Celebrate the Holidays at the Downtown Disney District in Disneyland

By

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November 22, 2015

If you’re heading to the Disneyland Resort this holiday season, be sure to check out the entertainment, shopping and fun going on in the Downtown Disney District!

Once again, the Downtown Disney District becomes the Downtown Disney Winter Village, featuring chalets and carts offering a variety of holiday gift ideas. You’ll find Star Wars-themed items at World of Disney; crystal art at Arribas Brothers; personalized items at You Name It; and personalized holiday ornaments from Ice-Land Workshop. This year Ghirardelli will have a seasonal store across from Rainforest Café where you can find a variety of delicious treats. A Working to Give/ACT Anaheim chalet will offer handmade holiday stockings with all proceeds going to Accelerate Change Together.

Returning this year is Olaf’s Frozen Ice Rink between ESPN Zone and Earl of Sandwich. The whole family will enjoy skating on this “Frozen”-themed 50-by-90-foot rink while listening to holiday and “Frozen”-themed music. The rink is open Monday through Thursday, 3-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 2-11 p.m.; and Sunday 2-10 p.m. The price for skating (including tax and skate rental) is $17 per adult and $15 per child (ages 3-9).

There will also be a full lineup of special entertainment for the holidays at the Downtown Disney District. Live performances by Holiday Carolers will take place nightly December 4-25 and a 40s Jazz/Pop Vocal Group will perform December 25-January 1. Horse & Carriage rides will be offered November 27 through January 2. Appearances by Duncan Yo-Yo experts, and the Houdini Magic Shop Show are also on the schedule. Tuba Christmas, a special holiday tradition, will take place at noon on Saturday, December 19.

What’s your favorite thing at the Downtown Disney District during the holidays?

However you celebrate, there is something for everyone at the Downtown Disney District this holiday season! For more information about the holidays at the Disneyland Resort or for help booking your next Disney vacation, email me at [email protected].

Drinking Around the World Showcase Guide

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

November 22, 2015

There is truly something for everyone at Disney World. This magical place doesn’t just give us castles, fireworks and Mickey Mouse. It brought us the opportunity to Drink Around the World. If you enjoy a drink or 2.. try 11 at Epcot’s World Showcase. Thanks to Disney we can take a shortcut around the world in just one day and see some of it’s beauty. The World Showcase has 11 different countries; Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, the United States, Japan, Morocco, France, United Kingdom and Canada. They are filled with unique cuisines, attractions, and shopping, so why not add some imported exotic drinks to the mix? This experience has gained quite the following. So, whether you are Crawling through the Countries, Stumbling around the Showcase or Conquering the World make this a safe victory to remember! Best part is you can attempt this all year round! No special event needed. If you are sharing this day with your family don’t worry we can still pull this off. Share the drinks or alternate countries with your partner so you’re not literally crawling out of there. Stop and go on a secret mission with Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure or take breaks and visit the characters at their locations for the kids and even buy a Passport for you both. Kids can do the stickers for you while you get closer to your accomplishment. Get a map and become familiar with the restroom locations, grab a camera, some waters and let’s get this party started..

Mexico

Margaritas! They are all over and a great way to start! Your taste buds can enjoy Lime, Mango and Strawberry. If you’re really feeling lucky or going with a group, stop by La Cava del Tequila and get a Tequila flight. Munch on some Chips and salsa or Guacamole while you’re there listening to some Mariachi music.

Norway

Norway was quick. The upcoming Frozen attraction replaced The Maelstrom, but yet to open. So we stopped at a beer cart and grabbed an Einstök While Ale and was on our way! *If you’re dining at Akerhshus, you will have to enjoy a beer before or after your meal, they don’t offer beer.

China

Right by the lagoon is a beloved place called Joy of Tea. They have a few choices such as a Tsing Tao beer, but I enjoyed the specialty cocktail the Canto Loopy. It is vodka and cantaloupe juice. I would also suggest getting something to put in your stomach. Even if it’s not big. You can grab something at Joy of Tea or Lotus Blossom Cafe.

Germany

This pavilion is really everything you would expect when you picture Germany and has so much to offer. At the Weinkeller store you can sample select beers and wines and also buy bottles to take with you. Since there are so many different beers, try a Beer Flight. I went to a beer cart and heard so much about the Schöfferhofer Pink Grapefruit I had to try it, and I’ve got to say, you have to try it. It’s quite delicious. Enjoy some authentic German treats like a bratwurst or a hand made pretzel!

