Third Parking Garage At Disney Springs To Be Named ‘Grapefruit Garage’

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January 7, 2019

A third parking garage will be opening next month at Disney Springs and we now know the name. Continuing with the native citrus fruit theme, the ‘Grapefruit Garage’ will join the existing Orange and Lime Garages in February 2019. This structure will provide additional parking spaces for Disney Springs’ guest and Cast Members. Many expected this garage to be named the Lemon Garage, but we now know that will not be happening.

To avoid confusion, the existing Grapefruit surface parking lot will be renamed when the new garage opens. Other open-air parking lots include Lemon, Strawberry, Mango, and Watermelon.

The names of the parking structures complement the overall Floridian feel of Disney Springs. Disney Springs is an outdoor retail, dining, and entertainment district inspired by the charm, natural beauty, and architecture of Florida’s waterfront towns.

Self-parking is complimentary in all parking garages and most parking lots. Designated parking spaces for guests with disabilities are currently available in the Orange and Lime garages. A valid disability parking permit is required.

Source: WDW Magic

Are you ready to experience a magical vacation for yourself? Let’s book your next adventure today! As an agent with Key to the World Travel, I can help with all of your vacation needs. I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, Universal Orlando and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Send me an email to [email protected] or fill out and submit the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram!

There are so Many Ways you can Save on Disney Vacations in 2019

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 7, 2019

Everyone loves a bargain, and a bargain on a Disney vacation adds extra pixie dust. Read on for all of the ways you can save on your Disney vacation in 2019.

Florida residents and Southern California residents can save with a special rate ticket. These tickets are limited time offers so start making your plans to visit now.

Florida Residents –

Save on a 3-day Walt Disney World Discover Disney Ticket. This ticket is returning for 2019 and has no blackout dates. A 3-day, 1-park per day ticket is $175.00, adding the park hopper option will only run you an additional $32.50 bring the total to $207.50. There is also an option for a 4-day ticket at the special savings. Tickets are on sale now and are valid through June 30, 2019.

Southern California Residents –

A new limited time offer special rate ticket has just been released for you as well. Southern Calfornia residents can purchase this special 3-day ticket for $179.00, or upgrade to a park hopper for $234.00. The tickets do not have to be used on consecutive dates, but there are a few blockout days so make sure your visit dates are outside of the blockout period.

Disney Cruise Line offers magical sailings and is currently offering a magical discount on the cruise deposit! Book before February 15, 2019, for sailings from June 22, 2019 – May 30, 2020, and save 50% on the deposit. The offer can be applied to sailings 4-nights and longer. If you have been considering a Disney Cruise this is a fantastic deal.

If you are a D23 Gold Member you can receive member discounts at both Downtown Disney and Disney Springs. There are some fantastic new discounts for members in 2019 in addition to the current discounts offered.

Downtown Disney (Disneyland Resort) – Naples Ristorante is offering a 15% discount, featuring Southern Italian cuisine the restaurant was just named one of the top pizzerias in Orange County! Next, treat yourself to a delicious smoothie or juice treat at Jamba Juice and enjoy 10 % off your purchase. Last but not least, stay for a night (or longer) at the Anaheim Hotel and receive 20% of your stay.
Disney Springs (Walt Disney World) – Wine Bar George is offering 10% off lunch and merchandise to D23 members. After lunch pop on over to Pop Gallery Disney Springs for 10% off your purchase. Round out your shopping with 15% off your purchase at Basin Disney Springs and grab some bath bombs to take home!

It’s time to start 2019 off with a bang by taking advantage of one or more or these discounts. Whether your vacation plans include the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disneyland Resort in California or Disney Cruise Line be sure to take advantage of these fantastic deals today.

Photo Copyright: D23/Disney

Let’s start planning your stress-free magical and memorable Disney vacation! 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.

Sprinkles Cupcakes – They Are What’s for Breakfast!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 7, 2019

Sprinkles Cupcakes – They Are What's for Breakfast!

Get your day started in the most delicious way possible, with Sprinkles Breakfast Cupcakes! Beginning tomorrow, and for a limited time, they are back.

