Frozen Ever After celebrates a Summer Snow Day

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April 19, 2016

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Many guests are anxiously anticipating the opening of the new Frozen Ever After ride in the Norway Pavilion this summer. As we get closer to the ride’s opening, we’ve been starting to see/hear more details revealed little by little about the new attraction. We now know that the setting of the ride takes place after the movie leaves off, while Arendelle is celebrating a “Summer Snow Day”.

Disney released more information today about the ride:

“A stone archway entrance greets guests to the kingdom of Arendelle. Queen Elsa, Princess Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, trolls and Marshmallow join them on their boat journey through the frozen willow forest, past Troll Valley and up to the North Mountain to Elsa’s ice palace.

After disembarking, guests can meet the regal sisters in the cozy Royal Sommerhus. Inspired by a cabin in the countryside of Norway, the sisters have opened their summer home for visitors.”

They also released a few “fun facts’ about the ride and it’s design:

Frozen Ever After is the first Frozen-themed attraction and the Royal Sommerhus is Elsa’s and Anna’s permanent meet and greet at Disney Parks.

Guests will witness Elsa’s ice magic on Frozen Ever After.

Composers Bobby Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez created new lyrics to the cherished Frozen film songs.

All of the original voice talent from the film returned and recorded dialogue and songs for the attraction

WDI traveled to Norway to research architecture, décor and artifacts; guests will find their inspiration in the Royal Sommerhus.

The design of Royal Sommerhus and the surrounding area is modeled after a traditional Norwegian cabin in Trondheim.

We’re all waiting patiently for the new ride to open, and can’t wait to see what Norway will have to offer this summer!

Contact me today to take advantage of my FREE Disney Vacation planning services. I specialize in Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my Facebook page here.

Wishes Dessert Party Expands to Accommodate More Guests

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 19, 2016

Wishes Dessert Party in the Magic Kingdom has proven a popular add-on for guests wanting to see their evening fireworks in style. So much so that Disney has recently announced that it will be expanding its Dessert Party area to accommodate even more visitors to the Magic Kingdom eager to have a premium Wishes Nighttime Spectacular viewing experience.

Announcements were made earlier this Spring that Walt Disney World would no longer offer Fastpass+ for fireworks or parade viewings. This meant that a prime bit of fireworks-viewing real estate opened up in the Plaza Gardens, the fenced in garden areas located at the top of Main Street in front of Cinderella’s Castle. Walt Disney World announced that as of April 19th these will provide spill-over for guests attending the Wishes Dessert Party and for the first time would offer same day tickets for the event.

In keeping with the current arrangement, visitors who have purchased a valid ticket for the event will report to Tomorrowland Terrace restaurant where they will be treated to a variety of desserts including: chocolate-dipped strawberries, character-themed cupcakes, chocolate mousse and ice cream. Included in the cost are also a variety of hot and cold beverages: sparkling cider, hot chocolate, lemonades as well as coffee and teas. Just before the fireworks, guests who purchased same-day tickets for the Dessert Party will be ushered to the new viewing areas in the Plaza Gardens. Those who purchased their tickets in advance will have the option of staying at Tomorrowland Terrace’s covered patio area for the duration of Wishes Nighttime Spectacular or can move to Plaza Gardens if they prefer.

Tickets for the Wishes Dessert Party can be purchased up to 180 days in advance at 407-WDW-Dine or by contacting your local travel agent. The cost is $59 for adults and $35 for children ages 3-9. A valid ticket to Magic Kingdom park is also required.

Same day reservations will be available daily from 10:30 am at the Tomorrowland Terrace.

Guests are advised to check in at Tomorrowland Terrace 60 minutes prior to the start of Wishes Nighttime Spectacular. Guests should also note that the event is weather dependent and may be canceled due to inclement weather. Ticket holders should consult a Times Guide for the latest showtimes and information.

With customizations like Wishes Dessert Party, guest to Walt Disney World have a myriad of ways to make your Disney vacation truly one-of-a-kind. As an agent with MickeyTravels, I can help you plan a magical getaway filled with fun options that provide a perfect fit for your family. Email me at [email protected] or get in touch on Facebook and let’s start planning!

