Disney Inspired Spa Night: Cinderella Castle at Christmastime!

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December 20, 2013

If you can remember back to the warm days of early summer (June 27th I think), you might remember a little Disney themed spa night post that I wrote, inspired by The Little Mermaid. Today I’m back with a new nail look and it is perfect for the holiday season! I’m taking inspiration from one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever had the luxury of seeing, Cinderella Castle at its sparkly best! That’s right, today’s nails are inspired by the diamond dipped Cinderella Castle at Christmas time!

Here’s a picture of my inspiration (disclaimer: this is NOWHERE near as perfect as it is in person!)

Put em’ Together and What do you Got?

I wanted to create a wearable translation of this theme. Cinderella Castle is simply mesmerizing, especially during the holiday season. I was going for a diamond dipped ombre look. I wanted to find the right mix of ombre and sparkle and I shopped my stash for a shimmery translucent grey shade (I used part of a Gradiation Nail Kit from Kiss, bottle number one), a light blue (I used Essie’s “Rock the Boat”), a chunky hex glitter (I used Essie’s “Set in Stone”), a bar style holographic glitter (I used Nicole’s Selena Gomez line “Stars at Night”), and finally a chunky grey/black/silver nail glitter pot (I used Nail Art Glitter’s “Onyx”).

Cinderella’s Christmas Castle: Diamond Dipped Castle

I call this look “Cinderella’s Christmas Castle: Diamond Dipped Edition!”

1. Prepped my nails by clipping, filing, cleaning, and buffing them as well as cleaning up my cuticles and moisturizing my hands.

2. Next, I applied a clear basecoat. I used an OPI basecoat (this will make your creation last beyond midnight).

3. I applied 1 Layer of shimmery translucent grey shade (I used part of a Gradiation Nail Kit from Kiss, bottle number one) to my entire nail.

4. I applied 1 sheer layer of a light blue (I used Essie’s “Rock the Boat”) to the top half of my nail. This blue is a very buildable color and it was sheer enough to transition smoothly with the base color.

5. Next I painted the top half of each nail with a chunky hex glitter (I used Essie’s “Set in Stone”). After it dried, I applied a bar style holographic glitter (I used Nicole’s Selena Gomez line “Stars at Night”).

6. While my fingers were still wet from the glitter paint, I dipped the tip of each nail into a chunky grey/black/silver nail glitter pot (I used Nail Art Glitter’s “Onyx”).

6. Finally, I apply a quick drying topcoat. I used Orly’s “Sec N Dry.”

Here’s the finished product… (note the obligatory hidden Mickey)

This fun look didn’t take long to create! The best part was that I didn’t have to buy anything new! All I had to do was shop my stash and I put ’em together and what have you got? A Bibbidi-bobbidi-beeeautiful tribute to the beautiful Cinderella Castle at Christmas! I hope that you enjoyed this simple nail tutorial! I also hope that you’ll get inspired to dream up some of your own Disney designs; when it comes to Disney inpsired nails, a dream is a wish your heart makes! I can’t wait to wear these nails around town this holiday season! It’s like I have a little bit of the park with me at all times! In the comment section below, let me know if you tried out this look or something similar to it!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting!

See ya real soon,

Ashley

Top 10 Disney World Rides you must do at night!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 20, 2013

Let’s face it: all of the rides in Disney World are awesome. However, some rides are just better experienced at night. Below, I have made a list of ten rides that I think provide a better experience in the evenings. Do you agree with my suggestions?

Splash Mountain – One of the classic rides in the Magic Kingdom, Splash Mountain is considered the best ride to experience at night. Why? That pivotal moment before your car plunges 50ft below, the view of Cinderella Castle is exquisite. Not to mention, the darkness adds quite the thrill to your drop.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad– Another Magic Kingdom classic, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is a runaway train that whisks you through mines and canyons. Since this ride is set outdoors, the thrill factor increases in the darkness of the night especially with the rickety sounds of the out of control train ringing in your ears.

Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – What is scarier than random free fall drops in the warped Hollywood Hotel? Darkness. The drops are already dark but when the doors open at the top of the elevator shaft and Hollywood Studios sits before you eyes in a nighttime setting, the view is breathtaking and creepy all at the same time.

The Jungle Cruise – Riding through The Jungle Cruise during the day is a very tame experience but at night? I can only imagine that floating through water in the jungle at night has to be a bit uncomfortable. I would also consider avoiding this ride at night when with small children as it may be too scary for them.

The Haunted Mansion – If you have the courage, hobble through the path to the Haunted Mansion one evening. There is nothing scarier than walking through haunted grounds in the dark. I would also consider avoiding this ride at night when with small children as it may be too scary for them.

It’s a Small World – Yes I know, It’s a Small World is not scary nor is it outside. It is, however, in Fantasyland which is extremely crowded during the day. Evening makes the perfect opportunity to experience this classic ride.

Test Track – Everyone loves to drive fast but to drive fast at night is the ultimate driving experience.

Expedition Everest – This ride is scary, bumpy and fast! Add darkness to the mix and you have one heck of a thrilling experience. Again, please consider young children and their reaction to riding this in the dark.

Mad Tea Party – The Mad Tea Party is one of the most crowded rides in the Magic Kingdom. Although it doesn’t lighten up in crowds that much in the evenings, it just seems more vibrant and exciting. The lights and bright colors of the ride contrast greatly with the night sky giving it a brilliant effect.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant – Another Magic Kingdom favorite, Dumbo the Flying Elephant is wonderful to ride at night. The attraction is not crowded and is an excellent distraction for little ones during Wishes.

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin – Lastly, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin is a ride similar to Dumbo. Since it is outdoors, riding in the calm of the evening makes it a much more pleasant experience.

So what Disney World rides must you do at night? Let me know in the comment box below!

Top 10 Disney World Rides you must do at night!

The Last Limited Time Magic of the Year

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 20, 2013

In celebration of the final Limited Time Magic surprise of the year, be the first to purchase all-new art merchandise for 2014 when it debuts at Walt Disney World Resort on December 22, 2013.

Decorated by a design that you helped select at the start of 2013, you can find this new art adorning a range of keepsakes, including a mug, T-shirt, ladies tee, timepiece and D-Tech iPhone case. So stop by World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney area and take home your very own lasting piece of Limited Time Magic!

Plus, starting December 27, 2013, you can also discover limited amounts of this new merchandise available for purchase online, including a special, online-only deluxe print signed by artist Patty Landing.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Food Allergy Info from Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 20, 2013

As someone with a special diet, traveling can be challenging. Planning and researching are key in making sure you have a safe and enjoyable visit to your vacation destination. And even though Disney is well known for providing excellent food allergy and special diets accommodation, it’s no different than any other travel destination. In fact, planning ADRs and touring plans are crucial, especially with new Disney guest features like Magic Bands and MyMagic+. And making contact with the Walt Disney World Special Diets Department helps gives guests with special dietary needs more information and resources before the vacation.

But what if you want more? That’s where websites like Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW come in. Since 2009, this website helps provide reviews, tips, tricks, special diets menus and more to help guests plan their Disney vacations with a special diet. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, gluten intolerance and dairy intolerance, my goal is to provide guests with up-to-date and helpful information to make their visit to Disney just a little easier.

With a focus on gluten free and dairy free dining reviews, the site also includes reviews and tips that cover other special diets. For instance, you’ll often see reviews that include guests I’ve dined with who have other dietary restrictions like vegan, vegetarian, soy free, and even food coloring free. The site also includes guest reviews from Disney travelers with special dietary needs. From kosher traveling to nut free vacations, the site tries to cover topics that you, the guest, are interested in.

Looking for reference sheets that include products served at Walt Disney World from special diets vendors? You can find many of them on Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW. The site provides information sheets that cover corn free products to tree nut free products and everything in between.

Are you more interested in special diets menus? Some locations on Disney property have created their own special diets menus. The site is building up a listing of these menus for guests to reference. These are really helpful when looking for special diets options before your trip.

