Join in the ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Magic at Disney Parks and Resorts

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March 20, 2017

Were you one of the millions to see Disney’s new “Beauty and the Beast” live-action movie this past weekend? Are you as enchanted as we are and want to live some of that magic? If so, you are in luck! There is no shortage of ways to live like Belle and experience all the magic firsthand at Disney Parks and Resorts.

Watch the story unfold before your eyes during Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or let Belle herself take you into the story during Enchanted Tales with Belle at The Magic Kingdom. Experience the comedic, abbreviated version when The Royal Theatre Presents Beauty and the Beast at Disneyland , and step into The Beast’s Library at Disney California Adventure park to find your place in the story.

For those who haven’t seen the new movie, catch the special sneak peek at One Man’s Dream in Disney’s Hollywood Studios or at Sunset Showcase Theater at Disney California Adventure park. A collection of props and costume pieces used in the film’s production will be on display through this weekend.

You can Be Our Guest and dine inside the Beast’s castle at Magic Kingdom Park, step into Lumiere’s Kitchen at Shanghai Disneyland or sail away with Disney Cruise Line for a taste of Lumiere’s on the Disney Magic. At Disneyland park, Fantasyland has transformed with limited-time offerings inspired by the movie, including treats at Red Rose Taverne. Try the Grey Stuff – it’s delicious! This spring, Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel will also offer afternoon tea and pastries themed to the iconic tale.

Of course, no visit is complete without a glimpse of Belle herself. She makes a point of stopping by all of our parks, including Disneyland Paris in her native France. You might even spot Gaston near his tavern in Magic Kingdom Park or catch him when he’s at Disneyland park, walking through Fantasyland trying to impress the ladies.

As we continue to expand across the globe, we’re looking for even more ways to bring this beloved fairytale to life. Starting in November, Disney Cruise Line guests can enjoy a brand new musical production inspired by the live-action “Beauty and the Beast” on board the Disney Dream. Fans will also be able to climb aboard “enchanted dishes” and break the spell at Beast’s Castle in a new “Beauty and the Beast” themed area coming to Tokyo Disneyland as part of its Fantasyland expansion.

We’ve also just announced the chance to embark on a real-life journey that celebrates the inspiration behind “Beauty and the Beast” during Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruises next year. You can visit a French village that inspired Belle’s small provincial town, belt out your favorite songs at karaoke nights, attend cooking classes, and enjoy screenings of both the animated feature and live-action film.

With so many ways to experience “Beauty and the Beast” at Disney Parks and Resorts, what are you looking forward to the most?

Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider booking 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.

Here’s Your Last Chance to See ‘Wishes’ Live

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 20, 2017

If you didn’t think you would have time to make it to The Magic Kingdom one last time to see “Wishes“, you are in luck! #DisneyParksLIVE has just announced that they will live stream “Wishes” to Disney Fans around the world on March 23rd, 2017 at 8:55 PM EST.

The live stream will start off with a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of “Wishes.” After the fireworks end, you can stick around as Disney shares an amazing update on the new “Happily Ever After” show.

Don’t forget, you can see “Wishes” yourself at Magic Kingdom Park now through May 11. “Happily Ever After” will debut at the park the following evening, on May 12.

Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider booking 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.

Disney World to Unveil New Advanced Ordering Service at Quick Service Restaurants Using My Disney Experience App

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 20, 2017

For those that have booked a breakfast or lunch reservation at Magic Kingdom’s much-loved Be Our Guest restaurant, you already know that this restaurant is unique in that guests have the ability to order their food in advance using the My Disney Experience app and have it delivered to your table upon your arrival.

According to a recent post by Disney Parks Blog, it would seem that Walt Disney World Resort is developing this technology further and making plans to unveil online ordering at additional quick service restaurants across the resort. The Satu’li Canteen, an all new Quick Service Restaurant that will open as part of the Pandora:The World of Avatar expansion at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park this May will feature “Mobile Order” This will allow visitors to select their meals in advance and (unlike the Be Our Guest option) even pre-pay using the My Disney Experience app.

This means that guests can skip the long lines when they arrive at the restaurant. Instead visitors will press the “I’m here” button on the app when they are in the vicinity which will notify the kitchen to get the meal ready. Guests will then be alerted through the app when their food is ready and where they can go to pick it up.

Satu’li will be the first to employ this new technology but Disney hopes to release it at additional Walt Disney World eateries by the year’s end.

