Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
October 18, 2006
Copyright © 1999 - 2006 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Admission to Universal Studios AND Islands of Adventure for less than $1 per day!
* The latest news from around the "World" - The Walt Disney Co. will begin serving more nutritionally balanced meals at its domestic theme parks
* Magical Makeover will transform Cinderella Castle for "Suite Dreams" beginning in late January 2007
* A sampling of the immersive entertainment experiences to be found every day at Disneyland Resort throughout "The Year of a Million Dreams"
* This week's money saving tip - watch 'em feed chickens (store bought) to the alligators and save on admission with this coupon!
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now list 32 Sweepstakes to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
Discounted 2007 Walt Disney World packages for Canadians are now available!
New Disney Seasonal Activities have been added to our Disney Goodies section!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Enjoy unlimited admission for 3 months to both Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks
for only $84.99!
FREE Night Offer at this Orlando Resort! Reserve a room to arrive anytime before December 22, 2006 at the special rate of $87 and you will be entitled to ONE FREE NIGHT IN 2007 and additional nights on that reservation at $79. A 2-night minimum stay is required. There are no restrictions on the number of additional nights you reserve. Bookings must be made prior to November 5, 2006. BLACK OUT DATES include 02/07/06 - 02/10/06; 02/15/06 - 02/18/06; 03/29/06 - 04/15/06; 12/24/06 - 12/31/06.
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
Christmas Special: 2 nights/3 days from $274 per adult!
Don't speak French? No problem. Beth, our agent, will make the reservation for you.
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VEGAS
Enjoy the luxury of this Hotel & Casino from $64 per night! Includes:
* Room Upgrade
* 2 FREE Drinks
* 2-for-1 Breakfast
* 2-for-1 Lunch
* Admission for 2 to the Spa
* and more!
Offer available on select nights October 17 - December 31, 2006. Must book by November 1st, 2006.
--------------------------------
CARRIBEAN EARLY WINTER SALE
Over 100 resorts in Jamaica, Barbados, Curacao and St. Lucia are participating in this package. Save up to $1,550 on air and accommodations! Valid January 1 - April 7, 2007. Must book by October 20!
--------------------------------
Below are just some of the deals drawn from 53 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
SPECIAL FOR AFFORDABLE DISNEY MEMBERS FROM OUR TRAVEL AGENT BETH!
Here are the Disney deals that Beth, our travel agent, got exclusively for our members in December.
Discounted Standard View Rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort!
Dates: December 8, 2006 - December 20, 2006. DISCOUNT RATE JUST REDUCED EVEN MORE! Last day to book: November 1, 2006.
Plus no additional fee for having more than two adults in a room. (Disney charges $15 + tax per night for each "extra" adult!) Riverside rooms have two double beds and accommodate up to 4 plus an infant in a crib. (Trundle bed rooms that can sleep a 5th person under age 10 can be requested.)
Discounted Standard View Garden Wing Rooms at Disney's Contemporary Resort!
Dates: December 8, 2006 - December 20, 2006. Plus no additional fee for having more than two adults in a room. (Disney charges $25 + tax per night for each "extra" adult!) Contemporary rooms have two queen beds and a daybed and sleep up to 5. (We can request, but not guarantee, a refurbished room or a room that sleeps 3 with a King bed.)
This special is a phenomenal deal for anyone who already has tickets (or buys them from our ticket agent) or who has no desire to have the dining plan. We are also checking on special group-rate tickets.
These rooms go fast! Members should log in and book today before they're all gone! If you are not a member, but would like to take advantage of these deals, as well as all our Disney discounts and specials, click here.
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WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> 5-night/6-day packages from $369 per adult, double occupancy!
>> Inventory Reduction Sale at WDW Deluxe resorts!
>> This group gets a special rate:
* Value resorts - up to $20 off!
* Moderate resorts - up to $45 off!
* Deluxe/Home Away from Home resorts - $75 off!
>> Save up to $900.00 on Disney's New 2007 Adventures!
These are trips organized and guided by Disney to Spain, Hawaii, Wyoming, Costa Rica, Paris/London, Italy, the Canadian Rockies, and more!
* Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney
World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day
Expiration!
* Deals for the military, teachers, government workers,
nurses, Florida residents!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Save up to 40% on Your Fall Getaway! $143 includes a Premium Room Upgrade!
The choices of how to spend time relaxing and reconnecting in sensible luxury are endless with these special fall rates. A round of golf on one of two Greg Norman-designed golf courses. An afternoon of pampered indulgence at The Spa. Scheduled activities for children and teens. And 15 acres of leisure recreation with two pools, a waterslide, an 850-foot lazy river, and a lighted 9-hole, par 3 golf course. Guests enjoy fun-filled days and a location that makes local attractions both easy to get to, and easy to escape - located only 6 miles from Walt Disney World. Valid 10/18/06 through 12/26/06.
