Join Heidi and Melissa as they take you inside the magic of Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration. Melissa is reporting directly from Anaheim after completing Disney’s Agent Education Program, sharing first-hand experiences of the park’s platinum-themed décor, special anniversary events, rare character meet-and-greets, and can’t-miss treats like platinum-dusted churros. Whether you’re a first-time Disneyland visitor or a Walt Disney World pro curious about the differences, this episode is packed with insider tips on park hopping, Lightning Lane strategies, resort options, and exciting upcoming attractions—including a Marvel Campus expansion and new lands in Disney California Adventure.Key TakeawaysPlatinum Magic Everywhere – The 70th anniversary brings subtle yet stunning platinum and iridescent décor, special fireworks, exclusive merchandise, and themed spa treatments, among other magical moments.Disneyland vs. Walt Disney World – Learn the key differences in Lightning Lane rules, park hopping convenience, and hotel proximity that make Disneyland uniquely easy to navigate.What’s Next for Disneyland – Get a sneak peek at future expansions, including an Avatar: The Way of Water-inspired land, a Coco attraction, and a doubled Avengers Campus with two new rides.Resources:Disneyland 70th Anniversary Details - Disney Parks BlogDisney Food Blog’s guide to Disneyland’s 70th Celebration and guide to 70th limited-time treatsConnect with Hosts:This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/ Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/ Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/ Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel Key Episode Timestamps:[00:00:00] Welcome & introduction to Theme Parks and Passports[00:01:00] Melissa live from Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary[00:02:00] Platinum décor, celebratory atmosphere & Main Street USA[00:03:02] Special parades, rare characters & fireworks[00:04:00] Classic attractions with anniversary buzz[00:05:10] Lightning Lane differences between Disneyland & Walt Disney World[00:07:03] Park hopping ease at Disneyland[00:08:15] Grand Californian, Pixar Place, and Disneyland Hotel proximity[00:10:18] Anniversary merchandise, special food & spa treatments[00:12:23] Platinum churros & Disneyland’s churro legacy[00:14:36] Magical guest moments & rare character meets[00:16:38] Pixar Place Hotel history, features & unique trivia[00:19:02] Exploring Avengers Campus attractions, food & characters[00:22:27] Planning tips for Disneyland first-timers & 70th celebration visitors[00:23:25] Booking timelines, hotels & good neighbor options[00:26:02] Upcoming attractions: Avatar Land, Coco ride & Avengers Campus expansion[00:28:19] Doubling Avengers Campus: New rides & Marvel fan excitement[00:29:35] Would You Rather: Churro vs. Mickey Bar[00:31:03] Closing & how to book your Disneyland vacationMusic is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

From Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to Universal’s bone-chilling Halloween Horror Nights, this episode of Theme Parks and Passports is your ultimate guide to Halloween travel. Heidi and Melissa break down everything you need to know—event dates, ticket tips, and how to choose the right experience for your vibe. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun, spine-tingling thrills, or festive fall getaways like Disney Cruise Line’s Halloween on the High Seas or iconic destinations like Salem and New Orleans, this episode will help you plan a trip that's equal parts magic and mischief.Key TakeawaysPlan Early for Halloween Events - Halloween parties at theme parks often start in August and sell out fast—especially Halloween night! Booking early ensures access and better pricing for accommodations and special events.There’s a Halloween Experience for Everyone - Whether you’re into family-friendly festivities at Disney or adrenaline-pumping scares at Universal, you’ll find something that matches your vibe.Cruises and Destinations Can Be Spooktacular Too - Disney’s Halloween on the High Seas offers seasonal treats, exclusive characters, and immersive storytelling—while destinations like Salem and New Orleans bring the spooky ambiance all year long.Resources:Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party - websiteUniversal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights -  websiteUniversal Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights - website Disney Cruise Line – Halloween on the High Seas - websiteVisit Salem, MA - Salem.orgVisit New Orleans Haunted Tours - websiteConnect with Hosts:This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/ Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/ Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/ Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel Key Episode Timestamps:[00:00:00] Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports[00:01:43] Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: dates, what’s included, and why it sells out[00:03:00] Parade, fireworks, Hocus Pocus show, and special character costumes[00:04:21] Traveling to the party with kids, extended family, and as adults[00:06:00] Logistics: ticket timing, early park entry, and party wristband tips[00:07:23] Costume rules for adults and how to make the most of them[00:08:48] Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights: full breakdown and how it compares to Disney[00:09:37] Haunted houses, scare zones, themed franchises (like Friday the 13th & Five Nights at Freddy’s)[00:12:00] Express Passes and RIP Tours—how to upgrade your Universal experience[00:13:38] Universal Hollywood vs. Orlando: confirmed houses and differences in layout[00:17:12] Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash: cavalcades, overlays, and VIP experiences[00:20:07] Disney Cruise Line’s Halloween on the High Seas: decor, activities, and seasonal entertainment[00:22:28] Jack & Sally meet-and-greet, 4D shows, and limited-time character costumes[00:24:48] How to book the right Halloween-themed cruise with the correct itinerary[00:25:31] Salem and New Orleans: year-round spooky destinations worth visitingMusic is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

