Fly or Sail the Drake Passage Enroute to Antarctica with National Geographic Expeditions

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January 19, 2024

Fly or Sail the Drake Passage Enroute to Antarctica with National Geographic Expeditions

National Geographic Expeditions has opened two exciting itinerary options to Antarctica, both heading through the Drake Passage and offering travelers more flexibility to visit the seventh continent. Guests can now fly, or sail and fly, on an Antarctica expedition.

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Lindblad-Expeditions-Antarctica-Paradise-Bay

Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage – This 10-day Sail and Fly the Drake Passage itinerary was designed for travelers to experience both flying over and sailing across the 500-mile-wide Drake Passage. Guests will board the National Geographic Explorer in Ushuaia, Argentina to cross the Drake Passage enroute to Antarctica. Their return flight will depart from the Chilean Base of Presidente Frey to Puerto Natales, Chile.

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Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage – This eight-day itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to get a head start on their Antarctica expedition. The round-trip flight across the Drake Passage will land at, and later depart from, the Chilean Base of Presidente Frey on King George Island. The Chilean Base is an active research station and home to a diverse assortment of wildlife. Upon arrival, guests will board the National Geographic Explorer ship for the duration of the trip before taking the two-hour flight back to Puerto Natales, Chile.

Travel with a diverse team of experts, naturalists and regional specialists while exploring Antarctica. On both newly announced itineraries, guests will see a diverse assortment of wildlife, such as Weddell and elephant seals, Adelie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins, and whales in the icy Antarctica waters. Travelers will explore King George Island, hike along penguin highways, watch whales from the bow of the ship, marvel at glaciers and enjoy outdoor activities, all while gaining in-depth knowledge about the unforgettable landscape and historic significance of this polar region. A National Geography Photography Expert will join each departure, providing even more expertise by which guests can remember their expedition.

Travelers will board the National Geographic Explorer, an ice-class expedition cruise ship within the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet, as their home base upon flying into Antarctica or upon boarding prior to crossing the Drake Passage. The ship offers superior amenities in a casual atmosphere.

Both itineraries will offer departures beginning in November 2024.

Ready to experience Antarctica with National Geographic Expeditions? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!

Big River Grille at Disney’s BoardWalk Closing Permanently

By

Sara

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January 19, 2024

Big River Grille at Disney’s BoardWalk Closing Permanently

Big River Grille & Brewing Works at Disney’s Boardwalk is closing permanently. Walt Disney World Resort shared that the restaurant will be closed starting January 22, 2024.

Disney World released the following statement:

“Big River Grille & Brewing Works will have its last day of operation on Jan. 21, closing on Jan. 22. To provide additional lunch options, guests can explore a rotating selection of food trucks beginning Jan. 22.”

Disney’s BoardWalk has been undergoing changes the past few years and this seems to be the next closure on the list. Guests can still enjoy the family-friendly microbrewery and restaurant today and tomorrow. The restaurant serves award-winning beers and fresh twists on American pub favorites.

Alongside the arrival of rotating food trucks on Monday, January 22, Disney has also revealed alternative dining spots at the BoardWalk for guests to savor throughout the day:

Available All Day

BoardWalk Deli – Sandwiches and deli favorites to-go

Breakfast and Dinner

Trattoria al Forno – Casual Italian eatery with breakfast and dinner

Lunch and Dinner

Pizza Window – Garden salad, pizza by the slice, and mini cannolis

Dinner

Flying Fish – Contemporary American restaurant with premium seafood and oak-grilled steaks

Snacks

BoardWalk Ice Cream – Ice cream and sundaes

Bars and Lounges

Leaping Horse Libations – Hot dogs, Mickey pretzels, individual French bread pizza
AbracadaBar – Specialty cocktails and bar snacks
BoardWalk Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas – Margaritas, frozen smoothies, Mickey pretzels, and nachos
Jellyrolls – Cocktails and entertainment

Will you miss Big River Grille?

If you’d like to start planning your next Disney World trip, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Disneyland Resort Planning to Construct New Entry Gates

By

Sara

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January 19, 2024

Disneyland Resort Planning to Construct New Entry Gates

Later this year the Disneyland Resort will be constructing new entry gates for both theme parks. Disneyland and Disney California Adventure will be getting new gates.

Scott Gustin posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the resort will be installing new entry gates. The new gates will have more stroller accessibility and ADA accessibility.

NEW: Starting later this year, Disneyland Resort will begin work to construct new, updated entry gates at the entryways to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. The update will include adding additional gates and making the gates stroller and ADA accessible. pic.twitter.com/2urd6EHDhk
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) January 19, 2024

Back in December building permits for the new gates were filed with the City of Anaheim.