>> New Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens! Good for 6 consecutive days, too!
>> This group saves 40% at Universal!
>> Universal vacation package from $364 per adult, double occupancy!
>> A 7-day ticket to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for only $12 per day!
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of
Adventure for less than $20!
>> Kids go to SeaWorld FREE when you book this vacation
package!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* Three nights from $469!
* Four nights from $539!
* Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> Disney Cruise Line Specials for this group! Too low to publish!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit good for buying merchandise, shore excursions, etc. on their 2007 Disney cruise!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
* New ticket discount announced for this group!
* 4th night FREE with this vacation package!
* Adults get in at kids prices with this vacation package!
* Ticket upgrade, tour discounts, FREE photo souvenir for these groups!
* Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Halloween Special!
>> Vacation Package for UK residents!
>> Get an EXTRA NIGHT including breakfast, plus an EXTRA DAY to explore both Disney Parks for free!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
>> Grand Reopening Special at this Cancun Resort & Spa! Includes $100 food and breakfast credit per room and one free night with a four-night stay!
>> Enjoy luxury accommodations at this Resort & Casino from $79 per night! Includes $25 Bar And Restaurant Credit, VIP Line Pass, and Two Complimentary Cocktails!
--------------------------------
BRANSON, MISSOURI
Free Accommodations for the military!
This luxury Branson golf resort community is offering two FREE nights - no strings attached - to active-duty U.S. military personnel on leave from the Middle East. Located just off the Branson Strip, it is conveniently situated between international award-winning theme park, Silver Dollar City, and Branson’s 49 live music theaters.
Reservations will be accepted until January 1, 2008 for stays occurring before February 1, 2008.
--------------------------------
CRUISES
Cruises to Europe and the Caribbean from $599 per person - even during the holidays!
--------------------------------
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
Florida.com reviews the Disney stage shows at MGM in this article:
Playhouse Disney -- Live on Stage!
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
Beauty and the Beast
Voyage of the Little Mermaid
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"The Walt Disney Co. will begin serving more nutritionally balanced meals at its domestic theme parks and will sign movie and other endorsement deals only with restaurants that limit fat and sugar in menu items, the company said Monday... Starting this month, kid's meals at Disney's domestic parks are being served with low-fat milk, 100 percent fruit juice, or water, along with side dishes such as apple sauce or carrots in place of french fries and soft drinks. Parents can still request soda or fries at no additional cost."
Disney plans to limit sugar, calories, fat, including saturated fat, and reduce portions. (Source: Orlando Sentinel
, 10/16/06)
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"Walt Disney World has closed a small, obscure, yet unique attraction: two consumer CD-burners loaded with old Disney music. The 'Wonderland' machines were set in back corners of the Once Upon a Toy store in Downtown Disney and the Virtual Magic Kingdom store in the Magic Kingdom... But the machines simply weren't very popular, a Disney spokesman said. In their place are shelves of Disney CDs, including a few, such as Mickey's Top 40 Tunes, that feature repackaged, select oldies. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 10/14/06)
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Animal Kingdom Villas
"Disney time shares are coming to the Animal Kingdom, with a plan for 458 units... Development of the Animal Kingdom Villas is scheduled in phases, with units to begin opening in fall 2007. The project is scheduled to be completed by spring 2009. The first phase will include 134 remodeled accommodations on the fifth and sixth floors of the Animal Kingdom Lodge, and additional phases will include the building of 324 vacation properties in a new building at the resort." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 10/12/06)
"The new units will feature African-inspired details and views of the area where Disney keeps some of its African animals, an area which will be expanded to accommodate the new rooms. Also to be added are a sit-down restaurant, a themed water feature, a fitness center, a merchandise shop and recreation facilities." (Source: orlando.bizjournals.com, 10/12/06)
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This Day in Disney History
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"Veggie fajitas, seared tofu and sugar-free ice cream are all part of the healthy fare SeaWorld Orlando is serving up as part of a new nutritional dining program, the company said Monday, A new quick-service restaurant, Mama's Kitchen Healthy Alternatives, has also been added to the Orlando theme park, where guests can enjoy whole wheat bread and pasta and foods prepared without trans fats and preservatives, said David White, vice president of SeaWorld's culinary operations." (Source: philly.com, 10/16/06)
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"Orlando officials moved Monday to allow dogs to join their owners on restaurants' outdoor patios... Dogs can eat only outside; employees can't touch dogs; hand sanitizer must be available; and dogs must be leashed. And it's the floor for Fido. Dogs aren't allowed up on chairs." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 10/17/06)
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The Holy Land Experience
"[They are now] marketing Holy Land as a half-day attraction [to] lure tourists with extra time at the end of a vacation.
