All-Inclusive- Punta Cana

May 19, 2016

Want a vacation where you can put your wallet away once you arrive? If that sounds good to you then an All-Inclusive resort is the vacation for you! All-Inclusive resorts are literally just that, everything is included! Your flights, your food, your drinks (non-alcoholic and alcoholic) your resort and many activities are all included in one price! All-Inclusive resorts are becoming more and more popular family destinations. One very popular area with some amazing all-inclusive resorts is Punta Cana. Punta Cana is located in the easternmost province of the Dominican Republic. Their beaches face both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

Punta Cana is filled with all-inclusive resorts and we will be highlighting several of them here. Your agent at Upon A Star Travel & Concierge will help you choose the right resort for you and your family. There is a resort for everyone. Whether you are a family with several kids, a large group, or just a couple of adults wanting to get away there is a resort to fit your needs and your budget. Every resort is different and they all have their own special look and feel.

While on your trip you can choose excursions like horseback riding, buggy rides, hikes, historical tours and much more! But the beauty of an all-inclusive resort is that you don't have to do anything - you can take a swim in a lagoon or swim up to the pool bar! The above photos are of Paradisus Punta Cana. Paradisus is a stunning resort with amazing pools, 12 restaurants and 10 bars.

Most all-inclusive resorts have daily activities and clubs for kids to enjoy while mom and dad get some time to themselves. Babysitting services are also available at many resorts. Contact your agent to find out if there is an additional charge for childcare.

As you can see there is really something for everyone at an all-inclusive resort. Find out why all-inclusive resort vacations are so popular! Contact us today to help you find the best resort for your needs!

If you need help planning your next dream vacation you can reach me at:

Lori Swinderman

724-630-8958

lori@DISiningmemories.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/uponastarlori

Twitter: @uponastarlori

Walt Disney World for Big Families!

May 12, 2016

Walt Disney World Resort: a location for families. Whether your family is just a couple or a much

larger group, Walt Disney World Resort can be a wonderful vacation destination. I fall into the

latter. In fact, I can’t remember a time when I have traveled with less than 6 people in my party

and my most recent trip was no exception. I just got back from Walt Disney World with my

family. We were a party of 13 people. Yes, you read that right, 13 people, including 2 infants. So

how do you manage a large family group? What do you do to make these kinds of vacations just

as magical as those with smaller groups?

First, make sure you have a lead contact and planner. This would be the person who makes

contact with your Upon A Star Travel and Concierge agent. Having a point person helps to

streamline everything so that there is no confusion.

Realize that it’s alright if the whole group doesn’t do everything together. If part of the group

wants to go one direction and the other part wants to go in the other direction, then split up.

Taking the whole group in the same direction at the same time could make your wait times

longer if half the group is riding and the other half is waiting. Plus your travel time could be

extended.

Making your dining reservations for the same place at the same time, gives you opportunities to

meet up daily and enjoy dinner together as a family.

You can also have your FastPass+ reservations at the same time if everyone wants to ride the
same ride. But if you have some that won’t ride certain rides, then split up your ride
reservations and make it easy for everyone!

There are many ways that you can make your large family group vacation magical. At Upon A Star Travel & Concierge we can help you with all of these plans and give you suggestions to make your trip run smoothly.
I invite you to contact me to help you plan your next magical Walt Disney World vacation.

Patti
patti@disiningmemories.com
www.facebook.com/uponastartravelwithpatti
Twitter & Instagram: UponAStarPatti

Seeing Europe for the first time

May 5, 2016

I will never forget the first time I went to Europe. I was a junior in college, doing a study abroad program in Salamanca, Spain, with one of my closest friends. My parents had driven me to Boston so we could fly to Madrid together. We boarded the plane with suitcases we feared were overweight and so much excitement.

Flying to Europe involves an overnight flight, and, from most destinations, at least one connection. It’s a grueling way to travel; an ability to sleep on a plane is to the traveler’s benefit. I managed to get enough sleep that I could function when we arrived. My first piece of advice: sleep on the plane. I know the lure of movies is strong. Still. Sleep.

To everyone’s great surprise, Jen got airsick, so I can’t say for sure what she remembers of our first minutes in Spain. I remember the crispness of the early morning air as we stepped off the plane, the distinctive smell of Spain, the long line to go through customs, and even the Spanish woman who asked to go ahead of me. Exhausted and reeling though I was, I can actually still remember the words she used. The impact of this first European trip was that incredibly strong.

We were picked up by representatives from our program – though I truly believe the most exciting part for both of us was that our suitcases had arrived. We had been warned repeatedly before leaving about packing extra clothes and toiletries in our carry on luggage, because bags are often lost on overseas flights. I have taken this advice on every trip I’ve taken since – and it has saved me at least once. This is my second piece of advice to you: pack a good carry on bag.

Luggage in hand, we were whisked away to our hotel to begin the pre-academic adventure. Our program had set up a weeklong tour of Spain for us before classes began. I have never once regretted the decision to take part in the tour, and I know Jen hasn’t either. It was an amazing way to see Spain, and to acclimate ourselves to the culture, to reset our internal clocks, and probably most importantly for the courses that were to follow, to adjust to speaking and hearing the language all day, every day.

We began, of course, in Madrid. I don’t remember much else about that first day, but I do remember waking up the next morning to the sight of Jen, curled up on the floor of our Juliet balcony, writing in her journal. Another strong admonishment from our study abroad office had been to journal as much as possible, so we wouldn’t forget details. Again, this is advice I have never once regretted taking. They are absolutely right – at a time when everything is so new, so exciting, and so unfamiliar, it is easy to lose details, to lose memories, and to come home to pictures without context. This is my third piece of advice: take a journal, and write every night, even if you’re tired and don’t feel like it.

In all honesty, Madrid did not captivate me on that first visit. It wasn’t exactly what I was expecting of Spain – it seemed far too metropolitan. It was not until I returned to live there, rather than just to visit, that I truly learned to love the city. Though, as one of my friends and I have since discussed, the jet lag may have had something to do with my lack of enthusiasm. Jet lag is a huge challenge, but it will be overcome. My next piece of advice, and probably the most challenging to follow: don’t take a nap when you arrive in Europe. Stay awake until a normal bedtime, and get up at a normal time the next morning. It will help you get used to the time difference. I promise!

In what has strangely become a somewhat common occurrence for me, I didn’t get to tour the Royal Palace on that first visit. It was closed for official acts. I have since toured it, and been utterly amazed. Take the palace tours in European cities. You won’t regret it!

After a short stay in Madrid, we were off to see central and southern Spain. Our tour took us through Toledo, Segovia, Ávila, Sevilla, Granada, and Córdoba. These cities were and are “Spain” to me. They show the different styles of architecture that represent all the cultures that have melded to create Spain – the Roman, the Gothic, the Sephardic, the Moorish, and so many others. Each city has similarities – for example, massive, impressive cathedrals are found in every one. However, they all have their own special identities and charms. Toledo represents the best melding of the tres culturas – the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures coexisted in brilliant harmony there, creating one of the best centers of learning and advancement in the world during the Medieval period. Segovia’s Roman aqueduct was built in the year 50 AD but is still functioning today. Ávila is still encircled by its Medieval walls – walking on them is one of the greatest thrills of my life. Granada’s Alhambra Palace showcases the very best of Moorish culture and architecture, and must be seen to be believed.

