New Adventures by Disney 2017 Itineraries Announced

By

-

April 19, 2016

Walt Disney World News released information today on new 2017 itineraries for Adventures by Disney as well as enhancements to their already existing itineraries for China and Australia.

In addition to offering a second season of Danube River sailings, Adventures by Disney will expand offerings to include sailings along the Rhine River in 2017. The new Rhine River itinerary gives adventurous travelers the opportunity to experience the beauty of four countries – France, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands.

“Last year, river cruising itineraries on the Danube River sold out rapidly, proving that families are eager to enjoy this immersive and luxurious new way to travel through Europe with Adventures by Disney,” said Ken Potrock, senior vice president of Adventures by Disney. “For 2017 we dreamt even bigger, expanding our offerings to include not only the already popular Danube sailings, but also exciting new experiences along the Rhine River. Here we can make unforgettable vacation memories a reality for even more travelers by offering family river cruise sailings that are effortless, personalized and exhilarating.”

Guests will sail on the Rhine River aboard the all-new, 170-passenger AmaKristina, a river cruise ship being custom built by AmaWaterways with families in mind. Family-friendly design elements include sets of connecting staterooms and suites, some of which accommodate three- and four-person families, and other details that lend themselves to luxury family vacations. Adventures by Disney has also worked closely with AmaWaterways to reimagine shipboard spaces and activities, offering unique programming for kids, teens and adults.

Highlights of the eight-day/seven-night adventures include:

Ride a toboggan, hike along a waterfall or zipline through the Black Forest.

Visit the famous storybook Heidelberg Castle.

Enjoy tubing, snow biking, curling and more at Germany’s first indoor ski hall.

Explore the Alsace Region of France by canoe or on horseback.

Get hands-on during clog painting and a cheese making demonstration in Holland.

Bike along the Rhine River, within the German wine countryside, through towns and beyond.

Savor unique local dining, including Swiss fondue, a French macaron cooking class, German chocolate tasting and more.

A post-cruise land package is also available in Amsterdam at the conclusion of the Rhine sailings, offering a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk and a private farewell dinner.

Also new for 2017 are enhancements to Adventures by Disney vacations to China and Australia. With the June opening of Shanghai Disney Resort, the China itinerary has been reimagined to include a visit to this exciting new destination. Here Adventures by Disney guests will explore the newest Disney theme park with VIP tour guides, offering a truly world-class experience. In Australia, travelers will now enjoy time on the beautiful Gold Coast, including kayaking on Bryon Bay, whale and dolphin spotting, an excursion to Mt. Tamborine and more.

The new United States 2017 itineraries join an existing lineup of more than 35 other guided group vacations to destinations on six continents, including three recently announced vacations to the diverse United States locales of Central Florida, Montana, and Washington, D.C. & Philadelphia. Debuting in summer 2016, each of these weeklong trips is filled with activities unique to the destinations. In Central Florida, families will enjoy unprecedented backstage access and VIP experiences at Walt Disney World Resort, airboat through Florida marshlands and thrill to a visit to the “Space Coast.” Montana offers glamorous camping, or “glamping,” near Yellowstone National Park and a stay at a dude ranch in Big Sky. And American history comes alive during a visit to the nation’s capital, and the United States’ first capital city.

Adventures by Disney is the perfect way to explore a new destination, and they offer the most high class service you could expect on a grand vacation exploration.

If you’re interested in learning more about Adventures by Disney, Contact me today for more information, and 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.

Photo credit: Adventures by Disney

$3.8 Million Renovation at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort Underway with Restaurant Closure

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

April 19, 2016

Disney has broken ground on a $3.8 million dollar renovation project at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, a 20 year old inn and DVC property located along the Atlantic Coast in Vero Beach, Florida located just 2 hours south of Walt Disney World.

The renovations will result in the closure this month of Sonya’s signature dining restaurant. Famed for its wood-fired steaks and seafood specialties, Sonya’s will officially close its doors on April 30th. Plans are also afoot to close Shutter’s table service restaurant, the home of Beachside Sunday Brunches, a Goofy character breakfast and the Pirate Character Dinner during the month of June. Bleachers Bar and Grill which has long been serving up hamburgers, ice cream treats and libations will also finish pulling pints this summer.

In their wake, a new table service restaurant, a marketplace dining room catering to quick service diners and a new poolside bar are slated to open in the Autumn of 2016.

Vero Beach, the first of Disney’s offsite Vacation Club properties will also undergo extensive renovations to its guest rooms, beachfront cottages and villas including updates to both hard a soft furnishings. Opened in 1995, the renovations are anticipated to give the rooms a more contemporary updated feel.

Refurbishments are expected to near completion by the end of 2016.

Want a Disney escape without the theme parks? As a travel agent specializing in vacations to Disney destinations with MickeyTravels, I would be happy to help you plan your next cruise with Disney Cruise Lines, European escape with Adventures by Disney, or Hawaiian getaway at Aulani. Email me at [email protected] or get in touch via Facebook.

Frozen Ever After celebrates a Summer Snow Day

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

April 19, 2016

12986319 10153699195653983 1257713855 o.png

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

-

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

-

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

-

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

-

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

-

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

-

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

-

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

-

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

-

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!