Decorate Like a Dream with Minnie’s Home Makeover

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August 7, 2015

Minnie’s Home Makeover is an adorable new app that allows you to design, furnish, and decorate dream homes for your customers with Minnie, Daisy, and Cuckoo-Loca!

My little one and I checked out this fun new app this weekend, and had a blast! There’s lots of vibrant colors and patterns to really entice the eye. There’s 3 neighborhoods each featuring 4 homes, that you can decorate and customize multiple rooms for. Painting the walls had my little one giggling uncontrollably, a fun paint sprayer with Minnie ears and polka dots sputters any color of your choosing all over the walls! One option for the flooring let’s your little one hammer away, with no hurt thumbs. There’s also plenty of sparkles and glitter to really dazzle your new home makeover clients!

FEATURES

Decorate 4 houses in each of 3 themed neighborhoods: Town, Beach, and Mountain View.
Customize Bedrooms, Living Rooms, and Dining Rooms!
Use fun tools like the glitter hose and rainbow brush.
Beautify your spaces with tons of different materials, paint colors, carpets, wallpapers, window treatments, and floor tiles.
Accessorize your homes with awesome wall decorations, light fixtures, flowers, and even a piñata!
Celebrate after you finish each house with confetti poppers and earn special decorative items!

This has become a fun app for car rides because it has so many things to explore, and every home can be as different as you like. If your little one loves to decorate, build, design, or all 3 this is a cute and fun app to check out! This this app does contains in-app purchases that cost real money, but there’s still plenty of free features to play with as well. Minnie’s Home Makeover is available now on iTunes for both iPhone and iPad here.

Top Five Reasons to Celebrate Halloween on the High Seas with Disney Cruise Line

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 7, 2015

We’ve reached August and it’s time to start thinking ahead to the Fall! Fall brings many of my favorite things- changing leaves, all things flavored pumpkin, college football and most of all HALLOWEEN! I can’t think of a better way to celebrate this spooktacular holiday than in true, Disney fashion. Starting in September and going through October, cruisers aboard the Disney Cruise Line are guaranteed to experience thrills, treats and maybe even a few tricks along the way. The best part of it all….in addition to celebrating Fall, you also get to bask in the warm sun at your favorite ports of call. What could be better? The Disney Cruise Line does an amazing job at bringing one of my favorite holidays to sea and here are the top five reasons why you don’t want to miss it!

#1- The Pumpkin Tree– In the atrium lobby on each ship, you will find a Pumpkin Tree magically blooming with Jack-O-Lanterns throughout the cruise. And on the final evening, the pumpkins let their lights shine during an amazingly spooky performance.

#2- Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party– Bring the whole family to this costume party and collect treats from the Disney Cruise Line Staff to satisfy your sweet tooth.

#3- A Nightmare Before Christmas– Sing and Scream- Experience this classic holiday film like never before with 3-D and 4-D effects, followed by an exclusive meet-and-greet with the overly popular characters, Jack and Sally.

#4- Halloween Isn’t Just for Kids– Don’t let the holiday fool you…adult nightlife aboard the Disney ships is just as entertaining. Throughout the adult nightlife district, you will find adult-only costume contests and an electrifying dance party.

#5- Haunted Stories of the Sea– This is one of my absolute favorites! Brave cruisers gather under the stars to hear haunted tales of the sea told by a mysterious sea captain. Ghost stories seem so much scarier when you are in the middle of the ocean…don’t you think?

What is your favorite part of Halloween on the High Seas? I’d love to hear your favorite activity onboard the Disney Cruise Line ships!

To learn more about the featured sailing or to book your family’s spooky voyage, email me at [email protected]. Also be sure to follow me on Facebook to keep up with the latest Disney news, updates and promotions and join our YMBADA Cruisers Facebook page to share tips with fellow cruisers. Happy Sailing!

