Escape a Travel Podcast

Your favorite podcast hosts bring you one final episode before closing out our time on Escape. We have thoroughly enjoyed the time we've shared with you. Thank you for your support along the way and we hope you had as much fun listening and getting to know us as we had recording and getting to know one another.   You can find Jess and Sam on their podcast by searching for The Fab 5 podcast and you can find John and Shawn on their podcast by searching for The Where We ROAM Podcast.   This is Escape... signing off!

On this week's episode we discuss the newly opened, Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood. This new land packs so much into a small space, from riding your own cart on Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge, sweet treats at Toadstools Cafe to the interactice power up bands, you really feel like you are in a Nintendo game!  If you would like to connect with our podcast community you can visit us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or by sending us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com 

Fall is just around the corner and that means all things spooky! On this week's podcast, we chat through Shawn's recent trip to Universal Orlando to experience an R.I.P tour at Halloween Horror Nights. Join us as we talk through the 10 different houses and various scare zones. See if his favorite houses match up with yours and also get his takeaways on how an R.I.P. tour during these HHN nights compares with a V.I.P. tour during a regular park day.   If you would like to connect with the podcast, you can join our podcast community by clicking this link or by sending us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com.

Is it absolutely crazy to bring your kids to the wine capital of the United States? On this week's episode we discuss John's stay at the family friendly, The Grand Reserve at Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa Valley, CA. From the concierge rooms, bowling alley, expansive grounds, to the beautiful family pool, there is so much for every member of the family.  If would like more information about The Meritage or would like to connect with anyone at our show you can email us at escape.atp@gmail.com. We also invite your to connect with our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

Walt Disney World Monorail Resorts are iconic and among the most popular resorts on Disney property. Every guest who has ever ridden the monorail or taken a ferry across the Seven Seas Lagoon has seen them, many have stayed in them and for many they are a bucket list hotel. On this week's podcast we review the three monorail resorts, The Contemporary, The Polynesian Village Resort and of course, The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.  Do you agree with our rankings? Do you want to tell us how stupid we are? Share your thoughts over on our podcast community group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or by sending us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com. 

John recently returned from a visit to the most expensive Ritz Carlton in Florida for the 4th of July. From the newly renovated rooms, 5 Diamond dining, kids programming to pirates with pineapples, we dive deep into a holiday stay at one of the best resorts in the Southeast.  If you would like to connect with the podcast please email us at escape.atp@gmail.com or by visiting our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's show Shawn gives us the full breakdown of his recent Ama Waterways Danube River cruise. We dive deep into accommodations, dining, excursions, service, transfers, all of it! If you have always been interested in taking a River Cruise, this pod is for you.  If you would like to connect with the podcast you can join our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or send us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com

After a couple month hiatus, we return with our fall travel plans and ideas! We are so excited to be back and we cover some of our own plans for the fall, including Disney World, Napa Valley, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ireland, Yosemite National Park, Atelier Playa Mujeres and so much more!  If you would like to join in on the conversation, you can visit us at online on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or via email at escape.atp@gmail.com

Sammy recently had the opportunity to sail on board Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas for its North American inaugural sailing! On this week's pod we dive deep into how this ship compares to the other Oasis Class ships in addition to some comparisons with Disney Disney's newest ship the Wish!  Have you already sailed on Wonder of the Seas? We would love to hear your thoughts! You can connect with us online over on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or by sending us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com

As Bob Iger continues his "I'm Back" goodwill tour, the Walt Disney Company has released several 2023 promotions for Disney World, one being the return of free dining... well sort of. Plus we discuss when is the best time to book your next Disneyland and World Vacation.  If you would like to join in on the conversation, you can visit us at online on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or via email at escape.atp@gmail.com 

Looking for your next family adventure or romantic getaway? This week we discuss all of our travel plans for 2023, from Punta Cana to Paris, we cover it all! Join us as we discuss what we are looking forward to most in our 2023 travel plans episode part 1! If you would like to let us know your thoughts on 2023 travel, shoot us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com or find us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast.

