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2011 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Details

By
Chip
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2011 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Details

At Walt Disney World Resort in 2011, it begins to look a lot like Christmas as early as Nov. 8. Santa’s elves bedazzle every corner of the Vacation Kingdom for a seasonal spectacle filled with heartwarming stage productions, enchanting parades, garlands and wreaths, millions of sparkling lights and even the first flakes of winter.

And with a ho, ho, whole lot of cheer being spread over more than a month, guests have more choice as to when they join in the magical, one-of-a-kind celebration.

Magic Kingdom

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – On 19 special nights, holiday revelers can delight during this cheery, family-friendly event. Party-goers embrace the joys of the season – sipping cocoa, catching a “snowflake” and enjoying merry shows, fireworks, carolers and special character meet and greets.

This after-hours party on select nights between Nov. 8 and Dec. 18, 2011, features a sleigh full of merriment:

  • An enchanting Cinderella Castle adorned with Castle Dream Lights
  • Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, complete with a special appearance by Santa Claus himself
  • An exclusive holiday fireworks extravaganza — Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season
  • Live entertainment featuring Disney characters
  • Meet and greet opportunities throughout Magic Kingdom theme park with favorite Disney characters
  • Complimentary cookies, apple slices and hot cocoa
  • A magical snow fall on Main Street, U.S.A.
  • Many popular Magic Kingdom attractions open for fun
  • Complimentary family photo

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will take place Nov. 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18, 27, 29, 30, Dec. 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16 and 18, 2011, from 7 p.m. until midnight. Day-of-event pricing is $62.95 and $57.95 for ages 3 to 9. Savings of $6 per ticket are available if tickets are purchased in advance. Visit Disneyworld.com/holidays.

Also happening at the Magic Kingdom:

Castle Dream Lights – Each evening of the season, Cinderella Castle shimmers with lights brought to beaming brightness during a ceremonial show performed at dusk. Beginning Nov. 8 and continuing through Jan. 3, 2012, Cinderella and favorite Disney characters decked out in festive holiday garb take center stage and magically transform Cinderella Castle into an ice palace draped with 200,000 ice cycle-white lights – a breathtaking focal point to a park ready for revelers with wreaths, bows, garland, towering Christmas trees and scarlet poinsettias dominating the landscape.

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2011 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Details

Disney World’s 2011 Festival of the Masters Event Details

By
Chip
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Disney World's 2011 Festival of the Masters Event Details

The 36th Festival of the Masters is a vibrant open-air art festival in the Downtown Disney area. Featuring nearly 150 award-winning artists, discover why this world-renowned show is a much-anticipated annual event for Guests, artists, collectors and art lovers.

Showcasing one-of-a-kind and limited edition painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry and more, this prestigious show is ranked among the country’s finest outdoor art festivals. There’s a lot more to enjoy, too, like amazing chalk art, live music, specialty foods and family-friendly activities.

Dates and Times

  • Friday, November 11, 2011 – 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 12, 2011 – 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, November 13, 2011 – 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

 

If you are an artist and wish to be considered for Festival of the Masters please visit www.juriedartservices.com.

Downtown Disney area admission and parking are complimentary.*Entertainment and activities are subject to change without notice.

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Disney World's 2011 Festival of the Masters Event Details

Disney’s 2011 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic

By
Chip
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Disney's 2011 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic

Be a part of the final PGA TOUR event of the season. The Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic will be held October 20-23, 2011 at the Walt Disney World® Resort. Come out and watch Robert Garrigus defend his title against some of the best players in the world. In its history, the event has crowned 13 champions who have also won majors, including Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh and Davis Love III.

Unique food and beverage options will be available, including food and wine pairings from some of the top restaurants at the Walt Disney World® Resort.

Net proceeds from the Children’s Miracle Network Classic directly benefit Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando and Shands Children’s Hospital at University of Florida in Gainesville. Donations create miracles by funding medical care, research and education that saves and improves the lives of 17 million children each year.

For more information regarding the tournament, visit www.childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com.

