Mickey Breakfast Pizza Recipe

I don’t always cook breakfast, but when I do, it’s usually Disney inspired! HA! I am ALWAYS looking to add more “magic” to the table and thanks to Disney Family Recipes, it happens! Disney Family Recipes posted this great “how to” recipe! You all know me, anything with food and Disney is usually AMAZING, so I tried it. I made a few minor adjustments and VOILA! Mickey Mouse Breakfast Pizza. I will warn you: IT GOES FAST! Stash your slice away and enjoy later.

SO Many Options

There are so many ways to adjust and make this your own, or you can follow the directions down to the “letter M” (M of course stands for Mickey). Your kids will love experimenting and doing it their way. Eggs, bacon, sausage, Canadian bacon…SO MANY OPTIONS! We also use this same base for dinner pizzas, just changing the toppings. Of course, cheese is a BIG component. We like to incorporate some adventurous options such as ham and pineapple or spinach with Alfredo sauce. Whatever your taste, you can’t go wrong with this one!

Original Recipe

You can find the original recipe right here: Mickey Mouse Breakfast Pizza. Disney Family used a Mickey shaped cookie cutter, but you can achieve the same goal just by “shaping” the dough with a knife.

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Mickey Pizza Party

Host a Mickey themed pizza party using this recipe. If doing an in person party, set up cute little dishes with all the toppings so everyone can create their own. While we are practicing SOCIAL DISTANCING, set up a zoom call and cook together. This would be a great to get the kids together with friends, grandparents or other family members. A total WIN-WIN for everyone.

TIPS:

• Always preheat your oven before baking any type of pastry crust or dough.
• If you want a Mickey breakfast pizza, grab yours FIRST! There won’t be any left!!
• Make these personalized to each family member. Add their favorite toppings before you bake.
• Even better, get the kids in on the action. Allow each child to create their own Mickey Masterpiece.
• We accidentally used refrigerated Pie Crust instead of Pizza Dough the first time and now we cannot live without it! Best mistake ever! It was delish!
• We used Colby and sharp cheddar cheese, but you can use any type that you fancy!

We have some pretty awesome DIY recipes and projects that we think you will just love. Take a peek at this DIY MICKEY MOUSE WREATH!

Be sure to check out our Facebook group for more recipes and Disney Parks tips at DISNEY EXPRESS LANE. Hope to see you there! Make sure you introduce yourself!

More Disney Recipes Your Family Will Love

Disney World Copycat Recipes: The GREY STUFF!

Disney World Copycat Recipes: Mickey Waffles

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Rotational Dining With Disney Cruise Line

My family is a HUGE fan of cruising, and we LOVE Disney Cruise Line! There are so many things that are unique to a voyage on the high seas with Disney Cruise Line. Today I wanted to take a look at one thing that you won’t find on any other cruise line: Rotational Dining!

How It Works

Each guest is assigned a rotation schedule, which you will find at the bottom of your Key to the World card when you check in. It will list the first letter of each dining location, and the order listed is your rotation. So for example, on my 7-night Disney Fantasy cruise last year, our rotation was AERAERA. Animator’s Palette, Enchanted Garden, Royal Court. If you are on a 3-night cruise, you will experience each location once. On a 4-night you will duplicate one. For a 7-night, you will experience each dining location twice, and one three times.

Upon your arrival to your dining location on your first night, you will be shown to your table and you will meet both your Server and Assistant Server.

Your Wait Staff

What makes Disney’s rotational dining so great is that not only will you get to experience a different dining location each night, but your wait staff goes with you! You will find that after the first night they know all your preferences! After our first dinner, my kids each had their preference of milk on the table waiting for them at their respective seats. My husband and I were asked if we would like our same drinks we had had with dinner the night before. It’s the little touches that really make you feel special!

The Dining Room Welcomes You!

Each ship in the Disney fleet contains Animator’s Palate, where animation comes to life. While you are dining, experience featured characters in animated shows, all while the restaurant comes to life around you. This is a signature experience during any Disney Cruise!

