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Is Cinderella’s Royal Table worth the 2 dining credits?

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Is Cinderella's Royal Table worth the 2 dining credits?

Are you in the middle of planning your Advanced Dining Reservations for your upcoming Walt Disney World Vacation? You’re probably completely overwhelmed at all your many options and if you’re using a Disney Dining Plan you’re trying to figure out your meal credits as well. So you might be a little stuck!

If you’ve got a princess of you’re own then you’re probably already fantasizing about the first time your sweetie pie meets her favorite Princess. You may have seen that Disney World has two options for Princess-centered meals. You can either book Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom, or  Akershus in Epcot.

You may have noticed that Cinderella’s Royal Table is two meal-credits and Akershus is only one and might be wondering how the two compare in order to make a choice.

Well, I can’t tell what is best for your family, but I can tell you about our family’s experiences. So before any of you FREAK OUT because you don’t like my opinion realize that it IS an opinion. 🙂

So lets break it down: Akershus vs Cindy’s Royal Table… LETS GET READY TO RUMBLE <DING! DING!>

Characters

There is absolutely no difference in characters as neither of the meals guarantee which Princesses will be there at any given time.  At both Akershus and Cindy’s you have a chance of catching Cinderella, Belle (either in ballgown or regular dress), Ariel (in ballgown), Snow White, Princess Aurora, & Jasmine. You’re definitely going to see Cinderella at Royal Table. Guaranteed! But we have been to Akershus three times and Cinderella has ALWAYS been there. Either way you’re getting 4 beautiful princesses coming to your table to give your princesses a squeeze, a photo, and an autograph. So this is not a deciding factor to me at all. You do not get more time with the Princesses at one than the other based on our experiences either.

Food

Breakfast

Akershus – Don’t be fooled, this breakfast may be in Norway, but its a typical all American breakfast. You can also eat all you’d like (but you have to ask). They will bring you get bacon, breakfast breads, fresh fruit, potato casserole, sausage, & scrambled eggs. Beverages such as coffee, juices and milk are all included.

Cindy’s – All you care to eat and they bring the food to your table. They bring you bacon, french toast, fresh fruit, granola, pastries, potatoes, sausage, & scrambled eggs. Beverages such as coffee, cocoa, ice tea, lemonade, milk, punch, soda, & tea. You can pay extra for cappuccino, espresso, or sparkling water.

Lunch

Akershus- Much more “Norwegian”. It begins with “Taste of Norway” deli meats, cold seafood, salads, cheese, and breads. For main course you can choose from Jarlsberg cheese & leek soup, Lamb, Pasta, Pulled Pork, Salmon, Soup & Sandwich, Traditional Kjottkake, & Trout. The dessert plate has Chocolate Mousse, Lingonberry Cheesecake & Rice Cream. There are many different Norwegian adult beverages to try.

Cindy’s – Appetizers, A choice of entrees – Grilled Chicken Salad, Pasta al Pomodoro, Pork Tenderloin, Shepard’s Pie, Salmon Salad, Salmon. Children can choose from chicken strips, pasta marinara, pretzel dogs, & shepard’s pie. Dessert options include Chocolate Cream Cheese Buckle, Rice pudding, Sorbet and a beverage. There is no alcohol served in Magic Kingdom.

Dinner

Akershus – Also very “Norweigen” it also includes the “Taste of Norway”. Dinner main course selections include: Beef Short Ribs, Cod, Lamb, Pasta, Salmon, Traditional Kjottkake, & Venison Stew. The dessert plate had Chocolate Mousse, Lingonberry Cheesecake & Rice Cream. There are many different Norwegian adult beverages to try.

Cindy’s – Appetizers, A choice of entrees – Beef Tenderloin, Braised Cobia, Duck Confit, Fried Chicken, Pork Chop, & Vegetarian Cassoulet. Desserts include the Chef’s Dessert Trio, Creme Caramel, Chocolate Mousse, and Sorbet, again, there is no alcohol served in Magic Kingdom.

