Exploring Hyatt's Inclusive Collection: A Guide for Every Budget
In the realm of travel, finding the right hotel or resort that fits both your desires and your budge...
Independent Travel Agent
Email Me Travel Inquiry Form Registration Form | Payment Form | Travel Lead FormHello from Piedmont, OK! I'm Kelley, your dedicated full-time travel agent and the heart behind my small business. Passionate about creating unforgettable vacations, I've turned my love for travel into a career, supporting my family and serving clients like you. As a very family-oriented person, wife to a proud veteran, and a mother to three wonderful kids and two adorable dogs, Nova and Atlas, I ... Read More >>>
Hello from Piedmont, OK! I'm Kelley, your dedicated full-time travel agent and the heart behind my small business. Passionate about creating unforgettable vacations, I've turned my love for travel into a career, supporting my family and serving clients like you. As a very family-oriented person, wife to a proud veteran, and a mother to three wonderful kids and two adorable dogs, Nova and Atlas, I understand the importance of creating lasting memories with your loved ones.
My travel journey began in high school, where I served as president of the French club, leading to two amazing trips to France. This early exposure to different cultures fueled my wanderlust and paved the way for my career in travel.
With a wealth of certifications and hands-on experience, I'm your go-to expert for a variety of vacations:
Learn more about this travel agents destinations, interests, and supplier partners.
As a graduate of the College of Disney Knowledge and a seasoned Disney traveler, I bring a wealth of personal and professional expertise to planning Disney vacations. Having stayed in many Disney-owned properties and visited Disney World, Disneyland, and Disney Cruises for nearly a decade with my kids, I can offer insights and tips that only come from real experience.
At Walt Disney World, the Magic Kingdom is the heart of the magic, with classic attractions like Cinderella's Castle and Space Mountain. EPCOT offers a cultural and futuristic journey with its World Showcase and exciting innovations. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a wild adventure with attractions like Pandora – The World of Avatar, while Disney's Hollywood Studios immerses you in the world of movies with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land.
Disneyland Resort in California is where the magic began. Disneyland Park is full of timeless charm with attractions like the enchanting Sleeping Beauty Castle and thrilling Indiana Jones Adventure. Disney California Adventure Park offers an eclectic mix of excitement, from the Pixar Pier to the captivating Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!
Disney Springs at Walt Disney World is a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment district with something for everyone, from world-class restaurants to unique boutiques and lively entertainment.
My experience and knowledge as a College of Disney Knowledge graduate ensure that I can help create a Disney vacation that's perfectly tailored to your family's interests and dreams, filled with magical moments and unforgettable experiences!
As a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii multiple times, I bring not just professional knowledge but also personal experience to the table. Having explored Kauai, Maui, and Oahu, I can offer unique insights into these beautiful islands.
On Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, I can guide you to must-see spots like the breathtaking Waimea Canyon and the tranquil Hanalei Bay. Having family on Kauai gives me the advantage of knowing the local favorites and hidden gems.
In Maui, the Valley Isle, I can recommend visiting the iconic Road to Hana for its stunning scenery, exploring the majestic Haleakalā National Park, and enjoying the beautiful beaches of Kaanapali and Wailea.
On Oahu, the Gathering Place, I can help you discover the vibrant city life of Honolulu, the historic Pearl Harbor, and the famous Waikiki Beach, along with the surfing paradise of the North Shore.
My firsthand experiences and connections on these islands ensure that I can plan a Hawaiian vacation for you that's not just a trip but a true island adventure, filled with local insights and unforgettable experiences!
As a Carnival Cruise Line Diamond Level Graduate, I've achieved the highest level of expertise in their training program. This distinction means I have extensive knowledge of everything Carnival has to offer. From the fun-filled atmosphere on board to the wide variety of destinations Carnival cruises to, I can guide you through the entire booking process with ease.
Carnival is renowned for its lively entertainment, diverse dining options, and exciting onboard activities, and I can help you make the most of these offerings. Whether it’s finding the perfect stateroom, choosing exciting excursions, or planning your days at sea, my in-depth understanding ensures you'll have a fantastic cruise experience. Plus, with my insider knowledge of the best deals and promotions, you're guaranteed a value-packed and memorable vacation on Carnival Cruise Line!
