Home Blog Page 4522

Disneyland Advanced Dining Reservations starting in October

18opentable 600
18opentable 600

18opentable-600

Disneyland is leaping into the modern era. Starting next month you can start making your Disneyland Advanced Dining Reservations online! Finally, right? I often share with my guests that Disneyland and Walt Disney World are so completely different that it’s surprising they are the same company.

Before I became an International Man Of Travel, I would plan my own trips to both Disneyland and Walt Disney World (well I still do and now yours too). It was the most frustrating experience to plan trips. My family visits Disneyland at least once a year and Walt Disney World at least once every other year. Now with the new Online Dining Reservations, we are all one step closer to making all our lives easier.

Beginning October 3rd we can all start living in the modern era when planning our Disneyland Dining Reservations. Nothing is just straight forward though, so let me cut to the ins and outs of the new program.

  • If you enjoyed the email exchange, I hate to tell you that’s going away
  • You can still call 714-781-DINE to book dining
  • Can Not Book Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Pirates League or Studio Disney 365 online – Call 714-781-STYLE
  • Credit Card Dining Reservation holds required
  • $10 Fee per person will be charged if you don’t cancel or adjust reservation at least a day prior
  • New Fee and Online Dining Reservations are for table-service restaurants owned by Disney as well as participating partners
  • You can cancel or adjust your reservation online

Check back often with ChipandCo for the latest and greatest information on Disneyland, Disneyland Online Dining Reservations and more.

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

 

Celebrating Thanksgiving at Walt Disney World

thanksgiving
thanksgiving

thanksgiving

Thanksgiving can be a particularly busy time of year at the Walt Disney World Resort, but it can also be very magical. Disney excels at holiday celebrations and the big Turkey Day is no exception. From autumn classics like pumpkin and cinnamon filled treats, to a traditional Thanksgiving Feast and many patriotic parades and attractions, Disney World offers something to please everyone’s Thanksgiving traditions. Here are some tips and tricks to help you enjoy these holiday festivities even more.

Enjoy a Traditional Turkey Feast

There are several locations at Walt Disney World that offer a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings.  Perhaps the most well-known is Liberty Tree Tavern which is located in the Magic Kingdom. Their Pilgrim’s Feast includes a tossed green salad with house made dressing, carved turkey, beef and pork with mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, herbed stuffing, and macaroni and cheese. This is a family style meal, so you and your little pilgrim’s will definitely not leave hungry.

Pilgrim's Feast Liberty Tree Tavern

Mickey’s Backyard BBQ, located at Fort Wilderness, also hosts a traditional Thanksgiving feast in an outdoor and rustic setting. In addition to the buffet, you also get to enjoy some entertainment to make the meal more festive.

If you’re looking for something a little more upscale for your dinner, head to locations like Artist Point which has offered dishes in the past such as smoked turkey breast with sage butter and pumpkin cheesecake. Kouzzina often offers a Greek inspired menu with dishes such as glazed sweet potatoes and pecan and pumpkin pie tartlets.

There are so many choices in both the park & resort locations that offer some variation of a Thanksgiving dinner. Make sure to make those advanced dining reservations well ahead of time in order to get your first choice and preferred times for the big feast.

Enjoy a Patriotic Attraction or Parade

There are several attractions throughout the Walt Disney World Resort that offer patriotic themed entertainment. For example, The Hall of Presidents serves not only as an air conditioned place to rest but also has an educational and historical look at the history of America. The Carousel of Progress looks at the progress of the American family throughout the 20th Century.

Perhaps the most patriotic location is the American Adventure pavilion at Epcot. The Spirit of America Fife & Drum Core performs outside of the pavilion and plays daily. Another not-to-be-missed group is Voices of Liberty, a choral group that also performs daily before the American Adventure Show. And of course, the American Adventure Show is a 45-minute journey through the history of America. Guests who want to look back at the history of America will appreciate the animatronics and skilful story-telling. It’s a Thanksgiving must do!

