Animal Kingdom Lodge offering new “Sense of Africa” Tour

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March 31, 2016

Starting sometime soon (no dates announced yet), Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will be offering an all-new exclusive ticketed safari tour for guests. Named the “Sense of Africa” tour, this safari tour will be held in the morning, as opposed to Animal Kingdom Lodge’s other special tour, the Starlight Safari which takes place in the evening. Tickets for this special 3.5 hour adventure will apparently go on sale April 5th.

Before your Safari adventure begins, you will be treated to a private breakfast at Boma, where you will have the pleasure of learning more about the restaurant and hearing stories from a cast member from Africa while you dine on exclusive dishes, as well as the typical breakfast buffet foods Boma offers.

After breakfast you will hop into a Safari truck where you will be driven around the lodge, with an opportunity to see some giraffe, ostrich and okapi up close and personal! With only 12 guests being booked per tour, this promises to be a very intimate and wonderful experience for those interested in a closer look at the Lodge’s animals.

The tour tickets cost $249.99 per person, with a minimum age of 10 years old (a 15% discount is available for Annual Passholders and DVC Members). Tour dates will be Tuesday and Saturday.

If you’d like to book a trip to visit WDW this Fall to join in on the Safari fun, 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. Contact me today at [email protected] or you can find me on my Facebook page here.

Joffrey’s Coffee offering 20% discount at Disney Parks

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 31, 2016

If you’re a Joffrey’s Coffee fan like me, then you’re going to love the new 20% off offer they have for their coffee at Disney Parks!

To get your discount, text the word COFFEE along with your email address to 21333. By doing this, you will be signing up to receive more messages from Joffrey’s, and you will need to show the cast member your message in order to get your discount, but it is definitely worth it to us!

Joffrey’s locations can be found at the theme parks and water parks as well as at Disney Springs, and you can even use Joffrey’s website map here to find the one nearest you while at Disney World or Disneyland!

I usually bypass all other coffee options, and head straight for the Joffrey’s Cart while I’m at the parks, how about you?

If you’re unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks 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. Contact me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my facebook page here.

Photo Credit: Joffrey’s Coffee

Amazing Custom Designed Disney Steel Fire Pits

By

Danielle

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March 31, 2016

Sometimes we find really cool Disney inspired things, and then sometimes we find HOT Disney inspired things. Let me tell you, these Custom Steel Fire Pits that can feature your favorite Disney characters from KGFirePits on Etsy, are DEFINITELY hot!

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I scrolled past this marvelous creation on Etsy. Could it really be a Disney themed fire pit? The designer custom designs back yard fire pits hand drawn and cut from large steel globes. They can be customized with a variety of characters, but the Disney ones had me sold! This would be the ultimate touch to a Disney themed backyard, move over Disney gnomes! So the Disney Themed Steel Pits are my fave, but their Death Star Steel Pit is worth mentioning too, that one is simply Epic! You can see a pic of that one below. They are on the high price point side of things, but they are a good price for a well made and customized steel fire pit.

What do you think of these, is this something you would like on your dream list?

Full List of “Finding Dory” Cast & Characters Revealed!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 31, 2016

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Pixar’s latest film, “Finding Dory” of course is starring our favorite blue tang Dory, with Ellen DeGeneres back to voice the character, alongside returning cast member Albert Brooks (Marlin) by her side. Today Disney & Pixar released the complete list of the voice cast, as well as an expanded list of characters! Check out the gallery below for the new sneak peek of characters we can look forward to meeting in “Finding Dory”:

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finding dory fdcs Becky10 101.per16.101

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finding dory fdcs Destiny10 107.per16n.107

finding dory fdcs Dory10 125.per16.125 1

finding dory fdcs Hank dcp103.per16n.103

finding dory fdcs MarlinNemo10 110.per16.110

finding dory fdcs MrRay10 101.per16.101

finding dory fdcs OtterBabyGroup10 101.per16.101

finding dory fdcs SealionsRudderFluke 130.per16.130

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I am especially excited to see more cute antics from Squirt, and meet those adorable otters! It will also be very interesting to get more insight about Dory’s past, and see what her parents Jenny and Charlie are like. It’s been 13 years since “Finding Nemo” was released in theatres, and our wait for the sequel is almost over–“Finding Dory” will be released June 17, 2016.

