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What to do When it Rains at Disney

March 1, 2016

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Disney vacations are of course, magical, and filled with pixie dust. But what happens when it literally begins to rain on your parade? Have you noticed that it rains for at least an hour almost every summer day in Florida? Here are some ideas to help you enjoy a rain storm at Disney.

Be Prepared: a little planning can make all the difference when it comes to facing a downpour at Disney. In my park bag, I always have a poncho with me. Ponchos are great! They are inexpensive (you can usually find them at the Dollar Store), small and portable, and you don’t have to worry about lugging around an umbrella. I personally don’t like umbrellas at Disney – they just get in the way and I’m always afraid I’m going to hit someone with mine. For me, ponchos are totally the way to go! Just embrace the not-so-fashionable aspect of them.

Along with a poncho, I also like to have Ziploc bags on hand for my phone and camera. Ziploc bags can really be a huge money saver at Disney! Another great lightweight item to carry in your park bag is a small towel. Once the rain stops, a towel is nice to have so you can wipe down a bit, or to dry off your poncho (or umbrella), before you store it in your backpack. Bring one from home, or grab a hand towel from your hotel room.

And last but not least, make sure to bring water-resistant shoes! On my last trip to Disney, I got absolutely SOAKED at Animal Kingdom. Most of the morning had been a light drizzle, but it really started coming down heavy in the early afternoon. Thinking “well, I can’t really get any wetter!” I opted to ride Kali River Rapids – with my poncho on. I really thought this was a great idea.

Everything was fine until the ride was over. As I stood up, all of the water that had collected into the lap of my poncho poured directly into my shoes. It was terrible. I felt like I was walking on sponges. I had no choice but to breakdown and do the one thing I swore to myself I would NEVER do. I bought Crocs. Yes, I shelled out a very pretty penny for some not so pretty shoes. Although the fashionista in me died a little bit that day, my feet were so happy to be out of my soaking wet sneakers!

Now, I’m definitely not suggesting you wear Crocs all day, everyday. Please, don’t! But have a set of lightweight sandals on hand is never a bad idea.

Escape to Dry Land: or really, dry attractions. So many attractions at Disney are covered, it’s definitely possible to dodge between them and stay mostly dry during a rain storm. A mid-afternoon shower is a great time to check out one of the indoor live shows such as Finding Nemo The Musical, Festival of the Lion King, Enchanted Tales with Belle, or Ellen’s Energy Adventure.

If you are more of a thrill seeker – attractions like Soarin’, Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster, and Space Mountain are all completely covered. I will say though, I rode Expedition Everest while it was raining and it was so much fun! The wind and rain whipping in my face definitely added to the terror aspect. I was laughing like crazy the whole time. Attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, it’s a small world, and Peter Pan’s Flight are also great when it rains as queues are covered, and the rides are all indoors.

Just Keep Swimming: As the first rain drops start to fall, most guests head straight to the nearest gift shop or restaurant to wait it out. Remember, it’s a just a little water! “Just keep swimming” and you will be able to walk onto rides that usually have a longer wait. Don’t let a little bit of weather ruin your day – have fun!

Rainy Day Character Cavalcade: If the rain falls during a scheduled parade time, do not despair! Disney World has a back-up parade called the Rainy Day Character Cavalcade which features Main Street USA vehicles filled with characters. While I totally agree that this parade does not live up to the spectacle of Festival of Fantasy – it’s a good consolation prize.

A rainy day at Disney does not have to mean an end to fun. As long as you are prepared, know where to escape to, and have a positive attitude, blue skies will definitely be on the horizon!

What do you do when it starts to rain at Disney? Share your tips with me in the comments!

Monica is an Alumna of the Disney College Program. When she is not walking down the middle of Main Street USA you can find her wandering the World Showcase, or enjoying a Dole Whip while racing to her favorite attractions. When she is forced to endure life outside of Walt Disney World, you can find her in Ann Arbor, Michigan where she lives and works. You can visit her Disney lifestyle blog here.

