Disney’s Grand Floridan Easter Egg Display Dates Announced

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March 31, 2017

Make sure to stop by Disney’s Grand Floridan Resort & Spa from April 11th to April 19th,2017 to check out the sixth annual Easter Egg Display. The seasonal display features hand-decorated Easter Eggs produced by Disney’s pastry chefs. Chefs will use chocolate, frosting, and other edible materials to create these delectable delights. You can find the Egg Display in the lobby of the resort and can vote on your favorite during Easter Weekend.

Let us know if you are going to check out the display this year. Share your pictures with us and let us know your favorite!

Ready to book your next trip to Walt Disney World or any other Disney Destination? Fill out the form below for a FREE, no obligation quote 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 dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations around the globe. 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.

Photo Credit: Disney

2017 Easter Sunday Services at Walt Disney World

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 31, 2017

Walt Disney World will once again offer Easter Sunday religious services for resort guests. Blog Mickey has shared Easter services will be held in the Fantasia Ballroom at Disney’s Contemporary Resort on April 16, 2017.

The following services will be offered to guests:

Catholic Masses will take place at 8:00am and 10:30am
Protestant Service will take place at 9:15am.

Guests may use monorail or boat transportation to the Contemporary Resort. Guests may also take use transportation to the Magic Kingdom and then utilize the shuttle to the Contemporary Resort. All transportation will begin at 7:00am.

Will you be at Disney this Easter? Let us know in the comment box below.

Interested in a magical Disney vacation? 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) 977-3373. Join me on Facebook for the latest Disney updates and tips.

Belle’s Tree of Life Pendant Necklace Replica from the New Movie

By

Danielle

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March 31, 2017

One of my favorite parts of the new Live Action Beauty and the Beast movie, was all the extra added details! Especially the addition of beautiful jewelry pieces, like Belle’s Tree of Life Pendant Necklace in the ballroom scene!

Her Tree of Life necklace, and golden ear cuff were probably my favorite costuming details from the entire movie. Belle’s necklace was designed to be like a tree of life still in motion, still growing. This was done to portray the enchantment in the castle that was still in motion. This is an official movie replica from Disney, complete with Beauty and the Beast packaging. It’s a beautiful piece if you want to wear the exact Tree of Life necklace that Emma Watson wears while portraying Belle. The gilded piece has six rhinestone dangles, and hangs upon a yellow ribbon necklace. The Tree of Life is also associated with knowledge and wisdom, which seems to be the perfect accessory for our gal Belle!

What was your favorite new detail from the movie? Would you wear Belle’s Tree of Life Pendant Necklace too?

Free Dining and Other Offers for United Kingdom Residents in 2018 Announced

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 31, 2017

Walt Disney World has just released dates for special offers in 2018 for United Kingdom residents! Among these special offers is the ever-popular Free Dining and a 14-day ticket for the price of a 7-day!

FREE Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan

All guests from The UK reserving a room and ticket package at a moderate Disney Resort for at least five nights will receive the Quick-Service Dining Plan for free. The Quick Service plan allows you to dine at more than 50 self service restaurants on Walt Disney World property. Enjoy a wide variety of food for breakfast, lunch or dinner from soups, sandwiches and salads to pastas, fish, chicken and more. The Quick Service Plan includes:

2 self-service meals
2 selected snacks
1 refillable resort mug per stay

FREE Disney Dining Plan

UK Guests who reserve a room and ticket package at a deluxe or deluxe villa Disney Resort for at least five nights will receive the Disney Dining Plan for free. In addition to self-service restaurants, you can also enjoy waiter service restaurants where you will get escorted to your table and waited on by friendly Disney waiters and waitresses. Enjoy a wide variety of restaurants, from family casual to character dining and dinner shows to the unparalleled cuisine at the signature restaurants. The Disney Dining Plan includes:

1 self-service meal
1 waiter-service meal
2 selected snacks
1 refillable mug per stay

FREE breakfast when staying at a Disney Value Resort

Were you looking to stay at a value Disney Resort on your holiday? You will still receive a free breakfast for each night of your stay!

$200 Disney Spending Money

In addition to the Free Dining Offer, UK residents who book their package by 6th July 2017 will receive a free $2oo Disney Gift Card. Use this gift card to take a shopping spree at the Disney Store, spurge on experiences in the parks, or treat yourself to something extra at the Walt Disney World Resorts!

