The Walt Disney Company Considered The Most Innovative Company

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February 22, 2019

The Walt Disney Company Considered The Most Innovative Company. The Walt Disney Company has been named the Most Innovative Company according to Fast Company.

It comes as no surprise to consumers that Disney would hold this honor. The company thrives on innovation, and it is practically Disney’s middle name. They are always trying to find ways of bringing new and exciting things to their theme parks and resorts. In recent history, the Fortune 500 Company has begun to lead the way into the future for other areas of entertainment as well with it’s competitors right on their trail.

In one of the boldest and biggest moves by an enterainment conglomerate since the purchase of ABC and ESPN in 1985, The Walt Disney Company has grown signifacantly over the last 13 years by purchasing other successful entertainment studios such as Pixar (2006), Marvel Studios (2009), Lucasfilm (2012), and most recently, 20th Century Fox (2018). The content from these businesses has given Disney the chance to reach consumers that are fans of the content they created, such as fans of Star Wars and the Marvel Comics.

Disney has also added they are moving closer than ever to direct-to-consumer content with the creation of the Disney+ Streaming Service that will exclusively contain Disney and Disney Affiliate content. You would think Disney just decided to make this choice fairly recently, but in true Disney fashion, they have been ahead of the curve and even carving the path to follow for their competition. Even choosing to compete directly with Netflix as Disney moves forward with Disney+, causing the two entertainment companies to seperate in future endevours. What I am trying to say is, this didn’t happen overnight. Over the last few years Disney has made moves and acquired BamTech, the streaming service provider Disney will use for Disney+. BamTech was tested repeatedly for a decade and ran a test in 2018 for Disney called ESPN+ to see how consumers would respond to the service. The service garnished over a million subscribers very quickly and Disney desided to move forward with Disney+. ESPN+ allowed BamTech to use video streaming, dynamic ad insertion technology, commerce engine, and data collection needed to personalize consumer experiences for consumers. This will be crucial when Disney+ becomes available o give guests a personalized experience when using the streaming service. Disney+ is expected to be available before the end of the year.

If all this wasn’t enough to claim this standing, in 2016 Disney crossed the threshold as the first ever movie studio to reach over $7 Billion in the Box Office. The releases of Finding Dory, Captain America:Civil War, Doctor Strange, The Jungle Book, Moana, Zootopia and Star Wars:Rogue One are the main titles responsible for the major success for Disney in 2016. The added success gave Disney some freedom to make more creative decisions for future content from the varying studios. With opportunities to afford better directors, writers, producers, cast, and pretty much any role needed in cast and crew the content being provided is only getting better and better with every new release related to the mouse.

With all the success coming from their films Disney has been working just as hard on their theme parks. Both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort will be adding lands based on content from the Star Wars Universe, called Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Disney also gained the opportunity to create a 6th theme park, Shanghai Disney Resort that opened in June 2016. There is always something new coming to the Disney Parks that is sure to delight guests of all ages for years to come.

As Disney grows so does their demographic. You can truly say now there is something for everyone when it comes to being a Disney Fan. We can’t wait to see what The Walt Disney Company does next.

Photo Credit: The Walt Disney Company

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 k.hogancamp@keytotheworldtravel.com. 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!

2019 Flower and Garden Topiaries

By

Heather Adamczak

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February 22, 2019

The 2019 Flower and Garden Festival is almost here and we are excited to bring you the full list of beautiful topiaries coming to the park for the festival. Epcot is known for some of the most unique flower and garden displays around the world. Snap one-of-a-kind photos of sublime shrubs-of-art—each carefully created and pruned by a talented crew of Disney horticulturists. See the locations and topiaries here:

Winnie-the-Pooh and Friends- Located at the United Kingdom Pavilion
Anna and Elsa from Frozen-Located at the Norway Pavilion
Bambi and Friends- Featuring Flower, Bambi and Thumper Located between the United Kingdom Pavilion and Canada Pavilion
Beauty and the Beast- Located at the France Pavilion

Bo Peep and Her Sheep with Buzz Lightyear and Woody from the Disney•Pixar Toy Story Films- Located at Future World East
Bromeliad Dragon- Located at the China Pavilion

