Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
July 2, 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 - Walt Disney World room discounts, Walt Disney World package with dining option, new hotel supplier, Disney cruise early booking discounts, Disney cruise discount for Floridians, special Disney cruise to Bahamas, Universal Hotel Discount, Disneyland Fall package, Disneyland package with air, Florida resident specials at Busch Gardens and SeaWorld, Vegas Resort & Casino Summer Special, and Mystery cruises to Mexico, Alaska and Bermuda
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney closing clubs at Pleasure Island
* Beth, our travel agent, shares her thoughts on cruising
* Walt Disney World Resort Unveils Bold New Vision for Downtown Disney
* Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course Added as Entitlement on Select Walt Disney World Tickets
* Walt Disney World Moms Panel Launches ‘How-To’ Video Series Online
* Actor Brendan Fraser reveals new clip from "The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor" at Universal Studios Florida
* This week's coupon - save at the Reebok Orlando Outlet Stores
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Room Only Discount at Walt Disney World Resorts for late summer. The room rates vary based on dates... weekends higher in some cases. Sample savings:
* Value resorts - 16%
* Moderate resorts - 27%
* Polynesian around - 23% (garden view room)
* Wilderness Lodge/AKL - 34% (standard room)
* Saratoga Springs/OKW - 37% (studio)
There is also a package version of this offer. The same travel and booking dates apply. You CAN add a basic or deluxe dining plan to this offer, but it's not discounted.
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New Hotel Supplier: Beth, our travel agent, writes: "I have a new supplier that seems to have some very favorable rates with hotels and resorts all over the world. Many offers include a free night, including a Downtown Disney hotel! (Offer applies only to certain dates.) So if you're looking for a hotel room - in Orlando or beyond - drop me a note and I'll see what I can find!"
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
*Early booking savings on two Disney Caribbean cruises in 2009
* Discounts on two Disney cruises for Florida residents
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A special 3-night Disney cruise to the Bahamas from $439 per person, double occupancy. The itinerary includes:
Wednesday - Depart Port Canaveral
Thursday - Nassau
Friday - Castaway Cay
Saturday - Return to Port Canaveral
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WORLDS OF DISCOVERY - SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island
Florida Residents enjoy:
* special pricing for tickets to any two parks
* unlimited admission to Busch Gardens or SeaWorld through the rest of 2008
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland 4th Night FREE Fall Package
Book a package (room and tickets) from three nights or more at one of these hotels near Disneyland and receive the fourth night FREE! Includes:
* souvenir ticket
* character meet
* preferred seating
* collectible pin and lanyard
* Downtown Disney Fun Card
* Disney character phone call
Prices start at $227 for family of four at a Disneyland "Good Neighbor" hotel.
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Disneyland Package with Airfare
Book a package with this airline and get 3-Day Disneyland Park Hopper Bonus Tickets for $99! Valid now through 10/28/08. Includes accommodations on or off Disney property.
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Universal Hotel Discount
Save up to 20% on your summer vacation now through August 16, 2008!
* Loews Royal Pacific Resort: From $207.40
* Hard Rock Hotel: From $241.40
* Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: From $239.20
Includes FREE Universal Express - skip the lines at both Universal parks!
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VEGAS
Resort & Casino Summer Special
* July Exclusive Summer Deluxe Room Rates Starting from $77 per night (Sunday - Thursday only)
* August Exclusive Summer Deluxe Room Rates Starting from $88 per night. (Sunday - Thursday only)
Promotion runs July 1, 2008 - August 31, 2008.
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MYSTERY CRUISES
You follow the clues and discover "whodunit" all at a special price!
Itineraries include Baja Mexico, Alaska, Eastern Caribbean, Mexican Riviera and Bermuda.
Special pricing for this event! Dates: July, September, and October, 2008; April, June, August, and October, 2009.
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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!
