Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
February 21, 2007
Copyright © 1999 - 2007 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 blog
content to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!
: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN!
Add to My MSN!
=================================================
Hi Everyone!
IMPORTANT NOTES: Disney typically raises its ticket prices early in the year. Members should contact our ticket agent before the increase! Disney's spring vacation package deal expired February 18. We are now waiting for Disney to announce their summer vacation deal for August and September. Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - New Pass for Disney water parks, FREE access to AAA, FREE admission to Kennedy Space Center, kids fly FREE to Disneyland, and a Vegas spring special!
* The latest news from around the "World" - what to do about non-refundable airline tickets
* First Canadian family selected to stay overnight in Disney's Cinderella Castle
* NASCAR Sports Grille debuts at Universal CityWalk
* This week's coupon - save on tickets to DAYTONA USA!
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now list 24 Sweepstakes to win a Walt Disney World/Florida/Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
Disney has created a new Water Park Pass for this group!
Get FREE access to AAA benefits!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
These groups get a FREE year's admission to the Kennedy Space Center!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Kids fly FREE to Disneyland! Specials include discount on tickets and $150 gift card! A family of four can save $700.00 just on the airfare!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Luxury Resort & Casino Spring Special!
Deluxe Rooms $179/night
Suites - $249/night
One Bedroom Penthouse Suites - $559/night
Upgrade any suite to lake view for only $50/night!
=================================================
Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Exclusively from one of our providers: UK visitors get their 6th Night FREE when they stay at the Walt Disney World Resorts! Valid all 2007 and, the last time I checked, includes Christmas and New Year's Eve!
>> FREE meals for Kids at these resorts on Disney property!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> This group can save up to $80.00 per night on Disney accommodations!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> 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!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Book 4 nights and get the 5th Night FREE at any Universal Orlando onsite hotel! Plus, receive a FREE room upgrade!
>> UK residents save 45% on tickets to this theme park!
>> This group saves $80.00 on day visits to SeaWorld's Discovery Cove!
>> Save 10% on SeaWorld's Discovery Cove packages!
>> Buy one ticket and get one FREE at this popular theme park!
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69!
>> Save up to 25% per night at Universal's Royal Pacific Resort!
>> These teachers receive a FREE ticket to both Universal Orlando theme parks!
>> Save up to 40% at this Luxury Resort just 6 miles from Walt Disney World!
>> New Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens! Good for 6 consecutive days, too!
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of
Adventure for less than $20!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* Three nights from $429!
* Four nights from $539!
* Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit good for buying merchandise, shore excursions, etc. on their 2007 Disney cruise!
>> New discount rates just posted for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Book 2 nights at Universal Studios Hollywood and receive the 3rd night FREE! Plus! Enjoy a 2nd day admission to Universal Studios Hollywood for FREE!
>> This group gets a 2-Day Park Hopper for the Price of One!
>> This group can gain admission to Disneyland Park one day and Disney's California Adventure Park the next day with the purchase of one ticket!
>> 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!
>> Save $10.00 on admission to Universal Studios Hollywood and get a second visit for FREE!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Receive a FREE rental car upgrade in more than 45 European countries through March 31!
>> Bring the kids for FREE with this vacation package! They'll enjoy free accommodations, park tickets and more!
>> Stay one night and get one night FREE + breakfast!
>> This group saves 19 Euros per ticket to the Disneyland theme parks!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
>> Stay at this luxury resort & casino from $79 per night! Includes Room Upgrade, 2 FREE Drinks, 2-for-1 Breakfast, 2-for-1 Lunch, Admission for 2 to the Spa, and more!
>>Stay at this Resort & Casino from $69! Upgrade to a Suite from $89!
--------------------------------
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
>> 14 cruise specials to Alaska, Canada, South Pacific, Southeast Asia, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, South America, Africa and the Indian Ocean!
>> 7-night Caribbean Cruises starting at $649 for Thanksgiving 2007!
>> Cruises to Europe and the Caribbean from $599 per person!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
--------------------------------
OTHER VACATION SPECIALS
>> Kids Sail FREE to Bermuda! Adult rates from $299 per person!