Captain Hook and Peter Pan- Located at the United Kingdom Pavilion
Chip ‘n Dale and Donald Duck with Huey, Dewey and Louie- Located near Showcase Plaza Towers, East and West
Daisy Duck and the Floral Stars of the Show- Located near Spaceship Earth
Figment- Located near the Imagination! Pavilion

Lady and the Tramp- Located at the Italy Pavilion
Lightning McQueen and Mater from the Disney•Pixar Cars Films- Located near Test Track
Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Enjoy a Picnic with Topiary Hearts- Located at Showcase Plaza
Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse- Located at the American Adventure Pavilion
Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog-Located at the France Pavilion
Pandas- Located at the China Pavilion

Pluto and Goofy- Located between Future World and World Showcase
Simba and Friends- Featuring Rafiki, Simba, Mufasa and Sarabi Located at The Outpost Shop
Snow White and Dopey- Located at the Germany Pavilion
Stitch- Located at Mission: SPACE
The Three Caballeros- Featuring Jose, Donald and Panchito Located at the Mexico Pavilion

Topiary Flowers- Located near MouseGear
Topiary Sunflowers- Located at the American Gardens Theatre
Troll- Presented by Adventures by Disney® Located at the Norway Pavilion

Let’s book your adventure to Walt Disney World NOW! Fill out the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from a Key to the World Travel agent, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. As an agent with Key to the World Travel, I can help from everything to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Paris, Universal Orlando, Sea World, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 716-479-5412 , via email at [email protected] on Facebook, or fill out and submit the form below.

Take A Peak At The 2019 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Merchandise

By

Danielle

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February 22, 2019

The highly anticipated Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival kicks off on March 6th! As we countdown the days, let’s take peek at some of the exclusive Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Merchandise that will be available! Plus there are a total of FIVE special collections for this year’s festival merchandise.

Minnie’s Garden Party, and Violet Lemonade are two of the fabulous new collections we can look forward to at the festival! The special the Minnie Mouse ears based on the ever popular Violet Lemonade drink are sure to be a crowd pleaser! These ears are coated in delicious sparkles, and topped off with slices of lemon, and fabric violets. Fashion apparel and accessories inspired by this drink have been popular in the world of Disney Style, so this is an exciting treat. We also have a look at a t-shirt from the Minnie’s Garden Party collection. This is a returning Minnie artwork style, that proves to be very popular.

Other collections being offered at the festival include:

Minnie’s Garden Party – Welcome spring’s arrival with this feminine collection featuring Minnie Mouse on apparel, drinkware, accessories and more.
Mickey’s Garden Shed – Mickey Mouse unearths the joy of gardening in this collection that includes apparel, headwear, garden stake & statuary and more.
Violet Lemonade Collection – Calling all Violet Lemonade fans! Put a little zest in your fest with this fun collection of apparel, headwear, accessories and more.
Figment’s Imagination Goes Wild – Grow wild with this colorful assortment of apparel and drinkware featuring Figment.
Spike and Donald – Bring the festival fun home with this buzzworthy collection of apparel and headware featuring Spike the Bee and Donald Duck. Be sure to also look for the Spike Scavenger Hunt coming to the festival too!

You’ll find the 2019 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Merchandise at select retail locations throughout Epcot and at Mouse Gear when the festival kicks off on March 6th!

Innovative New Play Pavilion Coming to Epcot

By

Sarah Johnston

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February 22, 2019

Innovative New Play Pavilion Coming to Epcot

As you may have heard recently, Epcot has quite a bit of construction going on, and more in the works. Disney just announced more changes are on the way, and it’s going to be unlike anything any of the other three parks offer. The all-new innovative play pavilion, once completed, will have guests blown away by transformation.

Just announced an all-new play pavilion devoted to fun, and fun only. A place where experiences will come to life. The un-named pavilion will take over the area previously known as Wonders of Life which has served as the Food & Wine Festival Center. The city under the dome will be exploding with one-of-a-kind interactive experience. Your favorite characters will be waiting to greet you too. If that isn’t enough, you will also be able to find and participate in hands-on-activities and entertainment. The exciting new city will open in time for the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort in 2021.

The all-new immersive city is a great addition to Future World, which will bring some much-needed life to the front of the park. Epcot, once all the projects are completed, is going to be an all-new experience from the front of the park, to the back of the countries.