Planning a trip to Disney? 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 help you find your perfect package and will be on hand to help with things like nabbing those hard-to-get dining and Fastpass reservations. 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.

A Glittery I Heart Disney Backpack That is Perfect for Spring

By

Danielle

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March 20, 2017

I’m so excited it’s the first day of Spring! One of my favorite things to do when the warmer weather and longer days come around, is take family outings to the park, or nature trails! I also enjoy finding a cute new Disney bag (or 5) to carry with me, that matches my brighter spring wardrobe like this I Heart Disney Backpack by PlanetOrlando on Etsy too!

Of course for our Spring outdoor adventures, I need to pack snacks, wipes, supplies, you know the usual mom stuff. So, a new colorful Disney bag, is a must! If you’re like me and love Disney more than anything, then you’ll love this bag! It comes in gorgeous colors, and the design is sparkly! I love the pink accent on the heart, perfect color for spring! It’s a canvas cinch pack, with cotton straps, so it’s comfy and casual. There’s even a front zipper pocket, perfect for easy access to small items. The designer can also personalize the bag with a name, or add rhinestones to it! That’s even more sparkle, and who doesn’t love more sparkle?

What goodies and treats would you pack in your I Heart Disney Backpack? I think some Mickey pretzels or other Chip & Dale Snack Company items are a must!

Sneak Peek of the Menu for Satu’li Canteen in Pandora—The World of Avatar

By

Chip

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March 20, 2017

Pandora: The World of Avatar opens on May 27th and with it a plethora of new eatries in the Animal Kingdom! One of those locations is the all new Satu’li Canteen. Disney has shared with us a first look at the menu for Satu’li Canteen…

Guests can enjoy creative, flavorful dishes based on the healthful bounty of Pandora, with wholesome grains, fresh vegetables and hearty proteins at Satu’li Canteen, where an on-stage grill is a prominent feature in the colorful dining room.

The Satu’li Canteen was once the main mess hall of the Resources Development Administration (RDA) base located in the Valley of Mo’ara. Now the canteen is owned and operated by Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE) tour company and has been redesigned into a beautiful museum-like dining room.

The interior has been transformed with colorful Na’vi items filling the walls and hanging from the ceiling — hand-woven tapestries, natural Pandoran elements and even cooking tools decorate the restaurant.

Look for familiar dishes with a twist in the fast-casual restaurant, with bowls that allow diners to customize their lunch or dinner. Diners start with a base of quinoa and vegetable salad; red and sweet potato hash; mixed whole-grain and rice or romaine and kale salad. Next is either with wood-grilled chicken, slow-roasted beef, sustainable fish or chili-spiced fried tofu. And the bowl is finished with charred onion chimichurri, black bean vinaigrette or creamy herb dressing.

The menu also offers steamed “pods” – bao buns with either cheeseburger or vegetable curry and served with root vegetable chips and crunchy vegetable slaw.

For little ones, there’s an option of grilled chicken or beef, fish or tofu with greens or rice; a hot dog wrapped in Parker House dough; cheese quesadilla, or a steamed “pod” (cheeseburger bao bun).

Great news, Satu’li Canteen Restaurant will also be the first to offer Mobile Order, a new convenient option to order and pay for meals on-the-go within the My Disney Experience app, allowing guests to bypass the queue to order when they arrive at the restaurant. Using the app, guests can select menu items, customize their order and pre-pay for their meal. When they arrive at the restaurant they will tap an “I’m here” button in the app, which will notify the kitchen to prepare the meal. When ready, guests will be alerted through the app to pick up their meal at a designated window. Additional fast-casual and quick-service restaurants will begin to offer Mobile Order later this year.

Reminds me a little bit of Jungle Skipper Canteen Restaurant in the Magic Kingdom…

Disney Dining Plan is accepted at Satu’li Canteen but, at this time, Mobile Order only accepts credit cards.

Source

Beautiful Hallmark Itty Bittys Disney Easter Collector Set

By

Danielle

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March 20, 2017

Spring is here, and that means Easter is just around the corner! I love all the bright colors, and of course I’m always on the look out for Spring and Easter themed Disney goodies this time of year . So, I think I might have fallen in love with this Hallmark Itty Bittys Disney Easter Collector Set.

