New Passenger Train from Miami to Orlando

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February 1, 2016

Here is the scenario: you got a great deal on a cheap flight into Miami for your Disney vacation, but now how do you get to Orlando? Spend an arm and leg on a taxi or rent a car, an expense which cancels out your great flight deal! Come mid 2017 this will no longer be a problem!

A privately owned rail service is creating a train route for a new train called Brightline. These Brightline trains which were designed by Rockwell Group and will be express trains serviced by All Aboard Florida. True to their name the trains will be red, orange, green, pink and blue with a yellow locomotive.

The bright colors will catch everyone’s attention but the free WiFi and gourmet meals and drinks will keep them coming back! The trains will also be pet friendly. There will also be a strong emphasis on hospitality, says the president of Brightline, Jim Wallington, a train expert commented:

“This younger generation is less car prone, they are not buying cars like we used to and they are demanding that there be alternate transportation.”

The trains will run from Miami to Orlando stopping at Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. It is set to start running by mid 2017; there will be 32 trains a day (16 in each direction). The complete ride will take 3 hours.

Citizens Against Rail Expansion are against Brightline claiming there could be problems since the hospitals are on one side of the track with the emergency responders on the opposite side.

I think this is a great idea and cannot wait to be able to fly into different airports and visit different cities while in Florida. How do you feel about this? Comment below!

Photo Credit: Brightline

New Acts Bring Fresh Energy to Cirque du Soliel’s ‘La Nouba’

By

Chip

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February 1, 2016

I had the pleasure last week to check out the new acts appearing in Cirque du Soliel’s ‘La Nouba’ at Disney Springs. Being a big fan of La Nouba I love how they are always trying to keep the show fresh by making small changes and not ruining the overall performance which is wonderful!

This time the team at La Nouba really brought up the energy level with their 2 new acts: a high-energy trio of break dancers and a mesmerizing aerial bamboo act that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Here is a little more about the changes:

The b-boys bring a refreshing urban flair to the show. The trio consists of well-known solo artists Bebo, Incredible Josh, and Flying Buddha coming together for the first time ever. Their movements flow from free-style solos to choreographed moves that are performed in unison. Director Daniel Ross said, “‘La Nouba’ is a fairy tale but it starts with the idea of the big city. We wanted something powerful and urban, but when you watch them you think, ‘How is this possible?’ That’s what b-boys share with the circus.”

Before coming together Bebo, Incredible Josh, and Flying Buddha were gaining momentum in the dance world with appearances on “America’s Best Dance Crew”, “So You Think You Can Dance”, the “Step Up” movies, and international competitions. Their personal stories are encouraging, as they each discovered dance as an escape from their everyday lives and now find themselves on the stage at Disney Springs.

The second new act is a romantic aerial bamboo act, an almost lost Chinese circus art, that is performed by Alexander and Ekaterina Abramov. Ekaterina describes the show as a “ love story that we project to the audience. We are describing the story with the tricks we do in the air.”

The couple from Moscow, who has been married since 2010, were taught the rare art of aerial bamboo from retiring Russian artists that didn’t want to see the art lost. They have been working for years in circuses around Russia. They have been in talks with Cirque du Soliel at Disney for years, while waiting for the right act to join.

The grace, balance, and flow that Alexander and Ekaterina bring to their act make them a great counterpart of the strength, rhythm, and confidence of the b-boys.

Don’y worry all of your other favorite acts are still there if that is what you are wondering. The talented juggler, mesmerizing Diabolos, and awe inspiring Trampoline acts are still on hand entertaining guests, and who can forget the 2 Pablo’s…

The new acts are a welcome addition to La Nouba, if you have never been or if it has been a while you might want to check them out especially while you are checking out all the changes to Disney Springs. We like to have a date night at least once when we visit Walt Disney World, if you pair up a meal at the Swan & Dolphin you get free childcare services at Camp Dolphin and then you can just Uber over to Disney Springs for the later La Nouba show. Good way to save money, have a good meal and see an entertaining show…

For more information be sure to check out the La Nouba website.

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Pins Revealed

By

Danielle

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February 1, 2016

I’m so excited, Disney Parks Merchandise has revealed the new pin designs for the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival 2016. These pins will be releasing in March when the festival opens.