Italy

Mama Mia! Where better to dine than Italy! We took a break and sat down at Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria. We got a delicious pizza that was made in a wood burning oven. I also very much enjoyed my drink, a frozen Strawberry Limoncello. Italy also has Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar, which if you need to get out of the sun for a bit, look around they have plenty of wines, cocktails and beers. Again getting a flight could be the option best if you had a group. My husband tried the Birra Moretti and said it was refreshingly sweet and very smooth.

United States (American Adventure)

Savor this moment. You are past the half way mark now. Admire the colonial-style architecture and embrace your patriotic side. Across the World Showcase promenade on the lagoon is the outdoor stage and amphitheater known as the America Gardens Theater. Head over to Fife & Drum Tavern and grab a Frozen Red Stag Lemonade (Or of course you can try the seasonal Sam Adams or a good ole Bud light) and take in a show. Voices of Liberty, perform American folk songs in the rotunda of The American Adventure. (Performances are Wednesday through Sunday.) They can also be found on the outdoor stage at America Gardens Theatre Mondays and Tuesdays, singing arrangements of popular American songs. If you’re in the area and have a few minutes, this group is definitely worth checking out. American Music Machine, performs on the America Gardens Theater stage Wednesdays through Sundays in the afternoons. They sing newer hits and a must watch for us. Rest up, use the restroom, drink some water, grab a big turkey leg or stuff your face with a funnel cake and get ready to go back out in the world and hit your home stretch.

Japan

If you haven’t eaten a full meal yet, Teppan Edo is a Popular dining location. Otherwise, take in the sights, dance to the beat of the drums and savor a Tokyo Sunset. It was delicious. Or try a frozen beer. Then while you’re running up a tab, spend another $17 and Pick-A-Pearl and don’t miss Japan’s Mitsukoshi Department Store with all kinds of Japanese merchandise.

Morocco

Next on our tour is Morocco. I didn’t go with anything outlandish, just a good old Strawberry Daiquiri and had to try imported Casa Beer. Stop by the Tangierine Cafe, show off in some Moroccan wear or move on to our next stop.

France

One of my favorite countries along with one of my favorite drinks. Stagger on over to Les Chefs de France and a must try on the list is the legendary Grand Mariner Orange Slush. Sip, to avoid a brain freeze, and stroll around taking in the breathtaking French culture. Delectable bakery treats await you in the back of France.

United Kingdom

Make the trip across the pond, follow the cobble-stone roads and right to the nearest pub. Rose & Crown. You can go inside and enjoy or even to the beer stand outside. I enjoyed Crabbie’s Cloudy Lemonade. It was actually a type of beer, but could be a refreshment even for non beer drinkers. Just a strong lemonade.. with alcohol content. Don’t worry though, there is no shortage of alcohol selection here.

At this point, since we are in the UK, let’s have some fun and try saying “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”. If you utterly failed, it’s alright. There is a place tucked away in the back of the pavilion that could be a perfect spot for taking a quiet break. Collect yourself and drag yourself to our final stop.

Canada

Can you smell victory? It’s one drink away! Stop by the popcorn cart and grab a Canadian beer. Moosehead or Labatt Blue is a new favorite. It should be later in the evening so while you’re celebrating your triumph you just may see fireworks. Literally. If you’re lucky you can enjoy your last drink or two during a show of Illuminations. Debating on how inebriated you are try your best to stand proud. You have participated and completed “Drinking around the world.”

Few Tips:

Have a DD or stay onsite. Do not attempt to drive, please.

Go in with a game plane. It makes it easier to accomplish when you make time for food and know where the potty is.

Stay hydrated. Heat AND Alcohol = Lots of water!

Pace yourself. You will have numerous opportunities to have a drink. You do not want to be hugging the toilet in the good old US Pavilion.

Everyone loves a good time and sometimes that includes alcohol. Behave and just have fun. Most importantly be safe. You know your limits, if you need to finish on another day.

And good luck!

Have you attempted to Drink Around the World? Any tips or stories from your adventure?

