Construction at Magic Kingdom Implies Changes to Security at the Main Gate is Coming

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October 31, 2016

With so much controversy surrounding the guests who tried to brings guns into 2 different Walt Disney World theme parks on the same day, it’s no surprise that Disney may be stepping up their security for guests arriving into the parks.

There is currently a large area of construction near the entrance to the Ferry Boats, and WDW magic speculates that this new area will be a security screening area for guests who arrive by ferry, and will hopefully alleviate the congestion at the main entrance, where guests using all modes of transportation arrive and enter the parks. Ultimately if Disney were to have separate entrances and security screenings for each mode of transportation the congestion and wait times at the gates would be remarkably reduced during peak times.

What do you think of the possibility of separate entrances for the different modes of transportation into Disney parks?

If you would like to visit Walt Disney World, 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: @bioreconstruct on Twitter

Possible Expansion Coming to Coronado Springs Resort

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 31, 2016

Disney officially announced earlier this Fall that Coronado Springs Resort would be undergoing extensive renovations and upgrades to its 1917 guest rooms. However, that may not be all that’s in store for this sprawling Southwestern-themed Moderate Resort.

Permits filed recently with the Reedy Creek Improvement District, point to a possible expansion of the grounds in addition to the refurbishments already under way. The plans call for a new stormweather management pond as well as extending an existing pond in the vicinity to accommodate any possible expansion or construction in the area.

Set around the 15 acre lake- Lago Dorado, Coronado Springs is already a massive, sprawling resort with an internal bus system used to shuttle guests from their accommodation to central amenities. It will definitely be interesting to see how Walt Disney World plans to expand this resort (one of the largest on Disney property) even further. Watch this space for updates.

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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 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.

Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic Review 2016

By

Lisette R

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October 31, 2016

The Swan & Dolphin Resort’s Food & Wine Classic is an annual event that typically takes place the last weekend in October. This must- do event features their Causeway, which is literally bursting at the seams with food, wine, and beer. They also offer seminars, a beer garden, Carnival Corner, and Chinatown. Here is my Food & Wine Classic Review for 2016.

The set up of The Causeway is a lengthy process of putting tables, chairs, tents, and tablecloths. As the afternoon wanes on the food, heating elements, ice, and displays are set up as well.

When you arrive, you will need to check in. There are various stations, based on your ticket type, to check-in at. For myself, I was checked in by the lovely Katie in the Convention Center area.

As the sunlight begins to wane, The Causeway opens. The results are simply magnificent. Along The Causeway you can get a taste of Surf and Turf by Todd English, Arancini by Il Mulino, Prime New York Strip Loin by Shula’s Steakhouse, Seared Striped Bass by Garden Grove, Southern Pulled Pork with Macaroni & Cheese by The Fountain and Dragon Roll by Kimonos to name a few. If you are looking for something fun to try then you must sample the Shrimp Cocktail Steamroller by Blue Zoo as it comes in a slim tube and your are left to your own devices to figure out how to get the shrimp out. Add a little spice to your samplings with Taqueria by Picabu. There is no possible way to pick a favorite bite of the night, but if I could choose only two items, from The Causeway, I would pick the Surf and Turf by Todd English and the Dragon Roll by Kimonos. As tastes do vary, you will need to attend the Food & Wine Classic in 2017 to pick your personal favorites.

What would a Food & Wine Event be without desserts? There were four specialty desserts to choose from. The Lemon Meringue Cup, the Chocolate Fondant Orange Pate de Fruit Milk, the Caramel Sea Salt Eclair, and the Caramelized Banana Sundae with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. My hands-down favorite was the Lemon Meringue Cup. I really enjoyed the texture and the zing of the lemon with this dessert choice.

Seminars on Wines, Cocktails, Beers, and Champagnes are also available. I did the Wine Blending Seminar and it was very informative and interesting. If wine is not your thing, then there are many seminar options to choose from and you are sure to find something that suits your lifestyle and preferences.

