If you’re in the early planning stages of a Universal Orlando Resort trip, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is where to stay. The top-tier Universal Signature Collection hotels promise premium location, upscale amenities, and, in some cases, a major park perk. But are they actually worth the higher price? After staying at all of them and comparing them to Universal’s other on-site options, here’s what I tell my clients. Hard Rock Hotel: A Universal Signature Collectio

Atlantis Paradise Island vs Grand Hyatt Baha Mar: Which Bahamas Resort Is Best for Your Family?

My family' first trip to Disneyland For families on the East Coast, a trip to Disneyland often feels like a big commitment. Longer flights. More planning. Bigger expectations. And one big question I hear all the time is: “Is Disneyland really worth it if we’re flying all the way to California?” My honest answer? Yes — especially when you turn it into a California split stay. Instead of flying across the country for just theme parks, a split stay lets you experience Disneyl

Choosing the right Disney vacation based on family size, age, and energy level. My family with Mickey and Goofy at EPCOT If you’ve ever wondered whether your family should head to Disneyland Resort  or Walt Disney World Resort , you’re not alone. As a travel advisor (and a mom who’s done both), this is easily one of the top questions I get. And the truth is… there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. These two Disney destinations may share iconic attractions and Mickey-shaped snack

How to Turn Long Weekends Into REAL Family Vacations (Without Burning All Your PTO) For many families, the biggest barrier to travel isn’t desire — it’s time off work and school . The good news? You don’t need to take weeks off or pull kids out of school for long stretches to enjoy meaningful vacations. One of the smartest (and most underrated) ways to travel is by planning around long weekends and federal holidays . With a little strategy, you can turn just a few PTO days i

If the thought  of flying with kids gives you instant anxiety — the early wake-ups, airport lines, delays, the “Mom, my ears hurt” meltdown during takeoff — I promise you’re not alone. The Northeast and Mid-Atlantic And here’s the thing: you don’t have to fly to enjoy an incredible family cruise. Not anymore. Not with the ships and itineraries coming to the Northeast in Summer 2026 (and even beyond!) In fact, cruising from the Northeast is becoming one of the best-kept secret

Traveling with food allergies or celiac disease can feel overwhelming at times, but it does not have to hold you back. Over the years, I have learned that the key to traveling safely is advocating for yourself in a calm, clear, and confident way. Whether you are headed to a resort, cruise, or theme park, there are steps you can take to make every trip both safe and enjoyable.

If you’ve been thinking, “We’ll go back to Disney… but maybe not yet,” let me gently stop you right there. Walt Disney World is constantly changing — as 2025 comes to a close, 2026 (and beyond!) is shaping up to be one of the most exciting periods in years.

How to plan your next family vacation on a budget

Exploring the Top Alaska Cruise Lines for Families

Every year around this time, the same question comes up: “What do we get the kids? What do we get the grandparents? What do we get each other?” And honestly? Most of us already feel maxed out on toys, clothes, and gadgets that lose their sparkle within a few weeks. But you know what never fades? Memories you make together. The belly laughs. The beach days. The roller coasters. The sunsets at sea. The time spent just being  with each other. This is exactly why more and more fa

One of many photo ops that my family took advantage of on Oasis of the Seas