Amy Baranek
Sterling Heights, Michigan Travel Agent
Wishes Family Travel, an independent agent with Wishes Family Travel, SC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
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Universal Orlando Specialist
Me with my family at the Marvel character meal
Do you need someone to help you know the difference between a muggle and a dementor? Perhaps you would like to debate if Three Broomsticks or Leaky Cauldron is the better food option? Well, I am your wizard loving go to travel agent to help you sort through it all! Are wizards not your thing? Don’t worry, Universal has something for everyone from minions, Marvel, movies and more; you’ll be sure to find what you are looking for! (Did I mention Dr. Seuus too?)
What I love so much about Universal is everything is right there for you. If you are staying on property you can walk, bus, or take a boat and be at Volcano Bay, Islands of Adventure or Universal within 5-10minutes. Plus Islands of Adventure and Universal are right next to each other so it is a short train ride or walk to jump between the parks. My family has done it all at Universal, a one day off property trip, to a long weekend trip, to a full week of hotel hopping vacation fun. I have been lucky enough to experience some great solo trips here, girls trip, and a couples trip as well. So whatever you are looking to experience, I can use my travelling knowledge as well as all my Universal training to help you make the best decision!
Even if you have visited Universal before, there is always something new to explore. That’s where I will come in to be sure you know all the secret tips and tricks so you don’t miss anything that may be important to you while you are visiting! I love to discuss what is everyone’s priority when visiting the parks and create a plan that will work best for you to experience everything during your time there!
When you are my client, you can know that I will treat your vacation with as much care and detail as I do my own. This even includes applying any new discounts to your stay if a new promotion is released! I love sending my clients a happy email letting them know they saved more money on their vacation! Before you travel, you will receive a customized itinerary and touring tip sheet from me to help you make the most of your vacation with as little stress as possible! I want to be sure you are equipped with all the information, but still have the flexibility to do what is best depending on how everyone is doing!
Traveling with a group? There are so many puzzle pieces that need to fall into place with multiple families and age groups. I love to take the stress off of you and figure out a plan that works best for everyone. So there is plenty of group time but also time for everyone to still experience their must do's which is such an important part of the vacation fun!
Let me help the movie magic of Universal come out in the best way for you on your vacation! I will use my experience and enthusiasm combined with your must do experiences to help craft the perfect balance of worry free fun into your days. I am excited to discuss your next vacation with you!
My Areas of Expertise
DESTINATIONS
SUPPLIER PARTNERS
Related Travel Stories
How to reserve a Virtual Queue Pass at Universal
Tour of a Cabana at Volcano Bay
Shutterbutton’s Photography at Universal
We try ALL the water slides at Volcano Bay in Universal
Universal Photo Package-All the facts!
Every time we have visited Universal as a family, I always purchase their photo package. It is a great way to get some amazing pictures of your family on vacation!
What’s Included:
-Unlimited digital downloads of:
-Some character meet and greets (like Blue and Transformers)
... Read more from my Universal Photo Package-All the facts! story.
Renting a Cabana at Volcano Bay
We recently had our first stay as a family on Universal property and one of the things my boys were most excited about was visiting Volcano Bay. They love water parks and hadn’t visited Universal’s new water park yet. One thing though-my boys aren’t huge waterslide fans. I knew most of ... Read more from my Renting a Cabana at Volcano Bay story.
What It’s Like Visiting Universal During Covid-19
Islands of Adventure and Universal theme parks:
Before entering either of these parks, you will have your temperature scanned already no matter where you are coming from. There are social distance markers on the ground to stand on while you wait in line to enter the park. There are no longer fingerprint ... Read more from my What It’s Like Visiting Universal During Covid-19 story.
The most magical vacation planner on earth ??
Reviewed By Brynn O - Lombard, Illinois | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy went above and beyond in every way possible. From the planning stages to while we were actually on our trip. She took care of things when my father passed away and we weren’t able to do our Disney fastpass booking. I’m a vegetarian and was so worried about dining reservations and what restaurants I would actually be able to eat at, Amy had all of the info and personal recommendations that were fantastic. She even added a little extra special magic to our honeymoon. This isn’t the first time we have put our trip in her hands and it will not be the last!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
21 of 33 people found this review helpful
Best Disney trip!
