Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
May 21, 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 - new Disney sweepstakes, dining certificate sale, new Disney Cruise Line discounts, and Disneyland discount
* The latest news from around the "World" - new attraction opens at Epcot's Innoventions
* Kathy writes about her Affordable Disney membership
* Amanda asks about options for a 1-year old at the water parks
* Beth, our travel agent, reviews Universal's 2-Park Fun, Food & Drink Como Ticket
* "The Simpsons Ride" Opens At Universal Orlando
* Busch Gardens Welcomes New Baby White Rhino
* SeaWorld Orlando is caring for relocated sea lions and a rescued baby manatee
* This week's coupon - save at this Orlando golf course designed by world renowned golf course architects Ron Garl and Howard Swan
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now have over 30 sweepstakes and contests to win a Disney / Florida / California vacation!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Get $25 dining certificates for $5 that are redeemable at restaurants near Walt Disney World, Disneyland California and throughout the USA. Hurry! Offer expires May 22, 2008!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* Two new early booking discounts for the general public
* Six new discounted cruises for Florida residents
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
New AAA discount
=================================================
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!
>> Discount codes for special rates at the deluxe Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort for late Summer, Labor Day and Thanksgiving!
>> Save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!
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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 $589!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Kids fly FREE!
>> 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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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
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Rehab Schedule:
* 8Trax (Downtown Disney) will reopen tomorrow after being closed for minor updates.
* Cirque du Soleil (Downtown Disney Westside) is closing this week for refurbishment. It will reopen June 3.
* Cap'n Jack's restaurant (Marketplace) has reopened after being closed for annual maintenance. (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 05/19/08)
--------------------------------
Hannah Montana Disney Glamour Shots Candy subject of lawsuit. "An Oklahoma company (Glamour Shots Licensing Inc.), saying it doesn't want its name associated with candy packaging, has filed a trademark-infringement lawsuit against the Walt Disney Co." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/20/08)
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"The food I sampled at Jiko [at Animal Kingdom Lodge] was creative and well-executed, a fusion of styles and cooking techniques using seasonings and spices associated with African cuisine." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/18/08)
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"In a pioneering partnership aiming to go online Tuesday, Google Earth and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts will make it easy to take a virtual trip to Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios and 22 Disney hotels and resorts." (Source: usatoday.com, 05/16/08)
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"Scheduled to debut at Epcot's Innoventions pavilion in late August, StormStruck: The Tale of Two Homes is designed to be fun -- yes, fun -- and educational." The attraction focuses on how to make your home better able to survive a hurricane. With the help of 3-D glasses, visitors can watch how two homes experienced Hurricane Charley in 2004 - one survived, the other was destroyed - and decide how to make a home safer before an approaching hurricane blows it apart! (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/17/08)
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"The Biergarten restaurant at Germany is always a surefire hit with guests. Not only is the variety of food good (it's a buffet), but the Octoberfest Musikanten group that performs there is invariably entertaining." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 05/13/08)
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"Disney Hollywood Studios held a media preview day Wednesday for their latest attraction, Toy Story Midway Mania.(Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 05/14/08)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
The price of gas keeps rising, but there may be a theme park near you. news.yahoo.comSee this article for a list of new attractions at parks in the USA and Canada.
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Visitors to SeaWorld are invited to audition as contestants on the Wheel of Fortune in September. "Five episodes will be taped each day, making for four weeks of SeaWheel to be aired sometime in 2009." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 05/19/08)
--------------------------------
"Part of a new exhibit at Tampa's Busch Gardens was closed Sunday after a female orangutan escaped its enclosure and had to be coaxed into a back area by officials." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/19/08)
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"Guests who stay at -- or even attend a time-share presentation at -- one of [Westgate's] seven area resorts will be offered a free trial membership to a new social networking and photo sharing Web site called Westgatefamilies.com."
Westgate's photographers will be taking photos of guests throughout the property and staff will upload your photos for you. Cameras are also to be installed at different locations to take your picture when you insert your room key. The bad news: when the trial ends, it will cost you $5 - $12 a month.
The fever is spreading...
Universal's new roller coaster, the Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit, opens next spring and will allow riders create a music video of their experience.
