Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
April 25, 2007
Copyright © 1999 - 2007 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
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Hi Everyone!
Disney rarely offers deals to the general public during its busiest seasons: Spring Break, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's and Easter. If you want to visit Walt Disney World when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable. Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - discounted dining certificates, Disney cruise discounts, Universal Hollywood special, Vegas spring special
* The latest news from around the "World" - WDW death and accident report 2007
* Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends 2007
* Disney Cruise Line signs contract with Meyer Werft to build two new ships
* A "thank you" note from Cynthia
* Angela writes about her difficulties during her WDW vacation
* This week's coupon - save 20% at this fine Orlando restaurant
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Save 60% on dining certificates redeemable at restaurants in Orlando and across the USA!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Get two tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood for the price of one!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
New dates announced for cruise discounts for these groups!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Luxury Resort & Casino Spring Special!
Deluxe Rooms $159/night
Suites - $249/night
One Bedroom Penthouse Suites - $559/night
Upgrade any suite to lake view for only $50/night!
Valid May 23 - September 13, 2007.
=================================================
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
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Late Summer Special! FREE dining at Walt Disney World! Save $38.00 per adult and $11.00 per child per day!
>> Save up to $350 per person (up to $1400 for a family of four) on an Adventure by Disney with this special!
>> 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 $100.00 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
>> Save up to 30% at Universal's Portofino, Hard Rock and Royal Pacific Resort Hotels!
>> These groups get a FREE year's admission to the Kennedy Space Center!
>> 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!
>> FREE admission for kids to Tarzan, Lion King and Beauty and the Beast on Broadway!FREE admission for kids to Tarzan, Lion King and Beauty and the Beast on Broadway!
>> 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
>> Sail to Spain for $1250 per person, double occupancy!
>> Early Bird Special for Disney's Repositioning Cruise to the West Coast! Children as low as $99!
* 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
>> Win a Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
>> Fourth Night Free at Disneyland Good Neighbor Hotels!
>> Kids fly FREE to Disneyland! A family of four can save $700.00 on airfare!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
>> Get two days admission for the price of one to Universal Studios Hollywood!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Stay one night get one night FREE!
>> Kids under 7 stay FREE!
--------------------------------
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!
--------------------------------
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.
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CRUISES
>> Repositioning Cruises in April at Amazing Prices! Florida to England: 12 nights from $549! Texas to Spain: 13 nights from $499! Louisiana to Puerto Rico: 7 nights from $399! (per person, double occupancy)
>> 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 the Caribbean from $599 per person!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
--------------------------------
OTHER VACATION SPECIALS
>> All inclusive (air and hotel) 4-day Jamaica vacation for $449! Plus, every third night FREE!
>> Super-Inclusive Packages! All food, beverages and activities are included in one price! From $38 per person!
>> Kids Sail FREE to Bermuda! Adult rates from $299 per person!
--------------------------------
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
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"A neighbor recommended Fort Wilderness, a campground at Walt Disney World in Orlando. In a 700-acre forest of pine and cypress, a setting many people might not associate with Disney, you?ll find 784 campsites and, more important for us, 409 log cabins with kitchens and bathrooms, not to mention televisions, DVD players, hair dryers and housekeeping services." (Source: dispatch.com, 04/24/07)
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"In a first of its kind, Zagat Survey has polled customers to rate everything at Disney World -- characters, rides, shows, restaurants, taverns, stores, hotels and special experiences -- for a new guidebook." Favorites include:
Magic Kingdom
Mickey Mouse costumed character
Soarin' (Epcot)
Hoop-Dee-Doo (Fort Wilderness)
World of Disney (Downtown Disney)
Adventurers Club (Downtown Disney)
California Grill (Contemporary Resort)
Victoria & Albert's (Grand Floridian)
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop (Downtown Disney)
Boulangerie Patisserie pastry shop (Epcot)
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/25/07)
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Alfredo's restaurant in Epcot is closing and will be replaced with a new restaurant scheduled to open Fall 2008. (Source: Press Release, 04/23/07)
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"A request for road improvements for a $1.1 billion theme park in Newton County has led to new speculation about the Walt Disney Co.'s interest in southwest Missouri.
