Ports and Palaces

Chad and Kirstyn Russell
  • 5.0 (2)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Hey there - we're Kirstyn and Chad. Come along with us as we travel the world and visit every port and palace along the way! From Disney, Universal, Royal Caribbean, and around the world - we plan to see it all, eat it all, and experience it all. Join us while we tell you what you can't miss and what you should miss! If you are looking to plan a trip, please reach out! We use our personal experiences to help our clients build the vacation itineraries of their dreams. Our travel planning services are completely free to you. Message me at kirstyn.russell@portsandpalaces.vacations to book

  1. JAN 28

    Let the Good Times Roll: Universal Studios Orlando Mardi Gras

    Universal Studios Orlando brings the Big Easy to Florida with Mardi Gras! On Ports & Palaces, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about Universal Orlando Mardi Gras—must-try food and drinks, parade floats, live concerts, bead-throwing fun, and insider planning tips.  Tune in to find out if this colorful, high-energy seasonal event is worth adding to your next Universal Studios Florida trip. Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Wednesday for the podcast.  🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and.Palaces🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and YouTube⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and we just might shout you out in our next episode! This episode is sponsored by Ports and Palaces Vacations.  For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney, Universal, and Royal Caribbean Vacations, email Kirstyn.Russell@portsandpalaces.vacations  Let’s Get Social! Join the conversation at any of the platforms below: Website - https://trips.portsandpalaces.vacations/  YouTube –  https://www.youtube.com/@ports.and.palaces TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ports.and.palaces Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ports.and.palaces.vacations/ Facebook –  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091915844431  Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/portsandpalaces/?etsrc=sdt

    13 min

  2. JAN 21

    EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2026: Complete Guide to Food, Art & Entertainment

    EPCOT’s most creative festival is back!From Broadway concerts and live art to Figment scavenger hunts and food studios that look too pretty to eat — the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is a can’t-miss. We’re breaking down what to eat, what to skip, and what you absolutely need to experience before it’s gone 🎭🍽️💜 Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Wednesday for the podcast.  🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and.Palaces🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and YouTube⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and we just might shout you out in our next episode! This episode is sponsored by Ports and Palaces Vacations.  For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney, Universal, and Royal Caribbean Vacations, email Kirstyn.Russell@portsandpalaces.vacations  Let’s Get Social! Join the conversation at any of the platforms below: Website - https://trips.portsandpalaces.vacations/  YouTube –  https://www.youtube.com/@ports.and.palaces TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ports.and.palaces Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ports.and.palaces.vacations/ Facebook –  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091915844431  Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/portsandpalaces/?etsrc=sdt

    38 min

  3. JAN 9

    Universal Kids Resort: Is This the Future of Family Theme Parks?

    Universal Kids Resort is coming to Frisco, TX — and it’s not a “mini park.” We’re talking full themed lands inspired by Trolls, Shrek, Minions, Jurassic World, SpongeBob, and Puss in Boots, plus rides, splash zones, play areas, shows, character meet-and-greets… and a family-first hotel literally steps from the park. Bunk beds. Family suites. Sensory gardens. Kid-friendly thrills. This feels like Universal’s biggest swing yet at younger travelers — and families planning their first big theme park trip. 🎙️ We break down every land, attraction, dining spot, and hotel detail on the latest episode of Ports & Palaces. Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Wednesday for the podcast.  🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and.Palaces🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and YouTube⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and we just might shout you out in our next episode! This episode is sponsored by Ports and Palaces Vacations.  For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney, Universal, and Royal Caribbean Vacations, email Kirstyn.Russell@portsandpalaces.vacations  Let’s Get Social! Join the conversation at any of the platforms below: Website - https://trips.portsandpalaces.vacations/  YouTube –  https://www.youtube.com/@ports.and.palaces TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ports.and.palaces Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ports.and.palaces.vacations/ Facebook –  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091915844431  Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/portsandpalaces/?etsrc=sdt

