Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
December 5, 2007
Copyright © 1999 - 2007 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
NOTE: 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.
Specials that are valid for stays at WDW January - March, 2008 expire this month. Affordable Disney Members should have Beth book their vacation right away!
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Package and room discount deal for Disney Rewards Visa cardholders, a new Disney Goodie, dining certificate special, Disneyland California vacation package, Disney Cruise credit, three Holiday cruise specials, 3-day sale on 2008 cruises, and Mexico vacation
* The latest news from around the "World" - two deaths at Walt Disney World
* Christmas by the Numbers at Walt Disney World Resort
* Delicious Holiday Designs on Display at Walt Disney World Resort
* Walt Disney World Resort Rings in a Happy New Year With Parties, Extended Hours and Fireworks Galore
* ‘Magical Makeovers’ Reign at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutiques; Young Princesses (and Princes) Receive Royal Treatment at Walt Disney World Resort
* Disney Cruise Line adds two Eastern Caribbean itineraries
* International Recording Sensation Rihanna Joins Line-Up For Universal Orlando’S Grad Bash April 2008
* Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Baby Gorilla Turns Two
* This week's coupon - up to eight people can save at this Orlando steakhouse
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Disney Rewards Visa Room Special: Cardholders can book a studio at these Deluxe WDW resorts in January for $149 per night with this discount code!
Disney Rewards Visa Package: Cardholders can book a discounted package at these Deluxe WDW resorts in January with this discount code. The dining option can be added.
We've added a new Disney activity to our members' Disney Goodies page: play Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean online game for FREE!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Discounts at Restaurants near Disney! Save $$$ with dining certificates to restaurants in Orlando, near Walt Disney World, in Anaheim, near Disneyland California, and all across the US. This week's special: Get $25 dining certificates for only $5. Plus, get a FREE $10 gift certificate with every order! Expires 12/09/07.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
New Disneyland Vacation Package! Includes Two days of free tickets and a $150 gift card!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Castaway Club members (those who have taken a Disney cruise before) get a $50 onboard credit if they book a 2009 cruise by 12/10/07. The credit may be used to offset the cost of tours, merchandise, etc., onboard. Let Beth know you are a Castaway Club member when you fill out our Disney reservation form.
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CRUISES
Holiday Cruises aboard Europe's #1 cruise line
Eastern Caribbean - 7 nights Sailing Dec. 22, 2007 (Holiday) From Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to: San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands. Verandahs: $999.
Eastern Caribbean - 7 nights Sailing Dec. 30, 2007 (New Year's) From Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to: San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Catalina Island & Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic; Nassau, Bahamas. Inside Staterooms: $749; Outside Staterooms: $849.
Southeastern Caribbean - 7 Nights Dec. 23, 2007 (Holiday) From Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to: San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Maarten, Leeward Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands. Inside Staterooms: $699.
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Luxury Cruise 3-Day Sale, December 5-7, 2007. Includes special 3rd and 4th guest fares from $99!
7- to 14-Day Alaska
CRUISES FROM $549
CRUISETOURS FROM $1,249
10- to 28-Day Europe
CRUISES FROM $1,199
14- to 39-Day Asia Pacific
CRUISES FROM $1,899
15- to 19-Day Hawaii
CRUISES FROM $1,349
14- to 25-Day Australia & New Zealand
CRUISES FROM $1,899
7- to 10-Day Mexican Riviera
CRUISES FROM $449
7- to 13-Day Canada & New England
CRUISE FROM $849
10- to 36-Day Panama Canal
CRUISES FROM $1,149
6- to 14-Day Caribbean
CRUISES FROM $549
13- to 26-Day South America & Antarctica
CRUISES FROM $1,499
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Los Cabos Mexico Vacation
All Inclusive with air from $915. Save 25% and Kids FREE! Sale ends - Dec 21, 2007! Travel Dates: Feb 1- Apr 25.
Vacation Package includes the following:
-Round-Trip flights on a major airline from your departure city to Los Cabos, Mexico
-3 All Inclusive Nights at Golf Resort & Spa!
-All meals Gourmet a la carte, and no reservations required! Premium brand drinks included. Resort with NO WRISTBANDS in All Inclusive!
-24 Hour room service and in-room service-bar
-Hotel & land taxes
-Kids 12 years old & younger are FREE!
-Special nightly live entertainment and daily activities & supervised Kids Club!
-Unlimited access to on-site gym & tennis courts.
-All hotel tips and gratuities
-Transportation to and from airport
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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!
>> If you're staying at a Walt Disney World resort now through the end of 2007, you can save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion not known by the general public!
>> Book a winter vacation at Walt Disney World with our discount codes and get a room discount and FREE ticket upgrade! Dining and wine options can be added. Beth always adjusts her current reservations to reflect the current deal. She writes about this deal's conversions: "The average family of 4 saved about $300-320 on conversions, but one family saved over $1000!"
>> Disney Rewards Visa cardholders save at Walt Disney World in early 2008 with this discount code!
>> Value resorts from $49 and moderates from $99 for Annual Passholders in early 2008 with this discount code!
>> FREE ticket upgrade for Canadians when they book a package for early 2008 with this discount code!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Universal Orlando Holiday Special: November - December, 2007 (Christmas excluded) starting from only $699 per family of four.
>> Orlando Resort Fall Special from $69 November 1 - December 31!
>> Marriott Special good through Christmas at this location only! Stay 4 nights and get the 5th night FREE! From $179 per night.
>> Florida residents save up to 40% on accommodations with this Universal holiday special!
>> 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
>> 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!
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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!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Win a Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
>> 5-day/4-night Disneyland California Resort vacation for the price of a 3-day package! Plus, a $150 Disney Gift Card!
>> FREE admission to Disneyland California for Southern California wildfire fighters!
>> Fourth Night Free at Disneyland Hotels!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
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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.
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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
>> Affordable Disney Special: Sunday March 30 sail with us aboard the beautiful Caribbean Princess for 7 relaxing days in the Eastern Caribbean. This gorgeous ship has amenities galore including a Broadway-caliber theater, amazing children’s facilities, a fabulous spa, oodles of dining options, Movies Under the Stars, and so much more. With pricing starting at just $699 per person, it’s a real spring break bargain and Affordable Disney members will get special surprises, too! Contact Beth right away for more details - but don’t wait because we only have 32 cabins!
>> Walt Disney World Annual and Seasonal Passholders receive a $75 shipboard credit and special rates starting at $429 per person when they book these cruises!
>> 14-night cruise from Barcelona to San Juan in December aboard this luxury cruise ship from $599 per person!
>> Cruise discounts, FREE upgrades, kids travel FREE!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
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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
Plus! Enjoy these Holiday Specials!
