Disney’s Live-Action The Little Mermaid has made Half Billion at Global Box Office
Beluga sevruga, come winds of the Caspian Sea. Don’t look now, but Disney’s Live Action remake of The Little Mermaid has conjured up a half billion at the box office. The film has grossed some $270 million dollars domestically and another $229 million overseas. Disney should expect The Little Mermaid to end it’s theatrical run having made about 520 million in total.
The Little Mermaid stars Halle Bailey as Ariel, Jonah Hauer-King as Eric, Melissa McCathry as Ursula, and Javier Bardem as King Triton. The film also features Awkwafina as Scuttle and Daveed Diggs as Sebastian. Music and Lyrics from Alan Menken with Lin Manuel Miranda providing new songs and lyrics specifically for this version. The film has earned a 67% Rotten Tomatoes score and an audience rating of 94%. Chip and Company rated the film 4.3 out of 5 Stars.
Massive Pylons Being Installed at EPCOT World Showcase Lagoon. Okay, we know this is going to be a hot-button issue. From the comments regarding the water tacos and the Stargate being installed and then later removed from Epcot’s World Showcase, we know people really hate having their view across the lagoon disrupted.
Major construction is happening again on the World Showcase Lagoon prior to the new nighttime spectacular that is coming later this year. It appears something major is about to be installed in the center section. With how many and how large are the pylons being placed today now?
No word yet on exactly what is being constructed, but we do know from past images, it would appear a platform for fireworks and a fountain should be placed in the center of the Lagoon. Check out the image below that Disney originally sent out.
In 2023, Walt Disney World Resort is the place to embrace thrills of all kinds. Exciting new experiences set to debut this year include one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park, a new restaurant to savor, the continued transformation of EPCOT, returning nighttime spectaculars filling night skies throughout the resort and so much more. (DISNEY)
Guests will be treated to the debut of an all-new EPCOT nighttime spectacular later this year. A dazzling display of music, pyrotechnics, lasers and lighting, the show will feature an original composition and evocative selections from the Disney songbook – all woven together to remind us that we are more alike than different.
Disney100 Celebration – Late 2023
Later this year, Walt Disney World Resort will join the global celebration of The Walt Disney Company’s 100th Anniversary – 10 decades of creativity and innovation. Look for more details to come, as EPCOT prepares to host this unforgettable celebration at Walt Disney World.
Massive Pylons Being Installed at EPCOT World Showcase Lagoon
Mysterious Construction Project at Old Starbucks Location in EPCOT. Gonna be a slow news week folks, so hang in there. The July Fourth extended holiday weekend is here, and with it comes the “Everything and Anything is news right now”. So with that being said…
Epcot may have had some walls removed in the World Celebration area, and with the construction of Journey of Water inspired by Moana coming to a close, new walls have arisen in World Showcase.
Nothing major at all, but over at the old Epcot Starbucks location, close to the restrooms, next to Refreshment Port, green walls have gone up. These are not very noticeable walls, cause they are painted “go away” green. So, we went away, and you should too. Stop reading, and move along. Nothing to see here. These aren’t the walls you are looking for.
Mysterious Construction Project at Old Starbucks Location in EPCOT
This fall will bring even more exciting experiences as part of the multi-year transformation of EPCOT. Guests will be able to explore the wonders of water when Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana opens. This fun, interactive outdoor trail offers a chance to play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the oceans and back again. Along the way, guests learn about the importance of water and discover its playful personality – just as Moana did on her heroic voyage.
Fall will also mark the completion of the new World Celebration neighborhood. As the hub of the park, it will feature seasonal gardens and will be home to both Communicore Plaza as well as Communicore Hall, where guests can meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. World Celebration will also anchor the park’s renowned festivals. Guests can also discover Dreamers Point, an inspiring overlook showcasing a statue of Walt Disney called “Walt the Dreamer.”
Guests will be treated to the debut of an all-new EPCOT nighttime spectacular later this year. A dazzling display of music, pyrotechnics, lasers and lighting, the show will feature an original composition and evocative selections from the Disney songbook – all woven together to remind us that we are more alike than different.
Princess Tiana Receives a New Look for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!
Princess Tiana is trading in her dress for an all-new Look for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. She revealed her new outfit at the 2023 ESSENCE Festival of Culture.
Her new outfit is simply stunning with lots of New Orleans charm.
Earlier this week at the Magic Kingdom, Disney Imagineers installed the stunning Tiara-Topped Water Tower at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in the Magic Kingdom.
Bounceback Offers have Returned for Current Guests Staying at Disney World Resorts
Bounceback Offers are returning to Walt Disney World! Next week, guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel will begin receiving communication about a Resort Future Stay offer. Guests can save 25-35% on a future resort stay on select dates throughout 2024.
