Showing posts with label cruises. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cruises. Show all posts

Sunday, April 26, 2026

The Disney Concierge Difference

5:46 PM 0

    The name Disney is synonymous with service that goes above and beyond, and Disney Cruise Line is well-regarded throughout the industry for raising the bar on guest service. Regardless of age or stateroom category, every guest onboard a Disney ship is treated like royalty. So when guests book a Concierge level stateroom, they are in for a real treat!

Suite Dreams: The Lion King themed Concierge stateroom on the Disney Treasure.
Suite Dreams: The Lion King themed Concierge stateroom on the Disney Treasure.


The VIP treatment starts with spacious vanities and a fresh welcome amenity waiting in your suite
The VIP treatment starts with spacious vanities
and a fresh welcome amenity waiting in your suite.

  
The famous Disney split-bath design, upgraded with custom mosaics and double vanities for Concierge guests.
The famous Disney split-bath design,
upgraded with custom mosaics
and double vanities for Concierge guests.

     Disney Cruise Line has some of the biggest stateroom designs at sea, and their Concierge level cabins are no exception. The famous split-bathroom design, upgraded amenities, and spacious accommodations are just the beginning. Your room becomes a true retreat with a pillow menu for personalized comfort and a mini-fridge stocked with your favorite beverages. For those staying in a one-bedroom suite or higher, you can even skip the morning rush and enjoy a full hot breakfast delivered right to your suite’s dining table. 



Elegant small bites: A curated selection of savory and sweet offerings changes throughout the day.
Elegant small bites: A curated selection of savory and sweet offerings change throughout the day.


       Disney Concierge level also includes access to the Concierge Lounge, which opens as early as 6:00 AM. There is a serving area offering specialty coffee, beverages, and small bites throughout the day. 

Fueling for the magic! From dawn 'til dusk, specialty coffee, evening happy hour, and refreshments on demand

      One of our favorite perks here was the pantry; a simple request for small snacks to bring on shore with us yielded items like chips, granola bars and trail mix. In the lounge area, a curated menu is available with elegant offerings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a happy hour every evening that spans the dinner and theater rotations. The lounge also hosts an exclusive character meet-and-greet, allowing for photos without the long lines found elsewhere on the ship.


An exclusive enclave: The multi-level Triton Class sun deck features a private bar and plenty of quiet space

      For many, the defining feature of the Triton Class concierge is the massive, multi-level sun deck (see above). On ships like the Wish and Treasure, this exclusive enclave offers its own bar, multiple hot tubs, and a serene atmosphere. All of these exclusive spaces offer plush loungers, cooling face-towels, sunblock, and some self-serve beverages. On the Dream, Fantasy, Magic, and Wonder, you’ll find a serene, elevated sun deck on the port side. 

The best way to enjoy the sun deck? With a signature Dole Whip cocktail in hand!
The best way to enjoy the sun deck?
With a signature Dole Whip cocktail in hand!

     While these newer ships offer a prime vantage point for the fireworks on Pirate Night,  our personal favorite Triton Class perk was the dedicated Dole Whip Station! Whether you prefer it as a simple refreshment or as part of a "grown up" cocktail, having this signature Disney treat available on demand on the exclusive sun deck was pure magic. 

A private retreat on the sand—complete with comfortable seating and a stocked fridge
A private retreat on the sand—
complete with comfortable seating and a stocked fridge.

    One of the biggest advantages of "Suite Life" actually starts before you leave home. The Shoreside Concierge team is at the ready to assist with booking difficult-to-reserve activities. Right after the booking is finalized, guests should be on the lookout for a Welcome Aboard email from the shoreside concierge team. The email outlines the special privileges and amenities available to concierge guests and opens the line of communication for any questions or special needs a guest may have regarding their upcoming voyage. There will be a number of contacts throughout the pre-trip period introducing the ship, providing information about the stateroom accommodations, and encouraging guests to peruse the port adventure offerings for their sailing. 