On this week's episode of the podcast we discuss all things Disneyland Resort from beautiful Southern California. Shawn, Jess and Sam all recently had trips out at West Coast Disney and can't wait to share their experiences! Plus Shawn experiences the new Genie+ updates that will offer some added flexibility in your day!  Do you love Disneyland Resort in California as much as we do? We would love to hear your thoughts on Walt's original park over in our community group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or by email at escape.atp@gmail.com

On this week's episode of the podcast we discuss John's recent trip to Excellence Oyster Bay in beautiful Jamaica. This newly built resort sits on a private peninsula with an incredibly beautiful beach scene. How does this resort compare to The Excellence Group's Mexico properties? We give you our honest review covering rooms, dining, location, activities and so much more.  If you would like to connect with the show or give your thoughts on Excellence Oyster Bay, visit our community group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or shoot us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com. 

On this week's pod we discuss the latest shake up at Disney and what it could mean for your next Walt Disney World vacation. We come up with our wishlist for Santa Iger, some that will surely happen in the coming months, while others may be a big stretch.  What do you want to see changed at the Walt Disney Company? Let us know by joining us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or dropping us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com. 

On this week's episode the podcasters talk about some GREAT and TERRIBLE last minute travel ideas for the end of 2022. Some destinations are perfect for last minute planning over the holidays, others... not so much!  Let us know your favorite last minute travel ideas! Join our facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or email us at escape.atp@gmail.com

Jess and Sam have just returned from a Disney Fairy Tale Wedding in Hollywood Studios in front of The Tower of Terror! We have all the details from food, characters, dancing, cake and all of the crazy things you experience when attending a Fairy Tale Wedding at Walt Disney World in Florida.  Would you ever get married at Walt Disney World? Let us know your thoughts by visiting our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or by emailing us at escape.atp@gmail.com.

On this week's pod, we discuss Disneyland Resort in beautiful Southern California! John and his family recently returned from a magical stay at Disneyland Hotel and experienced the best of what both west coast parks have to offer. Spoiler alert, he and his family might like DLR better than WDW.  Let us know our thoughts on Disneyland Resort by visiting our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or by sending us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com

On this week's episode we continue our Walt Disney World Resorts 101 series and discuss what is widely considered the best themed resort on Disney property. With it's excellent location, plentiful transportation options, popular dining choices, top notch pools and an over the top theme, this resort checks all the Disney boxes! What do you think about Disney's Polynesian Village Resort?  Email us at escape.atp@gmail.com or join our podcast community to join in on the conversation over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

John and Shawn have returned from their recent sailing on Disney Cruise Line's Dream! While being over 10 years old, the Disney Dream still sparkles like new and is a well oiled machine, from service to dining, this ship did not disappoint.  Let us know your thoughts on DCL's Disney Wish or send us your questions at escape.atp@gmail.com or on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's episode we review Disney Cruise Line's newest cruise ship, the Disney Wish. Sam and Jess recently returned from one of the ship's Inaugural Season sailings and they are here to give their completely honest and unbiased review of this beautiful ship. Did they love it more than the other DCL ships? Tune in to find out! PLUS Disney has announced it's newest ship at D23, the Disney Treasure and we have all the details!  If you would like to let us know your thoughts on the Wish or DCL in general you can email us at escape.atp@gmail.com or join our facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast.

Everyone's favorite not entirely spooky Halloween event has RETURNED! On this week's pod we discuss Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party in all of it's candy filled glory! From special character appearances, sweet treats, short lines and costumes galore, this event is something to experience.  What are your thoughts on this special ticketed event at Walt Disney World? Let us know over at our podcast community on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or shoot us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com

On this week's pod we continue our Universal Orlando Resort Overview series, exploring Universal's Flagship resort, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. From it's tranquil gardens, top notch pool, massive rooms and extensive dining options, Portofino Bay delivers on so many levels. What do you think of this Italian themed resort?  If you would like to join in on the conversation, email us at escape.atp@gmail.com or you can do so by visiting our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast  

On this week's episode, we divulge all of our Wizarding World secrets and give you our must do activities while visiting the world JK built. From our top eats, favorite rides and even some hidden gems tucked where most might overlook, this episode is a must listen for every Witch and Wizard... maybe even the occasional Muggle.  If you would like to connect with the podcast crew you can join our online community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or email us at escape.atp@gmail.com

On this week's episode we continue our Walt Disney World Resorts 101 series and discuss what most consider to be the best Disney value resort. With its bright colors, excellent theming, beautiful pools and large family suites, this Skyliner Resort is insanely popular with families across the board.  What do you think about Disney's Art of Animation Resort?  Email us at escape.atp@gmail.com or join our podcast community to join in on the conversation over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