My name is Jamie Porter. I’m a writer for Chip & Co as well as a local to WDW and a Travel Agent for World of Magic Travel. If you have any questions and would like help planning your trip (maybe to attempt to drink around the world) feel free to follow me on facebook and keep an eye out for giveaways or email me at [email protected]. As always I’m happy to help and my service is FREE!

Disney Springs Celebrates its First Christmas Season

By

Chip

-

November 22, 2015

Disney Springs receives a sprinkle of holiday magic as the shopping and entertainment location is transformed into a festive wonderland for the holiday season. With familiar favorites, new seasonal offerings and sparkling décor reflective of the unique Disney Springs neighborhoods, Holidays at Disney Springs will dazzle guests as they complete their seasonal shopping and enjoy the dining and entertainment offerings available during this cheerful time of year.

Holiday Décor

Each neighborhood has been transformed into a unique holiday wonderland for the season’s greetings, each reflecting the neighborhood’s role in the Disney Springs waterfront town.

The Marketplace décor will make guests feel right at home with wreaths and trees with a handmade touch. This colorful, authentic atmosphere is the ideal inspiration while shopping for loved ones.

The Landing is decked out in a bit more illustrious style, with silver and gold décor amidst the glittering holiday lights. With a slight modern flare, the metallic decorations fit the theme of this industrial neighborhood.

Guests will be transported to a magical winter wonderland as they visit the West Side neighborhood at Disney Springs. The vibrant blue ornaments, beautiful white holiday lights, and contemporary Christmas trees will bring holiday cheer to shoppers of all ages.

Holiday Entertainment

In addition to the yuletide décor, Disney Springs treats guests to special entertainment offerings throughout the neighborhoods.

The Marketplace is filled with the sights and sounds of the season as Holiday Carolers perform favorite Christmas tunes from 6-10 p.m. each evening from Nov. 13- Dec. 30. The Marketplace holiday celebration continues with a special Kwanzaa musical group appearing at the Waterside Stage Dec. 26 – 27.

Also at the Marketplace, guests can visit Santa Claus to share their Christmas wish. The Chalet is in a new location this year by the Waterside Stage, where guests can meet Santa Nov. 13 – Dec. 24 from 12-10:30 p.m. For the second year, guests will be given a pager for a virtual queue so that they can continue their holiday shopping and be paged once it’s their turn to meet St. Nick. From Dec. 25-29, Santa Goofy will greet guests during the same hours in the Chalet location.

Waterview Park at The Landing gives guests the chance to learn about and experience the story of Hanukkah through music. Showtimes are scheduled throughout the evenings of Dec. 6 – 13.

In addition to the jolly musical offerings, guests will be astounded by the Holiday Stilt Walkers appearing throughout Disney Springs from 6-10 p.m. each evening from Nov. 13 – Dec. 30.

Shopping

The World of Disney store at the Marketplace is the world’s largest shopping destination for all-things Disney. The recently-expanded location offers a vast assortment of Disney merchandise including plush toys, clothing, Mickey Mouse hats and trading pins. The new Disney Parks Castle Play Set also is available at World of Disney and is the perfect surprise for little princesses.

Disney Springs offers unique gift ideas that are exclusive to this premier shopping location. Ladies with a passion for fashion will appreciate a one-of-a-kind, personalized pair of flip-flops from havaianas, a hand-painted pair of TOMS shoes from Curl, or a stylish hat from Chapel Hats. A custom-designed phone case from D-Tech on Demand is the perfect stocking-stuffer. As for gifts for gentlemen, visit the new Twenty Eight & Main location at the Marketplace for exclusive Disney Parks gentleman’s apparel, accessories, and more.

For presents that sparkle and shine, consider the popular Pandora, Alex & Ani or Crislu jewelry. Dooney & Bourke and Vera Bradley bags add a touch of Disney design. The new Disney Boutique collection, which offers beautiful women’s apparel and accessories for dedicated Disney fans, can be found at TrenD in the Disney Springs Marketplace.

Sweet treats make for delicious holiday surprises. Opening in mid-December, The Ganachery offers rich, hand-crafted chocolate ganache with beautiful custom packaging. Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop also offers tasty chocolate treats and hot chocolates to sweeten this special time of year.

Disney Gift Cards give the gift of Disney magic to everyone this holiday season. Disney Gift Cards are accepted at many Disney Springs shopping locations and all Disney Springs restaurants, including the recently opened Morimoto Asia, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar and The BOATHOUSE.