It’s Christmas (or Hanukkah!) in July in this festive episode of Theme Parks and Passports. Travel advisors and hosts Heidi Mackey and Melissa Sanchez unwrap the magic of holiday travel—months before the sleigh bells ring. From Christmas cruises and theme park trips to cozy weekend escapes and iconic events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, they explain why July is the ideal time to start planning your end-of-year adventures.Whether you're organizing a multi-generational getaway, looking for stress-free alternatives to hosting at home, or simply craving hot cocoa by the fire, this episode is packed with practical tips, favorite destinations, and smart strategies for making your holiday travel truly special.Key TakeawaysStart Planning Holiday Travel in July - July is the ideal time to book travel for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Popular cruises, theme park events, and festive accommodations often sell out by early fall—and prices only go up as the holidays get closer.Holiday Experiences Make Lasting Memories - Whether it’s a theme park trip, a cruise, or a cozy weekend getaway, travel creates meaningful family time and core memories that often outshine traditional gift-giving—especially for kids and multi-generational families.Planning and Strategy Is Key for a Stress-Free Holiday Trip - From managing crowds at theme parks to booking the right cruise itinerary or finding the perfect small-town celebration, thoughtful planning (and a travel advisor!) can make the difference between chaos and calm.Resources:🎄 Disney’s Very Merry Christmas Party Info: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-very-merry-christmas-party/ 🎢 Universal Holiday Events: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/things-to-do/events/holidays 💼 Travel Insurance Info: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-checklist.html Connect with Hosts:This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/ Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/ Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/ Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel Key Episode Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports[00:00:10] – Why experiences matter more than gifts: “My daughter remembers the experiences more than anything else.”[00:01:26] – Why July is the perfect time to plan your holiday travel[00:04:22] – Booking early: rising prices, vanishing availability, and why the time to book is now[00:06:42] – Payment tip: Booking early lets you pay over time[00:08:28] – Theme park travel tips for the holidays: crowds, one-park-per-day strategy, and building in downtime[00:15:22] – Holiday cruising: stress-free, festive, and perfect for multigenerational trips[00:18:06] – Heidi’s cautionary cruise tale: not all ships have holiday theming—check your itinerary![00:21:12] – Not every trip has to be big: magical weekend getaways and small-town celebrations[00:28:26] – Why travel insurance is essential for holiday and winter trips[00:30:50] – Strategy by family type: tips for little kids, teens, and empty nesters[00:33:22] – Would You Rather: Start holiday celebrations before or after Thanksgiving?[00:36:45] – Final thoughts: Holidays are about connection—and travel makes that possibleMusic is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukelele Trip Version 60s

Ever wondered if a river cruise is worth it—or how it compares to an ocean cruise? In this episode of Theme Parks and Passports, we sit down with expert travel advisor Annie Schlegel to unpack everything you need to know before booking your first river cruise. From the best European river cruise routes for first-timers to what life is really like on board, Annie shares insider tips, favorite cruise lines, and why this relaxed, immersive style of travel is gaining popularity with Gen Xers, couples, and even families. Whether you're dreaming of wine tasting in France or cruising past castles on the Rhine, this episode will help you figure out if river cruising is right for you.Key TakeawaysRiver cruising is more intimate and immersive than ocean cruising, with smaller ships, personalized service, and the ability to dock in the heart of charming towns.Know the age rules before you book. While some river cruise lines are adults-only (like Viking, which requires guests to be 18+), others welcome kids as young as 8—and even babies on select sailings. Lines like Adventures by Disney and Uniworld’s Generations Collection are especially great for families and multigenerational travel.Booking early is essential. Popular sailings like Tulip Time in Amsterdam or Christmas Markets in Europe fill up quickly, so start planning at least 12–18 months ahead.Resources:Annie