Let's Just Go

40 Episodes
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By: Kayla Shawley

Welcome to the Let’s Just Go podcast! I’m Kayla, a travel advisor, millennial, and professional suitcase-stuffer here to share stories, tips, and plenty of honest opinions from my adventures around the globe. Each episode, you’ll get destination breakdowns, planning advice, hilarious travel tales, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like working in the travel industry. Whether you’re planning your next big trip or just need a virtual escape, you’re in the right place. Fair warning: I swear sometimes and I’m not here to sugarcoat things. If you’re into real talk with a dash of chaos...

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Let's Just Go to Valletta
Let's Just Go to Valletta episode artwork
#120
Today at 4:00 AM

Malta was not a destination I had strong feelings about going in. By the time we left, I was already thinking about going back.

In this episode I am covering:

Getting from the Disney Dream into Valletta — the 15-minute walk, the one-euro glass lift, and why getting off the ship early mattersWhy English is more widely spoken in Malta than the native Maltese languageFilipino food in a Maltese food court — more logical than it sounds given how diverse the country isA women-owned co-op housing 15 to 20 small local businesses — clothing, skincare, accessories, and a woman who knew Philad...


Let's Just Go to Corfu
Let's Just Go to Corfu episode artwork
#119
08/17/2026

Corfu was a new destination and I went in prepared — research done, hours double-checked, spots saved in my maps. Then it was Sunday and almost everything was closed.

In this episode I am covering:

The two-bus process getting from the DCL ship into Corfu Old Town and why it takes more time than you expectWhy Sunday closures in smaller European cities are real and not always accurately reflected in Google MapsThe bakery that saved the morning: feta and honey pastry in phyllo dough, koulouri, apple pastry for BrianWandering Old Town without a plan, getting mildly lost, an...


Let's Just Go to Mykonos
Let's Just Go to Mykonos episode artwork
#118
08/10/2026

I have been to Mykonos multiple times. I thought I knew what a day there looked like. A private tour with a guide named Fotis showed me I was wrong — in the best possible way.

In this episode I am covering:

How tendering works in Mykonos and why it affects your port day timingGetting on an early tender and using the quiet morning before the crowds arriveBooking a private tour through Viator the day before after finding out it was going to be the busiest day of the month at the portOur guide Fotis — how he pivo...


Let's Just Go to Chania, Greece
Let's Just Go to Chania, Greece episode artwork
#117
08/03/2026

Chania was our first port of call on the Disney Dream's Greek Isles itinerary, and I went in with a local advantage — an American TikToker who lives in Chania and gives restaurant and neighborhood recommendations. I followed her suggestions for the day and had one of the best port stops of the entire cruise.

In this episode I am covering:

How the DCL buses work getting from the ship into Chania and back — easy, no stressThe Jar: Freddo Cappuccinos, peanut butter banana toast, and a turtle pond I almost did not leaveWhat the old town of Chan...


Let's Just Go to the Greek Isles with DCL
Let's Just Go to the Greek Isles with DCL episode artwork
#116
07/27/2026

I have been on multiple Disney cruises. I have also cruised Greece multiple times. This was my first time combining the two — nine nights on the Disney Dream through the Greek Isles and Malta. I am a Disney adult and a travel advisor who sells DCL, and I want to give you my honest take on what this experience was actually like.

In this episode I am covering:

Getting to the port from Rome and what the check-in situation was actually likeWhy you should join the WhatsApp group and Facebook group for your specific DCL sailing be...


Let's Just Go to Malcesine
Let's Just Go to Malcesine episode artwork
#115
07/20/2026

This entire trip to Europe started with one reason: my friend Hannah, who I met on the Disney College Program back in 2010, was getting married. In a castle. On Lake Garda. In Italy. She said she was only inviting people she knew would show up. I showed up.

In this episode I am talking about:

Getting from Verona to Malcesine by private transfer — the beautiful drive, the narrow roads, and why you want someone else behind the wheelLast-minute shopping in Verona: Scout, OVS, and a pair of Birkenstocks I am pretty sure do not exist in th...


