Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
January 30, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2008 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.

Now on with the show...

In this blog...

* Deals and specials - Swan and Dolphin Resort discount, Time running out for discounts for Floridians and Annual Passholders, Disney cruise discounts, Caribbean short cruise special, Southern Caribbean cruise deal, Vegas Resort & Casino special

* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney's Contemporary resort gets a facelift

* Beth, a member, asks about heat and crowds at WDW in August

* From Never Land to Disneyland Jennifer Lopez, Gisele Bündchen and Jessica Biel Live Out Their Disney Fantasies

* "Block Party Bash" to Rock Disney’s Hollywood Studios

* Disney’s California Food And Wine Festival Set To Showcase Flavors Of The Golden State

* "Year of the Mouse Celebration" Rocks Hong Kong Disneyland

* This week's coupon - enjoy FREE wine tasting at this popular Tavern on the Lake in Orlando

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NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Get 50% off rack rates at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort with this discount code!

WDW Room Discounts for Florida Residents and Annual Passholders expire 02/13/08.

Disney 4 Days Pass for Florida Residents expires 02/29/08.

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

We now have over 19 Disney cruises listed with early booking savings!

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CRUISES

CARIBBEAN SHORT CRUISE

Beth writes: "This gorgeous ship was supposed to go into dry dock in April, but it's not going to now. Instead, they've hastily scheduled 3 and 4 nights sailings for her from Ft. Lauderdale starting at just $249 p/p (based on double occupancy) + taxes and fees. That works out to $598.18 TOTAL for two adults - and not a whole lot more for a balcony! And get this... The 4 night cruises are the same $249 p/p! Slightly higher taxes and fees (more ports involved) bring it to $632.18 for two people - and again, not much more for a balcony. This is an awesome opportunity. This cruise line NEVER does short cruises in the Caribbean, much less on such a popular ship. Affordable Disney Members who are interested should drop me a note FAST and I'll get you details!"

7 NIGHT SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE

Sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico to Barbados to St. Lucia to Antigua to St. Maarten to St. Thomas and back to San Juan, Puerto Rico from $79 per person per day! Dates: August 31 and September 28, 2008.

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VEGAS

Stay at this luxury Resort & Casino and get 20% off Deluxe Room rates and a complimentary upgrade to a Premium View Room. Offer valid February 7 - 10, 17 and 18, 2008.

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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, you can save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion not known by the general public!

>> 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!

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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69

>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20

>> Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens!

>> Florida Residents save up to $80.00 at this Florida park!

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

>> Three nights from $429!

>> Four nights from $579!

>> Seven nights Land & Sea from $999!

>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit!

>> Discounts for Florida residents - rates too low to publish!

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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

>> Win a Disneyland/Southern California vacation!

>> Kids fly FREE!

>> 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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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!

>> 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
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

This Day in Disney History
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Click here for the Macadamia Nut Crusted Snapper recipe from the kitchens of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort.
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"A widow from New York has sued Disney Cruse Line in federal court, blaming the company for her husband’s death from injuries he suffered during a Mediterranean cruise last summer." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 01/26/08)
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Click here for new photos by Annie Leibovitz for Disney's Dream Portrait Series.

See press release below for more details.
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"An ongoing facelift has erased [the Contemporary's] garish '60s room decor and is adding 21st-century atmosphere and attractions." (Source: dallasnews.com, 01/19/08)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

"[Nickelodeon] has chartered the largest ship in the cruise industry, Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas, to launch the first Nickelodeon Family Cruise." (Source: blogs.usatoday.com, 01/28/08)

We announced this deal in last week's newsletter. Beth can book this for you. Plus! She will send everyone who books this cruise by the end of the month a $25 onboard credit to be spent as they wish (gratuities, bar tab, gift shop, whatever). Note: One credit per cabin, this cruise ONLY.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEYLAND PARIS

"Euro Disney SCA said sales jumped 20 pct to 340.5 mln eur in its first quarter to December from 284.1 mln a year earlier, spurred by 14 pct growth in takings at its theme park east of Paris and a 17 pct jump in revenues from hotel and apartment accommodation at the resort. (Source: forbes.com, 01/24/08)
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HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

"Walt Disney Co. is counting on following a marketing makeover designed to make a classic American theme park look a lot more Chinese. It is hoping to transform China's coming year of the rat into the "Year of the Mouse." (Source: wsj.com, 01/23/08)
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VEGAS

"Las Vegas is building a museum about some of its founding fathers and most-influential figures -- guys with names like Bugsy, Lefty and Lansky." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/24/08)
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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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Beth, a member, writes:

"We purchased your online book some time ago and now we are going to put it to good use. My family is planning on going to Disney in August. We are staying on the Disney resort. I know that the rates are cheaper during this time and just wanted to inquire about the parks and how crowded they are around this time. We are thinking of leaving around the first of the month and coming back on the 8th. Do you know if this is good time to go? Five years ago we visited Disney in May and it was ideal, but unfortunately that is not going to work for us this time. Mainly I am curious about the heat and the crowds. Any advice you could give us would be greatly appreciated. Thank you."

This year Disney's value season starts August 3. So adjust your arrival date accordingly if you can.

Crowds are pretty thick in August until the kids return to school. Days in the 90's are common. It can feel like an oven some days. We used to go in July, but the heat can at times be too much. If you can hit the parks early and return to your room by noon and then return to the parks in the evening, you will be OK.

Happy planning!
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From Never Land to Disneyland Jennifer Lopez, Gisele Bündchen and Jessica Biel Live Out Their Disney Fantasies

They’re Among Celebs in Latest Leibovitz Photo Spread
Click here to view the photos.

BURBANK, Calif. - From Never Land to flying carpets to the forested domain of an Indian princess, stars travel to their very own Fantasylands in a new round of celebrity images from famed photographer Annie Leibovitz.

The new images continue the "Disney Dream Portrait Series" of celebrity photography produced by Leibovitz as Disney Parks extends, through 2008, its "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration on both coasts. Leibovitz’s images capture the transformational power of Disney dreams during a celebration that invites visitors to live out their own Disney dreams as never before at California’s Disneyland and Florida’s Walt Disney World resorts.

The latest installment of Leibovitz photography spotlights more celebrities living out their fantasies by starring in Disney dream scenes:

* "Where a whole new world awaits": Aboard their genie-powered magic carpet, Jennifer Lopez (Jasmine) and husband Marc Anthony (Aladdin) soar through the Arabian night. Complete with Whoopi Goldberg (Genie) pushing them among the stars, the two images complete a dream scene straight from a magic lantern in a scene entitled "Where a whole new world awaits."

For Lopez, the Leibovitz shoot was both transformational and inspirational: "It’s unbelievable," she said, "a modern princess and the guy with the flying carpet... and the idea of maybe in the future my children seeing me and Marc as Jasmine and Aladdin... I think that would be pretty cool."

Added Goldberg: "I think those genie-like qualities worked best for me. For me to come out of a bottle and give somebody three wishes seems like a pretty good bargain."

* "Where you never have to grow up": Surprise marks the "you can fly" moment as a mesmerized Gisele Bündchen (Wendy Darling) is beckoned by Mikhail Baryshnikov (Peter Pan) and Tina Fey (Tinker Bell) to fly off over the rooftops of London to Never Land - "Where you never have to grow up." From the dazzle of fashion runways, Bündchen was draped in a simple white nightgown as Wendy for the Leibovitz shoot.

"Coming onto this whole set, it feels like you are living the whole Peter Pan story," said Bündchen. "When I think of all the Disney stories, it actually is my favorite. It isn’t just like a princess finding her prince; Peter was more about finding a true adventure and a different thing, you know?"

* "Where dreams run free": In an image entitled "Where dreams run free," Jessica Biel (Pocahontas) is depicted sprinting, deer-like, through an autumnal forest as a masted English ship sits offshore.

"I was a huge Disney fan growing up as a kid and Cinderella, Snow White, Pocahontas, Ariel - all those characters were huge for me, so I definitely did dream," said Biel. "I never actually thought I would make it! So this is pretty exciting."

