With expert knowledge on all the latest Disney thrills and attractions, travel advisor Jackie Klemenc can help you maximize your next vacation
By Patricia Nugent
When it comes to maximizing your vacation magic, travel advisor Jackie Klemenc, of Bright Wishes Travel, parlays her extensive experience with Disney vacations to offer her clients invaluable insider’s tips and tricks.
She’s just returned from her 25th Disney trip, along with her husband, two young children and mom.
“We stayed at one of Disney’s flagship resorts, the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa,” she says. “It’s lavish and luxurious, with a touch of Victorian splendor and authentic character interactions. What I love most about it is the convenience, just one stop away on the monorail to the Magic Kingdom park. When the kids get tired in the late afternoon, it’s a breeze to pop back to the hotel and hang out at the pool and waterslides and later enjoy the evening fireworks.”
She says there are two other resorts at Disney that are also on the monorail loop: the Polynesian Resort and Contemporary Resort.
“When you’re travelling with kids, convenience is everything,” she adds. “Hopping on the monorail means you simply walk on and you’re at the parks in about 10 minutes. You don’t even have to disassemble the umbrella stroller. In addition to the monorail, staying at these resorts means you can take the ferry over the lagoon to get to the parks, which only adds to the fun and anticipation.”
New Attractions, Events
While at Disney, Jackie got to experience the new thrill ride, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which was formerly Splash Mountain.
“Based on the beloved character from The Princess and the Frog, the adventure was delightful and surprising, with plenty of animatronics and thrills,” she says. “I recommend you wear a poncho, as riders get plenty wet.”
Also on the debut list, Jackie reports Disney’s new private island is all the buzz.
“Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point in the Bahamas will be a destination for Disney Cruises,” she says. “It features a beautiful beach with white, powdery sand and turquoise waters with loads of family water activities.”
Since she books vacations to Universal Studios, Jackie notes many of her clients are booking a few days at Disney and adding an excursion to Universal Horror Nights this fall.
As a veteran park-goer, Jackie has some advice for beating the heat this summer.
“I suggest buying things like cooling towels to put around your neck or personal fans in advance on Amazon,” she says.
Epcot Wine Fest
There are still a few spots left for Jackie’s agency’s group trip to Walt Disney World Epcot’s famous International Food & Wine Festival, Friday to Tuesday, October 4-8.
It provides a diverse experience of global cuisines, from food to wine, beer and liquors to sample and pair. The restaurants and food kiosks provide the chance to take a deep dive into other colorful cultures. You can follow a fun-filled itinerary of group activities or go at your own pace. It’s pretty chill.
If Disney isn’t your vibe, Jackie is also certified to book all-inclusive trips to Sandals resorts in Jamaica and the Caribbean.
Disney Cruise Deals
Promo deals were just announced for 2025 Disney cruises. There are new ports of call and packages on its newest ship, Treasure, which sets sail in December. And for Sandals vacations, the 777 deals mean 7% off a seven-day vacation with a selection of seven rooms/suites. The deals change each week. Find out more from Jackie Klemenc, 440-487-1846.
Follow Jackie Klemenc on social media to find out about all the latest news. Her service is complimentary. To reserve your spot in the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival group trip, contact her at 440-487-1846, email her at jackie@brightwishestravel.com or visit BrightWishesTravel.com to find out more.