Let's Just Go to Verona
Let's Just Go to Verona episode artwork
#114
07/13/2026

Verona was never supposed to be a highlight. It was a logistical stop — the closest train connection to Lake Garda, where we were headed for a wedding. It turned into one of the best destinations of the entire three-week trip.

In this episode I am talking about:

Getting from Venice to Verona by train (and why the 110-euro private water taxi to the station was worth it)Staying at the Moxy Verona — what the brand is actually like and who it is right forTerrazza Bar al Ponte: a river bar with a castle view, house wine, char...


Let's Just Go to Venice
Let's Just Go to Venice episode artwork
#113
07/06/2026

Kayla leaves Dublin for Venice on the next leg of her European trip. This itinerary is going from Dublin, to Venice, Verona, a wedding at Lake Garda, Rome, then on a Disney Cruiseline adventure to Greece, Malta, and Croatia.

This episode is all about Venice. Two days and two nights is all that we had at this ancient city build on the water. She tries the local cuisine, has drinks where the Bellini was invented, shops for hand-made lace, and sits in on a glass blowing demonstration where the famous glass blower Dale Chihuly studied...


Let's Just Go to Dublin
Let's Just Go to Dublin episode artwork
#112
06/29/2026

Let's Just Go To Dublin On the first stop in a 3-week tour of Europe, Kayla spends two nights in Dublin, Ireland. This itinerary will take her from Philadelphia on a direct flight to Dublin, then she flies down to Venice, Italy for a couple more nights before taking a train to Verona, then a car into Lake Garda, another train into Rome, then boards a 9-night cruise taking her to Mykonos, Chania Crete, and Corfu in Greece; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Valletta, Malta.

This quick, 2-night stay in Dublin was fun, and Kayla is very likely to...


Let's Just Go to Hotel Landy
Let's Just Go to Hotel Landy episode artwork
#111
06/22/2026

For my last trip to Epic Universe, we wanted to check out a newly rebranded and remodeled hotel near the parks. That brought us to Hotel Landy. I wanted to check this place out because some of the reviews online were great, but it was undergoing changes. I wanted to see it for myself and make my own conclusions.

I am so glad that I did. I thought this hotel was great, I would definitely stay there again, and between the staff, the rooms, and its location near I-Drive, I would definitely consider this a...


Let's Just Go Back to Epic Universe
Let's Just Go Back to Epic Universe episode artwork
#110
06/15/2026

pen, now, for about a year, and I thougth it would be fun to take another look, taking my boyfriend along.

The rides are just as fun as I remember them, and the food was still excellent. A new location since my last visit was the Blue Dragon, with Asian-inspired cuisine and sake- or japanese whisky-infused cocktails and flights, which was also excellent.

We did have a long wait for Donkey Kong Minecart Madness, but even dispite an extended wait we were able to fit in everything that we wanted to experience in just one...


Let's Just Go to the LAX Marriott
Let's Just Go to the LAX Marriott episode artwork
#109
06/08/2026

pen, now, for about a year, and I thougth it would be fun to take another look, taking my boyfriend along.

The rides are just as fun as I remember them, and the food was still excellent. A new location since my last visit was the Blue Dragon, with Asian-inspired cuisine and sake- or japanese whisky-infused cocktails and flights, which was also excellent.

We did have a long wait for Donkey Kong Minecart Madness, but even dispite an extended wait we were able to fit in everything that we wanted to...


Let's Just Go to Disneyland in Spring
Let's Just Go to Disneyland in Spring episode artwork
#108
06/01/2026

Traveling to Disneyland can be overwhelming. Large crowds, long wait times, and a pressure to get the most for your money. It's natural to want to try to make the most of it by running straight from attraction to attraction.

In this episode, I recount my most recent trip to Disneyland in California, where I took it slow and easy. Sometimes slowing down, relaxing, and giving yourself time to take it in really is the best way to experience the parks. I didn't hit every attraction; I didn't even hit all of my favorites, but I did...