Great stars and rich scenes enabled Leibovitz to again work magic with her lens.

"We were going deeper and deeper into fantasy with these new pictures," Leibovitz explained. "Digital tools make it possible to play with the elements of the photographs to a degree that is amazing. And a lot of fun."

Special inserts with the images will appear in select Condé Nast publications in March. Since January 2007, Leibovitz has featured Beyoncé, David Beckham, Scarlett Johansson, Rachel Weisz, Roger Federer, Julie Andrews and Abigail Breslin in scenes playing out their Disney fantasies. (Source: Press Release, 01/25/08)
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WALT DISNEY WORLD

"Block Party Bash" to Rock Disney’s Hollywood Studios

New this spring, guests will experience Disney-Pixar characters in the wildest "Block Party" ever!

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- "The Year of a Million Dreams" rocks on at Walt Disney World Resort this spring with a new funtastic parade featuring favorite Disney-Pixar characters in the interactive, high-energy "Block Party Bash" parade.

Continuing the Disney Parks tradition of immersive guest experiences, "Block Party Bash" will put Disney's Hollywood Studios guests right in the middle of an unbelievable impromptu party during what could be one of the wildest, most interactive parades ever.

With music and excitement cranked to the max for this high-energy street extravaganza, "Block Party Bash" will entice guests to dance, play and party their way through Disney's Hollywood Studios. The wildest block party in Disney history will entertain guests with a non-stop musical parade that doubles as an immersive/interactive street spectacular.

Led by the famous Green Army Men, "Block Party Bash" will literally explode into the park as it makes its way down Hollywood Boulevard.

In addition to an eclectic mix of fun-inducing retro tunes, "Block Party Bash" will include appearances by some of the most popular characters including Woody and Buzz Lightyear from "Toy Story," Mike and Sully from "Monsters, Inc." and Flik and Atta from "A Bug's Life."

The "block party" will transform into major choreographed sections that immerse guests into a feeling of playing with the "toys," screaming with the "monsters" and dancing with the "bugs." The performance will literally be bursting with dancers, acrobats, jumping stilts and a mini caravan of electric scooters filling the performance area with an awe-inspiring array of visuals and sound sensations.

The elaborate set pieces for this interactive parade/show will include large floats themed to "Toy Story," "Monsters, Inc." and "A Bug's Life," one-of-a-kind trampoline units (invented specifically for "Block Party Bash") and "tweeners" (smaller floats that look like stacks of toy blocks that double as dance stages, decorative prop boxes and sources of amazing special effects). These rolling stages will camouflage impressive telescoping towers that rise during the finale of the extravaganza revealing Mr. and Mrs. Incredible and Frozone from the Disney presentation of a Pixar Film, "The Incredibles."

As a totally immersive experience, guests can expect a contagious spectacle of fun and laughs to spread throughout the audience. "Guests won't be able to resist the show's energetic performers, lovable characters, familiar pop tunes and never-ending surprises," said Robin Trowbridge, show director. "What a fantastic opportunity to share this incredible show with so many guests. I have no doubts that this show with all its fun, energy and surprises will knock the socks off of everyone visiting Disney's Hollywood Studios."

"Block Party Bash" at Disney's Hollywood Studios joins an incredible array of new interactive experiences and astonishing entertainment scheduled to premiere during "The Year of a Million Dreams." (Source: Press Release, 01/22/08)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disney’s California Food And Wine Festival Set To Showcase Flavors Of The Golden State

ANAHEIM, Calif., Jan. 25, 2008 - Disney's California Food and Wine Festival presents the magic of cooking and the artistry of fine wine at the Disneyland Resort this spring, part of the Resort's celebration of the "Year of a Million Dreams."

Now in its third year, Disney's California Food and Wine Festival will be held April 11 through May 5, 2008, with daily complimentary demonstrations and premiere ticketed events. The four-week festival will include the popular "Taste of California" Marketplace at Disney's California Adventure park, along with exclusive cooking courses at the Napa Rose restaurant and expert wine instruction from a master sommelier.

Nearly 100 Disneyland Resort chefs will present cooking demonstrations and guests can learn more about their favorite beverages at the wine, beer and spirit tasting programs held throughout the festival. Culinary demonstrations and seminars are included with admission to Disney's California Adventure park. Guests can also experience a dash of magic at these Disney's California Food and Wine Festival events:

* Master Sommelier Michael Jordan, of the award-winning Napa Rose restaurant, will share his passion for wine in the "Taste Wine Like an Expert" class that introduces guests to the joys of wine tasting. For a fee and with advanced registration, each class will offer a basic training in the different types, varietals and blends, taste, structure, and characteristics found in wine servings.

* "Festival Wine Receptions" will offer guests an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful sunset and evening under the stars on the patio of the Golden Vine Winery inside Disney’s California Adventure. While sampling from a variety of selected wines and enjoying hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, guests will also be treated to a sparkling way to end the evening - a special viewing of Disney’s Electrical Parade.

* Disneyland Resort chefs will partner with premiere California Winemakers to prepare outstanding culinary delights at the exclusive "Winemaker Dinners." Each chef will prepare a Festival meal and pair it with award-winning vintages.

* Executive Chef Andrew Sutton will lead the hands-on "Napa Rose Cooking School." Each class will create a themed meal paired with wines, and at the conclusion of the course, each guest will receive a Napa Rose Cooking School chef coat to commemorate the experience. Tickets for the cooking school and other signature events are limited and go on sale beginning Feb. 15, at www.disneyland.com/foodandwine.

* At the "Taste of California Marketplace," guests will enjoy festival foods created especially for the event. Delicious tapas-sized tastings, along with expertly paired wines and beers, will be available in the Pacific Wharf area.

* The new "Sparkling Bar," located in the upper terrace of Golden Vine Winery, will feature champagne and sparkling wines by the glass, paired with wine country tapas.

* The Festival’s grand finale, "Taste - Food, Wine, Life," will be held Saturday, May 3, offering guests a delicious celebration of the culinary talents of numerous chefs. "Taste" will also feature specially selected beer, wine, and spirits, along with entertainment throughout the evening.
(Source: Press Release)
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HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

"Year of the Mouse Celebration" Rocks Hong Kong Disneyland!
Mickey's All-New Twist on Chinese New Year Celebrations

(HONG KONG, January 21, 2008) - Mickey Mouse along with his pals brought Hong Kong Disneyland to an all-new high today, as guests were given a glimpse of the spectacular activities during the "Year of the Mouse Celebration". Coming around only once every 12 years, this special year is set to bring about an auspicious and fun filled Lunar New Year - Disney style!

In a fabulous kick-off ceremony, Mickey Mouse along with a bunch of his best Hong Kong celebrity pals, Vivienne Tam, Twins, Justin, DJ Sammy, and Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland, Bill Ernest, gave guests a taste of the upcoming festivities. The celebration runs from January 22 to February 24, 2008, and will give a Mickey-twist to Chinese New Year.

"To help Mickey celebrate this monumental year, Hong Kong Disneyland has combined the best Chinese New Year traditions with Disney's unique style of entertainment," said Mr. Bill Ernest.

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, donning their brand new Chinese New Year costumes created by internationally renowned fashion designer Vivienne Tam, along with the designer herself, Bill Ernest and a plethora of models, kicked off the "Year of the Mouse Celebration" with a high energy fashion show. Guests cheered and went wild as Mickey and Minnie and the models showed off their gorgeous outfits.

Two of Mickey's celebrity friends, Justin and DJ Sammy, also helped to lift guest spirits to a wondrous high, as they unveiled eight artistic statues of Mickey Mouse at the Sleeping Beauty Castle Hub. Designed by different celebrities, including Justin and DJ Sammy, each statue represents a different aspect of luck for the Year of the Mouse, as well as their own unique creativity.

