Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
July 30, 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 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.
Rumor has it that Walt Disney World is going to raise its ticket prices August 3. Affordable Disney members should contact our ticket agent today. You can buy Disney tickets in advance since unused tickets never expire. See below for comments from Beth, our travel agent.
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Last call for Labor Day Special at these Walt Disney World luxury resorts, Annual Passholder discount at Disneyland Resort, discounted rooms and packages at all-suite hotel near SeaWorld, and a Vegas Resort & Casino Special
* The latest news from around the "World" - get a FREE wake-up call from Hannah Montana
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about the rumored Disney ticket price increase
* Lisa writes about Disney dining changes
* CityWalk Calendar and Venue Entertainment - August 2008
* This week's coupon - save at this 18-hole championship golf course in Kissimmee
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Last call for Labor Day Special at these luxury Walt Disney World Resorts. Stay between August 28 and September 2, 2008 starting at $149 per night. Must be booked by July 31, 2008.
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Stay at this all-suite hotel near SeaWorld this summer and fall from $79 per night! Voted #1 by TripAdvisor in 2008. Must book 14-days in advance. Includes:
* Free hot buffet breakfast daily
* Free parking and High-speed Internet access
* Free shuttle to select theme parks
* suites with fully equipped kitchens
* Heated resort-style pool and whirlpool
* Sports Court, Exercise room, Video Arcade
* Guest Laundry
* Pet friendly
Packages also available:
* Stay 4 nights/get 4 SeaWorld tickets - From $516
* Stay 2 nights, Get a $25 Gas card - From $89
* Florida Residents through September 30, 2008 - From $95
* Golf Packages - From $214
* Shoppers Package - From $169
* SeaWorld & Aquatica packages - From $189
-------------------------------
DISNEYLAND
We have the discount code for room discounts for Annual Passholders at Disneyland Resort Hotels. Rates starting at $139. Christmas week excluded.
-------------------------------
VEGAS
Resort & Casino Special: Tower Suite rates from $275 per night. Includes a $30 food and beverage credit per night. Now through September 4, 2008.
=================================================
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!
--------------------------------
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!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $349!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> 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.
--------------------------------
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 is planning to add actresses playing Tinker Bell and her friends from an upcoming series of 'Disney Fairies' movies -- and might be creating a new attraction based on them." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/28/08)
--------------------------------
Now through September 15, 2008, you can receive FREE wake-up calls from Hannah Montana. Click here for details.
--------------------------------
Click here for the recipe for Sweet and Spicy Ribs served at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts.
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"Cypress Gardens Adventure Park, under new ownership for less than a year, will scale back its hours in September as a way to combat the slow period between summer thrill seekers and the winter snowbirds who flock to the park's gardens." The park will only be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/30/08)
--------------------------------
Busch's All-Day Dining Deal: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Aquatica visitors can buy wristbands good for unlimited dining at their cafeteria-style restaurants. Adults: $25.95; children (9 or less): $11.95, with tax. Includes entree, side or dessert, and soda or bottled water each visit. Baby back ribs are excluded. SeaWorld participating restaurants: Hospitality House Deli, Mama's Kitchen Healthy Alternatives, Mango Joe's, Seafire Inn, Smoky Creek, Spice Mill and Voyager. Aquatica: Banana Beach Cookout, Mango Market and Waterstone Grill. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/28/08) Scroll down.
--------------------------------
New at SeaWorld
SeaWorld is testing Shamu's Smartguide, a 3" x 3 1/2" handheld unit that serves as a GPS and provides useful park information. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/25/08)
"The latest Sesame Street offering at SeaWorld is Elmo and Abby Cadabby's Treasure Hunt, a song-and-dance show that will appear a few times each morning through Labor Day." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/25/08) Scroll down to find article.