>> Save almost 50% on packages at Catalina Island, off the coast of California!
>> Beau Rivage Hotel and Casino - Biloxi, MS from $99 per night!
>> 5-night vacation in Helsinki, Finland from $599!
>> Travel to this Tropical Island and get a FREE passport!
--------------------------------
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
This Day in Disney History
--------------------------------
WRAL.com makes this suggestion for the Disney cruise:
"Nassau is over-commercialized and can easily be skipped during the cruise. Instead, when the ship docks, head directly to the Atlantis Hotel. There, you can spend time relaxing on the hotel's beach and playing in both the waterpark and the casino." (Source: wral.com, 02/19/07)
--------------------------------
Click here for an Associated Press reporter's account of his overnight stay in Cinderella Castle.
--------------------------------
"Walt Disney World, which bills itself as one of the happiest and most magical places anywhere, also may be one of the most closely watched and secure. And control over park entrances is getting even tighter: the nation's most popular tourist attraction now is beginning to scan visitor fingerprint information." (Source: news.yahoo.com, 02/15/07)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"First Watch Restaurants, which operates a chain of breakfast and lunch eateries, said today it has launched a free Wi-Fi service at all of its restaurants including its four locations in Central Florida." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/20/07)
--------------------------------
No Future for Universal's Back to the Future?
"Back to the Future is up and operating today, as it has been. There is some truth to the fact that we're looking at changing that out at some point. We can't really talk about what that might be. . . . We'll just have to see what the future brings." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/20/07)
--------------------------------
"Swimming a lap or two in some of the Orlando area’s pools takes on a whole new meaning when you realize that you’ll have to swim under a bridge, through a cave, and around the waterfall to reach the water-spewing volcano at the other end. Click here to see a list of the best pools in Orlando.)
--------------------------------
"Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Orlando vacationer, this list will surely provide a few unique ideas for what to do in Orlando during 2007 and beyond." (Source: Orlando Visitors Bureau
--------------------------------
"While you can't get your money back for them, non-refundable tickets can be used within a year of the date of issue provided you cancel your flight usually an hour, sometimes less, before departure. Expect to pay a fee to rebook." Click here for a list of US and foreign carriers and their policy on non-refundable tickets.
--------------------------------
"Americans spend close to $2,500 on the typical summer vacation... Here are ways to trim expenses once you hit the road."
* Memberships like AAA and the time you visit can lower your cost.
* Bring your own food and snacks when possible.
* Choose the credit card with smaller fees.
* Foreign visitors may save more by using their debit card at ATMs.
* Shop around before buying foreign currency.
* Don't buy a timeshare on your first visit and don't pay full price.
* Plan your own shore excursions. Surf the net and read books for ideas.
* Public transportation is cheap. Buses and subways offer travel cards for $10-$30.
* See brochures at hotels and rest stops for local coupons.
* Camping can be fun and cheap - campgrounds charge $40-$50 per night. (Source: Orlando Sentinel
, 02/15/07)
=================================================
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.
=================================================
First Canadian family selected to stay overnight in Disney's Cinderella Castle
A Prince Albert, Saskatchewan family made history Tuesday night as the first Canadian guests to win a night's stay inside Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom Park as part of the unique Disney Dreams Giveaway. The Day family gained the key to the new Cinderella Castle Suite during "The Year of a Million Dreams," a Disney spectacular celebrating the dreams of guests at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California.
Danielle Day and her family spent Tuesday night in the regal dwelling place -- the world's most exclusive resort, with only one room available and no reservations accepted -- through the Disney Dreams Giveaway, which awards extra-special dreams through a totally random process. Now, nearly every night for the remainder of 2007, other eligible lucky guests will win a similar stay.
The Day family was honoured in a special ceremony, dined at Cinderella's Royal Table restaurant, and bed down for the night amid the splendour of Cinderella Castle Suite some four stories above the surrounding Magic Kingdom -- a salon, bedchamber and bathroom off of a private marble-floored foyer, all replete with rich details. The Suite was created from unused space within the Magic Kingdom landmark once envisioned as in-park living quarters for members of the Disney family.