* We'll send an identical FREE Gift Membership - Basic or Lifetime (CD excluded in gift membership) - to a friend or loved one with your holiday wishes for a fun and affordable Disney World vacation!
* Active Duty, Reserve, Retired, Widowed, Disabled, National Guard and DOD employees receive a FREE membership upgrade from Basic to Lifetime Basic! Thank you for your service!
Merry Christmas from AffordableDisney.Com!
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
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"[Best Friends] just got a contract from Disney to operate the resort's five existing kennels -- and to build a state-of-the-art boarding center where dogs and cats can board in two-room suites with patios and get all the pampering they have come to expect." The center will open mid-2009. Its services will also be available to pets of castmembers and locals. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/05/07)
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"Epcot's Spaceship Earth ride is expected to reopen in mid-December for sneak previews with a new story overlay, new technology and a whole new soundtrack -- created by 10-time Emmy Award-winning composer Bruce Broughton, a 63-piece orchestra and a 24-voice choir." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/03/07)
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"Foodie award winners: Scott Joseph and Sentinel readers pick Orlando area's finest restaurants." Boma at Animal Kingdom Lodge and Latin Quarter at Universal's CityWalk made the list. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/02/07)
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"Walt Disney World and potentially Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando will have to report more information about the chemicals stored throughout their sprawling resorts to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security... Spokesman Jacob DiPietre said the [Disney] park does not expect to be designated a high-risk site." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/02/07)
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"A man who slipped and fell outside a restaurant at Disney's Magic Kingdom on Thursday died of his injuries Friday, according to Disney officials." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/01/07)
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"A Disney employee who fell off a platform for Primeval Whirl, a roller coaster type ride at the attraction, died on Thursday." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 11/29/07)
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"If money talks, Universal Studios' plan to spend $3.1 billion to develop a theme park and resort in South Korea speaks volumes about the lucrative opportunities in that fast-developing country." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 11/30/07)
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Click here for video of the Polar Express Experience at SeaWorld..
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Click here to read the Orlando Sentinel's Theme Park Rangers' review of "ICE" - a walking tour of ice sculptures - at the Gaylord Palms.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
"Disney Cruise Line plans to make Port Canaveral home base for both its ships in 2009, ending a four-year adventure that sent one of them to distant waters in the Pacific and Mediterranean." In 2009, Disney will add two new 7-night itineraries to its Caribbean cruises: St. Croix and Tortola. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/05/07)
See Press Release below.
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Unlike other cruise lines, Disney will not impose a surcharge on fuel on any existing or new bookings made through April 1, 2008. (Source: Disney email blast, 12/04/07)
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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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Christmas by the Numbers at Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Miles of garland, ribbon, twinkling lights and glitter transform Walt Disney World Resort into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Here's a sample of what guests will experience throughout the Vacation Kingdom:
* 1,500 decorated trees throughout property
* A wreath 25 feet in diameter adorning the Cirque du Soleil building at Downtown Disney West Side
* 34,000 feet, or 6 miles, of twinkling rope lights in the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney-MGM Studios
* 150 tractor-trailer truckloads of decorations adorning 22 resorts, 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, Downtown Disney and more
* 15 miles of garland strung throughout the Vacation Kingdom
* More than 300,000 yards of ribbon and bows draping over Christmas trees across property
* 8 million lights hung throughout Walt Disney World Resort
* 11 countries dressed for Holidays Around the World at Epcot World Showcase
* 1 tree at Disney's Contemporary Resort with a base 26 feet wide
* One 45-foot-tall centerpiece tree in Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa lobby featuring nearly 60,000 miniature LED lights
* 6 life-sized creations cooked up by Walt Disney World pastry chefs featuring:
One 16-foot-tall gingerbread house at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa baked with 1,050 pounds of honey and decorated over 160 hours
One life-size gingerbread carousel at Disney's Beach Club Resort made with 100 pounds of sugar, 50 pounds of dark chocolate and 36 pounds of honey
* 800+ holiday musicians, characters, storytellers, singers and entertainers performing daily throughout all four theme parks
* 100% chance of snow flurries during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, taking place on select holiday evenings in Magic Kingdom
* 365 days of the year that guests can shop for holiday merchandise at the Disney Christmas Shop in Downtown Disney Marketplace (Source: Press Release)
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Delicious Holiday Designs on Display at Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Pastry chefs throughout Walt Disney World Resort make things a little sweeter with deliciously decorative displays and sugar shacks made of yummy ingredients during the winter holidays. These candy-decked dwellings adorn the lobbies at various Walt Disney World resort hotels beginning in November. On the menu this holiday season at Walt Disney World Resort:
Disney's Beach Club Resort
A fully detailed, life-sized carousel in the resort's lobby is created from a recipe that uses gingerbread, chocolate, sugar paste and tons of enthusiasm, energy and talent. Guests who wish to take home a treat of their own can buy small gingerbread houses from the Beach Club Marketplace. Pastry chefs give demonstrations on select days to provide guests with tips on creating a gingerbread invention at home.
Carousel fun fact: seven "hidden Mickeys" can be found on the carousel.
Ingredient fun facts:
36 lbs. of honey
96 lbs. of bread flour
100 pints of eggs
10 lbs. of spices
10 quarts of simple syrup
100 lbs. of icing
50 lbs. of dark chocolate
10 quarts of egg whites
100 lbs. of confectioner sugar
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
The lobby of Disney's Yacht Club Resort becomes home to a delectable scene in motion: A miniature New England-style train races through a sugary rock mountain surrounded by a candy-coated model village in this don't-miss edible display. One lucky guest will be chosen daily to meet Chef Stefan Riemer for treats and a photo during "The Year of a Million Dreams" celebration at Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney's BoardWalk Inn
The lobby of Disney's BoardWalk Inn is a "Home for the Holidays" scene with an artfully crafted miniature train made of gingerbread and chocolate. Walt Disney World pastry chefs also create small souvenir gingerbread houses which are offered for sale at the BoardWalk Bakery.
Disney's Contemporary Resort
A holiday toy shop made of sugar and chocolate, featuring Pinocchio himself, is the sweet spot for guests to purchase treats and toys on the first floor of the tower building.
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Opening to guests Nov. 19 is a gingerbread house large enough that it doubles as a real bake shop in the Grand Floridian lobby. Featuring gingerbread using a classic Austrian recipe, the bake shop offers freshly baked items such as cookies and gingerbread ornaments. Other homemade items for sale include Stollen Bread, chocolate peppermint bark, lollipops and special Grand Floridian logo boxes filled with truffles. Demonstrations of how to decorate a gingerbread house take place in front of the Gingerbread House six days a week.