Fruity Pebbles Breakfast Cupcakes will available from January 7th – 13th. Up next, are Cinnamon Toast Crunch Breakfast Cupcakes from January 14th to the 20th, and Crunch Berries Breakfast Cupcakes from January 21st to the 27th. The month of deliciousness finishes up with Lucky Charms Breakfast Cupcakes from January 28th – February 3rd.

Start the new year with the most important meal of the day, #breakfast…cupcakes! Your favorite treats are back starting tomorrow with birthday cake topped with lemon vanilla frosting and Fruity Pebbles (1/7-13)! #treatyoself For the full line up visit https://t.co/T1aBmID0kl pic.twitter.com/rBvUugDGsG

— Sprinkles Cupcakes (@sprinkles) January 7, 2019

There has never been a more tasty time to enjoy breakfast all day long! The Disney Springs location at the Walt Disney World Resort is open from 10 am to midnight, seven days a week. The Downtown Disney location at Disneyland is open Sunday through Thursday from 9 am to 11 pm and Friday’s and Saturday’s from 9 am to midnight.

Celebrate breakfast all day, every day at @sprinkles—the Fruity Pebbles cupcake is now on the menu through January 13! ? pic.twitter.com/bxPRhHIX1G

— Disney Springs (@DisneySprings) January 7, 2019

Photo Credit: Sprinkles Cupcakes

A family vacation is all about creating lifelong memories, and I believe every family deserves an amazing vacation experience, created especially for them. As Co-Owner of Key to the World Travel®, the official travel partner for Chip and Company, I will help you create the perfect magical experience for you and your family. So whether your idea of a dream Disney vacation is a theme park, cruise, a beach in Hawaii, or even an Adventure somewhere else in the world, I can help make any of your vacation wishes come true. My goal is to help you to create a one of a kind trip, full of magical memories and tons of family fun. Send me an email, or fill out the form below to receive a free, no-obligation quote, and let’s start planning your dream vacation! Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram!

New Pandora Reusable Bags at Animal Kingdom

By

Kelly Kerl

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January 7, 2019

New Pandora-themed reusable shopping bags have been spotted at Animal Kingdom. The bags can be found at numerous locations throughout the park. They retail for $5.99 and feature two sets of beautiful Pandora artwork, one during the day, and one at night. The nighttime side highlights the bioluminescent foliage that both the fictional Pandora and the World of Avatar-themed land are known for.

Disney has recently made a push to become more environmentally friendly in the coming years. So far they have vowed to phase out the use of plastic straws, polystyrene cups, and plastic shopping bags. We expect to see more and more of this reusable shopping bags as the plastic alternatives are phased out. Not only are they very cute, but they serve as a great little souvenir. I like to use mine when I go grocery shopping. They’re also perfect for when my kids need to take extra things to school.

The Animal Kingdom has always been the leading park among environmental initiatives. Its inspired the creation of the Disney Conservation Fund. The fund distributes annual grants to many different environmental organizations who hope to make our planet a better place for everyone who shares it. So far they’ve awarded more than $70 million to support conservation efforts around the world. Let’s hope they keep it up!

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? Receive a free, no-obligation quote from me, a Travel Agent that specializes in Disney Travel! 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! Get in touch via email at [email protected], follow along with me on Facebook, Or fill out and submit the form below.

New Disney Vacation Club Restrictions Placed on Resale Contracts

By

Heather Adamczak

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January 7, 2019

If you had planned on joining Disney Vacation Club through the resale market we have some news for you!

It was just announced that beginning January 19, if you purchase a resale contract for one of the 14 original Disney Vacation Club resorts will be limited to just those resorts. You would not be able to use points to stay at any of the new properties that are being built throughout the Walt Disney World Resort properties including the new Disney’s Riviera Resort

This does not apply to anyone that purchased a new contract with Disney Vacation Club for new members directly with Disney. Those guests will still be able to stay at and Disney Vacation Club property using their points.

We are unsure if those contracts submitted before January 19th will be able to stay at the new resorts if approved before the 19th. If you have a contract in for verification we would suggest calling Disney Vacation Club to see how this applies to you and your purchase.

The Riviera Resort will be the 15th Disney Vacation Club resort on Disney property. It is slated to open sometime next fall, and we couldn’t be more excited! We are glad to finally get a glimpse of what it will be like.

