January weather was a doozy?
From the cold temperatures to the snow we got, I am ready for winter to be done! Here’s hoping for an early spring and that Phil does not see his shadow.
✨ Here’s what’s inside this month:
🏰 Walt Disney World and Disneyland Updates
What’s coming and going at Walt Disney World
The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts at Walt Disney World wraps up this month on February 23. This is one festival we still haven’t experienced yet, but it’s high on our must-do list over the next couple of years.
Kicking off shortly after, on March 4, is the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival. This one we have done, and it’s a favorite. I would happily go back again and again. The topiaries alone are worth the visit. They are thoughtfully designed, created, and maintained year-round, and the craftsmanship behind these displays is truly incredible.
Be sure to check out the 2026 Garden Rocks Concert Series lineup here.
Over on the West Coast, Disneyland announced in November 2025 that the popular Disneyland After Dark events are returning. These separately ticketed, themed evenings offer a fun and unique way to experience the parks. You can find more details here.
Also recently reopened, Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa welcomed guests back on February 6, 2026. The restaurant debuted a reimagined dining experience that honors its 25-year legacy, blending elegant wine country cuisine with global influences..
✨ Tip: If you don’t want to pay for Lightning Lanes - Arrive early. Like really early. Guests who are through security before park opening can knock out several popular attractions in the first hour with much shorter waits. That early morning time is gold at Disneyland since the parks are more compact and lines build fast.
Canada Residents: Save Up to 30% on Rooms When You Stay 5 Nights or Longer✨
Canada residents can save on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels this summer, for stays most nights from May 1 to October 4, 2026.
Save up to 30% for stays of 5 or more consecutive nights
Save up to 25% for stays of 1 to 4 consecutive nights
This offer is valid for the Disney Resorts Collection hotels listed below. View the chart to explore savings.
Take Advantage of a Ticket Offer, Too!
🌟 Save Up to 25% on Select Stays at a Disneyland Resort Hotel
Be immersed in the magic throughout your visit, save up to 25% on select rooms types of 4 or more nights at a Disneyland Resort hotel, from May 22 through September 7, 2026. Subject to availability and restrictions.
Save up to 25% at:
Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Disneyland Hotel
The Villas at Disneyland Hotel
Save up to 15% at:
Pixar Place Hotel
🌴 All-Inclusive Spotlight
KRYSTAL GRAND CANCUN
Imagine waking up in Cancun to the sound of gentle waves and stepping onto a beach so soft and white, the water looks more like an infinity pool than the ocean.
Mornings turn into laid-back afternoons spent choosing between four sparkling pools (one reserved just for Altitude guests), squeezing in a workout at the gym, or unwinding at the spa. When hunger strikes, the day unfolds through seven dining venues and six bars and lounges, each offering its own vibe and flavors, no reservations stress required.
Families find their own rhythm here too. Kids head off to Kamp Krystal, ready for fun and new friends, while teens claim their independence at Adventure Friends. Meanwhile, parents enjoy the freedom to truly relax, knowing everyone has their own space to enjoy.
Everything you might need is right on-site, from a convenience store and tour desk to car rental services and a 24-hour front desk, making it easy to explore or simply stay put and unwind.
As the sun starts to dip, Moskito Beach Club becomes the place to be. Think beachfront yoga and meditation, live music drifting through the air, gourmet bites, and handcrafted cocktails with your toes in the sand. These elevated experiences are included for Altitude guests and available for an additional cost for others, but the memories they create are priceless.
Krystal Grand Cancun isn’t just a place to stay. It’s where easy days, meaningful moments, and unforgettable beachside memories come together.
🚢 Cruise Corner
🚢✨ Fireworks Coming to the Disney Adventure
On January 27, 2026, it was officially announced that fireworks will be coming to the Disney Adventure, continuing Disney Cruise Line’s distinction as the only cruise line to offer fireworks at sea.
Those sailing aboard the Disney Adventure will be treated to an all-new nighttime spectacular, “The Lion King: Celebration in the Sky.” This breathtaking show pays tribute to the beloved story and characters from The Lion King as the night sky comes alive with dazzling fireworks, dramatic lighting effects, and powerful music.
The experience brings the story to life through specially arranged versions of iconic songs including Circle of Life, Hakuna Matata, He Lives in You, and Can You Feel the Love Tonight. The music is performed by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and features the unforgettable voices of South Africa’s Ndlovu Youth Choir, adding depth and emotion to every moment.
