Disney CEO Bob Iger & Josh D’Amaro Visit Shanghai Disneyland for 7th Anniversary

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June 10, 2023

Disney CEO Bob Iger & Josh D’Amaro Visit Shanghai Disneyland for 7th Anniversary

Two Disney executives recently visited Shanghai Disneyland for its 7th anniversary! CEO Bob Iger and Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro visited for the celebration.

Scouting for Shanghai Disney began in 1999 but the park didn’t open until 2016. Iger was involved in the project the entire time. During the Grand Opening Gala for the park, Iger said:

“17 years ago, I stood on this site for the very first time, looking out over the horizon and imagining the future. I allowed myself to dream big, envisioning a destination that would re-define the limits of our creativity and innovation — and what we have accomplished here far exceeds even my wildest dreams. I know everyone involved feels the same way. We can’t wait to share it with the people of China, and welcome the whole world to this very special place.”

When he visited during the 7th anniversary, Iger shared a couple of photos on Twitter.

Had a great visit to Shanghai Disneyland 7 years after opening. Great to see cast members and guests! pic.twitter.com/wjDXQLRLYl
— Robert Iger (@RobertIger) June 7, 2023

“Had a great visit to Shanghai Disneyland 7 years after opening. Great to see cast members and guests!”

Shanghai Disney

Shanghai Disney Resort consists of Shanghai Disneyland, 2 Resort hotels (Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel), Disneytown (a shopping, dining, outdoor, and entertainment commercial district), and Wishing Star Park (an outdoor park located on Wishing Start Lake).

Want to plan your next Disney vacation but don’t know where to start? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Wilderness Explorers

By

Sara

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June 10, 2023

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Wilderness Explorers

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Wilderness Explorers! This fun and interactive program enables guests of all ages to be a hero in their own conservation story as they participate in a series of self-guided activities to learn about plants, animals and conservation. More than 23 million guests have participated in the program over the last 10 years!

Guests can earn more than 20 badges that range from helping save endangered species to recycling and protecting wildlife. Many of the messages weaved into the program align with Disney’s Planet Possible, inspiring guests to picture what’s possible when they take action to help the planet – at the parks and at home!

“Seeing this program come to life through the eyes of Wilderness Explorers from across the globe has been incredibly inspiring,” shares Nadine, a 21-year cast member and guest animal experience director.

Nadine’s passion for conservation and animals led to her assisting with the launch of the Wilderness Explorers program after the theatrical release of Pixar’s “Up.” The program’s motto, “A Wilderness Explorer is a friend to all, be a plant, or fish, or tiny mole,” comes directly from the film.

Since debuting, more than 600 cast members have been part of the Wilderness Explorers program, and it continues to inspire new cast members.

Current Wilderness Explorer Victoria first heard about the program at an information session during her Disney College Program. She recently had a full-circle moment when she returned to the same panel that inspired her to apply to the program.

“To be able to come back and inspire other interns to take their passion for conservation and the environment and extend those messages to guests is very rewarding,” Victoria said.

The Wilderness Explorers program supports Disney’s Planet Possible, a commitment to a brighter future supporting a healthier planet for people and wildlife. Since 1995, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed more than $125 million to save wildlife, inspire action and protect the planet.

“The wilderness must be explored … caw, caw, ROAR!” Are you ready to earn your first badge? Become an official Wilderness Explorer on your next trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Simply look for the Wilderness Explorers banner as you enter the park, located between the Oasis and Discovery Island. And make sure to pick up your own handbook to help you follow in the footsteps of Russell, the junior Wilderness Explorer from Pixar’s 2009 endearing movie “Up.”

Want to visit Animal Kingdom and become a Wilderness Explorer? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.

Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill and Beignets Expressed Now Open in Downtown Disney

By

Sara

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June 9, 2023

Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill and Beignets Expressed Now Open in Downtown Disney

The new Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill and Beignets Expressed are both now open in Downtown Disney! Guests can enjoy delicious food and a fun new atmosphere.

For more than two decades, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen has been revered for its warm hospitality, French Quarter flair, bold flavors, and famous, hot beignets! Building on this rich tradition, the iconic restaurant has evolved with a fresh new look, new name and new menu! The location is celebrating its reopening as Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio, a modern, casual and fun celebration of the Gulf and Pacific coasts, and Beignets Expressed.

The restaurant’s all-day menu features long-time fan favorites alongside new selections such as Lobster & Crawfish Sliders, Chile-Spiced Honey Glazed Grilled Salmon, Gumbo LA-LA filled with succulent seafood, the Grilled Open Faced Lobster BLT Po-Boy and the Reef & Beef, a delectable entrée of grilled shrimp and braised short ribs. This contemporary menu pairs perfectly with a newly expanded wine list from California vintners, and seasonal, seaside-style cocktails.