As a Universal Orlando Resort Specialist, I have a deep understanding of all the thrilling experiences Universal Orlando has to offer. This includes detailed knowledge of their fantastic hotels, each with unique themes and perks, like the retro vibe at Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort or the luxurious Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.
In the theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure, I can guide you through a world of exciting rides and attractions. From the immersive wizarding world in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the high-speed thrills of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, there's something for everyone. Don't forget the incredible adventures like Jurassic Park River Adventure and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man.
And then there's Universal's Volcano Bay, a water theme park like no other, featuring the Krakatau Aqua Coaster and the relaxing Waturi Beach. As a specialist, I can help you navigate the parks for an unforgettable experience, recommending the best rides, attractions, and dining options for an epic Universal Orlando adventure!
As an expert in Celestyal Cruises, I bring a deep understanding of their unique offerings and experiences. Celestyal is known for its immersive itineraries in the Greek Islands and the Eastern Mediterranean, offering a blend of famous destinations and hidden gems. With my knowledge, I can guide you through choosing the perfect Celestyal cruise, whether you're interested in exploring the ancient wonders of Greece, the vibrant culture of Cyprus, or the exotic allure of Turkey. My expertise ensures that you get a comprehensive experience, from onboard comforts and cuisine to exciting shore excursions. Booking with an expert means you're set for an unforgettable journey with Celestyal Cruises!
As a Sandals Certified Expert, I'm not only knowledgeable about Sandals Resorts but also about their sister brand, Beaches Resorts. This means I can guide you to fantastic destinations like Beaches Turks and Caicos, known for its incredible waterpark and stunning beaches, or Beaches Negril in Jamaica, perfect for family fun with its beautiful stretch of Seven Mile Beach. Of course, we can't forget about Sandals' top spots like Sandals Grande St. Lucian in St. Lucia, Sandals Royal Bahamian in the Bahamas, and Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica. Whether it's a romantic retreat at Sandals or a family adventure at Beaches, my expertise ensures you get the best resort experience with all the luxury and fun these brands offer.
As a Signature Travel Expert, I've got a wealth of knowledge and resources at my fingertips, thanks to the extensive training and insider access provided by the Signature Travel Network. This status enables me to offer you exceptional travel experiences with exclusive amenities, unique excursions, and personalized touches that you won't find just anywhere. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations, once-in-a-lifetime adventures, or the best in dining and cultural experiences, I can craft a journey that goes beyond the ordinary. My expertise as a Signature Travel Expert means your trip will be extraordinary, memorable, and perfectly suited to your desires!
As a Sea Academy Gold member with Virgin Voyages, I bring not just expert knowledge but also personal experience from sailing with Virgin Voyages. This means I can give you first-hand insights into their fantastic itineraries, the diverse and delicious food options, vibrant night clubs, engaging onboard activities, and enriching shore excursions. My familiarity with Virgin Voyages' unique style and offerings allows me to create a cruise experience that's both exciting and tailored to your preferences. From thrilling onboard entertainment to exploring exotic destinations, I've got all the insider tips to make your Virgin Voyages cruise truly special!
As an ALGV Pro, I'm well-versed in the unique offerings of all the tour operators within the Apple Leisure Group Vacations family. This includes Apple Vacations, Funjet Vacations, Travel Impressions, United Vacations, Blue Sky Tours, and Southwest Vacations. With this extensive knowledge, I can expertly guide you through a wide array of vacation options, whether it's a tropical getaway, a cultural excursion, or a fun-filled family trip. My expertise with each of these operators ensures you get the best deals, high-quality accommodations, and a perfectly tailored vacation experience. Let's make your next trip unforgettable!
Achieving Commodore Status with Princess Cruise Line is a big deal. It means I've reached the highest level of their training program, so I'm fully equipped with in-depth knowledge and insider tips about Princess Cruises. This expertise allows me to craft the perfect cruise experience for you, ensuring you get top-tier service, the best cabin selections, and insider access to unique activities and destinations. When you book with a Commodore-level agent, you're getting a personalized, top-notch cruise adventure tailored just for you!
