This holiday season, ditch the traditional gifts and give something that lasts a lifetime—the gift of travel! Instead of more stuff, why not treat your loved ones to an unforgettable adventure? Here’s why travel is the ultimate Christmas gift that will make memories for years to come.
1. Lasting Memories Over Material Things
Travel is the gift that keeps on giving! The memories you create on a trip will stay with you forever, far longer than a sweater or another pair of socks. Those memories are something you can talk about, laugh about, and treasure for years to come.
2. Stronger Bonds
What better way to bond with family or friends than by sharing the adventure of travel? From exploring new destinations to experiencing new things together, a trip creates memories that bring you closer and deeper together.
3. Experiences > Stuff
We all know the drill—more stuff just means more clutter. But experiences? They enrich our lives in ways material gifts just can’t. Travel lets you explore new places, try exciting activities, and get a taste of cultures you’ve never seen before. Talk about a happiness boost!
4. Personal Growth and Discovery
Travel pushes you out of your comfort zone. It helps you gain new perspectives, discover more about the world (and yourself), and build valuable life skills—like problem-solving and adaptability. It’s an adventure that challenges and transforms you.
5. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Instead of adding to the piles of plastic toys or excess gadgets, travel is a gift that’s much more sustainable. It’s all about experiences—ones that don’t leave a trail of waste behind. Plus, many travel options (like eco-tours) support responsible tourism.
6. A Break from the Daily Grind
Everyone needs a little R&R! A getaway offers the perfect chance to hit the reset button, recharge, and unwind. Say goodbye to work stress, endless emails, and hectic schedules—your gift of travel is a full-on mental vacation.
7. Celebrate Adventure and Curiosity
Travel is all about discovery! Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, exploring ancient ruins, or simply trying new foods, it’s a gift that celebrates curiosity, adventure, and the joy of seeing the world with fresh eyes.
8. Boost Mental Well-Being
Studies show that travel has a powerful impact on mental health. The excitement of planning a trip, the joy of new experiences, and the relaxation that comes with time away all contribute to a happier, more balanced life.
9. Tailored to Their Dreams
A travel gift is as unique as the person you’re gifting it to! Love the beach? How about a tropical getaway? Into hiking? A mountain adventure awaits. You can customize the perfect experience based on their personal interests and passions.
10. Flexible and Stress-Free
Not sure when or where they’d like to go? No problem! With travel gift cards, vouchers, or flexible bookings, you give your loved ones the gift of choice. Let them decide the destination or timing, so it fits into their life and schedule.
11. No More Clutter
It’s time to say goodbye to extra stuff! Travel doesn’t take up space in the house, and the experiences and memories it creates are far more meaningful than any trinket or knick-knack. No wrapping paper waste, no clutter—just pure, unforgettable memories.
12. Supports Local Communities
When you gift travel, you’re also giving back to the communities that depend on tourism. You’re supporting local businesses, artisans, and economies, making your gift even more meaningful. It’s the perfect way to give back while exploring the world.
13. A Digital Detox
Let’s face it—everyone’s glued to their phones these days. A trip to a remote location or an off-the-grid retreat can offer a much-needed break from technology. It’s the ultimate way to reconnect with nature, the people around you, and your own well-being.
14. Broadens Horizons
Traveling exposes us to new cultures, languages, and ways of life. It opens our eyes to the beauty of diversity and fosters empathy, tolerance, and understanding. It’s a gift that helps you grow as a global citizen and appreciate the world in all its wonderful diversity.
15. Creates Shared Stories
The best part of travel? The stories! Whether it’s a funny mishap or a breathtaking view, you’ll have tons of tales to share. These shared experiences become part of your bond and something you’ll always look back on fondly.
16. A Surprising Twist
The element of surprise makes travel an unforgettable gift. Imagine gifting someone a surprise vacation to their dream destination—it’s an experience that will leave them speechless with excitement!