Love podcasts? If you have a special diet and you love hearing about Disney, then you’ll want to check out Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW’s new podcast. The podcast covers all things Special Diets and Disney. Vegetarian diners will love the episodes with the Disney Hipsters. Vegan and gluten free diners will appreciate the information in those episodes that feature food allergy cookbook author Laurie Sadowski.

Special events with a special diet? Who doesn’t love a special event at Disney? But, let’s face it, many times guests with special diets are faced with limited to non-existent offerings. That’s where Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW comes in. The site regularly creates special events, like the annual dessert party at Epcot (sponsored by Chip & Co.!) to bi-monthly meet-ups at places like Babycakes NYC in Downtown Disney. Gift bags, great food allergy friendly foods and good company are always included.

Need special diets planning assistance? Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW is more than just a website. It offers personal and one-on-one services for guests who like that extra magical touch in their vacation planning experience. From helping guests with ADRs to stopping by Disney to confirm specific items on hand, there are a variety of ways in which this site can work with guests to help make their vacation planning worry free. You can contact Sarah via email for more information.

Looking for some general information as a special diets guest? Here are some basic tips to help make your special diets Disney vacation magical:

Email or call Disney’s Special Diets Department. They can assist you with questions or concerns, and they can also help you get in contact with a specific restaurant or chef. They are also available to help you with your dining planning in any way. You can email them at: [email protected] or visit the Special Diets page: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/special-dietary-requests/
Make ADRs. This is a great tip, even if you don’t have a special diet; however, it’s even more important when you have dietary needs, as you can note your special diet on your reservations. You can do this online through Disney’s website or through the My Disney Experience app and also via phone.
Make sure to ask for a manager or chef when dinning at Disney. Disney’s policy is to have either a manager or chef speak with all guests who have special dietary needs. They will go over options on the menu based on your dietary need.
Bring snacks with you. Disney policy allows guests with special dietary needs to bring snacks into the theme parks. Craving your favorite sugar free snacks? No problem. Just let a cast member know that you have a special diet when you go through park security.

These are just a few tips to help you as you plan your next special diets Disney vacation. You can read my article Planning a Trip to Walt Disney World with Special Diet, here on Chip and Co. for more tips and tricks. Of course, you can always check Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW for the latest special diets Disney dining news! And stay tuned to Chip & Co. for my series in Disney special diets eats & treats!

When Sarah isn’t sharing planning tips about the Walt Disney World Resort, you can find her at Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW where she writes dining reviews and shares tips and tricks about dining at Disney with a special diet.

Five New Disney Infinity “North Pole Challenge” Toy Boxes

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 20, 2013

Disney Interactive is releasing the winners of the Disney Infinity “Toy Box North Pole Challenge.” To get into the holiday spirit, players were tasked with bringing the North Pole to life in creative and exciting Toy Boxes. The top global Toy Box of the week is “North Hole Mini Golf“– Santa’s private 18-hole Christmas themed miniature golf course.

Winning submissions include:

North Hole Mini Golf – Enjoy 18 holes of Christmas-themed miniature golf on Santa’s private course!

Saving Christmas – Grumpy Elf has left Santa’s Village and is trying to sabotage Christmas. Find him and return him to the North Pole.

Winter Express – Take the Blinks Winter Express and travel to the North Pole for some frosty fun.

Santa’s Workshop – Ever wanted to visit Santa’s workshop at the North Pole? Now you can!

Christmas Town – Explore the Nightmare Before Christmas Christmas Town! Visit Santa’s workshop, race the Christmas train and more!

Check it out:

As a refresher, directions on how to download new user-generated Toy Box worlds, as well as how to submit Toy Box creations are below.

When you’re ready to submit your Toy Box for consideration, follow these directions:

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii U

· Bring up the Pause Menu and select “Online/Multiplayer.”

· Then select “Toy Box Share” > “Disney’s Toy Boxes” > “Submit to Disney.”

· Follow the prompts. You’ll be asked to give your Toy Box an original name and description. Choose carefully – they will be shown to everybody if your Toy Box is featured.

iPad

Bring up the Pause Menu and select “Toy Box Share.”

