Save on these Walt Disney World Tickets

Leave a comment August 4, 2023 donnagail

With every Disney update, Disney fans everywhere hold their breath on what it will do to ticket prices. But there are great ways to grab your tickets without succumbing to insane credit card debt. For example. Walt Disney World Resort tickets and vacation packages are easier than ever to book with Get Away Today! Even for your hotels too. Hotel prices are getting wildly absurd. Plus, often times they are where we start compromising on quality to just get a better price. So how can Get Away Today really help in this regard?

Save big money with Get Away Today

You can save on both on and off-site Walt Disney World Resort Hotels at getawaytoday.com for 2023 AND 2024 travel. Plus, you’ll save the most when they take advantage of Walt Disney World Resort ticket specials like:

4-Park Magic Tickets for $99/day for travel now – September 29, 2023
2-Days Free; 7-Days for the price of 5 Walt Disney World Resort Tickets
Discounts on all Walt Disney World Resort ticket types

UPDATE: Walt Disney World tickets and packages

Get Away Today also was recently updated on the Walt Disney World tickets and packages that they offer. Their tickets and packages now fall more in line with their Disneyland Resort packages and should make it easier for you to know what to expect on both coasts.

Get Away Today’s Walt Disney World Resort vacation packages can now be completely booked on our website. That’s right; no cumbersome quotes needed! You can compare all of their favorite Walt Disney World Resort hotels and their hand selected off-property hotels all in a few clicks. You can then customize your included ticket for the perfect vacation.
Get Away Today’s Walt Disney World Resort vacation packages now have the option to add Layaway Plans, which allow guests to pay the total balance up to eight days prior to travel.
Guests can also now add Get Away Today’s popular Peace of Mind Plan when booking a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel, which allows any reschedules and cancellations up to five days prior to travel with no penalty.
All Walt Disney World Resort on-site packages include Get Away Today’s e-concierge, which includes our Best Price Guarantee, Dining Reservation Reminders, access to our Concierge Team email for help before and during your vacation, and more.

Why choose Get Away Today

I think a better question would be, why wouldn’t you? Cliche, I know. But in the pursuit of saving money, you have to take what you can get! And if the main mouse himself isn’t lowering the prices, then you have to look elsewhere. Places like Get Away Today are helping you do just that. And if you’re looking for the best Disney ticket prices, then they are the place to look. But they also offer other vacation destinations as well so definitely give them a look for other vacation plans too!

The Royal Up Program: Royal Caribbean’s Upgrade Experience

How does the Royal Up Program work?

When eligible, you’ll receive an email invitation to participate in the Royal Up Program. Once you receive the invitation, it’s time to channel your inner explorer and embark on an upgrade journey. In the email, it will list possible staterooms that you can bid on. You will select the monetary amount that you are willing to pay for a specific stateroom upgrade. Be aware though! You are bidding on a “per person” amount. But it only applies to the first and second guest on the booking reservation. You will not be charged for third or higher guests if your offer is accepted. Additionally, if you are in a single occupancy booking, you will be charged for double occupancy.

You are also more than welcome to big on multiple rooms to increase your chances of getting upgraded. You will however only be able to bid on one room per category. But don’t worry – you will only pay for one upgrade if accepted.

Royal Caribbean will notify you via email prior to your sailing departure if your bid was accepted. If you win the upgrade, you’ll be charged the bid amount, and voilà, you’re off to a more opulent abode onboard. It’s like stepping into a hidden treasure trove of comfort and luxury. And if you don’t get your bid accepted, you will not be charged for any upgrades and you will keep the stateroom that you originally had.

It’s important to note that the program is subject to availability, so grab your chance while you can. Remember, luck favors the adventurous!

What stateroom categories are up for grabs in the Royal Up program?

Potential Royal Caribbean Royal Up program offers for suites

Well, it can vary depending on the sailing and availability. You might have the opportunity to elevate your experience from a cozy interior room to a spacious balcony stateroom, or even ascend to the heights of a magnificent suite.

Now, you might be wondering, “Are there any restrictions?” The Royal Up Program does have a few. For instance, if you’ve already paid in full or are within a certain time frame before departure, you won’t be eligible to participate. But fear not, other adventures await!