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Disney's 2011 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic

Tiki Room Reopening Slated for Aug. 15, 2011

By
Chip
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Tiki Room Reopening Slated for Aug. 15, 2011

The Sunshine Pavilion, featuring a show variously known as “Tropical Serenade” and “The Enchanted Tiki Birds,” debuted on Oct. 1, 1971, in Magic Kingdom. In 1998, following substantial refurbishment, it re-launched as The Enchanted Tiki Room-Under New Management, with two famous Disney birds – Iago from Aladdin and Zazu from The Lion King– taking control and trying to spruce up the show.

Now the “new management” has been let go and the future of the Adventureland landmark is in the wings and wit of José, Fritz, Michael and Pierre – four crooning parrot hosts who have been entertaining guests at California’s Disneyland since 1963 in The Enchanted Tiki Room. Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, as the Magic Kingdom attraction now will be called, is being prepared for the premiere (tentatively on Aug. 15, 2011) of a show that will pay tribute to the Disneyland original – notable in theme park history for ushering in sophisticated Audio-Animatronics technology.

Tiki Room Reopening Slated for Aug. 15, 2011

Prior to 1963, Walt Disney’s creative team had produced movable figures, but none had the sophistication of the bird-brained cast of the Tiki Room. José, Fritz, Michael and Pierre produce movements when solenoid coils hidden inside receive signals recorded onto magnetic tape and are regarded as the first “true” Audio-Animatronics figures.

They introduce a musical presentation by more than 200 birds, flowers and tikis. Even the audience gets into the act, joining in during the musical ditty “Let’s All Sing Like the Birdies Sing.”

While the show is steeped in tradition and maintains the original intent created by Walt Disney and his original team of Imagineers, Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room will feature the latest in technology – a state of the art show-control system, remastered audio, and a new versatile and energy efficient lighting system.

The attraction has shows throughout Magic Kingdom operating hours.

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Top 5 Best Things About Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Top 5 Best Things About Disney's Wilderness Lodge

Wilderness Lodge is a popular, deluxe resort at Walt Disney World. Since it opened in 1994, guests have been enjoying this adventurous yet noble resort and all of its offerings. While there is a lot to see, do, and appreciate about Wilderness Lodge, check out my top 5 best things about this fantastic Disney resort!

1. Theme-Part of Wilderness Lodge’s appeal is its Pacific Northwest theme. When  you stay or visit Wilderness Lodge, you truly feel as if you have left central Florida for a retreat at one of our nation’s national parks. It’s like two vacations in one! Where else can you experience the wonders of the West in comfort and luxury with a Disney twist!

2. Price-While Wilderness Lodge is a deluxe resort with close proximity to the Magic Kingdom, it typically runs cheaper than the majority of other deluxe resorts. Part of the reason for this is because Wilderness Lodge does not provide monorail transportation and the rooms are smaller in comparison to other deluxe rooms. However, for guests and families on a budget, this resort is a little more economical while still ofering the deluxe experience and its benefits.

3. Dining-Wilderness Lodge offers some great dining options! First of all, there’s the Whispering Canyon Cafe. This table service restaurant is quite an adventure with hilarious waiters, stick horse races around the restaurant, and delicious, hearty homecooked selections! Artist Point is a signature restaurant offering refined, American dishes. Dining here is a luxurious and scrumptious experience; and many consider it a hidden gem in the Disney dining world. Finally, for a quick meal or snack, there’s the Roaring Fork. It’s a mini-food court with seating both indoors and out, great for families on-the-go or on a budget. For more info on Wilderness Lodge dining, check out this post here!

4. Design-Wilderness Lodge was actually designed after the real lodges in the West. The lobby is breathtaking with its giant log columns and beams, 7 story high ceiling, and warm, earthy colors. There’s also a towering fireplace that’s 82 feet tall representing the layers of the Grand Canyon, along with cozy rockers situated nearby. Along with a variety of artwork and historical displays to enjoy, the lobby also holds a bubbling spring that flows under a bridge and out into the resort’s main pool. The rooms here also follow the resort’s design of rugged elegance, as evidenced by the log beds and furniture, rustic light fixtures, and nature inspired artwork.

