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Latest Breaking News
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Walt Disney World Resort Debuts its all new Online Check-In Service
Walt Disney World Resort has launched an Online Check-In Service, designed to simplify and streamline guest arrivals. The new service is complimentary and available to guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels and Disney Vacation Club resorts.
Within 10 days of their arrival dates, guests are able to provide check-in information, advise the resort of their arrival times and request room preferences (although those cannot be guaranteed). Guests can also register the names of all the people in their party and provide a credit card to cover charges at the resort
hotel.
Upon arrival at their resorts, guests visit a special welcome location where their room keys and other registration material are waiting. Disney Cast Members are also available to provide additional information and answer questions.
For more information about the new Online Check-In Service or to make a resort reservation, call 407-WDISNEY or your local travel agent or click on disneyworld.com.
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Want to Book Advanced Dining Reservations at Disney?
Disney has just announced a new timeframe for booking dining, recreation and various tours at Walt Disney World. Previously Disney guest could book reservations up to 180 days out - now however the timeframe has been decreased to only 90 days out. Exceptions to the new 90-day window (albeit temporarily) include Chef Mickey's and Cinderella's Royal Table – for the time being Advanced Dining Reservations can still be made 180 days out however effective March 22, 2009, they too will fall under the new 90-day booking window.
This Just In…Disney’s latest Deal – and It’s a biggie!
(11/07/08)
Book a 4 Night Vacation Package at Walt Disney World and Get 3 more Nights for Free!
You can purchase a 4-night, 4-day non-discounted Walt Disney Travel Company Magic Your Way vacation package and you’ll get three additional nights (with theme park tickets) for free! This offer is valid for stays most nights 2/15-3/9. 3/17-4/4, and 4/19-8/15 2009
Included in this magical offer: accommodations for seven nights at a select Disney Value Resort and a 7-day Magic Your Way Base Ticket for just $46 per person, per day for a family of four in a standard room at a select Disney Value Resort for stays most nights Jan. 4 – Feb. 12, 2009, (for a total package price of $1,271) or $53 per person, per day for a family of four in a standard room at a select Disney Value Resort for stays most nights Feb. 13 – April 4, 2009, (for a total package price of $1,466).
Plus, if you travel to Disney between 2/15-3/9 and 3/17-3/29, you’ll also receive a DisneyGift Card worth $200 to spend at the Walt Disney World Resort during your stay.
Those traveling between 3/30-4/01 and 4/19-8/15 AND staying at either Disney's Old Key West or Disney's Sarasota Springs Resort will receive a 100 dollar Disney Gift Card.
*Rates are based on two adults, one junior and one child. The number of packages available at
these rates is limited. Theme Park tickets are valid for one Theme Park per day and must be usedwithin 14 days of first use. No group rates or other discounts apply.
For all the details click Here or head to www.disneyworld.com
What Will You Celebrate?- What’s Disney’s way of wishing guests a Happy Birthday? Letting them in (to the Disney theme park of their choice) for Free!
To Kick off Disney’s newest year long celebration (What Will You Celebrate? beginning in January 2009) guests celebrating at Disney will receive a free birthday ticket – it’s the icing on the cake for those heading to Disney to celebrate such a happy occasion. All it takes is a valid ID including proof of your birth date. Guests who already hold a multi-day ticket or an annual pass that they will use on their birthday can choose an alternate birthday treat instead, but will not be entitled to a cash refund or credit. For all the official details and to start the process by registering your birthday, head to www.disneyparks.com.
For a more in-depth description of Disney’s newest celebration see the General WDW News section below .
Disney has announced the addition of two new time shares (9.16) – The Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort (slated for completion by the fall of 2009, sales however are slated to begin this Sunday) and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort.
The Bay Lake Tower, while a source of speculation for some time now (as the crescent shaped tower quickly rose beside Disney’s Contemporary Resort in rather plain view of passers by – though officially Disney denied that it even existed at all) has officially been named as Disney’s newest Vacation Club resort. The biggest perk, of course, is the proximity to the Magic Kingdom – it indeed is only a short stroll from one to the other, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The interior will feature a chic and trendy décor, ultra modern amenities, a fifth floor pedestrian bridge to connect the Tower with its sibling, a roof-top lounge, and a special deck that allows for an unobstructed view of the Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks spectacular. Rooms will feature, among other amenities, flat-screen TVs, full kitchens complete with granite countertops and modern appliances, separate bedrooms, washers and dryers, with room for up to nine (depending on which villa you choose).
For a virtual tour (thanks to Disney) click here!
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| Bay Lake Towers |
Treehouse Villas |
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The Treehouse Villas have also been officially added to Disney’s now lengthy lis t of Vacation Club Resorts. Set high atop the trees (elevated some ten feet from the ground), the villas (slated to open in the summer of 2009) will retain their woodsy feel, but will feature plenty of modern amenities (including cathedral ceilings, granite countertops, flatscreen TV’s, and more) as they are built as the newest phase of Disney’s Saratoga Springs.
