The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond

Send us Fan Mail Episode #16: Is Disney's Dining Plan Worth It? Plus Niagara Takes Flight & MSC's Private Island Release Date: November 3, 2026 | Duration : 38:02 minutes Episode Summary This week on The Travel Agent, Disney & Beyond , Stephen explores Disney dining plans, a unique Niagara Falls attraction, MSC Cruises' private island and travel tips and deals for your next getaway. In Mouse Minutes , discover what's included in Walt Disney World's 2027 dining plans, how much they cost and whether they're really worth it. Stephen explains why paying out of pocket may be the better value for many families. In Park Pulse , take flight over Niagara Falls with Niagara Takes Flight, an immersive experience featuring stunning views, wind, mist and movement. For Cruise Contemplations , explore MSC's Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas, from its beautiful beaches and activities to exciting future enhancements. This week's Canadian Compass Travel Tip features a handy water bottle carrier for keeping hydrated on the go, while Deals Dish highlights select Oceania Caribbean cruises with no single supplement for solo travellers. Plus, Stephen shares the story behind his unforgettable Victorian vampire Halloween transformation! Timestamps [00:00] Intro [06:00] Mouse Minutes : The Disney Dining Plans [15:55] Park Pulse : Niagara Takes Flight: A Soaring Adventure [20:41] Cruise Contemplations : MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve [26:02] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week : Nuovoware Water Bottle Carrier Bag [29:42] Deals Dish : Oceania Solo Traveller Holiday Deals [35:27] Outro Key Takeaways 🍽️ Mouse Minutes – Disney Dining Plans for 2027 Walt Disney World offers three dining plan options, with different combinations of table-service meals, quick-service meals, snacks and drinks. Dining plans can add up, and paying out of pocket may be less expensive for many families. They may be worthwhile if you enjoy higher-priced dining experiences or prefer having meals prepaid for easier vacation budgeting. Compare free dining promotions with room discounts to determine which offer provides the best overall value. 🎢 Park Pulse – Niagara Takes Flight: A Soaring Adventure Niagara Takes Flight at Table Rock combines an interactive educational pre-show with a six-minute flying-theater experience. Guests learn about Niagara's geology, Indigenous history, local history and hydroelectricity. Wind, mist, scents and movement create an immersive experience reminiscent of Disney's Soarin'. 🚢 Cruise Contemplations – MSC's Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Ocean Cay is MSC Cruises' private island in the Bahamas, featuring seven beaches, water activities, dining and entertainment. Activities include snorkeling, watersports, lighthouse tours and beach volleyball. Planned enhancements include a playground, splash pad, additional dining options and an adults-only beach club. 🧭 Canadian Compass Travel Tip – Hands-Free Hydration A water bottle carrier can make staying hydrated easier while visiting theme parks, hiking or enjoying excursions. The featured Nuovoware carrier has an adjustable strap, neoprene sleeve and pockets for small essentials. It comes in different sizes to accommodate various water bottles. 🌴 Deals Dish – Caribbean Cruises for Solo Travellers Select Oceania Cruises Caribbean sailings were highlighted with no single supplement for solo travellers. Featured itineraries include departures aboard Vista, Allura and Marina. These offers provide an opportunity to explore the Caribbean without the usual single supplement, subject to the specific sailing and offer terms. 🧛 Behind the Mic – Stephen's Halloween Transformation Stephen shares the story of his Victorian vampire costume, inspired by Lestat from Interview with the Vampire. A blonde wig, blue contact lenses and a dramatic makeover left some people unable to recognize him! Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Walt Disney World: Disney Dining Plans Niagara Parks: Niagara Takes Flight MSC Cruises: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Cruises Amazon.ca: Nuovoware Water Bottle Carrier Bag Oceania Cruises: Solo Traveller Fares 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 on The Travel Ehgent Disney and Beyond , let’s talk about Walt Disney World Ticket types and what is the best choice for you. Then, we’ll see what Universal’s new roller coaster ride has in store for us in 2027, and we’ll learn about the new Celebrity ship the Celebrity Xcite which will begin sailing in 2028, so we should be able to start booking on that ship shortly. We’ll then be sure to add to our Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week collection and look at the latest Deals Dish offer. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #15: Disney Music, Theme Park Safety & Cruise Deals | Epcot, Six Flags & Virgin Voyages Release Date: October 27, 2026 | Duration : 25:44 minutes Episode Summary This week on The Travel Agent: Disney and Beyond , Stephen Payne brings you a mix of Disney nostalgia, theme park news, cruise inspiration, and practical travel tips to help you plan your next adventure! Have you ever heard a piece of music that instantly transports you back to a favourite vacation? Stephen explores the magic of Disney music and introduces The Music of Epcot , a new streaming album featuring 23 professionally recorded tracks from classic and current attractions. Discover how listening to familiar Disney music at home can bring back wonderful vacation memories, family moments, and a little of that Disney magic. Stephen also shares an important update on theme park safety following the tragic incident at Six Flags Over Georgia . Learn about the additional safety measures, independent inspections, and temporary ride closures affecting Six Flags parks, including Leviathan and Behemoth at Canada’s Wonderland. If you’re planning a visit to a theme park, this is an update you won’t want to miss. In Cruise Contemplations, Stephen takes you to Princess Cays in the Bahamas, a private beach destination where cruise guests can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, water sports, relaxing beach time, and excursions to explore the surrounding area. Find out what this destination offers and how it compares with other private beach experiences available through cruise lines. This week’s Canadian Compass Travel Tip focuses on staying hydrated during hot, humid days at theme parks. Stephen explains how asking for complimentary cups of water at quick-service restaurants can help you save money while keeping your family refreshed and ready for more fun. Looking for your next cruise getaway? In Deals Dish, Stephen highlights limited-time Virgin Voyages offers , with examples ranging from short Caribbean escapes to longer itineraries and transatlantic adventures. Virgin Voyages offers an adults-only cruising experience with a modern, relaxed atmosphere and a variety of dining options. Stephen also explains how you can contact him to request his list of discounted cruise options. Along the way, Stephen shares a glimpse into his family life, including the first birthday celebration of his twin granddaughters and a mysterious Halloween costume that has required a little courage to put together. He promises to reveal more about that adventure in next week’s episode! Whether you love Disney, enjoy visiting theme parks, or are dreaming about your next cruise, this episode offers a little nostalgia, helpful information, and plenty of travel inspiration. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [02:59] Mouse Minutes : The Music of Epcot [09:17] Park Pulse : Update on Six Flags [13:45] Cruise Contemplations : Princess Cays [17:10] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week : Finding Water [19:35] Deals Dish : Limited Virgin Voyages Last Minute Deals [24:13] Outro Key Takeaways 🎵 The Music of Epcot album features 23 tracks with approximately 66 minutes of music from classic and current Epcot attractions. 🎢 Six Flags safety reviews and ride closures : Following the fatal incident involving Goliath at Six Flags Over Georgia, the company announced additional safety precautions, including plans to add seat belts to Goliath and other coasters with similar restraints. The episode reports that eight additional rides across five parks were temporarily closed for safety reviews. Leviathan and Behemoth at Canada’s Wonderland were also closed at the time of recording. 