Deluxe Dining Plan Will Still Include an Appetizer with Table Service Meals

By

-

July 12, 2015

Anonymouse recently let us know that there might be some changes coming to the Deluxe Dining Plan! It seems that the appetizer was being removed from Table Service meals. This looked to be a confirmed rumor when the 2016 Deluxe Dining Plan PDF showed up online recently. The appetizer is a big draw for a lot of people so there were certainly some disappointment across the Disney fan community!

We have recently learned via Disney’s Guest Services that the omission of the appetizer from the 2016 Deluxe Dining Plan was ACCIDENTAL!

Yep, you heard it here. The appetizer will still be included for table service meals under the Deluxe Dining Plan.

As of June 24th Disney’s Guest Services has an email asking that the online documents be corrected and the appetizer (which was accidentally omitted originally) be added back to the documentation.

I don’t know about you, but this makes me really happy! While change is to be expected, this one was definitely harder to swallow than some. I’m so glad this was just a small error on the Disney documents and that it will be corrected!

Now I won’t totally rest easy until I see it on the official Disney documents but I feel pretty confident in the information I was given!

Thinking of visiting Walt Disney World and wondering if the Dining Plan is right for you? Let me help you plan your dream vacation and we can look at all of your dining options! 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!

Princess Merida will Join the Once Upon a Time Cast

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 12, 2015

I love Once Upon a Time! If you have not watched it I strongly recommend it. Finally, Princess Merida will join the cast of Once Upon a Time. The actress name is Amy Manson. It is not known yet what her story line will be but we do know she will be in it. She is not new to the acting game, she has been in Atlantis, Misfits, and the film Not Another Happy Ending.

Check out the preview:

No official images have been released but she did tweet the above pic, so maybe that is what she may look like in her new role.

Photo Credit: blogs.disney.com

What do you think?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Disney Backpacks by Vans

By

Chip

-

July 12, 2015

Vans recently released some very cool Disney Backpack designs I found on Amazon. Since school is starting next month I thought these would be a great way to start your back to school shopping. Here is a list of ones I found.

They run between $50 and $70. To learn more just click the links above.

71ep4o6hsTL. SL1200

51EdtikZJUL

A1MJV1XKxPL. UL1500

A1Y9e8dnJ L. UL1500

A1OUYpx6GbL. SL1500

Disney World Will No Longer Serve Cheese Sauce

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 12, 2015

This is horrible news for those of us that LOVE cheese sauce. Anonymouse hit the nail on the head yet again. Sadly, the magical cheese sauce that we all know and love is officially gone! It was confirmed by a cast member that as of today they are no longer allowed to serve cheese sauce. So your nachos or chili cheese dogs will now be served with shredded cheese. As far we know this will be occurring at all parks and resorts and you can not ask the cast members for that liquid gold either.

I know it is frustrating to not be able to get something that you love, but let’s remember not to take our frustration out on the cast members. They are just the messenger and do not make the policies. As a former cast member I can tell you they work very hard for very little. They often go above and beyond with no expectations other than to make your vacation more magical.

This is very disappointing. Share your thoughts?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Which Electronics Should I Pack For My Disney Trip?

By

Catie

-

July 12, 2015

D23 Expo DisneyPixar Products Phone Case

Packing for vacation can be complex – especially when it comes to figuring out what are “needs” and what are just “nice to haves” on the packing list. When I head to Walt Disney World, there are some items that are always on my list – sunscreen, comfortable sneakers, sunglasses, etc…the list is not a short one. But one thing that is short is the number of electronics on that list – if I don’t 100% need it, I don’t bring it. Read on to find out what are my “must have” electronics and what I choose to leave home when heading to Disney:

Gotta Bring:

-My smartphone, which has of course been pre-loaded with the My Disney Experience app. Not only do I recommend you download the app, but before your trip you should take some time and play around in it, make sure you know how to navigate easily through the different screens (this will save you precious Park time since you won’t have to fumble around checking wait times or ADR information!)