Fife and Drum Core

Looking for a holiday parade? Not to worry, Disney offers several holiday themed parades in the parks. Just check your most recent schedule for times and information.

Relax and Take a Nap

We all know that Thanksgiving Day festivities and food can be nap-inducing. Why not take the afternoon to rest and relax at your resort. Sit by the pool, relax, and enjoy the day with your family. Resorts like Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offer terrific places to relax in their lobbies. The wooden rocking chairs and roaring fireplace in the Wilderness Lodge is a personal favorite of mine for relaxing.

Grab a Pumpkin or Fall Treat

Head over to the Main Street Bakery, Fountainview Cafe, or even Babycakes NYC at Downtown Disney for fall inspired baked goods. You can often find pumpkin flavored drinks, cupcakes, and other treats. Babycakes NYC offers pumpkin loaf and more for guests who have special dietary needs. You can find fall inspired treats in many locations. Even grab a Thanksgiving decorated rice krispy treat from the Confectionery!

Get Your Turkey Leg to Go

Nothing says Thanksgiving like turkey, and for those busy park go-ers Disney has made it handy to have your turkey and go on attractions too! Just grab a turkey leg from any one of the various turkey leg carts and kiosks located throughout the parks.

Fife & Drum

Disney offers guests a chance to enjoy the holidays in so many different ways in both the parks & resorts. From a high impact attraction filled day to a relaxing rest by the pool, guests are sure to find the best way to celebrate Thanksgiving in their own way.

Have you been to Disney on Thanksgiving? What are your favorite Disney Thanksgiving Day traditions?

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.

 

 

Marvel Teams up with Florida Blue and Wellpoint to Create New Iron Man Comic Book

Marvel Florida Blue WellPoint
Marvel Florida Blue WellPoint

Marvel Florida Blue WellPoint

A city is under attack from evil forces that drain your desire to do anything that’s healthy! You can’t see them, you can’t hear them, but you can feel Habit Hazards stealing your energy, dehydrating you, and keeping you from making healthy eating decisions. In a new comic book developed with Marvel, Florida Blue and WellPoint’s health plans, Agents Dynamo, Fuel and Quench join forces with the Armored Avenger Iron Man to defeat this threat. The story is based on healthy habits.

The Habit Heroes comic shows readers how healthy habits can make a difference. The 20-page comic also includes a special “Habit Heroes Training Guide” insert to help kids learn to incorporate healthy habits into their daily lives.

“At WellPoint, we are focused on helping people get healthy and stay healthy,” said Patrick Blair, chief marketing officer. “The goal of the Habit Heroes Iron Man comic book experience aligns with our commitment to help inspire families to lead healthier lives, and is part of our broader efforts to provide the tools and resources needed to help families achieve this goal.

Marvel, Florida Blue and WellPoint’s health plans worked closely with third-party health and wellness experts to create a comic book that conveys a positive message about healthy lifestyles in an empowering way. The comic will be available in English and Spanish, in both print and digital forms, and will be distributed to children and families at a variety of community events throughout Florida and WellPoint’s health plan service areas in California, Nevada, Colorado, Ohio, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kentucky, Georgia, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut, and portions of New York, Virginia and Missouri.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

 

Tips to Make the Best of your Downtown Disney Visit

Disney Springs Map
Disney Springs Map

Disney Springs Map

Earlier this year it was announced about Disney Springs, the exciting, transformation of Downtown Disney. If you’ve visited recently, you know that our expansion has officially begun. One of the most popular topics for questions seems to be parking: Will we have more spots? Where will they be located? And where should guests park in the meantime?

Yes, more parking is coming! The best part: parking will continue to be complimentary. Work recently started on the first of two multi-level parking garages; it is expected to be complete in late 2014 near AMC Theatres and Splitsville Luxury Lanes. A second garage, closer to World of Disney, is set to open in 2016. Additionally, we’ll continue to offer surface parking.