Joining the new pavilion in the front of the park will be the Guardians of the Galaxy-themed roller coaster, which is being in the old Ellen’s Energy Adventure building. Also, between Mission: SPACE and Test Track, is a brand-new table-service, space-themed restaurant, which looks to be out of this world.

Epcot is not going to be a park you will want to skip on your next trip. The enormous overhaul is going to be spectacular, with the changes being noticed from the minute to arrive until the minute you leave. Lots of changes and additions are coming to the countries as well. Epcot has always been one of our favorite parks. Who’s excited to see and experience all the new rides, shows, and restaurants once everything is completed? I have a good feeling this innovative new play pavilion is going to attract a lot of families looking to do more than just the countries at Epcot.

Ready to plan a vacation that’s out of this world? Let’s get yours booked today! 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 or fill out and submit the form below.

We’ve Spotted Some Characters On The Skyliner Gondolas

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 22, 2019

The new Skyliner transportation system has been undergoing testing the last few days, and we were lucky enough to catch them in action. We even spotted some of the characters on the Skyliner Gondolas!

I’ve assumed that we would find Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy plastered on the side of these gondolas. But look at who else we see! Holy cow, is that Clarabelle?

And who would be better on the side of a ride to see Mickey Mouse than his best dog Pluto!

I spy with my little eye.. three nephews on their way to join in the fun! Uncle Scrooge McDuck better watch out because Huey, Dewey and Louie are ready to spend his money at the parks.

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Disney’s new state-of-the-art gondola transportation system will connect Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot to four resorts – Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney’s Riviera Resort (projected to open fall 2019).

Are you ready to experience the magic of a Disney vacation? Let’s book your next adventure today! I am a senior travel planner who specializes in Disney destinations, Universal Orlando, cruise lines, and so much more! You work hard for your vacations, so let me do the hard work of planning! Email [email protected] or submit the form below to receive a free no obligation quote.

Magic Kingdom Park Opening One-Hour Earlier On Two Dates In March

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 22, 2019

Park hours at Walt Disney World Resort sometimes change for various reasons. That being said, it is a very rare occurrence for Magic Kingdom Park to change its opening time. Magic Kingdom Park will be opening one hour early not one day, but two days, in March. The dates are March 22 and March 23 to be exact.

The park was originally scheduled to open at 9 AM on these two dates however the schedule has changed to 8 AM. Due to this change, Extra Magic Hours will also start one hour earlier when they are offered on March 22. Extra Magic Hours will take place from 7 AM to 8 AM on this date.

The parades and fireworks schedule remain untouched due to this change. The Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade will start at 3 PM. The Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party will take place at three different times – 11 AM, 12:30 PM, and 5:45 PM. Happily Ever After, the nighttime entertainment that takes place at Magic Kingdom, will start at 9:15 PM.

Source: Disney

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.

Disney Recipe Celebrates 30th Anniversary of “The Little Mermaid”

By

Katelyn G

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February 22, 2019

Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” will be available on 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray on February 26th!

In honor of the film’s 30th anniversary, “The Little Mermaid” swims into the wonderful Walt Disney Signature Collection with new bonus features and a sing-along mode.

Disney has shared an awesome recipe to commemorate “The Little Mermaid” and to help families get creative by bringing the movie to life! Check it out below:

Goat Cheese and Seashell Bites

Ingredients:

2 packages of Phyllo shells (30 total shells)
8 oz. goat cheese
1 teaspoon Herbs de Provence

Instructions:

Combine goat cheese and Herbs de Provence together in a bowl until well combined.
Refrigerate for an hour to allow herbs to soften.
Bake phyllo shells according to package instructions.
Once out of the oven, allow shells to cool.
Meanwhile, roll the goat cheese mixture into small balls.
Place on phyllo shell into another to create a seashell appearance.
Place goat cheese ball inside.
Serve and enjoy!

Will you be making this? It sounds delicious!

Let’s book your adventure today! Fill out the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from me – an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations from Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. As an agent with Key to the World Travel, I can help from everything to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 815-953-4804, via email at [email protected], my Facebook Page, or fill out and submit the form below.