-A Digital Camera – even though I take most of my pictures on my phone these days, I still prefer a separate digital camera for character interactions, and for general Park pictures – the quality is better, and its easier for Cast Members to operate while they are taking your picture. There’s also a lot more options when it comes to lighting, modes, etc – so if you want some pictures that you can blow up and frame, a separate camera is the way to go

*DON’T FORGET: memory cards, chargers, extra batteries/battery packs, and make sure you also follow these helpful tips on conserving battery power to help keep your electronics working for you throughout your trip. Bring something to protect them while at the Parks too – thick cases or padded bags work well, and some Ziploc baggies to protect them from rain/wet rides are a good idea too

Leave These At Home:

-Ipad/Tablet: I have seen tons of people taking pictures/videos on their Ipads at the Parks – and I just can’t help but think “WHY?!” – why bring something that expensive not only on vacation but to a theme park, and why bring it out in a huge crowd and hold it up over your head to take pictures? It just seems silly to me – I would much rather leave it at home where it’s safe from harm

–Laptop Computer: I know a lot of people like to immediately upload the pictures they take on their digital cameras to Facebook or other social sites – but bringing a computer to do this is unnecessary – it’s big and bulky, and if that’s the ONLY thing you’re going to use it for, why can’t you just do that all at home after your trip? You can always upload pictures from your phone too – the quality may not as good, but it’s a lot easier than bringing along your computer

Now, there is ONE BIG EXCEPTION to the rule of leaving these items at home – and that is if you’re taking a long car ride or flight to get to WDW – you will want your kids (and you!) to have something to do during those (many) hours of waiting. Make sure you pre-load some games/movies/books/apps onto your device, and make sure it’s fully charged and ready to go when you are. A rule of thumb here is to leave it in your WDW Resort room – you can lock it in the safe if you want to, and that way it’s secure and away from the elements

Bottom line is, you don’t want to waste space bringing something you don’t really need, and these electronics are expensive – so who wants to run the risk of losing or damaging them? Not me! I say when in doubt, leave it at home! You’ll want to be as free as possible from distractions (electronic and otherwise!) to allow you to enjoy your amazing WDW vacation!

Star Wars: The Force Awakes Comes to San Diego Comic-Con

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 11, 2015

2015 07 11 09 38 01 Star Wars The Force Awakens Comic Con 2015 Reel YouTube

The more than 6000 San Diego Comic-Con attendees in Hall H received a special behind the scenes look at Star Wars: The Force Awakes. As if having Director JJ Abrams, Producer & Lucasfilm President, Kathleen Kennedy and Wrier, Lawrence Kasdan on stage wasn’t exciting enough, they were joined by cast members, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Domhnall Gleeson, Gwendoline Christie, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford.

The fun continued after the presentation with a surprise Star Wars Fan Concert. Classic Star Wars music was performed by the San Diego Symphony at the Emarcadero Marina Park South.

This Entertainment Writer would have jumped at the chance to be a part of this event! Guess I have to wait until the theatre premiere on December 18, 2015. Comment below and let me know if you were one of the more than 6000 fans.

Here is a look at the preview!

Loretta Garcia, Entertainment Writer for chipandco.com invites you to visit our website and enjoy the a few pictures of San Diego Comic-con Star Wars Event.

unnamed 3

unnamed 4

unnamed 5

unnamed

Disney Dine and Dash Offender Caught by Police at the Contemporary Resort

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 11, 2015

51 year old Jerry Moody was arrested this past Tuesday after the manager at a lounge at the Contemporary Resort says he tried to leave without paying his $92 bar tab that he had accumulated.

He has been arrested on Disney properties 5 times!

The Orlando Sentinel said that according to an arrest report, a waitress recognized him as fitting the description of a man who tried to do the same thing at another lounge the night before. Police said that he admitted that he should not be there but he said he likes to go to Disney World.

He is currently being held on a $5,100 bond.

Share your thoughts?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Joffrey’s Coffee Disney Blends

By

Chip

-

July 11, 2015

2015 07 11 11 08 13 Disney Parks and Resorts Specialty Coffee Collection Joffreys Coffee Tea Co

Based in Tampa, Fla., Joffrey’s was one of the first specialty roasters in Florida, and their relationship with Disney began in 1995 with a single kiosk at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park at Walt Disney World Resort. Now Joffrey’s coffee can be found in-room, at kiosks and in most restaurants at Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort and Disney Vacation Club. They have over 20 Disney Flavors to choose from.

Since you can’t wake up at Disney every morning, you can order the special blends online at http://www.joffreys.com/DisneyParksandResorts.

Free shipping for order of $50 or more.

Have you Heard about the Perfectly Princess Tea Party at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa?

