Wednesday, March 29, 2006

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
March 29, 2006
Copyright © 1999 - 2006 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon: Subscribe with Bloglines

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

In this blog...

* Deals and specials - including FREE TICKETS to both
Universal Orlando theme parks in this vacation package!
* The latest news from around the "World" - including the
new rear entrance to Walt Disney World
* JoAnn writes about her experience at Epcot in a wheelchair
* Cena writes about her WDW vacation followed by a Disney
cruise
* Money saving tip for our readers in Louisiana
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Book your room now at these Deluxe resorts on Disney
property and enjoy rates starting as low as $149 per room,
per night in August and September, 2006!

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

Affordable Disney March Promotion For Members Only!

We're including a $25 Disney gift card with each booking of
any 2006 Magic Your Way package of $1,500 or more! The gift
card is usable at DisneyShopping.com, for Disney catalog
purchases, and at Disney Stores in USA. You must be an
Affordable Disney member at the time of booking in order to
qualify. The card will be sent to you after final payment
has been made. You don't get the card if you cancel/rebook
or if your total per room/suite/villa/cabin drops below
$1,500 due to changes (which would include a reduction in
price because of a promotion). Good for new reservations
only. Limit of one card per room/suite/villa/cabin booked.
If multiple rooms are on one booking, the average cost per
room/suite/villa/cabin must be a minimum of $1,500 to
qualify for additional cards.

Members should log in today and contact Beth to take
advantage of this promotion. Promotion ends March 31!

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

These specials are still in effect for 04/23/06 - 06/03/06!

* Save hundreds on this Disney vacation package! Includes
water parks, park hopping and Disney dining plan! Hurry!
Book by 03/30/06.

* Receive a FREE ticket upgrade worth almost $400.00 to a
family of four! Hurry! Book by 03/30/06.

* Save $25 at the Value resorts; $40 at the Moderate
resorts; and $100 at the Deluxe resorts. Reserve by
06/03/06.

* Save up to $95.00 per night at the Disney World resorts
this spring! Reserve by 06/03/06.

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

Incredible Universal Vacation Deal! FREE TICKETS to both
Universal Orlando theme parks in this vacation package!
Good all year except Easter and Christmas. Don't miss
this one if you want to experience Universal!

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

How to win a free ride photo at Expedition Everest!

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

4 more links to games, wallpapers, and screensavers have
been added to our Disney Goodies page.

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

Amtrak Guest Rewards Program

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

Two New Chances to...

Win a 4-night trip for four to Walt Disney World!

Win a 2-night trip for four to Universal Orlando or
Universal Studios Hollywood!

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

DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Save 25% at Olszewski Sculptures & Accessories at the
Disneyland resort with this coupon!

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

SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO

Canadian ticket deal!

--------------------------------
If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
Members can use the following URLs to log in:

Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

"Disney recently sold 53 acres on Sherberth Road south of
Disney's Animal Kingdom to a developer who wants to build
hundreds of vacation town homes and condominium units, and
another 47 acres on Reams Road, north of the Magic Kingdom,
to a home builder. Another 30 acres is for sale on U.S.
Highway 192." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/28/06)
--------------------------------
"Disney Park's Yeti Ride May Be Its Scariest

Everest, set to open April 7 in Disney's Animal Kingdom,
features a train navigating an 80-foot drop, rumbling over
bridges and through valleys backward and forward to escape
the monster, who has seemingly twisted and broken the
tracks." (Source: Associated Press, 03/26/06)
--------------------------------
"Western Way, the new rear entrance to Walt Disney World
from the new Western Beltway expressway, is set to open
April 4. The four-lane, divided boulevard will give Disney a
western entrance for the first time, allowing tourists
coming in via Interstate 75 to enter Central Florida on
Florida's Turnpike and the Western Beltway (State Road 429),
then enter Disney without ever entering Orlando or driving
on Interstate 4." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/27/06)
--------------------------------
"In April 2006, Discovery Networks will introduce viewers to
high-altitude viewing with the debut of original Everest-
themed programming across several of its networks... Everest
programming on the Discovery Networks coincides with the
opening of Walt Disney World's newest attraction."
(Source: Discovery Channel, 03/22/06)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

"The [Nickelodeon] hotel, a Holiday Inn that underwent a $25
million makeover last year, tied for 10th on Child
magazine's new list of the best family-friendly resorts. The
magazine evaluated 340 U.S. resorts, taking into
consideration offerings from toddler tennis lessons to
facials for kindergartners." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/28/06)
--------------------------------
"Central Florida's booming economy has left few professional
positions unfilled -- but the tourism sector has openings
aplenty, though pay is low... Shanle's Holiday Inn, near
Walt Disney World, is in the midst of a major hiring push as
it gears up for the busy summer travel season... SeaWorld
Orlando already has raised its starting wage by 20 cents to
$7 an hour as summer approaches." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/26/06)
--------------------------------
"Disney Theatrical already has a serious problem on its
hands with "Tarzan." Given that -- what with the way that
director Bob Crowley is currently staging this new musical
as well as the way the Richard Rodgers Theatre is laid out
-- almost a fourth of the seats in the orchestra section
have a seriously obstructed view of this show."
(Source: Jim Hill Media, 03/27/06)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

"Disneyland Park will be the venue for the world movie
premiere of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest [on
June 24]... Disneyland Park will close at 5 p.m. that day.
All major Disneyland Park entertainment (parades and
firework shows) will also be suspended on June 24." (Source:
Disneyland email blast, 03/28/06)
--------------------------------
Mini Gay Day: Disneyland's Magic Kingdom April 1, 2006.
Gay Day 2006: Disneyland's Magic Kingdom October 6-8, 2006.
--------------------------------
"Spin, blast, zap and score! Now you can save the galaxy and
help your favorite Radio and TV station bring home the
cosmically coveted Buzz Cup trophy! Play Buzz Lightyear
Astro Blasters Online during your designated "Hometown" time
period to earn your team bonus points."
(Source: disneyland.disney.go.com, 03/27/06)
--------------------------------
Disney's California Food and Wine Weekends will take place
at the Disney's California Adventure April 28 - May 21,
2006. Click here for details.
--------------------------------
The Walt Disney Family Museum

