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. 5d ago

    Salem at 400: Witches, History & Family Adventures

    Salem may be famous for the witch trials, but there’s so much more to discover—especially as the city celebrates its 400th anniversary. In this episode, Heidi talks with Alicia Diozzi, former history teacher and founder of Salem Kids Tours, about how families can experience Salem’s fascinating history in a way that’s engaging, age-appropriate, and fun. From separating historical fact from spooky legend to uncovering Salem’s maritime, literary, and revolutionary history, Alicia shares the stories most visitors miss. Plus, she offers practical advice for visiting with kids, choosing the right tour, avoiding the October crowds, and discovering a side of Salem that goes far beyond witches and Halloween. Key Takeaways Salem is more than the witch trials. As the city celebrates its 400th anniversary, families can explore centuries of maritime, literary, Revolutionary, and cultural history beyond the events of 1692. Kids can learn Salem’s history without the scary details. The right tour can introduce children to the real history behind Salem while separating fact from legend and keeping the storytelling engaging and age-appropriate. October isn’t the only time to visit Salem. Spring and summer offer fewer crowds plus seasonal experiences like boats and waterfront activities, while the city’s major attractions are available well beyond spooky season. Resources: Salem Kids Tours: https://salemkidstours.com  Destination Salem Visitors Center: https://www.salem.org/infocenter/  Alicia Diozzi at Salem Kids Tours on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/salemkidstours/  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 & Passports (01:21) Meet Alicia Diozzi of Salem Kids Tours (02:25) Making Salem History Kid-Friendly (05:47) Salem Fact vs. Fiction (07:08) Celebrating 400 Years of Salem History (09:04) Why You Should Visit Salem Outside October (11:39) Exploring Salem Beyond the Witch Trials (15:12) Private & Customized Salem Tours (20:09) How Kids Change the Way We See History (21:12) How to Choose the Right Salem Tour (23:08) Tips for Planning Your First Salem Visit (24:11) The One Thing Every Salem Visitor Should Know Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    Salem at 400: Witches, History & Family Adventures

  2. Sep 15

    How to Choose the Right Walt Disney World Hotel

    Choosing the right Walt Disney World hotel can completely change the way you experience your vacation. In this episode of Theme Parks & Passports, Heidi and Melissa break down Disney’s value, moderate, deluxe, and villa resorts and share what to consider when deciding where to stay, from budget and location to transportation, amenities, and overall vibe. Melissa also shares what she learned touring 10 Disney World resorts in two days, including the hotel that surprised her most, her favorites for families and adults, and the pros and cons you might not think about before booking. Plus, they explain the rules of Disney resort hopping, how to get from one hotel to another, and why the “best” Disney resort really comes down to finding the one that fits the way you want to vacation. Key Takeaways - Find the Disney resort that fits your trip. Budget matters, but so do your vacation style, preferred amenities, transportation options, and which parks you plan to visit most. - Don’t overlook Disney’s value and moderate resorts. Options like Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, and Port Orleans French Quarter can offer great theming, convenient transportation, and plenty of amenities without deluxe pricing. - You can resort hop—but know the rules. Disney makes it possible to explore other resorts using the Monorail, Skyliner, buses, boats, and walking paths, but parking and transportation access can be restricted, and pool hopping is not allowed. Resources: Walt Disney World Resorts: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts 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 (01:13) Breaking Down Walt Disney World Resort Categories (03:22) Our Favorite Disney World Resorts (06:10) Choosing the Right Resort for Your Family (13:35) Best Disney Resorts for Adults and Empty Nesters (16:02) Touring 10 Disney World Resorts in Two Days (23:41) The Resort That Surprised Melissa the Most (29:33) Disney World Resort Hopping Rules and Transportation (33:35) 5 Things to Consider Before Booking a Disney Resort (36:00) Final Takeaways and Wrap-Up Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    How to Choose the Right Walt Disney World Hotel

