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Pick YOUR Best Time Of Year To Visit Walt Disney World

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Pick YOUR Best Time Of Year To Visit Walt Disney World

Picking your “best” time to visit Walt Disney World is, for many, less a choice or a “pick” than it is a time frame dictated by your family/travel group situation. Families with children in traditional schools nearly always must visit during vacation periods while folks like us, married with no children, pretty much have their pick of travel times.

For families with children who are home schooled your freedom of choice is greatly opened. Those with children who are in year round school have a broader selection of travel times even though they are still restricted by school commitments. Even adults have commitments that may restrict travel dates, for example, those working in the retail sector often find vacation time blacked out during the Christmas holiday season. Once you have determined the time frames you are able to go to Walt Disney World then it’s time to “pick” the best of the times available to you. Let’s take a look at the best and most difficult times to be at Walt Disney World based primarily on crowds.

Best Times:

  • January (after Jan 1) until about President’s Week in February
  • Depending on the date of Easter likely a few weeks in February and March prior to Easter week
  • After Easter until Memorial Day week
  • From mid August until Thanksgiving week with a slight attendance spike over the Columbus Day weekend
  • After Thanksgiving week until just before Christmas week (one huge benefit here the World is in full holiday splendor)

Most Difficult Times:

Depending on your tolerance for crowds and your available travel time you can base your decision on when to visit on the above since it is pretty consistent from year to year. Other things to take into consideration, though, are special events like the Flower and Garden Festival, Food and Wine Festival, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Your desire to experience Walt Disney World around the Christmas Holiday season can also influence your decision and it’s a truly Magical time of year. I hope this helps you out with your decision making process. As always, enjoy your visit to Walt Disney World!!

Ken

PHOTO BY DISNEY

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Disney Confidential – Tom Hanks and Tim Allen Book a Jungle Cruise Together

By
Anonymouse
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Disney Confidential - Tom Hanks and Tim Allen Book a Jungle Cruise Together

Hey there guys and gals Anonymouse here delivering to you the best in Disney News and Gossip.

Big news today from Walt Disney Pictures with the Pirates Franchise on its way out the door Disney took a walk around the park to try to find another ride to make into another household name. Here is what they came up with:

The Walt Disney Studios is excited to be in development with Mandeville Films and writer Roger S.H. Schulman on a feature film based on the Jungle Cruise, one of the most iconic attractions in Disney theme park history. The film will pair up Tim Allen and Tom Hanks in their first live-action project, after their previous collaborations in the Toy Story trilogy.‬

Interesting choice guys. Did you walk out of Pirates of the Caribbean hang a right and pick the very next ride? What’s next Aladdin’s Magic Carpet Ride? Wait isn’t that is already a Animated Movie?  How about Swiss Family Robinson? No that won’t work either.. Haunted Mansion? Nope.. Buzz Lightyear?

I could do this all day….

It seems Jungle Cruise is the only logical choice for a movie, although a runaway train movie would be really good and it could have Denzel Washington, and Chris Pine star in it. Instead of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad call it something like, I don’t know.. Unstoppable.

I am kinda up in the air on this movie. Will it be a comedy like the ride? or will be a drama? I know we can make a new category of movie and call it a dramedy.

That’s all I have for today. I want to hear what you think about this movie idea. Let me know in the comment section below.

Got any good rumors?  Please email me at [email protected] or on my Facebook Page here.

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Disney Confidential - Tom Hanks and Tim Allen Book a Jungle Cruise Together

Off to Neverland On Disney Cruise Line

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Off to Neverland On Disney Cruise Line

“Off to Neverland, and aaawwaay we go!” When you “think of the happiest things” (vacation planning!) what comes to mind? Running through the parks sun up to sun down, racing to attractions, worrying about advanced dining reservations or would you rather be like the mermaids in the lagoon…relaxing and splashing about all day?

There is nothing as relaxing as a cruise vacation; but even Disney’s faithful fans may be turned off to the idea of a Disney Cruise Line vacation if they assume it’s like a Disney land-based vacation. What you do know is that the “Disney” brand is synonymous with family, quality and unique experiences. What you don’t know may change your opinion of Disney Cruise Line forever!