And let’s not forget the famous beignets! Beignets Expressed is a fast, friendly, and fun counter-service spot, bestowing the much-loved New Orleans confection served classically (fried and topped with heaping mounds of powdered sugar) and the specialty glazed beignets, dipped, drizzled, and sprinkled in infinitely delicious flavors. Signature and seasonal glazed selections include Snickerdoodle, Fruity Crunch and Bananas Foster.

Want to visit the Disneyland Resort? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.

Discover the Full List of Participating Restaurants for the Expanded Walt Disney World Annual Passholder Dining Discount

By

Chris B

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June 9, 2023

Annual Passholders can save big on table service dining this month at Walt Disney World resort.

One of the many benefits of being a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder is the array of exclusive discounts and perks that enhance the magical experience. These perks get even more magical when Disney adds to them or increases them-such as the current increase to the discount offered on table service dining. While we already knew the table service discount would be increasing during the month of June, we finally have a list of the eligible restaurants.

Here are a few of the restaurants available from around the 4 theme parks and resorts, with the full list detailed on the Passholder website:

Be Our Guest Restaurant: Step into the enchanting world of Beauty and the Beast at the Beast’s Castle in Magic Kingdom. This immersive dining experience offers French-inspired cuisine in a gorgeous setting.
Cinderella’s Royal Table: Located within the iconic Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom, this regal dining establishment offers a fairy tale character dining experience. Passholders can revel in the magic while enjoying a discount on their royal feast.
Coral Reef Restaurant: Dive into an underwater paradise at Epcot’s Living Seas Pavilion. The Coral Reef Restaurant offers stunning views of an immense aquarium while serving delectable seafood dishes.
Hollywood Brown Derby: Transport yourself to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s golden age at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Hollywood Brown Derby offers a classic dining experience with a touch of elegance.
Tiffins Restaurant: Discover the flavors of the world at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Tiffins Restaurant takes guests on a culinary journey inspired by the spirit of adventure.
Le Cellier Steakhouse: Nestled within the Canadian Pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase, Le Cellier Steakhouse invites guests to indulge in premium steaks and delicious cuisine.
Jiko – The Cooking Place: Embark on a culinary adventure inspired by the flavors of Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Jiko offers a unique blend of traditional African, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine.
Sanaa: Also located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Sanaa offers a tantalizing blend of African and Indian flavors.
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: Located in the Norway pavilion at EPCOT, Akershus serves up a feast in honor of beloved storybook princesses during breakfast, and Norwegian-inspired fare for lunch and dinner.
‘Ohana: Lilo and Stitch, along with other friends, invite you and your ʻohana to an American breakfast influenced by Polynesian flavors. For dinner, enjoy a Hawaiian-flavored specialties, music, and fun.

Please note that the list above represents just a selection of participating restaurants, and there are many more establishments where passholders can avail themselves of the expanded dining discount. For a comprehensive list of all participating restaurants and any updated information, it’s best to visit the official Walt Disney World Annual Passholder website.

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 who specializes 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!

Video: Disney Unveils Free-Roaming Groot Audio-Animatronic at Disneyland Resort

By

Sara

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June 9, 2023

Video: Disney Unveils Free-Roaming Groot Audio-Animatronic at Disneyland Resort

We previously shared a look at a new free-roaming Groot audio-animatronic coming to Disneyland! Disney has shared another look at this adorable Groot.

Disney recently shared a video of a Groot playtest at Disney California Adventure. In the video, Imagineers talk to guests about the latest developments in Audio-Animatronic technology including with baby Groot.

In the playtest, Groot and Star Lord have a dance-off with the audience. Guests were very engaged and loved seeing the Baby Groot audio-animatronic.

“We want to bring these characters to life in the most authentic way possible,” says Imagineer Joel Peavy. “For us, that means a walking robotic actor that has a tightly integrated design in a compact platform that can not only move and gesture, but really emote in style.”

Disney also said they have no immediate plans to bring this new robot to the parks. For now, it’s a prototype testing unique traits, gaits, and capabilities.

“Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development is developing a small-scale, free-roaming robotic actor that can take on the role of our similarly-sized Disney characters. Its tightly integrated design provides over 50 degrees of freedom in a compact platform that can walk, gesture, and emote in style. Using custom authoring tools that combine whole-body motion planning and traditional character animation, artists can quickly bring robotic characters to life with expressive motions and interactive behaviors. There are no immediate plans for use in Disney theme parks; however, a prototype in the form of Groot is being used to test unique traits, gaits and capabilities.”

