2010 Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining

By

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June 1, 2010

This vacation package includes accommodations at a Disney Resort hotel and a Magic Your Way Base Ticket, as well as the Disney Dining Plan that can save you up to 30% on dining for stays from 1/3/2010 – 1/6/2010, 1/10/2010 – 1/14/2010, 1/18/2010 – 2/11/2010, 8/15/2010 – 9/30/2010, 11/28/2010 – 12/16/2010 . This plan offers one table-service meal, one quick-service meal and one snack per person, per night of your package stay, at over 100 select restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort—including some restaurants that feature Disney Character Dining

Here’s what you’ll get with the 2010 Magic Your Way Vacation Package:

Accommodations
Choose from one of 5 categories of Walt Disney World Resort hotels:

Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts – Relax in comfortable accommodations with home-like amenities.
Disney Deluxe Resorts – Experience the ultimate in Disney luxury, style and service.
Disney Moderate Resorts – Escape to enchanting, wonderfully themed locales.
Disney Value Resorts – Enjoy colorful, whimsical places that are big on fun and affordability.
Disney Campground – Enjoy nature and the great outdoors at these scenic campsites.

Customizable Magic Your Way Theme Park Ticket
First, choose the number of days (from 1 to 10) of your ticket, which provides admission to one of the 4 Disney theme parks each day. The more days you add to your ticket, the less you pay per day! All tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use and exclude activities and events separately priced.

Next, purchase these options to add more fun and flexibility to your ticket:

Park Hopper Option
Add the Park Hopper Option to come and go as you please through all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks on the same day for each day of your ticket.

Water Park Fun & More Option
The Water Park Fun & More Option offers a certain number of visits based on the length of your ticket. For each visit, you can choose one of the following:

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park
Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park
DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park
ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
Green fees for a round of golf at Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course, a 9-hole walking course. Reservations for tee times are required and subject to availability.

Water parks subject to seasonal and weather closures, and are also subject to closure for rehabilitation. Age restrictions may apply for access to certain facilities.

No Expiration Option
With the No Expiration Option, your unused theme park days and Water Park Fun & More Option visits never expire. (Without this option, tickets must be used within 14 days of first use.)

Commemorative Luggage Tag
Each Guest on the Magic Your Way Vacation Package receives one souvenir Disney keepsake luggage tag.

Walt Disney Travel Company Package Benefits
When you purchase any Magic Your Way package, you receive the following Magical Extras:

Walt Disney World Marina Discounts
Adds 30 minutes of watercraft fun when you rent a watercraft for 60 minutes. Valid for Sea Raycers by Sea Ray, Boston Whaler 170 Montauk and Pontoon boat rentals at participating Walt Disney World marina locations. (One voucher per room. Applicable for up to 5 Guests. Not valid all dates and restrictions apply.)
Disney’s Miniature Golf Experience
Valid for one round of Miniature Golf per room at either Disney’s Fantasia Gardens or Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Courses.
Planet Hollywood $15 USD Meal Voucher and Souvenir Keepsake
Valid for $15 USD worth of food and non-alcoholic beverages and a souvenir merchandise keepsake at Planet Hollywood Downtown Disney West Side. (Not valid with any other offers or discounts. One voucher per room. One keepsake per room. Voucher required for keepsake.) )
Arcade Game Card
Valid for 100 game play points in arcades located in Disney Resort hotels. (One card per room.)
Niki Bryan Spa Discount
15% off the regular price of any body treatment or water therapy at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. (Massage, facial and hand and foot treatments excluded. Age restrictions apply.)
Bass Fishing Discount
10% off the regular price of Guided Bass Fishing Excursions and Bass Nitro Fishing Excursions at select Walt Disney World marinas. Excursions include fishing equipment, rod, reel, shiners, artificial bait, non-alcoholic beverages and a 1-year membership to B.A.S.S. (Bass Anglers Sportsman Society).
Sammy Duvall’s Water Sports Discount
10% off the regular price of all activities including parasailing, water skiing, wakeboarding and tubing trips at Sammy Duvall’s Water Sports Center located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. (Subject to availability; restrictions apply.)

