Disney Vacation Club Member Lounge Coming to Epcot

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January 9, 2016

Earlier this week we announced some exciting details about the 25th Anniversary of Disney Vacation Club, along with exciting events coming for members in 2016. Part of this announcement included news about a DVC member lounge opening in Epcot.

The lounge, which is expected to open in late spring, will take over the empty former home of Journey into Imagination with Figment, in the Imagination Pavilion. This second floor Disney Vacation Club lounge will give members a chance to relax during their exciting day in the park. They will have access to:

Comfortable seating
Complimentary soft drinks
Wi-Fi
Computers and printers
Electronic charging stations
Member service advisors

More details about this member lounge will be released as the opening approaches. Follow along with Chip & Company to find out details as they are released.

With the 25th Anniversary of Disney Vacation Club and the 45th Anniversary of Walt Disney World, 2016 is a year that is sure to be unforgettable! If you are considering a trip to Walt Disney World contact me at [email protected] or on Facebook to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services.

Shakira Brings Her Vocals To Zootopia With Original Song “Try Everything”

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 8, 2016

Singer song-writer “Sia” along with the songwriting duo “Stargate” bring us an all new original song for the upcoming Disney movie “Zootopia”. Performed by the Grammy®-winning international superstar, Shakira the single “Try Everything” will be available on January 8th. Enjoy the video below.

Zootopia, in theaters, March 4, 2016, brings us the talents of Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Shakira, Idris Elba, J.K. Simmons, Nate Torrence, Jenny Slate, Tommy Chong, Octavia Spencer, Bonnie Hunt, Don Lake, Alan Tudyk, Tommy “Tiny” Lister, Raymond Persi, Katie Lowes, Jesse Corti, John DiMaggio. The film is directed by Byron Howard and Rich Moore, co-directed by Jared Bush and produced by Clark Spencer.

Disney applying for drone use in Walt Disney World and Disneyland

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Disney News

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January 8, 2016

According to the Orlando Sentinel Disney has filed for the use of drones for entertainment purposes at Walt Disney World. The application was filed on October 30th with references to safety precautions and planned operation for the drones. The form also states that Disney would not fly the drones in restricted areas such as within 100 feet of guests, they will always be at least 150 feet above ground level. Disney would like to use the drones for a large part of the park entertainment as well as fireworks.

The application also includes Disneyland Resort.

There is a 42 page application which includes all the safety precautions that will be put in order:

Each Flexel will weigh less than 10 pounds.
Its airspace would be no more than 600 feet in diameter.
Maximum flight time would be “roughly” 10 minutes.
The drone system would not be operated unless constant wind speeds are less than 10 mph and gusts are less than 15 mph.
The drones “will not interrupt national airspace activity because the Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts airspaces are registered no-fly zones.” Later, the document says each zone has a 3 nautical mile radius. “Flixels staff must wear safety glasses, a hard hat, and high visibility vests.”

The document makes reference to the company’s history of innovations, going back to early movies and Disneyland’s Matterhorn, and its “unparalleled safety record.” The filing reads:

“In fact, in December 2012, Disney made several flights of an Imagineers-designed “fire breathing dragon,” which was actually an elaborate glider and parachute obscured by the night sky, over The Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World to celebrate the grand opening of Fantasyland.”

We mentioned this was coming back in August. You can read about it here.

What is your opinion? Does Disney needs to be using Drones in the parks? Let us know in the comment box below.

The Jungle Book Poster Shows Incredible CGI Technology

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 8, 2016

The Live Action Disney film, The Jungle Book, coming April 15th, will feature some incredible photorealistic CGI animals and environments as seen in the newly released poster above. Using up-to-the-minute technology and storytelling techniques to immerse audiences in an enchanting and lush world, “The Jungle Book” brings the story of Mowgli to life.

Newcomer, Neel Sethi in the lead role (Mowgli) takes us on the adventures of the man-cub raised by wolves as he embarks on a self-discovery journey. Joined by his mentor, Bagheera, the panther (voiced by Ben Kingsley) and fun loving bear, Baloo (voiced by Bill Murray), Mowgli leaves the only home he has ever knows after Shere Khan (voiced by Idris Elba), the fearsome tiger, threatens Mowgli.

Along the way, Mowgli and the gang meet several jungle creatures who are not exactly friendly or happy to meet Mowgli. The python, Kaa (voiced by Scarlett Johansson) will hypnotise Mowgli while my favorite, King Louie (voice of Christopher Walken) will try to get Mowgli to reveal the secret of fire. Joining the incredible cast above is Lupita Nyong’o as Mowgli’s mother wolf, Raksha and Giancarlo Esposito as the wolf pack’s alpha male, Akela.

