Final Trailer For “Beauty And The Beast” Released

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January 30, 2017

The new trailer for Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Beauty and the Beast” debuted tonight on ABC’s broadcast of “The Bachelor” featuring new footage and Ariana Grande and John Legend’s duet of the iconic song Beauty and the Beast. Directed by Bill Condon, the film brings the story and characters audiences know and love to life in a stunning, cinematic event. Be sure to check it out, and don’t forget to see “Beauty and the Beast” on March 17 when the film hits theaters nationwide.

Check it out

See you in the theaters March 17th!

“Welcome Home!” With a Burlap Disney Garden Flag

By

Danielle

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January 30, 2017

To me, Disney will always be “H°o°ME”, but when I can’t be there, there’s no reason I can’t have a little bit of Disney magic at home. What better way to welcome guests to your home than with a sparkling burlap Disney Garden Flag by DaintyDivaBows!

This is a perfect welcome home sign for any Disney Addict! This Burlap Garden Flag measures 12 inches wide by approximately 18 inches long. It fits perfectly on most standard size garden flag holders. The flag features a one-side design using sparkling glitter material that loves to pick up the sunlight. The design features a silhouette of the famous Disney World castle and also the word HOME with Mickey Ears replacing the letter “O”.

Will you welcome home your guests with a shimmering burlap Disney Garden Flag?

Production Officially Begins On Han Solo Movie

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 30, 2017

An official title hasn’t been announced but production has begun on the upcoming Han Solo movie. The shooting name is Red Cup (a play on the lead character’s name).

The screenplay for the Han Solo movie is penned from father-son duo Lawrence Kasdan and Jon Kasdan and will focus on how young Han Solo became the smuggler, thief, and scoundrel whom Luke Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi first encountered in the cantina at Mos Eisley. It has been confirmed that Chewbacca will also be a featured character in the film and, while unconfirmed, it is likely that “The Force Awakens” Joonas Suotamo will reprise the role.

The film includes Alden Ehrenreich (“Hail Caesar!”) as the title scoundrel, with Woody Harrelson (“War For the Planet of the Apes”) as Solo’s mentor, Donald Glover (“Atlanta”) as Lando Calrissian, and an undisclosed role for “Games Of Thrones” Emilia Clarke.

Slated for a May 25, 2018 release, the Han Solo movie will be executive produced by Lawrence Kasdan and Jason McGatlin and co-produced by Will Allegra. Phil Lord and Chris Miller (“21 Jump Street”, “The LEGO Movie”) direct

DisneyQuest at Disney Springs to Close July 3 to make way for NBA Experience

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 30, 2017

Disney Parks Blog has just confirmed rumors that have been going around for quite some time that DisneyQuest will be closing. In a post published today they announcement was made that the DisneyQuest will officially close on July 3, 2017 to make way for the new The NBA Experience which which is part of an ongoing West Side Neighborhood re-development at Disney Springs.

The NBA- Experience is described as a one-of-a-kind basketball themed experience with hands-on activities that put families right in the middle of NBA game action This includes immersive NBA video productions, numerous interactive displays, a restaurant and a retail store.

Those heading to Walt Disney World before July 3rd will still be able to enjoy all that DisneyQuest indoor theme park has to offer including immersive virtual words, arcade games and more.

Readers are encouraged to watch this space for further updates regarding DisneyQuest and the NBA Experience.

Planning a trip to Disney? Fill out our form to receive your FREE quote.

Find articles like this helpful? They why not consider booking with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I can help you with everything from finding your perfect package to planning out your days at the parks and am always full of tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your time at the parks. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025 via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Disney Art Therapy Coloring Book Round Up

By

Danielle

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January 30, 2017

The Art Therapy coloring books for adults have been all the rage, and there’s quite the variety of Disney themed ones too! With so many to choose from, it’s time to do an official Disney Art Therapy Coloring Book round up!

Disney Art of Coloring Moana Coloring Book

Relax, and let the creativity flow through you. Whether a skilled artist or an everyday dabbler of drawings and doodles, fans of all ages will enjoy these stunning pen-and-ink illustrations of beautiful landscapes, elaborate patterns, and memorable characters from Disney’s new animated feature Moana.