As a Viking Certified Expert, I have specialized knowledge and insights into Viking's incredible range of cruises. Whether it's a serene river cruise, an adventurous ocean journey, or an expedition trip filled with discoveries, I'm equipped to guide you towards the perfect experience. My expertise ensures you get the best options, tailored itineraries, and exclusive insights that truly elevate your cruise adventure. Planning with a pro like me means your cruise will be as seamless and memorable as possible!
Our cruise to Greece was fantastic and Kelley made it possible. Thank you Kelley for your updates, guidance and help along the way for the novice cruisers we are. Can’t wait for you to help us on our next exciting adventure! Highly recommend Kelley and Vincent Vacations.
-Laura Seargearnt
I had a very wonderful experience!! Thank you Kelley for everything you did!!!! I highly recommend her travel agency for all your travel needs.
-Mary A
Kelley planned a Father’s Day trip for my son-in-law and I in September 2021 and it was fantastic! She helped with the resort reservation, dining, food suggestions, and even where to get the limited edition merch. Her response time to questions was very quick, and her Disney knowledge is just amazing! Use Kelley as your travel agent, you will not be disappointed!
-Kevin M
Kelley is the best! She knows all the best tips and tricks about Disney vacations! She perfects your trip schedule so you don’t have to worry about the stress of planning a vacation. From dining reservations to hotel accommodations, she takes care of everything! If you are looking for a stress free magical vacation, call Kelley!
-Madisen S
Kelley helped us from start to finish with our recent vacation. My husband and I wanted a get away, and wanted and needed help deciding the location and choosing where to go. She took care of every detail from the flight, to car rental, even what to do once we got there. Kelley took care of EVERYTHING! We just had to show up. She even checked in with us before departure and made sure we were checked in for our flights. Something I totally overlooked since we don’t fly much. I am so grateful for her help and we had the best time. I highly recommend her for all your vacation needs.
-Didre' P
Kelley was amazing at planning our vacation! I told her the dates I wanted and she handled the rest! I received all of my flight information along with resort information from Kelley. We stayed at Secrets Aura in Cozumel and had a great experience. The resort is Beautiful , located right on the Beach and the staff are all amazing. It was so nice to get treated so well there. This resort is All Inclusive so we just picked where to eat our meals and were served with a smile. Room service was great too. They also have an ap for your phone to get info on what they offer. Our room had a Beautiful view of the Ocean and we could watch the sun set from our Balcony! I highly recommend Travel by Kelley at Vincent Vacations for all your vacation plans!
-Shelli H
I had been looking to go on a Disney cruise for some time but the price was out of my budget.
Disney was my preference because they have dedicated spaces for the kids and tweens (no adults). They have activities and games the entire family can enjoy (no electronic devices!). There are so many activities and dedicated spaces just for adults too. The food....such a variety of good food. If you enjoy cocktails, I'd highly recommend taking the mixology class. No disappointment there.
Kelley Huff was able to find a cruise that was perfect for my family AND within my price range.
To top it off she was able to get a room upgrade with the most magnificent balcony view.
The kids really had fun dressing up for Marvel day at sea, the excursions at Grand Cayman, and parasailing at Castaway Cay (Disney's private island in the Bahamas).
This is the first vacation in years I can recall coming home actually relaxed and with a rested brain ready to go back to work.
If you are looking for a cruise experience that exceeds your expectations and within your budge, I highly recommend you contact Kelley Huff.
-Patti P
I would HIGHLY recommend Kelley! I had to throw together a last minute vacation due to having flight credits we needed to use and we chose to go to Disney. I was so overwhelmed since we had never been and she was so nice and helpful! She responded to me immediately and answered all my questions throughout planning this trip. She made this what could have been stressful situation so much easier and I'm so thankful we found her! We will be using her again in the future! Thank you so much!!!
-Heather S
Kelley Huff was a wonderful help planning a 11 people family vacation. We even changed our destanation several times but did not bother her a bit just changed with us and help find a great deal for the family trip wonderful memories....Thank You Kelley
-Debbie H
Kelley with Vincent Vacations helped us plan an amazing vacation in Mexico and worked out all the details! Everything was perfect and we will definitely use her again for future travel!!!
