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# Family Travel Gurus

Arizona Travel Agent

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## Posts

- [Blog](https://familytravelgurus.com/blog/)
- [Tim and Anne's Christmas Week in Las Vegas](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-christmas-week-in-las-vegas/) - by Tim and Anne Larison, travel consultants with contributions from Josh Larison December 2024 We had a fun Christmas week trip to Las Vegas with our son Josh. In this report we’ll tell you about some of the activities we enjoyed, hopefully to give you some ideas for your next Las Vegas trip. Excalibur Resort
- [Tim & Anne's Holland America Iceland/Scotland Cruise June 2024](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-annes-holland-america-iceland-scotland-cruise-june-2024/) - Tim and Anne’s Holland America Iceland/Scotland Cruise June 2024 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Our first visit to Iceland and Scotland! We had a wonderful cruiseon Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam to tour parts of these two countries, precededby a two-night hotel stay
- [Tim and Anne's Four Days in Amsterdam - July 2023](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-four-days-in-amsterdam-july-2023/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant and by Josh Larison, our 29 year old son What to do between cruises?! We previously have reported on our Avalon River Cruise ending in Amsterdam and our Holland America Norwegian Fjords Cruise. In order to sail
- [Tim and Anne’s Las Vegas Trip May 2024](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-las-vegas-trip-may-2024/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant We have visited Las Vegas many times in the past. For our May 2024 trip we wanted to experience new activities and attractions. In this report we will share what we learned – it was one of
- [Tim and Anne's Holland America Norwegian Fjords Cruise (July 2023)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-holland-america-norwegian-fjords-cruise-july-2023/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant and by Josh Larison, our 29 year old son On one of our past cruises, we were invited to a cocktail party with the Captain. The small group gave me the opportunity to talk to him. “Where
- [Tim and Anne's Romantic Rhine Avalon River Cruise (July 2023)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-romantic-rhine-avalon-river-cruise-july-2023/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Innovative ship design, quality dining, enriching shore excursions, and more are what Anne and I experienced on our July 2023 Avalon Expression Romantic Rhine river cruise. In this report we will share with words and pictures what
- [A Look at the Canadian Rockies Fairmont Resorts](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-look-at-the-canadian-rockies-fairmont-resorts/) - This is another post from Tim Larison from familytravelgurus.com on his visit to the province of Alberta, Canada in March, 2016. 27 years ago I visited the three Canadian Rockies Fairmont resorts with my wife Anne during our wonderful Canadian Rockies honeymoon. In 2016 I had the opportunity to return with a group of travel
- [Tim and Anne's Holland America Alaska Cruise Tour August 2022](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-holland-america-alaska-cruise-tour-august-2022/) - By Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant “If this will be your only trip to Alaska, I recommend a cruise tour,” I tell clients considering a vacation to our 49th State. On a cruise tour you get all the benefits of an Alaska cruise
- [Tim and Anne's Allure of the Seas Cruise from Galveston (November 2022)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-allure-of-the-seas-cruise-from-galveston-november-2022/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Royal Caribbean has made a big investment in a brand-new state of the art cruise terminal in Galveston Texas (pictured above). And we were the first to sail from this terminal on the biggest ship ever brought
- [Dale's Carnival Caribbean Cruise From Baltimore, New Years 2022](https://familytravelgurus.com/dales-carnival-caribbean-cruise-from-baltimore-new-years-2022/) - (Thanks to our client Dale who shared this report on her family's Carnival Legend cruise from Baltimore over New Years 2022) We had a fantastic cruise. The weather was perfect and calmest cruise I have ever been on as far as the seas. We found nothing to complain about regarding the cruise and what was
- [Tim & Anne's CroisiEurope Seine River Cruise (July 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-annes-croisieurope-seine-river-cruise-july-2015/) - Tim & Anne's CroisiEurope Seine River Cruise (July 2015) by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with comments by travel agent Anne Larison Our best river cruise yet! That’s what we concluded after taking a wonderful 7 night Seine river cruise. The picture above of the beautiful French countryside was just one
- [Tim and Anne's Holland America Nieuw Statendam Western Caribbean Cruise (December 2019)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-holland-america-nieuw-statendam-western-caribbean-cruise-december-2019/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant “One of the best ships we have sailed on!” was our opinion after sailing on Holland America’s newest ship, the Nieuw Statendam, in the Western Caribbean in December 2019. While we enjoyed our last Holland America cruise
- [The Best of Las Vegas Dining: Tim's Lip Smacking Foodie Tour (June 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/the-best-of-las-vegas-dining-tims-lip-smacking-foodie-tour-june-2016/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) I have visited Las Vegas many times in the past. I have eaten at the buffets and some excellent restaurants, but nothing compares to the feast I experienced on my Lip Smacking Foodie Tour in June 2016! "Las Vegas is known to have some of the
- [Tim and Anne's AMA Danube River Cruise (August 2021)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-ama-danube-river-cruise-august-2021/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Our best river cruise yet! That's how we felt after sailing on the AMA Waterways AmaLea in August 2021. In this report we'll give you a glimpse into our AMA experience and why this cruise was so
- [Tim and Anne's Carnival Panorama 7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise (November 2021)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-carnival-panorama-7-night-mexican-riviera-cruise-november-2021/) - By Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant A wonderful cruise for families at a value price! That is how I would characterize one of Carnival’s newest ships, the Panorama, sailing 7 night Mexican Riviera itineraries out of Los Angeles. We hadn’t sailed on Carnival
- [Arizona Series: Arizona Heritage Center at Papago Park](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-arizona-heritage-center-at-papago-park/) - We recently visited the Arizona Heritage Center at Papago Park in Tempe. This is an excellent museum for newcomers like us to learn about Arizona's history and geology. The exhibits were very detailed, including a world war II section, an old time slot machine, various historical photos, and more. The museum was uncrowded on the
- [Arizona Series: Scenic Mt Lemmon Drive with a Cookie on Top!](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-scenic-mt-lemmon-drive-with-a-cookie-on-top/) - Recently we took a drive up Mt Lemmon, located near Tucson, Arizona. What diverse scenery! Cactus covered terrain at the start of our drive then higher up we saw pine trees and mountain scenery that reminded us of Colorado. There were frequent pull-outs and scenic overlooks along the way to take pictures from. Want to
- [Arizona Series: A Cool 4th of July Celebration](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-a-cool-4th-of-july-celebration/) - A 4th of July celebration in the Phoenix area will be a hot one, right? Not necessarily! We attended a public "cool" 4th of July party in Scottsdale this year. The evening started in air conditioned comfort in a huge indoor space. No 100 degree temperatures in here! Instead a cool 72 degrees. The ticketed
- [Arizona Series: Wallace Desert Garden](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-wallace-desert-garden/) - If you think the desert is barren without color you will be surprised when visiting the Wallace Desert Garden at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum! This place has over 5,000 desert plants on display from Arizona and other parts of the World. We recommend taking a tour as your guide will explain the rich history of
- [Arizona Series: Saguaro National Park](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-saguaro-national-park/) - We recently visited Saguaro National Park - I've never seen so many saguaro cacti in my life! This variety of cactus only grows in the Sonoran Desert. The saguaro cactus is precious to Arizonians. According to the Arizona Republic newspaper, "On federal land such as Saguaro National Park, it's illegal to remove any plant, including
- [Arizona Series: Baseball Spring Training](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-baseball-spring-training/) - If you are a baseball fan, a great getaway to escape the cold March temperatures up North is to attend spring training baseball games in Arizona! We recently attended a spring training game between the Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, Arizona. In over 50 years of attending baseball games
- [Arizona Series: Castles N Coasters](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-castles-n-coasters/) - If you are looking for some theme park fun while visiting the Phoenix area we recommend the Castles N Coasters amusement park. We thought the park had the feel of an old time amusement park (we later found out it was opened in 1977). Kids will enjoy the huge arcade area. Most of the rides
- [Arizona Series: Biosphere 2](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-biosphere-2/) - Originally designed as a self contained facility for scientists to live in, now an environmental research facility for the University of Arizona, we found Biosphere 2 an interesting place to visit. Located near Tucson, Biosphere 2 features huge greenhouses which include among other things a rain forest and a simulated ocean used in planetary research.
- [Arizona Series: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-arizona-sonora-desert-museum/) - The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum outside of Tucson is another excellent attraction we visited recently! It was a combination of desert garden (showing a variety of Arizona plants) and a zoo. We saw the elusive Javelina for the first time, as well as a coyote, beaver, humming birds, deer, and more. Also great views from its
- [Michele & Paul's Disney Norway Cruise Featuring Adventures By Disney Excursions (Summer 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/michele-pauls-disney-norway-cruise-featuring-adventures-by-disney-excursions-summer-2016/) - Thanks to our client Michele from Illinois for this review of her and her husband Paul's Disney cruise in Norway featuring Adventures by Disney excursions. The Norway cruise and Adventures by Disney (ABD) add-on were just wonderful. Norway is so incredibly beautiful. Our stateroom worked out well. We were on the same floor as the
- [Arizona Series: Boyce Thompson Arboretum](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-boyce-thompson-arboretum/) - Recently we visited the Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior, Arizona. This scenic mountain location displayed lots of interesting cactus & plants. We recommend arranging your visit to take the one hour "Arboretum Discovery Tour" (free with admission). We found this tour gave a good overview of the Arboretum's history and plant life. Check the Boyce
- [Arizona Series: Titan Missile Museum](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-titan-missile-museum/) - Familytravelgurus.com owners Tim and Anne Larison recently moved to Arizona. This is another in a series of blog posts where we recommend Arizona attractions to experience. After seeing the natural beauty of Arizona we did something completely different - tour the Titan Missile Museum near Tucson. For those of you who grew up in southwest Denver like me
- [Arizona Series: Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-series-dolly-steamboat-on-canyon-lake/) - Familytravelgurus.com owners Tim and Anne Larison recently moved to Arizona. This is the first in a series of blog posts where we recommend Arizona attractions to experience. One of our best Arizona adventures this month was sailing with the Dolly Steamboat - a 1 1/2 hour cruise on Canyon Lake. We had perfect 60 degree weather and the views were
- [Debbie's Panama Canal Disney Wonder Cruise March 2020](https://familytravelgurus.com/debbies-panama-canal-disney-wonder-cruise-march-2021/) - Thanks to our client Debbie for giving us permission to share her family's experiences on the Disney Wonder Panama Canal cruise in March 2020. This cruise was one of the last Disney cruises before they temporarily suspended their cruises due to the corona virus threat. Note the attention to cleanliness Disney maintained on the ship
- [Heather's 14-Day Southern Caribbean Norwegian Gem Holiday Cruise From New York (December 2019)](https://familytravelgurus.com/heathers-14-day-southern-caribbean-norwegian-gem-holiday-cruise-from-new-york-december-2019/) - Thanks to our client Heather from New Jersey in sharing these comments on her family's holiday cruise in December 2019/January 2020. Pictured above is Heather's family at St Lucia. "The trip was amazing! What a special way to celebrate 50. My Mom was so happy we convinced her to upgrade to the balcony. It was
- [Snapshot Story: Basia and John's Disney Dream Cruise to the Bahamas](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-basia-and-johns-disney-dream-cruise-to-the-bahamas/) - Our clients Basia and John on this picture: "We love visiting Castaway Cay for the sun and beaches in Serenity Bay!" Basia adds: "Every thing on our Disney Dream cruise went very smoothly. Our bags were picked up from our hotel room and by the time our bus arrived at the port, we barely waited
- [Snapshot Story: Eastern Europe River Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-eastern-europe-river-cruise/) - Thanks to our client Lindsay for sharing this picture and her and her husband's experience on a Viking Eastern European River Cruise. We had the BEST time!! We enjoyed the entire experience and already looking forward to the next river cruise! We are hooked. The shore excursions were really neat and I like how everything
- [Snapshot Story: Joan's Norwegian Fjords cruise - "It truly was the trip of a lifetime"](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-joans-norwegian-fjords-cruise-it-truly-was-the-trip-of-a-lifetime/) - Thanks to our client Joan from Missouri for sharing these photos and her thoughts on her family's Disney Magic Norwegian Fjords cruise in the summer of 2019. Joan writes: "Our Norway Fjords cruise has exhausted my list of superlatives! This was beyond a doubt the best trip we have ever taken. The magnificent sheer
- [Tim and Anne's Rocky Mountaineer Canadian Rail Adventure (April 2019)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-rocky-mountaineer-canadian-rail-adventure-april-2019-2/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Thirty years ago Anne and I took a magical honeymoon trip through Canada. First visiting Banff and the Canadian Rockies, then taking a train to Vancouver to see the sights of that area. Thirty years later we recreated
- [Bryan's RCCL Canada/New England Cruise (Sept 2018)](https://familytravelgurus.com/bryans-rccl-canadanew-england-cruise-sept-2018/) - Thanks to our client Bryan from Colorado for giving us this report on he and his wife's Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas 10 night Canada/New England cruise. Above is a picture from our cabin in Quebec (City) and some thoughts about the cruise and the cabin in more detail. It had been six years since
- [Tim and Anne's Review: Viking River Cruise in Southern France on the Rhone](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-review-viking-river-cruise-in-southern-france-on-the-rhone/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Our May 2018 river cruise on the Viking Heimdal was one of our best! In this report we'll give a day by day review of our cruise, highlighting the ship's features and the wonderful shore excursions we
- [Jane's Pride of America Hawaii Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/janes-pride-of-america-hawaii-cruise/) - Last week Jane shared with us her family's experience at Disney's Aulani resort. Another part of the trip we planned was a 7 night cruise on Norwegian's Pride of America. Here are Jane's thoughts on that cruise: Norwegian Cruise lines got us on the boat quickly and smoothly. We didn’t feel like we had to
- [Jane's Aulani Experience](https://familytravelgurus.com/janes-aulani-experience/) - https://youtu.be/GiA1tbwvjCU Thanks to our client Jane from Delaware in sharing her family's experience of Disney's Aulani resort. We chose to fly first to San Francisco, stay overnight near the airport at the Hampton Inn, and then fly out on Saturday for Honolulu. It worked well for us coming from the East Coast. We were still
- [Snapshot Story: Catherine Palace Russia](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-catherine-palace-russia/) - "The Amber Room (8th wonder of the world) in Catherine Palace. We were lucky to be on a private tour after hours so the entire palace was empty except for our tour of 40. Great experience!" Our client Kimberly from Colorado describes the above picture taken on her and her husband's Oceania Baltic cruise. Like we did
- [Snapshot Story: A 3 Year Old on Her First Disney Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-a-3-year-old-on-her-first-disney-cruise/) - "Here is our daughter (who just turned 3) looking out the window after we first boarded the Disney Fantasy. She was amazed that we were on a boat. It was really fun to watch her try to reconcile in her mind what was going on and see the amazement." Our client Erik from Colorado on
- [Estiatorio Milos Review - a Las Vegas Greek Seafood Restaurant](https://familytravelgurus.com/estiatorio-milos-review-a-las-vegas-greek-seafood-restaurant/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant On a recent trip to Las Vegas we dined at one of the best seafood restaurants around - Estiatorio Milos in the Cosmopolitan Hotel. We were first introduced to Milos two years ago on the Las Vegas Lip Smacking
- [Leah's Disney Wonder Alaska cruise (June 2017)](https://familytravelgurus.com/leahs-disney-wonder-alaska-cruise-june-2017/) - Thanks to our client Leah from California on sharing her family of 3's experience on a Disney Alaska cruise. First, the trip overall was absolutely brilliant! We could not have asked for a better experience. Second, our stateroom was great. Our host was awesome! His name was Maurice, which was perfect for our Disney cruise!
- [Tim and Anne's Review of RCCL's Harmony of the Seas](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-review-of-rccls-harmony-of-the-seas/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant We’ve sailed on the Allure of the Seas. We’ve sailed on the Oasis of the Seas. In December 2017 we were given the opportunity to sail on the newest of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships - the
- [Snapshot Story: Mark's Adventures by Disney Machu Picchu Report](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-marks-adventures-by-disney-machu-picchu-report/) - Thanks to our client Mark from Omaha for sharing his family's experiences on an Adventures by Disney Peru trip. We had an amazing time. The ease of travel and knowledge of the guides made the extra expense of Disney well worth it. We met some wonderful people in our group and enjoyed all of the
- [Tim's Top Ten Travel Moments of 2017](https://familytravelgurus.com/tims-top-ten-travel-moments-of-2017/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor 2017 was another good year for me. In my 15th year as a travel agent I enjoyed planning vacations for clients and doing some travel myself! Here are my top 10 travel moments from 2017: #10 Dinner at Wonderland on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas We
- [OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale,  Arizona (Tim and Anne’s Review)](https://familytravelgurus.com/odysea-aquarium-in-scottsdale-arizona-tim-and-annes-review/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant An aquarium in the desert? On a recent trip to Scottsdale, Arizona we saw the OdySea Aquarium while driving by. We didn’t expect much but thought, “why not?” and we spent half a day here. It turned
- [Gainey Suites Boutique Hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona (Tim and Anne's Review)](https://familytravelgurus.com/gainey-suites-boutique-hotel-in-scottsdale-arizona-tim-and-annes-review/) - We enjoyed a wonderful weekend stay at the Gainey Suites Hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona earlier this month. We liked this boutique hotel's smaller size, beautiful surroundings, and excellent service during our three days here. by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Check in was
- [Supporting a Local High School at Cherokee Trail Holiday Fair in Aurora, Co](https://familytravelgurus.com/supporting-a-local-high-school-at-cherokee-trail-holiday-fair-in-aurora-co/) - Here are Family Travel Gurus co-owners Tim and Anne Larison at the Cherokee Trail High School Holiday Fair in Aurora, Colorado. We found the most inquiries among the Fair attendees were about taking a Disney Cruise. The kids of many of the young families in attendance were attracted to our Disney displays. One youngster wanted
- [The Experts Weigh In: Favorite Magic Kingdom Restaurant at Disney World](https://familytravelgurus.com/the-experts-weigh-in-favorite-magic-kingdom-restaurant-at-disney-world/) - photo courtesy of Disney by Tim Larison co-owner, Family Travel Gurus/Larison Travel LLP Here's another of our "question of the week" recaps on our yahoo group discussion list, dvctalk, for people to share tips about ownership in the Disney Vacation Club. You can find out more about dvctalk and subscribe here In a recent week
- [Monterey Bay Aquarium Review (Fall 2017)](https://familytravelgurus.com/monterey-bay-aquarium-review-fall-2017/) - Monterey Bay Aquarium Review by Tim Larison, co-owner Family Travel Gurus with contributions from travel consultants Anne and Josh Larison In the Fall of 2017 we visited one of the best aquariums in the country - Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, California. We were impressed with the variety of ocean life displayed and the attentiveness
- [The Grand Hotel in Sunnyvale, CA - a Good Value](https://familytravelgurus.com/the-grand-hotel-in-sunnyvale-ca-a-good-value/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant On a recent trip to Silicon Valley in California we discovered a good value in hotel stays - the Grand Hotel in Sunnyvale. Hotels generally in this area are higher priced than what you will find elsewhere, as
- [Tim Receives Award For Cruise Sales](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-receives-award-for-cruise-sales/) - Family Travel Gurus co-owner Tim Larison was recognized recently for best use of Nexion Cruise Group Space at Nexion's annual conference. Nexion is our host agency with over 3,500 travel agents, so this was quite an honor! Tim often uses Nexion's group space to get our clients extra benefits that aren't available to the general public. Tim can help you
- [The Experts Weigh In: Favorite Attractions at Disney's Animal Kingdom](https://familytravelgurus.com/the-experts-weigh-in-favorite-attractions-at-disneys-animal-kingdom/) - by Tim Larison co-owner, Family Travel Gurus/Larison Travel LLP Here's another of our "question of the week" recaps on our yahoo group discussion list, dvctalk, for people to share tips about ownership in the Disney Vacation Club. You can find out more about dvctalk and subscribe here In a recent week I asked: "What are
- [Teresa and Mike's Oasis of the Seas Western Caribbean Cruise (July 2017)](https://familytravelgurus.com/teresa-and-mikes-oasis-of-the-seas-western-caribbean-cruise-july-2017/) - Thanks to our client Teresa from Missouri for sharing her family's experiences on Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas. You have done it again! Thanks for arranging a wonderful cruise for us! This cruise was fantastic! We all had a great time. Our stateroom arrangements worked out really well for our family since we could
- [Stacy's Freedom of the Seas Mediterranean Cruise (July 2017)](https://familytravelgurus.com/stacys-freedom-of-the-seas-mediterranean-cruise-july-2017/) - Thanks to our client Stacy from Wisconsin for sharing her experiences on her family's Western Mediterranean Cruise on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas. "We had a wonderful time on our cruise! We absolutely loved our stateroom with the really large window overlooking the front of the ship - it was great! We would like
- [Snapshot Story: Yukon and White Pass Railway](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-yukon-and-white-pass-railway/) - Thanks to our client Joel from Kentucky for sharing this picture from a June 2017 Disney Alaska cruise. "We did two excursions - Yukon and White Pass railway & Mendenhall glacier - both were excellent!!! One word to describe our cruise - AWESOME!!! If money were no object, I would do it again in a heartbeat!!" Like
- [Snapshot Story: Fun on a Disney Alaska Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-fun-on-a-disney-alaska-cruise/) - Thanks to our client Krista from Kentucky for sharing her family's experience on a June 2017 Disney Alaska cruise. "The cruise was great! So glad we did a Disney cruise with the kids. We really enjoyed the White pass train at Skagway. The Fairmount Hotel at the Vancouver airport was great. Very nice, we were
- [A Day at Grand Turk](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-day-at-grand-turk/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant On our many Caribbean cruises over the years we had never visited the island of Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos island chain. In this report we’ll tell you about our wonderful day at this little
- [More Buffet Bargains in Las Vegas (May 2017)](https://familytravelgurus.com/more-buffet-bargains-in-las-vegas-may-2017/) - More Buffet Bargains in Las Vegas (May 2017) by Tim and Anne Larison, co-owners FamilyTravelGurus.com Earlier this year we told you about an all day pass at the Excalibur and Luxor buffets where you can visit these two buffets as much as you want during a day. We found even a better buffet deal on
- [Snapshot Story: Fun on a Carnival Bahamas Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-fun-on-a-carnival-bahamas-cruise/) - Thanks to our client Dale from Massachusetts for sharing these pictures from a recent Carnival cruise with her family. She writes: "We loved the cruise and would do carnival again in a heartbeat. The options with kids were fantastic! We went on our own and booked Atlantis water park online saving hundreds of dollars. We
- [Unique Entertainment On Our Holland America Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/unique-entertainment-on-our-holland-america-cruise/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Our Holland America Eurodam cruise featured unique entertainment options not usually found on cruise ships. We’ll tell you about some of our favorites in this report. Music Walk The picture above shows one section of Holland America’s
- [Great Dining Options Highlighted Our Holland America Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/great-dining-options-highlighted-our-holland-america-cruise/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant On our Holland America Eurodam cruise in the Eastern Caribbean (April 2017) we especially enjoyed the dining options offered. In this report we’ll highlight some of our favorites. These dining venues are on most Holland America ships.
