Disney World Holiday Parties

Which One is Right for You!?

Disney World holiday parties aren’t just after-hours events — they’re completely different experiences layered on top of the parks you already know.

In this episode of One Slice at a Time, we break down the three Disney World holiday parties, what actually happens at each one, and how to decide if they’re worth adding to your vacation.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Focus on costumes, parade, villains, ride overlays, and family-friendly spooky energy.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Snow on Main Street, nostalgic vibe, cookies and cocoa, holiday overlays, and why this is a favorite for many families.

Jollywood Nights

Smaller, more stylized, adult-friendly energy with rare entertainment, short wait times, and a very different feel from the Magic Kingdom parties.

Is a Disney Holiday Party Worth the Cost?

Discuss:

• Using it instead of a park day

• Matching the party to your travel style

• Why it’s a bonus, not a marathon

If you’re planning a Disney trip during party season and want help deciding which party fits your family — or whether to skip them entirely, we’d love to help.

Just fill out this form and we will contact you soon!

2026 Travel Trends - Part Two

Luxury Expeditions, Smart Cruising, and How AI Will Change Vacations

IIf you’ve been paying attention to how people are booking trips lately, you’ve probably noticed something: travelers aren’t just choosing destinations anymore — they’re choosing experiences.

In Part 2 of our 2026 Travel Trends series,

we talk through the biggest shifts we’re already seeing

and why they matter if you’re thinking about traveling in the next year or two.

Luxury Expedition Travel Is Growing Fast

Trips to places like Antarctica, the Galapagos, and remote parts of Africa are no longer niche. Travelers want remote and meaningful — but they still want comfort, great food, and strong service. Think expedition with high-end touches, not roughing it.

Cruises Are Splitting Into Two Extremes

Ships are getting bigger and smaller at the same time. Mega ships are adding more features and entertainment, while small ships focus on access, calm, and service. Many travelers are choosing “ship-within-a-ship” options that offer private spaces and concierge service without giving up big-ship amenities.

Luxury Train Travel Is Having a Moment

High-end train trips in the U.S. and Canada are starting to feel like land-based river cruises — unpack once, see incredible scenery, enjoy curated stops, and stay in great hotels along the way. For travelers staying closer to home, this is becoming a serious alternative to flying overseas.

AI Is Moving Into the Trip Itself

AI isn’t just helping people plan anymore. It’s starting to show up inside destinations — from hotels to theme parks to cruises — shaping how guests interact with spaces, history, and experiences in real time.

Travelers Want Easy

More than anything, travelers want trips that feel calm and supported. Concierge services, butlers, and higher-touch planning aren’t about status — they’re about removing friction so vacations actually feel like vacations.

Listen to the full episode to hear our take on where travel is heading and what it means for your next trip.

Disneyland vs Disney World

East Coast vs West Coast Showdown

If you’ve ever tried to ask this question in a Disney Facebook group, you already know what happens next.

Strong opinions. Zero context. And a lot of people arguing past each other.

In this episode of One Slice at a Time, we finally sit down and compare Disney World vs Disneyland — East Coast versus West Coast — without pretending there’s one “correct” answer.

Because there isn’t.

What matters is what kind of trip you’re trying to take.

The Big Difference Most People Miss

Disney World and Disneyland are not trying to do the same thing.

Disney World is massive.
Disneyland is compact.

That one difference shapes almost everything else.

At Disney World, you get:

• Four theme parks

• Dozens of resorts

• Water parks, golf, dining districts

• A true “Disney bubble” where you don’t have to leave property

At Disneyland, you get:

• Two parks steps away from each other

• Walkable hotels

• Less transportation time

• Easier days, especially with kids

Neither is better by default. They’re just built for different styles of travel.

Parks & Rides: Quality vs Quantity

Disneyland often wins on ride quality.

Many classic rides — like Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion — are longer, smoother, or more detailed in California. There are also rides you can’t find in Florida at all, like Matterhorn Bobsleds.

Disney World wins on ride variety.

