Disney Travel Agent Columbus

Planning your first trip to Walt Disney World can feel overwhelming. There are so many restaurants, rides, shows and experiences to choose from that it can be easy to feel like you need to do everything.

You don’t. Here are a few of my top tips for making the most of your first Disney vacation:

1. Plan, but be flexible.

You don't have to do everything—and honestly, you won't. And that's OK!

Didn't get a reservation for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique? It's OK. Your vacation is still going to be magical! Chances are, your kids may not even know it was an option in the first place.

I always recommend choosing your top three priorities for each day. Maybe it's a specific ride, a show you really want to see or a meal you've been dreaming about. Focus on those things, and consider everything else a bonus!

2. Work in a rest day.

Your. Feet. Are. Going. To. Hurt.

Disney World is a lot of fun, but it can also be exhausting. Build in a day to sleep in, relax by the pool, explore your resort or head to Disney Springs. Then get to bed early and recharge before jumping back into the parks.

Trust me—you'll probably need the rest just as much as your kids do.

3. Stay hydrated.

Between the Florida heat and all the walking, it's easy to get dehydrated. Bring a reusable water bottle, take advantage of complimentary ice water at quick-service locations and make sure everyone in your group is drinking water throughout the day.

4. Pack smart.

A few small things can make a big difference during a long park day. Some of my favorites include:

• Snacks


• A portable fan


• A portable phone charger


• Rain gear/ponchos


• Sunscreen

Last year, I had the chance to experience Virgin Voyages on an 11-night sailing through Greece and Turkey, and it quickly became one of my favorite cruise experiences. There were a lot of things I loved, but these stood out the most:

1. The food — and it's all included!

One of my favorite things about Virgin Voyages is that all of the dining is included. Unlike many cruise lines, there aren’t additional fees for specialty restaurants, so you can enjoy a variety of restaurants throughout your sailing without constantly thinking about what comes with an extra charge.

And the food? Really good. There were so many different restaurants and cuisines to choose from, and I loved being able to try different spots throughout the cruise.

2. The balcony hammocks

A regular balcony is great. A balcony with a hammock is even better.

There’s something about being able to climb into a hammock, listen to the ocean and relax as you sail to your next destination that takes the balcony experience to a completely different level. It quickly became one of my favorite places on the ship.

3. More time in ports

Our 11-night itinerary included stops throughout Greece and Turkey, and I really appreciated how much time we had in port.

The longer port stays meant we didn’t feel like we were constantly rushing off the ship, trying to squeeze everything into a few hours. We had more time to explore, enjoy a meal, take a tour and actually experience each destination.

4. The adults-only atmosphere

Virgin Voyages is adults-only, which creates a completely different atmosphere than a traditional family cruise. The ships feel modern, energetic and social without feeling like you have to participate in the party scene.

There are plenty of places to relax and enjoy a quieter moment, too, so you can really make the experience your own.

5. The overall vibe

Honestly, Virgin just feels different.

From the design of the ship to the restaurants, entertainment and approach to cruising, it feels less traditional and a little more like a boutique hotel at sea. After 11 nights in Greece and Turkey, I came home understanding why so many people become repeat Virgin Voyages cruisers.

And yes… I’m already looking forward to sailing with Virgin again!