The Terrace Beer Garden is tucked away off the beaten path of the Causeway. Here you will find light, dark, and brown ales, a variety of ciders, and a few food bites. Be sure to try the Schnitzil and Soft Pretzel with your beer. Check out the Live Video walk-through of the Terrace Beer Garden here: https://www.facebook.com/chipandco/videos/10154701979648417/

Carnival Corner is tucked away in the back corner just off The Causeway. Here you will find Carnival Games, Food Trucks, and some fun surprises. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the flavors of the Grafton Village White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese. The other surprise that presented itself was the Nitro Kettle Corn. I had never heard of it so I asked how they make it. They use popcorn, caramel foam, peanuts, and liquid nitrogen. See the video here: https://www.facebook.com/chipandco/videos/10154702666173417/

Chinatown made its debut at the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic this year. This new area featured Crispy Duck and Shanghai Dumpling. Lines were long and the Chinatown area was a highly popular area throughout the evening.

Also making their debut at the Food & Wine Classic was CIB’s Smokehouse. They featured their Hand Crafted Bacon with Sweet Corn Puree. I have never tasted bacon like this before and it was extremely flavorful. I will expect to see CIB’s again in 2017.

The Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic makes for a truly a classy evening. If you have not had the chance to attend one of these events, then be sure to stay tuned here for updates on the 2017 Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic. Purchase your tickets early as this event does sell out. Hope to see you there. Bon appetit!

Will you be attending the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic next year? Please leave your comments in the box below.

Add a Little Darkness to your iMessages with Disney Villains Stickers

By

Danielle

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October 31, 2016

If you’re looking to add an extra spooky touch to your messages today, don’t forget to check out the new Disney Villains Stickers for iMessage!

Express yourself in new ways with dynamic and animated Disney Stickers you can put anywhere in your chat. You can add wicked fun to your messages with this Villains animated sticker pack that includes characters, quotes, and accessories from some of your beloved Disney baddies like Maleficent, Ursula, Cruella, Jafar, and Hook!

You can even try on some villainous accessories with your Halloween selfies! If you would prefer to fill your iMessages to the brim with fright, there is also The Nightmare Before Christmas stickers available too!

You can take Halloween messaging matters into your own tentacles with the Disney Villains Stickers Here, or if your messages call out for something unknown you can get TNMBC Stickers Here!

Which Disney sticker pack do you prefer for a spooktastic message this Halloween?

Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic Wine Blending Seminar Is Informative and Interesting

By

Lisette R

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October 31, 2016

Did you know that you can also sign up for seminars at the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic? I was fortunate enough to attend the Wine Blending Seminar and I found it to be informative and quite interesting. If you enjoy wine, or are interested in learning something about it, then the Wine Blending Seminar is a great option.

You can choose from a multitude of seminars. Each seminar has a cost associated with it that is separate from the event ticket. The seminars take place in the Swan Convention Center rooms.

Upon arrival, I discovered that all of the wine and cheese were set up at each table seat. There is some introduction and notification that we are only to drink the wine to the right that is off our mat. The seminar opened with a discussion of cheeses and their accompaniments. My favorite cheese was the Brie.

The Wine Blending Seminar instructor was the Swan & Dolphin Director of Food and Beverage Tony Porcellini. He had an awesome sense of humor and he was very informative. He taught the group how to know the difference between the Right and Left Bank of France with regards to Bourdeaux wine. He also instructed on distinguishing the weight of wine by referencing the varieties of milk: Whole Milk, 2% mile, Skim Milk, and Half-and-Half. We were instructed to “chew” the wine three times before swallowing the wine in order to wake up our taste buds.

If you ever have the opportunity to attend the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic, I recommend you try and take one of the seminars. Just pick the one that appeals to you the most. I can assure you that the cost is well worth the value of information you will receive.

What type of seminar would you choose for the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic? Please leave your comments in the box below.

The Ultimate “Doctor Strange” Experience At Disney’s El Capitan Theater

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 30, 2016

Disney’s own El Capitan Theatre is hosting the ultimate Marvel Studios “Doctor Strange” experience. Tickets are now on sale for the November 4 to 20 engagement. The film will be projected in brilliant Dolby 3D laser projection and Dolby Atmos sound. You may want to book an early Thursday, November 3 7:00PM screening complete with raffle prizes and more surprises!