Will you be visiting Soon? Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

  • If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, leave the driving to us! When I’m a Disney Resort hotel guest, I love that someone else does the driving for me.
  • If you have tickets or reservations, arrive early – 60 minutes prior to your show time or reservation, just to be safe.

If you are driving here some good tips:

  1. They have added additional parking options that will come in handy most Fridays, Saturdays and holidays – you can follow the signs to plentiful parking in the SunTrust and Casting Building lots across the street from Downtown Disney
  1. On our busier days, guests parking in the Team Disney lot can enjoy a complimentary shuttle with direct service to Downtown Disney West Side or can take a short walk to their desired destination.
  1. When in doubt, ask a Cast Member!

Want a few more secrets? Arrive before 5 p.m.; look for parking at Entrance 5, behind Cirque du Soleil in lots O, P & Q (it’s a lot closer than you think!); and lastly, don’t forget you can always take the complimentary Boat Transportation between the West Side, Pleasure Island and the Marketplace, weather permitting.

For more info check out Disney Parks Blog!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

 

 

Cool Off With These Frozen Favorites at Walt Disney World!

030
030

Fife & Drum Tavern Epcot

Just because the fall decorations are up in the Magic Kingdom doesn’t mean that fall weather has settled in to stay in Florida!  I just came back from a great week that was anything but cool.  With temperatures in the 90s, each day was filled with harsh sun, hot heat, and unbearable sweating.  It was hot, especially between 1 and 5 pm.  Thank goodness, the cool of sun down and the promise of a daily rain shower meant the nights were much more comfortable!   But when the sun was beating down, we worked hard to find ways to cool off.  One sure fire plan to cool off was to find something icy to enjoy!  Move over happy hour, we’re renaming the hours of 1 and 5 pm, hot hour!  Today we are talking my favorite frozen drinks for you whole family (non-alcoholic that is) to enjoy during the melting hour!  Let’s get sipping!

Frozen Lemonade

It’s refreshing,  cooling, and just the right combination of sweet and tart.   This is frozen favorite is sure to quench your thirst in the hottest heat of the day!  While this treat is available throughout the parks, my favorite spot to grab mine and seek shade is in the Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland, under the shade of the Lunching Pad.  Grab a table and stop for a sip with this yummy frozen favorite!

LeFou’s Brew (from Gaston’s Tavern in the New Fantasyland area)

This frozen drink is a unique spin on the slushie drink.  While I really enjoy this drink, I prefer to share this treat–that’s because it is VERY sweet, a little too sweet for a solo sip, for me at least.  A unique blend of frozen apple juice, toasted marshmallow, and exotic passion fruit-mango foam set this refreshing drink apart.  Seek shelter with this cooling concoction in Gaston’s Tavern.  You’ll enjoy the decor…there is a definite outdoorsy theme…think antlers in all of the decorating.  Grab your camera and get ready to take some Gaston sized photos!

Goofy’s Glaciers

If anyone knows anything about cooling off with an icy treat, it’s Goofy!  Sip on one of the many flavor favorites from the ever-lovable Goof himself!  You can find loads of flavors at Goofy’s Candy Co. in Downtown Disney as well as a smaller range of selected flavors throughout the parks.  I particularly like to grab my strawberry Goofy Glacier in Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Beverley Sunset Sweet Spells Shop (located just off of Sunset Boulevard).  I seek a shady spot and keep my eyes peeled for my favorite type of people watching…the Citizens of Hollywood! 

Solar Coca-Cola (from the Lunching Pad in Tomorrowland)

I love the carbonated frozen drinks from the Lunching Pad!  My absolute favorite is the Solar Coca-Cola!  With just enough bubbly carbonation from the soda this frozen drink is thirsty and flavor quenching!   This drink (maybe just called by a different name) is available throughout the parks for you to enjoy!  Make it a large and cool off with a smile on your face!

