Royal Caribbean Announces Fourth Icon Class Ship, Launching in 2027

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August 28, 2024

Royal Caribbean Announces Fourth Icon Class Ship, Launching in 2027

Royal Caribbean Group is expanding its Icon Class fleet with a fourth ship, scheduled to join Royal Caribbean International in 2027. The agreement with Finnish shipyard Meyer Turku also provides options for two additional Icon Class vessels.

“Building on the incredible momentum and market response to the launch of Icon of the Seas and the excitement for its sister ship, Star of the Seas, coming in 2025, we’re thrilled to join with Meyer Turku once again to expand our roster of Icon Class ships and continue our future growth plans,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Since its debut, Icon has changed the game in vacation experiences and exceeded our expectations in both guest satisfaction and financial performance.”

“This is great news for Finland. Royal Caribbean Group’s long-term partnership will continue to have a positive impact on our employment and economy,” said Petteri Orpo, Prime Minister of Finland. “Their commitment and investment in Finland speaks volumes about the strength of our maritime cluster and our world class shipyards.”

Royal Caribbean Group is expanding its Icon Class fleet with a fourth ship, joining the already impressive lineup that includes Icon, Star of the Seas (launching in 2025), and the unnamed third Icon Class ship (launching in 2026). The Icon Class, renowned for its innovative experiences and unique blend of vacation styles, launched its first ship in January 2024. With this latest announcement, Royal Caribbean Group continues to prioritize moderate growth and deliver exceptional vacation experiences.

“This order is an important milestone for the future of shipbuilding in the maritime network in Finland,” added Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku. “With Icon of the Seas, our team, consisting of the shipyard and partners, have built an extraordinary ship in respect of naval architecture, energy efficiency and customer experience. This is yet another recognition of the professionalism of our personnel and of our leadership in the maritime industry’s innovation and green transition. The options underline the strong outlook of our order book.”

Royal Caribbean Group’s longstanding partnership with Meyer Turku continues to strengthen as the company orders a fourth Icon Class ship. This marks the 21st vessel built by Meyer Turku for Royal Caribbean Group in 28 years.

The anticipation for Royal Caribbean Group’s newbuild pipeline remains high, with seven new ships on order and two shipyard options. This year alone, the company has introduced four industry-leading ships, including Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, Silversea’s Silver Ray, and TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 7. This latest order follows the recent announcement of a seventh Oasis Class ship, set to debut for Royal Caribbean International in 2028.

“Icon of the Seas is unlike anything the world has seen before, and we’re just getting started,” added Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “We are leading the vacation industry in developing new experiences for our guests to create lifelong memories, and we continue dreaming and evolving to deliver more ways to chill and thrill.”

Let me help you plan your dream Royal Caribbean cruise! I can find the perfect itinerary, cabin, and even arrange your pre- and post-cruise accommodations. Contact me to get your trip on the books!

Playtime Jumps into Hyperdrive with the Star Wars Millennium Falcon LEGO Set!

By

Ana Leal

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August 27, 2024

Playtime Jumps into Hyperdrive with the Star Wars Millennium Falcon LEGO Set!

This Star Wars Millennium Falcon LEGO Set is a must-have. The iconic spaceship, known for its speed and maneuverability, is meticulously recreated in brick form. With a retail price of $169.99 and available online at the Disney Store, this set offers endless hours of imaginative play.

One of the standout features of this LEGO set is its intricate details. From the rotating gun turrets to the spring-loaded shooters and opening cockpit, every aspect of the Millennium Falcon has been faithfully captured. Kids can even explore the ship’s interior, complete with a detailed cockpit and play areas inspired by Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

The Millennium Falcon LEGO set is not only a collectible but also a fun and educational toy. Building this complex model can help improve problem-solving skills, fine motor coordination, and spatial awareness. It’s a great way for children to develop their creativity and imagination.

Whether you’re a seasoned LEGO builder or just starting out, the Millennium Falcon LEGO set is sure to impress. With its stunning design, realistic features, and endless play possibilities, this iconic spaceship is a must-have for any Star Wars fan. You can purchase it online at the Disney Store.