>> 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 $439!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> 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
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
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"The Baton Rouge Area Convention and Visitors Bureau board voted Wednesday to spend up to $50,000 to participate in a Louisiana Office of Tourism promotion at the 2008 Epcot International Wine and Food Festival at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla." (Source: 2theadvocate.com, 06/27/08)
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The Thomas family describe their dining experiences at Walt Disney World. (Source: travel.nytimes.com, 06/27/08)
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"With nearly a hundred of these shops closing around the country this week... Disney Consumer Products plans to make the Disney Stores seems special & unique again." (Source: jimhillmedia.com, 06/27/08)
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"A 52-year-old construction worker injured in a June 13 accident at Disney's All-Star Resort died Thursday night, officials at Walt Disney World said Friday." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/28/08)
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"Walt Disney World is shutting down the six nightclubs at Pleasure Island [September 27] to make its party district at Downtown Disney more family friendly." Disney is also updating MarketPlace and Westside and plans to add a tethered balloon that will take visitors 300 feet into the air! (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/28/08)
Effective September 28, 2008, Pleasure Island will cease to be an option with the Water Park Fun & More Option. Disney is substituting a round of golf at Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course. You can still choose other options like the Water Parks, DisneyQuest or Disney's Wide World of Sports.
See Press Releases below.
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"Through a fluke of existing travel plans, my husband's extensive work travel schedule and a little bit of luck, I managed to visit all five resorts - 11 different theme parks - in less than a year." (Source: sltrib.com, 06/26/08)
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Epcot International Food and Wine Festival
"Melbourne will be put on show as one of the world's top food destinations if a bid to recreate the city's laneways and markets at Disney World in Florida is successful." (Source: melbourneleader.com.au, 06/25/08)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Busch Gardens and SeaWorld have increased their base ticket price by $2.
One-day, one-park ticket: $69.95
Aquatica: $41.95
Adventure Island in Tampa: $37.95
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"Nights are brighter at SeaWorld Orlando with new AfterDark shows [offering] entertainment not available during the day." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/27/08)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"In an effort to make waiting in lines fair for all, Knott's Berry Farm has adopted a new policy that no longer allows disabled park-goers to head to the front." (Source: ocregister.com, 06/24/08)
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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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Beth, our travel agent, shares her thoughts on cruising:
"All of a sudden I'm being bombarded by requests for 'great deals on a summer cruise.' I've written many, many times about what a great vacation value cruising is. It seems that more people are finally willing to give it a chance. Bravo! The thing is, they're waiting too long to book.
Gone are the days when you can call up the cruise line a week before sailing and snag a cabin for your family at bargain basement prices. OK, maybe not completely gone, but certainly very rare. The fact is, the cruise lines can't build ships fast enough to keep up with demand. That's especially true of the super liners. They're huge, but the demand far exceeds capacity.
Think about it... There are currently only three of those ships that feature surfing onboard. Of their 1,817 cabins, about 20 of them sleep 6 or more. Those tend to book more than a year in advance, right when the sailings are first released. Well over half of the cabins hold only two passengers. Given that these are the coolest ships at sea, how long do you suppose those triple and quad cabins for June and July itineraries last? Not long!
My point is that while the ships are really big and have lots of cabins, there aren't as many as you'd think that can accommodate a family. Those that can sell early, especially over times when schools tend to be on break. The tropical itineraries sell earlier than the Alaskan, European or other options as well. So while there are some amazing short-notice cruise deals to be had this summer, they tend to be on non-Caribbean itineraries, for cruises of 7 nights or longer, and on cabins that only sleep two people.
NOW is the time to be booking your family cruise for next summer as well as for Thanksgiving and Christmas '09. For Disney cruises, which book up even earlier, I have a waiting list for 2010 sailings. Yes, seriously! You'll get the best pricing, the best choice of cabins, the best shot at free upgrades, and more if you book early. Your deposit will be refundable, so you really have nothing to risk. If you can't do it now, then watch for the World's Largest Cruise Night in October. It only lasts one day, though, so you have to know exactly what you want and have that deposit ready because we'll have to put it in at the time of booking to secure the promotional offers for that day.
If you've got flexibility and there are just two of you, then by all means check with me about 90 days before you want to travel and I'll set you up with a bargain. If there are three or more of you, though, and you want just one cabin don't wait or you may miss out entirely."
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Walt Disney World Resort Unveils Bold New Vision for Downtown Disney
Lake Buena Vista, Florida - Walt Disney World Resort today unveiled a new vision for Downtown Disney, with extraordinary new shopping, dining and other experiences including a completely re-imagined Pleasure Island. Also planned are numerous enhancements to popular Downtown Disney locations, as well as additional theming and storytelling brought to life by Walt Disney Imagineers.