Disney Upgrades Star Wars Themed Fireworks “Symphony in the Stars” for Summer Launch

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 19, 2016

Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be the go-to theme park for visitors looking to add a bit of Star Wars magic to their Summer holiday with Disney’s recently announced plans for a new and improved “Symphony in the Stars” fireworks display. This new galactic adventure will play on the popularity of the Magic Kingdom’s Wishes Nighttime Spectacular and Celebrate the Magic with updates that include Star Wars themed projections on to Disney’s replica of Grauman’s Chinese Theater.

The nightly show will utilize the projections along with fireworks and pyrotechnics to transform Chinese Theater and neighboring buildings into Star Wars landmarks such as the twin suns of Tatooine, a droid battle field and even the trench of the Death Star. Disney also revealed ambitions plans to erect fire towers which combined with spotlights will create giant lightsabers in the night sky over Hollywood Studios.

“Symphony in the Stars” will continue to showcase the much-loved themes of John Williams from the original Star Wars films combined with the score from Star Wars: The Force Awakens and topped off with clips of dialogue from favorite Star Wars characters both old and new. With all of these added elements, the Spectacular is expected to be extended from its current 9 minute run time to over 15 minutes.

The evening Star Wars extravaganza will be a worthy addition to a park that will transform over the weeks, months and years ahead to be a go-to Star Wars destination. Joining it will be the up-and-coming “Star Wars; A Galaxy Far, Far Away” stage show. Both new attractions will added to an existing Hollywood Studios Star Wars lineup that includes: displays and meet and greets found in Star Wars Launch Bay,the recently updated Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple and the ever popular Star Tours recently upgraded to include footage from The Force Awakens.

The current incarnation of “Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular” has extended its run until the end of May. Performances will run nightly throughout April at 9:15pm . In May performances will shift to every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday evening at 9:45pm.

An opening night has not yet been announced for the updated “Symphony in the Stars”. Fans are advised to watch this space for further details.

Interested in adding some Star Wars Magic to your next Walt Disney World holiday? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I would be delighted to work with your family to create a Star Wars themed getaway that is truly out of this world. Contact me at [email protected] or on Facebook for further details.

Disney World increases prices on quick-service fountain & bottle drinks

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 19, 2016

In another move bound to annoy park-goers, WDWMagic has announced that Disney has increased the price on most of their bottled and fountain beverages, while coffee, tea and cocoa remain the same.

Here are the new prices:

Regular Fountain Drink is now $3.29, up from $2.99.
Large Fountain Drink is now $3.69, up from $3.29.
Apple Juice is now $3.29, up from $2.79.
Orange Juice is now $4.29, up from $3.99.
Chocolate milk is now $2.69, up from $1.99.
Low-fat milk is now $2.69, up from $1.99.
Dasani Bottled Water is now $3, up from $2.75.

Is this just another way Disney is starting to nickel-and-dime guests?

Contact me today to take advantage of my FREE Disney Vacation planning services. I specialize in Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my Facebook page here.

Star Wars Themed Fireworks Show ‘Symphony in the Stars’ Extended Through End of May

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 19, 2016

Star Wars fans heading to Walt Disney World this May will be pleased to know that Hollywood Studios’ Star Wars themed fireworks “Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Adventure” will continue to be shown on select nights throughout May, putting to rest rumors of an end of April closing date.

Popular with Star Wars fans young and old, Symphony in the Stars is your chance to take in one of Disney World’s renowned fireworks displays brought to life with the Star Wars music that you’ve come to know and love. The fireworks are set to the intergalactic orchestrations of John Williams and includes both the original Star Wars themes as well as pieces from the recently released Star Wars; The Force Awakens.

The performances will continue to run nightly throughout the remainder of April at 9:15pm with the exception of the performance on Saturday April 30th when it moves to a 9:45 time slot . In May, performances will be limited to Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday nights with the last performance of the month scheduled to take place on Saturday April, 28th. As of now, all May performances are scheduled to begin at 9:45pm.