Remember, the Royal Up Program is all about adding that extra touch of grandeur to your cruise experience. It’s an opportunity to seize, a chance to make your journey even more unforgettable. And every time you book a suite on Royal Caribbean, you will automatically earn twice the amount of points on your cruise. Be sure to use those points to tier match to MGM Rewards!

So embrace the thrill of the Royal Up Program! Why wouldn’t you want to cruise to CocoCay in style? Upgrade your adventure, elevate your expectations, and let the waves of luxury sweep you off your feet. Your upgraded stateroom is just a bid away. Bon voyage!

Cruising to Paradise: A Perfect Day at CocoCay – Map 2023

1 Comment March 28, 2023 donnagail

Nestled in the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas, lies the perfect getaway for sun-seekers and thrill-seekers alike. A place where you can do dare-devilish waterslides or go work on your tan lines. This tropical paradise, known as Perfect Day at CocoCay, has been reimagined and enhanced for 2023, offering an even more unforgettable experience than before. So let’s dive in to this Perfect Day at CocoCay review!

All about Perfect Day CocoCay

CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s private island. From exhilarating waterslides to serene lagoons, this island oasis has something for everyone. Known for its Thrill Waterpark, as you can imagine there are many families in attendance. Also this private port can have two ships docked at once. So you shouldn’t be shocked to see another Royal Caribbean cruise there the same day you are!

Liberty of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas docked at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Not to fret though. Even though two ships can undock here, there is still plenty of space. There are lounging chairs aplenty and the small island is big enough that it doesn’t seem like two full cruises are on one plot of land.

How’s the food at CocoCay?

The food is perfect for what you’re craving after a long day of sun and fun. And yes, it’s free! The great thing about cruises is that the food is included with your cruise reservation. Unless of course you go to one of their premium restaurants. And Royal Caribbean has, in my opinion, the BEST quality of food.

Part of the menu included: hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries, a chicken sandwich, cookies, funnel cake, and more! The service is also super quick and easy. I had the chicken sandwich and it was delicious. My husband got a hot dog and we were both a little bummed that it was more on the luke-warm side. Still delicious though.

Breaking down the CocoCay Map 2023

There are three options for enjoying CocoCay:

The “free” part of it, which is essentially just getting off of the ship and wandering around on your own
The Thrill Waterpark ticket, which includes exploring on your own and as well as entrance into the waterpark
Or upgrading your perfect day by going to a secluded beach at Coco Beach Club or enjoying other paid experiences, cabanas, and daybeds.

Free Access

Access to CocoCay is included with your cruise itinerary. All you have to do is get off of the ship and enjoy your surroundings! Included in this access is Harbor Beach, Oasis Lagoon, and Chill Island. But this does not mean you are allowed to access all the amenities. You may encounter daybeds or gazebos on the water. Unless you reserve these ahead of time, you will not be able to use them. Prices will vary. The lounge chairs however are free to use and they are everywhere!

For anyone traveling with small kids, if your little ones are not quite big enough for the Thrill Waterpark, CocoCay does have some water playgrounds that are a part of the “free access”. They can be found right outside of Thrill Waterpark on numbers 6 and 7 on the CocoCay map 2023 above.

Thrill Waterpark

The Thrill Waterpark is about $130 per person and it is recommended to buy your tickets ahead of time. Personally after experiencing Thrill Waterpark, I think $130 is a little overpriced. This isn’t to say that their slides weren’t awesome because they definitely were. But it just seems steep. Also since the majority of their slides are pretty “thrill” worthy, if you are scared of heights or intense waterslides, Thrill Waterpark won’t be worth it.

Pro tip: Looking for some hype, but don’t want to pay for Thrill Waterpark? Oasis Lagoon is going to be your spot. They have a swim-up bar that has a DJ booth right next to it. As an adult, this was the place to be to get great drinks and enjoy a very energetic atmosphere! Also because it was very loud and also right next to the swim-up bar, there weren’t many kids around.

