Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
August 22, 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 - Walt Disney World vacation package for the general public, Walt Disney World Annual Passholder and Florida resident discounts, High School Musical Wake-up call, Florida Airfare sale, 26 Disney cruise specials, 4 Marriott Hotel specials, and a Vegas Resort & Casino Fall special
* The latest news from around the "World" - More changes at Disney's Hollywood Studios
* Consumer alert about stale Disney food products
* Stacie writes about how much she saved on her upcoming WDW vacation
* High School Musical 2 comes to Disneyland's California Adventure
* A Spooktacular Halloween For Disneyland Paris’ 15th Birthday
* This week's coupon - save 20% at Downtown Disney's Fulton Crab House!
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Annual Passholder and Florida resident rates are out for October-December. Disney is including a FREE dining gift card!
Receive a FREE Wake-up Call from the stars of High School Musical!
Fly to and from all of this airline's Florida destinations starting at $59! Sale fares available now through August 23, 2007 and are valid September 4 through October 18, 2007. Hurry! You must book by August 23, 2007! Prices are available for one-way travel; no roundtrip purchase or overnight stay required.
We've got the discount codes to this one! Stay at the Marriott near Disney starting at $74. Stay at the Marriott near SeaWorld starting at $94. Valid summer and fall, 2007.
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
20 Disney cruises from $389! 6 Disney Land & Sea vacations from $799!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Resort & Casino Fall Special! We've got the discount codes for Deluxe Rooms starting at $179/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
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Exclusively from one of our providers: UK visitors get their 6th Night FREE when they stay at the Walt Disney World Resorts!
>> 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 These teachers receive a FREE ticket to both Universal Orlando theme parks
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> This group saves $80.00 on day visits to SeaWorld's Discovery Cove
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> 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 $499!
>> Four nights from $539!
>> Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit!
>> Discounts 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!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Stay one night get one night FREE!
>> Kids under 7 stay FREE!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.
--------------------------------
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 the Caribbean, Alaska, South America, Mediterranean, South Africa, and Europe up to 50% off!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
--------------------------------
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
--------------------------------
"All the crowd saw were two robotic Muppet characters -- Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his able assistant, Beaker -- riding their two-wheeled rocket-ship/laboratory vehicle along Epcot's sidewalks, teasing or talking with visitors, gesturing and moving, and putting on their best Muppet shtick. The characters interacted with the crowd, turning to people and carrying on conversations." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/22/07)
--------------------------------
WASHINGTON, DC (Aug. 16) -- Say "Disney" and the word "magic" springs to mind, along with visions of genies, sorcerers, and pixie dust -- but Disney magic is more than mere fantasy. U.S. Postal Service will dedicate new 41-cent Art of Disney: Magic stamps at 1 p.m. today at Walt Disney World Resort in central Florida near Orlando, bringing magic to the mail... This is the fourth stamp pane issued by the U.S. Postal Service to honor the art of Disney. The first, issued in 2004, was on the theme of friendship. The second, issued in 2005, focused on celebrations. The third, issued in 2006, recognized the art of romance. (Source: Press Release, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
"Disney and Bucs officials are expected to review options that would allow the team to escape the brutal weather -- be it thunderstorms or heat-index temperatures pushing 110 degrees -- that forced the cancellation or movement of seven of 31 scheduled practices over the 21-day camp. The most obvious option: a practice bubble." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
"A man snagged two bags of cash from a vendor walking back to his car in the parking lot of Disney's Animal Kingdom this week." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
More changes at Disney's Hollywood Studios
"there are indeed plans in the works right now to significantly increase George Lucas' presence in Disney's Hollywood Studios. To -- in effect -- create a 'Lucas Land' that stretches from the Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost all the way to Tatooine Traders."
What's on the drawing board:
* New 3D ride "Star Tours 2.0." debuts in 2009
* Backlot Express eatery to feature props from Lucasfilms
* Lucas may replace a scene from "Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular" with a scene from his new "Indiana Jones IV"
(Source: jimhillmedia.com, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
"With multiple new lines of T-shirts, toys and other products already out or on their way, Disney is capitalizing on the notion that Tinker Bell's spunky persona, mysterious back story and pinup-girl looks give her an appeal to Disney's usual safe-for-families market -- and a little beyond." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/18/07)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"Owners of the Mercado shopping center began moving the long-running Titanic Ship of Dreams exhibit onto the sidewalk Monday, bringing a heated landlord-tenant battle on International Drive to a bitter end." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/21/07)
--------------------------------
"Our roller coasters may not be the biggest or baddest in the world, but we have them by the bunches. There are more than two dozen of the rides in these parts, so let's loop through the Walt Disney World parks, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld and also ride through coaster-happy Busch Gardens and Cypress Gardens."
