Why You Should Book Your Walt Disney World Vacation with a MickeyTravels Agent

By

-

July 31, 2017

Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation can be a hard and daunting task. I am here to tell you it doesn’t have to be….when you book your visit with a MickeyTravels agent like me! I will be there every step of the way to plan you a magical and stress-free visit with Mickey. And, if you are looking to get the best rate possible, I am here for you! I offer rate monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best price available by Disney and my services are absolutely FREE and my rates are EXACTLY the same as if you booked with Disney directly.

Let’s take a look at the other services I offer for my clients:

Tip and Tricks: As an experienced Disney-goer and graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge, I am your personal Disney expert! I know the ins and outs to make your trip the most magical and stress-free. Regardless if you are traveling solo, with your kids, or a large party, I will share my knowledge with you to make sure your time is time and money is maximized.
Advanced Dining Reservations: Unfamiliar with all the different restaurants on property? Hate to wake up early to get those hard-to-find reservations? I can help with that all! We will work together to decide the best reservations for you and your travel party and you get to sleep in the morning your 180-day Advanced Dining Reservation window opens. Booking within the 180-day window? I have a few resources to help nab those Cinderella’s Royal Table, Be Our Guest, etc. reservations!
FastPass+ Planning: I know the parks inside and out to plan your FastPasses and maximize your time. You also can sleep in when it comes time to make these selections as I will gladly make them for you after we decide on the best ones for you and your travel party.
Custom Itineraries: Not sure what day to visit each park and make your dining reservations? I will use park hours, Extra Magic Hours, parade and show times to create you an itinerary to maximize your time at the parks.
On-Call: Have a question while you are on your vacation? Something not going as smoothly as it should? I am just a phone call away for all of my Disney Guests.
Free Quotes and Services: As I previously mentioned, all of my services are absolutely FREE! I will work with you to get your the perfect quote for your trip and your trip will cost the same as booking with Disney directly.
Pixie Dust: Every guest who books with me receives some extra “Pixie Dust” for their trip!

Did I mention that I offer all of this for FREE?!

Let’s start planning your Walt Disney World vacation! CLICK HERE , fill out the form below, or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote from me!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

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.

Walt Disney World Refurbishment Schedule for August 2017

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

The following is a comprehensive list of attractions, resorts and restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort that are currently undergoing refurbishment during the month of July 2017 or will be occurring in the months ahead:

Magic Kingdom

• Hall of Presidents: Closed through Fall of 2017

• Liberty Square Riverboat: Closed August 1 – 10, 2017

• Splash Mountain: Closed August 28 – November 16, 2017

• Monorail: The Walt Disney World® Resort Monorail System is undergoing refurbishment through July 26, 2017 and may be on modified service and/or routes. If Guests plan to use this form or transportation during their visit they should check to be sure of the best option available on their day of travel, as alternative transportation options will be available.

Hollywood Studios

The Great Movie Ride: Closing Permanently. The last day of operation will be August 13, 2017.

Epcot

Mission: SPACE: Closed through August 13, 2017

Advanced Training Lab: Closed June 5, 2017 to TBD

Coral Reef Restaurant: Closed August 27 to August 30, 2017
Ellen’s Energy Adventure: The last day of operation will be August 13, 2017.

Animal Kingdom

None

Disney Springs

Portobello Country Italian Trattoria: Closed April 23 – Fall 2017. Will reopen as Terralina Crafted Italian

Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe including The Dining Room at Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe and The Express at Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe: Closing Permanently on August 2, 2017

Disney Quest: Permanently closed on July 3, 2017 to make room for The NBA Experience.

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil: Final performance 12/31/2017

Blizzard Beach

Annual Closure: October 29, 2017 to January 6, 2018

Typhoon Lagoon

Annual Refurbishment: January 7, 2018 – TBD

Golf Courses/Miniature Golf

None

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Art of Animation

Disney Skyliner Construction:
Will give Guests a bird’s-eye view of Walt Disney World Resort while traveling via gondolas. During this time construction noise may be seen or heard throughout the resort, but noise should not be heard from Guest rooms between dusk and 9am.
- Ongoing until further notice

Boardwalk Inn and Villas

Currently undergoing some refurbishment projects across the Resort (resort is fully operational). It is possible that construction may be seen or heard, but noise should not be heard from Guest rooms between dusk and 9:00am. Ongoing until further notice.

