Two New Orlando Resorts Near Disney World Now Accepting Reservations

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March 7, 2023

Two New Orlando Resorts Near Disney World Now Accepting Reservations

There are two new Orlando resorts new Walt Disney World and they are now accepting reservations! Evermore Orlando Resort and Luxury Conrad Orlando are accepting reservations for early 2024.

Both resorts are located near the Walt Disney World Resort and give families another option when looking for a place to stay. Reservations are available for dates beginning February 5, 2024.

“We designed Evermore to introduce an entirely new hospitality category that will forever change the landscape of luxury vacation rental homes. Evermore offers a vastly superior short-term rental experience by solving the inconsistency problems of renting someone’s personal home while also providing hotel-like service and security,” said Christopher Kelsey, President of Dart Interests. “Evermore is Orlando’s only true destination resort worthy of a vacation even without a trip to the theme parks. Within the resort, we have created whole neighborhoods of resort-owned, purpose-built vacation rental homes in concert with a true luxury hotel to provide high-quality, bespoke experiences for all sizes and types of groups from couples to large conferences, particularly including multi-family and multi-generational vacations.”

Evermore Orlando Resort will feature a variety of stay experiences. It will open with 69 houses ranging in size from five to eleven bedrooms, 206 four-bedroom flats, and 41 two and four-bedroom villas. Conrad Orlando will open with 433 rooms, including 51 suites and 10 family suites.

“As we prepare to open Conrad Orlando later this year, we are excited to debut the Conrad brand and evolve our offerings in one of the most sought-after destinations,” said Danny Hughes, Executive Vice President and President, Americas, Hilton. “Conrad Orlando’s exceptional service paired with the wide range of amenities at Evermore Orlando Resort will provide our guests with an unforgettable experience.”

See the resorts here.

What do you think about the two new resorts?

Impressions de France Scaling Back Number of Performances

By

Sara

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March 7, 2023

Impressions de France Scaling Back Number of Performances

Impressions de France is an 18-minute film showcasing the grandeur, charm and romance of one of Europe’s most enchanting countries. The film is shown at the France pavilion in Epcot. Recently, we noticed the show is very limited in the number of performances.

The show will now only be available from 9 am to 9:30 am. Guests with early park entry can experience the show from 8:30 am to 9 am.

Impressions de France was previously shown throughout the day. Now, performances are only available in that very limited window.

Have you seen Impressions de France at Epcot?

If you’d like to visit Epcot, contact me today to start planning your trip! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Light Up Your Room With This Disney Mini Night Light!

By

Ana Leal

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March 6, 2023

Light Up Your Room With This Disney Mini Night Light!

Add a bright touch of magic to your room with a Disney Mini Night Light created by MonkeyBoodleDesigns on Etsy for $3.49. You can order your favorite one here!

It’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and super pretty with color changing lights! They also have plenty of Disney characters to choose from so we are sure you will find your favorite one.

First Look at TRON Lightcycle Run Team Green Post-Show at Magic Kingdom

By

Sara

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March 6, 2023

First Look at TRON Lightcycle Run Team Green Post-Show at Magic Kingdom

TRON Lightcycle Run officially opens at Magic Kingdom on April 4! We recently got a first look at the Team Green post-show for the new coaster.

The digital realm is full of fierce competition. As Users prepare to race Lightcycles on the Grid on TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise, opening April 4 at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World, they pass through the Hall of Opponents showcasing the previous victorious race competitors: Team Yellow and Team Red – and of course, the menacing Team Orange. Users then sync to their Lightcycles, joining Team Blue to compete against Team Orange, in a thrilling race across the Grid to capture all eight energy gates.

After competing in an epic race and returning to Tomorrowland, Team Blue Users are introduced to a bold new race team being welcomed in the post-show space presented by Enterprise: Team Green.

Accompanying Team Green is the centerpiece of the space: their one-of-a-kind, powerful and state-of-the-art Lightcycle – the latest and most-advanced iteration to join the competition. This formidable vehicle has been exported from the Grid into the real world. As it awaits its turn to race, its engine revs with pulsating green lights – creating an incredible photo opportunity for Users.