Danielle and her family were on their first ever trip to WDW when they were approached by the Disney Dream Squad and awarded their prize that was randomly determined by the Disney Dreams Giveaway computer to award the Cinderella Castle Suite.
"It was the first day of our first family trip to Disney. We were on the first attraction and it was within the first hour that we were selected to stay the night in the Cinderella Castle Suite! We were treated like royalty," explained Danielle Day. "We called our friends and family from the suite that night and said, 'We are the only guests inside the Magic Kingdom! When we wake up tomorrow we will already be inside the Magic Kingdom: nobody else can say that except for us!'" (Source: Press Release)
=================================================
NASCAR SPORTS GRILLE DEBUTS AT UNIVERSAL CITYWALK IN ORLANDO
The Cordish Company, a Baltimore based real estate development and entertainment operating company, has launched the NASCAR Sports Grille restaurant. The grand opening of the first NASCAR Sports Grille occurs on Wednesday, February 14 at Universal CityWalk in Orlando. NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France, platinum recording artist Collective Soul and NASCAR NEXTEL Cup driver Robby Gordon, will be among those in attendance to celebrate the unique dining experience for all sports fans.
"We are thrilled that our partnership with NASCAR has resulted in the launch of the inaugural NASCAR Sports Grille. This cutting edge concept provides a world class gathering place for the tremendously loyal NASCAR fan and anyone with a passion for sports. We are dedicated to bringing the excitement of NASCAR to the Sports Grille and our total commitment to the guest makes for an unrivaled dining and entertainment experience," stated David Cordish, Chairman, The Cordish Company.
The 25,000 sq. ft., $10M, two-level NASCAR Sports Grille combines quality design and finishes, great food and service and state-of-the-art audio and visual attractions for the passionate sports fan including: a 37’ media wall, booth-side interactive plasma screens with advanced audio and video reception - perfect for watching that big game and interactive simulators and games. Museum-quality sports memorabilia provides additional décor along with a 20’ artistic adaptation of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup flanking the main entrance. A retail shop, featuring NASCAR merchandise will be located on the ground floor of the restaurant.
In addition to cheering on your favorite sports team, NASCAR Sports Grille is the perfect location for client entertainment, social gatherings, casual get-togethers and more. NASCAR Sports Grille is dedicated to providing premiere customer service and quality food and entertainment to all of their guests.
"We selected The Cordish Company because they have world-class credentials and experience in real estate development, food and beverage and entertainment," said Mark Dyer, NASCAR's Vice President of Licensing and Consumer Products. "What they've done in creating the NASCAR Sports Grille concept at Universal CityWalk is nothing short of spectacular. We're excited to have The Cordish Company as partners."
"The NASCAR Sports Grille will be a great complement to the current offerings at CityWalk," said Ric Florell, Senior Vice President of Revenue Operations for Universal Orlando Resort. "NASCAR is hugely popular and the new venue will completely immerse guests in the NASCAR experience."
Grand Opening festivities will take place at 6:45 p.m. followed by a private reception and special acoustic performance by Collective Soul.
NASCAR Sports Grille will serve lunch and dinner and open daily at 11:00 a.m. (Source: Press Release)
=================================================
MONEY SAVING COUPON
Daytona USA
1801 W. International Speedway Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: 386-947-6800
Fax: 386-947-6899
"DAYTONA USA, the Official Attraction of NASCAR at Daytona International Speedway features: Speedway tours, 'IMAX NASCAR 3D'; Acceleration Alley; motion simulator rides; the winning Daytona 500 car; and a historic walk-through."
Get $5.00 off DAYTONA USA Adult Combo Ticket and $2.00 off Child Combo Ticket for up to 6 people with this coupon. Valid through 06/30/07.
=================================================
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! 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.
Order Today and Get $10 Off and a Free $25 Restaurant Certificate!
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Movies and CD's
Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Accommodations
Enjoy Special Rates at select hotels, condos and vacation rentals near Disney. 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.