Dining

In addition to a sleigh full of holiday shopping and entertainment, Disney Springs also offers special Christmas Day meals.

Fulton’s Crab House will feature a special surf- and turf menu, which includes braised short ribs and Alaska King crab with loaded mashed potatoes, crispy Brussels sprouts, lardons, and cabernet demi ($45 per person).
Portobello Country Italian Trattoria will offer a delectable three-course meal, including a filet with roasted garlic whipped potatoes and sweet cannoli for dessert ($50 per person).
For families looking for a classic feast in honor of the festive celebration, Planet Hollywood and Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant will offer a delicious turkey dinner with all the fixings to make guests feel right at home.
Wolfgang Puck Express will feature a tender oven-roasted pork chop with mashed potatoes and broccolini finished with a special holiday dessert ($15 per person).
The beautiful upstairs dining room at Wolfgang Puck Grand Café hosts an elaborate holiday feast, with a three-course meal complete with a wine selection. Guests will enjoy a savory watercress salad, followed by Colorado rack of lamb and concluded with a bittersweet chocolate ganache ($75 per person).

For dining reservations, please contact your Travel Agent, call 407-WDW-DINE, or visit Disneyworld.com/dining

To view a full list of the “Holidays at Disney Springs” festivities and to learn more about the exciting shopping and dining experiences at Disney Springs, visit disneysprings.com.

The holidays magical at Walt Disney World. And there is still time to plan that special holiday trip for this year or to start planning for 2016. I would love to help you with all of your travel nees. 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

Epcot Will Begin Offering ‘Made with Magic’ Products November 23, 2015

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

November 22, 2015

Monday, November 23rd Epcot will begin selling Made with Magic merchandise in the park!

Made with Magic (formerly Glow with the Show) products light up and change colors to interact with events like Osborne Spectacle of Lights, Wishes, Fantasmic! and Celebrate the Magic.

For $25 (plus tax) park guests will be able to choose from the Mickey Ear Hat, Minnie Mouse Headband, Mickey Mouse Glove, or the Sorcerer Mickey Wand. These products will now become interactive in Epcot during key moments around World Showcase!

Wondering where to find the Made with Magic merchandise in Epcot? You can choose your favorite item to purchase at the following locations: Gateway Gifts, Kiosks by Disney Traders, Pin Central, Village Traders, Mouse Gear, American Adventure Cart, International Gateway, and the Canada Cart

Have you tried a Made with Magic product in one of the other Disney parks before?

Photo Credit Disney

Disney Springs Celebrates its First Christmas Season

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

November 22, 2015

Disney Springs receives a sprinkle of holiday magic as the shopping and entertainment location is transformed into a festive wonderland for the holiday season. With familiar favorites, new seasonal offerings and sparkling décor reflective of the unique Disney Springs neighborhoods, Holidays at Disney Springs will dazzle guests as they complete their seasonal shopping and enjoy the dining and entertainment offerings available during this cheerful time of year.

Holiday Décor

Each neighborhood has been transformed into a unique holiday wonderland for the season’s greetings, each reflecting the neighborhood’s role in the Disney Springs waterfront town.

The Marketplace décor will make guests feel right at home with wreaths and trees with a handmade touch. This colorful, authentic atmosphere is the ideal inspiration while shopping for loved ones.

The Landing is decked out in a bit more illustrious style, with silver and gold décor amidst the glittering holiday lights. With a slight modern flare, the metallic decorations fit the theme of this industrial neighborhood.

Guests will be transported to a magical winter wonderland as they visit the West Side neighborhood at Disney Springs. The vibrant blue ornaments, beautiful white holiday lights, and contemporary Christmas trees will bring holiday cheer to shoppers of all ages.

Holiday Entertainment

In addition to the yuletide décor, Disney Springs treats guests to special entertainment offerings throughout the neighborhoods.

The Marketplace is filled with the sights and sounds of the season as Holiday Carolers perform favorite Christmas tunes from 6-10 p.m. each evening from Nov. 13- Dec. 30. The Marketplace holiday celebration continues with a special Kwanzaa musical group appearing at the Waterside Stage Dec. 26 – 27.