Caribbean Beach Resort

Major Refurbishment Projects occurring until 2019.
- Several villages unavailable
- Old Port Royale Food Court, Shutters at Old Port Royale, Cabana Pool Bar and Calypso Trading Post: Closed May 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018. There will be a variety of dining options available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Centertown will serve breakfast and dinner and a selection of grab-and-go meals will be conveniently available for purchase in three island markets located in the Aruba, Jamaica and Martinique regions of the Resort. Additionally, in-room dining will remain available. Any work most likely to cause a noise impact will not begin until 9:00 a.m.
- Disney Skyliner Construction: Will give Guests a bird’s-eye view of Walt Disney World Resort while traveling via gondolas. During this time construction noise may be seen or heard throughout the resort, but noise should not be heard from Guest rooms between dusk and 9am. Ongoing until further notice.

Coronado Springs

Hard Goods Refurbishment: Through 2017. During this time, amenities including dining and merchandise locations, pools, La Vida Health Club with the spa and salon, and recreation activities such as beach volleyball, Iguana Arcade, Movies Under the Stars and more, will remain available. Please note that noise will be heard while our Resort is undergoing refurbishments, but noise should not be heard from Guest rooms prior to 9:00am daily.

Dolphin Hotel

Room Renovations: Through the end of 2017

Hotel Lobby Renovation: Through Fall 2017. Will remain open during during renovation

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Room Refurbishments: Guests may see or hear work in progress and certain pathways may be unavailable. During this time, the Resort will be in full operation with all amenities available including dining and merchandise locations, pools, and recreation actives.

Pop Century

Room Refurbishments: Through May 7, 2018. During this time, Guests may see or hear work in progress and certain pathways may be unavailable. To minimize disruptions, an attempt will be made to limit all work until after 9:00am daily.
Disney Skyliner: Will give Guests a bird’s-eye view of Walt Disney World Resort while traveling via gondolas. During this time construction noise may be seen or heard throughout the resort, but noise should not be heard from Guest rooms between dusk and 9am. Ongoing utnil further notice.

Yacht Club Resort

Captain’s Grille: Closed through September 30, 2017. During refurbishments, the Captain’s Grille is relocating to the oceanic-themed Ariel’s.

Yacht & Beach Club Convention Center

Expansion work: Through February 1, 2018. During this time, Guests may see or hear work in progress and certain pathways may be unavailable. To minimize any disruptions, an attempt will be made to limit work to 9:00 a.m – 9:00 p.m.

Let’s start planning your next stay at Walt Disney World or any other Disney Destination! CLICK HERE 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 and my services are 100% FREE!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

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.

Minnie Van Service Now Powered by Lyft App at Walt Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

Certainly one of the most talked about additions to Walt Disney World has been the recent launch of the the Minnie Van transportation system. This new service launched earlier this month is designed to take guests anywhere on Disney property. Beginning today guests can utilize the Lyft app from their smartphones to secure transportation arrangements.

Lyft is a ride sharing service utilized through an app on your phone (available for both iOS and Android phones). When guests open the Lyft app from anywhere in the Walt Disney World Resort the Minnie Van Service is unlocked. The Lyft app will allow guests to request a ride from their smartphone and pay directly through the app.

The Minnie Van Transportation program is still in the infancy stage of operation. The pilot program is only offered to guests of Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts. We would expect this service will be rolled out to other resorts in the near future.

Here are a few highlights of this new transportation system:

Currently the service fee to utilize the service is a flat $20 fee per one-way trip.
This service accommodates up to six guests and provides two versatile car seats.
Hours of operation is 6:30am – 12:30am.
The Minnie Van service will be driven by Disney cast members on park property only.
One of the greatest benefit so the Minnie Van service is the ability to have direct transportation between resorts. Current transportation offerings at Walt Disney World only offer direct trips to parks and to Disney Springs.

Do you plan to try out this service on your next trip to Walt Disney World? Let us know in the comment box below.

Interested in planning a Disney vacation? Fill out the form below for a FREE quote.

As an agent with MickeyTravels, LLC, I can help save you time and money planning your next Disney vacation. The best part is my services are always FREE! Contact me today at [email protected] or (229) 977-3773. Join me on Facebook for the latest Disney updates and tips.