Disney is thinking about installing cameras near the lines of their attractions which will take your photo and make it part of your own story starring you and the Disney characters featured at the attraction. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/19/08)
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"Pettegrew, 44, and fellow artists Rita Canan and Alison Horne, owners of Orlando firm Muralistically Inclined, are finishing a weeks-long project that includes four 21-foot-tall murals on the outside of Gatorland's new retail building." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/17/08)
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"Family wants more ride regulation [after their] teenager's feet [were] severed last year after cables snapped on Kentucky Ride." (Source: abcnews.go.com, 05/14/08)
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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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Kathy writes:
"John,
First of all, let me say just how impressed we are with your company. Second, Beth is out of this world!!! Our Disney plans are coming along. I was so overwhelmed at first, I don't know what I would have done without you guys!!"
Thank you again, Kathy, for your kind comments.
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Amanda writes:
"I liked the parent swapping idea on your page for Disney parks. Are there any options or ideas for the water parks? We have a 3, 4 and 1 year old. What kind of options do we have for our 1 year old? My husband and I are not worried about the other two. They could ride some of the family rides with us. What do you recommend for that and do you even recommend water parks? We enjoy our local water park here so I know they would love that one. I am just concerned about the infant and not being able to do anything. Thanks."
My wife, Donna, and my daughter, Julie, like to visit the water parks. Donna writes:
"They do have kiddie pools at the water parks. All the raft rides, etc, will be off limits for the infant. The big pools, low end will be okay. WDW water parks are the same as others, except they are themed. The good thing about Typhoon Lagoon is that they have lots of shade for your beach blanket. I actually took a nap in the shade there when Julie and I went when I had a migraine headache. Arrive early to snag a shady spot. Florida sun DEMANDS extra strength sunscreen for the baby and kids. Take the stroller so the baby can nap there (especially in a shady spot)."
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Beth, our travel agent, tried Universal's new 2-Park Fun, Food & Drink Combo ticket. Here is her review:
"I have some experience with the Meal Deal, and from what I can tell this new offer doesn't make any changes to that existing plan; it just combines it with a ticket. So here are my observations.
READ THE FINE PRINT CAREFULLY!
While the park ticket is good for unlimited admission for 7 consecutive days, the meal plan applies ONLY to two days. You can choose which two days, but it is NOT good for a full week of food. Based on what I've read, the drink mugs and their wristbands are given at the same time as the meal deal wristbands. They are also good for just two days, so you've only got two days of food and beverage covered.
CHECK THE LIST OF PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS!
Not all dining locations participate. In fact, just a small percentage do and they are ALL counter service. None of the nicer places participate, nor are there any locations in City Walk. The participating locations are, however, nicely spread out around the parks. My biggest gripe is that there are just a few places with healthy options so I found myself running cross-park several times.
SHARING IS NOT ALLOWED!
I know what you're thinking... We'll just redeem one meal deal for one person per day! Since the person with the wristband can go back as many times as they want, we'll just send that person through the line multiple times until everyone is fed! Nope. Doesn't work like that. Sounds good in theory, but they really do watch for such things. This isn't Disney and the dining locations aren't nearly as crowded (usually) and they don't have lots and lots of lines. Most places have just two lines and sometimes only one cashier - who will instantly catch onto you when you pass through the line for the third time in 10 minutes with yet another burger platter.
CHECK YOUR WATCH!
The Meal Deal is good from 11AM to a half hour prior to closing. That means you can forget using it for breakfast, and if you're planning on taking something to go arrive at least 45 minutes before closing.
FORGET YOUR DIET!
The menus at participating locations look eerily similar. They are heavy on pizza, pasta, burgers, fries and chicken (in a variety of presentations, but mostly fried). Fortunately, one or two locations do offer a veggie burger, and several offer salads (with grilled chicken). You'll need to bring your own low-cal dressing, though, and hope you can get your hands on one not pre-dressed. All platters come with fries and I have had no luck at all with getting them to substitute anything healthier. (They wouldn't let us substitute onion rings, either.) The good news: the desserts are lousy so you will have no trouble passing on them.