Disneyland Gets a Wait-Time App!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 6, 2015

Many of you have been wondering if Disneyland would ever get a mobile app similar to Walt Disney World’s My Disney Experience app. Well, wonder no more because it’s finally here!

This week Disney unveiled a Disneyland Resort mobile application that allows guests to see wait times for both parks, locate characters, purchase tickets, and even book dining reservations. The app is called Disneyland and is available for free on Google Play for Android users and at the App Store on iTunes.

There’s a map of both parks, Downtown Disney, the three resort hotels, and some nearby hotels. The map is GPS enabled and will pinpoint guests to their exact location in the Disneyland Resort.

You’ll be able to locate recommended spots to take photos, rides offering Fastpass, the nearest restroom and baby-care centers.

Annual Passholders can link their passes to the app so they can just have the phone scanned at the entrance to enter. If you purchase your tickets via the app, you can have them scanned at the entrance as well.

Be sure to take advantage of this app the next time you visit the Disneyland Resort. If you don’t have a Disney vacation in the works, then contact me today to get the planning started! I’d love to get you a free quote and help you book a fantastic Disney adventure!

Celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas and more at Walt Disney World Resort and Beyond

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 6, 2015

Christmas cheer meets Disney magic with holiday celebrations at Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Cruise Line in 2015. Celebrate with family, friends and favorite Disney characters during this exciting season filled with festive jubilation.

Walt Disney World Resort guests can join together for a joyous and delicious Thanksgiving Day dinner. With a variety of dining options at the theme parks and resorts, there is a cornucopia of exciting lunch and dinner offerings inspired by this American tradition.

Guests can enjoy menu options for Thanksgiving Day meals at Walt Disney World Resort featuring a classic turkey dinner, such as the hearty all-American eats and traditional family- style Thanksgiving feast at Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom Park. For guests looking for a special spin on the traditional turkey dinner, try some of the more unique options, such as traditional Norwegian meatballs and pan-seared salmon at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall or roasted heirloom beets with candied walnuts and mulled apple cider at Artist Point.

At Epcot, guests can dine on Thanksgiving menus during lunch and dinner seatings at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, Biergarten Restaurant, Coral Reef Restaurant, Le Cellier Steakhouse, Tutto Itlalia Ristorante, Restaurant Marrakesh, Rose & Crown Dining Room, and Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria, as well as quick service at Sunshine Seasons.

Holiday menus also are offered at Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom; Hollywood & Vine, 50’s Prime Time Café and The Hollywood Brown Derby in Disney’s Hollywood Studios; Tusker House Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom; Planet Hollywood, Portobello Country Italian Tattoria, Wolfgang Puck Grand Café, Fulton’s Crab House and Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant in Downtown Disney; and in resort hotels throughout Walt Disney World Resort.

Availability is limited and dining events are subject to change.

Holiday Celebrations at Walt Disney World Resort

Magic Kingdom

Add some very to your merry at the veriest, merriest Christmas party of the season. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom hosts 20 nights of yuletide cheer from Nov. 8 – Dec. 18, 2015. From 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. during select nights at Magic Kingdom park, this annual ticket event will bring Christmas joy to guests of all ages with festive decorations, towering Christmas trees, and wintry wonderful entertainment.

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with special event tickets can enjoy the spectacular holiday splendor, along with complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, and snow flurries on Main Street, U.S.A. Special holiday entertainment during the event includes Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas! Dance Party, “Celebrate the Season” musical stage show starring favorite Disney characters, and “Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season” fireworks spectacular.

Disney characters dressed in their Christmas best will be available for meet and greets throughout the park. In addition, don’t miss Queen Elsa from “Frozen” as she uses her incredible powers to transform Cinderella Castle nightly into a glistening ice palace for the holidays during “A Frozen Holiday Wish” castle lighting show.