Disney Dining Plan
With your Disney Dining Plan, for each night of your package, each Guest in your party (ages 3 and up) receives:

1 Table-Service Meal

Each table-service meal includes:

1 appetizer (Guests ages 3-9 only)
1 entrée
1 dessert (lunch and dinner only)
1 juice (breakfast only)
1 single-serving, non-alcoholic beverage

Or

1 full buffet

1 Quick-Service Meal

Each quick-service meal includes:

1 entrée
1 dessert (lunch and dinner only)
1 juice (breakfast only)
1 single-serving, non-alcoholic beverage

1 Snack

Examples of snacks are:

1 frozen ice cream novelty, popsicle, fruit bar, popcorn scoop (single-serving box), single-serving bag of snacks, single piece of whole fruit, 20-oz. bottle of Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite or Dasani water, 22-oz. fountain soft drink, 12-oz. coffee, hot chocolate or hot tea, single-serving prepackaged milk or juice

Children ages 3-9 must order from a Children’s Menu where available.

Dining Reservations
For reservations, call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. (Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.) Many of our table-service restaurants are quite popular and book quickly. Some may have limited or no availability when you call. We strongly suggest you make dining reservations in advance for the best options. Reservations are accepted at most Walt Disney World table-service restaurants, Signature Restaurants, Character Dining locations and Dinner Shows up to 180 days prior to arrival. Guests participating in a Grand Gathering Experience may reserve 180 days in advance.

An accepted major credit card is required to guarantee reservations at certain locations. Reservations must be cancelled at least 48 hours (6 days for Grand Gathering Experiences) before the scheduled seating or a cancellation charge may be incurred (charge varies by location)

Special Dining Experiences
Your Disney Dining Plan allows each person in your party to trade meals for special dining experiences that your family will remember for a lifetime. See the exchanges below:

1 Table-Service Meal =

1 Character Dining Meal (except meals at Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom theme park)

2 Table-Service Meals =

1 Signature Dining Experience (such as Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)

Or

1 Character Dining Experience at Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom theme park

Or

Private In-Room Dining at select Disney Deluxe Resorts and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts

Or

1 Disney Dinner Show (category 2 or 3 seating only, subject to availability)

Or

1 Pizza Delivery to your room at select Disney Moderate Resorts and Disney Value Resorts (Requires 2 adult table-service meal entitlements for each pizza.)

Grand Gathering Experiences
If your party has 8 or more, you have a Grand Gathering and qualify to enjoy some very special meals known as Grand Gathering Experiences! Trade your meals for these memorable dinners:

1 Table-Service Meal =

1 Good Morning Character Breakfast

2 Table-Service Meals =

1 International Dinner and IllumiNations Dessert Reception

Or

1 Safari Celebration Dinner

Gratuities are included. At least 8 persons in your party must attend the same experience. Each experience is operated on select days of the week. Experiences are subject to change and cancellation. Reservations for Grand Gathering experiences are required and can be made 3 to 180 days in advance. Experiences may be canceled by Guest up to 6 days prior to experience date without charge for the experience. Valid theme park ticket required.

Disney Wine and Dine Plan
Add the Disney Wine and Dine Plan to a Magic Your Way package that includes table-service dining and save up to 20% on wine.* This Plan includes one wine entitlement per night, per room. Redeem one or 2 entitlements (as indicated on the select location’s designated wine list) for one bottle of wine. All wines on private in-room dining menus require 2 entitlements.

*Savings based on redeeming one entitlement for one bottle of wine at select restaurant locations.

Gratuity not included. Locations and designated wine list are subject to change. Wines are subject to availability. Must purchase this Plan for each night of your package stay.

Florida law permits the sale of alcohol products to persons 21 years of age or older only. Disney participates in Florida’s Responsible Vendor program and servers will verify age by requesting appropriate identification. Sale of this Plan is conditioned on your representation that you are 21 or older and purposed sale to a person under age 21 is deemed void and payment will be refunded.

What’s Not Included in Your Package?

Gratuity , except for pizza delivery, Private In-Room Dining, Dinner Shows and Cinderella’s Royal Table.
Merchandise or photo-imaging products that may be offered at Character Dining experiences, except at Cinderella’s Royal Table and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall.

Enjoy Disney Resort Hotel Benefits
As a Guest at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, indulge in a variety of Disney Resort hotel benefits that can make your vacation more relaxing and carefree.

Certain benefits below are also available to Guests staying at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel and select Downtown Disney Resort Area hotels.

Complimentary Airport Pickup and Return
Disney’s Magical Express Service picks you up at Orlando International Airport and takes you to your Disney Resort hotel. In addition, the service lets you bypass baggage claim and have your bags delivered to your Disney Resort hotel room.

Relax on Resort-Wide Transportation
Disney does the driving for you with its ComplimentaryTransportation. convenient monorail, ferry boats and motor coaches travel between Disney Resort hotels, theme parks, water parks, the Downtown Disney area and other recreation spots throughout Walt Disney World Resort.