HINT:
One or two places offer fresh fruit platters that count as dessert. We got three of these platters - complete with forks and napkins - just before we left for the day, popped into a store and asked for a big plastic bag to stash them in, and stored them to the frig in our hotel room... Made a great breakfast when combined with the granola bars I'd brought in my suitcase.
IS IT REALLY SAVING YOU MONEY???
You can purchase a 2-park meal deal wristband separately for $23.99 adult, $11.99 child, plus tax. A 2-park unlimited admission ticket good for 7 consecutive days is available online for $79.99 plus tax plus $.99 fee. The drink cup is $8.99 a day and you get it for 2 days. So that makes an adult total $145.95 plus tax and $.99 fee if you do it a la carte. The 'new' ticket - which includes all the same things - is $138.95 plus tax and $.99 fee. (Children are $121.95 + tax and fee if done separately, $116.95 as the package deal.) So yes, you save - but just a little bit.
Honestly, my experience was that by the end of the first day I would have given nearly ANYTHING to sit down in a nice, air-conditioned restaurant and order something from a menu. But when you've already paid for all you can eat elsewhere it's hard to justify that cost. Given that you're only saving a little, I'd be tempted to just get the park tickets alone and then buy the meal deals for one day and see how it goes. You can also buy just ONE drink cup and share that. You're not supposed to, but my daughter and I share drinks all the time. That trick alone cuts the cost difference down to nearly nothing even if you do end up doing it again for a second day. I'm sure some people would disagree with me, but after being spoiled by Disney's great dining plan I am not impressed at all with Universal's and this new ticket and meal combo deal really isn't changing my mind."
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"The Simpsons Ride" Opens At Universal Orlando In One Of The Most Anticipated Attraction Launches In History
You’ve seen the show, played The Game, watched The Movie. And now, yes, it’s finally here. You can ride - The Ride.
America’s favorite animated family has arrived in Orlando - with their very own mega-attraction. The Simpsons Ride officially opened today at Universal Orlando Resort. The new attraction plants guests smack in the middle of a brand-new Simpsons adventure - a ride adventure so big, so funny and so thrilling it’s no surprise it took years to make.
In an unprecedented collaboration, Executive Producer James L. Brooks, Creator Matt Groening and Executive Producer Al Jean in association with 20th Century Fox Television and the creative teams of Gracie Films and Universal Theme Parks have accomplished what has never been done before - the launch of the world’s first authentic mega-attraction of The Simpsons.
"The Simpsons Ride" showcases everything the hugely popular television series has made famous and that Simpsons fans love . . . a great story, humor and irreverence that are pure Simpsons, with original animation starring cast members Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria, and guest star Kelsey Grammer.
Guests are swept into Krustyland, a theme park created by the show’s cash hungry clown. Meanwhile, maniacal Sideshow Bob has escaped from prison and has taken control of the park to get his revenge on Krusty and the Simpson family. Hand-picked by Krusty to be the first to ride his newest attraction, you are thrust into the middle of the action.
The attraction is larger than life - from the 28-foot-tall Krusty the Clown at the entrance (guests walk through Krusty’s mouth on his extended tongue) to the giant wrap-around cinematic experience created for this great new adventure. Guests soar through Krustyland and Springfield on a ride that features the world’s first-ever cork screw that’s animated!
"I take with all due sense of mission and humility the opportunity to spray water and spritz baby
powder at Universal patrons," says James L. Brooks.
"For twenty years I've been dreaming about this, and here it is -- a wild, thrilling Simpsons Ride put together by a huge number of talented artists and amusement-park maniacs," says Matt Groening.
"The Simpsons Ride is Universal at its best: bringing blockbusters to life in entirely new ways," said Tom Williams, Chairman and CEO of Universal Parks & Resorts. "And with its unique sense of humor and enormous popularity, it is the perfect complement to our brand of entertainment."
"We have created the ultimate Simpsons experience," said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. "It’s a wild ride through the world of the Simpsons - up close and with the whole family, Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie - like you’ve never seen her before."
"We’re bringing the fun and joy of The Simpsons to millions of fans in the most immersive way possible. The Simpsons Ride is a blast!", said Elie Dekel, Fox’s Executive Vice President of Licensing.