In a magnificent finale, special guests Twins, along with Mickey Mouse gave a dazzling introduction to the "Year of the Mouse Celebration" and treated guests to a viewing of their specially created Mickey-themed Chinese New Year music video, which was filmed in the theme park. The song is part of their Lunar New Year album, which will hit stores today.

"Mickey, his pals and all the Cast Members at Hong Kong Disneyland are ready to celebrate a prosperous Year of the Mouse with guests. Everywhere guests look, the Resort will be filled with Chinese New Year cheer and luck. This will be the best and biggest 'Bai Nin' ever and it's going to last for a full five weeks," Bill continued.

The Resort, along with Mickey, will give Hong Kong residents a special Lunar New Year gift. From January 22 to February 6, 2008, Hong Kong Disneyland will be offering a special "Buy 3 Get 1 Free Offer"1 for Hong Kong residents to celebrate a prosperous and magical Year of the Mouse.

For high spirited and groovy times in the Park, guests can take part in Mickey's Rockin' the Mouse Castle Show, a musical extravaganza filled with Asian hits, electrifying dancers, Disney characters and pyrotechnics. Chinese New Year means all things new and Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are going to show off their newest designer label outfits in Adventures in Fashion. Other Disney characters, including Daisy, Pluto and Goofy, who have been inspired by the couple's new outfits, will have Cast Members showcasing their creations, in this glitzy fashion show.

As part of the special entertainment for the "Year of the Mouse Celebration", beginning on the first day of the Chinese New Year, guests will be treated to living art in Rhythm of life: Dragon Procession; a magnificent Dragon along with Birds, Fish, Clouds and Waves will weave their way down Main Street U.S.A., in an unique Disney twist on an age old celebration.

Mickey Mouse is playing the traditional Chinese host as he welcomes guests to "Bai Nin" at his home in Mickey's House. With mouse-guides on hand, guests can check out Mickey's favorite collections of keepsakes and treasures, during a tour of his home.

Hong Kong Disneyland loves creativity and Mickey Mouse has asked his celebrity friends, Vivienne Tam, Jacky Cheung and his daughter, Gillian Chung (Twins) and Charlene Choi (Twins), Justin, Fahrenheit, Jan Lamb and DJ Sammy to help him celebrate the Year of the Mouse in Salute to Mickey Statues. Designed by eight different celebrities, with each statue conveying a different aspect of luck, it will be easy to get a great start to the year.

Of course Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Chip'n Dale, Goofy and Pluto will be in their own Chinese New Year attire, so guests shouldn't miss the chance to snap a photo with them. For additional luck and cheer, the Gods of Fortune, Prosperity, Happiness and Longevity will be wishing guests a prosperous Year of the Mouse.

With gold and red as the official Chinese New Year colors, over 70 all-new merchandise items under the theme Mickey Family in The Year of the Mouse, will be available for guests to find that perfect gift or keepsake. The Park and the two Disney themed hotels will be filled with endless choices and exclusive items only available during the "Year of the Mouse Celebration".

Of course traditional Chinese New Year menus and food will overflow from every corner of the Park and the two Disney themed hotels. With over 80 new items and menus with lucky names, there are sure to be endless "lucky" palates during the "Year of the Mouse Celebration".

Hong Kong residents will have an extra way to enjoy the Year of the Mouse festivities with the "Buy 3 Get 1 Free Offer"1. Eligible guests, who purchase three park tickets in one transaction at published rates during the promotional period, will receive a fourth complimentary Park ticket. This offer is valid from January 22 - February 6, 2008.

To ensure that guests have the most magical and enjoyable experience at Hong Kong Disneyland during the "Year of the Mouse Celebration", February 7 - 13, 2008 have been designated as Special Days. Premium Annual Pass holders, as well as guests who have purchased Special Day tickets, will have reserved admission to the Park (Special Day tickets are only valid on the date specified on the respective ticket).
(Source: Press Release)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON

Dan Marino's Tavern On The Lake
6996 Piazza Grande Ave., Ste. 200
Orlando, FL 32835
Phone: 407-293-6233

Enjoy a Complimentary Wine Tasting Every Tuesday
5-7 PM outside on patio with this coupon. Expires 03/29/08.
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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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Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
January 23, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2008 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon: Subscribe with Bloglines

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!

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.

Beth, our travel agent, posts this note for Affordable Disney members:

"If you fly through Newark airport from time to time and would like a FREE lunch or dinner in exchange for doing a report on the meal please drop me a note and I'll pass on the information to you. You MUST be a ticketed passenger, airline/airport employee, or otherwise badged individual because the assignment requires that you go into a security-restricted passenger area (i.e., the gate area). Please note that this is, as far as I know, the ONLY airport where this assignment is available."

Now on with the show...

In this blog...

* Deals and specials - new Disney sweepstakes, the First Ever Nickelodeon Family Cruise, WrestleMania package at Universal, Disney cruise discounts
* The latest news from around the "World" - Rock 'n' Roll Beach Club at Pleasure Island to close in February
* Rich writes about Disney's plans to build a Russia pavilion at Epcot
* A Magical Journey begins for 100 High School students at Disney's Dreamers Academy
* Hong Kong Disneyland presents "Disney Children's Programs in Hospitals"
* Viva La Música ignites Seaworld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with Latin Flavor
* Busch Gardens kicks off Here’s to the Heroes Program with Tampa Navy Week
* Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride...Starring You! opens at Universal Orlando Resort
* This week's coupon - Enjoy a FREE drink at this British Pub in Orlando

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NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

We now list 28 sweepstakes to win a Disney / Florida / California vacation!

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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Nickelodeon FAMILY CRUISE with Royal Caribbean International - ANNOUNCING THE FIRST EVER Nickelodeon Family Cruise!

August 10-17, 2008. Onboard Freedom of the Seas. Nickelodeon is teaming up with Royal Caribbean International for an exclusive seven-day Nickelodeon summer vacation for the whole family! This one-time only vacation opportunity departs Miami, FL August 10, 2008, making stops at 4 tropical destinations in the Western Caribbean. There is something for everyone on the Nickelodeon Family Cruise with Royal Caribbean.

Kids Time - Your kids' favorite Nickelodeon characters, TV stars, action-packed game shows. More than they could ever do in 7 days!

Parent Time - The Broadway-style shows, world class dining and luxurious spa treatments that only a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation could offer.

Family Time - Family games, activities and shore excursions at four tropical Western Caribbean ports of call. The ultimate "together" time.

All this happens on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas - the largest cruise ship in the world!

Beth has received a secret code that allows her to book this trip before it's released to the general public on January 28. She writes:

"I don't know that I will be able to book it in advance using my code (might be exclusive to me), but I can try - and if nothing else I could have information ready to roll so I can book people into it first thing on the 28th. This is one of the ships with the surfing - similar to the one I just got off of, but a little bigger and a little more bang-for-the-buck. TO SWEETEN THE DEAL I will send everyone that books this cruise by the end of the month a $25 onboard credit to be spent as they wish (gratuities, bar tab, gift shop, whatever). (One credit per cabin, this cruise ONLY)"

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Universal/WWE WrestleMania XXIV Vacation Package

Packages start at $279 per adult and include:

* 2-Night hotel accommodations at a Universal Partner Hotel
* One(1) WWE WrestleMania XXIV ticket
* Unlimited Admission ticket to Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure
* Free access to the live entertainment at Universal CityWalk
* Complimentary scheduled transportation between hotel and Universal Orlando

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Special savings on 18 Disney cruises!

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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, you can save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion not known by the general public!

>> 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!

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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69

>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20

>> Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens!

>> Florida Residents save up to $80.00 at this Florida park!

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

>> Three nights from $429!

>> Four nights from $579!

>> Seven nights Land & Sea from $999!

>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit!

>> Discounts for Florida residents - rates too low to publish!

--------------------------------

DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

>> Win a Disneyland/Southern California vacation!

>> Kids fly FREE!

>> 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!

>> Kids under 7 stay and play 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.

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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!

