Three Character Meet and Greets Closing at Epcot

By

-

February 12, 2016

If you want to meet Princess Aurora, Winnie the Pooh and friends, or Chip and Dale, tomorrow is the last day to do so at Epcot. These three meet and greets will be closing and the last day to experience them is February 13th.

Character Spot recently expanded to include Baymax from ‘Big Hero 6’. Word is that soon Joy and Sadness from ‘Inside Out’ will be at Character Spot as well.

Right now you can meet Princess Aurora in the France Pavilion, Winnie the Pooh and friends in the United Kingdom Pavilion, and Chip and Dale outside of Character Spot in Epcot. If these are some of your favorite characters, don’t worry! You’ll still have opportunities to meet them at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Princess Aurora can sometimes be found at character meals at Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom and Akershus in Epcot. You can meet Tigger and friends near the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in Magic Kingdom. Chip and Dale can be seen near the Diamond Horseshoe in Magic Kingdom as well as Rafiki’s Planet Watch in Animal Kingdom.

Will you miss these meet and greets at Epcot?

For more information about the happenings at Walt Disney World, or for help with booking your next magical Disney vacation, email me at [email protected] or follow me on Facebook. I’ll find the best promotion available for your trip and my services are always FREE!

The Best Viewing Locations for Wishes Nighttime Spectacular

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

February 12, 2016

Wishes Nighttime Spectacular is, as the name implies, spectacular! Yes, it is the nighttime fireworks at Magic Kingdom, but Disney has a way of making fireworks so much more than just a regular fireworks display. Wishes features the voices of beloved characters as well as iconic music to which the fireworks are timed. This show is something that everyone should experience at least once. Now the questions becomes, where do you watch it from? Well, that’s what I’m here to share – here are the best places to view Wishes from!

Main Street U.S.A. – If you have never seen Wishes, then Main Street is the best place for you to watch from. Before the fireworks start Tinkerbell flies across the sky, which you can’t see from anywhere else. Shortly before Wishes the Castle is bathed in light and scenes from Disney movies during Celebrate the Magic – and Main Street is the only place to see this as well.

Main Street is great, but it is also incredibly crowded! So, if you’re looking for somewhere less crowded, or even just a new perspective on the show there lots of great places to watch!

Fantasyland – While everyone is lining up in front of the Castle to watch the show, venture to the back for a unique experience. When you’re on Main Street all of the fireworks are directly in front of you, but when you’re behind the castle in Fantasyland you’re surrounded by them!
Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party – This one will cost you extra, but you will get to enjoy the show and delicious desserts all at the same time. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance and when the time comes, head over to the Tomorrowland Terrace for decadent eats and dazzling sights.
Tomorrowland – Tomorrowland’s location lends itself to a truly unique view opportunity. Main Street and Fantasyland give guests a front or back view of the show, but Tomorrowland gives guests a side view! You should check it out at least once!
Liberty Square – This one is my favorite! If you stand across from the entrance of Liberty Tree Tavern the fireworks will be almost directly above you – it is an amazing experience. There are also incredibly low crowds here during the show.

You don’t have to be inside of Magic Kingdom to enjoy the show, though!

Ferrytale Wishes: A Fireworks Dessert Cruise – This one costs a bite extra as well, but you won’t regret it. Set sail on the Seven Seas Lagoon where you’ll enjoy an amazing view of Wishes as well as tasty treats.
Resort Beaches – The beaches of Magic Kingdom area resorts offer a unique and relaxing viewing opportunity. Avoid the crowds, grab a seat, and enjoy the show.
Restaurants – Lastly, The California Grill at the Contemporary Resort and Ohana at the Polynesian Village Resort offer amazing views of the fireworks spectacular if you are seated by the window or if you are watching from the observation deck at the Contemporary. Not only do you get to see the show from a unique location, but the music that is played inside the park is also played inside the restaurant so that you get the whole experience.

Where is your favorite place to watch Wishes? Let us know in the comments!

My name is Miriya Whitaker, I am a travel agent with World of Magic Travel, a writer for Chip and Co and Disney Addicts, and I love Wishes! I would be more than happy to help you plan and book your next magical vacation so that you can enjoy the magic of Wishes, too! Contact me at [email protected] to start planning and follow me on Facebook for more Disney and travel information!

CEO Bob Iger Shares Star Wars Rogue One News

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

February 12, 2016

Rogue One A Star Wars Story logo

In yesterday’s article we mentioned CEO Bob Iger’s confirmation that production has begun on Star Wars Episode VIII and Episode IX. Mr. Iger also shared the following information about the Star Wars franchise during the Walt Disney Corporate Earnings Meeting on Wednesday.