Also for the holiday season, the iconic Jungle Cruise will temporarily transform into “Jingle Cruise” for Magic Kingdom guests. Festive decor in the attraction queue and boathouse gives guests a bit of Christmas cheer. The Jingle Cruise boats each are given a unique holiday name, and the Skippers share a slew of seasonal holiday jokes throughout the tour.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Disneyworld.com/Christmasparty. Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2015 can be purchased for the following dates:

November 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20 and 29

December 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17 and 18

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

A spectacular light display boasting millions of glittering lights, the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is perfectly synchronized to a high-energy holiday symphony. This magical display of Christmas lights can be seen on the Streets of America from Nov 6, 2015 through Jan 3, 2016.

Epcot

One of the most beloved holiday traditions at Epcot, the Candlelight Processional inspires guests and instills the Christmas spirit through the retelling of the Christmas story by celebrity narrators, accompanied by a masterful orchestra and choir. The Candlelight Processional is performed three times each evening, 5:00, 6:45 and 8 p.m., from Nov. 27 to Dec. 30. For the full schedule of narrators and to make reservations for a Candlelight Processional Dinner Package, visit disneyworld.com/holiday.

Guests become immersed in holiday festivities while experiencing holiday traditions from various countries throughout World Showcase during Holidays Around the World Nov 27 – Dec. 30. Share in the sights and sounds of the nations of World Showcase as each country’s holiday heritage comes to life amid joyful music, interactive storytelling and time-honored traditions.

Epcot features special holiday merchandise perfect for every shopper’s Christmas list. Santa’s Village in American Adventure and Christkindlmarkt in Germany feature extra special shopping experiences with unique Christmas ornaments and holiday items.

While shopping, guests can stop by the Future World Fountain Stage for a joy-filled performance by “Joyful!” This spirited ensemble uniquely blends the soulful expressiveness of gospel and inspirational music with the sounds of jazz, R&B and urban music. This holiday performance features classic Christmas tunes with a soulful spin.

The merriment continues with meet and greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus the nightly “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth – Holiday Edition,” a laser, light, fireworks display capped with a seasonal finale.

This spectacular light display boasting millions of glittering lights is perfectly synchronized to a high-energy holiday symphony and is capped off with a flurry of snow.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Meet Mickey and Minnie at Adventurers Outpost in Disney’s Animal Kingdom during the holiday season for a special photo opportunity. Mickey and Minnie dress in their holiday best, which makes for the perfect Christmas card photo.

Downtown Disney

Downtown Disney will be decked with holiday décor to bring Christmas cheer to holiday shoppers and guests. Santa will be available for a special meet and greet, along with jolly holiday entertainment throughout the season.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

All of Walt Disney World shines brightly with merry décor during the holiday season, including Walt Disney World Resort Hotels. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is a favorite holiday stop with its 16-foot-high Victorian gingerbread house located in the lobby. Disney’s Beach Club Resort hosts an incredible gingerbread carousel display, accompanied by the sweet smell of Christmas treats wafting through the entryway. Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Boardwalk Resort have their own festive gingerbread holiday displays for guests’ delight. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge showcase breathtaking Christmas trees towering inside the resorts. With so many splendid sights to see, Christmas joy radiates to every corner of Walt Disney World Resort.

The Gift of Special Savings this Holiday Season at Walt Disney World Resort

Experience the merriment of the season at Walt Disney World Resort with incredible family-sized savings. The Magic Together Fall Vacation Package is a 4-day/4-night room and theme park ticket package in a standard room at Disney’s All-Star Resorts for a family of four starting at $1,701.

Guests also can save up to 25 percent on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels this fall with special savings available most nights October 4 through November 24, 2015 and November 28 through December 23, 2015. To book by phone, call (407) 939-1309.

Holiday Happenings at ESPN Wide World of Sports

For the 17^th consecutive year, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex will host the Pop Warner Super Bowl & National Cheer and Dance Championships. The event will consist of more than 64 teams from eight Pop Warner regions playing in four age/weight classifications (Jr. Peewee, Pewee, Jr. Midget, Midget). Throughout the six-day event, 68 games will be played, including the Division I Midget National Championship Game, which is featured on ESPN and ESPN2 throughout the NFL Super Bowl Week. This year’s event will take place from Dec. 4 to 12.

