Does Orlando CityPASS Save Money on Theme Park Tickets?

Karyn Locke
Orlando CityPASS logo Orlando theme park ticket prices

With the recent announcement of the new official Orlando CityPASS that includes four Orlando theme parks, I had to ask myself it really will save me money. Including Orlando theme park tickets for Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and LEGOLAND Florida, the concept seems like a great idea – but is it a money saver? The answer is very surprising.  At this point, I visit the Orlando, FL, area at least twice a year. But, of the four major Orlando theme parks, I only have a Walt…

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Is the Disney Dining Plan Worth It? Weighing Both Sides

Karyn Locke
Is the Disney Dining Plan worth it? The School Bread at Norway Pavilion in Epcot. It definitely makes my top five list fore best Disney World snacks!

Are you on the fence about whether or not to purchase a Disney Dining Plan (DDP)? With every question answered about it, do you have 10 more in its place? Trust me, you are not alone. As a gal that’s been on both sides of the DDP plate, here’s what I’ve learned about the DDP, its cost, and benefits. Is the Disney Dining Plan worth it? Here’s the scoop.  It’s true, I’ve purchased the Disney Dining Plan and paid out of pocket several times each. And each time, I’m certain…

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Best Winter Day Trips from Pittsburgh

Karyn Locke
Best winter day trips from Pittsburgh: Ohiopyle State Park.

Visiting Pittsburgh this winter and looking for some fun, creative winter day trip options? From skiing to wine tasting, here are the best winter day trips from Pittsburgh all under a two-hour drive.  I’ve lived near Pittsburgh for most of my life, so I know how precarious the winters can be, especially when it comes to driving. I also know I can get stir crazy and have to get outdoors at least once during the winter. So, I wanted to create fun winter day trip options that have easy drives.…

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The Best Secret Free Things at Walt Disney World

Karyn Locke
Best Secret Free Things at Walt Disney World: Walt Statue

I get it, a Walt Disney World vacation can get expensive. I also get the fact that there are plenty of freebies if you know where to find them. But did you know there are secret free souvenirs? Yep! From pirate treasure to pixie dust, here are my favorite secret free things at Walt Disney World!  When I visit Walt Disney World with my family, we actively hunt out all the freebies. I mean, there’s absolutely no harm in it and if it saves me some cash, I’m all for…

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The Complete Guide Where to Find Magic Kingdom Characters and Princesses

Karyn Locke
Where to find Magic Kingdom characters and Princesses: Chip 'N Dale in Town Square

A visit to Walt Disney World would not be complete without a character meet and greet or two. Or twenty. And, compliments of there being so many to choose from, especially in Magic Kingdom, narrowing down the logistics and locations can be rough. To help with planning your next visit, here’s a complete list of where to find Magic Kingdom characters and Princesses. When I started visiting Magic Kingdom with my family, I’ll admit, the amount of attractions, rides, and Disney characters was overwhelming. Add in the fact that the…

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Comparing Pittsburgh’s Providence Point to Luxury Travel

Karyn Locke
One of the apartment kitchens in Providence Point.

Providence Point in Pittsburgh is lovely, there’s no way around it. And, when it comes to senior living, it’s top of the line. So, exactly  how does it compare to luxury travel (and why would you want to live there)? Here’s the scoop on Pittsburgh’s Providence Point and why I may have found a five-star, all-inclusive resort in the city.  I’m in no hurry to retire. Having written that, having an opportunity to check out the latest in senior living piqued my curiosity. And when I heard about all of…

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First Night Pittsburgh 2019 Guide: Silver Anniversary Events

Karyn Locke
First Night Pittsburgh 2019: Events

Christmas 2018 isn’t even here yet and already I’m thinking about First Night Pittsburgh 2019. Don’t get me wrong, I adore Christmas. But I can’t help but think about New Year’s Eve in Pittsburgh. This year to celebrate its 25th Anniversary, First Night Pittsburgh 2019 is having a Silver Jubilee and that means bigger and better than ever. From where to park, what to see and eat, and where to get admission buttons, here’s our guide to First Night Pittsburgh 2019.    I’ve been lucky enough to attend several First Night Pittsburgh nights…

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PIT Airport Guide for Families | Tips for Navigating Pittsburgh International Airport

Karyn Locke
PIT Airport Guide for families and pets

Flying in or out of Pittsburgh International Airport and want the scoop on what you can expect when you arrive? From where to let the kids play to parking costs, here’s our PIT Airport Guide for families: Tips & Tricks for Navigating Pittsburgh International Airport. All photos courtesy of Pittsburgh International Airport. I’ve been to PIT Airport so many times I couldn’t even count, whether flying or not. And, while it may seem overwhelming, especially when flying with the kids, it’s a really good airport for families. Here’s what to do,…

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2018 Columbus Holiday Guide

Karyn Locke

There’s a reason that Ohio’s capitol sits almost perfectly in the center of the state: so all of its residents have easy access! If you’ve never visited Columbus, Ohio, you really need to start planning a trip. If you’ve never visited during the holidays? You’re really missing out on the merriment!  Beginning on November 18, 2018 Columbus holiday events are not to be missed! Check out our nine favorite reasons to head into the city for the holiday fun this year for this year’s Columbus Holiday Guide. Man, I can’t get enough of…

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Saatva Mattress Review: Why You Should Consider

Karyn Locke
Saatva Luxury innerspring Mattress Review

As a travel writer, I’m getting really good at judging good mattresses. Heck, spending so much time in hotel rooms has not only let me see places I’ve never, but it’s really given me a “I like this, not that” perspective on sleeping. Should you buy a Saatva Mattress? Here’s the scoop on delivery, quality, and if it makes sense for you.  Disclosure: I was gifted a Saatva Mattress from the company. This post also contains affiliate links. If you chose to click on a link and purchase a Saatva…

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