Disneyland Resort Refurbishment Schedule for March 2016

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 29, 2016

As we know Disneyland needs to keep all of their rides, attractions, and restaurants in good working condition and for that they need to close down for refurbishment sometimes. Unfortunately these are the attractions closed for the month of March:

Disneyland Park

Autopia – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Disneyland Railroad – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Disneyland Railroad – Mickey’s Toontown – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Disneyland Railroad – New Orleans Square – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Disneyland Railroad – Tomorrowland – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Fantasmic! – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Jungle Cruise – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Mark Twain Riverboat – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Sailing Ship Columbia – Jan 11, 2016 – TBD
Indiana Jones Adventure – Reopening March 3rd 2016
Mad Tea Party – March 7 – 9, 2016

Disneyland California Adventure Park

Grizzly River Run – Feb. 15 – Mar. 15, 2016

Disneyland Hotel

D-Ticket Pool – opening March 11, 2016
E-Ticket Pool – opening March 11, 2016
Mickey Spa – opening March 11, 2016

Hopefully your favorite will be open while you are visiting!

Former Disney World Waitress is suing Disney over lost wages

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 29, 2016

A former employee of the Plaza Restaurant in Walt Disney World is suing Disney because her salary was cut due to being forced to take on non-tipping responsibilities.

Jasmin Sandoval, the former employee is suing Disney because she says that she had been spending more than 20 percent of her time on the clock doing non tipping duties such as dishes and restocking. According to Florida State law if a tipped employee (who gets paid $5.03 an hour) works more than 20% of their time in a non-tipping position they must be raised to a non-tipping salary ($8.05) and that never happen.

Michael Grossman of Cohen Grossman is representing Sandoval. They are seeking back pay, interest, and attorney fees. They currently do not know exactly how much is owed to Sandoval, however she hopes they can get her lost wages as the lawsuit progresses.

“We’re not trying to make millions of dollars. We’re just trying to get wages recovered for our client,” Grossman said.

Sandoval worked for Disney from 2011 to 2015. She claims the wage claim had nothing to do with her leaving and would not discuss what the reasons were for her leaving the restaurant.

A representative from Disney said in a prepared statement

“We are reviewing the allegations contained in the complaint and will respond in court.”

Source Orlando Sentinel

Disney Marketing Legend and first President Jack Lindquist has passed at age 88

Disney News

February 29, 2016

Remember Disney Dollars? Or the campaign slogan “I’m going to Disney World!/Disneyland?” Well none of that would have happen without Jack Lindquist, he was the first advertising manager at the Walt Disney Company. Unfortunately, he has passed away today at the age of 88.

Lindquist was born in Chicago on March 15, 1927. Shortly after Disneyland opened in 1955 Lindquist started working there. He was originally hired by Walt Disney as the first advertising manager, he worked his way up to president of the park (Disneyland) from 1990 until his retirement in 1993.

Lindquist also introduced ideas such as after hour special events, off-site ticket sales, he developed the marketing plan for the park’s E-ticket program. He went on to leading the marketing for Walt Disney World and Toyko Disneyland, he also developed marketing strategies for Disneyland Paris.

He was named a Disney Legend for the leadership he showed for the theme parks and in November he was inducted into the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions hall of fame. He was recognized for his work with Disney as well as his influence in the entire theme park industry with his promotion and operational ideas.

Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of Disney said:

“Jack Lindquist was a Disney original in every sense. He started his career as Disneyland’s first advertising manager, and later served as the park’s first president, a role he always referred to as ‘the best job in the world. He made sure Disneyland was the Happiest Place on Earth for each guest who walked through the gates, setting the standard for every leader that followed. Those of us who had the good fortune to know Jack will always remember the kindness, humility and dedication that made him such an important part of this company and a true Disney Legend.”

Another sad passing, our condolences to his family.

Photo Credit: Disney

Top 6 Walt Disney World resort pools we love

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 29, 2016

While vacationing in Walt Disney World, especially with little ones, you need a break in the day, or a day off from all the walking at the theme parks, and that is where the resorts pools come into play! There are few pools in the world that can compare to the resort pools at Walt Disney World. If you’re looking to swim, slide, relax or party there is something for everyone at the pools on this list!

6. The Big Blue Pool at the Art of Animation Resort – Here you will find a Nemo themed pool with a wet and dry children’s play area. There are lots of beach chairs for sunning however the biggest must do at this pool area is the music UNDER the water! This is definitely a pool everyone should visit once in a lifetime!

5. Ol’ Man Island at Port Orleans Riverside – There is a daily pool party at this swimming hole! There is a kids section, a wading pool, a hot tub and a squirting pile of rocks! You can zip in on the 95 foot long water slide built into the mill works.