Reviewed By Andria - Denver,Co | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
I have worked with Amy for two previous Disney trips. She has a vast knowledge of Disney as well as a great love for it which shows! Each time she has been on top of every planning point and detail. Literally wouldn’t be able to do it without her.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
18 of 29 people found this review helpful
Trip of a lifetime.
Reviewed By Ann - Rochester Michigan | Traveled to Hawaii ~ USA
Very helpful and knowledgeable and patient with all my questions.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
14 of 23 people found this review helpful
Magical Experience!
Reviewed By David D. - Lisle, IL | Traveled to Caribbean Sea ~ At Sea ~ At Sea
Planning this trip with Amy was such an easy process. She was able to answer all of our questions. Step in to help book activities anytime that we needed her too. Provided us with plenty of information to answer the questions that we didn't even know we had but are glad we knew before. All of the work on the front end by Amy helped turn this cruise into one magical experience for the rest of our lives!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
8 of 12 people found this review helpful
Disney & Universal
Reviewed By Staceyfaye - Commerce, MI | Traveled to Florida ~ USA
Amy was great to work with. She answered all of my questions quickly. I knew nothing about Disney, Universal or any of the rides. She has kids close in age to mine and was extremely helpful, catering to what my kids would love. We were also with my in-laws. She arranged everything for everyone traveling. It was amazing! Thank you Amy!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
9 of 14 people found this review helpful
Great job!
Reviewed By VLC - Shelby Twp. Michigan | Traveled to Hawaii ~ USA
Amy has helped us with two trips now. One was a trip to Hawaii! She did a great job :-)
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
10 of 17 people found this review helpful
Family's first cruise: exceeded our dreams
Reviewed By Shane - Oakland MI | Traveled to Florida ~ USA
Amy is very responsive, interested, and knowledgeable about vacation planning. Book one trip and she'll be your family's travel agent for life.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
9 of 15 people found this review helpful
Our best trip to Disney.
Reviewed By Samfred - Shelby Charter Township | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
She is very knowledgeable and excellent as an agent.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
9 of 15 people found this review helpful
The last big trip
Reviewed By Eric - Roseville, MI | Traveled to Hawaii Island ~ Hawaii ~ USA
Amy is great! She’s is knowledgeable, engaging, idea sharing and friendly/easy going. She’s been fun to work with and to me that’s what it is all about
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
10 of 17 people found this review helpful
Such a good experience!
Reviewed By Brittany - Shelby township, Michigan | Traveled to Florida ~ USA
10/10 would recommend Amy. She planned my trip to Disney without any stress and had amazing recommendations! If I ever go again, I will definitely use her again to help plan my trip!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
Disney Vacation 2021
Reviewed By AngieR - Fairmont, WV | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy was amazing to work with on our vacation plans. I can’t even describe how helpful she was with the whole situation. She was great at answering all of our questions and making suggestions. We took a 14 year old and a 7 year old with very different interests to Disney. She did a great job at figuring out how both could get the most out of their Disney vacation. I constantly emailed her with new questions and her response time was amazing. She is so polite and professional. I highly recommend her.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
6 of 10 people found this review helpful
Awesome sauce TRIP.
Reviewed By 2016 Blast - Clinton Twp, MI | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
the experience was awesome working with Amy.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
9 of 16 people found this review helpful
A Very Magical Vacation
Reviewed By Toe Knee - Downers Grove Illinois | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Thanks for a wonderful travel package - Amy goes that extra yard for her patrons. Her attention to detail and suggestions makes the Disney trip very Magical. She goes that extra yard to ensure you have a wonderful time on your vacation. Thanks for your help and time.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The trip my family won't forget!!
Reviewed By Rebecca - Port Huron MI | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Very helpful with all my questions. Super organized, it would not have been great if I tried to plan this trip on my own!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Excellent Trip!
