2 Free Nights at Swan and Dolphin Hotels with Credit Card

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March 14, 2019

Earn two free nights at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit card sign-up bonus. This could save you up to $700 on your trip.

With an approval for the card, you earn 100,000 Marriott points after you spend $5,000 in the first three month. The Swan and Dolphin both cost 50,000 points per night.

While the Swan and Dolphin are not technically owned by Walt Disney World, they are still considered “on-property” resorts and guests enjoy the same benefits. The properties are located in a prime spot on Crescent Lake, between Hollywood Studios and Epcot.

The Swan (a Westin hotel) and the Dolphin (a Sheraton hotel), are both owned by Marriott. Westin properties are typically a little nicer than Sheraton properties, and the price points for each follow suit. The Swan averages about $350/night and The Dolphin averages $250/night with taxes and fees. The biggest difference between the two properties are the bedding in each room. The Swan offers a King or 2 Queens while The Dolphin offers a King or 2 Doubles.

Photo credit Chase/Marriot Bonvoy Credit Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit card also offers six points per dollar spent at Marriott hotels and two points per dollar spent everywhere else. There is an annual fee of $95, but starting at the end of your first year, this earns you a free night each year at hotels costing 35,000 points or less.

The best part of the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit card is when you use your Marriott points to book a hotel, you always stay your 5th night free.

If you’d like to apply for the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit card, click here. Once approved, I’d love to help you set up your stay at The Swan or Dolphin properties at Walt Disney World and start planning your magical vacation with these awesome savings.

Buy memories, not things. That’s been my family’s motto for the last several years. If this is you, let’s chat. I am a full-service travel agent, but I specialize in Disney Destinations® and the Universal Orlando Resort®. I am a Senior Agent with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner of Chip and Company. I am here to make all of your travel wishes come true! If you’re jumping out of your seat with excitement for traveling in 2019, let’s chat. My services are entirely FREE! To receive a no-hassle, no-obligation quote, email me at [email protected] and/or follow me on Facebook.

Colorful New Disney Eats Collection Is Perfect For Outdoor Entertaining

By

Danielle

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March 14, 2019

The latest Disney Eats Collection showcases the fun and excitement of spring, with bright colors and bold patterns. From flatware to storage containers, there’s everything needed for a fun bbq, picnic, or casual lunch in the backyard.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse Plate Set

This set of four plates has all the right ingredients to brighten up parties, picnics, and BBQs. Mickey and Minnie are featured on the four different designs of this set that’s made from melamine, making it as durable as it is colorful.

Mickey Mouse Flatware Set

The table will be set fair with this Mickey Mouse flatware collection. The 12-piece set, which includes knives, forks, and spoons, features brightly colored handles incorporating Mickey’s face, so it’ll add a smile to parties, picnics and BBQs.

Mickey Mouse and Friends Pitcher Set

Mickey and his friends pour on the fun with this pitcher set. Fashioned in durable acrylic, the coordinating four tumblers feature colorful character art and easily stack inside the pitcher, making this set perfect for beach picnics and BBQs.

Mickey Mouse Straw Ice Tray

Refresh your iced beverage game with this Mickey Mouse Straw Ice Tray by Disney Eats. Featuring a flexible silicone ice tray complete with two straws and eight Mickey-shaped molds, you’ll quench your thirst in swell style!

Disney Eats Snack Bowl Set

Picnics, parties, and TV nights will be a snacker’s delight with this set of three melamine bowls plus snap-tight lids. A colorful Disney Eats design pattern rings the lip of each to provide a pinch of whimsy with your popcorn.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse Food Storage Container Set

Mickey and Minnie are sure to freshen up any mealtime with this food storage container set. Featuring two different size containers, each with their own colorful design, the set is perfect for picnics or on-the-go snacks.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse Kitchen Towel Set

Washing up was never so much fun. Mickey and Minnie are here to help out around the kitchen with this kitchen towel set. The two colorfully coordinating designs are featured on 100% cotton with a waffle weave.