4. The Paddock Pool at Saratoga Springs – slide down a 128 foot long windy slide that starts in a tower, relax in one of the many chairs around the pool or take a soak in the hot tub. The pool is zero entry and there is a kiddie section with two slides just for them!

3. Uzima Pool at Animal Kingdom Lodge – the pool at Animal Kingdom is an oasis, 11000 square feet of watery wonderfulness. There is zero entry and a gentle slope to the pool, there are plenty of places to sit and relax and a 67 foot water slide!

2. The Lava Pool at the Polynesian Resort – another zero entry pool with a great slide and tons of extras, there is a small dry area for the kids to play in as well as a wet area and a mini slide for the young ones. There is a hot tub present, tons of seating and nighttime views of the fireworks at Magic Kingdom!

1. Stormalong Bay at the Yacht and Beach Club – this pool is more like a water park! There is 3 acres of fun here with a lazy river, a 230-foot-long water slide and a kids area with their own water slide. The pool has a sandy beach bottom and is slightly sloped and there is 3 whirlpool spa.

These are just some of my favorites what are yours?

Thanks for reading! My name is Karen Asaro I’m a travel agent with World of Magic Travel and a writer for Chip and Co and Disney Addicts. I visit Disney World as often as possible to keep up to date with the latest going on throughout the world, if I’m not there I am planning my next trip! Let me help you plan your next trip you can email me or visit me on facebook for all the latest info!

More details emerge on upcoming expansion of Disney Springs

Chip

February 29, 2016

As Disney Springs continues to expand and double its dining, shopping and entertainment options at Walt Disney World Resort, more exciting high-profile tenants are coming onboard, including Anthropologie, LACOSTE, Under Armour, kate spade new york, Sephora and Lucky Brand, among others.

Earlier Today, a total of 30 new tenants were announced as coming to Disney Springs, including new retail shops and dining venues.

Disney Springs is nearing completion on its largest expansion in history and emerging as an exciting new waterfront district for world-class shopping, unique dining, and high-quality entertainment. Inspired by Florida’s waterfront towns and natural beauty, Disney Springs has four distinct outdoor neighborhoods; The Landing, Marketplace, West Side and Town Center; all interconnected by a flowing spring and vibrant lakefront. Guests can expect a sophisticated mix of restaurants and high-quality retailers – including premium, affordable luxury and fast fashion options.

“Disney Springs has quickly become a favorite destination for our guests and they are going to love what’s to come,” said George A. Kalogridis, president Walt Disney World Resort. “Guests will enjoy an experience unlike any other in Central Florida with even more opportunities to shop in unique and distinctive stores and enjoy world-class dining. Disney Springs offers something for everyone and does it in a way that only Disney can. It truly is the place to be.”

TOWN CENTER RETAIL

Announced today as coming to Disney Springs are 28 new stores to be located in Town Center, which offers a sophisticated mix of shopping and dining along with a promenade where guests can relax, refresh and reconnect with each other. Town Center features Spanish “Revival” style architecture, drawing from a rich history of explorers that landed in Florida centuries ago.

The following Town Center shops are slated to open in phases beginning May 15:

