Wednesday, July 27, 2005

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
July 27, 2005
Copyright © 1999 - 2005 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
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=================================================
Hi Everyone!

In this issue...

* New deals and specials - including airfare to Orlando for
$59!
* The latest news from around the "World" - boy drowns at
Grand Floridian and is resuscitated by NFL sports agent!
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about a Magical Express
perk for Floridians
* Simone from Italy asks about how to get a job at WDW
* Karena asks about Sea World's Makahiki Luau
* This week's money saving tip
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:

WALT DISNEY WORLD:

A reminder...

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only at
Walt Disney World's Port Orleans French Quarter in November,
2005.

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only at
Walt Disney World's Port Orleans French Quarter and
Wilderness Lodge in December, 2005!

"Hi John, I just joined your affordable Disney group. My
wife and I have been planning a trip to Disney World in
December. When we received your newsletter and saw the
prices we were just awed."

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only on a
3-day cruise aboard the Disney Wonder in December, 2005.
Beth writes: "Prices are at least $50 per cabin below
Disney's current pricing, it's a short cruise over a weekend
so you don't have to take a lot of time off work, you can
easily combine it with our great room rates, and the ship is
all decked out (so to speak) for the holidays."

--------------------------------

Orlando Travel Special: Take advantage of another great
summer offer in Orlando at two exceptional resorts just 1.5
miles from Walt Disney World® Resorts. And complimentary
scheduled transportation to Walt Disney World® parks is
available.

* August 1-31: bed and breakfast from $108; $129 suite
* September 1-8: $109 suite only or $139 bed and breakfast
* September 1-30: $98 bed and breakfast

--------------------------------

Cheap Airfare to Orlando! Fly from NYC, Newark, Boston,
Buffalo, Burlington, Rochester and Syracuse to Orlando for
$59! Valid 09/06/05-12/14/05. Blackout dates apply. Sale
fare must be booked by Aug 10, 2005.

--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Disney Cruise Line Specials for Florida Residents and Active
Duty Military from $399!

--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Save 25% on Disney's Halloween Party at Disney's California
Adventure. Dates this year: October 21, 22, 28 and 29.

=================================================
LAS VEGAS

Stay at this luxury Resort & Casino July through October,
2005 starting at $79/Night per room, per night, based on
single or double occupancy! Includes:

* Room Upgrade
* 2 for 1 drinks
* 2 for 1 Breakfast
* 2 for 1 Spa Admission
* $10 FREE PLAY
* $10 Starbucks Credit

--------------------------------

This hotel & casino is running a hotel/restaurant special
July 31 - September 13, 2005. Rooms From $89!

Includes:

* One complimentary breakfast with a purchase of breakfast
for equal or lesser value
* One complimentary cocktail or bottle of wine with purchase
of a dinner entrée
* $15 lunch special for two
* One complimentary souvenir mug with the purchase of any
cocktail
* 2-for-1 at the bar
* $50 discount on any cabana rental at the resort pool

--------------------------------

Affordable Disney Members should log in at our password-
protected site (The Disney Reading Room) to access the
particulars about the above mentioned specials.

If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
=================================================
News From Around The "World"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Beth, our travel agent, writes: "Jet Blue has just recently
joined the family of "preferred" Magical Express airlines.
The service handles incoming traffic from ALL airlines, but
if you book on of the (now) seven preferred airlines then
you can check in your bags and get your boarding passes at
the hotel before you even head to the airport, thus allowing
you to bypass the check-in line at the airport and go
straight to security. Those airlines are Delta, Song,
United, Ted, American, Continental and Jet Blue."
--------------------------------
SeaWorld wants to add a water park. Where will the visitors
come from?

"The park will have to reinvent itself as a two-day
attraction -- something that'll be difficult in Orlando's
competitive market...

That means taking business away from Universal, Disney or
the area's smaller attractions. SeaWorld also will have to
get people to come back without having on-site hotels that
keep tourists captive."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/22/05)
--------------------------------
Halloween Horror Nights 15 at Universal Orlando: September
30 and October 1, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22,
23, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, 2005. Tickets are now on sale.
$59.75 + 6.5% tax. Florida residents: $52.75 + tax.
--------------------------------
"The SeaWorld Sharks Deep Dive and Epcot DiveQuest at Walt
Disney World are specialty programs offering a stimulating
alternative to the usual Central Florida theme-park
experience. Beyond the cuddly mascots, bouncy show tunes and
tourists wearing Bermuda shorts, another universe awaits."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/21/05)
--------------------------------
"Orlando police are investigating reports that a 15-year-old
boy was sexually assaulted in a bathroom of the Wet 'n Wild
water park Wednesday afternoon by a man in his 50s."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/21/05)

REMEMBER - You're on vacation, but the criminals are always
at work! Be careful.
--------------------------------
"On Monday, as part of the 50th anniversary of the theme
parks, the company saluted its Orlando employees with a
special "tribute" window.

The glass, unveiled by local Prez Al Weiss, was inscribed
with Walt's words, "It takes people to make the dream a
reality." It'll be hung in a shop on Main Street."

At the same time, Disney fired 230 Orlando tech workers
whose jobs are being outsourced to IBM. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/20/05)
--------------------------------
"Rosenhaus, the controversial hardball-playing sports agent,
performed life-saving CPR on 3-year-old Maurice Garrett, who
was unconscious after being pulled from a pool at a Disney
World resort. The boy was transported to Celebration
Hospital and was to be transferred to Florida Hospital
Orlando late Tuesday. He was listed in good condition,
according to hospital spokeswoman Samantha O'Lenick"
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/20/05)
--------------------------------
"Disney's once-in-a-lifetime fundraising event held aboard
the Disney Magic cruise ship last night generated more than
$1 million for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. After Disney
Chief Executive Officer Michael Eisner presented the check
to Make-A-Wish Foundation of America President and Chief
Executive Officer David Williams, Disney President, Chief
Operating Officer and CEO-Elect Bob Iger called upon Mickey
Mouse and Minnie Mouse to present Williams with a surprise
second check for $1 million dollars donated by the company.

The $2 million will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of
America and the Greater Los Angeles, Orange County and
Inland Empire, Calif., chapters, helping them continue their
mission of granting the wishes of children with life-
threatening medical conditions to enrich the human
experience with hope, strength and joy."
(Source: DisneyHand Foundation, 07/19/05)

As many of you now, Donna and I are proud supporters of the
Make-A-Wish Foundation®. To learn more about this wonderful
organization, click here.
--------------------------------
CLOSED FOR REFURBISHMENT

Disney's Contemporary Resort South Garden Wing:
May 30 - Oct. 31

Epcot: The Living Seas: 8/21/2005 - Nov. 2005
=================================================
A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR

Our Ticket agent has great prices on tickets to Walt Disney
World and other Florida attractions!

