Planet Hollywood Resort coming to the Walt Disney World Area

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August 25, 2016

Coming to the Lake Buena Vista area in 2018, the all new Planet Hollywood’s Premiere Resort-Residences Orlando.

On the shores of more than 400 acres of spring-fed waters in the heart of Lake Buena Vista, within sight of the world’s most renowned theme parks and attractions, an unprecedented luxury hotel and spa is taking shape – a premier destination designed for today’s elite traveler. Orlando is now America’s most visited destination. It’s time we gave them an unforgettable new experience. With over 62 million visitors each year, Orlando is ready to redefine luxury on its own terms, with ph Premiere^™ Resort-Residences Orlando.

Following the success of Planet Hollywood’s first hotel, located at the center of the famed Las Vegas Strip, Planet Hollywood Hotels is expanding its brand and opening the most innovative resort-residences ever to take shape on the Orlando skyline, ph Premiere Resort-Residences Orlando.

Orlando has eclipsed New York as the most popular tourist destination in America, with over 62 million visitors last year. Soon every visitor will enjoy the possibility of an encounter with true luxury in one of 139 lavish suites, all of which are available for individual ownership. Combining the sophistication of Manhattan, the glamour of Hollywood, the passion of Miami and the excitement of Las Vegas, ph Premiere will deliver an environment ideally suited to adults as well as families, with elevated services and superlative amenities for discerning travelers.

Located in the heart of Orlando’s desirable Lake Buena Vista district, ph Premiere is no more than 10 or 15 minutes from the city’s most famous theme parks and attractions, while downtown and the airport are just 20 minutes away.

To give you an idea of it’s location here is a map of the area.

Less than 10 mins from:

Epcot
Walt Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets
SeaWorld
Disney Springs

Less than 20 minutes from:

Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom
Universal Studios
The Mall at Millenia
Florida Mall
Downtown Orlando
Orlando International Airport
Amway Center

Here are some of the Amenities available.

Finally check out this video.

Blu-Ray Review: Grey’s Anatomy Season 12

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 25, 2016

Season 12 of Grey’s Anatomy experienced a lot of ups and downs. Besides this being the first season without Derek (I swear, I’ll get over it), it begins with Bailey being the new chief, April and Jackson and their mess, a new resident that’s not welcome, a new surgeon that’s not welcome, babies and court cases and death, oh my!

I’ve been a huge Grey’s Anatomy fan since Season one, and I’ve re-watched the episodes over and over. This being the 11th season it feels like I know these characters better than ever. Ellen Pompeo as Meredith Grey, the title character, has grown as any ‘real’ person would. It’s very refreshing to see actual human changes in a fictional character. Supported by Justin Chambers (Karev), Chandra Wilson (Bailey), and James Pickens Jr. (Webber) from the get go, the surprises from familiar characters are always great! I’d list off the rest off the characters and actors that have joined the central cast as the years have gone by, but this article would be as long as the show has been on! Let’s just say owning the Blu-Ray just makes my obsession ever easier to facilitate.

The bonus features are a fun added gift for the longterm viewer.

In Stitches – the blooper/gag reel that is always so much fun to watch! This one is great as well.

Deleted Scenes – there are actually two deleted scenes that are featured on this disc. They must have been cut for time, because I can completely understand why they were written and filmed. And don’t quite understand why they were left out of the final edit.

If you are a Grey’s fan, this set belongs in your collection!

Watch How “Frozen, a Musical Spectacular” is Adapted to the Stage Aboard the Disney Wonder

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 25, 2016

The Disney Wonder will debut new enhancements this fall including a brand-new stage show in the Walt Disney Theatre called “Frozen, a Musical Spectacular.” Disney Cruise Line will combine the latest technology with old fashioned story telling in order to bring the musical based on the number one animated feature film of all time, “Frozen,” to life.

Hear from the team of distinguished creative talent with Broadway credits and theatrical accolades, about the making of “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular.” Take a look…

The 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre aboard the Disney Wonder provides the perfect setting to immerse audiences in the kingdom of Arendelle and showcase the film’s renowned score. Songs like “For the First Time in Forever” and “Love is an Open Door” will be expanded into ensemble pieces, and the film’s wintry wizardry will be realized in lavish production numbers of “In Summer” and “Fixer Upper.”

