A Birthday Trip That Changed Everything | Travel With Heart

Family vacations have always been a cherished tradition in our home, an opportunity to create joy-filled memories together. So when our son turned 21, there was only one place he dreamed of going: The Star Wars Experience at Hollywood Studios in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. As lifelong fans of the galaxy far, far away, it felt like the perfect way to celebrate such a milestone.

With excitement buzzing, we decided to make the trip extra special by booking a villa through an international luxury resort chain, one that my husband, a frequent business traveler, had come to trust for its high standards. But as soon as we arrived, the illusion shattered.

The resort was far from what we had envisioned. The lobby felt humid and stuffy, with a tired, dimly lit reception area. When we walked into our villa, the musty smell hit us instantly. The air conditioning barely worked, the carpet felt damp underfoot, and to our horror, ants trailed across the kitchen counters. It wasn’t just disappointing. It was disheartening.

We requested a new villa, and though it was marginally better, the sparkle of our getaway had dulled. My husband shook his head and said, “If I had my own luxury travel design firm, no client of mine would ever walk into this kind of experience. I’d make sure it felt like home, immaculately clean, filled with the scent of fresh hibiscus, and offering white-glove service thanks to personal relationships with resort managers.”

That moment sparked something in both of us. We realized just how misleading online booking photos could be, many outdated or taken before the pandemic. The value of true industry connections became clear. They are not just a luxury. They are essential to curating unforgettable experiences.

Despite the resort disappointment, watching our son live out his Star Wars dreams at Hollywood Studios was unforgettable. His joy reminded us why travel matters. It’s not just about the destination or the photos. It’s about the experience.

And in that realization, a new passion was born. Because experiences change everything.