    35 min

  4. 11/19/2025

    How to Book Disney Cruise Activities: Your Quick Guide to Dining & Excursions

    "Are you wondering how to book Disney Cruise Line (DCL) activities like Palo reservations, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (BBB), or those must-do Port Adventures? This is your quick tip guide!" In this episode, we lay out essential time-saving tips on how to secure reservations quickly and efficiently: When and Where you can book your cruise activities What activities you can book What to do to minimize scrolling and get to your desired activity quickly How to get on waitlists and when options must be finalized Don't miss out on your favorite DCL Port Adventures! Listen now for the ultimate Disney Cruise booking strategy! 🎧 Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Wednesday for the podcast.  🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and.Palaces🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and YouTube⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and we just might shout you out in our next episode! This episode is sponsored by Ports and Palaces Vacations.  For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney, Universal, and Royal Caribbean Vacations, email Kirstyn.Russell@portsandpalaces.vacations  Let’s Get Social! Join the conversation at any of the platforms below: Website - https://trips.portsandpalaces.vacations/  YouTube –  https://www.youtube.com/@ports.and.palaces TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ports.and.palaces Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ports.and.palaces.vacations/ Facebook –  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091915844431  Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/portsandpalaces/?etsrc=sdt #DisneyCruise #DCLTips #CruiseHacks #DisneyCruiseLine #DCLReservations #CruisePlanning #Palo #RemyDining #BibbidiBobbidiBoutique #DCLPortAdventures #CharacterMeetAndGreet#CastawayClub #DCLPlatinum #DisneyCruiser #CruiseBooking #DisneyVacation #CruiseLife #DisneyAtSea #PortsAndPalaces #TravelPodcast

    17 min

  5. 11/13/2025

    Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2025: The Ultimate WDW Guide to Characters, Food & Entertainment at Magic Kingdom’s Christmas Party

    In this episode, we lay out touring plans to maximize your time at Magic Kingdom’s Christmas Party When to arrive Which Character Meet and Greets are worth your time Where to find the free cookies Must-see entertainment Food you don’t want to miss Whether you're a first-timer or a holiday veteran, having a plan is key to conquering this limited-time event. What are you most excited for? Let us know your top priority for the Magic Kingdom Christmas Party by tagging us on social media [@Ports.And.Palaces] using #MVMCP2025! Subscribe now so you don't miss our next deep dive into the WDW Holiday season! Thanks so much for listening! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Wednesday for the podcast. 🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and.Palaces 🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and YouTube ⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and we just might shout you out in our next episode! This episode is sponsored by Ports and Palaces Vacations. For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney, Universal, and Royal Caribbean Vacations, email Kirstyn.Russell@portsandpalaces.vacations Let’s Get Social! Join the conversation at any of the platforms below: Website - https://trips.portsandpalaces.vacations/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@ports.and.palaces TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ports.and.palaces Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/ports.and.palaces.vacations/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091915844431 Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/portsandpalaces/?etsrc=sdt #MickeysVeryMerryChristmasParty #MVMCP #MagicKingdom #DisneyWorld #WDW #DisneyChristmas #MVMCP2025 #DisneyStrategy #ParkTips #DisneyFood #HolidayGuide #IsItWorthIt #MickeyParade #MickeysOnceUponAChristmastimeParade #DisneyFireworks #SnowOnMainStreet #RareCharacters #DisneyPodcast #DisneyParks #WaltDisneyWorld #ChristmasInOrlando

    32 min

  6. 11/05/2025

    Jollywood Nights ULTIMATE 5-Hour Plan: Rarest Characters, MUST-SEE Shows, & Exclusive Food!