Let's Just Go to the Anaheim Marriott
Let's Just Go to the Anaheim Marriott episode artwork
#107
05/25/2026

Not everyone that travels is traveling with children, and some travelers with littler ones in tow may not want noise and the hustle bustle of a more family resort, and if that describes you, you may want to join me in exploring the Anaheim Marriott Hotel.

This hotel near the Anaheim Convention Center is a little bit of a walk to the Disney parks, but it offers a moderately upscale venue with professional sensibilities.

Along with premium hotel amenities, a great pool, and a lounge with weekend buffet vouchers. And it is still a Disney...


Let's Just Go to the Sheraton Park Anaheim
Let's Just Go to the Sheraton Park Anaheim episode artwork
#106
05/18/2026

Tune into this episode to hear about my experience staynig at the Sheraton Park Hotel Anaheim. This was a great stay, not far from Disneyland, with the benefit of being partnered with Disney as one of their select Good Neighbor Hotels; what that means is that they meet a minimum spec of Disney requirements, and for me that means that I can package Disney Parks tickets with my stay.

To see my room walkthrough, or my walk to the park, look me up on TikTok: @kaylasmagicaltravels

If you like to travel...


Let's Just Go to Seattle
Let's Just Go to Seattle episode artwork
#105
05/11/2026

It's always fun going back to my hometown. If you were not aware, I am from the Seattle area, and I enjoy going back there regularly as a tourist and vacationer. It't really fun to see your hometown from the eyes of someone that does not live there, and have a reason to do all the touristy things that locals look down on.

Don't ride the "ducks," but do follow my lead in exploring what the Pacific Northwest has to offer on one of the nicest days that I've been in recent memory. Take a...


Let's Just Go to Portland
Let's Just Go to Portland episode artwork
#104
05/04/2026

Kayla stays in Portland OR and gives you a tour of a place that she has spent many summers growing up.

Her stay this time is at The Bidwell Marriott near Pioneer Courthouse Square, giving her easy access to the region's TriMet Transit, and itself is very central to one of Portland's most famous shops Powell's Books.

If you are considering a trip to the PNW, this episode offers suggestions on where to find great snacks, coffee, and an assortment of activities that may interest you or your family. And although...


Let's Just Go To The Right Universal Park
Let's Just Go To The Right Universal Park episode artwork
#103
04/27/2026

Let’s explore Universal Studios. There are actually two different parks in the United States that share name: original Universal Studios Hollywood and the larger more robust Universal Studios Orlando. If you are planning a trip to one of these parks, you may want to tune in to understand the difference between these experiences, how they equate to Disney Parks experiences, and how a trip to one of these destinations could fit into your vacation.

If you love Hollywood, movies, television, Universal Studios Hollywood is located in the middle of Hollywood and is an active st...


Let's Just Go Set Sail
Let's Just Go Set Sail episode artwork
#102
04/20/2026

Have you considered an oceanic cruise for your vacation? Or maybe you have done it before and you want to hear testimony from someone that enjoys a good cruise vacation? Well, Kayla has tips and information to help you set your expectations and take advantage of your first day on the ship during your cruise.

If you think that a cruise sounds like a good time, Kayla would love to help you plan your next trip. Reach out at kttcbykayla.com.

00:00 Cruise Embarkation Day - 102

01:12 What to expect

<...


Let's Just Go Plan the Right Disney Trip
Let's Just Go Plan the Right Disney Trip episode artwork
#101
04/13/2026

Welcome back to Let's Just Go.

Whether you are a Disney Parks Veteran, or planning your first trip for yourself, your friends, or your family, Kayla has tips to help you have the best trips, breaking down the different priorities for first-time visitors and returning guests.

Of course, if you've watched or listened before, Kayla also has plenty of personal stories and anecdotes to share along the way. This time, listen to her tell you about her first time traveling with her friends for their grandchild's first trip to Walt Dinsye...


Celebrate the 100th episode
Celebrate the 100th episode episode artwork
#100
04/06/2026

Let's Just Go for 100 Episodes!

Join Kayla as she discusses how Let's Just Go started as two friends discussing their travels. Starting December 18, 2023 Kayla and her friend Chris released their first episode. Chris originally called the show "Mouse Droppings," leaving "little nuggets" of travel tips for listeners and viewers. Thankfully, that title wasn't final, and they settled on Let's Just Go, instead.

