Add sparkle to your Disney World wedding

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April 28, 2010

Hi everyone…today, we’re sharing a way to take your wedding experience straight into the stratosphere with your own private fireworks display. At Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings we sprinkle pixie dust over every wedding to make it a true one of a kind event. A private fireworks display is one of the unique touches that a bride and groom can add to their wedding that is sure to amaze guests and create a memory to last a lifetime. Private fireworks can enhance a ceremony at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion and will add real sparkle to your wedding. As the bride and groom walk across the Wedding Pavilion Bridge to greet their guests, a multicolored fireworks display will paint a backdrop over the Seven Seas Lagoon.

After one of our own planners’ wedding ceremony in November 2006, the sky over the Wedding Pavilion twinkled bright with colorful fireworks. The display was a huge hit for everybody, and it came as a total surprise for all the wedding guests! Adding this magical touch is a way to keep guests talking about your wedding for years to come.

To learn more about Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings or Honeymoons please visit www.disneyweddings.com

One really cool Buzz Lightyear toy just in time for Toy Story 3

By

Chip

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April 28, 2010

At “Time to Play” event in NYC, Disney showed us the Toy Story 3 U Command Buzz doing the tango; he does lots of other stuff too, and he’ll be out in May, $79.99.

U Command Buzz comes with a wireless remote and can perform nearly 1,000 action sequences, including this rather romantic tango as seen below. Fittingly, he also speaks Spanish.

Favorite Disney Foods: Creme Brulee

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 28, 2010

Crème brulee is the kind of dessert that is pure comfort food that’s right at home in a more sophisticated restaurant. It’s really just pudding that’s been given the grown-up treatment: Cream instead of milk, cooked on the stove then baked in a water bath, and covered with crackly burnt sugar. Despite its rather fancy pedigree, it’s actually quite easy to make, requiring only that you be able to temper the eggs, which is as simple as whisking warmed eggs into hot cream, and use a small torch to burn the sugar. In fact, it started out as dorm food in England, where students would make it on hotplates. Because there are only a handful of ingredients, it’s important to use the best you can find so that the flavor you’re trying to highlight, usually vanilla, stands out in the best possible way.

Baking is my hobby, so I’m pretty particular about desserts. At a lot of restaurants, I don’t even bother ordering dessert because I know they won’t be that good, however I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how good desserts are at Disney table service restaurants. Even at the buffets, I was blown away by the choices; the dessert at Boma would have been at home at a signature restaurant and the choices at Crystal Palace were a terrific surprise after the food portion of our meal, which was good but not especially remarkable.

Because it’s such a popular choice, you’ll find crème brulee on a number of menus at Disney World and despite feeding thousands of people a day, it will more than likely be good crème brulee. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find bad crème brulee anywhere on Disney property; I haven’t yet. I tend to order it quite often, and as a result, have tried it at a number of Disney restaurants. Here are my top three in no particular order:

The crème brulee at Wolfgang Puck Express in Downtown Disney was a real surprise. WPE is one of my favorite counter service places to eat. I love the sandwiches, pasta and rotisserie chicken. Even the kid’s pizza is good. But the crème brulee was the real surprise. Made with real vanilla beans, it had a nice full flavor and creamy texture that belied the fact that it’s served in what’s essentialy a fast food setting. The real shocker was that it was only $5. Truthfully, it was as good as the crème brulee I’ve had at signature restaurants. WPE is on the dining plan and is one of your best uses of your table service credits, so by all means, make the trip to Downtown Disney and enjoy.
Narcoossee’s is a great restaurant for a celebration. With a view of Seven Seas Lagoon and the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom, it’s a date night kind of place, but it’s still casual enough that you won’t feel uncomfortable if you’ve just come from one of the parks. Narcoossee’s generally focuses on Florida seafood, so you expect to find some form of Key Lime pie on the menu; after all, it’s practically the state dessert. The problem with Key Lime pie served outside of someone’s home is that it’s usually bad, either too sweet or too tart, and covered with canned whipped cream that tastes like a chemistry experiment. Because of this, I stopped ordering it when I go out to eat, however, I made an exception for the key lime crème brulee at Narcoossee’s and I’m glad I did. It’s really excellent. This dessert is sometimes paired with a coconut creme brulee which is also good, but the Key Lime flavor is the clear winner. The flavor is fresh and clean. It’s not like the pie, exactly, but you’ll catch hints of that familiar key lime flavor. I might even like it better than Key Lime pie.
Okay, I know I said that these were my favorite three were in no particular order, but if I had to choose a favorite, it would be the Butterscotch Crème Brulee at California Grill, my absolute favorite Disney restaurant. It comes with two small loaves of banana bread. They’re good and look cute on the plate, but they’re more of an afterthought. There’s also a few slices of bananas that have been given the “brulee” treatment and are surprisingly good, warm and then crunchy at the same time. The crème brulee itself is a step above its plain vanilla cousin. It’s got a deep flavor that isn’t overpowering; it’s more just layered and rich, like the butterscotch pudding you remember as a kid, only so much better. Try it and you’ll be converted. It’s not on the menu all the time, unfortunately, but when it is, it’s a favorite.