There’s some fun choices this year too! The 4 main pins feature a Mickey & Minnie Topiary ($14.95), the Sorcerer Mickey Topiary ($15.95), a romantic Cinderella & Prince Charming Topiary ($15.95) and my gal Daisy as a topiary ($15.95) the last 3 with an edition size of 3,000. The Annual Passholder pin is a beautifully blinged out Figment in front of Spaceship Earth ($15.95) the edition size for this one will be 5,000. There will be two sets, a 4 pin and a 2 pin set. The 4 pin set includes topiary versions of Chip n’ Dale, Donald, Goofy and Pluto for 54.95 with a very limited edition of 500. The other is a set of 2 gorgeous renditions of floral Mickey Mouse heads on a card for $24.95 with a low edition release of 1,000. Check out the images of the pins below.

Do these put a spring in your step? Which one is your favorite?

All information is subject to change including but not limited to artwork, release dates, edition sizes, and retail prices.

Photo Credit – Disney Parks Merchandise

My name is Danielle Laroff. I am a Disney Specialist for Chip and Company. I am also a Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency used by Chip and the Disney Addicts. If you can’t wait to plan your 2016 Walt Disney World Vacation, Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote!. You can also visit my Facebook page, here for more updates as well as lots of pictures and tips of the Parks and resorts.

Stylish Star Wars Merchandise From Loungefly Even a Wookie Would Love

By

Danielle

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February 1, 2016

Star Wars merchandise sure has come a long way since I was little. I squeal with delight every time I see a new Star Wars themed or inspired way to accessorize with in day to day life. The Disney Store has a galactic assortment of stylish Star Wars merchandise from Loungefly choose from, I can’t decide which one I want most.

Captain Phasma Bag by Loungefly – Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Command attention wherever you go when you tote your daily essentials in this chic and sleek black and chrome dome bag from Loungefly. The Captain Phasma Bag has a glossy vinyl covering, zip closure and Star Wars logo lining.

BB-8 Bag by Loungefly - Star Wars: The Force Awakens

BB-8 Bag by Loungefly – Star Wars: The Force Awakens

This stylish astromech droid dome bag will be all the clearance you need to attend even the chicest event. Just roll in toting BB-8 with glossy vinyl covering, zip closure and Star Wars logo lining, and you’ll be an all ’round hit.
BB-8 Wallet by Loungefly - Star Wars: The Force Awakens

BB-8 Wallet by Loungefly – Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Keep an eye on your valuables with our BB-8 wallet featuring chic style from a galaxy far, far away. With its glossy vinyl covering and Star Wars logo lining, you’ll look like you’re rolling down the runway wherever you go.
R2-D2 Coinpurse by Loungefly - Star Wars
R2-D2 Coinpurse by Loungefly – Star Wars

This is the droid you’re looking for when you need a compact companion to carry cash, cards, and coins on adventures throughout the cosmos. The ”Artoo” Coinpurse has a glossy vinyl covering, zip closure and Star Wars logo lining.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Tote Bag by Loungefly

Spacious enough for smugglers, sturdy enough starfighters and stylish enough for everyday essentials, this roomy tote inspired by Star Wars: The Force Awakens is just right for transporting any kind of cargo to galaxies near and far.

Which bag will awaken your fashion force?

Disney Interactive Announces New Tron Game for Xbox One PS4 and Steam

By

Danielle

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February 1, 2016

Disney Interactive has announced a new game based on Tron, titled TRON RUN/r coming to the PS4, Xbox One, and Steam. This will be a high paced action-adventure runner game with a twist.

Get ready as you blaze through dynamic circuits, face off against fearsome adversaries, and hone your DISC and CYCLE skills on 32 levels. Then, challenge friends to the grueling STREAM program that will test you with endless combinations of modes and levels!

This new game in the Tron franchise will be released February 2, 2016. It will be offered for PS4, XBOX One, and if you can’t wait till then you can check out the early release on Steam.

Check out the high speed trailer and sneak peek videos to see more excitement!

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Sail Aboard the Disney Cruise Line with a Reduced Deposit in 2016!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 1, 2016

When you book a tropical 7-night Disney cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas—or one of their other fun-filled sailing itineraries throughout Europe, Alaska and beyond, you are now able to take advantage of an amazing 50% reduced deposit! This means less money up front to begin planning your dream vacation at sea aboard the award-winning Disney Cruise Line. This promotion is valid for new reservations on cruises that set sail between August and December 2016. You will want to act fast, because this promotion will end March 27, 2016.

No matter what you are looking for in a cruise― whether it be exciting adventures, lively entertainment or pool-time play―the longer your cruise lasts, the more magic everyone in your family will discover on-board AND at exciting ports of call.