- [A Day at Half Moon Cay](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-day-at-half-moon-cay/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant One of our favorite cruise line private islands is Holland America’s Half Moon Cay. We once again visited Half Moon Cay earlier this month and the experience was wonderful! Our day started with our Holland America
- [Breeze through customs with the mobile passport app](https://familytravelgurus.com/breeze-through-customs-with-the-mobile-passport-app/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) When returning to Port Everglades from our cruise last week we tried for the first time using the Mobile Passport App on my iPhone. The App enabled us to breeze through customs, bypassing the regular customs line! I setup our profile in the App beforehand, entering
- [Anne's Ropes Course Experience (Norwegian Escape)](https://familytravelgurus.com/annes-ropes-course-experience-norwegian-escape/) - By Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant On our recent Norwegian Cruise Line cruise I had the opportunity to walk the plank! The Norwegian Escape has a ropes course that includes two different planks and two zip lines. This multi-level course covers a wide area the ship near the sports complex. There is an
- [Disney Cruise Summer 2018 Itineraries Announced - Book Now For the Best Prices](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-cruise-summer-2018-itineraries-announced-book-now-for-the-best-prices/) - Last week Disney announced their cruise itineraries for the Summer of 2018 - including visits to Europe, Alaska, the Caribbeans and more! We've been booking Disney cruises for clients since 2002 and we can help you, too, with your future cruise! Contact us for a no obligation price quote. Here's a list of the Disney
- [Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa - Anne's Review](https://familytravelgurus.com/dreams-los-cabos-suites-golf-resort-spa-annes-review/) - Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus All Inclusive Resort Specialist From beautiful sunrises to amazing sunsets, we enjoyed everything we experienced at Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa. We loved the pools – a family pool and the adults-only pool. We enjoyed hanging out at the
- [The Experts Weigh In: Favorite Epcot Restaurant](https://familytravelgurus.com/the-experts-weigh-in-favorite-epcot-restaurant/) - by Tim Larison co-owner, Family Travel Gurus/Larison Travel LLP Here's another of our "question of the week" recaps on our yahoo group discussion list, dvctalk, for people to share tips about ownership in the Disney Vacation Club. You can find out more about dvctalk and subscribe here In a recent week I asked: "What’s your
- [Tim's Top Ten Travel Moments of 2016](https://familytravelgurus.com/tims-top-ten-travel-moments-of-2016/) - by Tim Larison, co-owner Family Travel Gurus/Larison Travel LLP 2016 was one of my best travel years ever, with many amazing experiences. Come with me down memory lane as I share my favorite top ten travel moments of last year. #10 - My desert getaway at the Hacienda Del Sol guest ranch in Tucson, Arizona I loved the
- [Good Value Buffets in Las Vegas (January 2017)](https://familytravelgurus.com/good-value-buffets-in-las-vegas-january-2017/) - Good Value Buffets in Las Vegas by Tim Larison with contributions from Anne and Josh Larison On a recent trip to Las Vegas we discovered a value dining option. For $35.99 per person on a weekday ($39.99 on the weekend) you can eat all you want, all day, in the Excalibur and Luxor buffets! The
- [The Experts Weigh in on Disney's Old Key West Resort](https://familytravelgurus.com/the-experts-weigh-in-on-disneys-old-key-west-resort/) - by Tim Larison co-owner, Family Travel Gurus/Larison Travel LLP I started a yahoo group discussion list, called dvctalk, back in 1998 for people to share tips about ownership in the Disney Vacation Club. At the time my family had an ownership at Disney World's Old Key West resort, the original DVC resort (pictured above). Much
- [High Roller Las Vegas Review (December 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/high-roller-las-vegas-review-december-2016/) - High Roller Las Vegas Review by Tim Larison with contributions from Anne and Josh Larison The High Roller is a 550-foot tall giant Ferris wheel on the Las Vegas Strip. It is currently the world's tallest Ferris wheel. Open since March 2014, we had our first chance to try a ride in December 2016. We
- [Exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando (November 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/exploring-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter-at-universal-orlando-november-2016/) - Exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando by Phyllis Larison With the recent opening of the film Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, there is renewed interest in all things related to J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. For Potter fans there is no place better than the Wizarding World of Harry
- [Disney Vacation Club Resales with Shontell Crawford](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-vacation-club-resales-with-shontell-crawford/) - Our family bought into the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) in the mid-90's and we immediately reaped the benefits - visiting Disney World multiple times a year with our DVC points when our sons were young. One purchase option that many don't know about - instead of buying direct from Disney you can buy a DVC
- [What's Included on a Disney Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/whats-included-on-a-disney-cruise/) - https://youtu.be/lskOBMLzdiQ As this video shows, sailing with Disney is a wonderful experience! We've been selling Disney cruises since 2002 and we can help you pick the right cruise for your family. As of today prices are available through May 2018 - booking early often gets you the best price. Contact us for more information and/or
- [Michele and Paul's Disney cruise with kids (Disney Dream - Oct 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/michele-and-pauls-disney-cruise-with-kids-disney-dream-oct-2016/) - You've sailed on the Disney cruise a number of times as adults - what would it be like to treat your niece and nephew to their first Disney cruise? Thanks to our client Michele from Illinois for sharing her experience in doing exactly that! - Tim Our cruise was spectacular. This was Logan's and Jordan's
- [2016 Arndt Family Frozen Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/2016-arndt-family-frozen-cruise/) - Our clients the Arndts sent us this video of their Disney Norway cruise, featuring Adventures By Disney shore excursions. "The Norway cruise and Adventures by Disney add-on were just wonderful. Norway is so incredibly beautiful," writes Michele. Thanks Michele and Paul for sharing this with us! https://youtu.be/HtkSVA376PA
- [Tropicana Las Vegas Resort Review (August 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tropicana-las-vegas-resort-review-august-2016/) - Tropicana Las Vegas Resort Review August 2016 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with comments from Travel Agent Anne Larison “Why would you stay at the Tropicana?? Isn’t that an old hotel?” said a friend when I told him we were planning to stay at the Tropicana resort on a late
- [Disney World Discount Offer for stays Jan 1st - March 7th](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-world-discount-offer-for-stays-jan-1st-march-7th/) - Disney has come out with a good offer for Disney World resort stays most nights from January 1st through March 7th. Play, stay, dine and save up to $500 on a 5-night/6-day room, ticket and dining plan package for a family of 4 at select Disney Resort hotels.This special offer is valid for stays most
- [Karen's Review of Royal Sea Cliff, Kona, Hawaii (June 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/karens-review-royal-sea-cliff-kona-hawaii/) - by Karen Waldman, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Royal Sea Cliff Kona is an oceanfront resort about a mile south of the main Kailua-Kona town, on the famous Ali’i Drive along Hawaii Island’s western shoreline. The resort offers studios, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom condo units. Some of the units are occupied by year-round residents. It was
- [Karen's Review of Bali Hai Villas, Princeville, Kauai (June 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/karens-review-of-bali-hai-villas-princeville-kauai-june-2016/) - by Karen Waldman, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Bali Hai Villas are perched on the cliffs above Hanalei on the north shore of Kauai, in the resort community of Princeville. They offer 1, 2, and 3 bedroom condos in a lush, tropical setting. We loved our week spent at this resort and would stay here
- [Anne’s Swim With The Dolphins Experience (October 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/annes-swim-with-the-dolphins-experience-october-2015/) - Anne’s Swim With The Dolphins Experience October, 2015 by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant WOW! These were the first words that came to me when I found out that I would be swimming with the dolphins on my trip to Mexico. I was one of a select group of travel agents chosen
- [Larison Family Liberty of the Seas 7 night Western Caribbean Cruise (May 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/larison-family-liberty-of-the-seas-7-night-western-caribbean-cruise-may-2016/) - Larison Family Liberty of the Seas 7 night Western Caribbean Cruise May 2016 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison, Andrew and Josh Larison The cruisin’ Larison family was off again on another adventure in May 2016 - this time to celebrate the college graduation of
- [Snapshot Story: Helicopter Landing on an Alaska Glacier](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-helicopter-landing-on-an-alaska-glacier/) - "Lazer and John loved their helicopter and glacier walk by Shore Trips. Lazer was amazed and wanted to go back out on the glacier." Thanks to our client Elizabeth from Pennsylvania for sharing this photo of her son Lazer and his friend John's glacier helicopter landing. We suggested this tour through Shore Trips. We can
- [Olivia Newton-John Show in Las Vegas (August 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/olivia-newton-john-show-in-las-vegas-august-2016/) - This is another in our series of posts about things to do in Las Vegas photo courtesy of Caesars.com by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with comments from Travel Agent Anne Larison As a teenager in the 70's the first record I ever purchased was Olivia Newton-John's debut album. I've been a
- [Frozen comes to the Disney Cruise Line](https://familytravelgurus.com/frozen-comes-to-the-disney-cruise-line/) - The Disney Cruise Line is known for its great production shows and it looks like there is another one coming - Frozen! Watch the video below for more on this new show coming to the Disney Wonder starting November 10, 2016: https://youtu.be/hPUic9mZm-c Want to see Frozen on the Disney Wonder? We can help! Contact us
- [Disney's Danube River Cruise Gets Good Reviews](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneys-danube-river-cruise-gets-good-reviews/) - We love River Cruising and we are excited that Adventures by Disney is now offering this wonderful experience to families. Disney, in partnership with AMA Waterways, has designed river cruise ships specifically for families. The AMA/Disney ships, for example, have staterooms that can hold parents and kids (most other river cruise ships only have staterooms
- [Tim's Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour (June 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tims-grand-canyon-helicopter-tour-june-2016/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) A bucket list item for me was to see the Grand Canyon once in my lifetime. My dream came true with an amazing 3 1/2 hour helicopter tour from Las Vegas thanks to Grand Canyon Helicopters. "As originators of this industry we've been very lucky to
- [Snapshot Story: High Seas Scrabble](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-high-seas-scrabble/) - Sometimes the most memorable times on a cruise are those simple moments with family members. On our cruise last month I played Scrabble with sons Josh and Andrew on at "at sea" day. As we were playing I remembered, "we played Scrabble before on a cruise". Sure enough I looked back at our old cruise
- [Tim's Desert Getaway at the Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch](https://familytravelgurus.com/tims-desert-getaway-at-the-hacienda-del-sol-guest-ranch/) - Tim's Desert Getaway at the Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) As part of the Global Travel Marketplace West travel conference in Tucson I was fortunate to stay at a wonderful guest ranch for one night - the Hacienda del Sol. Though my stay was brief I
- [Tim at Global Travel Marketplace West - The Sequel](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-at-global-travel-marketplace-west-the-sequel/) - Tim at Global Travel Marketplace West - The Sequel by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) "It was the best travel agent conference I’ve ever been to," I wrote in this blog one year ago, describing my experience at Global Travel Marketplace West. I felt honored to be invited back to this prestigious
- [Tim's Weekend at Global Travel Marketplace West](https://familytravelgurus.com/tims-weekend-at-global-travel-marketplace-west/) - Tim's Weekend at Global Travel Marketplace West by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) “Have you been there?” This is a question I have been asked often in my 13 years as a travel agent. Since 2002 I have traveled all over the World with my family. Many of you have read of
- [The Super Bowl 50 Experience](https://familytravelgurus.com/the-super-bowl-50-experience/) - The Super Bowl 50 Experience by Tim Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant On the first weekend in February 2016 I attended the second Super Bowl in my life - and oh what a weekend it was! As a long time season ticket holder to the Denver Broncos I had a strong rooting interest in
- [Calgary - Gateway to the Canadian Rockies](https://familytravelgurus.com/calgary-gateway-to-the-canadian-rockies/) - This is the concluding post from Tim Larison from familytravelgurus.com on his visit to the province of Alberta, Canada in March, 2016. When I visited Canada 27 years ago we flew into Calgary, picked up our rental car, and immediately drove 1 1/2 hours to Banff to start our Canadian Rockies vacation. On my 2016
- [Wildlife Viewing in Canada](https://familytravelgurus.com/wildlife-viewing-in-canada/) - This is another post from Tim Larison from familytravelgurus.com on his visit to the province of Alberta, Canada in March, 2016. On my weeklong trip to the Canadian Rockies I was surprised at the wildlife viewing opportunities - even in the winter. My first opportunity to view wildlife was at Elk Island National Park near
- [Snowshoeing In The Canadian Rockies (March 2016)](https://familytravelgurus.com/snowshoeing-in-the-canadian-rockies-march-2016/) - This is the second of several posts from Tim Larison from familytravelgurus.com in his visit to the province of Alberta, Canada in March, 2016. I'd never been snowshoeing in my life! But I got that chance in two days of touring in Alberta, Canada. I share below what this experience was like. We were transported
- [Edmonton - Capital City of Alberta](https://familytravelgurus.com/edmonton-capital-city-of-alberta/) - This is the first of several posts from Tim Larison from familytravelgurus.com in his visit to the province of Alberta, Canada in March, 2016. Edmonton - Capital City of Alberta I landed in Edmonton mid-afternoon and I was immediately reminded of the city's rich hockey history. The Oilers have struggled in recent years but the
- [A Look at the New Westin at Denver International Airport](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-look-at-the-new-westin-at-denver-international-airport/) - The New Westin at Denver International Airport by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) Photo courtesy of Starwood Hotels The new Westin hotel at Denver's International Airport (DIA) is a wonderful property adjacent to the airport's main terminal. As the Colorado director of the National Association of Career Travel Agents (NACTA) I was
- [Karen's Be Our Guest Breakfast Review](https://familytravelgurus.com/karens-be-our-guest-breakfast-review/) - Be Our Guest Breakfast at Disney World By Karen Waldman, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant We enjoyed our breakfast dining experience at Be Our Guest, the Magic Kingdom restaurant designed to represent the castle from Beauty and the Beast. They had good food and the atmosphere was wonderful. There are three dining areas. The big
- [Karen's Frozen Sing-Along Review](https://familytravelgurus.com/karens-frozen-sing-along-review/) - Frozen Sing-Along at Disney World By Karen Waldman, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant I wasn’t sure what to expect with this relatively-new show, and was pleasantly surprised. The 35-minute show is at the Hyperion Theater at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and currently starts at the top of every hour. I expected just singing with a roomful
- [Anne's Puerto Vallarta / Vallarta Nayarit Trip Report (December 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/annes-puerto-vallarta-vallarta-nayarit-trip-report-december-2015/) - Puerto Vallarta/Vallarta Nayarit Trip Report December, 2015 by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Photo courtesy of visitpuertovallarta.com I had only visited Puerto Vallarta from a cruise ship. Tim, the twins and I have done a city tour and zip lining in the past. I was thrilled when given the opportunity to spend
- [Hidden Beach at Marietas Islands Wildlife Sanctuaries (Anne's Report - December 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/hidden-beach-at-marietas-islands-wildlife-sanctuaries-annes-report-december-2015/) - Hidden Beach at Marietas Islands Wildlife Sanctuaries December, 2015 by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant photo courtesy of Travel Weekly As part of a recent trip to Mexico, sponsored by Travel Weekly and the Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit Tourism Boards, I had the opportunity to tour Marietas Islands with a group
- [Larison Family Allure of the Seas 7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise (January 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/larison-family-allure-of-the-seas-7-night-western-caribbean-cruise-january-2015/) - Larison Family Allure of the Seas 7 night Western Caribbean Cruise January, 2015 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison, Andrew and Josh Larison If you’ve followed our family travel adventures over the years you know we’ve taken many trips with our twin sons Andrew
- [What is Adventures By Disney?](https://familytravelgurus.com/what-is-adventures-by-disney/) - You've had fun over the years in the Disney theme parks. There's a good chance your first cruise was on one of the Disney ships. You may have even stayed at Disney's fabulous Hawaii resort - Aulani. But most Disney fans we talk to have never experienced an Adventures by Disney (ABD) vacation. I recently
- [Why book an on site Disney World resort?  Disney's musical answer!](https://familytravelgurus.com/why-book-an-on-site-disney-world-resort-disneys-musical-answer/) - Disney has come out with a fun singing video for why you should stay on site at Disney World (see below) We agree! Our first visit to Disney World with our twins (at age 4) was at an offsite resort. Now there are some very good offsite resorts we can book for you but our
- [10 Things I like at Disneyland not at Disney World](https://familytravelgurus.com/10-things-i-like-at-disneyland-not-at-disney-world/) - 10 Things I like at Disneyland not at Disney World (November 2015) by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) Last week we attended the 2015 Earmarked Conference at Disneyland - for top producing travel agencies selling Disney destinations. It had been over five years since I've been to this original Disney theme park.
- [Murder Mystery Dinner Show Review (Freedom of the Seas)](https://familytravelgurus.com/murder-mystery-dinner-show-review-freedom-of-the-seas/) - Thanks to our client Chris from Georgia for this review of Royal Caribbean's Murder Mystery Dinner Show (featured on the Freedom of the Seas and other ships): The Murder Mystery dinner show was on embarkation night. Like most land-based mystery dinner show, this one was cheesy and played for laughs. And succeeds. The cast is
- [Snapshot Story: Ziplining at St Thomas](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-ziplining-at-st-thomas/) - Thanks to our clients Michele and Beth from Illinois for sharing their St Thomas zipline pictures below: Michele: "We did the Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline Adventure. I was very impressed with this operation and would highly recommend it. The guides were extremely friendly and it appeared that safety was of extreme importance to them. Just
- [Eating Your Way Through Epcot's World Showcase (video)](https://familytravelgurus.com/eating-your-way-through-epcots-world-showcase-video/) - We came across this video today which reminded us why we love to visit Walt Disney World's Epcot - the food! At the World Showcase you can indulge in food from Epcot's countries: Want to experience the dining of Epcot yourself? We can help! Contact us for a no obligation price quote on your next
- [Tip: Check Your Passport Expiration Date](https://familytravelgurus.com/tip-check-your-passport-expiration-date/) - Tip – Check Your Passport Expiration Date! A passport is required for travel outside the U.S., including Canada and Mexico. If you haven’t checked the expiration date on your passport recently, we recommend you do it now. There was a flood of passport applications in 2007 when a passport for travel to Canada and Mexico
- [Julie's Adventure of the Seas Southern Caribbean Cruise (July 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/julies-adventure-of-the-seas-southern-caribbean-cruise-july-2015/) - Thanks to our client Julie for sharing this report on her family's Southern Caribbean Cruise. We just returned from Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas Southern Caribbean Cruise. The cruise departed out of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico and made stops in the ports of St. Croix, USVI, St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Lucia and Barbados.
- [Karen's Xenotes review (Riviera Maya)](https://familytravelgurus.com/karens-xenotes-review-riviera-maya/) - Xenotes review (Riviera Maya) By Karen Waldman, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Overview We loved our day tour with Xenotes! It was a highlight of our week-long trip to Riviera Maya (the coast south of Cancun) in June 2015. We were shuttled to four different cenotes, which are basically freshwater sinkholes in the jungle, and
- [Experience Disneyland's 60th Anniversary Celebration in 2015](https://familytravelgurus.com/experience-disneylands-60th-anniversary-celebration-in-2015/) - Disneyland is celebrating its 60th Anniversary in 2015! Watch this short video on this special year at the resort: https://youtu.be/b5yEea7v7LY We recently talked to Linda with Disney Destinations Sales about why Disneyland is a great place to visit (especially this year!) Why consider a vacation to the ‘The Happiest Place on Earth- at the Disneyland
- [Tim's Mexico City Hot Air Balloon Adventure (July 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tims-mexico-city-hot-air-balloon-adventure-july-2015/) - Tim's Mexico City Hot Air Balloon Adventure (July 2015) by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) "Me??? In a hot air balloon???" I'm not sure about this!" I said to myself when I was given the opportunity to experience my first hot air balloon ride ever above the Teotihuacán Pyramids just north of
- [Tim's Weekend in Mexico City (July/August 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tims-weekend-in-mexico-city-julyaugust-2015/) - Tim's Weekend in Mexico City (July/August 2015) by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) Travel Weekly selected me along with 24 other agents for a weekend "familiarization (fam)" trip to Mexico City . I had been to Mexico many times before - each visit was at a coastal destination (Cozumel, Cancun, Cabo, Puerto
- [Tim & Anne's Paris Tour By A Local Guide (July 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-annes-paris-tour-by-a-local-guide-july-2015/) - Tim & Anne's Paris Tour By a Local Guide by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with comments by travel agent Anne Larison At the GTM West Travel Conference I learned about an exciting travel product - Urban Adventures. On my past trips I often sought out local guides when visiting new cities.
