Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
September 12, 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!
Beth, our travel agent, says that Disney still has rooms available for Thanksgiving and Christmas weeks! What are you waiting for?
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Deals and specials - military discount at Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line special, deal on vacation homes near Disney and Universal, buy one night get one night FREE special, and swim for FREE with the dolphins in Mexico
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney to personally test its toys for lead
* Disney searches for park-savvy parents for Walt Disney World Moms Panel
* Jungala to open in Busch Gardens in 2008
* This week's coupons - 13 golf coupons
Now on with the show...
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Active and Retired Military save 40% at Disney World resort hotels with our discount code! Valid on select dates in October, November and December, 2007.
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Fall cruises starting at $429 per person!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Disney/Universal Studios Area Vacation Homes! Book a luxurious vacation rental now through Dec 15, 2007 and receive:
* Complimentary BBQ Grill
* $25 Fuel Credit
* Book online and save $25 off your total stay
In addition to your very own PRIVATE SCREENED-IN POOL, all homes are fully furnished and include:
>> Towels and Linens
>> Full Size Washer and Dryer
>> Fully Equipped Kitchens
>> 2-Car Garage
>> Living/Dining Room
>> Separate Bedrooms
7-12 Minutes to Disney. Sleeps 6-16 People.
-------------------------------------------------
Celebrate Autumn with a Buy-One Get-One FREE Special! That's $35 per night when you stay two nights or four nights or six nights!
Buy One Night at $69, Get One Night FREE! Beth writes: "I've seen this hotel and it's very close to Disney. You can't beat the price. Kids 12 and under always eat free. I'd give it a very solid 3 to 3.5 stars."
An Official Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel. One of the closest hotels in Kissimmee to Walt Disney World and all the other Orlando and Kissimmee attractions. Pet friendly. Free shuttle to the parks. Full service restaurant and food court.
--------------------------------
MEXICO
Stay at this luxurious resort in Mexico for seven nights and swim with the Dolphins for FREE! (Two swim for the price of one when you stay three to six nights.) Valid for travel in October and December, 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!
>> Disney Promotion for the General Public! Valid for October - December, 2007.
>> 4 vacation specials at the Downtown Disney Resort Hotels! From $79!
>> Disney Visa Card Special for October-December, 2007!
>> Annual Pass and Florida Resident Specials for October-December, 2007!
>> 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!
>> 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
>> Florida residents save $80.00 on day visits to this Orlando venue
>> 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 $389!
>> Four nights from $449!
>> Seven nights Land & Sea from $799!
>> 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 Hotels!
>> 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
>> Cruise discounts, FREE upgrades, kids travel FREE!
>> 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
--------------------------------
"Reacting to three separate recalls of Mattel toys found to contain unsafe levels of lead paint, The Walt Disney Co. announced that it will begin its own testing of toys featuring Disney characters, including random testing of products already on store shelves." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/10/07)
--------------------------------
"Night of Joy, a Christian rock gathering, has been happening at Magic Kingdom for 25 years now, but last night was my very first trip. The event was sold out, and it was crowded near the stages but there was room to breathe in the park, which leaves most of the attraction operating and a good deal of the dining." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 09/08/07)
--------------------------------
Epcot's "Team Possible"
"Last year's play-test of this proposed World Showcase-based interactive game proved to be so popular with WDW visitors that it's now becoming a permanent fixture at that theme park. Look for 'Team Possible' to go live at Epcot starting in early 2008." (Source: jimhillmedia.com, 09/07/07)
--------------------------------
"Walt Disney World's Contemporary, Old Key West and Saratoga Springs Resorts were designated Tuesday by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection as the 34th, 35th and 36th Florida hotels in its Florida Green Lodging Program." (Source: bizjournals.com, 09/05/07)
--------------------------------
"Walt Disney World visitors could someday order line-skipping, 'FastPass' ride tickets from their cell phones or home computers, and could receive preferential treatment based on the price of their Disney accommodations, using a new technology the resort's parent company is developing." (Source: Orlando Sentinel,09/06/07)
