Independent Travel Agent with Academy Travel

Categories: Disney, Theme Parks

What You Need to Know About TRON Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom

If you’re a fan of the iconic TRON movie and you want to take a ride across the Grid, then you need to experience TRON Lightcycle / Run at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom! Boasting state-of-the-art technology, innovative lighting, and an adrenaline-pumping ride, this attraction is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip to the Magic Kingdom. So what do you need to know before you take this unforgettable journey? Read on to find out!

Tron Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom

TRON Lightcycle / Run Opening Date

We finally have a Disney World Tron ride opening date! TRON Lightcycle / Run will open at Magic Kingdom on April 4, 2023. There will be previews before this date for Cast Members, Annual Passholders, and Disney Vacation Club Members.

Cast Member Previews will be between February 6th and March 3rd.

Annual Passholder and DVC Member dates have not been announced yet.

Similar to Shanghai Disneyland’s TRON Lightcycle Power Run

If you or someone in your family needs to view the ride in action or watch a POV video, the Tron ride at Magic Kingdom will almost identical to Shanghai Disneyland’s TRON Lightcycle Power Run. This is helpful to know what to expect for anxious riders or to gauge how scary it may be.

The Ride is Based on the Tron Movies

If you want to watch the movies before riding this ride, you can watch TRON (1982) and TRON: Legacy (2010) on Disney+.

Tron Will Be Located in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom

The new ride will be near the Tomorrowland Speedway and Space Mountain in the Tomorrowland section of Magic Kingdom. There is a walkway from Storybook Circus behind the Speedway.

Height Requirement for Tron

Riders must be at least 48″ tall to ride this ride.

How to Ride TRON Lightcycle / Run

TRON Lightcycle / Run will use a virtual queue, similar to Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at Epcot. If you have valid theme park admission and a park reservation for Magic Kingdom, you will have the opportunity to request to join the virtual queue in the My Disney Experience app. The times that virtual queue will be open have not been announced yet, but will likely be at 7:00 am.

You can also purchase an individual Lightning Lane in the My Disney Experience app. Again, you must have valid theme park admission and a park reservation for Magic Kingdom for this option as well. You will view the Disney Genie Tip Board in the app to choose an arrival window and make your purchase at 7:00 am. The pricing for this option will vary based on the date of your visit.

A standby queue will not be available for this ride.

Double Sided Ride Lockers

Similar to some rides at Universal Orlando, TRON Lightcycle / Run will have a double-sided and digitized locker system. You will be able to store bags and loose items while you ride. These complimentary lockers will pair with your MagicBand, MagicBand+, or physical park ticket to lock and reopen your locker. If you do not have a MagicBand or other ticket, such as a card, you will be provided with a card to assign your locker. All items must be placed either in a locker before you board your lightcycle, or in a small compartment located on the ride vehicle that can hold items such as a cellphone, glasses, or a wallet.  

Tron Lightcycle Run the Ride

This ride is a fast launch roller coaster. It takes place mostly in a dark show theater but it does go outdoors under the large light canopies.

The ride vehicle is similar to the one in Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom. You will sit on an individual lightcycle and lean forward, gripping the handlebars. A pad from behind the seat will come down and secure you onto the lightcycle.

There are not any loops or inversions, but this ride is all about speed!

Ride Photos

TRON Lightcycle / Run will feature an onboard photo and video automatically linked to your My Disney Experience account. To make sure you receive your photos, use your mobile device, enable Bluetooth® for the My Disney Experience app before riding, ensure you’ve logged into the My Disney Experience app sometime earlier that day, and keep your device out of low power mode. Make sure your mobile device boards the ride with you and is safely stored in the small compartment. The other option is to wear a MagicBand or MagicBand+ that is linked to your My Disney Experience account. 

I am so looking forward to this ride opening and I think it will be a great addition to Magic Kingdom. Are you planning to ride TRON Lightcycle / Run? Let’s chat in the comments!

Categories: Lifestyle, Recipes

Cooking in an Air Fryer Oven

The air fryer is one of the most popular kitchen appliances around – and for good reason. With an air fryer, you can quickly create delicious snacks and meals with less fat and fewer calories compared to traditional deep-frying methods.