Along with the confirmation about the start of filming, Mr. Iger restated the move of release date for Episode VIII to December. Previously scheduled for May 2016 the change called for speculation among the social media with concerns over changes to other previously reported dates.

However, talk of the stand alone films included confirmation that as of this moment, the yet untitled but dubbed Hans Solo: A Star Wars Story is still set for the May 2018 theater release date. Confirmation of the near completion of Rogue One and the start of pre-production of the next film indicate that Star Wars films will remain on track as previously announced.

A few minor changes in release dates may occur but have no fear, Star Wars fans, overall we have Star Wars films scheduled for years to come.

Egg-stravaganza Returns to Disney Parks in 2016

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

February 12, 2016

In case you needed another reason to want to visit a Disney park this spring, Disney is bringing back the Egg-stravaganza in 2016! Locations to participate are as follows:

Disneyland Resort
California Adventure
Downtown Disney District (Disneyland)
Epcot at Walt Disney World

Details on the egg-citing event!

The Egg-stravaganza runs from March 2 – 27, 2016 (or while supplies last). Guests are invited to search for hidden Disney character themed “eggs” around the park. Maps and stickers to record your finding can be purchased for $5.95, plus tax at the following locations:

Disneyland Resort

Disney California Adventure park: Elias & Co., Humphrey’s Service & Supplies, Off the Page, Oswald’s, Sarge’s Surplus Hut and Treasures in Paradise
Disneyland park – Disneyana, Disney Showcase, “it’s a small world” Toy Shop, Little Green Men Store Command, Pieces of Eight, Pioneer Mercantile and Stromboli’s.
Downtown Disney District – Anna & Elsa’s Boutique, D Street, Disney Pin Traders, WonderGround Gallery and World of Disney Store
Hotels of the Disneyland Resort – Acorns Gifts & Goods, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa; Mickey in Paradise, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel and Fantasia Shop, Disneyland Hotel

Walt Disney World Resort

Epcot – Pin Central, Port of Entry (Showcase Plaza), Heritage Manor (The American Adventure) and World Traveler (International Gateway)

When you are finished:

Once you have finished (whether completed or not), guests can return their maps to one of the following locations to receive a surprise by April 2nd: Elias & Co. at Disney California Adventure park; Disney Showcase in Disneyland park; World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort; or Port of Entry in Epcot.

The weather will be warm and flowers in bloom… spring is a great time to be at a Disney Park! Let me help you plan your Easter family vacation, contact me at [email protected] or on Facebook to take advantage of my free vacation planning services!

Photo Credit Disney Parks Blog

Three SeaWorld Parks in Orlando Announce Increase to Starting Pay

By

Chip

-

February 12, 2016

SeaWorld Orlando today announced it will increase the minimum starting pay rate for employees – referred to as ambassadors – to $10 per hour. This 50-cent increase will be effective July 1, 2016. SeaWorld also will be increasing wage rates for nearly 100 job titles, both existing positions and new hires, as part of the company’s commitment to compensate employees with competitive pay.

The increases will apply to roles in the three Orlando parks: SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove and Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark.

“We have incredible ambassadors who are the heart of our organization,” says Christine Elliott O’Neal, Vice President of Human Resources for the three parks. “These increases to thousands of our current and future ambassadors represent our strong commitment to them and our appreciation for the value they bring to our guests, experiences and mission. They also reflect Orlando’s position as a national leader in job growth.”

SeaWorld’s three Orlando parks are expected to hire approximately 7,000 new ambassadors this year in full-time, part-time and seasonal opportunities. Positions range from professional roles and front-line leadership to entry-level ambassadors. Prospective employees can visit SeaWorldJobs.com to see all available positions and submit applications.

Follow SeaWorld on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for real-time updates and join the conversation with #SeaWorld.

Production company of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” will face criminal charges over Harrison Ford’s injuries

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

February 12, 2016

In June of 2014 Harrison Ford was hit with the hydraulic metal door from the Millennium Falcon and was air lifted to the hospital where his extensive injuries were handled. The filming was put on hold for 6 months while Ford recuperated.

Foodles Production (UK) Ltd – a subsidiary of Disney was then sued by the The Health And Safety Executive, they are the British agency in charge of safety in the workplace (Think OSHA). The H&SE insists the safety of the actors should be top priority and they do not feel Foodles Production did that in this case. The law suit claims four alleged breaches of health and safety law were committed here.

A spokesperson from Foodles Production said:

“Cast and crew safety is always a top priority. We provided full co-operation during HSE’s investigation into the on-set accident that occurred in June 2014 and are disappointed in HSE’s decision.”

