Owner
Some people stumble into travel by accident. I grew into it slowly, over years of watching the world through the eyes of my students.
For 23 years, I taught elementary school in North Carolina. One summer, I planned a trip to Walt Disney World for my students to participate in the Youth Education Series programs. The experience was so impactful that I continued leading these summer adventures for a total of 14 seasons. Each year, I watched bright, curious young people learn math through theme park design, science through real world experiences, and history by stepping right into it. Those experiences were when I first discovered the true power of travel. I watched quiet students find confidence. I watched classmates grow closer. I watched curiosity ignite in the most beautiful way.
Somewhere in those years, the idea of helping families experience that same sense of wonder began to grow. I did not know it then, but those summer adventures were the beginning of Magical Adventures Travel.
What started as one teacher’s dream has grown into a trusted, nationally recognized travel agency that helps families create memories they will carry for a lifetime. Today, Magical Adventures Travel is proud to be recognized for the strength of our training, expertise, and client service. Our agency holds the prestigious EarMarked designation from Disney, an honor awarded to top agencies with proven experience and exceptional product knowledge across Disney Parks, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, and global Disney destinations. We are also a U Preferred agency with Universal Parks and Resorts, a distinction reserved for agencies that consistently demonstrate high sales performance, extensive product expertise, and a deep commitment to helping families experience the best of Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood. These honors reflect the ongoing education, firsthand insight, and level of care that guide every trip we plan.
Although Disney will always hold a meaningful place in my story, my passion for travel has grown far beyond those early summers. We now help families explore Europe through thoughtfully crafted itineraries, including Adventures by Disney, discover treasured traditions on ocean and river cruises, and reconnect in beautiful all inclusive resorts. My own love of travel continues to guide me, from the excitement of the newest Disney Destiny preview sailing to the charm of European river cruises that feel like stepping into a storybook.
As Magical Adventures Travel grew, so did my desire to support others who share this passion. Today, I lead a team of 50+ warm, knowledgeable, and dedicated agents who plan with intention, professionalism, and firsthand expertise. When I say “we,” I mean a team committed to making every trip feel truly extraordinary.
Travel is not just a career for me. It is something I feel deeply. I love the moment a client realizes their trip is really happening. I love when families return home with stories they cannot wait to share. And I love knowing that the smallest thoughtful detail in an itinerary can become a memory that stays with someone for life.
If you are ready to dream, to plan, or simply to explore the possibilities, we would be honored to help bring your next magical adventure to life.
Reviews for Cathy
We’ve booked 2 Disney trips with our advisor and are in the process of our 3rd! I also suggest all friends and relatives to her. She makes everything so easy. She gives great, honest advice and is so knowledgeable. She got up at 6am on a Saturday to book our dining reservation 180 days prior to the trip date and booked every single reservation we wanted!! We will always work with her for our Disney trips and can’t wait to start planning a Disney cruise!