Theme Park Prices Reach an All Time High (8.08)
Disney and Universal have both, as of the beginning of August, increased their ticket prices across the board (admission prices, add-on’s, recreational activities, parking and more).
At the beginning of August, Walt Disney World once again raised their ticket prices. Though prices have reached an all time high (a 1-day park ticket now more than double what it cost only 10 short years ago), prices remain relatively unchanged (only a dollar or two higher) for guests who stay and play for at least 4 or more days at Disney’s parks and resorts (though for those with larger families, it can add up quickly). Click here for Walt Disney World Pricing
*Parking, Stroller Rentals, Kennel prices and various other extras have gone up as well.
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General WDW News
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Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and Verizon are teaming up for a multi-year relationship designed to enhance your vacation experience – before, during and after you arrive at the Walt Disney World (or Disneyland) Resort. Disney guests will soon have access to the unbeatable combination of reliable Verizon wireless service along with a personal Disney tour guide and all quite literally in the palm of their hands – right in their wireless phones. “Imagine receiving up to the minute tips on special Park activities with just the touch of a button or receiving a call from Buzz Lightyear welcoming you to the Magic Kingdom.”
Beginning in 2009 (an exact date yet to be released), guests will be able to access an array of features on their Verizon Wireless phones while at the Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort to help them make the most of their Disney experiences. Planned services include an exclusive mobile application that will give guests with Verizon Wireless service the ability to easily locate shows, restaurants and the Disney characters anywhere inside the Parks; get real-time attraction availability information; access mobile games; receive messages from characters and more. Verizon Wireless is also continuing to invest in its wireless network from coast to coast, and the relationship with Disney means the wireless users will benefit from further enhancements to the Verizon Wireless network in the Parks.
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News from The Magic Kingdom
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Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade debuts a Disney World's Magic Kingdom Replacing Disney’s Dreams Come True Parade, Celebrate a Dream Come True made its debut earlier this spring. Notable differences include the stops made along the parade route, the new musical score, and the new Minnie and Mickey float.
‘’Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’’ Dance Party Debuts at the Magic Kingdom An all new high-energy, retro-futuristic music video dance party invites guests to join in on the super-sonic celebration along with Stitch and his interactive Tomorrowland dance troupe.
Disney’s Pirate & Princess Party is back
Disney has just released dates (and prices) for the parks Pirate & Princess Party. Here’s the Lowdown:
Dates: February 20, 27, March 8, 12, 20, 27. April 1, 22, May 1, 8, 15, 20, 35, 30, June 3.
Time: 7 pm ‘till midnight
Tickets: $47.95 for adults, $41.95 for children (ages 3-9). Discounted tickets (at a savings of around $7 per ticket) are available if purchases are made in advance (and while tickets last).
As a Note: Wristbands are no longer required – simply show your resort ID
For additional details regarding this popular after hours event CLICK HERE! or go to www.disneyworld.com/ pirateandprincess
Disney’s Hall of Presidents will be closed for the next few months (specific dates have yet to be released though word has it the attraction will be closed for at least 8 months or so)not only for extensive refurbishments, but in order to make room for the newly elected President; Barack Obama.
The Hall of Presidents will Reopen in July
A July reopening is planned for the Hall of Presidents, where guests will find an Audio-Animatronics version of President Barack Obama joining representations of the previous 43 presidents of the United States.
Tinker Bell, Disney’s favorite fairy, and a whole bunch of her fairy friends can now be found at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. An all new themed Meet & Greet, aptly named Pixie Hollow, is now located in Mickey’s Toontown Fair. Little ones can meet Disney’s original pixie and pose for photos with all of their favorite fairies. For more information fly over to www.disneyfairies.com
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| News from Epcot |
Looking to the future – Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival is slated to begin on March 18th, 2009, and run through May 31st. Look for a slew of all new character topiaries (including Cinderella, Prince Charming, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty and Prince Phillip, Belle and the Beast, and many more). Spectacular floral beds and exhibits, filled with over 30 million beautiful blooms, will adorn the grounds through the park. In addition, the Flower Power concert series, with shows every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 pm, will feature popular acts including Davy Jones, Paul Revere & the Raiders, Jose Feliciano and others. For additional information head to www.disneyworld.com/flower (starting in February 2009)
Pirates, Pixies and Petals, Oh My! – Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival has something for everybody:
Imaginations will take flight and set sail as children explore new, vibrant gardens and adventurous activities at the 16thannual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, presented by Disneynature, March 18-May 31, 2009, at Walt Disney World Resort. The park’s bountiful garden of fun also will bloom with themed playgrounds, immersive scavenger hunts, a special Fairy & Princess Procession and floral vignettes budding with beloved Disney character topiaries.