With four parks, Disney World has entire experiences Disneyland simply can’t fit:

• EPCOT

• Animal Kingdom

• Avatar Flight of Passage

• Guardians of the Galaxy

If you want to ride a lot of classics quickly, Disneyland shines.
If you want range and scale, Disney World has the edge.

Food: Snacks vs Sit-Down Dining

This one gets heated.

Disneyland is hard to beat for snacks:

• Churros

• Beignets

• Quick-service treats that are easy to grab and go

Disney World pulls ahead on sit-down dining:

• EPCOT festivals

• Signature restaurants

• Resort dining worth planning around

If your Disney days revolve around snacking and moving, Disneyland feels easier.
If food is part of the plan, Disney World gives you more depth.

Hotels: Convenience or Choice

Disney World offers:

• Value, moderate, and deluxe resorts

• Wide price ranges

• Very different vibes from one stay to the next

Disneyland offers:

• Fewer on-site hotels

• Higher price points

• Extreme proximity to the parks

At Disneyland, you pay for location.
At Disney World, you pay for options.

Transportation & Planning Stress

This is where many first-time visitors struggle.

Disneyland:

• Walk to the parks

• Add Lightning Lane at ticket purchase

• Less advance planning

Disney World:

• Buses, boats, Skyliner, monorail

• Multiple planning windows

• More decisions ahead of time

Disney World can feel overwhelming without help.
Disneyland is often easier for short trips or first-timers.

Events, Holidays, and Atmosphere

Seasonal events look very different on each coast.

Disneyland:

• Strong Halloween overlays

• Oogie Boogie Bash

• Seasonal ride changes without extra tickets

Disney World:

• Larger holiday parties

• More special events

• Bigger scale for Christmas and after-hours experiences

Both do holidays well — just in different ways.

So… Which Coast Is Better?

It depends.

Disneyland is often better for:

• Short trips

• First-time visitors

• Families with younger kids

• Travelers who hate overplanning

Disney World is often better for:

• Longer trips

• Repeat visitors

• Adults who enjoy food and events

• Travelers who want variety

The mistake isn’t choosing the “wrong” coast.
The mistake is choosing the wrong coast for your trip.

Planning a Disney Trip?

If you’re stuck deciding between Disneyland and Disney World, that’s usually the first sign you should stop guessing.

We help clients:

• Choose the right coast

• Build realistic park plans

• Avoid overpaying or overplanning

Reach out to start planning your Disney trip with less stress and better results.

Ryan’s Falkland Islands Expedition with Atlas Ocean Voyages

Penguins, Glaciers, and a Broken iPhone

What do penguins, glaciers, a broken iPhone, and a Land Rover crossing soft peatland have in common? They’re all part of Ryan’s expedition to the Falkland Islands with Atlas Ocean Voyages.

In this week’s episode of One Slice at a Time, Stephanie and Ryan dig into a 16-day adventure that stretched from Buenos Aires to Uruguay, the Falkland Islands, the Drake Passage, and the Chilean fjords.

From the moment Ryan stepped off the plane in Argentina, the tone was set:
• Kensington Tours handled his private touring
• He visited the Recoleta Cemetery, the Casa Rosada balcony, and ate classic Argentine pizza
• A wine-blending experience in Montevideo became a memorable disaster when the bottle didn’t survive the trip home

The real highlight came with the Falkland Islands — particularly the “Picnic with Penguins” excursion. Ryan rode 90 minutes off-road through sponge-soft peatland to reach thousands of rockhopper penguins perched along the cliffs during nesting season.

Then came the whales, the weather shifts, the glacier science lecture interrupted by “ship noise,” and the moment the entire ship watched a glacier calve right after their group photo.

Ryan also talks about life on Atlas: the dining, the service, the nearly one-to-one staff ratio, and the kindness of a crew member who lent him his personal phone after Ryan’s brand-new iPhone died on day two.

If you’re curious about expedition travel — or want to join Ryan’s Antarctica group next November — click this link!