Rumors that a Disney attraction was coming to Branson were rampant in the mid-1990s. Now, Newton County Commissioners are investigating whether Disney could be linked to a theme park proposal made earlier this month." (Source: news-leader.com, 04/21/07)
A hoax...
"After rumors flew last week that Disney was planning to build a $1.1 billion theme park in the area, Presiding Commissioner Jerry Carter got the word Monday that, as he put it, it's "shenanigans." (Source: news-leader.com, 04/24/07)
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"The Asian, the Venetian and the Persian resorts [were] three beautifully designed & themed hotels that -- thanks to circumstances entirely beyond Disney's control (I.E. The Oil Embargo) -- never quite made it off the drawing board." (Source: jimhillmedia.com, 04/20/07)
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"So many brides say they want to look like a princess on their wedding day - and now we're about to find out if they really mean it. Walt Disney Co. has teamed with bridal designer Kirstie Kelly to create a collection of gowns inspired by the favorite Disney princess characters: Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Ariel from 'The Little Mermaid,' Belle from 'Beauty and the Beast' and Jasmine from 'Aladdin.'" (Source: latimes.com, 04/20/07)
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"Dreams can come true in the 'happiest place on earth.' And Tsawwassen’s Matt Kaufmann is going to start living his starting Monday. That’s when the 23-year-old begins his one year contract as an ambassador in the Canadian Pavilion at DisneyWorld in Florida." (Source: southdeltaleader.com, 04/20/07)
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Click here for the Filetto al Salsa di Gorgonzola recipe from the kitchens of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort.
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Disney Sees Green In Going Green
"Head out to Disney World, and you will see more green than the Fantasyland churro cart operator collecting greenbacks, hand over mouse-gloved fist. Head out to Disney's (NYSE: DIS) EPCOT and you'll see the solar panels. Animal Kingdom screams so much green that it actually opened on Earth Day nine years ago." (Source: fool.com, 04/18/07)
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"Two men who succumbed after being on Walt Disney World attractions this winter both died of natural causes, according to the Orange/Osceola Medical Examiner's Office... Disney also reported that an 89-year-old woman fell and broke a hip in February while getting out of a ride vehicle at the Magic Kingdom's Haunted Mansion, and a 27-year-old man had a seizure in March on Disney's Animal Kingdom's Expedition Everest." That makes 11 deaths in the last 2 1/2 years at WDW. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/18/07)
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"Want to see Miley Cyrus of Hannah Montana? Kyle Massey of Cory in the House? Actors from High School Musical? They're coming to Central Florida for the Disney Channel Games, which will run from Tuesday through April 27. The event will be staged at Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/19/07)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"A new ride based on The Simpsons is planned for Universal Studios both in Orlando and Hollywood... The ride would go into Universal's recently closed Back to the Future: The Ride buildings in both parks, making it an instant signature attraction in each. It would open in the spring of 2008." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/24/07)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"A palm frond apparently blown loose by gusty winds at Disneyland scraped a 17-year-old girl's neck on the Jungle Cruise ride Wednesday, officials said." (Source: cbs2.com, 04/18/07)
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Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
"The Tony Award-winning Disney musical, The Lion King, will open in Paris this fall. Le Roi Lion, as it will be called in French, will open at Theatre Mogador, Paris, Oct. 4." (Source: playbill.com, 04/23/07)
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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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DISNEYLAND RESORT SETS A SUMPTUOUS TABLE WITH CELEBRITY CHEFS, WINEMAKERS, TASTINGS AND SEMINARS APRIL 27 - MAY 20
ANAHEIM, Calif.---Dreams of ambrosial feasting and exquisite spirits will be fulfilled during the Year of a Million Dreams at Disneyland Resort when Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends 2007 return, April 27 through May 20.
