Climb Aboard for Disney Discounts at Disney World, Disneyland, and more

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April 30, 2014

The 7 Dwarfs Mine Train is rumored to be opening sometime soon, it’s not too late to book a discounted package. So climb abroad for Disney Discounts that include runDisney events, Florida Residents Discounts, Disneyland, Disney Cruise and others.

Walt Disney World^® Resort

New! Be the 1st to Know About Free Dining: Everyone loves free food! Imagine free food during your Walt Disney World^® Resort vacation? Sign up for our watch list. You will be the 1st to know when this special discount is released. Click here to sign up.
New! RunDisney Group Rates: Are you a runner? Do you want to run a race with Mickey Mouse? Join our VIP runners at Destinations in Florida for some of the favorite races including Tower of Terror, Disney Marathon, and Disney Princess Run. We have fantastic group rates for our runners, including FREE tickets to the Disney Water Parks (with at least a 2-Day Pass). Contact your favorite agent at Destinations in Florida for more details.
Summer Deal for Florida Residents: Book your summer vacation and get a free Memory Maker photo package to remember your fun! Book at least a 2-Night/2-Day Package at special prices, just for you! Plus, get the Memory Maker for FREE! This discount promotion is available from June 3-Aug. 2, 2014.
Affordable Package with Room & Dining: One of the most expensive parts of a Disney vacation are the tickets! Save money and enjoy all of the other fun at the Disney with a Ticketless Package. Book this new package with your hotel and one of the Disney Dining Plans, without the addition of tickets.
Save up to 35% off Disney Resorts: Planning a summer vacation to Disney World? Now is the time to book your trip with savings up to 35% off the Disney Resort hotels. These discounts run June 15-August 28. Hurry, these discounts will sell out quickly!
Free Day to Play at the Disney Theme Parks: Buy 6 or more tickets for your family or friends with the 4-Day, 5-Day, 6-Day, 7-Day, 8-Day, or 9-Day tickets and you will get an extra day free. Imagine another day to ride Splash Mountain or another day to get pictures with Mickey Mouse! If you are visiting together, order your tickets together to save money! Must book by June 14.
Florida Resident & Annual Passholder Rates: Florida Residents and Annual Passholders can take advantage of great rates on rooms at select Disney Resorts hotels for stays through early summer.
Military Discount: Active duty and retired members of the US military can get specially discounted rooms at Disney Resort most nights through September 27^th, 2014. Thank you for serving our country.

Aulani Hawaii

Get up to a $500 Room Credit to Spend During Your Visit: Book a 1 or 2-Bedroom Villa from April 23-June 16, 2014 and receive up to a $500 resort credit for a 4-Night vacation. Book a Deluxe Studio or regular room for 4 nights and receive a $400 resort credit.

Disneyland®Resort

Save Up to 20% Off Your Hotel: Visit Sunday through Thursday nights from April 20-June 8, 2014 and save up to 20% off your hotel. Hurry, this discount ends by May 8, 2014.

Disney Cruise Line®

Special Rates for Florida Residents and US Military: Take advantage of special deals for Florida Residents and active/retired United States Military.
Last Minute Restricted Deals: If you are flexible about the location of your stateroom and willing to book last minute you may be able to save BIG! Disney offers Restricted Guarantee rooms 15-60 days before departure dates, sometimes just a few days before departure. These are very restricted and with many rules, but if you are not picky you can save up 40%.
Canadian Resident Deal: If you are a Canadian Resident, you can enjoy 20% off select rates on the May 24, 2014 Alaska sailing departing from Vancouver, Canada. Take advantage of this special deal, just for you!

Want to take advantage of any of these discounts? One of our services we offer for FREE is discount watching. If you have a package booked with us, I will automatically update your existing reservation to reflect any discount it qualifies for. Contact me today to take advantage of any of these discounts. At DIF we offer personalized travel planning, lots of extras and fun just for you! Call me at 832-233-4468,check out my page, here, or email me at [email protected] and we can get started on making me your personal travel assistant for free!

Walt Disney World Resort Gets “Corporate Ally of the Year” Award

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 30, 2014

Walt Disney World Resort has been honored with the “Corporate Ally of the Year” award by the Metropolitan Business Association of Orlando (MBA Orlando), Central Florida’s LGBT chamber of commerce. The award was presented at the organization’s “Pride in Business Awards” event.

