Theme Parks and Passports

Heidi Mackey and Melissa Sanchez
  • 5.0 (5)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

The travel podcast for every family that is ready to explore the world, one destination at a time! Theme Parks & Passports is a podcast for anyone who has ever dreamed of traveling with (or without) your family! Hosted by two travel-obsessed agents – Melissa Sanchez and Heidi Mackey – who know the ins and outs of all types of family vacations! They will take your travel dreams and make them into a reality.

  1. Navigating Air Travel Like a Pro

    3D AGO

    Navigating Air Travel Like a Pro

    Looking for the best air travel tips to avoid delays, long TSA lines, and airport chaos? In this episode, Heidi and Melissa break down everything you need to know - from check-in strategies and packing smart to TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and navigating busy travel seasons. These are the must-know tips every traveler should use before their next flight. Key Takeaways: - Preparation is everything → Check in exactly 24 hours before your flight, download your boarding pass, and pack TSA-friendly to avoid unnecessary delays at the airport. - Give yourself more time than you think you need → Airports are busier than ever, and wait times can change quickly—arriving early reduces stress and helps you stay ahead of unexpected issues. - Use programs that save time → TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Mobile Passport Control can significantly speed up your airport experience and make traveling much smoother. Resources: TSA Main Website: https://www.tsa.gov TSA Prescheck - https://www.tsa.gov/precheck Global Entry - https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry Mobile Passport - https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/mobile-passport-control Touchless ID - https://www.tsa.gov/touchless-id Connect with Hosts: This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/ Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/ Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/ Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/ Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel Key Episode Timestamps: (00:00) Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports (01:40) Why air travel feels more stressful right now (02:45) Airport crowds, TSA delays, and what to expect (03:09) Start before you leave home check-in strategy (04:52) Packing smart and TSA-friendly tips (06:31) TSA PreCheck why it’s worth it (07:32) How early to arrive at the airport (09:27) Basic economy vs regular economy flights (11:00) TSA programs Global Entry and touchless ID explained (16:09) Returning home customs and Mobile Passport Control (18:54) Delays, flexibility, and managing expectations (22:30) Flight booking tips nonstop flights and layovers (24:01) Best and worst times to fly (26:35) Carry-on vs checked bag this or that Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    28 min
  2. Inside runDisney: How to Run a Disney Race (Tips from a 100-Race Veteran)

    MAR 15

    Inside runDisney: How to Run a Disney Race (Tips from a 100-Race Veteran)

    What’s it really like to run a race through Disney parks? In this episode of Theme Parks & Passports, Heidi and Melissa talk with runDisney expert and fellow travel agent Shannon Heffern, who has completed more than 100 runDisney races. Shannon shares what makes these races so special—from running through Magic Kingdom to the famous Dopey Challenge—plus tips on registration, training, costumes, and how families can join the fun even if they’re not running. If you’ve ever thought about signing up for a runDisney race, this episode will help you get started. Key Takeaways RunDisney races are for all levels of runners. From family-friendly 5Ks to the intense Dopey Challenge (48.6 miles over four days), runDisney events offer something for beginners and experienced runners alike. The magic of runDisney is the experience, not just the race. Runners get to race through Disney parks, see characters along the course, wear creative costumes, and enjoy a uniquely fun atmosphere that makes these events different from traditional races. Preparation and planning are key. Registration can sell out quickly, training programs like the Jeff Galloway method help runners prepare, and testing your costume and gear ahead of race day can make the experience much smoother. Resources: runDisney website: www.rundisney.com  Jeff Galloway method: https://www.jeffgalloway.com  Connect with Guest: Shannon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonheff/  Shannon’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shannonhefferntravel  Shannon’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannon.atkinsonwilson  Connect with Hosts: This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/  Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/  Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/ Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/  Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel  Key Episode Timestamps: (00:00) Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports(01:17) Meet runDisney expert Shannon Heffern — 100+ Disney races and counting (04:24) The Dopey Challenge explained: running 48.6 miles in four days (06:05) The Jeff Galloway training method and how runners prepare for runDisney (07:42) What makes runDisney races different from traditional marathons (10:23) runDisney costumes, DisneyBounding, and the most creative race outfits (16:44) The “Hunger Games” of runDisney registration and how races sell out (23:47) Race weekend logistics: the runDisney expo, bib pickup, and shopping (28:32) The balloon ladies explained and the 16-minute mile race cutoff (30:36) Virtual runDisney races and how you can still earn medals from home (31:26) Castaway Cay 5K on Disney Cruise Line and running on a private island (33:28) Would You Rather: runDisney at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or Castaway Cay Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    35 min
  3. Travel Mishaps That Nearly Ruined Our Trips (And What We Learned)