Plus, the hot circulating air cooks food from all sides at once, so your food gets crispy and evenly cooked on the outside while remaining moist and juicy on the inside. No wonder it has become a favorite! Read on for all of the best tips for cooking in your air fryer oven.

white air fryer with basket of french fries in kitchen air fryer oven

Cooking in an Air Fryer Oven

Air fryers are a great way to cook our favorite dishes without all the added oil and fat usually associated with traditional frying methods. Air fryers use heated circulating air to quickly and evenly cook food, resulting in deliciously crunchy snacks and meals that are healthier than deep frying.

Plus, you don’t have to wait for the oil to pre-heat or deal with disposing of used cooking oil afterwards – making air frying one of the most convenient cooking methods out there. Try experimenting with different ingredients in your air fryer today, and you’ll soon understand why so many people love this appliance!

What kind of Air Fryer should I get?

When it comes to choosing the right air fryer, there are a few things you should consider. The size and capacity of the fryer will depend on how much food you plan to prepare at once, while the wattage of the appliance will determine how quickly your food cooks.

Additionally, some models come with preset functions and adjustable settings that can help you customize your cooking experience. They often have a touch control panel that’s helpful for setting the temperature and timer, as well as accessing pre-programmed settings.

You’ll also want to decide if you need a small air fryer or family-sized air fryer to make larger quantities.

We suggest doing your research to find an air fryer that has the features and capabilities you’re looking for, so you can get the most out of your kitchen appliance. With the right air fryer, delicious, healthful dishes are just a few clicks away!

We have the Beautiful 6 Quart Touch Screen Air Fryer by Drew Barrymore and it’s perfect for our home. The matte finish and sleek design are so pretty. It also comes in a larger, 9 Quart option with two baskets for a larger household.

Beautiful 6 Quart Touchscreen Air Fryer, Black Sesame by Drew Barrymore

Can I Reheat Food in My Air Fryer?

Yes! Your air fryer is a great tool for quickly reheating food – especially snacks like fries and chicken nuggets, or leftovers. But remember to keep an eye on the temperature of your food while it’s cooking, as some ingredients can overcook very quickly.

For optimum results, set the temperature to about 350°F (176°C) and run the air fryer for 3-4 minutes. As always, use caution when handling hot food items from the air fryer oven. Enjoy your delicious snacks!

The Best Foods to Cook in an Air Fryer

When it comes to heating, reheating, or cooking food in an air fryer, the possibilities are endless. Air fryers can be used to cook fish, meat, vegetables, and anything else your heart desires.

Some of our favorite foods to cook in an air fryer include French fries, chicken nuggets, wings, vegetables, and even desserts like donuts or brownies. Tater tots in the air fryer are a delicacy all on their own!

basket of french fries cooked in air fryer oven

Here are some of the best dishes to make in an air fryer:

1. French Fries: Cut up potatoes into thick wedges or fries, season with your favorite spices, then cook in the air fryer for a quick and tasty snack. Tater tots in the air fryer are always a big hit too!

2. Fried Chicken: Make restaurant-quality fried chicken without all the mess by marinating chicken pieces in buttermilk then coating them with a mix of flour and spices before cooking in an air fryer.

3. Vegetables: Whether it’s sweet potato wedges or cauliflower florets, almost any vegetable can be cooked in an air fryer for a delicious side dish or snack. So easy!

4. Spring Rolls: For those looking for something a little bit more adventurous, try wrapping your favorite ingredients such as pork, shrimp, or vegetables into spring roll wrappers before cooking them in an air fryer for fresh flavors and textures.

5. Bacon: You are going to love this one! It comes out nice and crispy and there’s a lot less mess when you cook your bacon in the air fryer. All you have to do is place a single layer of bacon in the basket leaving some room for the air to still flow. Cut the bacon in half if it fits better that way!

6. Desserts: Tired of the same old cakes and cookies? Try air frying them for a unique twist on your favorite sweet treats.