There is no doubt that if you are traveling with children a Disney vacation is an excellent choice. For adults looking for peace and quiet, a quick weekend getaway or a relaxing week (or more!) at sea, Disney Cruise Line is also for you!

Just as the children’s activities and programs are the best on the seas, the adults-only services offer a quality that only Disney can achieve. For a child, Disney Cruise Line is a wonderland of imagination, activity and technology. For an adult, it’s the ultimate in fine cuisine, pampering and relaxation.

On the Magic and the Wonder deck 10 is where you can find Palo; Northern Italian Cuisine prepared in an open kitchen, offering an elegant dining experience, deliciously inventive dishes and a beautiful view off the back of the ship. Reserved for guests 18 and older, Palo is the perfect place for a quiet romantic dinner for two.

If pampering is what you desire, look no farther than the Vista Spa and Salon. The wide array of spa services offer something for everyone, men and women alike. Get an “up-do” or hair cut for formal night, a facial or full body massage, even book sessions with a personal trainer. You may even find a sale on sea or port days, be sure to check your personal navigator for the deal of the day.

If the spa isn’t your style, find a cozy spot in the cove cafe, order a specialty coffee and borrow a book from the cabinet, or bring your own. The Cove is located by the adults only pool and is two stories, offering easy access to other adult only areas, a quick stop coffee spot and a beautiful view on the upper deck. The Cove is the perfect place to find peace and quiet in the early morning, a quick stop in the afternoon or a cozy place to wind down the day.

Nothing says vacation more than an afternoon at the adult’s only pool. Lounge on lush cushioned chairs (with movable neck pillows!) while you soak in the sun. Look for the drink of the day to be brought to you by one of the many servers roaming the decks or order your favorite cocktail and have it delivered right to your chair. After a long day of shore excursions or shopping in port, hop into one of the two hot tubs and soak the day away.

For entertainment in the evening, Beat Street (Magic) and Route 66 (Wonder) offer a variety of adults only entertainment from comedians, variety shows, theme nights, dance parties, live bands and a full bar with ample waitstaff.

If all the solitude on the ship isn’t enough, even Castaway Cay has Serenity Beach; the adults only area on the other side of the island. Rent a bike and snorkeling gear and enjoy the crystal clear waters and white sand beaches with your fellow peers. Take a nap in a hammock, pull a raft in the water, or enjoy a lounge chair-in or out-of the water. Have the drink of the day delivered in a keepsake coconut and enjoy a BBQ feast at Cookies.

(*Tip: it’s a nice ride from the family side of the island to Serenity Beach but it’s not always easy to ride a bike with a bag of snorkeling gear. I like to use a bike with a baby seat to store our gear!)

If you are parents, grandparents, extended and blended families, Disney Cruise Line is the perfect place for you: you can spend as much (or as little) time with your family as you like, there’s something for everyone and it’s not all in the same place!

Peter Pan never wanted to grow up, why should you?!

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Adventureland’s El Pirata Y El Perico renamed Tortuga Tavern

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Adventureland's Tortuga Tavern sign, Magic Kingdom

El Pirata Y el Perico, the Magic Kingdom quick-service restaurant in Adventureland, has been renamed Tortuga Tavern. The name reflects Disney’s popular “Pirates of the Caribbean” film franchise, and refers to the 17th century pirate stronghold mentioned in the movies. Tortuga Tavern is located across from the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, which was the inspiration for the films.

The key elements in El Pirata’s transformation to Tortuga Tavern include a new color scheme and design elements, rather than a significant re-design to the restaurant’s menu. The restaurant is now more fully realized as a pirate’s tavern, helping to present this entire area of Adventureland as a pirate’s hideway. (Also included in the area is The Pirate League makeover and Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Tutorial.)

Tortuga Tavern colors include dusky reds, pinks and beiges accented by turquoise blue – similar to the color scheme found at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Tortuga’s exterior sign picks up these colors and features two female figureheads such as those that adorn a ship’s bow. Outside, the tavern also proudly flies its pirate colors (i.e. flags).