"If everything goes as planned, sometime in late 2008 or
early 2009, the doors will open to the public on a very
special place to share the story and the legacy of Walt
Disney. So... how about a sneak peak at what lies in store
for the guests to this Museum?" (Source: Jim HillMedia, 03/23/06)
--------------------------------
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

"The daughter of a woman who died at Hong Kong Disneyland
last year has accused the Hong Kong government of a coverup
after learning no inquest will be held." (Source: UPI, 03/23/06)
=================================================
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.
=================================================
JoAnn writes:

"Dear Mr Gross;

My family, friends and I spent our New Year's Day at Epcot.
Everything we managed to see was beautiful. I and my family
and friends have two complaints. We were very disappointed
in the fact of how much money it cost us to get in, when
half the attractions there were closed. Lets face it - to
get in the gate to eat dinner is very costly especially when
you want to see something and its shut down.

I was in a wheelchair - very few exhibits have wheelchair
entrances, which made it very hard for me. We were on a very
long line waiting to go onto the new ride Soarin which had a
steep incline. My daughter tried holding on to me but the
chair slipped out of her hands. I tried grabbing onto the
railing not to hit the people in front of me, I couldn't. I
hit my left arm and ended up bruising with some pain. The
people that worked there wanted me to report it. I did not
saying I'll be okay.

I never thought I would have a hard time sleeping and waking
up bruised. I am not a thin person it is very hard trying to
hold on to the wheel chair on a steep downward incline. I
know Disney must have photos and would know the people
working at the time. It was between say 8:25 pm and 8:45 pm.
I need too find out who I make a complaint to with
DisneyWorld Epcot."

You can send a complaint online with this form:
http://disney.go.com/Mail/DisneyWorld/index.html

By snail mail:

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

Let us know their response.
=================================================
Cena writes:

"Me, my husband and 2 children went to Florida October 2005
for my daughter's 8th Birthday. We spent 1 day at Magic
Kingdom, which was not enough. We managed to see only half
of the park, so I strongly advise people to spend at least 2
days there. We were exhausted by the afternoon and were
staying at Pop Century. Our room cost $116 per night which I
thought was a decent price. And we were able to shuttle back
to our hotel for a quick rest and went back for the
fireworks in the evening.

I have friends that stayed at another moderate disney resort
and they had to share shuttle buses with other resort. Pop
Century has their own separate buses that go to each resort.
Which is probably a real time saver.

If I may add the lady we originally reserved our room through
was more than helpful at trying to put us in the closest
building to the food court. Our youngest child was 2yr
5mnths and that helped a lot.

We then followed with a 4 night cruise on the Disney Cruise
line. It being our first cruise we were a little nervous
about it. But had a great time. my husband loved that
experience so much he wanted to book another while we were
on board. There is so much to do on the ship, that you do
miss some things and wish you hadn't.

We are taking a cruise without the children this year or we
would be back on Disney again. I am afraid I will be
overwhelmed with guilt without the children. Everything is
so clean and well taken care of on the ship. And the lady
that cleaned our room was so friendly. The children enjoyed
it just as much as we did. We hope to do it again with the
kids in 2007. Thank You."
=================================================
Pixar/Disney Collectible

Pixar stock certificates are becoming valuable as a
collector's item due to Disney's recent acquisition of the
company. The certificates are very colorful and are
decorated with pictures of Woody and Buzz Lightyear from
"Toy Story." Pixar disappears April 23. Get your collectible stock certificate here!
=================================================
MONEY SAVING TIP FOR OUR READERS IN LOUISIANA

Disney On Ice
Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo
Lafayette, Louisiana
The Cajundome
Apr 26, 2006 - Apr 30, 2006

Kids' tickets $12 with this coupon)
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

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! To check out the bargains, click
here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?

With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on
travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more!
Coupons in the 2006 book are valid through 11/01/06. Save at
hotels and restaurants near Walt Disney World, on car
rental, airfare, admission to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld
Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa! 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! Donna and I
bought a beautiful 5-piece set of Samsonite luggage for our
daughter for Christmas for $144! 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.
=============================================

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
March 22, 2006
Copyright © 1999 - 2006 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...

* Deals and specials - including the new Disney European
Cruises for 2007!
* The latest news from around the "World" - including the
extension of Disney's Magical Express until 2011
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about the use of tickets
for Florida residents by non-Florida residents
* Jane writes about Shades of Green, Disney's resort for the
military
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:

WALT DISNEY WORLD

New Disney Cruises for 2007 aboard the Disney Magic just
announced!


10-Night Mediterranean Cruise in Europe
11-Night Mediterranean Cruise in Europe
14-Night Transatlantic Cruise - Eastbound
14-Night Transatlantic Cruise - Westbound

From $1,999 per person. Affordable Disney members are
welcome to send Beth their information and we'll grab up a
cabin for you as soon as they are released. These cruises
are available for booking April 4. They will go quickly! Put
yourself on Beth's list today!

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

Affordable Disney March Promotion For Members Only!

We're including a $25 Disney gift card with each booking of
any 2006 Magic Your Way package of $1,500 or more! The gift
card is usable at DisneyShopping.com, for Disney catalog
purchases, and at Disney Stores in USA. You must be an
Affordable Disney member at the time of booking in order to
qualify. The card will be sent to you after final payment
has been made. You don't get the card if you cancel/rebook
or if your total per room/suite/villa/cabin drops below
$1,500 due to changes (which would include a reduction in
price because of a promotion). Good for new reservations
only. Limit of one card per room/suite/villa/cabin booked.
If multiple rooms are on one booking, the average cost per
room/suite/villa/cabin must be a minimum of $1,500 to
qualify for additional cards.

