Destinations

Save Hundreds On Your Next Disneyland Trip With These Simple Tricks

It’s no secret that Disneyland is known as the happiest place on Earth, and for good reason! Thrilling rides and dazzling shows, immersive experiences and endless amounts of unbelievably delicious food. Everything you need for a fantastic vacation all in one place. All of these magical amenities come at a price, however, and quite a […]

Published

8 months ago

July 19, 2022

Loren Thorn

Tickets alone will run you over $100 a piece and on top of that, there are other things to account for like travel, lodging, food, and of course souvenirs. All these expenses adding up can really put a damper on your budget.

Luckily for you, We’ve put together a list of tricks for saving money and getting the most out of your vacation!

1. Pack Smart

Unexpected factors like variable weather conditions can cause unnecessary expenses during your trip. So make sure you check the forecast for your destination so you don’t end up overpaying for last minute necessities like sunscreen, sweatshirts, or umbrellas. If you’re planning on enjoying the water rides, grab a poncho from the dollar store instead of paying $15 for one at the park.

2. Make A DIY Autograph Book

One of the best things about Disneyland is meeting your favorite characters and getting their autograph. It’s just another one of the many layers that make up a truly magical experience. What’s not so magical, however, is paying for all those odds and ends like the little notebooks dubbed “Autograph Books” sold at many places throughout the park.

They’ll run you between $15 and $20 each. It may not seem like much but it’s the little things like this that start to drain your budget, especially if you have a large family. Luckily you can make your own for less than $5. Just grab a notebook or journal from the dollar store and customize it with some markers, stickers, and glitter.

3. Use Shuttle Services

If you’re starting to see a theme here then you might have guessed that parking at the Happiest Place on Earth might leave you feeling a little deflated. Standard parking will cost you $25 and if you’re looking to get a head start with a spot near the entrance you’ll be forking over $50.

If you’ll be staying in the Anaheim area you’re in luck! Anaheim Resort Transportation offers day passes with lines running to Disneyland and they only cost $5.50 for adults and $2 for kids. And don’t forget to check with your hotel’s concierge as many properties near the park offer complimentary shuttle services.

4. Bring Your Own Stroller/Wheelchair

If you’re traveling with really little ones, and especially if your vacation is going to span several days, you’ll definitely want to bring a stroller. Of course, Disney thought of that too! You can rent one of their strollers for $15 a day. The same goes for wheelchairs. The park offers manual wheelchair rentals for $12 with a $100 deposit.

So don’t forget to bring your own strollers and wheelchairs. Your wallet will thank you.

5. Pack Your Own Snacks

As with anything else the Magic Kingdom has to offer, the food inside the park, though delicious, is not cheap. An average meal will cost between $20 and $25. Not to mention the inevitable snacks along the way like popcorn, churros, and cotton candy.

Sure, delicious treats are part of the fun of a vacation but you can lighten some of the strain on your budget by bringing your own snacks and eating breakfast before you hit the park. Disneyland and Disney World both allow you to bring in outside food and beverages (with some limitations) and most hotels in the area offer complimentary breakfast. Otherwise, book a room with a fridge so you can pack some cereal and milk or other easily prepared meals.

6. Book During The Offseason & Pick Value Days

Let’s be honest, Disneyland is always full of people but you can plan your trip around the park’s busiest times to avoid massive crowds and endless lines. Save on everything from lodging to airfare by visiting between mid-January through mid-March, mid-April through mid-May, or mid-September through mid-November – avoiding Halloween, of course.

You can save even more by booking well in advance and checking for “value days” on the park’s calendar. Picking these dates for your vacation will save you $45 per ticket.

7. Bring Your Kids Before They Turn 3

If you’ve been looking for an excuse to plan your trip early, we’ve got one for you. Children under three get into both Disney Parks absolutely free. That will save you a whopping $140 at Disneyland and $124 at Walt Disney World. You can use those savings for some sweet souvenirs, closer parking, an upgraded hotel room, or a better flight.

