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SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular Event Review

SWS

SWS

SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular Event takes place every weekend during the month of October.  I had the pleasure of experiencing this fun, and only slightly spooky, event recently.  From animal encounters, whimsical pumpkins and trick-or-treating, to character meets and the Sesame Street Countdown to Halloween Show, there is something here for everyone.

When I arrived to the event I had to check in.  I was told that there are maps along the path.  If you wish to have a paper map of the park be sure to pick one up at the front entrance.  To follow the trick-or-treat path, just look for the “Enter Here” signs with the candy corn base.

The animal encounters were quite interesting.  These beautiful creatures were visible outside amongst the people, which was really a special way to experience a visual encounter with them.  The most popular animal, amongst the younger set, was the miniature owl.

There were whimisical pumpkins in various locations around the park.  Each location presented a fun photo opportunity.

There were plenty of trick-or-treat stations along the trick-or-treat path.  The SeaWorld Team Members were energetic and had a smile at the ready when you said the magic words; “Trick-or-Treat.”  You are able to go back to the stations as often as you like.  Be aware that there are a lot of stations and the path is actually quite long.  Great fun for the little ones!

All along the extensive event path, you will meet a variety of characters.  They interact with the children by asking them questions, telling jokes, dancing, and posing for photos with them.

There are many photo opportunities throughout the park.  Just look along the path and see what you can find.

The trick-or-treat bags are really adorable.  I felt compelled to have my bag take a selfie with one of the whimsical pumpkins on display.

The Sesame Street Countdown to Halloween stage show was my favorite part of the event.  The characters were cute and funny.  The Count was slightly spooky, as only he can be.  There are some darkened moments during the show.  However, it is never completely dark.  Each part of the show is set to music and children can sing and dance along too. I can assure you that you will have “The Monster Mash” stuck in your head for days!

SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular is a wonderful family friendly event.  I recommend this for anyone with young children.  Be sure to dress up in a fun costume and be prepared to have fun.

Will you be attending a Spooktacular Event this October?  Please leave your comments in the box below.

 

It’s Not Too Late to take Advantage of the Gift of Magic Room Offer at Walt Disney World

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Between now and December 21, 2016, you have the opportunity to save up to 25% on your December 2016 or January 2017- April 2017 Walt Disney World Vacation!

 

Booking Window:
Oct. 3 – Dec. 21, 2016

Travel Window:
Dec. 15 – 23, 2016 and Jan. 1 – April 8, 2017

Full List of Disney Resort Hotel Exclusions:
Campsites, 3-bedroom villas, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalows, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms. Additional exclusion for Dec. 15 – 23, 2016 only: Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter.

 

You better book now before the offer is gone!

 

Contact me today to get more information and your Free quote. If you would like to visit a Disney Destination, but are unsure of where to begin planning your Disney vacation, 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.

Walt Disney World Resort Specific Paper Cups Now Available

Paper Cups

We recently reported that Disneyland Resort specific paper cups were spotted in California.  We are happy to report that you can also get Walt Disney World Resort specific paper cups at Walt Disney World in Florida.  The cup featured in this article was discovered at the Be Our Guest restaurant in the Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.  Upon further investigation, these cups exist at most quick service locations throughout the Walt Disney World Parks.

The paper cups boast the same Autumn Halloween print we see on the paper popcorn buckets at the Walt Disney World Resort Parks. With Halloween fast-approaching, we are curious to see if there will be a winter holiday fountain drink cup.  While at Epcot today, I asked a Manager at one of the quick service restaurants about this  He confirmed that in fact there will be a winter holiday print on the fountain drink cups.  The question then will be, whether the cups are Walt Disney World Resort specific.  We will certainly pay attention to these details and check back when November rolls around.

We are not sure if the Disney Resorts will go back to the standard red and yellow “Disney Parks” cups when the Autumn and Winter holidays are past.  Stay tuned here for future updates.

What do you think about having Disneyland and Disney World resort specific cups?  Please leave your comments in the box below.

Paint the Night Returns to Disneyland for the Holidays

Paint the night

Paint the night

Visitors to Disneyland this Holiday Season will be pleased to know that Paint the Night will be returning to once again wow the crowds staring on November 18th.

Disney has announced that they will be running the parade on select evenings in the lead-in to Christmas with performances twice an evening at 6:30pm and 10:30pm.

Guests won’t want to miss the opportunity to check out this dazzling after dark offering featuring special effects, breath-taking light displays and much-loved Disney friends including: Peter Pan, Anna and Elsa, Lightning McQueen, Belle and characters from Toy Story and Monsters Inc.

Disney has not yet released official word on a closing date for Paint the Night nor is there any further information on when the Main Street Electrical Parade will make its West Coast début.

Readers are encouraged to watch this space for further details.