The resort is inspired by Europe’s Mediterranean coastline, Walt Disney was enamored with during his trips to Europe. One of his most beloved trips to Europe was one that he took with his wife Lillian in 1935. His brother Roy and Roy’s wife Edna traveled with Walt and Lillian, and the trip served as a profound inspiration on Disney storytelling for decades afterward. The castles, villages, art and architecture in Europe found their way into Disney films long after Walt’s trip was only a memory.

Ahead of a Full Menu Change in Two Weeks, Kona Cafe Introduces New Sushi Selections

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 7, 2019

Just ahead of the new menu release in two weeks, Kona Cafe has introduced some fresh sushi selections. The restaurant, located at Disney’s Polynesian Resort has 17 different sushi offerings to choose from on the menu. From rolls to nigiri and the Hawaiian inspired Poke there is plenty to satisfy your sushi craving. Known for the breakfast fan favorite, Tonga Toast, Kona Cafe specializes in American foods with an Asian flair.

The menu offerings are prepared in an on-stage kitchen where sushi chefs hand-roll selections delighting diners with their artistic craft. The laid-back atmosphere of Kona Cafe is suitable for dining at all times of the day. Whether it is a laid-back breakfast, a mid-day lunch for a park break or dinner away from all of the hustle and bustle this casual-dining restaurant pleases diners at any time of the day.

Eleven of the new items are sushi and specialty rolls. The rolls feature the typical crowd-pleasing favorites including a spicy tuna roll, California roll, Shrimp Tempura Roll, Dragon Roll, and for the fans of tuna and a different type of spice a hamachi tuna roll that features jalapeno and cilantro. The multiple bite specialty rolls are of particular interest. The fun to say and eat Polly Lolly Roll packs in eight ingredients including fried softshell crab, shrimp tempura, and baked crawfish tails, and the Surf and Turf Roll uses a Kona coffee spice.

If you are hungry for a bit of variety you will want to try a Sampler or Poke. The Samplers, featuring options for nigiri, sashimi, rolls, and Poke will satisfy huge appetites. Choose from a small sampler, large sampler, sashimi or nigiri plate. The Poke section is the smallest offering just two selections with a choice of Tuna Poke or Rainbow Poke.

As we wait for the new menu release later this month, try some of these craveable offerings. After seeing this sushi selection we are excited to see what else they will unveil.

Let’s start planning your stress-free magical and memorable Disney vacation! 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.

Tickets Available for the 4-Course Wine Dinner at Terralina Crafted Italian

By

Sarah Johnston

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January 7, 2019

Terralina Crafted Italian Valentine's Day

If you’re looking for a unique night out on the town, save the date, and reserve your seats for the posh 4-course wine dinner at Terralina Crafted Italian. Tickets are available now for $75 for a limited time for January 23^rd, 2019 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Located at Disney Springs, Terralina Crafted Italian transports you to Italy’s Lake District. Start with a drink at the veranda bar or make your way inside and enjoy the views from one of the exclusive dining rooms, or the Chef’s kitchen. Not to be missed are the hand-tossed pizzas and the delicious dishes prepared in the wood-burning oven.

Purchase your tickets here and enjoy the night with your special someone during this 4-course dinner paired with wines from around the world.

The menu looks absolutely divine. The evening starts with the first course of seared scallops with white truffle brown butter vinaigrette. After that, for the second course, enjoy roasted beet, pancetta, along with a delicious baby kale salad served with a toasted hazelnut vinaigrette. If your mouth isn’t watering yet, check out the third course. Braised beef short rib, butternut squash risotto, jumbo seared shrimp served with a red wine reduction. If all of this isn’t enough, there’s still dessert on the way. The fourth course consists of a heavenly cheesecake, served with fresh berries and marsala zabaglione. Finally, don’t forget the perfectly paired wines to compliment each course as well.

Take a trip around the globe during an exclusive 4-course wine dinner at Terralina Crafted Italian! Flight takes off Wednesday, January 23rd at 6:30pm, reserve your seats here: https://t.co/Gdq3WkZpeZ pic.twitter.com/BB7INp74QJ

— Terralina Italian (@TerralinaItalia) January 7, 2019

If your taste buds are looking for a delectable adventure, don’t pass up on this tasty dinner 4-course wine dinner. Don’t forget tickets are required to attend this exclusive event. Guests must also be age 21 and older.

