Update: Construction Of New Rail Service Connecting South Florida to Orlando

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January 5, 2019

We shared in November 2018 that Brightline, a high-speed train service based in Florida, may possibly have a stop located at Walt Disney World. We now have some news regarding this West Palm Beach to Orlando rail service that may be in the works!

An update was provided by Brightline President Patrick Goddard during a December 13 update with the Central Florida Expressway Authority. It was stated during this meeting that a 30-day notice is planned to be given to its contractor. This notice is expected on February 1 and it will allow the still unknown contractor to proceed on the new route. The contractor will be able to work on this new line once the 30-day waiting period passes. The new rail line is estimated to cost $2.1 billion. According to Brightline, the new route is expected to be completed by late 2020 or early 2021.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is slated to open fall 2019. While this method of transportation will not be of any help for the eagerly anticipated land, if projections hold true, it will be ready for the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World. The 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World will take place during 2021. Walt Disney World Resort has been going through some major renovations in anticipation for this milestone celebration.

In related news, Brightline also plans to extend service from Orlando International Airport to Tampa. The location of the potential station has yet to be disclosed. This potential line will give those from the Tampa Bay area another transportation option to visit the “Most Magical Place on Earth”. It could also serve as transportation to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Source: Orlando Weekly

Pack your bags and get ready! Let’s book your adventure to Walt Disney World or Disneyland today! Ready to experience Disney for yourself? Click the photo above or fill out the form below to receive a free, no-obligation quote from a Travel Adviser Specializing 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 you with everything such as Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Sea World Orlando, Sandals and Beaches Resorts, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE with booking! Get in touch with me at 908-773-0930, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook. You can also fill out the form below.

New Theme Park Music Album Released with Music from Pandora – The World of Avatar

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 5, 2019

Pandora: The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom has maintained its popularity since it opened in May 2017. Thanks to the new music album released last week you can take a bit of Pandora with you wherever you go. The album features 12 tracks and over 50 minutes of music from locations all throughout Pandora.

The tracks featured are from composers James Horner and Simon Franglen, but also features Sandra Benton’s Na’vi River Journey Ride Through. You will find the album available for streaming on Apple Music, or if you prefer to add it to your library it can be purchased for $9.99 or $1.29 per track from iTunes.

Tracks include

Attractions and general atmosphere

Flight of Passage Ride Through

Na’vi River Journey Ride Through – Sandra Benton

Pandora Walk Through

Shopping (Windtraders)

The Shaman Call – Simon Franglen

Magic of the Land – James Horner

Spirits of Mo’ara – James Horner

And dining locations (Pongu Pongu and Satu’li Canteen)

Raggatar

Shaman of the Souls

Surf’s Up (Satu’li Canteen)

Bossa

Surf’s Up (Pongu Pongu)

Wave – Simon Franglen

The music can be described as meditative, contemplative, upbeat, jazzy, and soothing. So whether you are trying to relive the excitement of flying on the back of a banshee on Avatar Flight of Passage, the bioluminescent beauty of Na’vi River Journey or dreaming of the new menu at Satu’li Canteen this musical journey makes the delights of Pandora come alive wherever you find yourself. One thing is for sure, wherever you are this album will take you back to the awe-inspiring bioluminescent beauty that is Pandora: World of Avatar.

Photo copyright: Itunes/Disney

Are you ready to start planning a 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.

Take a Peek At The New Star Wars: Pirate’s Price Book

By

Danielle

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January 5, 2019

An excerpt from the new Star Wars: Pirate’s Price Book has been released by StarWars.com. The excerpt reveals a first look an exciting new tale how the dastardly space pirate Hondo Ohnaka, and how he comes into possession of the Millennium Falcon, and brings it to the planet Batuu.

If you didn’t already know, the Planet Bantu is the planet we will be able to visit when Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opens this year at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World. This book is a brilliant way to bring the mythos of the Star Wars galaxy to the new land opening at the Disney Parks. This could mean we may very well find ourselves on an adventure with the infamous Space Pirate at Black Spire Outpost!

“Star Wars: Pirate’s Price” launches on January 8th, and you can pre-order your copy now. You can read more about Batuu in the excerpt at StarWars.com as well.