This brand-new fireworks experience will be offered on select nights during three- and four-night sailings aboard the Disney Adventure.
🚢 The Journey to Singapore Has Begun
Earlier this month, on January 15, 2026, the Disney Adventure arrived in Port Canaveral after a nearly two-week transatlantic crossing. More than 250 cast members, joined by Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse, welcomed the ship to Florida, marking the completion of the first leg of its incredible journey.
Next, the Disney Adventure will sail through the Panama Canal, make a stop in Los Angeles, and then cross the Pacific Ocean to Tokyo. This nearly two-month voyage will conclude in early March, just in time for the ship to reach Singapore ahead of its maiden voyage on March 10.
🚢✨ Limited-Time Offer: 20% Off Voyage Fare and USD$250 Onboard Credit on Select Sailings
Available for select sailings on the Disney Dream and Disney Wish between April 2026 and July 2026.
Must be booked by March 29, 2026.
Savings based on nondiscounted price for the same stateroom category and sailing.
🎢 Universal Orlando & Hollywood Updates
New Coaster Coming to Universal Orlando Resort 🎢
Get ready for the ride of a lifetime! Universal Orlando Resort is taking thrills to a whole new level with Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, a high-octane outdoor roller coaster set to open in 2027.
Replacing the beloved Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, this adrenaline-packed coaster will put riders right in the driver’s seat of the Fast & Furious universe. You can expect jaw-dropping maneuvers, heart-pounding 360-degree drifts, and a 170-foot vertical “spike” that shoots riders nearly 17 stories into the air, towering over the outskirts of Universal CityWalk!
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will join Universal Orlando’s award-winning collection of coaster experiences, showcasing the park’s continued innovation, excitement, and world-class entertainment. And the excitement isn’t just in Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood will also debut its own unique Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster later this year.
As the new ride takes the spotlight, Fast & Furious – Supercharged will permanently close in 2027, making way for this next-generation thrill experience.
EPIC Universe Tip: Pay the extra for the Express Pass - this park was packed, having wait times over 200 minutes. If you don’t want to spend the extra money be there for park open and in my opinion start in Super Nintendo World
✨ From My Travels:
As someone one who is definitely a Disney Adult, I’m asked if I would return to Universal again. The short answer - Yes and here’s why.
I grew up on tv shows and movies that come to life at Universal from Transformers to Jurassic Park to Dr. Suess and The Simpsons. The nostalgia I felt alone is the reason I will go back, will I go back yearly, no but I am trying to figure out when I can go back so Madison can experience both Universal Studio’s and Island of Adventure because it just wasn’t the same with out her there.
We are also not in a hurry to stay on property again, eventually we will but I’ll save that for another time.
🧳 Travel Quote of the Month:
"Once a year, go someplace you've never been before." – Dalai Lama
📰 Additional Travel Highlights
❄️ Cruise Into the Last Frontier: Alaska
If you’ve ever dreamed of towering glaciers, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, an Alaska cruise should be at the top of your travel list. Sailing to Alaska offers a one-of-a-kind adventure, whether you’re exploring vibrant port towns or relaxing onboard a luxurious ship.
What’s the weather like?
Alaska’s cruising season runs from late April through September, with summer temperatures averaging 50–70°F (10–21°C). Expect cooler weather in the evenings and occasional rain, so layering is key. While it’s too chilly for most beach trips, don’t worry, ships are fully equipped to keep you warm and comfortable while you enjoy the journey.
Pools, hot tubs, and onboard fun
Yes, you can swim! Most cruise ships feature heated pools and hot tubs, meaning you can take a dip while still enjoying the dramatic scenery outside. Even if the air is brisk, the water temperature and onboard amenities make it easy to relax, soak, and enjoy family fun.
One-way vs. round-trip itineraries
Alaska cruises come in a variety of options. Round-trip sailings depart from ports like Seattle, Vancouver, or Anchorage and returning to the same city. For those looking for a longer adventure, one-way sailings allow you to travel from the U.S. or Canada to Alaska or vice versa, with some cruises continuing down the Pacific Coast to cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles. These are a great choice for travelers looking to combine a cruise with a land-based adventure or a multi-port journey.
Whether you’re chasing glaciers, spotting whales, or simply relaxing in a hot tub while scenic mountains glide by, an Alaska cruise is an unforgettable experience.
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 your travels be filled with new memories.
Adventure awaits!
Catherine
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