🏝️ Princess Cays is a private beach, not a private island . Located on Eleuthera in the Bahamas, this 40-plus-acre destination requires cruise guests to travel ashore by tender boat. Activities include swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, sailing, wildlife tours, dune buggy excursions, and visits to nearby communities. Some activities incur additional fees. 💧 Free water can help reduce theme park expenses . At Disney World, guests can request complimentary cups of water at quick-service restaurants rather than repeatedly purchasing bottled water. Refilling a reusable water bottle can help families stay hydrated while saving money during hot Florida days. 🚢 Virgin Voyages offers an adults-only cruise experience . Guests must be at least 18 years old, and the cruise line features a contemporary, casual atmosphere without traditional formal nights or a conventional main dining room. The episode highlights example promotional fares, including a four-night cruise for $761 per person, an eight-night cruise for $1,201 per person, and a 14-night transatlantic sailing for $1,474 per person. These are fares cited during the recording and may change. Stephen offers to share a list of approximately 30 discounted cruise options by email. 🎃 Next week’s episode preview : Stephen plans to discuss whether Disney dining plans are worthwhile, explore Niagara Takes Flight, visit MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, and reveal the story behind his Halloween costume. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca The Music of Epcot on Spotify The Music of Epcot on Apple Music Six Flags Message to Guests and Passholders Princess Cays Blog: Things to do in Princess Cays Virgin Voyages: Last Minute Cruise Deals 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 on the Travel Ehgent Disney and Beyond, I want to talk about Disney Dining Plans and whether they are worth it for you. For Park Pulse we’ll talk about Niagara Takes Flight. Niagara Falls is not exactly a theme park, but that attraction is a lot like Disney World’s Soarin’. So I’ll tell you about whether that’s worth checking out. And we’ll complete our exploration of the private islands of cruise lines by discovering MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. All that as well as the Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week and Deals Dish. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #14: Disney Holiday Magic, Six Flags Tragedy, Coco Cay, and An Alaska Cruise Deal Release Date: October 20, 2026 | Duration: 33:50 minutes Episode Summary What’s new at Disney World for the holidays, and what happens when some of your favourite attractions get a festive makeover? This week, Stephen takes you inside the seasonal fun, with a few surprises you might not expect! There’s also some sobering theme park news following a tragic incident at Six Flags Over Georgia, raising questions for coaster fans closer to home. On a brighter note, we’re heading to a Caribbean island that might just be one of the best days of your next cruise — and Stephen shares a tried-and-true trick for surviving the Florida heat without melting away in the parks. Plus, if an Alaska cruise is on your travel wish list, you’ll want to stick around for this week’s cruise deal. Thinking about 2028 already? It might be time to start planning! From theme park thrills to cruise adventures and practical travel tips, there’s plenty to explore in this week’s episode of The Travel Ehgent: Disney and Beyond. Tune in, get inspired, and start dreaming about your next adventure! Timestamps [00:00] Intro [02:45] Mouse Minutes : Holiday Overlays at Disney World [11:59] Park Pulse : Tragedy at Six Flags Over Georgia [17:59] Cruise Contemplations : Perfect Day Coco Cay [24:30] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week : Cooling Towels [28:59] Deals Dish : Early Booking Bonus with Princess Alaska [31:48] Outro Key Takeaways 🎄 Discover Disney World's holiday attraction overlays Four attractions get festive seasonal touches, from Christmas music on Cosmic Rewind to holiday-themed fun on the Muppet coaster, Alien Swirling Saucers, and Jingle Cruise. 🎢 Understand the latest coaster safety concerns The tragic incident at Six Flags Over Georgia has led to precautionary closures of Leviathan and Behemoth at Canada's Wonderland while safety concerns are addressed. 🏝️ Make the most of Perfect Day at CocoCay Explore the beaches, pools, water park, snorkeling, and complimentary activities available on Royal Caribbean's private island, and learn which experiences cost extra. ☀️ Beat the Florida heat with cooling towels Learn Stephen's practical trick for keeping cooling towels icy cold in a bag with ice, helping make hot theme park days more comfortable. 🚢 Explore Princess Cruises' Alaska deals for 2028 Find out about the early-booking offer featuring up to $300 in instant savings, up to $300 USD in onboard credit, and additional booking benefits, subject to eligibility and terms. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Holidays at Walt Disney World Resort CBC: Roller-coasters are safe, despite the death at Six Flags, experts say Royal Caribbean Cruises: Perfect Day Coco Cay Frogg Toggs Cooling Towels Princess 2028 Alaska Early Booking Bonus 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 on The Travel Ehgent Disney and Beyond , we'll talk more theme park news, cruising updates, travel tips and travel deals. What that looks like exactly…well, you’ll need to check in to find out. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #13: Is a Hawaiian Cruise a Good Family Vacation? | Pride of America Review Release Date : October 13, 2026 | Duration : 49:35 minutes Episode Summary Is a Hawaiian cruise the right choice for your next family vacation? In this episode of The Travel Agent Disney and Beyond , Stephen Payne welcomes Chris and Maria Bruce to share their unforgettable family adventure aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America . Discover why a Hawaiian cruise can be a fantastic way to experience four of Hawaii’s major islands in one trip, without constantly packing and unpacking or arranging separate hotels and transportation. Chris and Maria share what it was really like sailing on the Pride of America , from the onboard dining and entertainment to the itinerary that made this vacation so special. Explore the highlights of their Hawaiian adventure, including witnessing an active volcanic eruption at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, hiking through lush tropical landscapes to spectacular waterfalls, visiting Waimea Canyon, discovering beautiful beaches, and paying a moving visit to Pearl Harbor. Plus, find out why sampling Hawaii’s local coffee and chocolate became an unexpected vacation highlight! Planning a Hawaiian cruise with your family? Chris and Maria offer practical advice on budgeting, booking rental cars, planning independent island excursions, reserving your visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, and making time for rest during a busy itinerary. They also explain why older children and teenagers may be particularly well suited to this adventure. Is the Norwegian Pride of America the best way to explore Hawaii? Hear their honest assessment of the experience, the costs, the advantages of visiting multiple islands, and why this trip became a vacation of a lifetime. Whether you're comparing a Hawaiian cruise with a land-based vacation or dreaming of your next family adventure, this episode will help you decide if Hawaii belongs on your travel wish list. Subscribe to The Travel Agent Disney and Beyond for travel inspiration, cruise insights, practical vacation tips, and information to help you plan your next adventure. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [06:06] The Pride of America Experience [12:41] The Islands Experience [20:53] Touring Hawaii with Children [26:46] Practical Considerations [31:31] Final Thoughts and the Answer [48:21] Outro Key Takeaways 🚢 Is a Hawaiian cruise right for your family? Discover the pros and cons of exploring Hawaii aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America. 🌺 See more of Hawaii in one trip. Visit multiple islands without constantly packing, changing hotels, or arranging separate inter-island transportation. 🌋 Experience unforgettable natural wonders. Highlights include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Waimea Canyon, tropical hikes, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches. 🕊️ Make time for history. Learn why visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial can be a meaningful part of your Hawaiian vacation. 🚗 Plan your island adventures. Get tips on rental cars, independent excursions, budgeting, and booking popular attractions in advance. 