5. Location-Wilderness Lodge is located on Seven Seas Lagoon, the same lake shared by the Magic Kingdom and other deluxe resorts. The Magic Kingdom is only a short, picturesque boat ride away; and right next door to this resort is Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. You can reach Fort Wilderness by boat or walking trail for more outdoor fun and other dining and entertainment opportunities.

So what do you like about Wilderness Lodge? Comment below and share your experiences!

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Disney Planning 101 – Passports

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Disney Planning 101 - Passports

My family and I will be taking our first ever Disney cruise this December on the brand new Disney Dream. We are all very excited about our trip to the Bahamas, but planning for it is certainly different from our annual Walt Disney World trips. One of the things we are having to do is apply for passports. It is recommended that each member of the party applies for his/her passport at least 4 months in advance to allow time for processing and receiving the passport. It usually takes 6-8 weeks to receive it once the paperwork has been completed. Disney Cruise Line asks for all expected guests to supply their passport numbers at least 75 days in advance.

There are a couple of options when applying for passports: the Passport Book and the Passport Card. There are some very important differences between these two passports.

The Passport Book is the traditional passport as pictured above. It is the best form of proof of citizenship. It can be used for re-entry to the U.S. from all points of entry, including international flights. The cost is $110 + $25 fee.

The Passport Card looks very similar to, and is the same size as, a regular driver’s license. It may be used for land and sea travel between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. It can be used if the cruise is departing and returning to the same port, as the one we will be taking from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and back. The cost is much cheaper at only $30 + $25 fee.

The passport card sounds great as it would save us $80 per person, or a total of $320.00. If we were guaranteed that there was no chance we would need to get home for any emergency, we would probably opt to settle for that one. However, getting into the Bahamas and back on the ship and then back into port in Florida are not my only concerns. If something should happen back home that would necessitate us having to fly home right away, none of us would be able to get back into the U.S. on an international flight without having the passport book. So, we will pay the extra money to insure that we are covered all the way around.

Each person applying for a passport, even infants, must go in person to apply. Specific instructions on how to apply can be found on the U.S. Department of State website at http://www.travel.state.gov/passport. Be sure to note that there are special requirements for children under 16 years of age.

This task is tedious but it must be done in order for us to go and have an amazing cruise. Are you planning a Disney cruise soon?

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What is a Disney Take Over and Why Use It?

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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What is a Disney Take Over and Why Use It?

Acronyms and terminology are key to Disney vacation. We all know that ADR means Advanced Dining Reservation and EMH means Extra Magic Hours. A term you may not have heard of is “take over”. This term is used mainly between Disney and travel agencies; so you may be less familiar with it.

It seems like a scary word, but when you break it down and understand it, it’s really quite rewarding!

1. Definition of a take over-A simple form that requires your name, reservation information and signature to authorize an agency to “take over” your reservation.

2. When to do a take over-This is great for when you’ve already made your reservation exactly how you want it, then decide to use a travel agent. Doing a takeover saves you from having to cancel and wait for your refund. Take overs also come in handy if you come across an agency incentive you want to take advantage of, but your vacation is already booked.

3. Why do a take over? If you aren’t the type of person who keeps up with Disney news, new promotions, discount codes or other ways to save money on your trip, a take over is for you. Any self-respecting agent specializing in Disney travel will monitor your reservation to make sure you’re getting the best rate. As your agent they can apply new promotions or discounts that would save you money. You can go relax because now it’s your agent’s job to sit on pins and needles and wait for the next big thing.

4. How much does it cost?-This is the best part…NOTHING! Agents are paid through Disney and don’t need a cent from you. Once you sign on an agent you receive your own personal vacation planning assistant. Your agent should be able to help you as much, or as little as you like.

5. Who should I let take over my reservation? Pixie Vacations of course! Pixie Vacations offers concierge level service upon booking and no fees. You receive: Pixie Perks (free goodies), itinerary planning, reservation monitoring and much, much much more.