17. Perfect for Milestones
Travel is a fantastic way to celebrate life’s big milestones—whether it’s a graduation, anniversary, retirement, or any other special moment. A well-planned trip can mark a new chapter in life with unforgettable memories.
18. Focus on Wellness
Need to recharge? A wellness retreat or a serene nature escape is a perfect gift for someone looking to relax and rejuvenate. From yoga retreats to spa vacations, travel can be the ultimate self-care experience.
19. Explore New Hobbies
Traveling often sparks new interests and hobbies—whether it’s learning photography, cooking regional dishes, or hiking new trails. A trip might inspire your loved ones to pick up a new passion and enrich their lives in exciting ways.
20. The Gift of Time
At the end of the day, giving the gift of travel is giving someone the gift of time—time to explore, time to relax, and time to make new memories. It’s an opportunity to break free from the usual routine and spend time in a new and exciting way.
Ready to ditch the usual gift cards and gadgets? This year, give your loved ones something truly special: an adventure they’ll never forget. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a dream vacation, or a surprise trip, the gift of travel will be a present they treasure for years to come!
This morning, Disney Cruise Line announced that bookings for the Disney Destiny will open on September 12th! Dates and details about the ship’s maiden voyage and inaugural itineraries have also been revealed, so you can start mapping out your own epic vacations! Follow along below for more.
The Disney Destiny will sail its maiden voyage from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Nov. 20, 2025. Not only will this special four-night cruise be your first opportunity to experience all this ship has to offer, but it will also include stops at both of Disney Cruise Line’s island destinations in The Bahamas – Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point!
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Get ready to set sail on a journey where sunscreen and sunglasses are your best friends! After the grand maiden voyage, we’re kicking off an inaugural season of four- and five-night cruises to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean. Each trip promises a day of fun in the sun, whether it’s at Disney Castaway Cay or Disney Lookout Cay — and if you’re lucky, you might hit the jackpot and visit both! Plus, some of these cruises will treat you to extra sun-soaked shenanigans and warm-weather adventures in Nassau, Bahamas, or Cozumel, Mexico. Get ready to swap your worries for some serious tan lines!
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Ahoy, matey! At Cask and Cannon, you and your fellow scallywags will swap your wildest sea tales in a lounge that’s as cozy as a pirate’s hideout and as eclectic as a treasure chest filled with “borrowed” (let’s be honest, plundered) booty from all corners of the globe.
And what’s a night of pirate mischief without a drink in hand? The grog here isn’t just any old swill — we’re talking rare, specialty, and vintage rums that would make even Blackbeard raise an eyebrow. Plus, there’s a stash of “bootlegged” brews brewed just for this hideaway, served straight from the barrel in proper pirate fashion. Bottoms up, you salty sea dogs!
Word on the high seas is that the sharpest treasure-hunters might just stumble upon a stash of “borrowed” beverages served straight out of a real treasure chest! Forget golden doubloons — this is the real pirate jackpot, savvy? And that’s just the tip of the iceberg, mate! Cask and Cannon is just one of the many new adventures waiting for you aboard our heroes-and-villains-inspired ship. Get ready for a voyage where the line between hero and scoundrel is as thin as a pirate’s patience!
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The Disney Destiny will also debut:
Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King, a first-of-its-kind dining experience celebrating the music of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Lion King”
“Disney Hercules,” an all-new, Broadway-style show retelling the popular Disney Animation film
De Vil’s, a wickedly chic piano lounge celebrating the one and only Cruella de Vil
Edna Á La Mode Sweets, a one-of-a-kind confectionary inspired by Pixar Animation Studios’ “The Incredibles”
The Sanctum, Disney Cruise Line’s first lounge inspired by the powerful sorcerers and mystical artifacts of Marvel’s Doctor Strange
Plus, hero-worthy staterooms and suites featuring custom artwork of some of our most epic Disney stories; a new, villain-packed storyline aboard the AquaMouse water attraction; and iconic tributes to legendary
Marvel Super Heroes like Black Panther, Spider-Man and Iron Man!