Coco Beach Club and private cabanas

Coco Beach Club is all about relaxation. If you want to take some time for yourself away from others, this would be the way to go. However during our trip, we actually talked to some people that purchased this beach access and had a gazebo on the water. They said that unless you really don’t want to be bothered or be around people, it isn’t worth it. There is so much to do on this island oasis. I wouldn’t blame them if they had a little FOMO from hearing how much fun other people were having!

Perfect Day at CocoCay. View from Harbor Beach area. — The view from Harbor Beach. Listed #14 on the CocoCay map 2023.

Final Perfect Day at CocoCay Review

Overall, I am impressed with CocoCay. However, I did picture it bigger. The commercials really make it seem like Thrill Waterpark was the majority of the property. But I do like that there is a lot to do. There are also plenty of areas to explore and relax. Whether you’re an adult who loves waterparks or you have a family with kids, it is a great spot! And even if you would rather spend some time in a quieter area, they have that too. Just look at the CocoCay map 2023 and you can see just how much fun is waiting for you on your next adventure!

Lastly, if you vacation with Royal Caribbean frequently and are also a fan of MGM Resorts, be sure to get your Royal Caribbean tier match with MGM Rewards!

4 Must-See Places for a Short Trip to Rome

1 Comment October 27, 2022 donnagail

When you think of Rome, you think of stunning architecture, colorful streets, and scrumptious pizza and gelato. Fortunately, that’s not the end of it all. Even if you don’t have an entire week to spend, you can still make your stay worthwhile. Here are a few things you can do for a short trip to Rome!

Colosseum Tour

Known as the largest amphitheater ever to be built and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Colosseum is an oval-shaped architectural beauty that has survived fires, earthquakes, and major wars.

You absolutely cannot miss visiting the Colosseum during your short trip in Rome. Luckily, it is centrally located so you can easily access it via the subway. Make sure you plan a visit early in the morning, especially if you want to avoid the line. And don’t forget to buy your ticket in advance to skip the queue!

Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

A short 10 minute walk from the Colosseum is the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Because Palatine Hill was home to the first settlement in Rome, it offers a beautiful view of the Roman Forum. When you walk down the hill, you will see the remains of temples, monuments, and buildings in the Roman Forum that were part of the city center.

When you get a ticket to the Colosseum, you will also be given access to the Roman Forum.

Altare Della Patria

At the face of the Piazza Venezia, the Altare Della Patria is a pure-white marble monument offering a panoramic view of the city. It was built in honor of Italy’s first king, which is why it is often called the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument.

You can visit the first part for free. However, you’ll need an entrance ticket to access the top part of the monument.

Vatican City

Though located at the heart of Rome, the Vatican closes you off from the world. It gives guests a sense of being in a different country with its surrounding wall as the border. Once inside, take your time to appreciate the architecture – it is breathtaking. And don’t forget to check out the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Square & Basilica. However, it is possible that this the place could be closed on Sundays. Keep that in mind when you plan your visit!

Where to Stay for a Short Trip to Rome?

Rome has accommodations for travelers of all budgets. You can find places to stay almost everywhere, but the best places would be near Termini Stations or around Vatican City.

Wrapping Up

If you want to travel to a city with a charismatic personality that’s home to inspiring art and bustling street life, Rome is a must-go. You could never tire of this beautiful place because there is always something new to explore. It is truly an incredible destination that warrants a visit, even for a short trip. Not to mention, you can even take your travels to places like Paris with ease.

You are bound to fall in love with the food, architecture, and people. And if you do, you can even apply for Italy’s Golden Visa to get a two-year residence permit through investment. If you are excited about moving to Italy, check out personal relocation services to get all the help you need!

Additionally, you can rent a self-storage to keep your belongings safe and secure while moving. With the many options available, you only need to conduct thorough research to find the best one. If you’re considering a spacious unit, find out how big is 5×5 storage unit before making your final decision.

Map provided by Wanderlog, a travel planner on iOS and Android

Everything you need to know about how to play myVEGAS Bingo

myVEGAS Bingo Tips and Best Practices

1 Comment September 14, 2021 donnagail

I will never be done talking about the amazing benefits of playing the myVEGAS apps. Now they have added a fifth app to their gaming experience, here are my best myVEGAS Bingo tips.