Based on Rudyard Kipling’s stories, The Jungle Book will be directed by Jon Favreau and produced by Jon Favreau and Brigham Taylor with the screenplay by Justin Marks.

Cruella de Vil Live Action Film May Cast Emma Stone In Lead Role

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 8, 2016

A new live action film from Walt Disney Studios is still in the early stages. Based on a favorite villainess, Cruella De Vil, the studios are setting up the basics and are in early negotiations with Emma Stone for the lead role.

The film based on the script by Kelly Marcel will showcase Cruella as the main character and perhaps give us a backstory as to how she became the evil and obsessive dog napper. Andrew Gunn is producing the film which still does not have a director but is a high priority for the studio which hopes to start shooting later this year.

Cruella De Vil first appeared in the animated classic 101 Dalmations in 1961. The 1996 live-actin film by John Hughes had Glenn Close in the role of Cruella as owner of a fashion house obsessed with furs and puppies.Although Cruella De Vil is a villainess, she is still one of the more likable ones and fans will be excited to see where Disney takes this new live action film .

Chipandco.com will be following closely to share all your favorite Disney Entertainment news.

Top 5 His & Her items for Valentines Day

By

Danielle

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January 8, 2016

His and Hers 1

Can you believe Valentine’s Day is only a little over a month away? To get in the spirit of love, we put together our 5 favorite Disney His and Hers items to share with your Disney Addict sweetheart!

5.) Mickey Mouse Heart Mug – ”I Love Mickey” Collection & Minnie Mouse Heart Mug – ”I Love Mickey” Collection

Mickey Mouse Heart Mug - ''I Love Mickey'' Collection Minnie Mouse Heart Mug - ''I Love Mickey'' Collection

These mugs are so adorably cute! Combined together Mickey and Minnie blow each other kisses, as well as complete the phrase inside the mugs “True Love”. Top ti off with heart shaped handles, and you have the perfect start to a romantic day.

4.) Beauty And The Beast His And Hers Ring Set

His and Hers 2

Show your undying love for your own Beauty or Beast with this set of matching rings. Includes 2 rings and 2 bead chains so you can wear them on your fingers, or around your neck.

3.)Mickey Mouse Main Street U.S.A. Tee for Adults – Limited Release & Minnie Mouse Main Street U.S.A. Tee for Adults – Limited Release

Meet together on Main Street U.S.A. when wearing these matching jersey tees showcasing Mickey & Minnie in classic poses dressed for Dapper Day! Together you can relive nostalgic times inspired by Disney Parks.

2.) Mickey and Minnie His Her Key chains

His and Hers 3

Keep a memento of your love for Disney and each other with these cute matching Mickey and Minnie key chains.

1.) His & Her Disney Pillow Cases

His and hers 4

Last but certainly not least, snuggle down for a good night’s rest with matching His Princess and Her Prince pillow cases from CreativePillowLV! Each one is hand painted with textile paint on soft organic cotton! What a perfect matching end to a romantic day.

Do you like Disney matching couples gear too?

Stay Magical!

Our Favorite Disney Things – Princess Belle Collection

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Danielle

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January 8, 2016

Continuing our new series “Our Favorite Disney Things – Princess Collections” is Belle! Beauty and the Beast is not just a Tale as Old as Time, but a classic favorite that so many love.

Mrs. Potts and Chip are some of the helpful characters that call Beast’s castle home, and help to bring a little extra insight into the castle’s curse. These Stud Earrings from TraLunaeStelle capture the whimsy of these characters, while adding a little touch of Beauty and the Beast to any ensemble you’ve chosen for the day. They also come in an adorable macaroon box, so they are great for gift giving too.

Sure there are Belle Mickey ears in the classic Mickey Ears hat you can find at the parks, but they aren’t as elegant and fashionable as these Belle Ears from MichellesEarBoutique! These textured beauties are handmade to order, and have the daintiest red rose accent to really pull the theme together.

One of my favorite parts about curating these new Favorites collections, has been picking out SHOES! These Hand Decorated Shoes Inspired by Beauty and The Beast come from the Etsy shop SPLENDIDIMAGINATIONS. I love how the ruched side material evokes the infamous design of Belle’s ball gown. Of course the sparkle doesn’t hurt either.