*Exclusively for Chip and Co readers…Pixie Michele is giving away a free landyard to each member in your travel party when you do a “take over”! Email [email protected] and mention ChipandCo!

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Planning 101 – Easy Ways to Save Money for Your Disney Trip.

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Planning 101 - Easy Ways to Save Money for Your Disney Trip.

In this economy, taking a vacation can be a luxury, but it’s still something we all want to do, particularly those of us who want, no wait, need to visit the Mouse. While the best way to do it is to put money directly into a trip fund every month, there are a few painless ways save up for that big vacation as well:

  1. Pay with cash and throw the change in a WDW-only jar. When the jar gets full, you can celebrate by taking it to your bank and putting it into your trip savings.
  2. Make your reservation as far out as possible. You’ll pay a deposit, then every other week, make a small payment. Those payments really add up and will give you a feeling of satisfaction every time you pay and let you know you’re getting closer to your trip. Or book a Free Dining Deal from me!
  3. Have a garage sale. You’d be shocked at how much you can make just by cleaning out the house. Take the money you make and add it to your trip fund. As an added Bonus you get a cleaner, neater house.
  4. Don’t want to have a garage sale? Put your stuff out on Craigslist. The great thing about Craigslist is that you can do it at your own pace and you don’t have to set anything up. Be wary of scammers and fraud; read the tips for sellers on the website. Craigslist has cracked down on scammers in recent months, but it doesn’t hurt to be as cautious as possible. Never meet someone at your home while you’re alone. Try a public parking lot in the middle of the day with people around. McDonalds is a good place and is always busy.
  5. Clip coupons. I have a good friend who absolutely doesn’t need to clip coupons, but she does it as a sort of hobby and gives what she saves to charity, earning about $200 a month for buying the same things she’d normally buy. You’ll put your savings into your trip fund. Check out Couponing to Disney for some great ideas. If you never seem to find the coupons you like, join a coupon train at a place like Disboards, where members join up and send each other coupons. It’s a great way to save money and meet fellow Disney fans.
  6. Shop Around. Disney World Tickets are one of your biggest expenses, if not the biggest. Shop around for discounted brokers like Undercover Tourist (sign up for the Mousesavers newsletter and save even more). Do not buy tickets off Ebay or from brokers who are not authorized by Disney. For more quick tips check out this article.
  7. Have a vegetarian or sandwich night once a week to save money. Bring your lunch to work most days. Chances are, these changes are also healthier. Ramen Noodles are usually like 50 for a $1 🙂
  8. Eat from your pantry. I love this one and make a point of doing it every few months, especially when I want to clean out the pantry before the Christmas holidays. If you’re like most people, you have a lot of food in the pantry (and freezer) that’s going to waste. Pick a month and declare it a “no-buy” month. Use items you already have on hand to make meals, supplementing with fresh veggies, fruit and dairy. At the end of the month you’ll have saved money and will have the satisfaction of knowing that you didn’t waste food. If you still have food left over that you aren’t using, donate it to a food bank.
  9. Turn off the lights when no one is in the room and turn off the computer. Unplug your phone chargers when they’re not in use. Water your grass only every other day. These little steps are great for the environment too.
  10. Negotiate a better deal. If your cable, home phone, and internet services aren’t bundled, you may be paying too much. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with most service providers. Talk to your cell phone provider about changing your plan. Many providers have introduced more competitive plans in the last couple of years, so if you’ve had the same plan for a while, now is the time to see if better deals are available. Finally, consider negotiating your monthly fees with your gym. Some gyms have taken a huge hit with the poor economy and would rather negotiate a new contract with you than lose a customer.

These are just a few options for saving money for your Disney Trip. Kristin on Couponing to Disney shares with you tips and tricks every day. Most everything we learned we picked up from hert! Thanks Kristin!!!!!