To welcome families into the festival, a royal topiary court invites guests to celebrate Cinderella’s
coronation day as a special “Cinderellabration” at the Epcot entrance. The signature topiary display, showcasing Cinderella’s royal moment, is designed in honor of Disney Parks’ new “What Will You Celebrate?” vacation initiative.
Throughout the rest of the theme park, families will enjoy the cascades of color at every turn, strolling through floral scenes made famous in Disney animated films, including “The Lion King” and the upcoming “Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure.” Little ones can get moving – literally – in a special garden-themed playground featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Pluto and Goofy. The Let’s Get Moving play area encourages kids to climb and explore. And there will be plenty of “pixie power” in a Pixie Hollow-themed play area, with everyone’s favorite fairy, Tinker Bell, featured in a playful garden. For the little pirates of the family,another themed adventure area will feature Peter Pan and Captain Hook.
Aladdin and Lady and the Tramp will join other cherished characters making topiary appearances
throughout Epcot, which is veiled with 30 million blooms of sweeping floral beds and exhibits.
Other family-friendly exhibits include Minnie’s Magnificent Butterfly Garden – a distinctive garden filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies. And guests can learn how to create their own environmentally safe garden, including information about low-water-use, native plants and recycling, while kids enjoy a playground at the Green Garden exhibit.
Entertainment is available for the whole family throughout the festival. The Flower Power concert series, which stars pop hit-makers of the 1960s and '70s, will have guests be-bopping and grooving to classic tunes at the America Gardens Theatre every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Additional activities sure to keep the “little gardeners” entertained at the 16th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival include:
Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden (adjacent to Mouse Gear in Future World), with special hands-on activities for children, a play structure and colorful topiaries of Tinker Bell and her friends; daily
Fairy & Princess Processional at 2 p.m. where kids can come dressed up and show off their
costumes; they can also get their face painted with their favorite fairy, flower or insect; plus, meet the director and producer of the upcoming fall release “Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure” March 21 at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Pirates Adventure Zone (adjacent to the Germany Pavilion in World Showcase), an interactive
play space designed for exploration and adventure greeted by Peter Pan, Captain Hook and Croc
topiaries.
Let’s Get Moving (adjacent to the Imagination! pavilion in Future World), a recreational garden
where children can climb and explore, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Donald and Goofy topiaries demonstrating their favorite outdoor activities. Here, kids can climb aboard EVOS and
Weevos Playsystems.
Green Garden (adjacent to the Morocco pavilion in World Showcase), a unique garden, which
includes a playground, where guests can learn how to create an environmentally friendly, lowinput garden of their own.
Minnie’s Magnificent Butterfly Garden (adjacent to Mouse Gear in Future World), where hundreds of butterflies inhabit a screened-in gazebo lush with foliage and color.
Character Topiary Scavenger Hunt (behind Spaceship Earth in Future World), a familyoriented
challenge to locate favorite Disney character topiaries throughout Epcot.
Earth Station (Test Track Walkway, adjacent to the butterfly garden), where kids can discover
fun activities and how to positively impact Earth.
Most festival activities are included in regular admission to Epcot. For more information and schedules,
guests can call 407/W-DISNEY or visit www.disneyworld.com/flower.
Festival fun facts:
30 million blooms dress the park throughout the festival, which runs 75 colorful days.
As part of this year’s Celebration theme, guests can enjoy a commemoration of Cinderella’s coronation day as a “Cinderellabration” featuring royal guests including Prince Charming, Sleeping Beauty and Belle – all as intricately designed topiaries. Other topiary merriment includes: Simba’s Birthday Celebration in a classic scene based on the Disney animated film “The Lion King” and Be Our Guest featuring the entertaining characters from “Beauty and the Beast.”
More than 50 Disney character topiaries include Aladdin, Lady and the Tramp, and Snow White and the seven dwarfs. Classic Disney characters Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Pluto and Goofy strike topiary poses doing their favorite outdoor activities in the new, garden-themed playground Let’s Get Moving.
Little princesses can come dressed up and show off their costumes in the all-new daily Fairy & Princess Procession in the new Pixie Hollow-themed play area.
More than 500 native butterflies representing up to 10 species reside in Minnie’s Magnificent Butterfly Garden, a gazebo-type enclosure filled with lush plants and measuring more than 40 feet in diameter. Guests can stroll through the screened habitat to view the colorful butterflies. Among the garden’s two dozen nectar plants are Cape Royal plumbago, passion flower, coral honeysuckle, blazing star, butterfly bush, scarlet milkweed and canna lily.
300,000 bedding plants are installed for the festival.