Credit: Disney Store

Sweet Treat Alert! Minnie Mouse Concha Ears Convertible Mini Backpack Exclusively at BoxLunch Gifts!

By

Ana Leal

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August 27, 2024

Sweet Treat Alert! Minnie Mouse Concha Ears Convertible Mini Backpack Exclusively at BoxLunch Gifts!

Calling all Disney fans with a sweet tooth! Boxlunch has just released an adorable new accessory that is sure to satisfy your cravings. The Minnie Mouse Concha Ears Convertible Mini Backpack is the perfect way to add a touch of whimsy to your Disney Parks look.

This limited-edition backpack is a BoxLunch exclusive, so you won’t find it anywhere else. It retails for $59.90 and is available at Boxlunch Gifts stores and online.

Shaped like a delicious concha pastry, this mini backpack is made with soft, fuzzy materials and features embroidered details. Minnie Mouse’s iconic ears and bow are also included as appliqués, adding to the overall charm of the bag. The backpack comes with two removable straps, so you can wear it as a mini backpack or a crossbody bag, depending on your preference.

If you’re looking for a unique and stylish way to show your love for Minnie Mouse and Disney, this is the bag for you!

Credit: BoxLunch

Stitch and Scrump Skeleton Cookie Jar Brings Spooky Charm to Kitchens!

By

Ana Leal

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August 27, 2024

Stitch and Scrump Skeleton Cookie Jar Brings Spooky Charm to Kitchens!

Get ready to add a spooky twist to your kitchen decor! BoxLunch has just released the adorable new Stitch and Scrump Skeleton Cookie Jar, and it’s sure to be a hit with collectors and Halloween lovers alike.

The jar is currently available online at BoxLunch Gifts for $59.90.

This charming cookie jar features Stitch, the lovable alien experiment, dressed in a skeleton costume. He’s holding his equally adorable sidekick, Scrump, in his arms, and both are sporting skull masks. The jar is designed to look like Stitch’s head, with a removable lid that reveals a wide, grinning mouth.

The Stitch and Scrump Skeleton Cookie Jar is the perfect way to add a touch of Halloween spirit to your home, even after the holiday season is over. It’s also a great gift for any Lilo & Stitch fan. So hurry and grab yours before they’re gone!

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

New Halloween Horror Nights Collections Take Over Universal Studios Orlando!

By

Ana Leal

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August 27, 2024

New Halloween Horror Nights Collections Take Over Universal Studios Orlando!

Get ready to stock up on your spooky gear with the Halloween Horror Nights collections! This year’s event at Universal Orlando is bringing back some fan-favorite characters and introducing new ones, and their merchandise is just as exciting as the scares.

MAJOR SWEETS CANDY FACTORY COLLECTION

One of the highlights of this year’s collection is the Major Sweets Candy Factory Artist Signature Series. This colorful and whimsical series features the iconic candymaker, known for his devilish grin and love for all things sweet. The collection includes:

T-shirt: Featuring Major Sweets holding a jack-o’-lantern lollipop and surrounded by candies.
Jar: A clear plastic jar with the Major Sweets artwork, perfect for storing your Halloween candy.
Poster: Showcasing the same artwork as the jar and T-shirt.
Keychain: A small keychain featuring Major Sweets.
Pin: A collectible pin featuring the Major Sweets artwork.

ENTER THE BLUMHOUSE COLLECTION

Fans of Blumhouse horror films will love the “Enter the Blumhouse” Collection. This series pays homage to popular movies like “Freaky,” “The Black Phone,” “The Purge,” “Happy Death Day,” and “M3GAN.” The collection includes a variety of merchandise items like a long sleeve, pins and belt bag featuring references to these films.

GENERAL HOLLYWOOD HORROR NIGHTS COLLECTION

For those who want a more general Halloween Horror Nights souvenir, the General Hollywood Horror Nights Collection is a great option. This series features Skull Punk, a character with lightning bolts shooting out of its eyes. Here are a few t-shirt options to choose from in both black and dark gray colors.

