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TitlePub. DateDuration
Disney Christmas Magic, Epic Universe’s Celestyal Goodnight, Hawaiian Cruises & Iberostar Waves Paraíso Beach Review28 Jul 202600:48:42

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Release Date: July 28, 2026 | Duration: 48 minutes

Episode Summary

Get into the holiday spirit with Episode 2 of The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond! This week, we're diving into the magic of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World, including festive entertainment, exclusive character meet-and-greets, seasonal treats, and whether this special-ticket event is worth adding to your vacation plans.

We also explore Universal Epic Universe's brand-new "Universal Celestial Goodnight" nighttime spectacular, featuring synchronized fountains, millions of lights, fireworks, and music that brings the park's incredible themed worlds to life.

Dreaming of Hawaii? Learn why Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America offers one of the most unique ways to experience all four major Hawaiian Islands in a single vacation, with overnight stays and breathtaking scenic cruising along the Nā Pali Coast.

Plus, special guest Nataliya Yatsenko shares her firsthand experience at Iberostar Waves Paraíso Beach, offering practical tips for travelers considering this popular Riviera Maya all-inclusive resort.

You'll also hear this week's travel deals, including luxury cruise promotions and exclusive Expedia Cruises offers, plus a preview of next week's interview with The Beach Snob, Robin Baxter Bering.

Whether you're planning your next Disney vacation, a cruise, or an all-inclusive escape, this episode is packed with travel inspiration, practical advice, and money-saving tips.

Timestamps

  • [00:00] Intro
  • [01:18] Mouse Minutes:Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
  • [06:32] Park Pulse: Universal’s Celestyal Goodnight at Epic Universe
  • [09:52] Cruise Contemplations: Hawaiian Cruising
  • [12:41] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week:Iberostar Waves Paraiso Beach Review
  • [42:23] Deals Dish: Elite Explorer’s Sale and Celebrity Cruises Offer
  • [46:56] Outro

Special Guest

Nataliya Yatsenko

Key Takeaways

🎄 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – Walt Disney World

  • Disney’s Magic Kingdom holiday party is a separately ticketed event running on select nights from November 8–December 22.
  • Guests can enter at 4 PM, with the party running from 7 PM–midnight.
  • Highlights include:
    • Exclusive holiday character meet-and-greets
    • Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade
    • Minnie’s Wonderful Christmas Time Fireworks
    • Holiday attraction overlays, entertainment, snacks, and merchandise
  • Five attractions receive holiday transformations, including Jungle Cruise and Space Mountain.
  • Nov. 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 24, 25, 27, 29
  • Dec. 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22 
  • Tickets range from approximately $189–$229 USD plus tax, depending on the date.

🌌 Universal Celestial Goodnight – Epic Universe

  • Universal’s new nighttime spectacular at Epic Universe uses all of Celestial Park as the viewing area.
  • The show combines fireworks, fountains, lighting, music, and special effects.
  • It features elements from:
    • Super Nintendo World
    • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
    • How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
    • Dark Universe
  • A major advantage: guests don’t need to compete for one specific viewing location.

🌺 Exploring Hawaii by Cruise

  • Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America offers a unique seven-day Hawaiian Islands itinerary.
  • The cruise visits four islands:
    • Oahu
    • Maui
    • Hawaii (Big Island)
    • Kauai
  • The biggest benefit is convenience: travelers can explore multiple islands while having accommodations, meals, and transportation included.
  • The ship’s itinerary is its greatest strength, especially for travelers looking for an easy way to experience Hawaii.

🏝 Iberostar Waves Paraiso Beach Review – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Guest Review: Natalia Yatsenko

  • Air Canada Vacations provided a smooth package experience with flights, transfers, and resort stay.
  • Iberostar Waves Paraiso Beach is a large, family-friendly resort surrounded by lush tropical landscaping.
  • Standout features:
    • Clean, spacious rooms
    • Beautiful grounds and wildlife
    • Well-maintained pools and beach areas
    • Variety of daily activities and evening entertainment
  • The beach was highly rated, although seasonal sargassum seaweed can be a factor.
  • Dining was a highlight, with the Mexican restaurant La Hacienda being Natalia’s favourite.
  • The Cozumel snorkeling excursion was the trip highlight, featuring reefs, starfish, stingrays, and marine life.
  • Overall recommendation: a strong all-inclusive option offering good value and a relaxing experience.