Crew roster book found inside Adventurland's Tortuga Tavern, Magic Kingdom
Crew roster book found inside Adventurland's Tortuga Tavern, Magic Kingdom

The restaurant’s interior design and props also suggest the “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies. For instance, a stylized mural of Blackbeard has replaced the image of a more generic pirate. And among the many movie-inspired props is a book that lists crew rosters for the Black Pearl and Queen Anne’s Revenge, the film’s fictional ships. Guests who tour the Tortuga Tavern area will see broken railings, empty rum barrels and bullet holes, all indications of a raucous pirate’s life. Yo Ho!

As of this writing, Tortuga Tavern is serving most of the same menu items as El Pirata, focusing on standard Mexican food options. The menu offers burritos (including a vegetarian option), taco salads and nachos, plus quesadillas and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for kids. The triple chocolate cake is still available for dessert, and  the “toppin’s bar” remains intact. However, El Pirata’s tacos are not currently on the Tortuga menu, which may be disappointing to some El Pirata fans.

Also disappointing is that the menu has not changed or expanded to provide more food more appropriate to the theme, perhaps those which can be found at a Caribbean restaurant: jerk chicken, curry dishes, plantains, even a banana bread pudding.

Walt Disney World has not offered an official statement as to whether Tortuga Tavern’s menu is undergoing changes or whether the restaurant will continue to operate seasonally, as it did when it was El Pirata. Tortuga Tavern is currently open 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily.

Tortuga Tavern, like El Pirata Y el Perico, is on the Disney Dining Plan as a quick-service restaurant option.

Photo Credit: Jimmy Suarez, Tortuga Tavern Sign. Thanks, Jimmy!

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Review: Nausicaa’s return to the Valley of the Wind.

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Review: Nausicaa's return to the Valley of the Wind.
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind is the highly acclaimed masterpiece from Hayao Miyazaki that launched his animation career into global success.  This wonderful tale of Princess Nausicaa is lovingly digitally remastered to give the movie a whole new dimension of detail.  This Japanese animation is one of the cornerstones of the industry and helped to solidify Studio Ghibli as a major household name for wholesome family animation.

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind is a beautifully woven story about a princess who lives in one of the last hospitable valleys in a far future Earth destroyed by war.  In this world the land has been taken over by a toxic jungle created by spores and there are very few places where humanity can survive.  Princess Nausicaa must courageously find a way to help bring both mankind and nature back together and save what is left of humanity.

The clarity of the video re-master is so great that even some errors within the original film film reel are apparent.  As this movie was released in 1984, it is already in a proper widescreen format and there is no screen filling technology used.  The full 1080p version of this film is essentially the highest quality format this film will ever need to be, so there is no hesitation in recommending this version of the film.

One thing to note that has changed with the film is the default audio track.  The default audio track is a completely re-done recording that takes the remastered music and effects tracks and pairs them with new voice acting from the likes of Shia LaBeouf, Alison Lohman, Edward James Olmos, Patrick Stewart, and Uma Thurman.  If you prefer to watch the movie in it’s original Japanese language version with subtitles, that option is available as well.

The enjoyment of Miyazaki’s epic masterpiece is further enhanced by the exclusive bonus features included with the blu-ray.  The World of Ghibli bonus allows you to have a unique interactive experience.  A behind the studio feature allows you to walk through the film’s origin and even has an interview with creator Hayao Miyazaki.  The “Enter The Lands” feature lets you interactively explore a map that includes many of the different worlds that have been imagined by the great minds at Studio Ghibli.  You can also view the original Japanese storyboards for the film, and test your knowledge of Studio Ghibli with a trivia challenge.  The bonuses add just that extra touch to complete the experience of this Blu-ray debut of Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind.

Keep in mind that some elements this film may not be appropriate for some of our youngest Disney / Studio Ghibli fans.  There are brief moments of violence and minimal bloodshed that are the reasons for it’s PG rating.  If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli films such as Spirited Away and Ponyo, you will absolutely love watching this beautiful rendition of one of Miyazaki’s original films.