-Dana M
I cannot say enough great things about Kelley! She made our trip to Disneyland worry-free and was able to answer any and all of our questions. We had no idea what we needed to do for our trip, but Kelley made sure that everything was taken care of and that everything we wanted to do was planned and booked. We couldn’t have done this trip without her and I’m grateful we had her help with all of our trip needs! We’re definitely using her in the future!!
-Sara Sampson
Our trip to Universal Orlando could not have been more fun! Kelley Huff made the process so smooth and effortless. All we needed to do was show up and have fun!! If you are looking at taking a vacay, definitely have her hook you up. Super happy with her service, I highly recommend!!
-Carrie Conway
In the realm of travel, finding the right hotel or resort that fits both your desires and your budge...
In the realm of travel, finding the right hotel or resort that fits both your desires and your budget can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first getaway, navigating the plethora of options can be daunting. Fortunately, for those who value both quality and variety, the Hyatt's Inclusive Collection offers a diverse array of properties tailored to different tastes and budgets. Partnering with a knowledgeable a travel agent such as myself can be your first step towards uncovering the perfect vacation spot within this vast collection. I have extensive experience with many of they Hyatt properties and would love the opportunity to help guide you to the best option. Now, let's dive into the personas of Hyatt's Inclusive Collection to find the perfect match for your travel dreams and budgetary needs.
Sunscape Resorts & Spas shine as the jewel for family-friendly, budget-conscious travelers desiring a memorable 'fun-in-the-sun' vacation. Each property bursts with vibrant energy, providing settings that buzz with daily activities and entertainment suited for all ages. From water sports to live shows, the fun never ends, ensuring that every family member finds their slice of paradise. The accommodations are designed with comfort in mind, allowing families, couples, and friend groups to unwind after a day packed with fun. With Sunscape's friendly service, every guest feels right at home, making it the perfect backdrop for fun family getaways and brag-worthy, budget-conscious weddings.
Hyatt Vivid caters to the adventurous spirit of global-minded, tech-savvy young adults, offering a seamless blend of laid-back ambiance and upscale casual dining that modern travelers crave. This adults-only brand excels in creating memorable travel experiences by incorporating engaging activities and convenient technology throughout the stay. Whether it's for solo adventurers seeking to connect with like-minded travelers, couples on a quest for a unique getaway, or tech groups looking for a mix of relaxation and innovation, Hyatt Vivid provides the perfect backdrop. Expect a stay where every detail is designed with the contemporary traveler in mind, from the vibrant social scenes to the thoughtfully integrated tech amenities that keep you connected and entertained.
Dreams Resorts & Spas redefine luxury for families and couples, blending elegance with excitement in a perfect harmony that caters to both adults and children. Here, every vacation turns into a deluxe experience, thanks to special-themed dining options that tantalize the taste buds, and world-class spas designed to rejuvenate the soul. For the little ones, supervised kids' programs offer a plethora of fun-filled activities, ensuring parents can enjoy some well-deserved alone time. Whether it's for a romantic escape, a luxury family getaway, or celebrating your special day at a destination wedding, Dreams sets the scene for unforgettable moments surrounded by refined luxury.
Breathless Resorts & Spas set the stage for those who seek an upscale, lively atmosphere where socializing and entertainment are at the forefront of the experience. This adults-only haven is tailored for sophisticated adults craving a dynamic social scene, complete with energetic nightlife and relaxing daytime events. Whether it’s celebrating a milestone birthday, embarking on a solo journey, or enjoying an adult getaway, guests are immersed in an environment designed for mingling and making new connections. Breathless provides the perfect blend of relaxation and exhilaration, with event experiences designed to create unforgettable memories.
Secrets Resorts & Spas specialize in crafting the ultimate romantic getaway for sophisticated couples. These adults-only havens are the epitome of luxury and intimacy, offering an atmosphere that's both tranquil and romantic. Guests are invited to indulge in special-themed dining experiences that elevate each meal into a memorable event. World-class spas provide a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, setting the stage for serene spa retreats or recharging after a day of meetings. Whether celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply escaping the mundane, Secrets ensures every moment is filled with romance and luxury, catering to the desires of singles, couples, and adults-only groups looking for an exclusive, sophisticated experience.
