Go Informed: Build a Better Vacation

Today we dive into an advanced theme park hack I call double rope drop. Find out how you can beat the crowds twice on the same day at Disney World, Disneyland, or Universal Orlando.  Show notes for this episode are part of the Go Informed newsletter series. Get the written tips at GoInformed.net/79 - and be sure to subscribe while you're there! Follow on FB/Insta/Pinterest: @goinformednet Thanks for listening!

I just got back from Disneyland and have so much to tell you! In this trip report you'll hear all about the adventures of a couple of kid-free moms on a 4-day Disneyland spree, including: Disneyland's holiday decorations & ride overlays Our favorite dining experiences California Adventure's Festival of the Holidays, and the incredible Cars Land Christmas The secret weapon to get into an empty theme park How Genie+ works at Disneyland Special thanks to Joey McGirr, The Disney Hack, for joining the conversation. And thank you Tyffanie for being my Disneyland buddy! Show notes, with pictures from the trip, at GoInformed.net/78 Watch the complete video of this discussion on Facebook here. Join my email bonus tips newsletter list at GoInformed.net/newsletter FB/Insta/Pinterest: @goinformednet Thank you for listening and subscribing!

Get ready to walk at Disney & Universal with these tips, including: Find out how far you will realistically walk in the parks What gear you need for happy feet How to prepare yourself and your fellow travelers Where to get some fun bingo cards to track your training distances Show notes, including downloadable park maps and theme-park-themed walking bingo cards at GoInformed.net/77 FB/IG/Pinterest: @goinformednet

RIP FastPass, Disney's new system is Lightning Lane and it works with an app called Disney Genie. On this quick-start episode I'm covering the bare minimum every Disney traveler needs to know about Genie and Lightning Lane, including: Where you find the Genie app What's free and what's not How Lightning Lane is different from FastPass, and how it's the same The difference between Genie and Genie+ The difference between Lightning Lane and Individual Lightning Lane Why you should consider paying for access to the fast lane on your favorite rides Show notes at GoInformed.net/76 FB/Insta/Pinterest: @GoInformednet Thanks for listening!

Attention Marvel fans: it's time to assemble at Disneyland's Avengers Campus! Find out everything you need to know, including: The Avengers Campus backstory How to come face-to-face with your favorite MCU characters Whether you should ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout and Web-Slingers What's cooking in the Pym Test Kitchen Where to find a treasure trove of Marvel merch Touring tips for a marvel-ous visit ;) Show notes with pics and maps at GoInformed.net/75 Join me on FB/IG/Pinterest: @goinformednet

Find out what makes Disney World the perfect destination for animal lovers. Special guest Joey McGirr, AKA The Disney Hack, joins me to discuss: Animal Kingdom's safari, walking trails, and backstage tours Epcot's incredible aquarium complex Where to find animals at Magic Kingdom Which Disney hotels every animal lover should consider Get the complete show notes at GoInformed.net/74 Join me on FB/IG/Pinterest: @goinformednet

Get a close look at how Universal Orlando compares to Universal Hollywood, including: What's in Hollywood's Wizarding World of Harry Potter - and what's not Which attractions you'll find only on the West or East coast How location affects your experience Hotel options and cost comparison Which destination is easier to combine with a Disney vacation Complete show notes at GoInformed.net/73 Follow on FB/IG/Pinterest: @GoInformednet

Catch up on what's going on in the US theme parks right now, and what we can look forward to in 2022, including: What's new at Disney World, Universal Orlando, & Disneyland What to expect if you visit a theme park this year 2022 coming attractions at the Disney & Universal parks A big reveal from Maven Stay in the know! Join the email list at GoInformed.net/Newsletter

What happens when a Universal Orlando veteran experiences Halloween Horror Nights for the first time? Special guest Jon shares all the details to help you decide if HHN should be in your Orlando vacation plans, including: Can a scaredy-cat enjoy Halloween Horror Nights? What it's like to do a HHN RIP tour Where to stay if you go to HHN Universal's special HHN dining options Did he love it? Will he ever go again? Press play to find out! Catch Jon on Twitter at @pastorjonself Show notes for this episode at GoInformed.net/71 FB/Instagram/Twitter/Pinterest: @GoInformednet

Ric's back to share his stories and tips about his first-ever trip to Universal Orlando, including: Bad guest behavior Dining recs, including where NOT to have breakfast UO tips for big guys How rain can affect your trip Bill Weasley fun facts Show notes at GoInformed.net/70 Catch Rick on the Monorail Tales podcast!

