Disney Cruise Line Awarded honor for Best Cruise for Kids

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January 19, 2017

Cruiseline.com came out with their latest list of member’s choice cruise line awards, and while Disney came away in the top 3 for many categories, the most exciting news is the announcement that they came in first place for “Best Line for Kids”. We are not surprised that Disney took top marks for this category, after all, Disney strives to be the best in family entertainment.

Other categories that Disney came in the top 3 were:

Best Ship Quality

1. Celebrity – 4.60

2. Disney – 4.58

3. Cunard – 4.50

Best Onboard Activities

1. Royal Caribbean – 4.13

2. Disney – 4.12

3. Celebrity – 4.03

Best Food and Dining

1. Disney – 4.45

2. Celebrity – 4.43

3. Cunard – 4.38

Best Entertainment

1. Disney – 4.32

2. Royal Caribbean – 4.17

3. Norwegian – 4.15

Best Service & Staff

1. Celebrity – 4.70

2. Disney – 4.68

3. Holland America Line – 4.63

Best Cabins

1. Disney – 4.46

2. Celebrity – 4.45

3. Cunard – 4.43

Most Improved Line

1. Celebrity – (+.13)

2. Costa – (+.12)

3. Disney – (+.11)

If you would like to go on a Disney Cruise, but are unsure of where to begin, 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.

photos: Cruiseline.com

Owen Wilson Voice of Lightning McQueen Named Grand Marshal For 59th Annual DAYTONA 500

By

Chip

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January 19, 2017

Actor Owen Wilson, the voice of the animated character Lightning McQueen in Disney•Pixar’s upcoming movie “Cars 3,” will serve as Grand Marshal for the 59th annual DAYTONA 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race on Feb. 26 at Daytona International Speedway.

The DAYTONA 500, the season-opening race for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, will begin at 2 p.m. (TV – FOX, FOX Deportes; Radio – MRN Radio, SiriusXM) following Wilson delivering the famous “Drivers, start your engines” command to the 40-car field. In addition to giving the command, Wilson will ride in one of the Grand Marshal cars during pace laps prior to the green flag of the 200-lap, 500-mile race and attend the drivers meeting.

“Cars 3” opens nationwide on June 16. Wilson, who voiced Lightning McQueen in “Cars” (2006) and “Cars 2” (2011), is also known for starring roles in a variety of hit comedy films including “Wedding Crashers,” “Meet the Parents,” ”Zoolander” and “The Royal Tenenbaums.” Wilson stars in the upcoming “Wonder” and the Woody Harrelson-directed live film “Lost in London.”

“Owen Wilson is one of America’s most beloved comedic actors and his voice has brought Lightning McQueen to life for millions of movie-goers over the last 10 years,” said Daytona International Speedway President Chip Wile. “His star-power, and of course his personality, are perfect fits for ‘The Great American Race.’”

For more information on “Cars 3” visit http://disney.com/Cars3.

Wilson is the latest name on a long list of actors who have served as DAYTONA 500 Grand Marshals including Gerard Butler, Vince Vaughn, John Travolta, Ben Affleck, Nicolas Cage and Matthew McConaughey.

Tickets for the 2017 DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks can be purchased online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP. Fans can also follow NASCAR on Twitter and stay up to speed on the latest news by using #DAYTONA500 and #SPEEDWEEKS. Stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube,Pinterest and Snapchat,and by downloading the Speedway’s mobile app, for the latest Speedway news throughout the season.

Planet Hollywood Observatory Delays Opening

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 19, 2017

We had mentioned recently that rumor had it that Planet Hollywood Observatory in Disney Springs was taking reservations for January 22nd and on. Even though there was no official announcement of an opening date from Disney, we hoped this meant it was a for sure thing that the newly renovated restaurant was opening next week.

However ,we hear today that our friend Kenny The Pirate had his January 23rd reservation cancelled by the restaurant and received a phone call stating that the new opening Date is January 27th.

We also had a Chip & Co. writer scheduled to attend an event today with a meet and greet with Guy Fieri at the restaurant, and that was cancelled as well. We were told they would get back to us with any rescheduling information.

Did you have a reservation that got cancelled as well?

If you would like to visit a Disney destination, but are unsure of where to begin, 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.

photo credit: @planethollywood on Twitter

Disney Store Reveals an all new 30th Anniversary Pin Set and backpack

By

Chip

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January 19, 2017

This year the Disney Store is celebrating its 30th anniversary, and to mark the momentous occasion, Disney fans are in for a treat! Starting on January 28th, Disney Store will be releasing three new pins every Saturday in-store and every Sunday online, through April 1st. We’ll be seeing 30 brand new pins in celebration of 30 amazing years! Disney Store will also be releasing a special 30th anniversary backpack, which comes with a 30th anniversary Jiminy Cricket pin.