According to the permits, Disneyland Park is set to upgrade its entry system by replacing turnstiles and gates with new automatic guest entry gates, fixed manual gates, and removable railings. Additionally, overhead shrouds are part of the planned installations.

Meanwhile, Disney California Adventure is undergoing similar changes, with the removal of existing turnstiles and gates, installation of new automatic guest entry gates, fixed manual gates, removable railings, and the addition of new overhead shrouds. Notably, separate permits were filed for both the turnstile and gate at Disney California Adventure.

What do you think of the changes coming to the Disneyland Resort?

If you’d like to plan your next visit to the Disneyland Resort, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.

Brave New World 2024 Merchandise Collection now at Disney Parks

By

Catherine

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January 19, 2024

Brave New World 2024 Merchandise Collection now at Disney Parks

If you haven’t noticed, Disney has introduced a delightful series of vibrant and cheerful styles to kick off the new year with the Brave New World Dated 2024 Collection, available now at Disney Parks and shopDisney! These indulgent items are filled with fun, colors, and are sure to bring a smile to your face! At the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, you can find the 2024 T-Shirt and the Reversible Bucket Hat for adults that will tie together for a perfect outfit for your next park visit.

How cool are these new Tie Dye Pullover Sweatshirts and a 2024 T-Shirts for Kids? Showcasing vibrant, colorful icons and characters, these tops would be perfect additions to any Disney park going friends’ wardrobe. And we have to include the special Mickey Mouse Plush from the collection, which is soft and adorable, sporting a cute hoodie! Too cute!

Before you embark on your journey, make sure to grab the latest Mickey Mouse Sling Bag. With various compartments and ample space, this colorful bag is perfect for carrying all your park day essentials. It even comes with an on-the-go USB charging port and cable.

Adorned with vibrant neon artwork, the Tie-Dye Pullover Sweatshirt is sure to capture attention in the parks or wherever you choose to wear it this year. The front of these distinctive sweatshirts showcases iconic Disney landmarks such as Cinderella Castle, Sleeping Beauty Castle, and more.

In addition to the sweatshirt, don’t miss the opportunity to sport the latest Mickey Mouse and Friends Loungefly Mini Backpack. This adorable new backpack boasts an allover print featuring Disney attractions and beloved characters, adding a touch of magic to your style!

There’s an abundance of items waiting for you in the Brave New World 2024 Collection, available at both the parks and shopDisney. Take a moment to explore the complete collection and share with us your personal favorites. Happy shopping!

Disney Orders Sequel for Wizards Of Waverly Place

By

Chip

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January 19, 2024

Disney Orders Sequel for Wizards Of Waverly Place

Fans of “Wizards of Waverly Place” have reason to celebrate, as the magical sibling duo Alex and Justin Russo are set to make a triumphant return to television in the upcoming pilot of the show’s highly anticipated sequel, aptly titled “Wizards.” Selena Gomez and David Henrie, who charmed audiences as Alex and Justin in the original series that premiered in 2007, are stepping into executive producer roles for the pilot, as confirmed by Disney Branded Television to CBS News.

Gomez is scheduled to make a guest star appearance in the pilot, while Henrie will reprise his role as Justin as a regular cast member. Joining them in the magical escapades are new additions to Waverly Place, including Janice LeAnn Brown, Alkaio Thiele, and Mimi Gianopulos.

The enchanting sequel unravels the story of Justin, who decides to leave his job at WizTech and relinquish his magical powers for a more ordinary life with his family. However, the tranquility is disrupted when a potent young wizard appears at his doorstep seeking training. As the press release suggests, “Justin must embrace his past to ensure the future of the Wizard World.”

Crafted by the talented duo Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas, known for their work on the reboot of “That’s So Raven,” the pilot promises to reignite the magic of the beloved series.

Selena Gomez shared her excitement on her Instagram story with a throwback photo alongside Henrie from the original series set, exclaiming, “We’re back.” She also expressed her enthusiasm with screenshots of Deadline’s report and a glimpse of the “Wizards” pilot script, captioning it “Home again.”

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A post shared by Disney Channel (@disneychannel)

Disney Channel and Henrie also teased the news on Instagram, featuring the front cover of the pilot script alongside a wand. In his caption, Henrie wrote, “The Russos are excited to become a part of your family, but we’ve grown. 2024, the year magic comes back.” Fans can eagerly anticipate the return of the magical world that captivated audiences, as “Wizards” promises to weave a spellbinding narrative and continue the legacy of the beloved series.