The ultimate concierge perk: Securing  a private family cabana on Castaway Cay
The ultimate concierge perk: Securing
 a private family cabana on Castaway Cay
!

Nothing beats a day at the beach when you have a private cabana as your home base!
Nothing beats a day at the beach when you
have a private cabana as your home base
!


  

 

    The team will reach out again, this time encouraging guests to compile their requests for the priority booking window. While other guests are waiting for their windows to open, the concierge team will be working on your behalf starting at the 130-day mark. This is the "secret weapon" for securing the much-beloved (and coveted) Castaway Cay Cabanas, as well as Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or spa appointments, onboard activities like the Royal Gathering and adult-only dining reservations such as Palo Brunch. 


The elusive Palo Brunch:
Secured effortlessly thanks to the
Concierge shoreside planning team

      Once onboard, the team remains available throughout the day to handle any schedule changes or challenges. For instance, on our last sailing, the ship was diverted to a Western Caribbean sailing due to a hurricane in the Atlantic. While other guests onboard were scrambling to schedule shore excursions for the new itinerary, a quick trip to the concierge lounge had our desired port adventures secured before the revision to the app went live.

The quiet elegance of 1923
while the rest of the ship boards.

    

     The VIP treatment begins the moment you arrive at the port, where Concierge guests are led to a special waiting area with comfy seating and refreshments. Once the ship is cleared for boarding, you are among the first guided onboard for a private welcome lunch in one of the ship’s beautiful rotational dining venues. While thousands of guests head to the pool-deck buffet, Concierge guests enjoy a multi-course sit-down meal in a serene table-service environment complete with a welcoming flute of prosecco! 

Fresh starts: Enjoying a chilled seafood appetizer


     After lunch, the lounge provides a relaxing environment to await your stateroom—which typically opens to Concierge guests earlier than the rest of the ship. You’ll find your stateroom’s mini-fridge stocked with water and soda, which can be replenished via the open fridges in the concierge lounge. 

A serene retreat: The Disney Treasure Concierge Lounge offers plush seating and a quiet atmosphere for guests to unwind.

     Other exclusive perks include priority seating and popcorn at each evening’s main-stage performance, as well as for movies in the theater. 

Prime views for 'Moana'—one of the many perks
of priority theater seating for Concierge guests.
     You’ll also receive a starter WiFi package to check in with folks at home and enjoy priority boarding for tenders in port. 

    From the shoreside planning to the final morning on the ship, Disney Concierge ensures every moment is as seamless as it is magical.


  

Pirate Night ready! Seeing Mickey in his swashbuckling gear is the highlight of the deck party.
There's no night like Pirate Night!
     If you'd like to learn more about the Concierge experience or sailing on Disney Cruise Line, leave a question or comment. I'd love to hear from you!




Whether it's meeting Peter Pan or catching Mickey in his formal best, the Concierge team makes sure you never miss a magical photo op 


Mickey Chick is a passionate traveler who has explored various corners of the globe. As a travel advisor for FamilyTale Vacations with years of travel experience, she enjoys sharing her tips and insights to help fellow explorers make the most out of their journeys. She believes that travel is not just about sightseeing but also a transformative experience that opens doors to new perspectives and enriches our lives. You can follow her adventures on her blog and social media channels.



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Sunday, February 11, 2024

Why Choose a Cruise?

10:22 AM 0


Ahoy, Adventure Seekers! Why Choose a Cruise? Get Ready to Set Sail on the Vacation of a Lifetime!

     Ah, the open seas! There's something magical about the idea of sailing away on a grand adventure, exploring multiple destinations, and indulging in endless fun and relaxation. As a travel advisor with a passion for all things cruise-related, I'm here to show you why choosing a cruise is the ultimate vacation experience. So grab your life jackets, put on your sea legs, and let's dive into the fantastic world of cruising!



1. Unpack Once for Multiple Destinations:

Once you unpack,
you're ready to see it all!