However in an interview on The Jonathan Ross Show Ford admitted a crew member accidentally push a button which dropped the door onto him.

A representative for Foodles Production will appear in court at High Wycombe Magistrates Court on 12 May. If convicted they could face a maximum fine on conviction of £20,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or both. It is highly unlikely they will face imprisonment and with the $2 billion dollars made from the movie Star Wars: A Force Awakens, I do not see the fine weighing them down.

Foodles should have to pay for their mistakes just like any other boss! What do you think?

Top 5 Must Own Haunted Mansion Goodies

By

Danielle

-

February 12, 2016

There’s always room for one more… Haunted Mansion item! The Haunted Mansion is an iconic ride that has become a pop culture phenomenon for many Disney Addicts. It’s no wonder that there is so many wonderful handmade items inspired by the Grim Grinning Ghostly ride! Here’s my favorite must owns inspired by the hauntingly beautiful Wall Paper.

Haunted Mansion Tote Bag

Calling all foolish mortals this tote bag from TheBraveLittleTailor is perfect for anyone who would love to carry the Haunted Mansion iconic wallpaper every where they go. The design has been printed and sewn into this stylish tote!

Haunted Mansion Wallpaper Reusable Coffee Mug

For those Haunted Mansion enthusiasts (like myself), drink your coffee or other beverages out of this Haunted Mansion themed reusable mug from GeeksterGear. Eco friendly reusable mug allows you to take your beverage with you on the go. The lid has a sliding latch on top to completely close the opening so bumps in the car with a full cup is not a problem here.

Haunted Mansion Wallpaper apron dress

This fabulous apron from AJsCafe is the perfect Ghost Host accessory. The skirt is a wrap style that provides full coverage in back yet is adjustable to fit many sizes. I really love her aprons!

Haunted Mansion Wallpaper Painted Sneakers

These hand painted Haunted Mansion Converse shoes from BlueJeanHeart are really some of the best Haunted Mansion hand painted shoes I’ve seen! Each pair is made to order, and you can choose from any available converse size!

Mickey Mouse Haunted Mansion Wallpaper Dangle Earrings

These really just take my breath away. HokeyDonut creates these handmade spooky Mickey Mouse haunted mansion wallpaper dangle earrings, that have been accented with beautiful 4mm bicone Swarovski crystals. These are also printed double sided so you can see the beautiful designs from any angle.

Do you have a favorite Disney parks attraction that you would love to see inspired handmade goodies from?

Fall in Disneyland Paris attendance since terrorist attacks

By

Disney News

-

February 12, 2016

Disneyland Paris has seen a decline in park attendance since the November Terrorist attack in Paris. In Euro Disney’s first quarter there was a 1.1 percent decline.

Tom Wolber, Euro Disney President said:

“We experienced strong demand leading up to the November 13th events in Paris, following which we experienced booking cancellations. Despite the softened tourism environment, we remain confident in our long-term strategy and we are encouraged by the resilience of the French market in particular,”

He also thinks the decision to close the theme parks for 4 days during the National mourning made a big impact on the revenue. This is the first time the parks have been closed since their opening in 1992. This decision was also a large factor in the 8% drop in visitors to the two theme parks, however spending in the parks was up 4%.

Euro Disney has been trying to reevaluate its business strategies for a while. In January 2015 shareholders approved a plan to raise one billion euros to help the park which is struggling due to a huge debt as well as falling visitor numbers. There are different measures in place, one including a 420 million euros of fresh funds from The Walt Disney Company here in the US. Follow the attacks in November a Saudi Prince who owns Riyadh-based Kingdom Holding Co offered to give 49.2 million euros to help re-plan Disneyland Paris.

This is disappointing to me as I hope to one get out to Paris to visit these theme parks, what do you think? Comment Below!

Water permit give us a look at the layout of Avatar’s Na’vi River Journey in the Animal Kingdom

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

February 12, 2016

12714190 10153519679803983 866159833 n

Disney filed a permit with the South Florida Water Management District and it seems to give us a look a the layout of the newest ride at the Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Na’vi River Journey. The permit is asking approval to empty water into the stormwater pond, just outside the construction site of the Avatar area. The permit also says it will be an indoor water system, indicating the ride will be entirely indoors.

The ride will be a journey into Pandora’s bio-luminescent rain forest, the ride will be a family friendly ride as an alternative to the already announced AVATAR Flight of Passage, which will be a thrill ride.

On the layout of the permit you can make out the path the ride will take, where the waiting line will be, even where the repair section will likely be.