At the top of the article is the full Disney Store 30th anniversary pin collection, and the dates they will be released.

Now lets take a look at this adorable 30th anniversary backpack and accompanying Jiminy Cricket pin:

What better way to celebrate 30 years of the Disney Store than this collection. Marking your calendars to pick up our backpack, and each of these pins. Head on over to the Disney Store to find out more.

Which Disney Store 30th anniversary pin is your favorite? Tell us in the comments!

Source

Color by Disney App Now Available for Mobile Devices

By

Chip

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January 19, 2017

Disney today released Color by Disney, an all-new coloring platform bringing magical moments from Disney and Pixar into the everyday lives of fans. Designed to inspire and facilitate creative expression using an extensive library of Disney art, the app unlocks hours of imaginative coloring and relaxation. Color by Disney builds on the trend of coloring books for adults and the popularity of Disney’s “Art of Coloring” book series to bring the fun and enjoyment of coloring to users on the go.

With a Color by Disney subscription, users instantly gain unlimited access to an ever-growing art collection of premium Disney and Pixar coloring images with new content added weekly.

Color by Disney is available for iOS and Android mobile devices. App features include:

Hours of Disney Magic: Experience the joy of capturing the most memorable Disney and Pixar moments through a world of color.
Infinite Creative Expression: Hundreds of design and character combinations ranging from modern classics like “Frozen” and “Moana” to iconic films like “The Lion King” and “The Little Mermaid” to Pixar favorites like “Brave” and “Monsters, Inc.”
Film-Inspired Effects: Add a dash of pixie dust with an extensive collection of classic film-inspired color palettes, special gradients and fun filters, including glitter and watercolors.
Share Options: Connect the app to social media networks to showcase and share magical masterpieces.
Instant Access: Color by Disney is an always-on service providing hours of engagement for users taking a break from their daily grinds.
Subscription Plans: Three subscription packages are available: one week all-access for $2.99, one month all-access for $7.99 or a year all-access for $39.99. Try Color by Disney with a seven-day free trial.

Color by Disney is available for download now on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store and Windows App Store. Additional coloring images and new features will be added in future updates.

Remy Onboard Disney Cruise Line is Honored with Porthole Cruise Magazine Award

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 19, 2017

Disney Cruise Line’s Remy has been honored by Porthole Cruise Magazine’s 2017 Editor-in-Chief Award for Best Specialty Restaurant. The award recognizes “favorite travel experiences” that left “amazing impressions in terms of service, quality, and memorable moments” in the opinion of Editor-in-Chief Chief Bill Panoff.

The French-inspired fine dining restaurant is adult-exclusive and can be found onboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. It is named after the tiny star and master chef of the Disney Pixar film “Ratatouille”. Remy transports guests to an authentic fine-dining restaurant in the City of Lights. The elegant dining room is softly lit and designed in a timeless Art Nouveau style with tasteful nods to the film, including artful appearances of Remy.

The gourmet selection was masterfully crafted by Chef Arnaud Lallement of l’Assiette Champenoise—a Michelin 3-star restaurant just outside Reims, France—and Chef Scott Hunnel from award-winning Victoria & Albert’s at Walt Disney World Resort. The menu features decadent offerings such as smoked bison with fennel and blood oranges from Chef Scott Hunnel and langoustines royale (Norway Lobster with Caesar sauce) from Chef Arnaud Lallement.

Remy truly is a fine dining experience like no other. Reservations are required and can be made online or once onboard the ship. Dinner is an additional $95 dining charge per person and is not included in the price of your cruise. Be sure to make a reservation during your next Disney Cruise Line voyage!

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next magical Disney adventure. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money!

Photo Credit: Disney Cruise Line

“Brunch With a Twist” Served at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa on February 11

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 19, 2017

“Brunch With a Twist” will be held at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa on Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 12pm. The five-star, five-course brunch is hosted by the signature dining restaurant Citricos and features award-winning chefs at the Resort. The event debuted in 2016 as part of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Some of Disney’s top chefs representing Victoria & Alberts, Citricos, Narcoossee’s, Grand Floridian Cafe and the Grand Floridian Bakery will be present. They’ll share cooking techniques and answer questions as the courses are being prepared on-stage at Citricos.