--------------------------------
"Free Wi-Fi aside, [Orlando International] airport officials say the giant facility has been a leader in trying new technologies because it has more room and is more willing to take risks than airports in bigger cities such as Washington, D.C., or New York." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/21/08)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
The earthquake caused no damage at Disneyland, Universal Studios, Six Flags, San Diego Zoo, or Joshua Tree National Park. Amtrak tracks were unaffected. (Source: travel.latimes.com, 07/29/08)
--------------------------------
300 Anaheim, a new upscale bowling center near Disney, features an executive chef and a full bar. (Source: ocregister.com, 07/24/08)
--------------------------------
New hotel opens near Disneyland
The Sheraton Garden Grove-Anaheim South Hotel at 12221 Harbor Blvd. "includes 285 rooms and suites, a Club Level with daily complimentary Hospitality Hour and breakfast for hotel club members, an outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, a 24-hour gym, the Fusion Restaurant and a lobby bar." (Source: ocresort.freedomblogging.com, 07/24/08)
--------------------------------
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
PARIS
"For travelers on a budget, the choices can be tough... yet for those in the know, there are plenty of cheap - and even free - ways to enjoy the city." (Source: news.yahoo.com, 07/28/08)
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
Beth, our travel agent, writes about the rumored Disney ticket price increase:
"My sales rep will neither confirm nor deny rumors that ticket prices will increase Sunday, but there is lots of buzz around the reservations offices that 'stuff' is going to happen very soon. I'm assuming this means not only the annual ticket price increase, but also the 2009 package and rate details (which should be out within the next two weeks or so). I'm guessing the Oct-Dec promotional offers will be not far behind.
If you're already booked you will not be affected by the ticket price increase unless you make a change to your reservation - at which point the updated total will reflect the new ticket pricing.
Remember that if you don't need tickets then you don't need a package - and packages are the ONLY way (short of an annual pass) to get a dining plan. Packages are also the most likely way to get a discount. You could save yourself $50 or more by buying tickets before the price increase for a future stay - but then you'd either have to skip the package form of reservation (and a dining plan and any associated promotional discounts, either of which COULD save you considerably more) or shell out for a 1-day base ticket per person in order to book a package which will run you another $80 or so per person, probably eliminating whatever savings you might otherwise have had (or at least taking a big chunk out of it).
In other words, if you are CERTAIN that you do not want a dining plan and will save more on buying tickets now than you cold possibly hope to save with a promotion then go for it. Otherwise, just accept that your vacation is about to cost a little more than you thought it would. (Nothing new there, huh?) All the more reason to put your Affordable Disney Membership to good use!"
=================================================
Lisa writes:
"Hi John,
We have been lifetime members for almost 10 years and always enjoy your newsletters. For our 10th wedding anniversary the 2 of us and our 5 year old son are planning a 10 day trip to WDW in Jan 09. I made our Dinning reservations last night and wanted to update you on the following if you were not already aware. As of October 08 the Garden Grill in Epcot will no longer serve lunch (we were able to reserve for Dinner) and as of Jan 09 the Liberty Tree Tavern [in the Magic Kingdom] will no longer have character dining. Have a great Day."
Thanks, Lisa, for the update. I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying the newsletters!
=================================================
CityWalk Calendar And Venue Entertainment - August 2008
**SPECIAL EVENTS**
Jamaican Independence Day Celebration
Saturday, August 9th ~ 3PM - Close
Chain Reaction and other live reggae bands.
Food and drink specials featuring Bacardi Rum and Red Stripe.
Street vendors, DJs and street entertainment.
Regular admission: $15 plus tax. VIP admission: $25 plus tax.
VIP admission includes upstairs access, complimentary food, and all-club access after 9PM.
*Must be 21 or older for admission after 9PM.
Olympic Opening Ceremony Viewing Party
Friday, August 8 ~ Party starts at 7:30PM, Broadcast starts at 8PM
Catch all of the excitement of NBC’s telecast of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games from Beijing, China for FREE on CityWalk’s big Astrovision screen in front of Latin Quarter along with street performers and live entertainment.