As you can see food is comparable. Both are nice high-end restaurants from a food perspective and children can find things to eat at both.

 Experience

Akershus – After you check in you will wait a bit and then be called to be seated. They will take you to a small nook where you will get your picture taken with a Princess. This Princess will not rotate through the meal, so this is your one and only chance to get your photo with her. This picture will be free to you, so don’t skip it. Then you will be seated. Your waiter (who will be Norwegian) will take your drink orders and meal order. While you wait you’re likely to have at least one Princess rotate to your table.  The Princesses have an established pattern that they rotate through, so don’t bother calling over to them and do NOT let your children run across the room to Princesses while they’re at a different table. While you eat Princesses will rotate to you. Stay until you’ve seen all the Princesses you want to even if you’re done eating. They will bring your photo package to your table.  When you’re done you’ll get your check and leave.

Cinderella’s Royal Table – After you check in you will will wait a bit and then be called to be seated. You will be taken into the “throne room” where you will have a picture taken with Cinderella and she will spend a little time with your family (she does not rotate upstairs, so this is your only brief time with Cindy). I don’t remember feeling rushed through that. Cindy’s dining room is much smaller than Akershus and so you might feel a little closer to the families around you in proximity (this is also why its so hard to get a reservation). Your waiter will come and take your drink order and the Princesses will begin their rotation similar to that of Akershus. One cool thing that Cindy’s does is periodically Princesses will be “announced” into the room and people will clap for them. At some point during your meal they will have a “Wishing Ceremony”. Princes are all brought a plastic sword and Princesses are brought a magic wand. They are each given a blue “wishing star”. When the ceremony begins it walks the Princes and Princesses through what to do: closing their eyes, making a wish, then they all do a Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo and when you look up to the ceiling all of the lights twinkle momentarily. You’re allowed to keep the wand, sword, and wishing star.Then you will clear you’re check and leave.

Cost

Akershus – 1 table service meal credit.

Cinderella’s Royal Table – 2 table service meal credits.

Akershus – (includes tax & photo package) Breakfast $39.40/adults; $23.42/children 3-9.  Lunch: $41.53/adult; $24.49/children 3–9. Dinner $46.85/adult; $25.55/children.

Cinderella’s Royal Table -(includes tax, photo package, & a wand/sword/wishing star)  Breakfast $44.80/adult; $29.86/ children 3-9. Lunch: $48.54/adult; $31.11/ children 3-9. Dinner $54.76/ adult; $33.60 children 3-9.

The cost is much bigger issue for those people  on the Disney Dining Plan who burn an additional meal credit, than for those people just paying cash. It’s basically the difference between paying (in credits) $300.00 for a meal for a family of 4 at Cinderella’s Royal Table instead of $128.00 for the same meal for the same family in cash. Essentially you could go to Akerhaus TWICE for the same amount of credits you can go to Cinderella’s table once.

Cost between Akershus and Cinderella’s Royal table is very comparable if you’re paying cash for the meal. And if you’re on the Premium Dining plan you’re not going to care anyway because you’ll likely end up with credits to burn.

The Verdict

So what is the Disney Diva’s verdict? Is Cinderella’s Royal Table WORTH the two dining credits? My answer would be, If you’re on Premium Dining Plan then Yes. The experience is great and you’ve got credits. If you’re not then I would say no. If you’re paying cash then all things being equal I’d say yes Cinderella’s Royal Table is great because it gives you the chance to eat inside the castle. If you’re doing Disney on a budget however and every dollar counts then the Akershus is great and will give you an awesome experience. Final say? Like everything.. . do what is best for your family and your situation!

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Is Cinderella's Royal Table worth the 2 dining credits?

iPad Review: Disney Princesses A Royal Christmas

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

iPad Review: Disney Princesses A Royal Christmas

In the last of my iPad reviews, today I’m taking a look at Disney Princesses: A Royal Christmas, which is available at the iTunes store at a cost of $4.99, and is available for both iPhone and iPad devices.

