers who plan early tend to travel better 👇 Fresh Deals & New Promotions January is when many travel suppliers roll out their biggest offers of the yea

Nicole Mangum
Jan 92 min read


Nordic Adventures vs. Alaskan Wonders: Which Cruise Is Right for You?
When it comes to bucket-list cruises, few destinations compare to the breathtaking beauty of Alaska and the Nordic fjords. Both offer dramatic scenery, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and unforgettable moments at sea—but which one is right for you? Whether you’re drawn to Alaska’s untamed wilderness and abundant wildlife or the Nordics’ storybook landscapes and charming coastal towns, our latest blog breaks down what makes each voyage unique so you can choose the perfect adve

Steph Miller
Nov 8, 20252 min read


Kid Tested, Mom Almost Approved: Experiencing Epic Universe with Toddlers at the Helios Grand Hotel Kids Suite
When you think of an Orlando theme park trip with toddlers, Walt Disney World probably comes to mind first. Universal Orlando? Not so much—thanks to its thrill-heavy reputation. But with grandma in tow, we took two toddlers to Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe and stayed in the Helios Grand Hotel’s How to Train Your Dragon Kids Suite, a magical space designed to keep little ones entertained and comfortable. This suite isn’t just a hotel room—it’s a kid-friendly retreat tha

Nicole Mangum
Jul 21, 202510 min read


Seasons Change, So Did I: A Travel Advisor’s Comeback
After raising three kids, beating breast cancer, and traveling the world, I found myself asking, “What now?” The answer led me back to something I’ve always loved — helping others create meaningful travel memories. Life may be busy and unpredictable, but there’s always room for joy, adventure, and a well-planned trip. I’m so excited to be back in the travel world.

Steph Miller
Jun 2, 20252 min read


Flying with a Toddler: Tips for Solo Travel with a Little One ... or Multiples!
This document offers tips for solo travel with toddlers, focusing on planning, entertainment, potty training, emphasizing flexibility.

Allison Hass
Apr 17, 20255 min read


Sneak Peek at Epic Universe: Universal Orlando’s Game-Changing New Park
The wait is almost over! Universal Orlando has just raised the bar in theme park innovation with its highly anticipated EPIC Universe – the largest expansion in the resort’s history and first theme park opening in America since 2001. But what exactly does this new park have in store for visitors? Let’s take a sneak peek into the future of theme park entertainment. What is EPIC Universe? An expansion of Universal Orlando redefining the theme park experience. This park featur

Nicole Mangum
Apr 11, 202512 min read


7 Lucky Tips for a Stress-Free Adventure!
They say luck favors the prepared, and when it comes to travel, a little foresight can make all the difference. While you can’t control...

Nicole Mangum
Mar 6, 20253 min read


6 Character Dining Experiences at Disney World That Don’t Require a Theme Park Ticket
No park ticket? No problem! You don’t need to be in a theme park to experience the magic of Disney!

Elisa Kennedy
Feb 12, 20253 min read


Luxurious & Romantic Getaways
Looking for a luxurious, adults-only romantic escape? Whether you envision setting sail on a dreamy cruise, relaxing at a tropical...

Annette Jackson
Feb 6, 20252 min read
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