Wanderlust & Wishes

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When rope dropping Disney California Adventure, should you head straight to Radiator Springs Racers or skip the crowds and tackle Pixar Pier first?

This week on Wanderlust & Wishes, Julie and Krystle are breaking down the best rope drop strategies for Disney California Adventure! We're comparing Cars Land vs. Pixar Pier, discussing which attractions should be your first priority, and sharing tips to help you maximize your morning without spending it all waiting in line.

We'll cover how Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Single Pass, and Single Rider can change your strategy, plus the latest park hopping changes and what they mean for your Disneyland Resort vacation.

Whether you're hoping to ride as many attractions as possible or have your heart set on racing through Radiator Springs, we're helping you figure out which rope drop strategy makes the most sense for your family!

Incredible nature sounds from Kenya. 
From the temperate highlands to the...

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Imagine starting your morning with a short walk to EPCOT and ending your evening strolling along a waterfront boardwalk filled with dining, entertainment, and a little old-fashioned Disney nostalgia.

This week, we're unpacking Disney's BoardWalk Inn, one of Walt Disney World's most unique Deluxe Resorts. Inspired by the seaside entertainment districts of the 1920s, this resort combines vintage charm, an unbeatable EPCOT-area location, and a completely different atmosphere from your typical Disney resort.

We're covering everything you need to know, including the rooms, pools, dining, transportation, Club Level, and the differences between BoardWalk Inn and BoardWalk Villas. We'll also talk about whether those coveted BoardWalk View rooms are worth the splurge, especially when the nighttime activity might not be everyone's idea of a peaceful getaway.

Of course, we have to talk about location! With walking access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, Friendship Boats, and some fantastic dining options around Crescent Lake, BoardWalk offers plenty of reasons to leave the buses behind.

We'll also explore the Luna Park Pool, restaurants like Flying Fish and Trattoria al Forno, and the entertainment atmosphere that makes this resort especially appealing to adults and couples.

Plus, how does BoardWalk compare to its neighbor, Disney's Beach Club Resort? Is it a great choice for families, or is this one of those Disney resorts that really shines for adults?

Because at BoardWalk Inn, the magic doesn't necessarily end when you leave the parks. Sometimes the best part of the evening is waiting right outside your resort!

Resort Reviews is our weekly bonus series from Wanderlust and Wishes, where we're making our way through the Walt Disney World resorts in completely random order. No rankings determining who goes first and no playing favorites. Just one resort at a time and our take on what you really need to know before you book.

Incredible nature sounds from Kenya. 
From the temperate highlands to the...

Listen on: Apple Podcasts  

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Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast
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Is Club Level at Universal Orlando Resort really worth the extra cost? This week on Wanderlust & Wishes, Krystle is taking over as interviewer as Julie, Margie, and Stephanie share their firsthand experiences from their recent Universal Orlando vacation together!

We're breaking down what you actually get with a Club Level stay, from exclusive lounge access and complimentary food and drinks to added conveniences that can make your vacation a little more relaxing.

Krystle asks the questions everyone wants answered! What were the breakfast offerings, afternoon snacks, and evening refreshments like? Did the perks justify the extra cost? And did Club Level actually change the way they experienced their Universal vacation?

Plus, Julie, Margie, and Stephanie share their favorite perks, biggest surprises, and whether they'd spend the extra money to book Club Level again.

If you're planning a Universal Orlando vacation and wondering whether Club Level is worth the splurge, this episode will help you decide if the upgrade makes sense for your family, travel style, and budget!

Incredible nature sounds from Kenya. 
From the temperate highlands to the...

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Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast
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What if your Walt Disney World vacation felt a little less like a theme park marathon and a little more like a relaxing getaway in the Florida Keys?

This week, we're unpacking Disney's Old Key West Resort, the original Disney Vacation Club resort and one of the most unique places to stay at Walt Disney World. With colorful island-inspired buildings, beautiful landscaping, and some of the largest villa accommodations on Disney property, Old Key West offers a completely different kind of Disney vacation.