- [Snapshot Story: Tower Bridge](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-tower-bridge/) - Thanks to our client Tamara from Missouri for sharing this picture. We arranged a Disney cruise and transfers from the ship to their London hotel. "This is a picture of my family in front of the Tower Bridge just after we'd finished a tour of the Globe. Traveling to such historical sites makes the past
- [Dan's Princess Alaska Cruise and Land Tour (July 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/dans-princess-alaska-cruise-and-land-tour-july-2015/) - Thanks to our client Dan from Delaware for sharing his family's experience on their Princess cruise tour. We really enjoyed the Princess experience, overall. We weren't sure going in to the cruise, given how great the Disney trips of the past have been. The staff, dining, activities; all were very pleasant, and we feel, on
- [Michele's Norwegian Pearl Alaska Cruise (May 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/micheles-norwegian-pearl-alaska-cruise-may-2015/) - Last week we featured an amazing photo from our client Michele taken on her Alaska cruise. Here is the rest of Michele's report on the cruise in response to our questions. Michele's Norwegian Pearl Alaska Cruise (May 2015) How did your stateroom work out? The stateroom was a great size for the three of us
- [Snapshot Story: Humpback Whale in Alaska](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-humpback-whale-in-alaska/) - Thanks to our client Michele from Illinois for sharing this amazing photo she took on her May 2015 Norwegian Pearl Alaska cruise. "I did the Whale Watching and Mendenhall Glacier Photo Safari in Juneau. This, by far, was my favorite excursion of the trip and ranks pretty high up there among all of the excursions
- [Teresa & Mike's 7 night Western Caribbean Cruise on the Freedom of the Seas (April 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/teresa-mikes-7-night-western-caribbean-cruise-on-the-freedom-of-the-seas-april-2015/) - Thanks to our clients Teresa and Mike from Missouri for these comments on their 7 night Western Caribbean cruise on the Freedom of the Seas. We did have a wonderful cruise! Thank you again for helping us make that happen! You asked about our experience this time compared to previous cruises on the Freedom of
- [There's an amazing planet out there - where's your next adventure? (interview with G Adventures Lucas Bialecki)](https://familytravelgurus.com/theres-an-amazing-planet-out-there-wheres-your-next-adventure-interview-with-g-adventures-lucas-bialecki/) - During my recent visit to Tucson for the GTM West conference one of the companies I was very impressed with was G Adventures - offering adventures all over the World. “We believe that travel transforms. That it builds peace and understanding. We believe that the power of travel can change lives and make the world
- [Kim and Scott's 5 Night Disney Wonder Cruise From Miami (April 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/kim-and-scotts-5-night-disney-wonder-cruise-from-miami-april-2015/) - Thanks to our client Kim from Michigan for giving us this report on her and her husband's anniversary Disney cruise (without the kids!) Scott and I had a WONDERFUL time! We can not wait to go on another cruise, just the two of us! We were not sure if we would miss our lovely children
- [Caroline's 7 Night Disney Magic Western Caribbean Cruise (April 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/carolines-7-night-disney-magic-western-caribbean-cruise-april-2015/) - Thanks to our client Caroline from Indiana for sharing these comments on her family's 7 night cruise on the Disney Magic. We had a great time!!! Our friends who went with us had a positive first cruise too! Jamaica zip lining was fun; river tubing was not as "clean" river but it was still a
- [Snapshot Story: Formal Portrait on a Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-formal-portrait-on-a-cruise/) - "My favorite time on ship is getting dressed up for formal night dinner & having professional pictures taken. It is always one of my favorite things to do on trip." - our client Gloria from Texas
- [Mark's Disney 4 night Bahamas cruise (March 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/marks-disney-4-night-bahamas-cruise-march-2015/) - Thanks to our client Mark from Omaha on submitting this picture and comments on his family's four night Disney Bahamas cruise. We had arranged private, non-Disney, transfers for his family which included a few hours at Kennedy Space Center after the cruise. We had a tremendous time and can’t wait to go back. The transfers
- [Snapshot Story: Ziplining in Costa Rica (February 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-ziplining-in-costa-rica/) - "We had so much fun zip-lining in Costa Rica. It was beautiful there!" Thanks to our clients Katrina and Tom from South Carolina for sharing this picture. Katrina adds the following about their 10 night Holland America Panama Canal cruise in February 2015: "We really enjoyed the HAL cruise. As far as the itinerary goes,
- [Snapshot Story: Sailing Away From Cozumel (February 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-sailing-away-from-cozumel-february-2015/) - "We had a great time on the Allure of the Seas, although, it's definitely a different experience compared to smaller ships. The picture above is my favorite. Taken at sunset as we sailed away from Cozumel. Thank you for your help in booking our vacation and we look forward to planning the next one very
- [Susan's Oceania Tahiti/French Polynesia Cruise (January 2015)](https://familytravelgurus.com/susans-oceania-tahitifrench-polynesia-cruise-january-2015/) - Thanks to our client Susan for submitting the above picture and her comments on her and her husband's Oceania cruise to Tahiti/French Polynesia. We asked how this cruise compared to their past Disney cruises they had booked with us. We liked Oceania, but felt they were a little too strict in their dress guidelines. (They
- [Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas (Tim & Anne's Report)](https://familytravelgurus.com/royal-caribbeans-quantum-of-the-seas-tim-annes-report/) - Quantum of the Seas Two Night Preview Cruise November, 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison Anne and I were invited by Royal Caribbean to be one of the first to experience their newest ship - the Quantum of the Seas - on a special
- [Grandparents and Grandchildren on the Adventure of a Lifetime](https://familytravelgurus.com/grandparents-and-grandchildren-on-the-adventure-of-a-lifetime/) - We enjoyed this video from Disney recently: http://youtu.be/GzONiVVYuCs Are you a grandparent wanting to treat your grand kids to a Disney vacation? We can help! We've worked with many extended families on Disney trips (Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise, and Adventures by Disney) Contact us for more information.
- [Snapshot Story: Mediterranean Cruise (October 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-mediterranean-cruise-october-2014/) - Thanks to Georgianne Holland for sending us these photos and her feedback on a Royal Caribbean 7 night Mediterranean cruise she booked with us) Here's a photo of my 25-year old son Eric Bender and me on a day that we had an excursion to Cinque Terre, Italy. That was our favorite part of the
- [Norwegian Breakaway 7 night Bermuda Cruise (Tim & Anne's Report)](https://familytravelgurus.com/norwegian-breakaway-7-night-bermuda-cruise-tim-annes-report/) - Norwegian Breakaway 7 night Bermuda Cruise Sept 14-21, 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison 2014 marked the first time we had cruised on an NCL ship in over 10 years. After a wonderful Hawaii cruise on the Pride of America in June we looked
- [Retirees For A Week (7 Day Stay At The Villages, Florida)](https://familytravelgurus.com/retirees-for-a-week-7-day-stay-at-the-villages-florida/) - Retirees For A Week (7 Day Stay At The Villages, Florida) August 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison In past visits to Florida we’ve noticed a number of age 55+ retirement communities with lots of amenities for the senior set. What would it be
- [Snapshot Story: Becoming a Princess at Disneyland](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-becoming-a-princess-at-disneyland/) - We had a great time as always on our Disneyland vacation. It was really hot and crowded but we can't complain about that. Cordelia had a great time becoming a princess! We had to only wait about 45 minutes for our daughter to meet the "Frozen" Princesses below since we stayed at a Disney resort.
- [Snapshot Story: Gloria's Galveston Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-glorias-galveston-cruise/) - "The cruise was awesome. The couple that went with me loved it so much - they didn't want to get off the ship! They loved the balcony, & my suite also had a big window by my bed. The room was so spacious. It was as if they had their half of the room &
- [Pride of America 7 Night Hawaii Cruise (Tim and Anne's Report)](https://familytravelgurus.com/pride-of-america-7-night-hawaii-cruise-tim-and-annes-report/) - Pride of America 7 Night Hawaii Cruise June 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison As a travel agent specializing in cruises, I’ve been selling 7 night Norwegian Cruise Line Hawaii sailings on the Pride of America since the ship debuted in 2005. “It’s a
- [Snapshot Story: Labadee](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-labadee/) - "Here is a picture of our girls enjoying the water in Labadee, Haiti. We had a wonderful time on our cruise! (a 7 night Royal Caribbean Western Caribbean cruise). In Cozumel the royal dolphin swim was a great experience. So happy we were able to do that. I would definitely recommend it and definitely through
- [Home of the Brave Hawaii Victory Tour: Tim & Anne’s Report (June 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/home-of-the-brave-hawaii-victory-tour-tim-annes-report-june-2014/) - Home of the Brave Hawaii Victory Tour June 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison It had been 10 years since we had visited Pearl Harbor. That visit, back in 2004, was an educational and somber experience. Yet being a history buff I wanted to
- [Tim & Anne's Viking River Cruise on the Rhine - October 2013](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-annes-viking-river-cruise-on-the-rhine-october-2013/) - Viking River Cruise on the Rhine October 2013 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison We had an amazing river cruise on the Rhine in October 2013. We traveled from Amsterdam, the Netherlands to Basel, Switzerland in a seven day journey. I have copied below a
- [Beaches Ocho Rios: Tim & Anne's Report (May 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/beaches-ocho-rios-tim-annes-report-may-2014/) - Beaches Ocho Rios: Tim & Anne's Report May 2014 by Tim and Anne Larison, owners of Larison Travel LLP As part of our Jamaican trip, staying at the adults only Sandals Grand Riviera Resort, we also had the opportunity to tour Beaches Ocho Rios - an all inclusive family resort. We were very impressed! Below
- [Jamaican Paradise: Tim & Anne's Sandals Report (May 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/jamaican-paradise-tim-annes-sandals-report-may-2014/) - Jamaican Paradise: Tim & Anne's Sandals Report May 2014 by Tim and Anne Larison, owners of Larison Travel LLP We love cruises, but we were to discover on our Jamaica trip In May 2014 that Sandals all inclusive adults only resorts are pretty cool, too! Below we give a report on the main resort we
- [Snapshot Story: Machu Picchu](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-machu-picchu/) - "We liked Machu Picchu very much. It was a mystical experience the day we were there with the low hanging clouds drifting through the site. We thought the attached shot is a good overview of the site and the experience." - Carol and Chris from Colorado After we explored different ways Carol and Chris could
- [Azamara Quest 11 Night West Indies Cruise (March 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/azamara-quest-11-night-west-indies-cruise-march-2014/) - Azamara Quest 11 Night West Indies Cruise March 16-27, 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison Ever since Azamara Club Cruises launched in 2007 my wife Anne and I have wanted to sail on this cruise line. We were given that chance in the Spring
- [Tim & Anne's St John Tour (March 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-annes-st-john-tour-march-2014/) - St John Tour March 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison Our first stop on our March 2014 Azamara Quest cruise was the U.S. Virgin Island St John. At 20 square miles, this small island is described as one of the most beautiful in the
- [Tim & Anne's Dominica Tour (March 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-annes-dominica-tour-march-2014/) - Dominica Tour March 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison Our favorite shore excursion on our March 2014 Azamara cruise was our day at Dominica with Reyno Tours . Known as the Nature Island of the Caribbean, Dominica was not a place to go for
- [Tim & Anne's Visit to St Barts (March 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-visit-to-st-barts-march-2014/) - A Visit to St Barts March 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison Cannes in the Caribbean? That’s what St Barts reminded us of when we stopped there for a day on our Azamara 12 day Caribbean cruise in March 2014. There were a number
- [Tim & Anne's Virgin Gorda Tour (March 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-annes-virgin-gorda-tour-march-2014/) - Virgin Gorda Tour March 2014 by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) with contributions from Travel Agent Anne Larison On our March 2014 Azamara cruise one of our best shore excursions was our Deluxe Tour of Virgin Gorda (British Virgin Islands) arranged through Shore Trips. We have used Shore Trips for independent shore
- [Jeff & Joan's 7 night Explorer of the Seas Bahamas Cruise (April 2014)](https://familytravelgurus.com/jeff-joans-7-night-explorer-of-the-seas-bahamas-cruise-april-2014/) - Thanks to our clients Jeff and Joan from New York for sharing this review of their extended family's cruise on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas from Port Liberty, New Jersey. I just returned from the Explorer after a 7 day Bahamas cruise. Here are my thoughts. Day One: Port Liberty is more or less
- [Snapshot Story: Tulum Ruins](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-tulum-ruins/) - "We LOVED our excursion to Tulum! I have always wanted to see Mayan ruins, and this trip makes me want to go back to Mexico to see other sites. The picture below is of our local-style lunch: fish tacos, beans & rice, cerveza, and fresh coconut water." Thanks to our client Katrina from South Carolina
- [Karen's FastPass+ Update - After the Disney World trip](https://familytravelgurus.com/karens-fastpass-update-after-the-disney-world-trip/) - A few months ago I wrote about my experience with using Disney’s new FastPass+ (FP+) as we were preparing for our upcoming Disney World trip in January 2014 (click here for that earlier FP+ blog posting). Now that we are home, I have a few updates. What we liked: We didn’t need to run
- [Karen's Review of Disney World's Old Key West Resort](https://familytravelgurus.com/karens-review-of-disney-worlds-old-key-west-resort/) - Thanks to our travel consultant Karen Waldman for this review of Disney World's Old Key West Resort. We like to try out new Disney resorts each time we go, and this time it was Old Key West. We stayed a wonderful week in one of the 2-bedroom units and loved it. A 2-bedroom is a
- [Snapshot Story: Castaway Cay](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-castaway-cay/) - This picture was taken with my daughter's phone - a view of Castaway Cay! I love this island, wish we could just fly there for a vacation! Thanks to our client Jen from Maryland for sharing this picture.
- [New Zealand Highlights](https://familytravelgurus.com/new-zealand-highlights/) - Thanks to our travel consultant Karen Waldman for highlighting a past trip to New Zealand for us. - Tim Some friends are planning a trip to New Zealand and recently asked me about my NZ recollections. Brent and I travelled to New Zealand as one of our first trips as a married couple, before kids,
- [Tim and Anne's Tour of London](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-tour-of-london/) - In the Fall of 2013 we finally were able to visit a city we always wanted to see - London, England. Listed below is our trip blog and some pictures we took of London and surrounding areas. At the end of this post Anne gives her impressions of our stay and tours. Day One Greetings
- [Happy Holidays from the Larisons](https://familytravelgurus.com/happy-holidays-from-the-larisons/) - Happy Holidays from Tim and Anne Larison from the Family Travel Gurus! We've had some amazing trips this year and we hope your travels were rewarding too. Thanks for your business in 2013 and we wish you more fun trips in 2014! Contact us to plan your 2014 travels! Pictured from the Larisons 2013
- [Rail & Sail from London to Amsterdam](https://familytravelgurus.com/rail-sail-from-london-to-amsterdam/) - Earlier this month we told you about our Rhine River Cruise - one of our best trips ever! When planning the trip we figured since we were paying for airfare to Europe, why not experience more than just the river cruise? We had never been to London before, and we saw on the map it
- [Preview of Disney World’s New FastPass+ System](https://familytravelgurus.com/preview-of-disney-worlds-new-fastpass-system/) - Thanks to our travel consultant Karen Waldman for giving us this overview of Disney's FastPass+ system. - Tim If you’ve been to Disney, you are probably familiar with the FastPass (FP) system. If an attraction’s line is too long for your tastes, you go to a nearby kiosk and request a FastPass for the attraction.
- [Avalon Waterways 7 night River Cruise on the Danube (2008)](https://familytravelgurus.com/avalon-waterways-7-night-river-cruise-on-the-danube-2008/) - In the summer of 2008 I was excited to try a new cruise experience – sailing the Danube through parts of Hungary, Austria, and Germany on the Avalon Artistry. After sailing on 18 different ocean cruises I had some questions about my first river cruise: * How would this cruise compare to my previous ocean
- [River Rafting at the Royal Gorge (Colorado)](https://familytravelgurus.com/river-rafting-at-the-royal-gorge-colorado/) - "The Gorge was closed for three weeks prior to us rafting on Saturday. It was at it's highest legal peak to open that morning. Mostly 5's, some 4's. We were vertical several times. Swells were huge. We had a blast! It was AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Everyone should do it, at least once!" from CeCe in Colorado
- [Yukon Scenery](https://familytravelgurus.com/yukon-scenery/) - " I took this picture at one of the stops on our Yukon Jeep Stampede tour out of Skagway, Alaska. I just love this photo because it shows the absolute beauty of the surroundings." from Michelle in Illinois
- [Norwegian Fjords](https://familytravelgurus.com/norwegian-fjords/) - "We highly recommend Azamara cruises. It was our first cruise and it was a wonderful experience. Our captain took us to the Naeroyfjorden. With the smaller ship we were able to see this spectacular sight " from Ann and Richard in Michigan
- [Fun at Hotel Marina El Cid (Mexico)](https://familytravelgurus.com/fun-at-hotel-marina-el-cid-mexico/) - "The Hotel Marina El Cid was beautiful and the people there bent over backwards to make sure our trip was everything we wanted. My daughter Haleigh fell in love with the whole staff that ran the kids club, she never wanted to leave." from Kelly in Colorado
- [At The Pool With Minnie](https://familytravelgurus.com/at-the-pool-with-minnie/) - "This is our favorite picture from our Disney Cruise. This is our daughter next to Minnie just hanging out by the pool. What better way to sun bath then to be there with a friend. What a wonderful Cruise!" from the Filling family, Baltimore, MD
- [Misty Fjords Flight In Alaska](https://familytravelgurus.com/misty-fjords-flight-in-alaska/) - "Tim Larison recommended Michelle from Island Wings for our flight over the Misty Fjords in Alaska. Michelle is an independent operator and the only pilot. She will land somewhere along the route so you can experience the beauty of the fjords from both the air and land. It was a fantastic trip!" from Nancy in
- [Snorkeling in Antigua](https://familytravelgurus.com/snorkeling-in-antigua/) - "Here I am with Andrew and Josh swimming towards a rock bridge in the warm waters of Antigua. The boys had their first snorkeling experience here and they loved it!" --Anne Larison
- [Sled dog Puppies (Alaska)](https://familytravelgurus.com/sled-dog-puppies-alaska/) - "My favorite part of our visit to the Sled Dog camp was when I got to hold and play with the puppies!" -- Josh Larison, age 11 in this picture, at the Speavy Iditarod Racing homestead in Seward, Alaska
- [Alaska Crab](https://familytravelgurus.com/alaska-crab/) - "The Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour in Ketchikan was by far our favorite Alaska cruise excursion and we will go back time and time again to experience it. We were able to see whales, seals, eagles, red king crab, snow crab and rock crab. All the crab was caught in sovereign waters and therefore had
- [Grandpa and Grandson Enjoy A Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/grandpa-and-grandson-enjoy-a-cruise/) - Thanks for arranging my cruise on Oasis of the Seas. This was a wonderful trip for my grandson, Conner and me. The entertainment was great. Also embarkation and debarkation were the easiest of any cruise I have been on. Conner and I enjoyed dinner together, especially the formal nights. I appreciate that you set everything
- [Movie Tour on Kauai](https://familytravelgurus.com/movie-tour-on-kauai/) - "I took the Movie Tour on Kauai to me and it was fabulous! We went deep into the rainforest to the place where Jurassic Park was filmed. This is a picture of me at what remains of the entrance gate to Jurassic Park. On the tour we visited many other beautiful locations where films have
- [Half Moon Cay](https://familytravelgurus.com/half-moon-cay/) - "We LOVED Half Moon Cay. It was beautiful! If there was a hotel on that little island, I could have stayed there for 7 days or more...The beach was amazing; soft sand, clear water, no seaweed stuff. We rented paddle boats then rented a raft for the day. Other than the BBQ, we spent the
- [Disney Wonder 4 Night Mousefest Cruise (2004)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-wonder-4-night-mousefest-cruise-2004/) - Does a 4 night Disney cruise with a group of over 180 Disney fans sound like fun? It was! In early December 2004 I sailed on my first "MouseFest" cruise. The MouseFest cruise featured Passporter guide authors Dave and Jennifer Marx and Deb Wills of AllEarsNet.com as our "celebrity" hosts. by Tim Larison, CLIA Master
- [Disney Wonder 4 Night "MouseFest" Cruise (2005)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-wonder-4-night-mousefest-cruise/) - We sailed with a bunch of other Disney fans as part of Mousefest 2005 on the Disney Wonder. This was truly a "wonderful" cruise because in addition to all the regular benefits of a Disney sailing we also enjoyed the special features of Mousefest. by Tim Larison Travel Agent and CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor
- [NCL Star Hawaii Cruise (2003)](https://familytravelgurus.com/ncl-star-hawaii-cruise-2003/) - In November 2003 my wife Anne and I visited Hawaii for the first time - what better way to see the Hawaiian Islands than by cruise ship? We thought a cruise would be a good way to sample four of the major Islands (Oahu, Hawaii, Kauai, and Maui). We also stayed two precruise nights at
- [Disney Wonder 3 Night Cruise (2003)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-wonder-3-night-cruise-2003/) - In May 2003 my wife and I took a 3 night Disney cruise that I had won in a Disney travel agent sales contest. While thrilled to be taking my third Disney cruise, a few questions immediately popped into my head: Would a 3 night cruise seem too short? I'm used to 7 night cruises!