>> 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
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Click here for a review of the new Rix Lounge at Disney's Coronado Springs. $7 a beer! Those conventioneers must really run up a tab.
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Click here for a review of the new Yak & Yeti restaurant at Disney's Animal Kingdom park. $7 for green beans! And the food quality - in a word, embarrassing.
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Disney is making changes at Pleasure Island to make it more appealing to those who don't want to visit the nightclubs:

* Curl by Sammy Duval opened in December and features surfboard clothing and gear
* Rock 'n' Roll Beach Club will close Feb. 3
* Renovation of a building along Village Lake is near completion. Disney won't say what's going in there.
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/21/08)
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"Disney World offers free taxi rides to and from each of it's three golf facilities for guests staying at a Disney property... All four of the championship courses have recently installed new TifEagle Bermuda greens that were silky smooth this week." (Source: worldgolf.com, 01/18/08)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Calendar
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HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

"The Walt Disney Co. may increase its stake in its struggling Hong Kong Disneyland theme park as attendance figures falter." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/22/08)
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"Hong Kong Disneyland unveiled new Chinese New Year outfits for Mickey and Minnie Mouse created by designer Vivienne Tam on Monday as part of the park's efforts to boost its appeal to Chinese tourists after a dismal second year." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/21/08)
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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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Rich writes about Disney's plans to build a Russia pavilion at Epcot:

"Russia’s continued stone walling and back door support for terrorist nations and disregard for anything but a black market buck does not make this a good fit while we have troops in areas the Russian government has helped prop up."
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A Magical Journey Begins for 100 High School Students at Disney's Dreamers Academy

Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton announces the continuation of the Academy during 2008 kickoff event

Walt Disney World Resort Thursday night opened the doors of the magic behind Disney to 100 creative and imaginative teens from all across the United States -- from New York to New Orleans, from Compton, Calif., to Wichita, Kan. -- at the kickoff of the inaugural Disney's Dreamers Academy. Working with nationally syndicated radio personality Steve Harvey, Disney developed the innovative program for launch during "The Year of a Million Dreams" and fittingly scheduled activities to occur during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, a national celebration of the ultimate dreamer.

Designed to immerse high school students in creative and non-conventional career opportunities, Disney's Dreamers Academy is taking place in a most creative classroom, providing the young dreamers unprecedented access to the magic behind Walt Disney World Resort through Sunday, Jan. 20.

Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton led the welcome ceremony by announcing that, due to the overwhelming response from young dreamers, Disney's Dreamers Academy will return to Walt Disney World in 2009.

Celebrating his 51st birthday, Harvey hosted the event with Crofton and Xiomara Wiley, vice president of Disneyland marketing and vice president of Walt Disney World Multicultural Marketing. And, of course, Mickey Mouse was on hand to welcome the 100 dreamers and their families.

During the first-ever career enrichment program of its kind, students are participating in interactive workshops focusing on a variety of subjects including Walt Disney World Imagineering techniques, entertainment, sports, culinary arts, and more. Throughout the three-and-a-half days, Disney cast members, executives and celebrity guests will share their blueprints for success including tips on networking, making a good first impression, job interview skills and finding the right career path. The 100 teens will also have the opportunity to enjoy Disney's world-class theme parks.

Celebrity participants in the Academy include R&B artists Keyshia Cole and Musiq Soulchild; actors Tichina Arnold ("Everybody Hates Chris," "Martin"), Victoria Rowell ("The Young & the Restless"), Kyle ("Cory in the House") and Chris Massey (Nickelodeon's "Zoey 101"); truTV Host Star Jones Reynolds; and hosts of BET's Top 10 countdown show "106th and Park" Roci and Terrence J.

Harvey will share his secrets to "Hosting a Radio Show" in one session. Noted experts from the world of professional sports -- including NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers star linebacker Derrick Brooks; ESPN on-air talent Stephen A. Smith and Jemele Hill; sports marketing consultant Erin Patton, whose clients have included Michael Jordan and Stephon Marbury; renowned sports agent Greg Nared, who has worked with Tiger Woods and Michele Wie, and Disney sports executive Kellen Winslow (Pro Football Hall of Famer) -- will offer their expertise about "The Business of Sports" and other sports-related topics. And members of Walt Disney Entertainment -- including performers from the "Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show" at Disney's Hollywood Studios -- will offer tips on making it in the entertainment business.

The program will culminate with a graduation ceremony featuring noted entrepreneur Bob Johnson, founder of BET Networks and current owner of the NBA Charlotte Bobcats, as the keynote speaker.

"When you talk about the Disney World organization, it has as many jobs as a single corporation can have and I'm excited to see these kids have an opportunity to experience everything that Disney has to offer them," said Harvey. "We'll show these kids that there are many ways to follow your dreams."

"The Steve Harvey Morning Show" conducted the Dreamer's Contest to help identify the participants in Disney's Dreamers Academy. This program was created for high school students who show promise -- but may need a little motivation. All of the selected students share a trait: the power to DREAM. Parents, teachers, school administrators, church groups and even the students themselves nominated more than 3,000 aspiring dreamers from across the nation for the program. Participants were selected by a distinguished panel of judges including educators, civic leaders, business professionals and Disney Parks' executives.

"This is a special program that we have created as part of 'The Year of a Million Dreams' celebration at Disney Parks," said Wiley. "We want to educate and open doors for our young dreamers by helping them to realize the power within and inspire them to discover their dreams and follow them wherever they lead." (Source: Press Release, January, 2008)
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Viva La Música Ignites Seaworld Orlando And Busch Gardens Tampa Bay With Latin Flavor

Latin flavor sizzles with twice the entertainment and double the parks during Viva La Música at SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The concert series features live performances from award-winning Latin artists, delicious Hispanic food and the fiery flair of Hispanic heritage. Guests will experience "la vida loca" (the crazy life) as they dance out of their seats to the lively Latin beats of salsa, reggaeton, merengue and Latin pop.

Guests can enjoy a red-hot lineup Saturdays at SeaWorld on April 19, 26 and May 3, 10 and Sundays at Busch Gardens on April 20, 27 and May 4, 11. Viva La Música is included with each park’s daily admission.

SEAWORLD’S FEATURED ARTISTS:
Live performances take place inside Bayside Stadium at 4 p.m.
Saturday, April 19 - Elvis Crespo
Elvis Crespo has won multiple Latin Grammy awards and is the former lead singer of Grupo Mania, the top selling Merengue band in recent years.

Saturday, April 26 - RKM n Ken-Y
The duo of RKM and Ken-Y is topping the chart in the trendy contemporary Latino music phenom called reggaeton, which mixes contemporary rap, reggae and traditional Latin rhythms. At the 2007 Latin Billboard awards, this group won the Grammy for Best Reggeton Album and Latin Song of the Year.

Saturday, May 3 - Luis Fonsi
Luis Fonsi is a major Latino "crossover" artist who received International fame with his 2002 CD, "Paso a Paso." Fonsi is an incredibly "stylish" performer with a broad appeal.

Saturday, May 10 - Gilberto Santa Rosa
Gilberto, the first salsa star to headline at Carnegie Hall, has recorded with top Latino artists including El Gran Combo and Willie Rosario, and remains one of the most sought-after Latino headliners touring today.

BUSCH GARDENS’ FEATURED ARTISTS:
Live performances take place on Gwazi Park at 4 p.m.
Sunday, April 20 - Andy Montañez
Andy Montañez, currently nominated for a Grammy award, is the former lead singer for El Gran Combo. His large following includes Colombian, Venezuelan and Puerto Rican audiences.

Sunday, April 27 - Oscar D' León
As "El Sonero del Mundo" (the Son Singer of the World), this Venezuelan salsa star is known for his energetic live shows, backed by big bands with incredible horn sections.

Sunday, May 4 - Grupo Niche
Group Niche is one of the world's best-known salsa groups. Led by songwriter Jairo Varela, they continue to tour the world with their strong Colombian salsa.