Are you planning a trip to Disneyland? 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 discounts and will even be on hand to share my tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your time at the parks. Best of all my services are FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025 via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.  

Image copyright Disney.

Add an Extra Disney Touch with a Minnie Mouse Car Visor Storage Pocket

Minnie Mouse Car Visor

I love adding extra touches of Disney to my car. It’s a great way to have a little Disney magic with me where ever I go. This Minnie Mouse Car Visor Storage Pocket is perfect for that! It adds a little bit of Disney, but also serves as a functional car item as well.

The Minnie Mouse Car Visor Storage PocketAdd an Extra Disney Touch with a Minnie Mouse Car Visor Storage Pocket, slips over your car’s visor, to add a touch of the iconic Disney leading lady herself. It features three small pockets that are perfect for tucking tiny needs for the car inside. The visor has the infamous black and red Minnie Mouse motif, with her signature polka dots. It also has the most adorable embellishment of her polka dotted bow!

It’s a perfect touch for anyone looking to add a little more Disney pizazz to their vehicle! What do you think of this Minnie Mouse Car Visor Storage PocketAdd an Extra Disney Touch with a Minnie Mouse Car Visor Storage Pocket?

A Guest Perspective On Attending A Whimsical Disney Wedding

Disney Wedding

As we can all imagine, planning a Disney Wedding takes a lot of effort, time and thought.  A Disney Wedding is going to reflect the personalities, styles, and traditions of the Bride and Groom.  Something else the happy couple will consider is the comfort and enjoyment of their guests during this magical day.  I would like to share with you a guest perspective on attending a Whimsical Disney Wedding.

Imagine my surprise when the Bride and Groom told me I would need to be at the Contemporary Resort for a special bus pick up to be transported to the wedding.  And here I was thinking I would just walk into the park and check in as a wedding guest at the appropriate location.  Since the wedding was in the World Showcase at Epcot, I was expecting the bus to take us to the International Gateway.  I was amazed when I realized we were being transported behind the scenes to an unknown destination.  We came around the back side of Epcot, behind Test Track, along the outer perimeter of the park, and ended up between Canada and the United Kingdom.  From my perspective, this wedding was off to a great start with its many surprises!

The arrival saga continued as we were greeted by a Cast Member who was to be our transportation guide specialist.  She was dressed complete with an orange safety transportation vest, similar to that of a school crossing guard, and an orange directional glow-wand. Her name was Ann and she was an absolute joy.  My group was laughing so hard, we were practically crying.  I mean who knew that arriving to a wedding would be this much fun?

The Disney Wedding I attended took place outdoors at the Canada Pavillion. Central Florida offers some of the best weather in our country during the month of October.  The lovely gardens of the World Showcase Canada, along with the contrast of the white elements offset by the decorative purples and blues, made for a beautiful backdrop for this Whimsical Disney Wedding.  After the wedding ceremony, each guest was given a purple tube of bubbles.  We lined up on both sides of the walkway and greeted the Bride and Groom with thousands of bubbles.  We were then met again by Cast Member Ann as she led us to the magical gate that transported us back to our special bus.

Our bus transported us to the Grand Floridian Resort where we were directed to the Whitehall Patio and Courtyard.  The whimsical teapots were such a sweet surprise and were perfect for the theme of the wedding.  I was beyond impressed with the assortment of lovely cheeses, fresh fruits, breads and crackers that were available for the enjoyment of the guests.  There was also champagne, Mimosas, and non-alcoholic beverages as well.

After the Bride and Groom arrived, we were directed to the reception room.  The first thing that caught my eye was the whimsical table displays.  From the stacked-angled teacups and saucers, to the teapots encased in flowers, the tables were absolutely lovely.  Instead of traditional place cards, the tables featured Embroidered Mickey Ears to define where each guest would sit.

The Bride and Groom’s table was set, but as is the case with most weddings, the Bride and Groom did not get to eat very much!  From the perspective of this guest, the Cheddar Cheese Soup was magnifique and the fresh fruit with cream was a light and perfect brunch option.

The wedding cake was a perfect match for the Whimsical Mad Hatter theme of the wedding.  I was amazed at how each layer of the cake leaned perfectly in a variety of directions.  Mickey and Minnie graced the top of the cake in a beautiful teacup.  The cake looked much to good to eat.  However, the cutting of the cake was imminent as I saw the Mickey and Minnie knife and cake server on the table beside the cake.

The wedding cake featured a Hidden Mickey and Hidden Minnie on the back side.  You know you are at a Disney-themed event when you begin finding Hidden Mickeys.  I am not a big fan of cake but I admit that I actually ate the cake and loved it!  In fact, I ate the entire piece of pineapple-strawberry-basil that I was offered.  The cake literally melted in my mouth.  The pineapple cake with the strawberry-basil filling, was not like any cake I had ever eaten before.  From my perspective, the cake itself was very moist and the flavor combination was perfection.  The chocolate-almond-almond looked amazing but I simply could not eat another bite at that point.