Frozen items like chicken nuggets or chicken strips, pizza rolls, pot stickers, and onion rings are all easy and convenient for a quick side dish. They are perfectly crispy after cooking in the air fryer!

If you need some more ideas, check out the Taste of Home Everyday Air Fryer recipe book to really dive in.

Helpful Tools to Use with Your Air Fryer

There are so many different air fryer options available now, so be sure to check that the item is compatible with your machine before purchasing. Most items are universal but sometimes the size and dimensions of the basket can make a difference.

1. Olive Oil Sprayer: Easily spray an even mist of olive oil onto items before placing them into the air fryer to cook. While you can use a brush to apply the oil, the sprayed is much easier and a favorite kitchen item of mine.

2. Silicone Tongs: You’ll need these to turn items over hot items or remove them from the air fryer. The silicone tips won’t damage the non-stick surface of your air fryer basket.

3. Silicone Basket: If you are cooking something that might be a bit messy, you might want to use a silicone basket in your air fryer. It will keep any mess contained and make clean up a breeze.

4. Silicone Cupcake Liners: If you want to make cupcakes or egg bites, these are the perfect liners for your air fryer. They hold their shape well and can be placed directly in the air fryer basket.

5. Parchment Paper Liners: Another great option to eliminate a messy air fryer basket. I like that these liners have holes in them so that the air can still flow through them. Be careful though, do not preheat your air fryer with parchment paper inside!

No matter what you decide to make in your air fryer, you’ll definitely enjoy guilt-free snacking that tastes just like deep-fried foods – minus all the grease! With an air fryer, you can have all your favorite snacks and meals with a fraction of the fat and calories. So go ahead and start cooking delicious meals in your air fryer today! Enjoy!

Categories: Disney, Theme Parks

Should You Use a Travel Agent for Your Disney Vacation?

I get a lot of questions about how using a travel agent to plan your Disney vacation actually works.  Here’s the top one…how much does it cost?  Guess what, you do not pay me any fees and it does NOT cost more to use a travel agent!  I am able to provide so much more value than booking online through the website on your own. So, why should you use a travel agent for your Disney vacation? Let’s find out!

Why You Should Use a Travel Agent for Your Disney Vacation - red and black mickey ears on female with brown hair wearing black top on Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom

There is so much that goes into planning a trip to Disney these days. You can no longer just show up on the day of and visit a park without doing some planning ahead of time. With all of the new features like Genie+ and Magic Bands, you’ll want to know all of the ins and outs before you visit. This is why booking your Disney vacation with a travel agent that specializes in Disney destinations is a must!

It’s Free

You do not pay for my planning services, they are completely FREE to you. The agency that I am affiliated with, Academy Travel, gets paid by Disney and other suppliers for bookings. The commission is already factored into the prices online, whether you use an agent to book your trip or not.

Concierge Level Planning Services

If you book your trip with me, you get concierge level planning services for all of your trip details. I can do as much or as little for you as you would like. If you don’t want to get up at 6:00 AM to book your dining reservations, I’ll do it for you! This also applies to other special activities you might want to experience while you’re there. I will also help you link your reservations in the My Disney Experience account, link your travel party in your Family & Friends list, order your Magic Bands, and more. You will always have access to your plans in the My Disney Experience app so that you can make any adjustments on your own as well. This will make planning a trip to Disney stress-free for you!

Park Guides and Tips & Tricks from an Expert

I provide tips and tricks, park guides, suggested itineraries, and printable checklists for all of my travel clients to make sure they are prepared and ready to have a magical time! We will set up some checkpoints leading up to your vacation where we can go over details and any questions you might have over the phone or on a Zoom call. Once I know what rides, restaurants, characters, and activities are the most important to you and your family, I will make sure you know the best way to check everything off of your must-do list.

Promotions Applied for You

I always want my clients to get the best deal on their Disney vacation so if a new promotion comes out, I always check to see if any of my future bookings qualify. I will be able to apply the promotion for you to either save you money or upgrade you to a different resort at a better price. You won’t have to sit on hold on the phone for hours to see if your trip qualifies, I’ll take care of it all for you.