Sunday, May 11- Willie Colón
Willie, who has been touring professionally since the age of 17, combines elements of jazz, rock and salsa while incorporating the rhythms of traditional Cuban, Puerto Rican and Brazilian music.

Concert seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Performance schedule and talent is subject to change.
The Worlds of Discovery parks include SeaWorld parks in Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa and Adventure Island in Tampa Bay and Busch Gardens Europe and Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; and Sesame Place near Philadelphia. Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark, is under construction in Orlando and is scheduled to open next spring. To learn more about the parks, visit www.4adventure.com or call toll-free (800)4ADVENTURE. Additionally, Busch Entertainment Corporation created the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, a non-profit, private charitable foundation committed to supporting wildlife and habitat conservation, research, education and animal rescue programs worldwide. (Source: Press Release, January, 2008)
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Busch Gardens Kicks Off Here’S To The Heroes Program With Tampa Navy Week

The Adventure Park hosts naval band and induction ceremony

As a special engagement, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will play host to members of the United States Navy Sunday, Jan. 20, to celebrate Tampa Navy Week. The third-annual Tampa Navy Week is an event created to strengthen the U.S. Navy's relationship with the Tampa Bay community.

The Navy’s New Orleans-style Dixieland band, Navy Band Southeast’s TGIF, will perform in the park near the Marrakesh Theater. Performance times are 10:45 a.m., and 1:45, 3:45 and 5:30 p.m.

Busch Gardens also will host an induction ceremony at noon at the Marrakesh Theater to honor 10 new Navy recruits. The Mystic Sheiks of Morocco kicks off the event with the National Anthem. Admiral Jon W. Bayless, Jr. leads the ceremony.

Busch Gardens recently announced the extension of the "Here’s to Heroes" armed forces tribute program through 2008. The salute has provided free admission to Worlds of Discovery parks for nearly 4 million members of U.S. and coalition armed forces and their families. (Source: Press Release, January, 2008)
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Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride...Starring You! Opens Today At Universal Orlando Resort

Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride...Starring You! opens today at Universal Studios Florida. The new attraction features the first-ever use by a theme park of a high-tech virtual imagery technology called "Musion" and a special appearance by Hollywood actor Dwayne Johnson.

Disaster! replaces Earthquake and combines the best, most dramatic elements of Earthquake with an all-new storyline, top name celebrities, new "Musion" technology and all-new interactive elements. Park guests enter "Disaster Studios" and become part of the production action surrounding a "major motion picture."

Johnson was at Universal Studios Thursday for the opening of the new attraction. In the attraction, Johnson plays a film hero who helps "save the day."

Musion technology is a unique high-definition video projection system that transforms two-dimensional images into what seem to be live three-dimensional images. The Musion set in place at Disaster! is the first-ever use of the technology by a theme park and the largest permanent installation of that technology ever. Universal uses Musion technology to bring Disaster Studio Director "Frank Kincaid" to life as he explains the passion behind his work and recruits guests to take part in his next picture.

"The use of Musion technology in this attraction allows us to blend illusion with reality to surprise and entertain our guests," said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative for Universal Parks and Resorts. "They are amazed by the effects we have created."

Throughout the 15-minute attraction experience, guests are filmed as extras for different elements of Disaster Studios’ newest blockbuster film, "Mutha Nature," taking direction from Frank Kinkaid and his production assistants. In the end, they are able to see the results of their work in a tongue-in-cheek trailer for the film, starring Johnson. Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride…Starring You! is located in the San Francisco area of Universal Studios Florida.

Dwayne Johnson is best known for his roles in Universal Pictures’ The Mummy Returns, The Scorpion King and, most recently, The Game Plan. Now a firmly established presence in Hollywood, he can be seen in the upcoming Warner Brother’s comedy GET SMART opening in theaters June 20, 2008. Johnson is currently filming the family comedy Witch Mountain scheduled to be released in the summer of 2009.

Universal Orlando Resort (www.universalorlando.com). With Steven Spielberg as creative consultant, Universal Orlando has created some of the world’s most innovative theme park attractions based on pop culture’s most compelling films and stories.
Families will experience two world-class theme parks - Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure - a nighttime entertainment complex and magnificently themed on-site hotels. Universal Studios is a working film and TV production studio as well as a highly acclaimed motion picture and television theme park featuring attractions such as "Revenge of the Mummy-The Ride" and "Shrek 4-D." Islands of Adventure is the world’s most technologically advanced theme park and features five uniquely themed islands that include Seuss Landing, Marvel Super Hero Island and Jurassic Park. Its marquee attractions include "Jurassic Park River Adventure" and "The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man."

In addition to its theme parks, Universal Orlando Resort also includes CityWalk, a 30-acre nighttime entertainment complex that features restaurants, shops, clubs, a 20-screen cineplex and live-entertainment. The destination’s three on-site Loews hotels include the Portofino Bay Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel and the Royal Pacific Resort. (Source: Press Release, January 16, 2008)
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Hong Kong Disneyland Presents "Disney Children's Programs in Hospitals"

Together with the Hospital Authority, the Park Spreads Joy to Child Patients

Hong Kong Disneyland announced today the launch of "Disney Children's Programs in Hospitals" - a series of hospital programs run by Disney VoluntEARS and geared towards brightening the lives of children who are hospitalized. Bill Ernest, Managing Director, Hong Kong Disneyland, Anthony Wu Ting-yuk, Chairman, Hospital Authority and Shane Solomon, Chief Executive, Hospital Authority today kicked-off the series at a special ceremony where the officiating guests painted a beautiful tree on a drawing to signify the launch of the program. Mickey and Minnie were also on hand to join the celebration.

"Children are at the heart of the charitable efforts of The Walt Disney Company and Hong Kong Disneyland," expressed Ernest. "In Hong Kong, we are committed to supporting the betterment of children's welfare and bringing happiness to families and children, especially those in need."

The first three events of the "Disney Children's Programs in Hospitals" will focus on the Princess Margaret Hospital and the Caritas Medical Centre.

Disney Art Deco
Hong Kong Disneyland has redecorated the children's wards of both hospitals with Disney-themed murals which promote friendship and harmony. The theme of the mural in the playroom of Block P in the Princess Margaret Hospital is "Fascinating Nature", showing Disney characters playing games, enjoying sunshine and sharing happy moments together. The murals in the pediatric wards of the Caritas Medical Centre also share the same theme. These colorful and well-designed decorations invoke the happiness of the Disney characters and promote a positive atmosphere in the hospitals.

Disney Reading Fun
Starting today, Disney VoluntEARS will visit the Princess Margaret Hospital every other month. They will share different positive Disney stories with the children in order to encourage them to overcome their difficulties. Disney VoluntEARS will also play some interactive games with the children in order to share some happy times together. The games will be tailored to the theme of each story-telling activity.

Disney Learn & Live
With the support of the Caritas Medical Centre, Disney VoluntEARS will organize outings every three months for children and their families to visit countryside areas in Hong Kong. These activities will be a fun experience for the hospitalized children and a break from their daily routines as well as provide support for their parents.

"We are delighted to cooperate with the Hospital Authority in the launch of 'Disney Children's Programs in Hospitals' and we hope to cheer up these young patients with a touch of Disney magic!" said Ernest. "It is also important that we provide some support and encouragement to the parents and the medical staff who care for these children."

Anthony Wu Ting-yuk, Chairman, Hospital Authority, thanked Hong Kong Disneyland for organizing the event, "The Hospital Authority is providing holistic health care to patients in public hospitals. In addition to medications and advanced technology, spiritual and psychological care also plays an important role. We are most grateful to Hong Kong Disneyland for designing a series of programs for the children staying in our hospitals, which will definitely bring them fun and happiness. We believe this will contribute positively to their treatment and early recovery."

"Disney Children's Programs in Hospitals" is funded by The Walt Disney Company. Hong Kong Disneyland and Hospital Authority will organize about ten hospital visits and outings this year alone, benefiting over 500 child patients and their families. They will review the program later in the year and there is a plan to introduce it to other hospitals under Hospital Authority. (Source: Press Release, January, 2008)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON

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5250 North International Drive
Orlando. FL 32819
407-354-0686

"A Little Piece of England in the Heart of Orlando, Florida!"