"I thought I knew all the tips for saving money at WDW, even
being a member of the Magic Kingdom Club for over 15 years,
but just learning about [your ticket agent] saved our family
over $300!!! Thanks." Janet Handy, Bel Air, MD

"Plenty of roadside outfits in Orlando promise discounted
tickets, but most of them really want to rope you into a
time-share sales pitch in exchange for vouchers - accept at
your own risk. [Affordable Disney's ticket agent], though,
is legit." The New York Post, November 16, 2004.

FORGET paying too much for your Disney tickets! Keep that
extra money in YOUR pocket! Join our Disney family today.
See: http://www.affordabledisney.com/ .
=================================================
HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

"Disneyland Resort Line, the rail link running between the
new Tung Chung Line Sunny Bay Station and the Disneyland
Resort Station, will be open to the public August 1...

Inside the Disneyland Resort Station, people can find Mickey
Mouse everywhere as nearly 200 Mickey head logos in five
styles are printed on lifts or engraved on lamp poles inside
the station." (Source: The Standard, 07/26/05).
--------------------------------
"Lobster soup and seafood bouillon will replace the
controversial shark fin soup at Hong Kong Disneyland wedding
banquets, a Disney spokeswoman said Friday."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/15/05)
--------------------------------
NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without
notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message,
search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain
newspapers require a free registration to view their
articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than
one line, copy and paste all lines.
=================================================
Beth, our travel agent, writes about a Magical Express perk
for Floridians::

"If you're a Florida resident that flies from time to time
then you learn very quickly that Orlando often has fares
significantly lower than other airports in the state. While
driving several hours to the Orlando airport to save $50 may
not make any sense, if you're going to save hundreds then
it's worth a thought. I did it myself once, and checked into
a Days Inn near the airport that allowed me to leave my car
there while I was gone. They provided free transportation to
the airport and back, too. It was a yucky hotel with nothing
to do close by, but I saved a lot on the air.

Now, though, I and the rest of my fellow Floridians have
another option! Disney confirms that you ARE permitted to
leave your car parked at Disney for free and use their new
complimentary airport shuttle service provided you spend at
least one night before and one night after your trip at a
Disney hotel, and it has to be the SAME hotel on both ends.
You just add one-way Magical Express information to each
reservation, and let the front desk know that you'll be
leaving your car in the lot until you get back.

(Note that only Disney resort guests with reservations can
use the Magical Express, so you can't stay offsite and then
just park at Disney and use their airport transfers.)"
=================================================
YOU CAN AFFORD DISNEY WORLD!

If you THINK a Disney vacation costs too much ... WE AGREE!
That's why we created the ULTIMATE Disney savings site. Save
up to 40% on your total trip. Learn about discounts on
tickets, food, Disney merchandise, hotels ON Disney
property, travel, parking, and MUCH more. Too much to list
here. See it all here.
=================================================
Simone writes:

"Hi, I’m Italian & I’m 20 years old. I’m so interested in
your job in Orlando. what [do] I have to do if I want to
work in Disney world? Thank you so much."

Simone, see:
http://www.affordabledisney.com/wdwemployment.html
=================================================
Karena writes:

"I've seen many negative, as well as positive, testimonials
of the Spirit of Aloha at the Polynesian Resort. I haven't
seen any testimonials about Sea World's Makahiki Luau. I've
been wondering which is the better show. Planning to go in
June 2006."

Click here for an interesting comparison.

See Disney's if you want to see the characters do the hoola!
=================================================
MONEY SAVING TIP

The Kitchen - Hard Rock Hotel Orlando
5600 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: 407-503-3463
Fax: 407-503-2003

Looks like a spacious kitchen in a rock star’s mansion.

Present this coupon and receive $10.00 off lunch or dinner with purchase of two entrees. Valid through June 30, 2006.
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Affordable Disney Transportation

Elegance Transportation provides affordable transportation
to Walt Disney World, the Disney Cruise Line, Universal, Wet
'n Wild, the Convention Center, and much more! Elegance also
includes a 30-minute grocery stop at no additional cost.
Plus! Affordable Disney members save up to $10.00 on
roundtrip transportation! For services and rates, click here.
--------------------------------
Don't Leave Home Without It!

Universal offers special deals to Universal Entertainment
MasterCard cardholders. Apply now and receive a movie ticket
with your first purchase! For more details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Books

Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price.
Hundreds of books under $1.00! Plus! Over 700 videos have
been marked down to $1.99!

Exclusively for Affordable Disney Readers!
Save $5.00 on an order of $35 or more!
Coupon code: bookcloseouts
Coupon password: bargainbooks
Expires: December 31, 2005
To check out the bargains, click here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?

With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on
travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, restaurants
near WDW, and more! For details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Accommodations

Get the guaranteed lowest prices at the Downtown Disney
Resorts as well as at hotels, condos and vacation rentals
outside Disney property. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Car Rental

Just enter in your travel dates, select the kind of car you
want, and receive a list of car rental prices at over 12
companies starting with the cheapest price! Click here.

Cheryl writes: "I saved over $200.00 on my mini van rental!!!"
--------------------------------
Affordable Airfare

This service delivers as many as 230 flight options in a
single search - more options than any other travel site.
It's possible to save as much as 80%! To compare prices, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Luggage

Save up to 60% on Luggage, Backpacks, and more! Click here.
--------------------------------
Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom

Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They
feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock
brokers that require you to purchase several shares of
stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the
certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or
OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
=============================================

See You Real Soon!

John

AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
=============================================
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information
contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The
views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do
not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
=============================================

Tuesday, July 19, 2005

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
July 19, 2005
Copyright © 1999 - 2005 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon: Subscribe with Bloglines

Or copy and paste the following URL into your RSS Reader:
http://affordabledisney.blogspot.com/atom.xml

: My Yahoo! users can instantly add our blog
content to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!

: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN!
Add to My MSN!

=================================================
Hi Everyone!

In this issue...

* New deals and specials - including WDW discounts for
teachers, military, government workers, and nurses from ANY
country!
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney Cruise
Line buses sidelined because of fires!
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about Disney dining
reservations
* Sue writes about her son's disturbing ride on a Disney bus
* Reid asks about the perks for those traveling with a youth
group to WDW
* This week's money saving tip
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:

WALT DISNEY WORLD:

A reminder...

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only at
Walt Disney World's Port Orleans French Quarter in November,
2005.

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only at
Walt Disney World's Port Orleans French Quarter and
Wilderness Lodge in December, 2005!

"Hi John, I just joined your affordable Disney group. My
wife and I have been planning a trip to Disney World in
December. When we received your newsletter and saw the
prices we were just awed."