The production features the popular music and lyrics by the creators of the “Frozen” film score, Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, and is adapted from the screenplay by four-time Tony Award nominee Chad Beguelin (“Gotta Dance,” “Aladdin,” “The Wedding Singer,” “Elf”).

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next cruise aboard the Disney Wonder! All of my vacation planning services are FREE!

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

New Bus Service Direct to Disney Springs from Disney World Theme Parks

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 25, 2016

Disney Transportation will offer direct bus service from all Walt Disney World theme parks to Disney Springs beginning on August 28, 2016. According to WDWmagic, the new route is one-way only, which means guests will need to return to a Walt Disney World Resort hotel before heading to the theme parks. Direct service from the parks to Disney Springs will run daily from 4p.m. to 11p.m or up until two hours after the parks close, whichever is earlier.

A new bus loop and bus terminal at Disney Springs recently opened, which allows guests to be dropped off directly in front of the main entrance to Town Center. This new transportation option, along with new shopping and dining opportunities, will certainly help entice guests to visit Disney Springs after a busy day at the parks.

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

Source: http://www.wdwmagic.com

Epcot’s Best Kept Secret – The World Showcase Wine Walk

By

Chip

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August 25, 2016

One of Epcot’s best kept secrets is the World Showcase Wine Walk. For just $25 you can enjoy this year around tour in Epcot without having to wait for a special event like the Food & Wine or Flower & Garden Festival.

To get started all you need to do is purchase a Wine Walk Passport from any of the Wine Kiosks in the German, Italian or French Pavilions. The Wine Walk Passport comes with a map, list of available wines, and a suggested food pairing for each wine.

The Epcot Wine Walk includes six pre-selected wines, one red and one white in each country but unfortunately there are no substitutions.

You can choose between one of each wine (red/white) or you can select the same wine twice. Your Wine Walk does not expire so you can do your Wine Walk all in one day or space it out over a few days, just make sure you keep your receipt and your Wine Walk Passport, as you receive stamps on each stop.

The wines are delicious and certainly a value. Think of the Wine Walk as an adult version of the Kidcot Fun Station but with alcohol! This is a great activity to do after having a meal in Epcot while you are walking around the World Showcase.

Have you tried this in Epcot? Tell us what you think in the comment box below.

Photo credit wdwtoday

Air conditioner issues at Disney’s Polynesian Bungalows

By

Chip

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August 24, 2016

It is being reported that the air conditioning units for the Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are not working correctly. Disney has been sending out letters to guests who are staying at the bungalows in the upcoming weeks warning them of the issues.

Here is a copy of the letter being mailed out:

Aloha and Welcome Home!

We are delighted you have chosen to spend your vacation at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

Before your arrival, we would like to make you aware that we are experiencing intermittent challenges with the air conditioning in our bungalows. We have added temporary air conditioning units to the master bedrooms that helps bring the rooms to a comfortable temperature until a permanent solution can be implemented.

We apologize for this inconvenience and are committed to providing a wonderful experience. Therefore, we will offer a daily housekeeping service and will be waiving the associated fee during your stay.

Should you need assistance with your reservation, please contact Disney Vacation Club Member Services at 800-800-9800 or 407-566-3800 between the hours of 9:00am-7:30pm (ET) Monday through Friday or 9:00am-5:30pm (ET) Saturday and Sunday. One of our Vacation Advisors will be happy to assist you.

Thank you for being a valued part of the Disney Vacation Club family. We eagerly await your arrival and wish you a truly magical stay!

Sincerely,

Victor Yordan

General Manager of Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Resort

There has been many complaints from guests considering the high temperatures and the even higher cost to stay at these bungalows. No word on when Disney will have these units fixed but I know I would be upset if I was staying here, what about you?

The ABC Show Blackish is filming today in the Magic Kingdom

By

Chip

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August 24, 2016

Guests are reporting that the gang from ABC’s Blackish are filming out at the Magic Kingdom today.

Trust me to find this. They’re filming an episode of #Blackish at Disney World today. Haha @WhatsFilming pic.twitter.com/7gRyYuithR

— Julie Holden (@jholden23) August 24, 2016

They have been spotted in the Storybook Circus area just a few moments ago.

#blackish is filming their season premiere this week at @WaltDisneyWorld!! Follow our Instagram story for some fun! pic.twitter.com/TmbJxK3oSk

— black-ish (@black_ishABC) August 23, 2016

The Disney World episode will feature the Johnson family visiting all four parks at Walt Disney World Resort: Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Jim Rash guest stars as Cody, the VIP tour guide that Dre hires to ensure his family has the most magical experience possible.

