Thinking about planning your first trip to Universal Orlando Resort but feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start? This episode is your complete beginner’s guide to Universal Orlando, including Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and the brand-new Epic Universe.

If you’re a Disney fan curious about Universal, traveling with teens, or wondering if Universal is right for your family, we break it all down in plain English. We talk about what makes Universal different from Disney, how the parks actually feel, which tickets you really need, when Express Pass is worth it, and the biggest beginner mistakes we see all the time.

We also cover Harry Potter for first-timers, how Epic Universe changes Universal vacation planning, where beginners should stay, and how many days you realistically need to enjoy the parks without feeling rushed.

This episode is perfect if you’re planning your first Universal Orlando vacation and want expert tips, realistic expectations, and stress-free planning advice from someone who has experienced the parks firsthand.

Want to hear more about Universal Orlando? Check out these episodes:

Episode 23: All Things Wizarding World of Harry Potter https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanderlust-wishes/id1749012067?i=1000674973095

Episode 36: Universal Orlando Resorts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanderlust-wishes/id1749012067?i=1000686627751

Episode 55: Epic Universe https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanderlust-wishes/id1749012067?i=1000712400666

Episode 56: All About Volcano Bay https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanderlust-wishes/id1749012067?i=1000713383925

Episode 62: Universal Orlando with Kids https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanderlust-wishes/id1749012067?i=1000719728188

Episode 66: You Can Only Choose One- Islands of Adventure https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanderlust-wishes/id1749012067?i=1000723685412

Episode 70: You Can Only Choose One- Universal Studios https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanderlust-wishes/id1749012067?i=1000728182829

Episode 72: Park Bag Essentials https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanderlust-wishes/id1749012067?i=1000730773415

Episode 73: Halloween Horror Nights Post Trip Report https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanderlust-wishes/id1749012067?i=1000731948151

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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

As we wrap up 2025, we’re looking back at where we traveled, what surprised us most, and the biggest travel lessons we’re taking into 2026. From unforgettable trips to changing travel habits, this episode is our honest 2025 travel recap and a deep dive into what’s next.

We talk about the biggest 2025 travel trend, including the continued boom in cruising, why travelers are prioritizing experiences over packed itineraries, and how flexibility became the secret weapon for smart travel planning.

Then we look ahead to 2026 travel trends that are already gaining momentum. We talk about why cruising is still one of the strongest segments in travel, how rising cities and alternative urban destinations are replacing overcrowded hotspots, and which off-the-beaten-path European destinations offer incredible value without sacrificing culture or charm.

We also cover glow-cations and wellness travel, literary and screen-inspired trips, mountain and nature escapes, sports and fan-driven travel, and how AI is changing the way travelers plan vacations. Plus, we share how we’re personally planning our own 2026 trips and which trends we cannot wait to try.

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

Think you know your Disney trivia? This week, we’re putting that confidence to the test!

We’re joined by four of our favorite people and fellow travel agents, Cassie Grenier, Dani Battiste, Leslie Jenkins, and Lindsay Young, for a Disney trivia showdown that brought the laughs and friendly competition.

From classic Disney knowledge to questions that made even seasoned pros second-guess themselves, this episode was pure fun from start to finish. The banter was nonstop and the energy was high. Play along and keep score to see how you stack up! 

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

On this episode, Krystle and Julie go off the beaten path of theme parks and cruising to take a trip to Charleston, SC.  Charleston is an old soul with a modern spark. In this episode, we’re diving into the food, culture, history, and charm that make this Southern city feel timeless and fresh all at once. From the historic district to Fort Sumter to the beautiful low country beaches, Charleston has something for everyone. 

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

On this episode Krystle and Julie cover Walt Disney World Transportation 101 — your complete guide to navigating the Most Magical Place on Earth! We break down everything you need to know about the Disney Skyliner, Monorail, Boats, Buses, and Walking Paths, plus insider tips for travel times, resort access, stroller rules, and the best routes to save time.

Whether you're planning a stay at a Skyliner resort, heading to Magic Kingdom, rope dropping EPCOT, or hopping between parks, this episode gives you easy, practical strategies to move around Walt Disney World like a pro.

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

On this episode, Krystle and Julie share their top tips for traveling like a pro. From Walt Disney World to beach trips to traveling internationally, these tips can help make the entire experience easier. If you already travel like a pro, share this episode with your family and friends to make your next trip with them a breeze! 

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

On this week's episode, Krystle and Julie are joined by their friend and fellow travel advisor, Margie Reynolds, to dive into her incredible Virgin Voyages cruise around the coast of Greece. If you’ve been curious about what sets Virgin Voyages apart, this episode is for you!

We chat with Margie about the full Virgin Voyages experience, including what makes this cruise line truly unique as an adult-only, boutique-style cruise brand. We break down everything Sailors need to know:
 ✨ Dining (including Virgin’s no-buffet, elevated restaurant model, foodies dream cruise)
 ✨ Entertainment (edgy shows, live music, pop-up performances)
 ✨ Spa & Wellness (The Redemption Spa, thermal suite)
 ✨ Specialty Experiences (tattoo studio)

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

This week, Krystle and Julie dive into the ultimate Disney Cruise Line showdown: Castaway Cay vs. Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Whether you’re planning your first Disney cruise or you’re a seasoned Castaway regular trying to decide which island is the better fit for your next sailing, this episode breaks it all down with the details that actually matter.

We compare both islands across multiple categories — from beach access, layout, and transportation to cabanas, food options, cultural experiences, excursions, kids’ areas, shopping, and the overall vibe. We talk through the developed areas at Lookout Cay, the new Bahamian-forward design elements, and what’s different from the long-loved Castaway Cay experience. And yes… we get into chairs, shade, snack shacks, and exactly how far that Lookout Cay tram ride really feels.

If you're trying to decide which island is right for your family, your itinerary, or your style of vacation, this episode gives you the insider perspective you need

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

On this week's episode, Krystle and Julie talk through their top tips for tackling a day at Walt Disney World's EPCOT. With this park's immense size and four festivals each year, there is so much to do that it can be hard to decide on your priorities and how to spend your day. We talk about our tried and true strategies for having the best day ever at EPCOT! 

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

On this week's episode, Krystle and Julie take a stroll around Disney California Adventure park to continue the 'You can only choose one' series. Listen in for our picks and insider tips on rides, food/dining, snacks, and non-ride attractions/experiences. Whether you are an experienced Disneylander or you're just beginning to dip your toes into the West coast parks, we give you our top picks for each land to keep in your back pocket when you need them. 

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