Nomad Lounge Opening Next To Tiffins Restaurant This Spring

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 31, 2016

Nomad Lounge is scheduled to open in spring 2016 alongside Tiffins Restaurant at Discovery Island in Animal Kingdom. Discover specialty cocktails, beer and wine from far-off locales like Africa and Asia while enjoying mouth-watering small plates of exotic bites. Prices range from $15 to $29.99 per adult and dining plans are not accepted.

Guests are encouraged to document their own globetrotting adventures on festive banners that hang in the center of the lounge. Cast members will provide decorate tags on which to answer questions about traveling the world and the thrill of discovery. The responses will be hung on a “tag chandelier” above the bar for all to see.

The Menu
Toast to a good journey with a refreshing beverage served alongside a scrumptious snack.

Drawing inspiration from distant locations around the world, the freshly-prepared cuisine at Nomad Lounge includes vegetarian summer rolls, Indian butter chicken wings, seared Wagyu beef skewers and honey-glazed coriander-spiced pork ribs.

As any world wanderer can attest, Nomad Lounge also serves up a renowned selection of libations and spirits from around the globe. Sip specialty martinis or indulge in after-dinner liqueurs such as Bailey’s Irish Cream, Tia Maria and Amaretto di Saronno. Freshly ground coffees like espresso, cappuccino and coffee colada with rum and coconuts, and dessert wines such as Apple Icewine, are also available—perfect for the long day’s journey or following a long day of journeying.

All menu items are subject to change without notice.

Tiffins Restaurant is the all new signature dining restaurant next door to the Nomad Lounge opening this summer. It will celebrate the art of traveling, featuring a diverse menu drawing from places that inspired the creation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The restaurant will feature 3 elegant dining rooms that honor the spirit of Africa, Asia and some of the world’s most exotic animals. Prices range from $30 to $59.99 per adult and some dining plans are accepted.

If you’re wondering about the story behind the name, “tiffin” is an Indian English word for a midday meal or a type of container used to carry food while traveling.

A World of Flavors

Seek and you shall find a treasure trove of mouthwatering delights from far-off places for lunch and dinner. Roam the road less traveled at Tiffins, thanks to a globetrotting menu of artfully prepared fare fit for a weary traveler. Begin your expedition with lobster-popcorn Thai curry soup, grilled octopus or—for those who like to travel light—an archeologist salad drizzled with champagne vinaigrette. Go off the beaten track with frog legs tempura, black-eyed fritters or cheese and chicken liver pâte before planting your flag with the Berber-spiced lamb chop, pork tenderloin or miso-glazed black cod.

Seafarers, fortune hunters and vagabonds will no doubt find new discoveries in the pan-seared duck breast and leg confit, Wagnu strip loin and braised short rib, or the whole-fried sustainable fish. Leaving no stone unturned? Satisfy your sweet tooth with crème brûlée, peanut butter mousse or a classic ice-cream sundae.

For an additional cost, Guests 21 years of age and up can pack additional provisions with a selection from the renowned wine list—many of which are available by the glass—in addition to a noble assortment of after-dinner liqueurs, dessert wines and specialty drinks.

No matter which direction your compass points, you’re sure to encounter an unimaginable abundance of delectable food at Tiffins.

All menu items are subject to change without notice.

Be sure to check out the brand new Nomad Lounge and Tiffins Restaurant in Animal Kingdom during your next Walt Disney World vacation. Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning today!

Photo Credit: Disney

New information available for Animal Kingdom’s Rivers of Light Nighttime Spectacular

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 31, 2016

The new Rivers of Light Nighttime Spectacular at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park is set to open on April 22, and new details have been announced on the Walt Disney World website. While we had originally reported that the opening date was tentatively scheduled for April 22nd, we were pleased to see that Disney has indeed confirmed that date as their opening night! You can check Animal Kingdom park times and schedules for showtimes, as well as the Times Guide.

Here is what Disney has to say about their new night-time event:

A Story at Sundown Set Aglow

Be enchanted by a brilliant spectacle of glowing lanterns, magical fireflies, dancing fountains and animal spirits.As sunlight fades and the stars begin their twinkle, remember the instinctual feeling that we are all bound together by earth and spirit—past, present and future. Listen as the lagoon responds to the whispers of the world, cradling creatures with a symphony that swells with wild murmurs and shimmering secrets of the universe.