Gingerbread house fun fact: Chefs spend 400 hours baking the gingerbread and 160 hours decorating the house.
Structure Composition:
16 feet high
17 feet wide
> 1,000 board feet of trim
60 sheets of plywood
40 window panes
80 square feet of retail space
100 square feet of display
10,000 pieces of gingerbread used>
Gingerbread Ingredients:
1,050 lbs. honey
600 lbs. powdered sugar
35 lbs. spices
800 lbs. flour
140 pints egg whites
180 lbs. apricot glaze
American Adventure at Epcot
Santa's Gingerbread Bake Shop at Liberty Inn at American Adventure enchants guests of all ages. Guests peer inside the life-sized gingerbread house at goodies galore. The giant structure, made entirely of gingerbread, cookies and icing, features more than 800 pounds of sugar and more than 1,000 eggs. Inside the bake shop, Christmas cookies and hot and cold beverages, as well as souvenir gingerbread recipe cards, may be purchased. Opens in late November. (Source: Press Release)
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Walt Disney World Resort Rings in a Happy New Year With Parties, Extended Hours and Fireworks Galore
Walt Disney World guests can count down to midnight and ring in 2008 with a dazzling display of entertainment, parades, fireworks and extended hours throughout the Vacation Kingdom on New Year's Eve.
Throughout the final evening of the year, Downtown Disney Pleasure Island will be transformed into one big, high-energy street party for partygoers 21 and older: six-hours of fun overflowing with live music, dancing, a sampling of gourmet delights, a champagne toast, plus spectacular fireworks.
The party will take place from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. and will include a countdown to 2008 and a special fireworks celebration only Disney can deliver. Each guest on New Year's Eve will welcome 2008 with festive hats and noisemakers, plus a delectable dinner buffet and a midnight champagne toast -- all part of the admission price.
Admission to this special-ticket New Year's Eve party is $99 plus tax and includes entry to all seven themed nightclubs at Pleasure Island. Annual passholders can purchase up to two tickets at $89 each plus tax. For more information or to order advance tickets, call 407/W-DISNEY.
Other Disney celebrations and New Year's Eve theme park hours:
# Disney-MGM Studios is aglow with the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by SYLVANIA. Millions of sparkling lights adorn the Streets of America backlot through Jan. 6, 2008. Special New Year's Eve park hours: 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Special entertainment includes a trio of "Fantasmic!" fireworks shows -- at 6:30, 8:30 and 10 p.m. -- plus a special showering of fireworks at midnight.
# Donning hats and noisemakers, revelers can party on until 1 a.m. at Magic Kingdom with double the parades and fireworks. Guests can count down to the magical hour with the "SpectroMagic" parade at 7 and 10:30 p.m., plus "Holiday Wishes" fireworks at 8:30 p.m. and "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks at 11:50 p.m. The park is open from 8 a.m.-1 a.m.
# A special version of "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" laser-light spectacular will be presented at 7:30 and 11:40 p.m. at Epcot. Latin crossover band Papo's Groove and the energetic DJ Indio Davila will entertain partiers at America Gardens Theatre, while the big band swing music of the Tom Butler Orchestra will fill World Showplace. Rockers can boogie down at Scooter's dance party at the Fountain Stage, plus techno rock at the China pavilion and classic rock 'n' roll at the Italy pavilion in World Showcase. The park is open from 8 a.m.-1 a.m.
# "Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Expedition" parade, an outrageous street party starring favorite Disney friends, winds through Disney's Animal Kingdom at 3:45 p.m. Park hours 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
# At Downtown Disney, Cirque du Soleil fans can celebrate the New Year La Nouba style with two presentations of the theatrical production, at 6 and 9 p.m. A champagne toast celebration, souvenir program, glow sticks and gift are included in the special ticket price. Tickets are from $67 to $139, plus tax, depending on category.
# Disney Cruise Line brings in the new year with ship-wide festivities on New Year's Eve and a New Year's Day tailgate party. (Source: Press Release)
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‘Magical Makeovers’ Reign at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutiques; Young Princesses (and Princes) Receive Royal Treatment at Walt Disney World Resort
A new, second Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique doubles the fairy tale fun
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Aspiring young princesses (and princes) can now be treated to the full fairy tale treatment at two different locations during their visit to Walt Disney World Resort.
Magic Kingdom guests can get a pixie-dusted makeover at the new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located inside Cinderella Castle, Downtown Disney Marketplace guests meanwhile, can receive the royal treatment at the original Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located inside the World of Disney's Princess Room.
When young princesses-to-be make their royal entrance at either Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, they are greeted by their very own Fairy-Godmother-in-Training who magically transforms them in the girl's choice of hairstyles -- the Disney Diva, the Pop Princess or the Fairytale Princess.
Girls can choose from three different magical makeover packages:
* Coach Package: Includes hairstyle and shimmering makeup -- $35 plus tax.
* Crown Package: Includes hairstyle, shimmering makeup and nails -- $45 plus tax.
* Castle Package: Includes hairstyle, shimmering makeup, nails, a princess costume complete with crown, wand and shoes, as well as an imaging package (one 6x8-inch photo and four 4x6-inch photos in a princess-themed photo holder) -- starting at $180 plus tax. Girls receiving the Castle Package can choose to be dressed as Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Belle, Snow White, Ariel, Jasmine or Tinker Bell.
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique also features a special treatment for young princes. The "Cool Dude" makeover for boys includes a special hairstyle with colored gels, confetti and a "Hidden Mickey," starting at $10 plus tax.
All children must be at least three years or older to receive the royal treatments.
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Magic Kingdom is open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; theme park admission is required. The Downtown Disney Marketplace salon is open 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. daily. There is no admission or self-parking fee required at Downtown Disney.
Advance reservations are recommended for both locations, and can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 407/WDW-STYLE (407/939-7895). (Source: Press Release)
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International Recording Sensation Rihanna Joins Line-Up For Universal Orlando’S Grad Bash April 2008
Orlando, Fla. (November 29, 2007) - International superstar Rihanna will perform at Universal Orlando Resort for Grad Bash 2008. With chart-topping hits "Pon De Replay," "S.O.S.," and "Umbrella," Rihanna has exploded onto the music scene and continues to release singles that quickly become overnight sensations. Her latest CD, Good Girl Gone Bad has sold more than a half million copies and includes collaborations with Ne-Yo, Jay-Z and Timbaland. Rihanna’s music appeals to all ages, but her age and style hits home with the younger crowd, making her the perfect addition to Grad Bash 2008.