Also at the Marketplace, guests can visit Santa Claus to share their Christmas wish. The Chalet is in a new location this year by the Waterside Stage, where guests can meet Santa Nov. 13 – Dec. 24 from 12-10:30 p.m. For the second year, guests will be given a pager for a virtual queue so that they can continue their holiday shopping and be paged once it’s their turn to meet St. Nick. From Dec. 25-29, Santa Goofy will greet guests during the same hours in the Chalet location.

Waterview Park at The Landing gives guests the chance to learn about and experience the story of Hanukkah through music. Showtimes are scheduled throughout the evenings of Dec. 6 – 13.

In addition to the jolly musical offerings, guests will be astounded by the Holiday Stilt Walkers appearing throughout Disney Springs from 6-10 p.m. each evening from Nov. 13 – Dec. 30.

Shopping

The World of Disney store at the Marketplace is the world’s largest shopping destination for all-things Disney. The recently-expanded location offers a vast assortment of Disney merchandise including plush toys, clothing, Mickey Mouse hats and trading pins. The new Disney Parks Castle Play Set also is available at World of Disney and is the perfect surprise for little princesses.

Disney Springs offers unique gift ideas that are exclusive to this premier shopping location. Ladies with a passion for fashion will appreciate a one-of-a-kind, personalized pair of flip-flops from havaianas, a hand-painted pair of TOMS shoes from Curl, or a stylish hat from Chapel Hats. A custom-designed phone case from D-Tech on Demand is the perfect stocking-stuffer. As for gifts for gentlemen, visit the new Twenty Eight & Main location at the Marketplace for exclusive Disney Parks gentleman’s apparel, accessories, and more.

For presents that sparkle and shine, consider the popular Pandora, Alex & Ani or Crislu jewelry. Dooney & Bourke and Vera Bradley bags add a touch of Disney design. The new Disney Boutique collection, which offers beautiful women’s apparel and accessories for dedicated Disney fans, can be found at TrenD in the Disney Springs Marketplace.

Sweet treats make for delicious holiday surprises. Opening in mid-December, The Ganachery offers rich, hand-crafted chocolate ganache with beautiful custom packaging. Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop also offers tasty chocolate treats and hot chocolates to sweeten this special time of year.

Disney Gift Cards give the gift of Disney magic to everyone this holiday season. Disney Gift Cards are accepted at many Disney Springs shopping locations and all Disney Springs restaurants, including the recently opened Morimoto Asia, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar and The BOATHOUSE.

Dining

In addition to a sleigh full of holiday shopping and entertainment, Disney Springs also offers special Christmas Day meals.

Fulton’s Crab House will feature a special surf- and turf menu, which includes braised short ribs and Alaska King crab with loaded mashed potatoes, crispy Brussels sprouts, lardons, and cabernet demi ($45 per person).
Portobello Country Italian Trattoria will offer a delectable three-course meal, including a filet with roasted garlic whipped potatoes and sweet cannoli for dessert ($50 per person).
For families looking for a classic feast in honor of the festive celebration, Planet Hollywood and Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant will offer a delicious turkey dinner with all the fixings to make guests feel right at home.
Wolfgang Puck Express will feature a tender oven-roasted pork chop with mashed potatoes and broccolini finished with a special holiday dessert ($15 per person).
The beautiful upstairs dining room at Wolfgang Puck Grand Café hosts an elaborate holiday feast, with a three-course meal complete with a wine selection. Guests will enjoy a savory watercress salad, followed by Colorado rack of lamb and concluded with a bittersweet chocolate ganache ($75 per person).

For dining reservations, please contact your Travel Agent, call 407-WDW-DINE, or visit Disneyworld.com/dining

To view a full list of the “Holidays at Disney Springs” festivities and to learn more about the exciting shopping and dining experiences at Disney Springs, visit disneysprings.com.

The holidays magical at Walt Disney World. And there is still time to plan that special holiday trip for this year or to start planning for 2016. I would love to help you with all of your travel nees. 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

Disney Finds- Stocking Stuffers for Under $10

By

Danielle

-

November 22, 2015

The Holidays are almost here, and it’s almost time to stuff those stockings and exchange Secret Santa gifts! Right now the Disney Store is having it’s Magical Friday sale, and has some great finds for under $10 that are perfect for the Disney lover in your life!