Art of Coloring: Tsum Tsum

Tsum Tsum are everywhere-in plush toys, games, apps, accessories, apparel, and now in their very own coloring book! Whether a skilled artist or an everyday dabbler of drawings and doodles, fans of all ages will be inspired by these irresistible pen-and-ink illustrations of Tsum Tsum characters and patterns!

Art of Coloring Beauty and the Beast Coloring Book

Fans of all ages will enjoy these stunning pen-and-ink illustrations of beautiful landscapes, elaborate patterns, and memorable characters from Disney’s new live-action feature Beauty and the Beast.

Art of Coloring Disney Princess: 100 Images to Inspire Creativity and Relaxation

Relax, and let the creativity flow through you. Whether a skilled artist or an everyday dabbler of drawings and doodles, fans of all ages will enjoy this book. Featuring stunning pen-and-ink illustrations of beautiful designs inspired by Disney’s hit films featuring the Disney Princesses. The lovely packaging includes a board cover with double metallic foil stamping.

Art of Coloring Disney Frozen: 100 Images to Inspire Creativity and Relaxation

Relax, and enjoy the glistening art of a winder wonderland. Let it go, and dive into the world of Disney’s hit animated feature film Frozen. The lovely packaging includes a board cover with double metallic foil stamping.

Art of Coloring Disney Animals: 100 Images to Inspire Creativity and Relaxation

Relive the lovable and fuzzy moments of your favorite Disney animal friends with beautiful landscapes, elaborate patterns, and memorable characters from Disney’s hit animated feature films themed to cute and cuddly animals. The lovely packaging includes a board cover with double metallic foil stamping.

Disney Villains: 100 Images to Inspire Creativity and Relaxation

Be prepared to try on your best evil laugh when you relax with 100 stunning pen-and-ink illustrations of beautiful landscapes, elaborate patterns. This Disney Art Therapy Coloring Book highlights villains from Disney films.

Art of Coloring Star Wars: Rogue One Coloring Book

This is a coloring book for young adults and adults that includes scenes and characters from the highly anticipated Rogue One. This coloring book will launched just after the Movie Premiered, which was great for keeping us spoiler free.

Art of Coloring Star Wars: 100 Images to Inspire Creativity and Relaxation

Let the Force be with you! Featuring galactic landscapes, elaborate patterns, and memorable characters from the Star Wars universe. The lovely packaging includes a board cover with metallic foil stamping.

Star Wars Art Therapy Coloring Book (Paperback)

This unique Star Wars coloring adventure will take you away from your daily stresses and transport you to a galaxy far, far away. Discover more than 100 beautiful and intricate illustrations and mandalas inspired by the Star Wars universe. These illustrations have an Art Noveau style. Color in Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Yoda, and all your favorite characters. You can also bring your favorite scenes to life. Creativity has no age limit. Like great Jedi masters, explore with creativity, so that the Force will be with you always!

There is also a The Nightmare Before Christmas coloring book coming July 18, 2017!

If you love these, there’s also many more Art Therapy coloring books from other franchises available too! Harry Potter Art Therapy coloring books, and Doctor Who Art Therapy coloring books are also a lot of fun!

Which Disney Art Therapy Coloring Book is your favorite?

Disney files patent to read riders emotions and customize ride experience for guests

By

Chip

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January 30, 2017

According to the Orlando Business Journal Disney has filed a patent that could read guests facial expressions and depending on if the rider is bored or excited the ride/attraction would customize the experience by going faster or spinning more to improve the experience for the guest.

It is called “Sensing and Managing Vehicle Behavior Based on Occupant Awareness” according the the patent that was recently filed and will use an on vehicle camera or possibly with the Magic Band system.

“The technology would allow rides to adjust show content appropriate for pre-teens, teenagers or adults; or for thrill-seeking and non thrill-seeking passengers. The control system may also operate the vehicle to address motion sickness issues for passengers such as by adjusting speed or movement patterns of a vehicle. [Through RFID or some other identifying system] access one or more ride experience goals (or expectations) for the occupant. For example, the occupant may simply desire transportation while in the automated trackless vehicle and, hence, will not be wanting to interact with to be entertained by external display systems. In other cases, though, the occupant may have provided goals/expectations (e.g. by completing a questionnaire on a website or the like) that indicate they want to be educated during the ride, be entertained in a particular manner during the ride, be informed of sales on services or merchandise during the ride, and so on. In the same or other cases, the goals/expectations may indicate whether the ride experience” should be thrilling, as smooth as possible, or something in between, according to the patent.