So those are my go-to frozen (family friendly) drinks.  For me, ice cream drinks, adult beverages, and floats fit into a different category (other wise, this list could have gone on and on for days!)  So, what would you list above?  What frozen drink do I need to try next time I’m feeling the heat of the day at Disney World?  Share your super cooling sippables in the comment section below!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting!

See ya real soon!

Ashley

 

Why should I pick a Walt Disney World Resort?

P1090861
P1090861

Grand Floridan

When planning your Walt Disney World vacation, one of the big choices you have to make (aside from which cupcakes to try, of course!) is which hotel you will stay at. There are plenty of options, both on Walt Disney World Property as well as many off property (but still near the magic!).

So you may be wondering, Why should I pick a WDW Resort? This is a very good question, and I personally will always choose to stay on WDW property – I like it because it keeps me closer to the Magic, and I can utilize the Disney Magical Express airport shuttle service. There are many reasons to stay on WDW property (check them out here!), and if you pick a WDW Resort, you won’t be disappointed (trust me on this!)

Once you have made the decision to stay on WDW property, then there are probably many more questions you will have, so here are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions about the WDW Resorts:

What WDW Resort choices do I have? There are MANY options to choose from, in three price categories – Value, Moderate, and Deluxe – as the names imply, the Value are the cheapest and the price goes up through the Moderate and Deluxe categories. There are several Resorts in each category, and each one has its own theme and atmosphere, which is carried on in everything from the décor to the food and rooms. New Orleans, Tropical oasis, sports, movies, and Disney Animation are just a few of the themes you will find in the Disney Resort lineup – there’s a theme for every family! And if you’re willing to pay more, you get much more too – the Deluxe Resorts offer more amenities, as well as more dining and transportation options (and they are closer to the Parks too!)

What are the Resort rooms like? All rooms have their own bathroom, and come standard with two beds (double size in the Value Resorts, queens in the Moderate and Deluxe Resorts) – King rooms can be requested as well. They all have the normal hair dryer/TV/mini fridge/mini coffee maker setups of most hotel rooms, and all of them will sleep 4, and can accommodate a crib too. As you go up to the Moderate and Deluxe rooms, you get more space and better/classier décor too. Some rooms have balconies or patios, and the range of views to choose from is better in the more expensive Resorts as well

How do I get to the Parks from my WDW Resort? The WDW Transportation system is here for you! The system of buses make pick ups at every Resort and travel to each Park, as well as the waterparks and Downtown Disney. The service is usually pretty quick, with buses running every 20 minutes or so (or more often during very busy times). Some of the Moderate Resorts as well as the Deluxe Resorts offer boat transportation to various Parks, and some of the Deluxe Resorts have the distinct perk of being on the monorail line, offering a super fast trip over to the Magic Kingdom or the Transportation and Ticket Center

What is there to do at the Resorts? A lot! Every Resort offers at least one gift shop chock full of Disney merchandise, as well as pools, bars, arcades, restaurants, playgrounds, and some of the Moderate/Deluxe Resorts offer bike/surrey rentals, as well as paddleboat/canoe and motorboat/jetski rentals. Personally, I love wandering around the Resorts and checking out all the little details – like the hammocks, play areas, décor and landscaping, all of which comes with that little bit of Disney Magic!

What is this Magical Express service? It is a complimentary (FREE!) shuttle service available only to those staying at the WDW Resorts – which will whisk you and your luggage from the Orlando Airport straight to your WDW Resort Hotel, and it will bring you back when your trip is done! It’s easy to use, and did I mention it is free? It has also been consistent and reliable (in my experience anyways!), which is not always the case with off property hotels that offer “free shuttle service”. The Magical Express is easy to book, easy to use, and definitely a big benefit of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort

I hope the answers to these questions helped you pick out the perfect WDW Resort for you and your family, and if you still aren’t convinced, then I suggest you check out the official WDW promotions page which will tell you what specials are currently being offered (saving money on vacation never hurts, right?)