A Royal Christmas is a really good app to have in your library.  Like the other apps from Disney Publishing Worldwide Applications, this one is designed to help younger readers develop their reading skills in a fun, interactive way.  The nice thing about this app is that it contains three separate stories, one each involving Cinderella, Ariel, and Tiana!

iPad Review: Disney Princesses A Royal Christmas

Each of the stories, of course, is about the holidays, but they are uniquely different, and quite enjoyable in their own ways.  Sophie looked at it with me, and the first one that she wanted to look at was Princess Tiana — it was really well done, and this is one of the few apps I’ve seen that has featured Tiana and the Princess and the Frog characters, so I was excited to see it.

iPad Review: Disney Princesses A Royal Christmas

As you can see, there are several layers to this app.  You can follow along, you can read and explore, and you can play games.  All of the options are neat, and ones that your child will really enjoy.  Here are some of the beautiful shots that I captured from the Tiana story.

iPad Review: Disney Princesses A Royal Christmas
Out on the bayou
iPad Review: Disney Princesses A Royal Christmas
Tiana and Charlotte -- is that Papa Noel in the back there?
iPad Review: Disney Princesses A Royal Christmas
I love the dimension in this picture.

These shots are just some of the really incredible details that the folks at Disney Worldwide Publishing Applications have put into their work.  It is truly an incredible app for your iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch, and well worth the $4.99 cost.

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Disney Baby Expandes Products for Nursery, Apparel, Mealtime and Bathtime

By
Chip
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Disney Baby Expandes Products for Nursery, Apparel, Mealtime and Bathtime

Disney Baby announced today the launch of an all-new, expanded collection of products to help parents create magical moments right from the start. The new Disney Baby collections provide feel-good, unique products organized around key moments of the day, including In the Nursery, Dressing Baby, Mealtime and Bathtime. Disney Baby also recently introduced DisneyBaby.com, an online destination featuring the Disney Baby Magical Moments upload tool and gallery, inspirational ideas, mom-tested tips and a comprehensive Disney Baby product showcase for expecting and new parents.

“Disney Baby celebrates the fact that life with baby is filled with so many magical moments to be cherished,” said Jessi Dunne, executive vice president, Disney Moms and Babies for Disney Consumer Products. “In order to help parents to bond with their baby, the new Disney Baby collections are designed to provide quality products essential to every experience throughout the day with a touch of Disney magic.”

Whether it’s Simba in the nursery or Nemo in the tub, the new collections offer an extensive selection of delightful products for every magical moment. DisneyBaby.com not only serves as a one-stop resource to search the most comprehensive collection of Disney Baby brand products on the Web, it also allows parents and gift givers the ability to filter by gender, product type, Disney character and retailer.

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New Product Collections include:

  • In the Nursery — Turn baby’s nursery into a sleeptime safari with the new Disney Baby The Lion King Nursery Collection. The collection furnishes parents with everything they need to outfit a nursery, including a 4-piece crib bedding set, modern canvas wall art, a musical mobile and an animal print window valance, among other wildly adorable items.
  • Dressing Baby — The only infant bodysuit with a patent-pending design that “grows” with baby, the DISNEY CUDDLY BODYSUIT™ features a second row of snaps for an inch of longer wear. Now available in new playful patterns and character-inspired designs starring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, The Aristocats and Tigger; there is a bodysuit for every little character. New, huggable Sleep and Play Sleepers as well as Pant Sets with matching caps and bibs and blankets round out baby’s wardrobe.
  • Mealtime –As one of the most important times of day for baby, Disney Baby offers parents products essential to baby’s development specially designed for their gentle little mouths. Available in designs featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and The Lion King, products include bottles that allow baby to control the flow of milk and pacifiers that fit the natural shape of baby’s palate and gums.
  • Bathtime –From splish splashing in the tub to swaddling a squeaky clean baby in a cuddly towel, bathtime is always a fun adventure. To make bathtime the best time, the new Finding Nemo Bath Collection includes a fun tub with engaging toy bar, a hooded towel, bath toys, and more.