This could be a gamer changer for Disney, not only do they want to address your excitement level they are also interested in adjusting your comfort levels such as temperature and alter the air-conditioning of the ride to make it more pleasant.

How cool is that?

To read more about the new patent just check out the the article from the Orlando Business Journal.

What do you think about this new experience? I for one would love to have a customized experience when riding the rides at the Disney Theme Parks.

Tell us what you think in the comment box below.

Exclusive D23 Beauty and the Beast Advanced Screening and Luncheon

By

Chip

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January 30, 2017

On the afternoon of the Annual Meeting of Shareholders at the Bellco Theatre at the Colorado Convention Center, all D23 Members are invited to see an exclusive screening of Beauty and the Beast before it is released on March 17! Before the screening, a limited number of D23 Gold and Gold Family Members will have the opportunity to join us for a complimentary “Be Our Guest” luncheon.

The “Be Our Guest” luncheon will begin for Gold and Gold Family Members at 12:30 p.m., following the Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Check-in will begin at 12:15 p.m.; please do not arrive before 12:15 p.m. RSVP is required.

The screening will begin at 2 p.m. at the Bellco Theatre at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. Check-in will begin at 1:45 p.m.; please do not arrive before 1:45 p.m.

Join us for a special preview of Walt Disney Studios’ upcoming live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic Beauty and the Beast, a stunning, cinematic event celebrating one of the most beloved tales ever told. On the afternoon of the Annual Meeting of Shareholders at the Bellco Theatre at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado, all D23 Members are invited to see the film before its release on March 17!

Beauty and the Beast is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a Beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart of the true Prince within.

Before the screening, a limited number of D23 Gold and Gold Family Members will have the opportunity to put our service to the test and join us for a complimentary “Be Our Guest” luncheon. This opportunity is a great time to mix and mingle with fellow D23 Gold Members!

Beauty and the Beast opens across the country March 17, 2017.

For more information about The Walt Disney Company’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders, click here.

Source D23

Swan and Dolphin Resort Celebrates the Super Bowl with Awesome Discount for Georgia and New England Residents

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 30, 2017

What better way to celebrate a the Super Bowl than with then with this fantastic “I’m off to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort!” special offer.

Here’s how it works! Residents of the home states of both teams Georgia and New England will receive a free night at the Epcot Resort-area resort when booking two nights at the standard price before February 28, 2017 for stays through Jan. 31, 2018. The offer is not valid December 22 – 31st, 2017.

For those lucky enough to be supporting the winning team, there is even more in store. Residents of that team’s state will celebrate in style with a complimentary room upgrade.

Fans also can enjoy a championship-caliber meal at any of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort’s 17 restaurants and lounges, including Shula’s Steak House, the restaurant of the NFL’s winningest coach, Don Shula.

There’s no better place to celebrate a team’s victory than the place known for championship celebrations.

For further details on this fantastic offer visit:www.swandolphin.com/offers/biggame.html or call 1-800-227-1500 and mention their home state.

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 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.

Image copyright Disney.

Planet Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs is Open!

By

Chip

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January 30, 2017

Planet Hollywood, America’s preeminent restaurant destination dedicated to celebrating the entertainment industry, will open its Orlando flagship location, Planet Hollywood Observatory, today, January 30^th, 2017. Centrally located to all the nearby attractions, the restaurant overlooks the heart of Disney Springs, the dining, retail and entertainment district located at Walt Disney World Resort. Multi-million dollar renovations have transformed Planet Hollywood’s iconic globe into a four-story stargazing observatory with new spaces including an outdoor terrace and lounge, a new menu and an exciting new look and feel. The 36,000-square-foot restaurant invites patrons of all ages to “Dine Amongst the Stars” with an immersive theatrical dining experience unlike anything before.

Designed by Elkus Manfredi Architects, each floor was created to provide a different experience so guests can return again and again, discovering a new adventure each time. Walls and glass displays throughout the restaurant are adorned with imagery as well as a curated collection of memorabilia that pays homage to a long tradition of filmmaking and Planet Hollywood Observatory’s continued commitment to the new, rising stars of the entertainment industry. Along with a state-of-the-art 4,500-square-foot video wall, Planet Hollywood Observatory guests will be mesmerized by three-dimensional interiors that come to life through Trompe L’oeil 3D technology, an art technique that uses realistic imagery to create the optical illusion that the depicted objects exist not on the screen but in the space itself.