Mickey Mouse Shapes Water Bottle

First up is this super cute Mickey Mouse Shapes Water Bottle, great for a stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift and only $9.00! They have many other characters from Rapunzel to Miles from Tomorrowland to choose from!

Mickey Mouse Holiday Plush - Mini Bean Bag - 9''

These Mickey Mouse Holiday Plush and Minnie Mouse Holiday Plush mini bean bags are too cute for just under $8.00 and perfect for topping off the stocking!
Disney•Pixar Inside Out ''Tsum Tsum'' Badge Set

I love this Disney•Pixar Inside Out ”Tsum Tsum” Badge Set, perfect fit for the stockings, not only are they a steal for just five bucks, but how fun will it be to wear your favorite emotion every day?
Tinker Bell Mug - Peter Pan - Classic Animation Collection

Of course we have to think about the adults too, that’s why I love that they have lots of characters mugs like this Tinker Bell Mug from the Classic Animations Collection ranging from $7 to $9 dollars! Coffee and tea just taste better in a Disney mug!

With so many great deals on sale at the Disney Store right now, it’s the perfect time to stock up for the Holidays. I might even have to get a couple of those character mugs for me! Have you started your checking off your list yet?

Happy Shopping!

The Garden Grill in Epcot is now featuring character breakfast and lunch

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

November 22, 2015

On November 8th, The Garden Grill in The Land Pavilion in Epcot began featuring breakfast and lunch character dining. Last week, I had the chance to enjoy lunch at one of my favorite Epcot restaurants, and it did not disappoint!

As we were seated in our booth, we took in the scenery of the passing Living with the Land attraction and anticipated the arrival of Farmer Mickey, Pluto, Chip and Dale. If you have eaten dinner at The Garden Grill in the past, the menu for lunch is very similar. You will find “Living with the Land” Harvest-Inspired Farmer’s Salad, All-Natural Sliced Turkey Breast with gravy, Sweet Potato Fries, Macaroni & Cheese, Bacon and Leek Stuffing, Char-Grilled Sliced Filet of Beef with a red wine demi-glace, Italian Sausage with Sautéed Peppers and Onions, Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes, Garden Fresh Vegetables (we had steamed broccoli) and for dessert- a Short Cake topped with berries and fresh, vanilla bean whipped cream.

The food was absolutely amazing and this was a great way to enjoy lunch. The meal is served family style, in an all-you-care-to-enjoy format, so the additional things we wanted, we were able to request. The character interaction was also fantastic! Our four favorite pals spent time interacting with my four-year old, posing for photos and signing autographs.

All in all, I give lunch at The Garden Grill two thumbs up and I hope this sticks around for a long time because I can see many families enjoying this option. As with all table service locations throughout Walt Disney World, 180 Day Advanced Dining Reservations are highly recommended to ensure your spot at the feast. Chip ‘n Dale’s Harvest Feast is part of the Disney Dining Plan and uses 1 Table Service credit (per person).

This meal would be the perfect fit during a Spring vacation to Walt Disney World, so you can enjoy a delicious seasonal meal and check out the wonder of the Flower & Garden Festival! Email me at [email protected] to begin planning your Spring adventure!

TSA Confiscates a Buzz Lightyear Toy from child on his way home from Disney World

By

Disney News

-

November 22, 2015

A 5 year old and his family were on their way home from a magical Disney World vacation. Levi Zilka’s uncle got him the Buzz Lightyear flip grip toy (pictured above). Of course he was happy and wanted to go play with his cook new toy. However, TSA had different plans. they confiscated it claiming that it looked like a weapon.

Levi’s father, David Zilka, said his son was very upset by what happened. “Once he realized what was happening, that they weren’t giving his toy back, he immediately starts bawling, just tears streaming down his face and crying,” said Zilka.

It is said that TSA agents told the family that they could check the toy but they only brought carry on luggage. Their current policy does state that “realistic replicas of firearms” must be checked.

“TSA officers are charged with protecting passengers and making final judgments on which items are permitted on aircraft. In our review of this situation, the officer’s decision complied with approved procedures. We recently reinforced that training on the procedures with every front line TSA officer. TSA officers have the discretion to deny passage of an item if they cannot definitively rule out that the item could be used as a weapon, or perceived to be a weapon, including replica weapons.”