So how about you? Do you have a favorite creme brulee at Disney World?

Captain EO Starring Michael Jackson, Returns to Epcot July 2

By

Chip

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April 28, 2010

Captain EO logo

CAPTAIN EO: “Captain EO,” the 17-minute, classic 3-D film experience starring Michael Jackson that entertained audiences at Epcot from 1986-1994, will return to Epcot July 2, 2010.

The film’s return to the Imagination pavilion was announced by Walt Disney World Resort on April 28, 2010. “Captain EO” also will return to two other Disney Parks locations this summer, scheduled to open June 12 at Disneyland Resort Paris and June 30 at Tokyo Disney Resort. In February, “Captain EO” begain showing again at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif.

Marvel & Disney Come together for Iron Man 2 Premiere

By

Chip

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April 28, 2010

A major theme of “Iron Man 2” is the churn and burn of public life — billionaire superhero Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) is living large but he’s also being poisoned by his celebrity, his past and, yes, even by that bright glowing disc in his chest that keeps his heart going even as it taints his blood.

So, because of the mad public-life theme, the Hollywood premiere for the movie on Monday was big, brash, loud and crazy at the edges. (It was also an interesting moment in the life of Marvel Studios and Walt Disney Entertainment, which walked down their first public red carpet together with the tentative hand-holding that you might expect any arranged marriage.)

The premiere shut down Hollywood Boulevard and hundreds of fans and tourists turned out to gawk at the movie stars, the scantily clad cheerleaders in red-and-gold (they’re called the “Ironettes”) and the assembled press, which rearranged schedules to attend the affair — this premiere was supposed to be in London but the nasty ash cloud from that Icelandic volcano changed those plans. Yes, it sounds like a comic-book plot twist but isn’t that appropriate? I’m not sure I would have been surprised Monday if Mickey Rourke shed his leather-lapeled suit and attacked the crowd with crackling laser whips. He didn’t however, although at one point he did give his agent the slip; in the lobby of the El Capitan Theatre, ICM President Chris Silbermann walked up to a group of reporters and asked (with only mock distress), “Where’s Mickey? Have you seen Mickey? I went to the bathroom and I came back and he wasn’t in his seat.” The star was located and guided to an elevated stage outside, where “Iron Man 2” director and costar Jon Favreau introduced his cast before fireworks were launched.

Downey had arrived with an appropriate bit of James Bond flair by zipping up a narrow, blocked-off lane in a souped-up, soft-top white Audi R8 Spyder. He stopped curbside, hopped out to open the door for his wife and producer partner, Susan Downey (she’s the executive producer of “Iron Man 2”). It’s amazing to watch Downey these days along with Johnny Depp, he’s ascended to a star level that no one anticipated a decade and although Depp loses himself in the disguise of his roles, “Iron Man” succeeds by bottling its star’s singular charisma and bad-boy background and presenting it as meta-entertainment.

Click here to keep reading this article from LA Times.