8. Pick Up An Annual Pass

If you’re a serious Disney fan you may want to consider investing in an annual pass. They will cost you a bit up front but they pay for themselves within just a handful of visits. An annual pass gives you admission to both parks at Disneyland and all four parks at Walt Disney World. Not to mention the other perks pass holders get like standard parking and 20% off select merchandise and dining.

Destinations

See Where The Super Rich Vacation

Check out where the richest people in the world vacation and what the heck they spend their money on.

Published

15 hours ago

March 28, 2023

Loren Thorn

Where would you go on vacation if money wasn’t an issue and you had all the time in the world? Go on and think about it, I’ll wait. I would go to a private island and have a castaway experience with luxury amenities, of course. Well, the super-rich have the ability to go anywhere they wish and do literally whatever money can buy, how awesome must that be? Check out where the richest people in the world vacation and what the heck they spend their money on.

BILL GATES: CROATIA

Unlike many super-rich people, Bill Gates likes to mix and mingle with the locals when he vacations. He enjoys Croatia for its old Europe feel and medieval construction. The hot spot in Europe, Croatia is enjoying a tourism boom, which is centered around the countries pleasurable weather and affordable luxury. Bill Gates doesn’t need to save money but who says the super-rich can’t be frugal?

RICHARD BRANSON: BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Why not just ball out of control like Richard Branson and buy your own island. That is some next level stuff there. The Virgin Mobile/Records/Airlines etc entrepreneur and billionaire owns Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands. The private island is an actual resort where rooms rent for a minimum of $5,000 a night. Luminaries such as the Obamas and Mariah Carey have stayed here before. Wow, talk about luxury, a private island where the former president stays. Enjoy all the watersports you can handle while basking in the hot Caribbean sun.

STEVEN SPIELBERG: IRELAND

Where do the best directors of all time spend their vacations? Well, if you love Steven Spielberg movies, you’ll know he enjoys incredible landscapes and none are grander than Ireland. The Emerald Isle just is so vibrant and lush that it attracts all sorts of travelers, even the mega-rich. Ireland isn’t a vacation that will break your bank, in fact, its one of the most affordable trips you could choose. Spielberg loved the countryside, the people, and the food, what’s really not to love?

OPRAH WINFREY: FIJI

Where does one of the most influential women of all time vacation? Wherever the heck she wants, is the only acceptable answer, she is the queen of entertainment. Oprah recently went on a luxury superyacht called the Rising Sun, where she partied with The Obamas and Bruce Springsteen in Tahiti. When she stays on land she prefers the beaches of Fiji. The island of Fiji features luxury at every turn but when Oprah is there she reserves the entire resort.

WARREN BUFFETT: LAGUNA BEACH

The man who is in charge of our country’s wealth, Warren Buffett is a billionaire of the most frugal standards. He’s lived in the same modest home in Omaha Nebraska since 1958 and only splurges on vacations, so where does he go? He owned a lavish beach home in Laguna Beach, California where the rich and fabulous play. Laguna Beach is very accessible for the non-rich so check it out for yourself. The steep cliffs and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean will have you coming back for years.

Destinations

4 Australian Beaches That Are Breathtakingly Beautiful

Published

2 days ago

March 27, 2023

Adam T

Australia is a wild and wonderful place filled with diverse people and landscapes.

If you’re planning a trip to this amazing place, there’s no shortage of incredible beaches to explore while you’re there.

Read on to discover a list of four of the best beaches in Australia that are sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.

1. One Mile Beach

This beautiful Australian beach offers miles of sandy shoreline and plenty of charming accommodation options to choose from. Be sure to take a look at the many recreational activities and amenities this beach has to offer.

Enjoy an incredible adventure by participating in camel rides at sunset, or enjoy sandboarding down the dunes at incredible speeds. You can also experience the fun of camping, staying in a comfy cabin, and more. This beach is within close proximity to tons of entertainment including playgrounds, a games room, and much more.

2. Best Beaches in Australia: Bondi Beach

This famous beach in Sydney offers an incredible history and a truly breathtaking landscape. Enjoy mingling with tourists from around the world at this beautiful beach, known for its close proximity to Sydney for easy access.