  3. Sep 1

    5 Things to Know Before Booking a Holiday Cruise

    Holiday cruises can turn Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, or New Year’s into a completely different kind of family vacation – but there are a few things to know before you book. In this episode, Heidi and Melissa share five tips for planning a holiday cruise, from choosing the cruise line that matches your celebration style and understanding higher holiday pricing to booking popular onboard experiences early, planning for holiday port closures, and packing something festive. Plus, they share one important reminder for the planners and holiday magic-makers: once you’re onboard, let the ship do the hosting so you can spend less time working and more time celebrating together. Key Takeaways Choose the cruise line that matches your holiday style. From Disney’s immersive, family-focused celebrations to Celebrity’s more elegant approach, each cruise line creates a different holiday experience. Plan the must-dos early. Holiday sailings are popular, so specialty dining, spa appointments, excursions, and other limited-capacity experiences can fill quickly. Know your priorities and book them as soon as your reservation window opens. Let the ship do the hosting. Plan the traditions that matter most, but don’t try to recreate your entire holiday at home. One of the biggest benefits of a holiday cruise is letting someone else handle the cooking, cleaning, and details while you enjoy time together Resources: Episode 10 from Theme Parks & Passports - Family Travel at the Holidays Disney Cruise Lines - Very Merrytime Cruises Royal Caribbean – Holiday Cruises  Celebrity Cruise Lines - Holiday Cruises Norwegian Cruise Lines - Holiday Cruises Princess Cruises – Holiday Cruises 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) Celebrating the Holidays on a Cruise (01:51) What Makes a Holiday Cruise Different? (02:27) Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Your Holiday Style (07:11) Are Holiday Cruises Worth the Higher Price? (08:25) Book Your Must-Do Experiences Early (11:00) What to Expect in Ports on Christmas & New Year’s (12:15) Why You Should Pack a Festive Outfit (13:14) Bonus Tip: Let the Ship Do the Hosting  Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    5 Things to Know Before Booking a Holiday Cruise

  4. Aug 15

    The Ultimate 2026 Halloween Guide to Disney & Universal

    Planning a Halloween trip to Orlando or Disneyland Resort? Before you book your tickets, learn how to get the most out of the biggest Halloween events of 2026. In this episode, we're sharing our top planning tips for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World, and Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure. From understanding separate event tickets and taking advantage of early entry to knowing when Express Passes are worth it, these expert tips will help you maximize your time, budget, and spooky fun. Whether you're traveling with little ghosts, Disney fans, or horror lovers, this episode will help you plan your best Halloween theme park vacation yet. Key Takeaways: Learn how to choose the right Halloween event for your travel style, from family-friendly Disney parties to the thrills of Halloween Horror Nights. Discover insider planning tips to maximize your event ticket, including early entry, park strategies, Express Passes, and VIP upgrades. Plan like a pro with advice on Halloween treats, costumes, and special event logistics so you can spend more time enjoying the magic—and the scares. Resources: Theme Parks & Passports Episode 11 - All About Halloween in the Parks - https://youtu.be/8U-9VpGq23w Walt Disney World’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party - https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party/ Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights - https://www.halloweenhorrornights.com Disney California’s Oogie Boogie Bash - https://disneyland.disney.go.com/events-tours/disney-california-adventure/oogie-boogie-bash-halloween-party/ 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 & Passports (01:15) What's New at Disney & Universal Halloween Events for 2026 (06:09) Tip #1: Party Tickets vs. Park Tickets (06:50) Tip #2: Maximize Early Entry (08:20) Tip #3: The Best Universal Park Strategy on Halloween Horror Nights Days (10:14) Tip #4: Are Express Passes & VIP Tours Worth It? (12:43) Tip #5: Plan Your Halloween Food Strategy (15:50) Bonus Tip: Costume Guidelines & Final Planning Advice Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    The Ultimate 2026 Halloween Guide to Disney & Universal