This Limited Edition Hallmark Itty Bittys Collector Set includes four exclusive characters. You get Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck all dressed up in bunny suits and ready to add fun to your Easter this year. The colors are vibrant and eye catching, and their little bunny outfits are just too cute. These would look adorable on an Easter or Spring themed mantle. If you have little ones that you’re making Easter baskets for, you can even split these up among them! I also LOVE that this set includes Daisy Duck! You don’t see her as much as the rest of the Clubhouse Friends, but she’s always been my favorite.

Would you keep this Hallmark Itty Bittys Disney Easter Collector Set all for yourself, or spread some hippity hoppity Disney Easter cheer? Personally, I am having a hard time choosing myself!

New Signs Visible For The Polite Pig Opening Soon in Disney Springs

By

Lisette R

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March 20, 2017

Disney Springs Town Center has seen a lot of growth since opening in May 2016. New shops and restaurants continue to make their debut as we venture into 2017. The Polite Pig, scheduled to open Spring 2017, now has its restaurant signs mounted on the outside of the building.

The Polite Pig will feature wood-fired menu items and a specialty beverage concept where all drinks are served on tap to include wine, cocktails, and beer. The Polite Pig is in the Town Center Neighborhood of Disney Springs, across from Uniqlo, and at the entrance to the Lime Garage. We are looking forward to this new restaurant venue. Stay tuned to the Chip and Co. page for updated information as it becomes available.

Will you be dining at The Polite Pig in Disney Springs Town Center when it opens?

Please leave your comments in the box below.

Walt Disney World Announces New Maps for The Magic Kingdom

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 19, 2017

Walt Disney World has announced new maps for The Magic Kingdom will be available beginning today, March 19th. The redesigned maps will feature “Once Upon a Time,” the new fireworks show scheduled to begin on May 12, 2017. The updated maps will also have a new overall design that is similar to the current Epcot map. The new design will include more details and feel a little less cluttered as well as being more colorful.

Here are some more images of the new maps:

FRONT OF NEW MAP:

BACK OF NEW MAP:

What do you think of these new maps? I’m ready to start planning my next trip to The Magic Kingdom to check them out in person!

Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider booking 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.

Lumiere and Cogsworth Figures from the Animated Beauty and the Beast

By

Danielle

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March 19, 2017

The new Live Action Beauty and the Beast movie has brought out some amazing replicas and merchandise. However, I still love the classics, like these working Lumiere and Cogsworth Figures based on the original animated movie.

I love that these fully sculpted replicas are not only a large size to be a close to scale replica, but that they also function!

Cogsworth Clock

You’ll feel human again watching this artfully-sculptured and fully-functional Cogsworth Clock. With a host of detailed features, faux wood grain finish, and hinged pendulum cabinet, he’s sure to be your welcome guest for now and always. The hands on the clock actually rotate, and the pendulum swings back and forth!

Lumiere Candelabra

It’s Lumiere come to life, just as he looks in Disney’s classic Beauty and the Beast. The fully sculptured candlestick figure features flickering LED ”flame” lights and golden finish. This amazing piece would be a fantastic centerpiece for a Be Our Guest themed dinner party! Put his service to the test!

Where would you display these awesome Lumiere and Cogsworth Figures?

Easter Treats Have Arrived at Disneyland

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 19, 2017

With exactly a month until Easter, Disneyland Resort is unveiling an assortment of delicious treats that are sure to delight just as much as a visit from the Easter Bunny.

If you’re visiting the parks over the next month, you’ll want to make one of your first stops the Candy Palace on Main Street where you’ll find their famous handmade Disney Easter Eggs. Each egg is delightfully crafted filled with house-made fudge and then covered in milk chocolate. This special Easter treat comes in five flavors – Chocolate Cream, Chocolate- Nut Vanilla, Vanilla-Nut, Peanut Butter and Black Walnut. Be sure to snatch one up while supplies last.

You’ll also want to hop over to one of these amazing locations to pick up a special Easter addition of the Mickey and Minnie Easter Basket Gourmet Apples:

Candy Palace on Main Street (Disneyland)
Hunny Spot in Critter Country (Disneyland)
Trolley Treats (Disney California Adventure)
Marceline’s Confectionery (Downtown Disney District)

Those looking for an extra special treat on Easter Sunday can also book brunch at two exciting Disneyland Resort locations. Storytellers Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa will have special Easter-themed offerings on April 16th. PCH Grill at Paradise Pier Hotel will also have Easter Brunch and Easter Dinner on offer from April 14- 16. Reservations for both options should be made as soon as possible as they are expected to fill up fast and can be done online at Disneyland.com/dining or by calling 714-781-DINE.

