Closures at Coronado Springs Coming This Fall

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August 10, 2018

This Fall, guests will continue to see changes and more closures at Coronado Springs Resort.

Currently, the resort has been undergoing general construction and room refurbishments. The resort has seen changes with dining venues including a reimagined Rix Sports Bar and Grill and continued updates to Pepper Market which will continue through summer of 2019.

However, this Fall brings more change to the table as well as some closures. Beginning this September (September 4th according to Doctor Disney), The Dig Site and feature pool will be closed through mid-December of this year. The closure will include all areas making up The Dig Site: The Lost City of Cibola Pool, volleyball court, playground, Iguana Arcade, and Siestas Cantina.

Other resort amenities will remain available including three leisure pools, merchandise and dining locations, La Vida Health Club Salon and Spa, and recreation activities (Movies Under the Stars, Campfires with Marshmallows). An exact reopening date has yet to be determined.

Keep following along with Chip and Co. for more updates on refurbishments and closures at Coronado Springs Resort.

Planning a visit to Disney World? There are still some great deals for 2018 and you can now book your 2019 vacation! Fill out the form below, or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I offer rate monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best available rate offered by Disney. As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations including the Disney Cruise Line. Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.716.697.1211, via email at [email protected], or follow along on Facebook.

An Adorable Baby Mandrill was Just Born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 10, 2018

Cuteness alert! A new baby Mandrill was just born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! The new addition to the Park was born to parents Scarlett and Winston who you may have seen on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Mandrills are the largest species of monkeys but at the same time, they are a vulnerable species due to deforestation and poaching. Mandrills are native to Africa rainforests near the equator.

The birth of the newest Mandrill represents the dedication and skill of Disney animal care experts who work with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) on Species Survival Plans (SSPs), which ensure responsible breeding of threatened and endangered species, in order to maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population of such animals for years to come.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom didn’t have to look hard for an expert familiar with Mandrills. Rebecca Phillips, Animal Operations manager at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is also a Species Survival Plan (SSP) coordinator for mandrills with the AZA. Phillips supports animal births, is a mentor to animal care teams at other zoos around the world, and helps zoos make the first steps to welcome mandrills to their habitats.

“There are many reasons why I’m excited to be an SSP coordinator for mandrills. I love helping zoos, including our own, and I love the success stories. As a two-time mom and also a surrogate mother, Scarlett is an example of how we’re helping a vulnerable species thrive, and it’s thrilling to watch her family grow.”

Disney’s support of Mandrills and other primates is far-reaching. Since 1995, the Disney Conservation Fund has raised over $6.5 million to support conservation of mandrills and other primates in 29 countries.

To give mother and baby plenty of time to bond, the gender of the baby Mandrill is unknown at this time. Once the gender is determined, we will also have a name to announce!

You might be able to catch a glimpse of Scarlett and her new baby Mandrill right now on Kilimanjaro Safaris! The little one will probably be clinging to her mother’s stomach until she is big enough to travel around on her back.

Let’s start planning your Kilimanjaro Safari FastPass to see the newest baby Mandrill and a visit to Walt Disney World! Fill out the form below, or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I offer rate monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best available rate offered by Disney. As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations. Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.954.401.9577, via email at [email protected], or follow along on Facebook.

Image/Source Credit: Disney

Orlando’s Iconic Water Skiing Squirrel, Twiggy, Set to Perform One Final Time This Weekend

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 10, 2018

It is with sad news I announce one of Orlando’s most popular residents, “Twiggy” – the water skiing squirrel, is set to retire this weekend. However Orlando Weekly is reporting, there are still a few chances to see her perform!

If you have plans to stop by the Orlando Boat Show happening next weekend, you can see one of “Twiggy’s” final appearances. Twiggy will take to her skis at the show on Saturday, August 18 at noon, 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm. Then, on Sunday, August 18, Twiggy will do her swan song at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm.

“Twiggy” has been a popular attraction for Central Florida residents and tourists for several years. “Twiggy” has not actually been just one squirrel over the years but many squirrels have stepped up to fill the large water skis. (Similar to “Shamu” at Sea World) A new “Twiggy” should step up in the future to take over the position. So, next weekend might not be the last chance to see “Twiggy” after all!

Have you have seen “Twiggy” the water skiing squirrel perform? Let us know in the comments below!

Planning a visit to Orlando and Walt Disney World or Universal? Fill out the form below, or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I offer rate monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best available rate offered by Disney. As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations. Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.954.401.9577, via email at [email protected], or follow along on Facebook.

Image Credit: YouTube @GoPro

‘Elena of Avalor: Realm of the Jaquins’ DVD Review

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2018

The latest adventure of Princess Elena in Elena of Avalor: Realm of the Jaquins was released August 7th for fans to take home! I had the pleasure of receiving an early copy of Elena of Avalor: Realm of the Jaquins and my daughters and I loved it! I have some big (tiny) fans in my house. Just look at their dresses! The DVD is about 89 minutes long, has 4 episodes, and 10 bonus shorts included.