  5. Aug 1

    How the Right Outfit Can Transform Your Theme Park Vacation with Once Upon a Wardrobe

    What if planning what you wear on vacation was as much fun as planning the trip itself? Heidi and Melissa sit down with Lauren Hoesley and Ashlie Henderson, founders of Once Upon A Wardrobe, to talk how they help clients style the perfect outfits for visiting the parks. They touch on Disneybounding, styling themed outfits, and how what you wear can add a little extra magic to your Disney or Universal vacation. Plus, Melissa shares what happened when she put their styling skills to the test for her own photo shoot in the South of France. Key Takeaways: Your outfit can become part of the experience. From character interactions to vacation photos, a thoughtfully themed look can create some surprisingly memorable moments. Cute only works if you're comfortable. Test-drive your outfits, break in your shoes, and don't sacrifice comfort just because something looks perfect on the hanger. You don't need an entirely new wardrobe. Shopping your own closet, adding the right accessories, and pulling inspiration from characters, attractions, resorts, or destinations can completely transform a look Connect with Guests: Once Upon a Wardrobe website - https://www.ouawardrobe.com On Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ouawardrobe/ On TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ouawardrobe On YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ouawardrobe On LTK - https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Once_Upon_a_Wardrobe 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 & Passports (01:52) Meet Lauren & Ashlie of Once Upon A Wardrobe (07:45) How Once Upon A Wardrobe Became a Business (19:22) Personalized Styling Services & How They Work (28:48) Finding Inspiration for Disney & Universal Looks (30:40) Disneybounding vs. Dressing in Costume (32:21) Melissa’s Vacation Styling Experience (42:52) Theme Park Styling Mistakes to Avoid Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    How the Right Outfit Can Transform Your Theme Park Vacation with Once Upon a Wardrobe

  6. Jul 15

    Top 5 Theme Park Hacks to Beat the Summer Heat

    Think you can handle a Florida theme park in the middle of summer? Think again. In this episode, we're sharing our top five expert tips for staying cool at Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and beyond—from the game-changing midday resort break and frozen water bottles with electrolytes to peppermint mints, cooling towels, and the best indoor attractions to escape the heat. Whether you're traveling with kids, friends, or planning an adults-only getaway, these practical strategies will help you spend less time melting in the sun and more time enjoying your vacation. Key Takeaways Take a midday resort break. Heading back to your hotel for a cool shower, fresh clothes, and a short rest can help you recharge and enjoy the parks well into the evening instead of burning out by lunchtime. Hydrate smarter—not just more. Frozen water bottles, electrolyte packets, and free cups of ice water from quick-service locations can help you replace what your body loses in the Florida heat and keep your energy up throughout the day. Plan your day around staying cool. Use cooling towels, peppermint mints, misting fans, and indoor attractions or shows during the hottest hours to avoid heat exhaustion while still making the most of your park day. 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 (01:10) Why surviving summer at Disney and Universal takes more than sunscreen (02:32) Tip #1: The midday resort break that can save your vacation (06:10) Tip #2: The surprising science behind peppermint gum and feeling cooler (07:55) Tip #3: Frozen water bottles, electrolytes, and smart hydration strategies (12:29) Tip #4: Cooling towels, misting fans, and where to cool your body fastest (16:06) Tip #5: The best indoor rides and shows to escape the afternoon heat (20:10) Recapping the top 5 ways to beat the heat at the theme parks Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    Top 5 Theme Park Hacks to Beat the Summer Heat