**RESTAURANTS AND CLUBS**
Bob Marley - A Tribute to Freedom
Legendary Thursdays ~ 8PM - Close
1/2 price select appetizers and Red Stripe Beer specials
Entertainment
Mystik NRG ~ Monday - Friday
Chain Reaction ~ Saturday & Sundays
CityWalk Promenade
Orange Avenue plays on Fridays, Saturdays and other select dates
the groove
XL at the groove - SKYY’s Jet Set Fridays
Signature martinis, bottle service, SKYY drink specials and more
Hosted by WXXL 106.7 FM
Teen Nights at the groove
Fridays ~ August 1, 15; 7PM - 11PM
Sunday ~ August 31; 8PM - 12AM
Come listen to live DJs spin all of today’s hits, and experience state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video
Ages 15 - 19 welcome. Bring your school ID or driver’s license for admission.
Entertainment
DJs nightly
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
Locals Night - Thursdays
Enjoy drink specials, live rock entertainment and a chance to win prizes
Guests receive free admission with a Florida ID or a college ID after 10PM
Happy Hour from 3PM to 5PM at Lone Palm and Margaritaville’s Porch of Indecision
Half-priced domestic drafts and House Margaritas.
Entertainment
Blue Stone Circle ~ Tuesday - Saturday
Fred Ramos Band ~ Sunday - Monday
Lone Palm-DJ Bo Wilson ~ Thursday - Sunday
Patio ~ Live music nightly
Latin Quarter
Ladies Night with Rumba 100.3FM - Thursdays
Reggaeton/freestyle dance party from 10PM - 2AM
Ladies drink free (select beverages) from 10PM - 12AM
Entertainment
Alejandro Kartal ~ Monday - Saturday
George Dimitrov ~ Sundays
NASCAR Sports Grille
Featuring the following sporting events on BIG screens:
-Summer Olympics August 8th - 24th
-UFC Fight August 9th
-Football Season
-NASCAR races
NBA City
All sports, all the time!
Happy Hour daily ~ 4PM - 7PM
Pat O’Brien’s Orlando
2 for Tuesdays ~ Every Tuesday, 4PM - 10PM
2 for 1 domestic draft; 2 for 1 drink specials; 2 for 1 Hurricanes
Half-price select appetizers
S.O.B. Fridays (Shrimp, Oysters and Beer) - Fridays, 4PM - 9PM
Kick back and enjoy great seafood and beer specials at Orlando’s favorite New Orleans-style watering hole.
Dueling Piano Bar - Live music nightly
Red Coconut Club
Nightly Happy Hour
Sunday - Thursday, 8PM - 10PM; Friday and Saturday, 6PM - 9PM
$5 Martinis and complimentary valet parking
Ladies Night every Thursday ~ 8PM - Close
Ladies receive complimentary admission, valet parking and $3 martinis all evening
In Crowd Hospitality Sundays ~ Sundays at 10PM
Free admission for members of the hospitality industry all evening
Drink specials starting at $2 with your ID or hospitality pay stub
Entertainment
Special Guest DJ Baby Anne ~ Tuesday Nights August 5, 12 and 19
Shifty Eyed Dog ~ Thursday - Saturday
DJs nightly
Universal Cineplex 20, an AMC Theatre
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor - August 1, 2008
Death Race - August 22, 2008
**Dates and times subject to change. (Source: Universal Press Release, 07/25/08)
=================================================
MONEY SAVING COUPON
Kissimmee Bay Country Club
2801 Kissimmee Bay Cir
Kissimmee, FL 34744
407-348-4653
"Opened in 1990, Kissimmee Bay boasts an 18-hole championship golf course with a complete practice area including a unique water driving range." 20 minutes from Walt Disney World.
Save $10.00 per person on green fees and cart rental with this coupon.
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Affordable Disney Books
Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price. To check out the bargains, click here.
Coupon Code: ROAD
Password: BookCloseouts.com
Buy $35 worth of books and receive a $5 discount.
Expires 08/01/08.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?
With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more! Save at hotels and restaurants near Walt Disney World, on car rental, airfare, admission to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa! For details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Movies and CD's
Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Accommodations
Enjoy Special Rates at select hotels, condos and vacation rentals near Disney. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Luggage
Save up to 60% on Luggage, Backpacks, and more! Donna and I bought a beautiful 5-piece set of Samsonite luggage for our daughter for Christmas for $144! Click here.