As the longest running animated series and the longest running primetime comedy series ever, The Simpsons has aired more than 400 episodes. The critically acclaimed show features Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson, who take traditional family life and turn it upside down. Exploding into a cultural phenomenon in 1990, The Simpsons has remained one of the most visible and marketable properties domestically and internationally. The Simpsons is noted for famous celebrity guest voices (such as Kelsey Grammer, Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman, Kiefer Sutherland, Natalie Portman, Simon Cowell, Gore Vidal, U2, Mick Jagger and Aerosmith) and received a Star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame in January of 2000. The Simpsons Movie was released on July 27, 2007, has earned more then 500 million dollars worldwide and is now available on DVD.
This twenty-three time Emmy-Award-winning series is currently airing its 19th season. The Simpsons is a Gracie Films Production in association with 20th Century Fox Television. James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, and Al Jean are the current Executive Producers. Film Roman is the animation studio. (Source: Press Release, 05/15/08)
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Busch Gardens Welcomes New Baby White Rhino
Just in time for Mother’s Day, the adventure park
announces latest new addition to Serengeti Plain
TAMPA, Fla. - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announces the birth of a male white rhinoceros on Thursday, May 8, 2008. The rhino was born in the night quarters adjacent to their 26-acre white rhino habitat on Busch Gardens’ Serengeti Plain.
Weighing in at an estimated 100 pounds, the newborn - who has yet to be named - is the third calf and first male born to mother Mlelani and father Tombo. The October 2004 birth of Mlelani and Tombo’s first calf, Malaika, marked the first white rhino birth in the adventure park’s 46-year history. Their second calf, Dakari, was born in August 2006.
Busch Gardens participates in the American Zoological and Aquarium Association (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) to ensure genetic diversification among threatened and endangered animals in zoological facilities. The birth brings the total white and black rhino population at the adventure park to 12.
Mlelani, Tombo and another female white rhino were airlifted from Kruger National Park in South Africa in 2001 through the efforts of the International Rhino Foundation (IRF), a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of rhinos. According to the IRF, just over 14,530 white rhinos remain in the wild, and fewer than 170 live in zoological facilities across North America.
In 2008, the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund donated $5,000 to Friends of Conservation, $15,000 to International Rhino Foundation, $10,000 to Rhino Fund Uganda and $10,000 to Tusk Trust to support rhino conservation efforts in the wild. The Fund was created in 2003 by the Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks and is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable foundation dedicated to supporting environmental and wildlife conservation initiatives. Since its inception, the Fund has granted $5 million to more than 350 projects in the U.S. and around the world.
For more information, contact Busch Gardens’ Public Relations department at (813) 987-5090. (Source: Press Release, 05/09/08)
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SEAWORLD ORLANDO
SeaWorld Orlando is providing homes for three adult male California sea lions being relocated from the Columbia River, located approximately 40 miles east of Portland, OR. Government officials in Washington, Oregon and Idaho are relocating the animals under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act as these sea lions are having a significant negative impact on salmon and steelhead trout that are either listed or approaching listing under the Endangered Species Act.
The animals will initially be in quarantine for at least 30 days and then be integrated into our populations. We strive to keep marine mammals healthy and safe in their native habitats by providing education programming at our parks and funding for research in the field. The sea lions that join our families of animals will receive exceptional care and play important conservation roles, educating the children and adults who visit them in their new homes. In all, the SeaWorld parks have committed to providing homes for up to 12 of the sea lions. (Source: Press Release, May, 2008)
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Two orphaned manatee calves were rescued from Central Florida waters over the weekend and taken to the park for care until they are ready to be released back into nature. SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue Team is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days year, to rescue, rehabilitate and release hundreds of endangered animals each year. Rescued manatees are cared for in a specially designated rehabilitation area at SeaWorld. (Source: Press Release, 05/09/08)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON
Eagle Creek Golf Club
10350 Emerson Lake Boulevard
Orlando, Florida 32832
407-273-4653
1-866-324-5342
11 Minutes From Airport
"Orlando's Eagle Creek golf course was designed by world renowned golf course architects Ron Garl of the U.S. and Howard Swan of Europe, with the resulting golf course offering the best of both worlds, standing out from other Orlando golf courses as a true masterpiece!"