Rihanna recently won an American Music Award for "Best Female Artist" and two MTV Video Music Awards, "Monster Single of the Year" and "Video of the Year" for her summer hit, "Umbrella." "Umbrella" spent seven weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Last year, Rihanna took home the coveted titles of "Female Artist of the Year," "Female Hot 100 Artist of the Year," and "Pop 100 Artist of the Year" at the 2006 Billboard Music Awards.
Grad Bash is an annual event at Universal Orlando Resort for high school seniors. The event features the hottest live bands, multiple dance zones, DJs, karaoke, street entertainment and the best and most intense theme park attractions. All participants must be either students or chaperones from an attending public, private, or home school. Next year’s Grad Bash will take place on Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26, 2008 from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information, guests can visit www.universalorlando.com/gradbash or call 1-800-YOUTH-15. (Source: Press Release)
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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’S Baby Gorilla Turns Two
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay celebrated the second birthday of its baby gorilla, Bolingo, Sunday, Nov. 18, with a gorilla-friendly cake and presents.
Zookeepers set out the goodies just before 9 a.m. Sunday, at which time Bolingo came on to the Myombe Reserve habitat. He was be joined by other gorillas, including his mother Kishina, for the birthday enrichment activity.
The birthday celebration is an example of animal enrichment used by the park’s zoological team to keep the animals active and engaged. Enrichment can take many forms and is usually something different, unusual and challenging that stimulates the animals.
Bolingo is the first gorilla born at Busch Gardens. In the past year, Bolingo has reached new milestones. The gorilla is more adventurous, exploring away from his mom and playing more with the adult males. Bolingo has almost doubled in size since last year, now weighing about 25 pounds.
Bolingo serves as an ambassador for the gorilla species, bringing greater awareness to the plight of endangered Western lowland gorillas and all endangered great apes. In fact, Bolingo appeared in the Animal Planet Saving a Species special, "Gorillas on the Brink," which was hosted by Oscar-nominated actress Natalie Portman and featured animal expert Jack Hanna.
The number of great apes in the wild has decreased drastically due to habitat loss, the bush meat crisis and disease. That fact has spurred the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund to work with organizations in Africa and worldwide to help protect this species and other endangered animals. The Fund supports five gorilla-related projects in Africa, most notably the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project (MGVP) in Rwanda and the International Gorilla Conservation Programme’s community rainwater harvesting project.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, CONTACT: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Public Relations, (813) 987-5090 (Source: Press Release)
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Disney Cruise Line Adds Two Eastern Caribbean Itineraries
Amidst a Wave of New Choices for Guests in 2008 & 2009
CELEBRATION, Fla. (Dec. 4, 2007) -- Disney Cruise Line announced today two new eastern Caribbean itineraries for 2009 -- giving guests more choices than ever before to explore the beautiful islands of the Caribbean -- and special offerings for 2008.
Beginning in 2009, St. Croix will be a featured stop on one new seven-night itinerary, and Tortola will be featured on another seven-night itinerary. Both islands are new to Disney Cruise Line, increasing the seven-night Caribbean choices on the Disney Magic to four itineraries (Disney's traditional eastern and western Caribbean itineraries will continue).
"The Caribbean continues to be an extremely popular destination for our guests," said Tom McAlpin, president of Disney Cruise Line. "Expanding our offerings in the eastern Caribbean provides our first-time cruisers an array of popular destinations to choose from, while also providing seasoned Disney cruisers new destinations to visit and explore with Disney."
McAlpin noted that there are also special offerings during 2008 including a summer season of sailings to the Mexican Riviera, select cruises with multiple stops at Disney's private island paradise, Castaway Cay, and an enhanced seven-night Land and Sea package that combines the adventure of a Disney cruise with the fun and excitement of a stay at Walt Disney World Resort.
2009. . .New Eastern Caribbean Routes
Disney Cruise Line guests have always enjoyed the beautiful turquoise waters and sugar sand beaches of the eastern Caribbean and, on select voyages throughout the 2009 season, guests will be able to explore either St. Croix or Tortola.
The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix offers a wonderful mix of colonial-style architecture, natural wonders, quaint shops and spectacular marine habitats. Tortola, part of the British Virgin Islands, features centuries-old ruins, botanical gardens, sugar mills, sensational bays and beaches. The new eastern Caribbean itineraries will stop at St. Croix or Tortola, St. Thomas and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.
Eastern Caribbean itineraries with St. Croix sail 1/3, 1/31, 2/28, 3/28, 10/10, 11/7 and 12/5/2009
Eastern Caribbean itineraries with Tortola sail 4/25, 5/23, 6/20, 7/18, 8/15 and 9/12/2009
Disney Cruise Line will continue to offer its current version of the eastern Caribbean cruise with stops at St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Castaway Cay. The traditional eastern Caribbean voyages will sail in-between the special sailings to St. Croix or Tortola.
Double the Castaway Cay in 2008
As a special treat during the summer of 2008, Disney Cruise Line has redesigned the four-night itinerary to offer two stops at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island in the tropical waters of the Bahamas. Castaway Cay continues to be one of the highlights of a Disney Cruise vacation, and with this new itinerary, guests will have twice as much time -- two full days -- to enjoy all the amenities and activities of the tropical oasis. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and beautiful tropical flowers, Castaway Cay provides the ultimate escape, whether a guest is seeking adventure, relaxation or quality time with the family.
Altering the traditional four-night itinerary, these 16 special sailings will bookend a day in Nassau with two visits to Castaway Cay.
All four-night sailings from 5/11/08-8/24/08 will include two stops at Castaway Cay
Enhanced Land and Sea Package
Beginning in 2008, Disney Cruise Line guests will have the option to book an enhanced package for Disney's seven-night Land and Sea Vacation. The new vacation package, Disney's seven-night Land and Sea Package Plus Dining, includes all the perks of the existing seven-night Land and Sea package along with the added benefits of the Disney Dining Plan, which provides guests one sit-down meal, one counter-service meal and one snack per person for each night of their Walt Disney World stay.
Disney's seven-night Land and Sea vacation package combines a three- or four-night cruise on the Disney Wonder with three or four nights of accommodations and theme park tickets at Walt Disney World Resort. The addition of the Disney Dining Plan creates a more inclusive vacation experience. Combined with Onboard-Airline Check-in and Disney's Magical Express, this enhanced package is yet another way that Disney helps provide a hassle-free vacation experience. (Source: Press Release)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON
Aussie Steakhouse
8148 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
407-345-8884
Get $3.00 off any alcoholic beverage or kid's meal with a full paid adult entree for up to 8 people with this coupon.
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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.
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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.
