Capture Your Moment PhotoPass Sessions coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

-

May 6, 2021

We recently did a story about scheduling Capture Your Moment PhotoPass session at Magic Kingdom, now it has come to Animal Kingdom also. Disney Parks Blog announced “Today we’re excited to announce Capture Your Moment will be launching soon at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park!

Capture Your Moment is a personalized 20-minute photo session with a Disney PhotoPass photographer that you reserve in advance. It’s a perfect add-on for those celebrating something special, such as a proposal, baby announcement, honeymoon, anniversary, birthday, graduation, first visit, or just enjoying time spent with family in the Most Magical Place on Earth. There’s always something to celebrate, and these sessions are a great and relaxing way to ensure your moment or family portrait is not only captured, but also captured in a creative way that highlights your style and personality.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Capture Your Moment sessions will take place on or nearby Discovery Island, where you can take advantage of stunning views of the Tree of Life. After checking in for your session at the ticket and information desk located outside of Island Mercantile, your photographer will discuss available photo shoot locations and ask a few questions to determine how the session can be customized to your needs. After being escorted to your photo shoot location, you’ll have the opportunity to capture photos there with your photographer for up to 20 minutes.

Just like the Capture Your Moment sessions offered at Magic Kingdom Park, each session is $50 and can include up to eight guests. Prints and digital downloads are not included with the price of a Capture Your Moment session. However, those with a Disney PhotoPass entitlement such as Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day, as well as qualifying Annual Passholders with a Disney PhotoPass download benefit, can download the photos taken during Capture Your Moment from their Disney account at no extra cost.

As a reminder, guests may temporarily remove face coverings while actively taking an outdoor photo, but they must be stationary and maintain appropriate physical distancing during this time

Disney Celebrates Halfway to Halloween tomorrow!

By

Chip

-

May 6, 2021

Disney Celebrates Halfway to Halloween tomorrow!

Can you believe we are almost halfway to Halloween? To celebrate Disney will be hosting on Friday a day of spooktacular surprises!

The #HalfwaytoHalloween fun begins tomorrow morning, May 7th! Throughout the day, Disney will be sharing nothing but treats including a special announcement as well as a few “shriek peeks” and some dreadfully delicious dishes. Also, they will be digging up a “mummy approved” Disney+ playlist, not-so-spooky planDisney tips, frightfully favorite Halloween wallpapers and much more.

Disney’s #HalfwaytoHalloween celebration is extending into the weekend this year as well with a LIVE @DisneyParks TikTok event on May 8th that’ll include a behind-the-scenes look at the Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World Resort and appearances from Walt Disney Imagineers. Tune in tomorrow to learn more about Saturday’s TikTok event.

With this news this makes me wonder if we will hear the announcement for Mickey’s No So Scary Halloween Party??

Stay tuned tomorrow for all the fun!

Unnamed Food Festival coming to Universal Orlando this summer

By

Susan Wilson

-

May 6, 2021

Unnamed Food Festival coming to Universal Orlando this summer

Mardi Gras might have just ended but Universal Orlando is gearing up for a brand new summer food festival. The food festival has yet to be named (or officially announced) but they had a preview yesterday.

There’s a new Summer food festival (unofficial name) coming to @UniversalORL! Food trucks! Pop up tent! So much more! I’m having a Mangonada (non-alcoholic) and a Queso Arepa. pic.twitter.com/Mcy5946aXo
— magic city mayhem (@magiccitymayhem) May 5, 2021

It looks like we are getting some fun food trucks and a delicious serving of summer foods! It seems like Universal Orlando is working hard to put out a new festival to balance park crowds. VelociCoaster, their new coaster opening June 10th, will definitely draw large crowds to the Islands of Adventure theme park. Putting a food festival at Universal Studios park is a great idea.

We will definitely continue to update as we get a name and official date for the new Universal Food Festival. We can’t wait to try all the delicious food.

New Birthday Cake Doughnut at Voodoo

By

Susan Wilson

-

May 6, 2021

Voodoo Doughnut is celebrating their anniversary in a delicious way! For a limited time you can get their Cake Slice doughnut at their Citywalk Orlando location. This specialty doughnut wasn’t on the menu or in the case so make sure to ask if you’re wanting to try one.

The Cake Slice Anniversary Doughnut comes with either strawberry, vanilla, or chocolate frosting. The inside is a Bavarian cake batter filling. It looks like a funfetti cake mix inside.

The doughnut is topped with a pretzel candle. They are $3.75 each but you can use your annual pass discount.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

We really enjoyed the Cake Slice doughnut. Make sure to get to Voodoo at Citywalk early, I got the last one right around noon.

Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels Special offer for Educators and First Responders

By

Sara

-

May 6, 2021

Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels Special offer for Educators and First Responders

Educators and first responders can now enjoy a stay at a Disney Springs Resort Area Hotel with a new special offer!