Guests will have the opportunity to taste the creations of Executive Chef Scott Hunnel, Chef Dominique Filoni, Chef Noah Estabrook, Chef Nick Mussara, Chef Lawrence Searl and Executive Pastry Chef Erich Herbitschek. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with Champagne for the ultimate dining experience.

The brunch menu includes:

Chef Nick presents…
Passed Hors d‘oeuvres

Farm Egg Omelet with King Crab and Caviar
Bloody Mary Shooter with Jumbo Shrimp
Smoked Bacon Fritter
Prosecco Cocktail

Chef Dominique presents…
Tuna Carpaccio “Niçoise”, Tuna Confit, Niçoise Olives
Bolla Rosé | Veneto | NV

Chef Scott presents…
Farm Fresh Egg Ravioli with Lobster and Corn Butter
Iron Horse Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée | Brut | Green Valley of Russian River Valley | 2013

Chef Lawrence presents…
Duo of Duck
Crispy-skin Breast and Confit Leg Raviolo,
Butternut Squash, Cauliflower, Pomegranate
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label | Brut | Reims | NV

Chef Noah presents…
Veal Tenderloin, and Cheek, Porcini Mushrooms,
Caramelized Onion Potato Croquette, Violet Mustard
Raventós i Blanc De Nit Rosé | Barcelona | 2011

Chef Erich presents…
Orange Scented Chocolate Sphere
Vietti Moscato d’Asti | NV

The cost of “Brunch With a Twist” is $169 plus tax (gratuity and valet included). Reservations and pre-payment can be made by calling 407-939-3463. Another brunch with a fabulous new menu will be held on May 6, 2017 at 12pm. Mark your calendar!

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next magical Disney adventure. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Millennials vote Disney #1 most intimate brand for the MBLM Brand Intimacy 2017 Report!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 19, 2017

The WaltDisney Company Logo

The results of MBLM Brand Intimacy 2017 Report is in and among millennials Disney rated #1 most intimate brand! In case you haven’t heard of Brand Intimacy this is a study based on emotions, it is defined as a new paradigm that leverages and strengthens the emotional bonds between a person and a brand. The report analyzes the opinions of 6,000 consumers and 54,000 brand evaluations in the U.S., Mexico and UAE. The full report will be released on January 18, 2017

“Disney resonates with this age group because they grew up with the brand. It has kept up with their changing interests and now includes popular franchises like Star Wars and Marvel. Disney is also a mainstay for young families,” stated Mario Natarelli, MBLM’s managing partner. “Interestingly, five out of the top 10 brands for millennials are in the media & entertainment industry, which we believe reflects the prevailing mood of escapism and the need for respite.”

Following Disney, Amazon and Netflix ranked as the second and third most intimate brands for millennials. Comparatively, in MBLM’s 2015 report, Amazon placed first, followed by Apple and PlayStation.

The other brands that round out the top 10 are: Apple, Nintendo, Target, Chevrolet, Xbox, Google and YouTube.

New Live Action Beauty and the Beast Merchandise at the Disney Store

By

Danielle

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January 18, 2017

The Disney Store has unveiled lots of beautiful Live Action Beauty and the Beast Merchandise. The Magical New Arrivals at the Disney Store online shop is bustling with fantastic new finds.

The exciting new arrivals inspired by the new Live Action film include a breath taking tea set, detailed dolls, pins and more. One of the most amazing new items is the Limited Edition Fine China Tea Set, which is a detailed replica of the new live action tea set. Check out the tea set and other favorite items below.

Beauty and the Beast Limited Edition Fine China Tea Set – Live Action

The dining room proudly presents this limited edition fine china tea set inspired by Disney’s live action retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Be our guest and join Mrs. Potts and Chip for a deliciously delightful brew.

Beauty and the Beast Limited Edition Pin Set – Live Action Film

It’s a rare love that brought Belle and the Beast together, making this limited edition pin set a fitting celebration. Decoratively packaged, this three-pin set is inspired by Disney’s live-action retelling of Beauty and the Beast.

Belle & Gaston Film Collection Doll Set – Beauty and the Beast – Live Action

The pompous Gaston will stop at nothing to win Belle’s favor in this Film Collection Doll Set, inspired by Disney’s live action film Beauty and the Beast. Detailed outfits and an accurate likeness bring the timeless tale to life.