00:00 100th episode

00:09 Hey There, Adventurers

06:44 Favorite Stories So Far

08:21 Where's Chris?

10:09 Why I Love Doing This


Let's Just Go to Flower and Garden Festival 2026
Let's Just Go to Flower and Garden Festival 2026 episode artwork
#99
03/30/2026

EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

Kayla shares another guide with you from her recent trips. This time, her destination is EPCOT's Flower and Garden Festival at Walt Disney World in Orlando Florida.

Get tips for what days to visit, and get to know what you can expect to find during this seasonal spring event at the Disney Parks in Florida. Outdoor kitchens, topiaries, and live music from once-popular bands!

00:00 Flower and Garden Festival

00:47 Festival Dates

01:12 Outdoor Kitchens

06:55 Topiaries and Garden Displays

09:02 Garden Rocks Concert

11:00...


Let's Just Go Work with a Travel Advisor
Let's Just Go Work with a Travel Advisor episode artwork
#98
03/23/2026

Your girl Kayla is back to offer you insights on why you might want to plan your next trip with a travel advisor.

Bringing her experience as a former Disney Cast Member, Travel Advisor, and regular traveler, she breaks down the benefits of using a professional, and explains how they may even save you money. She discusses fees and commissions, noting that pricing is often the same with or without an advisor, while advisors can save time and help avoid hidden costs and misinformation. Travel Advisors are no longer just pushy kiosks at the mall, or dimly-lit...


Let's Just Go Explain the Disney Dining Plans
Let's Just Go Explain the Disney Dining Plans episode artwork
#97
03/16/2026

If you are interested in the Walt Disney World dining plan options, this is your girl!

In this episode, Kayla explains the different dining plans offered at Walt Disney World so that you can make the most of your food budget at the Orlando theme park. Get to know their different dining plans from someone that has worked at food vendors at Walt Disney World and seen how regular vacationers use their credits first hand.

In this episode, she explains:

Intro To Disney Dining PlansSnacks Credits Quick Service CreditsTable Service CreditsRefillable Resort MugHow Credits...


Let's Just Go Plan a Summer Vacation
Let's Just Go Plan a Summer Vacation episode artwork
#96
03/09/2026

Summer vacation planning feels overwhelming — but it doesn't have to be.

In this episode, Kayla breaks down exactly how to plan your summer trip without the panic. Whether you're booking a Disney vacation, a cruise, or a trip to Europe, there's a clear order to doing this well — and a few costly mistakes to avoid along the way.

What's covered:

The three things to nail down before anything else (who, when, and non-negotiables)How far in advance to book Disney parks, cruises, and flightsWhy your booking order matters more than you thinkSetting a realistic budg...


Let's Just Go Price a Disney Vacation
Let's Just Go Price a Disney Vacation episode artwork
#95
03/02/2026

How much does a Disney vacation actually cost in 2026?

In this episode of Let’s Just Go, I’m breaking down realistic pricing for both Disneyland and Walt Disney World using real numbers from February 2026.

We’re covering:

Disneyland pricing for a family of four in JulyGood Neighbor vs. Disney hotelsPark hoppers and Lightning Lane costsFood pricing (quick service vs. table service)Souvenir budgetingWhere people overspendHow to save moneyWalt Disney World value, moderate, and deluxe pricingWhat adding the Disney Dining Plan does to your totalWhy Walt Disney World is usually more expensiveThe $200 deposit rule and re...


Let's Just Go On a Cruise in 2026
Let's Just Go On a Cruise in 2026 episode artwork
#94
02/23/2026

Thinking about booking a cruise in 2026 but not sure what to expect?

In this episode of Let’s Just Go, I’m answering the most common cruise questions I get from clients, especially first-time cruisers. From passport rules to seasickness fears to what’s actually included in your cruise fare, we’re covering it all.

We’re talking about:

Do you really need a passport to cruise?What’s included (and not included) in your cruise costWhen to book for the best pricingHow cruise pricing actually worksSeasickness mythsWhat a typical cruise day looks likeWhether you have to...