Get $10 off regular play 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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Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
May 21, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2008 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon:
Or copy and paste the following URL into your RSS Reader:
http://affordabledisney.blogspot.com/atom.xml
: My Yahoo! users can instantly add our blogcontent to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!
: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN! Add to My MSN!
=================================================
Hi Everyone!
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 - new Disney sweepstakes, dining certificate sale, new Disney Cruise Line discounts, and Disneyland discount
* The latest news from around the "World" - new attraction opens at Epcot's Innoventions
* Kathy writes about her Affordable Disney membership
* Amanda asks about options for a 1-year old at the water parks
* Beth, our travel agent, reviews Universal's 2-Park Fun, Food & Drink Como Ticket
* "The Simpsons Ride" Opens At Universal Orlando
* Busch Gardens Welcomes New Baby White Rhino
* SeaWorld Orlando is caring for relocated sea lions and a rescued baby manatee
* This week's coupon - save at this Orlando golf course designed by world renowned golf course architects Ron Garl and Howard Swan
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now have over 30 sweepstakes and contests to win a Disney / Florida / California vacation!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Get $25 dining certificates for $5 that are redeemable at restaurants near Walt Disney World, Disneyland California and throughout the USA. Hurry! Offer expires May 22, 2008!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* Two new early booking discounts for the general public
* Six new discounted cruises for Florida residents
-------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
New AAA discount
=================================================
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!
>> Discount codes for special rates at the deluxe Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort for late Summer, Labor Day and Thanksgiving!
>> Save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!
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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 $589!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Kids fly FREE!
>> 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.
--------------------------------
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
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Rehab Schedule:
* 8Trax (Downtown Disney) will reopen tomorrow after being closed for minor updates.
* Cirque du Soleil (Downtown Disney Westside) is closing this week for refurbishment. It will reopen June 3.
* Cap'n Jack's restaurant (Marketplace) has reopened after being closed for annual maintenance. (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 05/19/08)
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Hannah Montana Disney Glamour Shots Candy subject of lawsuit. "An Oklahoma company (Glamour Shots Licensing Inc.), saying it doesn't want its name associated with candy packaging, has filed a trademark-infringement lawsuit against the Walt Disney Co." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/20/08)
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"The food I sampled at Jiko [at Animal Kingdom Lodge] was creative and well-executed, a fusion of styles and cooking techniques using seasonings and spices associated with African cuisine." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/18/08)
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"In a pioneering partnership aiming to go online Tuesday, Google Earth and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts will make it easy to take a virtual trip to Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios and 22 Disney hotels and resorts." (Source: usatoday.com, 05/16/08)
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"Scheduled to debut at Epcot's Innoventions pavilion in late August, StormStruck: The Tale of Two Homes is designed to be fun -- yes, fun -- and educational." The attraction focuses on how to make your home better able to survive a hurricane. With the help of 3-D glasses, visitors can watch how two homes experienced Hurricane Charley in 2004 - one survived, the other was destroyed - and decide how to make a home safer before an approaching hurricane blows it apart! (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/17/08)
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"The Biergarten restaurant at Germany is always a surefire hit with guests. Not only is the variety of food good (it's a buffet), but the Octoberfest Musikanten group that performs there is invariably entertaining." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 05/13/08)
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"Disney Hollywood Studios held a media preview day Wednesday for their latest attraction, Toy Story Midway Mania.(Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 05/14/08)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
The price of gas keeps rising, but there may be a theme park near you. news.yahoo.comSee this article for a list of new attractions at parks in the USA and Canada.
--------------------------------
Visitors to SeaWorld are invited to audition as contestants on the Wheel of Fortune in September. "Five episodes will be taped each day, making for four weeks of SeaWheel to be aired sometime in 2009." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 05/19/08)
--------------------------------
"Part of a new exhibit at Tampa's Busch Gardens was closed Sunday after a female orangutan escaped its enclosure and had to be coaxed into a back area by officials." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/19/08)
--------------------------------
"Guests who stay at -- or even attend a time-share presentation at -- one of [Westgate's] seven area resorts will be offered a free trial membership to a new social networking and photo sharing Web site called Westgatefamilies.com."