Sample ratings:
Expedition Everest, Disney's Animal Kingdom:
Wild or mild scale 4 out of 5
Theming/atmosphere 5 out of 5
Space Mountain, Magic Kingdom:
Wild or mild scale 3 out of 5
Theming/atmosphere 4 out of 5
Primeval Whirl, Disney's Animal Kingdom:
Wild or mild scale 3 out of 5
Theming/atmosphere 4 out of 5
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
"SeaWorld accepts all Florida native birds in need of care as part of its permit with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service... If after treatment, they are not fit to be released, they live out their days in a zoo or aquarium." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/17/07)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
BRANSON MISSOURI
"After hearing rumors for many years about a commercial airport right here in Branson, the airport has now become a reality. Branson Airport, LLC held the formal groundbreaking for the start of construction at the airport site, which is near the southern end of the Branson Creek development, only 8 miles south of the center of Branson." (Source: explorebranson.com, August, 2007)
=================================================
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.
=================================================
Consumer Alert
We received a note that Disney World's Mickey-shaped chocolate pretzels are stale and inedible. Be sure to check the expiration date before buying.
=================================================
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.
=================================================
Stacie, a lifetime member since 2005, writes:
"John,
I just wanted to thank you for all of your helpful tips on your Affordable Disney website. As you state throughout your website Beth [your travel agent] is wonderfully helpful. She has us booked for 8 days over Thanksgiving... Originally we had booked our vacation and in the meantime Beth was watching the promotions for us. When one became available she jumped on it for us. We changed our reservation [for three rooms] from All Star Movies to All Star Sports, but saved over $452 per room by doing so. This is the first time our families are going as a grand gathering. We are really looking forward to the wonderful memories we'll share as an extended family. Thanks to all of you"
Thanks so much, Stacie, for your wonderful comments! As a lifetime member you're sure to get more great deals in the future!
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disney’S Highly-Anticipated High School Musical 2 Comes To Life Inside Disney Parks With Spirited New Show
While millions of High School Musical fans are talking about the premiere of High School Musical 2 on Disney Channel, Disneyland Resort brings the global High School Musical phenomenon to life with a high-energy interactive street party in Disney’s California Adventure park.
The spread of "Wildcat fever" will have guests literally dancing in the streets when the new "High School Musical 2: School’s Out!" premieres tomorrow in Disney’s California Adventure. The show is themed to the highly-anticipated High School Musical 2 which premieres tonight at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel. A cast of 15 talented performers will invite audience members to join in the fun of the show, which showcases six great new songs from High School Musical 2. High School Musical 2: School’s Out! replaces the High School Musical Pep Rally, which was inspired by the original movie.
Drawing its inspiration from the new movie, which follows the High School Musical characters as they head out for summer jobs and vacation, "High School Musical 2: School’s Out!" will entertain and engage audiences in a rockin’ musical celebration. The show concludes with an all-out dance finale featuring the latest High School Musical 2 soundtrack hit, "All for One," and a reprise of the original smash, "We’re All in This Together," from the movie that started it all.
"High School Musical 2: School’s Out!" will be presented three times a day in Disney’s California Adventure, traveling along the park’s parade route.
The new show joins a full line-up of immersive experiences to be found at Disney’s California Adventure and Disneyland during the Year of a Million Dreams celebration. At Disneyland, there are "Dreams Come True" opportunities for guests to meet and play with Disney Princesses at Disney’s Princess Fantasy Faire, duel with Darth Vader at Jedi Training Academy and create mayhem with the denizens of Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island. The Year of a Million Dreams is being celebrated both at Disneyland Resort in Southern California and at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, where "High School Musical 2: School’s Out!" will premiere in the fall at Disney-MGM Studios. (Source: Press Release, 08/17/07)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND PARIS
A Spooktacular Halloween For Disneyland Paris’ 15Th Birthday
From 6th October to 4th November 2007, a spooktacular Halloween season comes to Disneyland Resort Paris, offering laughs and mischief for all the family.