Then select “Disney’s Toy Boxes” > “Submit to Disney.”

Follow the prompts. You’ll be asked to give your Toy Box an original name and description. Choose carefully – they will be shown to everybody if your Toy Box is featured

How to download new Toy Boxes:

Select “Toy Box” from the Disney Infinity Main Menu

Select “Toy Box Share” and “Disney’s Toy Boxes.”

There will be a list of all the featured Toy Boxes for players to download.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Will the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train open sooner than Spring 2014?

By

Anonymouse

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December 20, 2013

Howdy y’all! I’ve got some BIG Disney Gossip today! As always, I, Anonymouse, have the inside scoop. Recently, my friends at Destinations in Florida saw the Mine Train Cars being tested. Does that mean the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is opening sooner than Spring 2014? I certainly hope so.

With the addition of any new attraction, Disney announces its Grand Opening with fanfare and much ado. However, soft openings can happen at any time. Is this one of those times?

It’s been rumored that Disney may be planning a soft opening of Seven Dwarfs Mine Train for early 2014. Perhaps, in time for the New Year? This certainly seems possible with all the testing on the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train being performed lately. I’ll keep my ears open for any definite date.

Anywho, that is all the Disney gossip I have right now. For my past gossip articles be sure to check them out here. Got any good gossip/rumors please email me at [email protected] or on my facebook page.

‘Saving Mr. Banks’ Review

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 19, 2013

The journey to making ‘Mary Poppins’, one of the most popular Disney movies all time, was a very bumpy road. It took Walt Disney twenty years to convince PL Travers to sign the rights away to her beloved character, but little did he know, she was selling a lot more than just the rights to her book. She was selling herself, her family, and a part of her past, and didn’t want to see it turned into a mockery. At least, that’s what ‘Saving Mr. Banks’, Disney’s newest live action film about the making of ‘Mary Poppins’, would have you believe. The problem is, the movie seems more self congratulatory than it does sincere at times, which hinders what could actually be an excellent film, into just a good film.

PL Travers is a tough woman who has an unpleasant past. But to help ease those pains, she wrote a set of books that helped her let certain people in her life live on, but in doing so she’s holding onto the past. So for her, nothing could be more irritating than having Walt Disney, one of the most influential and powerful men in the world, hounding her for the rights to her character, Mary Poppins. But when Travers’ money begins to run dry, she’s forced to finally take Disney’s offer into consideration, and the journey to the making of the film begins.

The big talk around this movie, not just about its subject matter, is the casting. For the first time, we’re seeing someone step into the shoes of Walt Disney, attempting to bring the man to life. So of course for that, you need a high caliber actor, and there’s no one better than Tom Hanks to take a swing at the role. Hanks is very good in the role, but the problem is, he’s not excellent in it. It’s so hard to see past the fact that it’s Tom Hanks, that you have a hard time seeing Walt. He’s got the speech patters of Walt down, but the voice isn’t there, and it’s hard to separate the two men. That doesn’t make Hanks performance any less good though, he’s quite good, but it’s hard not to imagine what the role might have been like given to an actor with less of a name, who could more fully disappear into the role.

Emma Thompson on the other hand is wonderful, and downright perfect, as PL Travers. Thompson never ceases to amaze me, and once again she is totally lost in character here. From the look, to the voice, the way she talks, she completely embodies Travers. She’s a joy to watch. But in a movie with Tom Hanks and Thompson, it’s hard to believe that any other actor could stand out above the rest, but that’s actually the case here. The supporting actors, from BJ Novak, Paul Giamatti, and Jason Schwartzman all shine in their different roles, but it’s Colin Farrell as PL Travers father, Goff, that really steals the movie. Every time Farrell is on the screen, he captivates the audience and is just incredible to watch. He is given so much to do and work with, it’s too bad that his role may go overlooked by so many. He’s a great actor, and seeing him get the chance to really standout and shine here was great.