2026 Travel Trends

Big Trips, Slow Days, and What Travelers Want Next

Travel is shifting again — and fast. As we head into 2026, the biggest change isn’t the destinations themselves, but the way people want to travel. Based on what our clients are booking, here are the five clearest trends shaping the year ahead.

Trend 1: Big Bucket-List Trips

Antarctica. Galapagos. African safaris. Japan in cherry blossom season. Multi-country Europe.

People are planning trips they’ve talked about for years and are finally making them real.

Trend 2: Slow Travel and Longer Trips

Clients want fewer rushed days and more time to enjoy a place.
14-night cruises, long Europe stays, and back-to-back river cruises are getting very common.

Trend 3: Custom Planning

Travelers want plans built to fit their style — not preset tours.
Think: half relaxation, half adventure, food tours plus spa days, safari plus Zanzibar.

Trend 4: Milestone Travel

Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, family reunions, retirement trips.
Experiences over items. And people are planning these trips years out.

Trend 5: Vibe-Based Travel

The goal is how the place feels:
calm, inspired, fun, bright, warm, or rich in food and culture.
This covers everything from overwater stays to food tours to theme park escapes.

Crusty Review (Fan Favorite)

Ryan shares the story of a sentimental favorite in upstate New York — and gives it an eight out of eight.
Yes, the famous “fat bags” are included.

Our Guide to Ireland

A Full Route & Some Simple Tips

This week on One Slice at a Time, we’re giving a full, honest look at Ireland. We break down the route we use for our own clients, and share the stops that stand out.

Start in Dublin… but don’t stay yet

We both plan Ireland the same way: land in Dublin, pick up the car, and head west. Do Dublin at the end when you’re already close to the airport.
No wasted time. No backtracking.

The Ring of Kerry: slow, steady, and worth two days

The Ring of Kerry works best when you give it space. Two days is ideal.
A few simple rules help:

• Start early

• Go clockwise

• Expect tight roads and cliff edges

• Give yourself time for pull-offs

Where to stay:
Kenmare the first night, then loop through the ring and stop in Portmagee before swinging back toward Killarney.

If you like films:
Skellig Michael sits right off the coast and is where Luke Skywalker hid out. If the seas allow, you can visit by boat.

The quiet cliffs that beat the crowds

Most folks go straight to the Cliffs of Moher. They’re great, but there’s a small cliff line near Portmagee that gives you clear views with far fewer people. On a clear day it hits just as hard.

A rare thing happened when Ryan visited:
He saw a full rainbow from end to end. The whole curve. That doesn’t happen often.

The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher

On the drive north, the Burren feels like you’ve landed on another planet — rock, wide views, and long silence.

Then there’s the Cliffs of Moher. You can stay near the visitor center, or you can drive to quieter pull-offs and take a short walk to the edge.
If the water isn’t rough, the boat trips below the cliffs are steady and give you a good sense of scale.

Doolin: the small town with the loudest music

Doolin is tiny and known for live music.
Every trip, Ryan ends up at Gus O’Connor’s Pub more times than he’d admit. Pints, music, warm food, and a room full of people who never seem ready to go home.

You can also take ferries from here to the Aran Islands. The slower pace there feels like stepping back in time.

Galway: food, shops, and a killer pizza stop

Galway is a quick switch back to busy streets, music on every corner, and late nights.
Stay in Eyre Square if you can. The Hardiman is a classic spot with a piano in the lobby and small rooms that work fine for a short stay.

If you love food:
Do not skip Dough Bros. Yes, it’s pizza in Ireland. Yes, it’s that good.

Cork, Kinsale, and Cobh

Cork is packed with food stalls and local flavors.
Right outside town, whiskey lovers can tour the Jameson Middleton distillery, which is totally different from the Dublin one.

From there, head south toward Kinsale or Cobh.
Kinsale has bold seafood and a ghost tour that leans into the fun.
Cobh is known for its link to the Titanic and has solid walking tours.

End in Dublin for the smoothest flight home

Here’s the part most folks don’t know:
If you’re flying back to the U.S. from Dublin, you clear customs in Dublin before boarding. When you land at home, you walk straight out like you took a domestic flight.