Best Fireworks Viewing Locations at Walt Disney World

By

Chip

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April 28, 2010

With the summer only a few weeks away and the park attendance picking up I wanted to share with you the best places to see the Fireworks displays that will be going on for the various shows and Fourth of July when it rolls around.

The best place to get Walt Disney World Park Hours, Disney Parades and Fireworks is here. WDW Info is one of my all time favorite sites to get Disney Info!

Magic Kingdom:

Anywhere on Main Street, U.S.A. (Wow really Captain Obvious)
I like standing near Casey’s or in front of the Crystal Palace for Wishes Nighttime Spectacular. I recommend getting some popcorn and a Dole Whip Float for the best experience. Great time to use up those snack credits
Tomorrowland Terrace patio.
For Main Street Electrical Parade if you can get a seat near City Hall to see the floats come out or at the center island across the way you have a full 360 view of the magic. Again grab some popcorn near the entrance and grab a seat and wait for the Parade is my suggestion.

Epcot:

The Mexico and Italy pavilions offer spectacular views of the Epcot fireworks, including the Illuminations Reflections of Earth globe, which features video images.
Avoid spots in which large trees or buildings obstruct your view.
If the wind is blowing in your face, smoke will surely follow once the show starts. Find another spot.
If you don’t mind missing the video images and some of the fire, smoke, and laser effects that can only be seen from World Showcase, a great place to watch the fireworks is along the long walkway in front of Spaceship Earth, near the fountain. You will be ideally positioned to make a quick exit to the parking lot or monorail before the masses.
A great spot to view the fireworks is the small bridge between Mexico and World Showplace…ideally with a Mexican Margarita in your hand.
In France Near the fountains sipping a nice cappuccino or eating a crepes. Again use those snack credits.
No matter where you pop a squat be sure to grab a pint or try our Drink around the World Showcase Challange

Disney’s Hollywood Studios:

Fantasmic! is the park’s regular night time show, while the Magic Kingdom and Epcot offer fireworks every night be sure to check the schedule to see when Fantasmic is playing. Arrive at least one hour early to get a good seat.

Magic Kingdom resorts:

Contemporary Resort 4th floor outside observation deck.
California Grill observation deck and tables with a view of the Magic Kingdom.
‘Ohana restaurant at the Polynesian Resort, or from the Beach (makes for a romantic spot for couples)
Narcoossee’s restaurant at the Grand Floridian Resort.
From a Disney boat on the Seven Seas Lagoon, located in front of the Magic Kingdom.

Hope this list helps you out. If you have some secret spots let us know in the comment section below.

Packing for Walt Disney World with a Baby

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 28, 2010

We’re counting down the days. Before long, our family will be headed to our long-awaited Walt Disney World vacation. It will be our one year old’s first visit and he’s prepared; now it’s my turn. Packing for a one week trip with a baby is a challenge. I only need to look around the house to see all the baby gear used to feed, entertain, and keep him safe. While I may want to pack it all for “just in case”, that’s hardly an option.

Of course I need to pack all the essentials such as his clothing, diapers, pacifiers, comfort item, and sunscreen, but after that convenience rules the day. A trip to the local baby store was successful, even if my purchases do take up the better part of a small suitcase.

So, what travel items did I decide to pack for our baby’s Walt Disney World trip?

Feeding

1. Table Toppers – I love these – no more worrying about food touching the table! The disposable placemats are large enough to cover the entire area within my baby’s reach while adhesive strips guarantee they stay securely in place. We opted for the Disney theming but different characters are available.

2. Portable Highchair Cover – After covering the table, it’s on to his highchair. This Fisher Price portable highchair cover folds up compactly and fits into a small carrying case – perfect for a family on the go.

3. Bibs. Sometimes you only have to look at my son to know what he had for lunch. Although I was tempted to bring our bibs from home, the idea of toting a messy bib around the theme park after our meal was enough to convince me otherwise. Disposable bibs qualified as a convenience item and being small and lightweight, they made their way into his suitcase.