New styles of the DISNEY CUDDLY BODYSUIT™ are available now at Target, Amazon.com and Babies “R” Us stores. Pants Sets, Sleep and Play, the Lion King Nursery Collection, the Finding Nemo and Minnie Mouse Bath Collections and Disney-themed infant feeding supplies from Born Free are also available now at Babies “R” Us. For additional information, visit: www.babiesrus.com, www.amazon.com/disneybaby and www.target.com. Disney Baby plans to introduce new products and collections later this year.

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Disney Baby Expandes Products for Nursery, Apparel, Mealtime and Bathtime

DVD Review: MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I ♥ MINNIE

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: I ♥ Minnie DVD
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: I ♥ Minnie

A new home video from Walt Disney Studios releases this Tuesday, February 7, 2012. Featuring five fun-filled episodes and one special bonus feature that underline the themes of friendship, teamwork, sharing and problem solving, MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I ♥ MINNIE was a sure hit with my little girl and is bound to become a favorite in your home too.

  • Mickey Mouse and his Clubhouse friends are planning a surprise party for Minnie’s Birthday. My daughter was truly worried they wouldn’t be able to keep Minnie occupied while they got ready. She worried along with Minnie too, who thought her friends had forgotten her special day, but a happy ending brought a smile back to her face.
  • When Daisy discovers her shoe is broken, the Clubhouse friends get creative. My daughter felt like she was really helping with her suggestions on how to fix it, and she had a great time learning the steps to Daisy’s Dance.
  • The Pet Parade is almost here, and everyone has a pet to pamper except Daisy. My daughter, who recently got her very own puppy, absolutely loved this episode, because Daisy ends up keeping not just one but three adorable critters for Daisy’s Pet Project.
  • Minnie and her friends follow the colorful rainbow that has appeared over the clubhouse and encounter a mischievous leprechaun along the way. At first, my daughter was irritated by the leprechaun, because he kept thwarting their plans, but in the end she and the Clubhouse gang were pleasantly surprised by the special treasure waiting at the end of Minnie’s Rainbow.
  • The flower festival is fast approaching, but Minnie’s and Daisy’s flowers won’t bloom. My daughter wanted to run to the store and buy them a bouquet! But in this all new, never-before-seen episode, the two friends are able to coax the clouds to rain on Minnie & Daisy’s Flower Shower. 

The bonus episode makes it personal. You’re Invited to Minnie’s Birthday Party  lets your children join the celebration. My daughter really enjoyed using Toodles’ Mouseketools to RSVP to the invitation, choose the perfect gift for Minnie and decorate a party hat. She made a pink hat with lots of colorful polka dots and oodles of sparkly glitter. She thought Minnie would approve and wished Minnie could see her through the television. The episode ties in to Minnie’s Birthday, wishing the Guest of Honor special birthday wishes.

We were excited to see the bonus sneak peeks at the upcoming Disney Studios All Access offers, Lady and the Tramp and Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure DVD/Blu-ray releases, Lion King 1-1/2 and Lion King 2 combo pack DVD release, and Cinderella DVD/Blu-ray diamond edition, as well as a look at some brand new features that are in the works: Brave (coming to theaters Summer 2012 from Disney-Pixar), Planes (coming to theaters Spring 2013 from Disney-Pixar), and Tinker Bell Secret of the Wings (coming soon to DVD). A Digital Copy is also included for computer download, so we can watch our favorite episodes on the go, but my daughter was most excited about the two complimentary Best Friend necklaces that are packaged with MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I ♥ MINNIE, providing a keepsake memento to share with her BFF. 

Don’t let the party start without you!

For more information on MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I ♥ MINNIE, see press release.

Disney Food Confession – Wild Africa Trek Meal

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Disney Food Confession - Wild Africa Trek Meal

Disney Food Confession - Wild Africa Trek Meal

Where can you find it?
Wild Africa Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

What is it?
Tin 1-Pita bread, prosciutto,dried beef, salmon roll with cream cheese on top of a jicama and cucumber salad. Topped off with a slice of fig almond bread.
Tin 2-Yogurt with granola,edible orchid, brie cheese and melon.