Special guest Ric from the Monorail Tales podcast joins me to talk about his upcoming first-ever trip to Universal Orlando. Get the answers to common first-timer FAQ's, including: Is Universal early admission worth it? How does Express Pass compare to Disney's FastPass? Wizarding World of Harry Potter touring advice What to know about water rides What else should a Disney pro know about Universal Orlando? Big thanks to Ric for joining the show this week! You can find him at @monorailtales on FB, IG, & Twitter. Show notes at GoInformed.net/69 Find me on IG/FB/Pinterest: @goinformednet

Calling all Marvel fans! Did you know you can find Marvel attractions at both Disney AND Universal? On this episode I'm joined by Joey, The Disney Hack, to talk about: - Which parks feature which Marvel characters - Which coast you need to visit to meet Doctor Strange - Why Universal has an entire Marvel land just miles from Disney World This episode is an excerpt from a discussion that first aired on Facebook Live. For more Disney conversations, join me, Joey, and friends, Tuesdays at 11am Pacific on my Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/goinformednet Show notes at GoInformed.net/68 Thanks for subscribing to the show - don't forget to leave a review!

Today it's all about Disney World park tickets! Get the tips to help you decide: If it's worth it for you to add the park-hopper option How many days admission you should buy What Disney's date-based pricing can tell you about predicted crowd levels When and how you should purchase your Disney World tickets Read the show notes and learn more at GoInformed.net/67 Join the mailing list to get timely Disney World tips delivered straight to your inbox: GoInformed.net/Newsletter

Dreaming of a post-vax Orlando vacation? Find out what you need to know now about visiting Disney World & Universal Orlando in 2021. Show notes at GoInformed.net/66 This topic was first covered in the Go Informed e-newsletter. Sign up for timely tips delivered to your inbox at GoInformed.net/Newsletter

Find out everything you need to know about choosing your park tickets at Universal Orlando, including: Why you should look at park ticket options EARLY in your vacation planning process What you need to know about Universal Orlando's date-based ticket pricing - including a great crowd prediction hack How to save money on tickets, Express Pass, and even your hotel - just by choosing the right type of admission Get the complete show notes at GoInformed.net/65

Yes you should definitely see Universal and Disney World on your Orlando vacation! Find out how best to combine both for your next trip, including where to stay and how to plan your itinerary. Show notes at GoInformed.net/64 Join me on social. Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest: @goinformednet

Today I share my pro strategies for booking your Disney World vacation, so you can save money and time, and get that perfect hotel room! This episode is the last in my five-part series about the Disney World hotels. Be sure to catch episodes 59-62 for lots more info about where to stay on your next vacation. Show notes at GoInformed.net/63 Follow on Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest: @goinformednet

The Disney World value resorts offer some of the most delightfully themed options on-site. Get the pros and cons of each, and find out where you can pitch a tent on Disney property or stay in a Cars-themed family suite! Plus we'll explore transportation, dining, and pools at each value hotel. Get the show notes at GoInformed.net/62 Follow on Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest: @goinformednet

From high-rise towers to not-so-rustic cabins, Disney World's moderate resorts offer something for everyone. Join me as we take a closer look at all the options in Disney's moderate category.  Find your perfect Disney World resort in my essential hotel guide at GoInformed.net/61 Follow on Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest: @goinformednet

Today we take a closer look at each of the Disney World deluxe resorts and villas. Find out what makes each property unique, including location, transportation options, and extra details to help you choose your perfect Disney World hotel. Get my essential guide to the Disney World hotels at GoInformed.net/60. Follow on Pinterest/Facebook/Instagram: @GoInformednet

With over two dozen options, choosing the perfect Disney World hotel is a complicated decision. Find out the basics about Disney's on-site hotels, tips for how to choose where to stay, and why I think you should consider a Disney World resort for your vacation. Show notes, including a complete guide to the Disney World hotels are at GoInformed.net/59 Join me on Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest: @goinformednet

Find out what makes the Christmas season special at Universal Orlando. From giant balloons to hot butterbeer and the Whos down in Whoville there's lots to explore and discover. Get the show notes at GoInformed.net/58 Thanks for following on Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest/Twitter: @goinformednet

Dreaming of Christmas 2021 & beyond? Start planning now for your best Christmas ever! Disney World's holiday celebration begins in November and runs all the way through New Year's Day. Learn what to expect and why you should visit Disney World during the Christmas season, plus Maven shares her tips to make your vacation extra magical. Read the show notes and see the pictures at GoInformed.net/57 Thank you for subscribing and for your reviews!