--------------------------------
Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom
Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock brokers that require you to purchase several shares of stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
=============================================
See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
=============================================
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
=============================================
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
July 30, 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.
Rumor has it that Walt Disney World is going to raise its ticket prices August 3. Affordable Disney members should contact our ticket agent today. You can buy Disney tickets in advance since unused tickets never expire. See below for comments from Beth, our travel agent.
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Last call for Labor Day Special at these Walt Disney World luxury resorts, Annual Passholder discount at Disneyland Resort, discounted rooms and packages at all-suite hotel near SeaWorld, and a Vegas Resort & Casino Special
* The latest news from around the "World" - get a FREE wake-up call from Hannah Montana
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about the rumored Disney ticket price increase
* Lisa writes about Disney dining changes
* CityWalk Calendar and Venue Entertainment - August 2008
* This week's coupon - save at this 18-hole championship golf course in Kissimmee
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Last call for Labor Day Special at these luxury Walt Disney World Resorts. Stay between August 28 and September 2, 2008 starting at $149 per night. Must be booked by July 31, 2008.
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Stay at this all-suite hotel near SeaWorld this summer and fall from $79 per night! Voted #1 by TripAdvisor in 2008. Must book 14-days in advance. Includes:
* Free hot buffet breakfast daily
* Free parking and High-speed Internet access
* Free shuttle to select theme parks
* suites with fully equipped kitchens
* Heated resort-style pool and whirlpool
* Sports Court, Exercise room, Video Arcade
* Guest Laundry
* Pet friendly
Packages also available:
* Stay 4 nights/get 4 SeaWorld tickets - From $516
* Stay 2 nights, Get a $25 Gas card - From $89
* Florida Residents through September 30, 2008 - From $95
* Golf Packages - From $214
* Shoppers Package - From $169
* SeaWorld & Aquatica packages - From $189
-------------------------------
DISNEYLAND
We have the discount code for room discounts for Annual Passholders at Disneyland Resort Hotels. Rates starting at $139. Christmas week excluded.
-------------------------------
VEGAS
Resort & Casino Special: Tower Suite rates from $275 per night. Includes a $30 food and beverage credit per night. Now through September 4, 2008.
=================================================
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!
--------------------------------
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!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $349!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> 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.
--------------------------------
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 is planning to add actresses playing Tinker Bell and her friends from an upcoming series of 'Disney Fairies' movies -- and might be creating a new attraction based on them." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/28/08)
--------------------------------
Now through September 15, 2008, you can receive FREE wake-up calls from Hannah Montana. Click here for details.
--------------------------------
Click here for the recipe for Sweet and Spicy Ribs served at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts.
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"Cypress Gardens Adventure Park, under new ownership for less than a year, will scale back its hours in September as a way to combat the slow period between summer thrill seekers and the winter snowbirds who flock to the park's gardens." The park will only be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/30/08)
--------------------------------
Busch's All-Day Dining Deal: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Aquatica visitors can buy wristbands good for unlimited dining at their cafeteria-style restaurants. Adults: $25.95; children (9 or less): $11.95, with tax. Includes entree, side or dessert, and soda or bottled water each visit. Baby back ribs are excluded. SeaWorld participating restaurants: Hospitality House Deli, Mama's Kitchen Healthy Alternatives, Mango Joe's, Seafire Inn, Smoky Creek, Spice Mill and Voyager. Aquatica: Banana Beach Cookout, Mango Market and Waterstone Grill. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/28/08) Scroll down.
--------------------------------
New at SeaWorld
SeaWorld is testing Shamu's Smartguide, a 3" x 3 1/2" handheld unit that serves as a GPS and provides useful park information. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/25/08)
"The latest Sesame Street offering at SeaWorld is Elmo and Abby Cadabby's Treasure Hunt, a song-and-dance show that will appear a few times each morning through Labor Day." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/25/08) Scroll down to find article.
