Earstravagant Adventures

If you're planning a Universal Orlando trip before October 2026 — you need to watch this first.

In this episode of Earstravagant Adventures, Katie, Rachael and Julija sit down to give their honest take on Volcano Bay right now. Between the three of them you're getting the full picture: what it's like experiencing Volcano Bay completely fresh, and what's actually different now that TapuTapu is gone.

What we cover in this episode:

• What changed when TapuTapu went away and how it affects your day
• What Julija loved as a first-time visitor
• What exactly is Volcano Bay anyway?!
• What we recommend, what to skip, and how to make the most of your time there
• Why you should plan your visit before Volcano Bay closes for its major refurbishment in October 2026

Whether you've never been or you haven't visited since the TapuTapu days, this episode will help you know exactly what to expect and how to plan your day at Volcano Bay.

🗓️ Planning a Universal Orlando trip before the closure? Click here to request a proposal!

🎧 Subscribe to Earstravagant Adventures for new episodes every week covering Disney, Universal, cruises, Europe, and everything in between.

📲 Follow us on Social:

Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney) Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan) and Julija on TikTok and Instagram (@julijaplanstravel)https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplanhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookiehttps://www.tiktok.com/@julijaplanstravelhttps://www.instagram.com/julijaplanstravel

#VolcanoBay #UniversalOrlando #VolcanoBay2026 #TravelAdvisor #EarstravagantAdventures

Epic Universe has been open for a year — and we've been there twice. So here's our honest answer: yes, it's still absolutely worth it.

In this episode of Earstravagant Adventures, Katie sits down with Rachael and Charles to get their real takeaways a full year after Epic Universe opened. Between the two of them they've visited at opening and again a year later, so this isn't first impression hype — this is the perspective that actually matters when you're deciding whether to add Epic Universe to your next Universal Orlando trip.

What we cover in this episode:

• What held up after the opening buzz died down
• What surprised us on our second visit
• What we love and what we'd do differently
• What we're telling every client who asks about Epic Universe right now
• Our top recommendations for first time visitors

Whether you've been before or you're planning your first visit, this episode will help you know exactly what to expect and how to make the most of your time there.

🗓️ Planning a Universal Orlando trip? Request your personalized proposal here: [Click here]

🎧 Subscribe to Earstravagant Adventures for new episodes every week covering Disney, Universal, cruises, Europe, and everything in between.

📲 Follow us on Instagram: Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney) Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan) Charles on Tiktok and Instagram (@travelbychux)https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplanhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookiehttps://www.instagram.com/travelbychux/

https://www.tiktok.com/@travelbychux

https://www.youtube.com/@TravelByChux#EpicUniverse #UniversalOrlando #EpicUniverseReview #TravelAdvisor #EarstravagantAdventures

Something is going to go wrong on your trip — and knowing what to do before it happens is the difference between a ruined vacation and a minor inconvenience.

In this episode of Earstravagant Adventures, travel advisors Rachael and Katie walk you through the most common travel problems they've seen — and exactly how to handle them. Between the two of them, they've managed more travel emergencies than they can count, and today they're giving you the game plan they wish every traveler had before leaving home.

What we cover in this episode:

• What to do when your flight gets cancelled or delayed
• How to handle hotel problems at check-in and during your stay
• What to do if your luggage is lost or delayed
• Who to call first when things go wrong
• How having a travel advisor in your corner changes everything

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first big trip, this episode will make sure you're never caught off guard when the unexpected happens.

🗓️ Want someone in your corner when things go wrong? Click here to work with us.

🎧 Subscribe to Earstravagant Adventures for new episodes every week covering Disney, Universal, cruises, Europe, and everything in between.

📲 Follow us on Social Media:Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney) Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan) https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplanhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookie

#TravelTips #TravelProblems #TravelAdvice #TravelAdvisor #EarstravagantAdventures

There are over 30 all-inclusive resorts in Cancun — and most people are booking the wrong one.

In this episode of Earstravagant Adventures, travel advisor Katie breaks down her personal favorite all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and exactly how to choose the right one for your trip. Katie is our all-inclusive expert and plans these vacations regularly, so this isn't a generic list pulled from a travel blog. This is firsthand knowledge from someone who knows these properties inside and out. Rachael has also been to Cancun herself, so you're getting both the advisor perspective and the real guest experience.

What we cover in this episode:

• What makes a great all-inclusive resort — and what to watch out for
• Katie's personal favorite resorts in Cancun and why she recommends them
• How to match the right resort to your travel style, group, and budget
• What the Instagram photos don't tell you
• Why working with a travel advisor makes a bigger difference here than almost anywhere else

Whether you're a first-timer or you've done Cancun before and want to level up your experience, this episode will help you stop guessing and start planning with confidence.

🗓️ Ready to find your perfect resort? Request a planning session with us here: [Request a Proposal]

🎧 Subscribe to Earstravagant Adventures for new episodes every week covering Disney, Universal, cruises, Europe, and everything in between.

📲 Follow us on Instagram: Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney) Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan) https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplanhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookie

#CancunResorts #AllInclusiveResort #MexicoVacation #TravelAdvisor #EarstravagantAdventures

Virgin Voyages isn't your grandmother's cruise — and honestly, it's not like anything else on the water.

In this episode of Earstravagant Adventures, travel advisors Rachael and Katie break down everything you need to know about Virgin Voyages — from the ships and what's included, to the destinations they sail and why we keep recommending (and sailing) this line ourselves. Rachael has personally sailed Virgin Voyages from both Miami and Athens, so this isn't a surface-level overview. This is the real deal.