Movie Details:
Length: 117 Minutes
Rating: PG
Format: 1080p Blu-ray / 480p DVD
Audio: English, French, Japanese
Subtitles: English, ESL, SDH, French
Package Contents: Blu-ray / DVD Combo Pack

Disclosure: This review is based off of my own opinion of this movie. Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment furnished a copy of this title for review. All copyright images, and content belong to Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment. Reviewed by Jon & Anne`

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Disney Confidential – John Lasseter leaks ‘Planes’ Details

By
Anonymouse
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Disney Confidential - John Lasseter leaks 'Planes' Details

Hey there ladies and gents, your friendly neighborhood gossip queen Anonymouse here! Just got back from kicking some booty at the Half Princess Marathon at Walt Disney World. And by kicking some booty I actually mean enjoying the parks while other people ran in the race 🙂

The only marathon I would race in would be around the World Showcase while consuming ample amounts of alcohol. Now that is racing.

Speaking of racing the King of Cars 2 John Lasseter has been leaking more information about the new Pixar film “Planes”.

“‘Planes’ will be a feature film that will be a spin-off of “Cars 2″, where it’s a whole new set of characters are introduced.”

Also Lasseter promised there would be “a little overlap” of characters between Cars 2 and Planes. Think of it this way remember when Laverne and Shirley first appeared on Happy Days then they left and started their own show and some of the characters came on their show to show their support. Yeah its gonna be like that. Haha!

By the way Laverne and Shirley is on weeknights on the all new Hub channel! Check your local listings.

Pixar’s Planes is slated to hit theaters in 2013.

Well kiddies that is all the time I have for today.

Got any good rumors?  Please email me at [email protected] or on my Facebook Page here.

 

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Disney Cruise Line – A Classic Tale of One-UpmanSHIP

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Disney Cruise Line – A Classic Tale of One-UpmanSHIP

Can you be at war with yourself? Well, if you are a multi-billion dollar conglomerate, the answer would appear to be ‘Yes.’ As you no doubt know, Disney is divided into many different segments, or businesses. You have the Movie Division. The Theme Parks Division. The Merchandising Division. The Cruise Line Division. And on and on it goes.

But what I find amusing is that, even within a Division, there can be a good-hearted rivalry. At least, that’s how I see things within the Disney Cruise Line.

Here’s what I mean:

The first two Disney ships to launch were the Disney Magic on July 30th, 1998 and the Disney Wonder on August 15th, 1999. Both had the same impressive credentials. Those being:

  • 2,400 passenger capacity
  • 83,000 Gross Register Tons
  • 11 Decks
  • Maximum cruising speed of 24 kn
  • Crew of 945

But Disney didn’t want to make them identical on-board. So each had different restaurants, features, and shows. They sailed to different exotic locations, albeit both ending up eventually at Castaway Cay during each Cruise. Over the years, each ship has received upgrades, and the shows have changed out. Essentially, though, you would have the same magical experience aboard both ships.

Disney Cruise Line – A Classic Tale of One-UpmanSHIP

But now sails the newest Disney ship, the Disney Dream, launched on January 26th, 2011. And how does it compare to its earlier siblings? Let’s have a look:

  • 4,000 passenger capacity
  • 128,000 Gross Register Tons
  • 16 Decks
  • Maximum cruising speed of 24.7 kn
  • Crew of 1,458

Let the One-Upmanship begin! But size and capacity aren’t the only things that have been upgraded on Disney’s newest Ship. Here are a few features that you can’t find anywhere else:

  • Animated Artwork
  • Virtual Portals for Inside Staterooms
  • The AquaDuck Water Coaster
  • More extensive Ship Horn repertoire

And I’m sure that those who are sailing on her inaugural Cruises will find many more features which could be added to the above list! The Guest reports are only now pouring in through various websites, blogs, as well as FaceBook and Twitter.