Treats to Try at Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff

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Brittney Hughes

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January 5, 2019

We spotted two snacks this week at Bing Bong’s Sweet Shop in Disney California Adventure Park that we had to try! Since Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff opened in the new Pixar Pier this summer, we’ve been trying to sample all of the goodies!

I suggest you start your day with a milk and cereal pretzel rod. A what?! Yep, I said it. A milk and cereal pretzel rod. A perfect combination of sweet and savory, this long pretzel stick is dipped in caramel, white chocolate and fruity pebbles. It can be eaten as an afternoon snack or even breakfast on the go, if you’re zooming into Cars Land for that first FastPass!

When it’s time for a mid-day break, try the churro toffee. No one likes a churro more than the guests of Disneyland Resort, and the churro toffee does not disappoint. This snack starts with a buttery slab of toffee wrapped in white chocolate. It’s then coated in cinnamon sugar for that churro finish. How good does that sound?

Both snacks cost $5.99 – a small price to pay for these taste treats! Next time you’re in Pixar Pier, let me know if you try one of these!

Ready to step into the middle of the magic? I am a Senior Travel Planner with Key to the World Travel and specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney and Universal Orlando. I will work with you to create the best vacation for your family! Send me an email or fill out and submit the form below to receive a free quote today from Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. Be sure to follow me on Facebook!

Witches Brew Frozen Drink Casts Spell Over Fantasyland

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 5, 2019

Witches Brew Frozen Drink at The Magic Kingdom

A supernatural new potion appeared at the Magic Kingdom recently. The Witches Brew frozen drink has quickly cast a spell over new Fantasyland since coming out last fall. It’s available at Prince Eric’s Village Market near Under The Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid. The market made a splash recently with the addition of the purple frosted Mermaid Donut to its menu. My personal favorite item is the frozen Coke and the selection of syrups you can add to it. Now they’ve found a way to combine some of those syrups into one enchanted frosty beverage.

The Witches Brew is a blend of frozen lemonade and frozen Coke. To add an extra magical twist, it has cherry, watermelon, Granny Smith apple, and passion fruit syrups swirled in. Layering these syrups creates a different flavor with almost every sip. The drink flavor switches from tart to sweet to fruity. As your potion melts and the syrups start to combine, more mystical flavors are created. This bewitching change may make you feel as if your taste buds are under a spell! Ursula would definitely be proud.

The drink definitely looks “otherworldly” with the layers of colors that begin to swirl about as you enjoy it. The frozen Coke bubbling at the top even gives the allusion of a frothy cauldron ready to overflow. If you’re a die-hard fan of Disney confections, you can pair this with Ariel’s purple mermaid donut for the ultimate sugary snack. Although, these together might be a bit overwhelming for some poor unfortunate souls, as both are definitely on the very sweet side. The Witches Brew frozen drink is currently available for $6.49 at Eric’s Village Market in the Magic Kingdom. It is not eligible for dining plan snack credits.

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.

Check Out the Disney Marathon Dooney & Bourke Bags

By

Danielle

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January 5, 2019

The Walt Disney World Marathon weekend is less than a week away! Runners from all over come to participate in this incredible runDisney weekend. The runDisney Expo also offers exciting merchandise to commemorate your personal achievements, including the beautiful Disney Marathon Dooney & Bourke Bags.

This year there are two different styles to choose from, a shopper tote, and a wristlet.

The wristlet is a dainty style that’s great for on the go, or using with a larger bag. A bright aqua colored silhouette of Mickey running pops on a bold blue background. “EVERY MILE IS MAGIC!” is exclaimed across the front, with the runDisney logo beneath it. The bag is finished off with a neon green wrist strap, and zipper pull.

The shopper tote has the same bright colors, but features an all over graphic design. Mickey is seen getting his run on through Walt Disney World. Fireworks blast off over beloved park icons like Cinderella Castle, the Tree of Life, Tower of Terror, and Spaceship Earth. A hang tag for the Walt Disney World Marathon is attached to a strap.

These bags are available as a pre-order with Marathon registration, so we don’t know how many will be available at the Expo.

Would you commemorate your runDisney achievement with one of these beautiful Disney Marathon Dooney & Bourke Bags?

Global Box Office Boom in 2018

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Sara Parr

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January 5, 2019

2018 will go down in the record books for Box Office revenue. With a record $11.9 billion dollars in the U.S. Market and $41.7 billion dollars globally, it is safe to say that people have returned to the movie theater.