Reviewed By Ken family - Macomb,MI | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy was a huge help to us in planning this trip. We had never been to Walt Disney World and we asked a lot of questions and she answered them all and we never felt we were putting her out. She is a very nice and patient person. We would have never been able to do this on our own without her expertise.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Disney World Pro
Reviewed By ToeKnee - Downers Grove, Illinois | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Attention to details, great suggestions, excellent follow-up on your plans, always available to answer your questions are qualities that you hope to find in a travel agent and Amy excels in all of these and more. The travel packet that Amy sends you prior to your departure helps you to relax because it is filled with additional travel tips to help make it a memorable vacation.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
6 of 11 people found this review helpful
Fantastic Family Adventure
Reviewed By Momma Lion - Naperville, IL | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy helped us to plan a magical experience a few years ago. Our family stayed in Disney World and Amy gave us sage advice. If we ever travel there again, we will certainly contact her. Amy is pleasant and her warm and welcoming personality made our dreams come true!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Our trip to Alaska was awesome!
Reviewed By VLC - Shelby Twp., MI | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
Amy has helped us with a few trips. The biggest being our trip to Alaska! She always does a great job :-)
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
4 of 7 people found this review helpful
Amazing vacation!
Reviewed By Anne - Clinton Township, MI | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy was so helpful from the beginning until the moment we arrived home! She even helped us make last minute changes while we were on our vacation!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
4 of 7 people found this review helpful
Our personal WDW concierge!
Reviewed By Carla - Jackson, MI | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy was absolutely amazing! We had never been to Disney before, and she prepared us so well we felt like pros! She did a fantastic job planning, and it allowed us to pack everything we wanted into our trip. Her recommendations were spot on. We had an amazing trip, and it was so much less stressful than trying to plan ourselves. Her assistance allowed me to relax and focus on the fun. It honestly felt like she was our own personal concierge. I can’t imagine taking another trip without Amy’s help!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 13 people found this review helpful
Worlds best trip ever for our family!!!
Reviewed By Beth - davison mi | Traveled to Florida ~ USA
She's a wonderful person to work with. She's always there to help when needed, finds the best deals for our family and so sweet. I won't use another person and we definitely recommend her to everyone we meet.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
12 of 23 people found this review helpful
Awesome trip!
Reviewed By Gail - Shelby Township, MI | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy was beyond helpful and very patient with my silly questions. She is so knowledgeable with what is going on at Disney and Universal and she helped my family save money which is always important to us. Our trip was wonderful because of her advice and the reservations Amy suggested.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Amy works her magic once again!!
Reviewed By The Fuller Family - Eastpointe, MI | Traveled to Castaway Cay ~ Bahamas ~ Caribbean
We have planned several trips with Amy and she is just amazing to work with!!! Our family won’t work with anyone else! Thanks Amy for helping us make the most magical memories!!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Best Family Trip Ever
Reviewed By Eve’s crew - Roscommon, Michigan | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy was very knowledgeable and we greatly benefited from that knowledge and experience when we recently took our family of 8 to Disney World Orlando and Universal Studios.The accommodations were excellent, the car pick ups at the airport and resorts were perfect, as was the drop off and pick ups of the mobility scooter I needed. She made our dinner reservations at 6:00 am on New Year’s Day so we could enjoy the restaurants we had chosen. In addition she had to work our military discounts in once they were announced.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Highly Recommend!
Reviewed By Cass - Gaylord, MI | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy was wonderful to work with! Always fast to answer questions, sent us lots of helpful tips, and helped us take advantage of discounts available!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
The trip that turned into an engagement!
Reviewed By Alex and Kyle - Orlando Florida | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
She was always extremely helpful! Even when I was confused about a couple of things!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
A great trip made possible by Amy!
Reviewed By PRC - Rochester, MI | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy did such an incredible job making our trip as efficient and fun as possible. We never could have accomplished half the stuff we did if it weren't for her extensive knowledge and expertise. From navigating Genie+ and mobile ordering, to PhotoPass and changing park and meal reservations on the fly, she was a total lifesaver. She truly went above and beyond in preparing our daily itineraries, booking our reservations and getting everything just right. She helped make this such a magical time for our family. People need to know how awesome she is and how valuable this service is that she provides. There's no travel agent we'd rather have than Amy!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Most Helpful and Detailed Information
Reviewed By Kristen - Lake Orion, MI | Traveled to Florida ~ USA
Amy was so helpful while we planned our Disney World trip. She answered all of our questions and concerns and provided the most helpful information! She made our trip the best it could be. Thank you!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Fantastic Vacation!!