Source: Twitter & Eventbrite

Ready to start planning your next magical getaway? 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.

New 2019 WDW Marathon Merchandise To Celebrate Your Achievements

By

Danielle

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January 7, 2019

Can you believe it, the 2019 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend starts in just a few days! For those looking to celebrate their accomplishments, a variety of 2019 WDW Marathon Merchandise will be available at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo!

The theme this year celebrates the “Fab Five” with an assortment of fun and whimsical merchandise that showcases character graphics and accomplishments. Several items featuring the 2019 Marathon logo include a fold over blanket, caps, drink ware, figurines, car magnets, and more!

There is plenty to toast to after completing any runDisney event! There are plenty of options to choose from so you can celebrate with your style. No matter your drink of choice from coffee to tea, wine or soda there’s a 2019 WDW marathon logo item ready to toast.

The “I Did It” shirts are always a popular choice, after all after such a big accomplishment who wouldn’t want to show it off?

Pins are always one of my favorites to collect from the runDisney events I participate in. I think they make a fabulous addition to the race medal ribbon! There is a pin for each run and challenge, and they feature a design that matches the medal.

If you’re looking for a jacket to wear across the finish line, there are coordinating ones of those too! The jackets coordinate beautifully with the medal, and pin of each event and race.

The tiny racers once again get their own special Mickey ear hat to celebrate their accomplishment!

Last but not least, there is a new style addition to the runDisney merchandise. After the popularity of the Disney Spirit Jersey last year, it looks like we finally get a runDisney Spirit Jersey!

You can find the 2019 WDW Marathon Merchandise and more during the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Guests can visit the expo during the following dates and times:

Wednesday, January 9, 2019: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday, January 10, 2019: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Friday, January 11, 2019: 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, January 12, 2019: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Happy racing runDisney addicts!

2019 Epcot International Festival of the Arts Passport Released

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 7, 2019

Epcot’s newest seasonal festival is just around the corner so get ready to unleash your artistic side! Epcot’s International Festival of the Arts is a 39-day celebration of art, entertainment, and food from around the world. Featuring interactive workshops and seminars as well as Broadway performances and gourmet dishes. This year’s festival will be open from January 18 through February 25 (access is included in park admission). Recently, the 2019 Festival Passport was released and it includes some new and broadened experiences!

Epcot’s International Festival of the Arts began in 2017. It has quickly expanded its reach since becoming a hit with guests in the past two years. The combination of visual, performing and culinary arts creates a fun and relaxing experience for all ages. This year’s enlarged offerings include even more of the Disney on Broadway performances we all love. The crowd favorite will be available 7 days a week this year. Each show features a pair of Broadway stars performing Disney selections from award-winning shows like The Lion King.

Don’t forget to stimulate your other senses while enjoying the art this year. Disney will have 13 Food Studios placed throughout the park. The booths will feature a larger selection of bites and sips from around the world than in years past. You can enjoy delicacies like beef wellington, smoked salmon and almond frangipane cake while touring the artistry.

My favorite parts of the festival are the hands-on experiences and seminars. Guests can participate in sessions like “Paint with a Disney Artist” or hunt for an art-loving purple dragon. Giving “Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt” a try is a great way to get kids involved in the fun. Be sure to also grab a paintbrush and help add your talents to the mural wall in World Showcase Plaza. Check out the full Festival Passport below for all of this year’s events and offerings!

Photo Credit: Orlando Theme Park News

Are you ready to get started planning your next great adventure to Walt Disney World 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 at 804-252-7387, via email at [email protected], on Facebook or by filling out the form below.

New Pin Trading Cart At Magic Kingdom

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 6, 2019

I recently introduced my 4 year old daughter to pin trading, and it has quickly become an obsession. Whether we are at the Disney parks or on a Disney Cruise, her priority is trading pins with cast members. She would be so excited about the new pin trading cart in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom, just a few steps from Space Mountain.