What we cover in this episode:

• What makes Virgin Voyages different from every other cruise line
• The ships, the vibe, and what's actually included in your fare
• Where they sail — from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean and beyond
• Who Virgin Voyages is for (and who it's not)
• Why we love it and keep sending our clients on it

Whether you've always been curious or you're already sold and just need to pull the trigger, this episode will help you decide if Virgin Voyages belongs on your travel bucket list.

🗓️ Ready to plan your sailing? Request your proposal here

🎧 Subscribe to Earstravagant Adventures for new episodes every week covering Disney, Universal, cruises, Europe, and everything in between.

📲 Follow us on Socials: Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney) Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan) https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplanhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookie

#VirginVoyages #CruiseReview #TravelAdvisor #AdultsOnlyCruise #EarstravagantAdventures

Sponsor: Allonsy Travel https://allonsy-travel.com/takethetrip

Find us online!

Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney)

Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan)

https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisney

https://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisney

https://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplan

https://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookie

In this episode of Earstravagant Adventures, Rachael and Katie are breaking down all the European itinerary options available through Adventures by Disney — and trust us, this is the episode that's going to have you seriously reconsidering your next vacation!

🗺️They walk you through the full lineup of European adventures!. First up is the brand-new Switzerland itinerary — an eight-day trip inspired by Walt and Lillian Disney's own beloved summer holidays there, including an alpine hike with the real Matterhorn as your backdrop. Then there's the equally stunning Greece: Mythology of Athens, Peloponnese & Rhodes — an immersive eight-day adventure bringing the stories of Greek mythology to life, connecting the real world to Disney classics like Hercules, The Little Mermaid, and Fantasia.

And for those who want to hit the classic highlights, the re-imagined London, Paris & Rome itinerary takes guests through iconic landmarks like the Roman Colosseum, the Louvre, and the London Eye.

Rachael and Katie break down what makes Adventures by Disney different from planning a trip on your own, who each itinerary is best suited for, and why having Disney-trained Adventure Guides handle every detail is a total game changer. Whether you're a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, there's a European adventure with your name on it!

#AdventuresByDisney #DisneyTravel #EuropeTravel #FamilyTravel #DisneyVacation #GuidedTravel #ThemeParkPodcast #DisneyPodcast #EarstravagantAdventures #TravelAdvisor

Sponsor: Allonsy Travelhttps://allonsy-travel.com/takethetripFind us online! Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney) Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan) https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplanhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookie

In this episode of Earstravagant Adventures, Rachael and Katie give you the complete rundown on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship — the Disney Destiny! From its stunning design and immersive theming to dining, entertainment, staterooms, and onboard experiences, they cover everything you need to know before you set sail.

They'll also dive into what makes the Destiny stand out in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and why this ship should be on your radar for your next voyage. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a Disney Cruise Line regular, this episode is your ultimate guide to the Disney Destiny! ⚓🌊

#DisneyCruiseLine #DisneyDestiny #DisneyDestinyShip #DisneyAtSea #CruiseLife #FamilyCruise #DisneyTravel #DisneyPodcast #ThemeParkPodcast #EarstravagantAdventures

Sponsor: Allonsy Travelhttps://allonsy-travel.com/takethetripFind us online! Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney) Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan) https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplanhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookie

In this episode of Earstravagant Adventures, Rachael and Katie break down one of the most common questions they get as travel agents: Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando — which theme park destination is the right fit for your family?

They compare everything from attractions and age ranges to cost, crowd levels, and overall experience to help you figure out which park (or combo of both!) makes the most sense for your next trip. Whether you're traveling with little ones, teens, or a mixed-age crew, they've got the insights to help you plan smarter. 🌟👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

If you've ever been on the fence about where to spend your vacation dollars in Orlando, this episode is your ultimate side-by-side guide! 🎟️✨

#WaltDisneyWorld #UniversalOrlando #EpicUniverse #ThemeParkFamily #OrlandoVacation #DisneyVsUniversal #ThemeParkPodcast #FamilyTravel #DisneyTravelAgent #EarstravagantAdventures

Sponsor: Allonsy Travelhttps://allonsy-travel.com/takethetripFind us online! Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney) Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan) https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplanhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookie

This week on Earstravagant Adventures, we’re continuing our deep dive into Adventures by Disney—this time focusing on all of the incredible North American itineraries you can experience without crossing an ocean. 🌎✨

We break down where you can travel across the U.S. and Canada, what makes each itinerary unique, and the types of experiences you can expect—from national parks and outdoor adventures to cultural deep dives and VIP access you simply can’t get on your own.

We also talk about:
🏞️ Who these trips are best suited for
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why they’re great for multi-generational families
🎟️ The exclusive experiences that set Adventures by Disney apart
💛 And why we believe these guided adventures are worth considering

If you’ve ever wanted to explore North America with Disney-level storytelling, service, and seamless planning, this episode gives you a complete overview of what’s possible.

#abd #adventuresbydisney #familyvacation

Sponsor: Allonsy Travelhttps://allonsy-travel.com/takethetripFind us online! Rachael on TikTok and Instagram (@rachaelplansdisney) Katie on TikTok (thewanderingwoodie) and Instagram (ktlovestoplan) https://www.instagram.com/rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelplansdisneyhttps://www.instagram.com/ktlovestoplanhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thewanderingwookie

This week on Earstravagant Adventures, Katie is recapping a very special trip—her family’s first-ever visit to Disneyland! 🏰✨

She shares what it’s like experiencing the original Disney parks for the first time, including what surprised her most and what worked well for a first-timer family. From park pacing and must-do attractions to food highlights and helpful tips, this episode is packed with real-world insight for anyone planning their own Disneyland debut.

If you’ve been wondering whether Disneyland is worth the trip—especially for families—this episode gives you an honest, helpful look at what to expect and how to make the most of your first visit.

#disneyland #disneytravelagent #familyvacation