The four extended weekends (Thursdays-Sundays) will present an abundant bill of fare for everyone from fine wine connoisseurs and skilled epicures to lovers of good food and neophytes wanting to experience and learn more about world-renowned flavors of California cuisine.
The second annual Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends at Disneyland Resort will feature culinary demonstrations, cooking and wine-tasting seminars and a "Taste of California" Marketplace in Disney’s California Adventure park. Each weekend will begin with a Thursday night "kickoff event," a lineup of exclusive Celebrity Chef Dinners showcasing the likes of Donna Scala of Bistro Don Giovanni in Napa Valley (April 26), Robert Curry of Auberge du Soliel in Napa Valley (May 3), Chef Jamie Gwen of KABC radio and KTTV Ch 11 (May 10), and Guy Fieri of Food Network (May 17). Advance reservations are required, and the dinner will be held at 6:30 p.m. in the Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa.
In recent years, with such fresh and audacious restaurants as Napa Rose, Yamabuki, Steakhouse 55, Catal and the Vineyard Room at the Golden Vine Winery, Disneyland Resort has been building its own reputation for fine dining in the parks, the Downtown Disney district, and the hotels. At the celebrated Napa Rose in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, the staff has been training in the sommelier’s art as a complement to Executive Chef Andrew Sutton’s succulent creations. Under the leadership of Napa Rose Manager and Sommelier Michael Jordan, some 250 members of the Disneyland Resort Food & Beverage team have been certified as Level One sommeliers, including 42 at the Napa Rose alone, the largest number at any restaurant in the world.
In fact, the Friday night Winemaker Dinners - featuring a multi-course meal with knowledgeable and creative wine pairings - will be among the highlights of Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends. Each dinner will be hosted by a renowned winemaker including Jonathan Emmerich (Silverado Vineyards, April 27), Jeffrey Stambor (Beaulieu Vineyard, May 4), Alison Doran (Levendi Estates, May 11), and Dave Miner (Miner Family Vineyards, May 18). The location for the 6:00 p.m. reservation-only dinners will be Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel.
Each weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday), a variety of complementary demonstrations and seminars will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis inside Disney’s California Adventure park. They will include:
· Culinary Demonstrations - Complimentary 30-minute cooking demonstrations on topics such as classic dishes or specific spices will be presented by Disneyland Resort chefs each day at the Upper Terrace of the Golden Vine Winery.
· Wine, Beer and Spirits Seminars - Noted winemakers, brew masters and Disneyland Resort sommeliers will offer educational tasting seminars on the Lower Terrace of the Golden Vine Winery or at the Pacific Wharf Stage.
· "Taste of California" Marketplace at the Lucky Fortune Cookery in the Pacific Wharf district will offer a delectable array of tapas-sized gourmet food for purchase.
A highlight of each Saturday, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., is the reservation-only Napa Rose Cooking School featuring Executive Chef Andrew Sutton of Disney’s award-winning Napa Rose restaurant. Sutton will lead a hands-on cooking and learning experience for a small group of participants who will create a themed meal with expertly paired wines. The class is held in the show kitchen of the elegant Napa Rose at Disney's Grand California Hotel and Spa.
More information about the Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends 2007 (Dates and times of specific events, prices, etc.) can be found at www.DisneysCaliforniaFoodAndWineWeekends.com. (Source: Press Release, 04/20/07)
=================================================
Disney Cruise Line Signs Contract with Meyer Werft
To Build Two New Ships
New ships will more than double passenger capacity
Disney Cruise Line announced today that it has finalized a contract with Meyer Werft shipyard to build two new ships.
Disney Cruise Line President Tom McAlpin and Bernard Meyer, managing partner of Meyer Werft shipyard of Papenburg, Germany, signed the contract in front of several hundred cheering cast members at a Disney Cruise Line cast gathering this morning.
This is an exciting time at Disney Cruise Line, and we are looking forward to working with Meyer Werft to build two new innovative ships that will take our immersive family-focused cruise experience to an entirely new level, McAlpin said.
Plans to add two 124,000-ton ships to the fleet were announced in February when executives signed a letter of intent to negotiate a construction contract with Meyer Werft.