Members should log in today and contact Beth to take
advantage of this promotion.

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

Save hundreds on this Disney vacation package! Includes
water parks, park hopping and Disney dining plan!

Save $25 at the Value resorts; $40 at the Moderate resorts;
and $100 at the Deluxe resorts.

Save up to $95.00 per night at the Disney World resorts this
spring!

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

Magical Breakfast Special

This hotel is one of the Orlando Kissimmee area hotels
nearest the Walt Disney World Resort area. From $69 per room
per night! Includes:

* Full-service restaurant and Food Court
* FREE breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children
* FREE shuttle to all 4 Walt Disney World Theme Parks
* FREE Fun Pen for every child
* Pet friendly
* KidSuites and 2-Room Suites
* 2 large pools + jacuzzi
* Close to Old Town shopping, dining and entertainment attraction.

Plus! Canadian At-Par rates! For a limited time you can pay
for your Orlando vacation in American Dollars at the
Canadian Exchange Rate. Your rate will be based on the
exchange rate on the day you check in to the hotel.

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

Hotel and Suites Spring Break Sale!

Save $60 Off Room Price! In Lake Buena Vista, adjacent to
Walt Disney World Resort. Includes Complimentary Shuttle to
Walt Disney World, Epcot, MGM Studios and Animal Kingdom.
Traditional rooms start at $99; Pool view rooms start at
$129; Safari Suites start $159. Features:

* Hotel & guestrooms decorated with a flair of African
adventure
* Outdoor heated swimming pool w/ 79-foot Python waterslide
and wading pool for small children
* For your dining pleasure, a delicious breakfast buffet and
a la carte menu

Offer based on availability for new reservations made for
stays between March 16 - April 3, 2006,

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

Three New Chances to...

Win a 4-night trip for eight to Walt Disney World!
Win a 6-night trip for 12 to Walt Disney World!
Win a 4-night trip for 4 to Orlando!

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

List of hotels outside WDW offering Hi-Speed Internet Access
- with prices!

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

Last Minute Cruise Special

Red Hot One Week Sail To Bermuda: $399. Expires 03/23/06!
Offer only on the 4/21 and 4/28/06 sailings. $399 inside Cat
1A guarantee. Email or call Beth today to book the deal.

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

Movie and Themed Trips

* Harry Potter - July 11-18, 2006
* Pirates of the Caribbean - July, 2006
* Lord of the Rings - May 26-29, 2006
* Sci-Fi Fan Trips at Space Camp - August 11-14, 2006

--------------------------------
If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
Members can use the following URLs to log in:

Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Star Wars Weekends will take place at Disney-MGM Studios on
weekends May 19, 2006 - June 11, 2006:

* Meet your favorite Star Wars character
* Take the Star Wars trivia challenge
* Enjoy guest appearances by Star Wars celebrities
--------------------------------
"Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World
officials agreed Wednesday to a plan that will keep Disney's
popular Magical Express shuttle and baggage service -- which
has attracted national attention -- running through 2011...
Magical Express will relocate from the terminal's A side to
the B side, where more bus parking spaces are available. Six
spaces will be assigned to Magical Express... Disney's
uniformed greeters -- minus their original oversized Mickey
Mouse gloves -- will be allowed back on the terminal's
second level to help passengers find their way."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/16/06)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

"The state provides a free service called 511 (by phone) and
www.fl511.com (by Internet) that can keep you
updated on the latest road conditions throughout Central
Florida. The Orlando Sentinel also offers a free service
that allows you to check road conditions and even receive e-
mailed traffic alerts for the routes you plan to drive."
Click here. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/20/06)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
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, sent us these comments on the use of
tickets for Florida residents by non-Florida residents:

"Here's a little more insight into the problems associated
with trying to use tickets that you're not entitled to...

It's true, Florida residents get some great ticket discounts
- but it's also true that in order to purchase the Florida
resident tickets you're supposed to be asked to present a
Florida photo ID for each adult ticket. Now, a resourceful
person might figure that if Grandma and Grandpa go up to
window #1 and buy two tickets and then go to window #18 and
buy two more tickets you'd be able to accumulate all you
need; however, Disney has recently started a real push to
get the actual names of ticket owners onto each ticket.

In other words, when I go to a window and buy a ticket, my
name is actually printed right on it. That's yet another
opportunity for Disney to spot fraudulent use of discounted
tickets. When you combine the names on the tickets, the
possibility that you'll be asked for photo ID when you use
the tickets, and the finger scan process (which prevents you
from using a ticket previously used by someone else) the
risk is probably not worth it.

Get the best price on the tickets you're entitled to and be
happy if you saved a few dollars over gate price. (I should
also point out that the names being printed on tickets now
is yet another reason to avoid purchasing partially used
tickets from strangers via EBay. That's just a bad idea on
so many levels. Only buy from reputable dealers!)"
=================================================
Jane writes about Shades of Green:

"Hi John,

We have 2 families travelling to Disney arriving April 11.
We are staying at Shades of Green, my husband is retired
Army. We were wondering if we are entiltled to the Magical
Express transportation? If so how do we make reservations?
Also, we would like to rent a car to travel to the
Clearwater area after our stay at Disney. What companies are
at the Car care Center, and is this the only place to rent
from in Disney? Is there a number for the rental center, or
do you have to contact each company directly? Thanks so much
for all the great tips."

Magical Express is not available to guests at Shades of
Green. (I understand it only costs Disney 50 cents per
passenger to ride the Magical Express bus, so I'm
disappointed they don't provide this service to the
military.)

National/Alamo is located at the Car Care Center near the
Magic Kingdom and at the Dolphin hotel. There are also
rental companies at the Downtown Disney hotels.

Rates vary from $20 to $60 per day. National Car Rental
(Alamo and National are owned by the same company and they
share locations at WDW) will provide transportation from
their location (Disney's Car Care Center) to your hotel.
They also rent child safety seats. Call 800/227-7368 or
407/855-4170. For more information, call Guest Relations at
your resort.