"New Disney patent application reveals that FASTPASS-for-pay is not so far away. Jim Hill shares some info about changes that appear to be in the works for the Mouse's virtual queuing system. Some that are pretty good, and some that are sure to upset right-to-privacy fans." (Source: jimhillmedia.com, 09/05/07)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Rock the Universe at Universal Studios
"OK, maybe I'm just a sucker for marketing, but it did seem like Rock the Universe on Saturday was a bit harder rock than Friday's Night of Joy. Not that there's anything wrong with being either. It could just be a function of the day (Friday vs. Saturday) or more likely, the artists involved." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 09/09/07)
--------------------------------
"On Sept. 25, Cypress Gardens Adventure Park and its sister park in Valdosta, Ga., Wild Adventures Theme Park, will be sold at court-ordered Chapter 11 bankruptcy auction, the park's parent company announced Thursday... Both parks will remain open, and passes and discounts will be honored. The park's 400 full-time and 700 seasonal employees should not be affected." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/08/07)
--------------------------------
"Busch Gardens Tampa Bay wants to blend wildlife and jungle habitat with a thrill ride, a children's play area and a dining-shopping-entertainment cluster when it opens its next big attraction in the spring... the plan for Jungala is to weave tiger, gibbon and orangutan habitats together with human habitats, mixing dense landscaping with paths, waterways, waterfalls, stone structures, a hidden village and other attractions." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/07/07)
See Press Release below for more details.
--------------------------------
"The first of several new businesses at Church Street Station debuts next week when Dolce Nightclub replaces the pink-themed, socialite-studded Club Paris." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/06/07)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"Only 100 feet divides Adventureland from Frontierland. While one land drips with banyans and bromeliads, the other sizzles with cactus and sage. It's within this great divide that perceptive visitors can find their own garden inspiration -- one of many masterfully conceived mini-landscapes at Disneyland whose design just might work at home." (Source: latimes.com, 09/06/07)
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
Busch Gardens - Jungles Of The World Come Together
With a nearly 50-year history of caring for animals and the environment, Busch Gardens is creating the park’s newest adventure - an exotic jungle where discovery and exploration invite guests to connect with the world around them.
In spring 2008, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will open Jungala -its newest and most ambitious park enhancement project to date. Set in the Congo area, the 4-acre attraction will invite guests to discover exotic creatures, explore a village hidden deep in the jungle and connect with the inhabitants of the lush landscape through up-close animal interactions, multi-story family play areas, rides and live entertainment.
Towering trees, cascading waterfalls, flowing waterways and elaborate stone structures shape the landscape to transport guests out of their modern-day lives into a mythical place where the inhabitants - both human and animal - live in complete harmony with nature.
From atop the tallest trees or beneath the jungle floor, guests will be completely immersed in the animals’ world. Multi-tiered habitats allow visitors to connect with two of the world’s most endangered species - Bengal tigers and orangutans. Treetop observation platforms are the perfect vantage point to watch orangutans within their family groups or resting in a specially designed treehouse. Subterranean caves and underwater windows offer a clear view of tigers swimming in their temperature-controlled plunge pool, while natural bridges and bamboo screens bring guests closer to these exotic predators than ever before. Acrobatic gibbons, flying foxes and mysterious tomistomas also make this exotic rainforest home.
In the jungle clearing, the village is anchored by a centerpiece 35-foot rock formation towering above its pathways. Stiltwalkers will parade throughout the village, highlighting the beauty and grace of the colorful jungle flora and fauna with elaborate costumes representing birds, frogs and even the trees themselves.
Two signature rides add to the excitement of Jungala: a zip line experience offers three different flight patterns above the tree tops for young adventurers and another ride launches guests up above a towering waterfall. A 3-story family climbing area allows visitors to ascend through the tree canopy on rope bridges to explore the different layers of jungle life, and a children’s water-play area allows even the youngest explorers to interact with the environment.