    MAR 1

    Travel Mishaps That Nearly Ruined Our Trips (And What We Learned)

    Think your travel plans are foolproof? Think again. In this episode of Theme Parks & Passports, we’re sharing real-life travel mishaps — from forgotten passports before a cruise and missed flights due to airport delays, to lost luggage in Paris and hotel booking disasters the night before sailing. As experienced travel advisors, we break down what went wrong, what we learned, and how travel insurance saved us thousands of dollars. Whether you're planning a Disney Cruise, European vacation, or family getaway, these travel tips will help you avoid common cruise mistakes, flight delays, and packing oversights so your next trip goes smoothly. Key Takeaways Always Pack & Double-Check Essential Travel DocumentsBefore any cruise or international trip, confirm you have your passport, required identification, and any supporting documents (like birth or marriage certificates). Forgotten travel documents are one of the most common cruise embarkation mistakes — and they can prevent you from boarding entirely. Travel Insurance Protects You From Flight Delays & Lost LuggageTravel insurance isn’t just for trip cancellation — it can reimburse you for delayed flights, missed connections, lost luggage, emergency hotel stays, and unexpected travel expenses. A comprehensive policy can save you thousands during cruise disruptions or airline mishaps. Expect Travel Delays — Build Flexibility Into Your ItineraryFrom cruise ships arriving late due to weather to last-minute flight schedule changes, travel delays happen. Arriving a day early for cruises, keeping receipts, tracking luggage, and having a backup plan can make the difference between panic and pivoting smoothly. Resources: U.S. Passport Information – https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html Closed-Loop Cruise Documentation Requirements – https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-74  U.S. Customs & Border Protection Cruise Travel Info – https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/cruise-travel  Allianz Travel Insurance – https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com Travel Guard Insurance – https://www.travelguard.com Medjet Membership – https://www.medjet.com U.S. Airline Passenger Rights – https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer Apple AirTag – https://www.apple.com/airtag/ Connect with Hosts: This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/  Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/  Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/ Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/  Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel  Key Episode Timestamps: [00:00:00] Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports[00:01:10] Introduction to the episode - travel mishaps and real-life travel mistakes [00:02:28] Forgetting a passport before a cruise departure [00:05:13] When you forget to book the pre-cruise hotel [00:07:23] When kids pack for themselves [00:09:40] Booking the wrong return flight home from a cruise [00:11:45] Missing a flight after a delay time changed at the airport [00:14:26] Lost luggage in Paris and why travel insurance matters [00:18:00] Being reimbursed through travel insurance for lost luggage expenses [00:21:30] What happens when your cruise ship arrives five hours late [00:25:32] Final takeaways: learning from travel mistakes and why advisors matter Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    28 min
  4. Traveling Gluten-Free: Cruising & Visiting Theme Parks with Celiac