If you prefer to take home accessories featuring this fun artwork, you can choose between a bucket hat that is reversible, a backpack, crossbody bag or even a sling bag to carry your favorite beverage around the event.

Other products include an ornament, stickers, lanyard and a set of coasters.

No matter what your Halloween Horror Nights style is, there’s something for everyone in this year’s merchandise collection. So be sure to stop by the merchandise shops and pick up your favorite items before they’re gone!

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A Royal Celebration: New Disney Princess Products For World Princess Week!

By

Ana Leal

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August 27, 2024

A Royal Celebration: New Disney Princess Products For World Princess Week!

World Princess Week is here, and with that comes a plethora of new Disney Princess products to celebrate. From dolls and toys to beauty essentials and fashion accessories, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Mattel’s Disney Collector Enchanted Elegance Collection features Ariel, Mulan, and Rapunzel in stunning haute couture outfits. American Girl has also added Rapunzel to its Disney Princess doll lineup, complete with a Pascal figurine, painting accessories, and hair accessories.

For the adventurous, LEGO’s Moana’s Wayfinding Boat building toy set is a perfect choice. If relaxation is your goal, Jakks Pacific’s Deluxe Day Spa vanity offers a real working sink and a pretend facial steamer.

Beauty enthusiasts can indulge in Sigma Beauty’s Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”-inspired collection, featuring eyeshadow, blush, highlighter, lip products, and brushes. Tweezerman’s Disney Princess-inspired tools, such as slant tweezers and nail files, add a touch of royalty to any beauty routine.

CORKCICLE’s “The Little Mermaid”-inspired drinkware and accessories, including insulated tumblers and a sling, are perfect for staying hydrated in style.

Disney Store offers beautifully detailed Cinderella and Aurora costume collections to transform your little ones into princesses.

For cuddly companions, Flounder and Sebastian small plushies from Disney Store are inspired by Ariel’s undersea friends.

From playtime to princess parties, Disney Store has everything you need to feel like royalty! The Disney Princess T-Shirt Dress and Windbreaker Hoodie are the perfect outfit for your next adventure, no matter where it takes you. Channel your favorite princess with the Disney Princess Icons Jacket, and carry your magical belongings in the Disney Princess Backpack. With these essentials, you’ll be ready to embark on your own fairy tale!

For book lovers, Disney Publishing has released new titles including “Tiana’s Perfect Plan” by Anika Noni Rose, “Cinderella Pop-Up Book,” and “Leading Ladies! Little Golden Book.”

With so many exciting new products available, Disney Princess fans can create their own magical worlds and celebrate World Princess Week in style.

Credit: Disney

Wicked Bread Company in South Florida: A Villainously Delicious Treat for Disney Fans

By

Catherine

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August 27, 2024

Wicked Bread Company: A Villainously Delicious Treat for Disney Fans

If you’re looking for a spooky fun way to satisfy your sweet tooth, Wicked Bread Co-South Florida’s Famous Cinnamon Bread is a must-try! Be prepared for these witches to cast a sinfully sweet spell on dessert lovers! Grab your cameras (and your appetite) and prepare for a wicked good time!

Prepare your taste buds for a real treat (and maybe a few tricks) with Wicked Bread’s incredible cinnamon bread! You can smell the amazing aromas before you even go inside. Their delicious original bread is topped with sweetened cinnamon sugar and drizzled with homemade cream cheese icing straight from the witches cauldron!

Founded in 2020, Wicked Bread Co. became a favorite among patrons of the Yellow Green Farmers Market in Hollywood, Fl. This is more than bread…it’s a party for your taste buds!

On January 3rd, 2024, Wicked Bread Co. opened its first storefront location in the beautiful city of Plantation, FL. Now, you can indulge in cinnamon bliss from Wednesday through Sunday.

Must-Try Items:

Original Cinnamon Bread: The classic, $9.85
6 Degrees of Maple Bacon: A savory twist on the original, $15
Smack My A** and Call Me Cinn-dy: A playful name for a delicious treat, $13
Black Magic: A dark and mysterious chocolatey delight, $13

Pro Tip: Each loaf is conveniently cut into 3 large pieces, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.