Today we dive into the details of all 8 of Universal Orlando's on-site hotels. Learn about the amenities, convenience, and options between the resorts, and find out if a stay at Universal Orlando is right for you. Plus ways to save money, and tips to make the most of your time on-property! Learn more at the show notes: GoInformed.net/56 Be sure to follow me on Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest: @goinformednet

Get ready for some scary tales from the Go Informed crypt. Composed of deleted scenes from Episode 37: All About Universal Halloween Horror Nights, today's topic is extra creepy. Originally published as a Patreon bonus episode, I'm bringing you this treat for your 2020 Halloween. But beware, the discussion is not for the faint of heart. Be sure to listen to episode 37 first, to get the full story and learn whether Halloween Horror Nights is your thing. You can read all about it at GoInformed.net/HHN  

Find out how to use one-star TripAdvisor reviews to build your five-star Disney vacation. The Disney Hack joins the conversation to share one of his top travel tips on this extra-amusing episode. Visit the show notes page at GoInformed.net/54 to watch the video of this chat and see screenshots of the reviews. Feel like writing your own five-star review? Please rate and review the Go Informed Podcast wherever you're listening today. Thank you for listening and subscribing!

Find out what's changed and what hasn't as we explore Disney World during COVID-19 operations. Maven shares tips for travelers heading there now, and what to do if you decide to wait. Thanks for your reviews! Get the show notes at GoInformed.net/53.

The Go Informed Podcast is back! Let's get caught up on what's been going on in the theme parks and at Go Informed. Also, I talk about why this podcast is like a magic carpet. Thank you all for listening! Show notes at GoInformed.net/52 Got questions or an idea for a future episode? Send me a note on Facebook or Instagram.

Universal Orlando has re-opened! Find out what to expect and get Maven's top tips for visiting the Universal parks during COVID-19. Show notes at GoInformed.net/51 Thanks for listening, and for your reviews! Don't forget to follow on social: @goinformednet

The Disney Hack joins me for episode 50 and we compare Disney World to Disneyland. Which destination is right for your next Disney vacation? Find out here. Thank you all for supporting me through 50 episodes - you guys are awesome! Complete show notes at GoInformed.net/50 Check out TheDisneyHack.com!

Lots of exciting changes are coming to Epcot over the next couple of years. If you're visiting Disney World in 2020, you've got some new things to explore, as well as a lot of construction to dodge. Find out about all the changes at Epcot and what to expect next time you visit. Show notes at GoInformed.net/49 Thank you for your reviews and your support at Patreon.com/GoInformed

The Skyliner gondola is a great new transportation option at Disney World. Find out where it goes and why you should give it a try! Complete show notes at GoInformed.net/48. Thank you for your reviews!

At last Maven tells her story about opening day at Disney World's Rise of the Resistance! Find out what it was like to be one of the first on this incredible new attraction. Plus why you need to see it for yourself, extreme rope-drop touring tips, and how to decide which Galaxy's Edge you should visit. Show notes with opening day photos at GoInformed.net/47 Support the show and get bonus episodes at Patreon.com/GoInformed.  

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is a new roller coaster at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure. On this episode you'll find out why this thrilling addition to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must-see for your next Orlando vacation. Plus get my tips to help you beat the crowds and avoid the lines. Shownotes at GoInformed.net/46

I'm super excited to tell you guys about my recent visit to Star Wars Galaxy's Edge! Today you'll find out what to expect and why I think you should visit ASAP. Plus I was wrong about something very important in episode 43. Get the shownotes, including lots of photos and video, at GoInformed.net/45. Thanks for supporting the show and subscribing!