View Purchases on One Bill
Your Key to the World Card can act as your hotel room key, theme park ticket and charge card good all over Walt Disney World Resort. As you dine and shop, just charge meals, goods and services directly to your room! At the end of your vacation, view your vacation purchases on one consolidated statement.

Extra Time in the Theme Parks
The Extra Magic Hours benefit means that every day one of the theme parks either opens an hour early or stays open up to three hours after regular park closing so that you can enjoy select attractions when the weather may be cooler. Just present your Key to the World Card to select Disney Cast Members to take advantage of the Extra Magic Hours benefit. (Valid theme park ticket required.)

Your Purchases Delivered to Your Resort
Shop at select Disney stores throughout Walt Disney World Resort and have your purchases delivered right to your resort so you can be free to play without lugging around packages, nor have to interrupt your day to return to the hotel to drop them off.

For more information visit the Disney Website.

To book your Disney vacation visit Pixie Vacations for all your planning needs.

DREAM ON! Disney Dream reaches major construction milestone

By

Chip

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June 1, 2010

Workers from the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany cut free the final building block May 31, 2010, for the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, “Disney Dream.”

The final block placed was a 260-ton portion of the ship’s bow. With all 80 building blocks for the “Disney Dream” now in place, the focus shifts to outfitting the interiors spaces that include the whimsical, Disney-infused children’s spaces, dynamically chic adult nightclubs, spectacular restaurants and elaborate theaters.

On January 26, 2011, the “Disney Dream” will set sail from Port Canaveral, Fla. on her maiden voyage and take family cruising to all-new heights.

(David Roark, photographer)

Lee DeWyze Celebrates at Walt Disney World

By

Chip

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June 1, 2010

Disney Parks Blog shares with us Lee DeWyze’s visit to Walt Disney World.

Today, newly crowned “American Idol” Lee DeWyze visited the Walt Disney World Resort for a special parade through Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We caught up with Lee during his celebratory ride down Hollywood Boulevard with Mickey Mouse. He also posed with Minnie Mouse, signed autographs for fans and even made a surprise appearance on-stage at “The American Idol Experience,” the theme park’s attraction based on the hit TV show.

Click here to see more photos of his visit.

Disney’s Tangled Movie Review

By

Chip

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June 1, 2010

tangled logo

Wait a minute Chip I think you have that title wrong? The movie isn’t out yet, and is probably no where near being completed.

Seriously though a review of Tangled (aka Rapunzel) has shown up over at /Film website from an anonymous fan of their site. Here is a few paragraphs from a rather lengthy write up about the upcoming Disney Film.

I have seen Disney’s Tangled. The film was unfinished ( most of the film’s scenes were either sketches or unfinished CG) but still very enjoyable. The few scenes that were finished were beautiful to look at, as they seemed to go for a water colored look.

They maintain the Disney classics (Cinderella, Snow White) look and feel but transition it into the computer generated era. The characters look more like human beings, and less like exaggerated cartoon characters. Rapunzel’s facial expressions are always changing and connected to the actions that she is partaking in. Disney is clearly focused on mirroring Snow White, taking the painting like look, and surrounding it with warm, soothing colors. The watercolor style gives the film a storybook like visual that impresses, but does not dominate the film.

Zachary Levi steals the show as the cocky thief Flynn Rider. The film begins with an explanation as to why Rapunzel’s hair has magical abilities. The film revolves around Rapunzel finally leaving the tower (with help from Flynn) she has been forced to live in since birth.

It ends up being your typical Disney princess story, but very funny and with great set pieces in it. In one scene, Rapunzel and Flynn are trapped in a cave filling with water, and they utilize her glowing hair to escape.

To continue reading more about this interesting movie along with a small warning for younger children click here.

Disney’s Prince of Persia Sands of Time Movie Review

By

Chip

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May 31, 2010

princeofpersia jakegyllenhaal gemmaarterton1 500x321

A wonderful Memorial Day present from my wife was the ability to go out and see a movie with my guy friends. With the summer movie series starting and the theaters starting to pack in with movie go-ers I had my sights set on Prince of Persia Sands of Time.

I am an avid video gamer and having played the series a long time ago I am always leery about games to movies. I won’t even go into the list of countless movies that have tried to make this jump only to fall flat on their faces.

Where they failed Prince of Persia finally succeeded!

This movie was great! It had tons of action, great story line, and unexpected ending. From the moment it started I was sucked into the storyline, characters, and fast paced action scenes.

Picking Jake Gyllenhaal was a perfect choice and the sultry Gemma Arterton was an excellent co-star, and not bad on the eyes either!