Let's Just Go to Disneyland in 2026
Let's Just Go to Disneyland in 2026 episode artwork
#93
02/16/2026

Disneyland has officially released its full calendar of events for 2026, and this episode breaks down everything you need to know to plan your trip.

In this minisode of Let’s Just Go, Kayla walks through the entire year at Disneyland, including the continuation of the 70th anniversary celebration, Lunar New Year, Food and Wine Festival, Disneyland After Dark events, summer promotions, Halloween Time, Oogie Boogie Bash, and the holiday season.

She also shares details about special ticket discounts for kids, hotel promotions, and important events like D23 Expo that may impact crowds and availability.

...


Let's Just Go to Universal Mardi Gras
Let's Just Go to Universal Mardi Gras episode artwork
#92
02/09/2026

Universal Studios Florida is kicking off Mardi Gras 2026, and Kayla is back behind the mic to talk about why this is one of her favorite times of year to visit the parks.

In this solo episode of Let’s Just Go, Kayla breaks down everything you need to know about Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration running February 7 through April 4, 2026. From concerts included with park admission to parade floats designed by the same company that builds floats in New Orleans, this seasonal event blends live music, festival food, and high energy vibes into one unforgettable trip.

Kayl...


Let's Just Go Celebrate Fall
Let's Just Go Celebrate Fall episode artwork
#91
10/13/2025

In this festive fall episode of Let’s Just Go, Kayla is embracing all things autumn—think changing leaves, cozy trips, apple cider, and fall travel inspiration! She shares her favorite fall destinations in the U.S. and abroad, seasonal activities you can enjoy locally, and creative ways to soak in the vibes even if you're staying home. Plus, she offers tips for planning ahead for the holiday season and finding great shoulder season deals.

If you’ve been craving that crisp autumn air and a reason to celebrate the season, this one’s for you! 🎃🍁


Let's Just Go Without Breaking the Bank
Let's Just Go Without Breaking the Bank episode artwork
#90
10/07/2025

Budget Travel Tips, Deal-Hunting, and When to Splurge vs. Save

Ready to travel smarter without sacrificing the magic? In this episode, Kayla shares tried-and-true tips for traveling on a budget—whether you're planning a theme park getaway, a European adventure, or just a quick weekend escape. From where to find the best deals and how far out to book, to what’s worth the splurge and what you can definitely skip, this minisode is your crash course in stretching your vacation dollars further.

✈️ Learn how to:

Budget like a pro for any kind of tripUse...


Let's Just Go Celebrate Halloween at the Parks
Let's Just Go Celebrate Halloween at the Parks episode artwork
#89
09/29/2025

From spooky sweets to scream-worthy scares, this week’s episode of Let’s Just Go is all about Halloween in the theme parks! Kayla breaks down three of the biggest Halloween offerings at Disney and Universal — whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or full-blown fright nights.

👻 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (Magic Kingdom)

🎃 Oogie Boogie Bash (Disney California Adventure)

💀 Halloween Horror Nights (Universal Studios)

She covers what to expect, when to go, and why you should start planning now for fall 2025 and even 2026!

💌 Need help booking? Let Kayla take the stress out of yo...


Let's Just Go Plan Spring Break
Let's Just Go Plan Spring Break episode artwork
#88
09/22/2025

Planning your spring break getaway? Don’t wait until winter — now is the time to book!

In this short and info-packed minisode, Kayla shares why fall is the perfect time to start planning your spring break travel. Whether you're dreaming of Disney, a relaxing beach resort, or a family-friendly cruise, booking early means better availability, lower prices, and less stress.

✨ In this episode:

✔️ Why spring break books up fast (and when to book)

✔️ Top destinations for March–April travel

✔️ Budget-friendly tips and payment plans

✔️ Real talk on how early planning = bet...


Let's Just Go Travel During Shoulder Season
Let's Just Go Travel During Shoulder Season episode artwork
#87
09/08/2025

What’s the best-kept secret in travel? Shoulder season. In this episode of Let’s Just Go, Kayla breaks down the magic of traveling just before or just after the peak seasons. From fewer crowds and better prices to gorgeous weather and unique events, shoulder season travel is a game changer.