Join Crown Princess Elena as she soars through a hidden gateway into Vallestrella, the mysterious, dazzling domain of the Jaquins. On the way, there, she accidentally releases a mythical forest sprite that could endanger Avalor! Now Elena must find the Jaquins’ magical, legendary Sunbird Oracle to save the kingdom.

Elena of Avalor: Realm of the Jaquins is a perfect addition to your Disney collection. This movie will keep your children entertained for hours. And an important aspect about the film is it provides girls and all kids with a great independent role model. All 4 episodes are centered directly around the Jaquins, which we love in our household! And don’t forget the catchy music and dance numbers that pop in now and then.

Episodes:

Realm of the Jaquins, Parts I and II
Three Jacquins and a Princess
Shapeshifters

10 Bonus Shorts:

Adventures in Vallestrella

Flight of the Butterfrog
Sleeping Sunbird
Fast Food
Peabunny Boogie
Human Nature

Scepter Training with Zurro

The Heist
Royal Treasury Escape Room
Nothing Bur Blaze
Stowaway
Don’t Be Our Guest

Get your own copy of Elena of Avalor: Realm of the Jaquins today!

Click Here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? Click the link above or fill out the form below from a Certified Disney Travel Specialist from MickeyTravels, the official travel partner for Chip and Company.

Are you ready to start planning your magical Disney vacation? As an agent with MickeyTravels, (designated with Platinum Earmarked status by Disney), I’ll be available to help with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and Fastpass reservations. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 843-288-1130, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook. Or fill out and submit the form below.

Día de los Muertos Experiences Inspired by ‘Coco’ and More Coming to Disneyland This Fall

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2018

Pixar Fest at Disneyland might be ending in less than a month but there’s plenty of more fun lined up! In addition to Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort beginning next month, Disneyland has just announced the return of special experiences to celebrate the spirit Día de los Muertos.

At Disney California Adventure Park, “Coco” is the heart of the theming of Plaza de Familia, a limited-time festivity at Paradise Gardens. Guests are invited to share memories of loved ones at the interactive Memory Wall. A limited edition photo opportunity will be set up around the Mexican Árbol de la Vida (Tree of Life) for guests to take photos and remember their visit by. A new mask-making craft that depicts an alejibre (spirit guide) from the film “Coco” will also be available. Guests will also be able to take in a beautiful art exhibit called The World of Coco while enjoying a live Mariachi band and delicious Mexican food from Paradise Gardens Grill.

In addition to the Mariachi band, guests can also enjoy the A Musical Celebration of Coco show. The show features the Storytellers of Plaza de la Familia and the Grammy-award winning Mariachi Divas for a festive show of music and dance that tells the incredible story of young Miguel’s journey as seen in “Coco.” New this year, this charming troupe of singers and authentic Folklórico dancers is joined by Miguel, brought to life in a whimsical, hand-crafted style inspired by traditional Mexican folk art.

The Día de los Muertos magic also extends to Cars Land. An ofrenda (a remembrance altar) will be on display that pays tribute to Doc Hudson (aka, the Fabulous Hudson Hornet). Look for it at Ramone’s House of Body Art, just down Route 66!

Over at Disneyland Park, Zócalo Park in Frontierland will be decked out with an elaborate and colorful display in honor of Día de los Muertos. This immersive setting features beautiful marigolds and papel picado throughout the installation, along with a traditional ofrenda, calaveras (sugar skulls), an iconic figure of La Catrina and delicious food at the nearby Rancho del Zócalo.

These Día de los Muertos experiences will be offered beginning September 7 and run until November 2, 2018 at the Disneyland Resort.

Planning a visit to a Disneyland Fill out the form below, or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I offer rate monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best available rate offered by Disney. As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations. Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.954.401.9577, via email at [email protected], or follow along on Facebook.

Image/Source Credit

Disney Princesses’ Take On a New Look in ‘Ralph Breaks the Internet’

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2018

Disney Princesses' Take On a New Look in 'Ralph Breaks the Internet'
In Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 we leave Litwak’s video arcade behind, venturing into the uncharted, expansive and thrilling world of the internet. And it may or may not survive Ralph’s wrecking. Video game bad guy Ralph (voiced by John C. Reilly) and fellow misfit Vanellope von Schweetz (voiced by Sarah Silverman) must risk it all by traveling to the world wide web in search of a replacement part to save Vanellope’s video game, Sugar Rush. In way over their heads, Ralph and Vanellope rely on the citizens of the internet, the netizens, to help navigate their way. Some of the netizens are some of my favorite Disney characters, Disney princesses! The princesses and Venellope strike up a friendship, because, she is technically royalty after all! At first, the princesses start out in their traditional outfits we know and love, but after hanging out with Venellope and her laid-back ways, they don a more casual attire. Take a look at the picture below.