Your other two dining experiences on your rotation will be unique to the ship that you are aboard. While aboard the Disney Magic you will experience Carioca’s, an American/South American menu in tribute to the Three Caballeros. Also, Lumiere’s, which is themed after Beauty and the Beast and showcases a french inspired menu.  While aboard the Disney Wonder, you will experience two treats: Parrot Cay, with it’s Caribbean inspired flavors and Triton’s, a beautiful, formal restaurant that pays homage to The Little Mermaid.

Both the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream will allow you to escape to the gardens of Versailles in the Enchanted Garden. Flowered chandeliers bloom as you dine and the sun gently sets around you. You will enjoy cuisine from around the world. A more formal dining experience awaits when you are summoned to the Royal Court aboard the Disney Fantasy, and the Royal Palace aboard the Disney Dream. Here you will dine like royalty on french american inspired menus. There is no doubt that you will find something for every taste bud at all of the rotational dining experiences.

Tips For Dining With Disney Cruise Line

• Your choices for dinner times aboard any of the Disney ships are: Main dinner at 5:45 p.m. and 8:15 for the later dinner.
• On Pirate Night, every dining venue will feature the same Pirate Menu, so don’t forget your pirate gear, Matey’s!
• Dining With Disney Cruise Line is mostly “cruise casual”. Check in your My Disney Cruise experience for a detailed look at special nights that may require dressier clothing and/or themed clothing.

What do you think of the Rotational Dining With Disney Cruise Line? Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

Want to know more about Disney Cruise Line? Read our other posts here: Secrets to Preparing for your First Disney Cruise

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A Disney vacation is a once in a lifetime experience. That doesn’t mean you only have to go once. If you’re like us, once you visit Walt Disney World, Disneyland or take a Disney Cruise, you are hooked. All you want to do is keep going back. The only thing on your mind as you’re headed home is when you’ll be back in the magic. AND there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. So what is it that keeps people like us coming back for more? Why is it that we always go back to Disney for our vacations?

We Always Go Back To Disney

While there are several Disney Destinations and all of them are magical and amazing, we are going to focus on Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fl!

Childhood Memories

The incredible thing about all things Disney is that it connects multiple generations. There is something special about experiencing Walt Disney World as a child and then having the opportunity to take your children. The experience of seeing your child’s eyes light up when they see their favorite character for the first time is enough to bring a tear to your eye. A fun thing to do with your kids while on a Disney vacation is to recreate those photos you made when you were a kid. Have a photo standing in front of the castle with your parents? Or maybe you have a fun picture with a parent on your favorite ride. Take that same photo with your child. Those will be memories that can be passed down through your family. And each time you and your family looks those pictures, they will be reminded of the excitement and joy they felt in that moment. 

Character Experiences

There are a lot of rides and attractions that we, along with many others, love. But the character experiences are beyond amazing. It doesn’t matter how many times we’ve met Mickey and Minnie, we still stand in line to see them again. These aren’t just people in a suit standing in the same spot, taking pictures with guests and waiting for a break. These cast members know how to make each person feel special. They take their time with each person and interact with them in such a way that it leaves a lasting impression. Their conversations can be memories that will last a lifetime. 

The VIP Treatment

If you’ve ever been on a Disney vacation, whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Lines, Adventures by Disney, or another Disney Destination, you know what I’m talking about when I mention the VIP treatment. Every person that steps foot on Disney property is considered special and important. From the moment you check into your hotel to the moment you leave, the cast members make you feel like royalty. Disney wants to make sure that each guest is happy and enjoying their vacation. So, they go out of their way to do all they can for each person. They often give magical extras that you may not have been expecting. If they know you are celebrating a birthday or special occasion, then get ready for them to make a big deal out of it. That’s just what they do. And it keeps people coming back for more!

The Food Experience

One of the things we love most about Disney is the food. It is impossible to go on a Disney vacation and not be confronted with the incredible smells of every kind of food imaginable. From the bakeries and food carts to the restaurants all around, you will be going through sensory overload. It’s one of the main things that we miss when we are back home. It’s incredible to not only taste the amazing flavors of the churros and Dole Whip or the Wonderland Slush, but also to see the talent of the artists who create these treats along with the cupcakes and desserts. It’s an experience for your taste buds and your eyes. I can guarantee that you will be craving something tasty from Disney when you go home! But all you have to do is book another trip!