- [Disney Magic 7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise (2002)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-magic-7-night-western-caribbean-cruise-2002/) - Can two adults enjoy a 7 Night Disney Cruise without their kids? This is the question my wife Anne and I set out to find the answer to when we took the 7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise on the Disney Magic from November 9th through November 16th, 2002. We had taken the Disney Cruise
- [Disney Magic 3 Night Cruise (2000)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-magic-3-night-cruise-2000/) - This is a review of my family's first Disney Cruise and first cruise ever that I wrote in 2000 before I was a travel agent. This trip got us hooked on cruises and we have taken many since then! by Tim Larison, CLIA Master Cruise Counsellor (MCC) Click To See Our Pictures Friday, May 5th
- [Princess Alaska Land Tour (2002)](https://familytravelgurus.com/princess-alaska-land-tour-2002/) - In the late summer of 2002 I went on a Alaska Land tour with a travel agent group, and I had a great time! The tour was run by Princess Cruise Lines. Princess offers land tours as add-ons to its Alaska cruises (a combination cruise and land tour is called a "cruise tour"), or you
- [Star Princess 7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise (2003)](https://familytravelgurus.com/star-princess-7-night-mexican-riviera-cruise-2003/) - My family had been to Disney World and on the Disney Cruise before, so in February of 2003 I decided to take them on a different type of vacation. We visited Disneyland for 5 days, followed by a 7 night Mexican Riviera Cruise on Princess. This would be our first Princess cruise, and as a
- [Walk In Walt's Footsteps Tour (2004)](https://familytravelgurus.com/walk-in-walts-footsteps-tour-2004/) - Disneyland is the only Disney theme park that Walt Disney actually designed and walked through himself. In 2004 I took the wonderful "Walk in Walt's Footsteps" tour at Disneyland; a behind the scenes look at Walt's thinking in creating this masterpiece of family fun. by Tim Larison Click To See My Pictures
- [Crystal Serenity 5 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise (2004)](https://familytravelgurus.com/crystal-serenity-5-night-mexican-riviera-cruise-2004/) - Whenever I get into a cruise discussion with other travel agents I like to ask the question "What is your favorite cruise line?" In the last year I have heard the response "Crystal!" to that question more often than any other cruise line, particularly from long time travel agents. I have sailed on a variety
- [Holland America Westerdam 7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise (2005)](https://familytravelgurus.com/holland-america-westerdam-7-night-western-caribbean-cruise-2005/) - My family and I looked forward with great anticipation to our first Holland America (HAL) cruise on their newest ship - the ms Westerdam! In preparing for the trip some questions came to mind. As a travel agent I have read many rave reviews from my clients who I have booked on HAL cruises in
- [Caribbean Princess Eastern Caribbean Cruise (2006)](https://familytravelgurus.com/caribbean-princess-eastern-caribbean-cruise-2006/) - My family really enjoyed our 7 night Caribbean Princess cruise in February 2006. We were joined on this special cruise by Anne's parents, Paul and Barbara McShane, celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. Our cruise was very relaxing with great dining, fun entertainment, interesting ports to visit, and all this on one of the newest, most
- [Disney Wonder 4 Night Bahamas Cruise (2008)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-four-night-bahamas-cruise/) - Our 6th time sailing with Disney was one of our best! In this report we’ll tell you the story of our October 2008 Disney Wonder Cruise. While we won’t attempt to describe everything you can do on a Disney Cruise (there are whole books devoted to that topic) we’ll discuss the activities/features we enjoyed most.
- [Vegas Girls Weekend Out (2008)](https://familytravelgurus.com/vegas-girls-weekend-out-2008/) - Las Vegas is a good destination for a short trip, especially with the ladies! I traveled to Vegas with my mom and 3 of my 5 sisters. One of my sisters hadn’t been to Las Vegas for 18 years! We had a lot to do to show her all the changes and how the strip
- [Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party & More (2005)](https://familytravelgurus.com/mickeys-very-merry-christmas-party-more-2005/) - In December 2005 the Larison family took a short trip to Disney World to see Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party. We also stayed at the Pop Century resort the first time and enjoyed that very much. While we did not do a detailed report on this trip we took lots of pictures! Click To
- [Melia Cozumel (2005)](https://familytravelgurus.com/melia-cozumel-2005/) - Anne and I love cruises, but we had never stayed at an "all inclusive" resort. We jumped at the chance for a 3 night/4 day stay at the all inclusive Melia Cozumel resort in May 2005. In addition to experiencing an all inclusive resort for the first time, we would be returning to the Island
- [Disneyland With 9 Year Old Twins (2003)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneyland-with-9-year-old-twins-2003/) - We have taken our nine year old twin boys (Andrew and Josh) to Disney World every year since they were four years old. This year we decided to do something different - a 5 night trip to Disneyland followed by a 7 night Mexican Riviera cruise on Princess Cruise Line. In this report I will
- [Four Year Old Twins First Visit To Disney World (1998)](https://familytravelgurus.com/four-year-old-twins-first-visit-to-disney-world-1998/) - Before we even dreamed of owning a travel agency Anne and Tim Larison loved taking their twins Andrew and Josh to Disney World every year. This report is one I wrote back in 1998 - we still smile when we read of the boys adventures on this first trip. I hope you enjoy it, too
- [Celebrity Summit Alaska Cruise (2005)](https://familytravelgurus.com/celebrity-summit-alaska-cruise-2005/) - My family's Alaska 2005 trip was a wonderful adventure, filled with amazing scenery, wildlife viewing, excellent food, and good family times. In this report I will first focus on the different places we visited, and then tell more about our cruise ship - the beautiful Celebrity Summit. I had been to Alaska three of the
- [Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas 7 night Eastern Caribbean Cruise (2004)](https://familytravelgurus.com/royal-caribbeans-mariner-of-the-seas-7-night-eastern-caribbean-cruise-2004/) - "No cruise for us this winter," I thought when my wife accepted an offer for a new job in mid-February. We had planned to take a family cruise the first week of March before this unexpected job change. "Don't let my new job stop you from enjoying a vacation. Go ahead and take the boys
- [Anne's Disneyland Adventure (2005)](https://familytravelgurus.com/annes-disneyland-adventure-2005/) - I had the opportunity to attend a Travel Agent Education Program at Disneyland. I had been to Disneyland twice before; once as a teenager in 1975 and again in 2003. I was looking forward to seeing for myself the preparation for the "Happiest Celebration on Earth". by Anne Larison, Disneyland Specialist Click To See
- [Island Princess Alaska Cruise (2003)](https://familytravelgurus.com/island-princess-alaska-cruise-2003/) - In the late summer of 2003 I had the opportunity to take the trip I had been dreaming about for years - a 7 night Alaska Cruise. I had been to the interior of Alaska in 2002; my 2002 trip made me want to take a Alaska cruise even more. I cannot say enough about
- [Carnival Ecstasy 3 Night Baja Mexico Cruise (2004)](https://familytravelgurus.com/carnival-ecstasy-3-night-baja-mexico-cruise-2004/) - My wife and I were looking for a short weekend getaway to celebrate my birthday and our 15 year anniversary. Anne missed out on a 7 night cruise I took with our sons in March, and we both enjoy cruising very much, so we decided "why not celebrate with another cruise?" This was to be
- [SeaWorld Orlando (2008 - near Disney World)](https://familytravelgurus.com/seaworld-orlando-2008-near-disney-world/) - In our many trips to the Orlando area we have spent most of our time at Disney World with occasional visits to Universal Studios. In October 2008 we decided to try something different – a two day SeaWorld Orlando experience. We enjoyed our time at SeaWorld very much and found it to be a fun
- [Larison Family Vegas Vacation (2007)](https://familytravelgurus.com/larison-family-vegas-vacation-2007/) - Is Las Vegas a good destination to take your kids? We were to find out the answer to that question on our trip to Nevada during the boys' Fall break. In this report I'll discuss the family activities and shows we attended, our hotel, and other features of our vacation. By Tim Larison With Contributions
- [Cancun/Riviera Maya Resort Report (2008)](https://familytravelgurus.com/cancunriviera-maya-resort-report-2008/) - I had the opportunity in August 2008 to visit Cancun/Riviera Maya with a group of Travel Agents. Just as with every trip, this was a huge learning opportunity; I was able to see first hand many of the amazing resorts in this beautiful area of Mexico. The weather was perfect for our 3 night
- [Crown Princess Southern Caribbean Cruise (2006)](https://familytravelgurus.com/crown-princess-southern-caribbean-cruise-2006/) - Our family has taken a number of Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises in recent years, but until December 2006 we had never sailed a Southern Caribbean itinerary. We were anxious to try out a Southern Caribbean cruise on the newest ship in the Princess fleet - the Crown Princess. The cruise exceeded our expectations! In
- [Carnival Liberty 12 Night Mediterranean Cruise (2006)](https://familytravelgurus.com/carnival-liberty-12-night-mediterranean-cruise-2006/) - I have sailed on many cruises in recent years but in May 2006 I was to take my family on our greatest adventure yet – a 12 night Carnival Liberty Mediterranean sailing! This was to be a special trip for me – a 50th birthday celebration (I turned 50 on May 19th, the day we
- [Spring Break Universal Studios Florida/Disney World (2008)](https://familytravelgurus.com/spring-break-universal-studios-floridadisney-world-2008/) - When considering options for our Spring Break trip the unanimous refrain was "let's go back to Disney World!" We loved our annual trips to Disney World since the mid 90's, but in recent years we had taken advantage of other vacation opportunities. This was to be our first Disney vacation since December 2005. In addition
- [Club Med Sandpiper Florida (2008)](https://familytravelgurus.com/club-med-sandpiper-florida-2008/) - All Inclusive resorts in the United States are virtually non-existent, but we found a good one in Florida - the Club Med Sandpiper - for an early summer vacation. We had a great time at this resort! We enjoyed the sports activities offered and the excellent meals at the buffet – all included in our
- [Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (2008)](https://familytravelgurus.com/mickey’s-not-so-scary-halloween-party-2008/) - Short lines for rides, a terrific parade, free candy, awesome fireworks – we liked these features and more for our first time ever attending Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) on a Thursday night in October. By Travel agents Tim and Anne Larison, Josh (age 14) and Andrew Larison (age 14)) The Basics MNSSHP
- [Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas 2 Night Mexico Sampler Cruise (2009)](https://familytravelgurus.com/royal-caribbeans-mariner-of-the-seas-2-night-mexico-sampler-cruise-2009/) - Delicious dining, exhilarating recreation, soothing hot tubs, and exciting entertainment. You can now experience these amenities and more on the largest cruise ship sailing out of Los Angeles - Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas. After several years of sailing the Caribbean from Port Canaveral, Florida, the Mariner of the Seas has moved to the
- [Viva Las Vegas (2009)](https://familytravelgurus.com/viva-las-vegas-2009/) - Las Vegas has always been a favorite destination for us. Before we became travel agents Anne and I frequently visited Las Vegas for weekend getaways in the 90’s. After starting our agency this decade we’ve attended a good number of travel conventions in the city. In September 2009 I was fortunate to attend a travel
- [Glenwood Springs, Colorado (2008)](https://familytravelgurus.com/glenwood-springs-colorado-2008/) - A favorite getaway for us in our home state is a train trip and stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Glenwood Springs is famous for its Hot Springs pool (link). In this review we'll discuss the major parts of the trip (the train ride, our time at the Hot Springs, the hotel we stayed at, and
- [Kauai and Maui, Hawaii Review (2007)](https://familytravelgurus.com/kauai-and-maui-hawaii-review-2007/) - I had the opportunity to travel to Hawaii on a Travel Agent Familiarization Tour, otherwise known as a Fam. Tim and I had been to Oahu and the big island before and now I had the opportunity to visit Kauai and Maui. I’d like to share with you the highlights of my trip to these
- [Disney Dream 3 Night Bahamas Cruise (2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-dream-3-night-bahamas-cruise/) - We were fortunate to be one of the first passengers to sail on the new Disney Dream cruise ship! Rather than give a detailed review in words we instead created the video below to show the features of this great ship. By Tim and Anne Larison
- [CLazyU Colorado Guest Ranch (2009)](https://familytravelgurus.com/clazyu-colorado-guest-ranch-2009/) - Yee haw! For our 2009 summer vacation the Larison family stayed in their home state of Colorado for a fun week long adventure at the C-Lazy-U Guest Ranch near Granby. We experienced horseback riding, camping, and many other activities in our time at C-Lazy-U all backed with the Ranch’s friendly Western Hospitality. By Tim Larison,
- [Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas (2009)](https://familytravelgurus.com/royal-caribbeans-oasis-of-the-seas-2009/) - The biggest and best yet! We were in the first group of travel agents to sail on Royal Caribbean’s huge new ship, the Oasis of the Seas, for a special 2 night travel agent cruise November 20-21, 2009. We were very impressed with the Oasis and give a report of our impressions below. By Tim
- [Cruising For The First Time - Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas 7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise (2010)](https://familytravelgurus.com/cruising-for-the-first-time-royal-caribbeans-mariner-of-the-seas-7-night-mexican-riviera-cruise-2010/) - I have enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and internationally for over 20 years, but had never experienced a cruise until I took the 7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise, offered by Royal Caribbean, in May. 2010. By Phyllis Larison, Travel Agent My brother, Tim Larison, is a successful travel agent and he and his
- [Ireland Escorted Tour (2010)](https://familytravelgurus.com/ireland-escorted-tour-2010/) - Our family has experienced many types of vacations – from cruising to fly and drive – but this trip I was able to explore Ireland on an Escorted Coach Tour! In February, 2010, I joined a group of travel agents on a five night adventure. Our host, CIE Tours, wanted to give this group
- [Royal Caribbean Splendour Greek Isle Cruise (2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/royal-caribbean-splendour-greek-isle-cruise-2011/) - Of all of the cruises we've now done, this is one of the top ones I think. Warm weather, interesting variety of ports, and something for everyone. They said multiple times that the Splendour was the smallest ship in the RCCL fleet, but had the best weather. It was the perfect ship for this cruise
- [Arizona Grand Resort (2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/arizona-grand-resort-2011/) - Our family had a wonderful stay at the Arizona Grand Resort in the Phoenix, Arizona area in late May 2011. As part of our stay we met Michael Sanchez, Director of Travel Agent Sales, for the resort. In this report we'll interview Michael about the resort features, and then give our family's impressions of our
- [Carnival Liberty 7 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise (2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/carnival-liberty-7-night-eastern-caribbean-cruise-2011/) - We originally booked Family Travel Gurus client Carole McKeown of Denver on a Royal Caribbean cruise in early June for a special getaway with her niece. When her niece's school schedule changed causing them to move their travel date by a week, the Royal Caribbean price jumped significantly. We recommended this Carnival Liberty cruise instead
- [Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas 7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise (2010)](https://familytravelgurus.com/royal-caribbeans-mariner-of-the-seas-7-night-mexican-riviera-cruise-2010/) - Our third cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas was our best yet! We sailed a 7 night Mexican Riviera cruise on the Mariner in May 2010 with our 16 year old sons Andrew and Josh and Tim’s sister Phyllis. Pictured below is us zip lining in Puerto Vallarta; we tell about this exciting
- [Disney Wonder Alaska Cruise (2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-wonder-alaska-cruise-2011/) - Amy from Virginia on her family's Disney Wonder Alaska cruise in July 2011: We had a great cruise. The weather was fantastic---"hot" for Alaska (71 degrees) and no rain. We spent four days in Vancouver before the cruise. Very relaxing. We stayed at the Pan Pacific, right at the cruise dock at Canada Place. It
- [Team Heetland Rides The Mickelson Trail (July 2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/team-heetland-rides-the-mickelson-trail-july-2011/) - Overview Join us on our biking trip across the Black Hills! This trip log is about the Heetland family riding mountain bikes across the Black Hills of South Dakota in July 2011, along the Mickelson Trail. Team Heetland consists of 2 adults (Karen & Brent) and 2 kids, ages 13 (girl) and 11 (boy). The
- [Disney Wonder Alaska Cruise (2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-wonder-alaska-cruise-2011-2/) - Our clients Michele and Paul from Illinois on their Disney Wonder Alaska cruise in August 2011. We had booked them at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Vancouver for a pre-cruise stay, followed by a 7 night Alaska cruise. The Pan Pacific was a beautiful hotel and very conveniently located to the sights of Vancouver. I'm
- [Carnival Dream Eastern Caribbean (2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/carnival-dream-eastern-caribbean-2011/) - Our client Simon from New York is an experienced Disney Cruiser who tried something different for this vacation - a cruise on the Carnival Dream out of Port Canaveral. Simon shares his comments comparing Carnival to Disney and the ports his family enjoyed. How did your stateroom work out on the cruise? We really enjoy
- [Disney Dream 4 Night Bahamas Cruise (Oct 2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-dream-october-2011/) - Thanks to our clients Jeff and Joan from New York for sharing their experience on the Disney Dream. Interesting comparison at the end between the Dream and Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas which we had booked them on previously. Disney Dream 4 night Bahamas Cruise October 23 - 27, 2011 Sunday, October 23 Embarkation
- [Disney's Aulani Resort (Oahu, Hawaii - 2012)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneys-aulani-resort-oahu-hawaii-2012/) - A Week at the Aulani Disney Resort--My Dream Vacation! by Phyllis Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant January 2012 Hawaii is such a beautiful place for a vacation and since visiting the islands for the first time a few years ago, I have wanted to return. When I heard about the opening of the new
- [Natasja's Disney Fantasy Western Caribbean Cruise (May 2012)](https://familytravelgurus.com/natasjas-disney-fantasy-western-caribbean-cruise-may-2012/) - Our client Natasja from the Netherlands send us this report after her family's Disney Fantasy cruise in May 2012. A veteran cruiser of the original Disney ships, Natasja makes some comments comparing the new Fantasy with the old. "We had a great cruise. Wow, wow, WOW!!" she writes. We liked all our Disney cruises and
- [Disney Dream 5 Night Bahamas Cruise (2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-dream-5-night-bahamas-cruise-2011/) - Thanks to our client Jen O'Brien for sending us this review. We had set Jen and her family up with transfers to and from the port through Happy Limo in addition to booking their inside stateroom on the cruise: Our cruise was wonderful! The stateroom was ok, we will definitely go with a
- [Ben Family 10 Night Mediterranean Cruise Holland America Noordam (2011)](https://familytravelgurus.com/ben-family-10-night-mediterranean-cruise-holland-america-noordam-2011/) - When Susan Ben approached us asking for a Europe cruise vacation for her family (2 adults 2 kids ages 23, 16) we suggested this Holland America Noordam cruise departing from Civitavecchia. The Bens wanted to see Italy and departing from the port close to Rome allowed them some days in Rome before and after the
- [NFL Road Trip - Denver/Dallas!](https://familytravelgurus.com/nfl-road-trip-denverdallas/) - Earlier this month we escorted a group of Denver Bronco fans from the Denver Broncos Quarterback Club (DBQC) on a road trip to see their team play the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. It was a great experience! Family Travel Gurus co-owner Tim Larison has attended hundreds of Bronco games since getting season
- [Top 7 Things You Need to Know About Disney’s Magic Bands](https://familytravelgurus.com/top-7-things-you-need-to-know-about-disneys-magic-bands/) - Disney is introducing a bracelet called Magic Band. The battery powered band will make your next visit to Disney World extra Magical! You can personalize your Magic Band – choose your favorite color. Each Magic Band has your name printed on the underside so you won’t get them mixed up with other family members. You
- [Greg's Germany Trip Report (Summer 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/gregs-germany-trip-report-summer-2013/) - Thanks to our client Greg from Colorado for sharing his experiences on his family's Germany trip. Greg tells a wonderful story of the vacation in photos and commentary. "Thanks for a great trip!" said Greg of our planning services. Click here to see Greg's pictures with comments One problem he encountered (described on page
- [Jeff's Disney World Vacation (August 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/jeffs-disney-world-vacation-august-2013/) - Thanks to our client Jeff from Michigan for sharing his family's experiences at two Disney World resorts (Pop Century and Port Orleans Riverside), the new Magic Bands, and Magical Express. This was a two part vacation for Jeff's family - they also took a cruise on royal caribbean's oasis of the seas. Their cruise experiences
- [Get Back On Track After Vacation](https://familytravelgurus.com/get-back-on-track-after-vacation/) - Thanks to Dianne Bailey from The Conditioning Classroom for this guest blog post. Do you ever overeat on vacation? I do! Dianne's tips will help you get back on track for your fitness goals. - Tim So you went away, saw a new part of the world, and now you're back. You ate, you drank,
- [Chip's Oasis of the Seas Eastern Caribbean Cruise (August 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/chips-oasis-of-the-seas-eastern-caribbean-cruise-august-2013/) - Thanks to our client Chip from Pennsylvania for sharing his family's experience on Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas Eastern Caribbean Cruise. - Tim The cruise was awesome, there's no way to see everything on one trip. In Atlantis, we decided to book a room at the Comfort Inn (never saw the room), they give