Personal Point of Contact

I will be your personal point of contact for everything related to your Disney vacation. You will have my direct contact information to help answer questions, process payments, and make any adjustments for you instead of waiting on hold with Disney.

Why you should use a disney travel agent for your disney vacation - female with minnie ears in front of cinderella's castle at magic kingdom

If you’re visiting Disney for the first time, be sure to avoid these common mistakes!

I have loved the relationships I have been able to build since I started. Being able to share the magic of why Disney is so special to me has been my favorite part! Planning 1st visits, birthday trips, Bachelorette weekends, multi-generational family vacations…I have been able to be a part of making these memorable and it has meant so much to me.

Please let me know if there are any other, more specific, questions I can help answer for you! You can follow my Instagram for all things Disney and travel. ✨ Complete my free quote form if you’re interested in a Disney vacation and I’ll be in touch!

Categories: Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

How to Get a Better Night’s Sleep

Are you having trouble getting a good night’s sleep? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! Getting a good night’s rest is essential for our physical and mental well-being, so it’s important to make sure that we get the quality sleep that we need. Here are some tips to help you get a better night’s sleep tonight.

How to get a better night's sleep pink sleep mask with eyelashes on white sheets

Set Up A Sleep Routine

Routines are key when it comes to getting better sleep. Our bodies become accustomed to certain patterns and activities, so it’s best to stick to the same bedtime routine every night. This could include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or doing some light stretching before crawling into bed. Consistency is key here, try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day as often as possible. Doing this will help your body recognize when it’s time for sleep and help you to wake up naturally. This is how to get a better night’s sleep at home.

I love using my Hatch Restore to set up my routines to wind down and wake up naturally. There are soothing sleep sounds and a sunrise alarm to gently wake up with light and sounds in the morning.

Hatch Restore Alarm how to get a better night's sleep

Reduce Stimulation Before Bed

This next tip is one of the best ways to get a good night’s sleep. Avoid using technology for at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light from screens can interfere with our body’s natural circadian rhythm and make it difficult to fall asleep. Instead, try doing something relaxing that doesn’t involve screens such as reading a book or writing in a journal before bedtime. Using blue light blocking glasses during the day can also help out.

How to Get a Better Night's Sleep books stacked with glasses on top

Exercise During the Day

Exercise can help tire out your body so that when it comes time to go to bed you will be more likely to feel relaxed and sleepy. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise or movement each day either through walking outdoors or doing some form of light activity indoors like yoga or stretching. 

Create The Right Environment For Sleep

Creating the perfect environment for sleeping can be tricky but it’s worth it in the end! Make sure that your bedroom is dark and cool, this will signal your body that it’s time for bed. If you have any electronics in your room like computers or TVs, be sure to turn them off as they emit blue light which can disrupt your natural melatonin production (the hormone responsible for making us feel sleepy). You should also consider investing in blackout curtains or an eye mask if necessary.

How to Get a Better Night's Sleep nightstand next to bed with candle

I also use Goli’s Dreamy Sleep Gummies to help me fall asleep quickly. They are made with melatonin, lemon balm, magnesium, and vitamin D. You can try them out for yourself and save on your order with my code, DEVINEFAIRYTALE.

Change Your Diet Habits

What you eat throughout the day can affect how well you sleep at night. Eating heavy meals close to bedtime can cause indigestion which can interfere with your ability to fall asleep easily. It’s best to avoid caffeine late in the day since this stimulant will keep you awake longer than usual. Instead opt for foods that are rich in magnesium such as nuts and seeds or drink chamomile tea before going to bed, both of these will act as natural ways to help calm down your mind before sleeping.                                 

Getting a better night’s sleep doesn’t have to be difficult if you know what steps to take! By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to set up routines, create environments conducive for sleeping, and adjust your diet habits accordingly so that you can finally achieve those sweet dreams you’ve been dreaming of! Good night and sleep tight.

Categories: Disney, Theme Parks

8 Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Disney Trip

Congratulations! You’re headed to Disney and it’s sure to be a magical vacation! No doubt planning your first Disney trip can be a bit overwhelming, but with some helpful tips you can avoid making some common Disney mistakes.