Planning your Disneyland getaway? 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 help you find your perfect package and will be on hand 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.

“Beauty And The Beast” Is The Belle Of The Box Office

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 19, 2017

To no one’s surprise the live-action Disney musical took over the box office to the tune of $63.8 million on Friday from 4,210 locations.

Its three-day estimate now stands at a potentially record-breaking $170 million. Additionally, the film raked in $40.3 million on Friday from international grosses, bringing its global to date to over $115 million.

“Beauty and the Beast” marks a major star turn for Emma Watson. Dan Stevens plays the Beast, while secondary roles are filled out by a star-studded list of actors including Luke Evans, Kevin Kline, Josh Gad, Ewan McGregor, Stanley Tucci, Audra McDonald, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Ian McKellen and Emma Thompson. Bill Condon directed the picture from a script by Stephen Chbosky and Evan Spiliotopoulos.

Magic and The “Beauty And The Beast” Press Conference

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 19, 2017

The day after I had the opportunity to watch the screening of the new live-action “Beauty and the Beast” I got to attend the press conference.

The ballroom was beautiful at the Montage hotel. Chandeliers giving off a warm glow, and a backdrop of red roses behind French provincial cream colored couches. It was lovely. Alan Mencken came out first and played a medley of the songs he wrote for “Beauty and the Beast” on a baby grand in front of the stage. That, in itself was a treat, but when Josh Gad and Luke Evans joined him for a live version of “Gaston” every phone in the audience went up!

After everyone calmed down and they took a few minutes to regroup, the stage filled up. Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Plumette), Josh Gad (LeFou), Luke Evans (Gaston), Emma Watson (Belle), Dan Stevens (Beast), Director Bill Condon, Audra McDonald (Garderobe) and Composer Alan Menken came in and sat down.

They all discussed the trepidation with taking an animated classic and making it into a new live-action film. Director Bill Condon talked about after he got over the terror of jumping into this project, that “there are questions maybe you never asked before that you want to know about.” Which ended up turning into more backstory behind Belle and her father Maurice. Alan Menken chimed in with writing new songs that explain more of Beasts backstory as well.

Audra answered the question about being a mother and how she enjoyed this movie. “So knowing full well that Emma was going to make sure that Belle was somebody who was independent, who was strong, who was educated, who was sticking up for girls and women, and who does all the rescuing in the film. That’s why I knew it was going to be important for me to be a part of and for my kids to see.” This sparked Emma Watson to resonate about how Paige O’Hara’s Belle in the original animated feature inspired her. Even if she didn’t understand at such a young age, how she was inspired.

There was a lovely exchange with Dan Stevens (Beast) and his dancing in stilts and Emma trusting him while practicing. Dancing in stilts? His guy really knows how to dance!

Luke Wilson spoke about how villainous Gaston is. The characteristic of a true villain, according to Evans, is he doesn’t start out as a villain. Gaston starts out as the village hero, fresh from the war, then the cracks start to show. The one thing I found interesting that I hadn’t thought of, Luke mentions that Gaston isn’t a typical Disney villain. He doesn’t have magic or a book of spells, he’s just a man… A very jealous man.

But Josh Gad, just as in the film, stole the show. Apparently he had the toughest time riding the horse. He explained his horse was a cold-blooded killer, “he ran through multiple extras in the village, ran around – I didn’t even know it was possible – but ran through these like pillars around, up and back again. I heard “cut” and I heard laughing, and the laughter was coming from the horse’s trainer, and he came up to me and he goes, “I’m so sorry. I’ve never seen this happen before.”

Gugu spoke about becoming the character of a feather duster. How fun and joyful it was play and twirling around on the Disney stage during the transformation. Getting to play with the star-studded cast was sheer joy.

They wrapped up the Q&A with the publicity that has been swirling around the character of Le Fou. What was the big deal with the up roar of an openly gay character? Director Condon answered beautifully, “what is this movie about? What has this story always been about? For 300 years it’s about looking closer, going deeper, you know, accepting people for who they really are, and in a very Disney way we are including everybody. I think this movie is for everybody, and on the screen you’ll see everybody, and that was important to me, I think to all of us.”

On that note, I hope everybody does go to see “Beauty and the Beast.” It’s a beautiful, magical, inclusive film!