This past weekend at D23, was full of announcements for Disney Cruise Line! There was an announcement about the FOUR new ships joining the fleet, and two shows that DCL will be showcasing soon!
Adding four more ships to the fleet will now bring DCL to a grand total of 13 ships! These new ships will be modeled after the current ships and will still include everything that DCL is known for including their entertainment, unique dining, and that Disney difference. These ships will debut sometime between 2027 and 2031!
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All- New “Hercules” Stage Show
Bless my soul, DCL is on a roll with a new broadway style “Disney Hercules” show! This will be onboard the Disney Destiny when it sets sail in November 2025. While this is a new show, it will still include the characters and well loved music from the original movie.
This show has been designed specifically for the Disney Destiny, so it will be reminiscent of the film while having some new surprises along the way! There will be classic musical numbers, projection effects and new musical arrangements that will fit right in with the other iconic songs.
But that’s not all! Disney Destiny is also debuting a brand new dining experience “Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King”. The ship will also be filled with characters, special appearances of heroes and villains alike, live shows and so much more entertainment!
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First Look at “Disney The Tale of Moana”
Fans at D23 were also lucky to get a glimpse of this new Broadway style show that is coming to the Disney Treasure later in 2024. The scene shows our favorite wayfinder, Moana, battling against Te Kā, a 15 foot tall puppet! This will be the largest puppet for a DCL show. The show will go onto to mirror the movie, and Moana will restore the heart of Te Fiti, allowing Te Kā to transform back into her true form as a green flowered goddess of life.
Many of the characters from the film will return to the stage as puppets under the development of Jeff Conover ,master puppeteer and creative director of puppetry for Disney Live Entertainment, and Micheal Curry, puppet designer known for his work with “The Lion King” on Broadway.
Disney has revealed a look at the new staterooms and suites aboard its newest ship, the Disney Destiny! Disney Cruise Line’s new heroes and villains-inspired ship will set sail in 2025. But for now, let’s take a look at those accommodations.
With luxurious accommodations that embrace the duality in every great story, a hero’s welcome will be waiting for guests aboard the Disney Destiny. Each verandah stateroom will showcase custom artwork depicting the epic journeys of famous Disney legends and include features that uniquely meet the needs of families.
Your stateroom will be your home away from home on the high seas, a luxurious retreat where your whole family can rest, reconnect, and dream of far-off places.
Like every Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Destiny will offer spacious, comfortable and functional staterooms that uniquely meet the needs of families. Most staterooms will feature Disney Cruise Line’s signature split-bath concept, allowing more than one person to get ready at a time, and many rooms will offer the option of a connecting door to accommodate larger families.
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Keeping with the ship’s unique theme, every stateroom and suite will showcase custom artwork depicting the epic journeys of famous Disney legends.
Concierge guests aboard the Disney Destiny will receive a premium level of dedicated service and access to exclusive areas and amenities throughout their voyage, including a concierge lounge and private sun deck.
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Large, lavishly appointed concierge staterooms and suites will draw you into the mysterious and fantastic world of Disney Animation’s “Fantasia” through elegant, watercolor-style artwork illustrating the rich color palette and otherworldly spectacle of the classic film.
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Seven special oceanview rooms located directly above the bridge and adorned in the distinctive iconography of Pixar’s “The Incredibles” will provide awe-inspiring, floor-to-ceiling views.
In four royal suites of heroic proportions (and views!), guests will be empowered to embrace their own destiny. The Hero Suites will celebrate the majestic powers and noble heroism at the heart of Disney Animation’s “Hercules” with Greco-Roman-inspired design elements, colors and patterns, and the boldly themed IncrediSuites will invoke the exhilarating exploits of “The Incredibles” through a streamlined mid-century modern aesthetic inspired by the Pixar films.
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There is so much to be excited about! Stay tuned for additional details this week as Disney shares more about the Disney Destiny.