While all the acting is very good across the board, it’s the story where the movie really has its problems. Doing a dual narrative is always hard, because something will always suffer in the process. While the making of ‘Mary Poppins’ is happening, we continue flashing back to Travers’ past, and what influenced her to write these books. The problem is, other than Travers and her father, we don’t get to know anyone else in the movie that’s supposed to be of significance. Her mother is basically left to sit and be sad, starring off into the distance, with no emotional arc whatsoever. So when a pivotal scene between her and Travers happens, you’re left feeling nothing but uncomfortable, because you have no stock in the character and why you should care about what’s happening. The same goes with Travers’ aunt, who is the basis for Mary herself. She’s in very few scenes in the film, and we really don’t get to know her, which makes you wonder why exactly she is the basis of the character. There should have been more time spent with these people, letting us get to know them and their influence over Travers.

But don’t let those things turn you off of the movie. There’s plenty of great things too. In particular, all the scenes featuring PL Travers, The Sherman Brothers, and Don DeGradi are all excellent, and the highlights of the film. The best scene comes between Robert Sherman and Travers, where Bob has had it with her attitude, and finally calls her out. It’s a tense, funny, and excellent scene, but it really shows what they dealt with trying to even get the movie greenlit. It was an uphill battle from the beginning, and it’s one they’re lucky they won. The scenes between Travers and Walt are all also very good, especially one of their final scenes in London being one of the most beautiful and moving scenes in the whole film.

When ‘Saving Mr. Banks’ is at its best, it’s wonderful. A moving, fun, and heartwarming picture. But when it’s at its worst, it feels jumbled, and not always sincere. The movie stands out from its great performances, with Colin Farrell stealing the film from everyone around him. It’s just too bad the story didn’t play out better for certain characters, because it could have a made a good movie great.

Saving Mr. Banks Press Conference

Monorail system to close during non peak times for maintenance in early 2014

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Anonymouse

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December 19, 2013

Hiya boys and girls! It is I, Anonymouse, back with some more Disney Gossip. My sources tell me that the Walt Disney World Monorail system will be closing during non-peak periods in early 2014. Yup, that’s right, folks, The Monorail will be CLOSED!

Starting January 21, 2014, the Magic Kingdom Resort and Magic Kingdom Express Beams will be closed on weekdays between 11:30 am and 7:00 pm for maintenance. The work is expected to be ongoing through the end of March 2014. The monorail to Epcot WILL NOT be affected.

Don’t fret, Walt Disney World Resort & Parks will provide additional buses and watercraft during this scheduled maintenance.

So if you plan on travel during this time frame, plan accordingly.

Anywho, that is all the Disney gossip I have right now. For my past gossip articles be sure to check them out here. Got any good gossip/rumors please email me at [email protected] or on my facebook page.

Pop Warner Athletes Win Big at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 19, 2013

Last week the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort hosted the 2013 Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer & Dance Championships. 64 football teams and more than 400 cheer and dance teams from across the country.

In addition to the competition on the field and on the floor, more than 8,700 athletes and 2,000 coaches enjoyed the Pop Warner Celebration Party at Hollywood Studios, a Disney character breakfast, the opportunity to keep up with their studies at the OfficeMax Study Hall, and Disney sports recognized team moms at a Team Parent Information Session.

The NFL Players Association estimates roughly 70 percent of current NFL players, including Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow, Maurice Jones-Drew, Adrian Peterson and Ray Lewis, got their starts playing Pop Warner.

Watch Disney Parks Blog for updates.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Top 10 Things Disney World Rookies Must Do’s

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 19, 2013

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Is it your first time? Don’t worry, we have your back! We know that planning your vacation and your days at the parks can seem like quite an undertaking considering the massive amount of things to do and see; but that’s part of what makes Disney World great because you will never get bored and there’s always a reason to come back!

But what do you do with all of those options? What should you not miss on your first trip? What if you miss out?

Stress no more! Just sit back and relax while I list the top 10 things Disney Rookies shouldn’t miss during their magical Disney Vacation!