The new Disney Eats Collection features so many cute styles, I think I’ll have to collect them all! What do you think of the new spring inspired outdoor collection from Disney Eats?

TRON Construction Milestone At Magic Kingdom

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 14, 2019

Cast members at the Magic Kingdom have reached a significant milestone this week! The first steel support column is about to be placed, marking this TRON construction milestone at the Magic Kingdom.

These cast members and project teams – who are responsible for the new TRON attraction – gathered to sign their names on the first support columns for the attraction.

The TRON attraction is being constructed in Tomorrowland located inside the Magic Kingdom. This attraction is based on TRON Lightcycle Run at Shanghai Disneyland and allows guests to ride two-wheeled Lighycycles on a race through the digital frontier. The TRON attraction is based on the 1982 movie TRON which has also been an inspiration for video games, comic books, and an animated series.

TRON is scheduled to open at the Magic Kingdom in 2021, just in time for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary.

Source: Disney Parks Blog; Photo Source: Robin Leonard.

Are you ready to book a magical vacation? Send me an email or submit the form below for a no-obligation quote for your next adventure! Our booking and planning services are free, so what are you waiting for? You work hard for your vacations, let me do the hard work of planning! Like me on Facebook and follow me on Instagram!

Sing Us “A Cover”: Mary Poppins Returns Contest.

By

Jessica Jones

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March 14, 2019

Some Holiday Magic May Save 'Mary Poppins Returns' Profit Margins

Have you had a chance to see Mary Poppins Returns yet? Disney is now offering a Sing us “A cover” contests featuring one of the many catchy songs in Mary Poppins Returns, “A Cover is Not the Book”.

Participants of the Sing Us “A cover” contest can enter either as a solo contestant or as a duet. Participants who enter are entering for a chance to win a trip for 4 to Los Angeles and a tour of the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California.

In addition, four first prize winners will receive a copy of the Mary Poppins Returns Blu-Ray Multi-Screen edition.

Participant can enter the contest between 3/8/19 at 12:00 PM PT and 3/29/19 at 11:59 PM PT. The contest is open to legal U.S. residents of the contiguous forty-eight states, who are 18+ at time of entry. Limit 1 entry per person.

Enter now by submitting your best rendition of a section of the song “A Cover is Not the Book” from Mary Poppins Returns for the Sing Us “A Cover” contest. Start by visiting the website for the official rules and details.

Source: Disney

Ready to experience Disney?! Well, pack your bags and get ready! As an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations, Universal Resort and more, and the official travel partner for Chip and Co, I can help you begin your journey. Just click the Key to the World Travel Picture, email me at [email protected], follow me on Facebook or fill out the form below for a free no-obligation quote!

Disneyland Paris Reducing their Use of Plastics!

By

Tessa H

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March 14, 2019

Disneyland Paris Reducing their Use of Plastics!

Part of Disney’s Environmentality campaign, the Walt Disney Company has been committed to reducing single-use plastic bags since 2018. This initiative will apply to the merchandise at Disneyland Paris by phasing out the plastic bags offered in stores from this spring. Our Guests will then have a choice to use either their own bags or reusable bags made from recycled plastic fibres which will also be for sale.

From now on, Disneyland Paris and its guests are encouraged to reduce the consumption of plastic bags in the parks and stores! Perfectly in time for “Earth Month” in April!

This incentive is part of Disneyland Paris’ Environmentality initiative, which is an on-going commitment to respect nature by using resources efficiently and introduce more environmentally friendly choices. For example, in 2014, over 40,000 lightbulbs have been replaced by LED lights along the roofs and facades of Main Street U.S.A., of Disneyland Park, and the Disneyland Hotel. More efficient LED lights have also been installed at the “it’s a small world” attraction during its renovation. Likewise, in terms of sustainability, Disneyland Paris sourced local produce such as their cheeses and honey to supply to Disney Hotels!