Details of this offer will be emailed directly to guests on the morning of checkout, beginning July 5. In the weeks following, the offer will be shared with guests through in-room collateral and on their in-room TVs. This offer is only bookable over the phone, and must be booked within 7 days from the date of checkout on the current reservation.
This offer is good for the following dates in 2024:
1/7–1/10
1/15–1/18
1/21–1/25
1/28–2/1
2/4–2/8
2/11–2/14
2/19–2/22
2/25–3/16
3/31–5/23
5/27–8/29
9/2–9/30
10/27–10/31
11/25–11/27
12/1–12/24/24
Guests can save up to 35% on stays at a deluxe resort, 30% on stays at a moderate resort, and 25% on stays at a value resort.
If you are staying at a Disney World Resort soon, be on the lookout for these offers!
Current Disney World Offers
Here is a quick list of Current Disney World Offers going on right now!
Are you excited that Bounceback Offers have returned to Disney World?
Ready to plan your next Disney World trip? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.
Magical Walt Disney World Starbucks Tumbler To Take With You Everywhere You Go!
This new Walt Disney World Starbucks Tumbler is a must have in your collection! We have seen the 4 different themed park tumblers Starbucks released this year already, but if you can’t decide for one park specifically, then this tumbler inspired in the Disney World Resort is the way to go.
We found it at Magic Kingdom for $34.99 and is gorgeous!
The tumbler features a pearl color with gold detailing. The artwork features Mickey Mouse and icons from the different parks all around him, we can see the Spaceship Earth, Tower of Terror, Tree of Life, Cinderella Castle, Orange Bird, Flight of Passage, Kilimanjaro Safari and many more. It also features the Walt Disney World logo in the middle of it all in gold letters.
Definitely a must have to keep yourself hydrated all day long!
New Sink or Swim Pirate of the Caribbean Spirit Jersey at Walt Disney World!
Yo ho, yo ho, a new Sink or Swim Pirate of the Caribbean Spirit Jersey for us! We found this spirit jersey at Magic Kingdom for $79.99, a must have for your fun adventures.
The spirit jersey features a gray tie dye design and v-neck, a different detail from the other spirit jerseys we have seen before. On the front it features a compass and on the back we can see the Kraken trying to trap the pirate ship sailing through the ocean! It also features “Sink or Swim” text across the back.
This is a fun design to add to your wardrobe! So head over to Magic Kingdom to get yours, we hope it becomes available on shopDisney soon as well so everyone can get one.
Fun Disney100 Light Up Ear Headband To Bright Up Your Style!
Celebrate 100 years of wonder in style with this Disney100 Light Up Ear Headband we found at Epcot! A great one to wear around the parks at night and brighten up your outfit!
The design is very simple with an all over platinum color, Minnie on one ear and Mickey on the other, both wearing their platinum outfits! The ears rim features art deco details, and the middle features the Disney100 logo with more art deco detailing on the top.
To make this headband even better, it also lights up! Very fun design for the whole family.
Disney World Announces U.S. Airforce Flyover at the Magic Kingdom on July 4th
Join us in celebrating Independence Day like never before at Walt Disney World Resort!
On July 4th, 2023, the U.S. Air Force showcases their extraordinary capabilities with breathtaking flyovers over the Magic Kingdom. As part of their national outreach program, aimed at inspiring the next generation of patriotism, the Air Force will make two passes over the iconic theme park. Starting at approximately 10:30 a.m., a squadron of F-35 stealth fighter jets from the 33rd Fighter Wing will grace the skies, accompanied by a KC-135 tanker flown by the 6th Air Refueling Wing. This incredible spectacle not only commemorates the Air Force’s 100 years of aerial refueling but also honors the 100th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company.
At Walt Disney World Resort, we hold a deep appreciation for the values that define our great nation. As we gather to celebrate the Fourth of July, our star-spangled spectaculars pay tribute to the enduring spirit of America. Walt Disney himself held a profound love for the United States, and this is evident in our longstanding tradition of honoring the stars and stripes.
The upcoming flyover serves as a testament to Disney’s unwavering support for the military. From its founders, Walt and Roy Disney, who served their country during the First World War, to the present day, our commitment to the armed forces remains strong. Through initiatives like the daily Flag Retreat ceremony at Magic Kingdom Park, where we honor a chosen active-duty military member or veteran, and programs such as Heroes Work Here and the Veterans Institute, we continue to demonstrate our deep respect and gratitude for those who have served.
Join us at Walt Disney World Resort this Independence Day as we come together to celebrate the remarkable history and unwavering spirit of our great nation. It’s a tribute to the past, a celebration of the present, and a source of inspiration for the future.
Oscar-Winning Actor Alan Arkin Passes Away at the Age of 89
On June 29th, the entertainment world mourned the loss of the iconic actor Alan Arkin, who peacefully passed away at his home in Carlsbad, California, at the age of 89. A true force of nature, both as an artist and a man, Arkin’s talent left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions. His sons Adam, Matthew, and Anthony lovingly recalled their father as a cherished figure, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose absence will be deeply felt.