The fate of “Symphony in the Stars” is uncertain after the end of May. However, visitors later in the year may still have an opportunity to get their Star Wars fireworks fix as a new themed Star Wars fireworks show is expected to arrive at Hollywood Studios at some point over the summer. No information has been released as of yet regarding a potential start date.

Guests hoping to take in “Symphony in the Stars” are advised to check the daily Times Guide when arriving at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as all dates and times are subject to change. The fireworks are also weather dependent and may be cancelled due to inclement weather

“Symphony in the Stars” is just one of many ways to add some Star Wars magic to your next Walt Disney World holiday. As an agent with MickeyTravels I can help you plan a Disney getaway filled with Star Wars touches for the Jedi, Princess, or Padawan in your family. Contact me at [email protected] or via Facebook and let’s start planning a holiday that is out of this world!

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Transitions from Day-into-Night with new Enhanced Entertainment and Extended Hours

By

Chip

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April 19, 2016

Nightfall at Walt Disney World brings more mystery and majesty to Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park as guests discover rich new experiences under the stars. Whether riding Kilimanjaro Safaris at sunset, rollicking aboard rafts on Kali River Rapids at twilight or dancing alongside African performers in Harambe, guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom can enjoy the park’s captivating new vibe and tone when it expands its offerings with extended hours and enhanced entertainment.

Highlights of new experiences:

The Tree of Life Awakens – The theme park’s iconic Tree of Life will undergo extraordinary “awakenings” throughout the evening as the animal spirits are brought to life by magical fireflies that reveal colorful stories of wonder and enchantment. High-tech projections of nature scenes take on a magical quality as they appear to dramatically emanate from within the Tree of Life.

Kilimanjaro Safaris after Dark – Each evening, the popular Kilimanjaro Safaris daytime experience is artfully bathed in the glow of sunset with special lighting allowing guests to explore this attraction well into the night. During the expedition, guests can now encounter the nighttime behavior of the wildlife and better tune in to the unique vocalization of the animals. Plus, there are two new species to discover: African wild dogs and hyenas.

Harambe Wildlife Parti – When the sun sets, the popular Village of Harambe will become a hot spot with the new Harambe Wildlife Parti. Here, “party animals” can dance alongside a variety of entertainers and local street musicians, and enjoy the lively rhythms of African music. Guests can also partake in exotic foods and libations, and explore the diverse wares of village artisans and merchants in the vibrant marketplace.

Discovery Island Carnivale -The spirited community of Discovery Island has come together to celebrate their love of the natural world with the Discovery Island Carnivale. This nightly experience will captivate guests with lively music, jubilant dance, vibrant costumes, stilt walkers and tasty culinary creations — winding from one end of the island to the other.

Tiffins Signature Restaurant – In addition to the diverse new entertainment offerings, guests will enjoy Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s new signature eatery, Tiffins. Open for both lunch and dinner, this new signature dining experience will celebrate the art of traveling and include waterfront views from both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

New Adventures with Favorite Attractions – Most attractions remain open at nightfall, and will shine like never before. At sundown, Kali River Rapids will reveal more mysterious twists and turns throughout the rainforest with dramatic and drenching fun. Expedition Everest thrills adventurers as it lurches forward and backward through the icy peaks of the Himalayas. But at night, the majestic mountain challenges trekkers to an evening ride revealing breathtaking views of the Animal Kingdom canopied by starlight. Amidst the colorful midway games at Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama in DinoLand U.S.A., the thrills turn up aboard the zany Triceratop Spin or Primeval Whirl under the lights.

More Magic to Come with “Rivers of Light”– The nighttime will grow even more magical with the premiere of the majestic nighttime jewel, “Rivers of Light.” This illuminating musical experience – currently in development with a premiere date to be announced soon – will celebrate the magic of animals, humans and the natural world with a blend of performers, floating lanterns and theatrical animal imagery.

Stay Tuned for more information.