With the help of Classic Disney Villains, Frontierland in the Disneyland Park transforms into Halloweenland. Cruella de Vil and Captain Hook will take over the park, creating a spooky setting for Halloween mischief and mayhem. There will be tricks and treats galore with the spooky season’s special guests, the high energy Pumpkin Men and Pink Witches, who are sure to entertain kids of all ages at the daily Disney Villain’s Halloween Showtime.
There are regular daily shows on the Halloween stage in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle. Goofy and the Magic Pot is an exhilarating, energetic show where children can learn to make pumpkin soup and dance alongside Goofy himself! Minnie and the Bat Boys will also be appearing on stage daily, with live music and a host of other Disney characters singing classic Disney Villain’s songs.
Kids can join in the fun as favourite Disney monster Stitch, from the ‘Lilo and Stitch’ Disney animation film, wreaks havoc across the park and takes over the 15th Anniversary "Disney Once Upon a Dream Parade."
Disneyland Resort Paris also becomes even more interactive during Halloween season. Guests will have the chance to meet dozens of Disney characters, witches, stilt walkers and other street artists. Children aged between 3 and 11 can enjoy free face painting and ‘hair-raising’ antics with Disney’s crazy coiffeurs. Several times a day the Mexican game of piñata, in Halloweenland, is a test of strength and luck as kids try to break into the colourful paper mâché objects, stuffed with all kinds of sweets, biscuits and candy.
Did you know?
* Over 25 TONS of pumpkins are used during the Halloween season at Disneyland Resort Paris.
* 400 bails of straw are brought in to be used in Halloweenland, as well as 500 bails of hay.
* More than 4,500 corn on the cobs are eaten, along with 800kg of sweets.
* It takes a staggering three weeks to completely transform the park into a truly frightening, festive Halloweenland and three days alone to put up the stage where Minnie and Goofy perform!
The Halloween season takes place as part of Disneyland Resort Paris’ yearlong 15th anniversary celebration. The party continues daily until March 2008, with a new parade spectacular at Disneyland Park featuring dozens of Disney characters; an enchanting makeover of Sleeping Beauty Castle, and special new live entertainment in both theme parks. (Source: Press Release, August, 2007)
=================================================
MONEY SAVING COUPON
Fulton's Crab House
Downtown Disney
1670 Buena Vista Dr
Orlando, FL 32830
Phone: 407-934-BOAT (2628)
Fax: 407-934-5389
Great seafood and great location! Get 20% off your lunch from 11 AM - 3:30 PM with this coupon.
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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!!!"
--------------------------------
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.
=============================================
August 22, 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 - Walt Disney World vacation package for the general public, Walt Disney World Annual Passholder and Florida resident discounts, High School Musical Wake-up call, Florida Airfare sale, 26 Disney cruise specials, 4 Marriott Hotel specials, and a Vegas Resort & Casino Fall special
* The latest news from around the "World" - More changes at Disney's Hollywood Studios
* Consumer alert about stale Disney food products
* Stacie writes about how much she saved on her upcoming WDW vacation
* High School Musical 2 comes to Disneyland's California Adventure
* A Spooktacular Halloween For Disneyland Paris’ 15th Birthday
* This week's coupon - save 20% at Downtown Disney's Fulton Crab House!
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Annual Passholder and Florida resident rates are out for October-December. Disney is including a FREE dining gift card!
Receive a FREE Wake-up Call from the stars of High School Musical!
Fly to and from all of this airline's Florida destinations starting at $59! Sale fares available now through August 23, 2007 and are valid September 4 through October 18, 2007. Hurry! You must book by August 23, 2007! Prices are available for one-way travel; no roundtrip purchase or overnight stay required.
We've got the discount codes to this one! Stay at the Marriott near Disney starting at $74. Stay at the Marriott near SeaWorld starting at $94. Valid summer and fall, 2007.
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
20 Disney cruises from $389! 6 Disney Land & Sea vacations from $799!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Resort & Casino Fall Special! We've got the discount codes for Deluxe Rooms starting at $179/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
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Exclusively from one of our providers: UK visitors get their 6th Night FREE when they stay at the Walt Disney World Resorts!
>> 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 These teachers receive a FREE ticket to both Universal Orlando theme parks
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> This group saves $80.00 on day visits to SeaWorld's Discovery Cove
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> 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 $499!
>> Four nights from $539!
>> Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit!
>> Discounts 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!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Stay one night get one night FREE!
>> Kids under 7 stay FREE!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.