The ship class that turned the cruise industry on it's head has received the Royal treatment and have been Amplified to the next level! Adding waterslides, laser tag, new restaurants and bars, updated public spaces and so much more, Royal Caribbean has upped it's midsize ship class and brought it's aging fleet into the 2020s.  What do you think about the Voyager, Mariner, Navigator, Explorer and Adventure of the Seas? Let us know by visiting us online at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or emailing us at escape.atp@gmail.com

On this week's pod we discuss our favorite excursions and day trips across all of the islands. From Haleakala to Pearl Harbor and from the Road to Hana to sunset tours in Princeville, we have give you all the details on our favorite tours the Hawaiian Islands have to offer.  What is your favorite Hawaiian excursion? Let us know and join the conversation by connecting with our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or email us at escape.atp@gmail.com

This week we begin an exciting new series, our Royal Caribbean Ship Class Guide, starting with the grand daddy of all ship classes, the Oasis Class. Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony and now Wonder of the Seas are the biggest cruise ships in the world, with some of the most exciting amenities, entertainment, suites and activities at Seas. In this new series we discuss everything the Oasis Class has to offer from shows, to dining to the kids club, we cover it all!  What do you think of the Oasis Class? We would love to know! You can email us at escape.atp@gmail.com or you can connect with our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast.

On this week's episode we continue our Walt Disney World Resorts 101 series and discuss what many consider to be the best moderate Disney resort. Since the opening of the beautiful Grand Destino Tower, Coronado Springs Resort cements itself as the true "deluxe light" Disney Resort. With multiple gyms, table service restaurants, even club level accommodations, this convention focused resort exceeds most expectations. What do you think about Disney's Coronado Springs Resort?  Email us at escape.atp@gmail.com or join our podcast community to join in on the conversation over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

Where are the podcasters heading in the second half of 2022? Disneyland? South America? National Parks? Europe? Hawaii? Disney Cruise? On this week's pod we discuss where we are planning to travel in the second half of 2022.  Where do you want to go in the second half of 2022? Let us know by sending us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com or by visiting us online at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's episode we continue our Walt Disney World Resorts 101 series as we cover the resort that people either LOVE or love to HATE. With a prime location next to Epcot's International Gateway and sometimes scary decor, Disney's Boardwalk Inn Resort is one that will always illicit a debate. What do you think about Disney's Boardwalk Inn Resort?  Email us at escape.atp@gmail.com or join our podcast community to join in on the conversation over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's pod we continue our Universal Orlando Resort Overview series, taking a look at one of the most beautiful resorts on Universal property, Lowes Sapphire Falls Resort. From the breathtaking lobby, to the grand staircase and the amazing dining options, this resort definitely makes a fantastic first impression.  If you would like to join in on the conversation, email us at escape.atp@gmail.com or you can do so by visiting our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

Churros then corndogs, Riviera and Poly, Boma, Chef Mickeys and Character Greetings, Fireworks booming across the night sky... These are a few of our Favorite Things! On today's episode of the pod we discuss some of our favorite things at Walt Disney World.  What are your Favorite Things at Walt Disney World? Let us know at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or by email at escape.atp@gmail.com

Big changes are coming to Genie+ at Walt Disney World and what the podcsasters thought about their recent experiences with Disney's Deluxe Resort Evening Extended Hours. Spoiler alert, there might be a little complaining in this week's pod.  What do you think about the changes coming to Genie+? Let us know by emailing us at escape.atp@gmail.com or by visiting us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's episode we discuss our experience on Walt Disney World's brand new roller coaster, Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind. Is this the best coaster at Disney? The best ride? Find out all of our thoughts and more on this week's pod.  Have you already experienced this new attraction? If so we want to hear your thoughts. Visit our community online at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast or send us an email at escape.atp@gmail.com

On this week's episode, we continue our Discovering Mexico series and take an in-depth look at Finest Playa Mujeres. John recently returned from a week long stay at this gorgeous all inclusive resort and he walks us through the ins and outs of their stay.  Join us as we talk through the restaurants, drinks, beach, spa, and vibe that may very well be the perfect fit for your families next great escape. If you would like to join in on the conversation, head over to Facebook and join our podcast community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

This week we celebrate our 100th episode with a special podcast where we asked you, our listeners, to submit questions that you'd like us to answer and you did not disappoint! Have a listen to see if you agree with our thoughts and opinions on the superb listener questions that were submitted. Join in on the conversation over on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

