Saturday, January 2, 2010

Castaway Cay - Disney Cruise Line's Private Island

by Jennifer Claybourne
jennifer@wdwtravels.com
330-530-8319
1-866-308-5817


Have you ever seen a postcard from the Bahamas? You know the ones; palm trees, white sandy beaches, and water so blue that it can’t be real. This place really exists and it is called Castaway Cay. Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island where every Disney Cruise makes port for a day (and yes, the water really is that blue).

The palm trees, beaches, and beautiful blue water are not the only things that make Castaway Cay special. The island has something for everyone. Most cruisers will spend their time at the family beach. This white sandy beach has chairs for sunbathing or umbrellas for shade. There are also hammocks for swaying in the ocean breeze and relaxing, Disney style.

Just down from the family beach is the sports beach where you can play tetherball, volleyball, or a number of other activities.
The teen beach is next and is off limits to those of us over 18.The teen beach is the perfect place for the young adults to hang out and get away from those of us who may be cramping their image.

On the other side of the island is Serenity Bay. This beach is reserved for adults only and is a wonderful place to enjoy some peace and quiet. This section even has its own lunch served so you never have to leave (well, at least until 5pm).


For those who like to shop, there are several interesting stores where you can buy items unique to Castaway Cay. Those who enjoy the occasional adult beverage (I love Conch Coolers) Castaway Cay has several walk up bars to choose from, or you can order from one of the many drink servers walking around. All of the activities are bound to work up an appetite, and Disney has this covered too with a buffet style barbecue lunch.

There are plenty of excursions to try on the island, too. Everything from parasailing to bike riding is available on the island. My personal favorite, though, is snorkeling. Castaway Cay has a protected cove set aside for snorkeling where most of the dangerous creatures of the sea can not enter. There are many lifeguards overseeing the snorkelers for added safety. This is the perfect place to see tropical fish in as safe an environment as possible. Give it a try and see if you can find the Mickey statue!



Castaway Cay is typical of Disney; a magical place that is fun for the whole family. This island is just another reason why Disney Cruises stand head and shoulders above everyone else for family vacations.

Thursday, December 31, 2009

Disney College of Knowledge agents are great for you!!!

by Leslie Campbell
lesle@wdwtravels.com
817-294-2159


When shopping for a travel agent, especially if you are not an experienced Disney vacationer; most people look for an agent who knows the answers to most, if not all, of their questions upon their initial chat with an agent. Before I took the Disney College of Knowledge courses and then attended the on site training that expanded on the on line courses, I only thought I knew a lot about Disney. Only after taking the Disney College of Knowledge courses, absorbing the wealth of knowledge it offered and had the privilege of 3 full days of on site tours which included most of the Disney resorts as well as all 6 Disney parks (4 theme parks & 2 water parks), did I really know all that Walt Disney World had to offer it's guests! The information I gained by being a graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge has given me the ability to serve my clients in ways I could never have offered them with out the Disney College Knowledge courses.

Finding an agent who is always current on the latest Disney information is key to having the most "Magical Dream Come True" vacation possible. When shopping for your agent, one of the first questions you should ask is "Are you a Disney College of Knowledge" agent?" If they are, then proceed with your inquiries for your family's vacation. The Disney College of Knowledge agent will be on top of the latest news and information and can help you customize your Dream Vacation. Happy Agent Shopping!!

Once you find the Disney College of Knowledge agent for you, your agent will take it from there. He or she will book, plan, and make all the arrangements for you. All you will need to do is arrive at your Disney location, follow the provided itinerary, and ENJOY your Dream Vacation at the Happiest Place on Earth!