In another move to increase traffic, Holy Land recently began allowing visitors to use admission tickets for eight days, giving them the ability to make several short stops or to come back if the weather turns foul."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 10/16/06)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disney Goes Upscale In New Downtown Store
"Vault 28, an outlet for women opening today, sells $60 T-shirts and high-end jeans... Disney is opening the boutique to meet demand from customers asking for more high-end merchandise... About half of the items at the 1,185-square-foot shop come from high-end brands, such as a $150 Chip & Pepper pair of denims and $188 Betsey Johnson pink sunglasses." (Source: ocregister.com, 10/11/06)
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Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
"Disneyland Park is divided into five themed lands - Main Street USA, Frontierland, Adventureland, Fantasyland and Discoveryland - each with their own unique architecture, decoration, costumes, music and landscaped scenery." Features:
* Big Thunder Mountain
* Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril
* Space Mountain: Mission 2
* Star Tours
* Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast
* Phantom Manor
* Pirates Of The Caribbean
"Walt Disney Studios Park is made up of Front Lot, Animation Courtyard, Production Courtyard and Back Lot - each with rides, shows and attractions." Features:
* Art of Disney Animation
* Studio Tram Tour of Catastrophe Canyon
* Armageddon Special Effects
* Rock 'n' Roller Coaster
"Just outside the parks, Disney Village has eight restaurants offering everything from sandwiches to steaks and burgers to Bavarian cuisine. Restaurants include Planet Hollywood, Rainforest Cafe, McDonald's, Annette's Diner and King Ludwig's Castle." Features:
* Two bars
* Nightclub
* Billy Bob's Country and Western Saloon
* 15-screen cinema
* Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show
Nearby is PanoraMagique, a tethered hot-air balloon that floats above Disneyland Paris. (Source: mirror.co.uk, 10/14/06)
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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.
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WALT DISNEY WORLD
Magical Makeover Transforming Cinderella Castle For ‘Suite Dreams’ Beginning in Late January 2007
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- For decades, Walt Disney World guests have dreamed of spending the night in Cinderella Castle -- a night when, as the clock strikes 12, the magic doesn't end. And during "The Year of a Million Dreams," a 15-month celebration, the dream will finally come true for lucky guests following a magical transformation within the Magic Kingdom landmark.
Unused space originally envisioned as in-park accommodations for the Disney family is being transformed into Cinderella Castle Suite -- a place where lucky Walt Disney World guests will spend a dream-come-true night beginning in late January 2007.
Eligible guests will be selected as part of the unique Disney Dreams Giveaway, which began Oct. 1, 2006. For the castle stay, a Walt Disney World guest at a park or Downtown Disney will be selected randomly by early in the afternoon most days beginning in late January. The guest and up to five members of their party will begin their dream-come-true night that evening at Cinderella's Royal Table, the popular restaurant located in Cinderella Castle. (Because the Castle stay requires same-day use, mail-in winners will be awarded a prize of equal value.)
After the rest of the Magic Kingdom guests have headed home, these lucky guests can keep the castle lights burning brightly well into the night, wrapping themselves in the cozy comforts of their dream suite -- a salon, bedchamber and bathroom off of a private marble-floored lobby some four stories above the surrounding Magic Kingdom, replete with rich details befitting the 17th century fairytale and the French chateaus that inspired the design of Cinderella Castle:
Fluffy feather comforters beneath the regal canopy draping of two queen beds ... A cut-stone bedchamber floor inspired by the mosaic art masterpiece that adorns the castle's breezeway entrance to Fantasyland ... A bedchamber ceiling that twinkles with stars and fills wondering eyes with illusions of pixie dust ... A sofa that invites kicking off the shoes and curling up to read a chapter beneath a vaulted ceiling of the salon ... Rich, wood-paneled walls, stained-glass windows, and glimpses of the familiar gray castle stone.
While the idea of having living quarters inside Cinderella Castle dates to the time when Walt Disney World Resort was being planned, until now the space has been a backstage area -- essentially a blank canvas for a creative team from Walt Disney Imagineering. In the fashion of a Disney attraction, Cinderella Castle Suite is emerging regally from their meticulous research and design skills.