Westgate's photographers will be taking photos of guests throughout the property and staff will upload your photos for you. Cameras are also to be installed at different locations to take your picture when you insert your room key. The bad news: when the trial ends, it will cost you $5 - $12 a month.
The fever is spreading...
Universal's new roller coaster, the Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit, opens next spring and will allow riders create a music video of their experience.
Disney is thinking about installing cameras near the lines of their attractions which will take your photo and make it part of your own story starring you and the Disney characters featured at the attraction. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/19/08)
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"Pettegrew, 44, and fellow artists Rita Canan and Alison Horne, owners of Orlando firm Muralistically Inclined, are finishing a weeks-long project that includes four 21-foot-tall murals on the outside of Gatorland's new retail building." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/17/08)
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"Family wants more ride regulation [after their] teenager's feet [were] severed last year after cables snapped on Kentucky Ride." (Source: abcnews.go.com, 05/14/08)
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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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Kathy writes:
"John,
First of all, let me say just how impressed we are with your company. Second, Beth is out of this world!!! Our Disney plans are coming along. I was so overwhelmed at first, I don't know what I would have done without you guys!!"
Thank you again, Kathy, for your kind comments.
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Amanda writes:
"I liked the parent swapping idea on your page for Disney parks. Are there any options or ideas for the water parks? We have a 3, 4 and 1 year old. What kind of options do we have for our 1 year old? My husband and I are not worried about the other two. They could ride some of the family rides with us. What do you recommend for that and do you even recommend water parks? We enjoy our local water park here so I know they would love that one. I am just concerned about the infant and not being able to do anything. Thanks."
My wife, Donna, and my daughter, Julie, like to visit the water parks. Donna writes:
"They do have kiddie pools at the water parks. All the raft rides, etc, will be off limits for the infant. The big pools, low end will be okay. WDW water parks are the same as others, except they are themed. The good thing about Typhoon Lagoon is that they have lots of shade for your beach blanket. I actually took a nap in the shade there when Julie and I went when I had a migraine headache. Arrive early to snag a shady spot. Florida sun DEMANDS extra strength sunscreen for the baby and kids. Take the stroller so the baby can nap there (especially in a shady spot)."
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Beth, our travel agent, tried Universal's new 2-Park Fun, Food & Drink Combo ticket. Here is her review:
"I have some experience with the Meal Deal, and from what I can tell this new offer doesn't make any changes to that existing plan; it just combines it with a ticket. So here are my observations.
READ THE FINE PRINT CAREFULLY!
While the park ticket is good for unlimited admission for 7 consecutive days, the meal plan applies ONLY to two days. You can choose which two days, but it is NOT good for a full week of food. Based on what I've read, the drink mugs and their wristbands are given at the same time as the meal deal wristbands. They are also good for just two days, so you've only got two days of food and beverage covered.
CHECK THE LIST OF PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS!
Not all dining locations participate. In fact, just a small percentage do and they are ALL counter service. None of the nicer places participate, nor are there any locations in City Walk. The participating locations are, however, nicely spread out around the parks. My biggest gripe is that there are just a few places with healthy options so I found myself running cross-park several times.
SHARING IS NOT ALLOWED!
I know what you're thinking... We'll just redeem one meal deal for one person per day! Since the person with the wristband can go back as many times as they want, we'll just send that person through the line multiple times until everyone is fed! Nope. Doesn't work like that. Sounds good in theory, but they really do watch for such things. This isn't Disney and the dining locations aren't nearly as crowded (usually) and they don't have lots and lots of lines. Most places have just two lines and sometimes only one cashier - who will instantly catch onto you when you pass through the line for the third time in 10 minutes with yet another burger platter.
CHECK YOUR WATCH!
The Meal Deal is good from 11AM to a half hour prior to closing. That means you can forget using it for breakfast, and if you're planning on taking something to go arrive at least 45 minutes before closing.
FORGET YOUR DIET!