    FEB 15

    Traveling Gluten-Free: Cruising & Visiting Theme Parks with Celiac

    Traveling with food allergies can feel overwhelming and it certainly was for Dana Murphy whose son was diagnosed with Celiac when he was 9 years old. In this episode of Theme Parks & Passports, we chat with Dana, whose son is now a teen, as shares her real-life experience navigating gluten-free travel at theme parks, all-inclusive resorts, and on cruises. We talk about what it’s really like doing Walt Disney World and Universal gluten-free, how Norwegian Cruise Line handled food allergies, what surprised her most, and the tools and apps that make traveling with Celiac easier than ever. If you’re hesitating on traveling with a food allergy, this episode will give you the confidence (and practical tips) to take the trip. Key Takeaways  Preparation Reduces Stress - From packing backup snacks to using tools like the Gluten Dude app, joining gluten-free travel groups, and notifying resorts in advance, a little planning dramatically reduces anxiety and improves the experience. Cruises are Surprisingly One of the Easiest Options - Cruise lines (especially Norwegian) consistently flagged allergies, offered clear labeling, and provided chef support, giving parents peace of mind and teens independence to order safely on their own. Theme parks are more accommodating than ever for gluten-free travelers - At places like Walt Disney World and Universal, staff are knowledgeable, menus are clearly marked, and chefs often speak directly with guests to ensure safe preparation. With a little research and some advance planning, theme park trips can feel just as magical. Resources: Gluten Dude App - https://glutendude.app/  Walt Disney World Special Dietary Requests - https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/special-dietary-requests/ Universal Special Dietary Needs - https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/plan-your-visit/dining Norwegian Cruise Line Special Dietary Needs -  https://www.ncl.com/about/accessible-cruising  Connect with Hosts: This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/  Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/  Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/ Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/  Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel  Key Episode Timestamps: [00:00:00] Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports [00:01:47] Introduction to the episode and guest, Dana Murphy [00:05:15] What a “traveling picnic” looks like on road trips [00:09:00] First gluten-free all-inclusive experience at Beaches [00:12:27] How gluten-free travel has improved over the years [00:13:36] Top tools for planning gluten-free travel [00:17:24] Walt Disney World vs Universal for Celiac [00:25:00] Norwegian Cruise Line allergy experience [00:27:18] Navigating the buffet with food allergies [00:30:22] Advice for parents newly navigating Celiac and travel Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    35 min

  5. FEB 1

    A Complete Guide to EPCOT’s Yearly Festivals at Walt Disney World

    When planning Walt Disney World trips, hosts and travel advisors Heidi and Melissa don’t just consider crowds and weather, they also choose their dates based on which EPCOT festival is happening. In this episode, they break down every EPCOT festival throughout the year. They share what to expect from EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts, the International Flower and Garden Festival, the International Food and Wine Festival, and the International Festival of the Holidays. From food booths and concert series to scavenger hunts, merchandise, and special experiences for families and adults alike, you’ll experience something different in every season of the year at EPCOT. Whether you’re planning your first Disney World vacation or looking to time your trip around your favorite EPCOT festival, this guide will help you decide when to visit EPCOT and how to make the most of every festival season at Walt Disney World. Key Takeaways EPCOT festivals run nearly year-round, making them one of the best ways to enhance a Walt Disney World trip with seasonal food, entertainment, and immersive experiences. Each EPCOT festival has a distinct focus—from art and Broadway performances to garden topiaries, global cuisine, and holiday traditions—so choosing the right festival can completely shape your park experience. Timing your visit around an EPCOT festival adds value for both families and adults, offering interactive activities, concerts, special merchandise, and limited-time food that aren’t available during non-festival periods. Resources: Walt Disney World EPCOT Information EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Jan - Feb EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival March - June EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Aug - Nov EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Nov - Dec Connect with Hosts: This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/  Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/  Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/ Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/  Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel  Key Episode Timestamps: [00:00:00] Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports [00:01:16] Introduction to the episode and planning Walt Disney World trips around EPCOT festivals   [00:02:30] Memories of EPCOT’s Flower and Garden Festival and the significance of festival timing   [00:03:13] Opening day of the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts and why it’s a great way to start the year   [00:04:11] Overview of the three pillars of EPCOT festivals: visual arts, culinary arts, and performing arts   [00:06:21] Breakdown of EPCOT festival seasons throughout the year and when each one takes place   [00:07:43] Deep dive into the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts experiences and activities   [00:09:29] Disney on Broadway concert series and how performances influence EPCOT planning days   [00:14:55] Introduction to the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival and spring highlights   [00:20:00] Why the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival is a fan favorite and what makes it special   [00:26:57] The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays and the Candlelight Processional experience   Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    35 min
  6. America’s National Parks and other US Destinations with Denise Fraind of Globus