Adventure awaits at Walt Disney World Resort. As an agent with MickeyTravels, I can help you plan a getaway that includes all of the new touches that Disney is adding this 2016. Contact me at [email protected] or get in touch via Facebook and let’s get planning!

New Disneyland Merchandise coming May 2016

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 18, 2016

As Disney fans, we can’t get enough Disney merch, so an array of new products is always exciting! The Disney Parks Blog gave us a sneak peek into some new merchandise coming to the Disneyland Resort next month. There will be some new Harvey bag merchandise designed in conjunction with artist SHAG, who did a “Star Wars” inspired work entitled “A Wicked Hive”:

The new SHAG/Harvey merchandise will be available May 21st, along with an appearance by the Harveys and SHAG at Wonderground Gallery from 3-5pm the same day. The art will be featured on other merchandise too, such as apparel and home decor. I absolutely love the blend of SHAG’s tiki-style art with the “Star Wars” universe!

From May 6-8th in Off the Page at Disney California Adventure, there will be the release of some new Precious Moments dolls, as well as a signing with doll designer Linda Rick 12pm-10pm each of those days. Here’s a sneak peek of one of the new release dolls:

There will also be the release at Wonderground Gallery of some new art by Jerrod Maruyama:

Maruyama will be at the gallery on May 7th from 3-5pm to do some signings as well. I love this new piece, it feels a bit reminiscent of Fantasmic! to me.

What new May merchandise are you most excited about?

Pic Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Springs is Expanding their Shopping, Dining and Entertainment Experiences

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 18, 2016

Wrapped in Florida-inspired, made-for-strolling promenades, arching footbridges, flowing streams and waterfront charm, Disney Springs treats Walt Disney World Resort guests to an exciting blend of shopping, dining and entertainment with a Disney touch.

By day or night guests can expect a vibrant scene, whether they are shopping world-class brands, enjoying high-quality entertainment, having that special dining experience, pleasure boating on Village Lake or hopping a balloon skyward for spectacular views of Walt Disney World and beyond.

The former Downtown Disney completes a dramatic, multi-year transformation in 2016, renamed Disney Springs and more than doubling – to 150 — the number of shops, restaurants or other venues for guests to explore and enjoy. In creating the largest expansion in its history, Disney planners infused Disney Springs with the same focus on storytelling and attention to detail that are hallmarks of Disney theme parks, resort hotels and cruise ships, creating a welcoming space that only Disney can provide.

That story begins as Florida’s did, with bubbling springs and natural beauty that first attracted settlers to the area. Turn-of-the-century waterfront towns sprang up, dotting Florida’s landscape. Today’s Disney Springs fittingly starts with a clear water stream and fans out to exciting precincts for entertainment, dining, lounging and shopping.

Guests will find four outdoor neighborhoods, each with its own personality:

All-new among the Disney Springs neighborhoods and opening this summer, The Town Center will offer a sophisticated mix of shopping and dining along with a lushly landscaped promenade where guests can relax, refresh and reconnect at the water’s edge. Town Center features Spanish “Revival” style architecture, drawing from a rich history of explorers that landed in Florida centuries ago. At the heart of Town Center is The Spring, themed to early Florida settlements. Guests will find Town Center a shopper’s haven. Prime retailers such as Anthropologie, LACOSTE, Under Armour, kate spade new york, Sephora and Oakley will call Town Center home. Among dining choices awaiting Town Center guests, Tablas Frontera will serve up gourmet Mexican cuisine on planks (not plates!) from the menu envisioned by celebrity chef Rick Bayless, a six-time James Beard Foundation winner.

A colorful and thriving district called The Landing offers inspired dining and breathtaking waterfront views. High-quality retailers including Erwin Pearl for fashion jewelry and Havaianas for sandals are found along its lantern-lined byways. Grab a signature gelato at Vivoli Gelateria, dine off a shipshape menu at The BOATHOUSE or enjoy, at Morimoto Asia, Pan-Asian cuisine from celebrity chef Matsaharu Morimoto, of Iron Chef fame. Coming later this spring: STK Orlando, a fine dining experience set in chic, contemporary surroundings.