Disney Soccer Showcase is the ultimate place for top clubs to perform in front of hundreds of college coaches looking for great soccer talent. Rated the best youth soccer tournament in the U.S. in a Soccer America survey, Disney Soccer Showcase will give athletes a chance to shine on one of the biggest stages set for youth soccer in the country. The event will take place at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Boys will participate from Dec. 27 to 30. Girls will participate from Dec. 31 to Jan. 3.

The Disney New Year’s Baseball Classic at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex is for youth athletes between 8 and 18 years old. Every player selected for the event is automatically enrolled in the MVP Head Start College Recruiting Program at no additional costs, while the event itself allows players to learn from MVP pro coaches in preparation for their upcoming baseball seasons. This year’s event takes place from Dec. 30 to Jan. 2.

Check out some of the magic that awaits you:

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Sail Away to a Magical Winter Holiday with Disney Cruise Line

This holiday season, Disney Cruise Line ships will be all decked to the “raft-ers” with holiday cheer. Starting early November, Disney Cruise Line adds sparkle to each ship during Very Merrytime Cruises, with traditional “turkey day” fanfare, Christmas feasts, “snow flurries” and New Year’s Eve galas. During these voyages through the new year, holiday events include a tree-lighting ceremony with favorite Disney friends, Dickens-inspired carolers, a holiday deck party, themed treats and more.

On one extra-special evening each cruise, the grand atrium lobby becomes the setting for a fanciful winter wonderland ball, where Disney cruisers welcome the guests of honor, Santa and Mrs. Claus, with a grand celebration featuring Broadway-style entertainment, favorite Disney characters and classic holiday tunes. This evening of enchantment is made complete when a special pair of royal sisters joins the party and causes a flurry of “frozen” fun as a magical snowfall overtakes the atrium.

To celebrate the holidays, the Disney Magic sails four- and five-night Bahamian and Caribbean cruises departing Nov. 11 to Dec. 23; the Disney Wonder sails four-, six- and seven-night Bahamian and Caribbean cruises departing Nov. 6 to Dec. 24; the Disney Dream sails three- and four-night Bahamian cruises departing Nov. 9 to Dec. 24; and the Disney Fantasy sails seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises departing Nov. 14 to Dec. 19.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

There is nothing like the holidays at Disney World. There is so much to do and see and experience. Even though Disney World is in Florida, you will still feel the holiday spirit and Christmas cheer. I am an Independent Travel Agent with World World of Magic Travel Services. I would love to make your holiday vacation a little more magical. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

Descendants: Wicked World Animated Shorts Coming Soon!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 6, 2015

“Descendants Wicked World,” an animated short-form series set in the Auradon and Isle of the Lost worlds of Disney’s hit movie “Descendants,” is set to premiere FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 on Disney Channel and its digital platforms, including WATCH Disney Channel. The series will introduce new characters. Providing the voices of the animated characters are the movie’s stars: Dove Cameron as Mal, Sofia Carson as Evie, Cameron Boyce as Carlos, Booboo Stewart as Jay, Mitchell Hope as Ben, Brenna D’Amico as Jane, Sarah Jeffery as Audrey and Dianne Doan as Lonnie.

“Descendants Wicked World” picks up after the final scene of Disney’s “Descendants,” the Disney Channel Original Movie that delivered over 10.5 million Total Viewers (L+3) for its premiere telecast, ranking as the most watched cable TV movie of 2015 and the top-rated telecast in two years in Kids 2-11 and Tweens 9-14.