Now we can’t have new shoes without a new purse! The Beauty and the Beast Clutch from theartoftravelingis is hand painted with a stained glass image very much like the “story telling” sequence in the movie. I think it would look smashing with those sparkly shoes!

We may be beauties, but some of us train like beasts! Even if you don’t train the Belle Running Tank from BranchBirds is a fun, and personalizable tank top for any casual outfit. This tank top is super soft and gives you the fun of dressing like Belle, without having to worry about tripping over your dress hem.

Time may not stand still in the real world, but we can at least have our favorite fairy tale keep track of the time we do have. inPhoenixArt makes beautiful wall clocks, including this fun Belle clock, in her classic yellow gold, with a princess worthy quote. Best of all, the designer loves making the clocks more personal, and will work to make a perfect Fairy Tale clock for you.

One of Belle’s favorite hobbies was reading. She loved to slip into the pages of a book and discover far off lands and interesting characters. It’s only fitting that a bookmark be a part of this special collection. My favorite bookmark that I found on Etsy was this Belle Bookmark made with the Etsy artist SusannesArt‘s very own work.

The beast’s curse was linked to an enchanted rose stashed away in the west wing. When the very last petal wilted away, the curse over the castle would become permanent! You can wear your own enchanted rose protected by it’s glass done with the Beauty and the Beast, “Belle’s Winter Rose” glass dome Necklace from FreakTreasures. The pixie dusted frost and iridescent glitter flakes give it the look of glowing enchantment.

For some of us, a tiny rose won’t do, and we want the enchanted rose displayed, but the real thing. Well, there may not be any actually enchanted roses, but you can have the next best thing with the Beauty Beast Enchanted Rose Dome Life Size Replica from Christalinasales. This B&B inspired dome is so detailed and has an actual True Touch Floral rose with magical glitter lightly on it. The rose and fallen petals have been permanently attached but the dome is removable for safe moving and cleaning. How magical is this?

Well, that’s all our favorite finds today, what do you hope to see us do next?

Stay Magical!

Lupita Nyong Stars In Upcoming New Disney Film, Coming Fall of 2016

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 8, 2016

Walt Disney Pictures is bringing us the story of Ugandan Chess Prodigy, Phiona Mutesi. Based a true story, newcomer Madina Nalwanga (starring as Phiona Mutesi) along with co-stars David Oyelowo as her coach and Lupita Nyong’o as her mother give us a look at how a young girl from Kampula Uganda became a competitor in the World Chess Olympiad.

Filmed in Uganda, Disney’s “The Queen of Katwe,” was adapted by William Wheeler from the 2011 ESPN the Magazine story and subsequent book by Tim Crothers. Walt Disney Pictures is always a winner in my book when it comes to films based on true stories and this one has the makings of another great film.

Little information is known as to other cast members or production team, however I will be keeping my eyes and ears open to update our Disney Addicts.

Minnie Mouse gets her own fashion and art exhibit!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 8, 2016

MinnieRocktheDots Logo

“Minnie Rocks the dots”, a celebration of Minnie Mouse through an interactive fashion and art exhibit, is launching in Los Angeles with a red carpet preview event on National Polka Dot Day which is January 22. It will then be open to the public. The exhibit will bring us through the history of Minnie Mouse’s influence on fashion and pop culture from the beginning of black and white (1928) through the evolution of color!

Fashion designer Christian Siriano will reveal a custom dress designed just for Minnie during the exclusive preview night on Jan. 22. Siriano, known for his whimsical and show-stopping design – from fantasy evening gowns and cocktail dresses, to tailored sportswear, to intricately detailed shoes and accessories – has dressed many style icons over the years.

“Minnie Mouse and her iconic style have had a huge impact on me and on the fashion industry,” said fashion designer, Christian Siriano. “I drew inspiration from Minnie Mouse’s ability to light up a room and designed a dress for her that is happy, playful and what I like to call ‘downtown chic.’ I also infused some special touches to celebrate her classic polka dots.”

Hot off the heels of the successful Minnie: Style Icon exhibition during London Fashion Week, Minnie Rocks the Dots will feature iconic photographs, archive imagery and sketches from the 1930’s through the present day. Celebrity portraits of Twiggy and other fashion icons will be on display.

“Minnie Mouse has long served as a fashion muse and appeared in runway shows for designers around the globe,” said Soo Koo, vice president of product development, Disney Consumer Products. “Her classic polka dot look has been continually reimagined by the fashion industry through the decades and continues to drive trends today.”