The menus at participating locations look eerily similar. They are heavy on pizza, pasta, burgers, fries and chicken (in a variety of presentations, but mostly fried). Fortunately, one or two locations do offer a veggie burger, and several offer salads (with grilled chicken). You'll need to bring your own low-cal dressing, though, and hope you can get your hands on one not pre-dressed. All platters come with fries and I have had no luck at all with getting them to substitute anything healthier. (They wouldn't let us substitute onion rings, either.) The good news: the desserts are lousy so you will have no trouble passing on them.
HINT:
One or two places offer fresh fruit platters that count as dessert. We got three of these platters - complete with forks and napkins - just before we left for the day, popped into a store and asked for a big plastic bag to stash them in, and stored them to the frig in our hotel room... Made a great breakfast when combined with the granola bars I'd brought in my suitcase.
IS IT REALLY SAVING YOU MONEY???
You can purchase a 2-park meal deal wristband separately for $23.99 adult, $11.99 child, plus tax. A 2-park unlimited admission ticket good for 7 consecutive days is available online for $79.99 plus tax plus $.99 fee. The drink cup is $8.99 a day and you get it for 2 days. So that makes an adult total $145.95 plus tax and $.99 fee if you do it a la carte. The 'new' ticket - which includes all the same things - is $138.95 plus tax and $.99 fee. (Children are $121.95 + tax and fee if done separately, $116.95 as the package deal.) So yes, you save - but just a little bit.
Honestly, my experience was that by the end of the first day I would have given nearly ANYTHING to sit down in a nice, air-conditioned restaurant and order something from a menu. But when you've already paid for all you can eat elsewhere it's hard to justify that cost. Given that you're only saving a little, I'd be tempted to just get the park tickets alone and then buy the meal deals for one day and see how it goes. You can also buy just ONE drink cup and share that. You're not supposed to, but my daughter and I share drinks all the time. That trick alone cuts the cost difference down to nearly nothing even if you do end up doing it again for a second day. I'm sure some people would disagree with me, but after being spoiled by Disney's great dining plan I am not impressed at all with Universal's and this new ticket and meal combo deal really isn't changing my mind."
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"The Simpsons Ride" Opens At Universal Orlando In One Of The Most Anticipated Attraction Launches In History
You’ve seen the show, played The Game, watched The Movie. And now, yes, it’s finally here. You can ride - The Ride.
America’s favorite animated family has arrived in Orlando - with their very own mega-attraction. The Simpsons Ride officially opened today at Universal Orlando Resort. The new attraction plants guests smack in the middle of a brand-new Simpsons adventure - a ride adventure so big, so funny and so thrilling it’s no surprise it took years to make.
In an unprecedented collaboration, Executive Producer James L. Brooks, Creator Matt Groening and Executive Producer Al Jean in association with 20th Century Fox Television and the creative teams of Gracie Films and Universal Theme Parks have accomplished what has never been done before - the launch of the world’s first authentic mega-attraction of The Simpsons.
"The Simpsons Ride" showcases everything the hugely popular television series has made famous and that Simpsons fans love . . . a great story, humor and irreverence that are pure Simpsons, with original animation starring cast members Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria, and guest star Kelsey Grammer.
Guests are swept into Krustyland, a theme park created by the show’s cash hungry clown. Meanwhile, maniacal Sideshow Bob has escaped from prison and has taken control of the park to get his revenge on Krusty and the Simpson family. Hand-picked by Krusty to be the first to ride his newest attraction, you are thrust into the middle of the action.
The attraction is larger than life - from the 28-foot-tall Krusty the Clown at the entrance (guests walk through Krusty’s mouth on his extended tongue) to the giant wrap-around cinematic experience created for this great new adventure. Guests soar through Krustyland and Springfield on a ride that features the world’s first-ever cork screw that’s animated!
"I take with all due sense of mission and humility the opportunity to spray water and spritz baby
powder at Universal patrons," says James L. Brooks.
"For twenty years I've been dreaming about this, and here it is -- a wild, thrilling Simpsons Ride put together by a huge number of talented artists and amusement-park maniacs," says Matt Groening.
"The Simpsons Ride is Universal at its best: bringing blockbusters to life in entirely new ways," said Tom Williams, Chairman and CEO of Universal Parks & Resorts. "And with its unique sense of humor and enormous popularity, it is the perfect complement to our brand of entertainment."