Because of that, you need at least three hours at the airport.

While in Dublin, don’t skip:

• Trinity College and the Book of Kells

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral

• Temple Bar

• The Guinness Storehouse (the view from the top floor bar alone is worth it)

Simple ways to do this trip

You can tackle Ireland four ways:

• A bus tour

• A private driver

• Small groups

• Driving yourself

Most visitors do fine behind the wheel, but remember: other side of the car, other side of the road.

Want help planning Ireland?

This is one of the trips we plan all the time.
If you want someone to set up the route, book the towns, handle the details, and talk through the pace, reach out anytime.

Travel Destinations We’d Do Again… and the Ones We Wouldn’t

A real talk episode on dream trips, Disney favorites, and the places that didn’t deliver.

In this week’s episode, Stephanie and Ryan break down the trips that hit the mark — and the ones that didn’t.

We’re covering high points like Tahiti and Belize, the trips that stay in our regular rotation (Disney Cruise Line and Disney World), and the places we don’t plan to go back to.

You’ll also hear Ryan’s latest Crusty Review from Dublin, featuring a black pizza crust that shocked both of us.

If you’re planning your next trip, this episode gives you simple, honest insight into what’s worth your time and money.

Our Top Picks for Weekend Getaways

That Feel Like a Whole Pie

 If you need a vacation but only have a weekend, then this is the episode for you!

 This week's episode focuses on weekend trips that give you the chance to reset without needing a full week away. We talk about three cities that are easy to reach and fun to explore in just a few days: Montreal, Charleston, and San Diego. We also share how to make Disneyland or Disney World work as a short visit and which weekend cruises make the most sense. If you’re looking for a quick couples trip, we also talk about Sandals Royal Bahamian — a simple, no-stress beach stay with its own private island.

If you want help planning one of these trips, send us a message or schedule a call. We plan these trips every day, and we can make the details simple so you can actually relax.

Giving the Gift of Travel

3 Christmas Trips for the Whole Family

 Skip the crowded stores and give your family something better this year—the gift of travel.

 On the latest One Slice at a Time episode, Stephanie and Ryan share three trips that make the perfect present: European Christmas markets, a Disney Cruise or Adventures by Disney, and a Caribbean all-inclusive escape. Each one delivers memories that last longer than any gadget. Mekong River (Cambodia & Vietnam)
This trip centers on daily life along the water — floating markets, bright colors, warm hospitality, and deep cultural traditions. It’s a calm way to experience a part of the world that can feel intense if you try to do it on your own.

European Christmas Markets — Vienna, Budapest, and Nuremberg with river cruise magic

Disney Cruise Line or Adventures byDisney — effortless, multi-generational fun

Caribbean All-Inclusive Getaway — Beaches Turks & Caicos or Negril

Crusty Review: Giordano’s Deep Dish in Orlando

Pro Tip: “Christmas in July” — double the fun, half the stress

Ready to give the gift of travel? Send us a message on our contact page or email bookings@oneslicepod.com

Beyond Europe: Four River Cruise that will Surprise You

When most people think of river cruises, they picture Europe.

But other river trips offer a strong cultural connection, history, and a slower pace that feels personal. In this week’s episode of One Slice at a Time, we talk about four of them.

Mekong River (Cambodia & Vietnam)
This trip centers on daily life along the water — floating markets, bright colors, warm hospitality, and deep cultural traditions. It’s a calm way to experience a part of the world that can feel intense if you try to do it on your own.

Nile River (Egypt)
This trip brings you close to history, with guided support the entire way. You see major sites in Cairo, sail the Nile, and visit ancient temples and villages with local experts who help the experience feel grounded and informed.

Magdalena River (Colombia)
This is the most lively and expressive of the four: music, food, movement, performance, and strong cultural identity. It’s still early in tourism's development, which makes the experience feel closer and more personal.

Columbia & Snake Rivers (Pacific Northwest, USA)
For travelers who want to stay closer to home, this trip offers big landscapes, local wine, and American history in a slow, relaxed format.