Our tour ended in Salamanca, where we would spend the semester. It won my heart within the first few days, and has never let go of its grip on me. Because I was in Madrid longer, it is my Spanish “home,” but Salamanca will always be my first love when it comes to Spanish cities. Its size and walking culture make it the perfect city to explore. Its university was founded by St. King Ferdinand in the 13th century; it is the third oldest university in the world. Its plaza mayor is one of the most impressive in all of Europe. It has two adjoining cathedrals – the “old” and “new.” The new cathedral was built in the 1400s, so perhaps it isn’t so new by American standards. One of the things I learned about the United States when I was in Europe the first time was how new everything here is - even things we think of as old.

Perhaps the best advice I can give about visiting Europe is to truly experience it. Live it. Leave your preconceived notions, both about Europe and the United States, at home. Do the touristy things – see the palaces, the cathedrals, the museums, the shows. But do the local things, too. Eat in a café that doesn’t have menus in English. Spend time in a park with good friends and a bottle of wine – in Spain, bring a bottle of red, some Fanta limón, and ice to make tinto de verano. Go to the plaza mayor, take a table at a café, and spend the evening lingering over drinks and a meal while you people watch. Wander the streets without a definite purpose, and go into all the interesting places you see.

And when you read your journal when you come home, even months later, you’ll be shocked by how much you learned about the country – and how much you appreciate it.

I invited you to join me on Facebook at Upon A Star Michelle, on Twitter @uponastarmichel, and on Instagram @uponastarmichelle.

Monsieur Paul: Ce magnifique!

April 28, 2016

The saddest part of any vacation is leaving. My mom and I decided to go out with a bang this time around, and spent the last night of our Disney vacation having dinner at Monsieur Paul. Located in France in Epcot, Monsieur Paul is described as “fine dining,” as opposed to the “family friendly” label that comes with Chefs de France, which is located on the first floor of the same building. Please allow me to offer two suggestions: take the labels seriously, and make a reservation.

There are only two countries in Epcot that I’ve visited in real life; France is one of them. The other is Morocco, but that’s another story for another day. So, because of my firsthand knowledge of Paris, I can say without a doubt that Disney’s attention to detail in creating France and Monsieur Paul is impeccable. The décor, even down to the windows and use of mirrors, is exactly what I would expect to see in an upscale restaurant in Paris.

The view is lovely; the restaurant sits on the second floor of the building, overlooking the World Showcase. We were still working on dessert when the fireworks of Illuminations started; the windows provided an excellent view of the show. No worries about missing out if your reservation is later in the evening! I even saw a couple who were not seated near a window ask to be moved to a window seat; they were accommodated as soon as a table was available.

The wine list is extensive, featuring wines from different regions of France. I like to consider myself at least somewhat knowledgeable of wines, but I was completely overwhelmed by this list. Fortunately, our server, Guillaume, was very knowledgeable, and extremely helpful in pointing us in the right direction. He even brought me a sample of the wine he recommended to me so I could try it before committing to an entire glass. It was excellent, and paired perfectly with my dinner.

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… — Guillaume’s wine suggestions were on point!

The food menu is not nearly as extensive as the wine menu. It features appetizers, soups, salads, and main courses. We decided to forgo the appetizers, soups, and salads, in favor of saving our calories for dessert. I opted for the red snapper, which was delicious. It was beautifully prepared, covered by potato “scales,” and accompanied by a rosemary and chicken jus sauce. The sauce was amazing – it complemented the fish and potatoes perfectly. The side of spinach was also nice, but was overshadowed by the fish.

My mom chose the beef filet, which she described as the best she’s had in year. It was accompanied by potatoes and truffle mushrooms, topped by a gouda and mushroom mash, and a red wine sauce. It looked so good - I was jealous! The presentation of both dishes was beautiful, and the taste, again, was amazing.

We moved on to dessert with the highest of expectations – and were not disappointed. My dessert was a chocolate almond cake with a chocolate and raspberry filling, and a scoop of hazelnut ice cream. As Guillaume explained, the cake is baked with a piece of chocolate and raspberry inside; when you cut into it, the chocolate and raspberry run out in the most amazing lava cake you can imagine.

I’m not a coffee drinker, but my mom is. She ordered coffee to go with dessert, which is prepared in a French press. She loves a strong brew, so this was perfect for her. Guillaume brought the entire press to the table, and filled her cup halfway, as is done in Europe. She was delighted with the coffee; I was delighted with the presentation. The coffee spoon, too, is completely authentic, and is what is provided with coffee and tea in both France and Spain, where I lived for a year. This is the sort of attention to detail that I referenced in the beginning – and it is a huge part of what makes the experience of a Disney vacation so special.

We left Monsieur Paul completely in love with it. I’m already excited to go back the next time I visit Disney World.

Have you ever visited Monsieur Paul? What did you think of it? Let me know in the comments!

I invited you to join me on Facebook at Upon A Star Michelle, on Twitter @uponastarmichel, and on Instagram @uponastarmichelle.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort: When can I move in?

April 20, 2016

Last week, I had the amazing opportunity to go to Disney World. Not my first trip to Disney, but it was my first time staying in the Beach Club Resort. And. I. Loved. It! Let me tell you more ...

The moment you walk into the Beach Club Resort, you are enveloped in the feeling of being at a true “beach club.” The lobby is beautifully and richly appointed, and brings to mind the days of the early twentieth century, when those who could were beginning to spend their summers on the beach. The furnishing are inviting; there were always guests relaxing there. I will admit that I would love to have some of the pieces for my house! It is a lobby in constant use; even when I arrived after 10:00 the night I checked in, the lobby was bustling with activity.

The Beach Club provides, to this urbanite, an absolutely perfect location. An Epcot resort, it is close enough to walk to the park. You can also walk quite easily to the Boardwalk, which was one of my favorite activities first thing in the morning while my family was still getting ready to go, or after we returned in the evening and the others were ready to call it a day. I love having shopping and activities within walking distance; this was a major selling point to me.

This volleyball court is just waiting for players!

If you are in the mood to swim, you’ve come to the right place. The pool was a huge favorite among my family, particularly the “beach” section, complete with sand. My nieces loved playing in the sand! The vast majority of that section of the pool is two feet deep, so my three-year-old niece was never in water over her head. They have lifejackets available for use; with her lifejacket, she was free to swim all around that area of the pool.

Not shockingly, my brother refers to it as "the beach!

The pool has more than sand. There is a water slide that begins in a “shipwreck” and ends in a deeper area of the pool. A volleyball net stretches across one section of the pool, awaiting a pick up match. Three hot tubs dot the pool area. And, a restaurant / bar, Hurricane Hanna’s, is located poolside, ready for when you need a bit of refreshment.