Jungala also will offer two new dining options for Busch Gardens guests. The Bengal Bistro, a newly remodeled version of the popular Vivi Restaurant, and the all-new Orang Café will offer seasonal entrées, salads and sandwiches, premium snacks and expanded childrens’ menus for hungry explorers of all ages.
More details will be announced as the new park area nears completion.
For more information on Busch Gardens Africa, call 1-888-800-5447 or visit www.buschgardens.com (Source: Press Release, 09/06/07)
=================================================
Disney searches for park-savvy parents for first-ever Walt Disney World Moms Panel
Calling all moms: Is a trip to Walt Disney World Resort your idea of the perfect family vacation? Do you know where to find the one and only campfire marshmallow roast at Walt Disney World Resort? Have you ever been to one of the resort's baby care centers to change and feed your little one? Or maybe you and your family have visited so often that others have said you could write a book filled with travel tips? If so, Disney wants to hear from you.
As part of "The Year of a Million Dreams," Disney announced today the launch of a nationwide search for moms who have mastered the art of planning a Walt Disney World vacation. Twelve finalists will be selected to serve on the first-ever online Walt Disney World Moms Panel. Those 12 parents who have a passion for the Walt Disney World vacation experience will have the opportunity to share their vast knowledge of the resort and personal secrets of success with other families who are considering this magical vacation experience. In exchange, the 12 panelists will receive a 6-day/5-night vacation to the Florida resort for themselves and three other guests.
"Through our consumer research we know that there are aspects of a Walt Disney World vacation that can be challenging to the primary vacation planner, most often that means mom," said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort. "We could not think of a better way to provide vacation planning advice than to create an online forum. This will assist guests who are looking for real and reliable vacation recommendations that fit their family's travel needs."
The Walt Disney World Moms Panel will be found online at www.disneyworldmoms.com and feature content provided by the panel. It will also offer guests the opportunity to pose specific questions and have them answered by the panelists. The site, which goes live in January 2008, will host valuable park insights and vacation planning tools for those parents planning a Walt Disney World vacation.
Are you right for the panel?
Disney realizes that the person who serves the "mom" role differs from family to family. Whether you pride yourself on knowing insider tips and insights for vacationing at Walt Disney World Resort, or are popular among friends and family for planning fabulous vacations on a budget, you may be right for the panel.
From Sept. 6 through Oct. 5, 2007, interested applicants can visit www.disneyworldmoms.com and in 300 words or less in answering three questions, explain why they should be considered for the Walt Disney World Moms Panel. Disney will select 12 panelists with children of various ages.
"For families interested in taking a Walt Disney World vacation, the interactive site will feature a wealth of helpful planning information, expert tips and advice about various topics related to visiting the Walt Disney World Resort," said Crofton.
For more information on the Walt Disney World Moms Panel search, please visit www.disneyworldmoms.com.
About the Walt Disney World Moms Panel
Disney is conducting a nationwide search for parents who have mastered the art of planning a Walt Disney World vacation. From Sept. 6, 2007, through Oct. 5, 2007, interested guests can apply to be one of 12 people who will be selected to serve on the Walt Disney World Moms Panel. The Walt Disney World Moms Panel is an online forum where guests can get insider tips and insights from parents who have a passion for the Walt Disney World vacation experience. Set to launch in January 2008, the Walt Disney World Moms Panel will allow guests to pose questions and have them answered by the panelists, as well as gain access to other valuable park insights and vacation planning tools. For more information, visit www.disneyworldmoms.com. (Source: Press Release, 09/06/07)
=================================================
MONEY SAVING GOLF COUPONS
Click here to access coupons for the following Orlando golf courses:
* Celebration Golf Club
* Eagle Creek Golf Club
* Edwin Watts
* Falcons Fire Golf Club
* Hunters Creek Golf Club
* Kissimmee Bay Country Club
* Metro West Golf Club
* Mystic Dunes
* Orange County Golf Center
* Orange Lake Country Club
* Remington Golf Club
* Shingle Creek Golf Club
* Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club
=================================================
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 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.