I am not going to go into details as not to ruin the movie for you. There are about 100 places you can go to get the synopsis of the movie as well. Try going here to read more.

What I am going to tell you is SEE THIS MOVIE! I give it a A- or a 92/100. Oh and make sure you come early to check out the new Tron Legacy, and Sorcerer’s Apprentice Trailer.

2010 Magic Your Way Package Plus Quick Service Dining

By

Chip

-

May 31, 2010

This vacation package includes accommodations at a Disney Resort hotel and a Magic Your Way Base Ticket, as well as the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan that can save you up to 20% on dining. Eat at select quick-service restaurants and receive 2 quick-service meals and 2 snacks per person per night of your package stay. You’ll also receive a mug you can refill as often as you like at any quick-service restaurant at your Disney Resort hotel.

Here’s what you’ll get with the 2010 Magic Your Way Vacation Package:

Accommodations
Choose from one of 5 categories of Walt Disney World Resort hotels:

Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts – Relax in comfortable accommodations with home-like amenities.
Disney Deluxe Resorts – Experience the ultimate in Disney luxury, style and service.
Disney Moderate Resorts – Escape to enchanting, wonderfully themed locales.
Disney Value Resorts – Enjoy colorful, whimsical places that are big on fun and affordability.
Disney Campground – Enjoy nature and the great outdoors at these scenic campsites.

Customizable Magic Your Way Theme Park Ticket
First, choose the number of days (from 1 to 10) of your ticket, which provides admission to one of the 4 Disney theme parks each day. The more days you add to your ticket, the less you pay per day! All tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use and exclude activities and events separately priced.

Next, purchase these options to add more fun and flexibility to your ticket:

Park Hopper Option
Add the Park Hopper Option to come and go as you please through all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks on the same day for each day of your ticket.

Water Park Fun & More Option
The Water Park Fun & More Option offers a certain number of visits based on the length of your ticket. For each visit, you can choose one of the following:

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park
Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park
DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park
ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
Green fees for a round of golf at Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course, a 9-hole walking course. Reservations for tee times are required and subject to availability.

Water parks subject to seasonal and weather closures, and are also subject to closure for rehabilitation. Age restrictions may apply for access to certain facilities.

No Expiration Option
With the No Expiration Option, your unused theme park days and Water Park Fun & More Option visits never expire. (Without this option, tickets must be used within 14 days of first use.)

Commemorative Luggage Tag
Each Guest on the Magic Your Way Vacation Package receives one souvenir Disney keepsake luggage tag.

Walt Disney Travel Company Package Benefits
When you purchase any Magic Your Way package, you receive the following Magical Extras:

Walt Disney World Marina Discounts
Adds 30 minutes of watercraft fun when you rent a watercraft for 60 minutes. Valid for Sea Raycers by Sea Ray, Boston Whaler 170 Montauk and Pontoon boat rentals at participating Walt Disney World marina locations. (One voucher per room. Applicable for up to 5 Guests. Not valid all dates and restrictions apply.)
Disney’s Miniature Golf Experience
Valid for one round of Miniature Golf per room at either Disney’s Fantasia Gardens or Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Courses.
Planet Hollywood $15 USD Meal Voucher and Souvenir Keepsake
Valid for $15 USD worth of food and non-alcoholic beverages and a souvenir merchandise keepsake at Planet Hollywood Downtown Disney West Side. (Not valid with any other offers or discounts. One voucher per room. One keepsake per room. Voucher required for keepsake.) )
Arcade Game Card
Valid for 100 game play points in arcades located in Disney Resort hotels. (One card per room.)
Niki Bryan Spa Discount
15% off the regular price of any body treatment or water therapy at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. (Massage, facial and hand and foot treatments excluded. Age restrictions apply.)
Bass Fishing Discount
10% off the regular price of Guided Bass Fishing Excursions and Bass Nitro Fishing Excursions at select Walt Disney World marinas. Excursions include fishing equipment, rod, reel, shiners, artificial bait, non-alcoholic beverages and a 1-year membership to B.A.S.S. (Bass Anglers Sportsman Society).
Sammy Duvall’s Water Sports Discount
10% off the regular price of all activities including parasailing, water skiing, wakeboarding and tubing trips at Sammy Duvall’s Water Sports Center located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. (Subject to availability; restrictions apply.)

Disney Quick Service Dining Plan
For each night of your Quick Service Dining Plan package, each Guest in your party (ages 3 and up) receives:

2 Quick-Service Meals

Each quick-service meal includes:

For Breakfast

1 juice
1 entrée
1 single-serving, non-alcoholic beverage

For Lunch and Dinner

1 entrée
1 dessert
1 single-serving, non-alcoholic beverage

Children ages 3-9 must order from the Children’s Menu (if one is available).