🚢 Travel Deals & Promotions

  • Expedia Cruises’ Elite Explorer Event features savings and onboard credits on luxury ocean, river, and expedition cruises.
  • A special Celebrity Cruises promotion offers a $100 USD onboard credit on eligible bookings through Expedia Cruises Oakville South.
  • These offers can provide additional value when combined with existing cruise line promotions.

Relevant Links

The Travel Ehgent Website

The Travel Ehgent Instagram

The Travel Ehgent Facebook

The Travel Ehgent Email:  stephen@thetravelehgent.ca

Disney’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Canada’s Wonderland’s Daredeviler

Universal Celestyal Goodnight at Epic Universe

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America

Iberostar Waves Paraiso Beach

Expedia Cruises Elite Explorer’s Sale

Stephen Payne’s Expedia Cruises Website

Calls to Action

If you want more information about cruising and travel, including the latest cruise promotions and limited time offers, subscribe to my Expedia Cruises personalized email newsletters.  Simply click on “fan mail”, and send me your name and email address and I’ll add you to my mailing list for the newsletter as well as for show updates and information.  You can also email your name and email address to the following email:  stephen@thetravelehgent.ca

Do feel free to send me an email if you’d like help accessing the Deals Dish money savers, or if you’d like to offer feedback or suggest topics for the show. You can email me at stephen@thetravelehgent.ca.

If you’re enjoying the information and inspiration provided in this show, please leave a review on Apple podcasts or any other podcast reviewing platform.  You can find easy links to podcast platforms by going to https://thetravelehgent.ca

Apple Podcasts:  The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond

Spotify:  The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond

You Tube:  The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond

Next Episode

Next week’s episode will feature an interview with Robin Baxter Bering also known as the.Beach Snob.  She just came back from a visit to Beloved Playa Mujeres in the Punta Sam area of Mexico, located about 40 minutes from the Cancun area.  This resort is an adult only couples resort.  We’ll find out about Robin’s experiences there and if she would want to return. In doing so, we’ll be able to decide if it’s something we should look into.  In addition we will provide you with information in our usual segments. 

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Level 99 and the Legend of the Seas21 Jul 202600:41:48

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Release Date: July 21, 2026 | Duration: 42 minutes

In the very first episode of The Travel Ehgent Disney and Beyond! Host Stephen Payne brings you an exclusive interview with Nate Allen, Strategic Accounts Manager for Royal Caribbean, who shares insider information about the highly anticipated Legend of the Seas and what makes this next-generation cruise ship a game-changer for travelers. 

Plus, discover everything you need to know about Level 99, the exciting new interactive entertainment experience now open at Disney Springs. Then, get the details on Universal Nights at Epic Universe, Universal’s brand-new after-hours event featuring exclusive entertainment, complimentary snacks, and reduced wait times.

Stephen also reveals his Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week, explaining how planning ahead can help you save money and maximize your vacation experiences, and you'll also learn how Canadian residents can save up to 25% on select Disney Cruise Line sailings.

Whether you're a Disney fan, cruise enthusiast, or travel lover looking for expert advice and inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you plan your next adventure.

Timestamps

  • [00:00] Intro
  • [01:15] Mouse Minutes: Level 99
  • [05:46] Park Pulse: Universal Nights at Epic Universe
  • [09:20] Cruise Contemplations: Interview with Nate Allen on Legend of the Seas
  • [32:12] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week: Planning Ahead
  • [38:40] Deals Dish: Disney Cruise Canadian Resident’s Discount
  • [40:42] Outro

Special Guest

Nate Allen

Strategic Accounts Manager for Royal Caribbean International

Central Ontario/ Atlantic Canada

Key Takeaways


🎯 Level 99 Has Arrived at Disney Springs

  • The former DisneyQuest building has been transformed into Level99, the largest location in the chain.
  • Features 63 interactive challenge rooms with physical games, puzzles, and head-to-head competitions.
  • Guests use RFID wristbands to access experiences and can choose challenges in any order.
  • A unique option for families, teens, and adults looking for something beyond traditional attractions.