The 2013 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Map Now Available

epcot food and wine festival logo
epcot food and wine festival logo

food logo

 

If you will be attending the 2013 Epcot Food and Wine festival and you are a planner then you will be overjoyed to know that the guide map is now available. Download it here.

Food_Wine_Festival_Guide

So go ahead and plan away!

Have fun and have a drink for me!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

‘Ultimate Spider-Man’ To Have One Hour Halloween Special on October 5, 2013

USM Howling Commandos
USM Howling Commandos

Ultimate Spider-Man Howling Commandos

Disney XD and Marvel are celebrating Halloween early this year with an all new ‘Ultimate Spider-Man‘ special on October 5, 2013. Titled ‘Ultimate Spider-Man and the Howling Commandos’, the new hour long special will see fan favorite Marvel characters Blade and Man-Thing, as well as Frankenstein’s Monster, the Living Mummy, and Werewolf by Night all teaming up together for the first time against Dracula. As a huge fan of Marvel, and especially that supernatural side of the universe, I couldn’t be more excited to see Blade and Man-Thing making their debut on the show, and being introduced to a whole new generation of Marvel fans. I’m also really excited to hear Terry Crewes as Blade, because he’s one actor I always enjoy when he’s in things, and I think he’s a perfect fit for the character. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing the special.

The special will air on October 5, at 9pm/8c. Are you excited to for ‘Ultimate Spider-Man and the Howling Commandos’? Let me know in the comments below, and check out the full press release below.

Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man makes its Disney Channel debut in a special one-hour Halloween event, Saturday, October 5 at 9pm/8c. This brand new prime time animation special features a never-before-seen team-up with Blade, the fan favorite vampire hunter; Jack Russell aka Werewolf by Night; The Living Mummy; Frankenstein’s Monster and Man-Thing. United together in animation for the first time, Spider-Man and his monstrous allies take on one of the biggest Halloween villains of all time, Dracula!

This landmark Marvel event also features a star-studded voice cast, including Disney Channel star Ross Lynch (Austin & Ally, Teen Beach Movie) as Jack Russell; Terry Crews (The Expendables) as Blade; and Oded Fehr (The Mummy) as The Living Mummy.

“This is the biggest event in Ultimate Spider-Man history,” said Jeph Loeb, Marvel’s Head of Television. “We’ve brought Spidey together with our greatest Supernatural heroes and some of the hottest names to voice them. We’re hoping families turn down the lights and turn up the volume for our spookiest special yet, courtesy of Ultimate Spider-Man!”

The episode will re-air the following week within the weekly Marvel Universe block on Disney XD, on Sunday, October 13 at 11am/10c.

Fans can get a sneak peek at part one of the one-hour Halloween special with free download on iTunes beginning Monday, September 30.

Disneyland Resort Debuts World of Color − Winter Dreams for 2013 Holiday Season

winter dreams
winter dreams

world of color

Disneyland Resort has announced that the Holiday Season begins Nov. 15 with Christmas Parades, ‘Holiday Magic’ Fireworks and Snowfall in Disneyland Park, Plus Seasonal Décor for Cars Land and Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure Park.

la-trb-cars-land-christmas-disney-california-a-014

“World of Color − Winter Dreams,” an all-new holiday version of the popular “World of Color” after-dark spectacular, will debut at Disney California Adventure Park, Friday, Nov. 15, adding even more merriment to the holiday season at the Disneyland Resort. If you’ve ever seen the original World Of Color you are likely as excited as I am to see an updated version for the Holidays. I’ll admit I love the castle when it’s covered in icicles and lights. I can’t wait to now see the latest and greatest World Of Color Show. I do wonder how the “Glow With The Show” Ears will work with the show too.

The new show is hosted by Olaf the snowman, from the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures animated feature “Frozen,” the “World of Color − Winter Dreams” show combines new animation with classic winter scenes from such beloved Disney films as “Bambi,” “Fantasia” and “Toy Story.” The show will include new special effects and present some new methods for utilizing the massive “stage” of water, color and light on which “World of Color” is presented.