New Slinky Dog Jewelry Is a Springy Good Time

By

Danielle

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February 22, 2019

Get ready to spring into style with a new Toy Story jewelry collection available at the Disney Parks! Inspired by our lovable pal Slinky Dog, this new collection mixes playful designs with trendy style. The new Slinky Dog Jewelry features a matching ring and bracelet!

The set features our jolly pal Slinky Dog, and each piece is sold separately. Both the ring and the bracelet showcase a colorful slinky dog that looks like he is “stretched” out to connect the ends of the jewelry. This is a very playful set of costume jewelry that is sure to make fans of the popular Pixar Franchise smile. You can show off your Slinky Dog love while visiting the Disney Parks, DisneyBounding, or even to add an extra bit of whimsy to a casual day.

I think they did a great job of making the “slinky” of Slinky Dog part of the jewelry. Can you just imagine how cute this would look with the Slinky Dog Headband or wearable light-up Slinky Dog? This jewelry collection is part of the already available Toy Story fashion jewelry line that is available at the Disney Parks.

Will you spring into fashion with the adorable new Slinky Dog Jewelry?

New Dates Released for the Exclusive Tables in Wonderland Dining Events

By

Laura Mason

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February 22, 2019

Tables in Wonderland announces new Culinary Adventures with the Chefs of Disney for members! Three event dates– two in March and one in May have been released.

Culinary Adventures with the Chefs of Disney is an exclusive experience giving Tables in Wonderland members pro tips and tricks to take back home to your own kitchen! The cooking experience is a 3-hour interactive experience where you’ll feat on the “fruits of your labor!”

You begin the session at a professional kitchen at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. You’ll spend 60 minutes at different stations preparing dishes under a Disney Chef’s instructions. After the 60-minutes of cooking and learning, you get to enjoy your 5-course gourmet meal at the Chef’s Table. Did I mention each dish will be paired with prestigious wines selected by your Disney Chefs?

There are three opportunities for the event:

Saturday, March 2, 2019 at 6:00 PM
Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 6:00 PM
Saturday, May 11, 2019 at 6:00 PM

The price is $259 per guest plus tax, but is inclusive of gratuity. To book, call (407) 939-4268, as space is limited!

Tables in Wonderland is a fantastic offer for Florida Residents, Annual Passholders, and DVC Members. It is a separate ticket cost of $150 (for AP’s & DVC) or $175 (FL residents), but gives them 20% off on food and beverages–including alcohol– at over 100 participating restaurants at Walt Disney World!

Did you know, as a travel agent I am able to help Florida Residents and Annual Passholders with booking their rooms and DVC Members with their park tickets (and FastPass selections at their respective 60-day booking window?) I’d love to help you take advantage of all the amazing offers Walt Disney World gives to each “category!”

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 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.

Billy Dee Williams, Alan Tudyk and More Added to Star Wars Celebration Chicago

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 22, 2019

Star Wars fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Lando Calrissian to the screen in the still untitled Episode IX later this year. Now the fan-favorite actor behind the iconic role, Billy Dee Williams will be joining the lineup of stars at this year’s Star Wars Celebration in Chicago. Williams wasn’t the only new name added to the list of appearances at the official fan convention though.

Character actor Alan Tudyk was also announced to appear. Tudyk provided the voice for the wise-cracking droid sidekick K-2SO in the recent spin-off film Rogue One. Fans of the animated series Star Wars Rebels will be excited to hear that the stars of the show, Taylor Gray and Freddie Prinze Jr., will both be on hand for the festivities as well.

In addition to these headlining appearances, Star Wars Celebration Chicago will feature other notable talents from the long history of films. Recently announced were additions like Julian Glover who portrayed General Veers and Stormtrooper actor Anthony Forrest.

Nothing official has been announced, but we are hoping that a title for the newest installment in the Star Wars film series Episode IX, and possibly a trailer, will be released during the celebration. Be sure to check back as we will bring those details to you when they are released. The Star Wars Celebration Chicago takes place from April 11 to 15, 2019 at McCormick Place.

Credit/Photo Credit: StarWars.com

Are you ready to start your next great adventure to a Disney Destination without all of the stress? Click on my photo or fill out the form below for a free no-obligation quote. I am a Travel Advisor with Key To The World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. I specialize in Disney, Universal, cruises and more. My services are FREE to my clients. Contact me via email at [email protected], on Facebook or by filling out the form below.