Chef Jose’ Andres’ Restaurant Jaleo Set to Open Soon at Disney Springs

By

Sarah Johnston

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March 14, 2019

Chef Jose’ Andres’ Restaurant Jaleo Set to Open Soon at Disney Springs

There’s a new recent at Disney Springs set to open its doors in just a few days. Chef Jose’ Andres’ ThinkFoodGroup announced today that Jaleo will open March 17^th. This will be the fifth location in the U.S. the first in Florida, and the largest to date. Once open, Jaleo can be found on the West Side of Disney Springs.

Jaleo, which means “revelry” first opened in Washington D.C., in 1993. Known for its lively setting and the best Spanish cuisine and design around, Chef Andres and his team offer a one of a kind tapas experience.

While the full menu is not available yet, there are a few signature dishes which will be on the menu. A few highlights include authentic paellas, cooked over a wood-fired paella pit, along with hand carved Jamon Iberico de Bellota, and wood-grilled Iberico pork. Signature dishes include Gambas al ajillo, shrimp sautéed with garlic and chili, and Pollo Croquetas (classic Spanish chicken fritters).

While one new restaurant is exciting, Jaleo isn’t the only restaurant Jose’ Andres is opening. On the front corner adjacent to the entrance of Jaleo, will be Pepe by Jose’ Andres. Pepe, which currently is the chef’s popular Spanish food truck in D.C., will have it’s first brick and mortar building. The menu for Pepe includes Spanish sandwiches, or bocatas, served both hot and cold, gazpacho, and salads to go. Pepe will be a quick service location. No Spanish meal is complete without Sangria. To make sure your sangria stays cold in the Florida heat, the ice cubes are made from sangria. No watered-down drinks allowed!

The architectural design of both Jaleo and Pepe are inspired by the bold and playful nature of Spain. Petals that organically open invite guests to experience Spanish cuisine. The petals themselves form pergolas, which face the outdoors, allowing light in and out.

Jaleo at Disney Springs will be open for dinner only starting March 17^th. Lunch service will begin later in the month. Pepe will open for lunch and dinner beginning March 17^th, no reservations needed. To make a reservation at Jaleo, call (321)-348-3211. OpenTable will have reservations available on the opening day for Jaleo.

Photo Source: Allied Global Marketing

Reservations are now available for Jaleo. As a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company, I can help you with all Disney Destinations, Universal Orlando, Cruises, and more! Best of all, my services are FREE to you! For a no obligations quote, send me an email me at [email protected] or fill out and submit the form below.

Backstage Magic Tour To Feature NEW Behind-The-Scenes Experience At Rivers Of Light

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 14, 2019

Walt Disney World has so much to see and do. From the thrilling rides and attractions to the breathtaking shows and parades, there is never a dull moment! To bring all this magic to life there is so much that goes on behind the scenes. There is a tour that allows guests to go behind the scenes across Walt Disney World!

During the Adventures by Disney Backstage Magic Tour, Disney fans are able to get an up-close look at the at wizardry, technology and hard work that occurs backstage and the ability to see how the magic is brought to life! This tour will offer a brand-new experience beginning in June: behind-the-scenes access to Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s nighttime spectacular, “Rivers of Light”!

This exclusive visit, which occurs during the day, will take guests to a hidden marina backstage. This is where the animal and lotus barges are prepared for the evening performance. These Backstage Magic tour guests will be among the first to see the inner workings, as well as learn about the mechanical and technological secrets, behind Rivers of Light!

A new private lunch at Tiffins Restaurant will also be provided for guests. This lunch will feature a special menu as well as fascinating insider stories about the creation of the park. The new private lunch also begins in June. Fans of Animal Kingdom will definitely want to add this to their wish-lists!

Backstage Tour Information

The Adventures by Disney Backstage Tour is a 7-hour tour that is expertly led by knowledgeable Adventure Guides. The tour is an immersive experience that allows guests to witness first-hand the magic and hard work that occurs behind-the-scenes at the theme parks. Highlights of this tour include:

EPCOT: Discover the inner workings of The American Adventure attraction as your Adventure Guides reveal the engineering feats and attention to detail behind the inspiring Audio-Animatronics stage show.