"The architecture of the castle, the Cinderella story and the suite are all interwoven," said Stephen Silvestri, the Walt Disney Imagineering show producer/director who is leading a team of designers and craftsmen in the dream makeover. "We want our guests to feel as though they are inside our castle but also immersed within the fantasy realm of the Cinderella story."
In the lobby of the suite, guests will discover a design of the fairytale pumpkin coach in the marble floor inlay. A memorable artifact from the story -- perhaps the famous glass slipper -- will adorn a cove. And through the doorway, the bedchamber and salon are appointed with furnishings in the style of the era of "the Louies," as Silvestri refers to the French rulers of the period inspiring the castle and Cinderella story. Nooks showcase sculpted pieces, clocks and porcelain all befitting the period. Doors are richly detailed; the walls are covered with wood panels and wall coverings. In the bathroom, hand-decorated copper basins sit atop the vanity, recalling a time when fresh water was carried to the bedchamber.
Despite all the careful attention to centuries-old details, the amenities of the Cinderella Castle Suite are definitely 21st century. There's a lavish garden tub plus a shower. The elevator, the bathroom and everything in between are wheelchair accessible. As for a 17th-century-style painting above a regal fireplace: it frames a modern 21st-century flat-screen television.
"We want to balance the practical realities within the fantasy place to make the experience truly a dream-come-true for our guests," Silvestri said. (Source: WDW Press Release)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
All-New Immersive Entertainment Experiences Create Magical Transformations for Guests During ‘The Year of a Million Dreams’
ANAHEIM, Ca. -- Disney parks have always been where dreams come true, but during "The Year of a Million Dreams" both Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida are more magical than ever. The 15-month-long celebration is characterized by all-new interactive, immersive entertainment experiences where guests can fulfill their Disney dreams like never before.
"These experiences will transport our guests deep into the magical realms of what Disney parks are all about," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "Rather than imagine being a Disney princess or what it's like to meet Captain Jack Sparrow, these transformational experiences will put our guests right in the heart of their dreams."
Disney cast members, who are on special assignment as dream makers during "The Year of a Million Dreams" celebration, will tap guests to participate in these fun and engaging experiences. So any guest with a longing to immerse themselves in the storytelling and fantasy to be found within the Disney parks might actually have their Disney dreams become realities.
Here is a sampling of the immersive entertainment experiences to be found every day at Disneyland Resort throughout "The Year of a Million Dreams":
Disney Princess Fantasy Faire (Fantasyland). Guests of all ages can join their favorite princesses for a royal gathering as Fantasyland Theatre is transformed into the enchanted world of Disney Princess Fantasy Faire. Within its magical world, young "lords and ladies" will be invited to create their own sparkling crowns, purchase and decorate their very own "castle cupcake," enjoy meeting the Disney princesses, and participate in princess and knighthood training.
Jedi Training Academy (Tomorrowland). Skilled Jedi Masters will select young Padawans to train in the ways of the Force. During this exciting and fast-paced live Star Wars experience, children will be taught how to handle special "training" lightsabers . . . and then face the Dark Lord of the Sith, Darth Vader -- every day at the Tomorrowland Terrace stage. These training sessions take place six times a day during "The Year of a Million Dreams."
The Pirates Have Landed! (New Orleans Square). The Paris of the western frontier comes alive with pirates! Jack Sparrow and a band of buccaneers escape the Pirates of the Caribbean adventure and entertain and amuse guests, creating mayhem throughout New Orleans Square. Guests with sea salt in their veins are recruited to take the Pirate Oath and learn the secret "high" sign, becoming an honorary pirate. Along the way, guests may encounter Captain Jack Sparrow himself, a roving band of rogues called The Bilge Rats or learn a chantey or two from the musical trio -- The Bootstrappers.
High School Musical Pep Rally (Disney's California Adventure park). Nobody will be able to sit still when the High School Musical Pep Rally rocks Disney's California Adventure park! Guests will catch Wildcat fever as the students of East High School crank up school spirit with their high-energy sing-along pep rally. Guests will learn fun cheers and cool dance moves from the hit Disney Channel movie musical and participate in a rocking finale of "We're All in This Together." (Source: Disneyland Press Release, 10/11/06)
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MONEY SAVING TIP
Gatorland
14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32837
Phone: 407-855-5496
Fax: 407-240-9389
Yes, you can watch 'em feed chickens (store bought) to the alligators!
Save $3.00 off each adult admission or 50% after 3 PM with this coupon! Offer valid for up to 6 people in the party. Valid through 12/31/06.
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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.
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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! 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.
Get FREE shipping on the new 2007 book for a limited time!
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Affordable Disney Movies and CD's
Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
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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.
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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!!!"
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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.
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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.
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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.