Arkin’s sons said in a statement, “Our father was a uniquely talented force of nature, both as an artist and a man. A loving husband, father, grand and great grandfather, he was adored and will be deeply missed.”
Within Disney’s cinematic universe, Arkin’s unforgettable performances shone brightly. From his memorable roles as Peevy in “The Rocketeer” (1991) to the endearing Dr. Oatman in “Grosse Point Blank” (1997), he enchanted audiences with his exceptional acting prowess. His contributions to beloved Disney classics extended to “The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause” (2006), “Million Dollar Arm” (2014), and the live-action remake of “Dumbo” (2019), where his talent breathed life into captivating characters.
Arkin’s association with Disney did not end there. He delighted fans in the cherished episodes of “The Muppet Show” as a guest star and later as the Muppet Studios tour guide in “The Muppets” (2011). His versatility knew no bounds as he showcased his brilliance in Disney’s Touchstone Pictures films, portraying “Uncle” Lou Handler in “Indian Summer” (1993) and Ernie Lazzaro in “The Jerky Boys” (1995).
(L-R) Ann-Margret, Alan Arkin
In his illustrious career, Arkin’s final film role as the voice of Wild Knuckles in “Minions: The Rise of Gru” added a touch of magic to a beloved franchise.
Beyond his career, Arkin’s legacy of love and family lives on through his sons from his previous marriages, Jeremy Yaffe and Barbara Dana, and his third wife, Suzanne Newlander Arkin, with whom he shared cherished moments. In a heartwarming tribute, Arkin took the name Newlander for his final TV role in “The Kominsky Method” from 2018 to 2019.
As we bid farewell to a remarkable talent, Alan Arkin’s artistry will forever be etched in the tapestry of Disney’s timeless tales. May his memory continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.
Universal Orlando guests can explore the Jurassic Park 30th Anniversary Tribute Store this summer
Welcome to Jurassic Park… the Tribute Store rendition, that is! Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Jurassic Park by opening the doors to the Jurassic Park Tribute Store to summer guests. Located at Universal Studios Florida, this unique retail location takes visitors on a journey through the history of the iconic 1993 film. From exclusive merchandise to themed rooms and photo opportunities, this store offers fans an immersive experience like no other.
Jurassic Park premiered on June 9, 1993, and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. It became the highest-grossing film at the time and kick-started a multimedia franchise that continues to thrive today. Over the past 30 years, we have witnessed the release of multiple sequels, television shows, theme park attractions, and even escape rooms. Jurassic Park has become a household name, captivating fans of all ages and spanning generations.
For fans eager to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Jurassic Park, the Tribute Store offers an impressive selection of exclusive merchandise. Whether you’re looking for apparel, hats, key chains, plush toys, or collectibles, this store has you covered. The anniversary-themed items are sure to please every Jurassic Park enthusiast looking for that perfect souvenir or gift.
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel who specializes 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!
Universal Studios guests have a new UNIVRS location to enjoy
Universal UNIVRS, the groundbreaking retail destination, has expanded its presence with the opening of a new shop-in-shop on Hollywood Boulevard inside Universal Studios Florida at Universal Orlando Resort. This innovative concept brings together beloved brands from across NBCUniversal, offering seasonal apparel that caters to the ever-popular “get it before it’s gone” drop culture shopping mentality. The new location debuts with an exciting summer collection inspired by iconic franchises like JAWS, Felix the Cat, and the 30th anniversary of Jurassic Park.
UNIVRS seamlessly merges the worlds of fashion and entertainment by creating merchandise that appeals to both style-conscious individuals and avid fans of popular characters and on-screen moments. The merchandise on offer features popular brand designs infused with contemporary fashion silhouettes and trending styles. By tapping into the expertise of entertainment and fashion tastemakers, UNIVRS has curated a unique selection of clothing and accessories that resonate with a wide audience.
New UNIVRS merchandise highlights include:
Numskull’s TUBBZ collectible ducks, featuring rubber ducks as characters from popular NBCUniversal film and TV brands, such as Jurassic Park,JAWS, Back to the Future, Illumination’s Minions and more
Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic adventure Jurassic Park, with 90s-inspired nostalgia featured in matching shirt/short sets, cargo pants, cardigans, tees and sweatshirts
The classic black and white Felix the Cat appears in a variety of patterns in a tennis club style with skirts, shirts, jackets, tees and more
Home to JAWS, Amity Island-inspired graphics and slogans take on summer apparel in shorts, shirts, windbreakers and hats
Short and long-sleeve unisex tees featuring various artwork of iconic NBCUniversal characters, such as E.T., Fast & Furious, Universal Monsters, Good Luck Trolls and more
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel who specializes 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!