In general, should you need to get from a Disney hotel to
the Car Care Center, your hotel's front desk can arrange for
a shuttle to take you. (Give them one day's notice.)
However, you'll need to contact Shades of Green to see if
they provide the same service.
=================================================
Pixar/Disney Collectible

Pixar stock certificates are becoming valuable as a
collector's item due to Disney's recent acquisition of the
company. The certificates are very colorful and are
decorated with pictures of Woody and Buzz Lightyear from
"Toy Story." You can get one here while supplies last!
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

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! To check out the bargains, click
here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?

With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on
travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more!
Coupons in the 2006 book are valid through 11/01/06. Save at
hotels and restaurants near Walt Disney World, on car
rental, airfare, admission to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld
Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa! 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! Donna and I
bought a beautiful 5-piece set of Samsonite luggage for our
daughter for Christmas for $144! 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.
=============================================

Wednesday, March 15, 2006

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
March 15, 2006
Copyright © 1999 - 2006 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...

* Deals and specials - including a March promotion for
Affordable Disney members only!
* The latest news from around the "World" - including
certification of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
* More details about the All-Star Music Resort Family Suites
* Joanne writes about her recent vacation at WDW
* Keith writes about tickets for Florida residents
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Affordable Disney March Promotion For Members Only!

Why book your vacation through AffordableDisney.com?

* Our travel agent is familiar with all our deals. She'll be
sure you get what you want without expensive add-ons you
can't use. There is no extra charge for her services.

* We're including a $25 Disney gift card with each booking
of any 2006 Magic Your Way package of $1,500 or more!

* Plus! You'll receive online access to:

>> "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation" -
the 10th edition of our 238-page guidebook includes hundreds
of tips and insider secrets to make your Disney dream
vacation fun and affordable

>> customized tours of the WDW theme parks - some
attractions may not be appropriate for those in your party

>> easy to follow maps - you'll know the shortcuts

>> dining advice - this could save you hundreds on food

>> vacation gift certificate worth $100 good for stays at
hotels in Orlando - we've had hundreds of members use the
certificate to extend their stay in Florida affordably

>> and much more!

*$25 gift card is usable at DisneyShopping.com, for Disney
catalog purchases, and at Disney Stores in USA. You must be
an Affordable Disney member at the time of booking in order
to qualify. The card will be sent to you after final payment
has been made. You don't get the card if you cancel/rebook
or if your total per room/suite/villa/cabin drops below
$1,500 due to changes (which would include a reduction in
price because of a promotion). Good for new reservations
only. Limit of one card per room/suite/villa/cabin booked.
If multiple rooms are on one booking, the average cost per
room/suite/villa/cabin must be a minimum of $1,500 to
qualify for additional cards.

Members should log in today and contact Beth to take
advantage of this promotion.

--------------------------------
Two New Chances to...

Win a 4-night trip for four to Walt Disney World!
Win a 6-night trip for four to Walt Disney World.
--------------------------------

These specials are still in effect:

Save hundreds on this Disney vacation package! Includes
water parks, park hopping and Disney dining plan!

Save $25 at the Value resorts; $40 at the Moderate resorts;
and $100 at the Deluxe resorts.

Save up to $95.00 per night at the Disney World resorts this
spring!

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

VEGAS

Resort & Casino Special:

Book your stay during BONUS DAYS and receive:

* Room Upgrade
* 2 FREE Drinks
* 2-for-1 Breakfast
* 2-for-1 Lunch
* Admission for 2 to the Spa

Offer available March 14 - May 31, 2006. Rates start at $79!
Package rates are per room, per night, subject to
availability and based on double occupancy. Triple and quad
rates available upon request.

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

Caribbean 2006 Summer Specials

This resort has renovated their golf course, rooms and
suites, and created a brand new Children's Village.

The Ultimate In Luxury

Inclusive package: Plan includes luxurious accommodation, 5-
star dining (breakfast, lunch, dinner), premium drinks at
hotel bars, room service, mini bar, golf greens fees,
horseback riding, glass bottom boat, sailing, snorkeling,
windsurfing, kayaking, paddle boat, surf bike, unlimited use
of tennis courts and fitness centre, bicycles, welcome gift
and champagne in room, round-trip airport transfers. Rates
start at $635 per couple per night inclusive of tax and
service charge.

Take Me To The Moon

Plan includes accommodation, 5-star dining (breakfast,
lunch, dinner), premium drinks at hotel bars, room service,
welcome gift and champagne in room, round-trip airport
transfers. Rates start at $489 per couple per night.

Let Us Take You Back Again - 50 Plus

Stay 4 nights and your 5th night will be 50% off rack rate
per room plus $50 food and beverage credit per room. Kids
(under 12 years) stay free when sharing room with 2 parents
(maximum 2 children) and free nanny services for up to 3
hours daily.

Beth our travel agent, writes: "If you're looking for
something really special this summer - sort of the anti-
Disney - this is a great option. Upscale, yet still a good
value and very well done. This resort is just outside
Montego Bay, Jamaica. Airfare is often surprisingly
affordable."
--------------------------------
If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
Members can use the following URLs to log in:

Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

"Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom Lodge has been certified
for the Florida "green lodging" program, the sixth Disney
hotel to earn that distinction for environmentally friendly
practices. Among the hotel's green features: a towel and
linen reuse program to conserve energy and water, an
advanced computerized energy management system and a
recycling program for visitors and staff."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/13/06)

The Royal Plaza, a Downtown Disney hotel, is open following
an extensive rehab.

--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Inspired by Cirque du Soleil

"Blue Horizons, the extravaganza that debuted last May, has
become SeaWorld Orlando's biggest current hit, packing and
wowing the Whale and Dolphin Stadium for virtually every
performance... On the park's biggest scale yet, the new
Shamu killer whale show, Believe, will have its Orlando
debut this summer." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/13/06)
--------------------------------
Universal's Grad Bash will take place at both Universal
Studios and Islands of Adventure April 28 and 29 from 7 PM -
2 PM. This event is reserved for high school seniors who are
graduating. Visit Universal's official site or call
or call 1-800 YOUTH-15 for information.