Join us as we jump over to the West Coast and continue our Disney Resorts 101 series exploring the OG Disney Resort, the Disneyland Hotel. Located a stones throw away from both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure in sunny and beautiful Anaheim, California. Listen in as we talk through what sets this resort a part from the rest and why it's a favorite of ours! If you would like to join in on the conversation visit our online community at https://www.facebook.com/EscapeTravelPodcast    

Join us on this week's podcast as we explore the most epic private island in the Caribbean, Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at Coco Cay. From North America's tallest waterslide to the largest fresh water pool in the Caribbean, Perfect Day at Coco Cay takes adventure and chill to the max. But does it beat out Disney's Castaway Cay for the best private island in the Caribbean? Listen to find out!  If you would like to join in on the conversation visit our online community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

Shawn and his entire have just returned fresh off their 4 night stay at the Disneyland Hotel in beautiful Southern California. Join us as we discuss Shawn's first visit to the Happiest Place on Earth!  If you would like to join the conversation and let us know your thoughts on Disneyland, meet us over on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's episode we continue our Walt Disney World Resorts 101 series as we cover the resort with the best pool complex on property. With a prime location next to Epcot's International Gateway, Disney's Beach Club Resort is one of our all time favorites! What do you think about Disney's Beach Club Resort?  Join our podcast community to join in on the conversation over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

Keep, Re-Theme, Tear Down is Back! On this week's episode, special guest Carie Hamm joins the pod as we play everyone's favorite game, KRT! Join us as we discuss what we want to keep, what we want to refurb and what we are putting out of it's misery at Universal Orlando Resort!  What would you keep, re theme or tear down? Join is on facebook and let us know! https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

The first quarter of 2022 has officially passed us and we figured we would take a stab to guess what the rest of the year has in store! Will dining plans return? Will we ever get Disney's Magical Express back? Are Park Passes here to stay? This week we give our best guess!  Tell us what you think will happen with the rest of 2022 over at our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

Are you ready for all the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, but looking for that perfect Mexican Caribbean beach? Look no further than Planet Hollywood Resort Cancun. On this week's episode we discuss who this sprawling resort is for and why they are going to love it!  If you would like to join the conversation, please visit us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's pod we continue our Universal Orland Resort Overview series, taking a look at one of the best themed value resorts in all of Orlando, Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort. From the Jack LaLanne Physical Fitness Studio to the VO5 and Zest toiletries, this resort is right out of Mid-Century Americana. Listen now to see what the crew thinks about this Prime Value resort.  If you would like to join in on the conversation, you can do so by visiting our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's episode we continue our Walt Disney World Resorts 101 series as we cover the best themed resort on property, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. If you have ever wanted to sip your coffee on your balcony while watching Giraffes roam, this resort is for you.  What do you think about Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge? Join our podcast community to join in on the conversation over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's episode we take on the hottest of hot WDW topics, 2022 crowds! We have put together our top 9 tips to navigate the unprecedented crowds and make the most of your Walt Disney World vacation.  Share your tips and connect with our podcast community over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast.

Looking for a service focused, Luxury All Inclusive Resort with multiple AAA 4 and 5 Diamond restaurants? Then Grand Velas Riviera Maya might be the perfect spot for you and your loved ones to have an incredibly relaxing vacation. If you are wanting a place to forget the rest of the world and have every need attended to, look no further.  If you would like to join in on the conversation, visit our community page over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

For all of our bougie listeners and those who aspire to be, this week we discuss Club Level at Walt Disney World. Free snacks, personal concierge service, even drinks are included, but is it really worth the upgrade? Join us as we tackle this complicated question!  Let us know what you think about Club Level at Disney over at our online community,  https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's podcast we continue our Discover Hawaii Series with a look at the exquisite cuisine on Maui. We eat our way around the island, from food trucks to 5 star gourmet dining, join us on this journey as we share our favorite eats and drinks on Maui.  If you would like to join the conversation please visit our podcast community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast

On this week's pod we take a break from resort overviews, island guides and Genie+ updates and have a little fun! We play a short game of Caribbean Would You Rather and talk about some of our favorite destinations and all of our preferences!  Join us in our Facebook Community and answer all of these burning would you rather questions at https://www.facebook.com/groups/escapepodcast.

On this week's podcast we discus the dos and the don'ts for planning your Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World Split stay vacation! Can you do Universal in one day? How many days should you spend at each resort? Should you split up your hotel stay or just rent a car? We answer this and so many other question about split stays.