Kayla shares favorite destinations to visit during shoulder seasons—like Europe in May, Hawaii in September, and Caribbean cruises in early December—and gives tips on how to plan around school calendars and weather. Whether you're dreaming of theme parks, tropical escapes, or a fall foliage road tri...


Let's Just Go Back to School
Let's Just Go Back to School episode artwork
#86
09/01/2025

Just because the school bell is ringing doesn’t mean your travel plans have to stop! In this minisode, Kayla shares smart strategies for making the most of the school calendar — from long weekends to spring break — without the stress. Whether you're eyeing a fall getaway, a winter escape, or just trying to maximize those random teacher workdays, this episode is packed with ideas to help families just go.


Let's Just Go on a Disney Vacation in 2026
Let's Just Go on a Disney Vacation in 2026 episode artwork
#85
08/25/2025

In this quick minisode, Kayla jumps in solo to share some exciting news: all Disney destinations are now open to book for 2026! Whether you're dreaming of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Aulani in Hawaii, a Disney Cruise, or even Adventures by Disney, it's time to start planning. Kayla breaks down why now is the best time to book, from scoring the best availability to locking in current ticket prices. Plus, she shares insider tips on refundable deposits, Good Neighbor hotels, and how to beat those inevitable price hikes.

✨ Let’s get planning, and as always… let’s just go!


Let's Just Go Pack for an International Trip
Let's Just Go Pack for an International Trip episode artwork
#84
08/04/2025

✈️ Headed overseas? Don’t even think about zipping that suitcase until you’ve listened to this episode! Kayla is flying solo this week (literally and figuratively) to walk you through how to pack like a pro for international travel.

From layering strategies to toiletries, document must-dos, and the eternal debate of “how many shoes is too many?”—Kayla shares her tried-and-true packing tips based on real travel experience (and one lost bag).

Whether you're heading to Europe, hopping on a river cruise, or just overthinking your carry-on contents, this episode has something for every kind of traveler.<...


Let's Just Go to Clementine Hotel & Suites
Let's Just Go to Clementine Hotel & Suites episode artwork
#83
07/28/2025

Looking for extra space, a full kitchen, and a great value near Disneyland? In this episode of Let’s Just Go, Kayla and Chris review the Clementine Hotel & Suites—one of Disneyland’s Good Neighbor Hotels that's perfect for extended families, allergy-friendly travelers, or anyone who wants room to spread out.

They break down room types (hello, bi-level loft with two bathrooms!), amenities, and who this hotel is best suited for. Spoiler: it’s not for your romantic couple’s trip, but if you’ve got a crew of 6–8 and want comfort without splurging on a resort, Clementine mig...


Let's Just Go to Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance
Let's Just Go to Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance episode artwork
#82
07/21/2025

Looking for the ultimate family-friendly hotel near Disneyland? In this episode of Let’s Just Go, Kayla and Chris dive into the Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance—a top pick for families traveling with kids. From spacious rooms with two queens and a bunk bed to a full-on outdoor waterpark (yes, really!), this hotel is built for convenience and fun. They discuss who it's best for, how it compares to other Good Neighbor Hotels and Disneyland Resort Hotels, and what to know before you book. Whether you're a group of five needing more space or just want a sp...


Let's Just Go to Candy Cane Inn
Let's Just Go to Candy Cane Inn episode artwork
#81
07/14/2025

Looking for the perfect place to stay near Disneyland without breaking the bank? In this episode of Let’s Just Go, Kayla and Chris spotlight one of their favorite Disneyland Good Neighbor Hotels: the Candy Cane Inn. Recently renovated and family-owned since 1957, this motel-style property offers a fantastic location, charming history, and budget-friendly perks like a free shuttle and continental breakfast. They break down what Good Neighbor Hotels are, what makes Candy Cane Inn stand out, and who it’s best suited for—plus the honest pros and cons. Whether you’re planning your first Disneyland trip or looking for a re...