Entertainment includes live bands, dancing, DJ's, video
walls and more!
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

"A 'QUINCEAÑERA' Fit for a Princess

Every princess has her day and for many young Latinas that
day comes when they turn 15 years old. At the Disneyland
Resort in Southern California, the magic of Disney converts
any Quinceañera into a celebration filled with dreams made
into reality." (Source: Press Release, 03/08/06)
--------------------------------
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
DISNEYLAND HONG KONG

"Shanghai's mayor says the city is making preparations to
build a Disney theme park, but is still awaiting the go-
ahead from China's central government."
(Source: Yahoo! News, 03/13/06)
=================================================
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.
=================================================
All-Star Music Resort Family Suites Fact Sheet:

* open June 4, 2006
* 192 suites
* located at Jazz and Calypso buildings
* 520 square feet
* sleep up to 6
* also accommodate a crib for a child under 3
* furnished
* two full baths, kitchenette with sink, coffee pot and
microwave, refrigerator, and cabinets
* queen bed and 27" flat screen TV in main bedroom
* double sleeper sofa, twin chair sleeper, twin ottoman
(converts to sleeper), and 27" flat screen TV in second
bedroom
* non-smoking  only
* high-speed Internet access for a fee
* $169 value season, $209 regular, $239 peak, $259 holiday
* now available for booking -

Affordable Disney members should email Beth, our travel
agent, today to book a suite.
=================================================
Joanne writes about her recent vacation at WDW:

"Dates: December 1-10, 2005
Members of Party who went: Myself, My husband, our 2 sons
ages 4 & 20 months and our babysitter (22)

We stayed at Fort Wilderness in a cabin. The cabins are very
nice however I don't think we would stay there again. The
transportation was a little time consuming with having to
take an internal resort bus to a bus stop and transferring
from there to another bus or a boat depending on where we
were going.

We purchased the meal plan and we were very happy with it.
It is a lot of food but we split counter service meals so we
were able to do breakfast and lunch counter service a few
days. Most of our meals were very good. We will not be
returning to the Sci-Fi Diner in the future unless we were
just looking for dessert. The food in our opinion was
horrible. We did numerous character meals which I think the
adults enjoyed more than the kids.

Going with 2 small children slowed us down more than we
thought it would so there were a few things that we did not
get to do that we would have really liked to do so we have
decided next time we will go for 2 weeks.

All in all we had a wonderful time, and I can't wait until
we can afford to go again."
=================================================
Keith writes about tickets for Florida residents:

"Hi John,

I have a Disney ticket question for you - I talked with my
Aunt (who lives in Orlando) over the Holiday. We mentioned
our plan for a visit soon and would like to spend a few days
of our visit at Disney. To my surprise my Aunt said she
would love to treat our entire family (2 adults & 2
children) to 4 day hopper passes. She continued by saying..
'as a Florida resident she would be able to get these
tickets at a very reasonable rate.' But because of her age
and physical limitations, she would not be able to accompany
us to Disney.

I never thought my Aunt would offer such a generous
Christmas gift -- and I am a bit worried -- I may have read
in your newsletter Fla. residents may not buy tickets for
non Fla. residents. Could you please help me with this
sticky situation?

PS. We have told my Aunt 'we are not sure of our travel
dates' to avoid her purchasing the tickets that we may not
be able to use. Thank you for all your help."

Unfortunately, Disney's policy is to ask for Florida ID -
usually not for kids, but for each adult. That doesn't mean
they will, but if they do, you forfeit your tickets, which
can be very costly and embarrassing.
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

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! To check out the bargains, click
here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?

With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on
travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more!
Coupons in the 2006 book are valid through 11/01/06. Save at
hotels and restaurants near Walt Disney World, on car
rental, airfare, admission to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld
Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa! For details, 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! Donna and I
bought a beautiful 5-piece set of Samsonite luggage for our
daughter for Christmas for $144! 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.
=============================================

Wednesday, March 08, 2006

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
March 08, 2006
Copyright © 1999 - 2006 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...

* Deals and specials - including an incredible deal at this
hotel & resort near Disney
* The latest news from around the "World" - including the
schedule for Epcot's International Flower & Garden Festival
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about being invited to a
Disney industry and press event
* Brian from England sends us a tip about getting a ride on
Expedition Everest
* Cherry writes about getting the best views or rooms at a
Disney resort
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Incredible Deal! Enjoy the magic of Orlando with the
friendliest hotel staff ready to deliver vacation memories
of a lifetime! This Hotel & Resort is among the best of
Orlando hotels, conveniently situated one mile from Disney's
Main Gate and 15 miles from Orlando. After a long day at the
parks, come cool off & dive into one of their three big
outdoor pools. March 6, 2006 - February 28, 2006 from $51;
kids suite from $68!

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

New Sweeps - Five chances to win:

Win a 3-night trip for four to Universal Orlando!
Win a 3-night trip for six to Orlando!
Win a 7-night trip for four to Orlando!
Win an 8-night trip for four to both WDW and Disneyland!
Win a 4-night trip for four to Walt Disney World!

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

These specials are still in effect:

Save hundreds on this Disney vacation package! Includes
water parks, park hopping and Disney dining plan!

Save $25 at the Value resorts; $40 at the Moderate resorts;
and $100 at the Deluxe resorts.

Save up to $95.00 per night at the Disney World resorts this
spring!

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

There is talk of Disney doing 10-night and 11-night
Mediterranean cruises as well as repositioning cruises
between Port Canaveral and Europe during summer 2007. Some
staterooms are still available for summer 2007. These will
be released to the public April 4. You need to get on Beth's
waiting list today so she can call as soon as the phones are
open! For more information or to make reservations,
Affordable Disney members should contact our travel agent
today!