Zoetry Wellness & Spa Resorts embody the zenith of serene, adult-oriented luxury, inviting the most discerning travelers to indulge in idyllic settings where well-being takes center stage. Here, every need is not just met but anticipated, offering an escape into tranquility and pampering without parallel. Boutique settings provide an intimate backdrop for endless wellness opportunities, from rejuvenating spa treatments to enriching experiences designed to nourish the mind, body, and soul. With unmatched service and an emphasis on holistic well-being, Zoetry ensures a profoundly personal and serene retreat, perfect for those seeking a sanctuary from the ordinary.
Hyatt Zilara stands as an oasis for sophisticated adults craving a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This adults-only sanctuary offers an array of experiences designed to soothe the soul and reignite passions. From serene wellness programs that rejuvenate the body and mind to romantic settings that spark love’s flame, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of sophistication and tranquility. Perfect for those planning a romantic getaway, celebrating an anniversary, or saying 'I do' in a breathtaking destination wedding, Hyatt Zilara delivers unmatched experiences. With a focus on wellness, relaxation, and romantic indulgences, it promises a memorable escape for couples, adults-only groups, and anyone looking to celebrate life’s special moments in style.
Hyatt Ziva stands out as the ultimate family-friendly destination where every generation can find joy and entertainment. Offering a wide array of activities, from adrenaline-pumping water sports to engaging fitness programs, there’s something for every member of the family to indulge in. The resorts are designed with family in mind, ensuring spaces for both action-packed adventures and serene moments of relaxation. Entertainment options are abundant, promising evenings filled with laughter and days filled with discovery. For those planning multi-generational celebrations or looking for a versatile setting that caters to both adults and children, Hyatt Ziva creates an environment where precious family moments turn into lasting memories.
Impression by Secrets is the pinnacle of luxury for those desiring an exclusive vacation experience. This adults-only enclave offers an intimate setting for romantic escapes, lavish weddings, and memorable anniversaries, providing a refined backdrop for love to flourish. Here, couples and adults-only groups enjoy unparalleled white-glove service, ensuring every need is anticipated and every desire fulfilled. Vacations focus on romance, rejuvenation, and personalized celebrations, complemented by exhilarating cultural experiences that enrich the soul. This sanctuary is designed for those seeking a retreat to replenish the spirit, indulge in luxury spa treatments, and celebrate special moments in an ambiance of sophisticated elegance.
As a travel agent, I've been fortunate enough to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in ...
Everyone's seen those iconic pristine beaches off the coast of Cancun in Mexico. They're the focus o...
Everyone's seen those iconic pristine beaches off the coast of Cancun in Mexico. They're the focus of so many vacations to the area because of the beauty, serenity, and relaxation. But, did you know there is a place, a magic and mysterious place that lets you live the unimaginable? Here you can grow as tall as a giant, shrink down like Alice, float through a sludge pool or saltwater path, fly like a bird among treetops and into caves, and so much more. This place is unlike any other where all your senses will be tested and turned upside down.
What is this place?
Xenses park in Cancun lets you test your imagination with two paths of activities and over 50 fantastic scenarios. It's about a 10 minute drive south of Playa del Carmen and is one of the several Xcaret Group parks. I was fortunate enough to spend a day here with my husband and two kids who are usually glued to their computers, but absolutely loved our time here! We opted to purchase the photo package option which gave us each a band with a barcode. At each of the many scenarios, you just tap your band and wait for the light to flash and take your picture in exactly the right spot and angle...which is perfectly placed to get you the most Instagram worthy shot!
What are some of the activities?
When you first enter the park, you are in this large colorful pinwheel shaped building with scenarios and doors spaced out in a circular pattern. You then choose which path you want to begin with. My advice, start with the dry activities on the 'Path of Feeling' such as the Xensatorium where you feel your way through a dark cave designed to heighten your senses of smell, touch, and hearing, or the Xitric Garden where you can grab some lemonade coming right out of a tree!
