Changes Coming to Club runDisney in 2025

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April 17, 2024

Club runDisney, the official membership program for runners participating in Disney race weekends, recently announced changes to its membership structure via an email sent to members.

Effective in 2025, Club runDisney memberships will transition to a traditional calendar year format, running from January 1st to December 31st. Previously, memberships ran from October 1st through September 30th of the following year.

To ease the transition for current members, all existing Club runDisney memberships will be automatically extended for three months, free of charge. This extension ensures current memberships remain valid through December 31, 2024.

The complimentary extension offers additional benefits to current Gold and Platinum members participating in the upcoming 2024 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend (October 31 – November 4). Gold members will receive early access to the runDisney Merchandise Shop, allowing them to snag coveted race weekend souvenirs before anyone else. Platinum members will enjoy exclusive access to Club runDisney Headquarters, offering expedited bib pick-up and the opportunity to secure coveted early start group placement for their race.

The next runDisney race weekend on the calendar is the 2024 Walt Disney World Springtime Surprise Weekend. While this falls outside the extended membership window, runners can still consider joining Club runDisney before the 2025 season kicks off to gain access to a year of special benefits and early registration opportunities for all upcoming races.

Universal Orlando Confirms Fast and Furious Supercharged Closing Temporarily

By

Chris B

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April 17, 2024

Universal Orlando has confirmed the temporary closure of Fast & Furious: Supercharged at Universal Studios Florida. Get ready to hit the brakes for a few months, because this high-octane attraction will be out of commission from August 19th through November 3rd, 2024.

This closure coincides with the upcoming Halloween Horror Nights event. Previously, Fast & Furious: Supercharged remained operational during the day but went dark during HHN hours. This year, Universal Orlando is opting to close the ride for the duration of the event, likely to allow for a refurbishment period while the line queue will double as a Halloween Horror Nights house entrance.

As of now, the ride is slated to re-open in early November, just in time for the busy holiday season. Stay tuned to the Chip and Co website and social media feeds for more information as they become available!

Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!

Disney Imagineering Shares Closer Look at Disneyland Paris Hotel Signature Suites

By

Chris B

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April 17, 2024

The newly reimagined Disneyland Hotel at Disneyland Paris has unveiled a crown jewel fit for royalty (or at least those who dream of it) – the Signature Suites. These incredible spaces transport guests directly into the heart of beloved Disney classics, offering a truly unforgettable stay.

Set Designer Sophie Coudré, a veteran of Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel, recently shared the collaborative spirit that brought these dreams to life. Imagineers worked closely with Disney Animation’s Creative Legacy team and the Walt Disney Animation Research Library to ensure each suite captures the essence of its respective film.

The Signature Suites pay homage to five cherished Disney stories:

Sleeping Beauty: Step into a world of medieval grandeur, inspired by Aurora’s story and featuring a breathtaking recreation of her iconic pink and blue dress.
Cinderella: Live out a Cinderella dream in a suite reminiscent of her charming chateau, complete with a hidden nod to her famous glass slipper.
Beauty and the Beast: Be our guest in a suite inspired by Belle’s timeless tale, where you might just encounter the Beast’s enchanted rose.
Tangled: Explore the world of Rapunzel in a vibrant suite, featuring a replica of her magical Sundrop flower.
Frozen: Embark on a wintry adventure in a suite reminiscent of Arendelle, adorned with a stunning snowflake-inspired stained-glass window.

The magic goes beyond iconic elements! Each suite boasts beautiful artwork inspired by the films, meticulously crafted in the style of each animation masterpiece. This collaboration between Imagineering and Disney Animation ensures a truly authentic experience.

The artistry doesn’t stop there. Sophie emphasizes the importance of local artisans in the creation process. Traditional French techniques are woven throughout the suites, from the sculpted glass slipper and Beast’s rose to the tapestries reminiscent of a medieval castle.

Sophie encourages guests to explore every nook and cranny of these enchanting suites. From details embedded in the furniture to hidden characters like Cinderella’s mice and Pascal’s dress, there’s always something new to discover. For Sophie, a personal highlight is the “Sleeping Beauty” suite, a chance to relive childhood memories surrounded by Aurora’s story.

The Signature Suites are just one reason why Disneyland Hotel is a must-stay for any Disney fan. With hidden Imagineering details and experiences designed especially for children, the magic truly comes alive. So, book your stay and prepare to step into your favorite Disney fairytale!

New The Lion King Throw Blanket To Snuggle With All Day Long!

By

Ana Leal

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April 17, 2024

New The Lion King Throw Blanket To Snuggle With All Day Long!

All your worries will be gone while snuggling up with this cozy The Lion King Throw Blanket available at the Disney Store for $39.99!

