5 Children Have Died in a Fiery Crash Heading to Walt Disney World

By

-

January 4, 2019

Very sad news coming in form WESH 2 Orlando that 5 children on their way to Walt Disney World in a church van have died along with 2 truck drivers in a horrific crash on Interstate 75.

Florida Highway Patrol stated during a news conference on Friday morning the church passenger van carrying the children was from the Avoyelles Parish in Louisiana. The crash happened just outside north Gainsville at 3:40 p.m. Thursday.

Troopers state a tractor-trailer and a passenger vehicle traveling north, collided and went through the guardrail into the southbound lanes. They struck the passenger van and another tractor trailer. When the trucks collided they caught fire and the flames were fueled by about 50 gallons of diesel fuel. “Once those semis struck, they both caught fire,” Lt. Patrick Riordan said. He said a fifth vehicle came through and either struck people who had been ejected from the vehicle or debris. In addition to the seven dead, several others were taken to the hospital, some with critical injuries.

Our thought and prayers go out to all of those affected by this devastating accident.

Source: WESH 2 Orlando

Registration Savings for Running Universal™ Inaugural 5K

By

Sara Parr

-

January 4, 2019

BE DOO BE DOO BE DOO! What could be better than running with Minions? Saving money on your registration!

On May 11th, 2019, for the first time ever, enjoy an entertaining Minion themed course through Universal Studios Hollywood and the Hollywood Backlot. This 5K is perfect for all running capabilities and multiple age groups. As if that wasn’t enough, Universal Studios Hollywood Pass Members are eligible for a registration discount for this inaugural race for Standard and VIP Packages. Pass Members will register HERE for the savings discount.

What To Expect At The Race

Running Universal™ Inaugural 5K Featuring Illumination’s Minions will include:

3.1 mile course that will take you through Universal Studios Hollywood, parts of the infamous Hollywood Backlot, and a celebratory finish at Universal Citywalk. Participants will enjoy behind the scenes views and experiences
Photo Ops with your favorite Minion characters
On-course entertainments and Character Meet and Greets
Finish line celebration at 5 towers in Universal City Walk with live entertainment
Chip timed event

Registration Information

There are four different registration package options.

Standard Package for $75
VIP Package for $135
Play All Day Package $169
Fan Package for $45

If you want to join the Minion madness, be sure to register before March 31, 2019. For FAQ, visit the Running Universal race page.

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!

Upgrades to AMC’s Dine-In Theater at Disney Springs.

By

Jessica Jones

-

January 4, 2019

There are upgrades to AMC’s Dine-In Theater at Disney Springs! This is exciting news for movie-goers, especially since 2019 will be an amazing year for Disney.

Located in Disney Springs, the movie theaters treat each dish as if it is the star of the show! Using only the freshest ingredients to create delicious meals. Guests can dine on delicious item, such as a Royal Burger with fig jam. Guests can choose from a list of appetizers, entrees and desserts.

With the upgrades beginning January 7, the theater and kitchen will still be open. So guests will still be able purchase their favorites items on the menu. They have a little bit of everything, so even the pickiest of eaters will find something!

The upgrades to AMC’s Dine-In Theater at Disney Springs will make this theater bigger and better than before! The theater will be begin on January 7^th to expand their current number of theaters allowing the ability to accommodate more guests. Which will be needed with the anticipated movie releases like Dumbo, Captain Marvel, and Avengers: Endgame.

As the theater renovates expanding the number of theaters they will also be adding in recliners, as well as, recliners to exiting dine-in theaters.

Additional construction to upgrade will include a refresh to the bathrooms, concession areas, and bars! This will be one big overhaul, but well worth it. If you have been to an AMC theater before, or even this one at Disney Springs, you already know how awesome this place is! Will you be visiting Disney Springs anytime soon to see any upcoming Disney films?

Source: Orlando Theme Park News

Ready to experience the Disney magic yourself? Well, pack your bags and get ready! As an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations, 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], or fill out the form below for a free no-obligation quote.

Wine Bar George Nominated One of Country’s Best New Restaurants

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 4, 2019

Disney Springs has quickly become known for its amazing selection of shopping and dining options. With the switch from Downtown Disney, the section has changed a great deal. One of these big changes has been the addition of new and exciting restaurants. Some of the recent openings include locations by celebrity chefs like Masaharu Morimoto, Art Smith, and Master Sommelier George Miliotes. Recently, USA Today recently nominated Miliote’s restaurant Wine Bar George as one of the best new restaurants in the country. The nomination is part of their “10best Reader’s Choice Awards” that highlights the best in travel.