"We are committed to offering guests new and exciting experiences they can only have at Walt Disney World Resort," said Downtown Disney Vice President Kevin Lansberry. "Our bold new vision for Downtown Disney reflects the feedback we receive from our guests each and every day and will enable us to continue to offer the high-quality entertainment that is our hallmark."
Over the next year, the 120-acre entertainment-shopping-dining complex will add a number of one-of-a-kind, immersive experiences for guests. Downtown Disney will even get its own iconic attraction, in the form of a giant, tethered balloon that will take guests 300 feet into the air to view the amazing vistas of Walt Disney World Resort. Other new experiences include:
In fall 2008, guests will enter a world of prehistoric creatures at T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure. The dinosaur-themed family eatery will serve up pizzas, pastas, seafood and more, and will feature life-size animated dinosaurs that dwell among bubbling geysers, waterfalls and a fossil dig site.
Also this fall, a design-your-own t-shirt store from Hanes will add to the growing collection of merchandise guests can personalize at Downtown Disney.
E-brands Restaurants, an Orlando-based, multi-concept restaurant group, will premier its newest concept at Downtown Disney in spring 2009. The high-energy, casual eatery will feature authentic Central and South American cuisine, specialty drinks and live music along the waterfront.
Guests also will enjoy a brand new mix of shopping and dining experiences at Pleasure Island as it is transformed over the next two years.
"Our guests tell us they want additional shopping and dining experiences at Downtown Disney," added Lansberry. "We are currently considering a number of unique concepts from around the globe as we re-imagine Pleasure Island and look forward to sharing our progress over the coming months."
To make way for the new offerings, all of the clubs currently on Pleasure Island will close on September 27. Other locations on Pleasure Island, including Raglan Road, Fuego by Sosa Cigars, Curl by Sammy Duval, Orlando Harley-Davidson and outdoor food and beverage locations, will remain open during the transition.
To complement these new experiences, many popular Downtown Disney locations will undergo enhancements.
Beginning this summer, Portobello Yacht Club will be transformed into a Tuscan Country Trattoria. The refreshed menu features authentic Italian dishes and signature favorites and a re-designed interior along with an outdoor dining space.
This fall, Goofy's Candy Company will add a special new room that will enable families to host one-of-a-kind birthday parties at Downtown Disney.
The Marketplace Stage will be completely replaced with a larger, covered stage this fall to welcome even more entertainment to Downtown Disney and serve as a new premier venue for Disney Magic Music Days.
Fulton's Crab House will update its interior fixtures and furnishing and exterior in Spring 2009. The enhancements include a refreshed third floor deck dining area to offer additional Disney guests and larger private parties the traditional Fulton's experience.
Next year, Wolfgang Puck Café will update its interior fixtures and furnishings and will feature an enclosed glass patio offering guests a year-round outdoor dining experience.
These efforts come on the heels of recent enhancements at World of Disney, Wolfgang Puck Express, Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop, Earl of Sandwich and Cap'n Jack's Restaurant. (Source: Press Release, 06/27/08)
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Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course Added as Entitlement on Select Walt Disney World Tickets
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Disney’s Oak Trail golf course, a relaxed, nine-hole walking course designed for the entire family, has been added as an entitlement on select Walt Disney World tickets.
The ticket entitlement, which covers green fees, has been added to the Water Park Fun & More option of Magic Your Way Tickets and to Premium Annual Passes.
The nine-hole, par-36 Oak Trail course, located adjacent to Shades of Green along with Disney’s Magnolia and Palm golf courses, plays at 2,913 yards (2,552 yards from the front tees). It features undulating target greens. Holes range from 132 yards to a 517-yard, double dogleg par five that Disney pros regard as one of the more interesting and challenging of Disney’s 81 holes of golf.
Oak Trail, which was designed by well-known course architect Ron Garl, is considered perfect for both the developing golfer and the experienced player - ideal for a family outing or a quick nine.
Tee times are required and subject to availability and may be made by calling
407/WDW-GOLF or by visiting disneyworldgolf.com.
The Water Park Fun & More option now includes admissions to Blizzard Beach water park, Typhoon Lagoon water park, DisneyQuest, Pleasure Island, Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex and Disney’s Oak Trail golf course. The number of admissions to the guest’s selection of attractions varies from two to 10 depending upon the number of days on the Magic Your Way ticket. Cost of the Water Park Fun & More option is $50 on all Magic Your Way tickets.