The short-form series will feature four original songs that were released as bonus tracks on the “Descendants” soundtrack (from Walt Disney Records), which is currently #1 on the iTunes soundtrack chart and #3 on the iTunes album chart. The dance songs include a retro-soul “Rotten to the Core” remix performed by Sofia Carson; “Night Is Young” performed by China Anne McClain; “Good Is the New Bad” performed by Dove Cameron, Sofia Caron and China Anne McClain; and “I’m Your Girl” performed by Felicia Barton.

“Descendants Wicked World” is executive-produced by Jennifer Magee-Cook (producer, “The Pirate Fairy”) and Aliki Theofilopoulos Grafft (story board artist, “Mickey Mouse” shorts). Grafft also serves as director on the series. It is written by Julia Miranda (“Lab Rats”).

Fans of Disney’s “Descendants” can further immerse themselves in the idyllic world of Auradon through “School of Secrets,” a 23-part short-form series told through the eyes of the students at Auradon Prep in the days leading up to the arrival of Mal, Evie, Carlos and Jay, the teenage sons and daughters of Disney’s most infamous villains. “School of Secrets” has generated over 9 million views and is available on the “Descendants” YouTube page.

Stay tuned for more Descendants: Wicked World!

Disney Finds – More Disney Inspired Hair Bows

By

Chip

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August 6, 2015

After the popularity of last weeks Disney Hair Bow post I decided to take a look at some more Disney Designers. While browsing I ran across a page of our very own writer here on Chip and Co Monica. You might remember some of her articles, she has been with us for quite some time now and runs her very own shop called MinniesBowShop. She has a bunch of fun Disney Designs to check out such as:

and many more. One thing your going to love is the cost. All of her hair bows are only $3! Not bad huh? So drop by her shop and check them out today!

Happy Shopping!

ABC Family Announces Cast For Pilot “Stay”!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 6, 2015

logo abc family

“Stay” is an edge-of-your-seat thriller about a recently widowed police detective and his two daughters, who are stranded at a foreboding hotel and must unravel the hotel’s mysteries to escape. “Stay” is written and executive-produced by Spenser Cohen. Jon Turteltaub (“National Treasure,” “Sorcerer’s Apprentice”) will direct the pilot and also serve as executive producer, along with Anna Halberg.

Skeet Ulrich (“Jericho”) will portray Shane Brenner, a recently widowed father who has mysteriously packed up his daughters to move them across country, but is stranded by a storm at a mysterious old hotel. Elizabeth Cappuccino (“Jessica Jones”) stars as Shane’s strong-willed daughter Claire, who is eaten away by guilt after her mother’s death. Jordan Fisher (“Teen Beach Movie”) plays Miles, an avid photographer who instantly bonds with a reluctant Claire. He is also stranded at the hotel with his troubled mother, Alison, played by Alicia Coppola (“NCIS: LA”). Sosie Bacon (“Scream”) costars as Charlotte, who was running away from her privileged upbringing when she was stranded at the hotel. Brianna Brown (“Devious Maids”) plays Eva, a con artist out to right past wrongs. Leonard Howze (“Masters of Sex”) will play Wagner, a gentle soul with a self-deprecating sense of humor. And Mia Vallet (“The Mysteries of Laura”) rounds out the cast as the Girl in Grey, a girl on a journey of revenge who mysteriously appears outside of the hotel in desperate need of help.

Stay tuned for more!

Now Accepting Reservations for Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine Dinner

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 6, 2015

Minnies Holiday Dine at Hollywood and Vine

Well it looks like our favorite gossip reporter was right again! Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine Dinner with VIP Fantasmic seating has been announced and reservations are now open.

Ring in the holidays with a fantastic feast, festive entertainment and favorite Disney Characters. Celebrate the season with Minnie and friends at a festive dining experience—followed by VIP seating at Fantasmic!