“We wanted Planet Hollywood Observatory to re-invent what is expected from themed dining. What we’ve created here is a stand-alone destination that evokes the feeling of early 20^th century Florida and fits into the greater story of Disney Springs,” said Planet Hollywood International Founder and Chairman Robert Earl. “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome guests, and our wonderful staff, into this newly reimagined space.”

An enhanced, yet timeless menu highlights Planet Hollywood’s classic dishes, introducing a savory selection of “Big Bite Burgers” and over the top Signature Sandwiches from dynamic chef, restaurateur and television personality Guy Fieri and new decadent sweets that include hand-dipped milkshakes and indulgent shareable desserts. A curated beverage program features a variety of wines, bottled and draft beers, as well as cocktails served in specialty glassware to cater to the needs of all guests, from groups with small children to young adults and seniors.

The Stargazers lounge, a 5,000-square-foot outdoor expansion overlooking Disney Springs, allows guests to relax under the stars while enjoying cocktails and live entertainment al fresco. A dedicated beverage menu, focused on Florida craft beers, touts 20 different taps as well as 10 signature cocktails infused with classic Floridian ingredients, such as the Stargazer with Stoli Blueberi vodka, lemonade, fresh blueberries and basil, and The Observatory with Stoli vodka, Limoncino Bottega, Monin Peach Tea and Candoni Prosecco.

Planet Hollywood Observatory is now officially open to the public and is open daily from 11am until 1am.

Stay tuned to our official review.

Top 5 Lunch Spots at the Disney World Resorts

By

Catie

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January 30, 2017

You know when you’re hanging out at the Disney Parks, riding rides, taking selfies, and having a great old time – and then suddenly – BOOM – HUNGER HITS – and it hits hard and fast, catches you off guard and suddenly you’re like OMG I gotta grab some LUNCH! Well – lucky for you, Disney World has SO MANY places to eat – and even LUCKIER for you – not only did I give you a rundown of the 5 best Lunch Spots at the WDW Parks last week, but I am back with another list of the Top 5 Lunch Spots at the Disney World Resorts:

Beaches And Cream: This “retro” soda fountain located at WDW’s Beach Club Resort is themed after the Atlantic seashore, with a “boardwalk-y” feel that will have you feeling nostalgic for the good ole’ days! Burgers, fries (and killer onion rings!), sandwiches (including a patty melt and reuben!) and salads are all on the lunch menu, but the real star here is the ice cream – cone, cup, or sundae – have it any way you like it, but I personally prefer the sundaes – the No Way Jose (chocolate peanut butter), milky way, and fudge mudslide are all amazing – but if you’re feeling EXTRA hungry, you might want to try the Kitchen Sink – a HUGE sundae served in an actual metal sink, with tons of ice cream and other assorted toppings (including a whole CAN of whipped cream) – this behemoth serves 4 adults (or fewer if the adults are super starving!)

Wave…Of American Flavors: Fresh New American Cuisine is what you’ll find here – as they pride themselves on the creation and execution of unique and healthy dishes that are also super delicious, too. Salads like Caesar and a tomato mozzarella are a perfect lighter choice, and their signature Bison burger and fresh grilled catch of the day fish are good choices, too. They have a large beer and wine menu as well, and also offer some delicious fresh coffee beverages as well. The Wave is located at WDW’s Contemporary Resort – so it’s not only the perfect place to go for something light and healthy, but it’s the perfect excuse to take a ride on the monorail, too!

Grand Floridian Café: The location of this quiet spot can’t be beat – nestled in among the rose gardens and courtyard pool at WDW’s Grand Floridian Resort – this spot is elegant and classy (but still family friendly and unpretentious, too!). The Cobb salad is a must-try, and the kobe burger just melts in your mouth! Salads, soups, sandwiches and daily specials are also on the menu, as well as an assortment of adult cocktails. This truly is a hidden gem of a spot – that people don’t always remember even exists, but is well worth the trip

Kona Café: Disney’s Polynesian Resort is one of my favorite places to go – it’s so tropical and just has the best vibe – it makes me feel so relaxed and happy! One of the reasons I head over there is to have lunch at the Kona Café – their American dishes with a strong Asian flare are fresh, delicious and always keep me coming back time and time again. Pot stickers and sticky chicken wings make for the perfect appetizer to nibble on while you watch the open air sushi kitchen prepare your tempura or volcano roll right before your very eyes! If you’re not into sushi, fear not – as you can enjoy barbeque pork tacos, or Asian style noodles. And don’t forget to order a Kona Coffee French press – you won’t regret it!