    
Raise your hand if you've ever experienced the struggle of packing and unpacking multiple times during a trip. *Raises both hands* Trust me, it's no fun. But fear not! When you choose a cruise, you only need to unpack once. Say goodbye to the hassle of lugging around heavy suitcases and hello to stress-free travel. Your cozy cabin becomes your floating home, and you can explore different destinations without worrying about re-packing or checking in and out of hotels. It's like having a magical moving hotel room that takes you to incredible places! You simply arrive at your luxurious floating hotel, settle into your cozy cabin, and unpack your bags. And guess what? That's the last time you'll have to unpack on this trip! 
Visit Multiple Destinations
    A major perk of cruising is that you get to visit multiple destinations without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. It's like having a magical genie who transports you effortlessly from one incredible place to another. Picture this: you wake up in a new destination every day, ready to embark on thrilling adventures. That's the beauty of a cruise! Whether you're dreaming of exploring the ancient ruins of Greece, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, or indulging in mouthwatering cuisine in Italy, a cruise offers a smorgasbord of destinations to satisfy every wanderlust-filled heart. It's like a buffet of travel experiences, where you can sample the best of each port of call. So whether you're dreaming of exploring the stunning fjords of Norway or basking in the sunshine of the Caribbean, a cruise allows you to do it all without the stress of lugging around suitcases.



2. Food, Fun Activities, and Entertainment:

    

Breakfast on the Boardwalk: Oasis of the Seas

A Cruise is a Food-Lover's Paradise
Now, let's talk about the real star of the show on a cruise: the food! Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure like no other. From gourmet dining experiences to mouthwatering buffets and specialty restaurants, cruise ships are a food lover's paradise. You'll have the opportunity to savor a wide variety of cuisines, indulge in decadent desserts, and even try your hand at cooking classes or wine tastings. Bon appétit!

Kitchen Tours and More
Specialty Dining: 150 Central Park
    But wait, there's more! Cruises are not just about the food. They offer a plethora of fun activities and entertainment options that cater to everyone's tastes. Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking to conquer a water slide or a laid-back lounger searching for the perfect spot by the pool, there's something for everyone on board. Dance the night away at vibrant nightclubs, catch a Broadway-style show, or test your luck at the onboard casino. The possibilities are endless, and the fun never stops!


3. No Travel Hassles:

    Now, let's address one of the most significant concerns when it comes to travel: passports. Guess what? You may not even need one! If you choose a closed-loop cruise, which departs from and returns to the same U.S. port, you can leave your passport worries behind. Just grab your driver's license and birth certificate, and you're good to go! It's like a secret loophole that allows you to explore the world without the hassle of renewing or obtaining a passport. 

    Another perk of cruising is that you can often sail from a port close to home - no flights necessary!! The lasting memory of your vacation should be of the relaxation and rest you enjoyed while sailing the seven seas instead of the stresses associated  with air travel - delays, cancellations, TSA...  So, pack your bags and set sail on an unforgettable adventure, hassle-free!


Conclusion:

    Why choose a cruise, you ask? Well, why not? Unpack once and explore multiple destinations, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, enjoy endless entertainment, and leave your passport at home for a closed-loop adventure from a local port. Cruising offers the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and excitement, making it the ultimate vacation choice.

As your go-to travel advisor, I'm here to help you plan and book the cruise of your dreams.  Contact me today, and let's set sail on an adventure you'll never forget!



#go2ndstar

Mickey Chick is a passionate traveler who has explored various corners of the globe. As a travel advisor for FamilyTale Vacations with years of travel experience, she enjoys sharing her tips and insights to help fellow explorers make the most out of their journeys. She believes that travel is not just about sightseeing but also a transformative experience that opens doors to new perspectives and enriches our lives. You can follow her adventures on her blog and social media channels.