Disney Cruise Line – A Classic Tale of One-UpmanSHIP

The Disney Fantasy will sail for the first time during March of 2012. And what will Disney’s latest Cruise Ship do to up the ante, as it were? Here is a quote from DCL Public Relations Director, Jason Lasecki, which partially answers that question:

“The Disney Fantasy will offer many of the innovations that the Disney Dream features and brought to the cruise industry for the very first time, including AquaDuck – the world’s first shipboard water coaster. However, the Disney Fantasy will include a few new design elements and guest experiences that will give the ship her own unique identity. (Italics added)”

What will these new design elements and Guest experiences be? Only time will tell.

But one thing is certain to continue as Disney adds ship after ship to its Fleet: There will always be a good-hearted rivalry and battles of One-Upmanship between the ships! This should guarantee that on every Cruise, there will always be something new and exciting to discover and explore.

All aboard!

Lee A. Beatens is a Writer/Artist. His writing side is showcased at the Blog called Disleelandia, and his love for all-things creative is showcased at the Blog called The CANADIAN Kingdom. His improbable third side is showcased here. You can follow him on both FB and Twitter.

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The Disneyland Difference

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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The Disneyland Difference

My first trip to Disneyland had me full of excitement and wonder. Having been a Walt Disney World veteran for two decades I was excited to experience the original park for the first time.

When I began sharing my excitement to visit “the land” I received countless commentary on how I would be “disappointed” and why. “It’s really small” “There are only two parks” “There are only three hotels” “The castle looks like it was made for miniature golf”, etc.

Although I was aware of these differences, I was a bit surprised by the excessive comparisons between Disneyland to Walt Disney World. It was at that moment that I decided to acknowledge the differences, accept them, and experience Disneyland as what it was meant to be…not the lesser of the parks; but Walt’s original vision; the place that started it all.

Much to my dismay, the cynics were right about one thing: I did laugh when I saw the castle. I ran in the park looking up for it…and there it was….in my eye-line…peeking out from the trees. It did indeed look like a miniature golf castle, but I instantly loved it anyway. The fact of the matter is…it fits there, just as Walt intended. The monstrosity of Cinderella castle would never “belong” in Disneyland, the size alone would make it impossible: it would be Godzilla to the small rural town. Sleeping Beauty Castle nestles right into Disneyland, allows you to wander through its halls and up its staircases to experience the story of Princess Aurora and Prince Phillip. There is an enchantment in its walls and it sets the stage for all the other wonderful things that the Magic Kingdom holds.

Instead of feeling cramped and crowded, to me, the Disneyland park had a peace and an intimacy that Walt Disney World has never had. People move at a more leisurely pace, there’s no sense of incessant urgency, everything about the park just makes you want to stroll on through.

I was endeared to the Disneyland difference beyond what I anticipated and found myself feeling like I was experiencing Disney for the first time. Everything had a weight of nostalgia, a quaint intimacy and a quiet memory of the man who built his dream.

As I wandered through the lands I felt like I was feeling what all those people making cynical comparisons were missing: the magic. The fact of the matter is, there is no comparison between Walt Disney World and Disneyland that would do either any justice. To spend your time making lists of square footage, size of castles and number of rides is a distraction from the magic and splendor that each park holds. The beauty of the magic of Disney is that its different for every person and has something for everyone. For me, remembering my first rides on Dumbo, Mr. Toad and Peter Pan are among my most cherished memories. For you, maybe it’s the thrill of Space Mountain, the celebration in the parades or the sweet scents from the confectionery, whichever Disney destination you hold dear, we are all living Walt’s dream walking in a place “for people to find happiness and knowledge…A place for parents and children to share pleasant times in each other’s company…the older generation can recapture the nostalgia of days gone by, and the younger generation can savor the challenge of the future. It will be filled with the accomplishments, the joys and hopes of the world we live in. And it will remind us and show us how to make those wonders part of our own lives.”~Walt Disney

Regardless of which Disney destination is your favorite, when you remember that, you are living Walt’s Dream.