Tour Disney and Universal like a pro with these tips about rope drop. Learn what it is, why you should try it, and what to expect. Shownotes and pictures at GoInformed.net/44 Today's episode is sponsored by our Go Informed Patreon supporters! You can support the show too at Patreon.com/GoInformed. And don't forget to join the email list - GoInformed.net/Newsletter  

Disney has announced the opening dates for Star Wars Land at Disneyland and Disney World! Get my thoughts about how this will impact your visit to the Disney parks, both before and after the big opening. Plus tips for how to be among the first to see Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, or how to avoid the crowds and maybe save some money on your trip too. Get the show notes at GoInformed.net/43. Thank you Go Informed Passholders for your support! Join our community at Patreon.com/GoInformed  

Find out all about Toy Story Land at Disney World's Hollywood Studios, including advice to help you avoid the crowds at this popular WDW destination. Get the complete shownotes at GoInformed.net/42. Thank you Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get bonus episodes of the Go Informed podcast, and more. Learn how to join at Patreon.com/GoInformed

A quick announcement about the show today. Thanks for supporting Go Informed! Special thanks to the Go Informed Passholders! Get access to our exclusive Facebook group, bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at GoInformed.net/passholders

Today I share one of my favorite hacks! Even if you live far from Florida and only visit Universal Orlando for a few days, an annual pass can be well worth the investment. Find out how a passholder discount can help you save money on your entire stay, upgrade to an express pass hotel, and make your return trip way more affordable. Thank you Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at GoInformed.net/passholders

Maven shares her gift ideas for anyone traveling to Disney World or Universal Orlando. Perfect for holiday shopping, birthday presents, wedding gifts, or any time you want to get something special for an Orlando-bound traveler. Get the show notes, including shopping links at GoInformed.net/39. This episode is sponsored by the Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, unlock bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at Patreon.com/GoInformed

Finding hidden Mickeys adds lots of fun to your Disney vacation. Learn what hidden Mickeys are, and where to find them, on this episode of the Go Informed podcast. Get the complete show notes at GoInformed.net/38. This episode is sponsored by the Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, unlock bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at Patreon.com/GoInformed.

Special guest Michelle Russell shares pro tips for what to expect at Halloween Horror Nights. Find out when to go, which tickets to buy, and what you'll experience at Universal Orlando's biggest event of the year. And learn why this mom of 5 spends a month every year immersed in Universal's world of horror! Get the complete show notes at GoInformed.net/37. For a bonus deleted-clips track from this episode, join our VIP Passholders at Patreon.com/GoInformed. Thank you Passholders!

Today I share my top recommended books to help you be ready for your Orlando vacation. SPOILER ALERT: this episode is loaded with gift ideas for kids and adults headed to Disney World & Universal Orlando. Get the complete show notes, including shopping links, at GoInformed.net/36. Thank you Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, extra interaction with me, bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at GoInformed.net/passholders

Today we discuss theme park etiquette. Whether you're planning a visit to Disney World, Disneyland, or Universal, these tips are sure to help you be practically perfect in every way. Get the complete show notes at GoInformed.net/35 Click here to pin this episode & share these tips on Pinterest. This episode is sponsored by the Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, extra interaction with me, bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at GoInformed.net/passholders

Riding single is a top tactic for theme park insiders. On today's episode find out how this simple park hack can save you a ton of time in line at Disney World and Universal Orlando. Get the complete show notes at GoInformed.net/34. This episode is sponsored by the Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, extra interaction with me, bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at GoInformed.net/passholders

On today's episode you'll learn how Express Pass works at Universal Orlando, and why an Express Pass can completely change your experience in the parks. Plus tips for how to get an Express Pass without breaking the bank. Get the complete show notes at GoInformed.net/33. This episode is sponsored by the Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, extra interaction with me, bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at GoInformed.net/passholders

Disney World dining and touring tips, adventures in Disney Springs, plus an Orlando airport story - all from my recent trip to Disney World. Get the complete show notes at goinformed.net/32. This episode is sponsored by the Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, extra interaction with me, bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at GoInformed.net/passholders

Universal Orlando secret ride hacks, what to do if you get stuck on a ride, touring plan updates, and of course, weather tips! Plus a story or two. Get the complete show notes at goinformed.net/31. This episode is sponsored by the Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, extra interaction with me, bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at GoInformed.net/passholders

Today I have an announcement so big it deserves its own episode! Get the show notes (spoiler alert) at goinformed.net/30.

Maven shares two handy tools to help you score an elusive dining reservation and preview your hotel room location at Disney World. Get the complete show notes at GoInformed.net/29 This episode is sponsored by the Go Informed Passholders! Passholders get access to our exclusive Facebook group, extra interaction with me, bonus episodes of the Go Informed Podcast, and more. Learn more and join our community at GoInformed.net/passholders