With the incredible decor and rich, fragrant scent of their freshly baked Cinnamon Bread filling the air throughout the store, it’s impossible to not stop in for a visit!

Visit Wicked Bread Co. today!

Location: 1263 S Pine Island Rd, Plantation, FL 33324
Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 8AM – 4PM

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Disney After Hours Events Returning to Disney World in 2025

By

Chris B

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August 27, 2024

Disney After Hours Events Returning to Disney World in 2025 2

New 2025 Disney After Hours Dates Revealed

Disney After Hours is returning to Walt Disney World Resort in 2025, offering guests the chance to experience the magic of the parks in a whole new way. This exclusive event lets visitors explore Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT long after the sun has set and the parks have officially closed for the day. With limited tickets available, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some of your favorite attractions with shorter wait times, meet beloved Disney characters, and indulge in delicious treats like ice cream, popcorn, and select beverages—all included in your ticket.

Disney After Hours Events Returning to Disney World in 2025 1

Event Highlights: The fun begins as early as 7 p.m., with event times extending three hours beyond the parks’ closing times. At Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, guests can revel in the night from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., while Hollywood Studios’ after-hours fun kicks off at 9:30 p.m. and continues until 12:30 a.m.

Disney After Hours Events Returning to Disney World in 2025 3

Hollywood Studios: For those looking to immerse themselves in a galaxy far, far away or to take a trip through the fifth dimension, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is the place to be. With event dates spread throughout the year—from January 22 to September 3—guests can dive into Toy Story Land, wield their lightsabers in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, or rock out on the iconic Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. And don’t forget the thrilling descent in The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror!

Disney After Hours Events Returning to Disney World in 2025 4

Magic Kingdom: Over at Magic Kingdom, the night sky provides the perfect backdrop for some of Disney’s most iconic rides. Whether you’re zooming through the futuristic world of TRON Lightcycle / Run or braving the haunted halls of Space Mountain, Magic Kingdom offers a spellbinding experience from January 6 to May 19. And with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train also available via standby queue, there’s no shortage of enchantment.

Disney After Hours Events Returning to Disney World in 2025 5

EPCOT: EPCOT shines bright after dark with its After Hours events beginning on February 27. Guests can glide through the cosmos on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, shrink down to the size of a rat on Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, or take in the breathtaking views on Soarin’ Around the World. With dates running through September 25, there’s plenty of time to experience the park’s nighttime charm.

Related: Tron Actor Jared Leto Rides Lightcycle Run in the Magic Kingdom

Disney After Hours Events Returning to Disney World in 2025 6

Ticket Information: Tickets for these magical nights range from $175 to $185 (plus tax) for Magic Kingdom, $155 to $175 (plus tax) for EPCOT, and $155 to $185 (plus tax) for Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can enjoy specially priced tickets for EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Tickets go on sale for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green on September 4, with general sales opening on September 10.

Whether you’re a night owl or simply want to experience the parks in a new light, Disney After Hours offers a truly magical way to enjoy Walt Disney World Resort in 2025. Don’t miss out on the chance to make unforgettable memories long after the sun has set!

Jungle Cruise Closed for Two Month Refurbishment at the Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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August 27, 2024

Jungle Cruise Closed for Two Month Refurbishment at the Magic Kingdom 2

If you were hoping to experience the 8th Wonder of the World during your next visit to Magic Kingdom, you may need to make alternative plans to explore the back side of water. Expositions on the exotic Jungle Cruise will be temporarily suspended while the attraction heads into a refurbishment that will see the attraction closed to guests for two months.

Jungle Cruise Closed for Two Month Refurbishment at the Magic Kingdom 1

The current Disney Parks Calendar shows the Jungle Cruise as being closed through at least October 17th. A permit was awarded recently to Underwater Engineering Services Inc. for general construction activities to the attraction, although we do not yet know exactly what work will be performed on the ride during the refurbishment nor if it will result in any visual changes to the attraction.