Two butterfly topiaries are on display. Also, Doc, Grumpy and the rest of the seven dwarfs appear at the Epcot entrance with intricate topiary detail that includes beards of palm fiber. Perfume bottle topiaries represent Guerlain perfumes in the Fragrance Garden at the France pavilion.
At least 25 different plants, grasses and mosses of various colors, including pink and red begonias, dusty miller, palm fiber, palm seeds, ficus and lichen, are used to create and define features of the festival topiaries. More color has been added to the topiaries than in any previous topiary presentation.
More than 15 floral, herbal and spice ingredients of 10 popular perfumes are revealed in the Fragrance Garden presented by Guerlain at the France pavilion. Guests can sniff the enduring fragrance Shalimar to discover botanical notes that include lemon, Arabian jasmine and vanilla. Some components of nine other Guerlain fragrances include mimosa, magnolia, rose, nutmeg and vetivergrass.
At the Green Garden exhibit, guests can learn tips on how to create their own environmentally safe garden, including information about low-water-use, native plants and recycling.
Forty-five “flower towers” of impatiens line Innoventions Plaza.
100 floating mini-gardens, each three feet in diameter, of multi-hued impatiens provide splashes of color on two ponds that border the walkway between Future World and World Showcase. There are also 15 large gardens, each eight feet in diameter.
750 container gardens of flowers, herbs, plants and vegetables in clay pots, barrels and urns enhance the landscape throughout Epcot.
300 Walt Disney World horticulturists are needed to install the festival landscape, topiaries and many exhibits; 100 Epcot horticulturists maintain topiaries and other festival displays.
It takes more than one full year to prepare for the annual festival.
The festival’s Flower Power is bolstered by weekend appearances of musical hit makers of the 1960s and '70s including Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Davy Jones, Paul Revere & The Raiders, Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, and Jose Feliciano – a total of 11 acts this year.
Guest information for the 16thannual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is available at
www.disneyworld.com/flower or call 407/W-DISNEY.
Kim Possible heads to Epcot (8.08)
Late in 2008, Kim Possible’s World Showcase Adventure made its debut.
Guests of all ages can team up with fan fav Kim Possible to save the world, using a high-tech interactive “Kimmunicator” (available at kiosks throughout the park) to help complete their mission. Each of the World Showcase pavilions features a unique mission and a lineup of super villains straight out of Disney Channel’s hit TV show.
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News from Disney's Hollywood Studios
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Star Wars Weekends Returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Once again, the power of the Force and the magic of Disney combine in May and June for Star Wars Weekends, a sci-fi fan-fest inspired by the popular film saga.
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 22-June 14, 2009, Disney’s Hollywood Studios becomes the temporary home for a band of out-of-this-world characters, including Wookiees, Sith, droids, Jedi, Ewoks, bounty hunters and Rodians. Dates are May 22-24, May 29-31, June 5-7 and June 12-14.
A giant, “A to Z” gathering of Star Wars characters – from Anakin Skywalker to Zam Wesell – will roam the streets of the theme park during meet-and-greet sessions. Jedi Training Academy – one of the interactive entertainment experiences featured in the theme park – takes place throughout the day on the event’s main stage and allows young guests to learn from a Jedi Master before testing newly acquired skills in a battle with Darth Vader.
Also featured: the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind Star Wars memorabilia, Star Wars trivia contests, special Star Wars parades, rides on the famed Star Tours attraction, and autograph sessions and star conversations with famous Star Wars actors and creative geniuses.
Event activities are included in theme park admission. For more information, guests may go online to www.starwars.com or www.disneyworld.com/starwarsweekends.
"American Idol" made its debut in February 2009, this all new and exciting attraction will follow the model of the wildly popular television show of the same name. Per Disney, Hollywood Studios guests will get the chance to experience the
challenge of auditioning, the rush of performing on stage in competition, or the thrill of judging the performances in a live interactive entertainment setting with all the glitz and glamour of the very distinctive "American Idol" set.
 The experience will begin with the audition process (which is open to all eligible to register) where guests will perform “live” in front of a Disney’s Hollywood Studios producer for the chance to be cast in a theme park show. If shown to have that star quality during the screening process and after backstage preparation (working with a vocal coach, hair and make-up) it’s lights up and “show time” for the lucky guest in front of a “live” audience and a panel of judges.
Guest performers with the highest number of votes will compete in an end-of-day Grand
Finale show at Walt Disney World, and the winner (of the Grand Finale) will receive a guaranteed reservation for a future regional stadium audition (which means that they won’t have to wait in the seemingly endless line to audition for the "American Idol" TV show – they’re guaranteed an audition ( but what happens at the audition is all up to judges – they’ll be on equal playing ground with everyone else who’s auditioning for a spot on the show).