2 Snacks

Examples of snacks are:

1 frozen ice cream novelty, popsicle, fruit bar, popcorn scoop (single-serving box), single-serving bag of snacks, single piece of whole fruit, 20-oz. bottle of Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite or Dasani water, 22-oz. fountain soft drink, 12-oz. coffee, hot chocolate or hot tea, single-serving prepackaged milk or juice

Children ages 3-9 must order from a Children’s Menu where available.

1 Resort-Refillable Drink Mug Per Person:
Bring your Resort mug to any quick-service restaurant at your Disney Resort hotel and refill it as often as you like!

Enjoy Disney Resort Hotel Benefits
As a Guest at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, indulge in a variety of Disney Resort hotel benefits that can make your vacation more relaxing and carefree.

Certain benefits below are also available to Guests staying at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel and select Downtown Disney Resort Area hotels.

Complimentary Airport Pickup and Return
Disney’s Magical Express Service picks you up at Orlando International Airport and takes you to your Disney Resort hotel. In addition, the service lets you bypass baggage claim and have your bags delivered to your Disney Resort hotel room.

Relax on Resort-Wide Transportation
Disney does the driving for you with its ComplimentaryTransportation. convenient monorail, ferry boats and motor coaches travel between Disney Resort hotels, theme parks, water parks, the Downtown Disney area and other recreation spots throughout Walt Disney World Resort.

View Purchases on One Bill
Your Key to the World Card can act as your hotel room key, theme park ticket and charge card good all over Walt Disney World Resort. As you dine and shop, just charge meals, goods and services directly to your room! At the end of your vacation, view your vacation purchases on one consolidated statement.

Extra Time in the Theme Parks
The Extra Magic Hours benefit means that every day one of the theme parks either opens an hour early or stays open up to three hours after regular park closing so that you can enjoy select attractions when the weather may be cooler. Just present your Key to the World Card to select Disney Cast Members to take advantage of the Extra Magic Hours benefit. (Valid theme park ticket required.)

Your Purchases Delivered to Your Resort
Shop at select Disney stores throughout Walt Disney World Resort and have your purchases delivered right to your resort so you can be free to play without lugging around packages, nor have to interrupt your day to return to the hotel to drop them off.

Walt Disney World Tables in Wonderland Membership Discount

By

Chip

-

May 31, 2010

Walt Disney World Passholders receive $25 USD off the regular price of the Tables in Wonderland Membership. Benefits of a Tables in Wonderland Membership include:

20% discount on all food and beverages at participating Resort hotel and Disney Theme Park restaurants
Invitations to special Tables in Wonderland Member-only events
And more!

For more information or to purchase the Tables in Wonderland Membership at the Passholder discounted rate of $75 USD, call (407) 566-5858. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Tables in Wonderland Membership benefits are valid for the Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 9 Guests. Offer is valid for Passholder only. Certain restrictions may apply.

Downtown Disney Dining Discounts

Downtown Disney West Side dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

House of Blues® restaurant: 20% discount off food and non-alcoholic beverages daily in the House of Blues restaurant prior to 4:00 p.m. and 10% discount after 4:00 p.m. Discount excludes alcohol, applicable tax and gratuity. Valid for Walt Disney World® Passholder and up to 5 Guests.
Planet Hollywood® restaurant: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages daily in the Planet Hollywood restaurant. Valid for Walt Disney World® Passholder and up to 3 Guests.
Wolfgang Puck® Café: Enjoy 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages daily during lunch and 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages daily during dinner. Valid for the Passholder and up to three guests. Priority Seating is available by calling (407) 938-9653 or (407) WDW-DINE (407-939-3463). Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Fulton’s Crab House: 20% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and beverages daily during lunch (seated by 3:30 p.m.) and 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and beverages daily during dinner in the Fulton Crab House restaurant. Valid for Walt Disney World® Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available. Call (407) 934-BOAT or (407) 934-2628, and (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 934-3463. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Portobello Trattoria: 20% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and beverages daily during lunch and 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and beverages daily during dinner. Valid for the Passholder and up to three guests. Priority Seating is available by calling (407) 934-8888, or (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop: 10% discount on all chocolate purchases and fountain treats in the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop.
Rainforest Cafe® Downtown Disney: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of lunch and dinner entrées at the Rainforest Cafe®. Valid for Walt Disney World® Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available by calling (407) 827-8500. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Wolfgang Puck Express: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages for breakfast, lunch or dinner in the Wolfgang Puck® Express. Valid for Walt Disney World® Passholder and up to 3 Guests.
T-REX Cafe® – Downtown Disney® Marketplace – 10% discount off the regular price lunch and dinner entrees (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) for the passholder and up to three guests.