Scheduled to launch in 2011 and 2012, the ships will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line to meet the sustained demand for Disneys family cruise vacations.
The new ocean liners will be significantly larger than the existing 83,000-ton ships, the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder with 1,250 staterooms each. Both ships will be built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.
Disney Cruise Line established the family market within the cruise industry when the business launched in 1998. The first two ships were purpose built for families to reconnect and recharge while creating vacation memories that will last a lifetime. From a theater featuring live musical spectaculars to a luxurious spa for adults and nearly an entire deck dedicated to childrens activities, the ships truly offer something for everyone.
Similar to the original Disney Cruise Line ships, the new ships will be modern interpretations of classic ocean liners of the 1930s. Disney Imagineers drew their inspiration from the original trans-Atlantic ships that featured a dramatic black hull with two funnels and porthole windows. The profile of the ships, with gentle curves at the stern combined with sleek angles at the bow, is reminiscent of the art deco designs of the era. To add whimsy to the classic design, the Disney ships feature the same exterior colors as Mickey Mouse, with a black, white, red and yellow palette. The new ships will feature elegant, detailed Disney scrollwork at the bow and evoke images of the glamour of the golden age of cruising.
New itineraries
Disney Cruise Line, which traditionally offers 3-, 4- and 7-night Caribbean cruises, has enjoyed strong demand for new itineraries. Trips to the Mediterranean and to the West Coast have recently set booking records within the company.
Expanding our fleet will give us the flexibility to offer a variety of itineraries in the future, McAlpin said. We are looking forward to taking our guests on new adventures to different parts of the world with Disney Cruise Line. (Source: Press Release, 04/21/07)
=================================================
Cynthia writes:
"Dear John,
I've been an affordable Disney reader [and member] for a few years now, and would like you to know how much I enjoy leaning back, propping up my feet, and taking a Disney break!
We are avid lovers of WDW and have been five times since 1992; the latest trip in 2005. I know that isn't much by some standards, but each trip has been longingly saved for; and lovingly savored through photos and video, as well as, reminiscing at family dinners and holidays; keeping the 'magic' alive. :)
We know it will be another few years or so before going back because we have two in college right now; a freshman and a sophomore. In the mean time, we'll keep enjoying the affordable Disney updates and dreaming about our next magical trip.
Thanks so much for providing such great information and fun for our family.
God bless, Cynthia"
Thanks again, Cynthia, for your generous comments. You make all the work so worthwhile.
=================================================
Angela writes:
"John,
I am a lifetime member of your website now. However, I had already booked our vacation with another travel agent before finding your website. I still thought I would write and let you know about our vacation.
We had quite an adventure. We were in Magic Kingdom late on our first night at WDW and my 3 year old fell and broke his arm in the Winnie the Pooh Play Area. It was his first trip to WDW. So our week was not starting off very good. Then every member of our family, including the 3 year old with a broke arm, caught the stomach virus on different days. We did not have a single day on our vacation when our whole family felt 100%. On the way home, my parents who had joined us for vacation, caught the stomach virus. My father was very ill and had to be hospitalized for 2 days.
In spite of everything, we still had a wonderful time and we can't wait to go back. I am writing to see if you think that WDW would do a little something special for my 3 year old. I just hate that his first trip to see Mickey Mouse was not very "
'magical' at all. I thought maybe Mickey could send him a little note or something. What do you think? Thanks for your time."
Angela, I'm really sorry to hear that you were all ill at WDW and you son broke his arm! I've been sick myself and it wasn't pleasant. My son had pneumonia on one vacation and I spent a day at the hospital with him! Thank God he recovered quickly.
Yes, you should contact Disney and ask them what they could do to make your child - and you too! - feel better about the trip. See http://www.affordabledisney.com/email.html for Disney contact info.
BTW, the letter you sent me is excellent. Use it. Let me know how they respond.