And what would a Disney Wedding be without a visit from Mickey and Minnie?  Having them arrive at the wedding, start a dance party, and assist the Bride and Groom with the cutting of their cake was so much fun.  They were both dressed in their wedding finery. Mickey showed off his dance moves and had us all laughing.  Before they left they posed for pictures with the Bride, the Groom, and the Guests.

My perspective on this beautiful Whimsical Disney Wedding is that the Magic was like nothing I have ever experienced before.  I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to be a part of such a special day in the lives of my friends.  If you ever have the chance to attend a Disney Wedding, do not pass it up.  My experience has left me with new friends and memories to last a lifetime.

Have you ever attended a Disney Wedding?  Please leave your comments in the box below.

 

 

 

 

 

New Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital DVD Review Now Available!

Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital DVD

Doc McStuffins was an instant favorite in our house the moment the previews started arriving. I remember watching the first episode with my son as we squealed with delight. Being such a popular favorite in our home, we were delighted when we had the chance to review the Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital DVDNew Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital DVD Review Now Available!!

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Doc McStuffins is a popular Disney Junior show that is now in it’s fourth season. We’ve experienced Doc’s backyard clinic, her on the go mobile clinic, toy vet clinic, and now she’s inherited her very own Toy Hospital! There’s been hints that Grandma McStuffins is aware of Doc’s ability to talk with her toys for a bit now. I even got a little teary eyed when I realized oh, grandma knows! Much the same was as I did when we realized Aunt Tilly knew about Sofia’s amulet.

This DVD features the special that introduces Doc, and us to the McStuffinsville, and the amazing Toy Hospital! The DVD also features the heartwarming Adoption story arc.

Synopsis: Join Doc as she expands her practice from the backyard clinic to the magical new world of McStuffinsville, where she will carry on a family tradition by becoming Chief Resident of McStuffins Toy Hospital. After Grandma McStuffins shares the news that she too has the ability to bring toys to life, she transports Doc and her friends to McStuffinsville, a magical world made up entirely of toys. There, Doc appoints Lambie in charge of the toy nursery, Stuffy on vet duty, Chilly as receptionist and Hallie as head nurse.

We really enjoyed this DVD, in fact I think it’s probably our favorite collection yet. I thought the Pet Vet series was going to be hard to beat, but this one has for sure surpassed. This season is full of touching tales, heartfelt lessons, new toys, and a bit of growing up with the audience. The show features amazing content for helping preschooler and toddler aged children with transitions we face day to day. Doc Transitioning from her backyard clinic to her own toy hospital, is much like the transition our little ones face when going from preschool to kindergarten. Doc proves time and time again that you can never give up, and if you put your mind to something, you can do it!

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Of course there is also the bonus item that traditionally comes with Disney Junior new releases too! The Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital DVD has one of my favorite freebies, seconded by the Sofia color changing butterfly necklace! The “Toysponder” is a replica of the gadget Grandma McStuffins gives Doc, to teleport her to McStuffinsville! It’s truly a nice bonus, it looks great, and the quality of the wrist band is quite nice. It’s a sturdy rubber, that feels similar to the colorful rubber cause bracelets. My little one hasn’t taken it off, and has watched the DVD 5 times since it came in the mail on Friday!

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If your little one loves Doc McStuffins, you have to check out the Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital DVDNew Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital DVD Review Now Available!!

 

Raglan Road Celebrates Halloween With New Cocktail

Raglan Road Halloween

Raglan Road Halloween

Will you be visiting Walt Disney World this Halloween Season? Then trace this spooky holiday all the way back to its origins by paying a visit to Raglan Road at Disney Springs where mixologists have come up with a special potion in honor of  Halloween’s Celtic roots.

This delectable libation is called the Druids Samhain Potion and serves as an homage to the 2,000 year old festival that was celebrated in Ireland each October 31st. Samhain marked the end of Fall and signaled the arrival of the darker Winter months.  The Irish would celebrate with pumpkin carving, costumes, masks and many other traditions that have been molded into the Halloween festivities that we celebrate today.

So cozy up to the bar at Raglan Road this Halloween Season and raise a glass to the Irish for handing down these much-loved Halloween customs.

For those not able to make it to Walt Disney World this October, Raglan Road is giving you a special Halloween treat and has agreed to release the recipe for this Celtic cocktail so that you can make a little at home alchemy.

Druids Samhain Potion

  • 2 oz. Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whisky
  • 1.25 oz. Amaretto
  • 2 oz. apple juice
  • 2 oz. cranberry juice
  • 1 oz. maraschino cherry juice

Add all ingredients to shaker, fill with ice. Shake then strain into a rocks glass. Be sure to add some spooky touches.