    JAN 15

    America’s National Parks and other US Destinations with Denise Fraind of Globus

    With seeing more of the U.S. as a top travel trend this year, National Parks are taking the stage, yet again as a prime destination for family vacations. In this episode of Theme Parks & Passports, host Melissa Sanchez dives into the rise of U.S. guided touring with Denise Fraind of Globus, exploring why traveling your backyard can be just as exciting as Europe or Asia. From Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon to Alaska, Hawaii, and beyond, Denise breaks down how guided tours offer easier logistics, insider access, flexible pacing, and small-group options that make seeing America’s most iconic destinations simpler and more immersive. Whether you’re a first-time tour traveler, planning a multigenerational trip, or looking for a smarter way to experience U.S. National Parks, this episode covers everything you need to know about touring America, without the hassle. Key Takeaways Guided U.S. National Park tours remove the biggest travel pain points. Touring with Globus eliminates driving long distances, navigating park reservations, and worrying about logistics—allowing travelers to see more of America’s National Parks with less stress and better access. U.S. touring is no longer one-size-fits-all Today’s U.S. guided tours offer small-group options, flexible excursions, and off-season “escape” itineraries, making National Park travel ideal for families, solo travelers, and multigenerational groups planning trips in 2026 and beyond. America’s National Parks are a top domestic travel trend for 2026 From Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon to Alaska and Hawaii, U.S. National Park tours continue to surge as travelers prioritize bucket-list destinations, immersive experiences, and smarter ways to explore the United States. Resources: Globus Family of Brands Globus - https://www.globusjourneys.com Cosmos - https://www.cosmos.com  Avalon River Cruising - https://www.avalonwaterways.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/globustravel/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/globus  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/Globusfamily  Connect with Hosts: This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/  Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/  Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/ Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/  Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel  Key Episode Timestamps: [00:00:00] Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports [00:01:24] Introduction to the episode guest, Denise Fraind, Business Development Manager of the Globus Family of Brands [00:03:22] Why U.S. National Park tours are a major travel trend [00:04:00] Differences between Globus and Cosmos touring styles [00:05:20] How guided tours compare to driving National Parks yourself [00:06:47] Small group tours, flexibility, and free time on U.S. itineraries [00:10:43] Travel trends for 2026: solo, multigenerational, and families [00:13:22] Canyon Country Adventure Tour recap: Grand Canyon, Zion & Bryce [00:16:25] Most popular U.S. National Park tours, including Yellowstone & Alaska [00:20:27] History and music-focused U.S. tours you may not expect [00:24:00] Special event tours and off-season “Escape” itineraries explained Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    38 min
  7. Welcome to Season 2: Real Family Travel, Theme Parks & Beyond