=================================================
MONEY SAVING COUPON
Dan Marino's Fine Food & Spirits
9101 International Drive, Suite 1300 at Pointe Orlando
Orlando, FL 32819
407-363-1013
First class dining featuring steaks, chops, seafood and pastas. Get $5 off a check of $25 or more 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! 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 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!!!"
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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.
=============================================
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.
=============================================
April 25, 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!
Disney rarely offers deals to the general public during its busiest seasons: Spring Break, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's and Easter. If you want to visit Walt Disney World when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable. Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - discounted dining certificates, Disney cruise discounts, Universal Hollywood special, Vegas spring special
* The latest news from around the "World" - WDW death and accident report 2007
* Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends 2007
* Disney Cruise Line signs contract with Meyer Werft to build two new ships
* A "thank you" note from Cynthia
* Angela writes about her difficulties during her WDW vacation
* This week's coupon - save 20% at this fine Orlando restaurant
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Save 60% on dining certificates redeemable at restaurants in Orlando and across the USA!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Get two tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood for the price of one!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
New dates announced for cruise discounts for these groups!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Luxury Resort & Casino Spring Special!
Deluxe Rooms $159/night
Suites - $249/night
One Bedroom Penthouse Suites - $559/night
Upgrade any suite to lake view for only $50/night!
Valid May 23 - September 13, 2007.
=================================================
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
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Late Summer Special! FREE dining at Walt Disney World! Save $38.00 per adult and $11.00 per child per day!
>> Save up to $350 per person (up to $1400 for a family of four) on an Adventure by Disney with this special!
>> 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 $100.00 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
>> Save up to 30% at Universal's Portofino, Hard Rock and Royal Pacific Resort Hotels!
>> These groups get a FREE year's admission to the Kennedy Space Center!
>> 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!
>> FREE admission for kids to Tarzan, Lion King and Beauty and the Beast on Broadway!FREE admission for kids to Tarzan, Lion King and Beauty and the Beast on Broadway!
>> 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
>> Sail to Spain for $1250 per person, double occupancy!
>> Early Bird Special for Disney's Repositioning Cruise to the West Coast! Children as low as $99!
* 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
>> Win a Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
>> Fourth Night Free at Disneyland Good Neighbor Hotels!
>> Kids fly FREE to Disneyland! A family of four can save $700.00 on airfare!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
>> Get two days admission for the price of one to Universal Studios Hollywood!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Stay one night get one night FREE!
>> Kids under 7 stay FREE!
--------------------------------
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!
--------------------------------
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
>> Repositioning Cruises in April at Amazing Prices! Florida to England: 12 nights from $549! Texas to Spain: 13 nights from $499! Louisiana to Puerto Rico: 7 nights from $399! (per person, double occupancy)
>> 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 the Caribbean from $599 per person!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
--------------------------------
OTHER VACATION SPECIALS
>> All inclusive (air and hotel) 4-day Jamaica vacation for $449! Plus, every third night FREE!
>> Super-Inclusive Packages! All food, beverages and activities are included in one price! From $38 per person!
>> Kids Sail FREE to Bermuda! Adult rates from $299 per person!
--------------------------------
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
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"A neighbor recommended Fort Wilderness, a campground at Walt Disney World in Orlando. In a 700-acre forest of pine and cypress, a setting many people might not associate with Disney, you?ll find 784 campsites and, more important for us, 409 log cabins with kitchens and bathrooms, not to mention televisions, DVD players, hair dryers and housekeeping services." (Source: dispatch.com, 04/24/07)
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"In a first of its kind, Zagat Survey has polled customers to rate everything at Disney World -- characters, rides, shows, restaurants, taverns, stores, hotels and special experiences -- for a new guidebook." Favorites include:
Magic Kingdom
Mickey Mouse costumed character
Soarin' (Epcot)
Hoop-Dee-Doo (Fort Wilderness)
World of Disney (Downtown Disney)
Adventurers Club (Downtown Disney)
California Grill (Contemporary Resort)
Victoria & Albert's (Grand Floridian)
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop (Downtown Disney)
Boulangerie Patisserie pastry shop (Epcot)
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/25/07)
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Alfredo's restaurant in Epcot is closing and will be replaced with a new restaurant scheduled to open Fall 2008. (Source: Press Release, 04/23/07)
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"A request for road improvements for a $1.1 billion theme park in Newton County has led to new speculation about the Walt Disney Co.'s interest in southwest Missouri.