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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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.
=============================================
October 18, 2006
Copyright © 1999 - 2006 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon:
Or copy and paste the following URL into your RSS Reader:
http://affordabledisney.blogspot.com/atom.xml
: My Yahoo! users can instantly add our blogcontent 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 - Admission to Universal Studios AND Islands of Adventure for less than $1 per day!
* The latest news from around the "World" - The Walt Disney Co. will begin serving more nutritionally balanced meals at its domestic theme parks
* Magical Makeover will transform Cinderella Castle for "Suite Dreams" beginning in late January 2007
* A sampling of the immersive entertainment experiences to be found every day at Disneyland Resort throughout "The Year of a Million Dreams"
* This week's money saving tip - watch 'em feed chickens (store bought) to the alligators and save on admission with this coupon!
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now list 32 Sweepstakes to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
Discounted 2007 Walt Disney World packages for Canadians are now available!
New Disney Seasonal Activities have been added to our Disney Goodies section!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Enjoy unlimited admission for 3 months to both Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks
for only $84.99!
FREE Night Offer at this Orlando Resort! Reserve a room to arrive anytime before December 22, 2006 at the special rate of $87 and you will be entitled to ONE FREE NIGHT IN 2007 and additional nights on that reservation at $79. A 2-night minimum stay is required. There are no restrictions on the number of additional nights you reserve. Bookings must be made prior to November 5, 2006. BLACK OUT DATES include 02/07/06 - 02/10/06; 02/15/06 - 02/18/06; 03/29/06 - 04/15/06; 12/24/06 - 12/31/06.
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
Christmas Special: 2 nights/3 days from $274 per adult!
Don't speak French? No problem. Beth, our agent, will make the reservation for you.
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Enjoy the luxury of this Hotel & Casino from $64 per night! Includes:
* Room Upgrade
* 2 FREE Drinks
* 2-for-1 Breakfast
* 2-for-1 Lunch
* Admission for 2 to the Spa
* and more!
Offer available on select nights October 17 - December 31, 2006. Must book by November 1st, 2006.
--------------------------------
CARRIBEAN EARLY WINTER SALE
Over 100 resorts in Jamaica, Barbados, Curacao and St. Lucia are participating in this package. Save up to $1,550 on air and accommodations! Valid January 1 - April 7, 2007. Must book by October 20!
--------------------------------
Below are just some of the deals drawn from 53 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
SPECIAL FOR AFFORDABLE DISNEY MEMBERS FROM OUR TRAVEL AGENT BETH!
Here are the Disney deals that Beth, our travel agent, got exclusively for our members in December.
Discounted Standard View Rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort!
Dates: December 8, 2006 - December 20, 2006. DISCOUNT RATE JUST REDUCED EVEN MORE! Last day to book: November 1, 2006.
Plus no additional fee for having more than two adults in a room. (Disney charges $15 + tax per night for each "extra" adult!) Riverside rooms have two double beds and accommodate up to 4 plus an infant in a crib. (Trundle bed rooms that can sleep a 5th person under age 10 can be requested.)
Discounted Standard View Garden Wing Rooms at Disney's Contemporary Resort!
Dates: December 8, 2006 - December 20, 2006. Plus no additional fee for having more than two adults in a room. (Disney charges $25 + tax per night for each "extra" adult!) Contemporary rooms have two queen beds and a daybed and sleep up to 5. (We can request, but not guarantee, a refurbished room or a room that sleeps 3 with a King bed.)
This special is a phenomenal deal for anyone who already has tickets (or buys them from our ticket agent) or who has no desire to have the dining plan. We are also checking on special group-rate tickets.
These rooms go fast! Members should log in and book today before they're all gone! If you are not a member, but would like to take advantage of these deals, as well as all our Disney discounts and specials, click here.
--------------------------------
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> 5-night/6-day packages from $369 per adult, double occupancy!
>> Inventory Reduction Sale at WDW Deluxe resorts!
>> This group gets a special rate:
* Value resorts - up to $20 off!
* Moderate resorts - up to $45 off!
* Deluxe/Home Away from Home resorts - $75 off!
>> Save up to $900.00 on Disney's New 2007 Adventures!
These are trips organized and guided by Disney to Spain, Hawaii, Wyoming, Costa Rica, Paris/London, Italy, the Canadian Rockies, and more!
* Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney
World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day
Expiration!
* Deals for the military, teachers, government workers,
nurses, Florida residents!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Save up to 40% on Your Fall Getaway! $143 includes a Premium Room Upgrade!
