Home Blog Page 4481

Disney Quick Tip – Manage Your Disney Gift Cards

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
giftcard
giftcard

giftcard

If you’re like me, you love to save money and will go to great lengths to save a few bucks on your next Disney vacation. By now I’m sure you’ve heard that you can save quite a bit by purchasing Disney Gift Cards at Target using your Target Red Card Debit or Credit Card to save 5% off the cost. And if you have a Target Pharmacy Rewards certificate, you get an additional 5% off to save a total of 10% – this saved us $150 alone on our last trip. A lot of people will also do something similar at Kroger to earn 4x Fuel Points. After you do all this, you’ll likely end up with 30 (or more) Disney Gift Cards like me. I had 30 gift cards to pay the balance of our room-only reservation, pay for our dining and of course gift cards for spending money. I really didn’t want to chance that all of those gift cards would get lost en route to WDW, so I had my Travel Agent pay our balance and then apply a room credit with most of them – all of this before we even arrived. So, be sure to check with your TA to do this before you leave – but keep up with those gift cards since you’ll need it if you return merchandise or cancel a reservation that provides a refund back to you.

Even after you do that, you’ll probably still have some gift cards left with a balance. Keeping up with that many can be a hassle, so here’s a tip and little known secret that I discovered during our last trip. If you find yourself with a lot of gift cards and you only want to keep up with one, then just take all those gift cards to a ticket window at the parks and ask them to combine them into one. Yes, they can combine those small denominations and give you just one gift card back. This is also what you’ll need to do if you need to make a purchase online or on the phone for tickets, as they won’t let you use more than one gift card online or on the phone. Just be sure to visit a ticket window when it’s not a busy time of the day, like in the afternoon or evenings when few people are purchasing tickets.

How awesome is that? Have you tried this? Let us know in the comment box below.

Adorable Disney Skins and Cases from DecalGirl

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
decal girl
decal girl

decal girl

DecalGirl has recently executed a comprehensive licensing deal with Disney/Disney Pixar that enables them to manufacture high quality skins and case products using over thirty of the Disney and Disney Pixar themed properties. A total of thirty-seven images are available for sale online with more coming soon, just in time for the holidays!

This new line of Disney themed skins and cases feature dedicated design groups offering artwork from Mickey & Friends, Disney Princess, Tinker Bell, Cars, Planes, Monsters University, The Muppets, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Frozen. More artwork and properties from Disney and Disney Pixar will be launched in rounds two and three, covering up to thirty of the most popular properties.

Device skins start at a retail price of $9.99 and come complete with a free downloadable wallpaper which completes the design and makes for a perfect Disney experience. The DecalGirl Disney art program includes a wide variety of designs to suit an assortment of tastes from classic to contemporary. You can be sure that your favorite characters will be represented when the library of images is completed in early 2014.

DecalGirl is the first US company to sell die-cut, vinyl skins that personalize your personal electronic devices, like cell phones, ipads and laptops. Skins adhere to your small and large electronic devices, and are sold via the DecalGirl website, direct to the consumer and via wholesale channels. DecalGirl has been in business for ten years and has been acquiring entertainment and branded licenses since 2011.

Use the discount code DISNEY15 at checkout and you will get 15% off your order.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Top 10 things to bring with you to the Disney Parks

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
wayoflife
wayoflife

disney

In normal life, I don’t require much on a daily basis.  In the parks, I am amazingly needy!  I try to bring everything I need to the parks without overloading myself.  Remember, whatever you bring, you have to carry!

Here are my Top 10 things to bring with you to the Disney Parks.