Wine Bar George has the distinction of being the only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in Florida. Opening in May 2018, it has quickly become a popular stop for foodies and wine connoisseurs. The restaurant has a collection of some 130 wines, served alongside a menu of small plates and charcuterie. You can get wine served by the glass or bottle. However, there are “family-style” plates as well, like the Grilled Whole Greek Sea Bass. I personally recommend the Olive Oil Cake for dessert. It is truly delectable! Guests have also fallen in love with the seasonal menu, featuring items from local farms and businesses.

George Miliotes is one of only 249 Master Sommeliers in the world. He personally oversees the entire wine selection making this a truly unique venue. He also has a long history with the resort dating back to 1995 when he managed the California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. With his new venue, Miliotes has created a space reminiscent of a winemaker’s home. This cozy setting entices guests to relax and explore new flavors. It’s not hard to see why the new location has been nominated as one of the best. You can find Wine Bar George centrally located in the Landing area of Disney Springs. If you’d like to place your vote, the poll is open until January 7.

We’ve been nominated by @USATODAY @10Best as one of the best new restaurants in the country! Voting starts now! Click here to cast your vote daily. https://t.co/mUijRyzoTg @DisneySprings

— George Miliotes (@WineBarGeorge) December 16, 2018

Photo Credit: Disney

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 Annual Passholder VIP Event, Perks, and Magnet this January!

By

Heather Adamczak

-

January 4, 2019

Annual Passholders have a reason to be happy this new year! Disney just realeased the details on exclusive Passholder events, discounts, and a new magnet! Check them out here:

Kicking it off with a bang and sticking to the hottest trend right now, Walt Disney World Passholder event of 2019 will be the Potion Purple Premiere Pop-Up Event in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom Park on Thursday, January 10 from 5-7 p.m. We can’t wait for this one! You can be among the first to purchase the new potion purple merchandise, including adult and youth spirit jerseys, “Vacation Mode” water bottle, Loungefly mini backpack, Loungefly wallet and a new women’s Mickey T-shirt; sip and savor the newest purple food and beverage offerings for purchase – and they are hinting to even more surprises.

You don’t have to register for the event but a valid annual pass card and photo ID are required at check-in. Make sure you get there early because activities and offerings are subject to change without notice and merchandise available while supplies last. The 20% Passholder merchandise discount is applicable for merchandise purchases during this event!!! WOW!!

We hope you are hungry because, from Jan. 6-31, Passholders will receive a limited-time 20% discount at the following restaurants across Walt Disney World Resort for lunch and dinner:

Biergarten Restaurant at Epcot
Coral Reef Restaurant at Epcot
The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen at Magic Kingdom Park
Tiffins Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Tony’s Town Square Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park
Ale & Compass Restaurant at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside (Dinner Only)
Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (Dinner Only)
Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Flying Fish at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort (Dinner Only)
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort (8:30 p.m. show only)
Jiko – The Cooking Place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort (Dinner Only)
Sebastian’s Bistro at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort (Dinner Only)
The Wave… of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Whispering Canyon Café at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort

Discount applies to the regular price of food and non-alcoholic beverages (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) during available lunch and dinner meal periods. Valid for the Passholder and up to three (3) guests. Not valid for breakfast, special events and may not be combined with any other discount or offer.

Just like the image above, Passholders will not want to miss out on the new Epcot International Festival of the Arts “one little spark of inspiration,” Passholder magnet! We don’t have any photos yet, but we will post them as soon as we do!

Check back soon for more updates and fill out the form below to have a travel agent help you book your next trip to Walt Disney World!

New Snack Sized Disney Micro Plush Characters Are Deliciously Cute

By

Danielle

-

January 4, 2019

We all know we love to joke that calories don’t count at Disney! Luckily shopDisney has an adorable option for those of us looking to keep their New Year’s resolutions. The new Disney Micro Plush Characters are a calorie free option, inspired by cupcakes and donuts!

Life gets a little cuter when you’ve got adorable bite sized character plush by your side. These calorie free micro plush toys come in a variety of Donuts and Cupcakes dressed up as beloved Disney characters! There are five donuts, and six cupcakes, each featuring charming details and elements that show off their character inspiration. They are regularly $5,95, but right now shop Disney is offering a special where you can get four of these Micro Food Plush for $20.00 plus a cute gift box.

Check out the Character Cupcakes:

Get the dish on the Donut Darlings:

I’m having a tough time choosing which cute character theme I should get, the donuts or the cupcakes? Maybe a mix of both? Oh who am I kidding, I need them all!