Raglan Road Presents the “Great Irish Hooley” this Labor Day Weekend

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 24, 2016

Celebrate the 5th anniversary of Raglan Road’s “Great Irish Hooley” over Labor Day Weekend with craft beer, cool cocktails, authentic Irish food and a brand-new live show called “Rhythms of Raglan”. The “Great Irish Hooley” festival signifies the half-way point to St. Patrick’s Day and what better place to celebrate than at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs!

Taking place September 2-5, 2016 over the long Labor Day Weekend, this music-festival-meets-festive-food soiree mixes authentic Irish entertainment with some of the best bites and sips this side of the Emerald Isle. The fun begins at noon on Friday, September 2nd and runs through last call the following Monday.

There is a nice mix of family-friendly offerings and late-night performance so there is something for everyone to enjoy. There will even be Celtic face-painting available Saturday through Monday. Below are a few of the acts that will be performing during the “Great Irish Hooley.”

Screaming Orphans – Four talented sisters from Bundoran in County Donegal, Ireland, combine original pop/rock music with the Ceili (kay-lee) traditional music of their family roots. Their dynamic show has taken the festival circuit by storm.

Jake Richardson – Jake is a singer-songwriter and musician from Dublin whose passion for music inspires audiences as he entertains with unique vocals and catchy songs.

Flat Out – Flat Out is an award winning four-piece band from the West of Ireland that plays an exciting mix of folk, traditional, pop and New World music. Band members are all multi-instrumentalists combining Irish harp, guitar, fiddle, tin whistle, flute, button accordion, bodhran. They play fresh original music along with funky cover music and have been playing and travelling the world since 2013.

Marianne Fraser Band – Marianne is one of the most sought after guitarists and songwriters on the Irish music scene who is ably supported by Danny Hunter on fiddle and Ali Levack on whistles and pipes. The band performs a high-energy mix of traditional and modern tunes along with Marianne’s own compositions.

Swingin’ On the Gate – This four-piece band of multi-instrumentalists with roots in legendary Lisdoonvarna in Co. Clare have serious crossover credentials and musical pedigree including traditional and classical training. They are multiple medal winners at Fleadhs music competitions and have toured in Italy, Switzerland and the United States.

The Raglan Roots Coalition – 10 years down the road, Raglan felt it was time to shake its boogie – Roots style, with this new Irish house band. Think soul-rocking Celtic bluegrass with some hip-swingin’, knee-shakin’ funky roots beats.

The High Road – These young, traditional Irish musicians met in University in Ireland. A predominately Irish traditional group, they also play British folk, blues and soul, and their combined talents provide for a vibrant, exciting live show of music and song.

Cooney & Ryan – One of the finest traditional Irish music duos around, these accomplished, energetic musicians often invite the crowd to sing along.

The Raglan Road Irish Dancers – Plucked from the cast and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows, the Raglan Road Dancers perform throughout the long Hooley weekend. You can even learn some traditional Irish dance steps – no experience necessary!

Rythms of Raglan – This 90 minute live show will take place on September 2 at 4p.m. and on September 3, 4, and 5 at both 1p.m. and 4p.m. It is a spectacle of music and dance that was produced in Ireland and directed by David Hayes of “Riverdance” and “The Voice: Ireland Edition.” The show was choreographed in part by Michael Donnellan, famous for his work in “Lord of the Dance.”

If you’ll be at Walt Disney World Resort over Labor Weekend then be sure to stop by Raglan Road and join in the “Great Irish Hooley” festivities. For the full entertainment schedule, visit www.raglanload.com and www.greatirishhooley.com closer to the event.

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

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Celebrate National Waffle Day with a Mickey Waffle

By

Chip

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August 24, 2016

Happy National Waffle Day!

What better way to celebrate National Waffle Day than with a Mickey Waffle? These fluffy and delicious treats can be found all over Walt Disney World!

You can also make your own from home, from Star Wars Waffles to your very own Mickey or Minne Mouse Waffles.

For you trivia buffs, National Waffle day is celebrated in the United States on August 24 to recognize the date Cornelius Swartwout was issued a patent for the waffle iron back in 1869.

What do you like on your Mickey Waffles? Let us know in the comment box below.