MBA Orlando’s Pride in Business Awards recognizes individuals and businesses that make a difference in our local economy and the lives of Central Floridians by promoting diversity, equality and inclusivity in the workplace.

“This award is about engagement, and Disney has a long history of being engaged and standing proudly with the LGBT community,” said Mikael Frank Audebert, MBA Orlando president.

Michael Jungen, executive champion for the PRIDE Diversity Resource Group at Walt Disney World Resort, accepted the award on behalf of the company and its Cast Members. PRIDE is a Walt Disney World Diversity Resource Group serving gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and ally Cast Members.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by MBA Orlando, our partner in supporting diversity and business equality in Central Florida,” said Jungen, director of parks and resorts development at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “For the LGBT Cast Members PRIDE represents, this award highlights the strength and inspiration that stem from our community partnerships.”

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Attraction Closures for the Dedication of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 30, 2014

This week at Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland and Tomorrowland, there will be some rescheduled and closed attractions due to the media party and dedication of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train ride.

The party/dedication is for select media and guests and will only affect a few rides and shows during the two day event. If you are going to be at the park this week, this is the schedule of the closures:

Thursday May 1, 2014 – Media party

The following areas of Fantasyland will be closing at 5:30pm

Ariel’s Grotto
Bonjour! Village Gifts
Gaston’s Tavern
The Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh
Under The Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid

Friday May 2, 2014 – Dedication – Delayed opening of the following

Storybook Circus – 11:00 am
Tomorrowland Speedway – 11:00 am
Monster’s Inc. Laugh Floor – 1:00 pm

During the times scheduled for the events, all other areas of the park will be operating normally.

Although this may seem to be a small inconvenience, for all of us that are anxiously waiting for the opening of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, this just means that we are one step closer to enjoying this long awaited new ride.

Will you be at Magic Kingdom this week? How will this event affect your plans or are you just happy that soon you will have your Fastpass for the ride?

Have a Magical Day. ºoº

Teen Beach Movie 2 Starts Production in July!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 29, 2014

Disney Channel will begin production in July on “Teen Beach Movie 2,” the sequel to last summer’s “Teen Beach Movie,” a Disney Channel Original Movie that ranks as cable TV’s all-time #2 movie in Total Viewers. Ross Lynch (“Austin & Ally” and Hollywood Records’ R5), Maia Mitchell (“The Fosters”), Grace Phipps (“Baby Daddy”), Garrett Clayton (“The Fosters”) and John DeLuca (“Twisted”) will reprise their starring roles as Brady, McKenzie, Lela, Tanner and Butchy, respectively. Additional casting will be announced shortly. “Teen Beach Movie 2” will premiere in 2015 on Disney Channel.

The cast was reunited Saturday, April 26 at the Radio Disney Music Awards where the announcement was made during “ARDY’s Pre-Show Party,” which is now available on WATCH Disney Channel.

Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide, said, “The audience response to the first ‘Teen Beach Movie’ was overwhelming. We are thrilled to have the cast back for a new music-driven saga that continues this fantastical story.”

The sequel is set months after surfer sweethearts McKenzie (“Mack”) and Brady return from a summer adventure that transported them into Brady’s favorite 1960s beach party movie, Wet Side Story, only to receive a surprise real-world visit from Lela, Tanner, Butchy and their other newfound surfer and biker buddies.

The writers of “Teen Beach Movie 2” are Robert Horn (“Teen Beach Movie” teleplay, writer of “Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure,” writer/producer of “Designing Women”), Dan Berendsen (ABC Family’s “Baby Daddy,” Disney’s “Hannah Montana The Movie” and “Wizards of Waverly Place The Movie”), and Matt & Billy Eddy (“Zapped”). “Teen Beach Movie 2” is executive-produced by Michelle Manning (producer of “The Breakfast Club,” “Jenny’s Wedding”) and David Buelow (“Teen Beach Movie,” “Bring It On: Fight to the Finish”). “Teen Beach Movie” director and choreographer Jeffrey Hornaday (choreographer of “A Chorus Line,” “Flashdance”) will direct the sequel.