From November 7, 2015 through January 3, 2016, Hollywood & Vine could be the Happiest Place for Mirth! Celebrate the season with a gloriously festive dining experience—and a rare chance to see Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy and Goofy all together (in all-new holiday finery) making merry with you and your Guests! Get hugs and photos with your happy hosts, and wonder as you wander through the dazzling décor, heartwarming music and holiday-themed food and activities—followed afterwards by special VIP seating for the popular Fantasmic! nighttime spectacular.

Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine is available for $52.99 per adult and $31.99 per child age 3 to 9 (plus tax and gratuity) for a limited time only. Select Disney Dining Plans are also accepted.

Advanced reservations are highly recommended. Please book online or call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call. Or, contact your Travel Agent to book for you.

The holidays are a wonderful time to visit Walt Disney World. Looking to plan a holiday trip? 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

10 Steps To Planning the Perfect Disney Vacation

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 6, 2015

So you want to take the family or group of friends to Disney? It can seem daunting to coordinate it all and make sure you are getting the package that works best for your group. As a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel- it’s all in a day’s work! It’s basically my hobby AND my job! But for someone who isn’t planning these trips every day, here are 10 steps to keep in mind to help you plan.

Decide who’s on the “guest list”– One of the first things to consider is who will be coming. If you have a group of friends make sure you know who is serious and who isn’t! A lot of people “dream talk” about Disney vacations so make sure you know who is who. Same goes for family. If you’re taking your kids and your mother in law expresses interest find out if she’s really willing to take the trip, take time off work or even room with you.
Budget– Keeping room assignments and resorts and meal plans in mind, how much are you able to spend? Are you going to pay cash, use a tax return or charge the trip? It’s not the fun part of the planning but it’s a MUST. *Hint* By using a Disney Travel Agent you give someone else the budget and they can play with the different options for your package so you don’t have to spend the time and energy on it!
When will you go?– Have you always wanted to see the Christmas decorations or attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party? Do your kids have an extra break or long weekend in February that would make the perfect travel time? You will also want to consider crowd forecasts. If you don’t want a huge crowd or longer wait times you will want to go in the off-season.
Resort selection– I’m a firm believer in staying on Disney property and taking advantage of the transportation system and fully immersing my family in all things Disney. Does that sound like it’s up your alley? Would you prefer to stay at a lavish Deluxe resort or is a Value family-friendly in your budget? If you are renting a car or planning on doing activities outside Disney you may consider staying off-site at a Good Neighbor property.
Your agenda– How many days in parks are you planning on doing? Do you want the ability to Park Hop from one to the other? Are you visiting any other destinations such as Universal or Kennedy Space Center? The number of days you want to do activities versus “free days” spent relaxing at the pool or shopping are something to consider. Once you have an idea of what you want to accomplish in addition to your budget you can start thinking about how long your trip will be. *Hint* Make sure you know how much time everyone can get off of work before you decide on this!
Flying versus driving– There are many option and ways to get there. Most people that aren’t Southern natives chose to fly to save themselves travel time and for convenience. What fits into your budget? Flights often aren’t always available if you book your Disney stay early on. They can always be added closer to your travel date so don’t fret if you can’t establish your flights upon booking.
Add ons– Will you be using the Memory Maker for your Walt Disney World trip? Is it worth the extra money to have all your pictures taken in the parks in one place for one price? Are you going to do any water parks or Disney Quest days? Are you taking advantage of Disney’s Magical Express to get to the resort? Have you read up on travel insurance and is it something you feel you would like to take advantage of? Do you need a stroller or wheelchair? Are you bringing one or planning to rent one?
Dining Options– Some chose to go with a dining plan for ease of budgeting so you don’t have to plan out how much to spend each day on food. Some prefer to pick and choose sit downs versus quick serve as the days progress and don’t want to be held to a meal plan’s categories. Does your family want to experience Character Dining or any shows? Do you just want to grab meals quick and have more time for attractions or is the sit down experience something you desire? Think about your group and their preferences when deciding on this, especially when traveling with small children. It can make or break your food experience on your trip and you want to have a great time! If you have to make Advanced Dining Reservations (recommended for all sit downs) make sure you know your 180 day date to be online to register (or have your Travel Agent online for you!)
Register on My Disney Experience– This is accessible via the internet or smart phone app. This product allows you to select Fast Passes, access dining and your reservation information. You can modify many things here including selection of Magic Bands and use Online Check-In. *Hint* Another benefit to staying on property is choosing Fast Pass + selections in advance, make sure you have your date to log in and chose your favorite attractions!
Packing!– The BEST part of your pre-trip checklist! There are many resources online for thorough packing lists and recommendations for things to bring with you. Will your family be bringing snacks for the room? Do you want them delivered by a grocer or shipped right to the resort? There are many options! Do you have sunscreen, hats and misting fans? What about your matching Mickey shirts? Make a list and check it twice. Fortunately you can manage to find most things you may have forgotten right on property but you might pay slightly more than you would have at home. Leave yourself some space for souvenirs to come home in your luggage. Don’t forget those Magic Bands or park tickets!

