Four Mountains Travel Blog

Summer 2026 Orlando Theme Park Guide: Disney vs. Universal for Families Summer break is one of the most popular times for families to travel — and for many, that means planning a trip to Orlando’s world-famous theme parks. With school schedules open and longer daylight hours, summer offers flexibility and energy for big memory-making vacations. For Summer 2026 in particular, this topic matters now. The continued excitement surrounding Universal Epic Universe is expected to drive record attendance across Orlando. Families considering Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort will benefit from understanding the differences — and planning earlier than ever. Summer 2026 Orlando Crowds & Weather: What Families Should Expect Yes — It’s Peak Season June and July are historically high-attendance months in Orlando. In 2026, Epic Universe demand will likely increase overall visitor numbers even further. Families should expect: Longer waits for headliner attractions Popular dining reserva...

The Art of the Slow Romance: Why Your Next Couple’s Getaway Should Be About the Journey, Not Just the Suite In the world of travel, there is a big difference between a "vacation" and an "experience." We’ve all been there: you return from a week away feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation because you spent the whole time rushing to make dinner reservations or ticking off tourist sites. For couples, I always recommend a different approach: Slow Travel. It’s the art of staying longer in one place, connecting with the local culture, and prioritizing the connection you have with each other over a frantic itinerary. It’s Not Just the Hotel—It’s the Itinerary Clients often come to me with a specific hotel in mind. While a five-star resort is lovely, a hotel is just where you sleep. The itinerary is how you feel. A great travel agent doesn't just book a room; they curate the hours in between. Anyone can book a luxury hotel in Tuscany, but an intentional i...

Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for Couples & Honeymoons Adults-only all-inclusive resorts are an ideal choice for couples looking to relax, reconnect, and truly enjoy time together. This type of trip works beautifully for honeymooners—both traditional and non-traditional—as well as couples celebrating anniversaries, milestones, or simply needing an escape that feels easy and indulgent. This topic matters now more than ever because many couples are craving meaningful downtime without distractions. With busy schedules, rising travel costs, and limited vacation time, travelers want trips that feel seamless, special, and worth every moment. Adults-only all-inclusive resorts deliver exactly that. Why Adults-Only Makes a Difference While family-friendly resorts can be wonderful, adults-only resorts are designed specifically with couples in mind. The atmosphere tends to be calmer and more romantic, with quieter pools, elegant dining, and entertainment geared toward adults rather than c...

Romantic Cruise Options for Couples Who This Type of Trip Is Perfect For Romantic and adult-focused cruises are ideal for couples who want quality time together without the distractions of family-centered activities. These trips work especially well for honeymoons, anniversaries, milestone celebrations, or couples simply craving a relaxing, connection-first getaway. Why Romantic Cruises Matter More Now Cruise lines have evolved dramatically in recent years, placing a stronger emphasis on elevated dining, wellness, and immersive experiences. Couples today aren’t just looking for transportation between ports—they want memorable moments. From chef-driven restaurants and serene spa spaces to intimate shore excursions, modern cruises make it easier than ever to create a trip that feels personal, indulgent, and romantic. Common Questions  Which Cruise Lines Are Best for Romance or Adults-Only Experiences? Each cruise line offers a different take on romance, so choosing the right ...

  Walt Disney World News from D23 The Walt Disney Company announced last night at D23 that they are planning new lands and attractions for Walt Disney World. Opening 2025 Disney Starlight.   This new nighttime parade in the Magic Kingdom will be brought to life with the help of the Blue Fairy from Walt Disney’s Pinocchio.  It will feature characters from Encanto, Peter Pan and Frozen to name a few.   Reimagined Test Track.   Walt Disney Imagineering and Chevrolet have teamed up to celebrate humanity’s enduring drive in this reimagining of the classic Test Track attraction in EPCOT.  Guests will embark on an adventure featuring 6 exhibits that celebrate the innovative people who design the vehicles that take us to the next chapter in our journey of motion.  It will be a joy ride through the history of transportation and end with a scenic drive to remind us of the joys of driving. Zootopia Better Together.   This new show will replace It’s...

How cool does this look? We can't wait to check it out as soon as Universal's newest park, Epic Universe! 

Check out Bolongo Bay Beach Resort on the southern coast of St Thomas, USVI! Bolongo Bay introduced the All Inclusive concept to the US Virgin Islands in 1989, and is the only All Inclusive Resort on St. Thomas.  This casual, beachfront resort offers a gracious blend of Caribbean hospitality and personalized service. This small and cozy resort with just 65 rooms is great for relaxing tropical getaways. Guests are treated to a wide variety of complimentary water sports and a Discover Scuba lesson. Experience fun-packed days and   romantic nights in a relaxed, informal atmosphere and tasteful guest rooms boasting a beachfront location with water views and a balcony.   Direct access to the beach Gym - small cardio workout room with free weights  Non-Motorized Water Sports - access to snorkel gear, stand up paddleboards, Hobie Cat sailboats, ocean kayaks, windsurfers, lounge chairs, beach toys, hammocks and swim mats. Pool - one outdoor pool with swim-up bar Dining:...

Oh boy! There's a new Disney system to try out! Earlier this week, Disney nixed the Disney Genie+ system for the new Lightning Lane Pass system. This new system is kind of a combination of the old (pre-COVID) FastPass+ system and the now former Disney Genie+ system.  Passes are still a paid upgrade to your theme park ticket and you can still elect which park days of your trip that you'd like to purchase passes for, but you no longer have to wait until the day of to purchase and make selections. Now, Guests can pre-purchase and book passes at either 7 days prior to their trip for the length of their stay (if staying at an on-property Disney resort) or 3 days in advance of each park visit day (for all others staying off-property).  There are still select attractions that require a pass unto themselves (known as LL Single Passes - formerly known as Individual Lightning Lane Attractions) and the groups of attractions that can be selected from throughout the day (known as a LL Mult...