Disney’s 14-Day Ultimate Ticket for the price of 7

As part of this enchanted offer, you’ll enjoy Disney’s 14-day Ultimate Ticket for the price of a 7-day ticket! Designed for UK and Ireland guests and only available to purchase pre-departure, this ticket grants you unlimited access to all six Disney Parks (four theme parks and two water parks)so that you can make the most of your stay in the magic!

Disney’s FastPass+ and Memory Maker

You won’t miss out on any of the magic with Disney’s FastPass+ included in your ticket. FastPass+ allows you to reserve access to some of the most popular attractions, shows, parades, Disney Character Experiences and more from the comfort of your own home.

What’s more, Memory Maker is now included with every 2018 Adult Ultimate Ticket! Have your magical holiday moments captured – without anyone having to step out of the picture to take it!

12-month subscription to DisneyLife included in your booking

Book now and get exclusive access to the magical world of DisneyLife for 12 months. The only subscription service that gives you and your family access to the largest collection of Disney movies, TV box sets, premium live TV channels, music and books.

Book your packages by 6th July 2017 to take advantage of all these amazing offers. Offers are available for most arrival dates from 1st January 2018 to 31st December 2018.

Terms and conditions apply; click here for details and to reserve your next holiday. Valid for new booking only. Subject to availability.

Are you waiting for the Free Dining Offer for United States residents to be released? Send your email address to [email protected] and you will be notified if/when Disney releases this offer for 2017!

Ready to book your next trip to a Disney Destination? Fill out the form below for a FREE, no obligation quote 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 dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations around the globe. 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.

Photo Credit: Disney

Take A Historical Tour of Walt Disney World with This Intriguing Book

By

Danielle

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March 30, 2017

For those of us that love to dive deep into Disney history, the history of the Disney Parks is always fascinating. In A Historical Tour of Walt Disney World: Volume 2 you can delve into the history of Five Walt Disney World Favorites. It’s the most Magical History Class on Earth!

The Imagineers are no slouches when it comes to history. Many of the attractions and shows they create are steeped in it. But the history is hidden. In this second of Andrew Kiste’s best-selling “tours”, you’ll dig deeply into the back stories of five Walt Disney World favorites.

Have you ever wondered who’s the Casey in Casey’s Corner? Why its baseball theme, as well as the circus theme of Storybook Circus, are such powerful symbols in American culture? How the many scenes in Spaceship Earth deliver a surprisingly rich, detailed timeline of civilization to astute guests – but only if you first know what the Imagineers knew when they created it?

In this book, you’ll journey on a written historical tour of:

Spaceship Earth: Earn an honorary degree in world history as you absorb, in depth, the historical background of each scene in Epcot’s centerpiece attraction.
Country Bear Jamboree: Trace the lineage of these singin’ bears back to Walt’s plans for his never-built Mineral King Resort.
Casey’s Corner: Learn the story of baseball over hot dogs in this Magic Kingdom restaurant where it’s always the bottom of the ninth.
Sunset Ranch Market: Brush up on World War II at Hollywood Studios’ open-air food court.
Storybook Circus: Take in the history of the American circus and how this new area of Fantasyland puts you squarely under the big top.

I love learning more about the history of my favorite attractions, restaurants and rides at the Disney Parks. I think A Historical Tour of Walt Disney World: Volume 2 would be a fascinating read, what about you?

Indulge in Culture and Cuisine on a Disney Cruise Line Mediterranean Sailing

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 30, 2017

Treat you and your family to an exciting Mediterranean Cruise this summer aboard Disney Cruise Line and explore culturally rich and exotic locales!

The Disney Magic returns to the Mediterranean this July and will offer one-of-a-kind Port Adventures treating guests to the best of what Europe has to offer. Scheduled ports of call will allow cruisers to explore richly diverse destinations that showcase iconic locations, enchanting cultures, tantalizing cuisine and unrivaled experiences.

Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures are designed to entertain and inspire both children and adults—in true Disney fashion—many with added touches such as more scheduled breaks, complimentary snacks and fun port activity sheets for kids.

