Gio Spano

Welcome to Extra Magic Trips! I’m Gio Spano, your guide to crafting unforgettable vacations filled with magic, adventure, and exploration. With a lifetime of firsthand experiences visiting, staying at, and working for Disney, I bring unparalleled expertise to help you create the perfect getaway as a Vacation Planner.

My journey with Disney began in 1977, when I first stepped into the enchanting Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World® Resort. That visit sparked a lifelong love for all things Disney, from Sunday nights spent watching The Wonderful World of Disney to filling my childhood bedroom walls with cutouts of beloved Disney characters. Thanks to my incredible grandparents, I was fortunate to visit the Walt Disney World® Resort many times growing up.

After college, I turned my dreams into reality as an entertainer at the Walt Disney World® Resort. From performing in front of Cinderella’s Castle to roles in parades, TV specials, touring shows, and live performances across Disney stages worldwide, I lived and breathed Disney magic for years. I later took on management roles with Walt Disney Live Entertainment, contributing to the creative teams behind cutting-edge shows at Disney and beyond.

My wanderlust for travel blossomed during my Disney adventures, and I’ve continued to embrace this passion as an entrepreneur in the entertainment industry. My husband and I visit the Walt Disney World® Resort multiple times per year, alongside exploring other Disney destinations like Disneyland® Resort, Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa, and Disney Cruise Line. From value resorts to deluxe accommodations, and from casual eateries to fine dining experiences, I’ve gained insights that allow me to tailor vacation recommendations that meet you and your families’ specific needs. I specialize in creating unforgettable vacations tailored to diverse family structures and groups—whether it’s multigenerational trips, family reunions, LGBTQ+ travelers, or anyone seeking a magical experience. Yes, I’m a proud Disney adult—and a foodie to boot!

Beyond my love for Disney, I’m also a big fan of Universal Studios, especially their spectacular seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights, Mardi Gras, and Grinchmas. These celebrations, combined with Disney’s own seasonal magic, think Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, Jollywood Nights, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, make seasonal trips feel truly extraordinary. I’ve even taken to the seas with Disney Cruise Line during their themed voyages, from the thrilling delights of Halloween on The High Seas to the festive charm of a Very Merrytime Cruise. Each of these experiences brings a special kind of excitement to traveling, and as a dedicated fan, I can help you experience these seasonal events too!

As a proud graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge, a certified Universal Studios Orlando Specialist & Universal Studios Hollywood Specialist, I am dedicated to staying informed about the best deals and experiences these destinations have to offer you as a traveler. It can be overwhelming with so much to see and do at Disney & Universal. Don’t fret, I am here to help you plan your trip and I’m also available during your trip. I am just a phone call away and happy to assist with all the complexities of visiting these incredible destinations.

In today’s tech-savvy world, navigating digital tools is essential to making the most of your Disney vacation. I provide expert guidance on using Disney’s latest app and am happy to assist with setup, ensuring you’re ready to unlock every magical moment with ease.

Whether you’re dreaming of a Disney-filled adventure on land or at sea, the thrill of Universal Studios, or a combination of both, I’m uniquely qualified to create your next vacation of a lifetime. I also specialize in cruise vacations, international escapes, Adventures by Disney, National Geographic Expeditions, and unique experiences in Costa Rica, one of the most biodiverse countries in the world—a place my husband has called home since childhood and for me, a second home for the past decade.

Let me take all the guesswork out of planning your next vacation. Whether this is your first time traveling or you are a seasoned veteran, let’s make magic happen together. Your next unforgettable journey starts here! Request your free quote today by clicking the “Request a Quote from Gio” button.