  7. Jul 1

    Celebrate America by Visiting These Unforgettable Destinations 🇺🇸

    Celebrate America's 250th anniversary by exploring the incredible destinations that tell the story of the United States. From the Freedom Trail in Boston and the historic streets of Philadelphia to the music of Nashville, the charm of Savannah, the landscapes of Yellowstone, the beauty of California, and the unforgettable adventures of Hawaii and Alaska, we're sharing our favorite places to experience the history, culture, food, and natural wonders that make America unique. Whether you're planning your next vacation or adding to your travel bucket list, this episode is packed with inspiration for discovering the very best of the USA. Key Takeaways Experience America's story through travel. Every region of the United States offers a different chapter of the nation's history, from Revolutionary landmarks in the Northeast to Native American heritage in the West and the unique cultures of Hawaii and Alaska. Go beyond the must-see attractions. The best trips combine iconic landmarks with local food, historic neighborhoods, scenic drives, museums, and cultural experiences that help you connect with each destination. Every U.S. destination has its own personality. Whether you're looking for history, music, outdoor adventure, national parks, road trips, beaches, or vibrant cities, there's an American destination that fits your travel style and deserves a spot on your bucket list. Resources: Boston Freedom Trail - https://www.thefreedomtrail.org/  U.S. National Park Service - https://www.nps.gov/index.htm  Smithsonian Museums - https://washington.org/smithsonian-institution-museums  Grand Ole Opry - https://www.opry.com/ SCAD - Savannah College of Art and Design - https://www.scad.edu/ Pearl Harbor National Memorial - https://pearlharbor.org/ Alaska Railroad - https://www.alaskarailroad.com/  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 (01:01) Exploring America for the 250th Anniversary (02:42) The Best Historic Destinations in the Northeast (09:44) Southern Cities Full of History, Music & Charm (18:09) America's Wild West & National Parks (25:07) Hawaii & Alaska: America's Final Frontiers (30:21) Why Every U.S. Destination Tells a Different Story (31:06) Start Planning Your Next American Adventure Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    Celebrate America by Visiting These Unforgettable Destinations 🇺🇸

  8. Jun 15

    Set-Jetting: Turning Pop Culture Into Real Vacations with Michele Schwartz

    Have you ever watched a TV show or movie and thought, “I wish I could go there”? This week on Theme Parks & Passports, Heidi and Melissa are joined by Michele Schwartz, founder of Makin' Memories Travel and host of Jet Setting with Me, to explore the growing travel trend known as set-jetting. From Bridgerton and Emily in Paris to Gilmore Girls, Harry Potter, and Sex and the City, Michele shares how travelers are turning their favorite stories into immersive vacation experiences. The conversation dives into fandom travel, filming locations, destination inspiration, Disney's influence on immersive storytelling, and how Michele designs unforgettable trips that help travelers step directly into the worlds they love most. Key Takeaways What Is Set-Jetting - a growing trend where travel is inspired by favorite TV shows, movies, and books. Michele explains how travelers are seeking immersive experiences that bring beloved stories to life. Turning Fandom Into Real-World Travel - From Bridgerton and Emily in Paris to Gilmore Girls and Harry Potter, the conversation explores how travel advisors can recreate the feeling of a show through destinations, experiences, history, food, and culture—not just filming locations. The Power of Immersive Travel - Whether it's Disney, Universal, or a custom set-jetting itinerary, the episode dives into why travelers crave deeper connections to the stories they love and how immersive experiences create unforgettable memories. Resources: Makin’ Memories Travel - https://makinmemoriestravel.co  Jet Setting with Me Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/28PzD4PcxLHlNWCjD3i19v  Follow Michele On Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jetsettingwithmichele/  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 (01:36) Meet Michele Schwartz and the world of set-jetting (03:07) From Disney cast member to travel entrepreneur (09:23) Starting a travel business during the pandemic (13:11) What is set-jetting and why it's trending (17:00) The first Sex and the City-inspired group trip (20:55) Planning a Gilmore Girls vacation experience (25:42) Bridgerton, Emily in Paris, and immersive fandom travel (39:34) How Disney and Universal pioneered immersive storytelling (45:13) Would You Rather: Carry-on packing vs. checked bags Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s

    Set-Jetting: Turning Pop Culture Into Real Vacations with Michele Schwartz
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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
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Heidi Mackey and Melissa Sanchez
  • Show Website
    Theme Parks and Passports