Team Green and their impressive Lightcycle’s programming are showcased throughout the space in dynamic displays that relay the incredible culture, capabilities and values of Enterprise – which make them uniquely qualified to join the competition. A single line of green light connects the displays as if to power up the Team Green stories in unison. Looking ahead, more stories about the twelve Team Green members will rotate through the display, providing returning Users an opportunity to enjoy even more Team Green stories on future visits to TRON Lightcycle / Run.

Want to check out TRON Lightcycle Run when it opens next month? Contact me today to start planning your trip! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free. I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!

Disney100 Limited Edition Platinum Collection To Celebrate 100 Years Of Wonder!

By

Ana Leal

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March 6, 2023

Disney100 Limited Edition Platinum Collection To Celebrate 100 Years Of Wonder!

Loungefly is launching a new Disney100 Limited Edition Platinum Collection to start celebrating 100 years of The Walt Disney Company! It’s available right now exclusively at Loungefly.com and FunkoEurope.com.

The backpack features red and platinum colors with Mickey’s face on the front and the Disney100 logo on the back. The straps are red with Mickey icons, the inside lining is red with Mickey Mouse in different poses plus a platinum Mickey glove.

There is also a matching wallet available with Mickey’s face in the front in platinum and the back is metallic red with the Disney100 logo in silver. So cute!

The collection is super magical and stylish, a perfect way to start getting ready in style to celebrate 100 years of wonder.

Credit: Loungefly

Opening date announced for The Villas at Disneyland Hotel

By

Sara

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March 6, 2023

Opening date announced for The Villas at Disneyland Hotel

An opening date has been announced for The Villas at Disneyland Hotel! Guests will be able to stay in the new villas starting September 28, 2023.

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will celebrate the magic of creativity and storytelling through a blend of contemporary designs and carefully curated pieces inspired by the stories, characters and worlds of Disney Animation.

This will be the fourth tower at the AAA Four Diamond, landmark Disneyland Hotel, located just steps from the Downtown Disney District, Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

The lobby will feature a one-of-a-kind mural created exclusively for The Villas at Disneyland Hotel by Disney Animation artist Lorelay Bové, known for her work on classics from “The Princess and the Frog” to “Encanto.”

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will have 344 whimsically themed rooms, including duo studios, deluxe studios, one- and two-bedroom villas, and grand villas. Each includes modern just-like-home amenities with touches of Disney magic sprinkled throughout, themed to Walt Disney Animation Studios films like “The Jungle Book,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Fantasia” and more.

Guests can even soak up some inspiration during their vacation at a vibrantly colored, mid-century modern hangout for the entire family.

You must be excited to book your magical adventure. So here are some dates to keep in mind:

Wednesday, March 15 – Disney Vacation Club Members can begin to make rental reservations by calling Member Services at (800) 800-9800
Thursday, March 16 – Disneyland Resort Magic Key holders can start booking rental reservations by contacting (714) 956-6425
Friday, March 17 – All guests can make rental reservations online at or by contacting (714) 956-6425.

The Villas are limited in availability and are subject to restrictions and change without notice.

Are you excited to stay in the new The Villas at Disneyland Hotel?

If you’d like to plan your next Disneyland vacation, contact me today to start planning! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!

New Snow White Flower & Garden Ear Headband Available At Epcot!

By

Ana Leal

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March 6, 2023

New Snow White Flower & Garden Ear Headband Available At Epcot!

This Snow White Flower & Garden Ear Headband will make you feel like a princess walking through the woods surrounded by nature and cute animals! You can get yours at the Creations Shop in Epcot for $34.99.

They feature padded denim ears with the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival logo on one ear and Snow White on the other. The back features floral embroidery in pastel colors, plus flowers and vines around the headband on the back and front.

A very cute ear headband for the springtime and your visit to Flower & Garden! You can take a closer look at these ears in our Instagram post:

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Diego Luna is ready to say goodbye to ‘Andor’ after two seasons

By

Marc Valentine

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March 6, 2023

Diego Luna is ready to say goodbye to ‘Andor’ after two seasons

Diego Luna recently sat down with Variety to discuss the second and final season of the Disney+ series Andor. Luna reflected upon the experience and was grateful to be saying goodbye to the character he originated in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Luna talked about grounding himself in projects when not on set, and explained the mental toll filming can have on actors.