Anthropologie: Anthropologie’s unique and eclectic product assortment includes women’s casual apparel and accessories, intimates, shoes, beauty, home furnishings and a diverse array of gifts and decorative items.
LACOSTE: Since the very first polo shirt was created in 1933, LACOSTE relies on its authentic sportive roots to spring optimism and elegance on the world thanks to a unique and original lifestyle for women, men and children and offers a range of products: apparel, leather goods, fragrances, footwear, eyewear, homewear, watches and underwear.
kate spade new york: Crisp color, graphic prints and playful sophistication are the hallmarks of kate spade new york. From handbags and clothing to jewelry, fashion accessories, fragrance, eyewear, shoes, swimwear, home decor, desk accessories, stationery, tabletop and gifts, the brand’s exuberant approach to the everyday encourages personal style with a dash of incandescent charm.
Sephora: The new Disney Springs Sephora store will offer guests the opportunity to try, test, and play with thousands of products from classic and up-and-coming cosmetic and fragrance brands. Sephora at Disney Springs will feature the latest in beauty services and technology at their expanded Sephora Beauty Studio including Mini Makeovers, Sephora + Pantone Color IQ and complimentary Beauty Classes.
Under Armour: Covering two-stories of retail space with a large array of athletic apparel, footwear, and equipment for men, women, and youth, the Disney Springs Under Armour Brand House will have an interactive experience geared toward young athletes who want to test their skills and talents.
M·A·C Cosmetics: Collaborating with leading talents from fashion, art and popular culture, M·A·C is a leader in professional makeup and celebrates diversity and individuality.
Vince Camuto: A lifestyle brand offering a range of innovative, stylish, trendy products including footwear, handbags, sportswear and much more.
Vera Bradley: Celebrating the unique signature style of Vera Bradley in an exciting and modern way, this store designed just for Disney Springs, will bring to life the rich history and heritage of Vera Bradley, showcasing a wide range of their distinctive signature collections and a myriad of specially-created Disney-themed products.
Lucky Brand: Staying true to the rich heritage and authentic, all-American spirit of denim, Lucky Brand crafts comfortable vintage-inspired jeans and casual clothing with an irreverent rock and roll attitude.
Oakley: Oakley infuses technology, performance and style into eyewear, apparel and accessories for those who are passionate about sports and outdoor lifestyles.
Coca-Cola Store: Building on its long-standing relationship with Disney, the new store, inspired by a 1920’s-era Coca-Cola bottling plant design, will feature a wide selection of Coca-Cola merchandise, a Coca-Cola Polar Bear experience and refreshing rooftop beverage bar.
TROPHY ROOM: Founded by Marcus Jordan, son of NBA legend Michael Jordan, TROPHY ROOM is an elevated and unique athletic retail boutique experience, inspired by the trophy room in the Jordan family estate. Opening its first location at Disney Springs, the store offers footwear, apparel, memorabilia and exclusive merchandise.
ALEX AND ANI^®: Meaningful, eco-conscious jewelry and accessories designed to connect people. ALEX AND ANI products are proudly MADE IN AMERICA WITH LOVE^®.
Na Hoku – Hawaii’s Finest Jewelers Since 1924: A collection of fine jewelry that captures the essence of Hawaiian and Island Lifestyle.
Shore: A fashionable American lifestyle brand featuring swimwear, fitness wear, everyday comfort clothing, exclusive products and a new line of limited-edition Shore Brand apparel, only available at Disney Springs.
American Threads: Opening a flagship location at Disney Springs, American Threads offers women’s clothing inspired by the free American spirit.
Volcom: Volcom was founded on the belief that there is a higher level of consciousness to be found within one’s self through the internal and external journeys that board-sports, music, art and film provide. The company prides itself on making quality apparel, outerwear, footwear and accessories that not only exemplify the lifestyle, but also enhance the ability to live it.
Kipling: An international accessories brand offering lightweight and ultra-functional handbags, backpacks, luggage and more to lighten one’s day.
francesca’s: With new merchandise arriving daily and in limited quantities, guests will find unique, fashion-forward clothing, accessories, shoes, jewelry and gifts.
Melissa Shoes: As the pioneer in jelly shoes manufacturing, this Brazilian footwear company offers guests innovative and stylish plastic footwear.
UNOde50: Founded in Madrid, Spain, this jewelry retailer offers unique, highly hand-crafted designs that break away from the norm.
Johnston & Murphy: Known for its heritage in designing high-quality, well-crafted footwear and apparel, Johnston & Murphy offers modern classics for the new traditional customer.
Everything But Water: Known for providing the perfect getaway wardrobe for fashionable women, Everything But Water offers an extensive collection of designer swimwear, resortwear and accessories.
Free People: Free People offers a unique merchandise mix of casual women’s apparel, intimates, shoes, accessories, activewear and gifts.
JOHNNY WAS: Beautifully crafted bohemian womenswear brand, with a curated selection of jewelry, books, and gifts and a signature line of colorful printed silk scarves, dresses, and tunics.
Columbia: Creating innovative apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment for outdoor and fishing enthusiasts since 1938. The new store at Disney Springs will feature the Performance Fishing Gear (PFG) collection designed with fabrics and industry leading technologies that allow for comfortable wear and use for enjoying long days on the water or under the sun.
Sperry: From the invention of the world’s first boat shoe to a full collection of sea-tested lifestyle products, Sperry offers the tools for life’s adventures.
Luxury of Time by Diamonds International: An industry leader of fine timepieces and jewelry in the Caribbean, Alaska andMexico, Luxury of Time by Diamonds International will feature some of the world’s most prominent designer watch brands and a large collection of fine jewelry.

TOWN CENTER DINING

Also announced today as coming to Disney Springs are several new dining venues at Town Center overlooking The Spring, the heart and soul of the property.