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

VEGAS

Stay at his luxury hotel & casino and enjoy these exclusive
offers and benefits:

* Invited Guest Check-In
* Dine with a $25 credit
* $10 off show tickets
* $20 in FREE PLAY
* Complimentary Welcome Cocktail

Offer available on select dates April 2, 2006 through May
31, 2006. Rates are per room, per night, subject to
availability and based on single or double occupancy. Triple
and quad occupancy rates available upon request.

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

Maximum Vegas at a minimum price! Enjoy Vegas this Spring at
$89 per night! Includes $35 Gift Certificate at the shops
and $25 Bar and Restaurant Credit. Book by March 22, 2006.

--------------------------------
If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
Members can use the following URLs to log in:

Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Suites at Disney's All-Star Music Resort that accommodate
larger families are now available for booking for stays
beginning June 2006. (Source: Promotional email from Walt
Disney World® Resort, 03/07/06)
--------------------------------

You call yourself a collector?

"Nothing unusual about finding Disney items on eBay. But
finding a 12,000-piece collection complete with lighted
cabinets, a 282-page inventory and an asking price of
$399,000?" (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/06/06)
--------------------------------
Disney returns to its past...

"Disney has signed composer Alan Menken, an eight-time Oscar
winner and one of the driving forces behind "The Little
Mermaid" -- which helped resuscitate Disney animation in the
'80s -- to a nonexclusive, multipicture deal. Highly
regarded feature animation directors John Musker and Ron
Clements, the team behind such animated hits as 'Mermaid'
and 'Aladdin,' also are returning to the Disney fold."
(Source: hollywoodreporter.com, 03/01/06)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
--------------------------------
Click here for an interview with John Cooke, co-owner of
Raglan Road at Downtown Disney.

--------------------------------
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
will take place April 21, 2006 - June 11, 2006. Includes:

* Flower Power Concert Series at America Gardens Theater
featuring bands from the 60's and 70's at 5:45 PM, 7:00 PM
and 8:15 PM:

Nelson April 21-24
The Buckinghams April 25-27
Gary Puckett April 28-May 1
Grass Roots Featuring Rob Grill May 2-4
Paul Revere and The Raiders May 5-8
The Association May 9-11
Davy Jones May 12-15
The Tokens May 16-18
BJ Thomas May 19-22
Felix Cavaliere's Rascals May 23-25
The Guess Who May 26-29
Tony Orlando May 30-31, June 1
Arlo Guthrie June 2-5
The Turtles Featuring Flo and Eddie June 6 & 7
Herman's Hermits June 8-11

* Mother's Day Brunch on May 14. Call 407/WDW-DINE
(939-3463) for reservations.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

"Central Florida's drum-tight labor market prompted SeaWorld
Orlando to raise entry-level pay to $7 an hour, a 20-cent
increase, as the region's third-largest attraction prepares
to add staff for the spring and summer tourist season."

Other attractions offer:

* Universal: $6.75 an hour + flexible hours and health insurance
* Disney World: job premiums and bonuses
* Gatorland: $7 an hour + commissions
(Source: Orlando Sentinel,03/08/06)
--------------------------------
"ST. AUGUSTINE -- Hundreds of animal lovers turned out
Saturday to view -- and review -- the makeover of Marineland
as the Florida landmark reopened its doors after a $10
million renovation... The interactive programs allow
visitors the chance to feed, touch and play with dolphins in
small groups." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/05/06)
--------------------------------
Viva la Música at SeaWorld Orlando:

Included with paid admission, guests can sample Latin
cuisine (food and drink cost extra), enjoy shows and rides,
and the following performers:

El Gran Combo - salsa orchestra from Puerto Rico March 11
Oscar D'Leon -- salsa legend from Venezuela March 18
Ivy Queen March 25
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Mandara Spa is scheduled to open early April. Guests will be
able to try out the facility starting next week. Call (714)
300-7350 for reservations and be sure to ask about Advanced
Purchase Savings. (Source: Promotional email from Disneyland
Resort, 03/07/06)
--------------------------------
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
OUTSIDE DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

"Knott's Berry Farm, which has struggled to boost attendance
in recent years, is counting on lower ticket prices and
cheaper cotton candy to attract more customers. Starting
today, the Buena Park venue will cut adult admission 11%,
from $45 a ticket to $39.95, the company said Tuesday. The
price of cotton candy will be reduced to 25 cents from
$2.75." (Source: LA Times, 03/01/06)
=================================================
TOKYO DISNEYLAND

"New Tokyo DisneySea Attraction 'Tower of Terror' To Open
September 4, 2006 The new attraction Tower of Terror will
open Monday, September 4, 2006, in Tokyo DisneySea Park.
Located in the American Waterfront themed port, Tower of
Terror will let guests experience an exciting world filled
with thrills and supernatural surprises."
(Source: Press Release, 03/02/06)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND HONG KONG

"Hong Kong Disneyland announced Wednesday it has adjusted
its admission system to prevent chaos that erupted during
the Chinese New Year holiday when hundreds of visitors tried
to storm the park after being denied entry. The adjustment
involves setting aside 11 extra days -- around Easter and
China's Labor Day holidays -- when only visitors holding
date-specific tickets can enter the park... The newly
designated 'special days' run from April 14-21 and May 4-6."

The public can buy three kinds of tickets: regular and peak
day tickets are good for six months, but don't guarantee
entry; special day tickets are date specific.
(Source: Yahoo! Finance, 03/01/06)
=================================================
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:

"At long last, I've finally managed to get invited to a
Disney 'industry and press event.' These events have
historically been spectacular, spare-no-expense affairs.
This one takes place April 6-7 for the grand opening of
Expedition Everest. I will be driving up from Naples on the
6th and will attend a travel industry reception inside
Expedition Everest that evening. In the morning I'll have a
pass to the main event. Disney is providing one night at
Animal Kingdom Lodge, but I booked two more nights at a
greatly reduced rate. Not sure I'll stay for three nights
since this is a 'Mommy only' trip, but I'm sure looking
forward to the experience. I'll be doing emails from my
room Friday after the event and will be sure to send in
prompt reports so you'll all find out what these shindigs
are all about not long after I do!"