Source Credit: Disney
Photo Credit: Lyft Blog

Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels Offering Discounted Fall Rates

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels Offering Discounted Fall Rates

Is your family still looking for some great deals for a Walt Disney World vacation this Fall season? Then look no further! The seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels are offering special “Fall Into The Magic” rates for stays from August 7 through October 9, 2017.

There is still time to make plans to experience the special events being conducted at the Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida this summer and fall, such as the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Epcot, Eat to the Beat Concert Series at Epcot, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park, and Disney Night of Joy at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. It also is a great time to see the incredible all-new Pandora – The World of Avatar, which just opened in May at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and to experience the significantly expanded Disney Springs.

A great way to experience these events and new offerings is by taking advantage of the special “Fall into the Magic” room rates that are being offered by the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels for stays from August 7-October 9, 2017. In addition to the outstanding special events, the special hotel rates provide the opportunity to take in such exciting new offerings at the Walt Disney World Resort as Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Fireworks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios; Frozen Ever After and Soarin’ Around The World at Epcot; Kilimanjaro Safarisand the nighttime spectacular Rivers of Light for a full day to night experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park; and also new this summer Happily Ever After, the largest projection and fireworks show in Magic Kingdom Park history.

The immersive, awe-inspiring Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom features truly stunning floating mountains, cascading waterfalls, and a lush rainforest complete with glowing fauna and flora. Impressively, this sprawling new land makes you feel as if you are transferred light-years away to Pandora. Among the offerings are Avatar Flight of Passage, an exhilarating 3D ride that takes you on an expedition on the back of a powerful winged mountain banshee to see the beauty and grandeur of Pandora. Also not to be missed is the family-friendly Na’vi River Journey, a scenic boat ride down a mysterious river, through caves, and lighted by a bioluminescent forest.

Plus, you can experience the many unique venues at the dramatically transformed Disney Springs area, formerly known as the Downtown Disney Area. Inspired by Florida’s charming towns and natural beauty, and boasting a picturesque waterfront setting, the vibrant Disney Springs offers a high-quality diverse mix of shops, an impressive variety of new upscale and casual dining options, and outstanding live entertainment options, currently with 130 establishments.

Set amid beautiful open-air promenades and bubbling springs, Disney Springs features four distinct outdoor neighborhoods: The Landing, Town Center, Marketplace, and West Side. Among the many new offerings that are open at Disney Springs are such dining options as Planet Hollywood Observatory, Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless’ Frontera Cocina, Paddlefish (situated on an iconic paddleboat), renowned Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, Morimoto Asia, and STK Orlando. Among the many other offerings open at Disney Springs are: World of Disney store, AMC Movies at Disney Springs 24, The Art of Disney, The LEGO Store, Build-A-Dino by Build-A-Bear Workshop, Disney Design-A-Tee, Disney’s Candy Cauldron, Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories, and Once Upon a Toy.

Featuring an ideal location in the Walt Disney World Resort, the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels are within an easy walk to Disney Springs and also provide shuttle transportation every 30 minutes to all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks, two water parks, and at night to the Disney Springs area.

Plus, as a bonus, guests at these hotels also receive the “2017 Disney Springs Passport” booklet that features exclusive discounts and specials from Disney Springs merchants on entertainment, shopping and dining. Among the coupons featured in the booklet are discounts and special offers at House of Blues Restaurant, Rainforest Café at Disney SpringsMarketplace, T-REX^TM, Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop, American Threads, and Sephora.

The Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels’ “Fall into the Magic” room rates for stays August 7-October 9, 2017 are:

B Resort & Spa – Disney Springs Resort Area – rates from $79 per room, per night
Best Western Lake Buena Vista – Disney Springs Area – weekday rates from $65 per room, per night
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando – Disney Springs Area — rates from $99 per suite, per night
Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace – Disney Springs Resort Area – rates from $99 per room, per night
Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – Disney Springs Resort Area – rates from $79 per room, per night
Holiday Inn Orlando – Disney Springs Area – rates from $75 per room, per night
Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista — Disney Springs Resort Area – rates from $72 per room, per night.

For additional information, visit DisneySpringsHotels.com . The special rates are available for stays August 7-October 9, 2017, based on availability. Some blackout dates may apply, and availability may be limited. The rates do not include the Resort Services Fee or daily parking fee (if applicable), taxes or gratuities. The offer is not valid with any other special offers, promotions, existing reservations, or for groups.

Visiting also provides the opportunity to take in such special events as:

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom Park, from August 25-November 1, 2017
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, from August 31-November 13, 2017 at Epcot
Eat to the Beat Concert Series, from August 31-November 13, 2017 at Epcot
Disney Night of Joy, on September 8 and 9, 2017 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

Note that some events require a separately priced ticket.

Other benefits of staying at one of the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels include:

The ability to purchase Disney Theme Park admissions at each hotel
Advance tee times and discounts at all Walt Disney World Resort golf courses
Disney Merchandise store located in each hotel
The ability to book advance dining and dinner show reservations for all restaurants across the Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels (DisneySpringsHotels.com) includes:

B Resort & Spa – Disney Springs Resort Area — the stylish resort opened in June 2014 with 394 newly renovated guest rooms, the full-service B Indulged AVEDA Spa, and features American Kitchen Bar & Grill
Best Western Lake Buena Vista – Disney Springs Area – the 18-story, 325-room resort overlooks scenic Lake Buena Vista and the Walt Disney World Resort, and offers two restaurants, a lounge, and wireless internet
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando – Disney Springs Area — the luxurious and recently renovated resort hotel features 229 spacious suites, and is the only all-suite resort hotel in the Disney Springs Resort Area
Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace – Disney Springs Area – the 27-acre, newly renovated hotel features a beautifully redesigned pool area with four pools, seven restaurants and lounges, spa, and a Character Breakfast every Sunday
Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – Disney Springs Area — the closest hotel to Disney Springs, the resort offers two pools, a Disney Character Breakfast each Sunday, seven restaurants and lounges (including BenihanaSteakhouse), and 24-hour fitness center
Holiday Inn Orlando – Disney Springs Area — offers the ideal setting to stay and play, featuring modern Florida décor, a beach entry swimming pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi in all guest rooms and public areas.
Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista — Disney Springs Resort Area — featuring Disney Character Breakfast 3 days a week, 394 guest rooms, six dining options, and the Oasis Aquatic Pool Playground with interactive water features.

Interested in booking one of these amazing Disney Springs Resort Hotels as a Walt Disney World vacation package? Click Here for your FREE no obligation quote from one of the Authorized Disney Vacation Planners at Mickey Travels.

Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels Offering Discounted Fall Rates

Click Here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? There are still fantastic 2017 Summer and Fall packages to be had. Click here or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

Want more help planning your next Disney vacation? As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, 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? Get in touch toll-free at 1-800-454-4501, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort has a New Shopping Location

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

A new merchandise location has opened on the merchandise side of The Market Ale & Compass at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. This new option allows guests a one-stop shop to purchase their snacks, beverages, and merchandise.

Popular styles from labels such as Lilly Pulitzer and Tommy Bahama can be found in the shop as well as other sundries and souvenirs. We hear there are even some great MagicBand options for sell too!

Let us know if you swing by this shop and share with us what you bought!

Let’s book your next stay at Disney’s Yacht Club or another Disney Resort! CLICK HERE 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 and my services are 100% FREE!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

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.

Credit: Disney

Disneyland Refurbishment Schedule for August 2017

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

In order to keep their rides running smoothly and safely, Disneyland often needs to close attractions in order to perform maintenance on them, or give them a fresh look. As much as we don’t like it when our favorite rides aren’t running, maintenance is necessary to keep guests safe during their park visits. Here is a list of the rides and attractions at the Disneyland Resort undergoing refurbishment in August 2017:

Disneyland Park:

Big Thunder Mountain – closed August 14 – 17
Little Red Wagon – closed August 21, 2017 – TBD
Main Street Cinema – closed August 21, 2017 – TBD
Space Mountain – closed August 21, 2017 – TBD

Disney California Adventure Park:

No refurbishments scheduled at this time.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa – January 2017 – Fall 2017:

Guests may see and hear construction as improvements are made to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. To minimize any disruptions, activities that may create noise will not start earlier than 9:00 AM.
Room refurbishments will occur from January 2017 through fall 2017.
The Great Hall lobby will be refurbished and access will be limited beginning June 2017 through early August 2017. Some Guest rooms will not be available during this time.
The Craftsman’s Club concierge lounge will be temporarily relocated from early August 2017 through early October 2017.

Interested in planning a Disney vacation? Fill out the form below for a FREE quote.