While we’re talking about restaurants at the Beach Club, there are two special places that I absolutely loved. The first is the Cape May Cafe, which features a buffet breakfast complete with a crepe making station, and a seafood buffet dinner. The breakfast was wonderful - the food was good, but the best part was the Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy all stopped by to join us for breakfast. They were fantastic breakfast companions - they were systematic in their rounds of the dining room, making sure each table had an equal amount of time with them. And, they were so great with the girls - Donald even had my nine month old niece laughing and grabbing his beak and face. The girls - and the adults - loved the experience.

My other favorite was Beaches and Cream Soda Shop. It is an ice cream shop and grill restaurant that serves lunch, dinner, and, I can’t stress this enough, ice cream. I won’t lie - I didn’t try anything beyond the ice cream. If you’re looking for a place to sit down for lunch or dinner, I’d try to make a reservation - they didn’t have tables available during peak dining times. However, Beaches and Cream has a carry out entrance where you can order ice cream to go. My favorite treat was the ice cream sandwich. You choose the flavor of ice cream, and the staff will put a generous helping of it between two chocolate chip cookies.

If you’re looking for some family-friendly evening activities, the Beach Club has you covered. Each evening kicks off with a campfire on the beach, along with roasting marshmallows, making s’mores, and singing songs. Chase your sugar high with a movie - the resort shows a different Disney movie on the beach or in the solarium every night. I didn’t have the chance to sit down and watch a movie, but I walked past and saw plenty of guests snuggled up with their families, enjoying the evening entertainment.

The Beach Club has your evening activities handled!

The Disney magic is everywhere at the Beach Club Resort. After my first stay there last week, I already can’t wait to go back! I know you’ll love staying there as much as I do.

I invited you to join me on Facebook at Upon A Star Michelle, on Twitter @uponastarmichel, and on Instagram @uponastarmichelle.

Jenn Does Adventures By Disney - Nashville Style! →

April 15, 2016

Exclusivity. This is the word that kept repeating in my mind throughout my amazing Adventures by Disney trip last week. I mean, I have read about the service, I've heard others tell their amazing stories -- but until I experienced it for myself, it really didn't hit home. There are lots of ways to tour all of the great places in the world you want to visit, but after this experience, I can say hands down that Adventures By Disney will offer the best experience. Every single aspect was VIP! This means - no lines, exclusive experiences, and needs being met that you didn't even know you had!

Of course you all know that I am a die-hard Disney fanatic; plus I'm definitely a theme park girl. But there are also so many amazing other places I'd love to visit, and there are a lot of people who aren't "theme park people". Adventures by Disney is all of the Disney quality and excellence, plus it encompasses the power of the Disney brand -- all outside of a theme park experience. In fact, Adventures by Disney is the TOP RATED Disney brand - incredible!

This picture is of one of our 2 amazing Adventure Guides. Actually every Adventures by Disney has 2 guides! One is a local expert, and one is from Disney. This really enhances the experience and gives AbD a "leg up" on other tours.

But back to Nashville - on this long weekend adventure (3 nights/4 days), you really get to experience everything Nashville has to offer! And if you're worried about being with a group, don't be! It honestly enhanced the fun... plus, there is time for on-your-own exploration. What follows is a description of the itinerary - but I promise, there is extra pixie dust sprinkled throughout. To share it here would spoil the fun, so if you want to find out more, I encourage you to try one of these amazing itineraries.

On day 1, you will be treated to an overview of the city, visiting its landmarks along the way. Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included -- and dinner is of special import today! You get a special after-hours tour of the Hermitage, which is President Andrew Jackson's Estate. Not only are you doing a special tour, but you are making southern biscuits, which you will eat as you dine right there on the property! By the way, my biscuits turned out perfectly!

Day 2 holds more fun! Your hotel is located right in Downtown Nashville, and breakfast is on your own anywhere you please! After breakfast, you will head to the famous Bluebird Cafe! This is the same spot featured on the show "Nashville", and it has been the launching point for more than one famous country artist! While here, you will be eating an amazing lunch while being treated to a private performance by some of today's premiere songwriters!

Just when you thought it couldn't get better, you'll leave the Bluebird and head to Historic RCA Studio B, the very place where Elvis recorded many of his greatest hits! Plus, you get to participate in the magic by creating your own recording!

And this is where my magical moment happened. I still get chills thinking about it. As a musician, I was drooling over the Steinway in the corner -- you know, the one that Elvis wanted desperately to buy. Of course, there is a "Do Not Touch" sign prominently displayed, so I settled for sitting beside it. At the end of the amazing tour, I was called out by our Guide and invited to play this amazing instrument! I was nothing short of flabbergasted... and nervous of course! Thankfully, my friends captured this amazing moment for me!

Playing the Steinway in Studio B - Jenn does ABD!

Surreal. It was sooooo magical! The end of day 2 allows you to tour this beautiful city - and all of the nightlife - on your own!

Day 3 kicks off with an on-your-own breakfast followed by tours of Hatch Show Print and the Ryman Auditorium. Pick a place on your own (or with some new friends!) for lunch, and then it's off to The Country Music Hall of Fame (tickets are provided, of course!), which you can explore at your leisure. Now it's time for one of the highlights, a special tour of the Grand Ole Opry!

Yep - not the main entrance - the ARTIST Entrance is where you'll be heading! That's the power of AbD!

Not only will you tour the backstage area and get premium seats for the evening's show - you will be treated to an amazing Farewell Dinner in Studio A!

Day 4 ends the adventure, but I can guarantee that the memories you'll make will stay with you forever! Whether you are a country music fan or just a music and history lover, this tour is an amazing opportunity to see Nashville in VIP style!

Ready to try it? Message me - I would love to help you experience the magic for yourself!

jenn@DISiningmemories.com
724.316.4777

Major changes to the FastPass+ system!

April 12, 2016

On April 10th some major changes took place within the FastPass+ system! Let's take you through the changes!

Now when you have used your first 3 FastPass+ choices you can make your 4th choice using your phone with the My Disney Experience app! Same goes for your 5th choice just go on your app after your 4th choice is complete and choose a new FastPass+ experience!
You also don't need to make all of your choices at once. If you want you can choose, just 1 or 2 or all 3.
Now you can choose your experience then select either, morning, afternoon or evening. You can also choose a specific time as well and see if it is available.
You still have to use your first 3 choices at the same park. But after the first 3 you can use the 4th and 5th at another park if you have Park Hoper Tickets.

Here at Upon A Star Travel and Concierge, we are very happy with the new changes! The new FastPass+ system is much easier to navigate on the app! Did you know if you are one of our clients that one of the services we provide for you is completing your FastPass+ selections! That's just one of the many services we can provide for you!

www.disiningmemories.com

724-241-8028

Welcome to Diagon Alley!

April 7, 2016

When I last left you Jenn and I were trying to find our way into Diagon Alley! It's not as visible as one might imagine! But we used our super travel agent magic and found it! When you walk through the opening to Diagon Alley you truly feel that you have been transported to the actual spot!