The BEST Place on Earth

Life is chaotic and stressful. Many times, vacations can be the same way. What I have experienced with a Disney vacation is that the cast members work hard to ensure that your vacation is an escape from the craziness of life. When you step onto Main Street at Magic Kingdom, it’s like you’re transported into another world and the cares of everyday life outside fade away. You can let loose and act like a big kid again. Ride the rides and scream as loud as you want. Stop for a moment, look around, and take in all the magic that surrounds you. Check out the smiles on the faces of every cast member. Look at the kids who are amazed at Cinderella’s Castle. While you’re doing all those things, it’s almost impossible not to smile and feel a sense of joy. That’s the magic of a Disney vacation. It truly is the happiest place on earth!

We Always Go Back To Disney For Family Time

A Disney Destination vacation isn’t just a place to experience once. There is so much magic to take in that you couldn’t possibly see it all in one vacation. So, keep coming back. Make those memories with your families. Laugh and be a big kid. Isn’t it time to book that next vacation already? Where is your favorite Disney Destination? Join our Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE, and let us know!

If you are planning a trip to Disney World, we have a great guide for you! Just click this link, DISNEY WORLD FOR BEGINNERS, for everything you will need to know to get started!

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Using A Disney Travel Planner

One big source of confusion or speculation when planning a Disney vacation is whether or not you should use a Disney travel agent (or a “Disney travel planner.”)

To write this post, I had some help from a friend who used to be a Disney travel planner to ensure accuracy and get a bit of an inside scoop. She gave me the good and the bad – and I added some of my own points in based on my own personal experiences.

As a note, a Disney travel agent should be a “Disney College of Knowledge Graduate.” These agents have been trained by Disney. Ideally, they should work for an Authorized Disney Travel Agency which is a special “Earmarked” status that Disney bestows to agencies that have met Disney’s high expectations of customer service.

Let’s start off with the potential negatives of working with a Disney travel planner.

Cons of Using a Disney Travel Planner

• If you like having complete control of every aspect of your vacation planning, a Disney Vacation Planner may not be right for you. You can have your planner do as little or as much of your vacation planning as you’d like, but if it stresses you out to give up control, don’t do it!
• All changes go through your Disney Vacation Planner. You will not be able to call Disney personally to make any major changes to your trip – like payments, resort reservations, ticket packages, etc. You can make your own dining, Lightning Lane, etc, reservations, if desired.
• Disney Vacation Planners do have access to your credit card. If you are not comfortable with anyone making payments with your credit card on your behalf, using a Disney Vacation Planner is not right for you.
• They have to use Disney systems. So, if you are hoping to rent some DVC points for a resort reservation or plan to take advantage of discounted ticket offerings from services like Undercover Tourist – then a Disney travel planner cannot assist you.
• Not all Disney travel agents are equal. Yes, they’ve all attended the Disney College of Knowledge, but some have more experience than others and some specialize just in Disney vacations while for others, Disney vacation planning only makes up a fraction of their business and they may not have the same breadth of knowledge. Beyond that, as with any industry, you have some people who are detail-oriented and will go the extra mile while others… not so much.

To further elaborate on the final point, be sure to get personal recommendations, read Google and Facebook reviews of the agency and ask questions before signing on to have a Disney travel agent handle your vacation.