In Total Viewers, five of the Top six movies in cable TV history are Disney Channel Original Movies. That franchise has also delivered the #1 TV movie telecast among Tweens for 12-consecutive years. “Teen Beach Movie” is the #2 movie in cable TV history in Total Viewers (13.53 million) and the #2 TV telecast of all time across Kids 2-11, Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14.

The “Teen Beach Movie” soundtrack (Walt Disney Records) peaked at #3 on the Billboard 200 Album chart and #1 on Billboard’s Soundtrack chart. The album also fast tracked its way to #1 on the iTunes Soundtrack chart and was #3 on the Album Overall chart. Six songs ranked in the Top 15 on the iTunes Singles chart, including “Cruisin’ For A Bruisin’,” “Falling For Ya,” “Like Me,” “Can’t Stop Singing,” “Surf’s Up,” “Surf Crazy,” “Meant to Be,” and “Oxygen.”

Stay tuned for more on Teen Beach Movie 2 !

Enjoy Some “Grand” Disney Dining Options At One Of Disney’s Most Famous Deluxe Resorts

By

Catie

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April 29, 2014

It’s no secret that Disney’s Deluxe Resorts are the best of the best – the most beautiful, with the nicest rooms, best amenities, and the most food and transportation options too! One of Disney’s original Deluxe Resorts is the Grand Floridian Resort which is so amazing that it puts pretty much all non-Disney Resorts to shame (I mean, it has the word “Grand” in the title, so that must mean it has to be good, right? RIGHT) – it has it all – a spa, a wedding pavilion, a beach, and some truly scrumptious dining options too!

If you’re like me and can’t exactly afford a Deluxe Resort price tag, you can still make it a point to check out the awesome restaurants at the Grand Floridian. Here’s the rundown on what they’ve got to offer:

1900 Park Fare – is a breakfast and dinner buffet with characters – at breakfast you’ll mingle with Mary Poppins, Alice and the Mad Hatter, and dinner will find you rubbing elbows with Cinderella, her Prince Charming, and her family (including her evil stepsisters!). At breakfast you’ll dine on classics like Mickey Waffles, eggs, bacon/sausage, and assorted breakfast potatoes, and dinner includes a variety of cold salads, soups, and carved meats

Citricos – One of the Resort’s three Signature Restaurants, Citricos serves up delicious mediterranean-inspired items like arancini, a cheese course, roasted chicken, seared scallops, and an amazing oak-grilled filet of beef that practically melts in your mouth! Depending on where you are seated, you’ll get a great view of the Resort’s courtyard or the onstage kitchen, and while you contemplate what to order, I highly suggest you sip a wine from their award winning wine list

Garden View Lounge For Afternoon Tea – Make reservations for afternoon tea here – where you can take in a traditional afternoon British tea featuring a collection of international teas, OR you can enjoy the “My Disney Girl’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party”- It’s a fun experience to share with your little princess, and includes a variety of tea options as well as traditional tea sandwiches and strawberry cake. There’s a parade, storytelling, party favors, and the children (and parents too!) will enjoy a surprise visit from Princess Aurora – because after all, what’s a princess themed tea without a visit from an actual princess?

Gasparilla Island Grill – This Counter Service eatery is open 24 hours a day and serves up some pretty yummy eats – you’ll find standard fare like eggs, pancakes, waffles, platters etc for breakfast, and then for lunch options like create your own salad, flatbread pizzas, and assorted sandwiches are available. Dinner has some specialties you won’t find elsewhere – like a signature club sandwich, reuben hot dog, and a spicy chicken quesadilla. There’s a grab n go section here too that offers pre-packaged salads, sandwiches, and bottles of beer and wine as well. This is a great place to grab a bite and take in the surroundings and atmosphere of the Resort

Grand Floridian Café – A more casual sit down restaurant that serves up some unique dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner – and a bonus is that you can usually get a table here without a reservation (always a plus in my book!). Lobster eggs benedict, an egg white frittata, and citrus pancakes top my list of favorites for breakfast, and the reuben, Grand Floridian Burger, and roasted chicken are stars on the lunch and dinner menus

Narcoossee’s – Another one of the Floridian’s Signature Dining experiences, Narcoossee’s is known for its fresh, delicious seafood – like whole Maine lobster, local swordfish, and sea scallops. They make an amazing filet mignon too, and you can even get it paired surf’n’turf style with a delicious lobster tail. One of the perks of eating here is the view (its spectacular!), and you’ll want to try and dine during the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks show – as it can be perfectly viewed from the restaurant!