We immediately felt transported into the movie! On our right when we walked in was The Weasley's Wizard Wheezes joke shop filled with all kinds of cools jokes and gadgets from the movie! I might have bought a bunch of stuff in here! Let's just say my kids know what Puking Pustules taste like now! The shop is amazing every inch of it is utilized!

The Inside of The Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes Joke Shop!

Think of any of the shops and buildings in Diagon Alley and you will find them here at Universal's amazing recreation! Flourish and Blotts, Sugarplum's Sweets, Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occassions, Borgin and Burke's you name it is there to see! The big attraction in Diagon Alley is Harry Potter and The Escape From Gringott's! Lookout for the dragon guarding the bank!

Harry Potter and The Escape From Gringott's is a hybrid simulator ride/ coaster! Universal's Express pass is not accepted at this ride so try to take advantage of staying at an onsite Universal Resort and getting into the park early! The line for this amazing ride can get quite long! For those who get squeamish on simulator rides (me!) never fear you can still walk through the amazing queue and take it all in!

The animatronic Goblins in the bank look and act so real that it's almost creepy! Their heads turn and their eyes actually follow you! We don't want to give it all away but I can tell the that the queue alone is well worth waiting in line for! As for the ride Jenn loved it!!

You really have to take your time to walk around to take it all in and admire the intricate attention to detail! We had walked through several times before we found this ........

If you know and love Harry Potter you know of Knockturn Alley, the less than friendly dark and dreary area off of Diagon Alley! The Universal version did not disappoint! It is indeed dark and dreary in there! You don't know what's around the corner ! Of course Knockturn Alley is where Borgin and Burke's is located! When you are hungry in Diagon Alley the place to head to is The Leaky Cauldron!

Try the Fisherman's Pie we give it 2 thumbs up!

This is where we will leave you today! Join us on our next adventure as we head to The Hogwarts Express!!

To book your next magical vacation contact us today!

Lori Swinderman

lori@disiningmemories.com

www.facebook.com/uponastarlori

Twitter: @uponastarlori

Jennifer Novotny

upon.a.star,concierge@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/uponastarconcierge

Twitter: @uponastarjenn

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Disney's Vero Beach Resort

March 24, 2016

There’s something magical about vacationing at Disney that puts a spring in my step and a huge smile on my face. It’s one of my favorite ways to vacation. But then again, a vacation at the beach is so relaxing. There isn’t the hubbub of people, the waiting in lines for attractions, and the go-go-go feeling of having to be somewhere at a certain time. For me, it’s hard to choose between the two. Luckily, there’s a place where we don’t have to choose between the magic of Disney and the relaxation of the beach. Enter Disney’s Vero Beach Resort.

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is just a two- hour drive southeast of Walt Disney World Resort. Nestled right up against the Atlantic Ocean, it combines the beauty of nature and Disney-inspired family fun. This is a Disney Vacation Club resort that offers accommodations ranging from studios to one and two- bedroom villas. There are also a small number of 3- bedroom cottages available.

When you first arrive to the resort, you will see a sign that says “Welcome Home”. As well as some fun topiary hedges, such as one of the crocodile from Peter Pan. In true Disney fashion, you feel like you belong.

There is so much to see and do at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort. Before we even discuss the beach and ocean, let’s look at what’s available right at the resort.

The pool is a Mickey shape with a fun 163-foot spiral water slide.

Near the pool is the Tiger Lily wet play area as well as a pirate themed 9-hole mini golf course. There is also activities hosted by the cast members, such as poolside trivia and waterslide races. Visit Eb & Flo Rentals on the pool deck to rent bikes and more as well as get complimentary billiards, sports balls, ping pong equipment, and board games. If you go out to the front of the resort, you’ll find a tunnel walkway that will take you across the street. Here you will come to a beautiful nature area, where you can play sports, go for a nature walk, or just hang out and enjoy the scenery. You can also get tennis lessons or learn how to fish.

All of this and we haven’t even touched the beach yet.

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort features a private beach with guest only access. As with any beach, I love to just sit and relax on the beach. To soak up the sun and put my toes in the sand and the ocean or to look for seashells. Visit the SeaBreeze Cabana Company to rent beach chairs and umbrellas daily or for the week. You can also rent boogie boards, jet skis, surf boards, and other fun ocean equipment. The resort also share beach space with the nesting grounds of the Loggerhead Sea Turtles. In keeping with Walt Disney’s conservation legacy, the beach has been specifically designed to create a minimal impact on their nesting patterns. During the warmer months, you can join a nighttime outing to view the nesting turtles. You will be accompanied by cast members who have degrees in a related field.

Sea Turtles are much of the resort’s theming. My husband and I have a tradition of taking a family picture in front of the Sea Turtle painting in the foyer.

The resort has 2 dining rooms as well as a lounge and a quick service restaurant near the pool. Shutter’s, the casual dining restaurant, also offers character dining twice a week. Typically on Monday nights, Shutter’s hosts a family style, all you can eat, Pirate dinner with Pirate Goofy and Pirate Donald. Feel free to dress up and join in the fun! (Featured in the summer through Labor Day)

On Saturday morning, join Goofy and Donald for breakfast at Goofy’s Beachside Character Breakfast. This is also a family style, all you can eat meal.

With so many different things to do at the resort, including The Spa at Disney’s Vero Beach where you can indulge in various different spa treatments, you might hesitate to venture off property. However, there is so much to see in the surrounding area as well. The boardwalk of Vero Beach features shops as well as dining and this can be found throughout the area. Just ask the locals for some of their favorite places to shop or eat, they have suggestions that turn out to be hidden gems! So if you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation and that Disney flair, don’t hesitate to check out Disney’s Vero Beach Resort. If you have any questions or want to book your Vero Beach vacation, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Until then, dream of the sun on your face and your toes in the sand,

Patti
patti@disiningmemories.com
www.facebook.com/uponastartravelwithpatti
Twitter & Instagram: UponAStarPatti

Disney Dinners: A Yummy Way to Countdown to Your Disney Vacation

March 16, 2016

Anticipation is one of the wonderful side effects of booking your Disney Vacation. You’ve figured out where you want to stay and how many days you want to go. You’ve been wise and booked your package with Upon A Star Travel and are taking full advantage of the Concierge service. You’ve excitedly told your kids! “YAY! We’re going to Disney!!” They yell. Now you have to wait- it’s the hardest part. It can be especially difficult for kids. When you’re little, time moves so slowly. Even High Schoolers feel like they’ve been in a relationship forever if it lasts from Christmas to Snowball. A fun way to help add to the anticipation and move the time more quickly are Disney Dinners!

A Disney Dinner is a meal themed after a Disney movie. My family started doing this on Friday nights and we count down the weeks instead of the days. It doesn’t feel as long to say we leave in 10 weeks instead of 70 days. This gives everyone something to look forward to each week. It also helps us get reacquainted with some Disney movies and characters.

