Interview: Favorite Christmas Vacation
- Kristen Sorbera
- Dec 24, 2024
- 6 min read
Today we are interviewing Raquel, the founder and lead travel advisor of Tropical Sunset Travel, about her favorite Christmas vacation and how one trip can change your life forever.
What was your favorite Christmas vacation?
There’s something truly magical about Christmas, but in 2006, our family discovered a new level of wonder when we took our very first trip to Walt Disney World, arriving just two days before Christmas, on December 23. It was a vacation that not only gave us unforgettable memories but also changed the way I view travel—and even my career.
What made it special? Was there a particular moment that stood out during that vacation?
It’s hard to put into words just how special this vacation was. From the moment we stepped into the parks, the holiday spirit surrounded us. Twinkling lights, festive music, and the smell of holiday treats filled the air. But there was one moment during this trip that stood out above all others—the moment the Osborne Lights cast their spell.
It had been a long, exhausting day. You know the kind — where everyone’s feet ache, the kids are cranky, and the idea of collapsing into bed feels like the only option. As we made our way through the park, we debated skipping the lights altogether and heading back to the resort, but something told us to take just a few minutes to stop and see them. I’m so glad we did.
When the Osborne Lights came to life, it was pure magic. The lights didn’t just shine—they danced, moving in perfect sync with the holiday music. As we stood there, mesmerized, tiny snowflakes (which we later realized were bubbles) began to gently fall. In that moment, the tiredness melted away. All I could see were the faces of my husband and kids, glowing with joy and amazement. It was one of those rare moments of magic that brings you to tears—the kind of moment you hope will stay in everyone’s heart forever.
That night wasn’t just about the lights or the snow; it was about the wonder of Christmas, the beauty of togetherness, and the unexpected moments that make memories that last a lifetime.
For me, our first trip to Walt Disney World will always hold a special place in my heart. It wasn’t just a vacation—it was a reminder that even in our most tired moments, magic can still find us.
How has that vacation impacted your life?
Our Disney vacation taught me so much about myself, my love for travel, and how I want to vacation. We went into that trip blind, with no real planning, which led to some stressful and less-than-magical moments. It was those moments that set me on the path to becoming a travel agent. I realized how much joy I could bring to others by helping them plan their vacations better than I had planned mine.
At the time, many of the military families we knew talked about how they could never afford to take a trip to Disney. I understood that struggle—we saved for two years to make our trip happen. After our vacation, I started helping other military families figure out how to budget and plan so they could make their Disney dreams come true too. It was the beginning of something much bigger than I ever imagined.
Were there any exceptional scents and tastes on that vacation?
When I think back to our first Disney Christmas, I’m instantly transported to the sights, sounds, and smells of Main Street, U.S.A. There’s nothing quite like it. The air was filled with the aroma of freshly baked cookies, wafting from the bakery. That smell had a magical way of pulling you in—your nose leading the way as you searched for the source of the deliciousness.
The food on that trip was unforgettable, too. We enjoyed so many character breakfasts and festive treats, but one dish stands out above all the rest: the tie-dye cheesecake at Pop Century Resort. I wasn’t expecting it to be such a favorite, but the vibrant colors and creamy sweetness left a lasting impression. It was whimsical, nostalgic, and totally Disney—a little slice of happiness in dessert form.
Did anything surprise you on that trip?
There were so many incredible highlights from that trip, but nothing compares to the Osborne Lights. On what felt like the longest day ever, that moment was pure Disney magic—so much so that it brought me to tears.
Another surprise was seeing the Main Street Electrical Parade. As a teenager, I
visited Magic Kingdom with my parents, and I vividly remember a turtle from the parade lowering its head to “say hi” to my sister and me. Seeing that same parade, with that same turtle, decades later was an emotional moment. It reminded me of my parents, who have since passed, and brought back beautiful memories I’ll always cherish.
Did that trip inspire any new traditions in your family?
That first Disney Christmas inspired us to make travel a yearly tradition. Over
the years, we’ve explored new destinations and tried different forms of
travel, but the heart of every trip remains the same: creating memories and
sharing experiences that bring joy and connection to our family.
Were there any funny mishaps that you look back on?
That trip taught me a few practical lessons. Like the importance of packing extra socks! On Christmas Day, we braved the crowds at Magic Kingdom, only to be caught in a torrential downpour. We rushed back to the resort, drenched from head to toe. While I had a change of clothes for everyone, I didn’t think to pack extra socks. I spent the rest of the afternoon drying everyone’s soggy socks with a hairdryer—a moment that was funny in hindsight but one I wouldn’t want to relive!
Any last thoughts?
Life moves so quickly. We rush from one thing to the next, barely stopping to breathe. But every so often, we’re given a moment of magic—a moment that stays with us and reminds us of what really matters. For me, that moment is standing under the Osborne Lights with my family, watching their faces light up with wonder.
Whatever your magical moment is, I hope you take the time to close your eyes, take a deep breath, and remember it. And if you’re ready to create new memories and magical moments, I’d love to help you plan your next adventure.
Do you have some favorite Christmas desserts that your family enjoys?
Christmas always brings back memories of my childhood favorite treats: peanut butter buckeyes and tea time tassies. These were staples in our house during the holidays, and every bite takes me back to those cozy, festive times.
Peanut Butter Buckeyes
These classic, chocolate-dipped treats are perfect for holiday gatherings (or sneaking one while watching Christmas movies!).
Ingredients:
● 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
● ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
● 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
● 4 cups powdered sugar
● 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
● 2 tablespoons shortening
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until the dough is firm and no
longer sticky.
2. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined
with parchment paper. Freeze for 20–30 minutes.
3. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and shortening in
30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
4. Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted
chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter visible at the top to
resemble a buckeye.
5. Place back on the parchment paper and let the chocolate set. Store in
an airtight container.
Tea Time Tassies
These bite-sized pecan tarts are a must-have on any holiday dessert table!
Ingredients for the Shells:
● ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
● 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
● 1 cup all-purpose flour
Ingredients for the Filling:
● 1 egg
● ¾ cup brown sugar
● 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
● 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
● ½ cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. To make the shells, cream the butter and cream cheese together.
Gradually add the flour until a dough forms. Divide the dough into 24
small balls and press each ball into the cups of a mini muffin tin,
forming a tart shell.
3. For the filling, beat the egg, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla
until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
4. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of filling into each shell.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the filling is set and the shells are
lightly golden. Allow to cool before removing from the tin.
Tropical Sunset Travel, LLC is an expert travel agency based in Charleston, South Carolina. We book travel for couples, families, and groups to travel to destinations around the world. No matter what type of vacation you are dreaming of, our travel services can assist you. We also feature top vacation package options to help inspire you! The Tropical Sunset Travel Blog is a great place to learn about top destinations and vacation options. Please visit our website for agency information and more. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more travel information and deals!
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