=============================================
February 21, 2007
Copyright © 1999 - 2007 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!
IMPORTANT NOTES: Disney typically raises its ticket prices early in the year. Members should contact our ticket agent before the increase! Disney's spring vacation package deal expired February 18. We are now waiting for Disney to announce their summer vacation deal for August and September. Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - New Pass for Disney water parks, FREE access to AAA, FREE admission to Kennedy Space Center, kids fly FREE to Disneyland, and a Vegas spring special!
* The latest news from around the "World" - what to do about non-refundable airline tickets
* First Canadian family selected to stay overnight in Disney's Cinderella Castle
* NASCAR Sports Grille debuts at Universal CityWalk
* This week's coupon - save on tickets to DAYTONA USA!
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now list 24 Sweepstakes to win a Walt Disney World/Florida/Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
Disney has created a new Water Park Pass for this group!
Get FREE access to AAA benefits!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
These groups get a FREE year's admission to the Kennedy Space Center!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Kids fly FREE to Disneyland! Specials include discount on tickets and $150 gift card! A family of four can save $700.00 just on the airfare!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Luxury Resort & Casino Spring Special!
Deluxe Rooms $179/night
Suites - $249/night
One Bedroom Penthouse Suites - $559/night
Upgrade any suite to lake view for only $50/night!
=================================================
Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Exclusively from one of our providers: UK visitors get their 6th Night FREE when they stay at the Walt Disney World Resorts! Valid all 2007 and, the last time I checked, includes Christmas and New Year's Eve!
>> FREE meals for Kids at these resorts on Disney property!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> This group can save up to $80.00 per night on Disney accommodations!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> 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!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Book 4 nights and get the 5th Night FREE at any Universal Orlando onsite hotel! Plus, receive a FREE room upgrade!
>> UK residents save 45% on tickets to this theme park!
>> This group saves $80.00 on day visits to SeaWorld's Discovery Cove!
>> Save 10% on SeaWorld's Discovery Cove packages!
>> Buy one ticket and get one FREE at this popular theme park!
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69!
>> Save up to 25% per night at Universal's Royal Pacific Resort!
>> These teachers receive a FREE ticket to both Universal Orlando theme parks!
>> Save up to 40% at this Luxury Resort just 6 miles from Walt Disney World!
>> New Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens! Good for 6 consecutive days, too!
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of
Adventure for less than $20!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* Three nights from $429!
* Four nights from $539!
* Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit good for buying merchandise, shore excursions, etc. on their 2007 Disney cruise!
>> New discount rates just posted for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Book 2 nights at Universal Studios Hollywood and receive the 3rd night FREE! Plus! Enjoy a 2nd day admission to Universal Studios Hollywood for FREE!
>> This group gets a 2-Day Park Hopper for the Price of One!
>> This group can gain admission to Disneyland Park one day and Disney's California Adventure Park the next day with the purchase of one ticket!
>> 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!
>> Save $10.00 on admission to Universal Studios Hollywood and get a second visit for FREE!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Receive a FREE rental car upgrade in more than 45 European countries through March 31!
>> Bring the kids for FREE with this vacation package! They'll enjoy free accommodations, park tickets and more!
>> Stay one night and get one night FREE + breakfast!
>> This group saves 19 Euros per ticket to the Disneyland theme parks!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
>> Stay at this luxury resort & casino from $79 per night! Includes Room Upgrade, 2 FREE Drinks, 2-for-1 Breakfast, 2-for-1 Lunch, Admission for 2 to the Spa, and more!
>>Stay at this Resort & Casino from $69! Upgrade to a Suite from $89!
--------------------------------
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
>> 14 cruise specials to Alaska, Canada, South Pacific, Southeast Asia, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, South America, Africa and the Indian Ocean!
>> 7-night Caribbean Cruises starting at $649 for Thanksgiving 2007!
>> Cruises to Europe and the Caribbean from $599 per person!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
--------------------------------
OTHER VACATION SPECIALS
>> Kids Sail FREE to Bermuda! Adult rates from $299 per person!