The choices of how to spend time relaxing and reconnecting in sensible luxury are endless with these special fall rates. A round of golf on one of two Greg Norman-designed golf courses. An afternoon of pampered indulgence at The Spa. Scheduled activities for children and teens. And 15 acres of leisure recreation with two pools, a waterslide, an 850-foot lazy river, and a lighted 9-hole, par 3 golf course. Guests enjoy fun-filled days and a location that makes local attractions both easy to get to, and easy to escape - located only 6 miles from Walt Disney World. Valid 10/18/06 through 12/26/06.
>> New Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens! Good for 6 consecutive days, too!
>> This group saves 40% at Universal!
>> Universal vacation package from $364 per adult, double occupancy!
>> A 7-day ticket to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for only $12 per day!
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of
Adventure for less than $20!
>> Kids go to SeaWorld FREE when you book this vacation
package!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* Three nights from $469!
* Four nights from $539!
* Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> Disney Cruise Line Specials for this group! Too low to publish!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit good for buying merchandise, shore excursions, etc. on their 2007 Disney cruise!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
* New ticket discount announced for this group!
* 4th night FREE with this vacation package!
* Adults get in at kids prices with this vacation package!
* Ticket upgrade, tour discounts, FREE photo souvenir for these groups!
* Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Halloween Special!
>> Vacation Package for UK residents!
>> Get an EXTRA NIGHT including breakfast, plus an EXTRA DAY to explore both Disney Parks for free!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
>> Grand Reopening Special at this Cancun Resort & Spa! Includes $100 food and breakfast credit per room and one free night with a four-night stay!
>> Enjoy luxury accommodations at this Resort & Casino from $79 per night! Includes $25 Bar And Restaurant Credit, VIP Line Pass, and Two Complimentary Cocktails!
--------------------------------
BRANSON, MISSOURI
Free Accommodations for the military!
This luxury Branson golf resort community is offering two FREE nights - no strings attached - to active-duty U.S. military personnel on leave from the Middle East. Located just off the Branson Strip, it is conveniently situated between international award-winning theme park, Silver Dollar City, and Branson’s 49 live music theaters.
Reservations will be accepted until January 1, 2008 for stays occurring before February 1, 2008.
--------------------------------
CRUISES
Cruises to Europe and the Caribbean from $599 per person - even during the holidays!
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Florida.com reviews the Disney stage shows at MGM in this article:
Playhouse Disney -- Live on Stage!
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
Beauty and the Beast
Voyage of the Little Mermaid
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"The Walt Disney Co. will begin serving more nutritionally balanced meals at its domestic theme parks and will sign movie and other endorsement deals only with restaurants that limit fat and sugar in menu items, the company said Monday... Starting this month, kid's meals at Disney's domestic parks are being served with low-fat milk, 100 percent fruit juice, or water, along with side dishes such as apple sauce or carrots in place of french fries and soft drinks. Parents can still request soda or fries at no additional cost."
Disney plans to limit sugar, calories, fat, including saturated fat, and reduce portions. (Source: Orlando Sentinel
, 10/16/06)
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"Walt Disney World has closed a small, obscure, yet unique attraction: two consumer CD-burners loaded with old Disney music. The 'Wonderland' machines were set in back corners of the Once Upon a Toy store in Downtown Disney and the Virtual Magic Kingdom store in the Magic Kingdom... But the machines simply weren't very popular, a Disney spokesman said. In their place are shelves of Disney CDs, including a few, such as Mickey's Top 40 Tunes, that feature repackaged, select oldies. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 10/14/06)
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Animal Kingdom Villas
"Disney time shares are coming to the Animal Kingdom, with a plan for 458 units... Development of the Animal Kingdom Villas is scheduled in phases, with units to begin opening in fall 2007. The project is scheduled to be completed by spring 2009. The first phase will include 134 remodeled accommodations on the fifth and sixth floors of the Animal Kingdom Lodge, and additional phases will include the building of 324 vacation properties in a new building at the resort." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 10/12/06)
"The new units will feature African-inspired details and views of the area where Disney keeps some of its African animals, an area which will be expanded to accommodate the new rooms. Also to be added are a sit-down restaurant, a themed water feature, a fitness center, a merchandise shop and recreation facilities." (Source: orlando.bizjournals.com, 10/12/06)
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This Day in Disney History
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"Veggie fajitas, seared tofu and sugar-free ice cream are all part of the healthy fare SeaWorld Orlando is serving up as part of a new nutritional dining program, the company said Monday, A new quick-service restaurant, Mama's Kitchen Healthy Alternatives, has also been added to the Orlando theme park, where guests can enjoy whole wheat bread and pasta and foods prepared without trans fats and preservatives, said David White, vice president of SeaWorld's culinary operations." (Source: philly.com, 10/16/06)
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"Orlando officials moved Monday to allow dogs to join their owners on restaurants' outdoor patios... Dogs can eat only outside; employees can't touch dogs; hand sanitizer must be available; and dogs must be leashed. And it's the floor for Fido. Dogs aren't allowed up on chairs." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 10/17/06)
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The Holy Land Experience
"[They are now] marketing Holy Land as a half-day attraction [to] lure tourists with extra time at the end of a vacation.