If you want to learn more about these apps and some of the awesome experiences that I have redeemed with them, click this link: Making the Most of myVEGAS Reward Points.

myVEGAS Bingo Tips and Beginner Tricks

myVEGAS Bingo adds a completely different gaming experience to myVEGAS games. This is the first time that they are adding Bingo as a game to play with their apps. Most of their games center around slot games. You can easily put those on Auto Spin, walk away from your phone, and rack up the Loyalty Points. But myVEGAS Bingo requires you to be an active participant in the game. You’ll need to daub your way to victory using powerups and some essential Bingo strategy.

How do I gain loyalty points on myVEGAS Bingo?

There’s a huge difference between how you gain points in the other apps and how you gain in myVEGAS Bingo. For the other apps, every time you would spin the slot, you would fill up your Loyalty Points tank based on how much your bet was. Once filled, it would reward you Loyalty Points based on your gaming level. For example, I am level 435 in the myVEGAS Slots app. Every time I fill up my Loyalty tank in that app, it awards me 500 Loyalty Points. Essentially a higher level means a higher Loyalty Point payout in those other apps.

For myVEGAS Bingo, it’s still the same that once you fill your Loyalty tank it will award you Loyalty Points. BUT….

The Loyalty Points amount is a FIXED amount of 50 Loyalty points. This will not increase at all with your level within the app, and..

Your Loyalty Points Tank is filled by your TIME SPENT in the app. Specifically one minute will award you 50 Loyalty Points. The meter fills up like a clock going one full rotation around.

This means that you could literally have no in-game money to spend on playing the Bingo games and you can still fill up your Loyalty tank max for the day. All you would have to do is open the app to gain Loyalty Points – no game play needed.

How many Loyalty Points can I gain in a single day playing myVEGAS Bingo?

Want to know how many Loyalty Points you can stack up in a single day on any myVEGAS app? I’ve got the answer!

Basic myVEGAS Bingo Strategy Tips

Like any gaming app, you can develop a strategy to put the best odds in your favor. MyVEGAS Bingo is no different. But here are a few tips for myVEGAS Bingo that will help regardless.

Powerups are essential to gaining the upper hand. You can “buy” a stack of 3 Powerups or a stack of 6 Powerups for one game. You “purchase” these Powerups using Diamonds. These Diamonds are just a form of free currency in the game but are used specifically for Powerups. They cannot be used to buy anything else. I always buy all 6 Powerups. If you don’t like the hand you are dealt, you can always buy another stack of Powerups. But just remember that you can only play with one single stack. Once you choose the stack you want to play with, the rest are trashed. You won’t be able to use them on another game.

Powerups and Tips to Use Them

Sometimes these games move very quickly and when that happens, you may not get to use all of your Powerups in that game. The easiest way to avoid that is to make every daub count. You can play one-card, two-card, or four-card Bingo. Based on how many cards you are playing, you will have to daub a certain amount of spaces before a Powerup is activated. For four-card Bingo, you have to daub any three squares to activate one Powerup. Don’t wait to use your Powerups. Once you use a Powerup, it will have a cool-down time. It will be about 5 seconds before you can start activating another Powerup. You can still daub while this 5-second delay occurs, but those daubs will not go towards activating the Powerup.

If you are lucky enough to have the Extra Daub Powerup as the last Powerup in your bank, which can come in the form of 1-extra, 2-extra, or 3-extra daubs, I will ALWAYS hold off on using that one until most of the Bingos have been called. Each game only has 32 Bingos that can be called, and remember that you are playing against other people. Having an Extra Daub as the last powerup gives you the advantage for one final way to get one of the last Bingos. I will usually wait until there is 10 Bingos left to be called before I use that Powerup. The reason being is that if I use it too soon, then I am essentially taking numbers off the board that could have been called in that timeframe before the end of the game.

Final thoughts on myVEGAS Bingo tips

Again, everyone comes up with their own way of doing things. However, these are my absolute must-dos if you plan on making the most of your gameplay within the app right off the bat.

If you want to download this app, click here for iPhone download, and click here for Android download.

Donna Gail Blog

Your friendly, budget-conscious SoCal blogger

Budget Travel