Beyond the Pixie Dust: Issue 02

Your destination for tips, tricks, deals, and news on all things travel

Catherine at Timeless Tales Travel
July 07, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 13 minutes

Welcome to the second issue of my monthly newsletter — I’m so glad you’re here!

Whether you're dreaming of your next Disney adventure, planning a relaxing all-inclusive getaway, or just love keeping up with the latest in travel news — you’re in the right place.

✨ Here’s what’s inside this month:

🏰 Walt Disney World and Disneyland Updates

🎬 Farewell to Muppets Courtyard – A New Chapter Begins at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

As of June 8, 2025, the curtain has officially closed on Muppet Vision 3D and PizzeRizzo at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This beloved area, known as Muppets Courtyard, is being reimagined to make way for a brand-new Monsters, Inc. themed land. In a heartfelt moment, Jim Henson’s daughter was the final guest to enter Muppet Vision 3D, honoring the legacy of the Muppets as this chapter comes to a close.

But don’t worry—The Muppets aren’t gone for good! In 2026, prepare for some wild fun as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets makes its debut! 🎸🐸 🎶 There’s still time to catch a ride with Aerosmith before the original Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster takes its final bow next year. So grab your backstage passes while you can!

🎃 Halloween Season is Creeping Closer! 👻

Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort announced their Halloween party dates a while ago, and if you're considering joining in on the fun, it's the perfect time to start planning!

From Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Magic Kingdom to Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure, these after-hours events are packed with spellbinding entertainment, exclusive character sightings, trick-or-treating, themed treats, and more.

🎟️ Tickets are on sale now—but don’t wait! Many dates are expected to sell out quickly, especially weekends and Halloween night. ✨ Whether you're planning a fall family getaway or a spooky adults-only escape, now’s the time to secure your spot for these fan-favorite events.

Let the countdown to candy, costumes, and magic begins.

✨TIP: At rope drop (park opening), head straight to the most in-demand attractions — like Flight of Passage, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, or Slinky Dog Dash. Wait times are lowest early in the morning, so you can knock out a big ride before all the crowds roll in!

Get a FREE dining plan for kids (ages 3 to 9) when you purchase a Walt Disney Travel Company package for you and your children that includes:

A room at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel; and
A dining plan for each Guest ages 10 and up

Offer valid for arrivals in 2026!

A dining plan includes delicious meals and snacks, so you can focus on enjoying the magic and worry less about meal budgeting during your visit!

Planning a magical getaway to the Disneyland Resort in California? Now’s the perfect time! ✨

🎟️ Special Offer for Canadian Residents
Enjoy specially priced 1-park-per-day tickets valid from May 16 to December 31, 2025:

✨ 5-Day Ticket – Only $77 USD/day ($383 total)
✨ 4-Day Ticket – Only $89 USD/day ($355 total)
✨ 3-Day Ticket – Only $104 USD/day ($311 total)

💡 Tickets expire 13 days after first use or on December 31, 2025 (whichever comes first). Park reservations required and subject to availability.

🌴 All-Inclusive Spotlight

Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya

🌴 Discover Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing and luxurious vacation in Mexico, look no further than Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya. Nestled along the stunning Riviera Maya coastline, this beautiful resort offers everything you need for an unforgettable stay.

What makes Riu Palace Riviera Maya so special?

Spacious, elegant rooms including connecting options perfect for families
Multiple pools and swim-up bars for endless relaxation and fun
Diverse dining experiences with several restaurants serving international and local cuisine — plus delicious snacks throughout the day
Exciting entertainment and live shows to keep every night lively
Prime beachfront location with soft white sands and crystal-clear waters
Wellness and fitness facilities including a spa, gym, and yoga classes

🚢 Cruise Corner

Disney Cruise Line is updating its deposit policy — and it’s great news for those ready to book!

📉 New bookings will now require only a 10% deposit (down from 20%) on the voyage fare! That means it's even easier to secure your next magical sailing.

Here’s what you need to know:
⚓️ Bookings made before June 17 still follow the original 20% deposit rule
💰 Cancellation fees will match the deposit amount (10% for new, 20% for existing)
🏰 Concierge-level bookings remain non-refundable
🛳️ Placeholders for 7-night+ sailings now only require a 5% deposit when choosing a date — with only a 5% fee if canceled outside the penalty window
🔁 Guests can cancel and rebook under the new policy (if outside penalty periods)

🚢 Is the Cruise Ship Your Destination or the Itinerary?

When it comes to cruising, some travelers fall in love with the ship itself — the onboard activities, dining, entertainment, and atmosphere. Others are all about the itinerary: the ports of call, excursions, and new places to explore.

No matter which you prefer, choosing the right combination of ship and route makes all the difference in creating your perfect cruise vacation. I’ve done the same itinerary more then once so I can experience all of what the ship has to offer without feeling like I have to get off.