Minnie is known for her trademark polka dot dress. The exhibition will also feature custom dresses worn by Minnie herself from countries including Russia and Mexico, as well as fashion pieces from around the world, directly inspired by Minnie.

Fans who attend the public event on Jan. 23 get a sneak peek at upcoming Minnie-inspired collaborations, in addition to being able to purchase brand new, limited edition items in a pop up shop. Minnie Rocks the Dots will take place at The Paper Agency, 1050 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, will be free and open to the public on January 23 from 12-8 pm PT.

Follow @MinnieStyle on Instagram and rock your dots in celebration of National Polka Dot Day #RockTheDots #MinnieStyle. Visit the Disney Style blog or @MinnieStyle on Instagram for live updates from the two day event.

Additionally, fans of all ages can find the new Minnie Mouse Signature Collection at Disney Store and DisneyStore.com now. Inspired by Disney’s most fashionable icon, the Minnie Mouse Signature Collection includes apparel, stationary and accessories featuring Minnie Mouse’s signature polka dots and bows. On National Polka Dot Day, Disney Store will release a glamorous Limited Edition Minnie Mouse doll to celebrate Disney’s first lady of fashion. These Minnie Mouse dolls are limited to 3,000 dolls and will be available in select Disney Store locations worldwide and online. The dolls will retail in the U.S. for $79.95.

Animal Kingdom Will Debut New ‘Lion Guard Adventure’ on February 7th

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 8, 2016

If your kids are like mine, the TV movie “The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar” has become a big hit in your home. On February 7th Disney’s Animal Kingdom will begin offering your little ones a chance to become honorary members of the Lion Guard through the new Lion Guard Adventure experience.

Children will be invited to explore around the park to find five of the main characters from the hit movie that debuted in November. Colorful statues of Kion, Bunga, Fuli, Beshte, and Ono will be placed around the park and will make great photo ops as your child finds each one. The experience, much like the movie, will teach and encourage protecting animals and caring for nature.

Once the children locate all five statues they can receive a special button and take a pledge to be an honorary member of the Lion Guard!

The experience is one of many activities to celebrate the Lion Guard movie that debuted on the Disney Channel and Disney Junior and will be at Animal Kingdom through late March.

My three daughters had tons of fun in November at Animal Kingdom hunting for badges to become Wilderness Explorers, so I think this is going to be a blast for everyone that has a chance to participate! Anyone else have big “Lion Guard” fans at home?

Lots of fun is headed to Walt Disney World this spring and there are some great promotions to help you save on your trip! If you are interested in more details on pricing or FREE planning of a magical vacation to Walt Disney World contact me [email protected] or on Facebook.

Photo credit Disney Parks Blog

Enter to win an Unforgettable Vacation to Walt Disney World!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 8, 2016

giveaway

Enter to win a a four day/three night Unforgettable Vacation to Walt Disney World for a family of 8 from Black and Decker!

The vacation includes:

round trip coach airfare
Disney’s Magical Express transportation and from the airport
4 day magic your way tickets with park hopper option
Deluxe Walt Disney World Resort accommodations
a spa visit
A VIP Tour Guide
A Disney Character Breakfast
A $1000.00 Disney gift card

Black and Decker is also giving away one Black and Decker 20V Max 4 tool Combo Kit BDCD 2204 Kit

this kit includes:

(1) LDX220 Drill/Driver
(1) BDCR20 Recip Saw
(1) BDCCS20 Circular Saw
(1) BDCF20 Flashlight
(1) Double Ended Bit Tip
(1) Recip Saw Blade
(1) Fast Cutting Circular Saw Blade
(1) Charger
(2) 20V MAX* Batteries
(1) Soft Bag
(1) Circular Saw Wrench

No purchase is necessary and you can enter once a day per houses hold, to enter click here

There is a weekly prize giveaway and you have a 1 in 13 chance of winning! The contest runs through January 31st at midnight ET. You must live in the 50 states, being 21 years of age and have legal USA identification.

Good luck to everyone out there!

If you are so unlucky as to not win please contact me today and we can start planning that magical vacation you are dreaming of, 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!

15 New Disney World Dining Experiences for 2016

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 8, 2016

New restaurants, new character experiences and more await you when it comes to your dining options at Walt Disney World.

Here are the Top 15 culinary experiences we can’t wait to try this year:

1. Now is the time to head on over to the new Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen in the Magic Kingdom. With offerings such as a rice noodle bowl, sustainable local farm-raised shrimp in chili-garlic sauce, or the Kungaloosh!, an African-inspired chocolate cake with caramelized bananas with cashew-caramel ice cream, this is an all-new menu for the Disney chefs and one you should make a point of trying.