Holidays are always a very special time at the Disneyland Resort, with themed entertainment, sparkling decorations, delicious treats and holiday shopping. Along with the new “World of Color − Winter Dreams,” the season will welcome the return of beloved Disneyland Park holiday traditions such as “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, “it’s a small world” Holiday and “Believe…in Holiday Magic” fireworks followed by a holiday snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A., New Orleans Square and “it’s a small world” mall. Of course, Santa Claus appears in the parade throughout the season and also will be greeting guests and listening to holiday wishes through Dec. 24.

Disney California Adventure gets its own spectacular seasonal makeover with festive – and often whimsical – holiday décor in Cars Land, “a bug’s land,” Paradise Pier and Buena Vista Street.

Disneyland Resort hotels join in the holiday festivities with twinkling lights and ornaments, special entertainment and holiday dining with themed menus.  Expanded hours at both Disneyland Resort theme parks extend the family fun and offer more time for guests to enjoy all there is to see and do at the Disneyland Resort. .

For more information about the Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com/holidays.  For ticket and hotel offers, utilize our quick quote form on the ChipandCo Main page.

Or To book a Winter Dreams Vacation of your own sooner, contact Daniel with ChipandCo’s exclusive Travel Agency, Destinations In Florida.

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

Marvel’s Captain America Now Visiting Recruits on-board Disney Magic

Captain America The Winter Soldier1
Captain America The Winter Soldier1

Captain America The Winter Soldier

Starting October 20, a “Marvel”-ous time is debuting onboard the newly re-imagined Disney Magic. For the first time you will be able to meet and greet Captain America while on-board Disney Magic as Disney brings to life Marvel’s Avengers Academy. This is sure to be a delight for kids of all ages!

The Disney Magic’s Oceaneer Club will soon be host to Marvel’s Avengers Academy, where aspiring young crime-fighters are transported to a  top secret S.H.I.E.L.D. base (Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division) —a technologically advanced remote command post used by The Avengers for special missions and operations training. This will be a multi-day, immersive entertainment experience where children will interact with Marvel characters and unleash the super hero that lies within.

To inspire our aspiring super hero “recruits” through their missions there will be displays featuring some of the equipment that helps to make The Avengers earth’s mightiest heroes—Iron Man’s high-tech suit of armor, Captain America’s shield and Thor’s hammer.  Centered on high-tech fun, Marvel’s Avengers Academy, will use  computer stations and a massive video wall to assist the super heroes in their multi-day “training” and missions. To enhance the experience special lighting and audio effects are used.

And for those of us Marvel followers that don’t quite fit the age requirements for Oceaneer Club there will be plenty of opportunities to meet and greet Captain America while cruising on-board Disney Magic.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, contact Kari at [email protected] or at 214-598-7756.

Disney begins production on Live Action Cinderella

577338 10151594618486852 592796157 n
577338 10151594618486852 592796157 n

cindy

 

Walt Disney Pictures announced today that principal photography has begun at Pinewood Studios in London, on “Cinderella,” Disney’s first-ever live action feature inspired by the classic fairy tale.

Directed by Academy Award-nominee Kenneth Branagh (“Jack Ryan,” “Thor”), the film stars Lily James (“Downton Abbey,” “Wrath of the Titans”) in the title role, Richard Madden (“Game of Thrones,” “Birdsong”) as the Prince, Oscar®-winner Cate Blanchett (“The Aviator”) as the infamous stepmother Lady Tremaine, and Academy Award-nominee Helena Bonham Carter (“The King’s Speech,” “Alice in Wonderland”) as the Fairy Godmother. Holliday Grainger (“Great Expectations,” “Anna Karenina”) and Sophie McShera (“Downton Abbey,” “Waterloo Road”) play Ella’s stepsisters Anastasia and Drisella, respectively. Stellan Skarsgård (“The Avengers,” “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”) and Nonso Anozie (“Game of Thrones,” “The Grey”) play the Arch Grand Duke and the Prince’s loyal friend, the Captain. Tony® Award-winner Derek Jacobi portrays the King.