I'll post Beth's comments in our blog, which I can publish
any time, to keep all our readers informed about Beth's
experiences.
=================================================
Brian from England writes:

"Just returned from a brilliant two week vacation in
Orlando, and thought anyone going in the immediate future
might like this tip:-

In Animal Kingdom, Disney has just completed its newest ride
Expedition Everest.

Although not officially open yet, if you see the ride going,
then just ask a cast member if you can ride it. They will
always say yes, as all tests are now complete, and cast
members are getting used to the ride. Keep an eye out for
the Yeti !!!"
=================================================
Cherry writes:

"John,

I consider myself a fairly savvy Disney guest now. But I
still do not have the knack of getting the best views or
rooms in the resort I stay in. I have requested,
complained, complained to management, kindly asked for
input, and think I have the answer but still it more often
than not doesn't work out. It seems at best to be hit or
miss. Your book recommends specific floors, wings, etc. for
many of the hotels, but how do you know you will get this?"

>> It's totally up to Disney. They say they will accommodate
where possible. Don't count on it.

"For example, my husband and I were married October a year
ago and spent our honeymoon at Wilderness Lodge Villas. We
planned the honeymoon 9 months in advance, put on the
reservation that it was our honeymoon, requested a romantic
view, and ended up in a room designed to accommodate a
wheelchair, a shower but no tub, and a view of the closest
bus stop. We checked in at 4:00 pm that day.

For our first anniversary trip this past October, we stayed
at Saratoga Springs and had requested a view of Downtown
Disney. At check-in, I was told this view was gone by 2:00
pm that afternoon and was given a garden view which really
looked directly into other balconies. When I said I thought
check-in was at 4:00 pm, I was told people can check in as
early as 6:00 am - they just may not get into their room
that early."

>> You can leave your luggage and return later in the day
when your room is ready.

During my recent December visit, we spent one night at
Animal Kingdom Lodge in a Deluxe Savannah View room so our
teenaged guests could experience this wonderful hotel and
the animals. We were assigned a room at the end of the
corridor with a distant view of the animals which was
nothing like my experience a few years back. I really had to
work at moving beyond my disappointment to avoid ruining the
kids’ excitement. The kids did have a great time along with
a midnight swim in the heated pool and didn't realize what
they were missing... but I had assumed I would get a great
view with a 'Deluxe Savannah View' room and I asked the
front desk staff how this could have happened that I didn't.
The answer was that people are so internet savvy these days
- they all know to request the best views and it’s who gets
there first...

So, in your experience, is that the answer? I need to
arrive very early in the day for the best shot at a good
view even if I can't get into the room they assign me for
hours? Thanks."

>> This is one of my pet peeves. First come, first served
upon arrival seems to be the norm, but Disney should give us
the room we want if it's available when we call. If it's not
available for our visit, they should say so and we can make
the choice to stay at that particular hotel or somewhere
else.
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

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! To check out the bargains, click
here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?

With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on
travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more!
Coupons in the 2006 book are valid through 11/01/06. Save at
hotels and restaurants near Walt Disney World, on car
rental, airfare, admission to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld
Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa! 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! Donna and I
bought a beautiful 5-piece set of Samsonite luggage for our
daughter for Christmas for $144! 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.
=============================================

Wednesday, March 01, 2006

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
March 01, 2006
Copyright © 1999 - 2006 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...

* Deals and specials - save hundreds on this new WDW
vacation package for the general public!
* The latest news from around the "World" - two new
restaurants are coming to WDW
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about Disney dining for DVC
members and the addition of suites to All Star Music!
* Cherry writes about dining at WDW
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Save hundreds on this Disney vacation package! Includes
water parks, park hopping and Disney dining plan!

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

Save up to $95.00 per night at the Disney World resorts this
spring!

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

Receive a FREE ticket upgrade worth almost $400.00 to a
family of four!

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

Save $25 at the Value resorts; $40 at the Moderate resorts;
and $100 at the Deluxe resorts.

--------------------------------
If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
Members can use the following URLs to log in:

Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

"The World Golf Fitness Summit, scheduled March 9-11 at Walt
Disney World's Coronado Springs Resort, is a three-day
extravaganza designed to showcase the latest golf training
research." (Source: golfweek.com, 02/28/06)
--------------------------------
Two New Restaurants Coming To WDW

"T-Rex, a restaurant of at least 18,000 square feet with
audio-animatronic dinosaurs... will open at the Downtown
Disney Marketplace in early 2008. A second restaurant,
tentatively called Asia, will open at the Animal Kingdom
next year. It will be themed around a village in the
Himalayan foothills -- not unlike the new Expedition Everest
ride." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/27/06)
--------------------------------
"A rider on a roller coaster at Cypress Gardens Adventure
Park was injured Saturday afternoon when he fell from the
ride, authorities said." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/26/06)

"An Orlando boy who fell from a roller coaster at Cypress
Gardens Adventure Park was at fault for standing while
riding the Triple Hurricane, a state inspector said Sunday."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/27/06)
--------------------------------
For Disney merchandise commemorating the Daytona 500, click here
and here.
--------------------------------
"'ESPN The Weekend Presented by Speed Stick 24/7" -- the
third annual ESPN special event at the Walt Disney World
Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. -- will give sports fans
the opportunity to see many of their favorite athletes and
ESPN personalities up-close and personal at the Disney-MGM
Studios March 3-5, 2006." (Source: Press Release, 02/23/06)
--------------------------------
Expedition Everest opens April 7. You must be 44 inches tall
to ride.