Pros of Using a Disney Travel Planner

• A Disney Vacation Planner’s service is FREE! Disney pays the travel agent for their services – there is no upcharge or fee charged to you for using a Disney travel agent. (However, keep in mind that if you use your travel agent for non-Disney bookings or add-on services, like booking flights, that there may be fees involved – ensure that you ask them to disclose when those occur.)
• They are well-versed in all current packages, promotions, events, etc. Disney’s offerings change often and there are also important details (like knowing which resorts are undergoing renovations) that a Disney Travel Planner would be well-versed in so you don’t have to do all of the research yourself. They also usually have a good idea of any promotions or specials that may come out before the general public is even aware of them
• Trip planning is less overwhelming! Honestly, there is so much to know about Disney – especially if it’s your first time to the parks – that it can be very overwhelming planning all of the details of your trip. Allowing your TA to take over some of the planning will make things less overwhelming.
• They have been personally trained by Disney to plan your magical Disney vacation.
• A good Disney Vacation Planner will constantly search for the next promotion or discount to make sure you get the best value for your dollar. If a discount promotion comes out after you have booked, your Disney Vacation Planner will apply it to your vacation as long as Disney’s rules and regulations will allow.
• Disney Vacation Planners sit on the phone during promotion times with Disney! The phones can have wait times for up to several hours. Disney Vacation Planners do it so you don’t have to.
• Your Disney Vacation Planner can make your Disney Dining, Lightning Lane, Special Tours, and Special Events Reservations for you. Just to name a few.
• Some Agencies will provide you with a personal itinerary that fits the needs and wants of each member of your party.
• Many Disney Travel Agents are passionate about Disney and as a result have a lot of personal knowledge that they can pass on to help you in planning your trip. 
• If you use a Disney Vacation Planner, you have an advocate in your corner! Even while you are on your magical vacation, they work for you. If problems arise, your Disney Vacation Planner is there to help fix any issues (within reason), so you can go about your day of vacation.

Keep in mind, you can change your mind. If you start booking everything on your own and start to get overwhelmed, a Disney travel planner can take over and allow you to keep your existing plans. When you request a quote from a Disney travel agent, you are under no obligation to continue working with them if you feel like that agent is not a match for you.

I personally would run away from any agent that:

• Is slow to return correspondence.
• Hasn’t personally been to the parks in years
• Tries to upsell you quickly without giving a good explanation of why they are suggesting something different than what you’ve asked. An example of a good upsell is an agent suggesting a moderate hotel instead of a value hotel during free dining promotions – you usually get a better dining package that may end up saving you money in the long-run, especially if you plan on having table service meals. Of course, they will mention add-ons that may be of interest and to ensure they are planning your dream vacation, but it should be pressure-free.

If this is your family’s first trip to Disney and you don’t have hours upon hours to do all of your own research (and sit on the phone with Disney) then I definitely recommend using a Disney travel planner. I personally love doing trip research and enjoy all of the hours spent (except maybe the hours on hold with Disney to book all my reservations), but that’s not for everyone – and that’s okay! If you’ve been looking into a Disney vacation for any length of time, it’s easy to see how overwhelming it can be so handing off a bit of that overwhelm to a reputable Disney travel agent can allow you to just focus on the fun parts of planning your vacation.

I hope that this list of pros and cons helps you determine what is the best fit for your family’s magical vacation.

Walt Express is Here for You!

Our website is jam-packed with information to plan with or without a Disney Vacation Planner!

Have you used a Disney Vacation Planner? What was your experience? Leave us a comment below or join us at Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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Top 5 Reasons You Need To Take A Disney Cruise NOW!

There are so many reasons to take a Disney Cruise. We honestly do not have enough space here to list ALL of the reasons! But, here are our MAIN reasons!

Voted Number ONE

For the seventh year in a row, Disney Cruise Line has been voted number ONE in the 2018 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

New Ships and New Locations

Earlier this month, it was announced that Disney Cruise Line is coming to New Orleans!  Disney Cruise Line also announced earlier this year that three new ships will be introduced by the year 2023. Sign us up!

Character Interactions

You will find many character interactions on a Disney Cruise! From pirates to the classic FABULOUS FIVE to your princess favorites…Disney Cruise Line has characters covered! They offer: meet and greets, dining character interactions, and more. Of course, you never know “who” you will see just roaming around the ship!

It’s Disney!

OK, we all LOVE Disney! It doesn’t matter if it’s Disney World, Disneyland or a Disney Cruise. Anything “Disney” is just MAGICAL! But, what is MORE magical than being on a cruise ship with ALL of your favorite Disney Characters AND being waited on, hand and foot?!?!? AGAIN, sign us UP!!

