We cannot believe today is the first day of 2019. Where did 2018 go? Don’t get us wrong. We are looking forward to the amazing things waiting for us this year, but 2018 was a banner year personally and professionally with the launch of our travel agency, Beyond Imagination Vacations. On today’s blog, we’re taking a pictorial review of our favorite moments related to our new business and unforgettable travel experiences. Thank you for your generous support and for taking this spectacular journey with us!
Universal Orlando Resort - May 2018
We were attending a familiarization trip (FAM) for travel agents at Universal Orlando Resort. It was the second time we had shared a room at a travel agent conference. We immediately clicked again after it had been five months since we’d seen each other at Disneyland Resort. We had a blast geeking out at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, experiencing a VIP tour with the best of Universal’s team members, visiting Volcano Bay for the first time, and eating our weight in snacks, meals and tasty drinks. After our amazing experience, we kept in touch and knew we would build something special together. Fast forward two months (with lots of blood, sweat and tears)… and Beyond Imagination Vacations was born.
What an awesome time we had at Universal Orlando Resort - here, we’re noshing on fresh sushi and sipping craft cocktails at CityWalk!
Europe - July 2018
In Beyond Imagination Vacations’ inaugural month, Kristen took a 16-day trip with her teenage son, visiting seven European countries including England, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Germany and Lichtenstein. In addition to some serious mother-son bonding, there were visits to iconic sites like the Louvre and Eiffel Tour in Paris; the Rialto Bridge in Venice; the Tower of London, Big Ben and London Bridge; and the stunning Lake Geneva in Switzerland, a genuine highlight of the epic adventure.
Flanked by majestic mountains and vibrant pops of color from the surrounding flora, Lake Geneva is a sight to behold!
Walt Disney World Resort - September 2018
Well, it had been four months and way tooooooooo long since we’d seen each other. And what better place to reconvene than our favorite place, Walt Disney World Resort. Although it was a quick trip, we accomplished a great deal - a professional photo shoot at Magic Kingdom and Epcot for our marketing; sampling the best savory, sweet and sparkling items featured at the Food & Wine Festival; trick ‘n treating at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (where we also hung out with Beyond Imagination Vacations agent, Vicky); experiencing the new Toy Story Land together for the first time; and ending our trip with an unforgettable meal at California Grill with the best view of the Happily Ever After fireworks. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort made the perfect home base for our September trip. And we’re not saying that because the hotel is home to the Lapu Lapu, the tropics served in a fresh pineapple!
It was hot and humid, and boy, were we sweating. But we ended up with some great photos. Not hard with the splendid Cinderella Castle in the background.
Hawaii - September 2018
Later in the month, Kristen and her husband took a romantic getaway to the Hawaiian Islands of Kauai and Maui. The “Paradise of the Pacific” was the ultimate destination for hiking, beach bumming, soaking in sunsets and reconnecting.
Breaktaking - not sure that words are needed to describe this picture!
Costa Rica - November 2018
Jennifer and her extended family had a “Pura Vida” Thanksgiving in the Central American country of Costa Rica. They spent some time in La Fortuna, the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park, and stayed at the gorgeous The Springs Resort & Spa, taking in the wildlife preserve, impressive rock-climbing wall, on-site nature activities, and maze of lovely hot springs. While on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, they enjoyed the all-inclusive amenities offered at Dreams Las Mareas including a robust slate of entertainment and activity offerings, delicious dining and incredible sunsets over a gorgeous beach.
The dreamiest sunset to behold at Dreams Las Mareas
Home - December 2018
There were other trips as well - seeing Aladdin on Broadway; chillin’ on the beach in sunny Florida; weekends in Dallas; and another trip to Walt Disney World Resort to spend the holidays with Mickey at his Christmas party and test out Early Morning Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Although we obviously love travel and experiencing the wonderful wide world out there, there’s something special about being at home with friends and family. We and our team of professional and passionate agents are looking forward to getting out there again in 2019 and sharing what we learn with you!