Also only at The El Capitan Theatre, audience members can take a photo at the world exclusive “Doctor Strange” Character Meet and Greet only on November 4, 5 and 6.

“The El Capitan Theatre is the one best choices in Los Angeles to watch Marvel Studios’ ‘Doctor Strange’ on opening weekend,” said General Manager Ed Collins. “Our exclusive character Meet ‘n Greet and photo opportunity with Doctor Strange before and after each show, the brilliant image and immersive sound of our studio engineered Dolby 3D laser projection and Dolby Atmos sound system, all reserved seating, and attractive pricing make for a memorable movie going experience unmatched by any movie theatre around.”

Tickets are available now at the El Capitan Theatre (6838 Hollywood Blvd.), online at www.elcapitantickets.com or by calling 1-800-DISNEY6. Special group rates for parties of 20 or more are available by calling 1-818-845-3110. Daily showtimes are 12 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m., and 10:30 p.m. Showtimes and dates are subject to change.

The El Capitan Theatre has also made an arrangement for a $30.00 Movie & Meal with the Hard Rock Café available during the entire engagement of “Doctor Strange” at The El Capitan Theatre. Advance reservations required by calling 1-818-845-3110. The El Capitan Theatre also hosts very special Tiny Tot Tuesdays on November 8 and 15 at 12 p.m. During these special screenings, parents and small children may enjoy the movie in a tot-friendly way— in 2D, with lights dimmed rather than out, and reduced sound levels.

Walt Disney Records “Moana” Soundtrack Set For Release On November 18

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 30, 2016

Set for release on November 18, the “Moana” original motion picture soundtrack features seven original songs and a full original score, plus two reprises as well as two end-credit versions of songs from the film. The diverse and dynamic team behind the film’s inspired music includes Tony®- and Grammy®-winning songwriter/composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, who counts among his credits Broadway’s Pulitzer Prize-winning and multiple Tony-winning “Hamilton” and the Tony-winning “In the Heights.” The creative team also includes three-time Grammy®-winning composer Mark Mancina (“Speed,” “Tarzan” and the Oscar®-winning “Training Day”) and Opetaia Foa‘i, the founder and lead singer of Te Vaka, a winner of numerous world music awards.

“How Far I’ll Go” is Moana’s song written by Miranda and is performed in the film by newcomer Auli‘i Cravalho. The end-credit version of the song is performed by Canadian singer/songwriter and Def Jam recording artist Alessia Cara. Her gold-certified albumKnow-It-All includes the multi-platinum singles “Here” and “Wild Things,” plus the critically-acclaimed single “Scars to Your Beautiful.” Cara is a Juno Award winner for Breakthrough Artist of the Year and is a 2016 America Music Award nominee for New Artist of the Year. She recently completed a tour with Coldplay.

Written by Miranda and performed by Dwayne Johnson in the film, “You’re Welcome” showcases the colorful personality of Maui. Hollywood Records artist Jordan Fisher teams up with Miranda for the end-credit version of “You’re Welcome.” After a breakout performance in the Emmy® Award-winning production of Grease: Live, Jordan Fisher released his debut single, “All About Us,” which soared to the top of the Billboard Pop charts. Fisher, who recently opened for Alicia Keys at this year’s Apple Music Festival, has joined the Broadway cast of “Hamilton,” and is set to release his full-length album in 2017.

For centuries, the greatest sailors in the world masterfully navigated the vast Pacific, discovering the many islands of Oceania. But then, 3,000 years ago, their voyages stopped for a millennium – and no one knows exactly why. From Walt Disney Animation Studios comes “Moana,” a sweeping, CG-animated feature film about an adventurous teenager who is inspired to leave the safety and security of her island on a daring journey to save her people. Inexplicably drawn to the ocean, Moana (voice of Auliʻi Cravalho) convinces the mighty demigod Maui (voice of Dwayne Johnson) to join her mission, and he reluctantly helps her become a wayfinder like her ancestors who sailed before her. Together, they voyage across the open ocean on an action-packed adventure, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds, and along the way, Moana fulfills her quest and discovers the one thing she’s always sought: her own identity.