Stadium Club Now OPEN at Caribe Royale Resort Orlando

By

Chris B

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January 19, 2024

Exciting news for sports fans and foodies in Orlando! Caribe Royale Orlando, a AAA Four Diamond all-suite meetings resort, just minutes from Walt Disney World Resort, has proudly announced the grand opening of Stadium Club. This innovative sports and dining destination provides a fully immersive experience blending the thrill of sports with high-energy entertainment and upscale dining.

Stadium Club isn’t your typical sports bar. It’s an experiential venue where guests can enjoy premium viewing of top sports on a massive 110-foot-long, ribbon display television, offering 360-degree game-time viewing. The venue, spanning over 9,000 square feet and two floors, creates an atmosphere just like being at a live sporting event, complete with a host interacting with fans and a lively night atmosphere with a live DJ.

To bring this concept to life, Caribe Royale Orlando teamed up with global creative group Streetsense and Brava Management Group. They crafted a multi-sensory sports bar concept with an impressive interior design and interactive guest experiences.

But Stadium Club is more than just watching sports. It offers pro-level sports simulators where guests can immerse themselves in 12 different play types. From driving a golf ball on virtual courses, testing football quarterback skills, to an exhilarating ice hockey slapshot experience, and even unique options like carnival midway games or a zombie dodgeball game – there’s something for everyone.

The culinary experience at Stadium Club is equally impressive. “Top Chef” alumni Janine Booth and Jeff McInnis have curated a menu that elevates classic sports bar dishes. Highlights include spicy shrimp tacos, soft steamed bao buns, and the must-try fried chicken & waffles. The venue also boasts a robust list of signature cocktails and delicious desserts, including the Caribe Royale Key Lime Pie Fumble and ice cream from Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream.

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Stadium Club is fun for all ages, offering kid-friendly meals and snacks. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, there are refreshing zero-proof mocktails. It’s also available for private events, featuring spaces like the “SkyBox” with a dedicated sports simulation suite.

This exciting venue is part of Caribe Royale Orlando’s recent $140 million transformation, which revamped guest rooms, public areas, restaurants, and event spaces. To learn more about Stadium Club and Caribe Royale Orlando’s offerings, visit StadiumClub.com and cariberoyale.com. So, whether you’re a local or visiting Orlando, Stadium Club awaits with an unforgettable sports, dining, and entertainment experience!

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World 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 Disney 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 Disney vacation package through me!

New Strawberry Crunch Popcorn Debuts at the Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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January 19, 2024

It’s a poppin’ good time at Walt Disney World‘s Magic Kingdom, as the park introduces an all-new snack just in time for National Popcorn Day: Strawberry Crunch Popcorn! This tasty treat is the creation of the local Florida family business Popcorn Junkie, known for their gourmet popcorn flavors.

The story of Popcorn Junkie is one of dreams coming true. Neal and Minetta Crosier started with a small popcorn shop in Orlando. In 2018, their lives changed when Disney leaders tasted their popcorn and decided it was perfect for their resort. Since then, Popcorn Junkie has been spreading joy across Disney World – from Main Street, U.S.A. to the distant galaxy of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and even aboard the Disney Cruise Line fleet!

Since partnering with Walt Disney World, Popcorn Junkie has grown from two to nine employees. They continually work to bring new flavors to the resort, such as:

Magic Kingdom: Better Butter, Cheesy Cheddar, and Crispy Caramel
EPCOT: Fruity Mix
Seasonal flavors across parks, resorts, and Disney Springs

Each popcorn flavor offers a unique taste adventure, sure to delight everyone. So next time you’re at the Magic Kingdom, make sure to try the new Strawberry Crunch Popcorn and see what all the fuss is about! And don’t forget to let us know in the comments which Popcorn Junkie flavor you’re most excited to try. Whether it’s the classic Cheesy Cheddar or the adventurous Strawberry Crunch, there’s a flavor for every popcorn lover at Disney World!

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World 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 Disney 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 Disney vacation package through me!

A Madame Leota 3D Crystal Ball Materialized At Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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January 19, 2024

A Madame Leota 3D Crystal Ball Materialized At Magic Kingdom!

Call in the spirits from regions beyond with this Madame Leota 3D Crystal Ball we found at Magic Kingdom for $324! It is on the expensive side but if you have the money and are a Haunted Mansion fan, this will make a very unique and fun home decor piece.

This figure features a silver base with a crystal ball on top featuring the famous Madame Leota from the classic Haunted Mansion attraction! And you know what? It changes to different colors for a more ghostly vibe, so cool!

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

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

New Zootopia Pawpsicle Pandora Charm At Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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January 19, 2024

New Zootopia Pawpsicle Pandora Charm At Magic Kingdom!

How adorable is this Zootopia Pawpsicle Pandora Charm? So cute! We found it at Uptown Jewelers in Magic Kingdom for $80.