Creative Costuming: Have you ever wondered how the character, show, and parade costumes are designed? Observe the talented professionals that design these for the Walt Disney World Resort performers!

Central Shops: Explore the facility where all of your favorite attractions, including Audio-Animatronics, ride vehicles, and elaborate stage sets are developed and maintained by engineers, mechanics, and artisans. Be amazed by the tiniest of details!

Magic Kingdom: Become immersed in the story that started with Walt himself on Main Street, U.S.A. Guests will have the opportunity to navigate the “utilidor” tunnels which are the network of underground passageways constructed beneath the theme park. These allow Disney Cast Members and delivery vehicles to move around undetected.

If your tour departs prior to June 1, 2019, instead of the new activities at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and lunch at Tiffins, guests will eat lunch at Whispering Canyon Café located at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Guests will also get to visit Textile Services which is an experience like no other – it is one of the world’s largest laundry facilities!

Ready to book your Backstage Magic Tour? All guests must be at least 12 years of age or older and those under 18 years of age must be accompanied at all times by a parent or guardian who is registered for the tour. Tours may be booked by calling 407-939-8687 or contact your travel agent to book! Make sure you check out the other tours offered by Adventures by Disney as well.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Are you ready to start planning your next adventure? I would love to help you! I am a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the Official Travel Partner of Chip & Company. Key to the World Travel is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Whether you want to plan a vacation to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, a cruise or a vacation at a Sandals or Beaches Resort, I can help you. Contact me today so we can get started on your vacation planning! You can call or text me at 908-773-0930 or email me at [email protected]. Feel free to follow me on Facebook or fill out the form below as well. My planning services are FREE with booking!

Sesame Street at SeaWorld Orlando to Host Fun Run

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 14, 2019

Sesame Street at SeaWorld Orlando has announced they are hosting a fun run. The inaugural event dubbed the Furry Friends Fun Run is scheduled for Saturday, May 11th. This family-friendly event encourages families and friends to run, skip, jog, or stroll through the three-mile course through the SeaWorld Orlando theme park.

Race registration is currently open, but those who register early will enjoy savings. Registration fees start at $35 for advanced registration through April 27th. During the regular registration, held April 28 through May 10 the fees begin at $40 per person. Registration is still available the day of the race with fees of $45 per person. Children under the age of 7, military service members, and SeaWorld annual pass holders will enjoy a 10% discount. Runners will receive a promotional ticket offer to purchase discounted tickets to stay for the day and enjoy all SeaWorld Orlando has to offer.

The race course will give runners, walkers, skippers, and joggers plenty to see as they move through the paths that lead through the theme park to the Sesame Street neighborhood we all know and love. Many of the beloved Sesame Street friends will be there to cheer on runners as they make their way through the course and on to the finish line. The medals and awards will, of course, be Sesame Street themed making for a wonderful memento of the day.

The beneficiary of the fun run is the Sesame Street Yellow Feather Fund. The fund strives to make a difference in the lives of children with early education, fun, and social impact programs to help children grow smarter, stronger, and kinder.

The Furry Freinds Fun Run begins at 7:15 a.m. on May 11th. SeaWorld Orlando is located at 7007 Sea Harbor Drive Orlando FL, 32819.

Would you like to run in the inaugural Furry Friends Fun Run? Are you ready to start planning a stress-free trip filled with memories to SeaWorld, Universal Orlando Resort, or any Disney destination? Let’s start planning your trip now! Contact me today at 864-214–5981 or [email protected]. As a Travel Advisor with the official travel partner of Chip & Company, Key to the World Travel (An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner) I provide no-obligation quotes and complementary booking and planning services. Join my Facebook page to learn more about the travel services I provide.