Journey Through Rome with a Disney Exclusive Puppet Show for Kids

Travel into the heart of the historic city of Rome where families experience the art of traditional Italian puppetry with a private puppet show performed exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests. Located in an intimate, lovingly restored theater in the scenic Borghese Gardens, a delightful performance brings laughter and song as children enjoy the unique storytelling style of traditional Italian puppet shows. The experience invites young guests to meet the talented puppeteers that bring the hand-crafted characters to life. The city’s rich history and elaborate architecture also transports guests to the time of ancient Rome with a visit to the iconic Colosseum and the sacred Vatican City, surrounded by a mighty medieval wall. Guests can enjoy an afternoon stroll through the old cobblestone streets, practice their Italian with the locals and explore the Old City’s boutiques, restaurants and shops.

Children Experience the Art of Pizza Making in Sorrento

Disney Cruise Line offers an exclusive opportunity for children to become master chefs during an authentic Italian pizza making experience in Sorrento, Italy. From prepping the dough to savoring their final culinary masterpiece, children are immersed in true Italian culture during this one-of-a-kind experience. The journey continues to the nearby villages of Amalfi, Maiori or Vietri sul Mare – painting the perfect backdrop for impressive family photos. With cliffside towns and colorful architecture, the areas serve as relaxing locales for guests to experience the breathtaking views of the coast before returning to their Disney cruise ship.

Create Authentic Italian Cuisine at a Tuscan Estate

A delicious adult-exclusive adventure awaits fans of fine food in Tuscany, Italy, from the port of Livorno. The charming Castello del Trebbio estate, perched in the picturesque Tuscan countryside, serves as an authentic locale to learn traditional culinary techniques and prepare an authentic Italian dish. From kneading the pasta dough to creating a delicious tomato sauce from fresh Tuscan ingredients and house-made olive oil, adults will enjoy this unique Italian cooking experience. After savoring a tasty traditional pasta dish, paired with locally made wine, guests can explore rooms of the ancient castle and learn the story behind its rich history and meticulous renovation. The opportunity to cook, eat and relax – in true Italian style – makes this a savory experience for epicureans and oenophiles.

Admire the Views of Sicily with a Glass of Wine

On Italy’s largest island – known for its rich culture and scenic, mountainous landscapes – adult guests can experience the art of winemaking at the Alessandro di Camporeale winery in Sicily. Overlooking the panoramic rolling hills, guests are immersed in Sicilian wine culture while they discover the art and science behind wine making and indulge in some of Sicily’s most well-known wines and local cheeses.

Taste Your Way Through the Old City of Rome

Discover some of the Eternal City’s most authentic Italian delicacies during an all-day gastronomic adventure in Rome. From traditional specialties, such as pizza, pastas and seafood, to a taste of local Italian fare at the nearby authentic food market, Disney Cruise Line guests indulge in delicious cuisine while exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Trevi Fountain and Colosseum.

Discover the Scenic Paradise Views of Capri

Just off the coast of Sorrento is the island paradise of Capri. With its sea blue waters and stunning views, Capri’s winding cobblestoned streets make the perfect way for guests to stroll and explore the island’s boutiques. While shopping for unique souvenirs, guests may sample the traditional limoncello digestif liqueur, made from lemons grown on the island. After enjoying an authentic Italian meal in Capri Town, guests journey up the mountain to the picturesque Anacapri and experience breathtaking views of the coastline.

The Disney Magic will sail to the Mediterranean on July 28 for a 10-night cruise from Barcelona, Spain, followed by five 7-night sailings on Aug. 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2 and 9, and a 5-night cruise on Aug. 7.

Ready to book your sailing? Fill out the form below for a FREE, no obligation quote 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 dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations around the globe. 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.

Photo credit: Disney

Telltale Games and Marvel Premiere Trailer for Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy: The Telltale Series

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 30, 2017

Today we are so excited to see the first ever trailer for “Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy: The Telltale Series”! The series is set to premiere the first of five episodes on April 18th on PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One®, Windows PC, and Mac, as well as available to download on the App Store® and Google Play™.

The series will also be available as a special ‘Season Pass Disc’ on May 2nd at retailers across North America for an MSRP of $29.99 USD, and on May 5th at retailers elsewhere across the globe.

The special ‘Season Pass Disc’ will include “Episode One: Tangled Up in Blue”, and will grant access to download the subsequent four episodes via online updates as they are released in the coming months of 2017. Additional platforms for release are yet to be announced.