In another move to increase traffic, Holy Land recently began allowing visitors to use admission tickets for eight days, giving them the ability to make several short stops or to come back if the weather turns foul."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 10/16/06)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disney Goes Upscale In New Downtown Store
"Vault 28, an outlet for women opening today, sells $60 T-shirts and high-end jeans... Disney is opening the boutique to meet demand from customers asking for more high-end merchandise... About half of the items at the 1,185-square-foot shop come from high-end brands, such as a $150 Chip & Pepper pair of denims and $188 Betsey Johnson pink sunglasses." (Source: ocregister.com, 10/11/06)
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Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
"Disneyland Park is divided into five themed lands - Main Street USA, Frontierland, Adventureland, Fantasyland and Discoveryland - each with their own unique architecture, decoration, costumes, music and landscaped scenery." Features:
* Big Thunder Mountain
* Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril
* Space Mountain: Mission 2
* Star Tours
* Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast
* Phantom Manor
* Pirates Of The Caribbean
"Walt Disney Studios Park is made up of Front Lot, Animation Courtyard, Production Courtyard and Back Lot - each with rides, shows and attractions." Features:
* Art of Disney Animation
* Studio Tram Tour of Catastrophe Canyon
* Armageddon Special Effects
* Rock 'n' Roller Coaster
"Just outside the parks, Disney Village has eight restaurants offering everything from sandwiches to steaks and burgers to Bavarian cuisine. Restaurants include Planet Hollywood, Rainforest Cafe, McDonald's, Annette's Diner and King Ludwig's Castle." Features:
* Two bars
* Nightclub
* Billy Bob's Country and Western Saloon
* 15-screen cinema
* Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show
Nearby is PanoraMagique, a tethered hot-air balloon that floats above Disneyland Paris. (Source: mirror.co.uk, 10/14/06)
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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.
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WALT DISNEY WORLD
Magical Makeover Transforming Cinderella Castle For ‘Suite Dreams’ Beginning in Late January 2007
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- For decades, Walt Disney World guests have dreamed of spending the night in Cinderella Castle -- a night when, as the clock strikes 12, the magic doesn't end. And during "The Year of a Million Dreams," a 15-month celebration, the dream will finally come true for lucky guests following a magical transformation within the Magic Kingdom landmark.
Unused space originally envisioned as in-park accommodations for the Disney family is being transformed into Cinderella Castle Suite -- a place where lucky Walt Disney World guests will spend a dream-come-true night beginning in late January 2007.
Eligible guests will be selected as part of the unique Disney Dreams Giveaway, which began Oct. 1, 2006. For the castle stay, a Walt Disney World guest at a park or Downtown Disney will be selected randomly by early in the afternoon most days beginning in late January. The guest and up to five members of their party will begin their dream-come-true night that evening at Cinderella's Royal Table, the popular restaurant located in Cinderella Castle. (Because the Castle stay requires same-day use, mail-in winners will be awarded a prize of equal value.)
After the rest of the Magic Kingdom guests have headed home, these lucky guests can keep the castle lights burning brightly well into the night, wrapping themselves in the cozy comforts of their dream suite -- a salon, bedchamber and bathroom off of a private marble-floored lobby some four stories above the surrounding Magic Kingdom, replete with rich details befitting the 17th century fairytale and the French chateaus that inspired the design of Cinderella Castle:
Fluffy feather comforters beneath the regal canopy draping of two queen beds ... A cut-stone bedchamber floor inspired by the mosaic art masterpiece that adorns the castle's breezeway entrance to Fantasyland ... A bedchamber ceiling that twinkles with stars and fills wondering eyes with illusions of pixie dust ... A sofa that invites kicking off the shoes and curling up to read a chapter beneath a vaulted ceiling of the salon ... Rich, wood-paneled walls, stained-glass windows, and glimpses of the familiar gray castle stone.
While the idea of having living quarters inside Cinderella Castle dates to the time when Walt Disney World Resort was being planned, until now the space has been a backstage area -- essentially a blank canvas for a creative team from Walt Disney Imagineering. In the fashion of a Disney attraction, Cinderella Castle Suite is emerging regally from their meticulous research and design skills.