When not on a film or television set, Luna launches himself into the theater, saying, “In a way, it has kept me sane. Theater is a great way to go back and put your feet on the ground and remind you what this is all about.” In between shooting seasons 1 & 2 of Andor, Luna spent two months on stage in Madrid in a one-man monologue.

Luna reflected on his time on the screen recounting his many roles over the years, citing, “If there is something personal for each project, they become like stamps that remind you where you’ve been.” As for the role of Cassian Andor, Luna returned to the role because there was more to the story that needed to be told. Despite his return as Andor, Diego Luna says that ending after two seasons is “bittersweet.”

“It is just a two-season show, which is really important for my mental health. But knowing this is the end, I want to enjoy it and get the best out of this experience.” While he has enjoyed this role, Luna is ready to hang up his blaster and move on to other projects. Season 2 of Andor began filming last fall and will end with 24 episodes available to stream on Disney+. Lucasfilm or Disney has not yet announced a premiere date for the second season.

Figment Flower & Garden Loungefly Backpack Available At Epcot!

By

Ana Leal

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March 6, 2023

Figment Flower & Garden Loungefly Backpack Available At Epcot!

Let your imagination grow with this Figment Flower & Garden Loungefly Backpack we found at the Creations Shop in Epcot during the Flower and Garden Festival! A very unique and special design featuring our favorite creative dragon.

The backpack features a beautiful dark and light teal color with artwork featuring Figment flying over a garden and watering plants like flowers and Mickey shaped cactus! So cute!

Definitely a must have if you love Figment or nature in general. You can take a closer look at this backpack in our Instagram post:

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Jack In the Box Coming to Central Florida

By

Chris B

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March 6, 2023

Fast Food chain Jack In The Box is branching into the Orlando area

The fast food chain Jack In The Box is coming to central Florida. Click Orlando reports the company has entered into an agreement with a franchisee to bring the restaurant to the Orlando area.

While the press release noted a total of 14 stores will be coming to Central Florida and Arkansas, it did not include details on opening dates, the number of restaurants specific to the Orlando area, or any specifics as to where in the Orlando area the stores will be located. We can only hope that one will be located close to Disney property so we can get our Jack In The Box fix while visiting the Most Magical Place on Earth.

The new stores will mark the first time Jack In The Box has been available in Florida in over 30 years. The restaurants offer a wide array of menu offerings, including burgers, chicken, and tacos.

Dole Whip in 3 Different Flavors is Coming to a Grocery Store Near You!

By

Chip

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March 6, 2023

Get Ready Dole Whip Fans!

In 2023, Dole Packaged Foods, LLC has major plans to accelerate the 170-year-old company’s transformation into a purpose-led, nutrition and wellness company. This transformation will be driven by a newly formed leadership team in North America composed of four women, a mix of recently hired and tenured executives with extensive backgrounds and expertise in the areas of brand building and product development.

Together, this team will bring to market 11 new launches in 2023, each designed with the Dole Promise in mind – crafting great-tasting products without processed sugars, increasing access to fruit-based nutrition, decreasing food waste, working to reduce plastic and carbon emissions, and growing value for all Dole partners and stakeholders.

Driven by consumer desire for wholesome food options that deliver on taste, Dole is launching new innovations across every category – Snacking, Beverages, Ingredients and Frozen Treats – and entering new categories like Functional Supplements and Probiotic Sodas under a new brand. Highlights on the new product innovation horizon include:

Snacks: Bringing healthier snacking options to adults and kids alike, Dole will roll out Dole Good Crunch™, sustainably produced dehydrated pineapple and banana bites that pack a crunch and provide nutrition benefits; as well as Dole Wiggles™ Fruit Juice Gels, wholesome and nutritious take on the classic treat crafted with 100% fruit juice.
Beverages: Building on Dole’s rich heritage in 100% Pineapple Juice and consumer desire for beverages with less sugar, Dole will introduce Dole® Light Pineapple Juice Drink, with just 40 calories per can and 60% less sugar and calories than regular 100% pineapple juice. Dole is also rolling out Dole® Pineapple Mango Juice, a tropical, sweet blend of pineapple and mango. And to support gut health, the soon-to-launch Dole® Digestive Bliss™ Fruit Juice Drink is 50% fruit juice, boosted with plant-based macronutrients.
Frozen Indulgences: Dole Whip®, a tropical frozen treat, will soon be available in three delicious flavors (pineapple, mango, and strawberry) in the freezer aisle at your local grocery store.
Frozen Snacks: Dole Boosted Blends™ Smoothies are being relaunched, delivering added protein, energy, and cognitive benefits. As well as new Dole Smoothie Bowls™ with exotic fruits like mango and mangosteen, and strawberry and aronia, plus the relaunch of Dole® Acai Bowls.
The Secret Nature of Fruit® Chews and Probiotic Sodas, a new brand of functional fruit-powered vitamin chews and probiotic sodas.