Victoria and Albert’s – This is by far the “fanciest” restaurant at WDW – it has a strict dress code, and with good reason – its been a AAA 5 diamond award winner every year since 2000! Attentive staff make sure you are enjoying every part of your meal – from assisting you in selecting a wine from their extensive list, to the ever changing menu that features the freshest ingredients – like kobe beef tenderloin, foie gras, lamb, and duck – done in new and innovative ways. This is a truly special dining experience, and it’s the perfect place to celebrate your special occasion (or just to celebrate the fact that you are on vacation at the most magical place on earth!)

Wow all those restaurant choices are really making me hungry…luckily, the Grand Floridian Resort is easy to get to – simply hop on the Resort monorail line at the Magic Kingdom and you’ll be there enjoying these amazing restaurants in no time!

Disney Channel Renews Austin & Ally for a Fourth Season!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 29, 2014

Disney Channel has ordered a fourth season of the popular comedy series “Austin & Ally.” It was announced today by Adam Bonnett, Executive Vice President, Original Programming, Disney Channels Worldwide. Starring Ross Lynch, Laura Marano, Raini Rodriguez and Calum Worthy, “Austin & Ally” ranked as 2013’s #1 series on TV among Tweens and the #2 series among Kids 2-11 and Kids 6-11. 2014 to-date, it is TV’s #1 series in its primary timeslot among Kids 2-11, Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14. It was created and is executive-produced by Kevin Kopelow and Heath Seifert.

Bonnett said, “The strength of this series helped make 2013 Disney Channel’s highest rated year ever among Tweens, an audience that is invested in the ‘Austin & Ally’ stories, and the fun they experience on a journey with the characters. We’re looking forward to delivering many more engaging stories soon.”

A fan favorite on Disney Channel, WATCH Disney Channel and across social media, the series inspired two soundtracks including one that rose to #2 on the iTunes soundtrack chart behind only Disney’s blockbuster “Frozen,” a popular music video for the hit song “Heard it on the Radio,” a DVD compilation “Austin & Ally: All the Write Moves” and “Austin & Ally: Chasing the Beat,” a DVD releasing later this year. It also inspired two collections in the lifestyle apparel brand “D-Signed.”

New episodes of “Austin & Ally” air SUNDAYS on Disney Channel. The series is a production of It’s A Laugh Productions, Inc. It carries a TV-G parental guideline.

Stay tuned for more Austin & Ally!

The Littlest Pet Shop Returns for a Third Season

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 29, 2014

LPSS3 Logo with Blythe and Pets

This May, fans of the adorable animated series “Littlest Pet Shop” will go on a new adventure when Blythe and her furry friends come for a third season, May 31 at 9:30 a.m. ET/ 6:30 a.m. PT, on the Hub Network.

The third season kicks off with the all-new episode “Sleeper,” where Vinnie and Sunil are challenged by Russell to entertain Mr. VonFuzzlebut, a jovial raccoon and new day camper, who falls into a deep sleep confusing the pets. Meanwhile, Fisher Bisket tries to figure out what the secret is to Littlest Pet Shop’s recent success.

A little background on the Littlest Pet Shop. The show follows Blythe Baxter and her father who live in a Downtown City apartment above the Littlest Pet Shop, an amazing day camp for pets of all kinds, including a doggie diva, dancing gecko and sweet, adorable panda. The series begins when Blythe discovers that she can miraculously understand and talk to the pets, which leads to fantastical adventures featuring uproarious song-and-dance parodies and sequences to original music. In its third season, Blythe and the few friends who know her secret utilize her unique ability to have fun with her furry friends, solve problems and lend a helping hand, or paw, to other humans and pets.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

STAR WARS: EPISODE VII Cast Announcement

By

Chip

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April 29, 2014

Disney/ Star Wars just shared an image with us from the Cast read-through of Star Wars: Episode VII at Pinewood Studios in the UK. I am so excited for this film, what I love the most is how the original cast is back for the film.