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The Princess and the Frog Trailer & Info

By
Chip
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The Princess And The Frog
The Princess And The Frog

The Princess and the Frog Trailer & Info

The Princess and the Frog is an upcoming 2009 American animated family feature film and presented by Walt Disney Animation Studios. It will be the 49th animated feature in the Walt Disney Animated Classics and the first 2D-animated film by Disney since 2004’s Home on the Range. It is being directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, directors of The Great Mouse Detective, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Hercules, and Treasure Planet, with songs and score composed by Randy Newman and with the voices of Anika Noni Rose (as Princess Tiana), Oprah Winfrey,[2] Keith David, Jim Cummings, John Goodman, Jenifer Lewis, Bruno Campos, Michael-Leon Wooley, Peter Bartlett and Terrence Howard.[3]

The film, which began production under the working title The Frog Princess, will be an American fairy tale, Broadway-style musical set in the French Quarter of New Orleans. A prince named Naveen from the land of Maldonia[4] is transformed into a frog by the evil scheming voodoo magician Dr. Facilier. The frog prince asks a princess named Tiana to break the spell by kissing him. However, the kiss doesn’t break the spell, but instead turns Tiana into a frog as well. Together, the two of them must reach the good voodoo priestess of the Bayou, Mama Odie, while befriending a trumpet-playing alligator and a hopelessly romantic firefly along the way. The film is set to be released on December 11, 2009.

As shown on the Disney Channel, featurette for The Princess and the Frog takes a behind the scenes look at the film with director Ron Clements and John Musker.

Disney World Planning 101 – Don’t forget to pack your Medicine!

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Disney World Planning 101 - Don't forget to pack your Medicine!

Normally I would tell you to just say no to drugs, but on a  Disney World Vacation I’m tellin’ you…

YOU BETTA BRING SOME WITH YOU!!!

On two of my trips to WDW I got sick. Sick as a dog. Sick as in “please Jesus let me DIE before my throat explodes” kind of sick.  I’m fairly sure  I spent as much on medicine at the gift shops as I did on park-tickets!

People book Disney vacations months in advance, so if they, or their children get sick it is extremely likely they will go ahead and on vacation. This becomes a problem because, if your kids are like mine, you cannot stop the darlings from TOUCHING THE QUEUE (WAITING LINE) HANDRAILS. (enter scary huffing-out-of-frustration sound here). Which means germs are being spread like wildfire.

Do NOT underestimate the importance of bringing a medicine bag with you. Now be smart… if you’re flying  there are all kinds of wacko regulations about how much liquid you can bring in your carry-on, so don’t get yourself into a situation that requires a pat-down,  but I wanted to make sure that I told you about some medicines that you just simply SHOULD NOT go to Disney without. Obviously you’ll remember any daily meds you take regularly, so they will be excluded from the list.

1. COLD Medicines:

  • Head Cold/Congestion Medicine – DAY & NIGHT. (this costs a TON at WDW and goes fast)
  • Tussin – will work for both kids or adults if a cough creeps up.
  • Claritin – With the ABUNDANT flora of Middle Florida and California you may discover you have an allergy to something you didn’t know you had. I would just suggest taking one every day just in case.
  • Thermometer – Is your kid just acting crabby b/c they’ve had a busy/overstimulating day, or have they caught something? A thermometer will help to see.
  • Ayr Nasal Spray – again, allergies or congestion can really ruin a trip. Don’t forget this kind of stuff.

2. TUMMY Medicines

  • Gas X – especially if you’re not accustomed to lots of high-fat foods.
  • TUMS/ antacid of some sort – again heartburn can kill an otherwise fun day at the World.
  • Pepto capsules – heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, diarrhea . Nuff said.

3. HEADACHE MEDICINES

  • Advil/Ibuprofen.- Your feet and legs will most likely hurt from the LARGE amount of walking that you will be doing (on average 10-15 miles per day!!!!) so make sure you’ve got some pain reliever to take with you.
  • Tylenol/Acetaminophen/ kids version of this. If a fever creeps up you don’t want to be without, also can help with the HEADACHE which sometimes accompanies the over stimulation effect Disney can have on both you and your family.
  • Heating pad or Heat packs – Again, this will be amazing for you if you have any level of back pain. Even if you don’t I’d still sleep on it around my neck to release the day’s tension.