- [Sue's Oasis of the Seas Eastern Caribbean Cruise in a Loft Suite (August 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/sues-oasis-of-the-seas-eastern-caribbean-cruise-in-a-loft-suite-august-2013/) - Thanks to our client Sue from Florida for sharing her family's experience on Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas in a two story Loft Suite. - Tim Stateroom was FANTASTIC! It was absolutely perfect for us. The sleeping accommodations for the extra 2 aren't that comfortable though. The couch folds down into a bed but
- [Wendy's Freedom of the Seas Eastern Caribbean Cruise (July 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/wendys-freedom-of-the-seas-eastern-caribbean-cruise-july-2013/) - Thanks to our client Wendy for sharing her feedback and pictures on her family's Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Freedom of the Seas in July 2013. - Tim We loved our cruise! My mom had a wonderful time too. Thank you so much for the cupcakes. My kids enjoyed eating them. The excursions were great
- [Legoland Deutschland Review, June 2013](https://familytravelgurus.com/legoland-deutschland-review-june-2013/) - Thanks to Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Karen Waldman for submitting this review of her family's visit to Legoland Deutschland. - Tim As I was planning our road trip through Germany, I happened to notice that we would be within 10 miles of a Legoland on one of our short travel days. Upon first thought,
- [Carnival Sunshine Review - June 2013](https://familytravelgurus.com/carnival-sunshine-review-june-2013/) - Thanks to Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Karen Waldman for submitting this review of the Carnival Sunshine. - Tim During my cruising life, I’ve been on ships during their inaugural seasons, ships that were “from-scratch” new. Carnival Sunshine is currently in its inaugural season too, yet as a “re-make” of an older ship, the Carnival
- [How To Stay Fit On Vacation](https://familytravelgurus.com/how-to-stay-fit-on-vacation/) - Thanks to Denver's Dianne Bailey of The Conditioning Classroom for giving us tips below on staying fit during vacations. - Tim Leaving town for a summer get-away? If you're not careful your trip will quickly turn into a fat trap. I don't want your fitness results to disappear before you return home. Keep reading for
- [Denver Broncos/Dallas Cowboys Road Trip! (Oct 4 - 7, 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/denver-broncosdallas-cowboys-road-trip-oct-4-7-2013/) - We are partnering with Sports Travel and Tours to organize a Denver Broncos/Dallas Cowboys road trip! Four night/three day packages and three day/two night packages are available. The packages will include game tickets, round trip airport transfers, hotel accommodations, a Dallas stadium tour the day after the game, and more! Click here for more information
- [Tim's Adventure By Disney Southeast Asia trip (May 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/tims-adventure-by-disney-southeast-asia-trip-may-2013/) - Adventures By Disney Southeast Asia trip May 2013 by Tim Larison, co-owner Family Travel Gurus/Larison Travel LLP It was the trip of a lifetime! In late May 2013 I was fortunate to go on an Adventures By Disney (ABD) tour of Southeast Asia with a group of 17 other travel agents. I had never been
- [Quantum of the Seas opens for reservations in late May](https://familytravelgurus.com/quantum-of-the-seas-opens-for-reservations-in-late-may/) - Royal Caribbean's newest ship, the Quantum of the Seas, will start sailing out of her home port of Cape Liberty, New Jersey in November 2014. While the inaugural cruise date has not been set yet, we've learned that we can start booking clients on this innovative new ship on these dates: May 28th: Diamond, Diamond
- [Sharon's Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas Eastern Caribbean Cruise (March 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/sharons-royal-caribbean-independence-of-the-seas-eastern-caribbean-cruise-march-2013/) - Thanks to our client Sharon from Georgia for sharing this trip report on her and her husband's Eastern Caribbean cruise on Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas. The Independence of the Seas (IOS) was a beautiful ship - our stateroom was lovely. It was my first time having a Promenade view room and I was
- [Julie's Disney Bahamas Cruise from Miami  (April 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/julies-disney-bahamas-cruise-from-miami-april-2013/) - (thanks to our client Julie from Michigan for sharing this trip report on her family's Disney cruise from the port of Miami) We enjoyed all of our shore excursions. We went on a bike tour of Key West, and it rained all day! We still managed to have a great time and the guide was
- [Julie's Disney Fantasy Western Caribbean Trip Report (April 2013)](https://familytravelgurus.com/julies-disney-fantasy-western-caribbean-trip-report-april-2013/) - (thanks to our client Julie from Wisconsin for sharing this trip report from her family's Disney Fantasy cruise in April 2013) We had a great cruise. The Fantasy is beautiful! However, I really think I prefer the size of the smaller ships, and I think the (Disney) Wonder is still my favorite. I think the
- [Alyeska Resort Near Anchorage](https://familytravelgurus.com/alyeska/) - This September I was fortunate to stay at the Alyeska Resort near Anchorage on a travel agent tour of the area. What a resort this is! Our guide said it was the best resort in all of Alaska, and it did not disappoint. For starters, I liked the mountainous setting of the Alyeska. Only 40
- [Feast at Lele (Luau in Lahaina, Maui)](https://familytravelgurus.com/feast-at-lele-luau-in-lahaina-maui/) - Thanks to familytravelgurus.com travel consultant Karen Waldman for contributing this report of her family's Hawaiian luau experience. Feast at Lele Luau in Lahaina, Maui June 2012 As the sun set in an array of colors, we enjoyed Harore Kumara from New Zealand (roasted mushrooms with sweet potatoes) and reflected on how we got here. It
- [Renewing Your Passport by Mail](https://familytravelgurus.com/renewing-your-passport-by-mail/) - Did you know you can renew your passport by U.S. Mail? You can renew your passport by mail if: Your passport is undamaged and can be submitted with your application. Was issued when you were age 16 or older. Was issued within the last 15 years. Was issued with your current name or you can
- [Now Jade Cancun Review](https://familytravelgurus.com/now-jade-cancun-review/) - Now Jade, Riviera Cancun, Mexico December 2012 Over the Holiday season, Karen’s clients from Colorado spent a wonderfully relaxing 10 days at the Now Jade all-inclusive resort just outside Puerto Morelos, Mexico, on the Yucatan coast. Following is a review of the trip, from the perspectives of both the Mom and Dad. Also along for
- [Kauai Helicopter Tour](https://familytravelgurus.com/kauai-helicopter-tour/) - by Tim Larison, co-owner familytravelgurus.com/Larison Travel LLP In January 2012 we took a terrific helicopter tour of the island of Kauai (Hawaii) with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. It was our first time in a helicopter and we enjoyed the experience very much! Our veteran pilot spoke to us throughout the flight on his microphone, describing the
- [Kenai Fjords scenic cruising](https://familytravelgurus.com/kenai-fjords-scenic-cruising/) - by Tim Larison, co-owner Family Travel Gurus/Larison Travel LLP In September 2012 I sailed on a wonderful day cruise out of Seward, Alaska touring the Kenai Fjords National Park with Major Marine tours. This was my second experience with Major Marine, I had taken my wife and 11 year old twin boys in 2005 on
- [Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo a Joy to Visit](https://familytravelgurus.com/ixtapazihuatanejo-a-joy-to-visit/) - by Anne Larison, co-owner familytravelgurus.com/Larison Travel They are not easy to pronounce, but a joy to visit! I’m referring to the cities of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. I was fortunate to be able to visit Ixtapa & Zihuatanejo in October 2012. In anticipation of daily non-stop Value Flights from
- [Two Days In Talkeetna](https://familytravelgurus.com/two-days-in-talkeetna/) - by Tim Larison, co-owner familytravelgurus.com/Larison Travel This September I visited Talkeetna, Alaska for two days. Talkeetna, on the edge of Denali National Park, gave me a wonderful Alaska experience. I stayed at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge just outside of town. A great property with all the modern conveniences yet located in the middle of the
- [Darth at Disneyland (video)](https://familytravelgurus.com/darth-at-disneyland-video/) - We came across this amusing video today from Disney featuring Darth Vader at Disneyland. Disney owns the Star Wars franchise (just announced this week). We are big Star Wars fans, and we look forward to what the creative minds at Disney can do with the series when a new Star Wars film comes out in
- [Inteview with Michelle Van Deusen of Royal Caribbean Cruise Line](https://familytravelgurus.com/inteview-with-michelle-van-deusen-of-royal-caribbean-cruise-line/) - Tim recently chatted with Michelle Van Deusen from Royal Caribbean about the latest news with that cruise line. Tim: When I sailed on the Oasis of the Seas in January I was very impressed with the entertainment options presented (especially "Hairspray the Musical"). Tell us about some of the entertainment available on Royal Caribbean ships.
- [Interview with Alicia Steuart of Carnival Cruise Line](https://familytravelgurus.com/interview-with-alicia-steuart-of-carnival-cruise-line/) - We recently talked to Alicia Steuart about the latest developments with Carnival Cruise Line: Family Travel Gurus: The Carnival Breeze just came out this summer and the Carnival Sunshine has its inaugural cruise in April 2013. What are some of the new features of these new ships and what itineraries will they be sailing? We
- [Disney's California Adventure - Fun In Hollywood Land](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneys-california-adventure-fun-in-hollywood-land/) - by Phyllis Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Disney's California Adventure has many popular attractions, including the newly opened Cars Land, but an area of the park that has smaller crowds and great entertainment is Hollywood Land. The Disney Animation Building on Hollywood Boulevard features wonderful interactive exhibits about the Disney animation process. As you
- [Snapshot Story: Disney Dream At Night](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-disney-dream-at-night/) - Thanks to our client Scott from Missouri for sharing this photo with us. "The picture was taken July 3rd 2012 on the 5-night Bahamas cruise on the Disney Dream. Cruise overall was great - first time on the new ship, and we appreciated the room upgrades. Everything was shiny and new, and the entertainment was
- [Universal Studios Hollywood Review](https://familytravelgurus.com/universal-studios-hollywood-review/) - by Phyllis Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant Universal Studios Hollywood is a great place to bring the family and enjoy a day surrounded by all of the action and fun of Hollywood movies. On a recent visit I was impressed by the variety and quality of entertainment, the fast moving lines (in contrast
- [Snapshot Story: Tulum Mayan Ruins](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-tulum-mayan-ruins/) - Thanks to our client Tammy from Kentucky for sharing these pictures of her visit to the Tulum Mayan Ruins in Mexico. She visited with her son on a shore excursion from a Carnival Dream cruise. Our first excursion we took in Cozumel was to Tulum..it was a long ride!!! But very worth it---it was beautiful!
- [Cars Land Video](https://familytravelgurus.com/cars-land-video/) - Disneyland's California Adventure Theme Park a new 'land' recently opened to the public - Cars Land on June 15, 2012. Family Travel Gurus co-owner Anne Larison was fortunate to visit Cars Land the day before it opened to the public. "Fans of the Disney movie Cars will be thrilled with the theme of the rides,
- [Snapshot Story: Horseshoe Bay In Bermuda](https://familytravelgurus.com/horseshoebay/) - Thanks to our client Dale from Massachusetts for sharing pictures of her family at Horseshoe Bay in Bermuda. We had booked them on a NCL Dawn cruise from Boston. "We loved Bermuda. It was so clean and the beaches were wonderful," Dale wrote. Us on top of a hill overlooking Horseshoe Bay:
- [Teresa's Wonderful Disney Alaska Cruise (June 2012)](https://familytravelgurus.com/teresas-wonderful-disney-alaska-cruise-june-2012/) - Thanks to our client Teresa from Missouri for sharing this trip report of her and her husband's 7 night Disney Wonder Alaska cruise in June 2012. This was a wonderful cruise! Thank you so much for all the arrangements you made for us. Everything worked out just like you said it would!! We are glad
- [Royal Caribbean vs Disney Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/royal-caribbean-vs-disney-cruise/) - One of our regular Disney cruise clients, David from New Jersey, sailed on Royal Caribbean for the first time in June 2012. Thanks to David for sharing his thoughts on this Royal Caribbean Bermuda cruise, and how this experience compared to his past Disney Cruises. We enjoyed the cruise and RCI. Of course a 9-night
- [How To Take Better Travel Photos](https://familytravelgurus.com/how-to-take-better-travel-photos/) - Our guest blog post this week is from Brian Walski of Colorado Visions Photography. Brian gives some good tips on vacation photos and on photography in general. As a Denver professional photographer for over 20-years, my assignments have taken me to 49 states (I’m still hoping for that shoot in Hawaii) and 22 foreign countries.
- [Four Reasons People Gain Weight On Vacation](https://familytravelgurus.com/four-reasons-people-gain-weight-on-vacation/) - Today's guest blog post is courtesy of Dianne Bailey and Grant Pettegrew from the Conditioning Classroom. Some good tips on watching your weight on vacation! Vacations are a time to get away from the grind of everyday life – to indulge mind and body in relaxation and enjoyment. Unfortunately all that indulgence typically leads to
- [The Celebrite Qsine Experience](https://familytravelgurus.com/the-celebrite-qsine-experience/) - Family Travel Gurus co-owners Tim and Anne Larison recently experienced Celebrity's Qsine with their 18 year old sons Josh and Andrew. Here's a report from the Larison family on this unique specialty restaurant. Our favorite meal on our Celebrity Millennium 5 night West Coast cruise was without a doubt our dinner at Qsine - an
- [Snapshot Story: Little Girl At The Magic Kingdom](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-special-trip-at-disney-world/) - This picture sums up what our Disney World trip meant for us. Everything went very smoothly with the trip. Our family enjoyed eating at Disneyworld - we enjoyed the 1900 Cafe at the Grand Floridan since my daughter was able to interact with Mary Poppins, Les Chef de France since she got to talk with
- [Question of the week highlights: What do you think of Disney's Old Key West Resort?](https://familytravelgurus.com/question-of-the-week-highlights-what-do-you-think-of-disneys-old-key-west-resort/) - On our Disney discussion lists we throw out a question each week for discussion. Here are some of the responses we received for: "If you have stayed at Disney's Old Key West resort in the past, how have you enjoyed your stay(s) there? What are the strengths of this resort compared to the other DVC
- [Snapshot Story: St Maarten's Maho Beach](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-st-maartens-maho-beach/) - Our clients Matt and Ginny from North Carolina sent us these pictures of Maho Beach in St Maarten. We booked them on a Celebrity Eclipse cruise that visited St Maarten as part of an Eastern Caribbean itinerary. Maho Beach is just past the St Maarten airport and features planes flying low over the beach. "I
- [Unique wedding proposal at Downtown Disney](https://familytravelgurus.com/unique-wedding-proposal-at-downtown-disney/) - Thanks to Bryan on our dvctalk list for sharing this video of a unique "flash mob" wedding proposal at Downtown Disney in Disneyland: http://youtu.be/Su1YLAjty-U
- [Aulani Reef At Disney's Aulani Resort](https://familytravelgurus.com/aulani-reef-at-disneys-aulani-resort/) - Here's a video from Disney showing features of Aulani Reef at their new Aulani resort in Hawaii: http://youtu.be/5w3FKzbC7tE We had one client staying on Oahu ask if she could go visit Aulani without staying there. Disney says no, "Aulani is set up for resort guests only" was the reply we received when we checked into
- [Hire A Pet Sitter While On Vacation](https://familytravelgurus.com/hire-a-pet-sitter-while-on-vacation/) - Having pets can sometimes put a crimp into family vacation plans. Anne Manske of Lucky Mutts and More has a solution - hire a professional pet sitter! We recently discussed with Anne the services she provides and the benefits of hiring a pet sitter in general. FamilyTravelGurus: What are some of the advantages of having
- [Welcome To Family Travel Gurus 2.0](https://familytravelgurus.com/welcome-to-family-travel-gurus-2-0/) - Today we rolled out a new version of our Family Travel Gurus website. Here are some new features on the site: More Disney info! You will notice on the front page we have icons for the five major Disney products (Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland, Aulani, and Adventures by Disney). If you click on
- [Disney Magic at Tortola](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-disney-magic-at-tortola/) - "Here's the Disney Magic docked at Tortola...this was our favorite port! We took the island tour and had a blast!!! We went all over the island and then to Cane Garden Bay. This was awesome!! " from our client Tammy from Kentucky.
- [Palo on the Disney Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-palo-on-the-disney-cruise/) - "Our favorite restaurant on any cruise ship is Palo on the Disney Cruise. We were one of the fortunate 100 passengers (out of 2700) to eat brunch at Palo on our October 2008 cruise. Here is our waiter Zoron from Bosnia describing to us the many food choices available. I loved the shrimp, Margaretta
- [Shamu At SeaWorld](https://familytravelgurus.com/shamu/) - "We love to spend a day at SeaWorld when visiting Orlando! Here is one of my favorite pictures I took at the Shamu show last year." from our client Tammy from Kentucky www.familytravelgurus.com
- [Family Fun In Tahiti](https://familytravelgurus.com/family-fun-in-tahiti/) - "My favorite place in the entire world is French Polynesia, also known as Tahiti and her Islands. I have traveled there alone, as a romantic getaway and most recently as a family - with my husband and our three young daughters. It is not often thought of as a family destination, but I
- [Disney ships meet at Castaway Cay](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-disney-ships-meet-at-castaway-cay/) - "While we were at Castaway Cay on the last day of our Disney Magic cruise (December 20-27, 2008), a familiar-looking ship (the Disney Wonder) just happened to cruise by the island and toot its 7-note horn in greeting. Captain Tom told us it was only the 3rd time in his 8 years that the Magic
- [Fun on Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas](https://familytravelgurus.com/royalcaribbeanenchantment/) - "This is a picture of my daughter from our September 08 Royal Caribbean cruise (the one that you helped me get the suite for!!!) We SO loved the crew on the Enchantment of the Seas. They truly entered our hearts more so than even our Disney cruises. We also took the Tulum and Beach Break tour
- [Cinderella's Castle Breakfast](https://familytravelgurus.com/cinderellas-castle-breakfast/) - "Here is a special picture of my granddaughters at Cinderella's Castle. This is one of the mice {Perla or Susie}. The girls loved eating at the castle. It was a surprise for them (we did not tell them ahead of time where we were going) and so it was extra special!" From our client Dawn
- [ATX Rail Expedition](https://familytravelgurus.com/snapshot-story-atx-rail-expedition/) - "The best and most memorable excursion for us was in Cozumel. We booked the ATX Rail Expedition through Shore Trips and it was a blast. (6 of us) went on this excursion and every single one of us was unprepared for what we were in for. We read that close-toed shoes were mandatory however they
- [Best Las Vegas Pools](https://familytravelgurus.com/best-las-vegas-pools/) - According to a July 2010 article in the Denver Post, here are some of the best pools in Las Vegas. They are listed by category: Best All-Around The Mirage Resort & Casino Highlights: Tropical setup with lagoons and soothing waterfalls, plenty of palm trees for shade, terrific family and adult offerings. Best For Families Mandalay
- [First look at the real Disney Dream](https://familytravelgurus.com/first-look-at-the-real-disney-dream-video/) - We're back from an extended cruise vacation and it is time to start blogging again! Here's a video from Disney today showing the real Disney Dream (not a model or simulation) - the final "block" of the ship was put in place today. We can't wait to sail on the Dream in January! (we'll have
- [Pelican Plunge at Castaway Cay](https://familytravelgurus.com/pelican-plunge-at-castaway-cay/) - Disney Cruise Line has added a new waterslide at their private island, Castaway Cay, which looks like fun! Castaway Cay is our favorite cruise line "private island" and the Pelican Plunge promises to be a good addition! If viewing this on facebook click here to see the video
- [Disney Cruise tilt shift video](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-cruise-tilt-shift-video/) - Last month Disney published a video that really captures the Disney cruise experience in just 2 1/2 minutes: We love the pictures of Castaway Cay, and the Disney Wonder sailing away. Castaway Cay is one of our favorite spots on earth! If viewing this on facebook click here to see the video
- [More details coming on the Disney Dream](https://familytravelgurus.com/more-details-coming-on-the-disney-dream/) - More details are slowly coming out about the new Disney Dream cruise ship, with her first sailing in January. Last week Disney announced a 2nd "adults only" restaurant, Remy, that they describe as "the Victoria and Albert's at sea". Remy will be in addition to the long time Disney favorite Palo on the Dream. This
- [Favorite Disney World Thrill Ride](https://familytravelgurus.com/favorite-disney-world-thrill-ride/) - Here's a short video from Disney asking guests: "What is your favorite thrill ride at Disney World?" For the Larison family our choices: Tim: Test Track Anne: Tower of Terror Andrew (age 16): Rock 'N' Roller Coaster Josh (age 16): Tower of Terror How about yours? If viewing this in facebook click here to see
- [Disneyland tips video](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneyland-tips-video/) - Lots of good tips for a visit to Disneyland and California Adventure in this video from Disney: I didn't know about the lockers being free for the first 2 hours near Grizzly Run. Any tips you didn't know about from this video? If viewing this on facebook or linkedin click here to see the video
- [Captain Eo to reopen Feb 23rd](https://familytravelgurus.com/captain-eo-to-reopen-feb-23rd/) - Captain Eo, starring Michael Jackson, a classic 3-D video that played in the Disney theme parks in the 1980's, is returning to Disneyland starting February 23rd. This video from Disney interviews fans about their best memories of Captain Eo. For me, I was amazed by the 3-D effects, the dancing, and the music in the
- [Drew Brees at Disney World](https://familytravelgurus.com/drew-brees-at-disney-world/) - The Super Bowl MVP (or winning quarterback) often is shown after the game saying "I'm going to Disney World!" Drew Brees got his dream on Monday as this video from Disney shows: If viewing this on LinkedIn or Facebook click here to see the video.