We have some updates about the Disney Destiny, Disney’s newest Disney Cruise Line ship! The Disney Destiny will be setting sail in late 2025 and we just can’t wait to…sail!
The Disney Destiny, Disney Cruise Line’s new heroes and villains-inspired ship also will have the first “Loin King-Inspired” dining experience.
Disney released the following details:
The iconic songs and legendary moments of “The Lion King” will come to life at Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King, a first-of-its-kind dining experience celebrating the renowned music from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film that continues to transcend generations.
The enchanting venue will be inspired by the African savanna, with unique depictions of animals and nature brought to life through lighting and special effects. The back wall will be lined with large windows that transform from stunning sunrises to enchanting sunsets throughout the meal, while the center of the restaurant will have tiered risers that mimic the look of African drums.
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A colorful ensemble of live musicians and storytellers will take the stage to present a musical journey through the award-winning soundtrack as you dine. During special intervals throughout the meal, the band and performers will revisit the iconic songs from “The Lion King” using authentic African instruments and theatrical props to represent the story and characters. Audiences will delight in:
Productions of “Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata;”
A mash-up of “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” and “Be Prepared,” a fun take that highlights the hero-villain dynamic of the story;
An instrumental version of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” paired with a beautiful interpretive dance; and
A moving rendition of “He Lives in You” from the sequel film and Broadway show.
Everybody wants to be a cat! And that couldn’t be more true than RIGHT NOW! Today Disney Cruise Line revealed a brand-new lounge featuring our favorite felines is coming to Disney Cruise Line.
A brand-new lounge themed to the 1970 Walt Disney Animation Studios classic, “The Aristocats” is marked to open onboard the Disney Treasure when it sets sail this December. Named for everyone’s favorite music-loving feline from the film, Scat Cat Lounge will bring the groovy penthouse performance of “Ev’rybody Wants to be a Cat” into the real world for the first time. Plans for the venue combine the elegance of an old-school jazz club with artistic references to “The Aristocats.”
See details below:
A Familiar Looking Carpet: Fans of “The Aristocats” may recognize the carpet inside Scat Cat Lounge, inspired by the ornate French style rugs scattered throughout Madame Adelaide Bonfamille’s swanky Parisian home.
Caution – Wet Paint: The playful scene from the “The Aristocats” film when Toulouse mischievously left his paint-covered paw mark on the piano will be represented in Scat Cat Lounge with colorful prints decorating the piano.
Inspired by Agrabah: Centrally located off the Grand Hall, Scat Cat Lounge will take design cues from the Grand Hall’s Agrabah-inspired architecture with a complementary color palette and Middle Eastern décor that will blend seamlessly with the storied theming of the venue.
Double Delicious Craft Cocktails: Scat Cat Lounge will serve a special menu of cocktails that celebrate “The Aristocats,” including the Créme de la Créme Martini and The Cat Drink.
The Cats Go Marching: A parade of silhouetted cats, all representing characters from the film, will welcome guests to Scat Cat Lounge at the entry and lead the way into the venue.
Scat Cat’s Horn: “The Aristocats” theming will begin at the front door of the lounge with a sculpted handle that resembles Scat Cat’s signature instrument.
Hidden Characters: Hidden Mickeys may be a hallmark of any Walt Disney Imagineering design, but at Scat Cat Lounge, hidden depictions of Roquefort, the devoted mouse companion of Duchess and her kittens, will reign.
An Ode to Music: A black and white-striped statement wall will extend through the center of the venue, framing a groovy neon sign with the lyrics, “Ev’rybody Wants to be A Cat.” Reminiscent of piano keys, the wall will honor the important role that music played throughout the film.
The Cats Behind the Magic: At first glance, the funky poster that will hang outside Scat Cat Lounge may not draw too much attention. However, the instrument-playing cat collage will have a secret! Each cat depicted in the artwork will be drawn in the image of a beloved pet belonging to someone from the project team that helped design and build Scat Cat Lounge.
Are you ready to book yet? Contact our friends at Winds in the East Travel TODAY!