2. We never like to talk about things closing for refurbishment but Flying Fish Cafe at Disney’s BoardWalk will temporarily close the end of January, then reopen in the fall with a whole new look – and new menu items. Don’t worry though, Chef Tim Keating promises that potato-wrapped snapper and the popular New York strip steak will be back. We can’t wait for more details.

3. I love a good Sunday brunch – the just seem so elegant. And the deluxe resorts sure at Disney World sure know how to do elegant! Narcoossee’s Waterfront Brunch at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a new one, and Brunch at the Top debuts February 7 at California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

4. Tiffins (an Indian English word for a midday meal or type of container used to carry food while traveling) at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will celebrate the art of traveling, featuring foods from places that inspired the creation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This new restaurant will be open for both lunch and dinner.

5. And while you’re in the are, next to Tiffins, Nomad Lounge will feature hand-crafted cocktails using the art of mixology with African, Asian and South American flavors. There will also be beers and wines from those regions and a selection of specialty non-alcoholic beverages in addition to small bites for you to enjoy.

6. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival expands to 90 days, March 2 to May 30 (from 75 days last year). This is an annual favorite for me. From fresh garden produce, savory bites and sweet treats the festival’s Outdoor Kitchens, returning for a fourth year with guest favorites and new food and beverage offerings, are sure to provide delicious options for you to try.

7. Minnie’s Seasonal Dine at Hollywood & Vine at Disney’’s Hollywood Studios debuted in 2015, but will continue in 2016. Seasonal meals will include Minnie’s Silver Screen Dine, Minnie’s Springtime Dine, Minnie’s Summertime Dine and Minnie’s Halloween Dine.

8. A Cupcake ATM, sure to satisfy a sweet-tooth 24/7 sounds good to me! Sprinkles, the world’s first cupcake bakery, as named by Food Network and others, will serve up handcrafted cupcakes, slow churned ice cream and homemade cookies at Disney Springs in 2016.

9. Mmmmm chocolate! At The Ganachery at Disney Springs – the proprietary blend of chocolate and cream made right in the shop is not to be missed. The lovely little space elevates sweets to an experience akin to a wine tasting.

10. There are so many new things coming to Disney Springs in 2016, including STK, a modern steakhouse mixed with the ambiance of a sleek lounge and emphasizing a social and fun environment. It will occupy 14,000 square feet in a two-story building, including a main level and a rooftop-dining area with incredible views of Disney Springs.

11. Who doesn’t love pizza?! Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza also comes to Disney Springs in 2016, a modern-day “pizza joint” known for its custom-built artisanal pizzas, freshly made salads, blood orange lemonade and s’more pies. They will feature an interactive assembly-line allowing guests to customize their pizza, choosing from over 40 fresh toppings.

12. Opening in Summer 2016 at Disney Springs, Frontera Fresco by Chef Rick Bayless will showcase the gourmet Mexican cuisine Chef Bayless is known for. From hand-crafted tortillas, tacos, salads, fresh-made guacamole and classic Mexican braised meat entrees, these classic dishes are sure to be a big hit. Frontera Fresco also will serve an extensive selection of margaritas, cocktails and craft beers and wine.

13. Also opening in Summer 2016, Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine will showcase the cuisine of Chef Art Smith at Disney Springs. Smith, who was born and reared in the town of Jasper, Fla., on the Florida-Georgia border, will feature farm-to-fork cuisine that showcases the bounty of Florida, and design inspired by turn-of-the century Florida architecture of the late 1800s.

14. Also in 2016, look for a re-imagined Planet Hollywood at Disney Springs. The flagship venue is transforming itself into a star-themed Planet Hollywood Observatory to match the look and feel of Disney Springs. Included in this refurbishment will be the addition of a new outdoor terrace and bar space called Stargazers that will feature live entertainment.

15. Plus, a new Disney Quick-Service locations and kiosks will be opening this spring at Disney Springs. Perfect for a quick bite. Keep checking back for more information on these locations.

I love dining at Disney! And I love when these new experiences are released! Let’s make sure you don’t miss anything that’s coming. And if you’re thinking planning a trip and want to make sure you experience all the unique dining at Walt Disney World, let me help you! I am a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and Co and the Disney Addicts! Email me today at [email protected] to start planning your “Magical” vacation! –Alissa