So whether you’re at the parks, or in the comfort of your own home, give this potion a try.  It’s bound to keep you toasty as the cool Autumn nights begin to set in.

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World? 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’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect resort 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

 

Adventures by Disney Special Offer on Danube River Cruise

Danube River Cruise

If you’ve been thinking about making the leap and trying out an Adventures by Disney Vacation, now is the time to enjoy yourself on the Danube River Cruise with a great promotional discount offered by Adventures by Disney!

 

You can save $500 per person on select categories for the 2017 summer sailings of Adventures by Disney® Danube River Cruises when you book by Dec. 20, 2016.

This 8-day/7-night vacations takes you along the Danube River through the heart of Europe to eight unforgettable destinations in four countries – Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Along the way, you’ll discover the culture, art and stories unique to each location. Get a closer look at this amazing itinerary in this video! 

 

These all-inclusive River Cruises are Adventures by Disney-exclusive sailings with AmaWaterways™ – a leader in luxury river cruising. More info>>  

If you’d like to learn more about an Adventures by Disney Vacation, 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: Adventures by Disney

Loungefly Embossed Leather Red Minnie Mouse Purse

Red Minnie Mouse Purse

I know, I know, I have enough Disney purses, but one more can’t hurt right? I love the contemporary, yet classic look of the Red Minnie Mouse PurseLoungefly Embossed Leather Red Minnie Mouse Purse.

What two things is Minnie Mouse known for? Her bow and polka dots. Both of those are covered on this tote bag from Loungefly. A red body is covered with an embossed Minnie Mouse print, and completed with a black and white polka dot trimmed bottom. The inside even has polka dot printed lining! There’s also a zipper pocket and a pouch pocket and the tote closes with a magnetic button snap. You even have options for the straps on this tote, which is always wonderful.

Best of all you can get this Loungefly Red Minnie Mouse Purse with free shipping on Amazon Prime!

What type of Disney themed purses and bags are your favorite? Do you prefer the understated nods to characters, or the obviously themed ones?

Marvel Publishing and Panini Comics Team-Up to Offer Translated Marvel Collections

Translated Marvel Collections

A new Marvel collaboration will make available one hundred of Marvel best-selling, collections and trades in French, German, and Italian. The Translated Marvel Collections will be available for digital downloads!

Marvel Entertainment, publisher of the most famous Super Heroes in the world – Spider-Man, Captain America, Iron Man, Black Widow, and more, joined forces with Italian publisher, Panini Comics on October 21st, 2016, to launch a vast library of digital Marvel collections and trades individually in French, German, and Italian.
Panini will launch their translated Marvel Trades across the globe, making them available on tablets, smartphones, and mobile devices. The inaugural Marvel and Panini launch catalogue will feature over one hundred Marvel collections which will include some of Marvel’s greatest titles like Civil War, Avengers, Ms. Marvel, Deadpool, and more! More Marvel trades are expected to be added each month, to bring readers further resources to delve into the iconic Marvel Universe.
“The arrival of the Marvel titles in a digital format has been a long time coming…. It’s probably one of the most anticipated e-book launches ever in our markets — we are proud to have made this happen and to be able to bring the Marvel experience in French, German, and Italian to brand new platforms.” says Panini Publishing Director Marco Lupoi.
“Marvel has become a global brand with fans all around the world,” says Marvel SVP Sales and Marketing, David Gabriel. “The partnership with Panini will allow us to introduce Marvel’s rich history of action-packed stories to new audiences who are curious about the continuing adventures of the Avengers, Spider-Man, Black Panther, and the rest of the vast Marvel Universe.”
The digital translated Marvel collections, translated by Panini, are now available through comiXology, Amazon KindleMarvel Publishing and Panini Comics Team-Up to Offer Translated Marvel Collections, Google Play Books, Apple iBooks, Kobo, and more.

Nightmare Before Christmas Returning to Select Theaters

Nightmare Before Christmas

Nightmare Before Christmas

To celebrate the 23rd Anniversary of the much-loved Tim Burton classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Regal Theaters will be running the film as a limited time engagement between October 28 – 31st, 2016.

For a complete list of locations and showtimes, please visit the Regal Entertainment website by clicking here.

Those belonging to the Disney Movie Rewards program can also log into their account here to find out how to purchase tickets and also earn rewards points.

A holiday tradition, this celebrated film  follows Jack Skellington- Halloween Town’s celebrated Pumpkin King, who bored with his daily routine hatches a plan to kidnap Santa from Christmas Town and take over his role.  However, things don’t quite as smoothly as he planned.

Thinking about a Disney Vacation? Fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote.

 

Need help planning your trip to the Mouse? Why not work with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help with everything from finding your perfect resort to helping you get the most out of your days at the parks.  Best of all my services are absolutely FREE.  Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook

Image copyright Disney.