Reviewed By Tdogz - Huntington Woods, MI | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
It was an absolute pleasure working with Amy to plan our Universal/Disney trip. She shared so many helpful resources with us and was there to answer all of our questions.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
An unforgettable first family trip to Disney!
Reviewed By Rachel C - Geneva, IL | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy Baranek did an AMAZING job planning our first family Disney trip! We have 4 kids (our boy/girl twins are the youngest and then a 5 year old girl and an 8 year old girl). We also brought my mom along. First of all, before the trip I literally had zero leg work to do as far as planning and making reservations- Amy did it all and even was able to get reservations large enough at the places we wanted on the days we wanted. She went above and beyond! Amy met with us on Zoom several times to answer questions before booking and even mailed us a package in advance with maps of all the parks, a detailed itinerary of each day with tips/recommendations, ponchos for everyone and 4 autograph books for the kids with Sharpies for the characters to use when signing. She is so organized and thinks of every single detail. You can tell she truly loves Disney and sharing her expertise with her clients. Thanks so much Amy for making our trip truly magical!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
5 of 10 people found this review helpful
Great Disneyworld Planning
Reviewed By Nathan - Troy, MI | Traveled to Kissimmee ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy is by far the best travel agent I have worked with. She was super helpful, always responsive to any questions, and all-around great to work with! Would definitely recommend her.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
Handled everything for my trip to Universal
Reviewed By Matt from Indianapolis - IN | Traveled to Universal Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Any was great to work with on my family trip to Universal Studios. I wouldn’t book another trip like this without her. Use her, you won’t be disappointed.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Wonderful family trip!!
Reviewed By Adam Feinstein - Rochester Hills, MI | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
She was on top of everything before, during, and after the trip. Great communication. Knowledge is superior to the rest. Just a really great asset to an amazing trip.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Amy Baranek responded:
Thank you so much! It was so fun working with your family!! I am so happy everyone had a magical vacation!
Thank you so much! It was so fun working with your family!! I am so happy everyone had a magical vacation!
5 of 10 people found this review helpful
Stress Free Trips
Reviewed By mingtea - Oakland MI | Traveled to Bahamas ~ Caribbean
Answers questions fast. Very detailed. Wealth of knowledge. Great directions from point A to B. Amy has made all of our trips run smooth. Will return to her for the next trip.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
6 of 12 people found this review helpful
Awesome cruise
Reviewed By K.lin - Troy michigan | Traveled to Bahamas ~ Caribbean
Amy is a great travel agent! Knows what she is doing and finds you the best deals.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
Joyful Journey
Reviewed By Momma Lion - Naperville, IL | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy helped us to plan our fabulous vacation in Florida. Each step of the way, she guided us through each part of the Magic Kingdom we wanted to visit. Communication skills were terrific
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
10 of 20 people found this review helpful
Fantastic Disney & Universal Experience
Reviewed By Barb - MetroDetroit, Michigan | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy is amazing! She planned our trip with our families specific needs in mind. She guided through hotel, dinning and attraction options that maximized our experience. She was available to trouble shoot problems while we were on our trip and provided suggestions for rest centers as well as services available to celebrate a birthday of a friend on our trip as well as navigating a busy wedding attendees schedule.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
11 of 22 people found this review helpful
Excellent Trips!
Reviewed By AlishaD - FL | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy is always amazing! I have used her multiple times and will continue to use her. She makes my vacations so easy for me. I really appreciate all the hard work she does to make my vacations memorable.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
5 of 10 people found this review helpful
Definitely using Amy on our next vacation!