At D-Luxe Burger, a Disney owned and operated concept, burger aficionados are in for a treat with gourmet burgers made from a signature blend of beef, unique toppings and freshly baked buns. All-natural chicken and vegetarian burgers round out the menu with hand-cut fries and house-made dipping sauces as the perfect complement. Artisanal gelato shakes (non-alcoholic and alcoholic) and floats will also be featured, as well as hard sodas, draft beer and cider.

Celebrating the art of pastry making, Amorette’s Patisserie features elements of an artist’s loft and art gallery side-by-side within the comforts of a small town patisserie. Amorette’s means “little loves,” which is evident in the care poured into creating the shop’s sweet treats. Timeless classic and contemporary pastries are the stars in this unique high-end pastry shop owned and operated by Disney. Custom cakes are truly a work of art and are available for immediate purchase or for pre-order. Champagne selections by the glass and handcrafted hot chocolates only a pastry artist could create allow for a truly indulgent experience.

In addition to these owned and operated restaurants, we are bringing new restaurants to Town Center by award-winning celebrity chefs.

The newest contemporary Mexican-themed restaurant joining Disney Springs has a new name. Tablas Frontera will delight friends, family and food-lovers with exciting flavors and a contemporary Mexican experience. Warm colors, an open kitchen and a lively atmosphere frame an inviting exploration of the many delights from the kitchen of renowned chef Rick Bayless. The delicious, enticing presentation of grilled meats, seafood and vegetables served on planks (tablas) promote sharing and togetherness.

Homecoming – Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar by Chef Art Smith will showcase farm-to-fork cuisine inspired by the Sunshine State. The menu will feature Southern favorites like homemade pimento cheese, deviled eggs, low country shrimp and grits, and fried chicken.

ADDITIONAL ENHANCEMENTS

As guests enter Town Center around The Spring area, they will be warmly greeted at the Welcome Center, a place where guests can relax and take in the beauty of the clear water with lush landscape along the water’s edge. Themed to early Florida settlements, the architecture around The Spring is based on timber frame structures that were once used in the citrus and ranching industries.

Over in the Marketplace, Fulton’s Crab House will open a new concept this fall. The re-imagined restaurant will welcome guests with a bow to stern update including interiors reflecting the crisp luxury of modern yachting, and new spaces include a lushly appointed rooftop lounge overlooking Disney Springs, outdoor waterfront bar featuring a “build your own” fish boil and private dining areas. The new menu stars fresh seafood with an oyster shucking bar, Florida stone crab and Alaskan king crab, with hearty steaks and chops, as well as classic and curated cocktails.

In addition, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will move from its current location at World of Disney into a new and expanded location near Once Upon a Toy in the Disney Springs Marketplace. Guests ages 3-12 will receive the royal treatment, getting made up like their favorite Disney princess with the help of their own Fairy Godmother-in-Training. This country parlor-inspired location will include an expanded salon to welcome royal attendees and a uniquely designed photo room to capture memories. Be among the first to experience this new location by booking your royal makeover at 407-WDW-STYLE (407-939-7895).

Disney Springs can be easily accessed from I-4 West, Central Florida’s major thoroughfare, via a new connection that leads directly to a convenient parking garage featuring smart technology that identifies open parking spaces. Self parking is complimentary. Valet parking is also available on site.

Lego Star Wars: Droid Tales DVD Coming Soon

Danielle

February 29, 2016

Fans of Star Wars and those lovable Droids can celebrate! The all-new “Lego Star Wars Droid Tales” adventure soars on DVD, March 1st. To promote the release here is a new clip to check out while we await the new DVD!

NEVER DO THAT AGAIN

Just in case you missed the previous clip, you can check it out below as well!

This new Lego Star Wars DVD is sure to be a big hit for Star Wars and Lego lovers alike! Pre-order yours today!

Style Your Kitchen With Disney Parks Flair

Danielle

February 29, 2016

You can bring home the colorful fun and whimsy of your favorite Disney characters with these bright Disney kitchen essentials from the Disney Parks.

These bold essentials and organizers are stylized as your favorite Disney characters with a color block design that embodies their individual motifs. Choose from fanciful canisters, whimsical measuring cups and fabulous salt & pepper shakers.