For the first time in a long while, the North American market seems to be a catalyst for the increased revenue. Movie Theater attendance in North America is expected to rise by 4 to 5 percent for 2018. (The official statistic will be released once the fourth quarter average ticket price is calculated.) When compared to 2017, domestic revenue increased by 6.7 percent.

Box Office Successes

Why the boom? Disney. Disney continues to play a large role with 26 percent of the domestic market share, and 17 percent of the global box office. $7.3 billion dollars of the revenue made worldwide came from Disney releases. This is the second largest showing of all time by a U.S. movie studio; second only to Disney’s performance in 2016. Disney is currently in the midst of acquiring 20th Century Fox and has no plans of slowing down in 2019.

We learned this year to not mess with Thanos (Disney/Marvel Avengers: Infinity War– $2.048 billion), to not mess with Wakanda (Disney/Marvel Black Panther– $1.346 billion), and to still not mess with the dinosaurs (Universal Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom– $1.304 billion). Disney/Pixar’s Incredibles 2 and Sony’s Venom round out the top 5 of the year, but Warner Bros.’ Aquaman is expected to eventually surpass Venom’s earnings globally.

Photo copyright Disney

Ready to experience Disney 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 or fill out and submit the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from an agent from Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram!

Figment Annual Passholder Magnet Coming to Walt Disney World

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 5, 2019

One of the most beloved characters at Walt Disney World has got to be Figment the dragon. Later this month, Annual Passholders will be able to pick up a new magnet featuring the purple dragon. The magnet is being offered as part of Epcot’s International Fesitval of the Arts (January 18 to February 25). The festival started in 2017 and features artists from around the world showcasing and selling their work. There are also food booths, Broadway performances and art seminars available.

The Walt Disney World Annual Passholder magnets have become a prized collectors item in the recent past. Passholders can look forward each year to a new themed magnet for different festivals and seasons. Past magnets have included other characters (instead of the usual Mickey profile) as well as snowflakes or Christmas lights. This will be the first time an AP magnet has featured Figment though, which is sure to make this a must have for Epcot fans. The magnet can be picked up during the festival at MouseGear (near the Fountain of Nations in Future World) and Port of Entry (at the entrance of World Showcase).

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Figment first appeared with the opening of Epcot Center in 1981. He began his career as the mascot for its Imagination Pavilion, and later the Journey Into Imagination ride. He is meant to be the living embodiment of the phrase “figment of the imagination”. Appearing in the ride alongside his partner, The Dreamfinder, they explored the powers of the imagination. Made of two tiny wings, large yellow eyes, the horns of a steer, a crocodile’s snout, and childish delight (things Dreamfinder found in his travels). Figment has been through many ride overhauls and changes to Epcot’s theme, yet has still remained beloved by Disney fans.

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.

Hidden Mickeys Spotted In Mary Poppins Returns

By

Sara Parr

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January 5, 2019

Practically perfect in every way still reigns true when describing everyone’s favorite nanny. Mary Poppins Returns is a cinematic treat, and moviegoers may have noticed subtle Easter Eggs and little nods to the original movie, including loveable cameos and original refrains hidden in the new musical scores. These hidden gems aren’t the only treasures buried in the film though!

Director Rob Marshall and production designer John Myhre hid the distinct outline of Mickey Mouse’s head and ears, otherwise known as hidden Mickeys, as a nod to the iconic image that is scattered throughout Disney Parks. The hidden Mickeys are located in the set of the park where the Banks children first see Mary Poppins floating down from the clouds.

Some of these Mickeys are hidden so well, you may not even see them during the movie itself! But some eagle eyes at D23 got a special look at the set and found these 6 hidden Mickeys.

Had you spotted any of these in the movie? If you haven’t had a chance to revisit Cherry Tree Lane, Mary Poppins Returns is in theaters now.

Photos copyright D23.com

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 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!

Valentine’s Day Sweets Available at Ghirardelli in Disney Springs

By

Kelly Kerl

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January 5, 2019

Love is in the air at Ghirardelli at Disney Springs! It’s never too early to start shopping for Valentines Day, and Ghirardelli at Disney Springs is reminding us of that. Valentine’s Day Sweets in the form of boxed gifts, tins and gift bags of their fine chocolate debuted on the shelves today.