This past year, educators have found ways to keep connection and creativity alive in any arena they were presented, while first responders have worked tirelessly to keep people safe and healthy. To honor their hard work the Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels which include B Resort & Spa, Double Tree Suites by Hilton, Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace, Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, Holiday Inn, and Wyndham Garden Inn Lake Buena Vista are giving them an exclusive offer starting at $79 per night.

To keep the magic going, the Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels are in close proximity to the Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Disney Springs. Situated in Walt Disney World Resort, all six hotels are within easy walking distance to Disney Springs, which now features more than 150 retail, dining and entertainment establishments. This includes exceptional dining options — ranging from casual fare to extraordinary restaurants by renowned James Beard Award-winning chefs – as well as outstanding shopping, unique attractions, and numerous choices to enjoy outdoor entertainment.

For educators and first responders ready to start planning their magical family vacation, they can book now through July 10, 2021, for travel between now and July 14, 2021. These special rates include Bus Shuttle to all Walt Disney World Theme Parks; a “Passport to Savings” booklet which features discounts and specials from Disney Springs merchants on entertainment, shopping and dining; and advance tee times and discounts at all Walt Disney World golf courses.

Some blackout dates may apply, and availability may be limited. Resort fees, taxes, gratuities and daily parking, if applicable, are not included in above rates. This room rate offer is not valid with any other offer or promotion, or on existing reservations, or for groups.

For help with booking this special offer, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Amazing Magical Adventures and can help you book a magical vacation at no extra cost to you.

CDC sets rules for Cruise Lines to return to operation

By

Sara

-

May 6, 2021

Yesterday the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released final technical guidelines for cruise line trial runs. This is a step toward sailings resuming in the U.S., possibly by mid-July.

Cruise lines will soon be able to begin test sailings in U.S. waters with volunteer passengers. The trial sailings will have enough passengers to meet at least 10% of the ship’s capacity and run for two to seven days. The volunteers must be 18 or older and examined for COVID-19 symptoms before and after the trip. They also must be either fully vaccinated or free of medical conditions that would put them at high risk for COVID-19.

CDC sets rules for Cruise Lines to return to operation

Cruise lines must tell the volunteers that the safety measures being simulated are untested and that sailing during COVID-19 is a risky activity. Onboard restrictions will include wearing face masks and social distancing and at least 75% of passengers must be tested for COVID-19 at the end of the sailing. Guided shore excursions will be allowed if tour operators follow certain standards.

Test sailings can be skipped if cruise lines can vouch that 98% of crew and 95% of passengers are vaccinated. If cruise lines decide to do the practice cruises, at least one will be required before they’ll be allowed to resume regular sailings in U.S. waters.

Disney Cruise Line has not made any announcement regarding test sailings with volunteers. Stay tuned to Chip & Co for more updates!

Source

Limited Release Moana MagicBand By Dooney & Bourke

By

Danielle

-

May 5, 2021

As part of the beautiful new Moana Dooney & Bourke release, Disney has also launched a stunning new Moana MagicBand! This gorgeous new MagicBand is a limited release, and also comes in a breath taking collector’s box.

Know one knows How far will you go at Walt Disney World Resort wearing this designer MagicBand! The whimsical new band by Dooney & Bourke features Moana and Pua, on a sea blue background. For an extra added touch of Moana the quote “The sea is calling me” is also printed on the band.

Limited Release Moana MagicBand By Dooney & Bourke

The band comes in presentation box with a magnetic closure that features incredible art inspired by the animated film.

You’ll find the Moana MagicBand sailing stylishly at Walt Disney World where MagicBands are sold, as well as online at shopDisney.com for $48.00!

Universal Orlando Making Changes to Covid Measures

By

Sara

-

May 5, 2021

Universal Orlando Making Changes to Covid Measures

Florida recently removed all Covid restrictions in the state, leaving it up to businesses to decide what measures they want to enforce. Starting tomorrow, May 6, Universal Orlando is eliminating temperature screenings and moving social distancing to 3 feet instead of 6.

“The health and safety of our guests and team members is always our top priority. We continue to review the CDC guidelines and work with local health officials as we update our health and safety protocols,” Universal said.

Most of Universal Orlando’s original safety protocols remain in place. Face coverings are still required and enhanced cleaning and sanitation will remain.

Universal made the announcement after Walt Disney World announced it will be phasing out temperature screenings as well.

If you’d like help planning your next trip to Universal Orlando, contact me for a free, no-obligation vacation quote!

Disney World to phase out temperature screenings

By

Greg Gately

-

May 5, 2021

Walt Disney World Resort on Wednesday announced it will phase out temperature screening. Starting with Cast members on May 8, 2021, followed by Guests starting May 16, 2021. “We will continue to follow the guidance of health and safety leaders going forward and most importantly encourage people to get vaccinated,” Disney said in a prepared statement.