Why you want it-

This meal is included in your Wild Africa Trek package at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
You can find more information here about the rates and how to book your fun filled trip
through the African Savannah where the Kilimanjaro Safari drivers do not dare to travel.

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Sorrentino.
Thank you Jennifer for the wonderful photos!

If you have a Disney Food Confession email me at [email protected]. Let me know the What, Where, and Why you love it so much. We would love to feature your picture and link to your website or blog if you have one.

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Hero’s Welcome New York Giants Quarterback Eli Manning, MVP of Super Bowl XLVI, at Walt Disney World Resort

By
Chip
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Hero’s Welcome New York Giants Quarterback Eli Manning, MVP of Super Bowl XLVI, at Walt Disney World Resort

After leading his team to a game-winning drive and the Super Bowl championship Sunday night, New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning led another drive Monday: down Main Street, U.S.A. to cheering fans at Walt Disney World Resort.

“I’m going to Disney World!” proclaimed Manning Sunday shortly after his team scored a dramatic 21-17 win over the New England Patriots to capture Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis. In a gala parade Monday at Magic Kingdom, Manning made good on that promise, waving and smiling alongside Mickey Mouse from a red convertible in the shadow of Cinderella Castle.

Fans of the Giants and Manning, including those sporting team jerseys Monday, got to see their hero up-close in the place where memories are made. New York Giants balloons mixed in with red, white and blue balloons along the parade route, Mickey Mouse was joined by other Disney characters and confetti in the shape of the Lombardi Trophy (awarded to the NFL champion) rained down on the happy scene. Manning was joined in the Magic Kingdom by NFL Youth football players.

Manning – who was named the game’s MVP — is no stranger to storybook finishes. Sunday’s late, game-winning drive marked the seventh fourth-quarter comeback Manning led this season. His 15 fourth quarter touchdown passes set an NFL single-season record.

Manning’s “I’m going to Disney World!” — anchoring one of TV’s most enduring and iconic Super Bowl commercials — was captured seconds after the final whistle. Monday’s visit marked his second “What’s Next…?” appearance in the Disney commercial. In 2008, Manning was celebrated following the Giants’ 17-14 upset win over the Patriots in Super Bowl XLII.

This latest commercial is the 45th in a series that began in 1987 following Super Bowl XXI. The first “I’m going to Disney World” commercial, featuring New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms, was regarded as a groundbreaking concept – a produced national commercial involving a current event, airing on major networks within hours of its conclusion. Manning again joined a lineup of people from sports and beyond who have celebrated milestone accomplishments in “I’m going to Disney World” commercials.

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Eli Manning ‘Going to Disney World’ to Celebrate Super Bowl XLVI Victory

By
Chip
-

Eli Manning ‘Going to Disney World’ to Celebrate Super Bowl XLVI Victory

After his epic play in Super Bowl XLVI leading his team to a come-from-behind 21-17 victory over the New England Patriots, what is New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning going to do next? In the celebratory moments after his team captured the National Football League championship Sunday night in Indianapolis, Manning stood in front of a TV camera and shouted five words that have become ingrained in Super Bowl victory celebrations: “I’m going to Disney World!”

Manning’s pronouncement, part of the production for one of TV’s most enduring and iconic Super Bowl commercials, was captured seconds after the final whistle. Manning – named the game’s MVP — completed 30 of 40 passes and amassed 296 yards, including his trademark fourth-quarter heroics, leading the Giants to the winning score.

Manning’s stellar performance was crucial in Sunday’s game and earned him a second “I’m going to Disney World!” accolade.  In 2008, Manning was treated to a hero’s welcome at Disney after leading the Giants to an upset win over the Patriots, 17-14, in Super Bowl XLII.

He becomes the first Giants quarterback to win two Super Bowls.

On Monday (Feb. 6), Manning is scheduled to go to the place where millions of vacationers make memories celebrating their own personal milestone moments – Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla. Manning will be joined in the Magic Kingdom by NFL Youth football players, who will participate with the Giants star in the Super Bowl celebration near Main Street, U.S.A.