April 29th, Pinewood Studios, UK – Writer/Director/Producer J.J. Abrams (top center right) at the cast read-through of Star Wars: Episode VII at Pinewood Studios with (clockwise from right) Harrison Ford, Daisy Ridley, Carrie Fisher, Peter Mayhew, Producer Bryan Burk, Lucasfilm President and Producer Kathleen Kennedy, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Mark Hamill, Andy Serkis, Oscar Isaac, John Boyega, Adam Driver and Writer Lawrence Kasdan…

Photo by: David James..

Victoria & Alberts wins AAA Five Diamond Award for 15 years in a row

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 29, 2014

We have some great Disney Dining News! There are very few restaurants in North America that have won this award. Victoria and Albert’s has won the coveted AAA Five-Diamond Award for 15 years in a row.

Every year AAA reviews almost 30,000 restaurants, but a very small percentage make the cut. Victoria & Albert’s is the only one in Central and South Florida.

Chef Scott has been there 20 years and Chef Erich has been there for 19 years, and Israel is going into his 10th year. We can’t forget about the rest of the team who deserves to be recognized as well, Chef Aimee Rivera, Chef Tom Hill, Chef Mathew Sowers, and Manager Vivian Altesor.

“The backbone of Victoria & Albert’s continues to be the wonderful, loyal culinarians, dedicated servers and devoted reservationists,” says Israel. “They are the pillars that support our uncompromising commitment to greatness.”

Victoria & Albert’s offers quite a luxurious experience like Italian Sambonet silver, fine Bernardaud china, and Italian Frette tablecloths, how ever the tablecloths are hung and not folded to avoid creases. Ladies, if that is not enough, your purse will get it’s very own stool. Now if that doesn’t say luxury than I don’t know what does.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

The First-Ever WNBA Preseason Tournament will be Held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 29, 2014

The first ever WNBA Preseason Tournament in 2014 will feature the defending champion Minnesota Lynx, Chicago Sky, Indiana Fever and Phoenix Mercury, will tip off on Friday, May 9 at the HP Field House at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World.

In addition to the 4 game tournament, a full slate of clinics, practices and autograph sessions featuring the WNBA players and coaches will be conducted in conjunction with the AAU Spring Fling II girls basketball event which will also be hosted at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Over 1,500 girls basketball players from the 3rd through 12th grade divisions will be on site competing in the AAU event.

“The WNBA is thrilled to be working with AAU and Disney to bring young women who are learning the game and some of today’s top talent in women’s basketball to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex,” said WNBA President Laurel J.Richie. “This weekend of tournaments will provide a unique opportunity to showcase the current and future talent in our sport.”

“We are excited to be partnering with an organization like the WNBA,” said AAU President & CEO Henry Forrest. “We are looking forward to a great event as well as a continued long term relationship.”

The WNBA Preseason Tournament 2014 games tip off at 6:00 p.m. ET on May 9 with a battle between Eastern Conference rivals, Chicago and Indiana. The Sky, which posted the best record (24-10) in the East a year ago, is led by 2013 WNBA Rookie of the Year Elena Delle Donne, while the 2012 WNBA champion Fever boasts former league MVP Tamika Catchings. That game will be followed by a clash between the defending WNBA champion Lynx and the Mercury, winners of the WNBA championship in both 2007 and 2009, at 8:30 p.m. ET. The Lynx, which topped the Mercury in last year’s Western Conference Finals en route to its second league title in franchise history, is led by Maya Moore, MVP of the 2013 WNBA Finals presented by Boost Mobile, while Phoenix is powered by 2009 MVP Diana Taurasi.

The winners of the opening round of games will meet on Sunday, May 11, at 1:00 p.m. ET, and will be preceded by a consolation game with the other two teams at 10:30 a.m. ET.