10. Monorail-Disney World’s has its own unique transportation system, a sleek, elevated train that transports guests to and from select Disney Resorts to Epcot and the Magic Kingdom! This mode of transportation is so iconic, and even fun, that Disney fans sometimes ride it just for fun! For the complete Disney experience, and especially if you have kids, the monorail is a must for Disney Rookies! Try this Monorail Tour.

9. Deluxe Resorts-Disney’s most luxurious resorts are magical experiences within themselves and they can be enjoyed by guests who may be staying elsewhere! Each resort has its own theme and features restaurants, shops, hundreds of details, cool pools, and gorgeous views and landscaping. Visiting Disney resorts is actually called “resort hopping,” and it’s a relaxing way to take a break during the heat of the day or to avoid the crowds.

8. Unique Treats-Food at Disney is also an experience, especially when it comes to sweet treats! Disney World has become famous for a few of their yummy snacks; and with all of these options, Disney Rookies should definitely not settle for the generic theme park hot dogs and cotton candy. What kind of unique treats are we talking about? We recommend the iconic Mickey Premium Bar, Dole Whips, a variety of creative cupcakes, cultural sweets from Epcot, and more!

7. Main Street USA-This part of the Magic Kingdom serves as the park’s entryway and is full of old fashioned charm, Disney history, great shopping, dining, and the best view of Cinderella Castle! Looking to browse, enjoy the Disney quality, and grab a snack, Main Street USA is definitely the place and it’s absolutely gorgeous lit up at night!

6. Thrill Rides-Disney Rookies may be under the impression that Disney World is full of kiddie rides, but they are definitely wrong! Disney World has many high adrenaline thrill rides that not only make guests scream, but also immerse you into a story and are some of the best attractions on property. Disney Rookies, be sure to check out Tower of Terror, Splash Mountain, Rock n Roller Coaster, Expedition Everest, Star Tours, and Space Mountain!

5. Enjoy a Character Meal-Character Meals are typically buffets at the Disney parks and resorts where Disney characters drop by your table for some one-on-one time! While opinions vary on which character meal to visit, or whether they are worth it, we think at least one is must-do for Disney Rookies, especially if you have kids! It’s a great way to meet characters without waiting in line in the sun for a few seconds of character interaction. Which character meals are best? I recommend the Crystal Palace, Akershus Storybook Dining, Cinderella’s Royal Table, and ‘Ohana!

4. Kilimanjaro Safaris-This Animal Kingdom attraction is not only a big crowd pleaser, it’s also an awesome experience! This ride lets guests ride in a safari vehicle through acres and acres of what truly looks like an authentic African savanna where real, African wildlife roam freely! It’s about the closest you can get to a real African safari and it’s an awesome chance to see animals out and about as they would be in the wild! It’s also a ride that every member of the family can enjoy, young or old. So Disney Rookies, don’t miss this!

3. World Showcase-This section of Epcot offers pavilions representing eleven different nations from around the world and features their architecture, history, culture, traditions, merchandise, and dining! Even the Cast Members who work in each of these pavilions are actually natives from those countries and are willing to share their knowledge with you. World Showcase offers some of the best dining on property and can be browsed and enjoyed at your own pace without waiting in lines as you can come and go and see as you please. It’s also one of the best places to do some unique souvenir shopping.

2. Soarin’-This attraction is arguably one of the best on property and shouldn’t be missed because everyone can enjoy it! Soarin’ is about as close as a guest can get to flying, but provides plenty of security for those who don’t prefer thrills. On this attraction, you sit on a bench seat along with other guests and are lifted towards a bowl shaped screen. When the film begins, showing a variety of landscapes from scenic California, you feel like you are flying right over them, even to the point of smelling oranges from the California orange groves and feeling a gentle spray from the ocean! This attraction simply has to be experienced and is one of Disney’s best!

1. Epcot & Hollywood Studios-Pretty much everyone going to WDW knows visit the Magic Kingdom, but many visitors don’t bother visiting Epcot or Hollywood Studios! While I like Animal Kingdom, these two parks feature some of the best Disney attractions, restaurants, and offer different views of the magic of Disney. So Disney Rookies, while you definitely shouldn’t miss the Magic Kingdom, don’t count out these other two, fantastic parks for some of the best of the best of Disney!

So are these on your Disney to-do list? Do you think these are definite must-dos for first time guests? Disney Rookies, do you feel any more at ease? Be sure to let me know!

Central Florida Leaders Show Their Disney Side

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 19, 2013

Central Florida Leaders Show their Disney Side

Wearing special Mickey Mouse ears, business leaders from around Central Florida showed their Disney Side during a luncheon for the “One Orlando” Leadership Summit.

Hosted in part by Walt Disney World Resort, the three-day event was organized by the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission, Visit Orlando and the Central Florida Partnership to showcase best practices in the region. The summit included behind-the-scenes tours and detailed discussions about transportation, health, education and tourism.

During the luncheon that focused on future trends in tourism, Walt Disney World Resort President George A. Kalogridis told attendees that Central Florida is a success story, in part because Walt Disney World is a success story.

“And to stay successful, we always strive to stay ahead of trends and integrate emerging technologies that can create ever more immersive experiences for our guests,” Kalogridis said.

To “lighten” up the luncheon, the nearly 150 attendees received illuminated Mickey Mouse ears to demonstrate the new technology used for the Disney Parks’ “Glow with the Show” nighttime-spectacular.

“Disney plays such an important role in our region and state, it was important for our region’s business and community leaders to have a keen understanding of all the good things happening at Walt Disney World Resort,” said Rick Weddle, president and CEO of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission. “In large part, because of Walt Disney World, ‘Orlando’ is a household name around the globe.

Wishing you Faith, Trust,and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

The Worst Times to Visit Walt Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 19, 2013

Did you know that there are actually times of the year when you shouldn’t visit Walt Disney World? I know, it’s hard to think that maybe there is a time when you shouldn’t visit your happy place. But, I have seen a lot of people make the mistake of visiting the Disney Parks at a time when the weather was horrible, the crowds were high, and they were unprepared for the added stress. In turn, their vacation didn’t turn out like they had planned. Sure, maybe these times I’m going to share as the “worst times” actually work well for your family. Or, if you are a seasoned Disney traveler and you are great with managing crowds, then you might visit during these times. However, if you are considering a 2014 Walt Disney World vacation, keep reading! Because you will want to avoid the Worst Times to Visit Walt Disney World.

February-The worst time to visit after the New Year has started is President’s Day which falls in February. A lot of schools are out for a break. Also, many people from the Midwest or cold climates are looking for an escape from the winter weather. If you can avoid President’s Day weekend, do so.

March/April-Spring Break is in full swing during mid to late March and early April. Doesn’t everyone want to go to Florida over Spring Break? Yep. And that is why, if possible, you should avoid the Disney Parks from mid March through early April. If that is when your spring break falls, and you can visit then, be patient and prepared.

May-Memorial Day weekend is another holiday weekend to avoid. By then, spring is in full swing, and everyone needs a remedy from cabin fever. Plus, it is close to the end of school, so many parents are willing to let their children miss the Friday before and the Tuesday after to make a quick getaway before summer sets in.

June/July/August-If you can avoid any months in the Disney Parks, avoid late June through late August. Hot, humid, crowded, and blech. That pretty much sums it up. The Florida heat can be oppressive, the rain doesn’t usually stay away, and it is so crowded. Trust me, you’ll be glad you went the first two weeks of June, or at the end of August.

November/December– Even though there are a few select weeks that these months can be manageable, they still make the “worst times” list. The week of Thanksgiving, many schools let out a day or two before Thanksgiving. So, a lot of families head to the parks because the school break allows it and the Christmas decorations are up and in full swing. Same with the week of Christmas and between Christmas and New Year’s. The parks are known for closing at capacity during those weeks.

Does your family visit during any of these times? If so, what advice do you have for us? If not, when do you prefer to visit?

Contact me today to get your 2014 Disney Parks trip booked, and enjoy up to a $35 resort credit just for being a reader of Chip and Co.! I’m always ready to walk alongside of you to create magical vacation memories for you and your family! Email me at [email protected] for more details.

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