--------------------------------
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 the Caribbean, Alaska, South America, Mediterranean, South Africa, and Europe up to 50% off!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
--------------------------------
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
--------------------------------
"All the crowd saw were two robotic Muppet characters -- Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his able assistant, Beaker -- riding their two-wheeled rocket-ship/laboratory vehicle along Epcot's sidewalks, teasing or talking with visitors, gesturing and moving, and putting on their best Muppet shtick. The characters interacted with the crowd, turning to people and carrying on conversations." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/22/07)
--------------------------------
WASHINGTON, DC (Aug. 16) -- Say "Disney" and the word "magic" springs to mind, along with visions of genies, sorcerers, and pixie dust -- but Disney magic is more than mere fantasy. U.S. Postal Service will dedicate new 41-cent Art of Disney: Magic stamps at 1 p.m. today at Walt Disney World Resort in central Florida near Orlando, bringing magic to the mail... This is the fourth stamp pane issued by the U.S. Postal Service to honor the art of Disney. The first, issued in 2004, was on the theme of friendship. The second, issued in 2005, focused on celebrations. The third, issued in 2006, recognized the art of romance. (Source: Press Release, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
"Disney and Bucs officials are expected to review options that would allow the team to escape the brutal weather -- be it thunderstorms or heat-index temperatures pushing 110 degrees -- that forced the cancellation or movement of seven of 31 scheduled practices over the 21-day camp. The most obvious option: a practice bubble." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
"A man snagged two bags of cash from a vendor walking back to his car in the parking lot of Disney's Animal Kingdom this week." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
More changes at Disney's Hollywood Studios
"there are indeed plans in the works right now to significantly increase George Lucas' presence in Disney's Hollywood Studios. To -- in effect -- create a 'Lucas Land' that stretches from the Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost all the way to Tatooine Traders."
What's on the drawing board:
* New 3D ride "Star Tours 2.0." debuts in 2009
* Backlot Express eatery to feature props from Lucasfilms
* Lucas may replace a scene from "Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular" with a scene from his new "Indiana Jones IV"
(Source: jimhillmedia.com, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
"With multiple new lines of T-shirts, toys and other products already out or on their way, Disney is capitalizing on the notion that Tinker Bell's spunky persona, mysterious back story and pinup-girl looks give her an appeal to Disney's usual safe-for-families market -- and a little beyond." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/18/07)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"Owners of the Mercado shopping center began moving the long-running Titanic Ship of Dreams exhibit onto the sidewalk Monday, bringing a heated landlord-tenant battle on International Drive to a bitter end." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/21/07)
--------------------------------
"Our roller coasters may not be the biggest or baddest in the world, but we have them by the bunches. There are more than two dozen of the rides in these parts, so let's loop through the Walt Disney World parks, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld and also ride through coaster-happy Busch Gardens and Cypress Gardens."
Sample ratings:
Expedition Everest, Disney's Animal Kingdom:
Wild or mild scale 4 out of 5
Theming/atmosphere 5 out of 5
Space Mountain, Magic Kingdom:
Wild or mild scale 3 out of 5
Theming/atmosphere 4 out of 5
Primeval Whirl, Disney's Animal Kingdom:
Wild or mild scale 3 out of 5
Theming/atmosphere 4 out of 5
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/17/07)
--------------------------------
"SeaWorld accepts all Florida native birds in need of care as part of its permit with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service... If after treatment, they are not fit to be released, they live out their days in a zoo or aquarium." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/17/07)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
BRANSON MISSOURI
"After hearing rumors for many years about a commercial airport right here in Branson, the airport has now become a reality. Branson Airport, LLC held the formal groundbreaking for the start of construction at the airport site, which is near the southern end of the Branson Creek development, only 8 miles south of the center of Branson." (Source: explorebranson.com, August, 2007)
=================================================
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.
=================================================
Consumer Alert
We received a note that Disney World's Mickey-shaped chocolate pretzels are stale and inedible. Be sure to check the expiration date before buying.
=================================================
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.
=================================================
Stacie, a lifetime member since 2005, writes:
"John,
I just wanted to thank you for all of your helpful tips on your Affordable Disney website. As you state throughout your website Beth [your travel agent] is wonderfully helpful. She has us booked for 8 days over Thanksgiving... Originally we had booked our vacation and in the meantime Beth was watching the promotions for us. When one became available she jumped on it for us. We changed our reservation [for three rooms] from All Star Movies to All Star Sports, but saved over $452 per room by doing so. This is the first time our families are going as a grand gathering. We are really looking forward to the wonderful memories we'll share as an extended family. Thanks to all of you"
Thanks so much, Stacie, for your wonderful comments! As a lifetime member you're sure to get more great deals in the future!