If one of these trips sounds like something you’d want to talk through, reach out. We plan these personally and can match you with the style and pace that feels right for you.

Iceland

by Land and Sea

Stephanie planned the Ring Road. Ryan cruised the fjords. Which Iceland trip wins?

 In this frosty slice of One Slice at a Time, Stephanie and Ryan debate the best way to experience Iceland. From puffin spotting and glacial rivers to black sand beaches and hot springs, they break down both styles—cruise versus road trip—so you can pick your perfect Iceland adventure.

Myth Busters

The Worst Travel Advice We’ve Ever Heard

 In this episode of One Slice at a Time, Stephanie and Ryan expose the worst travel advice they’ve ever been given — and why following it can ruin your trip faster than cold pizza.

They break down bad tips like “wait for last-minute deals,” “just wing it,” and “never check a bag,” sharing what travelers should actually do instead.

Whether you’re planning your first big trip or your fiftieth, this episode serves up practical insight with a side of pepperoni-flavored humor.

Beyond the Mouse: Disney for Adults

Exclusive Itineraries, VIP Tours & Fine Dining

 When most people think “Disney vacation,” they picture kids, character meet-and-greets, and family rides. But Disney has a whole side designed for adults that goes far beyond day drinking in Epcot.

In this week’s One Slice at a Time podcast, we explore:

• Adventures by Disney Adult-Only Trips – Think private after-hours tours of the Sistine Chapel, wine tastings, and VIP access across Europe and Japan.

• VIP Tours in the Parks – Skip the lines, explore hidden areas, and enjoy a stress-free park day with celebrity treatment.

• Upscale Dining & Lounges – From Michelin-starred Victoria & Albert’s to the new Geo 82 lounge in Epcot, Disney offers culinary experiences perfect for grown-ups.

The Disney magic doesn’t fade when you grow up—it just gets more polished. Whether you want a global guided adventure or a more refined park visit, Disney delivers.

The Best Destination Weddings

Stress-Free, Affordable and Unforgettable

Planning a wedding at home can quickly spiral into tens of thousands of dollars — and stress. At Sandals and Beaches Resorts, couples can say “I do” with the sand between their toes, gourmet dining at their reception, and their honeymoon already included.

Here’s why we love Sandals weddings:

• Cost Savings: Packages start around $7,500 and go up to $14,000 for larger groups, compared to $30–40K just for a venue at home.

• Flexibility: Adults-only Sandals Resorts and family-friendly Beaches Resorts mean you can include (or exclude!) kids easily.

• Built-In Honeymoon: Breakfast in bed, candlelit dinners, and the option to hop to another resort for extra romance.

• Unforgettable Guest Experience: Your family and friends aren’t just at your wedding — they’re on vacation.

And if you’re not in the wedding phase? Sandals also offers vow renewals and anniversary celebrations that are just as memorable.

Cruising in Alaska

Wildlife, Glaciers and Questionable Pizza Toppings

 Alaska’s short cruise season packs a big punch: glaciers, wildlife, and once-in-a-lifetime excursions. Stephanie and Ryan share their best tips for making the most of your Alaska sailing.

 This week on One Slice at a Time, we’re heading north! Alaska cruises are unlike any other — from breakfast on your balcony while glaciers glide past to excursions like dog sledding and the White Pass Railway.
We break down the top cruise lines for families, couples, and luxury travelers, plus why booking excursions early is the smartest move you can make. And don’t miss Ryan’s Crusty Review — this time, it’s all about pizza ovens at home.

Top Travel Tips

Save Time, Money & Stress

Travel doesn’t have to be stressful-

especially when you’ve got a slice of wisdom on your side. In this episode, Stephanie and Ryan share their 10 best travel hacks for families, frequent flyers, and first-time adventurers alike.

From TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry to Ziploc outfit hacks, grocery delivery, private transfers, and even travel insurance, you’ll learn how to skip the stress and focus on making memories.