Once you're ready to cool off, head to the lockers and change into your swim gear. Just a word of caution, you'll likely need to plan some extra time in the restrooms as even those have some fun photo spots! After you've braved the bathroom adventures, head to the 'Path of Doing.' You'll begin at a giant heart that opens into El Pueblo, or 'The Town,' where although it looks like you are walking uphill, the path actually is downward! It can be disorienting, so if you're prone to motion sickness, you may want to skip this part. Along the road are many photo spots making you look like you're leaning or even upside down! After your trip through the 'town' you will enter a large sand garden with multi-colored hammocks to relax and enjoy some sunshine. Off to the side you'll see a cave entrance that has my family's favorite activities, The Slip (a waterslide through the jungle), Bird Flight (a flat zip-lining experience where you fly over treetops and into a cave), the Sludgerie (a strangely relaxing mud float), and Riverlaxing (a spa like experience where you slowly float through the caves). We loved this section so much, we did it twice!
What makes Xenses so instagram worthy?
The experiences here are unlike anything else in Mexico! Sure, everyone loves a good toes hanging off the end of a lounge chair sitting beachside pic, but coming to Xenses will set your photos apart from anyone else on the gram! I mean, how many people post pictures of themselves or their families covered head to toe in a dark cave while on vacation?!? This unique one-of-a-kind destination has stunning jungle backgrounds, flamingos, macaws, lemonade fountains, and so much more. Plus, they've already got the cameras setup exactly where they need to be to get the best lighting, angles, and forced perspective to get that perfect shot! Just tap your band and stick a pose!
How much is it and how can you book?
When you book a vacation package with me, Travel by Kelley with Vincent Vacations, I'll help walk you through all the details including pricing and transportation options for your dates as they vary by season. For this trip in September of 2022 including transportation for my family of 4 including the photos, we paid roughly $550. Xenses is for children ages 5 and older and includes locker rentals, bathrooms, showers, and free parking. Extra cost options include souvenirs, photos from the park's cameras, food and drinks from the snack bar. It's best to plan at least 5 hours to get the full experience.
Why use a travel agent anyway?
By using my services, I help you create the best itinerary for your vacation time and money. I don't charge any planning fees and help you take care of any problems you may encounter during your vacation. With hundreds of resorts in the Cancun/Riviera Maya area, I will help you pick the best one based on your budget, family size, and desired activities/interests. Basically you get a free personal travel assistant (who wouldn't want that right?!). I love spending time curating the perfect packages for my clients and I hope to help you and your travel group.
Want more information on my services?
Send me an email at Kelley.Huff@VincentVacations.com or Click Here for a Free No-Obligation Quote
For my Dad's 60th birthday, he decided he wanted to have a everyone join him at Walt Disney World in...
For my Dad's 60th birthday, he decided he wanted to have a everyone join him at Walt Disney World in Florida. In the beginning, we'd agreed to stay on-property due to the many benefits provided, mainly the ease of transportation of getting to/from the parks each day, and being able to get into the parks 30 minutes before guests staying off-property. So, we took names of all the family members that would be going, and booked 4 rooms at Disney's Art of Animation resort. We had 3 Little Mermaid rooms (sleeps 4), and 1 Lion King suite (sleeps 6).
Unfortunately, my dad was laid off, and for awhile we thought the trip may not happen at all. After much discussion between families, we finally decided we'd rent a house off-property and pinch pennies anywhere we could.
I have personally stayed off-property one other time (2015) so I had a decent idea of what all we would be missing out on. The next choice we had to make was to rent a car, or use ride-share services such as Uber or Lyft. Pros of renting a car - freedom to go wherever, whenever you need to. Cons of renting a car - on top of the cost to rent the car, you also have to pay for gas and parking fees ($25 per day at Disney at the time of writing this), and trying to naviagate streets and traffic in an unfamiliar place. Pros of Ride-Share - sit back and relax while you are driven to your destination, no need to worry about gas or parking fees. Cons of Ride-Share - waiting for someone to arrive to take you, travel cost plus tipping.
Ultimately, I decided not to rent a car and use Lyft. Would I make the same decision again if staying off-property? Nope. The cost of the ride from the airport to the house was roughly $75 after tip, and about the same getting back to the airport (for 2 people). I liked not having to navigate unfamiliar parts of town, but having to wait up to 30+ minutes for a ride slowed us down at times. My biggest problem with it came day 1. We'd flown in that afternoon, grabbed our luggage, found the ride-share area, and after several failed attempts, finally got a ride to the house. Once we got to the house, we were starving! I used a meal delivery service and got Chick-Fil-A but it was $60 for 2 people! The regret of not renting a car settled in real quick!
