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. 4d ago

    Beat the Heat, Rain & Meltdowns: How to Rest at Walt Disney World

    Escape the heat, dodge the rain, and survive the fatigue! In this episode of Ports to Palaces, we break down the absolute best air-conditioned rides, shaded shows, massive dining halls, and hidden quiet zones across all four Disney World parks to help you beat the Florida elements—no reservations required. Plus, stick around for our essential weather packing list and a Universal secret that every traveler needs to know! 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

  2. Sep 23

    Disneyland with a Toddler | Rides, Character Dining & Full Trip Report

    Join us for a detailed trip report from a recent girls’ trip to Disneyland Resort with a toddler!  From flying into SNA and staying at the Courtyard Marriott Anaheim to enjoying low wait times, unhurried character meetings, and front-row virtual queue seats for World of Color, we’re sharing all the highlights from the trip.  Plus, we’re diving into character dining at Storytellers Cafe and Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, comparing Disneyland to Walt Disney World, and sharing why Disneyland’s compact footprint and relaxed feel can make it such a manageable vacation for families traveling with young children! 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

  3. Sep 16

    Prioritize, Pass, Plus: What to Focus on this Halloween at Disneyland

    Halloween is back at Disneyland, and while many of the fan-favorite experiences are returning, that doesn’t mean you need to do everything to have an amazing Halloween visit!  In this episode, we’re breaking down Disneyland’s Halloween offerings into three categories: Prioritize, Pass, and Plus. We’ll share the experiences we think are worth making time for, the ones you can skip if you’re short on time, and the fun extras that can take your Halloween day to the next level. From seasonal entertainment and attractions to Halloween atmosphere, characters, and this year’s food offerings, we’re sharing what we’d focus on if we were planning a Disneyland Halloween trip in 2026. Because when your park time is limited, knowing what’s actually worth your time can make all the difference! 🎃✨ 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

  4. Sep 2

    Is the NEW 2026 Oogie Boogie Bash Worth It?

    On this week’s Ports & Palaces Podcast, we’re heading to Disneyland for the ultimate Halloween celebration – Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure! From rare character meet-and-greets to jaw-dropping treat trails and spooky overlays, we’re breaking down everything that is new for this year’s event. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: 🎟️ Event Basics  🍬 Treat Trails 📸 Character Photo Ops 🎶 Frightfully Fun Parade 🌲 Villains Grove 🎢 Attractions with Halloween Twists 🥤 Food & Drinks 🛍️ Merchandise & Add-Ons Whether you’re planning your first Oogie Boogie Bash or returning for another frightfully fun year, this episode is packed with all the NEW, plus a little of the returning, to help make your trip as great as it can be! 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

  5. Aug 26

    Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2026: The Ultimate Priority Guide

    Feeling the need for some frightfully good fun this fall? Grab your candy buckets and your favorite pumpkin spice latte—today on Ports and Palaces, we’re diving into the spookiest event of the year: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. We’re tackling: 🎃 The "When & How": Navigating the event calendar and ticket windows 👻 The Main Event: Prioritizing the Boo-to-You Parade and Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular 🍭 Strategy for the sweet stuff: Rare characters and the best treats Grab your notebook and hit play—let’s master the magic of Halloween at the Magic Kingdom without the stress! 🪄 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

  6. Aug 19

    D23 Expo News

    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

  7. Jul 22

    Disney World Planning 101: The Non-Overwhelming Beginner's Guide

    Feeling overwhelmed by Disney World planning? We’ve got you covered. In today's episode, we map out the ultimate beginner’s playbook for an unforgettable Disney vacation! We’re tackling: 🗓️ Picking the best dates & the "Sandwich Strategy" rest-day rule 🏨 The 7-day hotel perk that gives you an edge over offsite guests ⚡ Multi Pass vs. Single Pass Lightning Lanes explained 🍽️ Securing the best dining reservations 60 days out Grab your notebook (or your favorite Disney mug) and hit play to master the magic without the stress! 🪄 ✨ 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

    Disney World Planning 101: The Non-Overwhelming Beginner's Guide

  8. Jul 15

    Is Universal's New Texas Park Worth the Hype? Our Preview Event Review

    What happens when you scale down a massive theme park entirely for the little ones? 🦖 Heavy water fights with Minions, dancing with Trolls, and coasters built just for first-timers! We attended a preview event at Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, TX, and in today's episode, we’re giving you the ultimate sneak peek. We dive into the best rides for toddlers, the unique "kid-first" food menu, and our top tips for planning your trip. Hit play to hear our full verdict! 🎙️👇 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

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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
    53
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Chad and Kirstyn Russell
  • Show Website
    Ports and Palaces
  • Provider
    Chad Russell

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