If you plan on collecting these adorable Disney Micro Plush, will you be #TeamCupcake or #TeamDonut?

Coin Collection at Disneyland Paris

By

Tessa H

-

January 4, 2019

Ever wonder where your coins go? Every two weeks at Disneyland Paris, Cast Members Sylvie Leterrier and Michel Gonzales decorators and props at Deco Props roam both Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril and The Robinson’s Cabin attractions. Using their powerful magnets they collect all of the coins thrown by guests. The coins are not counted in amount but instead counted in kilos! In 2018, more than 30 kilos of coins were collected from the two attractions alone!

Consequently, the coins collected from the parks are donated during the Yellow Coins operation, which takes place from January 9th to February 16th 2019! The funds collected during the Yellow Coins operation are donated to the Paris Hospitals Foundation, which is just incredible!

Now Available: Tickets For Disney After Hours At Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 4, 2019

Have you seen Pandora – The World of Avatar glowing at night? Or experienced Expedition Everest in the dark? Now you can do both of those and more while you beat the heat and the crowds during this special nighttime event – Disney After Hours at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

Disney After Hours events are the perfect way to experience the magic of the Disney after the parks close. These events last for three hours after park closing, meaning fewer people and shorter lines! I mean, who really likes to wait in hot lines all day? You even get admission into the park before the event begins, as early as 7:00 pm.

During Disney After Hours at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, guests can expect to enjoy little to no wait at:

Avatar Flight of Passage
Na’vi River Journey
Pandora Drummers – Swotu Waya
Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
DINOSAUR
Rivers of Light
Tree of Life Awakenings
It’s Tough to be a Bug!
Triceratop Spin
Dance Party
And more!

All attractions and entertainment are subject to change without notice.

Ice cream, popcorn, and select beverages are included with admission; and select quick-service food and beverage locations will remain open for purchases.

Special event dates at Disney’s Animal Kingdom are:

Jan. 8, 16, 22 and 31, 2019

Feb. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 26, 2019

March 5, 20 and 27, 2019

April 3, 2019

Tickets cost $125 + tax for advance purchase and $129 + tax for day-of purchases. Disney Vacation Club members and Annual Passholders receive a discounted price of $95 + tax.

Be sure to check out the Disney After Hours available on select nights at both Magic Kingdom and Dinsey’s Hollywood Studios.

Photo credit Disney Parks Blog.

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? Let’s book your next adventure today! As an experienced agent with Key to the World Travel, I can help with all of your vacation needs! Fill out and the form below and receive a free no obligation quote. Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram!

Disney Creates Robot Stunt Doubles

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 3, 2019

It’s like a sci-fi movie come to life! The brilliant minds at Disney’s Imagineering have created an autonomous robot stunt double! The Imagineers have been upping their game with bigger and better versions of “animatronic” characters for more than 50 years.

The simple pneumatic and hydraulic characters of the past have evolved into something completely magical. These self-contained characters are flexible, interactive and so lifelike! And they can perform stunts that would otherwise be too dangerous for performers.

With the addition of new lands like Pandora – The World of Avatar and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, there is a need for more exciting and daring performances. Could we see characters flying through these futuristic lands one day?

The evolution of this project is truly fascinating! What started as a metal brick of sorts, has evolved to Stickman, and is now a beautiful acrobat! Most animatronic figures are stationary and are programmed to exacting show specifications, making this an exciting advancement in the technology!

Check out this video and see the action for yourself!

Source credit TechCrunch and Walt Disney Imagineering Reseach & Development.

Are you 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 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!

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Introduces a Porterhouse Pork Chop to the Menu

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 3, 2019

There is a new mouthwatering savory menu selection awaiting hungry tummies at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’. The popular restaurant is plating up a new porterhouse pork chop chargrilled to perfection. If you are not familiar with the location, you’ll find Chef Art Smith’s restaurant located in Disney Springs just across the way from STK Orlando and Morimoto Asia. Be sure to nab an advance dining reservation to ensure your table is waiting. Menu offerings feature selections of flavorful Southern comfort foods that aren’t hidden under gravy.

The chop is decorated with a perfect sear design from the grill and served alongside a tomato-bacon jam that adds both a pop of color and flavor. Accompanying this appetite satisfying portion are melt in your mouth creamy mashed potatoes. Representing the vegetable group is sauteed green beans with caramelized onions.