Enjoy a FREE half pint 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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Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
January 16, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2008 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.

Now on with the show...

In this blog...

* Deals and specials - Room discounts for Floridians, Disney cruise line discounts for Floridians, Bellagio Resort & Casino discount, and perks at Treasure Island Resort & Casino

* The latest news from around the "World" - are the Russians coming to Epcot?

* Brazilian Adriano Bastos wins Disney Marathon for the fifth time

* Disney Planner: May-August 2008 includes opening of Toy Story Mania!

* Busch Gardens announces Lineup for 2008 Big Band Concert Series

* Fran sent us a "thank you" note

* New Cypress Gardens ownership announces operational change at historic attraction

* Alain writes about check-in times and luggage

* It’s Mardi Gras time again at Universal Orlando!

* This week's coupon - Save at Planet Hollywood Downtown Disney!

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NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

Room discounts for Florida residents in February and March with this discount code. From $79!

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

New discounts on Disney cruises for Florida residents with this discount code.

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VEGAS

Experience Unparelled Elegance at the Bellagio Resort & Casino with our discount code!

* Deluxe Rooms from $169/night
* Salone Suites from $299/night

Valid now through May 1, 2008.


Enjoy the following perks at Treasure Island Hotel and Casino with our discount code:

* $15 Midday Food & Beverage Credit
* $10 Discount on Mystere (TM) Tickets
* Up to $50 in Casino FREE PLAY (R)
* $10 credit at Starbucks or Ben and Jerry's

Offer expires March 31, 2008.

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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, you can save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion not known by the general public!

>> 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!

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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69

>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20

>> Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens!

>> Florida Residents save up to $80.00 at this Florida park!

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

>> Three nights from $349!

>> Four nights from $579!

>> Seven nights Land & Sea from $999!

>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit!

>> Discounts for Florida residents - rates too low to publish!

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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

>> Win a Disneyland/Southern California vacation!

>> Kids fly FREE!

>> 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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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!

>> 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
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600 families over the next 10 days will be testing Disney's new "Disney Magic Connection" electronic device that allows you to determine:

* actual wait times for attractions
* availability of FastPasses
* show schedules
* parade routes
* interactive maps

If this succeeds you could get one of these by spring 2009. But you'll have to give Disney a refundable credit card deposit of $300 to do so. This may be beyond the financial reach of many families. What do you think? Is this something you would like to use? Email me at johngross@affordabledisney.com and I'll share your comments with our readers. (Source: jimhillmedia.com, 01/14/08)
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"Walt Disney World is in the midst of building a $110 million, 15-story tower next to its iconic Contemporary Resort that likely will feature time shares -- bringing the units closer to the Magic Kingdom than ever before." The new building is expected to open in 2009. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/14/08)
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Orlando Sentinel's theme park rangers comment on SeaWorld's Pets Ahoy show, Wild Arctic's returning to SeaWorld January 19, Chris Walken's magical appearance at Universal's reworked "Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride . . . Starring You" and the fun of riding Disney's Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at night. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/22/07)
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"Two grannies are among a team of women gearing up for one of America's most famous marathons": the 26-mile Walt Disney World race in Orlando, Florida." (Source: alifaxcourier.co.uk, 01/09/08)

See the press release below for race results.
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Disney's thinking about building a Russia Pavilion at Epcot. But with Putin's unfriendliness lately, do you think this is a good idea? Send your comments to johngross@affordabledisney.com. To learn more, click here.
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

The theme parks have filed their final quarter injury reports for 2007 and among them was an injury involving a woman who broke her back on Universal Studios' Revenge of the Mummy ride. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/16/08)
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Now that Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Dinner Show is closed, the Orlando Sentinel takes a look at the fate of the other dinner shows in town. "Central Florida's remaining dinner theaters say they continue to fill their tables but acknowledge that the competition is growing ever more keen." People certainly don't go for the food. And eating without forks and knives is certainly not haute cuisine! (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/14/08)
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"Salt water from some of the giant pools and related plumbing at SeaWorld Orlando and neighboring Discovery Cove has been leaking into the aquifer, beneath those theme parks, in some cases for seven years or more, according to state environmental records." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/12/08)
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Click here for a traveler's calendar listing vacation spots around the world and the time of year to visit. Cool!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Calendar
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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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TOKYO DISNEYLAND

"Tokyo Disneyland canceled its popular parades for the first time in its 25-year history Wednesday after a 660-pound steel pillar adorned with colorful planets tumbled from a Buzz Lightyear float." (Source: ap.google.com, 01/09/08)
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Busch Gardens Announces Lineup For 2008 Big Band Concert Series

Busch Gardens’ longest running Big Bands concert series returns to the Stanleyville Theater in January. The spectacular swing performers will appear Thursdays through Sundays.

Scheduled to perform are:

* Jan 17 - 20: The Les Brown Band of Renown featuring Les Brown, Jr.
* Jan 24 - 27: The Terry Myers Orchestra featuring Peter Appleyard
* Jan 31 - Feb 3: The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra
* Feb 7 - 10: The Artie Shaw Orchestra featuring Dick Johnson

Performance times are 11:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Tickets for the Big Bands Concert Series are available at the front gate and Stanleyville Theater. Tickets are complimentary, but required to guarantee seating.

Guests can enjoy all of the Big Bands concerts and other special events for the price of a single day’s admission with a Fun Card. Florida residents can "Pay for a Day," and come back all year on us with this special promotion. The 2008 Florida Fun Card is $64.95 for adults and $54.95 for children, ages 3 to 9.

The Big Bang Concert Series is included with regular park admission, Fun Card or any valid Passport membership. Concert dates, times and artists are subject to change.

For more information on Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, call 1-888-800-5447. (Source: Press Release)
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New Cypress Gardens ownership announces operational change at historic attraction

Winter Haven, FL - The new owners of Cypress Gardens have announced a significant operational change at the historic attraction. Owners say the move will create a more energized, fun-filled experience that will be applauded by Cypress Gardens current guest base and create strong appeal to both area residents and visitors to Central Florida.

Baker Leisure Group, headquartered in Orlando, respected worldwide as one of the premiere consulting and management specialists in the themed attractions industry, has been appointed to operate the 71-year old Florida themed attraction. "This is an important first step toward providing our guests with a more positive, memorable guest experience," said co-owners Rob Harper and Brian Philpot, who announced Baker Leisure Group's appointment on Tuesday. Harper and Philpot said the change does not affect the attraction's operating staff, but replaces the contractor that had been managing Cypress Gardens on interim basis since the two Polk County natives purchased the attraction last October. The operational changeover is effective immediately.

"We are fortunate to have Baker Leisure Group at Cypress Gardens. They are one of the premier management companies in the world and based in Central Florida. Cypress Gardens needs a strong community presence, an element the Baker group understands," said Harper and Philpot. Baker Leisure Group, comprised of veterans of some of the world's most successful theme parks and attraction, has earned worldwide recognition for their attraction and theme park management capabilities. The Orlando-based company has handled assignments ranging from the popular Coca-Cola Olympic City at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games to planning, opening and managing Al Shallal, Saudi Arabia one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East. Altogether, Baker Leisure Group has been involved with more than 100 theme parks, attractions and related assignments around the world since the firm was founded in 1988 by 40-year theme park and attractions management specialist Steve Baker.

Harper and Philpot also stresses that the attraction will maintain a close relationship with the local community. Community relations programs will include partnerships with local businesses, greater community involvement and a proactive outreach to Cypress Gardens' alumni and fans.

Cypress Gardens staff were notified of the operational change on Tuesday morning. Vendors and suppliers to Cypress Gardens were also notified of the change, along with assurances that the change is a reflection of the new ownership's confidence in the park's future.