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Oldies But Goodies – Fatigue Is Our Enemy

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Oldies But Goodies - Fatigue Is Our EnemyOldies But Goodies - Fatigue Is Our Enemy

One of the most frequent complaints I hear from my fellow Seniors when they travel to Walt Disney World is that they are so tired out by the second or third day they couldn’t enjoy the rest of their visit. There are a number of things that can cause this fatigue, among these are:

  • Jet Lag – This could contribute but unless there is a 4 or 5 time zone difference it’s probably a minor factor.
  • Inability To Sleep Well – This happens to quite a few folks who don’t sleep well in a strange place/bed. Perhaps a discussion with your physician as to a possible sleep aid might help but please fellow Oldies, don’t self medicate.
  • Commando Touring – This is something that folks of all ages do. Morning to night plus extra magic hours at Walt Disney World will tire out even the hardiest of travelers.
  • Not Taking Daily Breaks – This can be a problem. If you take the time to take that afternoon dip in pool or a quick nap (especially important in hot weather) the fatigue will be greatly reduced.

The above are things that happen while you are actually on vacation that can cause fatigue but there is one thing that happens before the vacation that can be the most significant contributor to fatigue. As we get older and away from the work a day world we can have a tendency to become more sedentary, after all, isn’t that what retirement is about – relaxing? Sure it is and I find myself relaxing waaaaay too much.

When you visit Walt Disney World you are going to be doing something all day, every day that you may not do at home. You will be WALKING,WALKING, and WALKING!!! The walking is in addition to the sensory overload of a normal visit to Walt Disney World. No wonder we (Oldies) get tired out! Here is what I do before every visit:

  • Start A Walking Exercise Program – First, make sure you get with your physician to make sure exercise is suitable for you. Start the program at least six months in advance of your visit and build gradually. You will likely be walking from two to ten miles a day but not all at once while on vacation so set a realistic goal.
  • Eat Properly – It’s difficult to exercise if your body is not properly fueled.
  • Learn To Stay Hydrated – Sure, I’m with you, I know that at our age excessive fluid intake can produce inconvenient consequences at awkward times. Slowly build your WATER intake as you approach your vacation so that your body adjusts to the extra WATER.
  • Stay Active All The Time – Sure, you don’t have to have a walking program if you’re not going to be doing a lot of walking but why not? It certainly can’t hurt, improves your health, and helps control weight.

Please, before you start any conditioning program check with your physician for the best approach. If you do pre condition your body before the vacation you will be rewarded  with the ability to keep up and enjoy the same things that everyone in your travel group is enjoying. As always, enjoy your visit to Walt Disney World!!

Ken

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ADRs: Changing Them While You’re at Disney World is as Easy as 1,2,3

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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ADRs: Changing Them While You’re at Disney World is as Easy as 1,2,3

If you are like many folks planning a visit to Walt Disney World, you have probably spent a great deal of time thinking about your meals: what restaurants your family will enjoy, whether you will do any character meals, what time(s) you will want to eat if you are making Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs), and that doesn’t even take into consideration figuring out how much your dining will actually cost.

So with all that planning, what happens if those plans change…while you are at Disney World? Just how hard is it to find a new place to eat, and/or change your ADRs?

We found out just this very thing on our Disney World vacation over the New Year’s holiday. Since this is one of the busiest weeks of the year, I had diligently planned (and in some cases planned again and again) so that we would be assured of eating where we wanted, when we wanted, and we knew how much it would all cost.

All was going beautifully, as planned, until our final full day. We were going to spend the morning at Hollywood Studios, have lunch, and then return to Saratoga Springs for the afternoon, relax a bit, and then have an early dinner there. We then would return to Hollywood Studios to see the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights that evening.

Oh and one tiny addition: since this was the last day of the regular pro football season, DH and DD were going to go to ESPN Zone to watch some football, and I planned to go for part of the time as well.

So what happened? Well we went to DHS in the morning, had lunch, and then we all took to the boat to ESPN Zone. The game started and after a while we sat down, and then we ordered nachos and a couple of beers. And we made some friends. And the time kept creeping by…..and no one wanted to leave. We were having fun!