If you haven’t eaten at Homecomin’ you’ll find that from the Church Lady Deviled Eggs to the Bunch of Puppies (hushpuppies that is) served with pimento cheese and red jalapeno jelly there are starters to suit everyone’s tastes. For your entree, the classic southern favorite shrimp and grits does not disappoint. Personally, for this Southern girl, each bite of the buttermilk-brined fried chicken takes me back to childhood Sunday dinners at my grandparent’s house.

For a cocktail selection, you’ll find plenty of options including moonshine on tap. If drinking moonshine isn’t your thing, you can always try it in a cake. In addition to the famous Hummingbird Cake, you will find plenty of desserts including the signature Shine Cake. This “adults-only” butter cake soaked in moonshine syrup proves you can have your moonshine and eat your cake too.

So go try the chop for yourself, let us know if you think it is a winner or if it better to stick with the fried chicken dinner.

? Chargrilled & served with warm tomato-bacon jam, creamy mashed potatoes & French green beans sautéed with caramelized onions, our NEW Porterhouse pork chop is a selection worthy of your attention ?#HomecominFL @DisneySprings @ChefArtSmith pic.twitter.com/DiWXEXHsU4

— Homecomin' Florida Kitchen (@HomecominFL) January 3, 2019

Photo Credit: Homecomin’

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.

Discover the Fun of Sea Life Orlando Aquarium

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 3, 2019

Discover the Fun of Sea Life Aquarium Orlando

Savoring the last few days of winter break here in Central Florida, my daughter and I spent the morning exploring Sea Life Orlando Aquarium. A short drive from Walt Disney World, Sea Life Orlando is nestled inside the ICON 360 building. It is the perfect place for family fun.

Hours of Operation

Monday to Sunday- 10 AM TO 9 PM

Pricing

*Book Online to save 10%

Single Attraction : Adult – $25.50 per person / Child – $20.50 per person (online discounted price)

Two Attractions: Adult – $39.95 per person / Child – $34.95 per person (online discounted price)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

As soon as you enter, you are immersed in an underwater adventure. You feel like you are one with the sea creatures. My daughter kept saying “mommy look!” She loved exploring all of the up-close viewing tank exhibits throughout the aquarium. I did try to get her to touch the anemones, but she was not quite ready for that. She was afraid of the octopus as it was “walking” up the glass. One of the team members came to her “rescue” and explained how they love to play with toys (like Mr. Potato Head) because they are very curious. She was able to warm up enough to get up close to the glass and watch it suction on by.

Discover the Fun of Sea Life Orlando Aquarium

Did you know that jellyfish have been around before the dinosaurs?! Nothing more than I love as a mom is teaching my kids through play. I loved all the fun teachable moments. She was hypnotized by all the jellyfish as the colors changed and could not stop picking sharks to learn about. Her favorite was the saw shark!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

It is not every Wednesday that you get to travel all over the Earth’s oceans and coastal waters. My favorite ocean exhibit was the Indian Ocean because we got to “meet” Ted the Turtle, and he was huge. He gets his name because he helped develop the Turtle Excluder Device. Also in the Coastal Rockpools, kids can become deep-sea explorers as they dive into fun on the play place.

Last but not least, my favorite experience was the 360-degree tunnel inside the tank. It is the only one in Florida. My jaw dropped as we ventured through. I loved that even the floor was see-through, so the fish swam all around you.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

All I have to say is, my daughter did NOT want to leave. She was walking out saying “I a fish doctor” which I think means a scientist. When the toddler is happy, it is a WIN! Thank you again to everyone at Sea Life Orlando Aquarium for a day full of fun and learning. To find out more information and purchase tickets, click here. Have you spent the day exploring Sea Life Orlando? Post in the comments below.

Calling all Infants, Toddlers and Kiddos for the runDisney Kids Dashes!

By

Brittney Hughes

-

January 3, 2019

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend brings thousands of guests to the Walt Disney World Resort so that runners of all ages can compete in a 5k, 10k, half-marathon and full marathon. But, did you know there are races for those still in diapers?! The runDisney Kids Dashes are a great way to introduce little racers to runDisney!

If your family will be at the Walt Disney World Resort on January 11th and January 12th, come check out the runDisney Kids Dashes! There are three opportunities to get in the action:

12 months and under – Diaper Dash for crawlers
1-4 years old – 100-Meter Dash
5-8 years old – 200-Meter Dash

The races will feature a rolling start to space out the participants. The 100-Meter Dash will start at 10:30 AM and be followed by the 200-Meter Dash at 11:30 AM. The youngest competitors will wrap up the race festivities at 12:30 PM with the Diaper Dash. All events will take place on the Track & Field at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Come watch this year and sign up your children next year!

Images copyright: runDisney

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!