Jungle Cruise Closed for Two Month Refurbishment at the Magic Kingdom 3

This is not the first wave of work that has been performed on Jungle Cruise in recent years, with the attraction seeing numerous set updates in 2021 and an extensive dock refurbishment earlier this year.

MuppetVision 3D’s Absence from Extended Evening Hours Fuels Monsters, Inc. Land Speculation

By

Chris B

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August 27, 2024

Guests enjoying Extended Evening Hours at Disney’s Holloywood Studios in the coming days will note a change in the attraction lineup: MuppetVision 3D has been removed from the list of available attractions.

Monsters, Inc. Land Announced for Disney’s Hollywood Studios 1

Extended Evening Hours affords guests of Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts and Deluxe Villas (as well as other select hotels) additional park hours after the parks normal closing time. Upcoming Extended Evening Hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (which will resume on September 25, 2024) includes access to the following attractions:

Josh Gad Backs Muppets Amidst Monsters, Inc. Land Rumors at Hollywood Studios 1

MuppetVision 3D was previously included on this list but has recently been removed. Rumors and discussions about the future of the Muppet attraction have gained momentum since the announcement of a Monsters, Inc. expansion at Hollywood Studios. Observant fans have noticed that the background theming of the new land aligns seamlessly with the area currently occupied by MuppetVision. Additionally, some have pointed out that concept art for the expansion was apparently completed back in 2020, suggesting that plans may have changed.

These rumors have been exacerbated by additional reporting by The Wrap, which claimed that Disney was prepared to announce the replacement of MuppetVision with a Monsters, Inc. expansion during D23. However, the decision was allegedly reversed at the last minute over fears that the crowd might boo Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences. While Disney has confirmed that the Monsters, Inc. land is an ‘active project,’ they have yet to specify when or where it will be introduced at Hollywood Studios.

Downtown Disney has upped its Halloween decor this year

By

Sara

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August 27, 2024

Downtown Disney has upped its Halloween decor this year

Get into the Halloween spirit at Downtown Disney! The location is adorned with festive decorations and spooky surprises.

Can you handle this adorable sight? We found Queen Minnie and King Mickey looking royal with a pumpkin garland arch and autumn decorations.

Pluto is enjoying a refreshing dip in the fountain, proudly holding the “M” that completes the “Halloween Time” pumpkin display!

Donald Duck is looking mischievous as he poses on a pumpkin, ready to brew up some magical potions!

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Which Downtown Disney decor is your favorite?

Halloween Decorations Cast a Spell on Disneyland

By

Sara

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August 27, 2024

Halloween Decorations Cast a Spell on Disneyland

Halloween has come to town at Disneyland! The park is now adorned with spooky decorations and festive atmosphere.

The Halloween decorations start before guests even enter the park! On top of the gates, above the entry turnstiles, see pumpkins shaped like favorite Disney characters—Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald and Pluto—awaiting your arrival.

The iconic Mickey floral at the entrance of Disneyland Park has a new look for Halloween! Mickey is sporting a spooky orange mask.

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Main Street, U.S.A. welcomes you this fall with a gourd-geous treat—incredible displays of unique carved pumpkins, including the giant Mickey pumpkin, that are frightfully delightful.

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Red, yellow, and orange banners decorate the buildings and lamp posts all down Main Street. The lamp post also feature Mickey jack-o-lanterns and fall wreaths. Be sure to also look up to the second floor of the buildings on Main Street! You might just see a spooky face looking back at you.

At the end of Main Street, make sure you explore the Partners statue! Along with lovely flowers, the statue is now surrounded by character jack-o-lanterns. Each character represents a land in Disneyland park.

Buzz Lightyear represents Tomorrowland. Jack Skellington represents New Orleans Square. Winnie the Pooh represents Critter Country. Roger Rabbit represents Toontown. Tarzan represents Adventureland. Tinker Bell represents Fantasyland. And Woody represents Frontierland.

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Want to experience the magic of Halloween at Disneyland? Contact me today for a free quote on your dream vacation. I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, specializing in Disney trips.