With departures from a variety of ports, there are so many convenient options to explore! Here are some important details for the 50% Off Required Deposit Offer:

Valid on all 7-night or longer sailings that do not require final payment at time of booking and take place between August and December 2016.
The remainder of your required deposit and your remaining balance will be due at final payment.
Valid for new bookings only on 2016 sailings booked by March 27, 2016 that take place between August and December 2016.
Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses, Gratuities and Port Adventures are not included.
Not valid on Categories with Restrictions (IGT, OGT, VGT), Suites or Concierge Level Staterooms
Price and availability not guaranteed until payment is made. Price is in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise indicated.
This offer cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts.

To take advantage of this amazing promotion, email me today at [email protected]. What better way to end your 2016 than aboard the Disney Cruise Line creating magical memories with loved ones.

Get a $25 Disney Gift Card When You Book a Disney Trip With Us!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 1, 2016

Chip and Co fans! Are you ready to book your next magical Disney vacation? Book a Disney vacation with Sara Solberg – Independent Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel in the month of February and receive a $25 Disney gift card!

Sara is the Disneyland writer here at Chip and Co and has visited the Disney parks combined over 15 times! When she’s not planning her own family vacations, she loves helping others plan amazing Disney adventures. Let her put her years of experience – and her love of Disney – to work for you. Her services are 100% FREE and include vacation quotes and booking, making Advanced Dining Reservations at your 180 day mark (60 days for Disneyland), making FastPasses choices for your group at the 60 day mark (if staying at a WDW resort), itinerary planning and more!

When you book, or transfer*, your upcoming Disney vacation, including Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani and Adventures by Disney, with Sara between 2/1 and 2/29/2019 you’ll receive a $25 Disney Gift Card at time of travel from Chip and Co and Sara.**

Don’t wait another minute! Get your Disney vacation booked and your countdown started! Contact Sara for more information at [email protected] or on Facebook.

*To Transfer a reservation, the original reservation needs to have been made directly with the Walt Disney Travel Company within the last 30 days and cannot be paid in full.

**Restrictions apply. Packages (Room, Tickets and/or Dining) booked must be at least $2,500 in total value after promotions. Gift card will be delivered at time of travel and will not be issued if the reservation is cancelled.

Want to take advantage of this great offer? Let me help you book your next Disney vacation and you can! I’m a travel agent with World of Magic Travel, preferred agency of Chip and Co and the Disney Addicts. Email me today at [email protected] and let’s start planning! -Sara Solberg

5 Reasons to stay at a Disney Good Neighbor Hotel

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 31, 2016

This is becoming a popular debate among Disney goers. What is the difference, is it worth it, what exactly is it? “Good Neighbor” is an honor which Disney gives the very best hotels near Disneyland or Disney World. When Disney finds a hotel deemed fit it is honored as one of these elite properties. At Disneyland there are 41 Good Neighbor hotels and at Disney World there are 23 Good Neighbor hotels. Disneyland only has 3 Disney resorts on property, whereas Disney World has 31 options (Including villas, Dolphin and Swan) But why would you stay off property?

Here are 5 reasons why..

1. Price- Good neighbor hotel pricing will generally be under Disney’s base pricing, which will save you some money! If a budget can make or break your vacation then this is something to consider.

2. Space- Your room more than likely won’t have fireworks above your bed or a character dining within minutes, but it may fit your needs a little better. Need more room without breaking the bank, want to do other things than Disney or just want to save more on the room and splurge more at the parks.

3. Quality- When you book something online, you don’t really know what you’ll be walking into. Rest assured, when Disney selects hotels to become part of its Good Neighbor hotels, you know they have an image to uphold with Disney and you can have a peace of mind when booking.

4. Transportation- Some Good Neighbor hotels offer transportation. Usually on a schedule you can pick up at the lobby or at check in.

5. Package- You can still bundle it in a Disney package. You will not be able to add Disney Dining, however, you can add tickets and make payments just like you would staying on property.

So depending on your needs and budget the choice is up to you! I hope this helps in your decision-making and gives you a better idea of what to expect. Did we miss any of your reasons?

My name is Jamie Porter, I’m from Central Florida and an Annual Passholder to Disney World. I go almost every week and it gives me an insight to help my clients. I am also a Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel and a writer for Chip & Co. My service is always free. I can help ensure you get the best deal and be an extra set of hands with your planning. Feel free to follow me on Facebook here or email me at [email protected].

New Disney XD Live-Action Series “MECH-X4

By

Danielle

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January 31, 2016

Disney XD has ordered “MECH-X4” formerly known as “MTX!,” a new live-action sci-fi adventure comedy series centered on a heroic team of four young boys who take on the job of controlling a giant robot in order to protect their city from danger.

Production has begun on the new “MECH-X4” series in Vancouver for a fall 2016 premiere on Disney XD.