Fans will have an opportunity to purchase tickets for the WNBA Preseason Tournament 2014 starting on Wednesday, April 23, 2014. Tickets may be purchased at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Box Office or through Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex has a long history of hosting WNBA and NBA events. The complex hosted the first WNBA Pre-Draft Camp, WNBA All-Star Weekend clinics, Orlando Magic training camp and the NBA Pre-Draft Camp in previous years.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Ten “Don’t Dos” for Your Disney Trip

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 29, 2014

We talk a lot here on Chip and Co about the Disney World “must dos”-must use a Disney travel agent, must get to Rope Drop, must take comfortable shoes, must eat at Be Our Guest, must make ADRs at 180 days. But today we are going to talk about the “don’t dos” for your Disney trip. These will make your trip easier, smoother, and less stressful, right? I hope so! Here we go with the Ten “Don’t Dos” for Your Disney Trip.

Don’t buy tickets from a ticket reseller or an outside source. Buy them directly through Disney. Sure, some companies offer “good deals”, or “buy one day get the next free”, but so does Disney. Adding your tickets directly to your Disney package should be a no brainer.

Don’t stop in the middle of the walkway. You wouldn’t stop in the middle of the street, you would pull over, right? Same goes for the Disney walkways. Stay to the right, and if you need to stop to tie a shoe, check a map, or take a photo, step to the side.

Don’t complain about everything. Disney is crowded, it’s usually hot, and patience is key. CastMembers are there to help you, so keep that in mind. Some situations are out of their control. Often, Disney will try to make up for any lack of service or expectation-the nicer you are about complaining, the better off you will be.

Don’t wait until 10 minutes before a parade starts to get a seat. If you want a good seat for any parade at Disney, then timing is essential. Start staking out a spot on Main Street at least an hour, if not more if it’s crowded, for the parades and Wishes.

Don’t take flash photos on rides. It’s uncomfortable for others around you, some attractions and shows Disney asks you explicitly to not take these, and sometimes the photos don’t turn out how you’d hope they would anyway.

Don’t plan to be in the parks EVERYDAY of your trip. Your family needs a rest from the sights, sounds, and other stimulation of the parks. Plus, you paid to stay at an awesome Disney resort and you should make plans to enjoy it. So many resorts have awesome pools, kids’ activities, movies outside, etc. Make the most of it!

Don’t stay off Disney property. The many perks of staying on Disney property outweigh the money you may save by staying off site. FastPass Plus at 60 days prior, the Disney transportation, MagicBands, Extra Magic Hours, the Disney Dining Plan….and so much more! In fact, if you go when Disney is offering a discount, you can stay at a Value Resort for about the same rate as you could stay off site.

Don’t plan a trip for Easter, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve. These are not only the busiest times at Disney, but also some of the most expensive times. Occasionally, you’ll get lucky and Easter might be included in a discount. BUT, the weeks between Christmas and New Year’s are not. You’ll be so much happier if you try an alternate time.

Don’t tote your purchases all through the Disney Parks. Disney has a fabulous perk for on site guests. When you purchase something in the shops, you can leave it. Disney will deliver it to your resort. Then you can pick it up at the resort shop. Be aware, that if it is your last day in the parks, this may not work. The packages may not make it to the resort in time.

Don’t crowd the family who is enjoying a character meet and greet. Let them have their moment and their photos. I know it can be hard to wait in line with young children who are excited. But it is also frustrating to be the family enjoying your moment, while those behind you are commenting, rolling their eyes, and are clearly impatient. Your time will come, and you’ll want others to be patient too. On the flip side, be aware of others who are waiting patiently.

What can you add to the list? I am sure we all have our Disney frustrations. Keep in mind that the Disney parks attract a lot of guests all year round. That means patience, tolerance, and lots of pixie dust!

Carrie is a Vacation Specialist with Destinations in Florida-the preferred Earmarked agency of Chip and Co. She is always ready to help you and your family create lasting memories on your next Disney vacation, Disney Cruise adventure. or Disneyland trip. Carrie specializes in families of five or more-from first hand experience, she knows how to plan a trip for a family of 5! Contact her at [email protected] today for a free quote and to get your Disney trip planning started. Mention Chip and Co for a free gift when you book your trip with her!

Magical News for Disney this May/June 2014

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 28, 2014

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With the summer right around the corner there are definitely some buzz worthy news all over Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Cruise Lines! With all this fun there is sure to be something for everyone this summer!