4. FIRST AID MEDICINES

  • A small first aid kit you can keep in your backpack is great.  You will  need some band aids, alcohol pads, triple antibiotic ointment if you don’t want to buy it all together as a little kit.
  • Band-aid Friction Block Stick – Honestly I wouldn’t be caught dead at a Disney park without it! It helps to put a thin layer of protection on your skin so you are less likely to get blisters. Get some blister bandages too just in case. Your feet really take a beating at Disney parks!
  • Suntan lotion , baby face stick, and Sooth-A-Caine Spray.Disney KNOWS you have to have suntan lotion. IF you forget it you will be out MUCHO DENARO!! Don’t forget your sunscreen.

5. ODD, BUT HELPFUL MEDICINES TO HAVE

  • If your little one has had pink eye and you have any of that medicine left, bring it with you. My son picked it up last trip and it was great having it available.
  • A/B Octic Ear Drops OR Swimmers Ears drops – If your kid frequently gets ear infections or if you think they might be swimming this will pay off HUGE DIVIDENDS if you’ve got some.
  • Tampons (sorry guys but its true). Tampons are a small FORTUNE at WDW Gift Shops. Make sure you pack some just in case. (Midol might be nice too)

If you are staying on property WDW resorts have a shuttle that will take you to a “Doc in the Box”. However, it will be a little pricey and, OF COURSE, you can’t get to them in the middle of the night which is when MY kids normally show up sick. On my December trip I SWEAR I thought I had Strep Throat and when I read in the packet I couldn’t do anything till after 8am I sat there and cried. They also have “first aid stations” in every park, but they’re not for anything other than BASIC first aid (think like what your school nurse would do).

Do NOT underestimate the importance of bringing Medicines with you down to WDW. Save room in your bags and remember to JUST SAY YES TO DRUGS – (when packing for a vacation at Disney Parks that is!)

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Are you guilty of these 5 Disney World Sins?

By
Chip
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Are you guilty of these 5 Disney World Sins?

I am sure many of us have done a few of these Disney World Sins in the past. I for one live dangerously. Actually if you didn’t know Danger is my middle name. Ok well not really.

While most of these things can and will land you in hot water. I am sure some of you might know someone who in the past might have done a few of them. Keep in mind I am not talking about shoplifting or doing the banana dance in public (see my writer Chris) but I am referring to a few Disney No No’s that are frowned upon or are against the rules.

So confess your sins so ye may be forgiven.

  1. Using refillable cups from previous trips – I don’t drink pop that often but I might know someone who in the past might have used one of their old cups to partake in some refreshing bubbly beverage. Per an article from last month Disney is fixing that starting at the Pop Resorts.
  2. Pool Hopping. – Back in my youth when touring some of the resorts I know a friend of mine who liked to run and jump in the pools for no apparent reason. Call me crazy but for some strange reason the temperature in Florida tends to go up in the summertime and they felt like cooling off from said heat. Pool hopping is not allowed so I don’t recommend doing this as you will be escorted off the property.
  3. Long term parking – I might know a guy who has gone to a resort for an Advanced Dining Reservation and might have wandered over to the monorail after finishing their meal and found themselves magically transported to the Magic Kingdom for a few hours before coming back and parking their car at their own resort and taking a bus to another park. This is very risky and you car can get towed so do not try this.
  4. Multiple ADR’s – Since the creation of Online Advanced Dining Reservation System it has become a piece of cake to make your ADR’s. So with this new easy to use system I might know someone who has double books an ADR at another restaurant just in case. While this wont get you thrown out or anything and I am sure the walk up people love the additional seating I would not suggest doing this.
  5. Older than they look – I might know a parent of a very petite little girl who was already 3 years old and might have fibbed a little bit to gain free admission for their child. Keep in mind Children 3 years of age and older need to pay for admission and Disney can ask for a birth certificate.

So those are just 5 of the Disney World Sins that could land you in some hot water. I am sure we all know somebody who might have done these in the past. All I can say is you must repent of your transgressions so Mickey can free your soul. If you have any more you would like to add to the list let us know in the comment box below.