🍽️ Set realistic expectations for the ship. Consider the onboard dining and entertainment while remembering that the destinations and island experiences are the main attraction. 💰 Understand the costs. Weigh the convenience of visiting several islands on a cruise against the expenses and flexibility of a land-based Hawaiian vacation. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Consider your family’s travel style. Older children and teens may especially enjoy the active sightseeing and variety of experiences, while families should balance busy days with downtime. 🏝️ Choose the vacation that fits you best. Hear an honest perspective on the benefits, trade-offs, and practical considerations of cruising Hawaii as a family. ✨ The big takeaway: A Hawaiian cruise can be a convenient way for families to experience several islands in one vacation, especially if they enjoy exploring new places. The best choice depends on your budget, preferred pace, and the kind of Hawaiian experience your family wants. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Norwegian Cruise Line: Pride of America Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Pearl Harbor National Park 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 Thanks for listening today. Next week, we will resume our regular format with new segments of Mouse Minutes, Park Pulse, Cruise Contemplations, the Canadian Travel Tip of the Week, and Deals Dish. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #12: From Disney Gardens to Wonderland’s Halloween Haunt to the Disney Believe : Travel Adventures & Tips Release Date : October 6, 2026 | Duration : 45:57 minutes Episode Summary Get ready for a packed episode of The Travel Agent as Stephen Payne takes you from the gardens of Walt Disney World to the scares of Canada’s Wonderland—and into the future of Disney Cruise Line. First, discover what’s planned for the 2027 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival , including beautiful topiaries and gardens, the Garden Rocks concert series, and the outdoor kitchens serving flavours from around the world. Then it’s time for Halloween Haunt at Canada’s Wonderland . Stephen shares his firsthand experience navigating the mazes, scare zones, and entertainment—including which maze was his favourite, how long the waits really were on a busy Saturday night, and whether the premium Conjuring: Beyond Fear experience is worth the extra cost. In Cruise Contemplations , get an early look at the brand-new Disney Believe , Disney Cruise Line’s upcoming ship scheduled to enter service in late 2027. Stephen explores its Moana-inspired Grand Hall, Toy Story details, and the Disney stories that will shape the ship—and looks ahead to the announcement of its itineraries and home ports. Plus, this week’s Canadian Compass Travel Tip could help you keep tabs on your luggage when things go wrong, and Deals Dish highlights some impressive cruise savings, including Expedia exclusive stateroom offers on Celebrity and Royal Caribbean sailings. There’s plenty of travel inspiration, practical advice, and a few personal stories along the way—including Stephen’s temporary 2026 Jeep Rubicon adventure. Whether you’re planning a Disney vacation, a cruise, a Halloween outing, or simply your next getaway, there’s something here for you. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [05:54] Mouse Minutes : Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival [12:55] Park Pulse : Canada’s Wonderland’s Halloween Haunt [30:30] Cruise Contemplations : The Disney Believe [33:51] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week : Tracking Your Luggage [36:30] Deals Dish : Expedia Exclusive Staterooms Highlights [42:20] Outro Key Takeaways 🌸 Epcot Flower & Garden Festival — The 2027 festival runs March 10 through May 31, featuring Disney character topiaries, beautiful gardens and exhibits, Garden Rocks concerts, and outdoor kitchens serving garden-inspired dishes from around the world. 🎃 Halloween Haunt at Canada’s Wonderland — Get an overview of the six mazes, seven scare zones, and entertainment offerings, plus firsthand tips for making the most of your night—even when the park is busy. 👻 Conjuring: Beyond Fear — This premium experience is different from the regular mazes, combining a guided, immersive experience with elements of role-playing and paranormal investigation. 🚢 Disney Believe — Get an early look at Disney Cruise Line’s upcoming ship, expected in late 2027, including its Moana-inspired Grand Hall and design elements inspired by Toy Story, Peter Pan, and other Disney favourites. 📅 Get Ready to Book Disney Believe — Disney is expected to announce the ship’s itineraries, home ports, and reservation details, making this one to watch if you’re interested in sailing on a brand-new Disney ship. 🧳 Track Your Luggage — Stephen’s Canadian Compass Travel Tip is simple: consider putting an AirTag in your luggage so you can locate your bags if they don't arrive with you. 💰 Cruise Savings — Expedia exclusive stateroom offers can provide significant savings compared with cruise-line rates, sometimes with additional perks such as onboard credit, drinks, and Wi-Fi depending on the cruise line and offer. 🍁 World Explorer Event in Oakville — Local listeners can learn more about cruise options from Explora, Uniworld, and Princess Cruises at a free travel event featuring presentations, refreshments, and potential special offers and prizes. 🚋 A Canadian Family Outing — Stephen also shares his experience visiting the Halton Radial Railway Museum and why it could be a fun outing for families and anyone interested in trains and streetcars. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Halton County Radial Railway Museum Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival 2027 Canada's Wonderland's Halloween Haunt 2027 Amazon.ca: Luggage Air Tags Register for the World Explorer Event in Oakville 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 Coming up for next week’s episode…well, I haven’t necessarily decided yet so I don’t want to commit. I’m thinking of changing the format so that when I have an interview to share, we’ll focus on the interview for that episode and then resume our regular segments. If all goes as planned, I’ll finally air that interview about the Pride of America’s Hawaiian itinerary. And if that’s the case, that will be next week’s episode. If not, we’ll do the usual segments of mouse minutes, Park Pulse, Cruise contemplations, Canadian compass travel tip of the week, and Deals dish. But another exciting thing to look forward to is an interview with Susan Carvalho with Princess Cruises. I’m setting a date with her and that will be coming up, but likely in December. I’m hoping to bring on some other travel supplier reps as well, so keep listening to the show for those special interviews and for lots of other information and travel tips. I love to talk travel with all of you. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #11: Disney’s Tropical Americas, a Record-Breaking Coaster & Royal Caribbean’s Big Move Release Date: September 29, 2026 | Duration: 37:42 minutes Episode Summary This week on The Travel Ehgent Disney and Beyond , Stephen Payne brings you the latest theme park, cruise, and travel news, plus practical tips and ways to save on your next vacation. In Mouse Minutes , get a first look at Tropical Americas , the exciting new land planned for Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Stephen explores the upcoming Indiana Jones attraction, the Encanto -inspired Antonio’s Fiesta Encanto, the animal-themed carousel, dining, shopping, and the new kids’ play area. He also discusses what the changing timeline could mean for the land’s opening. In Park Pulse , thrill-seekers can learn about Bakunawa , a new spinning coaster coming to Six Flags Great Adventure in 2027. The ride promises extreme heights, speeds, multiple launches, spinning vehicles, and a collection of world records. Cruise Contemplations looks at a major development in the travel industry: Royal Caribbean Group’s investment in Sandals and Beaches Resorts . Stephen considers what this combination of cruise and all-inclusive vacation experiences could mean for Caribbean travel in the years ahead. For this week’s Canadian Compass Travel Tip , Stephen explains why travel apps can be valuable tools before and during your vacation—from airline and cruise apps to resort, attraction, and transportation apps that can provide updates, reservations, tickets, and exclusive offers. Finally, Deals Dish previews the upcoming World Explorer Sale , featuring special offers from a wide range of cruise lines and land-tour companies, including onboard credits and travel savings. Plus, Stephen shares a personal update, looks ahead to Halloween Haunt at Canada’s Wonderland, and previews what’s coming up on the show. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [02:20] Mouse Minutes : Tropical Americas [10:48] Park Pulse : Bakuwana [16:45] Cruise Contemplations : Royal Caribbean Buys Sandals and Beaches [22:10] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week : Travel Apps [29:41] Deals Dish : World Explorer Event [35:33] Outro Key Takeaways 🏰 Mouse Minutes: Disney’s Tropical Americas 🐍 Learn about Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent , featuring Mayan-inspired theming and an adventure beneath an ancient temple. 🦜 Get a preview of Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto , bringing the world of Encanto to life with more than 50 animal species. 🎠 Discover El Carousel de los Animalitos , featuring 22 hand-carved Disney and Pixar animal figures. 🍽️ Find out about planned dining, shopping, and a new kids’ artifact-exploration play area. 📅 Disney is no longer displaying a 2027 opening date for the land, leaving its timeline uncertain. 🎢 Park Pulse: Bakunawa 🐉 Discover Bakunawa , a new spinning coaster planned for Six Flags Great Adventure in 2027. 🚀 The ride is advertised as reaching 100 mph and climbing approximately 382 feet . 🔄 Riders will experience spinning vehicles, multiple launches, an upside-down launch, and a dramatic descent. 🏆 The coaster is being promoted as breaking six world records. 🚢 Cruise Contemplations: Royal Caribbean & Sandals 🏝️ Royal Caribbean Group has announced an agreement to acquire 50% of Sandals and Beaches Resorts International , with a planned path toward full ownership. 💰 The announced transaction is valued at $3 billion for the 50% investment. 🌊 The episode explores how combining cruise vacations with Caribbean all-inclusive resorts could create new vacation possibilities. 📱 Canadian Compass Travel Tip: Travel Apps 📲 Travel apps can make vacations easier before and during your trip. ✈️ Airline apps can help with check-in, flight updates, baggage, and travel claims. 🏨 Resort apps can provide activity schedules, restaurant reservations, check-in information, and resort details. 🎟️ Attraction apps can provide digital tickets, audio tours, and additional information. 🚢 Cruise apps can help with check-in, dining and excursion reservations, daily schedules, and other onboard activities. 💡 Stephen's advice: identify the apps connected to your specific airline, resort, cruise line, transportation provider, and attractions before you travel. 💰 Deals Dish: World Explorer Sale 🌎 The World Explorer Sale runs from October 8–31 and includes multiple cruise lines and land-tour operators. 💳 Offers include onboard or journey credits, discounts, reduced deposits, and other savings depending on the supplier. 🛳️ Participating cruise brands discussed include Azamara, Celebrity, Cunard, Explora Journeys, Holland America, Oceania, Princess, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Silversea, and Viking. 🚌 Land-tour companies mentioned include G Adventures, Globus, and Fresh Tracks. 🔗 Some offers can be combined with other promotions, potentially allowing travelers to stack savings. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Disney Parks Blog: Tropical Americas Disney Parks Blog: Indiana Jones Ride Disney Parks Blog: New Encanto Ride Six Flags Great Adventure: Bakuwana Travel Weekly: Royal Caribbean Group to Acquire 50% Stake in Sandals 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 For next week’s episode, I plan to talk to you about Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival at Walt Disney World, and for something more local, I want to tell you more about this year’s version of Halloween Haunt at Canada’s Wonderland. For cruise contemplations, I’d still like to air my interview about the Pride of America’s Hawaiian itinerary, but if that isn’t ready, we’ll default to exploring the new cruise ship the Disney Believe launching in late 2027. And we will, of course, have a Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week and a current deal for Deals Dish. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #10: Disney’s Piston Peak, What’s The Best Ride at Universal Studios Florida?, and Norwegian’s New Waterpark Release Date : September 22, 2026 | Duration : 34:29 minutes Episode Summary What’s the best attraction at Universal Studios Florida—and does Revenge of the Mummy deserve the top spot? Stephen Payne takes a close look at some of the park’s most memorable attractions and explains why this classic indoor coaster ultimately gets his vote. Plus, get a first look at Piston Peak National Park, Disney’s upcoming Cars -themed area coming to Magic Kingdom, including Miss Fritter’s Daredevil Spinoff and the Cars-themed racing attraction planned for the new land. On the cruising side, explore Great Tides Island Water Park at Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay, featuring water slides, cliff jumps, a lazy river, a children’s splash area, and more. You’ll also get a practical Canadian travel tip: how the Government of Canada’s travel advisories can help you check entry requirements, health information, safety advice, local laws, and other important details before leaving home. And finally, Stephen highlights the upcoming Holland America Explorer Sale , with potential onboard credit, a reduced deposit, and crew appreciation included on qualifying bookings. Whether you're planning a theme-park vacation, a cruise, or your next adventure, this episode is packed with ideas, information, and inspiration to help you keep dreaming, planning, and exploring. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [04:10] Mouse Minutes : Piston Peak [10:04] Park Pulse : What is the Best Ride in Universal Studios Orlando? [20:02] Cruise Contemplations : Norwegian’s Great Tides Island Water Park [25:43] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week : Government of Canada Travel and Tourism Page [29:01] Deals Dish : Holland America Explorer Sale [32:47] Outro Key Takeaways 🏎️ Explore Disney’s upcoming Piston Peak National Park — Get an early look at the new Cars -themed area coming to Magic Kingdom, including its planned attractions and immersive national-park setting. 🎢 Discover Stephen’s pick for the best Universal Studios attraction — Hear how Revenge of the Mummy , Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts , Men in Black Alien Attack , E.T. Adventure , and Transformers compare—and why the Mummy ultimately comes out on top. 🌊 Dive into Norwegian’s new Great Tides Water Park — Learn about the slides, cliff jumps, lazy river, kids’ area, dining, and additional costs at the new attraction on Great Stirrup Cay. 🇨🇦 Use Canada’s travel advisory resources before you leave — Find out how the Government of Canada’s travel website can help you research entry requirements, safety, health, local laws, and climate for your destination. 🚢 Learn about the upcoming Holland America Explorer Sale — Get the details on potential onboard credit, reduced deposits, and crew appreciation benefits available during the promotional period discussed in the episode. 🎠 Hear about Stephen’s recent visit to Canada’s Wonderland — Get a firsthand look at rides including Dragon Fyre and the Great Canadian Minebuster, plus Halloween Haunt preparations and a new deep-dish pizza location. 🧭 Get practical travel inspiration and planning tips — From theme parks to cruises, this episode offers ideas and information to help you plan your next adventure. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Disney Parks Blog: Two Piston Peak Rides Universal Studios Florida Norwegian Cruises: Great Stirrup Cay Government of Canada: Travel and Tourism 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 I’ll let you know about the upcoming Tropical Americas part of the Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World which is currently under construction. I’ll tell you all about Bakunawa, the new extreme coaster which will open soon at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey; I hope to finally air an interview with a review of the Pride of America Hawaiian cruise, and we’ll talk about a useful Canadian Compass Travel Tip as well as an upcoming special offer from Expedia which will allow you to add value to many cruise trip options. So please keep listening to stay up to date on theme park news, cruise developments, and general travel tips and deals. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #9: Monstropolis Is Coming! Plus the Best Ride at Islands of Adventure & Solo Cruising Release Date : September 15, 2026 | Duration : 1 hour and 15 minutes Episode Summary What’s coming to Walt Disney World in 2027, and is it worth planning your next trip around? In this episode of The Travel Agent Disney and Beyond , Stephen Payne takes a closer look at the upcoming Monstropolis land inspired by Monsters, Inc. , including the new experiences, restaurants, shopping, entertainment—and the highly anticipated Door Coaster still to come. Then it’s off to Universal Orlando as Stephen settles a personal debate: What is the best attraction at Islands of Adventure? From Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and VelociCoaster to Jurassic Park, Skull Island and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, he makes the case for his ultimate winner Plus, hear from Alex Skene about his first solo cruise aboard the Celebrity Beyond . Alex shares what it was like, from the solo stateroom and dining experience to meeting new people, exploring the ship, and discovering that solo cruising can offer both independence and unexpected friendships. And there’s more: Stephen explains why “ rope dropping ” can dramatically improve your theme park—and travel—experience, and shares details of a Canadian resident Walt Disney World offer that could save eligible travellers up to 25% on room and ticket packages, with Memory Maker included. Whether you’re planning a Disney vacation, considering a Universal adventure, dreaming about a solo cruise, or simply looking for smarter ways to travel, this episode is packed with ideas, opinions and practical tips for your next trip. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [02:08] Mouse Minutes: Monstropolis [09:20] Park Pulse: Best Ride in Islands of Adventure [24:10] Cruise Contemplations: Traveling Solo on the Celebrity Beyond [56:20] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week: Rope Dropping [1:05:45] Deals Dish: Disney’s Canadian Resident Sale [1:12:36] Outro Key Takeaways 🏙️ Mouse Minutes: Monstropolis Discover what Disney has revealed about Monstropolis, the upcoming Monsters, Inc. -inspired land coming to Walt Disney World in 2027. Learn about the new story behind the land, themed dining, entertainment, shopping, and what we know so far about the future Door Coaster. 🎢 Park Pulse: Best Ride at Islands of Adventure Which attraction deserves to be called the best ride at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure? Stephen narrows down his favourites—including Hagrid’s, VelociCoaster, Spider-Man and more—to reveal his top choice. 🚢 Cruise Contemplations: Solo on Celebrity Beyond Is cruising solo lonely—or liberating? Alex Skeen shares his experience sailing solo on Celebrity Beyond, including the solo stateroom, dining solo, finding quiet spaces, meeting new people, and why solo cruising gave him more freedom than he expected. ⏰ Canadian Compass Travel Tip: Rope Drop Want to spend less time waiting in line and more time enjoying your vacation? Discover why rope dropping—arriving before opening and getting ahead of the crowds—can be one of the smartest strategies for theme parks and other popular attractions. 🍁💰 Deals Dish: Disney's Canadian Resident Offer Canadian travellers planning a Walt Disney World vacation in 2027 can learn about a special offer featuring up to 25% savings on eligible room and ticket packages, plus the inclusion of Memory Maker on qualifying bookings. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Disney Parks Blog: Monstropolis at Disney World Universal's Islands of Adventure Park Celebrity Cruises: Single Staterooms Disney World Canadian Resident Discount 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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, I’ll continue updating you on what to expect from Walt Disney World based on information that came out of the D23 fan convention. I will give you the details on Piston Peak which is being built at the Magic Kingdom. Also, I’ll answer the question on which is the best attraction at Universal Studios Orlando. I’m hoping to air the interview which will tell you about cruising on Norwegian’s Pride of America in Hawaii. And we’ll continue to offer the Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the week as well as Deals Dish. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #8: Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge, Cedar Point Review, Canadian Cruises & Travel Safety Release Date: September 8, 2026 | Duration: 45:56 minutes Episode Summary What’s new at Disney World, how does Cedar Point compare with Canada’s Wonderland, and can you take a cruise without leaving Canada? In this episode of The Travel Agent, Disney and Beyond , Stephen Payne takes a closer look at Disney’s upcoming Lakeshore Lodge , including its unique nature-inspired rooms and villas, the October booking dates, and what we know so far about this highly anticipated new resort. Then it’s time for a Park Pulse review of Cedar Point. Stephen shares his firsthand experience at the park, including the impressive theming, food, hotel experience, and an ambitious attempt to ride 15 of the park’s 16 adult roller coasters. He also reveals which coaster he and his wife chose as their favourite. For cruise fans, Cruise Contemplations explores the surprisingly limited selection of all-Canadian cruise itineraries , including luxury options from Silversea and Seabourn and a Holland America itinerary that offers a more accessible alternative. Stephen’s Canadian Compass Travel Tip focuses on staying safe while travelling, with practical advice about situational awareness, protecting your valuables, securing your backpack, and keeping a digital copy of your passport. And finally, Deals Dish looks at Labour Day cruise promotions, MSC’s latest offers, and some potentially significant savings available through Expedia Exclusive Staterooms. Plus, there’s a little personal news about a new four-legged member of Stephen’s household—and some very unexpected kittens on the way! Tune in for practical travel advice, Disney updates, theme park insights, cruise ideas, and ways to make your next vacation a little better—and potentially a lot less expensive. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [03:05] Mouse Minutes: Lakeshore Lodge Rooms and Timelines [09:10] Park Pulse: Cedar Point Review [26:21] Cruise Contemplations: Canadian Itineraries [32:16] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week: Safe Traveling [49:47] Deals Dish: Labour Day Sales and Expedia Exclusive Staterooms [44:56] Outro Key Takeaways 🏨 Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is coming in 2027 — Learn about the new Bay Lake resort, its nature-inspired rooms and villas, and the different Disney themes featured throughout the accommodations. 📅 Know when you can book Lakeshore Lodge — Disney Vacation Club members can book beginning October 6, annual passholders on October 7, and all guests beginning October 8. 🎢 Cedar Point delivers a standout theme park experience — Stephen shares his firsthand review, from the park’s impressive setting and attention to detail to its food and enormous roller coaster lineup. 🚀 Siren’s Curse was the favourite coaster — The combination of the tilting track, immersive audio, smoke effects, and smooth ride made it Stephen and his wife’s top choice. 🍔 Cedar Point scores high for food — From wood-fired steak and Brussels sprouts to fish and chips, tropical fried rice, pulled pork, and cornbread, Stephen found the food noticeably better than at Canada’s Wonderland. 🚢 All-Canadian cruises are surprisingly limited — Stephen explores Canadian-only itineraries from luxury cruise lines including Silversea and Seabourn, along with a Holland America option. 🧭 Stay alert when travelling — Situational awareness can make a difference, especially in busy tourist areas and public transportation. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. 🎒 Protect your belongings — Front pockets, zipped bags, and wearing backpacks or small bags in front of you can make it harder for pickpockets to access your valuables. 📱 Keep a digital copy of your passport — Having a secure, cloud-backed copy can be extremely useful if your passport or phone is lost or stolen while travelling. 💰 Look beyond the advertised cruise fare — Labour Day promotions, reduced deposits, onboard credits, and Expedia Exclusive Staterooms may offer significant savings on selected sailings. 🐱 There’s a new addition to Stephen’s household — Willow, a rescued stray cat, is expecting kittens, adding a personal—and adorable—twist to this week’s episode. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Disney Parks Blog: Lakeshore Lodge Updates Six Flags: Cedar Point Silver Sea: Canada and New England Voyages Seabourn: Canada and New England Cruises Holland America: Canada and New England Cruises MSC Flash 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 On next week’s episode, we’ll see what the land of Monstopolis is all about, we’ll have that postponed discussion about the best attraction in Islands of Adventure, and I’m hoping to share an interview with you either about touring Portugal or about sailing on Norwegian’s Pride of America and its Hawaiian itinerary. You’ll have to tune in to find out which interview it is. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #7: Disney’s Villainsland, Universal Holiday Savings, A Review of the Celebrity Beyond, and Excursion Savings Release Date: September 1, 2026 | Duration: 46:58 minutes Episode Summary This week on The Travel Agent Disney and Beyond , Stephen Payne takes you inside the plans for Disney World’s upcoming Villains Land , including the Maleficent Coaster and Mirror Realm dark ride. Stephen also shares the latest Universal Orlando holiday savings , including resort discounts and promotional park tickets that can help you get more vacation for your money. Then, Amy Clermont joins Stephen to share her experience aboard Celebrity Beyond . Hear about the ship’s luxurious spaces, the Solarium and spa, favorite dining experiences, and memorable stops in the Dominican Republic, Tortola, and St. Kitts—including some practical tips for choosing excursions and getting the most out of your time ashore. The Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week explores the pros and cons of booking shore excursions through the cruise line versus excursion brokers such as Viator and Shore Excursions Group. And in the Deals Dish , Stephen reveals a limited-time Viator offer providing an extra 10% off tours booked through a travel agent through September 7. Whether you're planning a Disney or Universal vacation, considering a Celebrity cruise, or looking for ways to save on travel experiences, this episode is packed with ideas, insights, and practical travel tips. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [02:10] Mouse Minutes : Villainsland [07:47] Park Pulse : Universal Holiday Savings [11:15] Cruise Contemplations : Review of the Celebrity Beyond [39:05] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week : Tour and Excursion Brokers [44:49] Deals Dish : Viator Sale [45:34] Outro Special Guest Aimee Clermont Key Takeaways 🏰 Disney’s Villains Land — Get the latest details on the upcoming land, including the Maleficent Coaster , Mirror Realm dark ride , villain-themed shops, restaurants, and the story behind the corrupted wishing well. 🎄 Universal Orlando Holiday Savings — Learn about resort discounts of up to 30% and promotional park tickets that can stretch your vacation budget further during the holidays. 🚢 Celebrity Beyond Review — Amy Clermont shares her first-hand experience aboard Celebrity Beyond, from the ship's luxurious and spacious design to the Solarium, spa, entertainment, and dining. 🍽️ A Favourite Dining Experience — Discover why Cyprus, Celebrity Beyond's Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, was Amy's favourite of the ship's four main dining restaurants—and hear about the Moroccan lentil soup she couldn't stop talking about! 🏝️ Caribbean Ports & Excursions — Hear about Amy's adventures in Puerto Plata, Tortola, and St. Kitts , including waterfalls, beaches, scenic viewpoints, and an unexpected tour of Tortola with a local taxi driver. 🥾 Excursion Tips — Find out why you should bring water shoes for the Dominican Republic waterfall excursion—and why taking a taxi rather than walking may be the better choice for some St. Kitts viewpoints. 🎨 Try Something Unexpected — Amy's experience at Celebrity Beyond's art gallery and auction is a reminder to explore activities outside your usual interests. You never know what might surprise you. 🧭 Canadian Compass Travel Tip — Stephen explains the differences between booking cruise excursions through the cruise line and using independent excursion brokers such as Viator and Shore Excursions Group . 💰 Deals Dish : Viator Sale — Travel agents can access an extra 10% off Viator tours through September 7, giving travellers another opportunity to save on excursions and activities. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Six Flags: Cedar Point Disney Parks Blog: Villainsland Universal Special Offers on Hotels The Celebrity Beyond Viator Shore Excursions Group 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 Coming up next week, we’ll take another look at Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge as they have announced an opening date, as well as when bookings will begin. We’ll talk about the room types available for booking so you can prepare your plans. We’ll debate about what is the best attraction at Islands of Adventure in Universal Studios Orlando. The rest is a bit of a mystery right now, but do look forward to interviews about travel to Portugal, and Hawaii, as well as solo traveling on the Celebrity Beyond. I hope you keep listening and supporting my podcast. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #6: Celebrity Takes to the Rivers: Plus EPCOT, Wonderland’s Gold Pass & Travel Tips Release Date : August 25, 2026 | Duration : 1:06 minutes Episode Summary In this episode of The Travel Agent, Disney & Beyond , Stephen Payne takes you on a wide-ranging journey through food, theme parks, cruising, and practical travel tips. First, discover Niagara’s Brunch by the Lake , a unique event pairing chefs and Niagara wineries in a delicious brunch battle. Stephen shares his favourite dishes and wine pairings—and reveals which one earned his vote. Then it’s off to Disney World for a preview of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival , including its 30th-anniversary highlights, international flavours, cheese offerings, and some of the more unusual dishes on this year’s menu. Stephen also explores the perks of a Canada’s Wonderland Gold Pass , including how it can unlock visits to other amusement parks in the U.S.—and shares his plans for a first-ever trip to Cedar Point. The episode’s featured interview is with Michele Croft of Celebrity Cruises , who provides an inside look at Celebrity’s exciting new entry into river cruising. Find out how Celebrity plans to bring its premium ocean-cruise experience to brand-new river ships, what’s included, where the inaugural itineraries will sail, and why river cruising may appeal to a much broader audience than you might expect. Michelle also talks about the Celebrity Xcel , Celebrity’s newest Edge Series ship, and the exciting Eastern Caribbean Journey With Us March Break 2027 sailing. Plus, Stephen tackles the eternal travel question: What’s the best way to pack your clothes? From folding and packing cubes to the Ranger Roll, he shares the methods he’s tried and the approach he recommends. Finally, get the latest details on Expedia’s Ultimate Getaway Sale , including cruise onboard credits and resort offers that can be combined with supplier promotions. Packed with travel inspiration, practical advice, cruise news, Disney ideas, and money-saving opportunities, this episode has something for every traveller. Keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! Timestamps [00:00] Intro [01:24] Niagara Grape and Wine Festival's Brunch by the Lake [08:24] Mouse Minutes : Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival [14:30] Park Pulse : Canada’s Wonderland’s Gold Pass [19:05] Cruise Contemplations : Interview with Michele Croft [54:20] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week : Packing [1:00:33] Deals Dish : Expedia Ultimate Getaway Sale [1:04:34] Outro Key Takeaways 🚢 Celebrity River Cruises are coming in 2027 — Celebrity is entering the river-cruise market with brand-new ships sailing the Danube and Rhine, bringing its premium ocean-cruise experience to Europe’s rivers. 🍽️ Celebrity is emphasizing culinary experiences — The new river ships will feature two dining venues, Café al Bacio, suite dining options, and a full classic beverage package included for guests. 🗺️ Authentic destination experiences are a major focus — Celebrity’s included Discovery Models are designed to connect travellers with local people, culture, food, and experiences rather than conventional cookie-cutter tours. 🏞️ River cruising is about the destination — With smaller ships carrying about 172 passengers and frequent port calls, guests can step directly from the ship into the heart of many destinations. 🌷 2028 brings new Celebrity River itineraries — Along with Danube and Rhine sailings, Celebrity plans a Tulip Time itinerary and an eight-night itinerary featuring an overnight stay in Bucharest. 🚢 Celebrity Xcel is bringing even more entertainment to the Edge Series — Stephen and Michelle discuss The Bazaar, a dynamic venue designed to bring local culture, food, festivals, and shopping experiences onboard. 