Disney World Refurbishment Schedule for April 2017

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 30, 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 April 2017 or will be during the months ahead:

Magic Kingdom

Hall of Presidents: Closed through June 29, 2017

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel: Closing April 24 – May 18, 2017

Monorail: The Walt Disney World® Resort Monorail System is undergoing refurbishment through April 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

None

Epcot

Mission: SPACE: Closing June 5 – July 31, 2017

Advanced Training Lab: Closing June 5 – July 31, 2017

Infrastructure Work: Through April 27, 2017

Animal Kingdom

It’s Tough to Be a Bug (Tree of Life): Closing April 23 – 29, 2017
Animal Hospital and Veterinary Treatment Room located at Rafiki’s Planet Watch: Closed through mid June, 2017

Disney Springs

Portobello Country Italian Trattoria: Closing April 23 – Fall 2017

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

Blizzard Beach

None

Typhoon Lagoon

None

Golf Courses/Miniature Golf

None

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

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 limite all work until after 9:00am daily.

Caribbean Beach Resort

Old Port Royale Food Court, Shutters at Old Port Royale, Cabana Pool Bar and Calypso Trading Post: Closing 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.

Room refurbishments: Through May 7, 2018. Guests may see or hear work in progress and certain pathways may be unavailable during this time. All work will be attempted to begin after 9:00am to minimize disruptions.

Yacht Club Resort

Room Refurbishments: Began in January 2017. 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 – 5:00 p.m.

Captain’s Grille: Closing May 15 – 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.

BoardWalk Inn & Villas

Exterior Maintenance and Painting: Through May 2017. All work with the highest potential for noise will be limited between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Exterior Maintenance and Painting: Through July 27, 2017. All work will be limited until after 9:00am daily.

Port Orleans Riverside

Alligator Bayou North Pool: Through April 7, 2017.

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.

Wilderness Lodge & Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney Wilderness Lodge

General Resort Refurbishments: Due to extensive refurbishment projects, Guests will very likely see and hear construction work in various areas throughout their stay. To minimize disruptions, work will be attempted to begin after 9:00 a.m.

At this time, many popular areas will remained closed – including the Hidden Springs Pool (the leisure pool at Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge), marina, playground and more. In addition, certain pathways, like our nature trail, will be unavailable, and surrounding views may be altered.

Cub’s Den (Children’s Activity Center): Unavailable through Summer 2017.

Roaring Fork and Trout Pass Pool Bar: Through July 17, 2017. During this time the latest addition, Geyser Point Pool Bar & Grill will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Territory Lounge will also offer a continental-style breakfast featuring gourmet coffees, pastries and a yogurt parfait.

Contact me to start planning your Walt Disney World adventure. I’m a Travel Agent with MickeyTravels, along with a writer for Chip and Company, and would love to help book and plan your next magical vacation. Email [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to get started!

Photo Credit: Disney

Meet The NASCAR Legends That Inspired New Characters In “Cars 3”

By

Chip

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March 30, 2017

In the upcoming Disney/Pixar’s “Cars 3,” Lightning McQueen seeks out the Piston Cup stock car racing’s roots.

Inspired by real life NASCAR drivers, here’s a sneak peek at the new characters – and who they’re based on.

River Scott
INSPIRATION: Wendell Scott
2015 NASCAR Hall of Fame, first (and so far only) African-American to win a Cup Series race
VOICED BY: Isiah Whitlock Jr.
“We did so much research on NASCAR history, and these four jumped out as these incredible stories of inspiration,” director Brian Fee says of the Cars 3 dirt-track quartet. “Lightning is at a place in his life where it’s about overcoming obstacles. No one faced longer odds than Wendell Scott, racing where he did, primarily in the South, during the era when he did it, in the 1960s, and with little money at all. It really is amazing.”

Junior “Midnight” Moon
INSPIRATION: Junior Johnson
2010 NASCAR Hall of Fame and inspiration for the movie “The Last American Hero”
VOICED BY: Junior Johnson
The plan was to have an actor voice this part, then Pixar met the Last American Hero, the only living member of the legends. “They weren’t run off by my accent, I guess,” says the 85-year-old former moonshiner, who now pushes legal corn squeezins, also named Midnight Moon. “They gave me one line to read where my car says he discovered how to use the draft at Daytona. I looked up at the movie folks and said, ‘Yeah, that’s true. I did.'”