Donald Duck Ceramic Kitchen Cannister

The hot tempered Donald manages to keep a lid on things with this ceramic cannister. His distinctive blue outift is glazed on to this spacious container while his ”signature” means he’ll make a name for himself in the kitchen

Goofy Ceramic Kitchen Cannister

Goofy makes himself useful around the kitchen with this ceramic storage container. Styled after Goofy’s colorful outfit, his ”signature” is featured on the lid which has a silicone seal to keep things fresh, like doggie treats.

Minnie Mouse Ceramic Kitchen Cannister

Minnie has the perfect spot for keeping things nice and fresh in the kitchen. This cute and spacious ceramic storage container features Minnie’s distinctive sense of style, making it perfect for bow tie pasta, or anything else for that matter.

Chip ‘n Dale Ceramic Kitchen Cannister

Chip ‘n Dale have the perfect place to keep all their nuts. This ceramic container is styled after the mischievous chipmunks, while their names are featured on the lid which has a silicone seal to ensure the contents remain nice and fresh.

Mickey Mouse and Friends Colorful Kitchen Collapsible Measuring Cups Set

Your colorful kitchen recipes will inspire only smiles while using this handy silicone measuring cup set featuring Mickey and the gang, that expand for use, and collapse for storage.

Mickey Mouse Salt or Pepper Shaker

Add a taste of Disney to your meal with this Mickey Mouse Salt or Pepper Shaker. Designed in Mickey’s signature style, this ceramic shaker even includes Mickey’s signature so he’ll make a name for himself at the dinner table.

Minnie Mouse Salt or Pepper Shaker

You can always rely on Minnie to spice up meal times with this salt or pepper shaker. Designed with her distinctive polka dot and bow style, this shaker even includes Minnie’s signature so she’ll make a name for herself at the dinner table.

Chip ‘n Dale Salt or Pepper Shaker

Those mischievous chipmunks Chip ‘n Dale will spice up meal times with this salt or pepper shaker. The ceramic container features their distinctive markings, and ”signatures” so they’ll make a name for themselves at the dinner table.

Goofy Salt or Pepper Shaker

Goofy is guaranteed to spice up meal times with this Salt or Pepper Shaker. Designed in Goofy’s style, this ceramic shaker even includes his signature so he’ll make a name for himself at the dinner table.

Mickey Mouse Shorts Colorful Kitchen Trivet

Mickey’s iconic shorts provide a cooling dimensional surface for hot pots and pans with this two-sided silicone trivet. Your colorful kitchen will come alive with modern convenience!

Aren’t these kitchen accents just adorable? Would you decorate your kitchen with these Disney kitchen essentials?

The Writers, Producers and Directors talk with us about Disney’s Zootopia

Chip

February 29, 2016

We had the pleasure last week to sit down and talk with Co-Writer Phil Johnston, Producer Clark Spencer and Co-Director/Co-Writer Jared Bush at the ZOOTOPIA Press Junket at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Phil, Clark and Jared were so friendly and were so nice to tell us about many of the little behind the scenes things that you see in the movie. For example one of us asked them, “were there things that you wanted to add to Zootopia?” Many of the lands worked in the movie while some did not. They initially tried to add Outback Island where all the Australian animals lived, but it just wouldn’t work no matter how many times they tried.

One of the coolest ideas was the neighborhoods of Zootopia. They consist of:

The Burrows
The Rainforst
Sahara Square
TundraTown
Zootopia Metropolis Area

Each district was designed for the animals that live there. For example Polar Bears live in Tundra Town, and of course Bunnies live in the Burrows. Which lead us into our next question, with Zootopia being such a big metropolis and all these different areas, are there maybe ideas of shorts being made in little areas? They loved our idea and would love to explore Disney Shorts from the world of Zootopia. Flash from the DMV makes an appearance at the end of the movie but I would love to see more of him!

One of the funniest scenes from the movie comes from a scene from Breaking Bad. I had to ask who came up with that idea… That idea came from one of their storyboard artists Jason Hand, when it first came in they knew it was gonna be in a lab. There were gonna be sheep and he drew it with those giant suits like on in Breaking Bad, they even named the characters Jessie and Woolter; it’s not Walter, it’s Woolter. Love it.

It is that kind of humor and attention to detail that these guys brought to the table in this wonderful film!

Next up we spoke with Directors Rich Moore and Byron Howard about co directing Zootopia together. In the early stages of the film Disney changed the main character of the film from Nick Wilde to Judy Hopps which is why 2 directors were needed to complete the movie. Both Rich and Byron stepped up together and really brought the film together.