"The architecture of the castle, the Cinderella story and the suite are all interwoven," said Stephen Silvestri, the Walt Disney Imagineering show producer/director who is leading a team of designers and craftsmen in the dream makeover. "We want our guests to feel as though they are inside our castle but also immersed within the fantasy realm of the Cinderella story."
In the lobby of the suite, guests will discover a design of the fairytale pumpkin coach in the marble floor inlay. A memorable artifact from the story -- perhaps the famous glass slipper -- will adorn a cove. And through the doorway, the bedchamber and salon are appointed with furnishings in the style of the era of "the Louies," as Silvestri refers to the French rulers of the period inspiring the castle and Cinderella story. Nooks showcase sculpted pieces, clocks and porcelain all befitting the period. Doors are richly detailed; the walls are covered with wood panels and wall coverings. In the bathroom, hand-decorated copper basins sit atop the vanity, recalling a time when fresh water was carried to the bedchamber.
Despite all the careful attention to centuries-old details, the amenities of the Cinderella Castle Suite are definitely 21st century. There's a lavish garden tub plus a shower. The elevator, the bathroom and everything in between are wheelchair accessible. As for a 17th-century-style painting above a regal fireplace: it frames a modern 21st-century flat-screen television.
"We want to balance the practical realities within the fantasy place to make the experience truly a dream-come-true for our guests," Silvestri said. (Source: WDW Press Release)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
All-New Immersive Entertainment Experiences Create Magical Transformations for Guests During ‘The Year of a Million Dreams’
ANAHEIM, Ca. -- Disney parks have always been where dreams come true, but during "The Year of a Million Dreams" both Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida are more magical than ever. The 15-month-long celebration is characterized by all-new interactive, immersive entertainment experiences where guests can fulfill their Disney dreams like never before.
"These experiences will transport our guests deep into the magical realms of what Disney parks are all about," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "Rather than imagine being a Disney princess or what it's like to meet Captain Jack Sparrow, these transformational experiences will put our guests right in the heart of their dreams."
Disney cast members, who are on special assignment as dream makers during "The Year of a Million Dreams" celebration, will tap guests to participate in these fun and engaging experiences. So any guest with a longing to immerse themselves in the storytelling and fantasy to be found within the Disney parks might actually have their Disney dreams become realities.
Here is a sampling of the immersive entertainment experiences to be found every day at Disneyland Resort throughout "The Year of a Million Dreams":
Disney Princess Fantasy Faire (Fantasyland). Guests of all ages can join their favorite princesses for a royal gathering as Fantasyland Theatre is transformed into the enchanted world of Disney Princess Fantasy Faire. Within its magical world, young "lords and ladies" will be invited to create their own sparkling crowns, purchase and decorate their very own "castle cupcake," enjoy meeting the Disney princesses, and participate in princess and knighthood training.
Jedi Training Academy (Tomorrowland). Skilled Jedi Masters will select young Padawans to train in the ways of the Force. During this exciting and fast-paced live Star Wars experience, children will be taught how to handle special "training" lightsabers . . . and then face the Dark Lord of the Sith, Darth Vader -- every day at the Tomorrowland Terrace stage. These training sessions take place six times a day during "The Year of a Million Dreams."
The Pirates Have Landed! (New Orleans Square). The Paris of the western frontier comes alive with pirates! Jack Sparrow and a band of buccaneers escape the Pirates of the Caribbean adventure and entertain and amuse guests, creating mayhem throughout New Orleans Square. Guests with sea salt in their veins are recruited to take the Pirate Oath and learn the secret "high" sign, becoming an honorary pirate. Along the way, guests may encounter Captain Jack Sparrow himself, a roving band of rogues called The Bilge Rats or learn a chantey or two from the musical trio -- The Bootstrappers.
High School Musical Pep Rally (Disney's California Adventure park). Nobody will be able to sit still when the High School Musical Pep Rally rocks Disney's California Adventure park! Guests will catch Wildcat fever as the students of East High School crank up school spirit with their high-energy sing-along pep rally. Guests will learn fun cheers and cool dance moves from the hit Disney Channel movie musical and participate in a rocking finale of "We're All in This Together." (Source: Disneyland Press Release, 10/11/06)
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MONEY SAVING TIP
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14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32837
Phone: 407-855-5496
Fax: 407-240-9389
Yes, you can watch 'em feed chickens (store bought) to the alligators!
Save $3.00 off each adult admission or 50% after 3 PM with this coupon! Offer valid for up to 6 people in the party. Valid through 12/31/06.
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 6:24 AM
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