Smokey
INSPIRATION: Smokey Yunick
Legendary mechanic, winning car builder/crew chief of both Daytona 500 and Indy 500
VOICED BY: Chris Cooper
Yunick was known for his hard facial features (see: the design of his animated car), his ability to bend rules and his penchant for cramming multiple curse words into every sentence. Says Johnson: “We were all pretty good at finding gaps in the rules, but Smokey was probably the best.” Adds Fee, laughing: “We all read Smokey’s book [“Best Damn Garage in Town”]. It’s so great. But if we’d written our script exactly as Smokey would’ve said it, we’d be in big trouble.”

Louise “Barnstormer” Nash
INSPIRATION: Louise Smith
“First Lady of Racing,” competed in NASCAR from 1945 to ’56, winning  38 races across four divisions
VOICED BY: Margo Martindale
In 1947, Smith drove down from Greenville, South Carolina, to watch the races on Daytona Beach. But she hated being behind the fence and entered her husband’s new Ford coupe. She wrecked out, hopped a bus home and conjured up a lie to tell Mr. Smith about the missing car, only to find out a photo of his smashed Ford was in the local papers. “We’ve all got great stories,” Johnson says of Smith. “But hers might be the best one of them all.”

I had the chance to attend the media event in San Francisco where we learned all about Cars 3 and got a sneak peek at some of the footage and history of the franchise. Stay tuned for a write up from me in the coming weeks.

All the NASCAR fans and all the “Cars” fans – I know I’m looking forward to this newest film in the Cars franchise.

Are you??

(All archival images provided by ISC Images & Archives/Getty Images)

Disneyland Refurbishment Schedule for April 2017

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 30, 2017

In order to keep their rides running smoothly and safely, Disneyland often needs to close rides in order to perform maintenance on them, or even to give them a new look. As much as we don’t like it when our favorite rides aren’t running, it’s necessary to keep all the guests safe while on the rides. That being said, here is a list of rides and attractions at the Disneyland Resort undergoing refurbishment during March 2017:

Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes- Closed until Summer 2017
Disneyland Railroad – Closed until Summer 2017
Disneyland Railroad – Mickey’s Toontown – Closed until Summer 2017
Disneyland Railroad – New Orleans Square – Closed until Summer 2017
Disneyland Railroad – Tomorrowland – Closed until Summer 2017
Fantasmic! – Closed until Summer 2017
Mark Twain Riverboat – Closed until Summer 2017
Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island – Closed until Summer 2017
Sailing Ship Columbia – Closed until Summer 2017
Matterhorn Bobsleds – Closed Feb 6 – TBA

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

General Resort Refurbishments
Guests may see and hear construction as we make improvements 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 pools and poolside cabanas will be closed for refurbishment from January 2017 to spring 2017. The pools and waterslides at the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will be available, and poolside cabanas at Disneyland Hotel will be available for reservations.
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.

If you would like to go to Disneyland, or to Walt Disney World to celebrate the 45th Anniversary, but are unsure of where to begin planning your Disney vacation, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

Club Penguin Island Launches For Mobile today!

By

Chip

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March 30, 2017

Disney today is launching an all-new Club Penguin experience, Club Penguin Island, for mobile devices. The new app features an updated, modern take on Club Penguin, which has been a leading online kids entertainment destination for the past 11 years. Developed especially for mobile, Club Penguin Island brings together many of the best elements from the legacy Club Penguin product with new design and features.

“Club Penguin has been a favorite online destination for millions of kids for more than a decade, and Club Penguin Island was designed for the next generation of players who have grown up on mobile devices,” said Kyle Laughlin, SVP, Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media, Apps and Games. “The new experience offers players the fun and social elements we know kids love, while maintaining the safety features parents have come to trust.”

Club Penguin Island is a subscription-based app that provides fans with engaging and immersive gameplay, and opportunities for self-expression, staying true to the core gameplay pillars found in Club Penguin. Players can join a thriving community, embark on island quests, earn special rewards, and take on daily challenges to level up their penguins.

In addition, Club Penguin Island maintains a strong commitment to providing a secure environment for kids, with a new safety moderation system that includes a chat filter. The updated chat function features unique emojis and 3D animations, and personal expression is easier than ever with a fashion-forward penguin customization system. Players will also have access to familiar reporting tools, which lets them self-moderate the community.