As a World of Magic Travel Magician I would love to help you plan your next Disney vacation! I love nothing more than a checklist and making sure my clients have the best trip of their lives! Contact me today via email or follow me on Facebook!

Walt before Mickey is it coming to theaters

By

Chip

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August 5, 2015

Lots of people online are getting excited for the movie Walt Before Mickey. Trying to find information like where its playing is kinda sketchy. This is what I was able to find out…

According to their website the release date is Summer of 2015, I have seen many people comment that is actually coming out August 14th 2015. As far as an actual movie theater showtimes I looked on many of the major sites like Movie Tickets, Fandango, AMC and none of them had any information listed. I messaged their Facebook page for more information and received this response.

Hi chip. The movie is having its theatrical premier on August 14 in Downtown Disney Orlando. It will have a wider release of about 50 theaters on September 4th.

If you check out their Facebook page you can preorder their DVD and stay up to date on other information.

Here is a little more about the movie and a trailer:

When people think of Walt Disney, childhood memories flood the mind with images of animated films featuring colorful characters and catchy songs. What isn’t widely known is that there were many timeless struggles that startups even today face. This is a tale filled with trials and triumph. Walt Before Mickey showcases these challenges through the eyes of a man with a dream.

Set in the 1900’s, the film is written by Executive Producers Arthur L. Bernstein and Armando Gutierez which is based on the book of the same name written by Timothy Susanin, forward by Diane Disney Miller. It is the only book to be supported by the Diane Disney Miller of the Disney family.

The film also stars Ayla Kell (Bridget), Hunter Gomez (Hugh Harmon) and Taylor Gray (Friz Freleng).

“I’m honored to portray Walt Disney in the beginning of his career, to share his perseverance and passion despite early failed attempts toward creating his ultimate dream.” –Thomas Ian Nicholas

“I’m proud to be a part of an inspiring story that humanizes an American icon, and sheds light on the blood sweat and tears it took to get to the top.” –David Henrie

“Walt before Mickey inspires a new generation of Disney lovers to dream as big as your imagination can take you. Tom’s resemblance and performance really transports you to another era. Jon brings a brotherly humor to the dynamic. Being able to be a part of telling such an amazing story is truly a gift to me.” – Ayla Kell

Produced by Armando Gutierez, Arthur L. Bernstein, and Directed by Khoa Le.

Keep in mind this movie is not released by Disney so I imagine they have a very limited budget and is more of an independent film than big movie release.

So what do you think? Let us know in the comment box below.