So, what about the house. Well, there were 11 of us total and we had a 6 bedroom, 4 bathroom house. We ended up having 1 bedroom we didn't need and there was plenty of space for everyone. The house had a pool and hot tub as well as a fully furnished kitchen, game room with pool table and ping pong table, as well as a washer and dryer. Luckily we did have 1 family with us that drove (whoa!) the 18 hours from Oklahoma to Florida, so we used their vehicle on our arrival night to make a trip to Walmart for food and other essentials. The Walmart was INSANE! Because the area we stayed in was known for rental homes, most of the people shopping were unfamiliar with the store and wondering around lost. But, it was total chaos because it was packed with people! We ended up having to go twice and both times (non-peak shopping hours) were very crowded with minimal items on the shelves. The first night we spent $350 on hand soap, toilet paper, trash bags, laundry soap, snacks and sodas. We knew we'd be at the parks most evenings, so we bought more breakfast items like cinnamon rolls, cereal & milk, etc. We stayed 7 nights, and even after the service and cleaning fees, the total cost was still less than staying on-property.
So, what did it actually cost us to save this money? It cost us being able to book Individual Lightening Lane (I.L.L) reservations for Rise of The Resistance, Remy's, Slinky Dog, Flight of Passage, and more. When you stay off-property, you cannot buy I.L.L reservations until park opening vs 7am if staying on-property. We also couldn't get to the parks right at opening and rush to the ride, because those people staying on-property are allowed to enter 30mins before off-property guests. So, the lines were long before we could even get into the park for the day. So, we did miss out on rides we really wanted to do because of this. Next, we didn't have access to all the food! I love waking up in a Disney resort and being able to mobile order breakfast and coffee, and wonder over to pick it up. Each Disney resort offers fun items such as Mickey Waffles, seasonal cupcakes, flavored coffees and lates, and so much more. By being in the house, we only had access to what was there, and we had to prepare it ourselves. For me, I go on vacation to get away from having to cook & clean, so I missed my Disney grab-and-go options on many mornings!
Next, the issues with the house. Our trip was early February, so we chose a house with a hot tub to relax in after a long day in the park. Unfortunately, Florida had been in a bit of a cold spell (nothing extreme, but lows in the 40s). The hot tub could not keep up with the cooler temps, and after having to hassle with contacting the property management team every day (multiple times per day), we had a working hot tub 2 out of the 7 nights. The house had minimal furniture and was pretty worn out after having so many guests over the years. The pillows were flat, the beds were squeaky, the washing machine leaked, nails were poking up through the laminate flooring, a dishwasher rack was broken, the outlets loose in their boxes, the light bulbs needing replacing, and more. The house was fine, but I wouldn't stay at this property again. It is in need of some fresh paint and updated appliances for sure, and I imagine there are many homes in Florida in similar condition.
So, would I rent a VRBO home again? Nope. It wasn't for me. I missed the actual feeling of being on vacation and being pampered with food options outside the room, and transportation available to whisk me off to the theme parks for the day. I love the Disney skyliner and being able to be at Hollywood Studios or Epcot so quickly without even having to fold up the stroller! Plus, I missed out on rides that I really wanted to check out. I could've waited in the stand by lines, but those were running 1-2 hours typically, and with limited time in the day, it wasn't something I was willing to do. Disney is so much about the time-to-money balance. The saying 'time is money' had to have been created by a Disney traveler!
Would I have a different opinion if I'd never stayed on-property before? It's possible. By waking up each day at the house, I knew exactly what I was missing, and it sorta sucked honestly. Sitting on the lumpy couch waiting for a Lyft knowing lots of people were taking my spot for Slinky Dog really crawled under my skin!
If you are considering staying off-property, I highly suggest you compare the cost, but also the value of the experience you will be having. Disney World has multiple value resorts that make you feel like you're staying inside the magic without breaking the bank. I actually scored a value room for $152 a night recently. Make a good pro/con list for you and your family. If staying together in one big house sounds like a good idea (and I hope you guys all really like each other), then make sure you understand what it will cost you on the experience side as well as the possible savings on the financial side.
Have questions about my trip? I'd love to answer them! Shoot me an email at kelley.huff@vincentvacations.com
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