I cannot wait for this area to open! How about you? Comment below!

Top Ten Dining Experiences for those with Food Allergies – Quick Service Edition

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

February 12, 2016

Disney World may just be the ultimate vacation – a trip to this magical place always for fun, family time, and delicious eats. For some, though, dining is not as easy of an experience as for others – this is especially true since food allergies have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. For those with allergies, have no fear, Disney can make dining an enjoyable experience for you as well! Let’s discuss the top ten quick service dining experiences for those with food allergies.

Keep in mind that Disney recommends that you contact the dietary service department before you arrive to the Disney World Resort to ensure that things go smoothly and your needs are met. You can contact them by emailing [email protected] at least 14 days in advance. Also filling out the Guest Allergy Dietary Request form that will provided in the return email from the Dietary team in advance is also recommended. Making arrangements in advance can make it so that Disney can order ingredients or already made products or mixes so that they are available when you arrive.

Speaking with the restaurant manager and/or chef upon arrival at each restaurant will also help to make your dining experience safe and enjoyable.

I will personally be taking part in all of this at the end of this year for my extended family trip! My younger sister has over 30 food allergies – but from what I have read and heard, she will have a feast available to her at Disney!

Liberty Square Market – This open air market in Liberty Square, just outside of The Hall of Presidents offers a few selections for those with special dietary needs. Fresh fruit cups are available here on a regular basis, your only worry here should be if you are allergic to a certain kind of fruit. An allergen free baked potato is also available with advance notice – my guess here is that the regular potatoes are coated in butter before they are baked, like they are at many restaurants.

Flame Tree BBQ – Located in Animal Kingdom Flame Tree Barbecue also offers a choice of gluten-free mac and cheese for an entrée and Enjoy Life cookies for dessert.

Columbia Harbor House – Columbia Harbor House is known for its healthy food options for all. Those with food allergies are also included in this! Here Allergy Free Chicken Tenders, free of the top 8 allergens, as well as gluten-free mac and cheese are offered. On the downside, if you have a seafood allergy, it may be best to avoid this location since many of the regular menu items are seafood based.

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor – This place is all about ice cream, and it is nice to see that those with dairy, and even soy allergies can be included in the fun of a cold ice cream on a hot or even cold Florida day. Rice Dream and Tofutti frozen desserts are available here.

ABC Commissary – Dine with the stars at ABC Commissary! The whole family can enjoy a meal here – including those with allergies. For entrees those with allergies can choose between hamburgers on a tapioca bun or allergy free chicken tenders. Fruit cups are available for dessert and soy milk is also available upon request for those that cannot drink regular milk.

Electric Umbrella – This is a hidden gem in Epcot’s Future World. Here there are a variety of options for those with special dietary needs. Choose from Allergy Free chicken tenders, gluten-free mac and cheese, a hamburger on a tapioca bun, or gluten-free pizza.

Liberty Inn – There are also options in World Showcase as well! Located in the American Adventure Pavilion the Liberty Inn has a wide range of choice for those with allergies. This is the best place for all of these options since they are all “American” foods and having them here does not intrude on the intricate themes of the other pavilions. Diners can choose from Allergy Free chicken tenders, gluten-free mac and cheese, hamburger on tapioca bun, hot dog on tapioca bun, or gluten-free pizza.

Backlot Express – This is one of my favorite quick service places in Hollywood Studios and is tucked back by the exit of the Indiana Jones stunt show. Here allergy free diners can choose between Allergy Free chicken tenders, hamburger or hot dog on tapioca bun, for entrees and Enjoy Life cookies for dessert.

Sunshine Seasons – On of the coolest things about Epcot is the ability to try meals and snacks form around the world. With that being the case it seems like the Future World restaurants don’t get as much attention as they should. One of my favorite places for a snack in Future World is Sunshine Seasons. It can be found on the ground floor of the Land Pavilion and offers those with allergies a lot of snack choice. Tofutti and Rice Dream frozen treats, rice milk, soy milk, Enjoy Life cookies, Rocky Mountain caramel corn, and Surf Sweets. If you’re looking for something more filling gluten-free mac and cheese is also available.

Resaurantosaurus – This uniquely themed Animal Kingdom restaurant offers travels a snack before or after their safari or fossil hunt. Gluten free mac and cheese, chicken tenders, hamburgers or hot dogs on tapioca rolls, are available for entrees. Soy milk is also available, and for dessert Rice Dream and Tofutti frozen desserts as well as Enjoy life cookies are dessert options.

Remember, in order to ensure that a choice that meets your dietary needs is available during your visit, contact the dietary department. Menu items may also be subject to change without notice.