>> Save almost 50% on packages at Catalina Island, off the coast of California!
>> Beau Rivage Hotel and Casino - Biloxi, MS from $99 per night!
>> 5-night vacation in Helsinki, Finland from $599!
>> Travel to this Tropical Island and get a FREE passport!
--------------------------------
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
This Day in Disney History
--------------------------------
WRAL.com makes this suggestion for the Disney cruise:
"Nassau is over-commercialized and can easily be skipped during the cruise. Instead, when the ship docks, head directly to the Atlantis Hotel. There, you can spend time relaxing on the hotel's beach and playing in both the waterpark and the casino." (Source: wral.com, 02/19/07)
--------------------------------
Click here for an Associated Press reporter's account of his overnight stay in Cinderella Castle.
--------------------------------
"Walt Disney World, which bills itself as one of the happiest and most magical places anywhere, also may be one of the most closely watched and secure. And control over park entrances is getting even tighter: the nation's most popular tourist attraction now is beginning to scan visitor fingerprint information." (Source: news.yahoo.com, 02/15/07)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"First Watch Restaurants, which operates a chain of breakfast and lunch eateries, said today it has launched a free Wi-Fi service at all of its restaurants including its four locations in Central Florida." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/20/07)
--------------------------------
No Future for Universal's Back to the Future?
"Back to the Future is up and operating today, as it has been. There is some truth to the fact that we're looking at changing that out at some point. We can't really talk about what that might be. . . . We'll just have to see what the future brings." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/20/07)
--------------------------------
"Swimming a lap or two in some of the Orlando area’s pools takes on a whole new meaning when you realize that you’ll have to swim under a bridge, through a cave, and around the waterfall to reach the water-spewing volcano at the other end. Click here to see a list of the best pools in Orlando.)
--------------------------------
"Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Orlando vacationer, this list will surely provide a few unique ideas for what to do in Orlando during 2007 and beyond." (Source: Orlando Visitors Bureau
--------------------------------
"While you can't get your money back for them, non-refundable tickets can be used within a year of the date of issue provided you cancel your flight usually an hour, sometimes less, before departure. Expect to pay a fee to rebook." Click here for a list of US and foreign carriers and their policy on non-refundable tickets.
--------------------------------
"Americans spend close to $2,500 on the typical summer vacation... Here are ways to trim expenses once you hit the road."
* Memberships like AAA and the time you visit can lower your cost.
* Bring your own food and snacks when possible.
* Choose the credit card with smaller fees.
* Foreign visitors may save more by using their debit card at ATMs.
* Shop around before buying foreign currency.
* Don't buy a timeshare on your first visit and don't pay full price.
* Plan your own shore excursions. Surf the net and read books for ideas.
* Public transportation is cheap. Buses and subways offer travel cards for $10-$30.
* See brochures at hotels and rest stops for local coupons.
* Camping can be fun and cheap - campgrounds charge $40-$50 per night. (Source: Orlando Sentinel
, 02/15/07)
=================================================
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.
=================================================
First Canadian family selected to stay overnight in Disney's Cinderella Castle
A Prince Albert, Saskatchewan family made history Tuesday night as the first Canadian guests to win a night's stay inside Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom Park as part of the unique Disney Dreams Giveaway. The Day family gained the key to the new Cinderella Castle Suite during "The Year of a Million Dreams," a Disney spectacular celebrating the dreams of guests at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California.
Danielle Day and her family spent Tuesday night in the regal dwelling place -- the world's most exclusive resort, with only one room available and no reservations accepted -- through the Disney Dreams Giveaway, which awards extra-special dreams through a totally random process. Now, nearly every night for the remainder of 2007, other eligible lucky guests will win a similar stay.
The Day family was honoured in a special ceremony, dined at Cinderella's Royal Table restaurant, and bed down for the night amid the splendour of Cinderella Castle Suite some four stories above the surrounding Magic Kingdom -- a salon, bedchamber and bathroom off of a private marble-floored foyer, all replete with rich details. The Suite was created from unused space within the Magic Kingdom landmark once envisioned as in-park living quarters for members of the Disney family.