4. Disposable Sippy Cups and Utensils. I debated whether I should bring disposable sippy cups or the real deal from home. Disposable sippy cups would take up more room in the suitcase and are more wasteful. On the other hand, it would be convenient to be able to leave the cup at the restaurant and not worry about it leaking into a diaper bag and stroller, not to mention my concerns about leaving leftover milk in a cup that would be out in the hot Florida sun. I don’t need a trip to the emergency room because of accidental food poisoning. Disposable cups won out – especially after I found the take and toss variety which is reusable. Now, I have options.

Take and toss utensils also made the cut. By the way, why are knives included in the set? I haven’t met a two year old yet who will be cutting their own chicken. Just a random thought…

5. Utensil Travel Case. The travel case for toddler utensils is great. Keep your child’s flatware clean and organized during travel and keep your diaper bag clean after a meal if you’re not using disposable forks and spoons.

6. Travel Plate. Our son’s at the stage where he’s learning the basic principles of gravity. That means real dinner plates are not an option for him. A small plastic travel plate works well.

7. Travel Bowls and Lids – Our diaper bag wouldn’t be complete without an assortment of snacks. Since we’ll be at the theme parks for a good portion of the day, variety is important. These small bowls will let me pack a few different snacks to bring with us.

8. Wet Wipes. In my life, these are a necessity and they have almost unlimited use. Need I to say more?

Health and Safety

1. Travel Medicine Box – This is my must-bring safety item. It’s small, lightweight, and easy for adults to use but it keeps curious little hands away from the over-the-counter and prescription medications we bring when we travel.

2. Medications. Murphy, of Murphy’s Law fame, and I know each other well, a little too well in my opinion. Vacation would be the time for illness to strike so I pack any medications the doctor has recommended for our son.

3. Thermometer – If fever dares to strikes at Walt Disney World, I’m prepared. Although we rarely have to use this at home, I pack it for “just in case.”

4. Bandages and Antibiotic Ointment. You can’t go wrong packing these items. You probably won’t need them but if you do, you’ll be glad you have them.

5. Safety Tattoos. My little guy is beginning to walk and I can’t wait to see him take steps down Main Street U.S.A. Even though I will be holding his hand firmly, separation is my fear with the crowds and large spaces at Walt Disney World. I always use some type of identification for the kids at Disney World and there are a lot of options available. Even my four year old who knows his name, address, and phone number gets a child I.D. Knowing his contact information at the kitchen table is different from remembering it if he’s separated from us and scared.

Here are some other options for child identification.

Who’s Shoes Child ID Kit™ (www.whosshoesid.com)
SafetyTat (www.safetytat.com)
Tottoos.Org (www.tottoos.org)
Guardian Angel Bracelet ID (www.guardianangelbracelet.com)
Luggage Tag on a Belt Loop
Masking Tape and a Sharpie. Affix to the inside hem of your child’s shirt.

All the Other Stuff

1. Swim Diapers. A must if we take our little one in the hotel pool.

2. Diaper Disposal Bags – As parents we all know that disposing of diapers in some type of sealed container is essential for keeping our house smelling fresh. Tossing diapers directly into the hotel garbage can may be an assault on your nose. These diaper disposal bags are my answer to this issue.

3. Disposable Changing Pads. I like the idea of a disposable changing pad that can be tossed after use. It’s more convenient than disinfecting the reusable changing pad in the diaper bag.

4. CARES Harness – We’ll be flying to Disney and we were originally unsure about whether we would be bringing a car seat with us. I purchased this CARES harness to keep my little guy safe and secure in the air. We’ve ultimately decided to rent a car so we will be using his car seat on the plane but this harness will be useful in the future.

5. Wet Wipes. These are useful for everything from wiping down the Pak ‘N Play in your hotel room to cleaning little hands after a meal.

6. Nightlight. Our son has a nightlight in his room at home and I’m unsure if he will be afraid of complete darkness. Our vacation is not the time to find out. This small nightlight is easy to pack and will make him feel more at home.

7. Baby Monitor – On this trip, we’ll be staying in a room that has a separate sleeping and living area. Bringing a baby monitor will help us to listen for the baby behind closed doors.