Mistakes to avoid on your first Disney trip Mickey ears in front of Cinderella's Castle

Don’t Make These Common First Disney Trip Mistakes

No matter which coast you’re headed to, both Disneyland and Walt Disney World are amazing vacation destinations. But before booking your trip, it’s important to decide which one is right for you and your family. Consider things like budget, location, and what type of experience you’re looking for. When planning your first Disney trip, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can ruin the experience. Here are a few mistakes to avoid on your first trip to Disney:

Staying Off Property

One mistake first-time Disney visitors make is not staying at a Disney-owned resort hotel. While there are many great hotels near the parks, staying on property comes with a whole host of benefits.

From extra hours in the parks to complimentary transportation, there are many reasons to consider booking a room at a Disney resort hotel. You can’t beat staying in the “Disney bubble” for the complete experience.

Visiting During the Busy Season

If you’re planning your first Disney trip, you may be tempted to visit during peak season in order to take advantage of the special events. While there’s nothing wrong with this, keep in mind that crowds will be higher and prices will be at their peak during this time.

If you’re looking to save money and avoid the crowds, consider visiting during Disney’s off-season instead. You’ll find lower prices and shorter wait times for rides and attractions.

Not Using or Understanding Genie+

Genie+ is a service that allows you to schedule return times for many popular rides and attractions. While it’s not available for every attraction, it can be a helpful tool for avoiding waiting in long lines.

This newer system is a bit more complicated and it’s important to make sure you understand how it works, when you can make your selections, and where to find it in the Disney app ahead of time. If you wait until you’re in the park, you’ll lose out on the best options and won’t get the value out of purchasing it. I include a tip sheet and go over strategies for using Genie+ for my travel clients that book their trips with me.

Waiting Too Long to Plan Your Trip

One mistake that first-time Disney visitors make is not planning ahead. If you want to make the most of your trip, it’s important to have a plan. You’ll want to start by making a list of the must-do rides and attractions for everyone in your party.

You’ll also need to plan ahead with booking your resort to have the most availability, making park reservations as some parks can fill up ahead of time, and dining reservations. If you wait too long, you may not get some of the options you want.

Not Downloading the My Disney Experience App Ahead of Time

The My Disney Experience app is your one-stop shop for all things Disney. From making your dining reservations to checking wait times, this app is a must-have for any Disney traveler.

Be sure to download it before your trip and familiarize yourself with all of the features. The Tip Board will be your best friend when it comes to planning what to do next each day at the parks. You also need to make sure your entire travel party is linked in the app as well.

Wearing Uncomfortable Shoes

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to wear comfortable shoes when visiting Disney. You will be doing a LOT of walking while you’re there, so you’ll want to make sure your shoes are comfortable and supportive. Definitely have some Body Glide Anti Blister Balm on hand to prep your feet for a long day. Sometimes I do wear sandals to the parks if I know it’s not going to be a quick visit, but for those full park days I always go for sneakers.

Getting Dehydrated

Staying hydrated is extremely important, especially in the Florida heat. Be sure to bring a water bottle with you into the parks. You can fill it up for free at any of the drinking fountains or ask for a cup of ice water at most counter service locations.

I also recommend bringing Liquid IV hydration packets in your Disney park bag for an extra boost. You can use code DEVINEFAIRYTALE to save on your order before your trip. It’s a must for me!

Planning Too Much for Each Day

The worst thing you can do during your Disney vacation is to plan every single minute of it. There is such a thing as too much planning. I recommend building in rest time, or even a rest day to enjoy your resort, throughout your trip. Being tired and overstimulated isn’t a good combination for anyone. Leave time in your schedule for some spontaneity. Another piece of advice…don’t make a dining reservation for each and every meal. You’ll be so rushed trying to get from one thing to the next that you won’t get to fully enjoy all of the magic.

Disney World is an amazing place to visit, but it’s important to avoid making a few common mistakes. By staying using these helpful tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip. Want to make planning your Disney vacation even easier? Let me book it for you and I’ll take care of all of the details…for free! It’s time to get ready for the magic.

Blog Archive