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Sunday, January 28, 2024

Mickey Chick's Practically Perfect Packing List

8:40 AM 0

Mickey Suitcase
        
     Planning for your next adventure can be exciting, but it can also be a bit overwhelming when it comes to figuring out what to pack. Fear not! We've got you covered with our ultimate standard packing list. Whether you're jetting off to a tropical paradise or exploring historic
cities, this comprehensive guide will ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and memorable journey. So grab your passport and let's dive into our top picks!


1. Travel Essentials:

    •  Passport, ID, and copies of important documents
    •  Credit cards with no foreign transaction fee
    •  Cash for tips and small purchases
    •  Have a backup payment method.
    •  Universal adapter
    •  Portable charger
    •  Cords and connectors for all electronics
    • Travel-sized toiletries
    •  Medications

2. Clothing:

    •  Comfortable walking shoes
    •  Versatile clothing
    •  Swimwear
    •  Weather-specific clothing

3. Travel Accessories:

4. Entertainment and Technology:

5. Health and Wellness:

    •  Eyeglasses, reading glasses, hard case
    •  Extra set of contact lenses, contact solution, contact case
    •  First aid kit
    •  Sunscreen
    •  Hat and Sunglasses

 


Mickey Chick is a passionate traveler who has explored various corners of the globe. As a travel advisor for FamilyTale Vacations with years of travel experience, she enjoys sharing her tips and insights to help fellow explorers make the most out of their journeys. She believes that travel is not just about sightseeing but also a transformative experience that opens doors to new perspectives and enriches our lives. You can follow her adventures on her blog and social media channels.

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Sunday, February 23, 2020

Coco Beach Club @ Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay

12:12 PM 0
A DAY IN PICTURES: 

Coco Beach Club 

Royal Caribbean's 

Perfect Day at Coco Cay

The Patisserie, the specialty coffee and pastry outlet onboard Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas, welcomes us to this private island in the Bahamas and sets the tone for today's adventure.


Although the clouds threatened a few morning sprinkles, they didn't last long and the day turned out to be sunny & pleasant.
They made it pretty easy to make ourselves at home - pointing the way to coffee and pastries to nibble on before the restaurant opened for lunch and providing lots of loungers to choose from.



While we chose a lounger near the pool and tiki bar, the Coco Beach Club offers a plentiful array of seating options for different family sizes and preferences. 

With it's infinity-edge pool, teak furniture and decking, and large, thick towels awaiting guests, the Coco Beach Club is a private beach resort on an already exclusive island.

Guests to the Coco Beach Club can enjoy amenities such as a large pool deck with abundant seating, shady umbrellas, life-preservers, and floating beach mats...



No matter where you choose to sit, you'll enjoy a picturesque view of the area's offerings...

...with spectacular views of the calm, teal shore of South Beach.

Of course a day at the beach isn't complete without a waterfront beach lounger...and extra-attentive beverage service!

A newly dredged shoreline at South Beach offers a soft sand bottom, sandbars for all-day frolicking among the calm, clear, turquoise waters.

We couldn't resist getting a panoramic shot of the beach club shoreline, flanked by the the first  over-the-water bungalows offered on a cruise line's private island.

A comfy lounger overlooking a crystalline infinity pool offers a perfect slice of paradise.

While the food offerings throughout CocoCay are both tasty and abundant, a special al-fresco restaurant at the Coco Beach Club provides stunning beach views and elevated options. Be sure to make your reservations early to have your choice of seating times.

The menu leans toward fresh seafood, but is quite varied.
After placing an entree order, guest can enjoy a buffet of starters such as vegetable crudite, hummus,  Greek and Caprese salads, and ready-to-eat shrimp.
Don't forget Beach Club specialty drink:
the Coco Cuvee


The filet mignon was grilled to perfection and to-die-for!
Don't skip dessert!
This caramel and chocolate brownie
left us super-satisfied. YUM!



The island easily - and comfortably- accommodated two large ships: The Mariner of the Seas and The (slightly bigger)  Anthem of the Seas. This is impressive planning on Royal Caribbean's part, as it was President's Week - so both vessels were filled to the brim with families. 