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only on a
3-day cruise aboard the Disney Wonder in December, 2005.
Beth writes: "Prices are at least $50 per cabin below
Disney's current pricing, it's a short cruise over a weekend
so you don't have to take a lot of time off work, you can
easily combine it with our great room rates, and the ship is
all decked out (so to speak) for the holidays."

--------------------------------

Universal Summer/Fall Vacation Package saves you $340!
Includes:

* 4 nights and 5 days at the Royal Pacific Resort
* Admission for the length of your stay to Universal
Studios, Islands of Adventure, Wet 'n Wild and SeaWorld
* Universal Express ride access - skip the regular lines
* Complimentary transportation to all four theme parks

--------------------------------

Florida Resident Special starting at $59 per night!

--------------------------------

Beth, our travel agent, can book an add-on package for
Epcot's Food and Wine Festival September 30 - November 13,
2005 for only $119 + tax per person! Includes:

* Reserved seating at Eat to the Beat! concert at the
American Gardens Theatre
* Admission to the "Party for the Senses." Sample dishes and
wines while being entertained by Cirque du Soleil.
* Commemorative bottle of wine and Riedel wine glass gift
set

--------------------------------

Another note from Beth:

"I have a client who is doing a family group in October.
They have a GREAT rate for concierge level rooms at Animal
Kingdom Lodge for October 13-14-15 and will not be using all
the space that is currently blocked, so we can sell up to 4
more rooms to anyone else who wants to take advantage.

As you know, we are not allowed to advertise prices, but I
can say that it's a VERY good rate - and given that you
can't even access annual pass or Florida resident rates for
these dates at this point, it's just that much sweeter.
First ones to ask get them!"
=================================================
LAS VEGAS

The most spectacular suites the Strip has to offer are now
available this summer at this luxury hotel & casino from
only $149 per night! Valid from June 27 to Sept 12, 2005.
Hurry! Book by July 25, 2005!

--------------------------------

Affordable Disney Members should log in at our password-
protected site (The Disney Reading Room) to access the
particulars about the above mentioned specials.

If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
=================================================
Beth, our travel agent, writes about Disney dining
reservations:

"Disney is at it again. In their ongoing attempt to give
added value to being a guest of a "real" Disney resort, they
will now allow Disney resort guests to book up to 10 days of
dining reservations at once up to 90 days prior to their
arrival date. That means that Disney resort guests will have
first shot at booking meals that are as many as 100 days
out, including the ever-popular character breakfasts.

This change effects ONLY people staying at Disney-owned and
operated resorts. This does NOT apply to guests of the Swan
and Dolphin, people traveling on DVC points, military
staying at Shades of Green, and people staying at the
Downtown Disney resorts. Guests of these hotels, as well as
all resorts not on Disney property, may still book
reservations 90 days prior to the day they want to eat. They
will have to call back each day until they've covered all
the days of their stay, just as they've been required to do
for years.

If you are staying at a Disney resort and have a reservation
number, call 1-407-WDW-DINE at 90 days prior to arrival. How
are you supposed to figure THAT out, you ask? Use this great
website to look up the date: (Fill in your arrival date and then
press the CALC button.) Note that you still have to cancel
any pre-pay reservations you don't want lest you be charged
a no-show fee.

If you are part of the Affordable Disney November or
December groups at Port Orleans and Wilderness Lodge, rest
assured that we are working closely with the Groups
department at Disney to find out how you will be able to
take advantage of this new perk. They've always issued
individual reservations numbers to group participants, but
normally not until a few weeks before the travel date.
Perhaps they will just have to start earlier now! :-)"
=================================================
A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR

Our Ticket agent has GREAT PRICES on tickets to Walt Disney
World and other Florida attractions!

"I thought I knew all the tips for saving money at WDW, even
being a member of the Magic Kingdom Club for over 15 years,
but just learning about [your ticket agent] saved our family
over $300!!! Thanks." Janet Handy, Bel Air, MD

"Plenty of roadside outfits in Orlando promise discounted
tickets, but most of them really want to rope you into a
time-share sales pitch in exchange for vouchers - accept at
your own risk. [Affordable Disney's ticket agent], though,
is legit." The New York Post, November 16, 2004.

FORGET paying too much for your Disney tickets! Keep that
extra money in YOUR pocket! Join our Disney family today.
=================================================
News From Around The "World"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

"Fourteen Disney Cruise Line buses were removed from service
this week because of concerns about two separate fires in
the past 11 months.

The buses are operated by Orlando-based Mears Transportation
Group, which shuttles Disney customers between Orlando and
the coast. Both fires were attributed to problems with the
buses' braking systems, which are being replaced in the
remaining vehicles." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/16/05)
--------------------------------
Beth, our travel agent, writes: "I have it on good advice
that August 15 will be the day that Candlelight Processional
dinner package reservations go on sale via Disney dining."
--------------------------------
"SeaWorld Orlando confirmed Thursday that its proposed new
attraction will be a "naturalistic water park" that will
give visitors a chance to be in close contact with marine
life while taking water rides...

SeaWorld officials said one of the park's signature elements
would be an attraction that would swoosh swimsuit-clad
visitors down clear acrylic flumes amid a lagoon of jumping
Commerson's dolphins, a rare species native to South
America." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/15/05)
The water park is scheduled to open in 2007.

"The thought of kids careening down water slides at a
planned SeaWorld water park brings no joy to Williamsburg
resident Anthony Franco... The neighborhood lies in the
shadow of SeaWorld, and the traffic makes too much noise, he
said. "Just wait until they make it bigger," he warned."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/1905)
--------------------------------
"Each summer, Gatorland offers thrill-seekers the chance to
assist in its annual egg-collecting duties.

When the park's randy reptile residents are done mating,
trainers guide guests into the 10-acre breeding marsh in
search of fertile nests. Once a mound is isolated from the
protective mother, participants carefully excavate the pile
of decomposing plant matter to unearth 30 to 70 eggs. From
there, it's off to incubation and a safe birth."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/08/05)
--------------------------------
"Disney guests must now put their index and middle fingers
into a device at the turnstile that assigns a code to link
the image of their fingers with their name and ticket...

Universal Orlando relies on photographs to identify pass-
holders, but by the end of the year it plans to roll out a
new system that uses finger geometry. SeaWorld uses a
variation of the finger-scanning device for its multiday
pass holders but does not require it for single-day ticket
holders." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/14/05)
--------------------------------
"No one saw it coming. Over and over again, Leanne Deacon
rode the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror thrill ride without a
hitch. The British teen had visited Disney-MGM Studios six
times in a week...