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Affordable Disney Movies and CD's
Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
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Affordable Accommodations
Enjoy Special Rates at select hotels, condos and vacation rentals near Disney. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
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Affordable Luggage
Save up to 60% on Luggage, Backpacks, and more! Donna and I bought a beautiful 5-piece set of Samsonite luggage for our daughter for Christmas for $144! Click here.
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Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom
Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock brokers that require you to purchase several shares of stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
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December 5, 2007
Copyright © 1999 - 2007 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
NOTE: 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.
Specials that are valid for stays at WDW January - March, 2008 expire this month. Affordable Disney Members should have Beth book their vacation right away!
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Package and room discount deal for Disney Rewards Visa cardholders, a new Disney Goodie, dining certificate special, Disneyland California vacation package, Disney Cruise credit, three Holiday cruise specials, 3-day sale on 2008 cruises, and Mexico vacation
* The latest news from around the "World" - two deaths at Walt Disney World
* Christmas by the Numbers at Walt Disney World Resort
* Delicious Holiday Designs on Display at Walt Disney World Resort
* Walt Disney World Resort Rings in a Happy New Year With Parties, Extended Hours and Fireworks Galore
* ‘Magical Makeovers’ Reign at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutiques; Young Princesses (and Princes) Receive Royal Treatment at Walt Disney World Resort
* Disney Cruise Line adds two Eastern Caribbean itineraries
* International Recording Sensation Rihanna Joins Line-Up For Universal Orlando’S Grad Bash April 2008
* Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Baby Gorilla Turns Two
* This week's coupon - up to eight people can save at this Orlando steakhouse
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Disney Rewards Visa Room Special: Cardholders can book a studio at these Deluxe WDW resorts in January for $149 per night with this discount code!
Disney Rewards Visa Package: Cardholders can book a discounted package at these Deluxe WDW resorts in January with this discount code. The dining option can be added.
We've added a new Disney activity to our members' Disney Goodies page: play Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean online game for FREE!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Discounts at Restaurants near Disney! Save $$$ with dining certificates to restaurants in Orlando, near Walt Disney World, in Anaheim, near Disneyland California, and all across the US. This week's special: Get $25 dining certificates for only $5. Plus, get a FREE $10 gift certificate with every order! Expires 12/09/07.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
New Disneyland Vacation Package! Includes Two days of free tickets and a $150 gift card!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Castaway Club members (those who have taken a Disney cruise before) get a $50 onboard credit if they book a 2009 cruise by 12/10/07. The credit may be used to offset the cost of tours, merchandise, etc., onboard. Let Beth know you are a Castaway Club member when you fill out our Disney reservation form.
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CRUISES
Holiday Cruises aboard Europe's #1 cruise line
Eastern Caribbean - 7 nights Sailing Dec. 22, 2007 (Holiday) From Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to: San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands. Verandahs: $999.
Eastern Caribbean - 7 nights Sailing Dec. 30, 2007 (New Year's) From Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to: San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Catalina Island & Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic; Nassau, Bahamas. Inside Staterooms: $749; Outside Staterooms: $849.
Southeastern Caribbean - 7 Nights Dec. 23, 2007 (Holiday) From Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to: San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Maarten, Leeward Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands. Inside Staterooms: $699.
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Luxury Cruise 3-Day Sale, December 5-7, 2007. Includes special 3rd and 4th guest fares from $99!
7- to 14-Day Alaska
CRUISES FROM $549
CRUISETOURS FROM $1,249
10- to 28-Day Europe
CRUISES FROM $1,199
14- to 39-Day Asia Pacific
CRUISES FROM $1,899
15- to 19-Day Hawaii
CRUISES FROM $1,349
14- to 25-Day Australia & New Zealand
CRUISES FROM $1,899
7- to 10-Day Mexican Riviera
CRUISES FROM $449
7- to 13-Day Canada & New England
CRUISE FROM $849
10- to 36-Day Panama Canal
CRUISES FROM $1,149
6- to 14-Day Caribbean
CRUISES FROM $549
13- to 26-Day South America & Antarctica
CRUISES FROM $1,499
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Los Cabos Mexico Vacation
All Inclusive with air from $915. Save 25% and Kids FREE! Sale ends - Dec 21, 2007! Travel Dates: Feb 1- Apr 25.
Vacation Package includes the following:
-Round-Trip flights on a major airline from your departure city to Los Cabos, Mexico
-3 All Inclusive Nights at Golf Resort & Spa!
-All meals Gourmet a la carte, and no reservations required! Premium brand drinks included. Resort with NO WRISTBANDS in All Inclusive!
-24 Hour room service and in-room service-bar
-Hotel & land taxes
-Kids 12 years old & younger are FREE!
-Special nightly live entertainment and daily activities & supervised Kids Club!
-Unlimited access to on-site gym & tennis courts.
-All hotel tips and gratuities
-Transportation to and from airport
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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!
>> If you're staying at a Walt Disney World resort now through the end of 2007, you can save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion not known by the general public!
>> Book a winter vacation at Walt Disney World with our discount codes and get a room discount and FREE ticket upgrade! Dining and wine options can be added. Beth always adjusts her current reservations to reflect the current deal. She writes about this deal's conversions: "The average family of 4 saved about $300-320 on conversions, but one family saved over $1000!"
>> Disney Rewards Visa cardholders save at Walt Disney World in early 2008 with this discount code!
>> Value resorts from $49 and moderates from $99 for Annual Passholders in early 2008 with this discount code!
>> FREE ticket upgrade for Canadians when they book a package for early 2008 with this discount code!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Universal Orlando Holiday Special: November - December, 2007 (Christmas excluded) starting from only $699 per family of four.
>> Orlando Resort Fall Special from $69 November 1 - December 31!
>> Marriott Special good through Christmas at this location only! Stay 4 nights and get the 5th night FREE! From $179 per night.
>> Florida residents save up to 40% on accommodations with this Universal holiday special!
>> 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
>> 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!
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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!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Win a Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
>> 5-day/4-night Disneyland California Resort vacation for the price of a 3-day package! Plus, a $150 Disney Gift Card!
>> FREE admission to Disneyland California for Southern California wildfire fighters!
>> Fourth Night Free at Disneyland Hotels!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
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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.
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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
>> Affordable Disney Special: Sunday March 30 sail with us aboard the beautiful Caribbean Princess for 7 relaxing days in the Eastern Caribbean. This gorgeous ship has amenities galore including a Broadway-caliber theater, amazing children’s facilities, a fabulous spa, oodles of dining options, Movies Under the Stars, and so much more. With pricing starting at just $699 per person, it’s a real spring break bargain and Affordable Disney members will get special surprises, too! Contact Beth right away for more details - but don’t wait because we only have 32 cabins!