  • Your Camera: A picture is worth a thousand words right?  There is no better way to preserve a memory than through a picture.  Posed/Staged pictures are great, but I love catching candid shots of my kids doing things that others might think are weird, but are parts of their personalities.  Every picture tells a story!
  • Band-Aids: You just never know when someone (like myself) might trip and fall over thin air!  There isn’t a vacation that has gone by, that I haven’t needed band-aids.  I’m not proud of my clumsiness, but I do come prepared for it.  Blisters, scrapes and falls and other minor “boo-boos” happen, might as well be prepared for them.
  • Money or Gift Cards:  This one is pretty obvious.  You need money/Gift Cards to buy all of those pretty souvenirs and sweet treats you come across. Try using your Red Card at Target to save 5% off those Gift Card purchases.
  • A watch or way to tell time:  There are plenty of shows that are on schedules.  You need a way to keep track of time while you are in the park.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lost time in EPCOT.  It feels like minutes, but is really hours passing by!
  • Cell Phones:  At some point during your trip, someone will get separated from your travel group.  It will happen!  By having cell phones now, we can simply call our lost Aunt Ellie instead of wasting precious time walking around searching for her.
  • Trading pins:  I am a HUGE pin trader.  I love the idea of finding pins that I have never seen before or finding that last one pin I needed for my set.  My daughter collects foreign pins.  Her favorite pins have come from Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disney.  My son trades for whatever is “cool” that day!
  • Water: One must stay hydrated in order to survive the long, hot Florida days! Remember you can ask for water from any Quick Service Counter Location for free!
  • Sunscreen: I am a redhead!  I NEVER leave home without sunscreen on and in my bag!!! Even on an overcast day, it is possible to suffer the effects of the sun.
  • Medicine:  I am a migraine sufferer with about a zillion triggers.  I bring my meds with me just to make it through the day.  I also bring stomach meds and allergy meds.  You never know when that Taco Hot Dog from The Launching Pad is going to give you a stomach ache!
  • A Poncho or Umbrella:  On an average day in Orlando, it WILL rain.  If you don’t want to get soaked, toss a poncho in your bag.  They are lightweight and don’t take up much space.  I have seen some can fit inside a deck of cards box!

What is the most important thing to bring?  Your sense of humor!  This is the one thing that you can’t forget.  No matter how carefully you plan and what you pack, something is bound to be less magical than you hoped.  The best thing to do in this case, is to laugh it off and remember, you are on vacation!  Like Walt Disney himself said, “Laughter is timeless.  Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever.”

Those are my Top 10 (Well, 11) things to bring with you to the Disney parks!  Did I leave anything out?  Let me know in the comment section below!

When Becca isn’t on the Chip & Co.  Pinterest & Facebook pages, she is helping people plan their Very own Disney Vacation!  You can email her at [email protected] for your no-obligation quote!  Remember, her services are always FREE!!!

“Stitch Encounter” to Open in Tokyo Disneyland

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
Stitch Encounter
Stitch Encounter

Stitch Encounter

The Oriental Land Company, which is the owner of Tokyo Disney Resort, has announced that Captain EO will close on June 30, 2014 at Tokyo Disneyland. An attraction called “Stitch Encounter” will replace it in 2015. They are using the same concept and design as Turtle Talk with Crush. The new attraction will be very similar to ‘Stitch Encounter’ at Hong Kong Disneyland, it will allow up to 160 guests to ‘communicate with Stitch, who is in outer space, over the theater’s large screen. 

Here is a brief description:

Guests are seated in a movie theater-like room, called the Space Traffic Control. Of course children are then encouraged to sit up front, on the floor, so that Stitch can see them during the show. At the start of the show, the host of the Space Traffic Control requests the computer to search for an available spacecraft captain to talk to, the computer connects to the spacecraft which Stitch is in. After that, guests (both children and adults) in the Space Traffic Control are randomly chosen by Stitch to interact with. Stitch can interact with guests in many ways.

Photo Credit: themeparkinsider.com

“Saving Mr. Banks” Coming to Blu-Ray March 18, 2014

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
ban188885SMALL
ban188885SMALL

mr banks

Wal-Mart is showing a release date of March 18 , 2014 for ‘Saving Mr. Banks“. This is coming ahead of any official announcement from Disney. It seems as though “Saving Mr. Banks” and “Frozen” will have the same release date.

However if you search for it on Wal-Mart’s site it does not show up. It is only showing up through this direct link.

No word yet on any special bonus features or bundles that might be offered.

As always keep checking back with us for updates!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

 

Walter E. Disney Quotes

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
Walt Disney What ever you do do it well. 650x433 300x199
Walt Disney What ever you do do it well. 650x433 300x199

walt-disney_zoetrope-1940s

During this hectic time of year, we can all take a moment to slow down and just enjoy some inspiration from a great storyteller! I’ve assembled some of my favorite Walt Disney‘s greatest lines below. Feel free to leave a comment or two of your favorite(s) and over time we’ll update this posting.