Belle Film Collection Doll – Beauty and the Beast – Live Action – 11 1/2”

This finely crafted Disney Film Collection doll depicts Belle just as she appears in Disney’s live action reimagining of Beauty and the Beast. Her glamorous gown and accurate likeness bring the timeless tale to life.

Beauty and the Beast Journal – Live Action Film

Belle’s passion for books is fully dramatized in this hardbound Journal with golden bindings, latches, and edging, a tassled cord bookmark, and illustrated, lined pages on which travels in both real and imaginary worlds can be authored.

Beauty and the Beast Glass Compact Mirror – Live Action Film

See the beauty within reflected from this elegant glass compact mirror in golden filigree brushed metal case adorned by faceted gems. Inspired by Disney’s live action film Beauty and the Beast.

These fantastic new Live Action Beauty and the Beast Merchandise and more are available at the Disney Store now!

Guide to Food Offerings for Lunar New Year Celebration at California Adventure

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 18, 2017

If you’ll be visiting Disney California Adventure Park between January 20th- February 5th, then you won’t want to miss out on these delicious special menu offerings to celebrate the Lunar New Year. There will be 3 different Marketplaces inspired by Korea, China and Vietnam, and the menus are as follows:

Korea

Kimchi Bokkeumbap – Kimchi-vegetable fried rice
Yachae Mandu – Steamed vegetable dumplings with sesame-garlic soy sauce
Yasik – Sweet rice and dried fruit cake
Banana Milk (non-alcoholic)
Black Beer Stout
Hite Pale Lager

China

Xiao Long Bao – Pork soup dumplings with black vinegar and ginger
Luo Bo Gao – Turnip cake with sausage and oyster sauce
Egg Tart
Passion Fruit Green Iced Tea with Lychee Popping Pearls (non-alcoholic)
Tsingtao Lager

Vietnam

Bang Chung – Sticky rice cake with pork
Chao Tom Voi Nuoc Cham Chua Ngot – Sugar cane shrimp skewer with sweet and sour sauce
Purple Sweet Potato Macaron
Ca Phe Da – Vietnamese iced coffee

Paradise Garden Grill

Japchae – Stir-fried vegetables and noodles with tofu
Galbi – Grilled beef short rib with steamed rice and kimchi
Cach Chien Ca Gion Ngon – Whole crispy tilapia with chili-lime vinaigrette and steamed rice
Pho – Beef Noodle Soup
Mango Pudding
Banh Khoai Mi Nuong – Cassava-coconut cake
Almond Milk Tea with Fruit Jellies (non-alcoholic)
Max Beer Lager

Will you be trying any of the Lunar New Year treats at DCA?

If you would like to visit a Disney destination, but are unsure of where to begin, 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.

photos: Disney Parks Blog

Chef Morimoto’s signature Peking Duck from Morimoto Asia celebrates National Peking Duck Day

By

Chip

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January 18, 2017

Yup, that’s right. National Pecking Duck Day is upon us! Central Florida has some great restaurants for pecking duck.

One of my favorites is found at Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs. Chef Morimoto’s signature duck is not served in three courses like some restaurants, but has all of the fabulous elements.

The duck is fire roasted, then is deep fried for crispy skin! The wonderfully fattiness of the deck meat and crispy skin is the perfect combination. Served with steamed flour pancakes, picked onions, hoisin miso sauce and apricot sweet chili sauces.

You get to form these fun little wraps! SOOO GOOD!

Click Here for the yummy recipe!

The Incredible Mickey Mouse Inspired Slow Cooker is Finally Available Again

By

Danielle

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January 18, 2017

Good news Mickey lovers! The incredible and highly sought after Mickey Mouse Inspired Slow Cooker is available once more! The perfect Disney kitchen appliance is now available at Disney Store Online, so Disney Addicts everywhere can get their slow cook on.

Mickey Mouse Slow Cooker with Dipper

Mickey takes his own good time to make kitchen magic with this five quart Slow Cooker and 20 ounce dipper for all your favorite crockery cooking recipes. This slow cooker became available last year, and Disney lovers everywhere went on a simmering frenzy for it. The appliance quickly sold out, and many of us have been longing for it ever since! I’m so glad that the Disney Store has finally started carrying it, so everyone has a chance to get their very own Mickey Mouse Slow Cooker!

If you were a fan of the Pixar Slow Cooker you’re in luck too! It is also available for purchase on the Disney Store website. It doesn’t come with a matching dipper, but it is a seven quart cooker, versus five like the Mickey one. I love that this one is also available too!

Would you get your simmer on with this Mickey Mouse Inspired Slow Cooker from the Disney Store?