Disney Princesses' Take On a New Look in 'Ralph Breaks the Internet'

The princesses’ more modern look sports custom-tailored designs for each princess. Snow White wears a shirt with a poison apple on it. Cinderella has a fancy carriage on her. And Elsa has an Etsy-like shirt that says “Let It Go” on it.

“I’m very proud of my character being a Disney princess with a human waist. I love that she is a princess but wears, like, a hoodie, and she inspires them all to wear comfortable clothes,” says Sarah Silverman. “It didn’t really cross my mind that I’m a Disney princess — like, that I’m canon— until we all met this year, and I got a little choked up. It’s corny, I know, but I was like, ‘Oh s—t, right. I’m this Jewish, comfortable-clothes-wearing Disney princess. How cool is that?”

Check out the official trailer if you haven’t done so already!

Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 opens in theaters nationwide Nov. 21, 2018.

Source: EW

Click Here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? Click the link above or fill out the form below from a Certified Disney Travel Specialist from MickeyTravels, the official travel partner for Chip and Company.

Are you ready to start planning your magical Disney vacation? As an agent with MickeyTravels, (designated with Platinum Earmarked status by Disney), I’ll be available to help with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and Fastpass reservations. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 843-288-1130, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook. Or fill out and submit the form below.

Disney Twenty-Three Fall 2018 Issue Celebrates 90 Years Of Mickey Mouse

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2018

Disney Twenty-Three Fall 2018

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is all about Mickey Mouse, who is celebrating his 90th anniversary this year. And they are bringing that celebration to the pages of the fall issue of Disney twenty-three. Celebrities and luminaries including Kurt Russell, Mark Hamill, Whoopi Goldberg, Alan Menken and Hayley Mills recall their fondest Mickey memories. Film historian Leonard Maltin honors Mickey’s enduring optimism and youthful spirit. The cover features the latest tribute to Mickey—his new birthday portrait, titled Spreading Magic Around the World, painted by legendary Walt Disney Animation Studios animator Mark Henn—and Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline looks at the long-standing tradition of Mickey portraits over the decades.

Actress and fashion designer Ashley Eckstein pays tribute to Minnie Mouse—who is also celebrating 90 years of stardom—by spotlighting Minnie’s enduring place as a role model and fashion icon. And Disney twenty-three goes behind the scenes on the making of the new Disney Channel Original Movie Freaky Friday, for exclusive interviews with stars Heidi Blickenstaff and Cozi Zuehlsdorff.

Plus, D23 is kicking off its annual Fanniversary honoring two beloved films celebrating their 25th anniversary: Hocus Pocus and Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Director Kenny Ortega talks about the making of Hocus Pocus and all of the on-set excitement working with Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker. This month’s “Character Analysis” examines the frightfully fun denizens of Nightmare, along with a first look at the new Nightmare-themed gingerbread house coming to Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion Holiday attraction overlay this year. For more Fanniversary fun, visit D23.com/Fanniversary beginning October 1.

Also included in the fall issue of Disney twenty-three:

Animation historian Fox Carney dives into the vaults of the Animation Research Library to show off stunning paintings and drawings from Mickey’s rich history
From the Desk of: Mickey’s portrait painter Mark Henn
A preview of The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
An advance look at the new Disney Channel series Star Wars Resistance
Regular features including D Society and Ask Dave

Disney twenty-three, which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving in mid-August.

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? Click Here for your FREE No Obligation Quote (or fill out the form below) from a Certified Disney Travel Specialist from MickeyTravels, the official travel partner for Chip and Company.

Contact me today to start planning your magical Disney vacation. As an agent with MickeyTravels (designated with Platinum Earmarked status by Disney), my goal is to help you plan the Magic your way. I create customized itineraries, book advanced dining and FastPass+ reservations, monitor for discounts for your vacation, and much much more! And did I mention that my services are FREE? Find me on Facebook or feel free to email me with any Disney vacation questions at [email protected]

Incredible Brownie Temptation Found At Main Street Bakery

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2018

Incredible Brownie Temptation Found At Main Street Bakery

The Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom is always a great stop. They feature Starbucks coffee and some delicious sweet treats that can’t be beat. On a recent stop, we decided to try the decadent Brownie Temptation. This warm homemade brownie is topped with delicious hot fudge, melted peanut butter, whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel. Just, wow.

Now considered the Starbucks of Magic Kingdom, the Main Street Bakery is open daily during breakfast, lunch and dinner but hours vary with park times. They carry the full Starbucks menu along with a selection of La Boulange pastry items and Disney’s own creations. This is the perfect stop on your way into the park in the morning, right before the Festival of Fantasy parade and on your way back to your Disney resort.