"At Walt Disney World's new Expedition Everest attraction,
it's a howling animatronic beast with more potential thrust
power than a 747 airplane -- and the center of the theme
park giant's first big-ticket attraction here in 2 ½ years...

Park researchers [to the Himalayas] were accompanied by
Conservation International and film crews from Discovery
Networks, whose Travel Channel will premiere a chronicle of
the trip called Expedition Everest: Journey to Sacred Lands
the week of April 9." (Source: MiamiHerald.com, 02/20/06)
--------------------------------
Click here for the recipe for Creme Brulee served at Chefs
de France at Epcot's France pavilion.
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
DISNEYLAND HONG KONG

"Walt Disney Co. will introduce three attractions at its
Hong Kong theme park this summer... The three attractions
include a game based on cartoon character Stitch, a new
interactive water ride, and Autopia, in which riders drive
small model cars around a track, park managing director Bill
Ernest said Monday." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/28/06)
=================================================
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:

"DVC (Disney Vacation Club) members *can* now add the dining
plan to their reservations. The rate is the same as it is
for regular package reservations. They must, however, be
using points to stay at one of the DVC resorts, not any of
the other Disney resorts.

Also...

Word is that Disney is going to fast-track the installation
of value-priced family suites. Plans call for 192 two-room
suites (520 sq. ft.) that will sleep two in one room (queen
bed) and up to four in the other room (double sleeper sofa
and two convertible twins). They will offer a 'mini kitchen'
with microwave, small frig, and sink.

The price on these suites will start at $169 a night + tax
in value season. They will be available - for now - ONLY at
All Star Music. No word as to whether or not they will be
included in promotions. (Suites are usually NOT included.)

These suites are NOT currently available for booking, and no
mention was made as to an opening date for the suites."
=================================================
Cherry writes:

"Hi John,

I have been averaging at least 3 Disney trips a year for the
past several years (I used to go only once a year until I
became a Vacation Club member...). I come back from a trip
anxious to share all the things I liked and didn't like
about the most recent trip... and since I began subscribing
to Affordable Disney, now immediately think of sending it to
you for possible inclusion in your newsletter. Of course, as
you've noticed, I also come back with questions...

I hope you don't mind that I'm about to send you another
email or two about some of my preferences and thoughts. The
first time I was shy about you using my name but now I've
decided I like seeing it in print (smile) so please share
anything with your readers you consider potentially helpful
and otherwise ignore the ramblings of yet another Disney
enthusiast. I'll try not to go overboard... Thanks for your
valuable publication!"

>> We encourage all of our readers to share their
experiences.

Cherry continues:

"I enjoyed reading your last issue of the Disney News and
was reminded how important it is to make dining reservations
before I leave for a Disney trip. There is no penalty if I
fail to show for a reservation (though I courteously try to
let the restaurant know I won't be able to make it) and
having a reservation somewhere is a big plus when my family
is tired, hungry, and hot and wants to sit for a meal
without waiting in long lines. "

>> You have to cancel any pre-pay reservations you don't
want or you will be charged a no-show fee.

"Of course, this requires knowing which park I plan to be in
on each day, but it's better to have the reservations and
decide later to do something different, than not be able to
get into a restaurant at all.

Also, planning my days in advance allows me to get in more
of the shows and rides I really want to experience and helps
avoid wasting time in trying to decide on the spot what we
want to do next. Prior planning is particularly important
for first time visitors who may never have another
opportunity to visit Disney.

For my recent December trip, I made all our lunch and dinner
reservations at least two months in advance, and was
disappointed Cinderella's Castle was already booked for all
of the days we would be there."

>> Disney resort guests may now make as many as ten days of
Advanced Dining Reservations with one call 90 days in
advance. Those staying off Disney property will have to call
90 days before each dining reservation day.

"I also couldn't get into Canada's Le Cellier restaurant for
the third trip in a row. However, I made reservations at the
best choices and times available and frequently found, once
at Disney, I could get into a restaurant regardless of the
timing of my reservations - as long as I had a reservation.

During this last trip I hurt my leg shortly before dinner in
EPCOT. A large goose egg had already appeared and I didn't
think I could walk to our dinner reservations at Germany’s
Biergarten. We were near France at the time and my husband
explained the situation to the staff at France’s Bistro de
Paris and they seated us within 10 minutes! I'm convinced
having had a reservation 'somewhere' helped.

Also, when I have first time Disney visitors with me, I try
to be at the park gate when it opens, with a plan in hand
for the attractions we want see or ride first. This puts us
ahead of the crowds for the most popular rides. Two of the
parks, Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, are particularly
entertaining early in the morning at opening! We also take
cheese crackers in our fanny packs to hold us over until the
next meal.

Not being able to get reservations for some of our favorite
restaurants led me to a few welcomed surprises during this
last trip. When I couldn't get reservations for lunch at
Cinderella’s Castle, I settled for Crystal Palace. This
buffet was great! I have eaten at most of the other
competing Magic Kingdom restaurants and this one has them
all beat. The meats, vegetables, salads and desserts were
freshly prepared as well or better than I could have cooked
them at home. We had two first time Disney guests with us,
aged 14 and 15, and they also loved the Pooh and Friends
characters who greeted us at lunch. When our waiter
discovered my sister, in her 40’s, was there without her
husband he fell on his knees and began serenading her. Great
fun and pictures!

Another happy surprise was the Sci Fi restaurant at MGM. I
had heard the food was awful and had never tried it. I did
so this time trying to entertain my teenage guests. While
the food was mediocre, it wasn't ghastly, and the atmosphere
and service made up for anything we lost in food quality.
The adults, however, were more satisfied with dinner at the
Hollywood Brown Derby.

As much as I liked Boma’s [at Animal Kingdom Lodge] for
dinner and for breakfast, our best meal was voted by
everyone to be the crab claws and lobster at Fulton’s Crab
House in Downtown Disney. It was also our most expensive
meal, but was a grand 'finale’ on our last night."

>> We'll have more comments from Cherry next week.
=================================================
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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.
=============================================