Ports and Palaces

Big news is dropping across the theme park and cruise world! On Ports & Palaces , we’re breaking down the latest updates from The Walt Disney Company, Universal Destinations & Experiences, and Royal Caribbean International. From exciting expansions and new entertainment offerings to cruise ship updates and guest experience changes, there’s a lot to cover. Tune in as we walk through what’s...

Disney Cruise Line brings the Multiverse to the high seas! On Ports & Palaces, we’re sitting down for a full client trip report to break down everything from a recent voyage on the Disney Magic. We’re covering the epic Marvel Day at Sea—from heroic character encounters and stunt-filled deck parties to themed dining and specialized youth activities. Tune in to hear firsthand highlights, itinera...

Universal Studios Orlando brings the Big Easy to Florida with Mardi Gras! On Ports & Palaces , we’re breaking down everything you need to know about Universal Orlando Mardi Gras—must-try food and drinks, parade floats, live concerts, bead-throwing fun, and insider planning tips.  Tune in to find out if this colorful, high-energy seasonal event is worth adding to your next Universal Studios Flo...

EPCOT’s most creative festival is back! From Broadway concerts and live art to Figment scavenger hunts and food studios that look too pretty to eat — the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is a can’t-miss. We’re breaking down what to eat, what to skip, and what you absolutely need to experience before it’s gone 🎭🍽️💜 Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe...

Universal Kids Resort is coming to Frisco, TX — and it’s not a “mini park.” We’re talking full themed lands inspired by Trolls, Shrek, Minions, Jurassic World, SpongeBob, and Puss in Boots , plus rides, splash zones, play areas, shows, character meet-and-greets… and a family-first hotel literally steps from the park . Bunk beds. Family suites. Sensory gardens. Kid-friendly thrills. This feels like...

"Are you wondering how to book Disney Cruise Line (DCL) activities like Palo reservations , Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (BBB) , or those must-do Port Adventures ? This is your quick tip guide !" In this episode, we lay out essential time-saving tips on how to secure reservations quickly and efficiently: When and Where you can book your cruise activities What activities you can book What to...

In this episode, we lay out touring plans to maximize your time at Magic Kingdom’s Christmas Party When to arrive Which Character Meet and Greets are worth your time Where to find the free cookies Must-see entertainment Food you don’t want to miss Whether you're a first-timer or a holiday veteran, having a plan is key to conquering this limited-time event. What are you most excited for? Let us...

Ready to conquer Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios? 🎉 This special, separately-ticketed holiday event is only 5 hours long, so you need a winning plan to see the unique characters, dazzling shows, and exclusive food! In this episode, we lay out two very different touring plans for Jollywood Nights. We're comparing strategies for: The rarest Character Meet & Greets (Hello, Phine...

Thinking about taking heading to Disneyland in the Fall? This episode of Ports & Palaces features a family who spent a week in Anaheim doing it all!!  Listen for tips on  how to maximize time in your Disney resort what activities to focus on outside of the parks for rest day experiences how to navigate unexpected illness while at Disney and more! Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what...

On this week’s Ports and Palaces Podcast, we’re sharing the best way to do a rest day in Disney World!  Tune in for 💰FREE Activities 🍟Dining to Prioritize 🏨What to do if you are staying Off-Property Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Tuesday for the podcast.  🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and. Palaces🎧 Subscribe to Ports...

On this week’s Ports & Palaces Podcast , we’re headed into the Wild! From iconic rides and hidden gems of the jungle, and the best places to experience wildlife and activities in the park, we’re sharing everything you need to know to make the most of your Animal Kingdom day. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, this episode is packed with expert advice to help you navigate the park...

On this week’s Ports & Palaces Podcast , we’re heading straight down Main Street, U.S.A.! From iconic rides to hidden gems, parade viewing tips, and the best places to catch Happily Ever After, we’re sharing everything you need to know to make the most of your Magic Kingdom day. ✨🏰 Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, this episode is packed with expert advice to help you navigate...