Special Holiday Cruises

There is NO ONE who does the holidays like Disney! A Disney Cruise is NOT any different. They offer four very special cruises:

• HALLOWEEN ON THE HIGH SEAS CRUISE
• THANKSGIVING AT SEA CRUISE
• VERY MERRYTIME CRUISE
• NEW YEAR’S EVE CRUISE

Even MORE Reasons

• Special parties, events and entertainment
• Delicious food
• Adult only locations
• Children only locations
• Kids clubs
• Castaway Cay: Disney’s own little personal private island!

There are many more reasons to take a Disney Cruise and these are just a few! What are YOUR reasons for wanting to take a Disney Cruise? Have you cruised with Disney before? Tell us about it in our Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE!

Tips

• Disney Cruises fill up very fast! Be sure to book as early as possible for the BEST deals!

Photo Credit: WDWNEWS and Disney Parks Blog

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Did You Know: Disney Cruise Line Offers Dole Whips

Have you ever been in Adventureland at Aloha Isle waiting in line for a Dole Whip and thought, “man, I wish this line was shorter!” Or do you long for a Dole Whip near the beach? Well, Walt Express has great news for you! Dole Whips are now available for an additional charge on all four Disney Cruise Line ships. Now you can have your Dole Whip and relax on the great big blue!

Where Can I Find the Dole Whip?

Dole Whips are available on deck 11 on the Dream and Fantasy and Deck 9 on the Magic and the Wonder. On the Dream, Fantasy, and Magic, you will find them at the small bar area near Eye Scream and Frozone Treats. On the Wonder, look for Sulley’s Sips.

Are Dole Whips Included In The Cost Of My Cruise?

No, the Dole Whip is an upcharge item, which means it is at an additional cost. At the time this post (Summer 2018) the cost for a regular Dole Whip is $4.95. If you would like to add Myers Dark Rum, the cost is $6.75. If you prefer a lighter taste, but still want the adult version, purchase the Shipwrecked Spiced Vanilla Rum for $9.00.

Quick Tips for Dole Whips On The Ship

• The Dole Whip is a bit thinner on DCL. I recommend adding a bit of vanilla soft serve from Eye Scream to your cup if you prefer a consistency more like the one at the parks.

• Take a Tervis or other insulated mug for cold drinks on the pool deck. It gets very hot and you don’t want your Dole Whip or other frozen beverage melting before you get a chance to enjoy it. Here is our favorite!

• If you opt for the adult version of the Dole Whip, make sure to give it a good stir before sipping. Otherwise, you are going to get straight rum… On second thought, if you dream of being a pirate, don’t mix it and warn the kids if they don’t behave you will make them walk the plank.
• If you aren’t cruising anytime soon with DCL and need a Dole Whip fix, check out our copycat recipe blog HERE. It will get you through until your next Disney destination vacation. There is even a clean/healthy version in that link if you are trying to find a recipe with less sugar.

Other Blogs You May Enjoy

While you are here, check out these other blogs about Disney Cruise Line and Dole Whips.

Top 10 Things To Do Before Your Disney Cruise

Top 8 Must-Have Snacks at The Magic Kingdom

The Top 5 Snacks at The Animal Kingdom

Have you enjoyed a Dole Whip on Disney Cruise Line yet? If so, we would love to hear what you thought about it. Leave a comment below or you can join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to share your favorite Dole Whip memories, recipes, and photos as well as any other Disney related topics on your mind.

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6 Athletic Shoes That Are Perfect For Your Next Disney Parks Visit

1. 696 Suede in Faded Pink/Rose Sandstone by New Balance
2. Adidas by Stella McCartney Adipure Trainer Sneakers by adidas by Stella McCartney
3. Holiday Bastille in Tafta Black by Veja
4. CrazyTrain Pro in Navy by adidas by Stella McCartney
5. 247 Nubuck in Marblehead/Sea Salt by New Balance
6. AW Run Mid in Black

Disneybounding

Other Disneybounding posts you may like!