Rumors that a Disney attraction was coming to Branson were rampant in the mid-1990s. Now, Newton County Commissioners are investigating whether Disney could be linked to a theme park proposal made earlier this month." (Source: news-leader.com, 04/21/07)
A hoax...
"After rumors flew last week that Disney was planning to build a $1.1 billion theme park in the area, Presiding Commissioner Jerry Carter got the word Monday that, as he put it, it's "shenanigans." (Source: news-leader.com, 04/24/07)
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"The Asian, the Venetian and the Persian resorts [were] three beautifully designed & themed hotels that -- thanks to circumstances entirely beyond Disney's control (I.E. The Oil Embargo) -- never quite made it off the drawing board." (Source: jimhillmedia.com, 04/20/07)
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"So many brides say they want to look like a princess on their wedding day - and now we're about to find out if they really mean it. Walt Disney Co. has teamed with bridal designer Kirstie Kelly to create a collection of gowns inspired by the favorite Disney princess characters: Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Ariel from 'The Little Mermaid,' Belle from 'Beauty and the Beast' and Jasmine from 'Aladdin.'" (Source: latimes.com, 04/20/07)
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"Dreams can come true in the 'happiest place on earth.' And Tsawwassen’s Matt Kaufmann is going to start living his starting Monday. That’s when the 23-year-old begins his one year contract as an ambassador in the Canadian Pavilion at DisneyWorld in Florida." (Source: southdeltaleader.com, 04/20/07)
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Click here for the Filetto al Salsa di Gorgonzola recipe from the kitchens of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort.
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Disney Sees Green In Going Green
"Head out to Disney World, and you will see more green than the Fantasyland churro cart operator collecting greenbacks, hand over mouse-gloved fist. Head out to Disney's (NYSE: DIS) EPCOT and you'll see the solar panels. Animal Kingdom screams so much green that it actually opened on Earth Day nine years ago." (Source: fool.com, 04/18/07)
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"Two men who succumbed after being on Walt Disney World attractions this winter both died of natural causes, according to the Orange/Osceola Medical Examiner's Office... Disney also reported that an 89-year-old woman fell and broke a hip in February while getting out of a ride vehicle at the Magic Kingdom's Haunted Mansion, and a 27-year-old man had a seizure in March on Disney's Animal Kingdom's Expedition Everest." That makes 11 deaths in the last 2 1/2 years at WDW. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/18/07)
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"Want to see Miley Cyrus of Hannah Montana? Kyle Massey of Cory in the House? Actors from High School Musical? They're coming to Central Florida for the Disney Channel Games, which will run from Tuesday through April 27. The event will be staged at Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/19/07)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"A new ride based on The Simpsons is planned for Universal Studios both in Orlando and Hollywood... The ride would go into Universal's recently closed Back to the Future: The Ride buildings in both parks, making it an instant signature attraction in each. It would open in the spring of 2008." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/24/07)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"A palm frond apparently blown loose by gusty winds at Disneyland scraped a 17-year-old girl's neck on the Jungle Cruise ride Wednesday, officials said." (Source: cbs2.com, 04/18/07)
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Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
"The Tony Award-winning Disney musical, The Lion King, will open in Paris this fall. Le Roi Lion, as it will be called in French, will open at Theatre Mogador, Paris, Oct. 4." (Source: playbill.com, 04/23/07)
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DISNEYLAND RESORT SETS A SUMPTUOUS TABLE WITH CELEBRITY CHEFS, WINEMAKERS, TASTINGS AND SEMINARS APRIL 27 - MAY 20
ANAHEIM, Calif.---Dreams of ambrosial feasting and exquisite spirits will be fulfilled during the Year of a Million Dreams at Disneyland Resort when Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends 2007 return, April 27 through May 20.