Let’s start with one of my favorites. It’s so brilliantly true. However, we often need to be reminded:

“I only hope we don’t lose sight of one thing – that it was all started by a mouse.”

Then This is from the end of “Meet the Robinsons”

“Around here, however, we don’t look backwards for very long. We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things, because we’re curious…  And curiosity keeps leading us down new paths. 

Keep Moving Forward…”

WhyWorry-300x300

Disneyland was Walt’s Dream for a long time. He had ideas of how to do it better and thus started on DisneyWorld. However, we must never forget:

“To all that come to this happy place: welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here age relives fond memories of the past, and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America…with hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world.”

“Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world.”

“That’s the real trouble with the world, too many people grow up!”

“When you’re curious, you find lots of interesting things to do. And one thing it takes to accomplish something is courage.”

“All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them.”

“The life and ventures of Mickey Mouse have been closely bound up with my own personal and professional life. It is understandable that I should have sentimental attachment for the little personage who played so big a part in the course of Disney Productions and has been so happily accepted as an amusing friend wherever films are shown around the world. He still speaks for me and I still speak for him.”

“The more you like yourself, the less you are like anyone else, which makes you unique.”

Walt-Disney-What-ever-you-do-do-it-well.-650x433-300x199

When Daniel isn’t sharing Planning Tips about Disneyland, Aulani, and other Destinations, he can be found either wishing he was at Disneyland or planning his and other’s Disney Vacations. Contact him or Request a Quote on the right side of the ChipandCo Page.

Merry Christmas from all of us here at Chip and Co

By
Chip
-
1477374 10202662115175244 302313437 n
1477374 10202662115175244 302313437 n

Xmas

We would like to wish all of you a Merry Christmas from all of us here at Chip and Co. You are the reason why we do what we do. Lets not forget the reason for the season…

The Christmas Story – St. Luke 2: 1-14

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David)

To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them at the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Merry Christmas! 

“Frozen” Coming to Blu-Ray/DVD March 18, 2014

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
56784 large
56784 large

Frozen

Wal-Mart has started listing Disney’s “Frozen” pre-sale on Blu-Ray with a sale date of March 18, 2014. This is ahead of any official announcement from Disney.

Wal-Mart has a couple of different options listed. They have a Collector’s Edition and an Exclusive Bundle. Wal-Mart has good track record as far as release dates. However if we hear different you will be the first to know.

If you are not a Wal-Mart shopper you can also pre-order it from Amazon.

I love this movie! Will you pre-order or do you wait to buy it in the store?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney World Night of Joy 2014 Line Up Announced

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
Night of Joy 2014
Night of Joy 2014

Night of joy 2014

I know we are still in 2013, but if you are a planner you will appreciate the advance notice on the exciting plans Disney has in store for the Night of Joy in 2014.

The 32nd annual event will be held Friday, September 5, and Saturday, September 6.

You already know about some of the headliners, including the first ever Night of Joy performance from Hillsong United and Night of Joy stalwarts MercyMe.

Today we have the entire line-up.

Here are the details:

Friday, September 5, 2014:

  • Hillsong United
  • Chris Tomlin
  • Matthew West
  • For King & Country
  • Mandisa
  • Building 429
  • Matt Maher
  • The Neverclaim

Saturday, September 6, 2014:

  • Skillet
  • Casting Crowns
  • MercyMe
  • Israel Houghton & New Breed
  • Britt Nicole
  • Colton Dixon
  • Rhett Walker
  • We As Human
  • One Girl Nation

Check back to the Disney Parks Blog in the Spring for information

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Paul Rudd Set to Star in Marvel’s ‘Ant-Man’

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
Paul Rudd Ant Man
Paul Rudd Ant Man

Paul Rudd Ant-Man

With Marvel full speed ahead on Phase 2 of their Cinematic Universe, it’s now time for them to set their sights on Phase 3. The only officially announced film so far is Edgar Wright’s ‘Ant-Man‘, which is slotted for July 31, 2015. Edgar Wright, the director of critical and audience favorites of The Cornetto Trilogy, compromised of ‘Shaun of the Dead’, ‘Hot Fuzz’, and ‘The World’s End’, as well as the film adaptation of Bryan Lee O’Malley’s ‘Scott Pilgrim vs. the World’ graphic novel series. For some time, there was rumors swirling on just who would land the title role of the next Avenger, with names such as Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Jamie Bell being tossed around, but one name kept sticking more than the rest: Paul Rudd. Well, the search is finally over, as Paul Rudd has officially signed on to star as The Avengers’ tiniest hero.