So begins a new light—a vibrant awakening of flitting fireflies leading a legion of lanterns cascading in a ceremonious procession across the water. With a single chime, there falls a hush—and in its place steps storytellers bearing benevolent gifts of light. These intriguing figures promise to paint the night with visual wonders, enticing you to join them on a marvelous journey.

Before your eyes, clusters of lantern light shift and shape into animal spirit forms—the Tiger, Turtle, Elephant and Owl. The storytellers call upon the Temple Lotus who materializes along with her 4 sisters, each bursting forth with dazzling fountains of water and light. These mystic hosts work in harmony to captivate your senses, conjuring stunning imagery of animals from across the world in a musical performance that can only be described as dreamlike. Spellbound, you are transported across Asian jungles and tropical oceans to African savannahs and North American mountains.

Your journey culminates in a triumphant blend of music, light, color and earthly elements. The Aurora Borealis, in its magical splendor, springs with unbridled joy as a menagerie of animals transcend above the cosmos, becoming glittering star constellations in the heavens. Immersed within a grand celestial finale, you are bestowed with an inspirational message of peace and oneness with nature.

Everything the Light Touches

Eastern festival traditions merge with innovative technology to make Rivers of Light come alive. Featuring evocative, never-before-seen footage from Disneynature, grand theatrical imagery, virtuosic live performances, a soaring original score, and innovative special effects—this nighttime spectacle employs a host of magical devices to create an experience unlike any other.

Fireflies in Flight
The flickering ornamentation of fireflies illustrates the migration of light—a central motif of the production. As the story unfolds, original video projections and choreographed laser animation combine to create the appearance of glowing fireflies, illuminating enchanting moments of the celebration like living pixie dust.

Spirited Storytelling
Mysteriously, the show’s “storytellers” never utter a word. Instead, they communicate volumes through fascinating forms of authentic Asian dance, music, song and shadow puppetry.

Light, Lanterns and Lotuses
Showstopping features include nearly 100 Asian lanterns, undulating hues of larger-than-life animal spirits and floating vessels awash in brilliant radiance. Powerful fountain jets erupting like embers from a fire and a 28-foot-tall Temple Lotus add to the visual splendor of these elements, each magically drifting into scenes—adding color, drama, shape and choreography.

A Living Landscape
Encircling the very heart of the Discovery River Lagoon and her 2 village amphitheaters is the thick embrace of a lush tree-scape. It is host and home to a unique variety of life, both in body and spirit form. This organic landscape is a central character itself, and an ever-changing canvas for the story’s unveiling.

We are very excited to finally see this amazing light and water show come to life!

If you’re unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks 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. Contact me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my facebook page here.

Photo credit: Disney

Disneyland’s Autopia to get a new look and storyline later this year

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 30, 2016

Richfield Oil Company sponsored this Disneyland attraction from 1955-1970. After that, Chevron sponsored Autopia from 2000 until 2012. Starting in 2016 Honda will begin sponsorship of the iconic ride where guests can get behind the wheel and go for a cruise on a windy road trip.

“Autopia has brought joy to generations of families and has created lasting memories for millions of Disneyland guests,” said Takuji Yamada, president & CEO of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Honda is proud to sponsor this iconic attraction and continue our alliance with Disneyland Resort.”

With their sponsorship, Autopia is going to get an updated look, as well as an updated storyline to morph it into a more modern experience for guests. While there are no official refurbishment dates mentioned, it appears the refurbishment will begin in the next few months and will continue for another few months.

“The updates to Autopia provide a perfect opportunity to showcase our long-standing relationship with Honda, and we look forward to sharing the attraction with our guests later this year,” said Michael Colglazier, president of the Disneyland Resort.

We can’t wait to check out the new updates when it’s ready!

If you’re unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks 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. Contact me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my facebook page here.

Special Finding Nemo Screening and Presentation for D23 Gold members

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 30, 2016

If you’re a D23 Member, and a fan of Finding Nemo, then here is an exciting event for you to attend on May 21st, at the AMC theater in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World, called D23 In the Big Blue World. As we get closer to the June 2016 release date of Finding Dory, Disney has decided to host a special members-only celebration of the movie that started their underwater journey, Finding Nemo.

In addition to a special screening of Finding Nemo, guests will be treated to a presentation about the making of Finding Nemo: The Musical, which opened at Animal Kingdom in 2007; hosted by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment. This presentation promises to be a very exciting and informational one, as the speakers will be discussing what it was like to create an original stage musical from a non-musical animated feature, like Finding Nemo.

