Disney remains magical vacation

• By JULIE KAY
• Advocate staff writer
• Published: Apr 27, 2008 - UPDATED: 12:05 a.m.

• Print
• Email
• Save
• Reprints
• Twitter
• Share

• Del.icio.us
• Digg
• Facebook
• Reddit
• 

Three places are likely to capture the hearts of traveling locals in coming months: Italy, Alaska and Disney.

The steady favorites are so popular, according to JoAnne Bowman, owner of Carlson Wagonlit Travel, “You’d think it was free.”

Families are always taking advantage of the educational aspects of Italy from learning about its artistic offerings, scenery and culture, and St. Peter’s, Bowman said.

The scenery in Alaska is the draw. Bowman said she always recommends a balcony cabin so people can have that view at their fingertips.

“There’s something to see on both sides 24 hours a day. The sun doesn’t set until 3 a.m.,” she said.

She recommended researching the land portion of cruise trips thoroughly. Although taking tours adds to the price tag, if it’s the only time you’ll be traveling to the region, it is well worth it.

For families, there’s a lot to do, she added. “It’s a huge family destination,” she said, mentioning whale watching and kayaking.

Melanie Williams, a travel consultant for Gulf South Travel, said many locals still choose Disney year after year.

Specials typically kick off the season before children get out of school for the summer and just before school starts again, she said.

Dining plans make it easier for families to afford meals, and on-site properties also have reasonable plans, she said.

Travel agents say Disney remains popular because it constantly adds new attractions for all ages, making it a good place for families and extended families to travel together, she said.

“It’s also close in proximity,” Williams said. “We can still drive to Disney.”

Other ideas
Williams said people generally aren’t choosing “high-dollar vacations” because of the weakened economy.