We just had to ask how many species of animals make up Zootopia. They said there was sixty four different species of animals, all with different fur. Of those sixty four we have male, female and child. So you do all the multiplying then you have like that times three and then you have of those maybe like twenty variants clothing and color wise first. So by the time you’re done you have tens of thousands characters… Very impressive! One of things you will notice is there is no bugs or birds in the film.

Next up we talked to them about the time frame from making Zootopia. It took them over a year to pitch the idea to John Lassater. They had like 3 or 4 ideas they came to him with after Tangled which was 5 years ago and after the initial year they began to work on the storyline. We had no idea it took that long to make the film but you know if they spent that long working on the movie it will be good, and it was!

Finally we asked about a sequel and both directors are very open to it. You could take Nick and Judy in a number of directions also since there are no birds or reptiles in the film that doesn’t mean there isn’t other cities out there with birds or insects so that is something they would love to explore. We know it’s a little early for sequels but with the vastness of the Zootopia world the possibilities are endless.

We would like to thank the Writers, Producers and Directors of Zootopia for meeting with us and for making such a wonderful film. If you would like to read about our interview with Jason Bateman and Ginnifer Goodwin just click here.

Tickets Now on Sale for Disney’s The Jungle Book

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 29, 2016

There are numerous Disney live action films in the works based on Disney animated classics, and the first one this year we get to enjoy is “The Jungle Book,” based on stories by Rudyard Kipling as well as Disney Animation Studio’s movie from 1967. With an all-star cast including Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley, Idris Elba, Lupita Nyong’o, Scarlett Johansson, Giancarlo Esposito, Neel Sethi and Christopher Walken, with director Jon Favreau (Iron Man) on board, it is sure to be an amazing film!

Tickets are now available for purchase for the film, which is coming out April 15th! The movie will also be released in 3D and IMAX 3D, with tickets available here.

The last Disney live action film based on an animated classic was last years “Cinderella,” and what I loved about this movie was that it incorporated more aspects of the actual book (we see more of Cinderella’s father, for example), yet keeps with the fun Disney feel of having talking mice, etc. “The Jungle Book” seems to be following this same pattern of re-vamping a Disney classic. From the trailer, it appears to be more of an epic, cinematic portrayal but with the inclusion of the more light-hearted whimsy of King Louie, and the “Bear Necessities.” I am also eager to see more of the amazing look of the film, just from the trailer alone it looks like it has some pretty stellar CGI that’s sure to look incredible on the big screen!

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Studios

Additional high end stores added to Disney Springs growing list!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 29, 2016

As you already know Disney Springs is growing at a rapid rate, well we are pleased to let you know that 30 more high-end stores have been added to the every growing list. The following stores will be opening in Disney Springs in phases starting May of 2016;

Anthropologie
kate spade new york
LACOSTE
Under Armour
M·A·C Cosmetics
Vince Camuto
Vera Bradley
Lucky Brand
Oakley
Coca-Cola Store
TROPHY ROOM
ALEX AND ANI®
Na Hoku – Hawaii’s Finest Jewelers Since 1924
Shore
American Threads
Volcom
Kipling
francesca’s
American Threads
Volcom
Kipling
francesca’s
Melissa Shoes
UNOde50
Johnston & Murphy
Everything But Water
Free People
JOHNNY WAS
Columbia
Sperry
Luxury of Time by Diamonds
International
Sephora
D-Luxe Burger
Amorette’s Patisserie
Tablas Frontera
Homecoming – Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar

The four “neighborhoods” Disney Springs are; The Landing, Marketplace, West Side and Town Center and will eventually have more than 150 retail, dining and entertainment offerings. This is the largest expansion in Disney history and we are loving what this area is becoming!

What do you think? Comment Below!

Get Happy with Disney Favorites Inspired Tees

Danielle

February 29, 2016

Many of us have that certain something from the Disney Parks that we just can’t get enough of. For many of us it’s food, for others its characters or attractions. These fun tees from HappiestTeesonEarth let us show off our Disney favorites pride for all the world to see!

Happiest Tees on Earth make fun apparel for all of our Disney adventures. They use soft tailored fit tees with fun phrases expressing love for some of our most cherished Disney icons! These cheeky shirts and tanks are hand printed in Washington State.

Check out some of the Disney inspired favorites at their store below:

What are your Disney Parks favorites?

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