The family-friendly Marketplace will continue to delight guests of all ages by combining new experiences such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway, along with classic Disney favorites, including an expanded World of Disney store.

The West Side The West Side provides an exuberant atmosphere with lively entertainment, retail and dining along with a series of new elevated spaces that provide both shade and an overlook to the activity below. From Cirque du Soleil to iconic restaurants to colorful food trucks to bowling with a stylized twist at Splitsville, West Side offers something for everyone. There is even the opportunity to lift off in a tethered balloon. Characters in Flight rises from the banks of Village Lake for eye-popping, 360-degree views (on a clear day you can see Florida’s east coast).

Thanks to new slot-smart parking decks where green lights indicate available spaces, parking is convenient to the entire Disney Springs scene – and free. Valet parking also is available.

Disney Springs is easily accessed from I-4, Central Florida’s major interstate, and connected to the rest of Walt Disney World Resort by motor coach and watercraft.

There is so much to see, do and experience during a visit to Walt Disney World Resort including all of the new offerings at Disney Springs. As an agent with MickeyTravels, I love helping clients add those extra special touches to make a holiday truly your own, including tips on where to shop and dine! Drop me an email at [email protected] or get in touch via Facebook and let’s start planning your magical getaway.

Add an Extra Touch of Magic To Your Little One’s Big Day with Disney Themed Birthday Boards

By

Danielle

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April 18, 2016

Birthday are big occasions for many, and many of us love to add a little extra Disney magic to the big day! These beautifully hand drawn Disney Birthday Boards from CharleysChachkeys on Etsy, are a fabulous way to add a little extra Disney magic to your special kiddo’s birthday.

The artist Jillian specializes in 100% hand drawn memory boards. These boards are great for birthday’s, weddings, graduations, gender reveal parties, and the list goes on! If you have an specific Disney Character or idea for a sign, she’s always happy to help customize something especially for your needs. The possibilities are endless! Check out a couple of her fun Disney themed boards below.

What a fun way to celebrate! Which Disney character would you choose?

Disney Find- Star Wars Millennium Falcon Serving Platter

By

Danielle

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April 18, 2016

With Star Wars: The Force Awakens came releasing on DVD and Blu-ray earlier this month, and “May The Fourth be With You” fast approaching, it’s time to plan some viewing parties! This Millennium Falcon Serving Platter is a perfect addition to any Star Wars themed party.

Whether you watch all the movies in sequence, go with just the original 3, or opt for my personal favorite the machete order, chances are there’s going to be good food and friends whilst basking in the Star Wars universe. Basically, a perfect weekend. The Millennium Falcon Serving Platter is also great for birthday parties and just your every day family dinners. The serving platter is also a huge 10.2 x 1 x 14.2 inches so the serving possibilities are endless.

This item sells out fast, so grab yours while you can! May the Force be with you!

Disney World will debut New Magical Experiences This Summer Across All Four Theme Parks

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 18, 2016

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An unbeatable lineup of new attractions and experiences will debut this summer across all four Walt Disney World theme parks and beyond.

An awe-inspiring new Star Wars fireworks and projections spectacular premieres at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

“Frozen,” the top animated film of all time, comes to life for the first time in an enchanting, music-filled attraction in the Norway pavilion at Epcot.

A flurry of fireflies awakens the iconic Tree of Life with colorful animation, just one of the many new experiences as Disney’s Animal Kingdom introduces evening hours for the first time in the park’s 18-year history.

Princesses Tiana and Rapunzel join a rousing show on the grandest stage of all in front of the Magic Kingdom castle.

Disney Springs premieres more top shopping destinations and celebrity chef restaurants in a glittering new setting.

Across its four theme parks, multiple resort hotels and diverse shopping and dining experiences, guests will find unforgettable experiences to share with family and friends, making every moment as magical as it can be.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

For the first time in its 18-year history, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will debut new day-into-nighttime experiences that celebrate the magic of nature.