Reviewed By Heather Haayer-Nelson - Batavia, IL | Traveled to Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
Amy was amazing from start to finish! She gave us all the different options. She booked the resort and transportation to/from airport. And when our flight times were changed twice by the airline, she adjusted the transportation accordingly. She booked Monkeyland, 2 hr horseback riding along beach, and transportation for both. She set up travel insurance. Leading up to our trip, she sent us reminders about when payment was due, when we needed to get our passports by, and even a packing list! She also gave us helpful tips for the resort: they don’t have straws or pool floats. I found it really helpful that she sent us a little, red pouch with all of our important documents. I brought this pouch with me everywhere. I especially liked her checklist for day of arrival, day before departure; and day of departure. We ended up having a wonderful vacation! The best part about all of it was that Amy took the stress and burden off of us.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
First time Disney!
Reviewed By Brihorse - Rochester, MI | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
So knowledgeable and so responsive! A pure joy to work with. We know everything will be so organized!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
A Smooth and Lovely Family Reunion
Reviewed By Colleen - Lafayette, CA | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
She was responsive and attentive and very knowledgeable about when we should go, restaurant reservations, even stroller rentals - all the details were covered and it took so much weight off my shoulders.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
8 of 17 people found this review helpful
Stress-Free Planning a Trip of a Lifetime
Reviewed By Emily Jackson - Macomb, MI | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy made planning our first family trip to Disney stress-free. She handled all of our booking needs and was readily available to answer questions, even while on a vacation of her own. She provided us with some great restaurant recommendations and the resort she suggested was an absolutely perfect fit for our family. The little touches and gifts sent to us along the way created even more excitement leading up to the trip. I enjoyed getting the regular emails with tips and ideas for our trip. It provided us with additional ideas and possibilities while in town. It felt comforting knowing that if there were any concerns we could rely on Amy. We found Amy online, so she was a complete stranger to us. We quickly gained trust with her and will continue to share her with family and friends who are looking to plan a Disney getaway in the future.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 4 people found this review helpful
Excellent Disney Trip
Reviewed By Nate - Troy, MI | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy was super helpful and great to work with helping to plan our family’s trip to Disney World. Would definitely recommend her and use her services in the future.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
2 of 6 people found this review helpful
Going to be the BEST trip ever!!
Reviewed By Jennifer - Chesterfield, MI | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy has been great planning my Disney trip! Always answering my 101 questions when I email her. Awesome recommendations and knowledge.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
8 of 18 people found this review helpful
Most Magical and Adventurous Vacations!
Reviewed By duck9173 - Clinton Township, MI | Traveled to Belize ~ Central America
Amy has helped us plan a couple of amazing vacations! The first time we used her was to take our first family trip together with our kids to Disney. I couldn’t imagine doing it without her...she made everything so simple and seamless, especially since we were now familiar with booking a Disney vacation and all the ins and outs of it. We had the most magical trip! We were so happy with her service that we used her another time to book a trip for my spouse and I to Belize! Again, this was somewhere we had never been or knew much about, so we reached out to Amy and she was more than happy to help. She helped book up flights, hotel, and all of our excursions and helped us time everything perfectly. She seriously took all of the stress that goes along with planning vacations and made it worry-free and more enjoyable for us. We will definitely be using her again :)
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
4 of 10 people found this review helpful
First trip to Disney!
Reviewed By Laura - Troy, Michigan | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Great travel tips, very thorough and thoughtful! Sent us a lot of essential information prior to our trip.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
4 of 11 people found this review helpful
Service Above and Beyond should be her motto
Reviewed By ToeKnee D. - Downers Grove, Illinois | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
I have used Amy for several Disney trips over the last few years. Amy will not only book your vacation but she will keep her eyes out for any future deals that will make your trip more Magical. She will let you know your options and will than book it for you. She can do it all for you; dining reservations, fast passes and a full recap of your activities planned by day before you leave on your trip. If you need her when you are at Disney she will call you and either resolve your issue for you or will let you know what your options are. Service Above and Beyond should be her motto.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
4 of 12 people found this review helpful
Amazing trip!
Reviewed By MLM - Clarkston, MI | Traveled to Walt Disney World ~ Florida ~ USA
Amy was wonderful to work with, she helped me plan my trip for 19 people to Disney World with many changes and we got everything we wanted! We had a wonderful trip!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
10 of 25 people found this review helpful