Leanne remained in critical condition at Florida Hospital
Orlando on Wednesday, a day after doctors discovered blood
on her brain and performed emergency surgery." (Source:
Orlando Sentinel, 07/14/05)
--------------------------------
"The sidewalk star, one of Hollywood's most venerable perks,
is going corporate.

Long available to celebrities with $15,000 and a project to
promote, a version of the iconic symbol will be given for
the first time Thursday to a company: Disneyland is
receiving the pink terrazzo-and-brass star in honor of the
Anaheim theme park's 50th anniversary."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/13/05)
--------------------------------
CLOSED FOR REFURBISHMENT

Disney's Contemporary Resort South Garden Wing:
May 30 - Oct. 31

Epcot:
The Living Seas: 8/21/2005 - Nov. 2005
Turtle Talk with Crush: 8/21/2005 - Nov. 2005
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Happy Birthday Disneyland!

Disneyland turned 50 on July 17, 2005. Click here for related stories.

"Thousands of Disney fans donned special gold-colored Mickey
ears as they streamed through the entrance to Disneyland on
Sunday, 50 years after the landmark opened its gates and
gave birth to the modern theme park." (Source: Associated Press, 07/17/05)
--------------------------------
NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without
notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message,
search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain
newspapers require a free registration to view their
articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than
one line, copy and paste all lines.
=================================================
Sue writes:

"Our family went to Fl. at the end of March and we were
looking forward to a great time. My son, who has Aspergers
Syndrome, a form of Autism was especially excited, which was
great because he seldom shows excitement about anything.
There were only 2 places he really wanted to go, that was
Epcot and Kennedy Space center.

After arriving and looking at different pamphlets we thought
that Animal Kingdom would be something he would enjoy. We
took the shuttle from the parking lot to Animal Kingdom and
it was extremely crowded, especially since so many people
had to stand. This was irritating to most and was especially
for a person that has special needs and by the end of the
trip it was especially bad for our son.

The trip back on the shuttle to the parking lot was
devastating for our son. The amount of people that were
crowded onto the bus was unbelievable, people packed in
seats not to mention all that were standing. Our son had a
total melt down (a term used for autistic people). Neither
my husband nor I were able to sit with him due to the amount
of people packed on the bus. I saw him from behind (I was 2
seats back) and could tell what was happening to him, it was
devastating.

After getting off the shuttle our son would not let us
comfort or console him, he couldn't stand to be touched
because of this incident. Knowing that his main goal of
going to Fl. was to go to Epcot and Kennedy we thought we
would take him the next day to Epcot, but he wanted no part
of going to either of the places. He asked if he would have
to go on the shuttle again and we told him it was possible
and he started to cry and said we would never go back. So
that shuttle ride ended his expectations, any chance or
thought we had of doing anything at the Disney parks, which
was such a shame. After that all he wanted to do was stay at
the motel and go to the pool.

I did not see anything, shuttle wise, to make the Disney
experience a nice one for the special needs. I do understand
that the parks get crowded, but something should really be
done about the shuttle situation. I enjoy the Affordable
Disney newsletter and got some very helpful hints. I did not
know who to contact about the problems we encountered, so I
thought telling you this story you maybe able to get it to
the appropriate persons in charge. Thank you."

Sue, I'm very sorry to hear about your son's experience.
Disney really loads those buses to capacity.

You can make a complaint or a comment about your experiences
at WDW...

Disney has provided a form online.

Snailmail your letter to:

COMPLAINTS AND COMMENTS:
Walt Disney World Guest Communications
P.O. Box 10040
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-0040

For those who may find themselves in a similar situation, I
would recommend calling a taxi or renting a car to avoid
taking the shuttle to the parks.
=================================================
YOU CAN AFFORD DISNEY WORLD!

If you THINK a Disney vacation costs too much ... WE AGREE!
That's why we created the ULTIMATE Disney savings site. Save
up to 40% on your total trip. Learn about discounts on
tickets, food, Disney merchandise, hotels ON Disney
property, travel, parking, and MUCH more. Too much to list
here. See it all here.
=================================================
Reid writes:

"John,

My daughter is going with her school choir group to sing at
Disneyland.... I am taking the whole family to Disneyworld
for the international soccer tournament.... That same
daughter will be playing in the soccer tournament.

Here is my question: Being at Disneyland are there any
savings or things you would recommend she buy at Disneyland
(i.e.: tickets, or ?) for our family trip to Disneyworld?"

No savings there. Buy your tickets for Disney World from our
ticket agent.

"The second part of that question... are there any
particular savings or things we should do when someone in
your party is participating in a Disneyworld event?"

Disney has a separate division for youth groups and there
are perks. For example, a chaperone gets one free chaperone
ticket for every ten student tickets purchased. If you need
more chaperone tickets than that, you can buy one additional
chaperone ticket at the student price for every five student
tickets. See the book for details.

"Thanks Again....this is an awesome site and I am going to
tell my soccer team about you."
=================================================
MONEY SAVING TIP

Islands Dining Room at Universal's Royal Pacific Resort
6300 Hollywood Way
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: 407-503-3000
Fax: 407-503-3010

Enjoy the taste of the islands and traditional menu items in
Islands Dining Room. Present this coupon and receive $10 off lunch or dinner with purchase of two entrees. Valid through
June 30, 2006
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Affordable Disney Transportation

Elegance Transportation provides affordable transportation
to Walt Disney World, the Disney Cruise Line, Universal, Wet
'n Wild, the Convention Center, and much more! Elegance also
includes a 30-minute grocery stop at no additional cost.
Plus! Affordable Disney members save up to $10.00 on
roundtrip transportation! For services and rates, click here.
--------------------------------
Don't Leave Home Without It!

Universal offers special deals to Universal Entertainment
MasterCard cardholders. Apply now and receive a movie ticket
with your first purchase! For more details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Books

Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price.
Hundreds of books under $1.00! Plus! Over 700 videos have
been marked down to $1.99!

Exclusively for Affordable Disney Readers!
Save $5.00 on an order of $35 or more!
Coupon code: bookcloseouts
Coupon password: bargainbooks
Expires: December 31, 2005
To check out the bargains, click here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?

Here's a great deal on the 2005 Edition of the Orlando
Entertainment Book, which can save you thousands on travel,
groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more!

All 2005 Entertainment books are FREE when you pre-order the
exciting 2006 edition! Offer expires July 31, 2005.

For details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Accommodations

Get the guaranteed lowest prices at the Downtown Disney
Resorts as well as at hotels, condos and vacation rentals
outside Disney property. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Car Rental

Just enter in your travel dates, select the kind of car you
want, and receive a list of car rental prices at over 12
companies starting with the cheapest price! Click here.