It features a geometric design with paw prints in orange and red tones with Simba, Timon and Pumbaa in the middle and the famous “Hakuna Matata” phrase! A must have in your home for sure.

Credit: Disney Store

Custom Disney Cast Member Nametag Keychain To Bring The Magic With You Everywhere You Go!

By

Ana Leal

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April 17, 2024

Custom Disney Cast Member Nametag Keychain To Bring The Magic With You Everywhere You Go!

Super cute Disney Cast Member Nametag Keychain created by SimplyMeantToCreate on Etsy for $12+. You can order yours here!

You can personalized these keychains with your name, location, and even choose glitter or not! They are a great little piece of magic to add to your keys or bag, and remind you of happy times at the most magical place on Earth!

New The Lion King Crocs Now At The Disney Store!

By

Ana Leal

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April 17, 2024

New The Lion King Crocs Now At The Disney Store!

Your paws will love these super comfortable The Lion King Crocs that just arrived to the Disney Store online for $64.99!

They feature an all over pattern of Simba, Nala, Timon and Pumbaa plus big leaves. The sole shows blue paw prints all around to track the path. They are adorable and a must have for a comfy and relax style.

Credit: Disney Store

Pain & Panic Attacked This Hercules Madly Mischievous Bust by Lewis Whitman!

By

Ana Leal

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April 17, 2024

Pain & Panic Attacked This Hercules Madly Mischievous Bust by Lewis Whitman!

Our Greek demigod went from hero to zero in this Hercules Madly Mischievous Bust by Lewis Whitman! Hades’ henchmen are the ones to blame for this mischievous prank, even though it also adds a pop of color, so we are not too mad about it.

We found this bust at Hollywood Studios for $79.99, so if you are looking for a piece of art of add to your home, this one is a great option!

The bust features Hercules all sculpted on top of a Greek pedestal that has been a victim of painterly tagging by Pain & Panic, splashing purple and blue paint all around and leaving their signature on the chest.

You can take a closer look at this bust in our Instagram post:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Photo Credit: Mary M.

Celebrate Your Special Moment With This Stitch Birthday Cake Pandora Charm!

By

Ana Leal

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April 17, 2024

Celebrate Your Special Moment With This Stitch Birthday Cake Pandora Charm!

Looking for the perfect charm to commemorate your special day? This Stitch Birthday Cake Pandora Charm is exactly what you are looking for! We found this galactic accessory at Hollywood Studios but you can also order yours at the Pandora website for $85.

The charm is crafter in sterling silver and features Stitch in silver with purple details on his ears sitting behind a pink birthday cake. If you turn this charm around, you will find “Aloha, Happy Birthday” text engraved to add an extra festive touch!

Definitely a whimsical charm to add magic to your birthday! You can take a closer look at it in our Instagram post:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Photo Credit: Mary M.

Critically Endangered Bornean Orangutan Born at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

By

Chris B

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April 17, 2024

Orangutan C-Section — Luna the orangutan gives birth via C-Section

There’s a brand new swing set resident at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and it’s cause for global celebration! A critically endangered Bornean Orangutan, a precious baby girl, was recently born at the park, marking a significant milestone in Orangutan conservation efforts.

This tiny miracle arrived on April 13th via cesarean section, weighing in at a petite three pounds and four ounces. Luna, the mama Orangutan, is recovering well under the watchful eyes of a dedicated team of medical and zoological professionals. Soon, once both Luna and her newborn are healthy and stable, they’ll be reunited and begin their precious journey together.

Bornean Orangutans, the largest arboreal ape species, are sadly classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their populations have plummeted due to habitat loss and illegal hunting. This successful birth at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a testament to the park’s dedication to the Species Survival Plan® (SSP) coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). These programs are vital for the conservation of vulnerable species, ensuring their well-being in accredited facilities and educating the public about the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.

Want to be part of the heartwarming story of Luna and her baby? Follow Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on social media for updates on their progress! You might even get a glimpse of this adorable new addition swinging through her habitat in the near future!

80’s Passholder Button Coming to Universal Orlando

By

Chris B

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April 17, 2024

Dust off your neon legwarmers and crank up the synth beats, Universal Orlando Passholders! A trip back to the radical era of the 80s is on the horizon, fueled by an exclusive Passholder button and the epic return of Passholder Bonus Benefits.

universal-orlando-annual-pass-bonus-benefits-2

This exciting news comes courtesy of a recent tease from Universal Orlando, hinting at the button’s release as part of the upcoming Passholder Bonus Benefits program in May.

The beloved Passholder Bonus Benefits program is making a grand return from May 1st to 24th. Get ready for a month packed with extra perks to sweeten your theme park experience.