This latest commercial is the 45th in a series that began in 1987 following Super Bowl XXI. The first “I’m going to Disney World” commercial, featuring Giants quarterback Phil Simms, was regarded as a groundbreaking concept – a produced national commercial involving a current event, airing on major networks within hours of its conclusion. Manning again joins a lineup of people from sports and beyond who have celebrated milestone accomplishments in “I’m Going to Disney World” commercials.

Eli Manning ‘Going to Disney World’ to Celebrate Super Bowl XLVI Victory

Chip & Company Week in Review, February 6, 2012

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Chip & Company Week in Review, February 6, 2012

Welcome to this week’s edition of the Chip & Company Week in Review.  There have been a lot of stories to read about, so here are the stories that caught our eye last week:

  • Have you heard about the special D23 event “Disneyland Off the Map?”  If so, will you be there on March 6th?
  • Have you made your plans yet for the Epcot International Flower & Garden Show?  It will be around from March 7th – May 20th, 2012, so look into making your plans soon if you are going!
  • For those of you with the name John or Carter (or some variations) you’ll want to enter “The Real John Carter” sweepstakes!  Take a look!
  • Discover the sights and sounds of Disneyland with Disneyland Explorer!  Sounds like an iPad app that’s got my name on it!
  • Speaking of iPad apps, I reviewed three different iPad apps: Beauty and the Beast Storybook Deluxe, Pooh’s Birthday Surprise, and Toy Story Showtime!  I’ll have one more review for you early next week!
  • Patrick reported to us that Marvel hosted an Avengers Q&A session on Twitter recently.  Did you submit a question that got answered?
  • Allergyfreemouse.com is hosting a guest blogging contest.  Check out the post for more information!
  • Chip has started a new rewards program on the site.  Check out the Chip & Company Rewards Program to win free gift cards!
  • Did you see where Star Wars Fans worked together to create a remake of Star Wars Episode IV uncut?
  • Lastly, the spring issue of the D23 magazine is paying tribute to 75 years of Disney Animated Films.

That’s our look at some of the news stories from last week, now let’s take a look at some of the incredible original articles that our writers produce each and every day!  Enjoy!

  • Are you a Meatatarian?  Do you even know what a Meatatarian is?  Is it even a real word?  Well, Chip shows you how to be a Meatatarian at Walt Disney World!
  • Melissa shares with us how you can get postcards from Walt Disney World!  This is just another way to capture Disney Magic at home!
  • Lastly, Chris shares with us her top 5 newbie mistakes!

That’s all we have for you this week.  I hope you have a terrific week, and remember to check out Chip & Company often for the latest in Disney News, Views, Giveaways, and more!  To keep up with the latest Disney news and views on the fly, check out the Chip & Company Facebook Page or follow Chip & Company via Twitter!  Also, head on over to the Disney for Seniors page and tell Ken you hope he’s feeling better!  Ken, get well soon my friend!

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2012 Passporter’s Walt Disney World Guidebook Is Here!

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

2012 Passporter's Walt Disney World Guidebook Is Here!

Sometimes the sound of the mail slot makes me cringe…it’s normally bills or junk mail. But when I hear a package go into the door it’s sheer excitement, especially when I know it’s my 2012 Walt Disney World PassPorter Guidebook!

The folks over at PasspPorter press have done it again with the must have guidebook for all of your Walt Disney World needs. Yes, there are other guidebooks and “official guides” for Disney World but I assure you, I’ve read all of them and none are nearly as good, or as user-friendly as PassPorter.

This spiral bound guide is printed in color and boasts “350+ pages of advice, maps, photos of resorts, restaurants and theme parks plus our famous organizer pockets”.

If you are looking for a hoity-toity, fancy-schmancy guidebook that looks impressive on a bookshelf but is of absolutely no use at all, get one of those “other” guide books. If you want the most complete, up to date, user-friendly trip planning and reference guide, then you want the PassPorter. That was a mouthful, but it’s not nearly enough adjectives to describe the magic of PassPorter.