“This serialized live-action adventure saga is a new genre for Disney XD, and we’ve assembled a dream team in a cast and crew that commands this action-packed series, masterfully blending high-end visual effects with compelling mythology to bring ‘MECH-X4’ to life,” said Adam Bonnett, executive vice president, Original Programming, Disney Channels Worldwide.

The series stars newcomer Nathaniel James Potvin as Ryan Walker, a freshman at Bay City High who has technopathy. Technopathy is the amazing ability to control technology with your mind. Ryan’s talent mysteriously awakens MECH-X4, a giant 120-foot robot built by a mysterious genius to defend their town against impending doom. Ryan recruits his two best friends and his older brother to help him operate MECH-X4. Suddenly monsters start to sescend upon their city, the team must quickly learn to work together in order to pilot the robot that is their only hope for saving the town, and ultimately the world, from mass destruction.

Also starring alongside Potvin are Kamran Lucas as Ryan’s genius friend Harris and Pearce Joza (“Lab Rats”) as his quirky friend Spyder. Raymond Cham (“Teen Beach 2”) stars as Ryan’s older brother Mark.

The series was created by executive producer Steve Marmel (“Sonny with a Chance”). Anupam Nigam (“Defiance”) also serves as executive producer alongside co-executive producer and director Zach Lipovsky (“Dead Rising: Watchtower”). “MECH-X4” is a production of Bay City Productions, Ltd., a subsidiary of Omnifilm Entertainment, Ltd.

This seems like a fun action packed adventure for older Disney lovers, I can’t wait to check it out!

Armed Disneyland Paris man now facing charges

By

Disney News

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January 31, 2016

The unidentified 28-year old man who was arrested in a Disneyland Paris hotel carrying two handguns, ammunition and a Koran on Thursday is no longer under suspension of terrorism. He is now being charged with acquiring and transporting arms and ammunition.

When originally questioned the man told police said he feared for his own safety and that is why he was carrying the guns. But the real story was he didn’t want to leave the guns in the home with his mother, which is where he lives.

Police also spoke to his female companion who tried to gain entry to the park as well, she is not being charged with anything.

The man is expected to appear in court on Monday where he could face 5 years in prison and a fine of $75,000 Euros ($82,000) if he is convicted.

France has been on high alert since the attacks in November. The Disneyland Paris park is only 30 kilometres (18 miles) from the capital.

Photo credit: Associated press (AP)

Disney Superbowl Pillows and Throws for the Big Game

By

Danielle

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January 31, 2016

Are you ready for the some football? The big game, Super Bowl Sunday is almost here! We’ve found some fun items for you to add a little Disney team fun to your big game day! No matter who you are rooting for on the big day, we’ve got a little something for both teams. So without further adieu in no particular or favorite order, check them out below:

North Carolina Panther’s arm rest pillow:

Prepare to be in charge of the sofa with this fun Disney/NFL Carolina Panthers Mickey Embroidered Arm Rest Pillow, by The Northwest Company.

Denver Bronco’s Mickey arm rest pillow:

Kick up and cheer from the comfort of your home with the Disney/NFL Denver Broncos Mickey Embroidered Arm Rest Pillow, by The Northwest Company

NFL Mickey Mouse Pillow with Fleece Throw Blanket Set:

Disney’s Mickey Mouse teams up with your the Carolina Panthers, for this NFL Mickey Mouse Fleece Throw. The fleece throw comes with an adorable hugger that hugs the rolled up fleece, while also being a teddy bear on its own.

NFL Denver Broncos Mickey Mouse Plush and Throw Blanket:

Cheer on your favorite team the Denver Bronocs with this plush Mickey Mouse in uniform clutching a warm fleece Denver Broncos throw.

So who’s side will you be rooting for on the big day? Team Broncos or Team Panthers?

2017 Star Wars Half Marathon-The Dark Side Dates

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 31, 2016

Take a run on Darth Vader’s turf at the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side at Walt Disney World. Choose your alliance April 20-23, 2017. This runDisney event goes on sale August 9, 2016 at noon EST.

There are three main races: Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side, Star Wars 10k, and Star Wars 5k. There’s also kids races for younglings ages 13 and under. If you really want to feel the Force, then compete in the ultimate Darth Vader challenge: the Star Wars Dark Side Challenge. The challenge combines the half marathon and the 10k. You must register for this challenge in order to receive the Star Wars Dark Side Challenge medal. Good luck to all runners and may the Force be with you!

Are you looking forward to the Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend at Walt Disney World?

If you’d like more information about the Walt Disney World Resort or help with booking your next magical Disney adventure, email me at [email protected] or follow me on Facebook!