Ports and Palaces

Planning your Disney World vacation but completely overwhelmed by the resort options? From budget stays to luxury escapes, toddler nap breaks to marathon Magic Kingdom days—today on Ports and Palaces, we’re helping you find the Disney World resort that actually fits YOUR vacation. We’re tackling:🏨 The "Which Resort?" Challenge: 15 real-life vacation scenarios and the resorts we’d choose...

Set sail with us as we explore the Disney Believe cruise ship , the newest addition to Disney Cruise Line's Wish-class fleet! Is Disney's upcoming ship worth the hype, or should you leave it behind? In this episode, we're breaking down everything announced for the Disney Believe, from its planned December 2027 maiden voyage and Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries to its entertainment, th...

The holidays are taking over Universal Orlando! In this episode, we’re covering everything happening November 14 through January 2, from Grinchmas and the Grinch Breakfast to holiday magic at Hogwarts, seasonal entertainment, treats, and more. We’ll also dive into the Universal Orlando Holiday Tour, Earl the Squirrel, holiday fun at Epic Universe, festive hotel activities, and the latest holiday v...

Escape the heat, dodge the rain, and survive the fatigue! In this episode of Ports to Palaces , we break down the absolute best air-conditioned rides, shaded shows, massive dining halls, and hidden quiet zones across all four Disney World parks to help you beat the Florida elements—no reservations required. Plus, stick around for our essential weather packing list and a Universal secret that every...

Join us for a detailed trip report from a recent girls’ trip to Disneyland Resort with a toddler!  From flying into SNA and staying at the Courtyard Marriott Anaheim to enjoying low wait times, unhurried character meetings, and front-row virtual queue seats for World of Color, we’re sharing all the highlights from the trip.  Plus, we’re diving into character dining at Storytellers Cafe and Disney...

Halloween is back at Disneyland, and while many of the fan-favorite experiences are returning, that doesn’t mean you need to do everything to have an amazing Halloween visit!  In this episode, we’re breaking down Disneyland’s Halloween offerings into three categories: Prioritize, Pass, and Plus . We’ll share the experiences we think are worth making time for, the ones you can skip if you’re short...

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 that is new for this year’s event. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: 🎟️ Event Basics   🍬 Treat Trails 📸 Charac...

Feeling the need for some frightfully good fun this fall? Grab your candy buckets and your favorite pumpkin spice latte—today on Ports and Palaces , we’re diving into the spookiest event of the year: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. We’re tackling: 🎃 The "When & How": Navigating the event calendar and ticket windows 👻 The Main Event: Prioritizing the Boo-to-You Parade and Hoc...

This episode is sponsored by Ports and Palaces Vacations.  For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney, Universal, and Royal Caribbean Vacations, email Kirstyn. Russell@portsandpalaces.vacations   Let’s Get Social! Join the conversation at any of the platforms below: Website - https://trips.portsandpalaces.vacations/   YouTube –  https://www.youtube.com/@ports.and.palaces TikTok -...

What happens when you scale down a massive theme park entirely for the little ones? 🦖 Heavy water fights with Minions, dancing with Trolls, and coasters built just for first-timers! We attended a preview event at Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, TX, and in today's episode, we’re giving you the ultimate sneak peek. We dive into the best rides for toddlers, the unique "kid-first" food...

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...