Cheryl writes: "I saved over $200.00 on my mini van rental!!!"
--------------------------------
Affordable Airfare

This service delivers as many as 230 flight options in a
single search - more options than any other travel site.
It's possible to save as much as 80%! To compare prices, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Luggage

Save up to 60% on Luggage, Backpacks, and more! Click here.
--------------------------------
Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom

Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They
feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock
brokers that require you to purchase several shares of
stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the
certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or
OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
=============================================

See You Real Soon!

John

AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
=============================================
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information
contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The
views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do
not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
=============================================

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
July 13, 2005
Copyright © 1999 - 2005 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon: Subscribe with Bloglines

Or copy and paste the following URL into your RSS Reader:
http://affordabledisney.blogspot.com/atom.xml

: My Yahoo! users can instantly add our blog
content to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!

: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN!
Add to My MSN!

=================================================
Hi Everyone!

In this blog...

* New deals and specials - Fly to Orlando from $39 with 14-
day advance purchase!
* The latest news from around the "World" - London has been
chosen as the site for the 2012 Olympics, but not everyone
at Epcot's World Showcase is happy about it!
* Terry writes about bus problems at Port Orleans Riverside
* Andrew writes about check-ins during the night
* This week's money saving tip
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:

WALT DISNEY WORLD:

A reminder...

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only at
Walt Disney World's Port Orleans French Quarter in November,
2005.

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only at
Walt Disney World's Port Orleans French Quarter and
Wilderness Lodge in December, 2005!

"Hi John, I just joined your affordable Disney group. My
wife and I have been planning a trip to Disney World in
December. When we received your newsletter and saw the
prices we were just awed."

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only on a
3-day cruise aboard the Disney Wonder in December, 2005.
Beth writes: "Prices are at least $50 per cabin below
Disney's current pricing, it's a short cruise over a weekend
so you don't have to take a lot of time off work, you can
easily combine it with our great room rates, and the ship is
all decked out (so to speak) for the holidays."

--------------------------------

FLY TO FLORIDA FOR $39!

Fly on this airline to Orlando for $39 to $149 one-way with
14-day advance purchase! Additional taxes, fees, and
restrictions apply. 14-day advance purchase required.
Purchase through August 4, 2005, midnight Pacific Time.
Travel to/from all Florida markets valid August 18 through
September 29, 2005. Travel to other markets: August 18
through October 28, 2005. Fares are one-way and can be
combined with other fare types. Example: Maryland to Orlando
roundtrip: $91.16 + tax or $116.00 total per person!

--------------------------------

In Florida 07/23/05 to 07/31/05? This tip will save you 6.5%
on souvenirs.

--------------------------------

If you're looking to add accommodations before or after a 3-
or 4-night cruise, you can book hotel accommodations at
these Deluxe resorts on Disney property. Valid through Dec.
23, 2006. Starting at just $229 (tax included) per night.
Plus! Book two or more nights prior to your cruise and you
can check-in for your cruise at the Disney Cruise Line
Resort Hospitality Desk rather than the terminal and enjoy
the health club at the resort. Applies to categories 4-12 on
the ship. Blackout dates apply.
=================================================
LAS VEGAS

Enjoy Tower rooms at this Hotel & Casino from $40! Valid
July 9, 2005 - September 8, 2005. Hurry! Offer Expires July
15, 2005.

--------------------------------

Hotel & Casino Summer Splash! Starting at $109 per room!
Enjoy award-winning restaurants, pools and spa, as well as
must-see shows. It's time to give yourself a vacation from
the ordinary. Includes:

* $35 Dining Credit
* 15% Off Spa Services
* Poolside Cocktail
* Free Inner Tube Rental
* and more!

Offer valid 7/10/05 through 09/29/05 Sun - Thurs only. Book
by July 28, 2005.

--------------------------------

Affordable Disney Members should log in at our password-
protected site (The Disney Reading Room) to access the
particulars about the above mentioned specials.

If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
=================================================
A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR

Our Ticket agent has GREAT PRICES on tickets to Walt Disney
World and other Florida attractions!

"I thought I knew all the tips for saving money at WDW, even
being a member of the Magic Kingdom Club for over 15 years,
but just learning about [your ticket agent] saved our family
over $300!!! Thanks." Janet Handy, Bel Air, MD

"Plenty of roadside outfits in Orlando promise discounted
tickets, but most of them really want to rope you into a
time-share sales pitch in exchange for vouchers - accept at
your own risk. [Affordable Disney's ticket agent], though,
is legit." The New York Post, November 16, 2004.

FORGET paying too much for your Disney tickets! Keep that
extra money in YOUR pocket! Join our Disney family today.
=================================================
News From Around The "World"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

"The Holy Land Experience may seem like just another theme
park, with its $30 admission charge, $5 parking fee and
souvenir shops.

But, ending a four-year legal battle, a judge has ruled that
the religious-themed attraction deserves the same tax-exempt
status given to churches and museums. The ruling spares its
owner from paying a delinquent property-tax bill that would
have climbed to more than $1 million by the end of the
year." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/12/05)
--------------------------------
"On the eve of the actual 50th anniversary of Disneyland
(July 17, 2005), Disney celebrates 50 years of theme park
magic by announcing the results of a national consumer
survey, conducted by independent research firm, Directive
Analytics, that reveals what America loves most about
Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World Resort in
Florida...

According to the survey, Disney theme parks bring out the
kid in all of us with nearly half of respondents (46
percent) admitting to wearing the park's iconic Mickey Mouse
Club "Ears." Nearly 3 out of 4 Americans (72 percent) can
sing a chorus of "It's a Small World (After All)." At the
"summit" of America's list of favorite Disney theme park
attractions was Space Mountain (63 percent), followed
closely by Pirates of the Caribbean (62 percent) and the
Haunted Mansion (49 percent). Parents most appreciate the
family focus of attractions such as Mad Tea Party (Tea
Cups), and the perennial Fantasyland favorite, Dumbo the
Flying Elephant." (Source: Directive Analytics, 07/12/05)
For the rest of the survey results, click here.
--------------------------------
ESPN's Great Outdoor Games will take place July 13-16 and
will be telecast on ABC (WFTV-Ch. 9) on July 16-17.

"None of the entrants...is used to competing in Central
Florida's dog days, with heat indices in the 100s." (Source:
Orlando Sentinel, 07/08/05)
--------------------------------
The choice of London as the site for the 2012 Olympics
brought a mixed reaction from the French and British at
Epcot.