While you’re there, explore the many trendy cafes and enjoy some of the local food and fare. With turquoise-blue waters and sunny weather, it’s not surprising that Bondi is one of the best beaches in Australia. Experience the thrill of meeting people from across the globe or spend time relaxing in the cool, clear waters.

3. Lizard Island

Located in the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island is a nature lover’s paradise. This remote island includes over 23 white sandy beaches to explore, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a little bit of adventure.

You can stay in your own private villa at the island resort, offering premier access to some of the most remote and secluded beaches in Australia. Enjoy diving, snorkeling, and exploring the beautiful reefs. Lizard Island is perfect if you want an off-grid getaway in a tropical place.

4. Byron Bay

Once known as a small hippie town, Byron Bay has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists. This beautiful beach offers a variety of delicious cafes and modern reports as well as boutique shopping.

Located on the eastern point of mainland Australia, you’ll get to visit the iconic lighthouse at Cape Byron. Surfers also love this beach due to the fantastic ocean breaks. Walk along the soft powdery sand, enjoy a day of swimming or just lounge at one of many beachfront cafes.

Make it an Unforgettable Visit

With so many incredible options to choose from, these are just some of the best beaches in Australia that you can visit for a relaxing getaway. From the white sands of One Mile Beach to the mysterious Lizard Island, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For more fantastic articles, guides, and information about travel, destinations all over the globe, and much more, be sure to visit our website today!

Destinations

Royal Wedding Locations You Need To Visit

Many of the locations of famous royal weddings are open to the public. Here are five of them you simply have to see.

Published

3 days ago

March 26, 2023

Loren Thorn

With the upcoming wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, royal weddings seem to be the only thing people can talk about these days. And while it’s a little out of control, we’re not complaining! There’s just something about the extravagance and pageantry of it all that is undeniably fascinating. But for the longest time, I always assume it was something so completely out of reach that I would never be able to experience even the slightest bit of what being at a royal wedding is like.

Well, I was wrong! You can actually visit many of the locations where royal weddings have happened over the years. Here are just five of them. I know I’m going to try and see at least a couple of these before I die!

YORK MINSTER

This stunning cathedral is, of course, located in York, England. It was the home to two royal weddings. First, in 1328, King Edward II married Philippa of Hainault, making her his Queen. Then, in 1961, Edward, Duke of Kent married his love, Katharine Worsley. Also, the city of York is really something to be seen. So this is a great location if you’re looking for a proper England experience with a little royal flavor.

THE ISLE OF WIGHT

This island getaway off the coast of Southampton was actually home to two royal weddings. The Osborn House is on the Isle of Wight, which was once the vacation home of Prince Albert and Queen Victoria. Their second daughter, Princess Alice, was married right there at the house. While her little sister, Princess Beatrice, was actually married at the Church of St. Mildred at Whippingham, which is just a short trip away from the Osborn House.

WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL

The Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire was also home to two different royal weddings. First, in 1403, King Henry IV of England married his second wife, Joanna of Navarre at the Cathedral. Then, in 1554, Mary I married King Philip II of Spain. Mary I was famously the first woman to rule England and her marriage to King Philip was famously an unpleasant one. So This is a great place to eat up a little royal history!

HAMPTON COURT

This truly gorgeous property was long-owned by the one and only Henry VIII. Yes, the Henry VIII that was married not four, not five, but six times. In fact, his sixth and final wedding took place at Hampton Court. He married Katherine Parr there in 1543. The Court is still kept in immaculate condition and is definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.

CANTERBURY

Canterbury is a perfectly quaint and charming English town. It was here, in 1625, that King Charles I married Henrietta Maria of France. Their marriage was famous for Henrietta’s loyalty to King Charles after a civil war broke out during his reign. She stayed loyal to him even after the civil war resulted in the execution of her husband and her king. A regular Romeo and Juliet over here!

And those are just a few of the amazing a beautiful locations that have hosted royal weddings. But there are plenty more to be seen if you’d like to do some more homework. I’m just trying to get you started! The rest is up to you.