🌙 Universal Launches Epic Universe After-Hours Events

  • Universal has announced Universal Nights at Epic Universe, its answer to Disney's popular after-hours events.
  • Guests can enjoy lower crowds, shorter attraction wait times, character encounters, and complimentary snacks.
  • First event dates are October 3 and October 17, with ticket sales beginning August 13.
  • An opportunity to experience Epic Universe after dark with a more relaxed atmosphere.


🚢 Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas

  • Special guest Nate Allen, Strategic Accounts Manager for Royal Caribbean, discusses the launch of Legend of the Seas.
  • Insights into Royal Caribbean's newest ship and what cruisers can expect from this exciting addition to the fleet.


📅 Travel Tip: Plan Earlier Than You Think

  • Popular travel experiences often require booking months in advance.
  • Disney dining reservations open 60 days before arrival and top experiences can fill immediately.
  • Major attractions like the Colosseum and Sagrada Familia release tickets on specific schedules and often sell quickly.
  • Early planning can also unlock significant savings on transportation and vacation packages.


💰 Canadian Disney Cruise Savings

  • Canadian residents can save up to 25% on select Disney Cruise Line sailings.
  • Eligible itineraries include Bahamian, Caribbean, Alaskan, Pacific Coast, and Baja cruises.
  • Discounts apply only to select sailings and stateroom categories, making expert guidance valuable.


🔜 Coming Next Episode

  • An in-depth interview with Nataliya Yatsenko about her stay at Iberostar Waves Paraiso Beach in Riviera Maya.
  • Tips on excursions, dining, and making the most of an all-inclusive vacation.


Relevant Links

The Travel Ehgent Website

The Travel Ehgent Instagram

The Travel Ehgent Facebook

The Travel Ehgent Email:  stephen@thetravelehgent.ca

Level 99

Universal Nights

Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas

Disney Canadian Resident Discounts

Calls to Action

If you want more information about cruising and travel, including the latest cruise promotions and limited time offers, subscribe to my Expedia Cruises personalized email newsletters.  Simply click on “fan mail”, and send me your name and email address and I’ll add you to my mailing list for the newsletter as well as for show updates and information.  You can also email your name and email address to the following email:  stephen@thetravelehgent.ca


Do feel free to send me an email  if you’d like help finding a Disney Cruise with a Canadian Discount. You can email me at stephen@thetravelehgent.ca.


If you’re enjoying the information and inspiration provided in this show, please leave a review on Apple podcasts or any other podcast reviewing platform.  You can find easy links to podcast platforms by going to https://thetravelehgent.ca


Apple Podcasts:  The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond

Spotify:  The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond

You Tube:  The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond


Next Episode

Next week, you’ll want to tune in to hear my indepth interview with Nataliya Yatsenko about her trip to the Riviera Maya where she stayed at the all-inclusive resort Iberostar Waves Pariaso Beach.  Nataliya gives us lots of details about her stay and offers us some tips about excursions and dining experiences.  And we’ll also have the usual segments with information to share.


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Episode 1 Preview: What is this show all about?14 Jul 202600:04:36

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Are you wondering what kind of content you're going to hear on The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond?  Take a listen to this Episode 1 preview to find out what will be on the first episode as well as future episodes of this podcast.  I'm excited to talk with you and with my guests about many things relating to travelling including cruising, all-inclusives, and theme parks.  

https://www.thetravelehgent.ca

You can also email me at stephen@thetravelehgent.ca

Please leave feedback or request topics through my website or email.

The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond Trailer06 Jul 202600:01:45

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Your Canadian connection to theme park news, travel tips, vacation planning, and money-saving travel deals.

First episode to be released on Tuesday morning July 21, 2026.

The first episode will include an interview with Nate Allen (Strategic Account Manager for Royal Carribbean International) about Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's new ship Legend of the Seas, as well as a discussion about the new Disney Springs attraction, Level 99.

Follow me on Instagram:  @thetravelehgent

© My Podcast Data · Independent project · Data from Apple & Spotify