- [Disneyland Overnight](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneyland-overnight/) - Here's an interesting video from Disney about all the work that goes on in the Disneyland Park overnight. Didn't know they refueled the 100+ cars at Autopia each night! If viewing this on Facebook or Linked In, click here to see the video
- [Behind the scenes look at Disney's Club 33](https://familytravelgurus.com/behind-the-scenes-look-at-disneys-club-33/) - We came across this great video today giving the history and behind the scenes look at Disneyland's Exclusive Club 33:  If viewing this on Facebook or Linked In - click here to see the video It's a shame that Walt Disney died just before the Club was completed and never got a chance to
- [walts opening days](https://familytravelgurus.com/walts-opening-days/) - As many of you know Disney always has a big celebration when they open a new attraction. This goes back to the days of Walt Disney, who always had a big party in introducing the projects he was involved with. This video from Disney shows some of Walt's "opening days": If viewing this on facebook
- [Disney's World Of Color - Part 2](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneys-world-of-color-part-2/) - Here's another Disney video with more on the World of Color show planned for Disneyland later this year. We have always loved the Fantasmic show and World of Color looks like it may be even better! If viewing this on Facebook or LinkedIn, click here to see the video
- [Disney's World Of Color](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneys-world-of-color/) - Here's a video of a new feature planned at Disney's California Adventure Park - the World Of Color. This promises to be a great night time entertainment attraction! If viewing this on facebook or linked in click here to see the video.
- [Changes coming to Disney's California Adventure](https://familytravelgurus.com/changes-coming-to-disneys-california-adventure/) - This video from Disney reveals the exciting changes planned for the California Adventure park. Unlike some we always liked California Adventure and these new additions will make it even better. If viewing this on Facebook or LinkedIn click here to see the video.
- [Disney Cruise Line Is Great For Kids](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-cruise-line-is-great-for-kids/) - Disney Cruise Line continues to be a great option for a family vacation. We've been on many cruises with our kids and while most ships we've experienced have had excellent kids programs, Disney's offerings are unique. We especially like that Disney kids clubs are open for more hours when compared to other lines (9 am
- [Surfing a big wave!](https://familytravelgurus.com/surfing-a-big-wave/) - Here's an interesting video we came across of a surfer on a BIG wave in Maui: If viewing this in facebook or linkedin click here to see the video.
- [Behind the scenes: Osborne Lights](https://familytravelgurus.com/behind-the-scenes-osborne-lights/) - Here's a short video from Disney with a behind the scenes look at the Osborne Lights - an impressive holiday lighting display at Disney World. We always make time to visit the Osborne Lights when in Disney World in December - one of our favorite attractions! Didn't know about the hidden "purple cat" mentioned towards
- [Eurodam decorated for Christmas](https://familytravelgurus.com/eurodam-decorated-for-christmas/) - Christmas is a wonderful time to take a cruise. While it is too late for 2009 we can give you many options for Christmas 2010 and some for Christmas 2011. Early December is also a good time to cruise - many of the ships are still decorated for the Holidays and rates are less when
- [Rockin Heigh Ho](https://familytravelgurus.com/rockin-heigh-ho/) - Here's a video from Disney with a Rockin version of "Heigh-Ho" from Los Lobos performed in front of the Germany Pavillion at Epcot. Heigh Ho never sounded so good! If viewing this from Facebook or LinkedIn click here to see the video.
- [Disneyland holiday decorations](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneyland-holiday-decorations/) - Here's a fun video from Disney showing the holiday decorations at Disneyland over the years. Merry Christmas to you all! If viewing this on Facebook or LinkedIn click here to see the video
- [Holiday lighting tips from Disney](https://familytravelgurus.com/holiday-lighting-tips-from-disney/) - Here's a Disney video with some holiday lighting tips - from an expert involved in the Osborne Lights display at the Disney Studios. The Osborne light display is one of our favorite areas to visit in Disney World during the holiday season. The paper towel tube tip for holding light strings (at the end of
- [Steam Trains at Disney Parks](https://familytravelgurus.com/steam-trains-at-disney-parks/) - Watch the video below from Disney on the history of steam trains at the Disney parks. Interesting that Walt had a steam train setup around his house in the late 40's, and that was a hint of things to come at Disneyland. We always try to ride the train at least once in our visits
- [A Day At Epcot Video](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-day-at-epcot-video/) - Here's a video from Disney about a typical day at Epcot. Unlike the Magic Kingdom video they had a few weeks ago this one has fireworks at the end! If viewing this on facebook click here to see the video.
- [Our Oasis of the Seas slideshow](https://familytravelgurus.com/our-oasis-of-the-seas-slideshow/) - This week we posted on our main www.familytravelgurus.com website and facebook page a slide show of our Oasis of the Seas cruise. We were on a special travel agent cruise; Royal Caribbean invited us and we were excited to be one of the first to experience this wonderful ship! (the largest cruise ship in the
- [Disneyland Thanksgiving Parade](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneyland-thanksgiving-parade/) - Happy Thanksgiving! Here's a video of the National Thanksgiving turkey, "Courage", in a parade at Disneyland today: If viewing this on facebook click here to see the video. www.familytravelgurus.com
- [Magic Kingdom transforms for the holidays](https://familytravelgurus.com/magic-kingdom-transforms-for-the-holidays/) - Here's a cool video from Disney showing how the entrance to the Magic Kingdom is transformed from a October theme to the December holidays. If viewing this on facebook click here to see the video www.familytravelgurus.com
- [Oasis of the Seas Bridge and Shipyard](https://familytravelgurus.com/oasis-of-the-seas-bridge-and-shipyard/) - For those of you interested in the "behind the scenes" workings of a cruise ship here's a video from Royal Caribbean on the Oasis of the Seas. The operation of the Bridge is described as well as some details on the construction of this huge megaship. If viewing this on facebook click here to see
- [Holidays at Disney World](https://familytravelgurus.com/holidays-at-disney-world/) - Heart warming Disney commercial about kids from around the globe coming to Disney World for the holidays. Our family's best Disney World trips have been in early December with the special Disney touches for the holidays - great time to visit! If viewing this on facebook click here to see the video www.familytravelgurus.com
- [Holland America floats out Nieuw Amsterdam](https://familytravelgurus.com/holland-america-floats-out-nieuw-amsterdam/) - The new ships keep coming! Holland America floating out of its newest vessel, the “Nieuw Amsterdam” at a shipyard in Italy last week. From this video simulation this ship looks great! She will first sail in the summer of 2010.
- [Bay Lake Tower View Of Fireworks](https://familytravelgurus.com/bay-lake-tower-view-of-fireworks/) - You can get a great view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the rooftop deck of the new Bay Lake Tower. Disney shows this in the following video. Bay Lake Tower is a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort but it is also available to non-DVC members. Contact us if you'd like a price quote for
- [Oasis of Seas Barely Clears a Bridge](https://familytravelgurus.com/oasis-of-seas-barely-clears-a-bridge/) - Here's a cool video from Royal Caribbean about their new Oasis of the Seas, the largest cruise ship afloat, barely making it under a bridge on her maiden voyage. If viewing this on facebook click here to see the video www.familytravelgurus.com
- [Pirates League At Disney World](https://familytravelgurus.com/pirates-league-at-disney-world/) - Want to look like a Pirate? The Pirates League attraction at Disney World's Magic Kingdom (Adventureland) gives you a chance to do that. See this short video from Disney for an example of the face painting available. Reservations can be made at (407) WDW-CREW (939-2739). Theme park admission required. Open 7 days a week from
- [Disney announces new cruise ship details](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-announces-new-cruise-ship-details/) - Disney yesterday announced details on the first of their two new ships - the Disney Dream. The Disney Dream will sail 3,4, and 5 night Bahamas cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida starting January 26, 2011. We are already receiving a number of requests for Disney Dream reservations from our clients. This new addition to the
- [History of Disney's Haunted Mansion](https://familytravelgurus.com/history-of-disneys-haunted-mansion/) - With Halloween approaching Disney has released this great short video about the history of their Haunted Mansion Ride. The Disneyland version has a special "nightmare before christmas" theme as described at the end of this video: If you are viewing this on Facebook click here to see the video www.familytravelgurus.com
- [Princess Tiana Showboat Jubilee](https://familytravelgurus.com/princess-tiana-showboat-jubilee/) - Disney is adding a new show to Disney World's Magic Kingdom - Princess Tiana's Showboat Jubilee. "This live musical production on board a riverboat at Liberty Square features the characters, music and exuberant spirit of New Orleans based upon Walt Disney Pictures' new movie The Princess and the Frog," says the Disney news release. Watch
- [Small World refurbished at Disneyland](https://familytravelgurus.com/small-world-refurbished-at-disneyland/) - Here's a great video from Disney on the history of the "It's A Small World" ride and the changes to the current refurbished ride at Disneyland. If viewing this on Facebook see the video here www.familytravelgurus.com
- [Crystal Arts On Main Street](https://familytravelgurus.com/crystal-arts-on-main-street/) - Disney World has some interesting shops on Main Street USA. If you are like our family, sometimes you hurry through Main Street to get to the rides! But if you take some time on Main Street to explore you can discover some hidden gems, like what is shown in this glass blowing video from Disney
- [Frontier adds Mexico Flights for Winter Season](https://familytravelgurus.com/frontier-adds-mexico-flights-for-winter-season/) - Good news for Colorado residents looking for a winter get-a-way to Mexico! Frontier Airlines is adding flights from Denver to major Mexico resort areas starting December 19th. To Cancun, flights will increase from seven to 10 flights per week with new flights on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. To Cozumel, the frequency rises from three to
- [Cinderella's Coach](https://familytravelgurus.com/cinderellas-coach/) - We know many a bride's dream is be married at Disney World and ride in Cinderella's Coach. Here's a short video from Disney showing what that experience might be like: If you are viewing this on facebook see the video here www.familytravelgurus.com
- [Chef Remy at Epcot](https://familytravelgurus.com/chef-remy-at-epcot/) - We admire Disney for always adding new, interesting twists to the theme park experience. Some are small, like the one shown in this Disney Video - the character Chef Remy at Epcot's Les Chefs de France restaurant. If you are viewing this on Facebook, click here to see the video. www.familytravelgurus.com
- [Buzz Lightyear Parade At Disney World](https://familytravelgurus.com/buzz-lightyear-parade-at-disney-world/) - Cute short video from Disney of a Buzz Lightyear parade at Disney World familytravelgurus.com
- [Water art at Disney World](https://familytravelgurus.com/water-art-at-disney-world/) - Interesting video of the custodians at Disney World creating images with water. Even the maintenance people at Disney World are creative! http://www.familytravelgurus.com
- [A Day At The Magic Kingdom](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-day-at-the-magic-kingdom/) - Love this video from Disney of a day at the Magic Kingdom! http://www.familytravelgurus.com
- [September 09 Disney Vacation Club Update With Shontell Crawford](https://familytravelgurus.com/sept09shontellcrawford/) - Back in January we did our first interview with Disney Vacation Club (DVC) expert and DVC resale broker Shontell Crawford. That interview proved to be popular with our readers so we are going to make this a regular feature - checking in from time to time with Shontell on the latest about DVC. Shontell
- [Guest Ranch A Fun Family Vacation Alternative](https://familytravelgurus.com/guest-ranch-a-fun-family-vacation-alternative/) - Recently we shared a review of our fun week at C-Lazy-U Guest Ranch near Granby, Colorado. We are not the only ones to discover this alternative type of family vacation. Our client Elizabeth from Pennsylvania recently contributed her review of White Stallion Ranch in Tucson, Arizona. "I will never forget the thrill of seeing the
- [Oberammergau Passion Play in Germany](https://familytravelgurus.com/oberammergau-passion-play-in-germany/) - by Tim Larison One interesting part of being a travel agent is that you learn about places and events you were not aware of previously. I recently had this experience when I interviewed Shannon Stitt of Collette Vacations for our website. Shannon told me about the Oberammergau Passion Play. "(This event) is truly once in
- [Fun Creating Video Slideshows](https://familytravelgurus.com/fun-creating-video-slideshows/) - By Tim Larison I recently posted a video slideshow I made of our CLazyU Ranch vacation (see the slideshow here ). We took over 700 pictures and videos on our CLazyU trip and condensed those down to a few for this 10 minute video. One of the most enjoyable parts of a vacation for me
- [Princess A Great Choice for Alaska](https://familytravelgurus.com/princess-a-great-choice-for-alaska/) - We recently chatted with Carolyn Szekeres from Princess Cruises about Alaska and what Princess offers in general. "At Princess, we consider ourselves to be the Alaska leaders. We have invested so much in our Alaska product that we think we really offer the very best Alaska experience. We have been named Best Cruise Line in
- [Remembering Captain EO and Michael Jackson](https://familytravelgurus.com/remembering-captain-eo-and-michael-jackson/) - by Tim Larison With the sad passing of Michael Jackson this week I thought back to Jackson's starring role in Disney's Captain EO - a remarkable 3-D movie that played in Epcot, Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris in the late 80's and early 90's. My first visit to Disney World was as a 30 year old
- [Interview with Kathleen Kavanagh on River Cruising](https://familytravelgurus.com/interview-with-kathleen-kavanagh-on-river-cruising/) - by Tim Larison Last summer I took an Avalon River Cruise on the Danube through parts of Hungary, Austria and Germany. It was a fantastic trip! Tim was fortunate to have sailed with a river cruise “expert” on that voyage – Kathleen Kavanagh from Globus. We recently talked with Kathleen about river cruising and what’s
- [Mystere by Cirque du Soliel](https://familytravelgurus.com/mystere-by-cirque-du-soliel/) - Review by Anne Larison Want to know how to make your money last longer in Las Vegas? Get away from those slot machines and tables for a few hours and see a show. On my recent business trip to Las Vegas I tore myself away from the gambling for a few hours to see Mystere
- [Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party Review](https://familytravelgurus.com/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-review/) - Short lines for rides, a terrific parade, free candy, awesome fireworks – we liked these features and more for our first time ever attending Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) on a Thursday night in October 2008. Mom and Dad liked the "Boo To You" parade the best, featuring the Headless Horseman (pictured) riding
- [Disney's Lion King In Las Vegas](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneys-lion-king-in-las-vegas/) - by Anne Larison “What’s a Warthog Doing in Las Vegas?” This was the subject line of an email I received back in March ’09. The answer to this question is that a Broadway-caliber musical was set to open in May at the Mandalay Bay Theater – Disney Presents The Lion King. I was thrilled since
- [New Zealand - It's Just Different!](https://familytravelgurus.com/new-zealand-its-just-different/) - One destination we consistently get good reports on from our clients is New Zealand. "After one month I was surprised that I could have stayed another week or two. The New Zealand countryside is just gorgeous," wrote one client after a trip we helped arrange. "We loved New Zealand. Very progressive country and friendly people,"
- [Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas](https://familytravelgurus.com/royal-caribbeans-oasis-of-the-seas/) - We are so looking forward to the debut of Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas later this year! The Oasis will be the largest passenger ship afloat and will have many unique features - such as the Aqua Outdoor Theatre pictured to the left. "What is unique about (our new ships) is that they will
- [Disney Vacation Club Room Sizes](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-vacation-club-room-sizes/) - The table below lists the room sizes (in square feet) of different Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resorts. We've stayed at the Boardwalk Villas, Beach Club Villas, Old Key West, Wilderness Lodge Villas, and Vero Beach. Our favorite has always been the one bedroom units at Old Key West - we loved the extra room the
- [Take Me To Tuscany!](https://familytravelgurus.com/take-me-to-tuscany/) - In our travels we often meet with private tour guides that we later recommend to our clients. Scot gave our family a terrific tour of the Vatican when we were in Rome in 2006. Scot and his wife Rina now offer personalized custom tours in Italy, specializing in the Tuscany area. "Tuscany's popularity grows every
- [Carnival Dream Coming To Port Canaveral](https://familytravelgurus.com/carnival-dream-coming-to-port-canaveral/) - There's an exciting new cruise ship coming to Port Canaveral, Florida! Later this year will be the home port for the 130,000 ton Carnival Dream. She will be sailing 7 night Caribbean sailings with lots of features - an expanded spa, family staterooms that can hold 5 people, and much more. Pictured is an
- [Walt Disney owned a bowling alley?  Celebrity Sports Center in Denver](https://familytravelgurus.com/walt-disney-owned-a-bowling-alley-celebrity-sports-center-in-denver/) - by Tim Larison Did you know Walt Disney once owned a bowling alley, and that it was used to train workers for Disney World? One of the fun places to visit in my youth was Celebrity Sports Center in Denver. Celebrity was the first major Disney construction project after the completion of Disneyland. Celebrity opened
- [Concerned About Travel to Mexico?](https://familytravelgurus.com/concerned-about-travel-to-mexico/) - There has been increasing concern about travel to Mexico in recent weeks. We were on a conference call last week with representatives of Mexico tourism, several large U.S. Mexico tourism companies, and the editors of Travel Weekly (a trade publication for travel agents). The summary of what they said: The State Department advisory is not
- [Update From Mousejunkies Author Bill Burke](https://familytravelgurus.com/update-from-mousejunkies-author-bill-burke/) - A few months ago we interviewed Mousejunkies Author Bill Burke on his new Disney World book. Bill now has been featured in a special on a New Hampshire TV station that you can see here: Find out more about Mousejunkies at www.mousejunkies.com The book comes out April 1st!