>> Walt Disney World Annual and Seasonal Passholders receive a $75 shipboard credit and special rates starting at $429 per person when they book these cruises!
>> 14-night cruise from Barcelona to San Juan in December aboard this luxury cruise ship from $599 per person!
>> Cruise discounts, FREE upgrades, kids travel FREE!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
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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
Plus! Enjoy these Holiday Specials!
* We'll send an identical FREE Gift Membership - Basic or Lifetime (CD excluded in gift membership) - to a friend or loved one with your holiday wishes for a fun and affordable Disney World vacation!
* Active Duty, Reserve, Retired, Widowed, Disabled, National Guard and DOD employees receive a FREE membership upgrade from Basic to Lifetime Basic! Thank you for your service!
Merry Christmas from AffordableDisney.Com!
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
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"[Best Friends] just got a contract from Disney to operate the resort's five existing kennels -- and to build a state-of-the-art boarding center where dogs and cats can board in two-room suites with patios and get all the pampering they have come to expect." The center will open mid-2009. Its services will also be available to pets of castmembers and locals. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/05/07)
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"Epcot's Spaceship Earth ride is expected to reopen in mid-December for sneak previews with a new story overlay, new technology and a whole new soundtrack -- created by 10-time Emmy Award-winning composer Bruce Broughton, a 63-piece orchestra and a 24-voice choir." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/03/07)
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"Foodie award winners: Scott Joseph and Sentinel readers pick Orlando area's finest restaurants." Boma at Animal Kingdom Lodge and Latin Quarter at Universal's CityWalk made the list. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/02/07)
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"Walt Disney World and potentially Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando will have to report more information about the chemicals stored throughout their sprawling resorts to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security... Spokesman Jacob DiPietre said the [Disney] park does not expect to be designated a high-risk site." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/02/07)
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"A man who slipped and fell outside a restaurant at Disney's Magic Kingdom on Thursday died of his injuries Friday, according to Disney officials." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/01/07)
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"A Disney employee who fell off a platform for Primeval Whirl, a roller coaster type ride at the attraction, died on Thursday." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 11/29/07)
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"If money talks, Universal Studios' plan to spend $3.1 billion to develop a theme park and resort in South Korea speaks volumes about the lucrative opportunities in that fast-developing country." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 11/30/07)
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Click here for video of the Polar Express Experience at SeaWorld..
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Click here to read the Orlando Sentinel's Theme Park Rangers' review of "ICE" - a walking tour of ice sculptures - at the Gaylord Palms.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
"Disney Cruise Line plans to make Port Canaveral home base for both its ships in 2009, ending a four-year adventure that sent one of them to distant waters in the Pacific and Mediterranean." In 2009, Disney will add two new 7-night itineraries to its Caribbean cruises: St. Croix and Tortola. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/05/07)
See Press Release below.
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Unlike other cruise lines, Disney will not impose a surcharge on fuel on any existing or new bookings made through April 1, 2008. (Source: Disney email blast, 12/04/07)
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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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Christmas by the Numbers at Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Miles of garland, ribbon, twinkling lights and glitter transform Walt Disney World Resort into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Here's a sample of what guests will experience throughout the Vacation Kingdom:
* 1,500 decorated trees throughout property
* A wreath 25 feet in diameter adorning the Cirque du Soleil building at Downtown Disney West Side
* 34,000 feet, or 6 miles, of twinkling rope lights in the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney-MGM Studios
* 150 tractor-trailer truckloads of decorations adorning 22 resorts, 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, Downtown Disney and more
* 15 miles of garland strung throughout the Vacation Kingdom
* More than 300,000 yards of ribbon and bows draping over Christmas trees across property
* 8 million lights hung throughout Walt Disney World Resort
* 11 countries dressed for Holidays Around the World at Epcot World Showcase
* 1 tree at Disney's Contemporary Resort with a base 26 feet wide
* One 45-foot-tall centerpiece tree in Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa lobby featuring nearly 60,000 miniature LED lights
* 6 life-sized creations cooked up by Walt Disney World pastry chefs featuring:
One 16-foot-tall gingerbread house at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa baked with 1,050 pounds of honey and decorated over 160 hours
One life-size gingerbread carousel at Disney's Beach Club Resort made with 100 pounds of sugar, 50 pounds of dark chocolate and 36 pounds of honey
* 800+ holiday musicians, characters, storytellers, singers and entertainers performing daily throughout all four theme parks
* 100% chance of snow flurries during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, taking place on select holiday evenings in Magic Kingdom
* 365 days of the year that guests can shop for holiday merchandise at the Disney Christmas Shop in Downtown Disney Marketplace (Source: Press Release)
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Delicious Holiday Designs on Display at Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Pastry chefs throughout Walt Disney World Resort make things a little sweeter with deliciously decorative displays and sugar shacks made of yummy ingredients during the winter holidays. These candy-decked dwellings adorn the lobbies at various Walt Disney World resort hotels beginning in November. On the menu this holiday season at Walt Disney World Resort:
Disney's Beach Club Resort
A fully detailed, life-sized carousel in the resort's lobby is created from a recipe that uses gingerbread, chocolate, sugar paste and tons of enthusiasm, energy and talent. Guests who wish to take home a treat of their own can buy small gingerbread houses from the Beach Club Marketplace. Pastry chefs give demonstrations on select days to provide guests with tips on creating a gingerbread invention at home.
Carousel fun fact: seven "hidden Mickeys" can be found on the carousel.
Ingredient fun facts:
36 lbs. of honey
96 lbs. of bread flour
100 pints of eggs
10 lbs. of spices
10 quarts of simple syrup
100 lbs. of icing
50 lbs. of dark chocolate
10 quarts of egg whites
100 lbs. of confectioner sugar
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
The lobby of Disney's Yacht Club Resort becomes home to a delectable scene in motion: A miniature New England-style train races through a sugary rock mountain surrounded by a candy-coated model village in this don't-miss edible display. One lucky guest will be chosen daily to meet Chef Stefan Riemer for treats and a photo during "The Year of a Million Dreams" celebration at Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney's BoardWalk Inn
The lobby of Disney's BoardWalk Inn is a "Home for the Holidays" scene with an artfully crafted miniature train made of gingerbread and chocolate. Walt Disney World pastry chefs also create small souvenir gingerbread houses which are offered for sale at the BoardWalk Bakery.
Disney's Contemporary Resort
A holiday toy shop made of sugar and chocolate, featuring Pinocchio himself, is the sweet spot for guests to purchase treats and toys on the first floor of the tower building.