The ownership team said they are in the process of notifying a number of other influential local audiences in Central Florida, including tourism industry and economic development leadership, as well as current ticket holders and volunteers who have lobbied to keep Cypress Gardens operating after the attraction suffered attendance declines in the 1980s and 1990s and an ownership change in 2005.

"Visitors to Cypress Gardens will notice a more lively, interactive, engaging atmosphere as we move forward," said Steve Baker, whose company has assumed operational control of the attraction. "We provide the best overall guest experience possible. The changes will range from cosmetic to cultural. Cypress Gardens enthusiasts will recognize and applaud the changes and potential guests, particularly families living in the fast-growing Polk County metropolitan area, will have plenty of reasons to want to visit the attraction for the first time or make a return visit."

Baker said operational changes will address intangibles such as more extensive staff training, revised internal operating procedures such as queue line management and more accessible food and beverage service, as well as more visible changes.

Land South Holdings Group
Land South Holdings, based in Mulberry, Fla., is a real estate investment company specializing in large land acquisitions in the United States. www.landsouthgroup.com

Baker Leisure Group
Baker Leisure Group based in Orlando, Fla., is a multi-faceted management and consulting company specializing in attractions, entertainment centers and tourism businesses. www.bakerleisuregroup.com (Source: Press Release)
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Alain writes:

"Hi John,

In your ebook I read that check-in times at most Disney resorts are 3pm....I will be flying in from Canada and was wondering if it would be better for me to plan my arrival for late evening and to start my Disney vacation the next morning, or to arrive early morning at my Resort and head off to the theme parks right away (in which case, what would I do with my luggage since I am not yet checked in, and probably wouldn't until late evening????) What do you recommend? thanks."

Those checking in first get first dibs on rooms. You can store your luggage at Guest Services for free and visit the parks if your room is not ready. Don't leave valuables or medications - take them with you in a carry-on bag or backpack.

Get there early and start having fun as soon as possible!
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12 Nights . . . 260 Million Albums . . . And Gumbo? It’s Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando as Gretchen Wilson, L.L. Cool J and more rock the stage beginning Februry 2

Orlando, Fla. (January 9, 2008) - Universal Studios Florida becomes the "Big Easy" this Mardi Gras season, throwing America’s biggest street party this side of New Orleans and featuring a lineup of hit musical acts with a collective 260 million albums sold. Topping the list of fabulous hit-makers are country star Gretchen Wilson, rockers Third Eye Blind and Heart; rap impresario L.L. Cool J and old-school crooners Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, Smokey Robinson and Kool & The Gang.

Mardi Gras 2008 at Universal Orlando begins February 2 and runs for twelve Saturday nights through April 19. Each Saturday night features some of America’s most popular musical talent with a diverse mix of awards and achievements. One performer has the second-highest rated show in VH1 history. One performer has received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. And one performer’s music is the inspiration for a current, multi-Tony Award-winning Broadway musical.

Party-goers of all ages will enjoy the biggest Mardi Gras celebration outside of New Orleans featuring an elaborate parade, hundreds of costumed characters, tons of souvenir beads, Cajun cuisine, and live performances by top-name talent. In addition, New Orleans-style bands will showcase their hottest music in the "French Quarter."

"Mardi Gras at Universal Studios is about providing our guests with a street party that captures the spirit of the "Big Easy," said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment, Universal Orlando Resort. "This year’s concert series features incredible musicians who appeal to a wide audience. Their music paired with our authentic parade and, of course, tons of beads will create an unbeatable party atmosphere in the streets of Universal Studios."

The centerpiece of Mardi Gras is the parade featuring 13 vibrant floats winding around the "French Quarter Courtyard," a replica of New Orleans’ French quarter - the heart of Mardi Gras. These authentic floats are designed by "Mr. Mardi Gras," Blaine Kern, whose company, Blaine Kern Artists, Inc., has built Mardi Gras floats since 1932. New this year, the parade will bring exotic places to life with floats and performers designed to emulate Babylon, Atlantis, Camelot and more.

The celebration would not be complete without the taste of traditional Cajun and Creole cuisine such as jambalaya, gumbo and beignets, which are sure to tempt the palate of Mardi Gras revelers. Along with mouth-watering food, guests can sip on flavorful drinks made famous in New Orleans.

After the parade, guests will be entertained by some of today’s hottest internationally-known musicians during the Mardi Gras Concert Series.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS MARDI GRAS 2008 CONCERT SERIES

February
February 2 - Bret Michaels of Poison
February 9 - Go-Go’s
February 16 - Sara Evans
Febrary 23 - Third Eye Blind

March
March 1 - Gretchen Wilson
March 8 - Smokey Robinson
March 15 - Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
March 22 - Kool & The Gang
March 29 - Heart

April
April 5 - TBA
April 12 - LL Cool J
April 19- TBA

The Mardi Gras ticket, valid after 5 p.m. at Universal Studios, is applicable any one Saturday night from February 2 through April 19 and can be purchased for $46.95 plus tax. Florida and Georgia residents can save $10 off a Mardi Gras valid after 5 p.m. ticket with a specially-marked Coca-Cola product or cup from participating Wendy’s locations.

Florida residents can also save $30 off a 2-Park Annual Power Pass (regularly-priced $129.95 plus tax). The Power Pass offers admission to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure for one year with minimal blackout dates and includes admission to all 12 nights of Mardi Gras.

Universal CityWalk will host the official after-party of the Mardi Gras celebration, with guests receiving free admission into select clubs until 2 a.m. by presenting their Mardi Gras tickets. For an additional $15, guests can purchase a VIP upgrade ticket to the official Mardi Gras after-party which includes complimentary appetizers, drink specials and souvenir beads. For more information on the event or to purchase tickets, please visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras.

High-resolution images are available on our media website at media.universalorlando.com (Source: Press Release)
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Fran writes:

"Hi John,

I love your newsletter. I've used so many of your tips to help keep the cost down on the 2-3 trips I take to DisneyWorld each year. Thanks for all the great information... by the way....Beth is GREAT."

Thanks again, Fran, for your encouragement. The newsletter is a labor of love.
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Brazilian Adriano Bastos Wins Disney Marathon for the Fifth Time

Newcomer Melanie Peters of Florida Claims Women's Title to Join 'Familiar Faces' In the Winner's Circle

The winner's circle was crowded with familiar faces at the 15th annual Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend as Brazilian Adriano Bastos claimed his fifth Disney trophy Sunday, climaxing two days of events during which two other former champions also added another Disney title to their resumes. They were joined by Disney newcomer Melanie Peters of St. Petersburg who claimed the women's title in just her second marathon ever.

More than 40,000 runners were entered in a variety of Disney Marathon Weekend events, including 18,000 in the marathon and 16,500 in the half marathon.

The 29-year-old Bastos, from Sao Paulo, broke the tape in 2:20:58, more than 14 minutes ahead of his nearest competitor, John Garton of Voorhees, N.J. The victory, Bastos' fourth straight at Walt Disney World Resort, allowed him to breathe a sigh of relief. "Every year I win, it builds the pressure to come back and win the following year," he said.

And Bastos admitted he is already thinking about "next year" and a goal not just to win but to improve on his best-ever Disney time -- a 2:18:33 he posted in 2003. He attributed Sunday's performance -- the 26th-best ever in the Disney Marathon but Bastos' slowest ever at Disney -- to the fact that he was not fully recovered from a late-fall marathon in Brazil.

Other "familiar faces" in the Disney winner's circle were elite wheelchair racer Saul Mendoza of Wimberley, Texas, and half-marathoner Kim Pawelek of Jacksonville, Fla.

Mendoza returned to the Disney Marathon for the first time in four years and picked up right where he left off in 2004 -- cruising into the winner's circle. For Mendoza, a native of Mexico who was honored as his country's Athlete of the Century for the 20th century, Sunday's win was his eighth at Walt Disney World Resort.

In the half marathon on Saturday, Pawelek raced to her fourth Disney women's title. Her 1:18:07 earned the 33-year-old runner a 42-second victory over Yolanda Flamino of Rochester, Mich. (1:18:49). Pawelek's time was the ninth best in event's history. She also owns the second, fourth and 10th-best times.