The “Moana” soundtrack can be pre-ordered today HERE and a digital pre-order will be available Friday, Oct. 28th. The “Moana” original motion picture soundtrack features 14 tracks and will be available wherever music is sold and streamed on Nov. 18, 2016. The “Moana” two-disc deluxe edition and the digital deluxe edition soundtrack, which are also available Nov. 18, feature additional tracks including demos, outtakes and instrumental karaoke tracks. “Moana” opens in theaters November 23rd.

Charmingly Sweet Disney Character Silhouette Necklaces

By

Danielle

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October 30, 2016

I love the vintage feel of a beautiful cameo necklace, but I also love a more modern take on classic designs too. That’s why I fell in love with the chic look of these Disney Character Silhouette Necklaces from letmecharmU on Etsy.

These gorgeous glass cameos offer a more modern twist on the classic cameo, with shining polished metal, and simplistic silhouettes featuring beloved Disney characters. These pendants are heavy duty and topped with crystal clear glass. There is a wide variety of characters offered, and they are strung on a beautiful sterling silver plated 20″ rope chain. One of my favorite things about handmade trinkets like these, is the ability to have jewelry featuring characters that are hard to find things for! They make a beautiful gift for someone special or get one for yourself! There’s dozens of fantastic options to choose some, but below I’ve listed a few of my favorites.

Which of these elegant Disney Character Silhouette Necklaces are your favorite?

Additional Food Booths coming to ‘Holidays Around the World’ at Epcot

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 30, 2016

If you enjoy the warm and comforting food offerings that are featured in Epcot during the Holiday season, then you’ll be excited to hear that Epcot will be offering full themed food kiosks with Holiday offerings this Christmas Season. Disney Food Blog has announced the details of new upcoming booths for the 2016 Holiday Season. Here’s what you can expect in 2016.

Prost in Germany will be expanding its menu, and this year will be offering an Artisan Cheese Plate, warming drinks, Gluhwein, Williams Punch, Caramel Kiss, and new this year, the Sauerbraten with Red Cabbage and Spätzle.

In the American Adventure Pavilion you will find traditional American holiday favorites at The American Holiday Table, such as Roasted Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, and Cranberry Sauce, Pork Tenderloin served with Green Bean Casserole, Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges, and a Champagne Demi-Glace. You can also enjoy many American-made beverages with your traditional Holiday fare: Shipyard Eggnog White Porter Aged on Bourbon, Firenog, a combo of Eggnog and Fireball Whisky, as well as Great American Wine Company Red Blend, Rosenblum Chardonnay, Hot Chocolate, Eggnog, and Cocoa Candy Cane (Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Schnapps).

Alpine Haus, a combination of Austria and Switzerland, will be offering Duck Confit, Dumplings, and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with a Fig Reduction, Cheese Fondue served in a bread bowl, Sachertorte, prepared in the traditional way with Chocolate Cake, Apricot Jam, and Dark Chocolate Glaze. For beverage offerings you will find Frozen Winter Spice Hot Chocolate featuring Twinings of London Tea (alcoholic and non-alcoholic version available), or Weingut Stadt Krems Gruner Vetliner, White Wine and Heinrich Red Blend.

Seasonal Southern Delights, located by the World Showcase Plaza will be offering a crowd favorite: Frozen S’mores! Some food offerings will be Hoppin’ John, a traditional New Year’s dish that will combine Black Eyed Peas, Ham Hocks, and Kale, and will be served over Rice with Cornbread Crumbles. Also being offered is Blackened Catfish with White Cheddar Grits and Okra, Tomato and Onion Stew, as well as a Chocolate Pecan Tart.

Also located near the world Showcase Plaza will be Feast of The Three Kings, meant to celebrate Three Kings Day in the Spanish, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures. Food items will include a Shredded Beef Tamale with Avocado Crema , Roasted Pork with Mashed Yucca and Pickled Green Bananas as well as traditional Three Kings Bread. Drinks will include coconut milk and the ability to ad a rum floater, for an adult twist.