My kids are 11, 13 and 16. We rotate who gets to pick the movie. Then they help plan and assist with cooking the meal to go with it. I can’t even explain how wonderful this has been for my family. With school and activities, it’s been quality family time. We work together on the menu, including looking up recipes together. We then post the menu on the fridge, a day or 2 before so everyone knows what’s planned. Sometime we plan a menu that’s similar to the location where the movie takes place- we did a Hawaiian theme for Lilo and Stitch. Sometime we play on words like our Pirates Pizza Party because my husband was craving pizza. My son is autistic and by posting the menu in advance, he knows what is coming and has tried many new foods since we started doing this. He associates it with the movie so it “makes sense”. Working one on one with each of my kids has been wonderful, and they’ve really been great about cooking.

There are several ways to plan Disney Dinners. You can make it simple and pick fun names for simple foods like Playing Card Sandwiches for Alice in Wonderland or “Poisoned” Apple Slices for Snow White. There are some great preschool ideas online (check out Pinterest). You can add activities, coloring pages and decorations. You can even get some Walt Disney World recipes online for your dinners. Make it your own and have fun!

Here are some of our favorites:

You can follow Carrie on facebook at facebook.com/uponastarcarrie and on Twitter & Instagram @uponastarcarrie.

Diagon Alley or Bust

March 10, 2016

I just got back from a fun filled *magical* trip to Universal Studios Florida with Owner/Agent Jenn. Both Jenn and I are huge Harry Potter fans, and we hadn’t been there since the addition of Diagon Alley! If you are a Harry Potter fan you need to get yourself to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ASAP! We began our trip by checking into the Loew’s Portofino Bay Hotel at The Universal Studios Resort. What a gorgeous resort! When you stay at the Loew’s Portofino Bay Resort, The Loew’s Hard Rock Hotel and The Loew’s Royal Pacific Hotel, you get the Universal Express pass for free. This is a huge deal - you don’t want to be at the park without it!

Portofino Bay is modeled after an Italian Resort that Stephen Spielberg stayed at during his honeymoon. It’s just beautiful you feel like you are walking into a villa in Italy, not central Florida. Our room was on the 2nd floor of the East Wing, and we had a view of the courtyard and bay. We were very excited to see that our room had a well-stocked Keurig coffee maker with to-go cups to take right into the parks!

The resort also has a beautiful pool/recreation area with a separate kids pool that is gated. You can also rent private pool cabanas. The cost for the cabanas varies based on the season.

There are several ways to get to the park from the hotel. A water taxi runs throughout the day and well into the night. The water taxi takes about 5-8 minutes to get you to the park. There is also a lovely pathway that you can take to walk to the parks. The path takes about 10 minutes.

Diagon Alley is located in the Universal Studios side of the resort. When you stay at an onsite resort you can get into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter 1 hour before the park opens! Before you get into Diagon Alley you enter into “London”.

Do yourself a favor and get a picture with the driver at the Night Bus! The shrunken head is interactive and actually will talk with you and ask you questions! Right across from the night bus you will see a familiar row of townhouses. Head to 12 Grimmauld place and knock on the door. Imagine our surprise when the house elf Kreatcher pulls back the curtain on the 2nd floor window and peeks out to see who is knocking!

I hate to admit it but we actually had a hard time finding Diagon Alley! Just like in the movie it is well hidden. I’m going to keep it a secret so you can stumble upon it yourself! Once we walked in saying we were blown away is an understatement! The attention to detail is so amazing! It truly does feel magical! Everything from the movies and books is represented here. The Daily Prophet, The Leaky Cauldron, Owl Post, Weasley’s Wizarding Wheezes and so much more!

This is where we will leave you today…. Next up our adventures continue in The Escape from Gringotts!

Have a Magical Day!

Lori & Jenn

For help planning your next vacation contact us today!

Lori Swinderman
lori@disiningmemories.com
www.DISiningmemories.com
www.facebook.com/uponastarlori
724-630-8958

Jennifer Novotny
upon.a.star.concierge@gmail.com
www.DISiningmemories.com
www.facebook.com/uponastarconcierge
724-316-4777

Fantasia Gardens Mini-Golf

February 25, 2016

As frequent visitors to Walt Disney World, our family seeks out new adventures each time we visit. Fantasia Gardens has always been on our list, but we keep ourselves busy doing other things and just never seem to get there. However, on our most recent trip (late November 2015), we took an afternoon and went for a visit. I wish we’d done it sooner!

We decided to spend the morning at Epcot, then walk out the International Gateway entrance/exit (or as we call it, the “back door”), grab lunch at Beaches and Cream at the Beach Club, and meander over to Fantasia Gardens.

It’s a lovely walk, and even some drizzle couldn’t dampen our spirits. We were especially excited when a Disney cast member in a golf cart saw us walking near the Yacht Club and offered us a ride! She let us out at the Swan and we continued the short walk from there, past the lagoon between the two hotels. There is a fairly busy street to cross, but there was a crosswalk so that made it easy.

If you’d rather not walk that far, you can take the boat from Epcot’s International Gateway, get off at the Swan/Dolphin, and then just have a short walk.

Fantasia Gardens is one of two miniature golf courses at this location. The course we chose is themed after the film Fantasia, and being a family of musicians, this was the one we wanted to play. The other course, Fantasia Fairways Miniature Golf, is like a real golf course, only in miniature, and looks like it would be a blast for those who take miniature golf very seriously. Sometimes we do, but we were in the mood for some light-hearted fun!

After gaining admission, we started through the course. I was completely geeking out about the musical riddles and hints for each hole.

While we were playing, we were treated to a rehearsal for a large event that was scheduled for that evening. The rehearsal was happening right across the lagoon in the Fantasia Theater. It was fun to watch and listen to, but we didn’t let it distract us from our golf game! You can see the theater behind the satyr in this shot:

My favorite hole was Night on Bald Mountain - you got to go inside the cave!

Here is my husband and Bacchus, who is spilling grapes everywhere! Notice the Mickey tee.

A few other interesting holes:

There are some magical surprises throughout the game, and though I don’t want to give anything away, I will say that the game ends with a splash!

As you can see, it was a close game.

We will definitely come back on our next trip, and next time I’d like to try the Fairways Course, unless we are in a magical, musical mood!

Some details to help you plan: Both courses are often crowded, so be prepared for that. We played on a rainy afternoon and there were not many families on this course and we never had to wait for the people in front of us.

There are restrooms there, but no food (they did sell snacks), so you should plan to eat before or after your game. Also, Disney does not offer direct bus service to/from Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf, so you either need to walk from the Epcot resort area or find your own transportation. Because we do not rent a car on our Disney vacations, and because it was raining, we decided to forego walking back to Epcot and take an Uber back to our resort. For the four of us to go from Fantasia Gardens to Disney’s Polynesian Resort, it cost us $8.00. We used our free mini-golf coupons that came with our Magic Your Way package (must play before 4:00 p.m. is the only catch), so it was a cheap afternoon. If you are looking for an alternative to the parks, give the courses a try!

Group Travel: It Might Not Be What You Think!