Epcot® Theme Park Dining Discounts

Epcot® theme park dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World® Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

Passholders get 10% off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages Monday through Friday during lunch hours at participating Epcot® theme park Table Service locations.

Valid for Walt Disney World® Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available by calling (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call. Lunch hours vary by location; inquire at time of booking.

Participating Epcot® theme park restaurants include:

Biergarten Restaurant
Nine Dragons Restaurant
Restaurant Marrakesh
San Angel Inn Restaurant
Teppan Edo
Tokyo Dining
Tutto Italia Restaurant

Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park Dining Discounts

Disney’s Animal Kingdom® theme park dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World® Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

Rainforest Cafe®: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of breakfast, lunch and dinner entrées in the Rainforest Cafe®. Valid for Walt Disney World® Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available. Call (407) 938-9100 for reservations. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Yak & Yeti® Restaurant: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of lunch and dinner entrées in the Yak & Yeti® Restaurant. Valid for Walt Disney World® Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Discount excludes alcohol and is not valid at Yak & Yeti’s Local Food Cafes.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios™ Theme Park Dining Discount

Disney’s Hollywood Studios™ theme park dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World® Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

Disney’s Hollywood & Vine – Disney’s Hollywood Studios™
Enjoy a 10% discount off of the regular prices of breakfast. Discount excludes alcohol, applicable taxes and gratuity. Valid for Passholder and up to 3 guests.

Magic Kingdom® Theme Park Dining Discount

Magic Kingdom® theme park dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World® Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels Dining Discounts

Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World® Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

Passholders get 10% off the regular price of food and non-alcoholic beverages (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) Monday through Friday during various meal periods at participating hotel table-service locations.

Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available. Call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463 for reservations. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call. Dining hours vary by location. Inquire at the time of booking.

Discount not available on the following: New Years Day 1/1/10, Easter 4/4/10, Mothers Day 5/9/10, Independence Day 7/4/10, Thanksgiving Day 11/25/10, Christmas Eve 12/24/10, Christmas Day 12/25/10 and New Years Eve 12/31/10.

Participating Walt Disney World® Resort Hotel restaurants include:

Disney’s BoardWalk Resort – Kouzzina (Breakfast Only) and ESPN Club (Monday – Friday, Lunch Only)
Disney’s Osprey Ridge Golf Club– Sand Trap Bar and Grill (Lunch Only)
Disney’s Contemporary Resort – The Wave (Breakfast and Lunch)
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground – Trail’s End Restaurant (Breakfast and Lunch)
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Grand Floridian Café (Breakfast and Lunch)
Disney’s Old Key West Resort – Olivia’s Café (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort – Captain’s Grille ( Lunch )
Disney’s Saratoga Springs & Spa– Turf Club (Lunch)
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge — Whispering Canyon Cafe – (Breakfast and Lunch )

*To enjoy your 2010 benefits, you must present your valid Annual Pass at the time of purchase, booking, and/or redemption of any offer. Offers may not be combined with any other certificate, offer or discount. Offers apply to the Passholder only, unless otherwise noted. Offers are subject to change without notice and are subject to availability. 2010 Passholder benefits expire on December 31, 2010. All valid Passes will be subject to the enclosed benefits from January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010. Updated benefits will be available for all valid Passholders on January 1, 2011.
The owners of the Walt Disney World® Resort reserve the right to revoke the Annual Pass if it is presented for admission by anyone other than the Passholder of record or if the Passholder violates the policies of the Walt Disney World® Resort.
The owners of the Walt Disney World® Resort shall not be liable for non-utilization of ticket components or loss of recreational opportunities due to refurbishing, capacity, inclement weather, special events or any circumstances beyond their control.

Toy Story 3 Presents Groovin with Ken

By

Chip

-

May 31, 2010

The creators of the beloved Toy Story films re-open the toy box and bring moviegoers back to the delightful world of our favorite gang of toy characters in TOY STORY 3. As Andy prepares to depart for college, Buzz, Woody and the rest of his loyal toys are troubled about their uncertain future.

Directed by Lee Unkrich (co-director of Toy Story 2 and Finding Nemo), TOY STORY 3 is a comical new adventure in Disney Digital 3D™ that lands the toys in a room full untamed tots who cant wait to get their sticky little fingers on these new toys. Its pandemonium as they try to stay together, ensuring no toy gets left behind. Meanwhile, Barbie comes face to plastic face with Ken (yes, that Ken).