Do you hope we get to see Baby Groot come to the Disney parks in the future?

Want to plan your next Disney vacation? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!

Limited Edition Disney100 Corkcicle Collection Available Now!

By

Ana Leal

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June 9, 2023

Limited Edition Disney100 Corkcicle Collection Available Now!

Celebrate 100 years of magic with the new Disney100 Corkcicle collection featuring heritage sketches of beloved characters against a dreamy prismatic backdrop. There are two designs available a tumbler and a stemless cup for a limited time only.

DISNEY100 HERITAGE SKETCH STEMLESS

The stemless cup is made of stainless steel and triple insulated plus it features a sliding, shatter-proof prismatic lid, stay-put silicone bottom and can keep your favorite beverage cool for 9 hours or hot for 3.

There are 4 different character designs available: Simba, Tinker Bell, Minnie and Mickey in an iridescent color against the platinum cups.

DISNEY100 HERITAGE SKETCH TUMBLER

The popular tumbler is also available in four different characters, Tinker Bell, Simba, Mickey and Minnie in a color pencil sketch style against the platinum background. They are made of stainless steel and triple insulated plus it features a sliding, shatter-proof prismatic lid, stay-put silicone bottom and can keep your favorite beverage cool for 9 hours or hot for 3.

This new collection is a great way to celebrate 100 years of wonder and keep yourself hydrated along the way!

Credit: Corkcicle

New Mulan nuiMOs Plush Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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June 9, 2023

New Mulan nuiMOs Plush Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

Remind yourself to be strong, brave and true with this Mulan nuiMOs Plush we found at Magic Kingdom for $21.99! You can also order yours online at shopDisney and have fun planning new outfits with our favorite warrior princess.

This Mulan plush comes with one of her signature outfits from the 1998 classic movie, the blue, yellow and green kimono looking adorable, but you can have fun dressing her up in any Disney nuiMOs outfit!

One of the outfits options you can get is this three-piece outfit that includes a top with embroidery and floral screen art, pants with flowers and a headband with a felt Mulan flower. Put it on your prized Mulan nuiMOs plush and watch your imagination blossom!

New Disney Munchlings Collection At Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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June 9, 2023

New Disney Munchlings Collection At Magic Kingdom!

The sweetest Disney Munchlings Collection just arrived to Magic Kingdom! We found bags, jewelry and more to add a sweet touch of magic to your style.

MINNIE MOUSE STRAWBERRY CUPCAKE BACKPACK

Minnie Mouse looks so deliciously cute as this Disney Munchlings backpack you’ll want to take her everywhere you go! It features our favorite fashionista re-imagined as a delicious treat making this bag perfect for those with great taste.

KEYCHAINS

These keychain sets are great to share with your best friend! There are three different duos available: Mickey & Minnie, Pooh and Eeyore and Chip & Dale! Adorable!

JEWELRY

If you prefer to add a sweet touch to your style with accessories, these jewelry designs are perfect for you! We found a necklace and earrings set featuring Chip & Dale and Mickey plus Minnie Mouse stud earrings, a bracelet with Stitch Eeyore and Minnie Mouse charms and some Chip & Dale stud earrings.

PHONE ACCESSORIES

Your phone can also look extra sweet with this phone chain featuring a variety of munchlings like Mickey, Baymax, Stitch, Pooh, Eeyore and Minnie attached to a pearls and stars chain.

MYSTERY PLUSH

Finally, we found the Disney Munchlings Mystery Pack that includes a 15inch plush! Are you collecting them all?

You can check out the full Disney Munchlings collection available now at shopDisney!

Give Kids the World Loans Trixie the Triceratops to Universal Studios Florida for Anniversary

By

Chris B

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June 9, 2023

Trixie fans can visit the beloved Give Kids the World triceratops at Universal Studios Florida

Trixie the Triceratops, a beloved figure that has been a source of delight for children at Give Kids the World Village, has been temporarily relocated to Universal Studios Florida. Trixie will be greeting guests at the theme park as part of Universal’s Jurrasic Park Celebration.

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Trixie is modeled after the ‘sick’ dinosaur that Dr. Grant and Dr. Sattler encounter early in the original Jurrasic Park film. The Triceratops was donated to Give Kids the World by Universal and will be on display near the Jurassic Park Tribute Store.

Trixie was carefully moved by the Universal Creative Team to Universal Orlando Resort back in March and will return back to Give Kids the World once the Jurrasic Park anniversary celebration wraps.