"At Walt Disney World's Epcot on Wednesday, a morning
meeting of employees who staff the park's United Kingdom
attraction erupted into applause at word of London's
victory... The jovial mood in the United Kingdom area
dissipated as tourists moved over a bridge and in view of
Disney's mock Eiffel Tower." (Source: Orlando Sentinel,
07/07/05)
--------------------------------
"The Walt Disney Company and the nephew of the company's
founder announced yesterday that they had patched things up,
enabling the new chief executive, Robert A. Iger, to quickly
put behind him one of the biggest potential challenges to
his leadership." (Source: The New York Times, 07/09/05)
--------------------------------
Disney's free transportation program, Magical Express, is
taking a toll on transportation services in the area.

"... some in Orlando's tourism industry say Magical Express
is causing not-so-magical financial distress for cabbies,
limo drivers and the other little guys who could always
count on the bucks they make from Disney visitors.

Some cab drivers report losing as much as 90 percent of
their business, and limo services say business is down by
more than a third. There's even evidence that car-rental
agencies have been affected." (Source: Orlando Sentinel,
07/06/05)
--------------------------------
CLOSED FOR REFURBISHMENT

Disney's Contemporary Resort South Garden Wing:
May 30 - Oct. 31
=================================================
HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

"Walt Disney Co. said Friday its immediate focus is to open
the Hong Kong Disneyland -- its first theme park in China --
later this year and that it is unlikely to open a second
park in China before 2010...

The company said in February that it was considering a theme
park in Shanghai but would first expand the Hong Kong park,
which is scheduled to open in September." (Source: CNN
Money
, 07/09/05)
--------------------------------
"The Wicked Queen will not know what hit her. Snow White is
about to be transformed into a martial arts epic with
Shaolin monks replacing the seven dwarves of the original
Grimm Brothers fairytale.

In a sign of the times, Walt Disney is behind the kung fu
retelling of its 1937 animated classic, which is part of an
intensifying strategy to make inroads into the Chinese
cinema market ahead of Hollywood rivals." (Source: The
Guardian
, 07/05/05)
--------------------------------
"Hong Kong Disneyland has given 20,000 free tickets to poor
families and the disabled to visit the new theme park before
it opens to the public, officials said Saturday." (Source:
firstcoastnews.com, 07/05/05)
--------------------------------
"... some critics say Hong Kong is overspending on the park.
Disney will invest $316 million for a 43% stake. The Hong
Kong government, by contrast, will get 57%, but it will pony
up more than $2.9 billion for the park and infrastructure
improvements related to it."

Repeat visitors may be hard to come by: "A day pass for a
typical family of two parents and one child will start at
$103 -- a princely sum even in booming Guangdong province,
across the border from Hong Kong, where the average
urbanite's disposable income is just over $1,500 a year."
(Source: businessweek.com, 07/11/05)
--------------------------------
NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without
notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message,
search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain
newspapers require a free registration to view their
articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than
one line, copy and paste all lines.
=================================================
Terry writes:

"My family and I and another family recently stayed at the
[Port Orleans] Riverside (6/14/05 to 6/22/05). We had
problems getting our Magical Express tags (we finally
received them 1 day before the trip). The service at the
airport went flawlessly and we arrived at our hotel within
an hour of getting into the airport.

The grounds of the Riverside were very nice, but the bus
transportation from the resort was horrendous. We had a
character lunch at the castle booked and the bus was so late
(1 hour and 15 minute wait) that we had to sprint through
Magic Kingdom just to make it to the reservation. During our
time at Disney, we had 4 waits for a bus that were an hour
or more. One of these was from Blizzard Beach back to the
resort and the others were all from the East bus stop going
to a water park, magic kingdom and an MGM bus. The other
family we were with also had these problems. The buses seem
to be better at the main bus stop, but that is a major walk.

The food court wasn't that great either (we actually liked
the food court better at Pop Century last year). Other than
these problems the vacation was fun, but the parks did seem
a lot busier than they were at the same time last year and
the prior year."

We book our room near the South depot (the main bus stop
next to the store) and we rarely wait longer than 15
minutes. An hour wait is unacceptable.
=================================================
Colleen from Canada writes:

"I just wanted to drop you a line to tell you that your site
has saved us over 250.00.on a mini van rental. We just came
back from Disney... and I couldn't believe how much your
website can save. We are planning another trip to Orlando in
October and [are] definitely checking your site weekly.....
Thanks for your help."
=================================================
YOU CAN AFFORD DISNEY WORLD!

If you THINK a Disney vacation costs too much ... WE AGREE!
That's why we created the ULTIMATE Disney savings site. Save
up to 40% on your total trip. Learn about discounts on
tickets, food, Disney merchandise, hotels ON Disney
property, travel, parking, and MUCH more. Too much to list
here. See it all here.
=================================================
Andrew writes:

"John,

Thoroughly enjoying and making the most of your website as
we near our trip to Disney World. Can you tell me up to what
time can we check in at All Star Movies? I can see the start
time of 4:00 p.m. but no close time. We land at Orlando
International late on the afternoon of Sunday April 3rd. Is
there a limit to what time we can check in?"

Official check-in at All Star is 4 pm.

For arrivals during the day...

If your room is ready earlier, they'll let you check in
then. If you arrive before your room is ready, you can
preregister and leave your luggage at Guest Services (no
charge) so you can start having fun right away. GS will give
you a claim check that you use to reclaim your luggage when
you return later.

For arrivals during the night...

We've arrived at all hours of the night. Disney is always
ready to welcome guests, no matter how late they arrive.

Glad you are enjoying the site!
=================================================
MONEY SAVING TIP

NBA City Restaurant:
6068 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: 407-363-5919
Fax: 407-351-2889.

NBA City offers its guests award winning cuisine, exclusive
NBA, WNBA and NBA City merchandise and an interactive
basketball game area for fans of all ages. Save 10% on food
and non alcoholic beverages with this coupon.
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Affordable Disney Transportation

Elegance Transportation provides affordable transportation
to Walt Disney World, the Disney Cruise Line, Universal, Wet
'n Wild, the Convention Center, and much more! Elegance also
includes a 30-minute grocery stop at no additional cost.
Plus! Affordable Disney members save up to $10.00 on
roundtrip transportation! For services and rates, click here.
--------------------------------
Don't Leave Home Without It!

Universal offers special deals to Universal Entertainment
MasterCard cardholders. Apply now and receive a movie ticket
with your first purchase! For more details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Books

Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price.
Hundreds of books under $1.00! Plus! Over 700 videos have
been marked down to $1.99!

Exclusively for Affordable Disney Readers!
Save $5.00 on an order of $35 or more!
Coupon code: bookcloseouts
Coupon password: bargainbooks
Expires: December 31, 2005
To check out the bargains, click here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?

Here's a great deal on the 2005 Edition of the Orlando
Entertainment Book, which can save you thousands on travel,
groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more!