--------------------------------
"Free Wi-Fi aside, [Orlando International] airport officials say the giant facility has been a leader in trying new technologies because it has more room and is more willing to take risks than airports in bigger cities such as Washington, D.C., or New York." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/21/08)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
The earthquake caused no damage at Disneyland, Universal Studios, Six Flags, San Diego Zoo, or Joshua Tree National Park. Amtrak tracks were unaffected. (Source: travel.latimes.com, 07/29/08)
--------------------------------
300 Anaheim, a new upscale bowling center near Disney, features an executive chef and a full bar. (Source: ocregister.com, 07/24/08)
--------------------------------
New hotel opens near Disneyland
The Sheraton Garden Grove-Anaheim South Hotel at 12221 Harbor Blvd. "includes 285 rooms and suites, a Club Level with daily complimentary Hospitality Hour and breakfast for hotel club members, an outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, a 24-hour gym, the Fusion Restaurant and a lobby bar." (Source: ocresort.freedomblogging.com, 07/24/08)
--------------------------------
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
PARIS
"For travelers on a budget, the choices can be tough... yet for those in the know, there are plenty of cheap - and even free - ways to enjoy the city." (Source: news.yahoo.com, 07/28/08)
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
Beth, our travel agent, writes about the rumored Disney ticket price increase:
"My sales rep will neither confirm nor deny rumors that ticket prices will increase Sunday, but there is lots of buzz around the reservations offices that 'stuff' is going to happen very soon. I'm assuming this means not only the annual ticket price increase, but also the 2009 package and rate details (which should be out within the next two weeks or so). I'm guessing the Oct-Dec promotional offers will be not far behind.
If you're already booked you will not be affected by the ticket price increase unless you make a change to your reservation - at which point the updated total will reflect the new ticket pricing.
Remember that if you don't need tickets then you don't need a package - and packages are the ONLY way (short of an annual pass) to get a dining plan. Packages are also the most likely way to get a discount. You could save yourself $50 or more by buying tickets before the price increase for a future stay - but then you'd either have to skip the package form of reservation (and a dining plan and any associated promotional discounts, either of which COULD save you considerably more) or shell out for a 1-day base ticket per person in order to book a package which will run you another $80 or so per person, probably eliminating whatever savings you might otherwise have had (or at least taking a big chunk out of it).
In other words, if you are CERTAIN that you do not want a dining plan and will save more on buying tickets now than you cold possibly hope to save with a promotion then go for it. Otherwise, just accept that your vacation is about to cost a little more than you thought it would. (Nothing new there, huh?) All the more reason to put your Affordable Disney Membership to good use!"
=================================================
Lisa writes:
"Hi John,
We have been lifetime members for almost 10 years and always enjoy your newsletters. For our 10th wedding anniversary the 2 of us and our 5 year old son are planning a 10 day trip to WDW in Jan 09. I made our Dinning reservations last night and wanted to update you on the following if you were not already aware. As of October 08 the Garden Grill in Epcot will no longer serve lunch (we were able to reserve for Dinner) and as of Jan 09 the Liberty Tree Tavern [in the Magic Kingdom] will no longer have character dining. Have a great Day."
Thanks, Lisa, for the update. I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying the newsletters!
=================================================
CityWalk Calendar And Venue Entertainment - August 2008
**SPECIAL EVENTS**
Jamaican Independence Day Celebration
Saturday, August 9th ~ 3PM - Close
Chain Reaction and other live reggae bands.
Food and drink specials featuring Bacardi Rum and Red Stripe.
Street vendors, DJs and street entertainment.
Regular admission: $15 plus tax. VIP admission: $25 plus tax.
VIP admission includes upstairs access, complimentary food, and all-club access after 9PM.
*Must be 21 or older for admission after 9PM.
Olympic Opening Ceremony Viewing Party
Friday, August 8 ~ Party starts at 7:30PM, Broadcast starts at 8PM
Catch all of the excitement of NBC’s telecast of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games from Beijing, China for FREE on CityWalk’s big Astrovision screen in front of Latin Quarter along with street performers and live entertainment.