"We have created the ultimate Simpsons experience," said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. "It’s a wild ride through the world of the Simpsons - up close and with the whole family, Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie - like you’ve never seen her before."
"We’re bringing the fun and joy of The Simpsons to millions of fans in the most immersive way possible. The Simpsons Ride is a blast!", said Elie Dekel, Fox’s Executive Vice President of Licensing.
As the longest running animated series and the longest running primetime comedy series ever, The Simpsons has aired more than 400 episodes. The critically acclaimed show features Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson, who take traditional family life and turn it upside down. Exploding into a cultural phenomenon in 1990, The Simpsons has remained one of the most visible and marketable properties domestically and internationally. The Simpsons is noted for famous celebrity guest voices (such as Kelsey Grammer, Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman, Kiefer Sutherland, Natalie Portman, Simon Cowell, Gore Vidal, U2, Mick Jagger and Aerosmith) and received a Star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame in January of 2000. The Simpsons Movie was released on July 27, 2007, has earned more then 500 million dollars worldwide and is now available on DVD.
This twenty-three time Emmy-Award-winning series is currently airing its 19th season. The Simpsons is a Gracie Films Production in association with 20th Century Fox Television. James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, and Al Jean are the current Executive Producers. Film Roman is the animation studio. (Source: Press Release, 05/15/08)
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Busch Gardens Welcomes New Baby White Rhino
Just in time for Mother’s Day, the adventure park
announces latest new addition to Serengeti Plain
TAMPA, Fla. - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announces the birth of a male white rhinoceros on Thursday, May 8, 2008. The rhino was born in the night quarters adjacent to their 26-acre white rhino habitat on Busch Gardens’ Serengeti Plain.
Weighing in at an estimated 100 pounds, the newborn - who has yet to be named - is the third calf and first male born to mother Mlelani and father Tombo. The October 2004 birth of Mlelani and Tombo’s first calf, Malaika, marked the first white rhino birth in the adventure park’s 46-year history. Their second calf, Dakari, was born in August 2006.
Busch Gardens participates in the American Zoological and Aquarium Association (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) to ensure genetic diversification among threatened and endangered animals in zoological facilities. The birth brings the total white and black rhino population at the adventure park to 12.
Mlelani, Tombo and another female white rhino were airlifted from Kruger National Park in South Africa in 2001 through the efforts of the International Rhino Foundation (IRF), a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of rhinos. According to the IRF, just over 14,530 white rhinos remain in the wild, and fewer than 170 live in zoological facilities across North America.
In 2008, the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund donated $5,000 to Friends of Conservation, $15,000 to International Rhino Foundation, $10,000 to Rhino Fund Uganda and $10,000 to Tusk Trust to support rhino conservation efforts in the wild. The Fund was created in 2003 by the Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks and is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable foundation dedicated to supporting environmental and wildlife conservation initiatives. Since its inception, the Fund has granted $5 million to more than 350 projects in the U.S. and around the world.
For more information, contact Busch Gardens’ Public Relations department at (813) 987-5090. (Source: Press Release, 05/09/08)
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SEAWORLD ORLANDO
SeaWorld Orlando is providing homes for three adult male California sea lions being relocated from the Columbia River, located approximately 40 miles east of Portland, OR. Government officials in Washington, Oregon and Idaho are relocating the animals under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act as these sea lions are having a significant negative impact on salmon and steelhead trout that are either listed or approaching listing under the Endangered Species Act.
The animals will initially be in quarantine for at least 30 days and then be integrated into our populations. We strive to keep marine mammals healthy and safe in their native habitats by providing education programming at our parks and funding for research in the field. The sea lions that join our families of animals will receive exceptional care and play important conservation roles, educating the children and adults who visit them in their new homes. In all, the SeaWorld parks have committed to providing homes for up to 12 of the sea lions. (Source: Press Release, May, 2008)
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Two orphaned manatee calves were rescued from Central Florida waters over the weekend and taken to the park for care until they are ready to be released back into nature. SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue Team is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days year, to rescue, rehabilitate and release hundreds of endangered animals each year. Rescued manatees are cared for in a specially designated rehabilitation area at SeaWorld. (Source: Press Release, 05/09/08)
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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