February 18, 2016

Have you ever thought about trying group travel? Or, have you ever thought about running as far from it as you can? If your idea of group travel is a bus trip to a casino, think again! Group travel can be an amazing way to see an unfamiliar area – and to try some things you’d never think to do on your own!

Admittedly, I never dreamed that I’d enjoy any sort of travel with a group. I’m fairly introverted, and the idea of spending time with strangers did not appeal. Then, too, there’s the loss of autonomy that comes with traveling with a group. It was not at all something that I thought was for me.

Then I took my first group tour.

I was in college, studying abroad in Spain. It was my first time going to Europe, and I couldn’t wait to see all that Spain had to offer. Fortunately, the program I studied with had organized a group tour for the first week of the study abroad experience which would take us from Madrid, to Toledo, through Sevilla, Granada, and Cordoba in southern Spain, and back up to Salamanca, where I would be studying.

It was wonderful.

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DefSemiHidden="true… — Plaza de España, Sevilla, Spain

Since then, I have taken several group tours in Europe, which have all been just as wonderful. Let me explain what made them so special.

The tour company arranged every detail. Flights were booked through them; travelers were met at the airport by their tour director. The tour director is responsible for everything that happens while you are on tour – he or she will do everything in his/her power to make sure you have a fantastic experience. If you’re traveling through a country that does not speak English, the tour director will speak, at minimum, English and the language of the country or countries you are visiting. This skill is invaluable as you navigate a different country.

The price of your tour will include most of what you’ll do while on vacation. Your flights, hotels, at least two meals, and most activities will all have been paid for before you even pack your suitcase. There may be extras to pay for, of course, but, like on a cruise, you can do quite a bit without paying additional fees while you’re there.

The schedule of the tour on the day of arrival is dependent upon when the travelers’ flights land. Unless you are traveling with a private group who is all arriving together, you may have to wait for additional flights to land. This is actually how I prefer to travel – I’ve been lucky enough to be on the first flight in most times, which means I have free time at the hotel while we wait for the rest of the group to arrive. I take this time to shower and change (overnight flights are no joke!) and to explore the area around the hotel.

After everyone has arrived, the official tour can begin! A typical day on tour begins early – your tour director will fill you in on what time your wakeup call has been set, what time breakfast is served, and what time to be ready to roll. I like a set my own alarm earlier than the hotel wakeup call – they tend to underestimate the amount of time it will take me to get ready. Also, not every country subscribes to US standards of punctuality, so your wakeup call could be late or not come at all. It’s better to be ready early, rather than to hold up the group.

Most tours include at least two meals a day, generally breakfast and dinner. Breakfast is almost always at the hotel, followed by a full day of sight-seeing and activities. Your tour director will have put together your itinerary, and will make sure that you arrive at each location on time.

The activities will, of course, depend on where you are and what sort of tour you’re taking. You can expect to do “touristy” things – when in Paris, you will certainly visit the Eiffel Tower; when in Barcelona, a visit to Parc Guell is in order. However, group travel also gives you the opportunity to do things you may not have considered – taking in a Flamenco show in a Gypsy cave in Granada, or watching a demonstration of sword making in Toledo. The important thing to remember is that these tour companies and tour directors are experts in the areas you’ll be visiting – they can show you things that you would not necessarily find on your own.

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DefSemiHidden="tru… — The view of the Alhambra Palace from the entrance Gypsy cave where we saw a Flamenco show.

Schedules are not completely rigid – time is allotted for optional excursions, and tour directors will ask if there is something special you’d like to do while you’re in the area. For example, a group on my last tour asked to go bike riding through Barcelona. I joined in – and I am so glad I did. It was wonderful, and not something I would have thought to do without the input of others.

Your days will also include “free time,” when you can choose your own activities, or explore part of the city more. I often use this time for shopping, too. Some of the most fun we’ve had has been wandering around the city after dinner, looking for places to have a drink, or ice cream, or spending time exploring a park or a picturesque neighborhood.

With many tours, lunch is “on your own” – the tour director will provide restaurant suggestions and a meeting point and time, and you are on your own to find lunch. I love this feature, as it provides an opportunity to try that little café that looks so adorable, or to have some “comfort food” that you miss from home. And, I always like to follow the advice of Anthony Bourdain – if the locals are there, the restaurant is going to be good. No one local will keep going to a bad or unsanitary restaurant.

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DefSemiHidden="true… — My favorite Spanish lunch – bocadillo de tortilla.

Safety is another appealing aspect of group travel. I’m not necessarily referring to physical safety – though there is safety in numbers! There is such a sense of security in knowing that your tour director and the guides who join you along the way know exactly where they are going and how long it will take to reach your destination. You don’t need to worry about taking a wrong turn, getting on the wrong metro, or stumbling into the wrong neighborhood.

Beyond that, they take care of any travel difficulties that arise. For example, during my last tour, we were scheduled to take a night train from Barcelona to Paris. That week, the train employees went on strike, so there was no way for us to take a train. Sonja, our tour director, spent a day working on it, and made arrangements for us to fly out of Barcelona that evening, and to spend an extra night in Paris. However, the hotel where we were to spend our time in Paris could not accommodate us for an extra night – Sonja got us reservations at a different hotel for the first night, and arranged for our transfer to the second hotel on time. All this happened behind the scenes – we didn’t have to worry about a thing, and the transition from the old itinerary to the new was seamless. And, all this happened at no additional cost to the travelers.

Group travel is an excellent way to see a new or unfamiliar place. Activities are planned that will give you a real feel for where you are, but enough free time is provided that you’ll have a chance to explore on your own. Especially if you don’t speak the language – or even if you do, but the destination is totally unfamiliar – group travel is often your best option.

Have you been on a group tour? Or, where you would you like to go on one? Let me know in the comments!

I invite you to join me on Facebook at Upon A Star Michelle, Twitter @uponastarmichel, and Instagram @uponastarmichelle.

California Grill Brunch

February 11, 2016

If you were watching my page last week, you know that my hubby and I had the opportunity to dine at the California Grill's new brunch this past Sunday. I was so excited, because it was literally opening day for this experience! Being among the first to take part was amazing.

California Grill is located atop the Contemporary Resort, and it offers stunning views of the Magic Kingdom, Epcot (in the distance), and the other Magic Kingdom resort areas. It's also a very popular location for viewing Wishes Fireworks in the evenings.

So here is an admission: prior to this weekend, I had never eaten here. Hard to believe, right? It's always been on the list, but we never followed through for one reason or another. We love a good brunch, though, so this was the perfect time to make a reservation.

The hostess was so kind and escorted us right up to the lobby.

We were greeted immediately and ushered to our table.

As you can tell by the chopsticks, the California Grill does offer a lot of sushi. Of course, there are many other delicious offerings as well. Here's a peek at the menu.

The first course is self-serve. There is a beautiful display of all of the above offerings. I particularly enjoyed the mini lettuce wedge and the self-serve yogurt station, although all of it was amazing! There is also bread service served with butter and jam delivered right to the table.

Next came the entree. We both tried the steak, and it was out of this world! The seasoning and preparation were perfect. I also heard rave reviews about the sweet potato pancakes. I guess this means I'll have to go back to try those!

