NEWS

Disney specialists are enthusiastic about Josh D'Amaro's rise to CEO

The travel industry is buzzing with optimism following the announcement that Josh D’Amaro, the current Chairman of Disney Experiences, will officially become the CEO of The Walt Disney Co. on March 18, 2026. Experts from Fairytale Journeys Travel and other agencies emphasize that D’Amaro’s extensive 28-year background in theme park operations and Disney Cruise Line makes him uniquely qualified to lead the company's next era of growth. By prioritizing the guest journey and balancing nostalgic storytelling with cutting-edge innovations like AI, D’Amaro is expected to deepen the emotional connection fans have with the brand, providing travel advisors with robust opportunities to sell world-class, immersive vacations across the Disney Experiences portfolio.

By Jamie Biesiada

Theme park festivals are attractive for travel advisors

Theme park festivals are proving to be a powerhouse marketing tool for travel advisors looking to attract niche travelers and close sales. From the culinary delights of the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival to the high-energy debut of Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort, these limited-run events offer exclusive merchandise, unique entertainment, and specialized food that create a sense of urgency for clients. By leveraging early-release event calendars and high-quality social media content—such as viral clips of the "Together Forever" nighttime spectacular—advisors can target specific fan bases, including Star Wars enthusiasts and young families, to turn "on-the-fence" prospects into confirmed bookings.

By Jamie Biesiada

Here’s What We Know About Universal Kids Resort

Universal Kids Resort, set to debut in Frisco, Texas, in 2026, is a groundbreaking theme park specifically designed for young families and toddlers. This immersive destination will feature seven themed lands inspired by iconic characters such as the Minions, Shrek, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Gabby’s Dollhouse, focusing on kid-friendly rides, interactive play areas like the Isle of Curiosity, and live shows. Complementing the park is a colorful 300-room on-site hotel with family-friendly suites, making Universal Kids Resort a premier, all-in-one vacation spot for those seeking a manageable and magical experience tailored to the youngest travelers.

By Samantha Davis-Friedman

Locally owned agency reaches Platinum status

By Melody Rathel

How to be a Disney Travel Agent

It may seem like Disney vacations sell themselves, but there’s much more to selling Disney Destinations than booking theme park tickets (and there's no magic wand that comes with being a Disney travel agent).

By Samantha Davis-Friedman

Theme park festivals are attractive for travel advisors

Specially themed festivals at theme parks offer unique experiences for guests, often at no additional cost outside of park admission (except, of course, for those snacks and T-shirts).

By Jamie Biesiada

Community highlights: Meet Kelton Evers-Osthus of Fairytale Journeys by Kelton

Hi Kelton, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It all started when I was young. I was born in Melbourne, FL, and thanks to my parents, my siblings and I grew up going to theme parks. Throughout my young life, I figured out that the life I wanted to pursue was that of Hospitality.

Living a Disney dream

By Natalie Nettles

Mark Your Calendars For These 2024 Events at Disneyland Resort

This year — and for the first time — Disneyland has released dates for all 2024 events at once, which, along with an expanded park reservation system allowing bookings 180 days in advance, makes it easier for clients to plan ahead.

By Samantha Davis-Friedman