Star Wars Weekends Adds Another Weekend in 2014

The power of the Force returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for five consecutive weekends (every Friday, Saturday and Sunday) from May 16-June 15, 2014 for the park’s annual Star Wars Weekends.

Guests will enjoy a galactic event jam-packed with out-of-this-universe entertainment and their favorite Disney’s Hollywood Studios attractions. More than 60 characters from the Star Wars saga appear in the theme park, and each evening will end with “Symphony in the Stars,” a special pyrotechnics salute to the films. New this year are two character dining options celebrating the Star Wars saga which will be available to guests for breakfast and dinner.

Star Wars celebrities will make special appearances in star conversations, autograph sessions and photo opportunities throughout each day. Also not to be missed: the “Legends of the Force” parade, which features a cavalcade of Star Wars characters, Disney characters and more parading down Hollywood Blvd. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase limited-edition and event-exclusive items in “Darth’s Mall.”

Most of the activities during Star Wars Weekends are included in regular admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. For more information and the latest updates, guests can visit DisneyTheForce.com, DisneyParksBlog.com and StarWars.com. Guests also can join the conversation online using the hashtag #DisneyTheForce.

Epcot Invites Guests to Sample, Sip and Stay Awhile Longer

The magic no longer has to end once the sun sets during the 21st Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. This new after-dark experience gives guests one more taste of World Showcase excitement like never before.

The IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party bursts with color in the sky, and bubbles in the glass. Guests can sample decadent desserts from around the world, paired with the perfect international sparkling wines in an intimate and exclusive environment – all while enjoying Epcot’s nightly fireworks spectacular, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.

Menus at the various Epcot pavilions include: Italy: Tiramisu, France: Vanilla Pot de Crème, United Kingdom: Shortbread Cookies, Morocco: Traditional Baklava, American Adventure: Sugar Dusted Cronis with Strawberry Sauce and Whipped Cream, Disney Parks ice cream novelties, Lemonade, coffee, teas, Sparkling wine from Washington State and Prosecco from Italy. (Menus subject to change)

Guests can book the experience by calling 407-WDW-PLAY or by visiting Disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/epcot for more information.

Epcot After Hours Wind Down

New this year Walt Disney World Resort guests can now sample and savor flavors from around the world after the nightly finale with the Epcot After Hours Wind Down, an intimate experience at one of four authentic and exclusive lounges. Award-winning Epcot Chefs and Sommeliers pair a beverage flight with cultural cuisine.

This experience is available weekly Thursday through Sunday from 9:20 to 11 p.m. and can be booked at Disneyworld.com/Spring. Locations include: La Cava del Tequila (Mexico), Spice Road Table (Morocco), Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar (Italy), Rose & Crown Pub (United Kingdom)

The scrumptious menu includes a selection of appetizers and one beverage flight (cash bar option available to purchase additional beverages) and the price is $35 per person/per location (tax and gratuity not included, must be at least 21 to attend)

Sounds Like Summer Concert Series Heats Up at Epcot Starting in June

Chart-topping classics will fill the air at Epcot this summer when high-energy bands rock the mic during Sounds Like Summer concert series. Performing hits from U2, Journey, Boston, and more, seven acts will take the stage in June and July at America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase.

This year’s line up includes:

June 8-14: Hotel California ~ A Salute to the Eagles
June 15-21: Don’t Stop Believin’ ~ Journey Tribute Band
June 22-28: Good Vibrations ~ A Tribute to The Beach Boys
June 29-July 5: Don’t Look Back ~ Boston Tribute Band
July 6 to 12: Stayin’ Alive ~ A Tribute to the Bee Gees
July 13 to 19: Slippery When Wet ~ The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute
July 20 to 26: 2U ~ A Tribute to U2

Show times are 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. – except on July 4 when show times are 5:15, 6:30, 7:45 and 9 p.m. Sounds Like Summer concerts are included with Epcot admission (Entertainment subject to change without notice).

Disney Parks Invites Guests to ‘Rock Your Disney Side’ with 24-Hour Event on Both Coasts

Disney Parks guests are invited to show their “Disney Side” and kick off summer during a bi-coastal, all-night extravaganza — “Rock Your Disney Side: 24-Hours.” Taking place this Memorial Day Weekend this event at will take place at select parks for 24 hours at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California.