C3PO talks with guests during Star Wars Weekends 2010 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

By

Chip

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May 31, 2010

C3PO talks and interacts with guests during Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World. This walking, talking droid has come to Orlando from Lucasfilm and is the latest impressive addition to the already fun-packed event.

For more on the talking C3PO check out this article from Inside the Magic

Photo credit insidethemagic.net

You CAN do the Disney Parks with an infant!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 31, 2010

So now that the bundle of joy is here, it’s only natural for you to begin planning (at least in your head while you’re up at 2am with your infant) his or her first trip to Disney! I knew I couldn’t wait to share the joy of the Mouse with my son when he was born. My little guy had terrible acid reflux along with colic that was so bad I never thought I’d make it until my husband would come home and take over for me each night. What got me through was doing tons of research on how to travel to Disney with an infant. I always thought to myself, “Hey, if the kid cries, he might as well be someplace with lots of other crying kids!” Sure, Thomas won’t remember a lick of the vacation, but I needed that trip. I had the perfect answer to, “What will you celebrate?” My beautiful baby boy!

If you think that traveling to Disney with an infant is difficult or takes the fun out of things, I’m happy to say you’re wrong! With these little tips, you too can have the time of your life!

Ship to your hotel – This is a HUGE life saver if you are flying. With the outrageous prices the airlines are charging these days for extra bags, you don’t want to have to pack any extra stuff to fly down with you. About a week before you leave, take your package of anything that you’ll need for the week but won’t be bringing home (diapers, wipes, baby food, disposable spoons, bowls, and bibs, etc.) to the post office! Your package should be addressed as follows:

Guest Name, Arriving on XX/XX/20XX

Resort Name

Resort Address (this can be found on the resort’s website or by calling the resort)

Sure, you can grocery shop when you get down to Orlando but with the parks calling your name, do you really want to be at the grocery store paying their prices? Also, the less you have to carry with you to the airport on your day of travel, the better! It saves SO much stress at the airport when you just have to deal with you, your bag of clothes, your stroller and your baby!

Bring your own stroller – This will save you money on the stroller rental at the park which would cost you $15 per day for a single-passenger stroller and $31 per day for a double-passenger. Not only that but at the end of each day, you need to return the stroller which may result in your tired self carrying a sleeping infant or toddler to the bus stop and back to your room. The rental strollers are not appropriate for an infant – they are more suited for a bigger toddler and kid. Besides the money aspect, your baby will appreciate his or her own stroller. My son was used to his stroller from being in it for countless miles here at home. If he became fussy or overstimulated, putting him in the stroller gave him a sense of security that calmed him right down (and often put him to sleep!)

Put your name all over the stroller! In fact, putting a sign on the stroller is a fun and cute way to ensure that nobody walks off with it.

Don’t overpack – Going back to luggage, you want to carry as little as possible since you’ll have the stroller and the baby now! Pack what you think you need for the vacation and take half of it out of the bag! Laundry facilities are available at every resort and they are great! After you get back from the parks, just throw a load in, grab a snack and before you know it the wash will be done. My son had terrible reflux so we did A LOT of laundry and it still didn’t deter from the vacation. Being able to use the laundry allows you to take so much less. And less of anything just equals less STRESS! Also? Less clothes means you can bring more souvenirs home with you!

Baby Center – The baby centers can be your best friend! Regardless if you are nursing or not, these quiet areas (one in each park) will be your saving grace when you and/or your baby need a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks. They are private. They are air conditioned. They have friendly Cast Members ready to help you. They have rocking chairs and beautiful high chairs. They even have a little entertainment area for an older child to chill out. My husband and I used these all the time. Sure, there are changing tables in every bathroom in the parks but the Baby Center ones were so clean and the environment there was so peaceful. There is an area for nursing moms which is very helpful for the time when an infant becomes a little too enthralled with his or her surroundings to concentrate on feeding! My son appreciated the quiet time so he could get down to the business of eating.

Baby Carrier – Besides a stroller being a nice comfortable place for your baby to hang out, a great carrier can provide that extra snuggle that he or she might need. Having your baby in a carrier (in this case, a forward-facing carrier like a Baby Bjorn) for the rides allows you to enjoy the rides yourself without having to worry about a squirmy infant trying to get out of your grasp. My son loved being in the Bjorn on the rides – he could see everything, move his hands and his feet as he pleased, and it made me feel more secure taking him on the rides like Dumbo, Peter Pan, etc. We also took an Ergo with us as well which I could put my son in when he wanted to take a snooze. He could have a quiet and darkened place against Mom’s chest and we could in the meantime go on Spaceship Earth while he slept on me! The carriers are so useful! Just make sure to practice getting your baby in and out before you go so you don’t waste too much time finagling around with the straps!