Amen

For more Disney Sins check out this article from the Banana Dancing Chris and our Disney Diva.

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Turning Play Dates Into Disney Travel Dates

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Turning Play Dates Into Disney Travel Dates

A motivating factor for our Disney Vacation Club (DVC) purchase was the ability to vacation with close family and friends. As dedicated Disney fans, we feel it’s our duty to spread the pixie dust! The time has finally come when the impractical has become the practical and we think our family is ready to enjoy Walt Disney World with another family. In other words, within the year, our household will be diaper-free, sippy cup-free, crib-free, and free of all those other trappings of toddlerhood that make travel more challenging.

Just Because You Can Doesn’t Mean You Should

It is important to consider whether you should invite another family on your vacation just because you can. Not much can turn the best of friends into frenemeies faster than vacation stress and conflict.

There is a lot to consider before sharing your Disney vacation with others including finances, schedules, dining preferences, and touring style but today I would like to focus on harmony between the families, and especially the kids.

Personality and Family Dynamic

Personality of the Kids

If you’re contemplating a trip with your friends, it’s probably a good bet that the kids are fast friends. But, have they spent more than a day or two together at one time? My children haven’t spent a whole week with our friends’ family but the children have similar temperaments so we’re pretty confident it will work out well.

Ages and Stages

Who can forget the days of having to find a restroom ASAP for a newly potty-trained preschooler? The parents of a ten year-old! Vacationing at Walt Disney World can be more successful if your children are approximately the same age. Both families will be going through the same stages whether it is the antics of preschoolers or the newly found independence of pre-teenagers. Creating a touring plan will be easier since the kids will have approximately the same interests and heights. If you travel with pre-teens, it’s probably safe to say that Disney Junior – Live on Stage! won’t be a show they want to see.

We’ll have two six year-olds, two four year-olds, and a one year old. Even if the six year-olds are tall enough to ride attractions their brothers can’t, they’ll be “buddies” and can ride with an adult while the others take the little ones to do something else.

Gender

The gender of the children in the families is something to consider, if only to make sure there are adequate sleeping arrangements. You’ll also want to have a plan if your little girl wants to dine with princesses and be made over at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and your friends’ little boy has little interest in either. In our situation, we’ll have five boys, ages six and under (which may be crazy) but there won’t be any waiting on line to meet the princesses at Town Square Theatre.

Plus One

Is there a chance there will be an “odd man out” either because of ages, personalities, or sibling relationships? Think about how the kids in the group interact on play dates. Some kids are naturally drawn to others which could mean one child feels left out at times. It’s no fun to be the odd man out at home and even less so on vacation. Parents can mix up the groups by taking one group of kids on a special adventure while the others play together. These activities and groups can be changed up every day so everyone has a chance to be included and spend time together.

In our situation, the baby is the “plus one” but he will be young enough that he will be more interested in being with mom and dad than a playmate.

Rivalry

Sibling rivalry can rear its ugly head at any time but it can also happen between friends. Will the children compete for the attention of a favored adult or child? Is it all in good fun or could the kids start acting out because even negative attention is good attention to many kids? Consider spending some time alone as a family and meeting up with your friends at specified times. Breaking up the group at times can help take the wind out of the sails of any competition.

Parenting Styles

How similar is your parenting style with your friends? Although each family will parent differently, resentment could breed if one family is more lenient with snacks and purchasing souvenirs than the other. It’s possible the kids will create a chorus of “But it’s not fair – Johnny got a Mickey bar!” or parents may feel pressured to be more lax or strict than they otherwise would be to keep the peace. Be upfront about expectations with your children and explain that your family has its rules and Johnny’s family may have different rules.

Bedtimes

How similar are the sleep schedules of all the children? If the schedules of the kids are very different, it can be tough to coordinate to get to that early morning character breakfast or to stay out late to watch the fireworks.

If the kids traveling together have different personalities and family dynamics differ, it doesn’t mean your trip will be a flop. You may just need to make some adjustments and communicate well with the other family to ensure a great time is had by all.

This article is featured in this months blog carnival only on Dismarks!

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