Magic Kingdom in Florida and Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure in California will be overflowing with great Disney heroes and villains from 6 a.m., May 23 to 6 a.m., May 24, 2014, local time** marking the beginning of a summer of fun at Disney Parks. The magical celebration on both coasts will feature a cavalcade of events showcasing the good-vs.-evil of classic Disney stories including character meet-and-greets throughout the parks, special entertainment, event merchandise, and food and beverage offerings. Along with the entertainment guests have grown to love every day, they’ll discover surprise additions and special events throughout the 24 hours.

Disney’s Water Parks Add to Summer Vacation Fun at Walt Disney World Resort

Whether guests want to lounge on the beach or take the plunge and try every attraction, Walt Disney World Resort water parks are the perfect place to cool off this summer. At Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, celebrating its 25^th anniversary this year, guests can snorkel with sharks, stingrays and tropical fish in a coral reef, plunge down rushing rapids, sunbathe on the sandy beach and glide down a lazy river. Themed as a melting ski resort where a freak snowstorm hit Florida, Disney’s Blizzard Beach is home to some of the most thrilling water rides in the United States, while also offering guests a tranquil river to float down or a great place to relax on the beach. For the most up-to-date park hours, visit disneyworld.com/water-parks.

High-Speed Fun Comes to Downtown Disney during Car Masters Weekend

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day? Car Masters Weekend is the perfect place to be as Downtown Disney hosts a classic car show with a modern twist June 14-15, 2014. Featuring all things “Cars,” the event showcases classic, muscle and exotic vehicles from across the country; a chance for guests to meet favorite “Cars″ characters such as Lightning McQueen and Mater; as well as special celebrity appearances. Completing the car-filled weekend, fans may purchase tickets for a ”Cars” & “Cars 2″ movie marathon at AMC Downtown Disney 24 and enjoy face painting, themed food and beverage, live entertainment and more. (Entertainment subject to change)

Orlando City Soccer Club Continues 2014 Regular Season at ESPN Wide World of Sports

Orlando City Soccer Club will continue to play its 2014 regular-season home games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex throughout the summer. To enhance the experience for spectators, additional stadium seating has been added to surround all four sides of the main soccer field at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, bringing seating to approximately 5,200.

This is the Lions’ final United Soccer League (USL) season before becoming the 21st Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise in 2015.

Below is the Lions’ 2014 regular-season home schedule at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex:

Sunday, May 4 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. OKC
Wednesday, May 21 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. Charlotte
Saturday, May 31 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. Charleston
Saturday, June 7 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. Impact Reserves
Wednesday, June 11 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. Orange County
Saturday, June 28 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. LA Galaxy II
Saturday, July 12 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. Wilmington
Saturday, August 2 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. Charlotte
Saturday, August 16 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. Harrisburg
Sunday, August 31 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. Dayton
Saturday, September 6 @ 7:30 p.m. vs. Richmond

Disney Cruise Line Returns to Europe and Alaska this Summer with New Itineraries and Ports

The Disney Magic returns to the Mediterranean this summer with fascinating new ports and popular destinations, treating guests to the best of Europe. New for the European season, Disney Cruise Line will use Venice, Italy as a home-port for select sailings. During these cruises, the Disney Magic overnights in Venice, giving guests the opportunity to experience an evening in the spectacular city. Disney Cruise Line also will visit new destinations in the Greek Isles and Sicily for the first time. Guests will experience richly diverse cities and cultures, showcasing iconic locations, romantic boulevards, bustling bazaars, sun-drenched islands and the brilliant blue Mediterranean Sea.

Throughout the summer season, the Disney Wonder sails seven-night cruises from Vancouver to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska. One special nine-night cruise calls on Sitka, Alaska—a first for Disney Cruise Line. These cruises combine the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled, family-friendly experience found on a Disney ship. Disney Cruise Line works closely with Alaskan tour operators to create exclusive-to-Disney family-friendly Port Adventures that allow guests to experience Alaska’s natural beauty and rich history.

The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy will continue to sail out of Port Canaveral for summer 2014.

To learn more about any of these exciting events or to book your next vacation email Kari at [email protected]. Make sure to mention Chip sent you!