All 2005 Entertainment books are FREE when you pre-order the
exciting 2006 edition! Offer expires July 31, 2005.

For details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Accommodations

Get the guaranteed lowest prices at the Downtown Disney
Resorts as well as at hotels, condos and vacation rentals
outside Disney property. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Car Rental

Just enter in your travel dates, select the kind of car you
want, and receive a list of car rental prices at over 12
companies starting with the cheapest price! Click here.

Cheryl writes: "I saved over $200.00 on my mini van rental!!!"
--------------------------------
Affordable Airfare

This service delivers as many as 230 flight options in a
single search - more options than any other travel site.
It's possible to save as much as 80%! To compare prices, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Luggage

Save up to 60% on Luggage, Backpacks, and more! Click here.
--------------------------------
Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom

Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They
feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock
brokers that require you to purchase several shares of
stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the
certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or
OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
=============================================

See You Real Soon!

John

AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
=============================================
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information
contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The
views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do
not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
=============================================

Tuesday, July 05, 2005

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
July 6, 2005
Copyright © 1999 - 2005 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon: Subscribe with Bloglines

Or copy and paste the following URL into your RSS Reader:
http://affordabledisney.blogspot.com/atom.xml

: My Yahoo! users can instantly add our blog
content to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!

: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN!
Add to My MSN!

=================================================
Hi Everyone!

In this blog...

* New deals and specials
* The latest news from around the "World"
* Karen writes about our WDW Resort Special in November
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about Magical Express
* Billy asks a question about Mickey's Toontown Fair
* This week's money saving tip
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:

WALT DISNEY WORLD:

A reminder...

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only at
Walt Disney World's Port Orleans French Quarter in November,
2005.

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only at
Walt Disney World's Port Orleans French Quarter and
Wilderness Lodge in December, 2005!

"Hi John, I just joined your affordable Disney group. My
wife and I have been planning a trip to Disney World in
December. When we received your newsletter and saw the
prices we were just awed."

* An exclusive deal for Affordable Disney members only on a
3-day cruise aboard the Disney Wonder in December, 2005.
Beth writes: "Prices are at least $50 per cabin below
Disney's current pricing, it's a short cruise over a weekend
so you don't have to take a lot of time off work, you can
easily combine it with our great room rates, and the ship is
all decked out (so to speak) for the holidays."

=================================================
DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Disney Cruise Line Special for Florida Residents starting at
$699 per adult!

=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Summer Vacation Special: Stay at this friendly
Good Neighbor Hotel and take a shuttle bus to the Disneyland
Resort in just minutes. Packages available from $244 per
person for 2 adults/2 nights, double occupancy. Includes:

* Accommodations
* 3-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Ticket, valid
for same day entry into both Disneyland and Disney's
California Adventure
* One Early Entry into Fantasyland in Disneyland park
* $10 ESPN Zone Arena Game Card
* Mickey's Toontown Morning Madness
* Preferred Seating to select shows in California Adventure
* Collectible Pin & Lanyard
* Luggage Tag
* California Fun Book

=================================================
LAS VEGAS

The most spectacular suites the Strip has to offer are now
available this summer at this luxury hotel & casino from
only $149 per night! Valid from June 27 to Sept 12, 2005.
Hurry! Book by July 18, 2005!

=================================================
OTHER VACATION SPECIALS

Second Person Flies FREE: Purchase this air and hotel
vacation for two and the second person flies FREE up to
$200.00! Package includes roundtrip, charter air
transportation and accommodations and tax. Minimum purchase
of three nights per booking is required. Minimum/maximum 2
people per booking. Discount applies to qualified passengers
only. Children staying free in room do not qualify for
discount. To receive this offer, make your reservations by
July 7:

From Minneapolis/St. Paul to Las Vegas, Orlando, Cancún, or
the Riviera Maya. Travel between August 1 - September 30,
2005.

From Dallas/Ft. Worth, Detroit and St. Louis to Las Vegas,
Mexico or the Caribbean. Travel between July 1 - September
30, 2005.
--------------------------------
Just Announced: Savings of up to $450 per person off this
cruise line's already great Early Savings fares on select
sailings in 2006. Mariners Society Members receive an
upgrade of up to 3 categories in addition to fares detailed
below. Early booking incentives include dining priority and
preferred stateroom selection. Book by September 16, 2005.

* 5- to 7-Day Caribbean Cruises from $549 - save up to
$300.00!
* 14- to 34-Day Europe Transatlantic Cruises from $1,779 -
save up to $450.00!
* 7-Day Alaska & the Yukon Cruises & CruiseTours from $799
-  save up to $200.00!
* 7-Day Mexico Cruises from $679 - save up $150.00!
* 7-Day Canada/New England Cruises from $949 - save up to
$250.00!
* 14- to 22-Day  Panama Canal Cruises from $1,749 - save up
to $300.00!
* 8- to 10-Day Mexico Holiday Cruises from $899 - save up to
$300.00!
* 14- to 18-Day Asia, Australia, Hawaii, South Pacific &
South America Cruises from $1,999 - save up to $450.00!

--------------------------------

Affordable Disney Members should log in at our password-
protected site (The Disney Reading Room) to access the
particulars about the above mentioned specials.

If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
=================================================
A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR

Our Ticket agent has GREAT PRICES on tickets to Walt Disney
World and other Florida attractions!

"I thought I knew all the tips for saving money at WDW, even
being a member of the Magic Kingdom Club for over 15 years,
but just learning about [your ticket agent] saved our family
over $300!!! Thanks." Janet Handy, Bel Air, MD

"Plenty of roadside outfits in Orlando promise discounted
tickets, but most of them really want to rope you into a
time-share sales pitch in exchange for vouchers - accept at
your own risk. [Affordable Disney's ticket agent], though,
is legit." The New York Post, November 16, 2004.

FORGET paying too much for your Disney tickets! Keep that
extra money in YOUR pocket! Join our Disney family today.
=================================================
News From Around The "World"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Walt Disney World College Program

"Each year, 8,000 students come to Disney World to work as
six-month college interns in one of the largest internship
programs in the country... But aside from giving interns
valuable experience, the program is a relatively cheap
source of labor for Disney... Most of the college interns
earn $6.25 an hour, well below the more than $11 an hour pay
for a veteran employee performing the same tasks. Interns
also don't receive any pension or health care benefits like
regular workers." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/04/05)
--------------------------------
Disney is testing a new map at the Magic Kingdom

"The Magic Kingdom might seem like a maze for some parents,
but with a new guide from Walt Disney World, navigating the
park could become a little easier. A new preschool guide,
meant to complement the 107-acre park's primary map for
visitors, highlights attractions appropriate for children
younger than age 6." Look for the map at the following
locations:

* stroller-rental area
* City Hall
* guest-relations window
* baby-care center
* Tip Board
* vacation-planning office.