🌟 Top 5 Cruise Itineraries for 2025

Alaska Inside Passage – Explore glaciers, wildlife, and stunning natural beauty aboard luxurious ships like Disney Wonder or Princess Cruises.
Caribbean Eastern & Western – Classic tropical vibes, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture from islands like St. Thomas, Cozumel, and Jamaica.
Mediterranean Highlights – Discover historic cities, coastal charm, and delicious cuisine with stops in Italy, Greece, Spain, and more.
Northern Europe & Baltic Sea – Sail past majestic fjords and visit iconic cities like Stockholm, Copenhagen, and St. Petersburg.
Panama Canal Transit – Experience the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal while enjoying tropical and Central American destinations.

🌍✨ Explore Europe Aboard the Disney Fantasy this Summer 2025! ✨🌍

Get ready for an unforgettable journey as the Disney Fantasy sets sail through Europe this summer! From the breathtaking Mediterranean coast to the rich history of Northern Europe, you’ll experience iconic destinations with the magic and service only Disney Cruise Line can deliver.

For a limited time, take advantage of special offers on select sailings and stateroom categories — including Verandah, Oceanview, and Inside staterooms. Disney will select your stateroom, which will be assigned closer to embarkation, giving you great value while you enjoy a dream vacation!

Whether you're wandering through ancient cities, relaxing on scenic shores, or soaking up onboard entertainment, this is one adventure you won’t want to miss

🏝️ Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay

🌊 Top highlights include:

Thrill Waterpark – Packed with adrenaline-pumping slides and a massive wave pool
Up, Up and Away – Take in panoramic views of paradise from a helium balloon
Oasis Lagoon – The Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool with a swim-up bar
Chill Island – White sand beaches and calm turquoise waters, perfect for relaxing
Coco Beach Club – Luxury at its finest with infinity pools, upscale dining, and overwater cabanas

CocoCay is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, and it’s only accessible through Royal Caribbean cruises.

🌊✨ Step Into the Sea: Oceanwalk on Norwegian Aqua ✨🌊

Get ready to be amazed aboard the all-new Norwegian Aqua, launched in 2025! One of its most exciting features? The Oceanwalk — a stunning glass-bottom bridge that lets you walk right over the ocean. Feel like you're floating above the waves as you take in breathtaking views and snap the ultimate vacation photo.

This one-of-a-kind experience blends thrill and tranquility, giving you a new perspective on cruising. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first big adventure, Norwegian Aqua promises next-level innovation, luxury, and unforgettable memories.

🎢 Universal Orlando Updates

🩸 Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando is coming... and it’s more terrifying than ever. Dare to enter? 👻

💀 10 Haunted Houses
Step into your worst nightmares with houses inspired by iconic horror legends and Universal’s original terrifying creations.

😱 Sinister Scare Zones
Think you’re safe outside the houses? Think again. Fear lurks around every corner.

🎭 Outrageous Live Entertainment
Scream. Laugh. Repeat. Catch spine-tingling performances unlike anything you’ve seen before.

🎢 Thrilling Rides After Dark
Feel the adrenaline of Universal’s top attractions, open during the event.

🍔 Themed Food & Drinks
Satisfy your hunger for horror with creepy culinary creations.

🛍️ Exclusive HHN Merchandise
Take home a piece of the nightmare—if you survive.

🧟‍♂️ This is the Halloween event of the year. Ready to face your fears?

Halloween Horror Nights Hotel & Ticket Package

Stay, scream and save up to $200^{^}
with a vacation package that includes event admission, hotel accommodations and daytime theme park tickets. Save more the longer you stay.

^Savings based on a 7-night stay. Select dates. Restrictions apply.

WARNING: HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS MAY BE TOO INTENSE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 13. NO COSTUMES OR COSTUME MASKS ALLOWED.

✨ From My Travels:

✨ When we cruised in March, we stayed at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World — and it was the perfect choice for making the most of our short time before setting sail!

🏰 One of the best discoveries? The walkway to Magic Kingdom! Not only was it a quick 10-minute stroll, but it also had its own security line, making park entry smooth and fast. We were in the park and making memories in no time!

If you're planning a pre-cruise Disney stay, I highly recommend the Contemporary for its unbeatable convenience and magical start to your vacation. 💫

Save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels when you stay 5 consecutive nights or longer in late summer and early fall. Plus, enjoy other savings for shorter stays.

This offer is valid for stays most nights from August 1 to October 11, 2025.

🧳 Travel Tip of the Month:

🌴 All-Inclusive Travel Tip:
Pack a Reusable Cup or Tumbler
Most all-inclusive resorts serve drinks in small plastic cups, which can mean more trips to the bar. Bringing your own insulated tumbler keeps your drinks colder longer—and means more time relaxing by the pool or beach!

📰 Additional Travel Highlights

Exciting New Escapes Just Added!
Sunwing is expanding your vacation options with three incredible new getaways!

Discover the brand-new Riu Ventura—available exclusively through Sunwing—perfect for those looking for a fresh favorite. For an elevated adults-only retreat, explore the luxurious Secrets Baby Beach. Or unwind at the newly-added Barcelo Montelimar, offering something special for every traveler.

Your next dream destination is waiting!

Ready to plan your next escape?
Reply to this email or click here to request a quote:
📧 [email protected]
💻 catherinestravels.com
👉 www.timelesstalestravel.com/catherinem

Thanks for being part of this journey. Until next time — keep dreaming, exploring, and may your travels be filled with new memories.

Adventure awaits!
Catherine