- [Interview with Australia Vacation Expert Kerryn Cook](https://familytravelgurus.com/australia-vacation-interview/) - We are always looking for good companies to work with in arranging vacations for our clients. One of our favorite suppliers is Down Under Answers - a company that provides great expertise and planning for the South Pacific. We recently discussed Australia vacations with Kerryn Cook of Down Under Answers. FamilyTravelGurus: What makes Australia a great
- [Update on Disney Vacation Club with Shontell Crawford](https://familytravelgurus.com/update-on-disney-vacation-club-with-shontell-crawford/) - Our ownership in the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) gave us many fun family vacations. We started our email discussion dvctalk in 1998 - a list that has grown to over 4,000 subscribers. We recently caught up with our dvctalk list sponsor and DVC Resale broker, Shontell Crawford, to get the latest on the resale
- [Interview with Dave Lukinuk - a Disney antenna topper collector](https://familytravelgurus.com/interview-with-a-disney-antenna-topper-collector/) - by Tim Larison In our travel business we get a chance to meet lots of interesting people. Recently I talked to Dave Lukinuk of Victoria BC about his Antenna Topper Collection. Dave says he has 2500 to 3000 "toppers" in his collection with many from Disney. FamilyTravelGurus: How did you get interested in collecting Disney
- [Luxury Travel Expo In Las Vegas](https://familytravelgurus.com/luxury-travel-expo-in-las-vegas/) - by Tim Larison For the past three years I have attended the Luxury Travel Expo at the Mandalay Bay Conference Center in Las Vegas. This event, held in early December, is one of the biggest travel "trade" shows around. Every year I marvel at how many different travel suppliers and destinations are represented on the
- [Extra fees by the airlines](https://familytravelgurus.com/extra-baggage-fees-by-the-airlines/) - Those of you who fly frequently are no doubt aware that many airlines are now charging a fee for a 2nd checked bag. Recently US Airways announced they are implementing a $15 fee for your first checked bag! You can read more about the extra baggage fees for some major carriers here: American: http://tinyurl.com/6ah6kd United:
- [Introducing familytravelgurus.com](https://familytravelgurus.com/introducing-familytravelguruscom/) - by Tim Larison Today we are announcing our new familytravelgurus.com website. You may have noticed we haven't been "blogging" in the last few months. Behind the scenes we've been working on the site and we are very excited to announce this grand opening! Our goal for familytravelgurus.com is to share with you the joys of traveling
- [Minor League Baseball Road Trip](https://familytravelgurus.com/minor-league-baseball-road-trip/) - by Tim LarisonAs a lifelong baseball fan I like to take in a major league game when traveling. We have been to major league games in Seattle, Chicago, Kansas City, and St Louis in the past, in addition to many outings to watch our hometown Colorado Rockies. But this July we had a new experience
- [Getting Away From Your Job For A Vacation](https://familytravelgurus.com/getting-away-from-your-job-for-a-vacation/) - by Tim Larison Before I was a travel agent, I worked 22 years in the telecommunications industry as a software engineer. In my previous career I often came across co-workers who would never take a vacation. One person I knew got this feedback on his year end performance review: "You've got to start taking time
- [A Family Train Trip Through The Colorado Rockies](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-family-train-trip-through-the-colorado-rockies/) - by Tim LarisonThis spring we had an old fashioned travel experience - we took a train trip from Denver to Glenwood Springs, Colorado! After years of family travel on planes, cruise ships, cars, and buses, the Larison family had different reactions to train travel.Anne and I loved the relaxed nature of the trip. On our
- [Glenwood Hot Springs Pool](https://familytravelgurus.com/glenwood-hot-springs-pool/) - by Tim LarisonThe Larison family has taken many exciting vacations to far away destinations (Caribbean cruises, Europe, Mexico, Hawaii, etc) but often a trip close to home can be just as fun. We found this to be true last week during Andrew and Josh's spring break. We took a trip to Glenwood Springs, Colorado -
- [Tips for keeping your luggage on vacation with you…](https://familytravelgurus.com/tips-for-keeping-your-luggage-on-vacation-with-you…/) - by Anne Larison We have been very fortunate during the many trips we have taken around the world that we have never suffered the problem of lost luggage.We did, however, have one instance in which our bag was damaged; fortunately the bag was still usable.Here are some tips dealing with bags and luggage as you
- [Southern Caribbean Splendour](https://familytravelgurus.com/southern-caribbean-splendour/) - by Tim Larison We have been on a number of Caribbean cruises (Eastern and Western itineraries), but none were quite like our December 7 night Southern Caribbean cruise on the Crown Princess. We found this cruise to be different than our other Caribbean cruises in these ways: 1. The weather was warmer. The itinerary sailed
- [A Traveling Mom’s tips for the Beach](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-traveling-mom’s-tips-for-the-beach/) - Many of our cruise shore excursions have involved beach time. In this picture, Tim took a photo of the boys and I enjoying a beautiful beach in St Lucia adjacent to one of the Pitons.Here are a few tips for making the most of these amazing beach experiences:Many shore excursions involve a public beach next
- [A busy day in the life of a travel agent](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-busy-day-in-the-life-of-a-travel-agent/) - Anne and I often hear comments from our friends and acquaintances - "I wish I had your job!" or "What a great job you have!" While we are very thankful to have a successful travel business and we have enjoyed many great trips, some days can be extremely busy. Wednesday this week was one of
- [Travel can be educational, too!](https://familytravelgurus.com/travel-can-be-educational-too/) - by Tim LarisonWe've taken our sons Andrew and Josh all over the World on our vacations - from the glaciers of Alaska to the canals of Venice. These trips have not only been great fun, but educational, too! Here are Andrew and Josh sampling bananas right from the plant on a December 2006 visit to
- [A Traveling Mom's Tip: Keeping kids entertained on the journey](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-traveling-moms-tip-keeping-kids-entertained-on-the-journey/) - by Anne Larison .We have been traveling as a family for over 8 years. We spend time prior to each trip preparing not just for the destination, but also for the journey. That's me at the left with Andrew and Josh in their younger days (age 6) all prepared for a new trip.Here are a
- [First time snorkeling](https://familytravelgurus.com/first-time-snorkeling/) - On our Southern Caribbean cruise in December 2006 12 year olds Josh and Andrew experienced snorkeling for the first time (pictured to the left are Josh and Andrew snorkeling with Anne near the island of Antigua). What did the boys think of this experience?Josh:"My first time snorkeling was really fun. After we looked at some
- [See The World Before You Leave It](https://familytravelgurus.com/see-the-world-before-you-leave-it/) - by Tim LarisonRecently I was planning an international trip for a client of mine and she said "this is one place I want to see before I die." She was in her 30's in fine health, yet had a sense that we all have only so much time to pursue our dreams in this life.The
- [A ship weighs how many tons?](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-ship-weighs-how-many-tons/) - by Tim LarisonIn selling cruises I often come across figures for how many tons a particular ship weighs. Both Disney ships, for example, each weigh 83,000 tons. If you are like me, it is difficult to visualize how big 83,000 tons is! But the weight of a vessel is useful when comparing one ship to
- [A fun activity in Ocho Rios - climbing Dunn River Falls!](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-fun-activity-in-ocho-rios-climbing-dunn-river-falls/) - by Tim and Anne LarisonOne activity we like to recommend to clients on cruises when visiting Ocho Rios, Jamaica is to take a climb up Dunn River Falls. This is a unique excursion - there's nothing on a Western Caribbean cruise quite like it.Most cruise lines will have an excursion you can book to the
- [Josh rates video games on different cruise lines](https://familytravelgurus.com/josh-rates-video-games-on-different-cruise-lines/) - by Josh Larison (age 12)On all of the cruises that I have been on, there have been great video games. On Disney there were a lot of computers with a bunch of games on them. The only bad thing was that I didn’t get to play on them very much because there were a lot
- [A kid's view of Italy](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-kids-view-of-italy/) - by Andrew Larison (age 12)(pictured on the left in his baseball hat with twin brother Josh at the Trevi Fountain in Rome, May 2006)This is my view of Rome and basically the whole country of Italy. A lot of people think kids wouldn’t like Italy, but I did. Besides having no clue what anyone is
- [Whale watching excursions](https://familytravelgurus.com/whale-watching-excursions/) - by Tim LarisonOne of our favorite shore excursions to take on a cruise is a whale watching excursion. We have enjoyed whale watching in Alaska, Cabo San Lucas Mexico, and in Hawaii. Here are some tips on scheduling a whale watching excursion on your cruise:1. Check if there is a local tour operator that offers
- [Passport Rules Tighten](https://familytravelgurus.com/passport-rules-tighten/) - by Anne LarisonIf you are planning a trip outside the US anytime after December 31, 2006, new identification requirements will be in effect. Starting December 31, a passport will be required for travel by sea or air to Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Central and South America. By December 31, 2007, a passport will
- [Swim With The Stingrays?](https://familytravelgurus.com/swim-with-the-stingrays/) - by Tim LarisonWith the recent tragic death of Steve Irwin (fatally injured by a stingray sting off the coast of Australia) some cruisers are thinking twice about doing a "swim with the stingrays" type of shore excursion that is commonly offered at some caribbean destinations (Grand Cayman for one).We discussed this on our allcruisetalk email
- [Seeing Kilauea From The Air](https://familytravelgurus.com/seeing-kilauea-from-the-air/) - by Tim LarisonWhen Anne and I visited Hawaii's Big Island on a Norwegian Cruise, one of the best excursions we did was flying over the active Kilauea volcano. We arranged our short flight with Island Hoppers ( www.hawaiiislandhoppers.com ) on a small fixed wing plane with an experienced pilot. I took the picture above from
- [Tips for predicting the weather for your trip](https://familytravelgurus.com/tips-for-predicting-the-weather-for-your-trip/) - by Anne LarisonWe are often asked by clients who are considering a trip about the weather during a particular month or how does the weather in this location compare to that one. The following web site provides helpful information related to average temperature, average number of days with precipitation, and other helpful statistics:Weatherbase – Weather
- [Alaska voters to decide on additional cruise tax](https://familytravelgurus.com/alaska-voters-to-decide-on-additional-cruise-tax/) - by Tim LarisonAlaska voters will go to the polls on August 22nd to decide if cruise passengers will pay an additional $50 per person state head tax, and also require cruise lines to make some changes in the way they operate in Alaska.In an interview with Travel Weekly magazine, Gershon Cohen (a co-author of the
- [Top Summer Travel Destinations](https://familytravelgurus.com/top-summer-travel-destinations/) - by Tim LarisonAccording to a recent poll of travel agents by American Express, many of the family friendly U.S. and international destinations continue to hold strong for families this summer.Within the U.S., Orlando ranked first, New York City second, and Miami third. Las Vegas and Hawaii rounded out the top five domestic travel destinations for
- [Kid’s Cuisine: Andrew Says Be Careful When You Order Pasta on a Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/kid’s-cuisine-andrew-says-be-careful-when-you-order-pasta-on-a-cruise/) - By Andrew LarisonI’m here to tell you all about the great pasta on cruise lines. As a big pasta fan I know the best of the best, which is almost everything in my case. The best pasta dishes have to have garlic and creamy sauce, that’s all there is to it. On the Holland America
- [Kid’s Cuisine: Chocolate Cookie tip from Josh for the Mariner of the Seas](https://familytravelgurus.com/kid’s-cuisine-chocolate-cookie-tip-from-josh-for-the-mariner-of-the-seas/) - By Josh LarisonWhen I sailed on my Royal Caribbean cruise on the Mariner of the Seas when I was 10 years old, I learned that the cookies were great! Every time I got them, they were soft, chocolaty and fresh. They were so good, I wanted to get some every day.There are two ways to
- [Regent Seven Seas Cruise Line goes liquor all-inclusive for 2007](https://familytravelgurus.com/regent-seven-seas-cruise-line-goes-liquor-all-inclusive-for-2007/) - by Tim Larison Beginning in 2007 all sailings of the Regent Seven Seas cruise line will include all the liquor you can drink in the cruise price. In an interview with Travel Weekly Christian Sauleau, vice president of operations for Regent, said that the policy would cost the company somewhere between $12 and $16 per
- [Staying in touch with home while on a cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/staying-in-touch-with-home-while-on-a-cruise/) - by Tim LarisonCarnival Cruise line recently announced it will outfit its fleet of 22 ships to enable guests with any cell phone service to make and receive calls at sea or send and receive text messages on their phones and hand-held devices. Carnival says their entire fleet will be outfitted with this technology by the
- [When traveling carry medications in original containers](https://familytravelgurus.com/when-traveling-carry-medications-in-original-containers/) - by Tim LarisonIf you travel with medications, it's a good idea to carry them in their original prescription containers. Recently customs officers at the Palm Beach airport in Florida detained radio host Rush Limbaugh after they discovered medication in his luggage without his name on the bottle. (Apparently, Limbaugh's doctor prescribed the pills in the
- [A traveling Mom's tip: use lanyards for kids on a cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-traveling-moms-tip-use-lanyards-for-kids-on-a-cruise/) - by Anne LarisonOne essential thing I bring on cruises for myself and the twins is a lanyard for each of us.Especially in the last few years as the boys have become more independent. They are not always with Tim and I around the ship and need to have their ship card with them. I don't
- [A traveling Mom’s tip: Laundry](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-traveling-mom’s-tip-laundry/) - by Anne LarisonWe have been fortunate enough to have taken a few trips lasting 10 days or longer. Rather than try to pack enough clothes for a family of 4 for 2 weeks, I have taken on the task I prefer not to do on vacation – laundry.I have done laundry in a deluxe resort
- [Travel Insurance is a good thing!](https://familytravelgurus.com/travel-insurance-is-a-good-thing/) - by Tim LarisonImagine that you've been planning a magical Disney cruise for your family for 18 months. Then 6 days before your cruise you are rushed to the hospital for an unexpected surgery, and you are unable to go on the cruise!Or you have a cruise planned, then a few days before your cruise your
- [Watching your weight on a cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/watching-your-weight-on-a-cruise/) - by Tim LarisonAs a lifetime member of Weight Watchers, I always find it a challenge to avoid gaining weight on a cruise. On my first few cruises I found I would gain 7 to 10 pounds each with each trip! Since then I have done much better, and I offer a few tips below to
- [A traveling Mom’s tip: Strollers and Laundry](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-traveling-mom’s-tip-strollers-and-laundry/) - by Anne LarisonWe’ve been traveling with the boys since they were 4 years old; the twins are now 12. I have learned a few things along the way about keeping a family of 4 organized in very small accommodations as well as meeting everyone’s needs so that our family trips are smooth ‘sailing’.When the boys
- [Big changes at Disney's Contemporary and Polynesian Resorts](https://familytravelgurus.com/big-changes-at-disneys-contemporary-and-polynesian-resorts/) - by Anne LarisonThe façade may be the same, but there are big changes going on inside Disney’s Contemporary and Polynesian Resorts!I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Contemporary Resort for 4 nights. This was my first stay at this beautiful, Deluxe resort. I arrived at the resort early the first day and was
- [Josh reviews the cruise line kids clubs](https://familytravelgurus.com/josh-reviews-the-cruise-line-kids-clubs/) - By Josh Larison12 year old Josh Larison has been on lots of cruises since age 6. Below Josh tells us what he thinks of the different cruise line kids clubs he has experienced.I liked the Princess kids club a lot. The first time we went on Princess, there were some Nintendo 64s, a room with
- [Anne reviews Disney's Magical Express](https://familytravelgurus.com/anne-reviews-disneys-magical-express/) - By Anne LarisonDisney’s new complimentary transfers via the Magical Express Service is an excellent transportation option.My experience with Magical Express is that it is a well run service and a good benefit to Disney World guests. Whether you book your air through Walt Disney Travel Company or not, you can utilize the round trip transfers
- [Andrew rates his favorite Caribbean Beaches](https://familytravelgurus.com/andrew-rates-his-favorite-caribbean-beaches/) - by Andrew Larison (age 12)My favorite Caribbean Beaches are:Paradise Beach in CozumelDivi Little Bay in St MaartenCastaway Cay Family BeachPrincess Cay Beach (that's me buried at Princess Cay on the left!)These were the four beaches that I really enjoyed while I was on a cruise. Each one had its own unique activities to do on
- [A tip for saving space in your cruise stateroom](https://familytravelgurus.com/a-tip-for-saving-space-in-your-cruise-stateroom/) - One of my first cruise customers back in 2002 came back from her trip telling me how much space her family saved in their stateroom by getting an "over the door" shoe organizer. I have since recommended this to many of my cruise clients, and I have had many positive replies.Examples:"The idea of the shoe
- [Rick Steves talk: Tips For European Travel](https://familytravelgurus.com/rick-steves-talk-tips-for-european-travel/) - Recently I attended a talk by European Travel expert Rick Steves. Rick’s popular “Europe Through the Back Door” book is one of the best selling guides to European travel. Rick is also well known for his series of programs on Public Television. This talk was of special interest to me since me and my family

## Pages

- [Your Family Travel Specialists](https://familytravelgurus.com/) - Contact us for a no obligation consultation today!
- [Tim and Anne's Four Days in Amsterdam - July 2023](https://familytravelgurus.com/tim-and-annes-four-days-in-amsterdam-july-2023/) - by Tim Larison, CLIA Certified Master Cruise Counselor with comments by Anne Larison, Family Travel Gurus Travel Consultant and by Josh Larison, our 29 year old son What to do between cruises?! We previously have reported on our Avalon River Cruise ending in Amsterdam and our Holland America Norwegian Fjords Cruise. In order to sail
- [Contact Anne Larison](https://familytravelgurus.com/contact-anne-larison/) - Contact Anne today:
- [Contact Tim Larison](https://familytravelgurus.com/contact/contact-tim-larison/) - Contact Tim today:
- [Request A Price Quote](https://familytravelgurus.com/contact/request-a-vacation-quote/)
- [Meet Our Travel Consultants](https://familytravelgurus.com/meet-our-travel-consultants/) - Meet Tim Larison and Anne Larison - our experienced consultants who can help you plan your next get-away.
- [Origins](https://familytravelgurus.com/travel-agency-origins/) - Family Travel Gurus founders Tim and Anne Larison have been traveling with their twin sons Andrew and Josh since a magical 1998 trip to Disney World when the boys were four years old. Tim left the corporate world to pursue his passion for travel, becoming a full time travel agent in 2001. Anne joined him
- [Origins](https://familytravelgurus.com/our-story/) - Family Travel Gurus founders Tim and Anne Larison have been traveling with their twin sons Andrew and Josh since a magical 1998 trip to Disney World when the boys were four years old. Tim left the corporate world to pursue his passion for travel, becoming a full time travel agent in 2001. Anne joined him
- [Privacy Policy](https://familytravelgurus.com/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Policy of Larison Travel LLP/Family Travel Gurus - a travel agency specializing in family travel. We train employees handling visitor information on their roles and responsibilities in protecting your privacy. We regularly assess the privacy and security practices of our Web sites and databases to identify ways we can improve our data practices. If
- [Disney Destinations](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-destinations/) - Click here for a wealth of information on the Disney Destinations we will be glad to help you with.
- [Disney World](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-world/) - Our agents have visited America's #1 vacation destination many times, staying in over 20 different Disney World® area resorts. We can give you suggestions for the best resort for your family. In addition we will make your dining reservations, provide theme park tips, arrange rental car or private van transportation, and more all with no
- [Our Testimonials](https://familytravelgurus.com/our-testimonials/) - Hawaii: "Thank you so much for your help on our Hawaii vacation. My granddaughters said this was the best trip they have been on. Anne made our vacation and flight plans go smoothly. There were no hidden surprises. Anne took very good care of us. When I take vacations now, you will be booking my
- [Send Us A Message](https://familytravelgurus.com/contact/send-us-a-message/)
- [Other](https://familytravelgurus.com/other/) - One of the first questions we are often asked when planning a trip for a client is, "Have you been there?" As you can see from these pages our agents have visited a variety of destinations, but we, like other travel agents, have not been everywhere. That's why we invest lots of time and effort
- [Aulani](https://familytravelgurus.com/aulani/) - Now you can experience the magic of a Disney vacation on the island of Oahu in Hawaii! We have years of experience booking Hawaii vacations and we can help with air/hotel or hotel only packages to this new DIsney resort. Click here or the picture below for more info on the Disney Aulani property. =====================
- [Honeymoons](https://familytravelgurus.com/honeymoons/) - You will remember your honeymoon for the rest of your life - let us plan the details to make your trip extra special!! Our agents have arranged client honeymoons to Disney World, to Hawaii, to Mexico, to a variety of cruise destinations, and even to Ireland. We can setup a honeymoon registry for you so
- [All Inclusive Resorts](https://familytravelgurus.com/all-inclusive-resorts/) - A great vacation value is a stay at an "all inclusive" resort, where all meals and drinks (including alcohol) are included in the price! Some of these resorts are for adults only, while others welcome children and have excellent kids programs. We can send you details on a variety of all inclusive resort choices in
- [Adventures By Disney](https://familytravelgurus.com/adventures-by-disney/) - Are you are looking for a different type of Disney vacation other than a visit to a theme park or a cruise? We can help with those requests, too! Adventures By Disney® offer family oriented tours to select areas in North America, Europe, South America, China, and more. Click here or the picture below for
- [Interviews](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/)
- [Hawaii](https://familytravelgurus.com/hawaii/) - We are your Hawaiian vacation specialists! We can give you suggestions for resorts and Island activities; our agents have visited Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. If you prefer to see more of Hawaii than one resort allows, we can arrange transportation and a resort stay on a different Islands during the same trip.
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://familytravelgurus.com/f-a-q/) - Does it cost more to book a vacation with you compared to booking it myself? No. In most cases we can get the same price or a lower price than what you can find on your own. We are constantly monitoring vacation specials and we may suggest a special that you would not be aware
- [Disneyland](https://familytravelgurus.com/disneyland/) - Disneyland is a wonderful family destination to visit with younger children. The three Disney Resorts® (Grand Californian, Disneyland Hotel, Paradise Pier) are all within walking distance of the theme parks, making it easy to take mid-day breaks back at your resort. We can help you get the most out of your Disneyland® trip, and suggest
- [U.S. Destinations](https://familytravelgurus.com/u-s-destinations/) - Videos by the familytravelgurus team of various destinations in the United States. [tubepress mode="playlist" playlistValue="779DA554188F3ED8" paginationBelow="true"]
- [Port Adventures](https://familytravelgurus.com/port-adventures/) - Shore excursions are a fun part of any cruise. Here is a collection of port videos created by the Family Travel Gurus team. [tubepress mode="playlist" playlistValue="05320D8AD0E46AA6" paginationBelow="true"]
- [ListFAQ](https://familytravelgurus.com/listfaq/) - Answers to Mousetalk Frequently Asked Questions from List Moderators Tim and Anne Larison. Will I get "spam" email if I join your email lists? We have a "no advertising" policy on our email lists. Almost all of the messages you will see are devoted to Disney destinations discussion. We catch most of the spammers before
- [Europe Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/europe-cruise/) - A Mediterranean cruise is a great way to visit a variety of countries in a short 1 to 2 week timeframe. Click on each video below to see Family Travel Gurus founders Tim and Anne Larison's 12 day Europe cruise with their twin sons (then age 12). [tubepress mode="vimeoAlbum" vimeoAlbumValue="72718"]
- [Disney Cruises](https://familytravelgurus.com/disney-cruises/) - Great entertainment, wonderful children's programs, special areas just for adults, and an amazing private island - these features and more make a Disney Cruise® an excellent choice for your family vacation! Our agents have sailed with the Mouse many times and we have managed reservations for hundreds of families on the Disney Dream, Disney Magic,
- [Other Cruises](https://familytravelgurus.com/cruises/other-cruises/) - The Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Scandinavia, and more! The number of cruise possibilities is endless. In addition to popular cruise itineraries in the Caribbean and Alaska, our agents also have sailed on cruise itineraries all over the World. A cruise is often the best way to see an exotic land.