=============================================
September 12, 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!
Beth, our travel agent, says that Disney still has rooms available for Thanksgiving and Christmas weeks! What are you waiting for?
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Deals and specials - military discount at Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line special, deal on vacation homes near Disney and Universal, buy one night get one night FREE special, and swim for FREE with the dolphins in Mexico
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney to personally test its toys for lead
* Disney searches for park-savvy parents for Walt Disney World Moms Panel
* Jungala to open in Busch Gardens in 2008
* This week's coupons - 13 golf coupons
Now on with the show...
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Active and Retired Military save 40% at Disney World resort hotels with our discount code! Valid on select dates in October, November and December, 2007.
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Fall cruises starting at $429 per person!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Disney/Universal Studios Area Vacation Homes! Book a luxurious vacation rental now through Dec 15, 2007 and receive:
* Complimentary BBQ Grill
* $25 Fuel Credit
* Book online and save $25 off your total stay
In addition to your very own PRIVATE SCREENED-IN POOL, all homes are fully furnished and include:
>> Towels and Linens
>> Full Size Washer and Dryer
>> Fully Equipped Kitchens
>> 2-Car Garage
>> Living/Dining Room
>> Separate Bedrooms
7-12 Minutes to Disney. Sleeps 6-16 People.
-------------------------------------------------
Celebrate Autumn with a Buy-One Get-One FREE Special! That's $35 per night when you stay two nights or four nights or six nights!
Buy One Night at $69, Get One Night FREE! Beth writes: "I've seen this hotel and it's very close to Disney. You can't beat the price. Kids 12 and under always eat free. I'd give it a very solid 3 to 3.5 stars."
An Official Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel. One of the closest hotels in Kissimmee to Walt Disney World and all the other Orlando and Kissimmee attractions. Pet friendly. Free shuttle to the parks. Full service restaurant and food court.
--------------------------------
MEXICO
Stay at this luxurious resort in Mexico for seven nights and swim with the Dolphins for FREE! (Two swim for the price of one when you stay three to six nights.) Valid for travel in October and December, 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!
>> Disney Promotion for the General Public! Valid for October - December, 2007.
>> 4 vacation specials at the Downtown Disney Resort Hotels! From $79!
>> Disney Visa Card Special for October-December, 2007!
>> Annual Pass and Florida Resident Specials for October-December, 2007!
>> 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!
>> 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
>> Florida residents save $80.00 on day visits to this Orlando venue
>> 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 $389!
>> Four nights from $449!
>> Seven nights Land & Sea from $799!
>> 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 Hotels!
>> 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
>> Cruise discounts, FREE upgrades, kids travel FREE!
>> 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
--------------------------------
"Reacting to three separate recalls of Mattel toys found to contain unsafe levels of lead paint, The Walt Disney Co. announced that it will begin its own testing of toys featuring Disney characters, including random testing of products already on store shelves." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/10/07)
--------------------------------
"Night of Joy, a Christian rock gathering, has been happening at Magic Kingdom for 25 years now, but last night was my very first trip. The event was sold out, and it was crowded near the stages but there was room to breathe in the park, which leaves most of the attraction operating and a good deal of the dining." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 09/08/07)
--------------------------------
Epcot's "Team Possible"
"Last year's play-test of this proposed World Showcase-based interactive game proved to be so popular with WDW visitors that it's now becoming a permanent fixture at that theme park. Look for 'Team Possible' to go live at Epcot starting in early 2008." (Source: jimhillmedia.com, 09/07/07)
--------------------------------
"Walt Disney World's Contemporary, Old Key West and Saratoga Springs Resorts were designated Tuesday by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection as the 34th, 35th and 36th Florida hotels in its Florida Green Lodging Program." (Source: bizjournals.com, 09/05/07)
--------------------------------
"Walt Disney World visitors could someday order line-skipping, 'FastPass' ride tickets from their cell phones or home computers, and could receive preferential treatment based on the price of their Disney accommodations, using a new technology the resort's parent company is developing." (Source: Orlando Sentinel,09/06/07)