Schlegel - Suite Impressions Travel, LLC - www.suiteimpressionstravel.com Annie’s Instagram - @followanniestravels and @suiteimpressionstravelAnnie’s Facebook -@SuiteImpressionsTravelLLC Avalon Waterways – www.avalonwaterways.comEmerald Cruises – www.emeraldcruises.comViking River Cruises – www.vikingrivercruises.comUniworld Boutique River Cruises (Generations Collection) – www.uniworld.comAdventures by Disney River Cruises – www.adventuresbydisney.comASTA River Cruise Expo – www.asta.orgConnect with Hosts:This podcast! www.themeparksandpassports.com Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: www.spellboundvacations.comHeidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: www.houseofmackeytravel.comMelissa on Instagram: @spellbound_vacationsllcHeidi on Instagram: @houseofmackeytravel Key Episode Timestamps:[00:00:00] Welcome to Theme Parks & Passports[00:01:19] Introduction to river cruising with Annie Schlegel[00:03:00] What makes river cruising different from ocean cruising[00:04:23] Cruise lines Annie recommends for first-timers[00:06:12] Highlights from the Burgundy & Provence itinerary[00:08:37] Onboard experiences: food, wine, and port talks[00:12:00] Evening entertainment and enrichment programs[00:13:00] Dress code and what to pack[00:14:16] Cabin types and Avalon’s unique panoramic suites[00:17:09] Budget tips and single traveler options[00:17:40] Key questions to ask your travel advisor before booking[00:19:08] Who river cruising is really for: younger travelers, couples, and families[00:21:00] Family-friendly options and cruise line age restrictions[00:23:33] Final tips for booking your first river cruise[00:25:11] “Would You Rather” river cruise editionMusic is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

Planning an international trip? Don’t let paperwork derail your dream vacation. In this episode of Theme Parks and Passports, travel advisors and hosts Melissa Sanchez and Heidi Mackey walk you through everything you need to know before heading abroad—from passport rules to health documents and the importance of travel insurance. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a globe-trotting pro, this episode is your must-have checklist for crossing borders with confidence.✅ Passport expiration rules you can’t ignore 📄 Do you really need a visa—and how do you know? Key Takeaways:Passport Validity Matters – Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Also, be sure it has enough blank pages—some destinations require at least two.Visa Requirements Vary – Depending on your destination and nationality, you may need a visa, pre-travel registration, or even a transit visa for layovers. Always check country-specific requirements well in advance.Travel Insurance Isn’t Optional – From medical emergencies to flight cancellations and lost luggage, travel insurance can be a lifesaver. Some tours and countries even require proof of coverage before entry.Resources:U.S. Department of State - www.travel.state.gov Passport Info & Renewal - .www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.htmlCountry-Specific Visa Requirements - www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html VisaHQ – Check Visa Requirements by Country - www.visahq.comCDC – Travel Health Notices & Required Vaccinationswwwnc.cdc.gov/travel U.S. Customs & Border Protection – Global Entry, Passport Card, and Travel Programs - www.cbp.gov/travel International Air Transport Association (IATA) – Travel Regulations Mapwww.iatatravelcentre.com/world.php Connect with Hosts:This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/ Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/ Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/ Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel Key Episode Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Welcome to Theme Parks & Passports[00:01:24] – Why international travel documents are more important than ever[00:01:45] – The trip-stopping consequences of missing documentation[00:02:01] – What international travelers need to know about document requirements[00:02:11] – Passport 101: Why it’s your golden ticket abroad[00:02:32] – The 6-month passport validity rule explained[00:03:07] – Why blank passport pages can make or break your entry[00:04:00] – Understanding visa requirements by country and nationality[00:05:00] – The different types of visas and which one you need[00:05:52] – Why processing times matter—and how to plan ahead[00:06:06] – Countries that require pre-registration, even without a visa[00:08:00] – Health documents: Not just about COVID[00:08:18] – Real vaccine requirements: From yellow fever to malaria prevention[00:09:21] – Why travel insurance isn’t optional anymore[00:13:00] – The importance of knowing your coverage (and your fine print!)[00:13:51] – Always carry printed copies of your travel documents[00:14:28] – Why you may be asked for proof of accommodations or return tickets[00:15:00] – Screenshot your documents—just in case[00:15:33] – Paper backup for vaccine cards, IDs, and passport info[00:16:35] – Leave a copy of your passport and plans with someone at home[00:17:19] – Make sure your emergency contact knows your itinerary[00:18:08] – Bonus tip: Carry extra passport photos[00:19:00] – Cruise visa rules: What happens if you miss the ship?[00:19:56] – Would You Rather: Safari in Africa or Machu Picchu?[00:21:00] – Final checklist: Passport, visa, health docs, insurance, and backupsMusic is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s