Meet Captain Marvel in Disney California Adventure Park

By

Laura Mason

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March 14, 2019

Captain Marvel meet and greet is now in Disney California Adventure park at The Disneyland Resort! Head to the northeast corner of Hollywood Land to see her jet fighter being prepared to her special mission at Hangar 12. Captain Marvel gathers recruits for a Heroic Encounter and inspires guests to go Higher, Further, Faster! One guest said “Best Superhero movie ever” and another says “Captain Marvel is girl power, woman power!” Check out the video below.

Captain Marvel opened in theaters March 8, International Women’s Day. The film shows the story and adventure of how ace Air Force pilot Carol Danvers becomes one of the most powerful heroes in the universe. Danvers and a small cadre of allies find themselves in the galactic war between two alien races as Earth is caught in the middle of the maelstrom!

Photo and video credit from Disney Parks Blog.

Have you had the chance to see Captain Marvel yet? Did you love it? Are you dying to meet the Universe’s favorite heroin? Fill out my form below so I can help you begin your journey to the Disneyland Resort in California, to snag your very own photo with the infamous Captain Marvel.

Buy memories, not things. That’s been my family’s motto for the last several years. If this is you, let’s chat. I am a full-service travel agent, but I specialize in Disney Destinations® and the Universal Orlando Resort®. I am a Senior Agent with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner of Chip and Company. I am here to make all of your travel wishes come true! If you’re jumping out of your seat with excitement for traveling in 2019, let’s chat. My services are entirely FREE! To receive a no-hassle, no-obligation quote, email me at [email protected] and/or follow me on Facebook.

John Ratzenberger Returns as the Voice of Mack for Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy

By

Kaitlyn

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March 14, 2019

John Ratzenberger Returns as the Voice of Mack for Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy. We are a few days away from the grand premiere of Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. In preperation for the grand opening here is a sneak peek at what we can expect from the new attraction!

Disney-Pixar recently announced that John Ratzenberger would be returning as the voice of Lightning McQueen’s pal, Mack. Both Mack and Sallie Carrera will welcome the racers to the attraction with important messages to the audience and testing their knowledge of Lightning McQueen while they wait for the show to start.

Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy is located next to Rock n Roller Coaster.

Check out the latest video to see a bit of John Ratzenberger’s performance as Mack for the new show as well as some sneak peeks to the attraction, auditiorium, and other characters we will get to see and hear from in the show including Larry The Cable Guy as Tow Mater!

The front entrance to the attraction has been modified with new signs and themed areas including what appears to be an area that we may get to see some of our favorite characters from the Cars Franchise, such as Cruz Ramirez from Cars 3!

The new attraction is set to open at the end of this month on March 31, 2019 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy is located on the left hand side of the Chinese Theater, soon to be the home of Mickey and Minnies Runaway Railway, and across from Echo Lake and The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!

Are you and your little ones excited to try out this new experience? Do you plan on going to the grand opening on March 31st? Do you have a favorite memory or photo from meeting the characters from Cars? We would love to see and hear about your experience! Feel free to share your photos and stories in the comments!

Photo Credit: Disney/Disney-Pixar

Are you ready to start planning your next adventure? I would love to help you! I am a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the Official Travel Partner of Chip & Company. Key to the World Travel is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I specialize in Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures By Disney, or Universal Orlando Resort Vacations. I also can book your stay with Sandals or Beaches Resort, Norwegian Cruise Line, and many more fantastic Vacation Destinations. I can help you make your dream vacation come true! You can call or text me at 904-806-3759 or email me at [email protected]. Feel free to follow me on Facebook or fill out the form below as well. My planning services are FREE with booking! Yes, really FREE!

Inspiration Behind the Signature at Disney’s Riviera Resort Digs Deep into Disney History

By

Sarah Johnston

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March 14, 2019

Inspiration Behind the Signature at Disney’s Riviera Resort Digs Deep into Disney History

There’s nothing like being one of the first to try out a new experience. As we get closer to the completion and opening of Disney’s Riviera Resort, not only will it be worth having a reservation to stay there, but it also means new dining experiences are on the way. The inspiration behind the signature restaurant at Disney’s Riviera Resort digs deep into Disney history.