D23 Gold and Gold Family members will also get a gift along with their tickets for this great experience!

Each D23 Gold/Gold Family Member who registers for this event will receive the opportunity to purchase special limited-edition merchandise during the Mickey’s of Glendale • Orlando Shopping Event at Disney’s Contemporary Resort the day prior (Friday, May 20).

Tickets will be available for purchase on April 6th, and will be $25, plus an additional $5 processing charge. Tickets will only be available to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members, and members will be required to show photo ID as well as their Membership Cards at the event. You can find more information on this great ticketed event here on D23’s website, where you will find more specific details and fine print for purchasing your tickets.

If you’re unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks 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. Contact me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my facebook page here.

Photo credits: Disney

Handmade Purse with Fabulous Disney Patterns

By

Danielle

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March 30, 2016

Cute Disney bags always make me smile. I especially love vintage styles, and unique designs like these handmade Disney inspired purse from yumage on Etsy!

These beautiful tote bags are handmade with licensed Disney fabrics, for classic looking tote bags full of Disney flair. These bags offer lots of room and a convenient inside pocket to help keep things organized. There’s a cute retro looking button on the outside of the purse, but the bag actually closed with a sturdy magnetic snap, how cute! If you like to throw your bag over your shoulder, there are also fun cross body bags available in Disney designs too. The cross bodies have a nice long strap, and plenty of pockets, I personally love a good cross body bag for touring the Disney parks.

Check out more of their great designs below:

Which of these delightful Disney inspired handbags is your favorite?

Additional Dates Added to Afternoon Tea at Disney’s Beach Club Resort

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 30, 2016

Disney’s Beach Club Resort has added July dates to their Afternoon Tea located at Crescent Solarium. Select dates now include May 5-8, June 16-19, July 1-4 and September 1-5. Reservations are available between 1pm and 5pm and prices range from $35 – $59.99 per person.

Guests will have the choice of the following tea services:

Sea Side Park Tea – Enjoy a selection of Artisan cheeses and seasonal accompaniments followed by small sandwiches and canapes on house-made breads. Scones are served with clotted cream, lemon curd and seasonal jam along with yummy pastries, tea cookies and an assortment of loose-leaf tea.

Sandy Cove Tea – First course features small sandwiches and canapes on house-made breads. Scones are served with clotted cream, lemon curd and seasonal jam along with yummy pastries, tea cookies and an assortment of loose-leaf tea.

Prince Cove Tea – Features house-made charcuterie and cheese plate along with scones and yummy pastries, tea cookies and an assortment of loose-leaf tea.

Short Sands Beach Tea – Guests ages 3-9 can enjoy assorted tea sandwiches in the shape of Mickey Mouse. Scones, chocolate chip cookies and a special “dark tea” (chocolate milk) will also be served.

Reservations for Afternoon Tea at Crescent Solarium located at Disney’s Beach Club Resort can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation.

Disney Find- Mickey Mouse Club Chair

By

Danielle

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March 30, 2016

Do you have a little one who is obsessed with all things Mickey Mouse? If so, this fun Mickey Mouse Club Chair is a fabulous find for a playroom, kid’s room or even as a colorful Disney accent to a living or sitting room.

This Mickey Club Chair is a super soft spot to sit and read, draw or watch a movie, this plush, Mickey is sure to offer the most relaxing seat in the house. It features a washable, velour cover and expert embroidery that brings Mickey Mouse to life. Now on sale for only $35.99 this over-sized chair is a must-have for any mini Mouseketeer.

Mickey Mouse Club Chair

Would your little Mickey fan enjoy this chair?

Magic Kingdom Railroad Closed For Refurbishment April 11 – 23

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 30, 2016

The Walt Disney World Railroad that offers convenient stops throughout Magic Kingdom at Frontierland, Fantasyland and Main Street, U.S.A. will be closed for refurbishment April 11 – 23, 2016. No official reason was given behind the closure.

Trains are typically scheduled to arrive at each station approximately every 4 to 10 minutes throughout the day. In addition to offering a handy way to traverse the park, a lot of guests simply enjoy relaxing on the 20 minute, 1.5 mile scenic tour around the Magic Kingdom.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation.

Photo credit Disney