Don’t Miss the Disney D-Lish Pop-Up Event Going on Now

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 22, 2019

Have you ever wondered what it would look like if Disney snacks and merchandise became one? Now you can reach your snack and merchandise goals in one stop with the Disney D-Lish pop-up event occurring this weekend at Disney Springs. The event puts a fun spin on two favorites by making some of the yummiest Disney treats into merchandise.

You may feel like your eyes are deceiving you as you open a pizza box and see a t-shirt, and is that a cupcake or socks in that cupcake container? For those who love the pineapple goodness of a cool soft-serve from Adventureland take home a tumbler and savor the memory of your favorite treat every day. It has been said by many to enjoy the yumminess, and that there are no calories in the treats at Walt Disney World. Well while that may not have been entirely true in the past these merchandise treats won’t add to your waistline. Now you can proudly wear your favorite snacks, no spilling involved.

This weekends event is being held at Disney Springs on the West Side. Going on daily through February 24, visitors can find iconic snack carts filled with fun merchandise from 10:00 -2:00 each day of the event. Can’t make the event this weekend, no worries select shops at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World will carry the whimsical merchandise. Items can also be found online at shopdisney.com.

So if you Have you been looking for a pair of donut ears, or a fun t-shirt to show off your favorite Disney snack don’t miss all the fun of the Disney D-Lish pop-up event. While you are there, grab a fun photo with the snack time props!

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Want to experience events like the Disney D-Lish pop up for yourself? Let’s start planning your stress-free magical and memorable Disney vacation 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.

Riviera Pool, and S’il Vous Play, an Interactive Water Play Area at Disney’s Riviera Resort

By

Heather Adamczak

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February 22, 2019

Disney’s Riviera Resort hasn’t even completed construction yet, and there is already buzz about how fantastic it will be. We have had a glimpse into the rooms as well as the overall artist renderings of the newest Disney Vacation Club Property. Yesterday we were given even more information about the guest pools and recreation features.

The Riviera Pool, the feature pool will offer fun for your entire family with a touch of Disney Magic close by! Themed after the Southern European coast lounge under an umbrella or swim and play, or even take a winding ride down a stone turret slide.

S’il Vous Play is the perfect place to splash and have fun in a whimsical fountain featuring several beloved characters from Disney “Fantasia.” This area draws inspiration from the grand public fountains seen throughout Europe — with its patina and limestone-inspired design making it feel like a place where visitors might have gathered to share a memory or a wish along the European Riviera. The lawn will offer the perfect place for friends and family to take in their favorite Disney film as they lounge poolside.

“Beau Soleil leisure pool, you will feel like you’ve escaped to the tranquil European coast as you are surrounded by a natural, lush-green wall, creating a semi-private pool experience. The Beau Soleil will be the perfect place to kick back and relax under a blanket of sun, or enjoy a bit of quiet time beneath shaded seating areas, all nestled amidst a grove of tropical palm trees where you can enjoy a calm breeze.”- Disney

Wanting to chill with a drink in between dips in the pool? Bar Riva, an open-air pool bar with a cool, seaside vibe to keep you in the European coast frame of mind. Picture crisp white tiles and cool blue accents and a place to relax and enjoy a cold beverage with poolside views, or enjoy one at the pool as Bar Riva’s hospitality extends poolside, offering a menu of refreshments you can enjoy as you relax on the nearby pool decks.

There will also be a beautiful waterfront promenade around the resort. All along the promenade, you will be able to enjoy grand views of the resort’s lush European-inspired landscapes — possibly even reflecting on what it might have felt like for Riviera guests of yesteryear, who may have watched yacht races and steamships from the shore. You will also get a look at Disney Skyliner gondola for a bird’s eye view of Walt Disney World Resort. Once aboard, you can take a European-inspired ride through the sky to Epcot International Gateway or Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and on to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

Let’s book your adventure to Walt Disney World NOW! Fill out the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from a Key to the World Travel agent, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. As an agent with Key to the World Travel, I can help from everything to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Paris, Universal Orlando, Sea World, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 716-479-5412 , via email at [email protected] on Facebook, or fill out and submit the form below.