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A post shared by Give Kids The World Village (@gktwvillage)

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 who specializes 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!

Disney Halfway to the Holidays Announcement Coming Next Week

By

Chris B

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June 9, 2023

Details about Disney’s holiday celebrations are expected next week as the Parks and Resorts celebrate Halfway to the Holidays

It is almost time to celebrate the fact we are halfway to the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. If that sentence did not seem confusing, then you likely are aware of the uniquely Disney celebration Halfway to the Holidays. Disney recently announced merchandise and food that would be available during the Halfway to the Holidays celebration and noted we can expect “announcements and sneak peeks” next week.

Disney Parks have always been synonymous with immersive experiences, and Halfway to the Holidays will be no exception. While the official announcement is yet to be made, we can expect a lineup of enchanting attractions and spectacular entertainment options that capture the joy and wonder of the holiday season. You can anticipate dates for Mickey’s Verry Mery Christmas Party to come next week, as well as details about the holiday celebrations at EPCOT and Disney’s California Adventure.

Are you planning on hitting up Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year? That is one party my family never misses!

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 who specializes 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!

UCF to Launch New Theme Park and Attraction Management Degree

By

Chris B

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June 9, 2023

Students interested in Theme Park and Attraction management can learn the trade via this new degree program from UCF

The University of Central Florida (UCF), renowned for its innovative and industry-focused academic programs, has recently announced the launch of an exciting new degree program: the Theme Park and Attraction Management Degree. The new degree aims to prepare students for successful careers in the theme park and attraction industry.

As the global theme park industry continues to thrive, there is a growing need for skilled professionals who understand the intricacies of managing and operating theme parks and attractions. UCF’s new program aims to bridge this gap by equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in this exciting field.

The Theme Park and Attraction Management Degree will offer a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiential learning. The program will cover various aspects of theme park and attraction management, including:

Theme Park Operations: Students will gain a deep understanding of the operational aspects of theme parks, including ride management, crowd control, safety protocols, and visitor experience enhancement.
Entertainment Production: This component of the program will focus on the creation and execution of captivating entertainment experiences within theme parks. Students will learn about show design, live performances, audiovisual technologies, and special effects.
Business Management: To succeed in the theme park industry, students need a strong foundation in business principles. The program will include courses in marketing, finance, human resources, and strategic management tailored specifically for the theme park and attraction sector.
Guest Experience and Hospitality: Central to the success of any theme park is the guest experience. Students will learn about guest services, customer relationship management, hospitality best practices, and the importance of delivering exceptional service to visitors.

UCF’s proximity to renowned theme parks, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando, provides an ideal setting for students to gain real-world experience. The university has established strong partnerships with these industry leaders, offering students valuable opportunities for internships, practical training, and networking. These connections ensure that students can apply their knowledge in a practical setting and build relationships with professionals in the field.

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 who specializes 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!

Chip and Company

Disney CEO Bob Iger & Josh D’Amaro Visit Shanghai Disneyland for 7th Anniversary

Disney CEO Bob Iger & Josh D’Amaro Visit Shanghai Disneyland for 7th Anniversary

Shanghai Disney

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Wilderness Explorers

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Wilderness Explorers

Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill and Beignets Expressed Now Open in Downtown Disney

Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill and Beignets Expressed Now Open in Downtown Disney

Discover the Full List of Participating Restaurants for the Expanded Walt Disney World Annual Passholder Dining Discount

Annual Passholders can save big on table service dining this month at Walt Disney World resort.

Video: Disney Unveils Free-Roaming Groot Audio-Animatronic at Disneyland Resort

Video: Disney Unveils Free-Roaming Groot Audio-Animatronic at Disneyland Resort

Limited Edition Disney100 Corkcicle Collection Available Now!

Limited Edition Disney100 Corkcicle Collection Available Now!

New Mulan nuiMOs Plush Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

New Mulan nuiMOs Plush Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

New Disney Munchlings Collection At Magic Kingdom!

New Disney Munchlings Collection At Magic Kingdom!

Give Kids the World Loans Trixie the Triceratops to Universal Studios Florida for Anniversary

Trixie fans can visit the beloved Give Kids the World triceratops at Universal Studios Florida

Disney Halfway to the Holidays Announcement Coming Next Week

Details about Disney’s holiday celebrations are expected next week as the Parks and Resorts celebrate Halfway to the Holidays

UCF to Launch New Theme Park and Attraction Management Degree

Students interested in Theme Park and Attraction management can learn the trade via this new degree program from UCF

Top 10 Disney News Stories from Chip and Company for June 8th 2023

Top 10 Disney News Stories from Chip and Company for June 8th 2023