Adorable Gold & Pink Heart-shaped boxes filled with assorted signature squares chocolates are available in 24 & 12 counts. The mix is also available packaged in a 15-piece gold tin, wrapped with a heart dotted band, ready for a heartfelt message to your sweetie to be scribbled on the front. But, if you really want to tell your special someone that you love them as much as they love chocolate, you’ll check out the 80 piece gift bag, tied with a bright pink bow. The delicious signature flavors in the mix include:

Milk Chocolate Squares
Milk Chocolate Caramel Squares
Dark Chocolate 60% Cacao Squares
Dark Chocolate Caramel Squares
Dark Chocolate Mint Squares
Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel Squares

When you’re done shopping for your Valentine, treat yourself to one of their amazing desserts! Head over at the Soda Fountain for sundaes, shakes and more. My personal favorite is the Ocean Beach, a Sea Salt Caramel Sundae with vanilla ice cream topped with caramel sauce, sea salt, and hot fudge, topped with whipped cream and a signature square. Yum! Or grab a milkshake blended with their premium ice cream. Don’t forget to grab a free sample on your way in (and out) of the door!

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.

Orlando Vacation Rental Perfect For Star Wars Fans

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 5, 2019

We found this great vacation rental in Orlando that has something for everyone in the family! Arcade? Check. Theater? Check. Private pool? Star Wars bedroom? Princess bedroom? Check, check and check!

The Fun House at Reunion has 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and can sleep up to 14 guests. You can cook family meals in the gourmet kitchen while overlooking the family room – with a 75-inch Smart TV, upgraded cable package, and a really comfy sectional!

Upstairs is the Star Wars Battle Pod arcade. Ride the vehicles and try to destroy the Empire’s Battle Fleet in this immersive and realistic game! And don’t forget about the 4 player Cocktail arcade with 1,000 games, LED lit foosball table and TV with an Xbox One.

Now let’s talk about my favorite areas of this house – the bedrooms! There are 3 master suites which are beautifully decorated, including one with a life-sized astronaut, and a fiber optic ceiling!

The most unique rooms are the 2 custom-built kids bedrooms. There is a princess bedroom with a full over full bunk that’s perfect for kids of all ages. Your princess or price will love sleeping in their very own castle!

The Star Wars themed room is out of this world with TWO sets of full over full bunk beds AND a slide! Each bed has its own lighting and custom artwork on the walls. I don’t think my Star Wars obsessed daughter would ever leave this room!

This vacation rental has other great features like a theater, private pool, gas fire-pit, BBQ grill, and full-sized washer and dryer. The Fun House is located at Reunion Resort, which is located 6 miles from Walt Disney World.

Are you ready to stay in this awesome house? Send me an email or submit the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from an experienced planner at Key to the World Travel. Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram!

Photo credit Magical Vacation Homes.

NEW Ride Photos Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 5, 2019

We have some new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge ride photos to share! These were just published in Disneyland Resort Line, the magazine exclusively for Disneyland Resort cast members. Let’s take a quick peek!

** BREAKING PICTURES **

Picture # 1 From the Disney Cast member magazine… pic.twitter.com/BUVOmQDYz0

— SWGalaxysEdge (@sw_edge) January 4, 2019

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will include 2 new rides. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run puts guests behind the controls of the most famous ship in the galaxy in one of three unique flight crew roles. With exquisite details and over 200 cockpit controls, you’ll feel like you’re flying the real thing!

** BREAKING PICTURES **

Picture # 3 From the Disney Cast member magazine… pic.twitter.com/dyDDjZdnhk

— SWGalaxysEdge (@sw_edge) January 4, 2019

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance puts you in the middle of an epic battle between the Resistance and the First Order. Which side will prevail?

** BREAKING PICTURES **

Picture # 2 From the Disney Cast member magazine… pic.twitter.com/FbfGoovQ8j

— SWGalaxysEdge (@sw_edge) January 4, 2019

In addition to 2 these new attractions, there is so much more planned for this new expansion. You can visit a street market in Black Spire Outpost, and shop at food stalls while enjoying some blue milk. Make sure you pop into the Cantina where you will encounter characters and creatures that are hallmarks of the Star Wars universe. And for a little icing on the cake, award-winning composer John Williams is creating new and original Star Wars themes exclusively for the land!

Photo credit Disney and @sw_edge

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 or 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!