The charm feature a silver hoop with encrusted gemstones and “Zootopia” and “Pandora” text on both sides. The iconic cherry paw shaped popsicle hangs from this hoop with a beautiful sparkly pink color to add a pop of color to your wrist, we love it!

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

New Frozen Arendelle Been There Starbucks Mug At Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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January 19, 2024

New Frozen Arendelle Been There Starbucks Mug At Magic Kingdom!

Having your favorite beverage in this Frozen Arendelle Been There Starbucks Mug will feel like a warm hug! We found it at Magic Kingdom for $24.99.

The mug features Anna, Elsa and Olaf plus Arendelle of course with the ice castle, mountains, sleigh and “Arendelle” text. Definitely a must have in your collection!

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Walt Disney Imagineering Reveals New Technology that is expected to Change Theme Parks & VR Experiences

By

Chris B

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January 19, 2024

Exciting news for theme park enthusiasts and technology buffs alike! Walt Disney Imagineering, renowned for turning fantasy into reality, has just revealed its latest masterpiece: the HoloTile Floor. This groundbreaking innovation is poised to revolutionize the way we experience theme parks and virtual reality (VR), taking us on a wondrous journey unlike any other.

The new tech, for which Disney has not yet identified a specific application, was unveiled via a video posted on the Disney Parks YouTube Channel as part of a celebration of the induction of Lanny Smoot, the Disney Research Fellow and Imagineer, into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.

The HoloTile Floor is a special kind of floor that works like a giant, interactive touchpad. When you step on it, the floor can sense where you are and create immersive, interactive experiences around you. It’s like stepping into a storybook where the story comes to life under your feet! The floor provides for ‘omnidirectional’ movement, allowing the user to move/walk around while the floor adjusts to keep them on the tiles!

The floor can also work with VR headsets, making you feel like you’re in a completely different world while you’re safely walking on the floor. The HoloTile Floor provides the ability to combine physical movement with digital responses. This means you could be walking through a virtual forest in a VR environment, all while staying safely inside the tile area.

This technology has the potential to change how we design theme parks, VR games, and even educational experiences. It’s a glimpse into a future where the lines between the physical and digital worlds are blurred, creating endless possibilities for fun, learning, and exploration.

Image Credit: Disney Parks

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World 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 Disney 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 Disney vacation package through me!

Florida & Georgia Residents Can Get 2 Days Free With 1 Day Universal Orlando Ticket Through June 2024

By

Chris B

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January 19, 2024

Are you a resident of Florida or Georgia looking for an unforgettable adventure without breaking the bank? Universal Orlando Resort has an incredible offer just for you! An all-new ticket promotion has just been released that will provide you with 3 park days for the price of 1!

With the 2024 2-Park 1-Day Park-to-Park + 2 Days Free Promo Ticket, you get a three-day pass to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. This means you’ll have plenty of time to explore everything these incredible parks have to offer.

Key Details

Valid Dates: Your ticket is valid for three calendar days starting from the date you choose, all the way until June 26, 2024.
Blockout Dates: Remember, this ticket is not valid from March 25, 2024, through April 6, 2024.
Expiration: You must start using your ticket on or before June 24, 2024, and all visits must be completed by June 26, 2024. Any unused days will be forfeited after this date.
Residency Proof: You’ll need to show proof of residency in Florida or Georgia at the time of purchase, ticket pick-up, and redemption.

Pricing

Adult Ticket (10+ years): $194.00
Child Ticket (3-9 years): $189.00

Florida & Georgia Residents Can Get 2 Days Free With 1 Day Universal Orlando Ticket Through June 2024

Looking to also visit Volcano Bay? Then the 2024 2-Park 1-Day Park-to-Park + 2nd Day Free PLUS 1-Day Volcano Bay ticket is for you! This offer provides you with three days of fun at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus an additional day at the tropical paradise of Universal’s Volcano Bay.

Key Details

Valid Dates: Like the first offer, this ticket is valid from your chosen start date until June 26, 2024.
Blockout Dates: No admission from March 25, 2024, to April 6, 2024.
Expiration: Start using your ticket on or before June 23, 2024, and complete all visits by June 26, 2024. Unused days will be forfeited.
Residency Proof: Proof of Florida or Georgia residency is required.

Pricing

Adult Ticket (10+ years): $222.00
Child Ticket (3-9 years): $217.00

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a Harry Potter fan, or just looking for a fun getaway with the family, Universal Orlando Resort promises an experience filled with excitement and unforgettable memories. Remember, this offer is exclusively for Florida and Georgia residents; so if you reside in one of these states be sure to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to enjoy world-class entertainment right in your backyard!

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World 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 Disney 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 Disney vacation package through me!