- [River Cruises](https://familytravelgurus.com/cruises/river-cruises/) - If you have only sailed on the big ocean cruise ships, you are in for a treat when you experience your first River Cruise. While the ocean cruise ships have passenger counts in the 1000's, a typical River Cruise has approximately 100 cruisers. The small river cruise vessels often dock in the heart of historic
- [Europe Cruises](https://familytravelgurus.com/cruises/europe-cruises/) - Cruising can be not only be great fun, but also educational! Taking a cruise in Europe is often the most economical way for you to see these historic lands. We can suggest the best itinerary for you depending on which parts of Europe you want to experience. A Mediterranean cruise, for example, allows you to
- [Caribbean Cruises](https://familytravelgurus.com/cruises/caribbean-cruises-2/) - According to the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), 53% of all cruises sail the Caribbean waters. What makes Caribbean cruising so popular? The beautiful beaches, warm temperatures year round, and wonderful variety of cruise lines and itineraries to choose from make Caribbean cruising one of the best choices for your family vacation. Request A Price
- [Alaska Cruises](https://familytravelgurus.com/cruises/alaska-cruises/) - Gazing at towering glaciers, viewing exotic wildlife, exploring remote wilderness areas - these are some of the amazing features of an Alaska cruise. We have toured Alaska by sea and by land, and we can give you suggestions to get the most out of your trip to our 49th state. We especially recommend private shore
- [Cruises](https://familytravelgurus.com/cruises/) - Cruising is one of the best family vacation values available to you today! Our agents have taken over 30 cruises (and counting!) in recent years to a variety of destinations - read more about some of our favorites below. From our own sailing experience on various cruise lines we can match the right cruise
- [Cruise Ships](https://familytravelgurus.com/cruise-videos/) - Here is a collection of cruise ship videos created by the Family Travel Gurus team. [tubepress mode="playlist" playlistValue="FFF24FFA410CFDE1" paginationBelow="true"]
- [Around The World](https://familytravelgurus.com/around-the-world/) - Various videos created by the familytravelgurus team on their travels around the World. [tubepress mode="playlist" playlistValue="46DA813F8AB6F394" paginationBelow="true"]

## Testimonials

- [The (category 3) stateroom was great.  Spacious, comfortable.  Definitely better than the two staterooms (Disney Cruise)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/the-category-3-stateroom-was-great-spacious-comfortable-definitely-better-than-the-two-staterooms-disney-cruise/) - "The (category 3) stateroom was great. Spacious, comfortable. Definitely better than the two staterooms. And nothing beats being on the concierge level. Loved doing the Stingray experience on Castaway Cay. Good for the kids with the barbs removed. Thanks, again, for your help." Jennifer reports on her family's Christmas cruise with Disney
- [The trip was beyond awesome...I am now officially spoiled after staying at the Polynesian](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/the-trip-was-beyond-awesome-i-am-now-officially-spoiled-after-staying-at-the-polynesian/) - "The trip was beyond awesome...I am now officially spoiled after staying at the Polynesian because of its convenience. Excellent service all around. Our favorite meal was dinner at Boma...a nice surprise! And thank you again. I have already passed on your info to some coworkers." Kathleen from Pennsylvania on her family's Disney World vacation
- [Thanks for the choices you gave us when I first contacted you, for all your good advice and insight as we planned our trip (Alaska Cruise)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/thanks-for-the-choices-you-gave-us-when-i-first-contacted-you-for-all-your-good-advice-and-insight-as-we-planned-our-trip-alaska-cruise/) - "Our trip was fabulous! The captain stopped the ship in front of Margerie Glacier, where we stayed for about an hour to take pictures, listen to the glacier and be awed by it's beauty. Ditto for Harvard Glacier in College Fiord. We both found the experience of seeing the Glaciers and their wilderness settings quite
- [We had a great time and absolutely loved the Brooks Hotel and the one in Cork. (Ireland)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/we-had-a-great-time-and-absolutely-loved-the-brooks-hotel-and-the-one-in-cork-ireland/) - "We had a great time and absolutely loved the Brooks Hotel and the one in Cork. Thank you so much for setting up everything -- Tracy and I will absolutely be calling you again for our next trip." Greg from Colorado
- [Thank you so much for all of the last minute resort changes.  It made the trip magical and memorable! (Disney World)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/thank-you-so-much-for-all-of-the-last-minute-resort-changes-it-made-the-trip-magical-and-memorable-disney-world/) - "Thank you so much for all of the last minute resort changes. It made the trip magical and memorable! Thank you SO much for making the Princess Breakfast arrangements in Cinderella's castle. My daughter was THRILLED!" Sue from Florida on her family's Disney World trip
- [We loved the Hawaiian trip, it was a big success!](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/we-loved-the-hawaiian-trip-it-was-a-big-success/) - "We loved the Hawaiian trip, it was a big success! The hotel was fabulous, everybody was very friendly and helpful. Couldn't wish for better. If, in the future, we are thinking of going back, I will most definately get in touch with you." Brit from the UK
- [Everything went smoothly, which is something we've come accustomed to when booking with you (Venetian Las Vegas)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/everything-went-smoothly-which-is-something-weve-come-accustomed-to-when-booking-with-you-venetian-las-vegas/) - "Everything went smoothly, which is something we've come accustomed to when booking with you and Tim. The Venetian was very nice, except for the smell. Whatever they're putting in their ventilation system to mask the smoke smell in the casino, is extremely overpowering. As the bus driver said, Vegas is the only place where you
- [We had a great time on our cruise!!  (Freedom of the Seas)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/freedom-of-the-seas/) - "We had a great time on our cruise!! The stateroom worked out fine for the winter cruise since it gets dark early. We learned that an interior room is a little noisier than the balcony room we had last time. Our excursions turned out really well. We took bus tours of both islands that included
- [We did do the vow renewal & it couldn't have been more perfect.  The Carnival people out did themselves (Sensation)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/carnival-sensation/) - "We had a wonderful time on the cruise! The cabins were great and being right across the hall from the kids was a really good thing. We did do the vow renewal and it couldn't have been more perfect. The Carnival people out did themselves. The Captain actually preformed the ceremony and it was beautiful,
- [We had a great Las Vegas vacation and a wide variety of experiences.](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/we-had-a-great-las-vegas-vacation-and-a-wide-variety-of-experiences/) - "We had a great Las Vegas vacation and a wide variety of experiences. The Bellagio was FABULOUS!!!! The room was wonderful. Their pool area is quite lush . . . as if you're at an Italian Villa. The resort had the best service by staff in general that I've ever experienced. I don't think I
- [The Reef section of the Atlantis Resort in Nassau](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/the-reef-section-of-the-atlantis-resort-in-nassau/) - "AWESOME! What a wonderful place, thank you for recommending it. I can usually find something to complain about, but not in this case. There was so much to do and we did everything - dolphins, pools, beach, lagoon, casino, etc. Exceeded any expectations that Tracy and I had!" Greg from Colorado on his family's vacation
- [Mirage Las Vegas](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/1321/) - "We had a great time. The Mirage is a really nice resort/casino. The casino was kept very clean. There were a lot of good food options. However, I did think their buffets were a little pricey. For example, Sunday brunch was 20.00 per person. The pool area was really nice. The rooms were very comfortable
- [We had a fabulous time.  The Fairmont Orchid is absolutely beautiful (Kona, Hawaii)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/we-had-a-fabulous-time-the-fairmont-orchid-is-absolutely-beautiful-kona-hawaii/) - "We had a fabulous time. Thank you for getting us upgraded to the Gold Floor - what a delight!. The Fairmont Orchid is absolutely beautiful but having our own concierge, breakfast and lunch, afternoon tea and snacks available to us was amazing! Thank you again. I have given your name to some friends who went
- [Everything went smoothly, which is something we've come accustomed to when booking with you (Las Vegas)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/everything-went-smoothly-which-is-something-weve-come-accustomed-to-when-booking-with-you-las-vegas/) - "Everything went smoothly, which is something we've come accustomed to when booking with you and Tim. The Venetian was very nice, except for the smell. Whatever they're putting in their ventilation system to mask the smoke smell in the casino, is extremely overpowering. As the bus driver said, Vegas is the only place where you
- [The dining plan was the best (Disney World)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/the-dining-plan-was-the-best-disney-world/) - :"We had a wonderful time! The French Quarter Resort was perfect for us. Just the right size and right location! We really liked that we were able to take the boat to Port Orleans Riverside and Downtown Disney. The dining plan was the best (esp. since it was free) but even so the food was excellent along
- [Thank you so much for helping us plan the most magical honeymoon at Disney World & on the Disney Cruise.](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/thank-you-so-much-for-helping-us-plan-the-most-magical-honeymoon-at-disney-world-on-the-disney-cruise-it-was-absolutely-the-most-perfect-way-for-us-to-start-our-own-fairy-tale/) - "The stateroom on the cruise was absolutely wonderful! It was our first time staying in a stateroom with a balcony, and now, I think we can agree that it's the only type of room we'll be staying in during future cruises. We loved watching the sunset on deck and then going down to our room
- [We had a great time and would recommend our excursions and accommodations. (Freedom of the Seas)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/we-had-a-great-time-and-would-recommend-our-excursions-and-accommodations-freedom-of-the-seas/) - "We had a great time and would recommend our excursions and accommodations. Thanks again for your help! Everything goes so smoothly thanks to your planning and recommendations." Theresa and Mike from Missouri on their Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas cruise over the Holidays
- [As always, the trip was perfectly planned!! (Disney World)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/as-always-the-trip-was-perfectly-planned-disney-world/) - "As always, the trip was perfectly planned!! The magical express was fantastic...not one lost piece of luggage or delay. We liked the Wilderness Lodge. We still like the Polynesian the best, but we were very satisfied with the accommodations. Halloween Party was fun as it was the last time!! My dad's favorite restaurant was Hoop
- [We loved the Grand Californian!! (Disneyland)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/we-loved-the-grand-californian-disneyland/) - "We loved the Grand Californian!! The convenience of the location and the cast members all make it a wonderful place to stay. The World of Color was amazing! We also went to Universal and Sea World on this trip to see them decorated for Christmas. Universal did very little for decorations but Sea World was
- [We had a great trip (Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/we-had-a-great-trip-dreams-rviera-cancun-resort/) - "We had a great trip. The transfers to and from the airport were extremely pleasant and went according to plan. The staff at the hotel was great--we went deep sea fishing that someone at the resort arranged and caught 3 sail fish and 29 (80lbs each) amberjack. I'm not even a fisherman and it was
- [Amazing value!! (Club Med Sandpiper Vacation)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/amazing-value-club-med-sandpiper-vacation/) - "Food was great, rooms were huge and satisfactory. I'm a picky hotel person and I really loved this experience. Can't wait for the renovations! Now we're scoping out other club med destination so I'll probably be in touch about that. Really was an amazing value!!!" Elizabeth from Pennsylvania on her family's vacation at Club Med
- [The food was great the excursions were fun (we saw many whales and seal lions with Captain Larry - Alaska Cruise)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/the-food-was-great-the-excursions-were-fun-we-saw-many-whales-and-seal-lions-with-captain-larry-alaska-cruise/) - "The cruise was great!!! We felt so special just sailing on the Island Princess!!! The food was great the excursions were fun (we saw many whales and seal lions with Captain Larry). We would recommend him to any person!!! The stateroom was good (for the little time we spent there other than sleeping). At first
- [Our trip was such an AWESOME adventure! (Lindblad Antarctica Expedition)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/our-trip-was-such-an-awesome-adventure-lindblad-antarctica-expedition/) - "Our trip was such an AWESOME adventure! I can't thank you enough for your recommendation to go with Lindblad's National Geographic Expedition rather than one of the other ones I'd looked up on my own. It sure is the best thing to consult with someone in the 'know!'" Debbie from Maryland on her family's Lindblad
- [Fabulous time on our Disney World trip!](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/fabulous-time-on-our-disney-world-trip/) - "We liked the Animal Kingdom lodge. The amenities were nice and we saw lots of animals from our balcony. We saw zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and some other animals that we didn't know the name of. It was very nice. If we go again, we would most likely stay at the Contemporary or the Polynesian. We
- [We enjoyed our cruise on the Celebrity Eclipse completely](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/we-enjoyed-our-cruise-on-the-celebrity-eclipse-completely/) - "We enjoyed our cruise on the Eclipse completely! Thank you for helping us plan our trip. We will definitely be cruising with Celebrity again, and you will certainly be our choice for travel planning. " Bob and Cindy from Iowa on their Celebrity Eclipse cruise:
- [thanks for your excellent service, & all the good tips you gave us!!! (Disney World, Disney Cruise)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/thanks-for-your-excellent-service-all-the-good-tips-you-gave-us-disney-world-disney-cruise/) - "We had a great trip. (At Disney World) the dining plan worked really well. It was nice to have a sit down dinner/lunch every day. The meal plan is really handy when traveling with a large group. (on the cruise) as always the service was very good, and so were the meals and the entertainment.
- [you went above and beyond to get us the correct information and the best for our trip of a lifetime! (Australia)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/you-went-above-and-beyond-to-get-us-the-correct-information-and-the-best-for-our-trip-of-a-lifetime-australia/) - "Tim has been great for all of our travel needs. He did not have much experience with Australia but he went above and beyond to get us the correct information and the best for our trip of a lifetime! All of our Resorts were wonderful, we loved every tour we did. We liked the snorkeling
- [Our favorite was the private tour that you organized for us on Nawilli (Hawaii)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/our-favorite-was-the-private-tour-that-you-organized-for-us-on-nawilli-hawaii/) - "The Hawaii ports were all enjoyable. The adult's favorite was the private tour that you organized for us on Nawilli. The private tour on Hilo was good also. As we discussed, my dad was really concerned with the tours because he was worried about getting worn out or missing the ship. He now believes that
- [With our private tour you recommended, we got right up to places and never had to wait. (Rome)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/with-our-private-tour-you-recommended-we-got-right-up-to-places-and-never-had-to-wait-rome/) - "The day we had in Rome was the best of all. Even though this was the longest day, we were the most refreshed. When we returned to the ship we saw many people dragging. With our private tour you recommended, we got right up to places and never had to wait. Our tour guide at
- [A Cruise is the BEST type of vacation to take if you have kids and especially a baby.](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/a-cruise-is-the-best-type-of-vacation-to-take-if-you-have-kids-and-especially-a-baby/) - "A Cruise is the BEST type of vacation to take if you have kids and especially a baby. Everyone was so nice and accommodating - it was fabulous! You certainly have return customers in us. Thanks so much for turning us on to a great family vacation!" Karen - Erie, Colorado
- [We loved Alaska. our excursions were all wonderful](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/we-loved-alaska-our-excursions-were-all-wonderful/) - "Our trip was great. We loved Alaska. our excursions - the Misty Fjord flight, the Mendenhall Glacier (near Juneau) helicopter + dogsled and the Denali glacier landing flight were all wonderful and I would highly recommend them. They were all well run. The trip was wonderful and we would recommend seeing Alaska to everyone. Thank
- [(you) will always be at the top of our list for agents (Disneyland)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/you-will-always-be-at-the-top-of-our-list-for-agents-disneyland/) - "We had a great time on our Disneyland trip. Again, as always, Tim and Anne will always be at the top of our list for agents. They are the best. " Lesa - Mananhawkin, New Jersey
- [You are what I would call a "one stop shop for an amazing Disney World experience."](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/you-are-what-i-would-call-a-one-stop-shop-for-an-amazing-disney-world-experience/) - "We cannot tell you how pleased we are with deciding to your service to put this trip together! And, we were so glad you sent the little tidbits of information regarding the parks, rides, etc. We found each one to right on the money and we took all your good advice as far as lines,
- [Amazing time on our Hawaiian honeymoon](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/amazing-time-on-our-hawaiian-honeymoon/) - "Thank you so much for your assistance in making our honeymoon travel arrangements. We had an amazing time, and highly recommend everything we did to others. The luau was great a wonderful Hawaiian experience! Mahalo means thank you in Hawaiian, so mahalo from us both! Stacie and Corey - Coralville, Iowa
- [You took very good care of us (Hawaii)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/you-took-very-good-care-of-us-hawaii/) - "Thank you so much for your help on our Hawaii vacation. My granddaughters said this was the best trip they have been on. Anne made our vacation and flight plans go smoothly. There were no hidden surprises. Anne took very good care of us. When I take vacations now, you will be booking my trips."
- [Arrangements for transfers & accomodations all worked perfectly (Mexico)](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/arrangements-for-transfers-accomodations-all-worked-perfectly-mexico/) - "Anne, we had a really great time in Mexico. The arrangements for transfers and accommodations all worked perfectly. The Occidental is a very nice place. We found the staff to be very friendly and family-oriented. It was clean and had lots of great pools and fun stuff. The kids program is very well done. Overall
- [you were wonderful in answering all of my nervous questions beforehand.](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/you-were-wonderful-in-answering-all-of-my-nervous-questions-beforehand-it-could-not-have-been-any-better/) - "We had the absolute best time on our vacation. Everything went like clockwork. I was so nervous beforehand and was afraid something would go wrong, but everything was perfect. Since this was my first cruise I didn't really know what to expect. Tim, you were wonderful in answering all of my nervous questions beforehand. It
- [prompt, knowledgeable and courteous service on our Disney Cruise vacation](https://familytravelgurus.com/testimonials/prompt-knowledgeable-and-courteous-service-on-our-disney-cruise-vacation/) - "I can't say enough good things about Tim. He provided us with prompt, knowledgeable and courteous service on our Disney Cruise vacation. If I had a question he was back to me very quickly. He treated us as if we had known each other forever, when in fact we have never met. We knew we

## Interviews

- [Alicia Steuart from Carnival Cruise Line (2010)](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/alicia-steuart-from-carnival-cruise-line2010/) - Since we last interviewed Alicia Steuart from Carnival Cruise Line there has been lots of changes - a new ship, a return to Europe, and more! We recently talked to Alicia to get up to date on the latest offerings from Carnival. Renovated Pool Area on the Carnival Sensation FamilyTravelGurus: We are excited to read
- [Mark Winters from RideMax](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/mark-winters-from-ridemax/) - If you spend too much time in line at Disney World or Disneyland, the RideMax software may be just for you! One of our clients, Mark Winters, developed Ridemax and talked with us recently about his time saving product. FamilyTravelGurus: How did you come up with the idea for RideMax? Early in our marriage, my
- [Travel Tips From Professional Organizer Debbie Brinkman](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/travel-tips-from-professional-organizer-debbie-brinkman/) - Last year Professional Organizer Debbie Brinkman did some amazing work for us in helping us get our home offices organized. We recently asked Deb for her ideas on keeping things organized for a vacation. FamilyTravelGurus: Often we find the difference between a great and not so great trip is in the planning. What tips
- [Melissa Kreuger from Travel Impressions](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/melissa-kreuger-from-travel-impressions/) - A variety of interesting destinations, reliable customer service, and great insurance options – these reasons and more are why we like to work with Travel Impressions when planning trips for our clients. In this interview Melissa Kreuger gives us a behind the scenes look at why Travel Impressions is a good company to trust your
- [Shannon Stitt from Collette Vacations](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/shannon-stitt-from-collette-vacations/) - Collette Vacations is a quality tour company we work with that offers some unique trips. For one Collette has an exclusive relationship with the Smithsonian in providing educational trips. We recently talked with Shannon Stitt from Collette Vacations. FamilyTravelGurus: Collette offers escorted tours all over the World - how does Collette differ from other tour
- [Scot and Rina from Loving Italy](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/scot-and-rina-from-loving-italy/) - In our travels we often meet with private tour guides that we later recommend to our clients. Scot gave our family a terrific tour of the Vatican when we were in Rome in 2006. Scot and his wife Rina now offer personalized custom tours in Italy. We recently chatted with Scot and Rina about Italy
- [Moo Bishop of Thomson Family Adventures](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/moo-bishop-of-thomson-family-adventures/) - We recently started working with Thomson Family Adventures. Their purpose of “Worldwide Adventures Designed By Families For Families” fits right in with what we are offering with our travel agency and this website. We got a chance to talk with Moo Bishop about Thomson Family Adventures and the unique travel opportunities they offer.
- [Australia Vacation Expert Kerryn Cook](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/australia-vacation-expert-kerryn-cook/) - We are always looking for good companies to work with in arranging vacations for our clients. One of our favorites is Down Under Answers - a company that provides great expertise and planning for the South Pacific. We recently discussed Australia vacations with Kerryn Cook of Down Under Answers. FamilyTravelGurus: What makes Australia a great
- [New Zealand Vacation Expert Margot Nahay](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/new-zealand-vacation-expert-margot-nahay/) - Earlier this year we published an interview about Australia Vacations with Down Under Answers (DUA), one of our favorite companies to work. We received such a good response to that interview that we asked Margot Nahay from DUA to give us insight into another very popular vacation destination, New Zealand. . Road from Christchurch to
- [Ward Wagner of Holland America Cruise Line](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/ward-wagner-of-holland-america-cruise-line/) - We enjoy talking to representatives of the different cruise lines to stay updated on the latest with their products. Recently we met with Ward Wagner, a 20 year veteran of Holland America, to get an update on the many cruises HAL offers. FamilyTravelGurus: How does Holland America differ from other cruise lines? What are
- [Alicea Steuart from Carnival Cruise Line](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/alicea-steuart-from-carnival-cruise-line/) - There are some exciting things happening at Carnival Cruise Line! We recently talked with Alicia Stewart about what’s new with Carnival. Waterworks on the new Carnival Dream FamilyTravelGurus: I understand Carnival has two new ships coming out in 2009. Tell us about the Carnival Splendor and Carnival Dream. I am thrilled to talk about the Carnival
- [Michelle Van Deusen from Royal Caribbean Cruise Line](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/michelle-van-deusen-from-royal-caribbean-cruise-line/) - Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, the largest passenger ship afloat, will be making her debut sailing in 2009. A sister ship, the Allure of the Seas, will be coming out in 2010. We recently talked with Michelle Van Deusen about these exciting new ships and what else is new with Royal Caribbean. . Drawing
- [Kathleen Kavanagh from Avalon Waterways](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/kathleen-kavanagh-from-avalon-waterways/) - In 2008 Family Travel Gurus co-owner Tim Larison took an Avalon River Cruise on the Danube through parts of Hungary, Austria and Germany. It was a fantastic trip! Tim was fortunate to have sailed with a river cruise “expert” on that voyage – Kathleen Kavanagh from Globus. We recently talked with Kathleen about river cruising
- [Carolyn Szekeres from Princess Cruises](https://familytravelgurus.com/interviews/carolyn-szekeres-from-princess-cruises/) - Summer is Alaska cruise season and we feel Princess offers many outstanding Alaska itineraries. We recently talked with Carolyn Szekeres from Princess about Alaska and Princess Cruises in general. .. FamilyTravelGurus: We've been to Alaska two times in recent years with Princess and we were very pleased! Tell us about your Alaska cruise offerings and

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/uncategorized/)
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- [Disneyland Reviews](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/disneyland-reviews/)
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- [snapshot stories](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/snapshot-stories/)
- [st lucia](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/st-lucia/)
- [travel agent](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/travel-agent/)
- [video](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/video/)
- [new zealand](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/new-zealand/)
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- [family travel](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/family-travel/)
- [question of the week](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/question-of-the-week/)
- [Aulani Reviews](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/aulani-reviews/)
- [dining](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/dining/)
- [Bermuda](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/bermuda/)
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- [Adventures By Disney Reviews](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/adventures-by-disney-reviews/)
- [sports packages](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/sports-packages/)
- [fitness](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/fitness/)
- [sports trips](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/sports-trips/)
- [Mexico Cruise Reviews](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/mexico-cruise-reviews-2/)
- [Mexico Cruise](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/mexico-cruise/)
- [travel tips](https://familytravelgurus.com/category/travel-tips/)
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## Category Groups

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