There will be no shortage of things to do on the island – be it hitting the stage, diving for gems or sharing stinky cheese with friends. Club Penguin Island is available now for free download, with an option to purchase a $4.99 monthly recurring membership subscription, starting today on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Users can try Club Penguin Island with a seven-day free trial.

Legoland Florida Resort Adds Adjustments to Assist Guests With Autism Spectrum Disorders

By

Lisette R

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March 30, 2017

551A2155-1 — LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven, Fla., recently debuted a wide variety of services and initiatives to assist guests with autism spectrum disorders and their caregivers. They include a no-cost "Hero Pass" that allows groups to bypass the standby line at popular attractions; multiple "quiet rooms" equipped with noise-cancelling headphones, weighted blankets, squishy toys and tables where kids can build with LEGO bricks; "social stories" that offer illustrated, step-by-step walkthroughs of rides and shows to proactively alert guests to periods of darkness, loud noises, bright lights or other elements that often can be frightening or overwhelming. In addition, all newly hired employees (called Model Citizens) now receive specialized training to more effectively interact with guests on the autism spectrum, as well as their families or caregivers. Last spring, the Central Florida vacation destination partnered with the North and Central Florida chapter of Autism Speaks, the worlds leading autism science and advocacy organization, to better serve guests with autism spectrum disorders. Consultations include Dr. Craig Glaser, the resort's medical director, who also serves as medical director of Winter Haven's Urgent Care Cypress facility. (PHOTO: Benjamin Peacock/LEGOLAND Florida Resort)

In an ongoing effort to make LEGOLAND^® Florida Resort a more welcoming place for all kids and families, the popular vacation destination has debuted a wide variety of services and initiatives to assist guests with autism spectrum disorders and their caregivers.

Last spring, the Central Florida resort partnered with the North and Central Florida chapter of Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, to better serve guests on the autism spectrum. With the organization’s guidance, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is pleased to announce the following efforts happening at the place #BuiltForKids:

To assist visitors who have difficulty waiting in line, a pass specifically for guests on the autism spectrum allows a group to bypass the standby line at popular attractions. The no-cost “Blue Hero Pass” is available at Guest Services inside the theme park.
Specially equipped spaces in the resort’s Annual Pass, First Aid and Baby Care facilities now serve as designated “quiet rooms” where quests who are on the autism spectrum and their families can take a break. Noise-cancelling headphones, weighted blankets, squishy toys and LEGO^® building tables are some of the complimentary resources available. A similar space also is available within Guest Services at LEGOLAND Water Park.
The LEGOLAND Training & Development team has created “social stories” that offer an illustrated, step-by-step walk-through of every ride and show, so guests won’t be surprised by periods of darkness, loud noises, bright lights or other elements that often can be frightening or overwhelming. They’re available for review at Guest Services.
All newly hired resort employees (called “Model Citizens”) now receive specialized training to prepare them with skills and sensitivities to more effectively interact with guests on the autism spectrum, as well as their families or caregivers. Consultations include Dr. Craig Glaser, the resort’s medical director, who also serves as medical director of Winter Haven’s Urgent Care Cypress facility.

Through a special promotion during Autism Awareness Month in April, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will contribute $15 of the proceeds from each ticket sold to the North and Central Florida chapter of Autism Speaks. Autism Speaks supporters can purchase print-at-home theme park tickets at a discounted rate of $45 plus tax, a $48 savings off the price of an adult ticket purchased at the resort’s ticket windows. This offer will only be available online through Autism Speaks from April 1 through May 31, 2017.

On Saturday, April 22, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will host a hands-on building opportunity for kids during the Autism Speaks Walk at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla., and on Saturday, Nov. 11 during the Autism Speaks Walk at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs, Fla. For more information, visit www.autismspeakswalk.org.

In honor of World Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on April 2, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will once again participate in the Autism Speaks “Light It Up Blue” campaign by shining blue spotlights on several miniature LEGO landmarks in MINILAND USA. Each year, iconic landmarks, skyscrapers, schools, businesses and homes across the globe unite by shining bright blue lights in honor of the millions of individuals and families affected by autism. For more information, visit www.autismspeaks.org/liub.

Will you be visiting Legoland Florida during Autism Awareness month this April? Please leave your comments in the box below.