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Disney Dining Tips – Don’t Forget to Visit the Disney World Resort Restaurants

December 10, 2013

Dining at Walt Disney World is an experience in and of itself, isn’t it? It seems like every step you take in the parks, there is a dessert, snack, or entree you are wanting to try. Or, if you’re like me, adding to your “to try” list. But what about the resorts? The Disney World Resort Restaurants are not to be missed! In fact, I find myself either enjoying those resort restaurants myself, or recommending them highly to others! Why are the resort restaurants a “must do”?

The resort restaurants house many of the character dining experiences. Want to dine with the Fab Five? Then Cape May at the Beach Club Resort or Chef Mickey’s at the Contemporary Resort are where you will find these classic characters. Need some princess interacation? Then 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian Resort, as well as the Perfectly Princess Tea Party will make you and your little princess feel like royalty. Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, and other friends make an appearance at breakfast and lunch. For dinner, Cinderella and Prince Charming entertain guests at the 1900 Park Fare Happily Ever After Dinner. O’hana at the Polynesian resort will treat you to breakfast with Lilo and Stitch.
Dining at a resort restaurant gives you a break from the parks. Need some down time from EPCOT? Then head out of the back entrance at World Showcase, and you’ll find yourself steps away from Disney’s Beach Club Resort in the Boardwalk area. This is the home of Beaches and Cream, one of the best ice cream experiences in all of Walt Disney World! Or, how about a beignet? That’s unique to Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort dining location, Sassagoula Floatworks and and Food Factory.

Visiting the resort restaurants is an experience! Not only are you able to try some great and unique foods, but also explore the themes and beauty of many of Disney’s resorts. This really gives you a chance to explore the magic of Walt Disney World outside the parks!

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.

Three Disney Cruise Line Ships Sailing from Port Canaveral in Early 2014

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 10, 2013

Starting in January, three Disney Cruise Line ships will be sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida to give you the chance to experience “two of the magical lands that set Disney apart” – the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Castaway Cay in the Caribbean.

Port Canaveral is already home to both the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy ships, offering 3- and 4-night cruises to the Bahamas on the Disney Dream and 7-night cruises to the Caribbean on the Disney Fantasy. Beginning January 2, 2014, the Disney Magic will also sail on 3- and 4-night cruises from Port Canaveral.

Port Canaveral is only about an hour drive from the Walt Disney World Resort, which gives you the great option of planning the perfect Disney vacation – both on land and at sea! If you’re still trying to find the perfect holiday gift that you know your family will love, there are special prices available to experience a 3-night Bahamian cruise as well as a 3-night stay in Walt Disney World Resort for early next year.

You can easily combine a cruise and resort stay with convenient features including motor coach transportation between the port and resort and luggage delivery from the resort to your stateroom. Another exciting part of the Disney Cruise Line sailings from Port Canaveral is that every one of them includes a stop at Disney’s own private island, Castaway Cay.

Don’t forget that we are hosting a Chip and Co Land and Sea package next fall! We will be at Walt Disney World October 11-16, 2014 and then on a 3-night Bahamian Cruise October 16-19, 2014! You can enjoy exclusive events just for our fans. Plus, we have discounted rates that you won’t find anywhere else!

Would you like to plan a Disney Cruise or Disney World vacation or join us in October? Contact Siera today at [email protected] or 734-771-1290. Be sure to let her know Chip and Co. sent you!

When Siera isn’t helping plan Disney vacations or sharing the latest Disney news, you can find her spreading magic on Facebook and Twitter. Are you planning a Disney Cruise Line or Disney World vacation? Siera, a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, would love to help you! Contact her at [email protected] or 734-771-1290!

‘Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United’ Blu-ray Review

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 10, 2013

With Marvel’s success on the big screen over the past few years, it was only a matter of time before they turned their attention back to their animated films. It makes sense that their newest title is based around Iron Man and Hulk, who had the standout chemistry in ‘The Avengers’ last summer. The two stole characters stole the show together, and so Marvel saw fit to try and capitalize on that, and bring the heroes together for their own film.

‘Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United’ finds our heroes pitted against ZZZax, an enemy who was accidentally created by two HYDRA Doctors who are bent on trying to use the Hulk’s radiation to power their own arc reactor. When ZZZax emerges, he threatens the entire world’s energy supplies, so Iron Man and Hulk must band together, with the aid of JARVIS, and save the world.

The movie is a good way to pass the time, especially for kids. The plot is very A to B, full of action, and added humor, so kids are going to have a blast watching it. Hulk and Iron Man definitely work well together as partners, and it’s fun to watch them fighting side by side together. The animation is pretty good for a straight to video movie, but one can’t help but wonder what the movie would have been like had it been given a bigger budget, and possibly been hand drawn, like their animated series counterparts. The problem with CGI animation like this is that it feels like a video game, so it feels like you’re watching one long video game cut scene. It doesn’t really hinder the film, it would just be nice to a return of their hand drawn films, like ‘Ultimate Avengers’.

Being a Disney disc, it’s no surprise here that the movie looks and sounds excellent on blu-ray. The picture is pristine, looking crisp and clear. It really makes the Hulk, more than any other character in the movie, standout even more than he might have already. The film’s audio mix is also quite good. Since the film has a lot of action, it comes with a loaded 5.1 DTS-HD audio track that really gives your speakers a workout. All the explosions, punches, and replicated even better than ever. It’s a ground surround sound mix, and it really makes the movie more immersive. It’s really a testament to how Disney spends times on their blu-rays, even for smaller releases like this. It’s just too bad the movie didn’t have much in the way of special features. There’s a short 11 minute featurette with Joe Quesada and Marvel’s Agent M, as they talk about their rise through the company, and three of the Marvel Mash-Ups that have become very popular on Disney XD. It would have been great to get interviews with the voice actors of the film, but it just wasn’t meant to be unfortunately.

‘Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United’ is a good way to spend a little bit of time, and kids are definitely going to enjoy it. The blu-ray looks and sounds spectacular, but is light on special features. It’s an overall solid release, and fans of Iron Man and Hulk should definitely check it out.

B-

It’s Disney Cruise Line this Week on ‘Wheel of Fortune’

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 9, 2013

Starting tonight, it’s “Disney Cruise Line Week on Wheel of Fortune” and we hope you’ll tune in, because there’s a lot of hijinks on the High Seas ahead!

We wanted to give you a behind-the-scenes peek at the preparation and the filming of this fantastic week of shows! Enjoy these behind-the scenes outtakes that never made the “final cut,” then tune in to “Wheel of Fortune” all this week – and, buy a vowel!

We’re excited to share a few photos: First, the finished set – don’t these ships look ready to sail?

Mickey “overseeing” the Production.

Goofy and Donald trying to steal “ears” from unsuspecting audience members…

And the gang arriving for work at the Sound Stage.

We were also thrilled that a number of cast members from Disneyland Resort attended the tapings, and here they are posing for a picture in front of the famous puzzle board.

Everything went flawlessly – except for a couple of not-to-be-named chipmunks who were late for their close-ups due to a post-lunch nap. But, we caught up, and we think you’ll love what you see.

Hope you enjoyed the behind the scenes sneak peek!

For updates check out Disney Parks Blog.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Drink Around the World Showcase – Canada Pavilion

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 9, 2013

Our last stop in the Drinking Around the World Showcase series ends in Canada pavilion (or begins in Canada, depending on which way you start). It’s a good thing that there aren’t very many drink or food offerings at this pavilion because if you’re at the end of your Drinking Around the World Showcase (DAWS) excursion, you’re not going to want to consume much anyway! To be fair, after assessing the options at this pavilion, you’re not likely to get more than mildly nutty.

The Canada pavilion does not include any quick service locations and only has one kiosk. The kiosk, located near the entrance to Le Cellier – the pavilion’s table service location – offers limited choices. Beer enthusiasts will be able to grab the Canadian Moosehead beer ($8.50 or $12.25 in a souvenir mug). The kiosk used to serve Labatt Blue but it looks like the pavilion is not serving it anymore. Other beers include the French Canadian: La Fin Du Monde and Trois Pistoles ($10.25) and Cherry Ephemere ($9.25). Non-beer drinkers can imbibe in the Torontopolitan made from Iceberg Vodka, Creme de Cassis, Triple Sec, and Cranberry Juice ($8.25). As far as snacks go, you’re limited to popcorn at this kiosk. It’s too bad they don’t carry the Le Cellier Canadian cheddar cheese soup!

Speaking of Canadian cheddar cheese soup, Le Cellier is the table service location in the Canada Pavilion and it’s well-known for its offerings as a steak house. It makes a great location for families, adults, and couples. It’s also great to visit for drinks and appetizers, though be advised; ADRs at this location come at a premium and are highly advised. Because this location is set to look like a wine cellar there are lots of great wine choices at this location. Beer options remain limited and will include Moosehead (which is used in the cheese soup!), Labatt Blue, and other seasonal offerings.

Overall, the Canada pavilion is perhaps the most disappointing of all the pavilions in the World Showcase. If you’re looking to really sample the drinks and tastes of the pavilions, stick to the others before heading to Canada.

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.

Disney Store Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 9, 2013

Disney Store is a must-stop destination for gift-givers featuring an impressive selection of high quality toys, plush, apparel and more, inspired by everyone’s favorite Disney stories and characters. From Sofia the First and Doc McStuffins, to Buzz Lightyear and Mickey Mouse, Disney Store and DisneyStore.com offer an exclusive assortment of products to delight the young and young at heart.

Disney Store’s Wish List features some of the hottest toys of the season, including Toy Story Talking Action Figures; Disney Animators’ Collection Dolls; “it’s a small world” Singing Dolls; toys from hit Disney Junior series Sofia the First and Jake and the Never Land Pirates; character sleepwear sets for kids and toys inspired by Disney’s newest animated feature, Frozen.

Take a look at some of the toys:

Doc McStuffins Doctor Bag Play Set

SRP: $24.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Keep an appointment for fun with Doc McStuffins. This Doctor Bag play set includes Doc’s favorite patient pal, Lambie, and all the toy tools needed to give a thorough check-up. All better!

Mickey Mouse Plush – 18″

SRP: $19.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Our leader of the club is sure to be a swell addition to any clubhouse. See ya real soon!

Minnie Mouse Plush – 18″

SRP: $19.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Mickey’s sweetheart is hard to resist in her cute red pokla dotted dress and bow, she’s such a classic!

Lambie Plush – 11″ – Doc McStuffins

SRP: $19.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Nothing cures a common boo-boo like a warm hug from a soft plush friend. Doc McStuffin’s live-in patient Lambie proves that a little love and tender care can be the best prescription for any ailment!

Rapunzel Plush Doll – 21″

SRP: $19.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Soft plush Rapunzel dreams of faraway adventures. Fully costumed in intricate detail, with long velvet golden hair, satin ribbons, and signature lavender dress accented with glitter foil, she will never tangle with your affections.

Doc McStuffins PJ Pal for Girls

SRP: $16.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

The Doc prescribes at least eight hours of sleep every night in her soft, snuggly pajama set, made from the cozy comfort of 100% cotton.

Monsters University PJ Pal for Boys

SRP: $16.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Your junior grad can enjoy some shut eye in the company of Mike Wazowski and his frat pal Sulley. The two members of Oozma Kappa scare up this all-cotton Monsters University PJ Pal that will be more than OK at sleeptime.

Cars Deluxe Die Cast Hot Rod Set

SRP: $29.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Lightning McQueen, his friends, and a foe have been customized with turbo power coolness for this deluxe five-vehicle collector’s set of sizzlin’ hot rod variants from the world of Cars.

Olaf Singing Plush – 10 1/2″

SRP: $24.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Our animated talking Olaf plush toy will surely melt your heart when you press his foot to hear him speak and sing In Summer from Disney’s comedy-adventure Frozen.

Elsa Singing Doll – Frozen

SRP: $39.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Elsa will light up the room with a song and her cool blue glow when you activate her motion-detection. Clad in her signature shimmering gown, the snow queen brings Let it Go to life each time you command a performance.

Anna Singing Doll – Frozen

SRP: $39.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Anna will light up the room with a song and her cool blue glow when you activate her motion-detection. Clad in her signature folk costume, Anna brings music to life For the First Time, each time you command a performance.

Frozen Castle of Arendelle Play Set

SRP: $99.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

She’ll discover days of imaginative play creating her own adventures in the kingdom of Arendelle with this stunning, sparkling 3-level castle play set inspired by Disney’s Frozen. Includes 5 play figures, plus 7-pieces of furniture!

Buzz Lightyear Talking Action Figure – 12″

SRP: $24.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Does your space ranger feel like a trip to the stars? So does Buzz! This Toy Story action figure does plenty of talking, which is useful on a long space voyage. And Buzz can protect the crew with his karate chop action!

Jessie Talking Action Figure – 16″

SRP: $24.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Jessie will rustle up a whole mess o’ fun for your little cowpoke every time she talks. This Toy Story action figure yodels, hollars and has plenty more to say when she’s out on the range with the young ‘uns!

Woody Talking Action Figure – 16″

SRP: $24.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Your rootin’ tooin’ little Toy Story fan will love settin’ down for a talk with Sheriff Woody by the campfire. And after that they can save the whole wild west together!

Disney Animators’ Collection Snow White Doll – 16″

SRP: $24.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Princess Snow White is reimagined as a little girl, who from the very beginning was always ”the fairest of them all.” This updated edition is gowned in a glittering costume with velour capelet.

Disney Animators’ Collection Ariel Doll – 16″

SRP: $24.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Young Princess Ariel is reimagined as the little mermaid whose bubbly curiosity will one day bring her to the human world. This updated edition features a mermaid tail with glittering scales.

Disney Princess Costume Set for Girls

SRP: $149.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Little princesses can dress up as their favorite Disney Princess characters in this beautiful costume set, which features five of the iconic, graceful and kind Disney Princess characters.

Dusty Talking Action Figure – Planes

SRP: $24.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

The crop-dusting star of Planes never forgets his lines with this Dusty Talking Action Figure. Complete with his interchangeable wings and propeller, Dusty speaks 15 phrases and features engine revving sounds!

Bravo Talking Action Figure – Planes

SRP: $24.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

The Super Hornet shows its sting with this detailed model of the Planes character. Bravo speaks 11 phrases and features LED lights, spring loaded bombs, and engine revving sounds so the fun will really take off.

Echo Talking Action Figure – Planes

SRP: $24.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

The guardian of the seas, Echo, sure has a lot to say for himself. This detailed model of the Planes character speaks 12 phrases and features LED lights, spring loaded bombs, and engine revving sounds so the fun will really take off.

“it’s a small world” Various dolls – 16″

SRP: $29.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Jake and the Never Land Pirates Deluxe Bucky Pirate Ship Play Set

SRP: $59.95
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Voyage to a Never Land of endless playtime adventure with Bucky the Pirate Ship, Peter Pan, Jake, and their merry crew. Bucky’s deluxe play set features back-and-forth sea motion, spinning helm, moving fins, cannon launcher, and a submarine shell!

Sofia the First Singing Doll – 12″

SRP: $29.50
Available: Disney Store and DisneyStore.com

Her mom married the King, now she’s learning to be a Princess! Press glamorous satin-gowned Sofia’s belly to hear her sing Anything from the hit Disney Channel show.

To #SharetheMagic through the holidays, this weekend only DisneyStore.com is offering free shipping on any purchase that includes an item from the Frozen assortment. Disney Store features exclusive Frozen dolls (including Classic, Singing and Limited Edition Dolls), play sets, Anna and Elsa costumes for girls and more, all inspired by the film from Walt Disney Animation Studios with the top Thanksgiving debut of all time. Additionally, the celebration continues with Disney Store’s “Magical Mondays” leading up to December 25, where exclusive deals will be released on December 9 and December 16.

‘Share the Magic’ Wish Gifts:
As part of its commitment to local communities, Disney Store is helping support the Boys & Girls Clubs of America through its Wish Gift program. Now through December 21, for every purchase of a select Holiday Wish Gift plush toy, ornament or snow globe, Disney Store will donate $1 to the organization, up to $100,000 (minimum donation, $50,000). By the end of 2013, The Walt Disney Company will have donated more than $1.5 million to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Zact Mobile Introduces First Smartphone for Kids preloaded with Disney Apps

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 9, 2013

Zact Mobile, the industry’s first smart mobile service, is bringing kid-friendly smartphone service with pre-loaded Disney apps and content to families across the U.S. It will be a first smartphone of its kind for kids, featuring top mobile entertainment from Disney, along with Zact’s unprecedented customization, flexibility and control.

The Zact Mobile service will come pre-loaded with apps from Disney, including the hit titles Toy Story: Smash It! and Disney Infinity: Action!. The service will also feature access to the best in family-friendly content such as Disney Video, Disney Music, and Disney ¡Ajá!, which is Disney’s Spanish language destination.

“Parents have been looking for a way to control and customize a mobile phone service for their kids, and the Zact phone featuring Disney content is a smart option for families who want huge savings on their monthly bill, along with the best in family-friendly entertainment. In addition, there is no need to buy an expensive plan since parents can choose any amount of voice, text, data starting as low as $3.49 per month,” said Greg Raleigh, founder and CEO of ItsOn, parent company of Zact.

At the core of the Zact Mobile service, families get the following:

A highly customizable no contract mobile service with nationwide coverage

Huge savings on voice, text, and data plans that start as low as $3.49

Ability to adjust plans anytime right on the device

Free family sharing and ability to set allowances on talk, text and data

Built-in parental controls

Zact is the only smartphone for kids that give parents the control to manage their kid’s smartphone use. It promises to help parents remotely control when their child uses the phone, which apps they can use, and who they can contact. Parents can either use a Zact-enabled phone to control their kids phone, or they can download a free app called Zact Control from iTunes or Google Play which gives them a remote control to turn off their kids phone, manage their plan, or control access.

Zact was recently recognized as winner of The National Parenting Center’s Seal of Approval’ in November 2013. According to a The National Parenting Center, “Zact gives parents a level of mobile control the likes of which none of our testers had ever seen or imagined was possible.”

Zact Mobile featuring Disney content will be available at magic.zact.com. This unique offering will be promoted across various Disney properties.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Mary Poppins Blu-Ray/DVD 50th Anniversary Edition Available to own December 10th!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 9, 2013

Poppincember is ON! That’s right, we are merely days away from some of the best events of 2013! Coming December 10th, you can own a copy of the 50th Anniversary Edition of Mary Poppins and only 10 short days later you can catch Saving Mr. Banks in theaters! I am loving this month! What better way to ring in Poppincember than to review my copy of this special edition Blu-ray/DVD pack!

We all know and love the movie, so I’m not going to harp too much on the story, other than to say the digital restoration of this edition would make even P.L. Travers grin with delight! Special features on this combo pack include “classic special features” :

Deleted song “Chimpanzoo”
A Magical Musical Reunion with Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, and Richard Sherman
Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious: The Making of Mary Poppins

As well as some all new to this edition special features:

All New Becoming Mr. Sherman- Enjoy a Conversation Between Legendary Composer Richard Sherman and Actor Jason Shwartzman (Who plays Richard Sherman in Saving Mr. Banks).
All New Mary-Oke Sing-Along

I really enjoyed all of the special features. Although, watching these special features has added to my “to do” list (to do: see Mary Poppins live on stage). I love seeing the creation of this beloved story that continues to live on after the movie. Mary Poppins is seeing new life through the updated editions, creation of a live stage show, the upcoming Saving Mr. Banks. I love the continuity that is evident in the work of everyone involved in this legacy!

I especially enjoyed the special feature, Becoming Mr. Sherman! Jason Shwartzman and Richard Sherman (one half of the famous music duo, the Sherman Brothers) have an awesome stroll down memory lane. I really appreciate the care that went into the creation of this role; Shwartzman’s respect for the Sherman brothers work was clearly evident. I really enjoyed seeing clips of the movie as I gained an even bigger appreciation for this film (sorry I’m totally fangirling over Saving Mr. Banks!). I’m already a raving fan! I can’t wait for it to come out!!!!!!!

Another special feature I really enjoyed was the Mary-Oke sing along! What better way to celebrate the days of Poppincember than to sing in style to some of my favorite tunes from the movie. The lyrics are presented in a beautiful display of typography, in fact when I first played them, I couldn’t even focus on singing because I was marveling at the beautiful presentation. It really is stunning….it’s supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

This Blu-Ray/DVD special edition would make a lovely addition to your Christmas list…it’s practically perfect in every way! I hope you’ll join me in celebrating Poppincember and put this on your Christmas list! Get your copy December 10th! In honor of this celebration, let’s share our favorite Sherman brother’s tune in the comment section below. I love them all, but today, I really love “A British Bank.” Now it’s your turn!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting!

See ya real soon!

Ashley

Weekly Orlando Discounts – Disney, Universal and More

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 9, 2013

Disney & Orlando Digest – Week of December 8, 2013

Disney Discounts

Walt Disney World^® Resort

Play Stay and Dine…and Save up to $600 at the Walt Disney World® Resorts:

Here is a great offer for your next family vacation. For most stays from January 5^th through March 5^th, 2014 when booked by December 31^st, 2013 you can save $600.00 (based on a family of four) on a five night stay at selected Disney Resort hotels with the Play Stay and Dine promotion. Take advantage of some huge saving by booking now!

Save Up To 35% on Stays at Select Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels: If you are planning a Winter-Spring vacation in 2014, now is the time to book. You can save up to 35% off select Disney Resorts from January 5-April 12, 2014. These savings are based on availability. This sale ends December 31, so book today!
Florida Resident Fall & Winter Rates: Florida Residents can take advantage of great rates on rooms at select Disney Resorts hotels for stays through December 14, just in time for the holiday season.
New! Florida residents! Enjoy great rates at select Walt Disney World® Resort hotels: It’s the perfect time to enjoy a magical getaway. Florida Residents can enjoy even more magic with great rates at select Disney Resort hotels most nights January 4- April 8, 2014. For example, save up to 37% on rooms at select Disney Deluxe Resorts and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts from January 4- January 18 and March 14- March 29, 2014. Book December 2, 2013 – April 8, 2014.
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.
Intro to Disney: For first time guests or guests looking to save money, the Intro to Disney package is perfect. This package includes at least a 3-Night package with your Disney Resort, 2-Day tickets, and the Quick Service Dining Plan. You can add additional nights and days at the parks, for an extra cost. This price starts from $999 plus tax for a family of 3. This price is subject to change based on availability. This discount is available for most visits from January 5-February 12, 2014. Hurry, this discount ends on December 31, 2013.

Disneyland® Resort

Save Up to 25% on Rooms at a Disneyland® Resort Hotel: Save up to 25% on rooms at a Disneyland Hotel most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 5^th through April 10, 2014. Book through January 28, 2014.

Disney Cruise Line®

Two Disney Vacations in One for Less than $800: Combine the magic of a cruise and all of the wonder of Disney World into one amazing deal! Packages are a 3 night’s stay at a value resort plus a 3 night cruise. Sailings are from January 17, 2014 through February 7, 2014. Book now to be part of this great adventure.
LAST WEEK! Give the Gift of Disney Cruise Line® memories: Tis the season to give the gift that everyone in the family will think was made just for them—a Disney Cruise Line® vacation! Not to mention the lifetime of memories that comes with it. Book by December 15, 2013, and you can secure a trip for your family while enjoying 50% off the required deposit! (Remaining balance due at time of final payment).
NEW! Special Rates for Cruises from Port Canaveral: You can escape on your own carefree, tropical getaway with Disney Cruise Line® and save 20% off prevailing rates on select 3- and 4-Night Bahamian Cruises sailing from Port Canaveral in January 2014. All voyages include a visit to Nassau and an unforgettable day at Disney’s private island paradise, Disney’s Castaway Cay, with its sparkling turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. Available sail dates: 3-Night Bahamian Sailings on the Disney Magic®: January 10 and January 31, 2014 and 4-Night Bahamian Sailings on the Disney Dream®: January 12 and January 26, 2014.
Special Castaway Club Member Offer: Castaway Club Members can receive a US $100 onboard credit when they book a 4- or 5-night Disney Magic® cruise departing from Miami November 1 – December 18, 2013 (excluding November 24 and December 8, 2013). They can use their credit for a variety of onboard activities and experiences, including spa treatments, shopping, adults-only dining and more!
Canadian Resident Offer: Canadian residents save 20% off prevailing rates on 3 and 4 night Bahamian sailings aboard the Disney Magic® for most sailings from January 10 – February 28, 2014 (excluding January 17, 20, February 14, 17, 2014) for categories 4A – 11B.

Aulani

Get a Free Night and Free Breakfast: For a limited time, when you purchase a minimum 4-night stay at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, you’ll get the 4th night free – including breakfast daily for two adults at the new Ulu Cafe. Book this offer by January 15, 2014, for stays most nights January 5 – April 7, 2014.

Universal Orlando Resort Discounts

Save up to 30% on Universal Resorts: Discounts begin at 3 nights at any of the three Universal Orlando^® Resort deluxe hotels during the best days to vacation. Plus take advantage of $150 in hotel savings including discounts on food, drinks, spa treatments and more! Vacation dates include: November 11^th-December 19^th, 2013.
3^rd Night & Day Free: Stay at a nearby Universal Partner Hotel and you’ll receive your 3^rd night and 3^rd day FREE. (Must be used by May 22^nd 2014) You will get early park admission one hour before the theme park opens. Free shuttle transportation from your hotel to the park as well. Book by December 15^th, 2013 for travel dates of November 1^st through December 22^nd 2013.
Save up to 25% at Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Discounts begin at 4 nights at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, opening early 2014. Travel back to the 1950’s and 60’s for endless family fun at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. With its ideal location and fun retro atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy everything Universal Orlando^® Resort has to offer. The value and moderate accommodations feature family suites (sleeping up to 6) with kitchenettes, and standard rooms (sleeping up to 4). Rates valid for travel September 1^st, 2014 through October 2^nd, 2014 and November 30^th, 2014 through December 11^th, 2014.
NEW! Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is celebrating its 2014 opening with an incredible preview offer, allowing guests to be among the first to experience Universal Orlando’s new moderate-and value-priced property, inspired by iconic beach resorts of the 1950’s and 60’s. For a limited time, the whole family can experience Cabana Bay Beach Resort’s new family suites with rates starting at $104 per night for a seven-night stay to $134 per night for a three-night stay. Offering up to 47% savings off regular prices, this introductory offer is available now for purchase for stays from March 31 to June 14, 2014. Package is available for purchase now through January 31, 2014.
Universal 1-Day or 2-Day Pass with Shuttle Transportation: Take a day away from the Disney World Parks to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Book a 1-Day or 2-Day Pass to Universal Studios with shuttle transportation included in the ticket. This special ticket is only available with select companies including Destinations in Florida.

Sea World Discounts

Expedition Antarctica at SeaWorld®: Experience the Freeze! Package includes free Quick Queue (front-of-the-line) at SeaWorld’s Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™, dining at the Expedition Café, a free photo and a third hotel night FREE!
SeaWorld + Aquatica Add Aquatica for just $40: Enjoy unlimited access to the sights and splashes of SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark™ during your vacation.
Free Food: Book your Sea World Package at a partner hotel and get the All Day Dining for FREE. Add a day at Aquatica and eat there free, too!
Kids Free, PLUS 2nd Visit Free, through December 25^th, 2014: SeaWorld is the place for families this holiday season. And now, enjoy one free kid’s admission (ages 3-9) with each full-paid adult admission ticket.
Save $10 on Sea World Tickets: Pre-order your Sea World tickets and save $10 off per ticket. You can also print your Sea World tickets, so you do not have to wait in any lines once you arrive to the park. Plus, even better, your 2nd day at Sea World is free!
5 Incredible Parks, 1 Ticket, Orlando’s Best Vacation Value: See more for less! This package features the Orlando FlexTicket, offering unlimited admissions to SeaWorld, Aquatica, Universal Orlando, Islands of Adventure and Wet’n Wild during your stay. Perfect for your Orlando vacation. Stay at least 5 nights and enjoy the best of Orlando! Plus, free transportation and other great benefits available when you choose an Official Hotel of SeaWorld. Package requires a 10-day advance purchase. Stay a minimum of 5 nights and as an added value, your 5th night is FREE!

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!

Disney Now has Control Over the Indiana Jones Franchise

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 8, 2013

Disney and Paramount reached an agreement for the future of the Indiana Jones franchise. It gives Disney control over all the future films but Paramount will retain the rights to the first four films and “will receive a financial participation on any future films that are produced and released,” says the statement from the studios.

The first four films in the franchise are 1981’s Raiders of the Lost Ark, 1984’s Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, 1989’s Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and 2008’s Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, were all directed by Steven Spielberg and distributed by Paramount.

The deal leaves an opening for a new movie. However there has been no official news about a fifth movie yet.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Are big changes coming to Disney Cruise Line in 2015?

Anonymouse

December 8, 2013

Howdy Fellow Disney Addicts! It is your one and only favorite gossip columnist in the whole wide world, Anonymouse! I have some Disney Cruise Line gossip for you today.

Word around Disney Cruise Line is that there are big changes coming for 2015 and beyond. My sources tell me that Disney Cruise Line may not be have Europe itineraries in 2015. That also means no Transatlantic cruises.

Never fear, for rumor has it that Disney Cruise Line has something even better coming. It is rumored that Disney Cruise Line has requested to sail out of New Orleans. This will open up so many new possibilities for itineraries. I, for one, would be really happy about them sailing from New Orleans. Who doesn’t want to go to Bourbon Street before getting on a cruise? Beignets, any one?

Hawaii itineraries may also be returning in 2015. Maybe it will include an excursion to Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa. Other rumored itineraries include Eastern Canada, South America, Scandinavia and the Adriatic Sea.

Of course, we will all have to wait and see.

What itineraries do you think should be added?

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.

Your Disney To Do List – What “To Do” After You Have Your Resort and Dining Reservations

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 8, 2013

You have decided on your Disney World Resort reservation, and diligently made your Disney Dining Reservations. Now what? What do you do while you are waiting, to make sure you don’t forget anything?

So, today I want to share with you a Disney To Do List – What “To Do” After You Have Your Resort and Dining Reservations.

Start making a packing list. Write down EVERY SINGLE THING you want to take along with you. I go through each family member, and write down how many outfits they will need, what new clothes need to be purchased, and all the essentials they need to get through each day.
Create a “to buy” list from your packing list. Separate this out into categories like toiletries, medications, park necessities, clothes, food, etc. This way, you can be on the lookout for sales and items you want to buy. This is especially helpful if you have booked a trip in one season, like summer, but you’re actually traveling in the fall or winter. You’ll know to be on the look out for bathing suits, flip flops, and other items that are hard to find in the winter months.
Order your Customized Maps and your Disney Parks Planning DVD. Our kids love these, and they make a fun souvenir. While we are sitting at the computer planning park days, our kids are poring over their maps.
Book your flights, and set up your Magical Express transportation.
Login to My Disney Experience at least once a week to check and see that all your reservations are up to date, as well as if you are able to customize and order your MagicBands, and make FastPass+ selections.
Make special experience reservations. Do you want to experience Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique? How about the Pirates League or a Pirates and Pals Fireworks Cruise? You’ll want to book these soon after making your dining reservations.
Check crowd calendars. Our friends at Touring Plans have an accurate crowd calendar, as does EasyWDW. Look at the dates of your trips, and lightly plan which park you’ll visit on which day. If necessary, change around a few dining reservations to match your park days. Also, be sure to use those to check when the night shows are occurring. If Wishes is only two nights out of your stay, or you don’t want to miss Fantasmic, you’ll want to plan your days accordingly.
About 8 weeks before you travel, or more if you’re like me, start “soft packing“. Set aside items that are exclusively for your Disney trip. Did you get the kids matching tshirt for that fun character meal? How about a special princess dress for Cinderella’s Royal Table? Is it still too cool where you live for sunscreen, but you know you’ll need it in Florida? Set those items aside to make sure you don’t forget anything.
Start mapping out your park days, with what attractions you don’t want to miss, and which ones you don’t mind skipping. Do you want a non park day? If so, account for this and make a few rough plans as to what you are going to do on that day. Three days before you depart, check the park hours to see if you want to make any last minute adjustments to your touring. Perhaps a park has added some Extra Magic Hours, or another showing of the Main Street Electrical Parade.
Investigate special magical options through Disney Floral and Gifts or Walt Disney World Personal Shopper. These, as well as other companies, will be happy to work with you to have something magical delivered to your room while you are traveling.
Box up items to ship to your resort. A great planning tip is to send yourself a package to your Disney Resort. Include dry snacks, sunscreen, wipes, diapers, or other toiletries, etc. This will save room in your luggage or in your car
Call the Disney Dining Reservation line to make sure any celebrations are noted on your dining reservations, as well as other special dietary requests. Even though you may have already noted these, it’s a really good idea to double check so you don’t have any surprises upon your arrival.
Gather last minute documents and small but important items. About a week before you leave, charge your camera batteries, and double check your packing against your original list. Are there any last minute items you need to buy? Documents you need to track down?

Does this Disney To Do list look like anything you like to do before traveling? What am I missing?

Would you like to take the hassle out of a lot of these details? Or have someone to bounce ideas off of to help you make the most magical, yet stress free vacation possible? I’d love to help you! You can email me at [email protected], or find me on Facebook. I’d love to be your personal travel assistant!

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