The park’s iconic Tree of Life will awaken each night amid a lively celebration of Discovery Island music and dance. Through stunning visuals, animal spirits appear and enchanted fireflies reveal stories of wonder as the tree morphs to showcase the magic of nature.

Kilimanjaro Safaris transitions to a new nighttime adventure in the extended orange glow of a setting sun. For the first time, hyenas and African wild dogs join the safari trail creature feature.

Hungry adventurers can have lunch or dinner at the new Tiffins signature restaurant on Discovery Island this summer. Guests seated in the restaurant’s travel-themed dining rooms or on the waterfront patio can sip libations and savor dishes featuring African, Asian and South American flavors.

Across the park, guests can experience wondrous new nighttime experiences and entertainment celebrating marvels in nature and enjoy long-time favorites such as Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, Kali River Rapids and more – in a whole new light.

Epcot

Anna, Elsa and other beloved characters from the blockbuster film, “Frozen,” will give the summer season a warm hug at Epcot and several other Disney parks. Meanwhile “Turtle Talk with Crush” makes fun waves and Soarin takes guests to new heights.

Anna, Elsa and their latest-generation Audio-Animatronics co-stars will welcome guests aboard the new Frozen Ever After boat ride that sails into a “Frozen” world at the Norway pavilion. Passengers on their way to Arendelle’s Winter in Summer Celebration for Queen Elsa visit the ice palace and hear beloved film tunes plus new lyrics by Oscar-winning “Let It Go” songwriters Bobby Lopez and Kristen Anderson.

Also at Norway pavilion, Anna and Elsa will greet guests in the new Royal Sommerhus, modeled after a traditional Norwegian cabin.

In Future World, guests will celebrate the U.S. debut of the new Soarin’ Around the World attraction at The Land pavilion this summer. Now with a third Epcot theater, plus new digital screens and projection systems, the expanded attraction takes guests on an exhilarating “flight” above spectacular global landscapes and man-made wonders.

Guests will also find new additions at “Turtle Talk with Crush” beginning in early-May with characters from Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory”. When Crush the sea turtle swims up to the “Human Tank” at Epcot, he’ll be joined by Dory and some of her new friends that guests will get to know when “Finding Dory” swims into theaters on June 17, 2016.

Magic Kingdom

Classic Disney characters will join contemporary animated film stars this June in a new extravaganza on the grand Cinderella Castle stage, and Magic Kingdom guests can experience a new dining adventure.

For the first time, modern Disney characters Tiana of “Princess and the Frog,” and Rapunzel of “Tangled,” co-star with Anna and Elsa of “Frozen,” and a host of classic characters in the new Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire. Performed on the grandest stage in the kingdom, the star-studded tale of friendship presents Mickey Mouse and his troupe of Merry Makers – Minnie Mouse, Donald, Daisy and Goofy – who invite 10 new friends from different animated worlds to join the celebration. This “timeless fairytale” of a show combines grand dance, fireworks and stunts with memorable music, an original song and special effects.

Next door to the legendary Jungle Cruise, guests can enjoy the bold flavors of “World Famous Jungle Cuisine” served by the wisecracking crew of the new Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen. It’s the first Disney full-service restaurant themed after a specific park attraction.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

In the galactic wake of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, new Star-Wars-themed experiences shift into light speed.

The next generation of Star Wars-themed fireworks shows, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular,” will premiere this summer with new themed fireworks, lasers, special effects and video projections of iconic characters and scenes from the complete saga, all set to the iconic score of the film series.

The live stage show “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away” debuted April 4, celebrating iconic moments from the Star Wars saga with live vignettes featuring popular characters such as BB-8, Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and Darth Maul.

The March of the First Order Stormtrooper procession led by Captain Phasma from the Star Wars Launch Bay to the park’s Center Stage adds menace to the entertainment. The just-opened Star Wars Launch Bay showcases large-scale artifacts and encounters with characters including Kylo Ren. The re-imagined Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple experience also features new characters. And at Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, guests buckle up for an enhanced high-speed journey with new Star Wars: The Force Awakens characters and a visit to Jakku.

