Kids Travel Tales | A Family Travel Podcast

Disney World or Royal Caribbean—which vacation is the better fit for a young family?

Cruise content creator Sarah LeJeune joins us to share why her family keeps choosing Royal Caribbean for vacations with toddlers, what has made them loyal to the cruise line, but why they're seriously considering making the switch to MSC Cruises for future sailings.

Also in this episode:

👶 Toddler cruise hacks, nap schedules on vacations, packing tips, and managing toddler tantrums at sea

💰 Why older Royal Caribbean cruise ships can be one of the smartest values for young families

After sailing on 12 Caribbean cruises, travel advisor Amber McAleer or Travelmation never expected an Alaska cruise to become her favorite family vacation.

In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Amber shares honest advice for families considering an Alaska cruise—from the best age for kids and the biggest packing mistakes to how to save money on excursions and why shoulder season may be the smartest time to sail.

Universal Kids Resort has been one of the most talked-about new theme parks of the year—but is the criticism deserved? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn sits down with Samantha, one of the first paying guests to visit during the soft opening, to separate social media hype from the real experience.

From rides and character meet-and-greets to food, pricing, and splash pads, Samantha shares what surprised her most—and why she thinks parents should stop judging the park based on TikTok photos alone.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why one of the first paying guests gave Universal Kids Resort a 10 out of 10
• The best rides, themed food, and character experiences for kid
• Whether the ticket price is worth it for families with young children
• The truth about the shade, landscaping, and other viral complaints
• Why this may be the perfect first theme park before a trip to Universal Orlando

Planning a family trip to Washington, DC? From Smithsonian museum favorites to July 4th survival tips, you'll get practical advice for exploring the nation's capital with babies, toddlers, and older kids—all without breaking the bank.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why Washington, DC is one of the best family vacations in America
• Hot takes on the most overrated attractions (yes, even the Air & Space Museum!)
• Why you don't need a car—and how locals use the Metro
• Tips for July 4th fireworks, where to stay, and hidden gems tourists often miss

Dreaming of a more luxurious Disney vacation? In this bonus episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn is joined by Disney travel advisor Jamie McMahon of Travelmation and Alli from Happily Ever Taylor Fam on YouTube to share their favorite ways to elevate a Walt Disney World vacation—from iconic deluxe resorts to hidden splurges that make a trip feel extra magical.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why the Grand Floridian remains Disney's most iconic luxury resort
• Hidden ways to experience deluxe Disney resorts without staying there
• Why Minnie Vans may be Disney's most underrated luxury upgrade
• Other simple ways to add luxury touches to your vacation on almost any budget

Which cruise line is actually best for families? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn chats with travel advisor and cruise expert Sam from Gabriel Getaways, who has sailed on FIVE major cruise lines — Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, and Celebrity.

And yes… she has some HOT TAKES. 👀

From why Carnival is her family’s favorite cruise line to why Royal Caribbean left her bored (and hungry), Sam breaks down the biggest cruise line rumors, mistakes first-time cruisers make, and what families should really consider before booking.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Which cruise line has the best food, entertainment & kids activities
• Why she STILL hasn’t booked a Disney Cruise
• Cruise tips every first-time family cruiser should know

Is a Disney VIP Tour actually worth the price tag? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn is joined by Disney creators Alli from Happily Ever Taylor Fam and travel advisor Jamie McMahon to break down the luxury side of Walt Disney World vacations — from private VIP guides to deluxe dining and bucket-list Disney experiences.

Plus, Alli shares the viral bet she made with her husband to earn a Disney VIP Tour by growing her YouTube channel!

In this episode, you’ll hear:
• What a Disney VIP Tour actually includes (and costs)
• How families use VIP tours to ride more with less stress
• Smart ways to add “luxury Disney” touches without overspending

Is Cinderella’s Royal Table actually worth the price? Why does Space 220 get so much hate? And are Disney food influencers setting expectations too high?

In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn chats with Disney travel advisor Brittany Adams about the most talked-about restaurants at Walt Disney World — including the ones families love, hate, and debate nonstop online.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why some Disney restaurants are massively overrated
• Best Disney World restaurants for kids vs. adults
• How to balance dining reservations with ride planning
• The most underrated Disney restaurant families are missing

Traveling with a child on the autism spectrum or sensory issues can feel overwhelming — especially when it comes to busy destinations like Walt Disney World. In this special Autism Awareness Month episode of Kids Travel Tales, two moms share real-life strategies for making family travel more accessible, predictable, and enjoyable.

From first flights to navigating Disney parks and cruises, this episode is filled with practical advice for parents planning trips with sensory needs in mind.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How to prepare kids with autism or sensory needs for the airport and travel days
• What to know about Disability Access Service (DAS) at Walt Disney World Resort and queue re-entry options
• Why Disney Cruise Line may be a better fit for some families
• Small Disney planning details that can prevent big meltdowns

What should you actually spend money on during a Disney Cruise Line vacation — and what’s totally not worth it? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, we are joined by Disney travel expert Sammie Fay, a Mickey Guru Travel Advisor, to break down the ultimate Disney Cruise money-saving guide.

From placeholder bookings to fish extenders, specialty dining, and those pricey princess experiences, this episode is full of honest opinions and detailed strategies to help families cruise smarter with DCL.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• The best time to book a Disney cruise for the lowest price
• What’s worth the splurge (and what to skip) onboard
• How a Disney cruise placeholder can save you money
• Tips for choosing the right ship at the right budget for your family