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Opening to guests Nov. 19 is a gingerbread house large enough that it doubles as a real bake shop in the Grand Floridian lobby. Featuring gingerbread using a classic Austrian recipe, the bake shop offers freshly baked items such as cookies and gingerbread ornaments. Other homemade items for sale include Stollen Bread, chocolate peppermint bark, lollipops and special Grand Floridian logo boxes filled with truffles. Demonstrations of how to decorate a gingerbread house take place in front of the Gingerbread House six days a week.
Gingerbread house fun fact: Chefs spend 400 hours baking the gingerbread and 160 hours decorating the house.
Structure Composition:
16 feet high
17 feet wide
> 1,000 board feet of trim
60 sheets of plywood
40 window panes
80 square feet of retail space
100 square feet of display
10,000 pieces of gingerbread used>
Gingerbread Ingredients:
1,050 lbs. honey
600 lbs. powdered sugar
35 lbs. spices
800 lbs. flour
140 pints egg whites
180 lbs. apricot glaze
American Adventure at Epcot
Santa's Gingerbread Bake Shop at Liberty Inn at American Adventure enchants guests of all ages. Guests peer inside the life-sized gingerbread house at goodies galore. The giant structure, made entirely of gingerbread, cookies and icing, features more than 800 pounds of sugar and more than 1,000 eggs. Inside the bake shop, Christmas cookies and hot and cold beverages, as well as souvenir gingerbread recipe cards, may be purchased. Opens in late November. (Source: Press Release)
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Walt Disney World Resort Rings in a Happy New Year With Parties, Extended Hours and Fireworks Galore
Walt Disney World guests can count down to midnight and ring in 2008 with a dazzling display of entertainment, parades, fireworks and extended hours throughout the Vacation Kingdom on New Year's Eve.
Throughout the final evening of the year, Downtown Disney Pleasure Island will be transformed into one big, high-energy street party for partygoers 21 and older: six-hours of fun overflowing with live music, dancing, a sampling of gourmet delights, a champagne toast, plus spectacular fireworks.
The party will take place from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. and will include a countdown to 2008 and a special fireworks celebration only Disney can deliver. Each guest on New Year's Eve will welcome 2008 with festive hats and noisemakers, plus a delectable dinner buffet and a midnight champagne toast -- all part of the admission price.
Admission to this special-ticket New Year's Eve party is $99 plus tax and includes entry to all seven themed nightclubs at Pleasure Island. Annual passholders can purchase up to two tickets at $89 each plus tax. For more information or to order advance tickets, call 407/W-DISNEY.
Other Disney celebrations and New Year's Eve theme park hours:
# Disney-MGM Studios is aglow with the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by SYLVANIA. Millions of sparkling lights adorn the Streets of America backlot through Jan. 6, 2008. Special New Year's Eve park hours: 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Special entertainment includes a trio of "Fantasmic!" fireworks shows -- at 6:30, 8:30 and 10 p.m. -- plus a special showering of fireworks at midnight.
# Donning hats and noisemakers, revelers can party on until 1 a.m. at Magic Kingdom with double the parades and fireworks. Guests can count down to the magical hour with the "SpectroMagic" parade at 7 and 10:30 p.m., plus "Holiday Wishes" fireworks at 8:30 p.m. and "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks at 11:50 p.m. The park is open from 8 a.m.-1 a.m.
# A special version of "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" laser-light spectacular will be presented at 7:30 and 11:40 p.m. at Epcot. Latin crossover band Papo's Groove and the energetic DJ Indio Davila will entertain partiers at America Gardens Theatre, while the big band swing music of the Tom Butler Orchestra will fill World Showplace. Rockers can boogie down at Scooter's dance party at the Fountain Stage, plus techno rock at the China pavilion and classic rock 'n' roll at the Italy pavilion in World Showcase. The park is open from 8 a.m.-1 a.m.
# "Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Expedition" parade, an outrageous street party starring favorite Disney friends, winds through Disney's Animal Kingdom at 3:45 p.m. Park hours 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
# At Downtown Disney, Cirque du Soleil fans can celebrate the New Year La Nouba style with two presentations of the theatrical production, at 6 and 9 p.m. A champagne toast celebration, souvenir program, glow sticks and gift are included in the special ticket price. Tickets are from $67 to $139, plus tax, depending on category.
# Disney Cruise Line brings in the new year with ship-wide festivities on New Year's Eve and a New Year's Day tailgate party. (Source: Press Release)
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‘Magical Makeovers’ Reign at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutiques; Young Princesses (and Princes) Receive Royal Treatment at Walt Disney World Resort
A new, second Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique doubles the fairy tale fun
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Aspiring young princesses (and princes) can now be treated to the full fairy tale treatment at two different locations during their visit to Walt Disney World Resort.
Magic Kingdom guests can get a pixie-dusted makeover at the new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located inside Cinderella Castle, Downtown Disney Marketplace guests meanwhile, can receive the royal treatment at the original Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located inside the World of Disney's Princess Room.
When young princesses-to-be make their royal entrance at either Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, they are greeted by their very own Fairy-Godmother-in-Training who magically transforms them in the girl's choice of hairstyles -- the Disney Diva, the Pop Princess or the Fairytale Princess.
Girls can choose from three different magical makeover packages:
* Coach Package: Includes hairstyle and shimmering makeup -- $35 plus tax.
* Crown Package: Includes hairstyle, shimmering makeup and nails -- $45 plus tax.
* Castle Package: Includes hairstyle, shimmering makeup, nails, a princess costume complete with crown, wand and shoes, as well as an imaging package (one 6x8-inch photo and four 4x6-inch photos in a princess-themed photo holder) -- starting at $180 plus tax. Girls receiving the Castle Package can choose to be dressed as Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Belle, Snow White, Ariel, Jasmine or Tinker Bell.
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique also features a special treatment for young princes. The "Cool Dude" makeover for boys includes a special hairstyle with colored gels, confetti and a "Hidden Mickey," starting at $10 plus tax.
All children must be at least three years or older to receive the royal treatments.
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Magic Kingdom is open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; theme park admission is required. The Downtown Disney Marketplace salon is open 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. daily. There is no admission or self-parking fee required at Downtown Disney.
Advance reservations are recommended for both locations, and can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 407/WDW-STYLE (407/939-7895). (Source: Press Release)
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International Recording Sensation Rihanna Joins Line-Up For Universal Orlando’S Grad Bash April 2008
Orlando, Fla. (November 29, 2007) - International superstar Rihanna will perform at Universal Orlando Resort for Grad Bash 2008. With chart-topping hits "Pon De Replay," "S.O.S.," and "Umbrella," Rihanna has exploded onto the music scene and continues to release singles that quickly become overnight sensations. Her latest CD, Good Girl Gone Bad has sold more than a half million copies and includes collaborations with Ne-Yo, Jay-Z and Timbaland. Rihanna’s music appeals to all ages, but her age and style hits home with the younger crowd, making her the perfect addition to Grad Bash 2008.