In the park’s Hyperion Theater, the Royal Historians of Arendelle host a jolly sing-along tale of their “Frozen” kingdom with special appearances by Anna, Elsa and Kristoff. And at Celebrity Spotlight, guests can meet Olaf and give him a warm hug.

Disney Springs and Water Parks Make a Splash

Disney guests will spend their first summer at Disney Springs as it continues to double its shopping and dining offerings and near completion on the largest expansion in its history. Disney Springs is a one-of-a-kind retail, dining and entertainment experience brought to life with the same focus on storytelling and attention to detail that goes into Disney theme parks, resorts and cruise ships. Inspired by Florida’s waterfront towns and natural beauty, this charming waterfront district, comprising The Landing, Marketplace and West Side, expands to debut its fourth neighborhood, Town Center, next month — adding more shops, restaurants and architectural detail than ever.

As Disney Springs continues to expand and diversify its dining, shopping and entertainment, more exciting high-profile tenants are coming onboard, including Anthropologie, Under Armour, kate spade, Sephora and Lucky Brand, among others. Other new shops opening in 2016 include: Zara, Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, UNIQLO, PANDORA, UGG, L’Occitane en Provence and Edward Beiner.

A total of 32 new tenants will be coming to Disney Springs this summer, including 29 retail shops and three new dining venues.

Morimoto Asia just celebrated its grand opening and more new eateries are firing up the scene in 2016 including the upscale STK steakhouse with the only rooftop dining in Disney Springs; The Edison, a lavish, “industrial Gothic”-style restaurant, bar and nighttime destination; Sprinkles, the world’s first cupcake bakery; Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, a modern-day “pizza joint” with artisanal pies; and the reimagined, star-themed Planet Hollywood with new outdoor terrace and live entertainment.

Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless and renowned Chef Wolfgang Puck join master Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s in a growing collection of James Beard Award winning chefs at Disney Springs.

At Cirque du Soleil’s “La Nouba,” the new B-Boys hip-hop, breakdancing threesome showcase a rare mix of rhythm, strength and “how-did-they-do-that?” moves. As part of the show’s ongoing evolution, the masterful Aerial Bamboo act joins recent additions of madcap clowns and a breathtaking rolla bolla juggling act.

Meanwhile, Disney’s Water Parks will ramp up with playful spirits and summer fun faster than Olaf can beg for warm hugs.

At Blizzard Beach, Olaf from Disney’s animated hit “Frozen,” will be living his “In Summer” dream as he and Kristoff host The Frozen Games at Blizzard Beach of friendly, fun competitions.

Typhoon Lagoon castaways can splash down on a sandy summer beach with a cold ale and savory snack after a wild slide on Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster.

Disney guests will have a blockbuster summer wherever they play, dine, relax or celebrate at Walt Disney World theme parks, entertainment venues and resort hotels. For more information about Walt Disney World Resort or to book your next holiday drop me an email at [email protected] or get in touch via Facebook.

Get ready for the new Marvel Mastercard!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 18, 2016

Marvel heroes have amazing super powers we all wish we had! Well now we will have powers, the power of the 3% cash back!

Marvel has teamed up with Synchrony Financial to offer a new Marvel MasterCard! The 3% cash back offer is on all purchases at the Marvel.com store. You will also earn 1% on all purchases made with this superhero card!

Some other perks offered are 10% off purchases made on Marvel.com and a $25.00 statement credit after your first purchase. Executive vice president and CEO of retail cards Synchrony Financial Tom Quindlen explains more benefits of this card:

“The Marvel MasterCard provides payment flexibility, cash back rewards and exclusive benefits for cardholders. We’re excited about our relationship with Marvel and the value this new card will bring to loyal Marvel fans and others who enjoy the benefits of a cash back program on dining, entertainment and merchandise.”

The best part of the master card will be the look of the card, with heroes like Spiderman, X-men and Rocket and Groot! Joe Quesada, chief creative officer of Marvel says that fan will be delighted to carry and use these lively card images.

Are you excited about these new Marvel MasterCard design? Comment below