Peters, a 24-year-old Michigan native who migrated to Florida as a student at the University of Miami, won the women's marathon crown with a time of 2:47:32. That put her nearly two minutes ahead of runner-up Sonja Friend-Uhl of West Palm Beach (2:49:27). Christa Benton of St. Petersburg finished third to complete a Florida sweep.

Three members of the "Hansons-Brooks" distance running team from Rochester, Mich., took the first three spots in the half marathon men's division. Chad Johnson (1:06:53), C. Fred Joslyn (1:06:54) and Patrick Rizzo (1:07:05) posted the fourth-through-sixth-fastest times ever at Disney.

Registration for the 2009 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend opens Jan. 14, 2008, at 12 p.m. ET at www.disneyworldmarathon.com. (Source: Press Release)
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Disney Planner: May-August 2008 Includes Opening of Toy Story Mania!

Guests Who Elect to Visit Disney World This Summer Are in for Fun that'll Make Their Vacation a Landslide Winner

In an election year, the landslide winner for summer fun is a no-brainer. In the exciting continuation of its "Year of a Million Dreams," Walt Disney World Resort is bursting with magic, no matter what summer guests "elect" to do -- including a new attraction, new dining, fun events and more. Here's a summer sampling of why Florida's Vacation Kingdom gets everyone's vote ...

Toys are back in town as Disney Parks unwraps Toy Story Mania!

Summer 2008 brings the opening of Toy Story Mania! a cutting-edge and interactive ride-through attraction that combines the fun of a video game, whiz-bang 3-D technology and interaction with favorite Disney-Pixar stars. Set to bow at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, Toy Story Mania! adds to the fun on both coasts. (Exact opening dates will be announced at a later date.)

Guests board colorful ride vehicles to see who can rack up the most points playing -- actually being in -- midway-style games.

Toy Story Mania! matches the delightful Disney-Pixar characters with games that best suit their very animated personalities -- and Walt Disney World Resort puts Disney's Hollywood Studios guests in the middle of the action. Sporting 3-D glasses, they twist and turn along a colorful midway-themed route.

At each game booth, they aim for animated targets using their own special onboard spring-action shooter. The attraction features games that audiences of all ages and skill levels -- from beginner to serious gamer -- can enjoy. Players pair up and sit side-by-side for a friendly competition that delivers an ever-changing variety of targets and surprises.

Out-of-this-world fun coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios

Star Wars Weekends return to Walt Disney World Resort in June 2008, as Disney's Hollywood Studios becomes Star Wars Central for sci-fi fans of all ages. (Exact event dates will be announced at a later date.)

With the popular Star Wars film saga as the inspiration, Disney's Hollywood Studios becomes the temporary home for a band of out-of-this-world characters, including Wookiees, Sith, droids, Jedi, Ewoks, bounty hunters and Rodians.

A giant, "A to Z" gathering of Star Wars characters -- from Queen Amidala to Zam Wesell -- will roam the streets of the theme park during meet-and-greet sessions. Jedi Training Academy -- one of the interactive entertainment experiences featured during Disney's "Year of a Million Dreams" -- takes place on the main stage and allows young guests to learn from a Jedi Master before testing their newly acquired skills in a battle with Darth Vader.

Also featured: the chance for fans to purchase one-of-a-kind Star Wars memorabilia, Star Wars trivia contests, special Star Wars parades, rides on the famed Star Tours simulator attraction, and autograph sessions and star conversations with famous Star Wars actors.

Star Wars Weekends take place Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Event activities are included in theme park admission. For more information, guests may go online to www.starwars.com or disneyworld.com/starwarsweekends.

Whole new world of Disney World dining greets summer guests

Whether it's a meal or a cooling liquid libation, summertime guests to Walt Disney World Resort will find exciting new choices.

Epcot, with fresh new dining options at Italy (Tutto Italia) and Japan (Tokyo Dining) also welcomes guests to China, where a new Joy of Tea outdoor cart features hot and cold teas, frozen green tea concoctions and alcoholic choices such as plum wine and wine green tea slush.

In Mexico this summer, a 50- to 60-seat tequila bar replaces a retail shop in the pavilion's spacious indoor courtyard. Also in time for summer, the pavilion's waterfront Cantina San Angel is expanding with a new menu and more seating featuring optimal views of World Showcase. At Disney's Contemporary Resort, summer guests will be treated to The Wave, a new eatery serving up American cooking blended with world flavors. A stylish lounge sets the stage with New World wines and trendy cocktails.

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival expanded to 75 days

Green thumbs or "all thumbs," there's something for everyone at one of the most popular events at Walt Disney World Resort -- the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival.

Now in its 15th year, the festival bursts into bloom with the theme Fun in the Sun and keeps on flourishing for a record 75 days -- running through June 1 (from its start date of March 19). Whimsical character topiaries, brilliant beds of flowers, rose displays, water gardens and many more verdant exhibits set the scene around Epcot Future World and World Showcase for a garden party like no other. Guests can participate in daily seminars focused on gardening, crafts and other topics and enjoy evening music concerts featuring top acts from the 1960s and '70s.

As guests enter the park near Spaceship Earth, they'll spot a 14-foot Goofy topiary riding a six-foot wave of flowers and plants. Sandcastles, palm trees and starfish will surround Mickey and Minnie topiaries posed on a floral beach towel spread upon a sandy "beach." At World Showcase Plaza, Disney topiary specialists will craft a volleyball beach scene starring Donald Duck and Daisy. Nearby, a topiary Pluto will frolic with topiary sand crabs while colorful Stitch from "Lilo and Stitch" keeps watch from a lifeguard stand.

For youthful "green thumbs," there's plenty of fun, too, including a special children's garden, plus a butterfly garden -- a screened enclosure that will include a live exhibit showing how caterpillars form a chrysalis and emerge as butterflies.

More information about the 15th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is available by visiting disneyworld.com/flower or by calling 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639). The festival is included in regular Epcot admission.

Summer guests cruise to special offerings aboard Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line has announced special offerings for 2008 including a summer season of sailings to the Mexican Riviera, select cruises with multiple stops at Castaway Cay, and an enhanced Land and Sea package. Disney's seven-night Land and Sea Package Plus Dining includes all the perks of the existing seven-night Land and Sea package that combines a Disney cruise with a stay at Walt Disney World Resort 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.

And for planners, 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).

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500.

Tampa Bay Bucs return to Walt Disney World for training camp in July

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are expected to begin preparing for the 2008 NFL season with the start of training camp in late July at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. This will mark the seventh straight year (2002-2008) the Bucs have held training camp at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex, the leading venue for amateur and professional sports in the country.

The Bucs are coming off a successful 2007 season in which they went 9-7 during the regular season to win the NFC South division title and advance to the playoffs. They will look to build on that success starting with training camp at Disney where they will once again hold practices twice a day before beginning their preseason schedule of games.

Once again, Bucs training camp practices will be free and open to the public during the team's three-week stay at Disney. There will also be periodic autograph opportunities with Bucs players and coaches each day.

Jostens Center to open at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex

The state-of-the-art Jostens Center opens in summer 2008 at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. The multi-sports field house is expected to play host to events such as basketball, volleyball, wrestling and martial arts, allowing Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex to double the number of indoor events that can potentially be held at the facility.

The venue, which will encompass more than 75,000 square feet, represents the latest expansion of Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex, which is the leading venue for amateur and professional sports in the country. In all, Jostens Center will be able to accommodate six college regulation-size basketball courts or 12 volleyball courts or two roller hockey rinks, plus locker rooms and meeting space. In addition, Jostens Center will offer personalized memory books and other memorabilia to recognize athletic achievements and preserve memories for the teams and athletes that compete at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. (Source: Press Release)
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Get $5 off any food, beverage, or merchandise purchase of $20 or more with this coupon. Expires 12/31/08.
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See You Real Soon!

John

AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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