For those so inclined, there is a complimentary cocktail included; there is also a Bloody Mary Bar available for those who would like to choose their own ingredients -- based on the amount of Bloody Marys I saw on tables, I'd say this station will be very popular!

After all of this amazingness, you may think the experience is almost over - au contraire! There is still a luscious dessert tray! Of course, dessert is only complete with coffee, and the coffee here was amazing. It was french-pressed, strong, and not bitter at all. It was the perfect accompaniment to the beautiful cookies and candies. Disclaimer: I totally forgot to take a picture before we dug in... so this is a midway through re-arrangement of the cookies/chocolates. :) There is also a yummy toffee bark!

Of course, you simply must check out the observation decks at some point throughout your stay.

The entire experience lasted about an hour and a half, so it's definitely a leisurely experience. Unlike some of the character breakfasts/brunches, this location was quiet and peaceful. I should also mention that there was a wonderful piano/string bass duo playing throughout our meal, adding to the ambience. There were some families there, but by and large the population consisted of adults. This is a great location for honeymooners and couples. it would also be a great option for a date day - drop the kiddos off at the Polynesian's Kids' Club (there is a charge for this) and then the adults can enjoy a date before heading out for the day.

I would absolutely go back here! Have you ever dined at the California Grill? Comment below!

Disney Springs Area Transformation

February 3, 2016

On my recent trip to Walt Disney World, my hubby and I spent some time exploring the newly expanded Disney Springs area. While it isn't completely finished yet, much of the area known as "The Landing" is largely construction free, and the West Side is coming along beautifully. The Marketplace has some fresh expansion as well.

So let's begin with the Landing. We ate lunch at the Boathouse on this particular visit. The Boathouse is considered signature dining for dinner, so it requires 2 Table Service credits. In this case, we opted to pay out of pocket.

The Boathouse is beautiful, and as you might imagine, has a nautical theme. It also features Amphibious Cars, which you can pay to take a ride in! They are really cool. Oh, and the blackened salmon BLT was amazing!

But the Boathouse isn't the only new addition. Right next door, take a trip into the world of Indiana Jones by visiting Jock's Hangar. I loved all the subtle nods to the classic Indiana Jones movies. Although I didn't get one, they DO offer really cool looking souvenir mugs!

A spot that I have been really excited about is the new Ganachery, which features an onstage kitchen that produces amazing chocolate! The assortment was to die for, and the taste ... incredible! I tried the Egyptian Sea Salt Dark Chocolate, and it was everything I hoped it would be!

Although I didn't get to head in and try yet (stay tuned, I'm eating there in March!), Morimoto Asia is now open!

Another great addition (that I missed getting a picture of) is the Gelato Shop. And if you go there, you must try the Riso! It was a surprisingly yummy treat!

Moving on to the West Side, many things have remained the same, but there were two additions/changes that I was really excited about! Now it boasts a Star Wars Galactic Outpost as well as a Marvel Super Hero Headquarters!

There is still a lot of construction occurring here, but there are more great shops and restaurants to come!

Of course, the Marketplace is still a great place to shop. The World of Disney Store is newly expanded, and as always, the Lego Store is a fun place! It also has my favorite shops, Tren-D and the Co-Op. Inside the Co-Op, there is a great new men's store, Twenty-Eight and Main. My hubby really enjoyed shopping here!

I am excited to see how this area continues to transform, and I will definitely keep blogging about the changes as I experience them! What are you most excited about? Comment below!

Farewell to Osborne Lights

January 28, 2016

Recently, Disney Fans all mourned together at the announcement that the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights would be permanently closed after the 2015 holiday season. This show has had a 20-year run, and it has been a fan favorite throughout.

A little history: the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights was actually borne out of a family's Christmas Display. There are several articles online that will give you a full run-down on the timeline, but suffice it to say, the display started out "small" with 1000 lights, and gradually grew to the point where the family purchased the houses on either side of theirs in order to increase it! Eventually they added a hanging canopy, and it's said that the display was so bright that airplanes could see it from 80 miles away. As you can imagine, the neighbors were none too happy with the traffic...

Eventually the Disney Company got wind of the display and thought it would be perfect for decorating the Streets of America in what was then Disney-MGM Studios. It has been a smash hit since. I mean, who can resist millions of twinkling lights synced to great music?

So why the closure? Well, if you follow Disney news at all, you've heard that Hollywood Studios is expanding. Now there will be both a Star Wars Land and a Toy Story Land. This necessitated the closure of some of the original attractions to make way for new construction. Am I excited to see the new offerings? You bet! I think we all are! The closures, though, still make me sad.

But back to the lights! I also love finding Hidden Mickeys - and there were several to spot throughout! There's even one in one of the pictures above!

Nothing can really replace the experience of actually being there. If you've never had the pleasure, here is a walk through video I did as they were playing Trans Siberian Orchestra's "Carol of the Bells".

Hope you enjoyed this little tribute!

runDisney Marathon Weekend 2016

January 20, 2016

After a week of hiatus (apologies!), our blog is back in action with a report about this year's Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna! I had the honor of running during race weekend for the 3rd year in a row, and it was my husband's 4th year in a row.

As usual, it was such fun! We always like to have some days in the parks both before and after the races, so we truly were able to enjoy the full experience. We started off with a bang by going through the Expo, touring the new Disney Springs area, and we followed it up with a treat: the last night of the Osborne Lights. I will be dedicating blogs to both of these last 2 topics in the coming weeks (it's just too much for one post!)

When running a race in WDW, if you stay on property, you can always be assured that there will be transportation to the event; that being said, we aren't fans of having to wake up super early to avoid the traffic when riding a bus. We decided to stay on the monorail for quick access to and from the event. In the past, we have always been proponents of using the Race Retreat, but with this year's good forecast, we made the decision to forego it. This allowed us to sleep 'til 3am rather than rising at 2am.

We were to Epcot in fairly short order, but due to the heightened security, we ended up waiting in the line to have our bags searched for quite sometime. This resulted in our jogging to our corral (E)... so at least we got a bit of a warm up in! We heard the National Anthem being sung and knew we had to hustle. We arrived about 5 minutes before the first corral released. Close one! My advice for future races is to not bring a bag if it can be avoided. If you do, arrive early to avoid arrive to your corral late.

Weather this time around was a bit chilly for the majority of the trip, but for our Half Marathon, it was absolutely perfect. We had intended not to stop for any pictures, but ... well, who can resist when lines are short for characters you've never had a photo with? All told, we met our goal time-wise even with the stops!

Entertainment throughout the course was fun as always, and each year I feel like the corral releases are more organized. This year was no exception. Throughout the run I tried to take some video clips. Considering I was running throughout most of them, I'm impressed with my camera work (hahaha!). I've compiled everything into a little video so you can appreciate the fun of a runDisney event.

Escape to Myrtle Beach (Part 3)

January 6, 2016

You can catch the first 2 here:

Part 1
Part 2

As I’ve said before, I find myself in Myrtle Beach at least once a year. And, after I’ve gone to the beach and visited a few sights, and I generally find that I’m in the mood to shop. That works out, because the Myrtle Beach area has some great shopping options!