As an agent with MickeyTravels, LLC, I can help save you time and money planning your next Disney vacation. The best part is my services are always FREE! Contact me today at [email protected] or (229) 977-3773. Join me on Facebook for the latest Disney updates and tips.

Tropical Storm Emily to Impact Orlando Today

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

Unfortunately, if you are currently at Walt Disney World, you are in for some wet and rainy weather over the next day or so. Tropical Storm Emily developed off the western coast of Florida last night and is starting to make it’s trek across the state.

Forecasters are calling for the heaviest part of the storm to hit the Tampa, Sarasota, and Naples of the state but Orlando and Disney World can also get some significant rain.

A State of Emergency has been declared for several counties in Florida by Governor Scott including Orange County. The State of Emergency “gives the state the flexibility to work with local governments to ensure they have all the resources they may need.”

No changes to park hours for Disney World have been announced at this time. However, if you are currently visiting the Parks, there will most likely be changes to parades and nighttime shows.

Here is a video of the weather from All Star Movies that was captured today:

Tropical Storm Emily is expected to be downgraded to a Tropical Depression after it makes landfall.

I have a few clients in Disney World right now and have been working with them to make sure they are still having the most magical time ever despite the weather conditions! I’d love to take care of you on your vacation too.

Let’s start planning your next visit to Disney World or a Disney Destination! CLICK HERE 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 and my services are 100% FREE!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

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.

Credit: Disney

Tables in Wonderland Members Can Now Save up to 30% at Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

Great news if you are a Tables in Wonderland Member. Your discount at select Walt Disney World restaurants has been increased from 20% to 30%.

The restaurants included in this offer include the following:

Artist Point at Wilderness Lodge
Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Port Orleans – Riverside
Captain’s Grill at the Yacht Club Resort
Citricos at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Flying Fish at the Boardwalk Inn
Jiko At Animal Kingdom Lodge
Olivia’s Cafe at Old Key West Resort
The Grand Floridian Cafe at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
The Turf Club Bar & Grill at Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
The Wave at the Contemporary Resort

To take advantage of this offer, you must dine when dinner is offered and before 6:30 pm or after 8:30 pm. You have until September 30 to take advantage of this offer.

This discount increase matches the recently announced 30% discount for Annual Passholders and DVC Members. However, there is a difference between the two discounts as the Tables in Wonderland offer includes alcohol.

Let us know if you plan on taking advantage of this discount!

Let’s start planning your next visit to Disney World or another Disney Destination! CLICK HERE 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 and my services are 100% FREE!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

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 Springs Now Hosting Live DJ “DescenDANCE” Party

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

Disney Springs Now Hosting Live DJ "DescenDANCE" Party — Image Credit: @descendants

Calling all Descendants fans! Disney Springs has an event just for you. Every Sunday and Monday afternoon you can show how you’re “Rotten to the Core” at the DescenDANCE Party.

This live DJ event is held on the Marketplace Stage, the entertainment venue in the Marketplace, at Disney Springs from 2:00pm-6:00pm. The stage is located across the way from the World of Disney Store. Please note that since this is an outdoor stage, the party might be canceled or postponed if the weather is bad.

Disney has not announced how long this event will run. So if you want to take part, make sure you check it out soon.

Click Here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? There are still fantastic 2017 Summer and Fall packages to be had. Click here or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

Want more help planning your next Disney vacation? As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, 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? Get in touch toll-free at 1-800-454-4501, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Jawas Have Left Hollywood Studios

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

We had been hearing for a while that the Jawas were going to be leaving the Star Wars Launch Bay at Hollywood Studios. Well, we are sad to announce that their last day was officially this past Saturday, July 29.

There is no word on who will replace them or if they will be replaced. Rey was recently added to the Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away stage show so maybe she will start hosting meet and greets as well.

Maybe Jawas will show back up in Star Wars: Galaxy Edge when it opens in 2019?

Will you miss Jawas?

Let’s start planning your next Hollywood Studios and Walt Disney World ! CLICK HERE 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 and my services are 100% FREE!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

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.

Check Out Pick-a-Pearl’s New Location Within the Japan Pavilion

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 31, 2017

We’ve mentioned over the past few months that Mitsukoshi Department Store in the Japan Pavilion is has been undergoing some fabulous changes. Included in this is the brand new location within the store for the ever popular Pick-A-Pearl kiosk. For those unfamiliar with Pick-A-Pearl, guests can pick an Oyster and see what type of beautiful pearl lies inside. There are then a series of fantastic jewelry options available to display your find. The cost for the pearl is usually around $18.00 with mounting options varying depending on material and style. It is the perfect one of a kind souvenir!