By halftime it was evident that we were not going anywhere any time soon, and considering that we were definitely going back to DHS that evening, it just seemed really silly to go all the way back to Saratoga Springs just for dinner.

So deciding to change our plans, I went in search of a new place to eat that night.

Now there are a few ways to change ADRs while at Disney World (works also if you need to make new ones):

  1. You can call Disney Dining from a Disney resort hotel room phone (was not an option for us at the time, we weren’t in our room)
  2. You can use Disney’s mobile reservation tool on your smartphone (also not an option for us, as my phone doesn’t support their tool….yes I need a new smartphone)
  3. Or you can speak to the concierge at a Disney resort hotel who can assist you.

That’s exactly what I did. I went over to the Boardwalk, just a few steps from ESPN Zone and explained to the concierge our dilemma. Since she did not look remotely surprised, I took this to mean that folks change their minds about dining while at Disney World all the time.

She very patiently pulled up every available restaurant in the DHS/Epcot/Epcot resort area for around the time we needed. I have to say that, to my surprise, on Sunday, January 2, during one of the busiest weekends of the year, there were a number of options. Not every restaurant was available mind you (and none of the “major, popular” ones), but there were more than enough to give us a decent choice.

I ended up choosing the Captain’s Grille at the Yacht Club, because we had not eaten there before and it was similar in menu to our original choice at Saratoga Springs….that we were now cancelling. She took care of it all for me: she cancelled our old ADR, gave me our new confirmation number, and I was on my way back to ESPN Zone to catch the 2nd half of the game.

So it really all worked out very well. Our dinner was FABULOUS (maybe our favorite the entire trip) and we had a much more relaxing afternoon than we would have spent, going back and forth to Saratoga Springs.

Making the change was really easy, and I was pleasantly surprised about the options I had, even at a busy time of year. I think that the moral of the story is: ask, what have you got to lose?

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BEWARE! The Hidden Poles of Main Street USA

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

BEWARE! The Hidden Poles of Main Street USA

My family and I began our regular visits to Walt Disney World in June, 2000. At that time, our children were 6, 9 and 14. We know our way around the Walt Disney World resort just like we know our way around our hometown. I have no problem letting my kids go to the parks without us as they know exactly how to get from park to park, park back to resort, park to any dining reservations we have, etc. So, for several years we have had some flexibility if everyone did not want to do the exact same thing at the exact same time. What is funny is that no matter how many times we have visited, nor how familiar we are with the area, we have been fooled numerous times by the hidden poles on Main Street USA.

Have you seen them?

You are happily walking along the sidewalk talking to everyone about how much fun you are having, or how great your Dole Whip was, or how much you are looking forward to hitting the pool once you get back to your resort, and then BAM! one of those hidden poles comes right out of the ground.

Being discreet like I am, I won’t mention any names but out of my family of five, 3 of us have been abruptly reminded of these hidden poles a time or two.

How do you find them?

There are several ways in which to find these poles:

  • Make sure you are having such a great time that you are oblivious to your surroundings.
  • Always keep eye contact with people when you are talking.
  • Texting someone while walking is a great way in which to find them.
  • And, don’t worry, you can find them at Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom parks too!

What can you do about them?

You have several choices here; and your reaction will be largely based on your own personality. You might:

  • Turn red and die of embarrassment.
  • Laugh with everyone else.
  • Get really angry at your family when they are laughing so hard tears are rolling down their faces and they are holding their sides.
  • Wait for sweet revenge when the next hidden pole will welcome one of them to the “world.”

However you decide to handle it is up to you. But be sure to remember that you might meet up with one of those hidden poles again, and karma is sometimes a booger!

HAPPY BUMPING!!!

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Pixar Announces their Next Movies for 2011 and beyond!

By
Chip
-

Pixar Announces their Next Movies for 2011 and beyond!

With “Cars 2” coming soon, Pixar announced their next slate of movies — and Ellen noticed a certain sequel was missing! I hoped you love this video as much as I did!

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Pixar Announces their Next Movies for 2011 and beyond!
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