Whispering Canyon Café: Introverts beware: this is NOT the dining experience for you! Head over to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge for this Old West themed dining spot, where antics are always on the menu – it’s a perfect spot for kids – with coloring, sing alongs, and hobby horse races galore. The staff are all jokesters and pranksters too – but it’s all in good fun! The most popular items on the menu here are the “all you care to enjoy skillet” which is served family style – and piled high with pork ribs, pulled pork, roasted chicken, potatoes, baked beans, and corn on the cob. Make sure you bring your appetites – because the “Sheriff’s Shakes” are bottomless, too. Audience participation here is a must – so if you’re looking for a great interactive meal, this is the place for you!

Those who say breakfast is the most important meal of the day clearly have never checked out these WDW Resort dining locations at lunch time! There are some definite advantages to having lunch at a WDW Resort (and away from the Parks!) – you can really avoid some crowds, and the variety of food is huge! Plus – gives you a chance to get away from the insanity that is the Parks around lunchtime – and enjoy a more quiet, relaxed lunch at the Resorts!

Magic Kingdom’s Maple Popcorn is Good Alternative to the Traditional

By

Lisette R

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January 30, 2017

Walt Disney World sells a lot of popcorn on a daily basis. During 2016, they added a refillable option to their traditional souvenir popcorn buckets, and at $1.50 per refill, it is a great option. Magic Kingdom has recently added a Maple Popcorn option that is a good alternative to traditional popcorn.

We were pleased to discover that the Maple Popcorn is available as a refillable option. One word of note here is that the initial refillable souvenir bucket is $11.00, rather than the standard $10.00 for traditional popcorn, as pictured above. Specialty Popcorn Buckets are not part of the refillable option. The refills remain at $1.50, for your length of stay, thus making this a good deal overall.

The Maple Popcorn Cart is located in Frontierland, at the bridge entrance to Big Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain, across from Pecos Bill’s. You can ask a Cast Member for a sample and they will give you a small paper sampling cup with a few kernels to try before you decide to purchase. The Cast Member notified me that they cannot serve the popcorn piping hot. The maple has to set on the popcorn kernels and cool slightly. The popcorn was still pretty warm and absolutely delicious.

We rarely buy popcorn at Walt Disney World because we do not care for traditional popcorn. After sampling the Maple Popcorn we did purchase the refillable bucket, keeping in mind that currently Frontierland is the only location we can have our bucket refilled with Maple Popcorn. The Maple Popcorn can also be purchased for $5.25, in a standard cardboard popcorn box, if the refillable souvenir bucket does not work for your needs.

What do you think about Disney adding a Maple Popcorn option to their Popcorn menu? Please leave your comments in the box below.

Amorette’s Patisserie at Disney Springs to Begin Offering Cake Decorating Classes

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 29, 2017

If you love Amorette’s devilishly decadent themed Dome Cakes as much as we do then you’ll be pleased to know that word on the street is they may be sharing their secrets with a new cake decorating class.

Disney Food Blog is the first to report that during a recent Festival of the Arts workshop, Amorette’s was offering sign-ups for those interested in attending one of these classes at their Disney Springs location. You can find their article here.

Already a hit with Disney visitors as well as locals, Amorette’s opened its doors in May of last year and has become the ultimate indulgence for those with a sweet tooth or those looking for a memorable way to celebrate their special occasion. Amorette’s serves up an amazing array of goodies including cakes, tarts, meringues, macarons, eclairs and crepes.

A highlight of a visit to Amorette’s is that at various times throughout the day you can actually watch the staff hard at work decorating these delightful creations. Visit Amorette’s website for more information and to view their menu.

Watch this space for further details on how you can learn cake decorating from the masters over at Amorette’s.

Planning a trip to Disney? Fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote.

Find articles like this helpful? They why not consider booking with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I can help you with everything from finding your perfect package to planning out your days at the parks and am always full of tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your time at the parks. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025 via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.