🏝️ March Break 2027 is calling — The Journey With Us group will sail the Celebrity Xcel on a seven-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary, with hosted support and additional perks for participating agency clients. 🍷 Niagara’s Brunch by the Lake combines food and wine — Stephen shares highlights from an event featuring chef-and-winery pairings, live music, photo opportunities, and a friendly brunch battle. 🌎 EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival offers flavours from around the world — Stephen previews the 30th-anniversary celebration and some of the many dishes and drinks available throughout the festival. 🎢 A Canada’s Wonderland Gold Pass can open doors beyond Wonderland — Passholders can access participating amusement parks in the U.S., including Cedar Point, creating opportunities for affordable theme-park getaways. 🧳 There’s more than one way to pack a suitcase — Stephen compares stacking, the KonMari folding method, packing cubes, traditional rolling, and the Ranger Roll, while sharing his personal preference for rolling clothes. 💰 Expedia’s Ultimate Getaway Sale offers additional value — The sale features cruise onboard credits and resort offers, with some promotions able to be combined with existing supplier deals. ✈️ The big theme of the episode: there’s always another adventure to plan — Whether it’s a European river cruise, a Disney food festival, a Niagara event, or a theme-park road trip, Stephen encourages listeners to keep dreaming, planning, and exploring. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Niagara Grape and Wine Festival Epcot International Food and Wine Festival Canada's Wonderland: Gold Pass Six Flags: Cedar Point Celebrity River Cruises Celebrity Cruises Region Team Canada Travel and Leisure: The Right Way to Roll Your Clothes for a Perfectly Packed Suitcase 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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 Coming up next week, we’ll talk to either my son or his girlfriend or both about their adventure on the Celebrity Beyond this past week. And we’ll take a closer look into Villainsland, present to you a holiday offer from Universal Studios Orlando, and explore Viator as a way to book excursions. Along with this, I’ll have a new Deals Dish to share with you. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep planning, and keep exploring! TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045 Cover art: Makayla Kerr

Send us Fan Mail Episode #5: Disney's D23 Surprises, Lakeshore Lodge, Universal Christmas, Celebrity’s Concierge Class, and Travel Insurance Release Date: August 18, 2026 | Duration: 43 minutes Episode Summary Disney fans, cruisers, and savvy travelers—this week's episode is packed with exciting updates that could shape your next vacation. We review the biggest announcements from Disney's D23 Expo , including Villains Land, Monstropolis, Tropical Americas, Piston Peak, and the long-awaited return of the Expedition Everest Yeti . We’ll also discuss Disney's brand-new Lakeshore Lodge , opening in 2027. Then we head over to Universal Orlando , where we explore everything coming for the holidays—from Grinchmas and Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the Macy's Holiday Parade and exclusive holiday tour experiences. On the cruise side, I answer a question many travelers ask: Is Celebrity Cruises Concierge Class actually worth the upgrade? I'll share my firsthand experience, what perks impressed me, and where you can save your money. Plus, in this week's Canadian Compass Travel Tip, we tackle one of the most important travel decisions you'll make: travel insurance . Learn what every Canadian traveler should know before booking, including the hidden limitations of credit card coverage. And don't miss this week's Deals Dish featuring: Norwegian Cruise Line's Freestyle Sale with bonus onboard credit. Oceania Cruises' Canada at Par luxury Europe sale for 2027. Whether you're dreaming of Disney, planning a holiday getaway, or booking your next cruise, this episode is full of practical advice, insider insights, and money-saving opportunities. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [02:41] Mouse Minutes: D23 and Lakeshore Lodge [16:22] Park Pulse: Universal Holiday Celebrations [21:23] Cruise Contemplations: Is Celebrity’s Concierge Class Worth It? [26:12] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week: Travel Insurance [35:43] Deals Dish: Freestyle Sale and Canada at Par [40:57] Outro Key Takeaways 🏰 Disney D23 Highlights — Get the latest on Villains Land, Tropical Americas, Piston Peak, Monstropolis, and the long-awaited plan to fix the Expedition Everest Yeti. 🌲 New Lakeshore Lodge — Discover Disney's upcoming 2027 resort on Bay Lake, inspired by nature and Pocahontas , with new dining, pools, recreation areas, and views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. 🎄 Universal Orlando Holidays — Explore Grinchmas, Christmas in the Wizarding World, the Universal Holiday Parade featuring Macy's, and special holiday experiences across Universal's parks. 🧙 Harry Potter at Christmas — Find out what holiday magic awaits in Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, and the Ministry of Magic, including The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle . 🚢 Celebrity Concierge Class — Is the upgrade worth the money? Hear firsthand impressions of the welcome lunch, cocktail reception, sparkling wine, daily treats, and other perks. 🛡️ Travel Insurance Matters — Learn why medical coverage is essential for Canadians traveling abroad and why trip-cancellation/interruption coverage can protect a major vacation investment. 💳 Don't Assume Your Credit Card Has You Covered — Credit-card travel insurance can have significant limits and exclusions, so check the actual terms before relying on it. 💰 Norwegian Cruise Line Deal — The Expedia Cruises Freestyle Sale offers bonus onboard credit on qualifying Norwegian bookings made August 19–25, 2026, and can be combined with other offers. 🌍 Oceania's Canada at Par Sale — Canadian residents can save on select 2027 European sailings by taking advantage of Oceania's limited-time Canada at Par promotion. 🎙️ Coming Next Week — Michele Croft from Celebrity Cruises joins the show to discuss Celebrity's new river cruises and an upcoming March Break cruise experience. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca D23 Disney's Lakeshore Lodge Holidays at Universal Orlando Celebrity's Concierge Class Stateroooms Travel Insurance Options from Expedia Cruises Expedia Cruises Freestyle Sale Oceania Cruises Canada At Par 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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, we’ll be joined by Michele Croft from Celebrity Cruises to chat about the new Celebrity River Cruise offerings as well as the upcoming March Break Cruise on the Celebrity Xcel with my agency’s Journey with Us program. And we’ll also have our regular segments with Mouse Minutes, Park Pulse, Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week and Deals Dish. I hope you’ll be able to come along for the adventure. TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045

Send us Fan Mail Episode #4: Disneyland Review, Halloween Horror Nights, Best Deals on Excursions and Add Ons & Sherpa Release Date: August 11, 2026 | Duration: 1:12 minutes Episode Summary Join Stephen Payne for another episode of The Travel Agent, Disney and Beyond , featuring a conversation with Ryan Payne about his first visit to Disneyland in California . Ryan shares practical tips for making the most of a Disneyland trip, including why rope dropping can dramatically reduce wait times, how to approach Lightning Lane selections, where to eat, and which park to choose if you only have one day. He also compares Disneyland and Disney California Adventure and shares his impressions of attractions, theming, fireworks, and the overall experience. The episode then turns to Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 35 . Ryan shares advice from his previous visits, including how to use Stay and Scream, which haunted houses he is most excited about, why original houses can sometimes be the biggest surprises, and why you should make time for scare zones, shows, food, merchandise, and the overall Halloween atmosphere. In Cruise Contemplations, Stephen explains how to save money on cruise excursions, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, drink packages, and other add-ons by regularly checking your cruise planner for changing promotions and rebooking when a better price appears. Finally, the Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week highlights Sherpa , a useful tool for checking destination entry requirements, visas, and other travel documentation. Plus, Stephen wraps up with a current Celebrity Cruises promotion, including a potential free upgrade from an Ocean View room to a Veranda stateroom on select 2026 Caribbean and South American sailings. If you enjoy theme parks, Disney, cruises, and practical travel advice from a Canadian perspective, this episode has plenty of tips to help you plan smarter, save money, and get more from your next vacation. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [04:30] Mouse Minutes : Disneyland Review [37:11] Park Pulse : Halloween Horror Nights 35 [56:13] Cruise Contemplations : Best Deals on Excursions and Add Ons [1:00:13] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week : Sherpa [1:02:34] Deals Dish : Celebrity Upgrade Offer [1:04:21] Outro Special Guest Ryan Payne Key Takeaways 🏰 Plan your Disneyland day strategically : Arrive early to experience popular attractions before the crowds build. 🎢 Know the difference between the parks: Disneyland offers the classic Disney experience, while California Adventure leans more toward thrills and a young-adult atmosphere. 🍕 Watch your food budget : Park dining can be expensive, so consider Downtown Disney or nearby restaurants for alternatives. 👻 Take advantage of Stay and Scream : At Halloween Horror Nights, staying in the park can give you an earlier start on the haunted houses. 🚢 Keep checking your cruise planner : Prices on excursions, dining, Wi-Fi, and drink packages can drop after you book—rebooking may save you money. 🧭 Use Sherpa for travel requirements : Check country-specific entry and travel requirements before your trip. 💰 Look for cruise promotions : The episode highlights a Celebrity Cruises offer with a potential complimentary Ocean View-to-Veranda upgrade on select sailings. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Providence Bay Tent and Trailer Park Gilley’s at Snug Harbour Disneyland Park Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights 35 Celebrity Cruise Planner Sherpa: Visa and Travel Requirements Celebrity Cruises 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 . 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. Links to the show’s page and to Apple podcasts can be found in the show notes. Also, feel free to follow me on Instagram, just search up @thetravelehgent. If you want to respond to anything I’ve talked about on the show or if you want to offer topic suggestions or ideas, please send an email to stephen@thetravelehgent.ca . You can be a part of building the content for our community. 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, we'll talk about the new Lakeside Lodge which will be opening soon in Disney World Orlando and we’ll find out what Universal Studios is doing to celebrate Christmas . We’ll discuss whether the Concierge class is worth it on a Celebrity cruise, and we’ll acknowledge the importance of thinking about travel insurance as a part of the cost of a vacation. And of course, there will be a Deals Dish. I do hope you keep tuning in as I am continuing to line up special guests for interviews. For the August 22 episode, I will have Michele Croft on from Celebrity Cruises to discuss the new Celebrity River cruise offerings as well as the Celebrity Xcel as that ship is part of my agency’s March Break cruise plans. I do have other interviews planned relating to the Celebrity Beyond, Solo travelling, and exploring Portugal. Lots of exciting content is coming up. TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045

Send us Fan Mail Episode #3: Jollywood Nights, The Daredeviler in Wonderland, Specialty Dining & Beloved Playa Mujeres Review Release Date: August 4, 2026 | Duration: 1:05 minutes Episode Summary In this packed episode of The Travel Agent: Disney and Beyond , Stephen Payne continues the holiday countdown with a look at Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios, exploring what makes this festive after-hours event unique and why many guests prefer it over Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. Next, Stephen shares his firsthand review of Daredeviler , Canada's Wonderland's newly reimagined coaster, including whether the refurbishment delivers a smoother ride, plus insider tips for making the most of single-rider lines and the latest 2027 season pass offers. In Cruise Contemplations, discover why specialty dining can be one of the best cruise investments, with reviews of memorable experiences aboard Disney Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Princess Cruises. The episode also features an in-depth interview with traveller Robin Baxter Bering (@the.beachsnob), who shares her experience at Beloved Playa Mujeres , an adults-only, all-inclusive resort near Cancún. From Porter Airlines and airport arrival tips to the beach, dining, accommodations, and entertainment, you'll hear what made this romantic getaway stand out. Finally, Stephen highlights an Expedia Cruises exclusive Royal Caribbean End of Summer Sale , featuring onboard credit and specialty dining offers for select sailings. Whether you're planning a Disney vacation, a theme park adventure, a cruise, or your next all-inclusive escape, this episode is packed with practical travel advice, honest reviews, and money-saving tips. Timestamps [00:00] Intro [01:22] Mouse Minutes: Jollywood Nights [09:57] Park Pulse: The Daredeviler and Wonderland [26:08] Cruise Contemplations: Specialty Dining [34:01] Canadian Compass Travel Tip of the Week: Beloved Playa Mujeres with Robin Baxter Bering [1:00:16] Deals Dish: Royal End of Summer Sale [1:03:32] Outro Special Guest Robin Baxter Bering Key Takeaways 🎄 Disney Jollywood Nights offers a unique Hollywood-inspired holiday celebration featuring exclusive entertainment, festive character encounters, lower attraction wait times, and seasonal treats. 🎢 Canada's Wonderland's Daredeviler has improved restraints and refreshed theming, but the ride remains just as intense—don't expect a dramatically smoother experience. 🎟️ Single rider lines can save significant time at Canada's Wonderland, especially on major coasters like Yukon Striker, Behemoth, and Leviathan. 🍽️ Specialty dining is worth considering on a cruise , providing elevated food, exceptional service, and memorable experiences that go beyond the main dining room. 🏝️ Beloved Playa Mujeres stands out as a quiet, adults-only luxury resort with outstanding service, beautiful beaches, spacious accommodations, and excellent dining options. ✈️ Cancún arrival tip : Have your airport transportation arranged before you travel and head directly to your designated transfer company to avoid aggressive sales pitches in the arrivals area. 🌊 Beach lovers will appreciate Playa Mujeres' well-maintained shoreline , calm atmosphere, and thoughtful resort amenities. 💰 Royal Caribbean's End of Summer Sale offers valuable onboard credits and specialty dining on eligible sailings booked during the promotional period. 🧳 Planning ahead pays off —whether reserving cruise specialty dining, purchasing theme park passes, or booking limited-time travel promotions. Relevant Links The Travel Ehgent Website The Travel Ehgent Instagram The Travel Ehgent Facebook The Travel Ehgent Email: stephen@thetravelehgent.ca Disney’s Jollywood Nights Canada’s Wonderland’s Daredeviler Palo Brunch: Disney Cruise Line Le Petit Chef: Celebrity Cruises Rooftop Garden Grill: Celebrity Cruises Crown Grill: Princess Cruises Beloved Playa Mujeres 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 also tell us about your specialty dining experiences. 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 I’ll be going on a camping trip to Manitoulin Island in Ontario, so the plan for next week’s episode is still in flux, but the plan is to hear a little about a client’s trip to Disneyland California, to talk about Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, and to have a discussion about using Sherpa to make sure you are prepared for your next vacation. Hey, maybe we’ll talk about camping on Manitoulin Island. I’m also excited to announce that in the coming weeks, we’ll have an interview with Michele Croft from Celebrity Cruises to chat about the new Celebrity River Cruises, the Celebrity Xcel and an upcoming March Break Cruise. TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045

Send us Fan Mail 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. TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045

Send us Fan Mail 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. TICO Ontario Registration No: 50022045

Send us Fan Mail 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.

Send us Fan Mail 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