Photo Credit: Ebay

Thoughts?

Disney Find- Character Inspired Bath Bombs

By

Danielle

-

November 22, 2015

I love a nice warm bath, especially during the winter! Bath bombs are seriously the best, which is why I was over the moon to find these Disney character inspired bath bombs by Etsy designer BuckysBombYard!

These little fizzies are a delight of color and design, and the scents sound absolutely divine!

Here are some of the uniquely inspired bath bombs they offer:

Everything the Light Touches (Lion King)
Colors of the Wind (Pocahontas)
Hatter’s Mad Tea Bomb (Alice in Wonderland)
Tiana
Pascal (Tangled, and promises to be quite the chameleon show!)
Esmeralda
Aurora
Enchanted Rose (Belle)
The Black Pearl (Pirates of the Caribbean)
Princess Jasmine
Ohana
Mulan
Avengers: Age of Ultron (A set!)
Disney Inspired Bomblettes
Project Rebirth (Captain America)

There’s lots more too!! If you’re having trouble deciding which Disney bath bomb you really want be sure to check out the Disney Bath Bomb Pack, a create your own set of your favorite Disney choices! I’ve already got my set picked out! Which ones will you choose?

Happy Shopping!

Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival Expands to 90 Days in 2016

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

November 22, 2015

Epcot will be expanding the Flower & Garden Festival in 2016 from 75 days to 90 days, running from March 2, 2016 – May 30, 2016!

What fun things are in store?

Disney is paying tribute to the National Parks Service centennial with Ranger Mickey making his grand debut in Future World.
Guests will be welcomed into the park by Huey, Dewey, Louie, Donald and Daisy
The Future World landscape will celebrate the brightest star in Earth’s orbit with the new Floral Sun garden
There will be interactive play areas featuring everyone’s favorites: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto, with musical instruments built into the climbing systems
The Garden Rocks concert series
Sweet and savory Outdoor Kitchen dishes and drinks

I can’t think of a better way to break out of winter then with a visit to Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival!

Right now there are special pricing offers that match up with some of the dates included in the Flower & Garden Festival to let you take advantage of some great savings while enjoying the amazing creations of Disney’s horticulture artists. Contact me at [email protected] for more details!

Photo credit Disney Parks Blog

Save with a Disneyland Special Hotel Offer This New Years!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

November 21, 2015

Kick off the New Year right at the Happiest Place on Earth and enjoy a special hotel offer! Save up to 20% when you stay at one of the three Disneyland Resort hotels early next year. This offer is good for select Sunday through Thursday night stays from January 3 to March 31, 2016. You can save up to 20% on premium rooms at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa or the Disneyland Hotel, and up to 10% at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. Book now through March 10, 2016 in order to take advantage of this amazing deal!

There are some wonderful perks to staying on-site at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels. You will have convenient access to both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park as well as the Downtown Disney District. You will also be able to take advantage of early morning admission to the theme parks. That gives you more time to experience the dazzling Diamond Celebration and the exciting new attractions in Tomorrowland, such as Star Wars Launch Bay and Super Hero HQ.

Which Disneyland Resort hotel would you use this offer for?

If you haven’t stayed at a Disneyland Resort hotel before, you are missing out! Let me help you book your next Disneyland vacation so you can experience the magic of staying in one of these three amazing hotels. Email me today to start planning and to take advantage of this special offer!

The Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel was Involved in a Data Breach

By

Disney News

-

November 21, 2015

The Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel is just one among 54 Starwood hotels that have been affected by a recent data breach. They said they found malware in their systems that are used for processing payments at the hotel, this includes restaurants, shops, bars etc. However, the front desk payment processing was not affected by the breach.

The Walt Disney World Swan Hotel was not affected by this data breach.

The data breach at the Dolphin hotel happened between November 5, 2014 and April 13, 2015. They said the malware exposed card numbers, security codes, names and expiration dates from the cards. Contact info and pin numbers were not exposed. Their loyalty program was not affected. Starwood has said the malware has been removed.

Starwood is telling people to check their credit report if they have visited the affected hotels. If you have been affected Starwood will get All Clear ID to provide credit monitoring services and protection for one year.

If you have any questions or concerns please call Starwood at 1-855-270-9179, Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Central time. If you’re international, you can reach them at 1-512-201-2201.