New Winter Savings Offer at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 24, 2016

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii is celebrating its 5th anniversary with a new winter savings offer! Guests can save 35% on a 5+ night consecutive stay in an Ocean View room most nights from January 2 through March 24, 2017. The booking deadline for this offer is February 13, 2017.

It pays to book your 2017 Aulani vacation sooner than later because guests who book their stay between August 23 and October 3, 2016 will receive a free meal at Ulu Cafe per person, per night of their stay.

Offer Details:

Early Booking Offer Window: Aug. 23-Oct. 3, 2016
Broad Booking Window: Oct. 4, 2016-Feb. 13, 2017
Travel Window: Jan. 2-March 24, 2017

Savings based on the non-discounted rate for the same room. The number of rooms allocated for this offer may be limited. Limit 2 rooms per reservation. Excludes suites and 3-bedroom Grand Villas. Additional charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room. Cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. Advance reservations required.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next vacation at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii. All of my planning services are FREE and can help save you both time and money!

Photo Credit: Disney

Marvel Releases A Sneak Peek Of Bonus Features From “Captain America: Civil War” Blu-Ray

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 23, 2016

“Captain America: Civil War” Blu-Ray release is slated for next month, with it, as usual are a handful of bonus features. Marvel has released some of the video clips included in the disc, to spark the interest of fans. Not that we really need sparking.

The first clip released runs only 30 seconds. Featuring Zemo (Daniel Bruhl) meeting Dr. Broussard (co-Director Joe Russo) for the first time.

Along with the deleted scenes are two clips from the making of documentary.

Here’s a list of all the bonus features

– United We Stand, Divided We Fall
The Making of Captain America: Civil War Part 1 & Part 2

– Captain America: The Road to Civil War
Explore the First Avenger’s fascinating evolution from loyal soldier to seasoned, conflicted hero
who questions authority.

– Iron Man: The Road to Civil War
A look into the development and evolution of one of the most iconic characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

– Gag Reel
Who does love a good gag reel? Watch some hilarious outtakes featuring the lighter side of your favorite Super Heroes.

– Deleted & Extended Scenes
Check out never-before-seen footage that didn’t make the final cut of Captain America: Civil War

– Audio Commentary
Directors Anthony and Joe Russo and screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely deliver
scene-by-scene insight and explain the storytelling challenges they faced creating the third
installment of the Captain America franchise.

Open Your Mind: Marvel’s Doctor Strange
Exclusive Sneak Peek – Go behind and beyond the scenes as Doctor Strange makes his journey to the big screen.

“Captain America: Civil War” hits Digital HD, Digital 3D and Disney Movies Anywhere on September 2nd and Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray, DVD and On-Demand on September 13th.

Disney Parks Halloween Merchandise Now Available

By

Danielle

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August 23, 2016

It looks like Halloween merchandise has been in full swing at the Disney Parks this week. Yesterday we saw the reveal of some fright-tastic new Nightmare Before Christmas apparel and pins. Today the Disney Parks Blog gave a peek at the spooktacular purple, orange and green Disney Parks Halloween merchandise.

This year’s Halloween collection features new looks created by Disney Design Group artists. The artists created a large style guide for the merchandising team to use. The new products have a new stylized feel, but haven’t lost the whimsical touch we’ve come to know and love. There are a few returning favorites like the light up Mickey trick or treat bucket, and pumpkin Mickey candle holder. A new item that has really caught my eye is the Pumpkin Mickey Lumiery. It has the well known pumpkin Mickey face and sworly ears, but with a geometric feel.

Part of this year’s style guide included the character posters pictures above. These ghoulish posters are inspired by the horror moves of the 50s. The posters display characters dressed in costumes themed for lands found at the Disney Parks. The Terror in Tomorrowland with Donald, quacks me up! These designs and posters were used on some of the items available this Halloween.

It looks like there’s some faBOOlously comfy attire available to keep us cozy on a chilly autumn evening. Lots of bright socks, hoodies and hats fill with orange, purple, black and green whimsy! I’m totally eyeing the Black Pumpkin Mickey hoodie and matching socks!

Frightful t-shirts are also available, with character features inspired by the horror movie throw back designs. There is Hallween apparel for all ages available! Other items that will be available this year are Mickey ghost and pumpkin necklaces, car antenna topper, pins, candy and plushes!

Get ready guys and ghouls because with all the ghostly Disney Parks Halloween Merchandise this is going to be a Happy Haunted Halloween!