In addition to the themed food booths, there will also be other various treats you can find around Epcot for the holidays, such as the Chocolate Honey Baklava in Morocco, Panettone in Italy, Guava Tamales in Mexico, and a chocolate Buche de Noel in France. Plus the Gingerbread Ice Cream is back at L’Artisan des Glaces, and there will be a new Pai Cha (a Beijing-style Fried Dough treat) in China for 2016.

If you would like to visit Walt Disney World this holiday season, 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: Disney

Celebrate Halloween with STK Yelloween in Disney Springs

By

Danielle

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October 30, 2016

Looking for a fun, grown-up experience at Disney this Halloween? Then check out STK Yelloween, where you can celebrate “with spooky hosts and Champagne toasts”!

Come to STK to enjoy an alluring combination of mixology, lite bites, live DJ and other haunted fun and celebrate STK Orlando’s first ever Yelloween! Held on their chic rooftop on October 31st, at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $50.00 and include quite an array of inclusive benefits. Your ticket includes, a two hour open bar, lite bites, drink specials and a live DJ! Costumes are of course welcome, but not required. Make sure to check the Disney Guidelines for costumes.

So if you’re looking for a fun adventure this Halloween at Disney, but the Mickey’s Not so Scary Halloween party isn’t quite for you, STK Yelloween might be an intriguing event to check out. If you’ll be in Disney Springs this Halloween, also don’t forget about the Raglan Road Halloween Festivities.

Disney Investors, “Doctor Strange” Is Tracking Disappointment

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 30, 2016

Marvel movies have been a huge hit for the Disney Company. In eight years, the 13 films in the Marvel universe have earned over $4 billion domestically and $10 billion globally in ticket sales alone. The newest venture, opening November 4th is “Doctor Strange” – which is tracking for a better opening than last year’s “Ant-Man”.

The problem for Disney investors is that “Doctor Strange” cost $165 million to make versus $130 million for “Ant-Man”. Theatergoers also liked what they saw in Rudd as the thief-turned-superhero, giving the film an “A” CinemaScore. Word of mouth led to a decent run in the theaters that ended with the film grossing over a half-billion worldwide. A higher budget for Doctor Strange means a higher hurdle for profitability, which means reviews and early audience reaction are crucial, especially if the tracking data is right and the film opens just marginally higher than “Ant-Man” did.

Marvel’s master of the mystic arts also comes to the screen at a transitional moment for Disney as a company. Analysts are expecting fiscal 2016 revenue to improve 7% and adjust profit to grow 12.2%, but the weight of cable subscription losses could drag down the stock yet again. A significant beat at the box office for “Doctor Strange” combined with reports of outsized growth in the Studio Entertainment and Parks and Resorts division could help prevent another slide.

Although this analyses sounds dire and Disney might not be on the top 10 list of companies to invest in right now, don’t go running for the hills yet. A down tick for Disney could also mean an upswing eventually. Time will tell.

November Merchandise Events Coming to WonderGround Gallery at Disneyland Resort

By

Danielle

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October 29, 2016

If you’ll be traveling to the Disneyland resort this November, the WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney District will be hosting hosting several merchandise events. These fun events featuring the talents of many artists will be happening in Early November 2016.

November WonderGround Gallery Events:

November 4-5 – Joey Chou is the Artist in Residence at the location in November. Look for him on the following dates from 7-10 p.m. – November 4-5, 11-12, and 27.
November 5 – An Artist Showcase and Signing event featuring Joey Chou, Kristin Tercek, and Gregg Visintainer will be held at WonderGround Gallery from 7-10 p.m.
November 5-6 – Artisan Kristin Tercek will appear at the location from 2-5 p.m.
November 19 – We will host an Artist Showcase celebrating Disney’s “Moana,” which arrives in theaters on November 23. Artist Griselda Sastrawinata will meet with guests and sign artwork from 4-6 p.m.

These events are a fabulous way to see never before seen pieces, as well as meet many amazing artists! The bonus is you can sometimes even get your new art pieces signed! Have you ever visited a Disney Art Gallery event before?