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 11, 2015

I think it is safe to say that most little girls would love to feel like a princess for a day. If you are looking for something different to do with your little princess, or prince, you should try the Perfectly Princess Tea Party at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

They get a royal welcome by a magical rose from Princess Aurora’s garden that comes to life. They also get a royal farewell parade through the lobby of the hotel. It lasts an hour, and it is non stop fun for the little ones. There is live music, dancing, storytelling and even a lesson in Sign Language. The Princess of the day will make a stop at each table to talk with the children and take some pictures. There are gifts given throughout the tea party, some of which include a Rose Petal, a Princess Aurora doll awaiting each girl at the table, a charm bracelet, friendship necklace, fresh pink rose and a backpack to take home their royal gifts. Of course, there will be a PhotoPass photographer to capture all the magical memories.

I am sure you are wondering what food comes with this royal tea party. There will be tea, of course, apple juice tea, heart-cut jelly sandwiches and ham-and-cheese sandwiches. Dessert is a piece of cake with pink strawberry icing. Adults get to pick from tea sandwiches, fruit and cheeses with herbal tea, served on china.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the price, $334 including tax and gratuity includes one adult and one child ages 3 to 9 (additional guests are welcome to join for $235 per child and $99 per adult). Boys receive a royal Knight’s sword and shield, Disney Trading pin and a Duffy the Disney Bear. Merchandise gifts are available for guests up to age 12, by paying an additional fee at the podium upon arrival. For reservations, call 407-WDW-MYTEA. The parties are on select days at 10:30 a.m.

This sounds so cute! Have you done this?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Top 10 Walt Disney World Food Courts

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 11, 2015

When it comes to grabbing a quick meal during your Walt Disney World visit there are some amazing options to choose from. When you’re looking for options to satisfy lots of different tastes, the food courts tend to fit the bill.

Here is our list of the Top 10 Food Courts at Walt Disney World:

10. Gasparilla Island Grill, Grand Floridian Resort and Spa: Open 24 hours and featuring a wide variety of options, Gasparilla Island Grill is a great place to get a little variety! Their late night menu is mainly pizza, flatbreads and sandwiches while their breakfast menu offers classic pastries and the ever popular Mickey Waffles! Lunch options include a wide variety of sandwiches, pizza and flatbreads and dinner includes a create your own pasta bar and even sushi!

9. Captain Cooks, Polynesian Resort: Tonga Toast! Yep, that’s the claim to fame for Captain Cooks in my option. This delicious breakfast item (Banana-stuffed sourdough bread, battered, deep-fried and dusted with cinnamon sugar) is a Disney favorite for sure and the best meal you can get at Captain Cooks in my opinion. Lunch and dinner feature salads, flatbreads and a wide assortment of sandwiches (try the Grilled Cheese – you won’t be disappointed!). The theming is consistent with the theme of the resort, capturing the feel of the tropics as you dine.

8. Pepper Market, Coronado Springs Resort: Delicious food with a Mexican flare! It feels like you’ve stepped into an outdoor Mexican marketplace when you enter this bright food court. There is a wide variety of breakfast options including a Mexican Eggs Benedict Breakfast Burrito! Lunch and dinner offer soups and salads, pizza and several yummy entrees, including a pasta station, enchiladas and ribs! If you’re in the area, this food court is a great place to grab a bite to eat.

7. Contempo Cafe, Contemporary Resort: Paying tribute to the sleek and modern feeling of the Contemporary Resort, Contempo Cafe boasts touch screen ordering that makes grabbing a meal here quick and easy. Breakfast includes a variety of pastries and baked goods as well as standard breakfast fare. For lunch and diner you’ll find sushi options, salads, and sandwiches on the menu. The specialty cupcakes are pretty awesome as well! Plus you will have a view of the monorail as it enters the resort as you eat.

6. Sassagoula Float Works, Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter: While fairly small, you’ll feel like you just stepped into a Mardi Gras celebration as props from parade floats decorate the building. The menu also has a French Quarter feeling with Po’ boys, Creole burgers and Muffaletta. And don’t forget to try the Beignets! Those are a favorite breakfast treat for my family.

5. Riverside Mill, Port Orleans Resort -Riverside: Continuing with the Big Easy vibe, Riverside Mill has a turning water wheel and makes you feel like you’re in the middle of a working cotton mill. There are several food stations to choose from and like Sassagoula Float Works you definitely get a New Orleans vibe from the food. There is a wide variety of options for both breakfast and lunch/dinner.

4. Everything Pop, Pop Century Resort: This is a large, bright food court with plenty of places to sit and lots of color! There is a wide variety of items to choose from for both breakfast and lunch/dinner. Breakfast favorites includes Pop Waffles and a Poptart Breakfast Sandwich. You can also find the famous Mickey Waffles on the Children’s menu. For lunch and dinner you’ve got burgers, pasta, sandwiches, flatbreads and more to choose from. My favorite though is the Tye-dyed Cheesecake! Yum!