If you’ve never experienced a PassPorter guidebook here is what you’re missing.
Honest opinions: the missing “official guidebook” stamp means that these are people just like us; they are Disney travelers. They can give an honest opinion about what they see and experience instead of giving you the “real estate” review : “quaint accommodations in a charming atmosphere”,when it should really read “rooms so small you can’t express an emotion and don’t look outside”.

  • Travel equals: These folks travel just like you and I. They don’t squeak in on VIP treatment, free passes etc. They stay in the rooms we stay in and hunt for the same deals that will benefit you and I. They gather information from their own experiences and from fellow travelers in the PassPorter Community.
  • Beyond a guidebook: This is more than a guidebook, this is a planning guide. The planning doesn’t start when you want to book your vacation, it starts far before. It starts at the conception of your vacation thought and encourages you to immerse yourself in the Disney experience prior to your vacation. Participating in forums, learning from other travelers, ordering vacation planning video’s. etc. are all a part of the planning process and PassPorter will show you how to do it all. The book is designed to be personalized with spots to make notes, interactive planning pages you can access online, and “Passpockets”-the one page folder that holds all of your day-to-day details (confirmation numbers, notes, tips, etc.) and also serves as a folder to store your receipts.
  • Worksheets: There are budget worksheets, planning worksheets, transportation worksheets, lodging worksheets, packing lists and more. These folks know what you need to plan, even if you don’t!
  • All inclusive information: The PassPorter breaks down into eight main categories: planning, getting there, staying in style, touring, feasting, making magic, index, notes and more. You’ll find everything you need to know within these categories. For example, the “staying in style” section outlines each resort and includes the following: ambiance, resort layout and rooms, eating and drinking, playing and relaxing, getting about, tips, notes and ratings. Then there’s the mini resort maps (in color of course!), best locations, rates and info. Whew. I’m exhausted and that’s just one category!

Passporter is your one stop shop for any question you may ever have about Disney World and is great to keep on hand for reference; even for us veterans! I know what you’re thinking, “why should I invest in this guidebook when things are constantly changing?” Well, the folks at PassPorter have already thought about that! Their books are being updated in real-time with PassPorter articles on their website, questions and answers in their forums and the free book updates you can get online.

You can find me on Passporter Boards, if you book your vacation with me and mention Passporter I’ll give you a $25 Disney gift card to spend on your trip!

[email protected] for your free quote! Don’t forget that all of my services as your Authorized Disney Travel Planner are FREE!

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2012 Passporter's Walt Disney World Guidebook Is Here!

Fans of “All Things Disney” Make Memories, Rack up Rewards with New Disney’s Premier Visa Card

By
Chip
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Fans of “All Things Disney” Make Memories, Rack up Rewards with New Disney’s Premier Visa Card

Guests can make the most out of their summer vacation at Walt Disney World Resort—and enjoy terrific perks—thanks to Disney’s Premier Visa Card from Chase.

The new card offers Disney fans more ways to earn rewards twice as fast, plus the opportunity to redeem toward airline travel in addition to most everything Disney.

There’s more, including special Cardmember-only perks when visiting Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort and when shopping at more than 200 Disney Store locations in the U.S.

With Disney’s Premier Visa Card, Cardmembers earn 2 percent in Disney Dream Reward Dollars on card purchases at restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations and at most Disney locations at Walt Disney World Resort, the Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line and Disney Store. Cardmembers earn 1 percent on all other purchases made with the card.

In addition to being able to redeem Disney Dream Reward Dollars toward Disney hotel stays, Disney Theme Park tickets, Disney merchandise and cruise vacations aboard the ships of Disney Cruise Line, Disney’s Premier Visa Cardmembers also can redeem toward airline travel on any airline to any destination with no block-out dates. Cardmembers simply buy airline tickets with their card and then pay themselves back by redeeming reward dollars for a credit on their monthly statement.