Updated Walt Disney World Refurbishment Schedule for August

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 5, 2015

Disney released another updated refurbishment schedule today for Walt Disney World Resorts and Parks. A few new additions to the schedule have been made and some date changes as well. This is the updated ride and resort closures starting this month at Walt Disney World:

MAGIC KINGDOM: DATES:

Pirates of The Caribbean June 8- September 25, 2015

Dream Along with Mickey June 21-August 19, 2015

Liberty Tree Tavern July 6-November 19, 2015

The Diamond Horseshoe August 2- November 19, 2015

Liberty Square Riverboat August 4-August 10, 2015

Mad Tea Party August 26, 2015

Briar Patch September 21-September 24, 2015

Walt Disney World Railroad October 12- November 20, 2015

Peter Pan’s Flight November 2-November 7, 2015

Disney’s The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour October 12-November 20, 2015

EPCOT:

Living With the Land September 8- September 17, 2015

Re-imagination of Maelstrom Continues through April 2016

Hollywood Studios:

Voyage of the Little Mermaid September 7-September 10, 2015

Animal Kingdom

Primeval Whirl August 17-November 12, 2015

Pizzafari August 24-October 19, 2015

Typhoon Lagoon closed for annual refurbishment January 3-March 12, 2015

Blizzard Beach closed for annual refurbishment October 25-January 2, 2016

Disney’s Beach Club Resort Guest Room Renovations continue through August 22, 2015

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Exterior painting and repair August 17-May 5, 2016

Disney’s Coronado Springs Fitness Center And Casitas Pool Closed for Maintenance July5-October 12, 2015

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa Gasparilla Island Grill closed August 23- September 4, 2015

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort General Construction and East Pool Closure Now through early 2016

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Villas Multiple refurbishment projects will leave some guest areas unavailable including the Nature Trail, Hidden Springs Leisure Pool, resort beach, playground and Recreation firepit starting October 2, 2015 through 2017

Downtown Disney Area/ Disney Springs Heavy roadwork on Buena Vista Drive through March 2016

Parking lots A-G Now through August 1, 2016

Fulton’s Crab House January 1-April 1,2016

Planet Hollywood January 1-June 1, 2016

Hopefully this list will help you while planning your visit to Walt Disney World this year! For more detailed information or for help planning your next trip to Walt Disney World, contact me through World of Magic Travel Services. [email protected]

Kristen Bell to Host 50th Anniversary airing of Charlie Brown Christmas Special on ABC

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

August 5, 2015

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In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the beloved PEANUTS animated tale, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Kristen Bell will host a special holiday retrospective, “It’s Your 50th Christmas, Charlie Brown,” MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30 (9:00–10:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. The anniversary special will celebrate 50 years of the iconic classic that has brought joy and a television watching tradition at the holidays for generations of fans. With an unforgettable night featuring spectacular live performances of Vince Guaraldi’s classics from acclaimed musical guests, the special will also feature Hollywood notables reminiscing about their most treasured “A Charlie Brown Christmas” moments.

In the digitally-remastered 1965 special, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism that he sees everywhere during the Christmas season. Lucy suggests that he become director of the school Christmas pageant, and Charlie Brown accepts, but it proves to be a frustrating struggle. When an attempt to restore the proper spirit with a forlorn little fir Christmas tree fails, Charlie Brown needs Linus’ help to learn what the real meaning of Christmas is.

The cast of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” includes Peter Robbins (“Charlie Brown”), Christopher Shea (“Linus”), Tracy Stratford (“Lucy”), Chris Doran (“Schroeder”) and Sally Dryer (“Violet”).

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” was executive-produced by Lee Mendelson and created and written by Charles M. Schulz. Bill Melendez is the producer and director, and Vince Guaraldi is the music composer.

On October 2, 1950 the PEANUTS comic strip launched in seven American newspapers. Who would have guessed the impact the brand would have around the world for decades to come. Now celebrating its 65th anniversary, Peanuts reaches fans through thousands of consumer products around the world, over 50 television specials, on all social media channels, and a daily comic strip available in all formats from traditional to digital. A highly anticipated PEANUTS movie from 20th Century Fox and Blue Sky Studios is also on the horizon for this fall

Stay tuned for more!