Pricing for the Fantasmic Dinner Package has increased: Prices for the Fantasmic DinnerPackage have gone up – here’s the lowdown:
At the Hollywood Brown Derby: $46.99 for adults, $11.99 for children
(ages 3-9)
At Mama Melrose’s: $32.99 for adults, $11.99 for children (ages 3-9)
At Hollywood & Vine: $26.99 for adults, $13.99 for children (ages 3-9).
Included in the package is an appetizer, entrée, dessert, and a beverage (not including specialty or alcoholic drinks). Kids are required to order off of the children’s menu and can choose from a bowl of soup or a salad, an entrée, dessert, and beverage (not including specialty drinks). At Hollywood and Vine (a buffet restaurant) all items on the buffet are included as are children’s beverages - adult beverages, however, are not included in the price.
In addition to your meal, you will be seated in a preferred seating area for Fantasmic!
(so long as you arrive in a timely fashion – at least 30 to 45 minutes prior to the show).
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| News from Downtown Disney: |
New Shops, restaurants, and attractions are starting to pop up at Downtown Disney.
*Trend-D, a stylish boutique with designer flair and eclectic offerings is the newest shopping spot at Downtown Disney Marketplace. The urban-inspired specialty store is a one-of-a-kind, hip destination for fashion-conscious shoppers seeking trendy apparel and novel accessories.
Offerings include organic loungewear, embroidered handbags, jeweled sunglasses and trendy accessories set among stylish art and unique furnishings. The eclectic environment offers a raw and unfinished feel with jeweled chandeliers, distinct fixtures and mod furnishings.
Much of the merchandise will not be available anywhere else at Downtown Disney. Designers such as Kidada Jones, Tarina Tarantino and Roxy will showcase their artistry – blending it with Disney-inspired creations.
TrenD is located where Summer Sands once stood.
*Disney’s Design-A-Tee, an all new one-of-a-kind interactive store where guests can design their very own unique Disney-themed T’s, opened its doors just weeks ago. Presented by Hanes, this all new store features touch-screen kiosks where guests can select which type of T they would like (long sleeve or short all in an array of colors), the artwork (with over 100 choices) and personalized message (again with a selection of fonts and colors to choose from) they wish to have printed on it. In a matter of minutes the T is ready to take home. Disney Design-A- Tee is open from 9:30 am ‘till 11pm. Sizes run from infant to adult with prices ranging from $18 to $31. Currently only T-shirts are available however the company plans to offer additional apparel in the near future.
*In addition, Disney officials have confirmed the name of the newest E Brands restaurant to come to Downtown Disney - Paradiso 37. The menu will represent the 37 countries of North, Central and South America with an opening is set for later this spring 2009).
Paradiso 37 will be the first new restaurant to open in the re-imagined Pleasure Island district (and will be located across from what was once known as 8TRAX)
* Aerophile, Downtown Disney’s newest attraction also makes its debut this spring. This giant tethered balloon (72 feet in diameter) will take guests some 300 feet into the air from its West Side waterfront location offering sweeping 10-mile panoramas of Lake Buena Vista and environs.
Florida Residents Save at Cirque du Soleil - Florida residents can take in the show at a 20% savings between March 10 and June 27 (there are however a select number of block out dates).
TICKET INFORMATION Discounted tickets for La Nouba are $52 (child) and $64 (adult) plus tax and are available at the box office or by calling (407) WDW-SEAT. The special priced seats are on sale now for shows from March 10 through June 27 (block out dates of April 4 through 18 apply). The discount applies to Category 2 tickets only (regularly $67 and $83 plus tax). Proof of Florida residency is required. Tickets are subject to availability and restrictions apply.
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE Tuesdays through Saturdays at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. The theater is dark
Sundays and Mondays and May 17 through 31, 2009. For details, visit disneyworld.com/Cirque.
T-Rex is now open (and taking reservations) at Downtown Disney!
Given that T-Rex is owned and operated by the same folks who own and operate the Rainforest Café (one of Disney’s most popular eateries I might add), it should come as no great surprise that T-Rex is just as wildly exciting and interactive as its sibling – but T-Rex takes it one step further to ensure that this spectacularly unique establishment is unlike any other eatery you’ve ever experienced. For those who need a quick visual - think Rainforest Café, just a few thousand years earlier. Bubbling geysers, a fossil dig site, life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, themes of fire and ice throughout – all of this combined with a dash of edutainment create the newest – and neatest restaurant at Disney to date.
Look for a detailed review, the menus, and additional photos to be posted soon!