This team brings years of global experience from CPG companies such as Grupo Bimbo, Johnson & Johnson, Colgate-Palmolive, and Nestle. Senior Vice President and Managing Director Orzse Hodi, who joined Dole in 2021, leads the team in the United States. Hodi is joined by Nora Witt and Jennifer Hirano who lead the Marketing function, and Kimberly Galante who leads R&D.

Hodi and her team collaborate globally with Vice President of Category Development Peewee Dizon and Senior Director of Dole Ventures Barbara Guerpillon to ensure maximum impact across global markets.

“I am thrilled to work with this talented and driven group of women to bring innovative and delicious products to our consumers here in North America,” said Hodi. “We have made great progress towards the goals of the Dole Promise since it was introduced in 2020, but there is still much work to be done. I’m looking forward to making even more meaningful strides with this team of changemakers to bring sunshine and good nutrition to all.”

Drawn to Life Presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney introduces thrilling new acts

By

Chip

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March 6, 2023

Drawn to Life in Disney Springs introduces thrilling new acts

Drawn to Life has introduced exciting new additions to its show in Disney Springs, including an all-new acrobatic act, aerial artists, and a “flying” guitarist. Cirque du Soleil has a tradition of shows serving as living, breathing works of art through creative enhancements and evolutions, a legacy that continues with Drawn to Life.

The additions include A brand new act, Icarian Games, paying tribute to Disney’s animated forests – and the mysterious creatures that inhabit them – featuring a pair of Ethiopian artists performing acrobatic feats in which one lies on their back and uses their legs and feet to toss the other performer in the airAerial Hoop artists taking to the air, performing tricks during the “Dream of Colors” act, a tribute to the ink and paint animation artists, featuring dramatic colors “painted” by human trapeze artists on a suspended wheel “flying” guitarist joining the Rhythmic Gymnastics act, soaring above the acrobats as they flip through the air in addition, new musical compositions set a magnificent tone for the acts.

In conjunction with the show updates, Florida residents can now enjoy a special ticket offer, providing the perfect opportunity for both new and returning guests to experience the show.

With the special offer, Florida residents can purchase tickets up to 15 percent off on select seating categories. The limited-time offer runs through March 12, 2023, and is valid for performances through May 7, 2023. Tickets can be purchased from Cirque du Soleil at www.cirquedusoleil.com/drawn-to-life or at the Disney Springs box office.

Drawn to Life debuted at Disney Springs on Nov. 18, 2021, and features an imaginative blend of timeless Disney magic and remarkable Cirque du Soleil artistry. The family-friendly show tells the story of the love between a father and a daughter, drawing inspiration from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 100-year heritage of storytelling. The show celebrates iconic Disney stories and characters through innovative design, quintessential Cirque du Soleil acrobatic performances, dazzling choreography, musical scores, and brand-new animation lovingly created by Disney Animation artists.

For more information on show tickets, dates and pricing, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/drawn-to-life.

*Florida Residents Offer Terms: All tickets purchased with the Florida resident offer must be picked up at will call at the box office located at Disney Springs and the purchaser will need to show proof of Florida residency at that time. This offer is non-transferable. Tickets are subject to taxes and fees. Tickets cannot be resold, refunded or exchanged. Limit eight tickets per Florida Resident. This offer is restricted to seat categories 2 and 3, and may be modified at Cirque du Soleil’s discretion. Offer and tickets are subject to availability. This promotion cannot be combined with other offers. This offer may be modified or unavailable, limited in capacity and subject to change as offerings are not guaranteed.