Here’s some fantastic footage of the process:

Here’s a few photos of what the new location looks like:

Here’s a closer look at the new counter area:

As well as a sign showing that guests must first purchase a ticket to participate at $18.00.

So next time you’re at Epcot looking for that truly unique souvenir be sure to stop by the Japan Pavilion and give Pick-a-Pearl a try!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Thinking about a visit to Disney? There are still great 2017 packages to be had and 2018 packages are now on sale! Fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote!

Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? 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 Fastpass and dining reservations and sharing tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your time at the parks. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025 via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook

Image copyright Disney

Morimoto Asia’s Craft Beers & Bites Event Review

By

Lisette R

-

July 31, 2017

Morimoto Asia hosted their first of its kind fundraising Event on Saturday, July 29th. All proceeds benefited the Children’s Home Society of Central Florida. Here is our Review of Morimoto Asia’s Craft Beers & Bites Event.

Representatives Jennifer Patterson and George Slight of the Children’s Home Society were on hand to answer questions about their organization. This program works 24 hours a day to assist children during times of great need where they need to be placed into foster care. Children’s Home Society assists with finding short and long-term homes, for children in need, with loving families.

See our photo tour of Chef Yuhi’s Craft Beers & Food Bites Pairings here:

We particularly like the Red Cypress Spook Hill Artisan Ale paired with the Yakiniku Beef Skewers. The tropical and citrus flavors in the beer were a magnificent combination that matched well with the beef. If you have never visited “Spook Hill” in Lake Wales, FL be sure to check it out if you ever visit that area!

The Round the Riverbend Beer by Hourglass Brewing was paired with a lovely Okonomiyaki Seafood Pancake. Chauncey was easy to speak with and he clearly takes pride in his beer. The texture and flavors of the Seafood Pancake really enhanced the flavors of the beer.

Bowigaens Beer Company featured their 7 Layer Milk Stout with Nutella Churros. This pairing was a very interesting combination of dark and sweet flavors.

Coppertail Brewing Company brought in a second beer, that we were able to sample, called “Two To Mango.” This citrus ale was paired with the amazingly popular Morimoto Sticky Ribs. We love anything that is paired with the sticky ribs but the hint of mango in the beer made for a great pairing.

The Dovecoat Saison by The Ravenous Pig and Cask & Larder was paired with Chashu Pork Quesadilla.

You cannot go wrong with Peking Duck Tacos. These flavorful and crunchy little bites paired well with McSwagger’s Amber Ale. We found this selection to be one of our favorites.

The Redlight Provision Saison was served with a sushi hand roll. The sour flavor of this interesting beer was something we found to be a flavor we left ourselves unsure if we liked it or not.

The Poke Bowl was paired with Two Henry’s Pear Ale. The light and fruity beer was very smooth and cut the strong flavor of the Ahi.

We love meeting new friends at these meaningful events!

Many vendors donated gift baskets, gift cards, and hotel stays in a silent auction to help raise funds for the Children’s Home Society. We were thrilled to see that all items had received bids.

The Morimoto Asia Craft Beers & Bites tickets sold out in just 2 days. There were more than 200 people present and the entire second floor was dedicated to this event. Morimoto Asia worked with local businesses to put together this fundraiser for a very worthy cause. Maria Wyatt-Uhl was our contact person. She showed us around the venue and explained how it all came together through teamwork. We are hoping the popularity of this event will lead to more of its kind. Morimoto Asia’s Purchasing Manager, Eric Bandauski, is a certified Cicerone and worked with local breweries to coordinate this event. Chef Yuhi put together the pairings for this special day.

See our Live Video from the Morimoto Asia Craft Beers & Bites Event here:
Overall this event was a big hit with everyone we spoke with. We had never thought of pairing beer with specific foods before and we think this an awesome concept that is sure to have a following. The Craft Beers & Bites Event at Morimoto Asia was a great time for everyone and we would recommend future events to all adults who enjoy discovering new pairings of food and beverages.

Would you like to attend the next Craft Beers & Bites Event in the future? Please leave your comments in the box below.