Rihanna recently won an American Music Award for "Best Female Artist" and two MTV Video Music Awards, "Monster Single of the Year" and "Video of the Year" for her summer hit, "Umbrella." "Umbrella" spent seven weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Last year, Rihanna took home the coveted titles of "Female Artist of the Year," "Female Hot 100 Artist of the Year," and "Pop 100 Artist of the Year" at the 2006 Billboard Music Awards.
Grad Bash is an annual event at Universal Orlando Resort for high school seniors. The event features the hottest live bands, multiple dance zones, DJs, karaoke, street entertainment and the best and most intense theme park attractions. All participants must be either students or chaperones from an attending public, private, or home school. Next year’s Grad Bash will take place on Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26, 2008 from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information, guests can visit www.universalorlando.com/gradbash or call 1-800-YOUTH-15. (Source: Press Release)
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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’S Baby Gorilla Turns Two
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay celebrated the second birthday of its baby gorilla, Bolingo, Sunday, Nov. 18, with a gorilla-friendly cake and presents.
Zookeepers set out the goodies just before 9 a.m. Sunday, at which time Bolingo came on to the Myombe Reserve habitat. He was be joined by other gorillas, including his mother Kishina, for the birthday enrichment activity.
The birthday celebration is an example of animal enrichment used by the park’s zoological team to keep the animals active and engaged. Enrichment can take many forms and is usually something different, unusual and challenging that stimulates the animals.
Bolingo is the first gorilla born at Busch Gardens. In the past year, Bolingo has reached new milestones. The gorilla is more adventurous, exploring away from his mom and playing more with the adult males. Bolingo has almost doubled in size since last year, now weighing about 25 pounds.
Bolingo serves as an ambassador for the gorilla species, bringing greater awareness to the plight of endangered Western lowland gorillas and all endangered great apes. In fact, Bolingo appeared in the Animal Planet Saving a Species special, "Gorillas on the Brink," which was hosted by Oscar-nominated actress Natalie Portman and featured animal expert Jack Hanna.
The number of great apes in the wild has decreased drastically due to habitat loss, the bush meat crisis and disease. That fact has spurred the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund to work with organizations in Africa and worldwide to help protect this species and other endangered animals. The Fund supports five gorilla-related projects in Africa, most notably the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project (MGVP) in Rwanda and the International Gorilla Conservation Programme’s community rainwater harvesting project.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, CONTACT: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Public Relations, (813) 987-5090 (Source: Press Release)
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Disney Cruise Line Adds Two Eastern Caribbean Itineraries
Amidst a Wave of New Choices for Guests in 2008 & 2009
CELEBRATION, Fla. (Dec. 4, 2007) -- Disney Cruise Line announced today two new eastern Caribbean itineraries for 2009 -- giving guests more choices than ever before to explore the beautiful islands of the Caribbean -- and special offerings for 2008.
Beginning in 2009, St. Croix will be a featured stop on one new seven-night itinerary, and Tortola will be featured on another seven-night itinerary. Both islands are new to Disney Cruise Line, increasing the seven-night Caribbean choices on the Disney Magic to four itineraries (Disney's traditional eastern and western Caribbean itineraries will continue).
"The Caribbean continues to be an extremely popular destination for our guests," said Tom McAlpin, president of Disney Cruise Line. "Expanding our offerings in the eastern Caribbean provides our first-time cruisers an array of popular destinations to choose from, while also providing seasoned Disney cruisers new destinations to visit and explore with Disney."
McAlpin noted that there are also special offerings during 2008 including a summer season of sailings to the Mexican Riviera, select cruises with multiple stops at Disney's private island paradise, Castaway Cay, and an enhanced seven-night Land and Sea package that combines the adventure of a Disney cruise with the fun and excitement of a stay at Walt Disney World Resort.
2009. . .New Eastern Caribbean Routes
Disney Cruise Line guests have always enjoyed the beautiful turquoise waters and sugar sand beaches of the eastern Caribbean and, on select voyages throughout the 2009 season, guests will be able to explore either St. Croix or Tortola.
The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix offers a wonderful mix of colonial-style architecture, natural wonders, quaint shops and spectacular marine habitats. Tortola, part of the British Virgin Islands, features centuries-old ruins, botanical gardens, sugar mills, sensational bays and beaches. The new eastern Caribbean itineraries will stop at St. Croix or Tortola, St. Thomas and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.
Eastern Caribbean itineraries with St. Croix sail 1/3, 1/31, 2/28, 3/28, 10/10, 11/7 and 12/5/2009
Eastern Caribbean itineraries with Tortola sail 4/25, 5/23, 6/20, 7/18, 8/15 and 9/12/2009
Disney Cruise Line will continue to offer its current version of the eastern Caribbean cruise with stops at St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Castaway Cay. The traditional eastern Caribbean voyages will sail in-between the special sailings to St. Croix or Tortola.
Double the Castaway Cay in 2008
As a special treat during the summer of 2008, Disney Cruise Line has redesigned the four-night itinerary to offer two stops at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island in the tropical waters of the Bahamas. Castaway Cay continues to be one of the highlights of a Disney Cruise vacation, and with this new itinerary, guests will have twice as much time -- two full days -- to enjoy all the amenities and activities of the tropical oasis. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and beautiful tropical flowers, Castaway Cay provides the ultimate escape, whether a guest is seeking adventure, relaxation or quality time with the family.
Altering the traditional four-night itinerary, these 16 special sailings will bookend a day in Nassau with two visits to Castaway Cay.
All four-night sailings from 5/11/08-8/24/08 will include two stops at Castaway Cay
Enhanced Land and Sea Package
Beginning in 2008, Disney Cruise Line guests will have the option to book an enhanced package for Disney's seven-night Land and Sea Vacation. The new vacation package, Disney's seven-night Land and Sea Package Plus Dining, includes all the perks of the existing seven-night Land and Sea package along with the added benefits of the Disney Dining Plan, which provides guests one sit-down meal, one counter-service meal and one snack per person for each night of their Walt Disney World stay.
Disney's seven-night Land and Sea vacation package combines a three- or four-night cruise on the Disney Wonder with three or four nights of accommodations and theme park tickets at Walt Disney World Resort. The addition of the Disney Dining Plan creates a more inclusive vacation experience. Combined with Onboard-Airline Check-in and Disney's Magical Express, this enhanced package is yet another way that Disney helps provide a hassle-free vacation experience. (Source: Press Release)
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