Don’t miss our other Disneybounding articles that I am sure you will find helpful! Every girl loves dressing up in style. Disneybounding isn’t about dressing up in your daughter’s princess costume, it’s about looking good, stylish and comfortable in your amazing digs! It’s all about style, my dear! So let’s do this!

Minnie Mouse Rocks Her Dots On The Walk Of Fame

John Stamos and Fiancee Caitlin McHugh Disneybounding Engagement

Mary Poppins And Dooney Bourke Team Up For The Ultimate Bag

Instagram Disney Style

Check out faithnpixie1’s Instagram style! Check out her new posts everyday to see what she posts next from Disney or all about Disney-style and Disneybounding!

A post shared by {ThePurposeFULLWoman} Amanda (@faithnpixie1) on Feb 4, 2018 at 5:51am PST

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Check out how to Add A Bit Of Pixie Dust To Your Next Disney Vacation with ease!

Add A Bit Of Pixie Dust To Your Next Disney Vacation

So, this is how it works in our family…

Mama has a stash of goodies, Disney goodies of course, that my kids admire throughout the year . When they go on sale at Target or Walgreens I swoop them up and save them for our Disney vacation. The week before we go on our Disney vacation, I wrap each one of them in tissue paper with “pixie dust” inside. (Just confetti I find at the Dollar Tree.) Each child gets one Tinker Bell gift a day. Usually Tinker Bell finds me at the parks during the day, alone of course, and gives me their gifts. We give them to the kids in the room that night. And voila, happy kiddos!

Save Money

This saves so much money for us! We still get the “I wants” and “I needs” but all we have to say is “you know what, Tinker Bell brought you that Belle Doll you have been admiring for quite a while. Let’s play with her a bit longer and see if you still want it at the end of our trip.” Usually they forget and then we are home-free! Sometimes that doesn’t work, but that’s a different story for a different blog. Maybe we should write one called: Magic Meltdowns and Beyond at Disney. Oh, that one would be good! A section for the kiddos meltdowns and, of course, a section all about the adult meltdowns too. I mean, I wouldn’t know about those. I’ve just heard about them. (Snark, snark)

This seems to help our budget quite a bit, but it’s also so much fun for the kids. They look forward to it, especially our six-year-old. (The twins are still kinda figuring things out.) They still get the things they would like to have but at half, sometimes even less, of the cost. I’m always scoping out the deals.

(Update: The kiddos are now 9, 6, and 6. Each one of them LOVES getting Tinker Bell gifts and looks forward to it!)

Extra Tip

We also like to give Disney gift cards for Christmas, Easter or birthdays so they can spend “their own money”. That is always a big hit for our oldest!

Does Tinker Bell visit you at Disney? Let us know how your family does Tinker Bell gifts! I won’t tell!!!!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

photo credit: marcoverch Blaues und rosafarbenes Konfetti via photopin (license)

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The Top 10 Things To Do Before Your Disney Cruise

If you have never taken a cruise, the planning, preparation and fear of forgetting something can be exhausting. Hakuna Mattata, my friends, because Walt Express has compiled The Top 10 Things To Do Before Your Disney Cruise or any cruise, for that matter!  This list will have you ready for your next adventure and when this list is complete, all you need to do is pack and enjoy your vacation.

No matter what kind of cruise you decide to take, Disney or non-Disney, these tips will help you and your family be on their way!

1) Get a Passport

The very first thing on your to do list after booking your cruise is to purchase a passport or renew it if it’s expired. These can take a while to come back, so the quicker you do this, the better. The standard processing time is about six weeks and sometimes longer, so get on that right away. You can go HERE to find applications, forms, and more information on the application process.

If you booked a closed circuit cruise (one that starts and ends at the same United States port) then you can simply use clear copies of your birth certificate as your travel documentation. Do note that if your surname/last name has changed from what is on your birth certificate, you will also need a copy of your marriage license or other supporting documentation to show why it is different. Do note that if you choose not to purchase a passport and you have a medical emergency or need to board a plane to get home quick, it is much more difficult without a passport. In an emergency, the last thing you want to deal with is red tape, but that is what you will be faced with if you do not have a passport. 