I hope you enjoyed our photo tour of the Coco Beach Club at Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay. Be sure to contact us if you have questions, comments, photo requests, or would like more information about planning your own cruise adventure.

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Saturday, August 17, 2019

Looking for Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

8:45 AM 0

What about those “last-minute” cruise deals?


For many years now, “conventional wisdom” has suggested that travelers wait until the last minute to book a cruise, because that’s when the best deals are to be had. The thinking goes that they lower the prices to fill the ship if it hasn’t been selling well. This hasn’t been true for quite some time. In fact, depending on what you value, this type of thinking can actually wind up costing you more.

1.     The best deals are usually found the further out you book – in fact, the closer to the opening of the schedule, the better the cruise fare will be. You will also have a wider selection of stateroom class and location. (We’ll talk more about that later.)

2.     If you require a flight to your embarkation port, last-minute airfare will be at some of the highest price-points, with limited choices on flight times and carriers.

3.     Plus, since it’s recommended to arrive at least a day prior to your cruise departure, hotel space may not only be limited, but you will have also lost the ability to take advantage of special discounted rates or special deals such as free breakfast or cruise-length parking included at no extra charge.

4.     Even if you’re traveling from a port closer to home, a last-minute cruise will require immediate payment in full, robbing you of the ability to make smaller, incremental payments.

5.     Most cruise lines offer specialty dining and drink-packages available for purchase at a slightly discounted rate prior to sailing. Furthermore, these packages are often subject to special sales, which further reduce the financial impact of purchase, and also allow cruisers to spread out the expenses of the vacation prior to the sail date.

6.     And speaking of sales… From time to time cruise lines will offer some fantastic fare specials that they use to fill the ships - reducing the need to offer fire-sales closer to departure. When these price-drops occur, your travel advisor can usually apply these special rates, such as Reduced Airfare, or Kid-Sail-Free to your reservation. As the embarkation date approaches, these offers disappear.

7.     When vacationing with kids, it’s also important to consider their school, sports, and social schedules. Ships tend to sail a little lighter when school is in session, so “last-minute” rates are generally offered on these trips. The short notice will likely make it difficult to coordinate time off from work, as well as interfere with academic or athletic obligations.

8.     Since cruising is such a great time to connect with family, many multi-generational and extended family groups enjoy cruising together. Those wishing to be together will often want to have rooms nearby each other – especially when the children outnumber the adults. Larger families who require larger accommodations either book the more spacious quads and mini-suites, or opt for connecting cabins. Reserving two of these staterooms, which feature a door to the adjacent cabin, can be a great bargain for bigger broods, so they tend to fill up fast. However, there are rarely any of these available the closer to sailing you get - rendering them unlikely to appear in last-minute inventory. Choosing from the more costly suite options will negate any savings you might have anticipated by waiting to book.

9.     Today’s cruise ships have become destinations in and of themselves. They offer a multitude of activities, rotational and specialty dining venues, as well as various entertainment options. A late booking impedes your ability to book the best specialty restaurants and dining times, private-island cabanas, entertainment showtimes and activity options. Although your cruise fare includes most of these offerings, last-minute reservations will be limited, if available at all.

10. Do you prefer a rear-facing balcony?  Would you like a forward-facing oceanview room? Will a stateroom above or below the nightclub interfere with your rest? Do you or someone in your family suffer from motion sickness? Would you like a balcony stateroom so you can enjoy the view while your toddler naps? Choosing the just-right cabin for any special requirements or concerns is an important part of the planning process. A major drawback of waiting for a last-minute deal is often losing the ability to choose your cabin or book the stateroom category of your choice.



As my mother always said, “the cheap turns out expensive.” There is value in the ability to make choices, plan, budget, and take advantage of special offers along the way. Clearly, it is to the traveler’s advantage to book as early as possible.



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