8. Baby proofing Items – My son is curious by nature and a brand new hotel room to explore will make him even more so. We baby proof our home so for us it is natural to baby proof our hotel room as much as is practical. The good news is the baby proofing supplies are small and fairly inexpensive. To me, the most critical baby proofing item for the baby is the outlet plugs. The other items I’m bringing are more applicable to our preschooler. I’ve packed some door stops for the sliding door in the room. If our kids are able to unlock the door unnoticed, the suction cups with wedges will stop them from opening the door. I also purchased a lever handle lock with an adhesive backing for the hotel room door leading to the hallway. The adhesive backing will make it easy to remove without damaging the door. Special thanks to Chris for some of the baby proofing ideas.

By taking a trip to the local baby store and browsing the aisle for convenience travel items, I think I’m well prepared for our trip with the baby. If I’ve forgotten anything, please let me know in the comments section below so I can make another run for travel essentials.

Lisa M. Battista is the author of Beyond the Attractions: A Guide to Walt Disney World with Preschoolers When she’s not chasing after her little ones, you can most likely find her at the beach or in the kitchen trying her hand at a new recipe.

*Disclaimer: If you purchase products via some of the links above, the author will benefit from a small referral fee.

Despite Recession, Disney Parks Remain Strong.

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 28, 2010

Jason Garcia, who reports on Orlando area theme parks for the Orlando Sentinel, wrote yesterday that despite the recession, Disney parks reported small gains in attendance. While the gains are minor, around .5 to 1 percent, they are in stark contrast to losses suffered by Universal Orlando and Universal Seaworld. Says Garcia:

“. . . analysts attributed Disney World’s market-share gains to the resort’s targeted use of discounts, which helped lure tourists despite a steep drop in travel overall. All of Disney’s most significant promotions during the year — including seven nights for the price of four and free dining — required travelers to stay in the resort’s hotels.

The promotions effectively worked in tandem with other strategic moves Disney has made over the years — such as the launch of a complimentary airport shuttle and luggage service that eliminates the need to rent a car — to help Disney keep an even greater share of its guests on its property and away from its rivals.”

What do you think? Will Disney continue to release promotions to keep resort rooms full or will they, given recent positive reports on the economy, attempt to scale back promotions? Are you less likely to book a trip if you can’t get a discount or will you be visiting the Mouse this year no matter what?

Read more about this article here. Don’t miss the vigorous debate in the comments.

Chat with Vinylmation’s Steven Miller Thursday, April 29th at 4:30PM PST

By

Chip

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April 28, 2010

Do you love Vinylmation? Are you itching to find out what the next set will include? Do you want to know the origin story behind your favorite figure?

Well, get your questions ready because…

Vinylmation.com is sponsoring a LIVE chat with Steven Miller, Disney’s Vinylmation & Pin Trading connoisseur, on April 29 at 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT!

Check back shortly after the conclusion of the chat for the full transcript.

Steven is waiting to field all of your giant (and not-so-giant) questions.

Ask a Disney Question: Toy Story The Musical on the Disney Wonder.

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 27, 2010

This email comes from Kris, who writes:

“We are cruising on the Wonder in Jan. I am very excited and have two cruises booked for 2011. Advertised on the ship is the Toy Story show. We are also getting the same show at California Adventure. Will they be changing the show on the cruise or are all of us Disneyland fans stuck with the same show on the cruise for a while? It seems odd that one may start out with a trip to the park then to the cruise and see the same show. Thanks”

Kris, thanks for reading the blog and for your question. The two shows will be playing at both venues, but you’ll notice slight differences between the two, mainly due to the size constraints on the ship. I’ve heard mixed reviews about Toy Story: The Musical, a Broadway style show with original songs, on the Wonder. Some cruise fans love it, others say it’s worth seeing once but wouldn’t make the effort to see it again. One benefit of seeing it at sea is that the venue is smaller, so it’s possible you’ll have a greater opportunity for character interaction than you would at Disneyland. Given the choice, I’d probably see the show on the ship for just that reason. If you like it, see it again at California Adventure. If not, there are so many things to do out in Anaheim, you won’t miss it.