Do you have food allergies? Let us know about your experience dining at Disney with allergies in the comments!

My name is Miriya Whitaker, I am a travel agent with World of Magic Travel, a writer for Chip and Co and Disney Addicts, and I would be happy to help you figure out restaurants are best for your family’s dining needs and to help you plan a magical vacation for the whole family. Contact me at [email protected] to start planning and find out what characters you can meet on your trip. Also, follow me on Facebook for more Disney and travel information.

Aulani wins number 1 family beach resort in Travel and Leisure poll!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

February 11, 2016

Aulani

Travel and Leisure’s World’s best survey 2015 is in and the winning for the number 1 family beach resort is none other than Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa!

So what is so great about Aulani Resort and Spa all about?

Aulani is located on 21 oceanfront acres on the Hawaiian Island of Ko Olina. You can choose from a resort room, a suite or a villa, all including wifi, a refrigerator and maid service. You can also have private dining and babysitting service in room.

There are three table service restaurants, The ‘Olelo Room, Off the Hook, and the Signature Restaurant ‘AMA ‘AMA. You can grab a quick meal or snack at one of Aulani’s 5 quick service locations Lava Shack, Papalua Shave Ice, Mama’s Snack Stop, Ulu Cafe and Little ‘Opihi’s. There is also a buffet serving breakfast, where you can join your favorite characters at Aunty’s Breakfast Celebration, and dinner with you choice of chicken, sea food, carving stations, salads and desert.

Ok now you know where to eat and have somewhere to lay your head what else is offered at Aulani’s Resort and Spa?

Water Activities:

There are two children’s water area called Keiki Cove and Menehune Bridge & Trail
families can enjoy times together in the infinity-edge Ka Maka Grotto, at night make sure to return to this pool to check out the glittering lights
you can ride along the Waikolohe Stream in a tube and encounter tons of adventures along your ride
At the Waikolohe Pool you can slip slide down the body slide into the 8200-square-foot pool, or join in with all the other family fun going on here! There are cabanas to rent here also
Wailana Pool is the themed infinity pool where you can just relax and enjoy the fact that you are in Hawaii
there are 5 Whirlpool Spas
in the man-made reef, Rainbow Reef, you can swim right along side many salt water animals, you can rent snorkel equipment here

Aunty’s Beach House:

This is the place to be from 10am – 9pm for children ages 3-12, there are a lot of activities such as hula lessons, video games, Disney movies, and treasure hunts to name a few. Adults 12 an older are welcome to come and explore 8am-10am every day.

Laniwai – The Disney Spa

there are 150 Spa Therapies available
The painted sky – the only Disney all teen spa where children 13 to 17 get treated like royality
The Pulu Bar is where you can get a blend a custom body polish just for you! They are free with any full service Spa treatment
Kula Wai relax and chill our at the 5,000-square-foot garden retreat outdoor hydrotherapy garden on O’ahu for guests 18 and older (14 with an adult). There is a fee for this service unless full service spa day is paid for

With character breakfast, pools, spa treatments, excursions available to you there is something for everyone to do at the beautiful resort on Hawaii.

Are you ready to start planning this vacation to paradise?

Contact me, 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!

Star Wars helps Disney posts record quarterly profits

By

Disney News

-

February 11, 2016

12736153 10153517173403983 620155721 n

Thanks to the Blockbuster hit “Star Wars, The Force Awaken” has brought Walt Disney Company to its highest quarterly earnings in history.

The movie has already made $2 billion in global box office sales, paired with the theme park attendance and merchandise sales have helped Disney’s first quarter revenues hit $15.2 billion, that is an increase of 14% from last year!

The cable division which houses ESPN is down 5% from a year ago, among other reason’s Disney is saying the cost for the most important contract “Monday Night Football” has increased by 72% since the previous contract ended in 2013.

According to S & P Global Market Intelligence analyst Tuna Amobi the 7th installment of the Star Wars franchise is “almost the singular driver” of the consumer -product and film division last quarter.

Thanks to the purchase of Lucasfilm in 2012 Star Wars is another movie franchise Disney can cross-pollinate it merchandise and theme park division. “The Force Awakens” is the first in a triology which will be coming out over the next three years.

Disney Chief operating officer Tom Staggs says the company will keep the increase in revenue with new attractions guests will like;

Frozen ride will be opening in Epcot the year
Avatar land will be opening in Animal Kingdom on 2017
Star Wars land will be coming to both Disney World and Disneyland

With the new attractions opening and more Star Wars films on the way I don’t see earnings going down anytime soon!