Are you an outlet shopper? Tanger Outlets offers two locations in Myrtle Beach – one in North Myrtle Beach (on Highway 17) and one a bit more south (on Highway 501), more toward the middle of the Grand Strand. The “southern outlets,” as my mom and I refer to the mall, is a newer complex, but it’s also smaller. The “northern outlets” tend to be our favorite of the two. Part of this is practical: While both malls are outdoors, the mall to the north has built canopies to shield shoppers from the elements – whether sun or rain – as they dart between the stores.

Of course, the main reason we’re willing to drive a little farther from where we stay is the stores. The Highway 17 location offers a Disney Store, a Lululemon Athletica Outlet, and a Kate Spade Outlet (my favorite!), which you cannot find at the 501 location. These are only a small sampling; these outlet malls definitely have something for everyone! And, they offer great discounts over traditional malls, as well as many coupons. It’s always worth it to stop by Guest Services when you arrive at the mall to pick up a coupon book. They are available for a nominal fee, or are free if you have signed up for and received a text offer. Individual stores also tend to offer additional coupons when you walk through the door.

If outlets aren’t your speed, you may enjoy the quirky shops at Barefoot Landings and Broadway at the Beach. They have traditional offerings, like Yankee Candle and Claire’s, but also tend toward the novelty, boasting stores such as Crabby Jack’s General Store and Pepper Palace. You can also find shopping experiences, such as Sparkles, a boutique that transforms little girls into princesses, or Build-A-Bear – a favorite of the children in my family.

But, my absolute favorite place to shop in the Myrtle Beach area isn’t even exactly in Myrtle Beach – it’s a few miles south, in an area called Pawleys Island. For me, no trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without a visit to the Pawleys Island Hammock Shops.

Although you can definitely buy a handmade hammock – or stop to watch as they string one – at the Hammock Shops, they offer so much more than just that. This is truly local shopping, with a unique, Low Country flavor. There are several shops that are on my must-visit list every time I shop.

First, I absolutely love High Country Olive Oil. It is a tasting store that sells specialty olive oils and vinegars. You walk in to discover casks and casks of oils and vinegars, just waiting to be sampled. Everyone who works there is incredibly helpful and friendly, and will be more than happy to guide you through pairings and options.

My next stop is Isle of Candles, which sells candles made of soy, rather than traditional wax. The result is a candle that burns cleaner and longer – and, the best part is, the softened wax is a delightful soy lotion! Again, the people who work there are wonderful, and are always eager to let you “take a dip” in one of their candles. As a somewhat regular customer, I love their recycling program – returning an empty jar gets you a discount on a new candle. The candles are made on-site, so you are truly supporting a local business when you shop there.

Finally, I always love to visit Details by Three Sisters. They sell gorgeous, unique jewelry – pieces that you just won’t find anywhere else. They provide on-site engraving, which is convenient when you are in a vacation time-crunch. You can also find distinctive accessories of a non-jewelry variety – I’ve come away with some fun, funky bandanas to wear to the beach.

These are my favorite shopping spots in Myrtle Beach! Where would you go first? Or, if you’ve already been there, where is your favorite place to shop? Let me know in the comments!

I invite you to join me on Facebook at Upon a Star Michelle, on Instagram @uponastarmichelle, and on Twitter @uponastarmichel.

Escape to Myrtle Beach (Part 2)

December 30, 2015

Catch Part 1 of the series here!

I love to relax on the beach – and Myrtle Beach provides plenty of opportunity to do so. However, there generally comes a point during a beach vacation when I need a change of pace – I’m sunburned, or I’m just ready for something different. Fortunately, the Myrtle Beach area provides plenty of off-beach activities.

Are you a golfer? Golf courses abound in Myrtle Beach! TPC courses, award-winning courses, courses for every ability – you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for if you’d like to hit the links! A golf getaway to Myrtle Beach can involve 36 holes a day without ever going to the same course twice! I’m not a golfer, but I love visiting the golf course restaurants. Sitting on the deck overlooking the course for lunch is so relaxing.

Although it is possible to plan a golf trip on the fly, it is better to arrange tee times in advance. Particularly if you are hoping to play several courses in a day or a weekend, you want to put plenty of thought into how you are going to time out your trip. Or, any of us at Upon A Star would be happy to help!

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DefSemiHidden="true"… — The Wizard golf course in Myrtle Beach

If you’re like me and miniature golf is more your speed, courses abound in Myrtle Beach! They are a very popular evening activity – you can find one in any direction from where you’re staying. Some even offer ice cream shops. What better way to end your evening than with ice cream and mini golf?

There are plenty of options for non-golfers, too! My favorite is Brookgreen Gardens, located south of the heart of Myrtle Beach in Murrell’s Inlet. In a former life, it was a rice plantation. There a quite a few southern plantations that have turned into tourist attractions. Many offer tours of the plantation house, the slave quarters, and various outbuildings, as well as garden tours. Brookgreen Gardens is different.

The plantation has been transformed into not only gardens, as the name suggests, but also a sculpture garden and a zoo featuring local animals. Walking through provides an amazing history lesson, as you can read about the original uses of each area of the plantation. Information about the sculptures is also provided.

Tickets can be purchased for single or multiple visits, so it’s a good idea to consider how much time you’d like to spend there before committing to a ticket purchase. Remember, we’re here to help you decide which would be your best option!

But, if you’re not in the mood for quite so much art and history, a visit to Barefoot Landings or Broadway at the Beach might be what you had in mind. They are similar complexes, but different enough that it’s worth it to visit both.

Both feature shopping, dining, and activity options. Barefoot Landings also has overnight accommodations right on the property – I stayed in their condo rentals once, and I found it to be very comfortable.

Barefoot Landings features live entertainment at several venues, such as the House of Blues and the Alabama Theatre. The shows are always changing, so you’re likely to find something that appeals to you during your stay. House of Blues also has good food, so it’s a great option for dinner and a show. You can also experience the Alligator Adventure or take a ride down the Intracoastal Waterway on the Barefoot Princess if you’re up for something a bit more daring than taking in a show.

Broadway at the Beach also offers live entertainment, such as Legends in Concert. You can also take in a museum – perhaps the Hollywood Wax Museum, or Ripley’s Aquarium. Ripley’s Aquarium was a big hit with my niece, who was only a toddler last time she visited. If you’re looking for something even more interactive, try the Broadway Grand Prix or Dragon’s Lair Fantasy Golf. Or, for sports fan, the minor league Myrtle Beach Pelicans baseball stadium is also located at Broadway at the Beach.

Even if you don’t go to the beach at all, you’re sure to find plenty to do on your Myrtle Beach vacation – the area truly offers something for everyone! What would you like to try? Or, if you’ve been there, which is your favorite attraction? Let me know in the comments!

I invite you to join me on Facebook at Upon A Star Michelle, Instagram @uponastarmichelle, and Twitter @uponastarmichel.