We're covering everything you need to know, including the studios and villas, resort layout, pools, dining, recreation, and transportation. We'll talk about why the spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas can be such a great option for larger families, multigenerational trips, and guests who want a little more breathing room.

Of course, we have to talk about Olivia's Cafe, the Sandcastle Pool, the relaxing boat ride to Disney Springs, and why your room location can make a big difference at this sprawling resort.

We'll also compare Old Key West to Saratoga Springs, discuss the tradeoffs of relying on buses to reach the theme parks, and tackle a question that comes up frequently: Is Old Key West charming and nostalgic, or is it starting to feel outdated?

And perhaps the biggest question of all: Who should choose a Deluxe Villa Resort that's more about slowing down than getting to the parks as quickly as possible?

Because sometimes the best part of a Disney vacation is having enough space and time to actually enjoy being on vacation!

Resort Reviews is our weekly bonus series from Wanderlust and Wishes, where we're making our way through the Walt Disney World resorts in completely random order. No rankings determining who goes first and no playing favorites. Just one resort at a time and our take on what you really need to know before you book.

Support the show

Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast

For interest in vacation planning email us at: [email protected]
Or fill out this quote request form: https://forms.gle/ZmN8C2akheQabF7B7

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We're ranking the best and worst of Walt Disney World, and we definitely have opinions!

In Episode 125, Julie and Krystle each share their five favorite and five least favorite attractions at Walt Disney World. From must-do rides to attractions we'd happily skip, we're breaking down what makes our lists and where we disagree.

Then it's time to talk Disney dining! Krystle ranks her top five and bottom five quick-service restaurants, while Julie tackles the table-service dining scene.

It's an episode full of personal favorites, unpopular opinions, and a little friendly disagreement. Will your Disney favorites make our lists?

Incredible nature sounds from Kenya. 
From the temperate highlands to the...

Listen on: Apple Podcasts  

Support the show

Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast
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What if your Walt Disney World resort felt like a peaceful Southern getaway, complete with winding pathways, beautiful riverside scenery, and even horse-drawn carriage rides?

This week, we're heading to Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, one of Disney's most charming Moderate Resorts. From the elegant mansion-style buildings of Magnolia Bend to the rustic Louisiana bayou atmosphere of Alligator Bayou, Riverside offers two very different experiences within one sprawling resort.

We're unpacking everything you need to know, including the rooms, pools, dining, transportation, and resort layout. We'll talk about the special touches in the Royal Guest Rooms, why the fifth sleeper accommodations are such a great option for families of five, and which areas of the resort might be the best fit for your vacation.

Of course, we have to talk about the experiences that make Riverside unique! From boat rides along the Sassagoula River to Disney Springs and evenings with Yehaa Bob at River Roost Lounge to relaxing at Ol' Man Island, there's plenty to enjoy without ever stepping foot inside a theme park.

We'll also compare Riverside to its sister resort, Port Orleans French Quarter. Is bigger actually better? Does Riverside's beautiful atmosphere make up for the longer walks and bus transportation to the parks? And who should choose Riverside over another Moderate Resort like Caribbean Beach?

Because sometimes your Disney resort is more than just a place to sleep. Sometimes it's part of the vacation itself.

Resort Reviews is our weekly bonus series from Wanderlust and Wishes, where we're making our way through the Walt Disney World resorts in completely random order. No rankings determining who goes first and no playing favorites. Just one resort at a time and our take on what you really need to know before you book.

Incredible nature sounds from Kenya. 
From the temperate highlands to the...

Listen on: Apple Podcasts  

Support the show

Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast

For interest in vacation planning email us at: [email protected]
Or fill out this quote request form: https://forms.gle/ZmN8C2akheQabF7B7

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Your Disney cruise vacation officially begins on embarkation day, but are you making the most of those first few hours onboard?

This week Julie and Krystle are sharing their favorite Disney Cruise Line embarkation day tips to help you avoid common mistakes, navigate the boarding process, and start your vacation with less stress and more fun.