"New Disney patent application reveals that FASTPASS-for-pay is not so far away. Jim Hill shares some info about changes that appear to be in the works for the Mouse's virtual queuing system. Some that are pretty good, and some that are sure to upset right-to-privacy fans." (Source: jimhillmedia.com, 09/05/07)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Rock the Universe at Universal Studios
"OK, maybe I'm just a sucker for marketing, but it did seem like Rock the Universe on Saturday was a bit harder rock than Friday's Night of Joy. Not that there's anything wrong with being either. It could just be a function of the day (Friday vs. Saturday) or more likely, the artists involved." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 09/09/07)
--------------------------------
"On Sept. 25, Cypress Gardens Adventure Park and its sister park in Valdosta, Ga., Wild Adventures Theme Park, will be sold at court-ordered Chapter 11 bankruptcy auction, the park's parent company announced Thursday... Both parks will remain open, and passes and discounts will be honored. The park's 400 full-time and 700 seasonal employees should not be affected." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/08/07)
--------------------------------
"Busch Gardens Tampa Bay wants to blend wildlife and jungle habitat with a thrill ride, a children's play area and a dining-shopping-entertainment cluster when it opens its next big attraction in the spring... the plan for Jungala is to weave tiger, gibbon and orangutan habitats together with human habitats, mixing dense landscaping with paths, waterways, waterfalls, stone structures, a hidden village and other attractions." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/07/07)
See Press Release below for more details.
--------------------------------
"The first of several new businesses at Church Street Station debuts next week when Dolce Nightclub replaces the pink-themed, socialite-studded Club Paris." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/06/07)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"Only 100 feet divides Adventureland from Frontierland. While one land drips with banyans and bromeliads, the other sizzles with cactus and sage. It's within this great divide that perceptive visitors can find their own garden inspiration -- one of many masterfully conceived mini-landscapes at Disneyland whose design just might work at home." (Source: latimes.com, 09/06/07)
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
Busch Gardens - Jungles Of The World Come Together
With a nearly 50-year history of caring for animals and the environment, Busch Gardens is creating the park’s newest adventure - an exotic jungle where discovery and exploration invite guests to connect with the world around them.
In spring 2008, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will open Jungala -its newest and most ambitious park enhancement project to date. Set in the Congo area, the 4-acre attraction will invite guests to discover exotic creatures, explore a village hidden deep in the jungle and connect with the inhabitants of the lush landscape through up-close animal interactions, multi-story family play areas, rides and live entertainment.
Towering trees, cascading waterfalls, flowing waterways and elaborate stone structures shape the landscape to transport guests out of their modern-day lives into a mythical place where the inhabitants - both human and animal - live in complete harmony with nature.
From atop the tallest trees or beneath the jungle floor, guests will be completely immersed in the animals’ world. Multi-tiered habitats allow visitors to connect with two of the world’s most endangered species - Bengal tigers and orangutans. Treetop observation platforms are the perfect vantage point to watch orangutans within their family groups or resting in a specially designed treehouse. Subterranean caves and underwater windows offer a clear view of tigers swimming in their temperature-controlled plunge pool, while natural bridges and bamboo screens bring guests closer to these exotic predators than ever before. Acrobatic gibbons, flying foxes and mysterious tomistomas also make this exotic rainforest home.
In the jungle clearing, the village is anchored by a centerpiece 35-foot rock formation towering above its pathways. Stiltwalkers will parade throughout the village, highlighting the beauty and grace of the colorful jungle flora and fauna with elaborate costumes representing birds, frogs and even the trees themselves.
Two signature rides add to the excitement of Jungala: a zip line experience offers three different flight patterns above the tree tops for young adventurers and another ride launches guests up above a towering waterfall. A 3-story family climbing area allows visitors to ascend through the tree canopy on rope bridges to explore the different layers of jungle life, and a children’s water-play area allows even the youngest explorers to interact with the environment.