Portobello (at Downtown Disney) reopened in December 2008 with a simplified name and an all new look and feel, the interior featuring a warm and more rustic décor, its menu filled with authentic regional Italian fare and a wine list to match. Portobello is open daily from 11:30 am ‘till 11 pm. For reservations call 407-934-8888 – for additional information
go to www.portobellorestaurant.com |
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| WDW Dining News and Updates |
 Sanaa, the new table service restaurant at Animal Kingdom Villas' Kidani Village, is set to open May 1, 2009. Sanaa will feature African-inspired cuisine with an Indian touch and will be open for lunch and dinner.
The prices at the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot's Norway pavilion have increased. New prices are as follows:
- Breakfast $28.99 adult /$17.99 child 3-9
- Lunch $30.99 adult/$18.99 child 3-9
-Dinner $35.99 adult /$19.99 child 3-9
(Please Note that a additional holiday surcharge will be added on select dates)
The Rainforest Cafe at Downtown Disney is now taking reservations. Reservations can be taken for Monday through Friday – weekends remain Walk-up Only.
The Perfect Choice for a Prehistoric Palate (8.09)
Downtown Disney has added an all new and very unique themed dining experience. T-Rex, owned and operated by Landry’s (the company that owns and operates The Rainforest Café as well as the Animal Kingdom’s Yak & Yeti), brings with it a prehistoric twist to Disney’s lineup of family friendly dining options - think Rainforest Café, only several million years
Disney’s All New Quick Service Dining Plan (8.08)
For those wishing to save a few extra dollars by taking advantage of the Disney Dining Plan, but who would rather dine only at Disney’s quick service (or counter service) eateries, an all new Disney Dining Plan (with a slew of new options) will soon be available. Starting on January 11, 2009, Disney’s Magic Your Way Plus Quick Service Dining will allow guests 2 quick service meals and 2 snacks for each night booked and a refillable resort mug good for unlimited refills of non-alcoholic beverages (which is only good for refills at your own
resort).
Quick Service Dining Plan: $29.99 for Adults, $8.99 for kids
Basic Dining Plan: $39.99 for Adults, $10.99 for kids
Deluxe Dining Plan: $69.99 for Adults, $19.99 for kids
*Prices are per person per night and everyone must be on the same dining plan.
Dining at the Liberty Tree Tavern…Sans the Characters (8.08)
As of January 5, 2009, The Liberty Tree Tavern will no longer be hosting a character dinner.
Portobello (at Downtown Disney) reopened in December 2008 with a simplified name and an all new look and feel, the interior featuring a warm and more rustic décor, its menu filled with authentic regional Italian fare and a wine list to match. Portobello is open daily from 11:30 am ‘till 11 pm. For reservations call 407-934-8888 – for additional information
go to www.portobellorestaurant.com
Pricing for the Fantasmic Dinner Package has increased: Prices for the Fantasmic DinnerPackage have gone up – here’s the lowdown:
At the Hollywood Brown Derby: $46.99 for adults, $11.99 for children
(ages 3-9)
At Mama Melrose’s: $32.99 for adults, $11.99 for children (ages 3-9)
At Hollywood & Vine: $26.99 for adults, $13.99 for children (ages 3-9).
Included in the package is an appetizer, entrée, dessert, and a beverage (not including specialty or alcoholic drinks). Kids are required to order off of the children’s menu and can choose from a bowl of soup or a salad, an entrée, dessert, and beverage (not including specialty drinks). At Hollywood and Vine (a buffet restaurant) all items on the buffet are included as are children’s beverages - adult beverages, however, are not included in the price.
In addition to your meal, you will be seated in a preferred seating area for Fantasmic!
(so long as you arrive in a timely fashion – at least 30 to 45 minutes prior to the show).
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| Other Walt Disney World News |
Indy Racing Experience (November 2008) -- Race fans and thrill seekers alike now have the opportunity to buckle up and ride in IndyCar series race cars at the Walt Disney World Speedway. Both drive and ride options are available with the experience, which uses actual open-cockpit racing machines that were used in the Indy Racing League.
The Indy Racing Experience shares track hours with the popular Richard Petty Driving Experience. For more information, including rates, hours of operation and corporate packages: 888/357-5002 or www.indyracingexperience.com
Football Fans will have to head a bit further West this year - The Tampa Bay Bucs have moved
their training camp back to their headquarters and will no longer hold their practice sessions at
Walt Disney World
Disney’s Wide World of Sports is being renamed to become The ESPN Wide World of Sports.
The facility welcomes over 250,000 athletes each year along with just over a million spectators. Recent additions include the all new Jostens Center and plans are in the works for an all new bowling center.
In addition, the Atlanta Braves will return in the spring of 2009 for their 12th year of spring training at Walt Disney World. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster (407-839-3900) or at www.ticketmaster.com). Additional information, group tickets and mini-packs are available by calling 407-939-4263 or going online to www.disneysports.com
Fans attending Atlanta Braves spring training games this year at Disney’s Wide World of
Sports Complex have the opportunity to customize their experience with a variety of new
immersive features created specifically for spectators.