The news broke on Marvel’s Official Website:

Marvel’s “Ant-Man” has found its hero in Paul Rudd, who will star in the new film from director Edgar Wright hitting theaters July 31, 2015!

The casting of Rudd represents the actor that Marvel and Wright had long ago identified as its first choice to play Ant-Man, continuing the studio’s desire to cast actors that bring several dimensions to its onscreen heroes. The film’s plot is being kept under wraps.

“When Edgar Wright came to us with the idea of Paul Rudd, we felt a huge sense of relief because the first step in creating any Marvel Studios film is finding the right star,” said Marvel’s Kevin Feige. “We knew early on that we had found the right person in Paul. When he not only agreed to do it but became as enthusiastic as any actor we’d ever met with about doing the work, we knew we’d found the right guy. We couldn’t be more excited for our audiences to see what he’s going to do to bring Ant-Man to life.”
Rudd brings a diverse background to the role having become one of the industry’s most known actors with a reputation for smart, funny and creative performances. Rudd can currently be seen in “Anchor Man 2: The Legend Continues,” as well as past roles in “Anchorman,” “This Is 40,” “I Love You, Man,” “Role Models,” “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” “Our Idiot Brother,” “Knocked Up,” and “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” among numerous other films, television shows and primetime animation.

In addition to “Ant-Man,” Marvel Studios will release a slate of films based on the Marvel characters including “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” on April 4, 2014; “Guardians of the Galaxy” on August 1, 2014; and “Avengers: Age of Ultron” on May 1, 2015.

I have to say, I’m absolutely giddy by the news. Rudd has been an actor I’ve always enjoyed, even in roles in the films that were not so great, like ‘Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers’ in the 1990s. He’s been on the brink of breaking out in a new way, with starring turns in quite a few independent films over the past few years, and this may be just the break he’s needed to get out of working exclusively in comedies. This is perfect casting, and I can’t wait to see Rudd suit up as Ant-Man. Are you excited by the casting? Let me know in the comments, below, only here at Chip and Company!

Related articles
Enhanced by Zemanta

Guide to Walt Disney World Closing Phases

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
crowds
crowds

crowds

If you’re visiting the Walt Disney World parks in the next week over the Christmas and New Years holidays, then you know that it will be insanely crowded. Because of the large crowds, Disney must close the parks at some point during the day for everyone’s safety once they reach maximum capacity. The parks will close based on the phases below, so a good rule of thumb is to be at the park for rope drop. Arriving to Magic Kingdom after 10AM on Christmas Day is almost certainly going to result in you being turned away…so be prepared.

Phase 1 Park Closing

Guests with ‘Magic Your Way’ base tickets or a ‘1-Day 1-Park Ticket’, guests without an admission ticket, and Cast Members using Main Gate & Silver Passes will be turned around at the parking lot booths.

Phase 2 Park Closing

Admission is limited to:

  • Disney Resort Guests (including the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, and guests arriving by bus from the Hotel Plaza Boulevard hotels)
  • Annual and Premium Annual Passholders
  • Guests with Hopper tickets coming from another park
  • Guests re-entering the park
  • Guests with dining reservations
  • Magic Kingdom guests with reservations for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or The Pirates League
  • Guests using Walt Disney World Resort Transportation

Phase 3 Park Closing

Admission is limited to:

  • Disney Resort Guests (including the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, and guests arriving by bus from the Hotel Plaza Boulevard hotels)
  • Annual and Premium Annual Passholders
  • Guests with dining reservations
  • Magic Kingdom guests with reservations for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or The Pirates League

Phase 4 Park Closing

Closed to all guests

1...4,4804,4814,482...5,488Page 4,481 of 5,488