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disney’S Highly-Anticipated High School Musical 2 Comes To Life Inside Disney Parks With Spirited New Show
While millions of High School Musical fans are talking about the premiere of High School Musical 2 on Disney Channel, Disneyland Resort brings the global High School Musical phenomenon to life with a high-energy interactive street party in Disney’s California Adventure park.
The spread of "Wildcat fever" will have guests literally dancing in the streets when the new "High School Musical 2: School’s Out!" premieres tomorrow in Disney’s California Adventure. The show is themed to the highly-anticipated High School Musical 2 which premieres tonight at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel. A cast of 15 talented performers will invite audience members to join in the fun of the show, which showcases six great new songs from High School Musical 2. High School Musical 2: School’s Out! replaces the High School Musical Pep Rally, which was inspired by the original movie.
Drawing its inspiration from the new movie, which follows the High School Musical characters as they head out for summer jobs and vacation, "High School Musical 2: School’s Out!" will entertain and engage audiences in a rockin’ musical celebration. The show concludes with an all-out dance finale featuring the latest High School Musical 2 soundtrack hit, "All for One," and a reprise of the original smash, "We’re All in This Together," from the movie that started it all.
"High School Musical 2: School’s Out!" will be presented three times a day in Disney’s California Adventure, traveling along the park’s parade route.
The new show joins a full line-up of immersive experiences to be found at Disney’s California Adventure and Disneyland during the Year of a Million Dreams celebration. At Disneyland, there are "Dreams Come True" opportunities for guests to meet and play with Disney Princesses at Disney’s Princess Fantasy Faire, duel with Darth Vader at Jedi Training Academy and create mayhem with the denizens of Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island. The Year of a Million Dreams is being celebrated both at Disneyland Resort in Southern California and at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, where "High School Musical 2: School’s Out!" will premiere in the fall at Disney-MGM Studios. (Source: Press Release, 08/17/07)
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
A Spooktacular Halloween For Disneyland Paris’ 15Th Birthday
From 6th October to 4th November 2007, a spooktacular Halloween season comes to Disneyland Resort Paris, offering laughs and mischief for all the family.
With the help of Classic Disney Villains, Frontierland in the Disneyland Park transforms into Halloweenland. Cruella de Vil and Captain Hook will take over the park, creating a spooky setting for Halloween mischief and mayhem. There will be tricks and treats galore with the spooky season’s special guests, the high energy Pumpkin Men and Pink Witches, who are sure to entertain kids of all ages at the daily Disney Villain’s Halloween Showtime.
There are regular daily shows on the Halloween stage in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle. Goofy and the Magic Pot is an exhilarating, energetic show where children can learn to make pumpkin soup and dance alongside Goofy himself! Minnie and the Bat Boys will also be appearing on stage daily, with live music and a host of other Disney characters singing classic Disney Villain’s songs.
Kids can join in the fun as favourite Disney monster Stitch, from the ‘Lilo and Stitch’ Disney animation film, wreaks havoc across the park and takes over the 15th Anniversary "Disney Once Upon a Dream Parade."
Disneyland Resort Paris also becomes even more interactive during Halloween season. Guests will have the chance to meet dozens of Disney characters, witches, stilt walkers and other street artists. Children aged between 3 and 11 can enjoy free face painting and ‘hair-raising’ antics with Disney’s crazy coiffeurs. Several times a day the Mexican game of piñata, in Halloweenland, is a test of strength and luck as kids try to break into the colourful paper mâché objects, stuffed with all kinds of sweets, biscuits and candy.
Did you know?
* Over 25 TONS of pumpkins are used during the Halloween season at Disneyland Resort Paris.
* 400 bails of straw are brought in to be used in Halloweenland, as well as 500 bails of hay.
* More than 4,500 corn on the cobs are eaten, along with 800kg of sweets.
* It takes a staggering three weeks to completely transform the park into a truly frightening, festive Halloweenland and three days alone to put up the stage where Minnie and Goofy perform!
The Halloween season takes place as part of Disneyland Resort Paris’ yearlong 15th anniversary celebration. The party continues daily until March 2008, with a new parade spectacular at Disneyland Park featuring dozens of Disney characters; an enchanting makeover of Sleeping Beauty Castle, and special new live entertainment in both theme parks. (Source: Press Release, August, 2007)
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AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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