Features Include::
· On-Field Spectator Experience ($75 per person): Sponsored by Kodak, this option allows a limited
number of fans to watch pre-game batting practice and warm-ups on the field in an area behind home
plate. Fans purchasing this option will also receive a free disposable Kodak camera.
· House of Blues Entertainment (Free): Special pre-game and in-game concerts in the ballpark featuring
blues musicians Ruth King and Jeff Coffee at select games.
· All-You-Can-Eat Buffet ($18.95 per person): Designated patio along the third base side that features
all-you-can-eat hot dogs, hamburgers, popcorn, peanuts, soda and bottled water.
· Disney Character Appearances: A classic Disney character will be on hand at all 18 home games.
Characters will accompany first-pitch contestants to the mound.
· Music-Themed Games: Six games will be themed with music from the 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s, as
well as Latin music.
Additional fan features include trivia contests and several promotional nights, all designed to give
fans a baseball spring training experience they can’t get anywhere else.
The 12th edition of Atlanta Braves Spring Training at Disney features the best schedule ever at Champion
Stadium including games against the New York Yankees, the New York Mets, the World Champion
Philadelphia Phillies, the Boston Red Sox and two World Baseball Classic exhibitions against Venezuela
and Panama. The Braves open the spring season Feb. 26 against the Houston Astros.
Individual game tickets range from $15 (general admission lawn seats) to $28 (lower reserved);
please add $4 per ticket for Premium Games (Yankees, Mets and Red Sox). Tickets can be purchased
through Ticketmaster (407/839-3900 and ticketmaster.com) and at the Disney’s Wide World of Sports
Complex box office.
Information on the Braves’ spring training season, group tickets and mini-packs is available by
calling 407/939-GAME (4263) and online at disneysports.com. Fans may also purchase Atlanta Braves
Spring Training travel packages through Spring Training USA. Travel packages include Braves game
tickets, accommodations at Walt Disney World Resort and other benefits. Information is available online at springtrainingtours.com.
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2009 Atlanta Braves Spring Training Home Schedule
At Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex |
| Key Dates: |
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| Saturday, Jan. 10 |
Single-game tickets on sale |
| Thursday, Feb. 14 |
Pitchers and catchers report |
| Friday, Feb. 15 |
Pitchers and catchers first workout |
| Tuesday, Feb. 17 |
Position players report |
| Wednesday, Feb. 18 |
First full-squad workout |
| Thursday, Feb. 26 |
Houston Astros |
1:05 p.m. |
| Sunday, March 1 |
Philadelphia Phillies |
1:05 p.m. |
| Tuesday, March 3 |
World Baseball Classic Exb. (Panama) |
1:05 p.m. |
| Wednesday, March 4 |
New York Yankees |
1:05 p.m. |
| Thursday, March 5 |
World Baseball Classic Exb. (Venezuela) |
2:05 p.m. |
| Friday, March 6 |
Houston Astros |
7:05 p.m. |
| Sunday, March 8 |
Philadelphia Phillies |
1:05 p.m. |
| Thursday, March 12 |
Washington Nationals |
1:05 p.m. |
| Sunday, March 15 |
Houston Astros |
1:05 p.m. |
| Tuesday, March 17 |
New York Mets |
1:05 p.m. |
| Thursday, March 19 |
Detroit Tigers |
7:05 p.m. |
| Friday, March 20 |
Florida Marlins |
1:05 p.m. |
| Saturday, March 21 |
New York Mets |
1:05 p.m. |
| Tuesday, March 24 |
Pittsburgh Pirates |
6:05 p.m. |
| Thursday, March 26 |
Toronto Blue Jays |
1:05 p.m. |
| Friday, March 27 |
Detroit Tigers |
1:05 p.m. |
| Saturday, March 28 |
New York Yankees |
1:05 p.m. |
| Monday, March 30 |
Boston Red Sox |
1:05 p.m. |
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| Atlanta Braves Spring Training Ticket Prices: |
| Seat Location |
Season |
Individual Game |
| Lower Level Reserved |
$425 |
$28 |
| Upper Level Reserved (Rows A-L) |
$340 |
$24 |
| Upper Level Reserved (Rows M-W) |
$323 |
$22 |
| Bleacher Reserved (Sections 104-106) |
$340 |
$24 |
| Bleacher Reserved (Sections 101-103) |
$323 |
$22 |
| Grass Berm - General Admission |
$225 |
$15 |
| (Add $4 per ticket for Premium Games: Yankees, Mets and Red Sox). |
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Five-Game Mini-Plan includes tickets to: Nationals (3/12), Astros (3/15), Mets (3/17), Marlins (3/20) and Yankees (3/28) games for $128 (upper reserved, rows A-L, or bleacher reserved sections 104-106 – on sale now)
First Half Three-Game Mini-Pack includes tickets to: Phillies (3/1), Yankees (3/4) and Astros (3/6) games for $76 (upper reserved, rows A-L, or bleacher reserved sections 104-106 – on sale now)
Second Half Three-Game Mini-Pack includes tickets to: Pirates (3/24), Tigers (3/27) and Red Sox (3/30) games for $76 (upper reserved, rows A-L, or bleacher reserved sections 104-106 – on sale now)
Single-Game Tickets: Ticketmaster – 407/839-3900, www.ticketmaster.com or DWWS box office
Season and Group Tickets/Suites/Mini-Packs: DWWS Sports Sales – 407/939-GAME (4263)
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2009 Brings New Eastern Caribbean Routes to the Disney Cruise Line Itinerary. Disney Cruise Line guests have always enjoyed the beautiful turquoise waters and sugar sand beaches of the eastern Caribbean and, on select voyages throughout the 2009 season, guests will be able to explore either St. Croix or Tortola.