(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/05/05)
--------------------------------
"The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is building The
Shuttle Experience, a multimillion-dollar simulator
attraction that will add some high-tech, gee-whiz fun to the
center, adjacent to the nation's space-shuttle launch
operations... The attraction, which will simulate a shuttle
launch and landing, is being built in the same area where a
mock orbiter display is now located." (Source: Orlando
Sentinel, 07/02/05)

--------------------------------
"Walt Disney World and Central Florida's other major theme
parks say they are prepared for medical emergencies, with
hundreds of paramedics and thousands of other workers
trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of
automated heart defibrillators.

But as the recent death of a 4-year-old boy who rode on
Epcot's Mission: Space ride illustrates, reality can
overwhelm training and preparation in the critical first
minutes after an emergency." (Source: Orlando Sentinel,
07/02/05)

--------------------------------
The Art of Disney: Celebration Stamped Cards are now on sale
at the US Post Office.
--------------------------------
'''Tarzan,' the musical, will swing on Broadway next spring.
A lavish stage version -- with a cast of 34 -- will open in
2006 at a theater to be announced, Thomas Schumacher,
president of Disney Theatrical Productions, said Wednesday."
(Source: The New York Times, 06/29/05)
--------------------------------
"The Future of Voice Recognition for the Digital Home has
Arrived!

One Voice Technologies, Inc., developer of 4th Generation
voice solutions for the Telecom and Interactive Multimedia
markets, announced today that starting this summer its Media
Center Communicator(TM) will be featured at the House of
Innoventions exhibit located in the INNOVENTIONS attraction
at Epcot® at the Walt Disney World® Resort in Lake Buena
Vista." (Source: One Voice Technologies, 06/29/05)
--------------------------------
"Jeanine Tesori may compose the score for the Broadway-bound
stage musical Shrek... Shrek will premiere in New York,
though no time-frame has yet been announced." (Source:
playbill.com, 06/27/05)

--------------------------------
CLOSED FOR REFURBISHMENT

Disney's Contemporary Resort South Garden Wing:
May 30 - Oct. 31
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

The National Fantasy Fan Club (NFFC) - the Club for
Disneyana Enthusiasts creates the opportunity to meet with
fellow Disney fans from around the world and celebrate their
passion for all things Disney...

Our special celebration of Disneyland’s golden anniversary
from July 9 - 13th at the Crowne Plaza in Garden Grove, CA
offers behind-the-scenes presentations, collectables
information, sneak peeks, games and more."
--------------------------------
New California Attractions:

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Disneyland
Space Mountain, Disneyland
Turtle Talk with Crush, Disney's California Adventure
Knights' Tournament, Legoland
Wild Woods Golf, Legoland
Fear Factor Live, Universal Studios Hollywood
Batman Begins Stunt Show, Six Flags Magic Mountain
Silver Bullet, Knott's Berry Farm
--------------------------------
Closed for Refurbishment

Disneyland Park
Space Mountain: April 10,2003 - July 14, 2005
=================================================
HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

"Hong Kong Disneyland started its on-line tickets selling
Friday and its spokesperson said the process had been smooth
so far... People who want to visit the theme park need to
use their credit card to book tickets through the website
of Hong Kong Disneyland. Each credit card can buy at most
10 tickets. The theme park said that starting from Friday,
guests can buy tickets for its grand opening day on Sept. 12
and the first 90 days after its opening."
Source: People's Daily Online, 07/01/05)

--------------------------------
NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without
notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message,
search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain
newspapers require a free registration to view their
articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than
one line, copy and paste all lines.
=================================================
Billy writes:

"At Mickey's Toontown Fair what character runs the service
garage? I say Pete and my sister says Goofy. Who is right or
are we both wrong or it is someone else? Can you help us?...
Love your newsletter. [It] helps me out when it is time to
go to Disney World. [Helps] my sister too. It's great just
to sit down and read The Disney News. The News shows how
much time you and your wife put in the paper. Thanks again
for a great newsletter."

It's Pete's Garage! You win! Glad you are enjoying the
newsletter!
=================================================
Karen writes:

"I've been a member for sometime and have gotten some very
good information from your site, but today was the best! I
talked with Beth [your travel agent] and what a deal. My
husband and I go to WDW every November and always stay at
Port Orleans French Quarter. When we saw the price Beth
quoted as $99.00 a night including tax I thought I was
seeing things, but its true and now I only have 125 days
until we'll be in the heart of all the magic again. Thank
you for your wonderful site."

Thanks, Karen, for the pat on the back!
=================================================
YOU CAN AFFORD DISNEY WORLD!

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Beth, our travel agent, made the following observations
regarding Disney's answers last week about their new
transportation program, Magical Express:

1. When will I receive my Magical Express documents?

Disney's Answer: Your travel agents will receive your Air
Transportation Booklet two weeks before your flight.

Beth writes: "Actually, we're thrilled to just get them in
time to send them to the client. The printer is getting
better about sending them out, but we still often get them
AFTER the clients have gone, or just right before (with no
time to even express mail them). Fortunately, it doesn't
matter if you have them or not. If you don't have your bags
tagged it only takes a few extra minutes at the counter so
they can collect the baggage information. Everything else is
the same, and the service proceeds just as if all your bags
were tagged."


2. How long is the trip from the airport to the WDW hotel?

Disney's Answer: One hour and 40 minutes.

Beth writes: "Once the bus actually departs the airport, it
should reach the first hotel in about 30 minutes. Most
Magical Express buses stop at THREE hotels, though, so if
your hotel is the last on the list it will (obviously) take
longer. None of the luggage goes on the buses, though, so
they are only stopping for about 5 minutes to let everyone
off and then continue to the next resort. Even if you're the
last stop you should be there within an hour. Buses depart
the airport frequently, so if you've just missed one the
next one will be leaving very soon."


3. When will my luggage arrive from the airport?

Disney's Answer: Allow six hours. Take a small bag with you
for important items while you're waiting.

Beth writes: "I'm told that they are now getting pretty good
at this and, for the most part, luggage should arrive in
your room within 3-4 hours. Of course, if you arrive in the
morning, the luggage won't be delivered until your room is
ready (officially 3:00) no matter how long you've been
there. Taking a carry-on for valuables, medications, and
things you'll need until you get your luggage is VERY
important!"
=================================================
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=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

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Universal offers special deals to Universal Entertainment
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All 2005 Entertainment books are FREE when you pre-order the
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For details, click here.
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Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom

Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They
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=============================================

See You Real Soon!

John

AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
=============================================
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information
contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The
views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do
not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
=============================================