    JAN 1

    Welcome to Season 2: Real Family Travel, Theme Parks & Beyond

    Travel looks different in every season of life - and that’s exactly what we’re diving into as we kick off Season 2 of Theme Parks & Passports. In this welcome episode, hosts Heidi Mackey and Melissa Sanchez reintroduce themselves and reflect on what a year of traveling with families has taught them. From Disney and Universal theme parks to cruises, bucket-list destinations, fandom travel, and multigenerational trips, they talk about how real families actually travel. They also share what’s coming in Season 2, including more inspiring guest stories, practical travel advice, and conversations designed to help you stop waiting for “someday” and finally book the trip.  Key Takeaways Family travel changes with every stage of life — and that’s the point. Traveling with toddlers, teens, adult kids, or grandparents all looks different, but meaningful family travel is possible (and worth it) at every age. Real travel advice comes from lived experience, not just itineraries. As working travel advisors and moms, the hosts share firsthand insights from Disney, cruises, Europe, and bucket-list trips — including what they’d recommend and what they wouldn’t. You don’t need unlimited time or money to see the world — you need a plan. This season is about inspiring listeners to stop waiting for “someday,” start planning intentionally, and finally book the trips that matter most to them. Resources: Halloween Episode River Cruising Episode South Africa Travel Episode Connect with Hosts: This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/  Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/  Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/ Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/  Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel  Key Episode Timestamps: [00:00:00] Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports [00:00:56] Introduction to Season 2 [00:01:39] How the podcast started over brunch in New Jersey [00:03:18] Recording together in person at En Voyage headquarters [00:04:24] Meet the hosts: travel advisors, moms, and agency owners [00:06:22] Family travel specialties, cruises, and fandom travel [00:08:28] What Theme Parks & Passports is really about [00:10:38] Why lived travel experience matters more than theory [00:12:08] Upcoming 2026 trips and bucket-list travel plans [00:16:14] What’s changing and expanding in Season 2 [00:21:00] Inspiring listeners to stop waiting and just book the trip Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    26 min
  8. 2026 Travel Trends & Predictions

    12/15/2025

    2026 Travel Trends & Predictions

    2026 could, in fact, be one of the most exciting years in travel. In this solo episode, host Heidi Mackey of House of Mackey Travel breaks down exactly what families, adventure seekers, and bucket-list travelers need to know. From the explosive rise of ocean cruising to the surge in bucket-list adventures, wellness travel, and off-season escapes. Discover why Europe (especially Italy, Greece, and the U.K.) will dominate travel plans, which U.S. destinations are trending, and how celestial events like the Iceland solar eclipse are inspiring once-in-a-lifetime trips. Whether you're planning your first cruise, mapping out next year’s big family vacation, or dreaming of a magical sky-watching experience, this episode will help you plan smarter, and get inspired for an unforgettable 2026. Key Takeaways Cruising will surge in 2026, with more families, couples, and multi-gen groups booking ocean cruises thanks to new ships, expanded itineraries, and stress-free, adventure-packed travel options. Bucket list and wellness travel are on the rise, including once-in-a-lifetime destinations like the Galápagos, African safaris, Iceland hot springs, and off-the-beaten-path retreats focused on rest, nature, and meaningful connection. Europe and U.S. destinations dominate 2026 travel trends, with Italy, Greece, the U.K., Alaska, and Hawaii, topping the list. Connect with Hosts: This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/  Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/  Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/ Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/  Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel  Key Episode Timestamps: [00:00:00] 2026 Travel Trends & Predictions [00:01:00] Welcome to Theme Parks & Passports [00:01:42] Cruising surges in popularity and why 2026 will be a massive year for ocean cruises [00:02:38] Bucket list travel rises as families prioritize meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime trips [00:03:10] Wellness travel shifts toward off-the-beaten-path retreats focused on rest and restoration [00:03:47] Europe remains a top destination, with Italy, Greece, and the U.K. leading 2026 travel [00:04:29] Off-season travel becomes the new normal for smoother, less crowded experiences [00:05:00] U.S. travel trends: theme parks, Alaska cruise-land combos, and more [00:05:47] Growing interest in celestial event travel, including Iceland’s 2026 total solar eclipse [00:06:24] Travel insurance becomes essential as travelers prioritize protection and peace of mind Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    8 min
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out of 5
5 Ratings

About

The travel podcast for every family that is ready to explore the world, one destination at a time! Theme Parks & Passports is a podcast for anyone who has ever dreamed of traveling with (or without) your family! Hosted by two travel-obsessed agents – Melissa Sanchez and Heidi Mackey – who know the ins and outs of all types of family vacations! They will take your travel dreams and make them into a reality.

Information

  • Creator
    Heidi Mackey and Melissa Sanchez
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Heidi Mackey and Melissa Sanchez
  • Show Website
    Theme Parks and Passports

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