The four extended weekends (Thursdays-Sundays) will present an abundant bill of fare for everyone from fine wine connoisseurs and skilled epicures to lovers of good food and neophytes wanting to experience and learn more about world-renowned flavors of California cuisine.
The second annual Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends at Disneyland Resort will feature culinary demonstrations, cooking and wine-tasting seminars and a "Taste of California" Marketplace in Disney’s California Adventure park. Each weekend will begin with a Thursday night "kickoff event," a lineup of exclusive Celebrity Chef Dinners showcasing the likes of Donna Scala of Bistro Don Giovanni in Napa Valley (April 26), Robert Curry of Auberge du Soliel in Napa Valley (May 3), Chef Jamie Gwen of KABC radio and KTTV Ch 11 (May 10), and Guy Fieri of Food Network (May 17). Advance reservations are required, and the dinner will be held at 6:30 p.m. in the Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa.
In recent years, with such fresh and audacious restaurants as Napa Rose, Yamabuki, Steakhouse 55, Catal and the Vineyard Room at the Golden Vine Winery, Disneyland Resort has been building its own reputation for fine dining in the parks, the Downtown Disney district, and the hotels. At the celebrated Napa Rose in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, the staff has been training in the sommelier’s art as a complement to Executive Chef Andrew Sutton’s succulent creations. Under the leadership of Napa Rose Manager and Sommelier Michael Jordan, some 250 members of the Disneyland Resort Food & Beverage team have been certified as Level One sommeliers, including 42 at the Napa Rose alone, the largest number at any restaurant in the world.
In fact, the Friday night Winemaker Dinners - featuring a multi-course meal with knowledgeable and creative wine pairings - will be among the highlights of Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends. Each dinner will be hosted by a renowned winemaker including Jonathan Emmerich (Silverado Vineyards, April 27), Jeffrey Stambor (Beaulieu Vineyard, May 4), Alison Doran (Levendi Estates, May 11), and Dave Miner (Miner Family Vineyards, May 18). The location for the 6:00 p.m. reservation-only dinners will be Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel.
Each weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday), a variety of complementary demonstrations and seminars will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis inside Disney’s California Adventure park. They will include:
· Culinary Demonstrations - Complimentary 30-minute cooking demonstrations on topics such as classic dishes or specific spices will be presented by Disneyland Resort chefs each day at the Upper Terrace of the Golden Vine Winery.
· Wine, Beer and Spirits Seminars - Noted winemakers, brew masters and Disneyland Resort sommeliers will offer educational tasting seminars on the Lower Terrace of the Golden Vine Winery or at the Pacific Wharf Stage.
· "Taste of California" Marketplace at the Lucky Fortune Cookery in the Pacific Wharf district will offer a delectable array of tapas-sized gourmet food for purchase.
A highlight of each Saturday, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., is the reservation-only Napa Rose Cooking School featuring Executive Chef Andrew Sutton of Disney’s award-winning Napa Rose restaurant. Sutton will lead a hands-on cooking and learning experience for a small group of participants who will create a themed meal with expertly paired wines. The class is held in the show kitchen of the elegant Napa Rose at Disney's Grand California Hotel and Spa.
More information about the Disney’s California Food and Wine Weekends 2007 (Dates and times of specific events, prices, etc.) can be found at www.DisneysCaliforniaFoodAndWineWeekends.com. (Source: Press Release, 04/20/07)
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Disney Cruise Line Signs Contract with Meyer Werft
To Build Two New Ships
New ships will more than double passenger capacity
Disney Cruise Line announced today that it has finalized a contract with Meyer Werft shipyard to build two new ships.
Disney Cruise Line President Tom McAlpin and Bernard Meyer, managing partner of Meyer Werft shipyard of Papenburg, Germany, signed the contract in front of several hundred cheering cast members at a Disney Cruise Line cast gathering this morning.
This is an exciting time at Disney Cruise Line, and we are looking forward to working with Meyer Werft to build two new innovative ships that will take our immersive family-focused cruise experience to an entirely new level, McAlpin said.