    Ready to conquer Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios? 🎉 This special, separately-ticketed holiday event is only 5 hours long, so you need a winning plan to see the unique characters, dazzling shows, and exclusive food! In this episode, we lay out two very different touring plans for Jollywood Nights. We're comparing strategies for: The rarest Character Meet & Greets (Hello, Phineas & Ferb, Max as Powerline, and Mike Wazowski!) Must-see entertainment like the all-new Glisten! skating spectacular, Disney Holidays in Hollywood, and What's This? Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along. The best holiday food and drinks, including our top picks for the Birria Tacos, Holiday Turkey Popover, and festive cocktails. Listen now to compare our two Hollywood Studios party plans and decide which one is right for your next visit! Don't miss out on any of the Jollywood magic—this episode is your essential guide! Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Wednesday for the podcast.  🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and.Palaces🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and YouTube⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and we just might shout you out in our next episode! This episode is sponsored by Ports and Palaces Vacations.  For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney, Universal, and Royal Caribbean Vacations, email Kirstyn.Russell@portsandpalaces.vacations  Let’s Get Social! Join the conversation at any of the platforms below: Website - https://trips.portsandpalaces.vacations/  YouTube –  https://www.youtube.com/@ports.and.palaces TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ports.and.palaces Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ports.and.palaces.vacations/ Facebook –  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091915844431  Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/portsandpalaces/?etsrc=sdt

    36 min

  7. 10/30/2025

    Disneyland Trip Report: Halloween Fun, Grand Californian Stay, Oogie Boogie Bash & More!

    Thinking about taking heading to Disneyland in the Fall? This episode of Ports & Palaces features a family who spent a week in Anaheim doing it all!!  Listen for tips on  how to maximize time in your Disney resort what activities to focus on outside of the parks for rest day experiences how to navigate unexpected illness while at Disney and more! Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Wednesday for the podcast.  🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and.Palaces🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and YouTube⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and we just might shout you out in our next episode! This episode is sponsored by Ports and Palaces Vacations.  For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney, Universal, and Royal Caribbean Vacations, email Kirstyn.Russell@portsandpalaces.vacations  Let’s Get Social! Join the conversation at any of the platforms below: Website - https://trips.portsandpalaces.vacations/  YouTube –  https://www.youtube.com/@ports.and.palaces TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ports.and.palaces Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ports.and.palaces.vacations/ Facebook –  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091915844431  Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/portsandpalaces/?etsrc=sdt

    1h 40m

  8. 10/21/2025

    Disney World Rest Day Activities: Relax, Recharge & Explore

    On this week’s Ports and Palaces Podcast, we’re sharing the best way to do a rest day in Disney World!  Tune in for 💰FREE Activities 🍟Dining to Prioritize 🏨What to do if you are staying Off-Property Thanks so much for listening!  If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Tuesday for the podcast.  🔗 Follow us on all social platforms @Ports.and.Palaces🎧 Subscribe to Ports and Palaces on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and YouTube⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and we just might shout you out in our next episode! This episode is sponsored by Ports and Palaces Vacations.  For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney, Universal, and Royal Caribbean Vacations, email Kirstyn.Russell@portsandpalaces.vacations  Let’s Get Social! Join the conversation at any of the platforms below: Website - https://trips.portsandpalaces.vacations/  YouTube –  https://www.youtube.com/@ports.and.palaces TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ports.and.palaces Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/ports.and.palaces.vacations/ Facebook –  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091915844431  Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/portsandpalaces/?etsrc=sdt

    34 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Hey there - we're Kirstyn and Chad. Come along with us as we travel the world and visit every port and palace along the way! From Disney, Universal, Royal Caribbean, and around the world - we plan to see it all, eat it all, and experience it all. Join us while we tell you what you can't miss and what you should miss! If you are looking to plan a trip, please reach out! We use our personal experiences to help our clients build the vacation itineraries of their dreams. Our travel planning services are completely free to you. Message me at kirstyn.russell@portsandpalaces.vacations to book

Information

  • Creator
    Chad and Kirstyn Russell
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Chad and Kirstyn Russell
  • Show Website
    Ports and Palaces
  • Provider
    Chad Russell