Beginning in 2009, St. Croix will be a featured stop on one new seven-night itinerary, and Tortola will be featured on another seven-night itinerary. Both islands are new to Disney Cruise Line, increasing the seven-night Caribbean choices on the Disney Magic to four itineraries (Disney's traditional eastern and western Caribbean itineraries will continue).
The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix offers a wonderful mix of colonial-style architecture, natural wonders, quaint shops and spectacular marine habitats.
Tortola, part of the British Virgin Islands, features centuries-old ruins, botanical gardens, sugar mills, sensational bays and beaches. The new eastern Caribbean itineraries will stop at St. Croix or Tortola, St. Thomas and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.
*Eastern Caribbean itineraries with St. Croix sail 1/3, 1/31, 2/28, 3/28, 10/10, 11/7 and 12/5/2009. In addition, The Disney Cruise Line will continue to offer its current version of the eastern Caribbean cruise with stops at St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Castaway Cay.
The traditional eastern Caribbean voyages will sail in-between the special sailings to St. Croix or Tortola.
Two New Ships for the Disney Cruise Line; The Disney Cruise Line is scheduled to add two new ocean liners to its fleet, more than doubling passenger capacity to meet the sustained demand for Disney's family cruise vacations. The new 122,000-ton cruise liners, scheduled to launch in 2011 and 2012, will be two decks taller than the existing 83,000- ton ships, the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. Specific design plans and itineraries for the ships are still in development.
The Disney Cruise Line has just named their newest ships - the Disney Dream (slated to launch in
2011) and the Disney Fantasy (slated to launch in 2012). For additional information regarding the
Disney Cruise Line go to www.disneycruiseline.com
The Disney Cruise Line will continue to sail from Port Canaveral - at least for the next 15 years. The Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder will continue to be based out of Port Canaveral through 2022 while Disney’s two new mega-ships (slated to make their debut in 2011 and 2012) will call Port Canaveral home through at least 2014. Together the ships are scheduled to make at least 150 calls each and every year. Upgrades to the port, including dock extensions, a terminal expansion, and environmental upgrades are all part of the deal. In addition, a parking garage is planned. The various upgrades to the port should be completed by 2010.
Walt Disney World Resort Announces Two Expansion Projects; Walt Disney World Resort has announced two projects as part of an expansion plan for the resort in Central Florida: a 900-acre luxury resort anchored by the prestigious Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and a 450-acre retail, dining and lodging district on the western edge of the Disney resort. Along the northeast border of Walt Disney World Resort, Disney plans to convert its Eagle Pines and Osprey Ridge golf courses into a luxury resort and golf community. The development will include a luxury hotel, 18-hole championship golf course, single- and multi-family vacation homes and fractional ownership vacation homes. Once terms of the project are finalized, site work could begin later this year, with a hotel opening forecasted for 2010.
On the western edge of the resort, Disney is planning a mixed-use tourist commercial district just outside Disney's gateway entrance. The master-planned development is comparable in size to Disney's Animal Kingdom. The project combines third-party branded lodging, retail and dining in a pedestrian-friendly environment. Located outside Disney's gateway around the interchange where Western Way meets the Western Beltway, early development plans include 4,000 to 5,000 low to mid-rise, value-priced lodging units and 300,000-500,000 square feet of commercial space. The project is currently in the design stage. Site work and branding is anticipated to begin later this year. The project will be built in phases over the next 8 to 10 years.
New family-friendly adventure vacations (Adventures by Disney) – An expedition to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, a safari in Africa, and an exploration of Alaska are among seven new adventures in 2009, giving guests a total of 22 vacation options to choose from. Other new Adventures by Disney itineraries: Italy and Switzerland; Central Italy; Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park and San Francisco; and Glacier National Park and Banff National Park.
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