**RESTAURANTS AND CLUBS**
Bob Marley - A Tribute to Freedom
Legendary Thursdays ~ 8PM - Close
1/2 price select appetizers and Red Stripe Beer specials
Entertainment
Mystik NRG ~ Monday - Friday
Chain Reaction ~ Saturday & Sundays
CityWalk Promenade
Orange Avenue plays on Fridays, Saturdays and other select dates
the groove
XL at the groove - SKYY’s Jet Set Fridays
Signature martinis, bottle service, SKYY drink specials and more
Hosted by WXXL 106.7 FM
Teen Nights at the groove
Fridays ~ August 1, 15; 7PM - 11PM
Sunday ~ August 31; 8PM - 12AM
Come listen to live DJs spin all of today’s hits, and experience state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video
Ages 15 - 19 welcome. Bring your school ID or driver’s license for admission.
Entertainment
DJs nightly
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
Locals Night - Thursdays
Enjoy drink specials, live rock entertainment and a chance to win prizes
Guests receive free admission with a Florida ID or a college ID after 10PM
Happy Hour from 3PM to 5PM at Lone Palm and Margaritaville’s Porch of Indecision
Half-priced domestic drafts and House Margaritas.
Entertainment
Blue Stone Circle ~ Tuesday - Saturday
Fred Ramos Band ~ Sunday - Monday
Lone Palm-DJ Bo Wilson ~ Thursday - Sunday
Patio ~ Live music nightly
Latin Quarter
Ladies Night with Rumba 100.3FM - Thursdays
Reggaeton/freestyle dance party from 10PM - 2AM
Ladies drink free (select beverages) from 10PM - 12AM
Entertainment
Alejandro Kartal ~ Monday - Saturday
George Dimitrov ~ Sundays
NASCAR Sports Grille
Featuring the following sporting events on BIG screens:
-Summer Olympics August 8th - 24th
-UFC Fight August 9th
-Football Season
-NASCAR races
NBA City
All sports, all the time!
Happy Hour daily ~ 4PM - 7PM
Pat O’Brien’s Orlando
2 for Tuesdays ~ Every Tuesday, 4PM - 10PM
2 for 1 domestic draft; 2 for 1 drink specials; 2 for 1 Hurricanes
Half-price select appetizers
S.O.B. Fridays (Shrimp, Oysters and Beer) - Fridays, 4PM - 9PM
Kick back and enjoy great seafood and beer specials at Orlando’s favorite New Orleans-style watering hole.
Dueling Piano Bar - Live music nightly
Red Coconut Club
Nightly Happy Hour
Sunday - Thursday, 8PM - 10PM; Friday and Saturday, 6PM - 9PM
$5 Martinis and complimentary valet parking
Ladies Night every Thursday ~ 8PM - Close
Ladies receive complimentary admission, valet parking and $3 martinis all evening
In Crowd Hospitality Sundays ~ Sundays at 10PM
Free admission for members of the hospitality industry all evening
Drink specials starting at $2 with your ID or hospitality pay stub
Entertainment
Special Guest DJ Baby Anne ~ Tuesday Nights August 5, 12 and 19
Shifty Eyed Dog ~ Thursday - Saturday
DJs nightly
Universal Cineplex 20, an AMC Theatre
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor - August 1, 2008
Death Race - August 22, 2008
**Dates and times subject to change. (Source: Universal Press Release, 07/25/08)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON
Kissimmee Bay Country Club
2801 Kissimmee Bay Cir
Kissimmee, FL 34744
407-348-4653
"Opened in 1990, Kissimmee Bay boasts an 18-hole championship golf course with a complete practice area including a unique water driving range." 20 minutes from Walt Disney World.
Save $10.00 per person on green fees and cart rental with this coupon.
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Affordable Disney Books
Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price. To check out the bargains, click here.
Coupon Code: ROAD
Password: BookCloseouts.com
Buy $35 worth of books and receive a $5 discount.
Expires 08/01/08.
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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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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 7:08 AM