This new cart has a huge selection of pins and souvenirs! Need a bubble wand and an ice cold water? They’ve got you covered!

Are you new to the world of pins and pin trading? Let me get you up to speed! There have been thousands of unique pins created over the years, including those for special events and Disney milestones. Some pins are part of larger collections that make seeking them out even more fun!

How does pin trading work?

First, you need to have some pins to trade! You can buy pins individually or in starter packs in shops throughout the parks and resorts.

Once you have pins you can start trading with cast members. Any cast member with a lanyard of pins will trade pins with you – one at a time, and up to 2 trades per day.

Cast members cannot have duplicates, so you cannot give them ones they already have.

You can also find boards at many of the shops that have pins on them, and you are allowed to trade those under the same rules I mentioned above.

We like to buy pins to commemorate special occasions like birthdays, our 5-year wedding anniversary, and our first Disney cruise. The majority of our pins are those that we have traded with cast members because they were our favorite character, or just looked unique.

Are you ready to experience the magic of a Disney vacation? Let’s book your next adventure today! I am a travel planner who specializes in Disney destinations, Universal Orlando, cruise lines, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Email [email protected] or submit the form below to receive a free no obligation quote.

V.I.Passholder Event Happening At Magic Kingdom On Thursday, January 10th

By

Sara Parr

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January 6, 2019

On January 10th, Magic Kingdom will be hosting the next V.I.Passholder event! Walt Disney World Annual Passholders will be given first access to purchase brand new merchandise at Mickey’s Star Traders and Merchant of Venus from 5-7 p.m.

Passholders will be the lucky ones to get first dibs on the new Purple Potion Ears as they make their debut at Walt Disney World Resort. These shimmering, purple sequined ears continue the hot color trend of Minnie Ears throughout Disney parks. The Purple Potion collection will also include Spirit Jerseys in adult and youth sizes, “Vacation Mode” water bottles, Loungefly wallets and the popular mini backpacks, and a new women’s Mickey t-shirt.

In addition to new gear, Passholders can also sample new purple food and beverage items at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies. Annual Passholders are invited to exclusively shop and dine from 5-7 p.m., and park guests will be included in the fun starting at 7:00 p.m.

Mickey’s Star Traders, Merchant of Venus, and Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Treats will be closing at 3:30 p.m. to park guests in order to prepare for the event. The event queue will begin at the entrance to Stitch’s Great Escape. It is not necessary to register for this particular event, but a valid Annual Pass and a photo ID are required for check-in. Make sure to arrive early as quantities are limited and not guaranteed. Activities and offerings are subject to change without notice. As if the event wasn’t exciting news in itself, the 20% Passholder discount IS applicable for merchandise purchases during this event! This is one you will not want to miss!

Are you ready to experience a magical vacation for yourself? Let’s book your next adventure today! As an agent with Key to the World Travel, I can help with all of your vacation needs. I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, Universal Orlando and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Send me an email to [email protected] or fill out and submit the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram!

Kali River Rapids Set To Close For Refurbishment

By

Kelly Kerl

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January 6, 2019

Kali River Rapids in the Animal Kingdom will be closing for its annual refurbishment. Slated to begin Monday, January 7th, the refurbishment will continue through mid-March. After a busy holiday season, Disney tends to close the popular water ride. Work will begin to maintain operational functions and give some attention to areas of wear.

Kali River Rapids is a whitewater raft ride down the Chakrandi River in India. Guests board a 12-person raft and set adrift down the river, passing temple ruins and Indian countryside. Kali Rapids Expeditions guides your tour through a canopy of trees and nearby waterfalls, before plunging down a 20-foot decline – splashing down at the bottom. You WILL get wet!

Since no one is having fun when they are wet AND cold, closing at this time of year makes sense for a ride that leaves its patrons sopping wet. It’s the perfect attraction to ride on those hot and humid Florida afternoons.

Late Winter is a popular time for refurbishments and closures around Walt Disney World. Check out our refurbishment list for January to read the latest on what’s closed or closing.

Source: Disney

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? Receive a free, no-obligation quote from me, a Travel Agent that specializes in Disney Travel! 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! Get in touch via email at [email protected], follow along with me on Facebook, Or fill out and submit the form below.