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera, is the new signature dining experience coming to Disney’s Riviera Resort. As Italians already know, Topolino is the Italian name for Mickey Mouse. The inspiration for the restaurant comes from cliffside restaurants on the European Riviera. Walt and his wife Lillian loved to vacation in Europe, known for its cliffs, islands, vistas, and the Mediterranean Sea. The combination of all of these makes a perfect setting for fine dining.

I challenge you to stop what you’re doing and just imagine walking through the doors of the rooftop restaurant, and how stunning the visual effects will be. The sights of Italian and French textures and colors. Then there’s the carvings and stonework, resembling ancient European villages on the coastlines.

The aromas coming from the onstage kitchen are dreamy. Next, we see a wood-burning grill preparing fresh meats and seafood. Back in the kitchen, the culinary team is hard at work preparing fresh handmade pastas along with fresh pressed olive oil. The desserts are like nothing you’ve tasted before, with the flavors reflecting the Riviera.

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera wouldn’t be complete without wine. The wines are sourced throughout the South of France and Coastal Italy. For the non-wine drinkers, mixologists will be shaking signature cocktails showcasing citrus, figs, and vanilla tones.

Dinner is just the beginning of this new dining experience. Take your pick of dining either indoor or outdoor. The views from the top are stunning. Enjoy the fireworks from both Epcot and Hollywood Studio’s while you’re dining.

Lastly, breakfast will be available at Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera. Even better, it’s going to be a character dining experience!! Check back for more details about who will be joining you at breakfast.

The inspiration behind the signature restaurant at Disney’s Riviera Resort digs deep into Disney history, and I love it. Knowing it’s themed after a region that Walt and Lillian loved to visit together, makes it even more special to the resort. My mouth is watering thinking about fresh homemade pasta.

Photo Source: Disney

Reservations are now available for Disney’s Riviera Resort. As a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company, I can help you with all Disney Destinations, Universal Orlando, Cruises, and more! Best of all, my services are FREE to you! For a no obligations quote, send me an email me at [email protected] or fill out and submit the form below.

Jabari Joins The Giraffe Herd At Animal Kingdom

By

Kelly Kerl

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March 14, 2019

There’s a new edition out in the Kilimanjaro Safari savanna in the Animal Kingdom. Jabari, the 2-month old Masai Giraffe calf is making his debut in the savannah after his birth on January 14th. “Jabari” in Swahili means “brave one” – and Jabari is being bold and courageous as he explores his new space, with mom Mara nearby.

The animal care team typically gives new babies their names. This time around, the honor went to the safari drivers. This is because Jabari was born on the savannah during the safari’s opening hours – right in front of drivers and guests! Mom and baby were then moved to a backstage area where they could be monitored and bond together.

Proud parents, Mara and George, were paired via the Species Survival Plan (SSP) which is a breeding program established by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. It’s an integral part of maintaining populations of endangered and threatened species. Because of the program, Jabari also has two sisters, Amira and Aella. Check out Jabari’s first romp in the savannah:

Masai giraffe are found mainly in Kenya and Tanzania and are just one of the nine types of giraffe on the planet, and are considered a vulnerable species. There are just 32,000 Masai left in the wild and their population is declining due to poaching and habitat loss.

Next time you’re on Kilimanjaro Safari in the Animal Kingdom, keep an eye out for Jabari!

Source: Disney Parks Blog

This Summer you can score a fantastic deal exclusively for Chip & Co readers, when you book a new Walt Disney Resort package for your summer vacation, you’ll get one FREE water park ticket for each member of your party, compliments of Key to the World Travel.

Just fill out my form below and mention the Summer Splash promotion in the comments! As an agent with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company, I can plan everything from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, Sea World, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE!