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Enjoy An Adult “Date Night” On Disney World’s Boardwalk

October 1, 2013

Walt Disney World is full of amazing Resorts to choose from, and I personally love staying on WDW Property and getting to check out all that the different Resorts have to offer. Some Resorts tend to be more kid and family friendly, while others cater to more of an “adult” crowd. Personally, when I am looking to have a nice “Date” at WDW, I head over to Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort. Why you might ask? Well, because it’s the perfect place for a date night, that’s why!

Start With A Toast: Head over to the Boardwalk in the late afternoon and start your date at Big River Grille and Brewing Works – the only working brewpub on WDW property, where you can watch award-winning ales and lagers be brewed right before your eyes via the floor to ceiling glass windows that give you a glimpse of the Brewmaster at work. Not sure which beer to try? Then try them all with their sampler, and if you aren’t a huge beer fan, then say “cheers!” with some of the other delicious drinks available here, which include a large list of wines and specialty cocktails

Have A Treat: Take a stroll down the boardwalk to the Boardwalk Bakery for a sweet treat – they bake them fresh daily, so not only does it smell amazing in there, but it makes the treats even better! You can find assorted danishes/muffins, as well as delectable desserts – Lemon meringue tart, mickey ganache tart, apple tart, eclairs, assorted cupcakes, and more! And if you skipped lunch and need something more substantial, you can grab a fresh salad, sandwich, or soup here too. My personal recommendation is the cheesecake brownie – dense, sweet, rich, fudgy – this one has it all, and paired with a latte or glass of milk its pure perfection

Rent A Surrey: Now that you are on a sugar high from your Bakery trip, why not expend some of that energy and rent a surrey? For those of you who don’t know what a surrey is, it’s a 4 wheeled carriage that you pedal like a bike, and they come in 2, 4 and 6 seater versions, and they even have cute little canopies to shield you from the sun! Not sure the surrey is for you? They have regular bike rentals available here too, and you can cruise down the boardwalk with the breeze hitting your face

Relax: So you’ve gotten some exercise, had your daily Disney Sugar rush, now what? Nothing, that’s what! Grab a deck chair, and enjoy the company of your significant other as you take in the late afternoon/early evening scenery. It’s a great way to people watch, and to take some time to reflect on just how great WDW is!

Enjoy A Delicious Dinner: There are two amazing “date-worthy” restaurants at the Boardwalk – check out the Flying Fish Café which features a menu that is constantly changing and evolving; and that always includes delicious fresh seafood dishes like potato-wrapped Red Snapper, Grilled scallops, and assorted raw sushi rolls. Or head to Kouzzina where you can enjoy assorted wine flights as well as Greek inspired cuisine like Spanikopita, Lamb Shank, and traditional Baklava for dessert (drool!). No matter which one you choose to dine at, you will dine on delicious cuisine while enjoying a perfect date night with the one you love!

Take a Stroll: After an amazing (and filling!) meal, I highly suggest you take a romantic stroll hand in hand down the wooden walkway – It’s a beautiful resort during the day, but at night it lights up and comes alive with carnival games and music, and it really captures that “Boardwalk” feeling – as the Resort itself is themed after turn of the century Atlantic City, and it encompasses all of its charm too!

Finish The Night Off With Some Live Entertainment: The night is coming to a close, but it’s not over yet! Head over to Jelly Rolls -one of most lively hotspots in Orlando, where you will enjoy dueling piano players as they take and all requests and make you laugh all the while! Finish off the night with a drink from the bar as you let the music fill your ears, and I say you have a great end to a great evening!

Ok so now that you are all ready to plan your date night at the Boardwalk Inn, you might be wondering – how the heck can I get there? Well, you can always drive over if you have a car, or you can get to the Boardwalk via boat from Epcot and Hollywood Studios, or take the bus from the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Downtown Disney. Quick Tip: If you don’t feel like waiting for the boat, you can actually walk to the Resort from both Epcot and Hollywood Studios. So what are you waiting for? Head on over to the Boardwalk with your main squeeze and enjoy each other, and all that the Resort has to offer!

Enjoy an evening at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

October 1, 2013

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party kicks off at Magic Kingdom with ghost, goblins, and even princesses! This is one of the most popular special events at Disney World every year. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a separate paid admission from 7 PM-midnight on select days through the Halloween Season.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party includes exclusive activities like HalloWishes Fireworks and Boo to You Halloween Parade. These are two amazing activities during this popular Halloween Party. You can see your favorite Disney Characters in their Halloween costumes at special meet & greet locations around Magic Kingdom. There is so much more fun including trick or treating, dance parties, and of course riding the Haunted Mansion!

Enjoy an evening at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party with Allison (owner of Destinations in Florida) and her family. Contact Allison and her team at Destinations in Florida to book your visit to Disney World for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Call 877-918-8941 or request a price in the quote box on the right. Be sure you mention Chip & Co for an extra gift for you!

Allison has either worked or played at Disney World for the past 35 years. She was a past Cast Member at Typhoon Lagoon and Tower of Terror. She continued her love of Disney by starting Destinations in Florida Travel. Contact Allison at [email protected] if you would like her or her team to book your upcoming Disney & Orlando vacation.

You’re gonna pack what? Tips for a Twist on Typical Disney Parks Packing!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

October 1, 2013

I just returned from a GLORIOUS week at Disney World where I celebrated my birthday in true Disney Princess style! It was fabulous! I highly encourage you to take a birthday trip (if you’ve never done that before). While I was at my home away from home, I noticed a theme in my days. This theme came in the form of atypical uses that I have for very typical items. Also included in this theme are items that I am repurposing and packing for my next trip! With this theme in mind, I’ve created a list of Frankenstein like proportions. Today, we’re mixing things up and rethinking the packing potential of a few ordinary items! Let’s get going with my tips for a twist on typical Disney Parks packing!

Large Band-aids

Typical use: First aid

Twist use: My nephew HATES automatic flush toilets. He’s only 3 1/2, but he can spot (and name– automatic or manual that is…proud teacher/auntie moment!) an automatic or manual flush toilet from a mile away! After struggling with him a few times at bathroom time, I had a light bulb moment! It was fitting that we were in the restrooms near EPCOT’s Innoventions when I thought up this cleaver use for the Band-aid! I had a few large Band-aids which I picked up from First aid (for FREE) to help with a blister on my ankle. Take the unknown out of your little one’s potty experience by converting that automatic flush toilet to a manual flush toilet. All you have to do is place large Band-aid over the automatic flush sensor. I stick my Band-aid on vertically, only adhering the top portion of sticky, folding over a portion of the bottom half of the Band-aid to make removal easy. Just press the manual flush button or remove the Band-aid and let the flushing magic begin! It worked like a charm try it next time!

Dish Detergent

Typical use: Washing Household Dishes

Twist use: Okay, so my twist use isn’t totally a far fetched use. In fact, it’s still being used to wash a dish, so forgive my lack of creativity. If you’ve ever had the dining plan or stayed at a Disney resort, chances are you own a refillable mug…Rapid Fill is what they’re calling them nowadays. I am all about using those refill allowances up! I swing by the food court at my resort on a daily basis, filling up before heading out to the parks–refilling when I return to my resort…I get my money’s worth out of those mugs! Coffee, soda, hot chocolate…you name it! But then, I’m left to carry that mug around all day in the parks! I am a bit of a germaphobe (seriously the thought of an uncovered sneeze sends me over the edge!!!!). So, you can imagine the disgust that streamed through my mind at the thought of that mug making its way around the World; on rides, in restrooms, parked on the floor of buses, monorails, and boats…oh my! So…while dish detergent isn’t being used in a different way or purpose, I think it might be one of the last things you pack…especially if you are not cooking or washing dishes! From now on, I plan on packing a small bottle of dish detergent for some in room cleaning…the mug cleaning sink in the food courts will never be enough for me–there’s always the hot water tap on the side of the coffee dispenser (don’t think I didn’t swish around some of that scalding water in my mug). Detergent is a great idea! One that I won’t soon forget!

Carabiner

Typical use: climbing or key chain

Twist use: I’ve written about this one before, but I cannot stress enough the usefulness of these little pieces of metal! With all the love that I gave them in that article, it would probably come as a shock that I FORGOT mine at home on my last trip–I know–BAD BLOGGER! Then I had to buy new ones…the same make as the $2.00 Walmart version…for the Disney price of about $10.00 (with the only identifiable Disney feature being a teeny Animal Kingdom logo). I couldn’t help myself! I had too much to wrestle with as I made my way around the parks with my nephew and the gargantuan structure we call a jogging stroller. After about 3 days of shuffling bags and Rapid Fill Mugs, I had enough! I broke down and broke my “if you can buy it at home, don’t buy it at Disney” rule. Whatever. By the time I made my purchase, I would have paid 20 bucks!

Transparent Tape

Typical use: for mending and sticking paper and such

Twist use: As I mentioned earlier, this past trip I celebrated my birthday. So you better believe that I donned a birthday button (EVERY single day of my stay…I know Chip noticed my repeat button wearomg in my Instagram photos! But why not??) The only problem I had with my birthday button was that the marker magically wore off. At first I thought the marker was faulty. I had a cast member re-write it.My name vanished only a few hours into the day. Then I thought the surface of that particular button was the fault. I got a new button. No matter what I did, my name disappeared. I started paying attention to other button bearing guests and I noticed the problem wasn’t unique to my button. I’m not sure if this is a constant problem or if we were there during a particularly rainy or sweaty week. Whatever the reason, my frustrations were relieved two days before my vacation ended when I went for breakfast at ‘Ohana. Because my reservations included my birthday celebration, I received a new button (and a sweet card signed by Mickey, Pluto, Lilo, and Stitch!). I noticed matte finished transparent tape over my name on my button. The tape acted as a protective seal for my precious name! Whoever came up with that was BRILLIANT! I was able to wear it the rest of the week with NO disappearing name! The tape did the trick! Next time I’m bringing a roll of tape to cover my celebration button!

Hair Ties

Typical use: pulling back hair

Twist use: I am ALWAYS wearing a hair tie. My hair is really long and it doesn’t stay down often. On a typical day, my wrist is occupied by at least two of the stretch bands, ready to come to my rescue! This trip I found my simple hair tie to be like a survival bracelet, ready to assist beyond simple hair holding! I used that thing to seal up left over snack bags, corral our Key to the World cards, hold together my rolled up drawings from the Animation Station, and so much more. Those little elastics pack a punch and don’t occupy much (or really any) packing space!

I enjoyed these ah-ha moments of sheer innovation. Okay, so it’s just a re-purposed hair tie, but it was enough to impress me. I hope this little list of re-thought items will inspire your packing or your creativity on your next tip. So, now it’s your turn. What are your best Pinterest worthy ideas? What smart ideas have you come up with to help out in a pinch? Share your ideas with us below in the comment section!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting!

See ya real soon,

Ashley

Vine Your Disney Side and win a Disney Vacation and $10,000

Chip

October 1, 2013

Everyone has a Disney Side. It comes out when they let loose at a Disney Park, celebrate their inner pirate or princess, and meet Mickey Mouse again and again. Starting today, Disney Parks is giving social media-savvy theme park fans a new way to celebrate their Disney Side with the launch of an official Disney Parks Vine account, which will feature both original and user-generated video content.

Disney Parks will celebrate the account’s launch with a Vine Your Disney Side contest that encourages Viners to create six-second films that celebrate their unique interest in Disney theme parks, characters and more. Starting today, Vine users who create videos that show their Disney Side can include the tag #DisneySideContest for a chance to appear on the Disney Parks’ Vine account. Selected ideos will begin appearing on the channel Oct. 7, with each featured filmmaker selected receiving $1,000. The creator of each video featured will also receive the chance to win a vacation to Disneyland Resort or the Walt Disney World Resort and a $10,000 commission to create a series of Disney Side videos.

“We’re excited to announce our presence on Vine and believe this channel is a great fit considering the fun spirit of our parks and resorts, which serve as amazing locations for visual storytelling,” said Christie Volastro, vice president of Global Digital Marketing for Disney Destinations. “We’re looking forward to using this channel to showcase original Vine content and recognize Disney fans by sharing some of the most creative Disney Parks inspired user-generated content out there.”

The Disney Parks Vine account adds to the company’s stable of successful social media channels that reaches a global audience of 40 million Disney fans combined.

For more information on the “Vine Your Disney Side” contest and to see the entire list of rules and regulations, visit www.DisneySideContest.com.

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF MONEY NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Disney Side Vine Contest begins 12:00:00 p.m. (noon) ET on October 1, 2013 and ends 11:59:59 p.m. ET October 30, 2013. Open to eligible legal residents of 50 U.S./D.C., P.R. and Canada (excluding the Province of Quebec), who are at least 18 years of age at time of entry. Void elsewhere and where prohibited. Click on Official Rules for details on entry instructions, odds of winning, prize details, restrictions, etc. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries. Skill-testing question required if a winner is a Canadian resident. The total ARV of all prizes is up to: USD $40,484.52/ CAD $41,292.21. Sponsor: Disney Destinations, LLC, P.O. Box 10000, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, U.S.A.

Review of La Luna: The Story Project App

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

October 1, 2013

I am sure you remember the La Luna short. Well now there is an App that can take you further into the journey of Bambino and his family. I am really not a fan of the shorts but this one I really loved. It is just such a cute story.

The App retails for $3.99 in the App Store. I think it is worth every penny.

There are a few different areas of the App:

Short Film: Well it is just that, the short film. You can watch the Short in this part of the App. I must admit I couldn’t stop watching it. I have always wondered, does it sound they are speaking gibberish to you?

Interactive Video: This is like a digital storybook. The story is narrated and the words appear on the screen. At some point during the story an arrow will pop up and you get to control the movements of the characters. I like that because it makes you feel like you are a part of the story.

Storybook: This looks just like a traditional storybook except the story is narrated. You get to turn the page to continue the story just like a real storybook.

Behind the Scenes: This is the coolest because you get to see what goes into making this adorable short. There are a few different categories within this feature:

Storyboards: You get to see each characters 3-d model on a turntable. Click on the character and swipe across it to see it slowly turn so you can view it from all sides.

Sound Design: You get to see side by side scenes with how they made the sound for that scene.

Visual Design: This shows you how they make the characters. How they look and function the way they do.

Progression Reel: This is the best because it shows how it all comes together to become the short we all know and love.

Overall I give this App an A! The only thing I would say that could make it better is if it had included a game.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Ariel Inspired Wedding Gown to Celebrate The Little Mermaid Diamond Edition Release

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

October 1, 2013

Alfred Angelo is America’s oldest and largest family-owned bridal company. They have released the first gown from their 2014 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings collection inspired by Princess Ariel. The gowns big debut will coincide with the release of The Little Mermaid Diamond edition.

The new Ariel-inspired gown can be seen on the cover of the November/December issue of Bridal Guide magazine and features a sweetheart neckline and bodice made of hand-tacked, draped organza over satin. The skirt is designed with vertical rows of flowing organza ruffles edged with silk ribbon and metallic embroidery. The gown is finished with an organza belt sewn with crystals and silver beading.

“Our Ariel gown reflects the waves of the sea. It makes a grand, elegant statement while creating light, undulating movement as the bride walks,” said Denise Wash, vice president of marketing at Alfred Angelo. “Ariel has many facets to her personality and is known for taking risks, so the sweetheart strapless silhouette is the first-ever ball gown we’ve created for Ariel.”

In honor of the new gown, brides can enter the Alfred Angelo Ariel 2014 Sweepstakes now through December 9, 2013, to win the dress of their dreams and a romantic Disney Fairy Tale Weddings honeymoon Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla. For more information on contest details and how to enter, visit alfredangelo.com/honeymoon.

All dresses will be available in sizes 0-26W and are priced $599 to $1,199.

What do you ladies think of the dress? It’s actually pretty reasonably priced for Disney Princess Wedding Gown.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney & Orlando Travel Discounts of the Week

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

October 1, 2013

Disney & Orlando Travel Discounts

Walt Disney World® Resort Travel Discounts

Save Up To 30% on Rooms at Select Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels This Fall: Book your room only or package reservation and save up to 30% off Official Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels for stays most nights Sept. 29 – Nov 22, 2013, and Nov 30 – Dec. 23, 2013. You can book a room only or upgrade to a package with tickets. You can even add one of the Disney Dining Plans for additional savings. The booking window is Aug. 1 – Nov. 3, 2013 for travel Nov. 10 – Nov. 22, 2013 and Nov. 30 – Dec. 23, 2013
Florida Resident Fall & Winter Rates: Florida Residents can take advantage of great rates on rooms at select Walt Disney World® Resort hotels for stays through December 14, just in time for the holiday season.
Military Discount: Active duty and retired members of the US military can get specially discounted rooms at Official Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels most nights from Sept. 29 2013 through Sept. 27 2014 time-frame. Service members can also get up to six 4-Day Magic Your Way Tickets with Park Hopper® Option for just $169.00, Four-Day Water Park and More Tickets for $169.00 or Four-Day Park Hopper Tickets plus the Water Park and More Option for $198.00 at their base ticket sales office.

Disney Cruise Line® Travel Discounts

Special Castaway Club Member Offer: Disney Cruise Line® Castaway Club Members can receive a US $100 onboard credit when they book a 4- or 5-night Disney Magic® cruise departing from Miami Nov. 1 – Dec. 18, 2013 (excluding Nov. 24 and Dec. 8, 2013). They can use their credit for a variety of onboard activities and experiences, including spa treatments, shopping, adults-only dining and more!
Special Rates for Cruises from Miami: Be among the first to experience the newly reimagined Disney Magic® with new spaces and surprises to delight kids, adults and families! 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruises: Starting from $99 per person, per day / $495 total, based on double occupancy for Category IGT, Inside Stateroom with Restrictions, on most sail dates Oct. 27 – Nov. 15, 2013. Booking Window: Must book through October 20, 2013

Aulani Travel Discounts

Get 5 Nights for the Price of 4: That’s one more night to enjoy all there is to see and do at Aulani that’s already included in the cost of your vacation, including the Waikolohe Valley Pools, Aunty’s Beach House kid’s club, peaceful Ko Olina Cove, and family entertainment, such as Starlit Hui show and ‘Ohana outdoor movie nights. Book this offer by Oct. 15, 2013, for stays most nights Oct. 1- Nov. 23, 2013 or Dec. 1-15, 2013.

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: 08/18 – 10/3 11/11 – 12/19, 2013.
FREE Dining: Enjoy 2 FREE Days of the Universal Dining Plan valid in both Universal Orlando® theme parks as well as select locations in Universal CityWalk®, when you and your family stay a minimum of 4-Nights at a Universal Partner Hotel with this exclusive Vacation Package! Hurry, offer valid for purchase now – 10/14/13. Valid for travel now – 11/24/13 and 12/2 – 12/19/13.
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 Travel Discounts

Add a day at SeaWorld Orlando for just $10: Add a second day at SeaWorld Orlando for just $10 more within 7 days of your first visit.
SeaWorld Orlando $50 Weekday Ticket: Enjoy 1 visit to SeaWorld Orlando weekdays Monday thru Friday beginning August 1, 2013 through December 20, 2013. Advance purchase only. Not available at the park. Valid for 1 visit to SeaWorld Orlando on weekdays only. Ticket expires December 20, 2013.
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 12/25: 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!

If you are ready to book your Disney World or Disneyland vacation, call the experts at Destinations in Florida. Call 877-918-8941 or request a quote in the box on the right. Be sure you mention Chip & Co for extra deals!

Disney Sues Over Musical

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

September 30, 2013

Disney will not simply roll over on their Intellectual property. On Tuesday, in Pennsylvania federal court, Disney filed a lawsuit against Entertainment Theatre Group, who is doing business under the name of American Music Theatre. The musical, in question features, The Lion King, Spider Man, and Mary Poppins.

‘Spider-Man’ Broadway Show Searches for New Star

The defendants are staging Broadway: Now and Forever, which includes references to The Producers, Billy Elliot, Wicked, Jersey Boys and more. Disney is upset they included Mary Poppins, The Lion King and Spider-Man.

A theatrical production that is described in the complaint as presenting six actor-dancers dressed in Spider-Man costumes performing a choreographed dance routine. Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark is the most expensive production in Broadway history.

The appearance of Mary Poppins is just as concerning for Disney. In the complaint, Disney provides photographic proof that a woman portraying Ms. Poppins dances with children and flies above the stage with her umbrella open.

Disney is suing for copyright infringement, trademark infringement, unfair trade practices and more, seeking damages for willful infringement after saying the defendants have refused to stop the show even despite being warned.

How do you feel about this?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Top 10 Things That “Should” Be Disney Souvenirs

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

September 30, 2013

I don’t know about you, but souvenir shopping is one of my favorite things to do at Walt Disney World. But sometimes when I’m browsing the shelves I get to wishing that maybe Disney could sell a few things that they have in their magical films or that they use in the parks! Like what? Well, just take a look at my Top 10 Things That “Should” be Disney Souvenirs!

10. Umbrellas from Pixar’s The Blue Umbrella short-Can Pixar be any sweeter or more amazing? There shorts never fail to pull at the heartstrings and leave us in awe. But wouldn’t it be great to have red and blue couples umbrellas at WDW? That would be so cute for Disney engagements or wedding pics, don’t you think?

9. POG/Jungle Juice-If you have ever had this refreshing juice at ‘Ohana or Tusker House, you know how deliciously amazing it is, as well as how addicting it can be! What is it? It’s a combination of pineapple, orange, and guava juice and is known by several names around the Disney property, mainly POG Juice at ‘Ohana and Jungle Juice at Tusker House. Seriously, Disney needs to bottle this stuff so we can bring some home with us! However, if you are at Animal Kingdom, but don’t have a reservation for Tusker House, you can now grab a cup of this tropical juice for yourself at the Harambe Popcorn Stand!

8. Jack’s Compass-Yes, I know it doesn’t point North; but I think the Pirates of the Caribbean films have shown that thing is pretty valuable! Why? Because it points to the thing you want most. This could make everyday life a whole lot simpler. How? Trying to decide whether to have a piece of pie or a piece cake? No problem. You have the compass. Splash Mountain or Space Mountain? Check the compass! You see?

7. Mary Poppins’ Carpet Bag-Everyone’s favorite English nanny mastered the art of packing for flights with her signature carpet bag that could constitute as a carry-on, but also can hold everything from shoes to furniture! If this bag was a Disney souvenir, it would really help us fans out with all of those airline luggage requirements!

6. Disney Princess Hair Products-Those princesses are doing something right when it comes to their hair. Think about it. Ariel’s hair never frizzes or succumbs to the all the moisture, Jasmine’s hair never looks windblown on magic carpet rides, and even Mulan can shop off her hair with a sword and it stills look great! So obviously, they have invested in some pretty impressive hair products that, if Disney would sell at their resort gift shops, would make every girl’s life a whole lot easier!

5. Disney Resort Bed Spreads-There’s a style for almost every tasted and they contain Hidden Mickeys and sometimes even characters! Who wouldn’t want one? I’m thinking of the bedspreads from the Port Orleans Riverside’s Royal Rooms which contain crowns from the different princesses, or maybe the bedspread covered in pirate treasure from the Pirate Rooms at Caribbean Beach?

4. Dole Whips-Why there isn’t a Dole Whip stand on every street corner is just wrong in itself! Disney needs to sell Dole Whip mix or it frozen or something so I wouldn’t have to suffer cravings of this delicious, tropical treat whenever I’m far from Disney World.

3. FastPasses-Another great Disney World souvenir would be passes for the everyday stuff in life, like for when you’re in line at the bank or for Black Friday shopping or maybe for my next Disney World vacation?

2. Droids-I know you can already build-your-own Droid at Tatooine Traders and Once Upon a Toy at Downtown Disney; but wouldn’t it be great if you had your own “real” droid? C-3po would be really helpful when I need to read those directions that are only written in a foreign language, and R2-D2 would be great for whenever I have car trouble. He’s like a GPS and a mechanic in one cute package!

1. Pixie Dust-Wouldn’t be awesome if we could bottle Tink’s dust and have it stocked on the shelves of the Disney Store? Pixie Dust would not only be a great souvenir, but useful too! I mean, think of all the money we could save on airfare!

So these are my 10 things that I think “should” be Disney Souvenirs! What do you think?

Disney’s Planes Soaring to Bluray/DVD on November 19

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

September 30, 2013

Disney’s latest animated comedy, “Planes,” full of high-flying action and adventure, will land in homes and mass retailers nationwide on November 19th. This endearing story about a crop dusting plane named Dusty with big dreams touches down on Blu-ray, DVD, Digital HD and On-Demand featuring exciting new bonus features. With hours of fun, “Planes” is the perfect gift for “ladies and gentle-planes” of all ages this holiday season.

If you haven’t had the chance to see Disney’s Planes yet, you can check out a full 8-minute sneak peek of the film here.

After “spreading its wings” in theaters, “Planes” reaches new heights on Blu-ray, with high definition picture and sound along with never-before-seen bonus features, including a musical number, deleted scenes, a behind-the-scenes feature, a look at the ten greatest aviators in history, and more.

Planes was directed by Klay Hall, produced by Traci Balthazor-Flynn, and written by Jeffrey M. Howard. “Planes” soared to the top of the U.S. box office this summer by ranking as the #1 family movie in America for four weekends in a row!

“Planes” also includes a star-studded voice cast that features Dane Cook as Dusty, Stacy Keach as Navy Corsair Skipper, Teri Hatcher as say-it-like-it-is mechanic Dottie, Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Rochelle, Priyanka Chopra (“Barfi!”) as Ishani, John Cleese as Bulldog, Carlos Alazraqui as El Chupacabra, Roger Craig Smith as the world champion racer Ripslinger, Val Kilmer as Bravo and Anthony Edwards as Echo.

On November 19, 2013, Disney’s Planes will be available as a Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray+ DVD + Digital Copy), a Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy), a DVD (DVD + Digital Copy), Digital HD and On-Demand. Be sure to check out the bonus features below that will be included in Blu-ray and DVD copies!

BONUS FEATURES: (Blu-ray, DVD and Select Digital Retailers)

Exclusive Franz’s Song (Blu-ray & Select Digital Retailers) – This never-before-seen completely finished animated song features the German mini-car, Franz Fliegenhosen, who encourages Dusty on his flight

Klay’s Flight Plan (Blu-ray, DVD & Select Digital Retailers) – Follow Director Klay Hall’s personal journey during the making of “Planes” and discover why his family connection to aviation made “Planes” his perfect project. Then, fly along with Klay as he lands on a working aircraft carrier to get first-hand experience on the flight deck.

Deleted Scenes (Blu-ray & Select Digital Retailers)- Training Montage and Taj Mahal

Meet the Racers (Blu-ray, DVD & Select Digital Retailers) – Featurettes introducing racers El Chupacabra, Ripslinger, Dusty, and Ishani

Top 10 Flyers (Blu-ray & Select Digital Retailers) – ESPN’s Colin Cowherd hosts a fun, fast-paced countdown of the greatest aviators in history

Have you seen Disney’s Planes yet? What did you think? Will you be picking up a copy for your Disney Movie Collection?

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 thinking about a Disney vacation? Siera, a Disney travel specialist, would love to help you! Contact her at [email protected] or 734-771-1290!

Disney Quick Tips – Create Unusual Magic for your Kids at Disney

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

September 30, 2013

You don’t have to wait for a Cast Member or character like the Fairy Godmother or Tink to create magic for your kids. Here are a couple of really cool ways that you can surprise your kids with some magic of your own!

There are 2 shows/rides at Disney that can present an opportunity for you to surprise your kids with some real Disney Magic.

The first is Mickey’s Philharmagic at the Magic Kingdom. In the movie, a ruby appears in 3D fashion. If you are sitting next to your child, pretend to grab it and then hand them the HUGE one that you bought ahead of time from a craft store like Michaels or Hobby Lobby. Instant ***MAGIC***!

The next opportunity is in Epcot on Soarin’. At one point during the ride, a golf ball is “hit” into the audience and you can see a Hidden Mickey on it. Pretend to grab the golf ball and turn to your child and hand them the golf ball. (That you brought and stuck in your pocket ahead of time!) Just make sure that you draw a Hidden Mickey head on it first!

It doesn’t take much to make extra magic at the Most Magical Place on Earth…get in the spirit and your kids will think that you must know the Fairy Godmother personally! Have FUN!

Book your Disney trip with Cameron, a Disney Travel Specialist, and get tips like these every week right to your inbox! Her services are always 100% FREE! [email protected]

Travel to Costa Rica with Adventures by Disney

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

September 30, 2013

Are you looking to do something different and exciting for your next vacation, but find it hard to give up Disney’s unmatched service? You should explore an Adventures by Disney vacation! Adventures by Disney offers guided tours all over the world. Your Adventures by Disney vacation will include two knowledgeable adventure guides, access to unique places, beautiful accommodations, delicious dining, admission to events and attractions, and more!

On the Adventures by Disney Costa Rica itinerary, you can uncover the mysteries of nature at its most beautiful — in the heart of the Central American rainforest. From zip lining through treetops to rafting down roaring rapids, this exciting adventure will give you a new point of view of this ecological wonderland.

Learn more in this video:

Here are just a few highlights you will enjoy in Costa Rica with Adventures by Disney:

Tortuguero National Park– Explore ancient forests and search for exotic animals including monkeys, birds, and giant sloths.
Pineapple Plantation Tour– Learn how to live off of the land at a working plantation. You will discover Costa Rica’s spirit or environmental respect and meet people who live and work the earth every day.
Zip Line in Arenal National Park– You will zip line through treetops and soar across the sky high above the rainforest of Arenal National Park.
Tenorio River White Water Rafting– You will enjoy rafting down roaring rapids and gushing waters on the Tenorio River while you glide by a forest of exotic creatures.
Private Catamaran Excursion– Cruise along the Guanacaste coastline of Costa Rica’s Gold Coast on this private tour. Then, drop anchor for some fun on the white sand beaches or experience some idyllic snorkeling locations.

Contact Siera today to learn more about an Adventures by Disney vacation or request a free, no obligation quote!

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 thinking about a Disney vacation? Siera, a Disney travel specialist, would love to help you. Contact her at [email protected] or 734-771-1290!

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