Jungala also will offer two new dining options for Busch Gardens guests. The Bengal Bistro, a newly remodeled version of the popular Vivi Restaurant, and the all-new Orang Café will offer seasonal entrées, salads and sandwiches, premium snacks and expanded childrens’ menus for hungry explorers of all ages.
More details will be announced as the new park area nears completion.
For more information on Busch Gardens Africa, call 1-888-800-5447 or visit www.buschgardens.com (Source: Press Release, 09/06/07)
=================================================
Disney searches for park-savvy parents for first-ever Walt Disney World Moms Panel
Calling all moms: Is a trip to Walt Disney World Resort your idea of the perfect family vacation? Do you know where to find the one and only campfire marshmallow roast at Walt Disney World Resort? Have you ever been to one of the resort's baby care centers to change and feed your little one? Or maybe you and your family have visited so often that others have said you could write a book filled with travel tips? If so, Disney wants to hear from you.
As part of "The Year of a Million Dreams," Disney announced today the launch of a nationwide search for moms who have mastered the art of planning a Walt Disney World vacation. Twelve finalists will be selected to serve on the first-ever online Walt Disney World Moms Panel. Those 12 parents who have a passion for the Walt Disney World vacation experience will have the opportunity to share their vast knowledge of the resort and personal secrets of success with other families who are considering this magical vacation experience. In exchange, the 12 panelists will receive a 6-day/5-night vacation to the Florida resort for themselves and three other guests.
"Through our consumer research we know that there are aspects of a Walt Disney World vacation that can be challenging to the primary vacation planner, most often that means mom," said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort. "We could not think of a better way to provide vacation planning advice than to create an online forum. This will assist guests who are looking for real and reliable vacation recommendations that fit their family's travel needs."
The Walt Disney World Moms Panel will be found online at www.disneyworldmoms.com and feature content provided by the panel. It will also offer guests the opportunity to pose specific questions and have them answered by the panelists. The site, which goes live in January 2008, will host valuable park insights and vacation planning tools for those parents planning a Walt Disney World vacation.
Are you right for the panel?
Disney realizes that the person who serves the "mom" role differs from family to family. Whether you pride yourself on knowing insider tips and insights for vacationing at Walt Disney World Resort, or are popular among friends and family for planning fabulous vacations on a budget, you may be right for the panel.
From Sept. 6 through Oct. 5, 2007, interested applicants can visit www.disneyworldmoms.com and in 300 words or less in answering three questions, explain why they should be considered for the Walt Disney World Moms Panel. Disney will select 12 panelists with children of various ages.
"For families interested in taking a Walt Disney World vacation, the interactive site will feature a wealth of helpful planning information, expert tips and advice about various topics related to visiting the Walt Disney World Resort," said Crofton.
For more information on the Walt Disney World Moms Panel search, please visit www.disneyworldmoms.com.
About the Walt Disney World Moms Panel
Disney is conducting a nationwide search for parents who have mastered the art of planning a Walt Disney World vacation. From Sept. 6, 2007, through Oct. 5, 2007, interested guests can apply to be one of 12 people who will be selected to serve on the Walt Disney World Moms Panel. The Walt Disney World Moms Panel is an online forum where guests can get insider tips and insights from parents who have a passion for the Walt Disney World vacation experience. Set to launch in January 2008, the Walt Disney World Moms Panel will allow guests to pose questions and have them answered by the panelists, as well as gain access to other valuable park insights and vacation planning tools. For more information, visit www.disneyworldmoms.com. (Source: Press Release, 09/06/07)
=================================================
MONEY SAVING GOLF COUPONS
Click here to access coupons for the following Orlando golf courses:
* Celebration Golf Club
* Eagle Creek Golf Club
* Edwin Watts
* Falcons Fire Golf Club
* Hunters Creek Golf Club
* Kissimmee Bay Country Club
* Metro West Golf Club
* Mystic Dunes
* Orange County Golf Center
* Orange Lake Country Club
* Remington Golf Club
* Shingle Creek Golf Club
* Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club
=================================================
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 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 6:09 AM
<< Home