2) Create An Account

After you have your travel documents in order, it is time to start the fun part of the planning. After your booking is complete and your deposit has been made, you will receive a confirmation number. With that in hand, go to your cruise line website and create an account. For Disney, that website is https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/. Simply click on sign in or create an account and follow the prompts. Other cruise lines work pretty much the same way, but note that cruise lines do offer different options that can be booked in advance.

Once you have created your account, go ahead and look around at excursion options, spa packages, drink packages, internet options, character meet and greets, character dining, special dining options, cabana rentals and so much more! Many of these you can order or schedule before your cruise and the earlier you book them, the better! Something important to note is that Disney Cruise Line allows past cruisers to book some items in advance of first time cruisers. The more you have cruised with Disney, the greater jump you have on booking the most sought after experiences. Think of it like the advantage you get when booking onsite at Disney World as opposed to staying off site. 

3) Complete Online Check-In

Online check -in is always the first thing I do once I have created an online account with the cruise line. This makes the check-in process so much smoother and helps ensure you have all the documentation you need when you arrive. You will enter information such as names, everyone’s birthdate that is in your party, and passport numbers in this portal. Once you have done that, you can also add a payment option and print your tags for luggage and boarding passes. Talk about taking the stress out of the planning process! This will help calm your nerves and help you check off several items from your to-do list.

4) Notify Your Credit Card Company

Before you head out of state and especially out of the country, you should always call your credit card company. They need to know you will be away, so they won’t freeze your account when they see what will appear to be unusual activity. We also like to call and ask about exchange rates, because that can save you some hassle and money. It’s also a good idea to ask if they offer trip insurance if you booked your trip using that card. If so, ask them to explain the policy. It may be as good or better than what the cruise line offers. 

5) Purchase Travel Insurance

If your credit card company did not offer travel insurance or it wasn’t what you had in mind, then look into other travel insurance options. Cruises are WAY different than other Disney vacations. The deposit is larger and the cancellation policy is very strict and not as generous or flexible. The good news is that you can add this to your package before your final payment is due or purchase it through a third party. Make sure the plan you buy provides hurricane protection and covers you on the way to your cruise, during your cruise (medical coverage is the big kicker here!), and on your way home. Do some research on this, but I highly recommend buying it. If you don’t book through your vacation planner, then check out InsureMyTrip.com or Travel Guard. If you do book through your travel planner, he/she will be glad to walk you through the best options and help you pick the one that works best for you.

6) Call or Meet With Your Cell Phone Provider

if you are traveling out of the country, you do NOT want to be hit with roaming charges. However, sometimes cell phone providers can provide international plans for one month that will save you a lot of money. This is especially true should you forget to turn off roaming on your phone or if you prefer to be able to use your phone when you are on excursions without wifi.

Most ships have free wifi and wifi packages for quicker speeds. Therefore, my recommendation is to turn your phone on airplane mode and connect to the ship’s wifi. It isn’t super fast, but if you need to stay connected it serves its purpose. Actually, my real recommendation is to lock that sucker in the safe and only get it out for excursions and the occasional fun night when you want pictures to upload when you get home. If you leave it in the safe most of the trip, I promise you will create memories that you won’t soon forget. 

7) Take Cash

So many people don’t carry cash anymore. However, in places like Mexico and the Bahamas, the American dollar is preferred and makes for easier shopping. I do recommend not taking large bills. I stick to $20 dollar bills for excursion money or use my credit card. Word to the wise: never use your debit card in another country unless you discuss this with your bank first. Some debit cards are protected, but some aren’t. Also, many debit cards have higher foreign exchange fees, so I recommend the credit card or cash approach. 

Speaking of cash, there is another important reason to take cash. I like to have several small bills on hand for tips. While you can pay your mandatory gratuities (more on that later) when you book or through your onboard account, you will still need small bills for room service and porter fees. I typically tip $1-$2 per item, but feel free to be more generous if the desire arises. 