Good luck and please let us know how it works out!

Got a Disney question? We’ve got answers. Email us a Chip and Co. We answer every question.

Woman Hurt In Disney World Boat Crash

By

Chip

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April 27, 2010

WFTV obtained information Tuesday about an accident involving a woman who was injured last Thursday when a rented two-seat motorized boat she was riding in collided a Disney ferry boat.

The accident happened at the Treehouse Village on Disney property.According to documents released by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the ferry driver and the driver of the two-seat boat tell different stories of what exactly happened.

The captain of the Disney ferry boat, William Green, told investigators that the Sea Raycer motorized boat was driving recklessly and crashed into the ferry. Captain Green told investigators that the Sea Raycer went underneath the Disney ferry and popped up in front of it. Green said that’s when he noticed that the woman, 61-year-old Barbara Wormald, was injured.

Wormald was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center with injuries sustained in the accident. Officers said she was in stable condition, suffering a collapsed lung, fractured ribs and complaining of back pain.Wormald’s husband, who was driving the Sea Raycer that was rented from Downtown Disney, was not injured.

He told investigators that he saw the large ferry boat and thought it was moving away from their small boat, but then realized it was coming at them and was very close.

Michael Wormald, 61, told investigators he turned quickly to the right to avoid the ferry but it was too late. He said the ferry ran up onto the passenger side of the small boat and ran over the top of his wife.

The Sea Raycer the couple was on had been rented from Cap’n Jack’s Marina at Downtown Disney. The Sea Raycer can be rented by anyone over 18, according to the marina.

Source

Here is the article from WESH:

A woman at Walt Disney World was injured Thursday afternoon when the small boat in which she was a passenger was involved in a crash with a ferry.

Barbara Wormald was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center by ambulance. Authorities said Wormald suffered a collapsed lung, fractured ribs and a possible spinal injury.

The captain of the ferry boat, William Green, told investigators he was traveling southbound along a waterway at Disney world and witnessed a small two-seat watercraft traveling recklessly toward his vessel. Green said the watercraft hit the ferry, and he immediately put the ferry into reverse.

Green said the watercraft went under the ferry and surfaced in front of it with the injured passenger.

The small boat sustained damage from the seating area to its bow, an incident report from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office stated.

Michael Wormald, the victim’s husband, was driving the boat when the crash happened. He stated that he believed the ferry was going to move away for him and his wife, but he then noticed the vessel was coming at their boat when it was only a short distance away. He said he attempted to make a sharp right turn to avoid the ferry, but it was too late.

Michael Wormald said the ferry hit his wife and ran over the top of her, wedging her between the ferry and the small boat momentarily. He said he yelled for the ferry to stop and call for help.

The crash remains under investigation.

Source

Photo credit panoramio.com

Disney Makes Top Honors as 2009 Theme Park Report Releases.

By

Chip

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April 27, 2010

The Themed Entertainment Association(TEA), along with AECOM Economics, has issued the 2009 theme park attendance report.

Here are the Top 10 United States theme parks for 2009:

1. Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom: 17.2 million +1.0%
2. Disneyland: 15.9 million +8.0%
3. Epcot: 11.0 million +0.5%
4. Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 9.7 million +1.0%
5. Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 9.6 million +0.5%
6. Disney’s California Adventure: 6.1 million +9.5%
7. SeaWorld Orlando: 5.8 million -6.8%
8. Universal Studios Florida: 5.4 million -12.0%
9. Islands of Adventure: 4.5 million -13.8%
10. Universal Studios Hollywood: 4.3 million -6.0%

Here is the Top 10 Grossing Theme Parks Worldwide:

1. Magic Kingdom
2. Disneyland
3. Tokyo Disneyland: 13.6 million -4.5%
4. Disneyland Paris: 12.7 million +0.4%
5. Tokyo DisneySea: 12 million -4.0%
6. Epcot
7. Disney’s Hollywood Studios
8. Disney’s Animal Kingdom
9. Universal Studios Japan: 8.0 million -3.6%
10. Everland (South Korea): 6.2 million -6.5%

Click here to see the complete report.