The Brownie Temptation is priced at $5.79. Stop by on your next visit to Magic Kingdom to grab one!

Would you like some help planning the perfect Disney vacation? As an agent with MickeyTravels, a Platinum level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, I can not only help you find the perfect vacation package at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani or Adventures by Disney, I can also help with the details afterwards such as dining reservations, FastPass selections, shore excursions and more. My detailed itineraries and touring plans ensure that your vacation is absolutely perfect. Best of all, my service are 100% FREE! Contact me today to book your dream Disney vacation! 1.803.290.7334 or via email at [email protected].

Images Copyright: Chip and Co

Additional Covered Outdoor Seating Coming to The Polite Pig

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2018

The Polite Pig in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World is getting a makeover! They just recently announced an expansion to their outdoor dining area which will mean more covered seating for seating for guests.

Currently, The Polite Pig has a pretty decent sized outdoor eating area with a small area just having an overhang. Other outdoor tables are shaded by oversized umbrellas.

Since Orlando-area weather can be so unpredictable with intense heat and rain showers, the new overhang expansion aims to allow more seating for guests at The Polite Pig year-round.

While no exact completion date on the expansion has been announced at this time, sources tell us they are hoping for it to be complete by the beginning of October… weather permitting!

Have you ever eaten at The Polite Pig in Disney Springs? If not, you are missing out on some of the best BBQ food around! Also, if you are a chocolate lover, make sure to check out Gideon’s Chocolate Chip Cookie to sweeten your day!

Planning a visit to Walt Disney World? Fill out the form below, or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I offer rate monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best available rate offered by Disney. As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations. Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.954.401.9577, via email at [email protected], or follow along on Facebook.

Disney Vacation Club Halloween Party Announced For October 31

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2018

Disney Vacation Club Members are invited to a spooky soirée inspired by the classic Haunted Mansion attraction, taking place October 31, 2018. Part of Membership Magic, this Halloween event is exclusive to Disney Vacation Club Members and special guests.

Come dressed in your Halloween best and join 999 happy haunts for a spirited celebration! Let’s take a look at some of the highlights…

Lively Music: Enjoy DJ entertainment
Photo Ops: Capture the excitement at a selfie station
Encounters with Disney Characters: Meet beloved Characters and pose for a photo together
Complimentary Face Painting: Artists will be on hand to enhance or create Halloween looks for kids and adults
Refreshments: Enjoy desserts, snacks, lemonade and water
Carnival Games: Play a game or two — and enjoy the chance to win a prize
Complimentary Keepsake Photo: Take home a commemorative photo of your Character encounter

Desert Menu:

‘

Important Details
When & Where

Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Times: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM or 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Ballroom of the Americas at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Price

$30 per person (ages 3 and up), inclusive of tax and gratuity. Full payment at the time of booking—with a credit card guarantee—is required.

How to Book

Call Member Services at (800) 800-9800† to book beginning Friday, August 3, 2018 at 9:00 AM Eastern Time.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance to avoid surrendering the full payment. To cancel, call Member Services at (800) 800-9800.†

Important Information

Guests must be 21 years old with a photo I.D. to consume alcohol.
Disney Dining Plan entitlements cannot be used for this experience.
Culinary Magic Experiences are not eligible for any additional special offers or discounts, including the Disney Vacation Club Member 10% food and beverage discount.
Party size limit of the Member and 7 guests—for a total of up to 8.
Menu items, pricing and hours are subject to change without notice.
Guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a paying participating parent or guardian.
Valid Disney Vacation Club Membership Card and photo I.D. required at check-in.
Food allergies must be noted at time of booking.
Costumes subject to Disney guidelines and should not be obstructive or offensive.
Please plan for enough travel time to get to the event.
Subject to restrictions and changes without notice.

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? Click Here for your FREE No Obligation Quote (or fill out the form below) from a Certified Disney Travel Specialist from MickeyTravels, the official travel partner for Chip and Company.

Contact me today to start planning your magical Disney vacation. As an agent with MickeyTravels (designated with Platinum Earmarked status by Disney), my goal is to help you plan the Magic your way. I create customized itineraries, book advanced dining and FastPass+ reservations, monitor for discounts for your vacation, and much much more! And did I mention that my services are FREE? Find me on Facebook or feel free to email me with any Disney vacation questions at [email protected]

Ghoulish New Halloween Disney Parks Novelty Souvenirs

By

Danielle

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August 9, 2018

Halloween Disney Parks Novelty Souvenirs

Greetings ghosts and ghouls of every age, it looks like some wicked new goodies will be headed to the Disney Parks this Halloween season! A spook-tacular variety of new Halloween Disney Parks Novelty Souvenirs have been revealed, and we can’t wait for them to materialize at the Disney Parks this year.