Plans to add two 124,000-ton ships to the fleet were announced in February when executives signed a letter of intent to negotiate a construction contract with Meyer Werft.
Scheduled to launch in 2011 and 2012, the ships will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line to meet the sustained demand for Disneys family cruise vacations.
The new ocean liners will be significantly larger than the existing 83,000-ton ships, the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder with 1,250 staterooms each. Both ships will be built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.
Disney Cruise Line established the family market within the cruise industry when the business launched in 1998. The first two ships were purpose built for families to reconnect and recharge while creating vacation memories that will last a lifetime. From a theater featuring live musical spectaculars to a luxurious spa for adults and nearly an entire deck dedicated to childrens activities, the ships truly offer something for everyone.
Similar to the original Disney Cruise Line ships, the new ships will be modern interpretations of classic ocean liners of the 1930s. Disney Imagineers drew their inspiration from the original trans-Atlantic ships that featured a dramatic black hull with two funnels and porthole windows. The profile of the ships, with gentle curves at the stern combined with sleek angles at the bow, is reminiscent of the art deco designs of the era. To add whimsy to the classic design, the Disney ships feature the same exterior colors as Mickey Mouse, with a black, white, red and yellow palette. The new ships will feature elegant, detailed Disney scrollwork at the bow and evoke images of the glamour of the golden age of cruising.
New itineraries
Disney Cruise Line, which traditionally offers 3-, 4- and 7-night Caribbean cruises, has enjoyed strong demand for new itineraries. Trips to the Mediterranean and to the West Coast have recently set booking records within the company.
Expanding our fleet will give us the flexibility to offer a variety of itineraries in the future, McAlpin said. We are looking forward to taking our guests on new adventures to different parts of the world with Disney Cruise Line. (Source: Press Release, 04/21/07)
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Cynthia writes:
"Dear John,
I've been an affordable Disney reader [and member] for a few years now, and would like you to know how much I enjoy leaning back, propping up my feet, and taking a Disney break!
We are avid lovers of WDW and have been five times since 1992; the latest trip in 2005. I know that isn't much by some standards, but each trip has been longingly saved for; and lovingly savored through photos and video, as well as, reminiscing at family dinners and holidays; keeping the 'magic' alive. :)
We know it will be another few years or so before going back because we have two in college right now; a freshman and a sophomore. In the mean time, we'll keep enjoying the affordable Disney updates and dreaming about our next magical trip.
Thanks so much for providing such great information and fun for our family.
God bless, Cynthia"
Thanks again, Cynthia, for your generous comments. You make all the work so worthwhile.
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Angela writes:
"John,
I am a lifetime member of your website now. However, I had already booked our vacation with another travel agent before finding your website. I still thought I would write and let you know about our vacation.
We had quite an adventure. We were in Magic Kingdom late on our first night at WDW and my 3 year old fell and broke his arm in the Winnie the Pooh Play Area. It was his first trip to WDW. So our week was not starting off very good. Then every member of our family, including the 3 year old with a broke arm, caught the stomach virus on different days. We did not have a single day on our vacation when our whole family felt 100%. On the way home, my parents who had joined us for vacation, caught the stomach virus. My father was very ill and had to be hospitalized for 2 days.
In spite of everything, we still had a wonderful time and we can't wait to go back. I am writing to see if you think that WDW would do a little something special for my 3 year old. I just hate that his first trip to see Mickey Mouse was not very "
'magical' at all. I thought maybe Mickey could send him a little note or something. What do you think? Thanks for your time."
Angela, I'm really sorry to hear that you were all ill at WDW and you son broke his arm! I've been sick myself and it wasn't pleasant. My son had pneumonia on one vacation and I spent a day at the hospital with him! Thank God he recovered quickly.
Yes, you should contact Disney and ask them what they could do to make your child - and you too! - feel better about the trip. See http://www.affordabledisney.com/email.html for Disney contact info.
BTW, the letter you sent me is excellent. Use it. Let me know how they respond.
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 8:11 AM
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