Rides – Speaking of rides, don’t think that your baby is too small and he or she won’t be able to enjoy any of them. Not true! There are SO many rides and attractions that your baby can be a part of. Basically any ride that does not have a height restriction is a-ok for your infant. Not only that but the shows are also fun for the whole family. Sure, my son doesn’t remember “it’s a small world” but he had a BLAST looking back and forth at all the singing children!

Baby Swap – And just because you have an infant with you does NOT mean that YOU can’t enjoy the thrill rides! Sure, you won’t be taking baby on Tower of Terror but you CAN take part in baby swap which really is one of Disney’s best kept secrets! What happens is you and your spouse and child go to the Cast Member at the start of the line (in this case, Tower of Terror). Let the Cast Member know you would like to do the baby swap. If you want to ride first, your spouse will be given a ticket that looks like a Fastpass. Your spouse will hang out with the baby while you go and enjoy the ride! After you finish, you can meet up with your spouse and baby, take the baby and your spouse can use his Fastpass ticket to go directly on the ride and avoid the line! It’s great! You get the best of both worlds! You get to ride the smaller rides but also you can experience the thrill rides just like you did before you had children (although be careful – motherhood seems to have given me some extra scaredycat-ness that I didn’t have before my son came along!)

Traveling to Disney with an infant is so easy. Taking a few extra steps in preparation makes it a breeze to enjoy every aspect of Disney and even some new ones that you wouldn’t otherwise know without having your baby with you. A great incentive to travel with your infant is the fact that until they are two years old, they can fly for free and until they are three years old their park tickets are free! For that reason, my husband and I have three trips planned already in the next year!

There are so many other tips I could probably rattle off after having taken my infant son to Disney but these seem to be the biggest ones. The most important one, however, is to HAVE FUN and TAKE PICTURES!!!

*My Disney experiences have given me great insight to tips and tricks for getting the very most out of a Disney vacation. I want to share this valuable information with you and help you discover the Disney magic in your own way.

Happy Planning!

Nancy Cullen

Phone: 347-541-PIXI

Website: http://www.PixieVacations.com
Email: [email protected]

Find me on Facebook: http://dld.bz/fxwV
Twitter: www.twitter.com/pixienancy

Disneyland’s Shanghai project is ahead of schedule

By

Chip

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May 31, 2010

Disneyland is coming to the booming Chinese city of Shanghai. The central government gave its approval in November, since when preparations have been gathering pace.

Disneyland Shanghai will be in the Pudong area of the city, and the Shanghai Daily reports the Pudong New Area government has almost completed the relocation of residents from the 3.9 square kilometre area, a month ahead of schedule.

Construction of apartments to receive them has begun, and they are expected to be ready for occupancy by August 2012. More than 2,000 households and 297 enterprises will be relocated in total. The new residential site is in Pudong’s Chuansha Town, and will have more than 6,500 apartments.

The land for the theme park is due to be handed over at the end of June when construction will begin.

Click here to keep reading.

Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap May 30th

By

Chip

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May 30, 2010

Here is the week in review from Disney Parks Blog:

Some of my favorite Disney Parks Blog posts are “first looks” and Walt Disney Imagineer Steven Davison wowed us this week with a peek at what’s to come. Steven and team showed how we’re getting the fountains to dance during “World of Color.” Since the show doesn’t have live performers, the fountains are the dancers and actors.

And now, here’s our weekly list of most popular posts:

First Meet-Up at Disneyland Resort — Toy Story Mania! and Walt Disney Imagineering fans got an insider’s look at the new changes in Toy Story Mania! Walt Disney Imagineer, Kevin Rafferty, answered fans’ questions about the making-of the attraction and what it’s like to work on this project.

Disneyland Hotel Makeover — The pool area is getting a whole new look, including a complete redesign of the Never Land Pool.

‘World of Color’ – Behind the H2O – Making the Fountains Dance — Joshua Horner, a choreographer from Australia, took the show’s musical score to create a style and choreographic point of view for each number.

New, Improved Online Dining Reservation System for Walt Disney World Restaurants — Disney “foodies” can now search and retrieve online reservations for Walt Disney World restaurants.

Wonderful and Scary — Walt Disney World photographer, Garth Vaughan, a spooky, exciting and thrilling view of Disney’s Hollywood Studios.