From packing the perfect carry-on bag, knowing what to expect at the cruise terminal, and deciding what to do first once you're onboard, we're covering the details that can make a big difference.

We're also sharing one of our favorite strategies that many cruisers overlook: taking time during your first lunch onboard to review the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app, explore the activities available throughout your sailing, and prioritize the experiences you don't want to miss.

Plus, we'll talk about rotational dining, youth clubs, onboard reservations, the mandatory muster drill, sail-away celebrations, and those little extras that can help your first day go smoothly.

Whether you're planning your very first Disney cruise or preparing for your next sailing, these practical embarkation day tips will help you spend less time figuring things out and more time enjoying your vacation.

Because the last thing you want to do is start your vacation stressed!

Incredible nature sounds from Kenya. 
From the temperate highlands to the...

Listen on: Apple Podcasts  

Support the show

Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast
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When you think of Disney Value Resorts, extra space probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But Disney's All-Star Music Resort has one big advantage that sets it apart from its All-Star neighbors: Family Suites that can sleep up to six guests!

This week, we're unpacking everything All-Star Music has to offer, from its oversized musical instruments and colorful themed sections to the rooms, pools, dining, transportation, and overall resort experience.

Of course, we're spending some extra time talking about those Family Suites. With separate sleeping areas, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette, they offer something you don't typically find at Disney's lowest-priced resort category. But are they the right choice for your family?

We'll also talk about the different musical sections, which room locations make the most sense, and whether All-Star Music is a good choice for smaller families who don't necessarily need a suite.

Because sometimes the best resort isn't the one with the most impressive pool or the fanciest restaurants. Sometimes it's the one where everyone has a little breathing room and you aren't fighting over a single bathroom every morning!

Resort Reviews is our weekly bonus series from Wanderlust and Wishes, where we're making our way through the Walt Disney World resorts in completely random order. No rankings determining who goes first and no playing favorites. Just one resort at a time and our take on what you really need to know before you book.

Support the show

Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast

For interest in vacation planning email us at: [email protected]
Or fill out this quote request form: https://forms.gle/ZmN8C2akheQabF7B7

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Julie finally made it to Universal Epic Universe, and let's just say she's officially a convert!

After months of talking about Universal Orlando's newest theme park, Julie experienced it firsthand, and even a rainy start couldn't dampen her excitement. This week, Julie and Krystle dive into everything from the incredible immersive worlds and jaw-dropping attractions to the crowds, food, and little details that make Epic Universe unlike anything else at Universal Orlando.

Julie shares her first impressions of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Super Nintendo World. She's also breaking down her favorite attractions, including Stardust Racers, what surprised her most, and what it was really like navigating gluten-free dining throughout the park.

Plus, we're talking practical planning tips, whether one day at Epic Universe is actually enough, and how this experience has changed Julie's perspective on planning Universal Orlando vacations.

So, does Epic Universe really live up to all the hype? Julie has some thoughts, and she's already planning her return!

Incredible nature sounds from Kenya. 
From the temperate highlands to the...

Listen on: Apple Podcasts  

Support the show

Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast

For interest in vacation planning email us at: [email protected]
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We're going on the go for a special bonus episode from Universal Orlando!

Julie is sharing a quick recap of her Universal Orlando FAM trip with three fellow travel advisors. The trip included two days of training, a Club Level stay at Loews Portofino Bay, time in both original Universal parks, and a full day at Epic Universe!

She's also sharing a few highlights from her gluten-free dining experiences at Portofino Bay's Club Level lounge, Café L'air De La Sirène, and Mythos. And, of course, she couldn't leave without a frozen gluten-free Butterbeer!

This is just a little sneak peek of an incredible trip filled with unforgettable experiences and even better friendships. Julie will be back with Krystle during the regular weekly episode to dive into all the details, so stay tuned!

Incredible nature sounds from Kenya. 
From the temperate highlands to the...

Listen on: Apple Podcasts  

Support the show

Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderlustandwishespodcast

For interest in vacation planning email us at: [email protected]
Or fill out this quote request form: https://forms.gle/ZmN8C2akheQabF7B7