Disney’s Premier Visa Cardmembers also enjoy year-round perks when visiting Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort, including a Disney Character Meet ‘N’ Greet at a private Cardmember location and special savings at Disney’s U.S. Theme Parks, Disney Store retail locations and at DisneyStore.com. See DisneyVisaPerks.com for more details.

Existing Disney Rewards Visa Cardmembers can apply for an upgrade to Disney’s Premier Visa Card at upgrademydisneycard.com or by calling the number on the back of their card.

The annual fee for Disney’s Premier Visa Card is $49. For more information or to apply for a new card, please visit getdisneycreditcard.com or call 888/752-3788.

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Disney Fantasy Takes Fun to High Water Mark on 7-Night Caribbean Cruises

By
Chip
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Disney Fantasy Takes Fun to High Water Mark on 7-Night Caribbean Cruises

When the Disney Fantasy, the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet launches March 31, 2012, it will be a high-water mark for family cruise vacations. This ship, Disney’s fourth, offers entertainment, activities and dining experiences purpose-planned for seven-night cruises from her maiden voyage forward.

The Fantasy fun includes:

  • Two new Broadway-style musical stage shows – “Wishes” and “Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular” in the lavish Walt Disney Theatre
  • Magical princess makeovers at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and during pirate nights, swashbuckling transformations at The Pirates League
  • The Muppets are coming to the Disney Fantasy in an interactive detective adventure game using the ship’s Enchanted Art
  • “Animation Magic” – a new dinner show in Animator’s Palate restaurant that brings guests’ cartoon drawings to life
  • Europa – a nighttime entertainment district for adults featuring sophisticated bars and trendy lounges inspired by the very best in European travel

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500 or contact Pixie Vacations.

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Disney Fantasy Takes Fun to High Water Mark on 7-Night Caribbean Cruises

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Features Customized Dining Options

By
Chip
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Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Features Customized Dining Options

“Better-for-you” options at five mini shops serving breakfast, lunch and dinner is the theme of the Landscape of Flavors food court at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. The new restaurant will be adjacent to the lobby.

“The idea is that you customize your choices,” says Chef Ed Wronski, Director, Food & Beverage Concept Development, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “From burgers to pasta, salads, ethnic flavors, omelets, even parfaits and gelatos, everything is made fresh as you order.”

There’s a big focus on beverages, too. Fresh fruit smoothies are made to order, as well as lemonade and pomegranate limeade. Organic teas, beer (including gluten free), wine, coffee and juices also will be stocked.  Half bottles of wine are paired with cuisine from the food shops.

Menu highlights:

  • Create a salad at the Soup-Salad-Sandwich Shop, including a caprese sandwich with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes on focaccia, or a Buffalo-style turkey sandwich with arugula and a blue cheese-Buffalo sauce-mayo spread. Both served with house-made potato chips.
  • The World Flavors Shop adds Indian-African flair to breakfast, with scrambled eggs, tandoor potatoes, Portuguese sausage, slab bacon and a mini-naan; or a veggie flatbread sandwich on naan with cauliflower, spinach and paneer. Lunch and dinner is a choice of tandoori chicken or shrimp, Mongolian beef with vegetables, mahi mahi, Portuguese sausage or roasted acorn squash served with sides and naan bread.
  • The Pizza Shop features make-your-own pasta, cheese and pepperoni pizzas and meatballs on ciabatta bread. Room delivery is an option, too.
  • The Burger Shop includes a breakfast burger with chicken breakfast sausage, cheese and scrambled eggs on a multi-grain bun, and a steak-and-eggs breakfast burger with a burger topped with fried eggs, cheese and bacon.  Besides the traditional burgers, lunch and dinner includes a surf and surf burger with crab cake and fried popcorn shrimp, and a pastrami cheeseburger topped with pepper jack cheese and a slice of fried green tomato.
  • The “grab ‘n go” Market Shop offers drinks, yogurt, bagels, pastries, gourmet cupcakes, cookies and gelato.

The food court is part of the Disney Dining Plan.

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Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Features Customized Dining Options
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