On this week’s Ports & Palaces Podcast, we’re diving into all the best tips for Disney’s Hollywood Studios so you don’t have FOMO! From can’t-miss attractions to hidden gems, dining recommendations, and the best times to experience Galaxy’s Edge, we’ll help you make the most of your visit. Whether it’s your first trip or your hundredth, this episode is packed with advice to make your Hollywood...

We’re talking all about EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional 🎶 Here’s what you’ll hear: Celebrity narrators sharing the Christmas story What the processional is Dining package tips (and if they’re worth it!) Why this is a must-do Disney holiday tradition Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Tuesday for the podcast.  🔗 Follow us on all social p...

On this week’s Ports & Palaces Podcast , we’re sharing all our best tips at EPCOT, so you don’t miss the magic (or the food!). From can’t-miss attractions to hidden gems, dining recommendations, and the best times to explore World Showcase, we’ll help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re planning your first trip or you’re a seasoned Disney pro, this episode is packed with advice to...

Halloween has arrived at the Disneyland Resort! Even if you didn’t snag Oogie Boogie Bash tickets, there’s still so much spooky fun to enjoy this season. From festive overlays to delicious eats, we’re covering everything you can do during Halloween Time at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. ✨ Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: 🎆 Halloween Screams fireworks + cavalcade in Disneylan...

On this week’s Ports & Palaces Podcast , we’re heading to Disneyland for the ultimate Halloween celebration – Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure! From rare character meet-and-greets to jaw-dropping treat trails and spooky overlays, we’re breaking down everything you need to know before you go. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: 🎟️ Event Basics   🍬 Treat Trails 📸 Character...

This episode dives into all the magic (and mischief) of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World.  We share insider tips on  The best spots for watching the Boo-to-You Parade and Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular Where to meet rare characters without losing too much party time Which spooky treats are worth the splurge—and which ones you can skip.  Whether it’s your first party or...

What’s it like to attend a private event at EPCOT ?  In this episode of Ports & Palaces , we sit down with a guest who experienced EPCOT after hours during an exclusive celebration.  He shares how it felt to  Explore the park with limited crowds Walk through World Showcase when it’s nearly empty Enjoy popular attractions with almost no wait times We also dive into the special character interac...

Thinking about taking a Disney Cruise with kids? This episode of Ports & Palaces features a mom who recently sailed on the Disney Dream with her 1-year-old and 7-year-old — and she’s sharing everything she learned about cruising with little ones. From It’s a Small World Nursery for infants, to what older kids can expect in the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, we cover the real parent experience...

Today on Ports & Palaces, we’re covering all the details you need to check in for your next Disney Cruise. Check out the end for our best tips! Thanks so much for listening! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Tuesday for the podcast. 🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and. Palaces 🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on Apple Podcast and YouTube ⭐️ Leave a 5-...

Join Chad and Kirstyn for an overview of all to expect during Disneyland's spectacular 70th Anniversary celebration! What Awaits You in This Episode: Exclusive Scoop: Discover all the insider details on the anniversary kickoff and the festivities planned for both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure (DCA). Must-See Entertainment: Hear about the "crowd-pleasing" shows like...

Today on Ports & Palaces, we’re setting sail on a first look at the brand-new Disney Destiny — Disney Cruise Line’s next big ship! 🛳️💫 Hit play, and let’s explore the Destiny together! Thanks so much for listening! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Tuesday for the podcast. 🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @PortsAndPalaces 🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on A...

Character dining at Walt Disney World is one of the most magical—and delicious—ways to meet your favorite Disney characters without waiting in line. In this episode of Ports & Palaces, we’re serving up a complete guide to character meals across all four theme parks and Disney resort hotels. Whether you're planning your first Disney vacation, trying to score that elusive reservation, or jus...

Planning a Disney World vacation and wondering if staying at a Disney resort is really worth it? In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about on-property hotels at Walt Disney World—from Value to Moderate to Deluxe resorts. We’ll cover key perks like Early Theme Park Entry, Lightning Lane access, complimentary transportation (including the Skyliner!), and the immersive theming...