🍕 This week’s Crusty Review? Airport pizza. Spoiler alert: it’s not winning any awards.

Cruising for Good

How to Raise Dough on the High Seas

Ready to do good while having a great vacation?

Planning a vacation can do more than create memories—it can make a difference. In this week’s episode of One Slice at a Time, Stephanie and Ryan talk about how nonprofit groups can use cruises as a powerful fundraising tool.

From weekend sailings out of Florida, New York, or Galveston, to short cruises from Los Angeles, charities can raise money while supporters enjoy a vacation together. Every cabin booked sends funds back to the cause—just like a 5K or golf tournament, but with sunshine, ocean views, and built-in fun.

The episode also highlights Folds of Honor, a nonprofit that provides scholarships to the children and spouses of America’s fallen or disabled service members and first responders. It’s a reminder that travel can be more than an escape—it can give back.

Listen now to learn how your favorite charity could plan a fundraising cruise, and why this is one of the most unique ways to raise support while bringing communities closer together.

👉 Ready to explore fundraising at sea? Contact Stephanie and Ryan at Creating Magic Vacations to start planning your group cruise today.

Last Minute Spring Break Ideas

With and Without the Kids

Think you missed the chance to plan spring break? Not so fast.

In this episode, Stephanie and Ryan share last-minute spring break trips you can still book that balance fun, relaxation, and luxury. Whether it’s traveling with the kids or sneaking away adults-only style, you’ll walk away with real ideas you can actually put on the calendar.

Highlights:

• 👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly: Private catamarans, Spain getaways, luxury ranches

• 🍹 Adults-only: Tahiti cruises, Disneyland Paris, Sandals Royal Bahamian

• 🍕 Ryan’s Crusty Review: Barcelona pizza that scored eight out of eight

Disney at Christmas

How to Plan the Most Magical Holiday Trip

Peppermint churros, Very Merrytime cruises, and snow on Main Street—it must be Disney during the holidays!

In this episode, Stephanie and Ryan break down everything from Disneyland’s festive overlays to Disney World’s after-hours parties and those famous gingerbread resorts.

Meltvin gets his moments to shine, leading us into the Crusty Review and reminding you that Stephanie and Ryan are your go-to for holiday Disney planning. Whether you’re dreaming of a December cruise, a California getaway, or a Christmas week at Disney World, this slice is full of tips, laughs, and holiday spirit.

👉 Share the episode with friends, subscribe, and leave a review—we’d love to hear what slice of Disney you’re biting into next!

Cape Town and Sala Beach House

The Perfect Bookends to a South African Safari

If you’re planning a South African safari, here’s the secret nobody tells you:

the “before” and “after” stops can make your trip just as unforgettable as the safari itself.

In our latest episode of One Slice at a Time, Ryan and I share how we turned our safari trip into a full-on luxury travel experience—starting in Cape Town and ending at the breathtaking Sala Beach House in Durban.

From the moment we stepped off the plane in Cape Town, the VIP welcome from Live Life African Safari Getaways set the tone. We’re talking private greeters, seamless luggage handling, and a guide who made every moment easy and fun.

Cape Town Highlights

• Table Mountain: Skip-the-line tickets and 360° gondola views over the city.

• Cape Winelands: Pinotage, bubbly, and some of the best wine we’ve ever had.

• Boulder Beach Penguins: Tiny tuxedoed locals in their natural habitat—adorable is an understatement.
  

Sala Beach House in Durban

After safari, Sala Beach House was the ultimate exhale. This private beachfront villa on the Indian Ocean gave us:

• Spacious luxury suites and a villa all to ourselves

• Gourmet breakfasts and a farewell dinner planned with the chef just for us

• Monkey “security patrols” to protect our croissants (mostly successful!)

Pizza Talk

Ryan also gives his famous Crusty Review, and let’s just say… stick to Cape Town for your pizza fix.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Whether it’s penguins, Pinotage, or pampering by the ocean, Ryan and Stephanie can help you design a trip that hits all the right notes.
Contact us here to start planning your dream South Africa experience.