Vacation, It Is Not Imposible

June 22, 2021 By Stacey Leave a Comment

Vacation, It Is Not Impossible!

With all the restrictions and changes we have been through, it may seem impossible, maybe even inconvenient to vacation these days. I’m here to tell you it is not. The key is “know before you go
“ do your research or better yet, enlist the help of your travel agent. Most agent’s services are free of charge, they get paid from the vendors you book through and you pay the same price as booking on your own.

I have taken two vacations since March, both to Florida. FCC regulations still require masks in airports and on flights. In this particular state, mask mandates have been lifted but many people, including myself, still wear them. I am fully vaccinated but prefer to protect others and myself just in case. At this time, if you are fully vaccinated, it is up to you to decide. **Reminder** some airlines have restrictions on mask types, American Airlines restricts gaitor masks and any mask with a vent in it.

If you are wishing to travel to an island, you can do that. Just be sure to have the most up to date entry information for the country you are going to and returning to. Some will require a negative covid test within 72 hours before arriving. Some may do temperature checks upon arrival, but if you know what to expect, you should start your vacation with ease. **Reminder** did you know your passport must be valid for six months AFTER your travel date in some countries?

Maybe you are on a tight budget from being out of work, you can still vacation if you are flexible. Perhaps instead of a hotel, look at renting a house. Many times this is a better economic option and some are able to hold multiple families so you can split the cost. This allows for eating at home versus a restaurant every night. Look for a home that has a pool or is located near things you like to do.

If you are looking to take that dream vacation, wherever the destination may be, be flexible. If you are date flexible, you can select less expensive flights which can save you money. Booking with an agent allows them to find the best flights and package options. Bundling air, hotels and cars if needed can be a money saver as well.

Wherever you want to go, plan ahead and start a vacation jar. It may not pay for your trip but it may allow for a nice dinner out or a desired souvenir on your trip. Know before you go, be flexible and take that vacation! I am here to help, please contact me at Stacey.magicaltravel@gmail.com

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What’s Is Waiting For You At Disney Destinations?

June 2, 2021 By Stacey Leave a Comment

It seems the world is opening back up slowly and so are the Disney Destinations you love. Walt Disney World in Florida is back open and welcoming you to the magic. Currently masks are still required indoors but not outdoors in the parks. They are bringing back entertainments shows like the The Festival of The Lion King at Animal Kingdom. At the time of this blog, not all restaurant experiences are open and some resorts are still closed. Fear not, there is magic to be had. There are resorts open in each budget category to meet your needs.

Character meals are different. They are available, however, the characters maintain a safe distance and pose for pictures alone, they do not come to the table and interact as before. Hopefully, this cherished event comes back to pre covid soon. Disney World makes announcements pretty frequently with changes, updates and good news on what is coming next. Check my Facebook page, Stacey Raker with Magical Travel for the latest news and updates. There are offers out there so we can work together to make your vacation as magical as you want! **Pro tip** do you know you need park reservations? If not, contact me so I can help!

Disneyland in California has reopened to it’s former glory. As of this moment, they are accepting California residents only but that will all change on June 15th! This land of magic will reopen to guests from all over the world. Like Walt Disney World, there are restrictions in place to follow the government guidelines as well. Disneyland has three on property hotels and many more Good Neighbor hotels, many which are within walking distance. If your desired resort isn’t fully open yet, don’t fret, we can find something that will fit your needs perfectly. Disneyland is my favorite Disney Destination! Ask me why?

Disney Cruise Line……cruising, what can I say? The cruise industry has been out of commission a long time and seems to be the last to get back up and running. Cruising is a great way to travel and Disney has announced their newest ship in the fleet, Disney Wish! Disney Wish will be making her inaugural sailing in 2022 and staterooms are going quickly for the first sailing season on this amazing ship. Veteran cruisers can expect to see some changes to the standard you are used to. While we don’t know exactly what the changes will be, you might expect more sanitizing, served buffets rather than help yourself, monitored serve your self options such as drinks and ice cream to ensure cleanliness. There may even be social distancing in theaters etc. We just don’t know what the changes will be but we know when Disney begins to sail again, it will be better than ever. If you haven’t cruised before, get in touch with me so we can discuss the stateroom options and itineraries fleetwide. You will love it!

Did you know Adventures By Disney offers guided tours in many countries? These elite tours are the best of the best with Disney’s attention to detail in every aspect. As other countries begin to allow foreign travelers, consider doing that bucket list trip with Adventures By Disney!

Last but not least, Disney has brought their magic to the islands of Hawaii with their resort Aulani. Located on Oahu, this resort brings fun, food and entertainment to enhance your vacation. Make sure to check out the luau when you are there and learn the history and culture of the island and the native people. Aulani is open for booking now so if you are interested, let me know!

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Passport Tips and Information

August 9, 2019 By Stacey Leave a Comment

Passport Tip 1

All travel out of the United States requires a passport. The only exception being a cruise that starts and ends in the same US port. For example, a cruise departing from Port Canaveral going to Nassau and back to Port Canaveral. Technically, you can sail these itineraries with a birth certificate and a driver’s license. That being said, should you have an emergency and need to fly home, you cannot gain re-entry to the United States WITHOUT a passport!

Passport Tip 2

You can get information on obtaining a passport at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/how-to-apply.html You will need to fill out a form, get a passport photo taken and go to a local post office or courthouse that has a passport office. You will need supporting documents to apply. There are different requirements if you were not born in the United States. Please check the requirements for proof of citizenship. The standard turn around time to get a passport is 6-8 weeks at this time. Sometimes it is longer, sometimes it takes less time to obtain the passport. If you are in time crunch, you can apply for expedited processing at an additional fee.

Passport Tip 3

Passports for individuals 16 and older are valid for 10 years. Passports for travelers under 16 are valid for five years. Your passport must not expire within 6 months of travel! You may see an option for a passport card which is less expensive, this is NOT a preferred identification for international travel and has limitations on where it is valid for travel. It is better to go for the full passport book. Current fees are:
First Time Passport over 16: $145.00 (includes $35 due to the acceptance facility)
Renewal Passport over 16: $110.00
First Time Passport Under 16:$115.00 (includes $35 due to acceptance facility)
You cannot renew a passport for a child under the age of 16.
**this information is subject to change at anytime**

Passport Tip 4

Make a copy or two of the information page in your passport book. Leave one at home with a trusted family member or friend and keep one in your luggage, separate from your actual passport. In the event you lose your passport while traveling abroad, that information can help in the replacement of the passport at the US consulate in the country you are in.

Passport Tip 5

Note on your calendar or phone when your passport expires and put a reminder in six months ahead of time so you can apply for your renewal. You do not want to find out a few weeks before your long awaited vacation that your passport is expired or isn’t valid for the next six months! This way you have the proper documentation and you are ready to enjoy your next adventure wherever that may take you!