Since July 11, 2020, Walt Disney World has put in place enhanced health and safety measures. With social distancing, temperature checks at each entrance, and mask requirements among other protocols. A temperature of over 100.4 degrees and Disney would let you sit in a cool-down tent for 10 minutes and check again. If it still did not fall below 100.4 you were refused entry.

On April 30 2021 Orange County Health Officer Dr. Raul Pino Tweeted “The Department of Health is not recommending temperature checks as they waste resources on something that doesn’t necessarily prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

On May 3, 2021, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed an executive order invalidating local emergency orders and COVID-19 restrictions. Disney quickly followed up with a reminder that masks are still required on Walt Disney Resort property.

In the statement from Disney, they advised “Before you leave home, be sure to check the temperatures of everyone in your party-including yourself-as an extra layer of precaution,”

You can read the whole statement from Disney below.

Disney World to phase out temperature screenings

The Wave at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Will Be Closing for Refurbishment

By

Allison Luna

-

May 5, 2021

The Wave... of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Resort dining is one of the best ways to enjoy Walt Disney World. Taking in the atmosphere of the happiest place on earth while enjoying the advantages of air conditioning and crowd-limiting reservations makes every experience a memorable one. Not to mention how many options there are! But it looks like one of Disney’s best restaurants and its accompanying lounge will be closed during the summer.

The Wave at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Will Be Closing for Refurbishment

The Wave… of American Flavors and The Wave Lounge at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will undergo refurbishment starting mid-July. If you hurry, you may still be able to grab a reservation between now and July 15th. They plan to reopen in time for the 50th Anniversary celebration at Walt Disney World Resort.

True to its name, the restaurant offers contemporary and fresh takes on American cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you’ll find hearty and locally sourced options such as sweet potato pancakes, burgers, and salads, not to mention their beef tenderloin on the dinner menu. It’s a popular spot for a reason, so don’t be surprised if you have to talk yourself into saving room for dessert. The crème brûlée is worth it though! And don’t forget to check out the lounge if you’re over 21.
Related – Video: Cinderella Castle almost complete for Disney World’s 50th Anniversary

Check for reservations as soon as possible because they’re already booking up fast. The next time we see the inside of The Wave… of American Flavors, it will be time for Walt Disney World’s Anniversary celebration!

Photos are courtesy of Disney

You can get this super cute Baby Yoda Dole Whip outside of Disney

By

Sara

-

May 5, 2021

You can get this super cute Baby Yoda Dole Whip outside of Disney

Nothing is cuter than Star Wars’ Baby Yoda (aka Grogu) but this new Dole Whip comes pretty close! And you don’t have to go to Disney to get this cute Baby Yoda Dole Whip.

Hula Girls Shave Ice in Huntington Beach, California is serving up the most adorable Dole Whip in the galaxy. It is made with lime Dole Whip, Sprite, gummy ears, and sour ball eyes.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hula Girls Shave Ice (@hulagirlsshaveice)

Disney World has offered cute character Dole Whips and cones before, but none quite as adorable as this Baby Yoda one. And you don’t even have to enter the parks to get it!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hula Girls Shave Ice (@hulagirlsshaveice)

If you are in the area, head over to Hula Girls Shave Ice and see if they are still available!

Magical Mickey Guacamole And Chips To Make At Home!

By

Ana Leal

-

May 5, 2021

Feliz Cinco de Mayo! Get your family together and enjoy some delicious Mickey Guacamole and Chips!

This dish is already delicious on it’s own but we can make it even better if we trade the regular chips for some Mickey chips instead! We love to add a touch of magic to every celebration, and this treat is perfect for that.

Making it is super easy and fast, all you have to do is follow this recipe from Disney Eats:

MICKEY CHIPS AND GUACAMOLE

INGREDIENTS:

1 avocado, just ripe
1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, seeded and diced
1/2 small red onion, finely diced
2 tsp of yellow corn kernels
1 tsp of cilantro, finely chopped
1 lime, juiced
6 corn tortillas, white or yellow
1 tbsp of olive oil or vegetable oil
Salt, to taste
Mickey cookie cutter

INSTRUCTIONS:

Place the cubed avocado into a bowl.

Add tomatoes, onion, corn, cilantro and lime juice. Add salt to taste, then gently toss. Transfer the guacamole to a Mickey-shaped serving bowl.

Heat the oven to 350F. To make the tortilla chips, use a pastry brush to lightly brush both sides of each tortilla with oil. Use a Mickey cookie cutter to cut out chips from the tortillas.

Place the cut-outs on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes,or until lightly browned.

Upon taking the baking sheet out of the oven, scatter the chips lightly with salt. Allow the chips to cool completely.

Serve with Mickey guacamole.

Enjoy!

Credit: Disney Eats