Danielle and her family were on their first ever trip to WDW when they were approached by the Disney Dream Squad and awarded their prize that was randomly determined by the Disney Dreams Giveaway computer to award the Cinderella Castle Suite.
"It was the first day of our first family trip to Disney. We were on the first attraction and it was within the first hour that we were selected to stay the night in the Cinderella Castle Suite! We were treated like royalty," explained Danielle Day. "We called our friends and family from the suite that night and said, 'We are the only guests inside the Magic Kingdom! When we wake up tomorrow we will already be inside the Magic Kingdom: nobody else can say that except for us!'" (Source: Press Release)
=================================================
NASCAR SPORTS GRILLE DEBUTS AT UNIVERSAL CITYWALK IN ORLANDO
The Cordish Company, a Baltimore based real estate development and entertainment operating company, has launched the NASCAR Sports Grille restaurant. The grand opening of the first NASCAR Sports Grille occurs on Wednesday, February 14 at Universal CityWalk in Orlando. NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France, platinum recording artist Collective Soul and NASCAR NEXTEL Cup driver Robby Gordon, will be among those in attendance to celebrate the unique dining experience for all sports fans.
"We are thrilled that our partnership with NASCAR has resulted in the launch of the inaugural NASCAR Sports Grille. This cutting edge concept provides a world class gathering place for the tremendously loyal NASCAR fan and anyone with a passion for sports. We are dedicated to bringing the excitement of NASCAR to the Sports Grille and our total commitment to the guest makes for an unrivaled dining and entertainment experience," stated David Cordish, Chairman, The Cordish Company.
The 25,000 sq. ft., $10M, two-level NASCAR Sports Grille combines quality design and finishes, great food and service and state-of-the-art audio and visual attractions for the passionate sports fan including: a 37’ media wall, booth-side interactive plasma screens with advanced audio and video reception - perfect for watching that big game and interactive simulators and games. Museum-quality sports memorabilia provides additional décor along with a 20’ artistic adaptation of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup flanking the main entrance. A retail shop, featuring NASCAR merchandise will be located on the ground floor of the restaurant.
In addition to cheering on your favorite sports team, NASCAR Sports Grille is the perfect location for client entertainment, social gatherings, casual get-togethers and more. NASCAR Sports Grille is dedicated to providing premiere customer service and quality food and entertainment to all of their guests.
"We selected The Cordish Company because they have world-class credentials and experience in real estate development, food and beverage and entertainment," said Mark Dyer, NASCAR's Vice President of Licensing and Consumer Products. "What they've done in creating the NASCAR Sports Grille concept at Universal CityWalk is nothing short of spectacular. We're excited to have The Cordish Company as partners."
"The NASCAR Sports Grille will be a great complement to the current offerings at CityWalk," said Ric Florell, Senior Vice President of Revenue Operations for Universal Orlando Resort. "NASCAR is hugely popular and the new venue will completely immerse guests in the NASCAR experience."
Grand Opening festivities will take place at 6:45 p.m. followed by a private reception and special acoustic performance by Collective Soul.
NASCAR Sports Grille will serve lunch and dinner and open daily at 11:00 a.m. (Source: Press Release)
=================================================
MONEY SAVING COUPON
Daytona USA
1801 W. International Speedway Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: 386-947-6800
Fax: 386-947-6899
"DAYTONA USA, the Official Attraction of NASCAR at Daytona International Speedway features: Speedway tours, 'IMAX NASCAR 3D'; Acceleration Alley; motion simulator rides; the winning Daytona 500 car; and a historic walk-through."
Get $5.00 off DAYTONA USA Adult Combo Ticket and $2.00 off Child Combo Ticket for up to 6 people with this coupon. Valid through 06/30/07.
=================================================
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! 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.
Order Today and Get $10 Off and a Free $25 Restaurant Certificate!
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Movies and CD's
Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Accommodations
Enjoy Special Rates at select hotels, condos and vacation rentals near Disney. 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.
=============================================
posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 7:09 AM
<< Home