“Cinderella” is produced by Simon Kinberg (“X-Men: First Class,” “Elysium”), Allison Shearmur (“The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”), David Barron (“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” “Jack Ryan”), from a screenplay by Chris Weitz (“About a Boy,” “The Golden Compass”).

The filmmaking team includes three-time Academy Award-winning production designer Dante Ferretti (“The Aviator,” “Hugo,” “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”), three-time Oscar-winning costume designer Sandy Powell (“The Aviator,” “The Young Victoria,” “Shakespeare in Love”), director of photography Haris Zambarloukos (“Sleuth,” “Thor”) and Academy Award-winning editor Martin Walsh (“Chicago,” “Clash of the Titans”).

The timeless story of “Cinderella” dates back to 1697 when first created by Charles Perrault, although it truly came to life for millions all over the world in 1950 with Walt Disney’s celebrated animated feature.

Director Kenneth Branagh says: “It is impossible to think of Cinderella without thinking of Disney and the timeless images we’ve all grown up watching. And those classic moments are irresistible to a filmmaker. With Lily James we have found our perfect Cinderella. She combines knockout beauty with intelligence, wit, fun and physical grace. Her Prince is being played by Richard Madden, a young actor with incredible power and charisma. He is funny, smart and sexy and a great match for Cinderella.

The story of “Cinderella” follows the fortunes of young Ella whose merchant father remarries following the tragic death of her mother. Keen to support her loving father, Ella welcomes her new stepmother Lady Tremaine and her daughters Anastasia and Drisella into the family home. But, when Ella’s father suddenly and unexpectedly passes away, she finds herself at the mercy of a jealous and cruel new family. Finally relegated to nothing more than a servant girl covered in ashes, and spitefully renamed Cinderella, Ella could easily begin to lose hope. Yet, despite the cruelty inflicted upon her, Ella is determined to honor her mother’s dying words and to “have courage and be kind.” She will not give in to despair nor despise those who abuse her. And then there is the dashing stranger she meets in the woods. Unaware that he is really a prince, not merely an employee at the Palace, Ella finally feels she has met a kindred soul. It appears as if her fortunes may be about to change when the Palace sends out an open invitation for all maidens to attend a ball, raising Ella’s hopes of once again encountering the charming “Kit.” Alas, her stepmother forbids her to attend and callously rips apart her dress. But, as in all good fairy tales, help is at hand as a kindly beggar woman steps forward and, armed with a pumpkin and a few mice, changes Cinderella’s life forever.

Production on “Cinderella” will take place at Pinewood Studios and locations throughout England.

“Cinderella” will be released through Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures on March 13, 2015.

Orlando Discounts for the Week for Disney, Universal & More

castleballoons
castleballoons

Disney Orlando Discounts 

castleballoonsWalt Disney World® Resort

  • Save Up To 30% on Rooms at Select Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels:  Book this Orlando discount for 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 amazing Orlando discounts 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®

  • 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!

  • New!  Special Rates for Cruises from Miami:  Be among the first to experience the newly re-imagined 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

  • 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:  This Orlando discount 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.

  • 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

  • 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. This Orlando discount is 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!

  • 5 Incredible Parks, 1 Ticket, Orlando’s Best Vacation Value:  See more for less! This Orlando discount 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!

Book these amazing Orlando discounts with a local Orlando travel agency.  Destinations in Florida, An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner has an office in Orlando, right down the road from the popular theme parks.  Take advantage of amazing services, free gifts, and extra magic!  All at no cost to you!  Allison and her team at Destinations in Florida Travel are ready to help you plan your vacation.

Call Destinations in Florida at 877-918-8941 or Request a Quote (on the right sidebar)