8) Prepay Gratuities

I always encourage clients to pay for their gratuities before they board the ship. This keeps the expenses from adding up when you are on the boat. I also prepare to tip a little extra to those who gave our family stellar, personal service. We have had amazing experiences with the staff in the main dining room as well as stewards. Plus, there is nothing like finding someone who made your vacation extra special and seeing their face light up with gratitude. Talk about filling my soul with gladness; that is some good stuff!

9) Download the Cruise Line App

This one may seem like a no-brainer for those of us who love technology, but it doesn’t always occur to everyone. Cruise line apps these days are really helpful. The cruise line app comes with a handy countdown before you board the ship, but once you have boarded the app becomes extremely helpful. Most apps offer full deck plans, itineraries for each day, and much more. Check out our blog on Disney Cruise Line’s Navigator app HERE to find out more about how this app works.

10) Don’t Forget to Pack the Essentials

So, you have checked off 1-9 from this to-do list. Now it’s time to pack! Don’t forget the essentials listed above like money, ID, passports, and boarding documents. But also don’t leave behind your sunscreen, seasick medicine, a hat, and appropriate clothing for formal night. For men, pack a long pair of slacks and close-toed shoes and for women, pack a dress and sandals or heels. Do not make the mistake of only packing shorts and flip flops if you plan to eat in the main dining room. The dress code is pretty lax, but most cruise lines are picky about no tank tops, shorts, or flip flops (even the fancier wedge style). Of course, don’t forget the camera and SD cards, as well as chargers for any electronics you may need. Finally, pack more than one swimsuit. No one likes putting on a cold, wet swimsuit!

Are you ready to sail away on your next cruise? Did we cover everything you put on your list in The Top 10 Things To Do Before Your Cruise? Tell us what we missed or about your essential list of things you do before your cruise in the comments sections or join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

Photo Credits: photo credit: steviep187 Disney’s “Magic” docked in St. Thomas U.S.V.I. via photopin (license)
A Day as a Castaway via photopin (license)

photo credit: P17blo Fantasy Pirate Mickey via photopin (license)

The post The Top 10 Things To Do Before Your Disney Cruise appeared first on WaltExpress.com.

13 Ways to Have a Disney Themed Christmas

Sweet Treats

If baking is your thing, then these recipes will be sure to knock your socks off! From cookies to cupcakes and pretzel bites galore, your Holiday party will be kicking it! Take a peek! You will WON’T be disappointed!

Disney Christmas Cookies How-To

http://www.twosisterscrafting.com/mickey-mouse-santa-hat-cupcakes/

Christmas Mickey Mouse Pretzel Bites

Christmas Ornaments

Ah the ornaments are the highlight of the festivities. These crafts are for sure to make memories and bring the family together!

Disney Princess-Inspired Christmas Ornaments

Disney Glitter Christmas Ornaments

Disney Souvenir Ornaments

I love these! They are originally patches, but could be made into ornaments very easily! Just add an ornament wire hanger and voila! Instant Disney Christmas ornament!

DIY Disney Patches

http://www.mouseandmonorail.com/parkmapornament/

Christmas Disney Crafts

Everyone needs more Christmas crafts in their life! It’s a time when the family comes together and brings their best imagination to the table. We love these printable coloring pages and Disney snowflakes.

Disney Snowflakes

http://www.honeyandlime.co/2012/12/free-disney-christmas-printable-coloring-pages-for-kids.html

Disney Inspired Decorations

Everyone needs to deck their digs out in Christmas. What better way than to add in those Disney touches? If you are a super-fan, go all-out Disney.

https://family.disney.com/craft/mickey-minnie-diy-holiday-wreath/

https://family.disney.com/craft/mickey-minnie-sweet-jar-centerpieces/

Extras

Mickey Mouse Bokeh for Night Photography

How do you decorate for Christmas? What ways do you incorporate a Disney theme into your holiday decor? Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

photo credit: Knowsphotos Disney, Christmas Tree at Hollywood Studios (HDR) via photopin (license)

photo credit: Justin in SD Christmas on Main Street via photopin (license)

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