The Team Thompson Travel Podcast
Join hosts Ashley and Billy Thompson on the Team Thompson Travel Podcast, where we share expert tips, destination highlights, and travel planning advice. From Disney and Universal to all-inclusive resorts and European getaways, we’ll help you plan unforgettable adventures. Tune in and get inspired for your next trip!
Episodes
Planning a Universal Studios vacation? Don't let long lines spoil the magic! Join Ashley and Billy as they break down their four essential steps for preparing for Universal Orlando and Hollywood. Learn the best times to visit (avoiding peak crowds in summer and holidays), why you need a Park-to-Park ticket for the Hogwarts Express, and how to get the Universal Express Unlimited pass for free. They share vital tips on mastering the ...
Wondering where to cruise next? Ashley and Billy reveal the world's most popular cruise destination: the Caribbean!
We break down what makes this sunny champion unbeatable (convenience, year-round warmth, and stunning beaches) and explore its three distinct regions. Plus, we dive into other top spots like the history-rich Mediterranean and the wild, glacial views of Alaska.
Tune in to find your perfect cruise experience!
Billy and Ashley dive into the world of all-inclusive resorts! Discover the simplicity and peace of mind that comes with upfront budgeting, included activities, and ultimate relaxation.
But it's not all endless buffets and fancy cocktails! They discuss the downsides, including food quality and lack of local immersion. Learn their best tips for researching resorts, checking dining options, and deciding if you're a "relaxer" or an "e...
Travel to Europe is the dream, but poor planning can lead to stress! Join Billy and Ashley as they dive into the essential, non-negotiable steps for a stress-free European adventure. Learn the critical rules for passport validity (6+ months!), navigating the Schengen Area, and preparing for the upcoming ETIAS system (European Travel Information and Authorization System). Plus, get smart tips for securing your records and avoiding b...
Ready to sail the magical high seas? Billy and Ashley dive into the full Disney Cruise Line fleet! Discover the unique themes, iconic characters, and exclusive features of all eight ships, from the classic charm of the Disney Magic and Wonder to the massive new adventures on the Wish and Treasure. Learn about the thrilling AquaDuck and AquaMouse, special dining like Tiana’s Place, and what's coming next on the Destiny and Ad...
Join Billy and Ashley as they answer the classic question: Which is older, Disneyland or Disney World?
Discover the original magic when Disneyland opened in Anaheim, California, on July 17, 1955, making it the classic, compact resort Walt Disney himself oversaw. Then, learn how the much younger, massive Walt Disney World, which opened in Florida in 1971, was born from a different, grander vision.
The age diff...
Ahoy, matey! Set sail with us as we dive into the world of Disney Cruise Line. We're talking about the game-changing Disney Adventure, the largest ship to ever join the fleet. We'll also break down the entire fleet, from the brand-new global class ships to the classic originals. Get the inside scoop on which ship is right for your next magical vacation.
The price of a Disney cruise is the same whether you book it yourself or with a travel agent. But that's only half the story. This episode explains why booking with a travel agent provides better value, not a lower price. You’ll learn how agents secure special promotions, apply new discounts after booking, and offer exclusive perks like onboard credit, all at no extra cost to you. Discover how a dedicated expert can save you time, ...
In this episode of the Team Thompson Travel Podcast, Billy and Ashley dive into the world of Disney parks. They reveal that there are actually 12 Disney parks across six resorts in four countries. They break down the locations of each park, from the original Disneyland Resort in California and the massive Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to the international resorts in Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Join them as they rec...
Wondering where Disney cruises go? Join Ashley and Billy as they reveal that Disney Cruise Line travels worldwide, from the Caribbean and Alaska to Europe and beyond. Discover why a Disney cruise is a unique vacation for everyone.
On this episode of the Team Thompson Travel podcast, Ashley and Billy break down the different levels of a Disney cruise. They cover everything from ship classes and stateroom types to the Castaway Club loyalty program, helping listeners understand all their options for a perfect family vacation.
Join Ashley and Billy from Team Thompson Travel as they answer a popular question: "How many Disney theme parks are there at Disney World?" They'll explore the unique magic of Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, and even touch on the two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. Get ready for an inside look at planning your perfect Disney vacation!
Can travel agents book Disney Vacation Club (DVC) villas? In this episode of the Team Thompson Travel Podcast, Ashley and Billy break it all down. Learn the difference between booking directly through Disney and renting DVC points from third parties. We’ll explain when travel agents can help, what they can’t do, and how to choose the best option for your Disney vacation. Whether you’re looking for convenience, savings, or full supp...
Planning a Disney trip with Genie+? This episode explains Disney’s 120-minute rule and how it helps you book more Lightning Lanes. Ashley and Billy walk you through how the rule works, when the timer starts, and how to use it to ride more with less waiting. Whether you're visiting Disneyland or Walt Disney World, this simple guide will help you plan a smoother, more fun day in the parks.
Is Tokyo DisneySea the best Disney park in the world? In this episode of the Team Thompson Travel Podcast, Ashley and Billy explore what makes this park so special. From exclusive rides and themed ports to amazing food and friendly service, Tokyo DisneySea offers a one-of-a-kind experience. They also share tips for planning your visit and compare it to other Disney parks like Walt Disney World and Disneyland. If Tokyo is on your bu...
Looking to save money on your next Disney vacation? In this episode of The Team Thompson Travel Podcast, Ashley and Billy share the best months to visit Disney on a budget, plus tips to help you get the most value for your trip. Find out why September offers the lowest prices, when to avoid peak crowds, and how to save even more with smart planning. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this episode will help you plan a magi...
In this episode, we dive into the top rides at Disney World and reveal why TRON Lightcycle Run is the current fan favorite. From high-speed thrills to family-friendly coasters and immersive Star Wars adventures, we break down what makes each ride special and how to ride more and wait less. Whether you love adrenaline or Disney nostalgia, this episode will help you plan smarter for your next magical trip.
📲 Tune in now and get insi...
🎧 Feeling overwhelmed planning your Disney trip? In this episode, we break down the popular 3/2/1 rule at Disney, a simple and smart strategy to help you enjoy your vacation without stress or burnout. We talk about how choosing just 3 rides, 2 experiences, and 1 dining reservation per day can make your visit more relaxed, fun, and memorable. Whether you're a first-timer or a Disney pro, this approach helps you avoid the chaos and ...
Planning a Disney vacation? You might be wondering: Is it really cheaper to use a Disney travel agent? In this episode, we break down the truth behind that common question. From hidden savings to stress-free planning help (that doesn’t cost a dime), we’ll bust myths and explain how Disney specialists make trips easier, smarter, and yes, often cheaper. If you’re overwhelmed by dining reservations, park tickets, or finding the best d...
Feeling overwhelmed by Disney vacation planning? From resort options and dining reservations to Genie+ and Lightning Lane, it can feel like a second job. In this episode, we break down what a Disney travel agent really does, how they simplify the process, and why their services are completely free to you. Learn how these Disney pros save you time, reduce stress, and make your trip smoother from start to finish.
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