3. The Mara, Animal Kingdom Lodge: Zebra Domes – need I say more? Okay, yes there is more to say about The Mara at Animal Kingdom Lodge. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating (and who wouldn’t love to sit outside at Animal Kingdom Lodge!) the food has an African flare for sure! Favorites here include the African Stew and Mara Salad. And of course, no meal is complete without Zebra Domes!

2. Landscape of Flavors, Art of Animation Resort: Located at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Landscape of Flavors fits in perfectly with the theme of the resort, featuring one of the animated classics the resort is centered around. The menu is very diverse as well. For lunch and dinner you’ll find standard favorites as well as meals that feature an Indian cuisine. Breakfast also has standard favorites like the popular Bounty Platter but also features the World of Flavor Breakfast Platter with Portuguese sausage and mini naan bread! Even when we don’t stay at Art of Animation we’ve made the trip to have a meal at Landscape of Flavors!

1. Sunshine Seasons, The Land Pavilion, Epcot: This is by far my favorite food court in all of Walt Disney World! Located in the Land Pavilion, produce grown within Walt Disney World is usually used in the offerings, which I’ve always thought is really neat. The menu is huge and very diverse. My personal favorite is the Power Salad with oak-grilled chicken, quinoa, and almonds. Another favorite is the Oak Grilled Rotisserie Chicken! The choices on the kids menu are wonderful too. And the desserts – WOW! The Whoopie Pie is a favorite and so is the Strawberry Shortcake. They also serve breakfast (although I’ll admit my family has never tried it). If you’re looking for the best food court in WDW, look no further than Sunshine Seasons!

Want to experience the best food options Walt Disney World has to offer? Let me help you plan your dream vacation and we will make sure you get a taste of all of the delicious meals at Disney! 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!

Disney Finds – Handmade Disneyland 60th anniversary keychain

By

Chip

-

July 11, 2015

Just in time for Disneyland’s 60th Anniversary. Etsy designer KnitsByTessie has come up with this handmade Disneyland 60th anniversary, Purse charm/Keychain for $14.

Designed and handcrafted by KnitsByTessie and inspired by the Disneyland 60th anniversary Dooney & Bourke Bags. This key chain/purse charm it comes with 3 charms (mickey key, castle, and mickey head); A pendant made of metal and clear glass,and hooks on to your purse or key chain with a heavy duty lobster clasp. It takes her 48 hours to create and ship it to you.

To order yours click here.

Ahoy Mateys! Celebrate Pirate Night Aboard the Disney Cruise Line

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 10, 2015

Across the fleet of Disney Cruise Line ships, Pirate Night invites guests to embrace their inner pirate and celebrate at sea. The fun-filled evening begins with a pirate-themed dinner and continues with a buccaneer bash featuring some of your favorite Disney characters. For the grand finale, enjoy an amazing fireworks display at sea.

At dinner, you will find your servers dressed in pirate gear and they will be ready to greet you with an “Ahoy, matey” or “Arrr!” Once you are seated, you will receive a special bandana and your menu will look like an old treasure map. This themed dinner will definitely get you in the pirate-spirit for the rest of the fun evening ahead.

After dinner, head to the pool deck for Disney entertainment featuring your favorite characters dressed in their pirate garb. Here you can kick up your heels and do a little line dancing and rock out to your favorite pirate-themed tunes. But be ready….when you see the black lighting, hear a sudden change in music and see skull and crossbone projections, this can only mean one thing…Captain Hook, Mr. Smee and their gang of pirates are on their way to try and take over the party. Never fear, Mickey and his gang will not let them spoil the fun!

As the evening concludes, fireworks will light up the night sky, weather permitting. When you get onboard, be sure to reference your Personal Navigator, the Disney Cruise Line daily newsletter that gives you a run down of all the activities taking place on the ship.

Pirate Night is offered on most sailings, except for the Alaskan Cruise, which features a Pixar Pals Party. Buzz and Woody are the stars of the show and dinner follows a Toy Story theme. A great way to prepare for Pirate Night is to bring some accessories with you to get you in the pirate-spirit. Some ideas include a pirate hat, plastic or paper sword, eye patch, bandana, striped shirt and fake mustache and beard.

This is just one of the many events that kids and adults alike enjoy aboard a Disney Cruise. If this sounds like something you would love to experience, I would love to help you set sail.

Email me at [email protected] to find the perfect cruise and be sure to follow me over on Facebook to keep up with the latest Disney news, updates and promotions. Happy Sailing!