Here’s a taste of what you can expect during Passholder Bonus Benefits:

Special Entrances: Enjoy the convenience of special entrances for select attractions, saving you valuable time waiting in line.
Exclusive Dining: Indulge in exclusive dining locations, offering unique menus and unforgettable culinary experiences.
Special Discounts: Take advantage of special discounts on merchandise, dining, and more throughout the parks.
And More!: Universal Orlando is keeping the details under wraps for now, but there’s sure to be even more exciting surprises in store!

Universal Orlando is keeping the specifics of the 80’s Passholder button and any potential 80s-themed events under wraps for now. Keep your eyes peeled on the Chip and Co. website and social media feeds for further details on Passholder Bonus Benefits and the groovy 80’s Passholder button!

Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!

Starbucks Debuting New Sweet & Spicy Beverages

By

Catherine

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April 17, 2024

Starbucks Debuting New Sweet & Spicy Beverages

Get ready for a tastebud twist! Starbucks is spicing things up this spring with the launch of their all-new Spicy Lemonade Refreshers! Launching on Tuesday, April 16th, these refreshing beverages combine the sweet and tangy flavors you know and love with a touch of heat, inspired by the popular “swicy” trend.

The Spicy Lemonade Refreshers come in three tantalizing flavors. The Spicy Dragonfruit: This vibrant drink features mango and exotic dragon fruit flavors, shaken with ice, real dragon fruit pieces, and a kick of Starbucks’ Spicy Chili Powder Blend.

The Spicy Strawberry: This classic combination gets a fiery makeover with juicy strawberries, lemonade, and the signature Starbucks spice.

The Spicy Pineapple: Sweet pineapple and passionfruit flavors join forces with zesty lemonade and the unique chili powder blend for a tropical adventure.

To complete the “swicy” experience, Starbucks is also introducing a Spicy Cream Cold Foam. This velvety topping adds a delightful layer of creaminess with a hint of heat, perfect for customizing any drink on the menu.

If youre near a Starbucks Reserve location, (New York City,Chicago or Seattle) you can try new sweet and spicy creations with new Hot Honey Affogato and Hot Honey Espresso Martini! The new beverages on the Reserve menu are made with wildflower honey infused with premium chili peppers.

The Hot Honey Affogato is a decadent Vanilla gelato drink drenched in Starbucks Reserve Espresso and Scrappy’s Orange and Firewater Bitters, drizzled with hot honey and topped with an Amarena cherry.

The Hot Honey Espresso martini is a signature coffee cocktail with an unexpected twist, with Starbucks Reserve Espresso, Kalak Single Malt Vodka, vanilla syrup, Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur and hot honey, topped with a spicy-sweet cold foam and garnished with black sesame seeds.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C505vw7r6Hm

These exciting new beverages are available for a limited time only, so grab them while supplies last! Head to your local Starbucks this spring and explore the delicious world of spicy and sweet with the all-new Spicy Lemonade Refreshers.

US Coast Guard Medevacs Pregnant Woman from Disney Fantasy

By

Chris B

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April 17, 2024

The United States Coast Guard recently successfully conducted a medevac operation for a 35-year-old pregnant American passenger aboard the Disney Fantasy cruise ship.

According to an April 16, 2024 press release from the United States Coast Guard, the incident occurred while the Disney Fantasy was sailing in the Atlantic Ocean, roughly 260 nautical miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. The expecting mother experienced health complications that necessitated a higher level of medical care unavailable onboard the ship.

The Disney Fantasy crew promptly contacted Coast Guard watchstanders in Sector San Juan, requesting urgent medical evacuation assistance. Coast Guard forces sprang into action, coordinating the medevac and dispatching an MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Borinquen, along with an HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircraft pre-deployed from Air Station Miami, to rendezvous with the cruise ship.

Upon reaching the Disney Fantasy, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer expertly transferred the patient and a cruise ship doctor onto the Jayhawk helicopter using a rescue basket and litter. The Coast Guard aircrew then swiftly transported the woman to Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. There, local Emergency Medical Service personnel assumed care and transported her to Centro Medico Hospital for the necessary medical attention.

Lieutenant Commander Todd Stephens, of the Coast Guard aircrew, commended his team’s performance, highlighting their “quick, safe, and efficient” execution of the long-range medevac, ensuring the patient received the critical care she needed. Ensign Michael Riccio, Coast Guard Sector San Juan operations unit leader, emphasized the collaborative effort. He credited the “competency displayed by the Disney Fantasy crew and the Coast Guard personnel and units involved” as the key factor in this successful medical evacuation.

Related: 8th Disney Cruise Line Ship Coming in 2025

This incident exemplifies the Coast Guard’s vital role in maritime safety and emergency response. Their swiftness, expertise, and teamwork undoubtedly played a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of the pregnant passenger aboard the Disney Fantasy.