With the Premium Annual Pass, guests have unlimited admission for 365 days from the purchase date (except to activities/events separately priced) to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, DisneyQuest, Disney’s water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon), Disney’s Oak Trail golf course, and Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex, as well as complimentary parking. (Source: Press Release, 07/01/08)
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Actor Brendan Fraser Reveals New Clip From Universal Pictures’ Upcoming "The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor" At Universal Studios Florida
Guests Greeted by Fraser, Preview New Epic Adventure - and Then Climb Aboard Universal’s Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride
They May Also Win a Package to Attend the Movie’s World Premiere in Hollywood
WHAT: Brendan Fraser, star of "The Mummy" movies and star of Universal’s Revenge of The Mummy attraction visits the theme park to meet with park guests. He will reveal a sneak peek from his new film - "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" just weeks before the film’s world premiere. Park guests will also have the opportunity to enter onsite for a chance to win a movie premiere package for two, complete with round-trip airfare, three nights of accommodations, tickets to attend "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" premiere and Universal Studios Hollywood.
In addition to being the first to see the exclusive film footage, guests will also get to ask Fraser questions on the filmmaking process during a Q&A session.
After seeing the film clip, guests can climb aboard the ride based on the phenomenally popular "The Mummy" films, The Revenge of The Mummy - The Ride. The psychological thrill ride, with Fraser in the lead role, is the first attraction in history to feature an unprecedented fusion of threshold technology, high-speed roller coaster engineering and space-age robotics to propel guests through authenticated ancient Egyptian catacombs and "live" pyrotechnic effects.
In "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor," Fraser reprises his role as explorer Rick O’Connell to combat the resurrected Han Emperor (Jet Li) in an epic that races from Ancient China to the neon-lit streets of post-war Shanghai and high into the spectacular Himalayas. The movie hits theaters August 1.
WHEN: Friday, July 11, 2008 at 2 p.m.
WHERE: Universal Studios Florida
TICKET INFORMATION: For tickets to Universal Studios Florida or for more information, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com (Source: Press Release, 06/27/08)
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Walt Disney World Moms Panel Launches ‘How-To’ Video Series Online
Park-savvy panelists share their best Disney vacation tips with home videos
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Families planning a vacation to Walt Disney World Resort now have access to a new online resource at disneyworldmoms.com: Moms Panel "How-To" videos.
The Walt Disney World Moms Panelists share quick, step-by-step visual tips about everything from planning a girlfriends getaway without the kids to figuring out how Disney’s Magical Express really works.
"How-To" Videos Preview:
* "Packing for the Park" - Heather Roberts-Nault, Louisville, Ky., with a little help from her daughter, shares tips and personal favorites on what to pack when headed to a Disney theme park for the day, especially with little ones in tow.
* "Fast Pass" - Bret Caldwell, Evanston, Ill., takes the guest inside Walt Disney World Resort to uncover the magic of FASTPASS, including where to find FASTPASS, how to get one and the best ways to use it.
* "Make Flying Fun" - Beth Choisez, Floral Park, N.Y., shares her ‘secret to sanity’ when traveling by plane - Beth provides tactics for dealing with the luggage, strollers, diaper bags, and the kids, so that everyone stays calm and happy.
* "Disney for All Ages" - Laura Spencer, Boston, Mass., and her girlfriends, Julie, Dot and Carolyn, provide some ideas for enjoying Disney without the kids - suggestions include a visit to the Art of Disney in Epcot concluded by a champagne toast in France.
* "Make the Switch" - Michelle May, Lebanon, N.J., and her husband take on an attraction using the Rider Switch Pass - specifically, how families with young children can experience the rides without having to stand in line twice.
The Walt Disney World Moms Panel experts conceived the "How-To" videos as a fun way to provide original and innovative content designed to help alleviate the pressure of planning a memorable Disney vacation - so families can focus more on making memories of a lifetime.
To view the Walt Disney World Moms Panel "How-To" videos or find additional vacation planning tips from experts, visit disneyworldmoms.com.
About the Walt Disney World Moms Panel
Launched in January 2008, the Walt Disney World Moms Panel is an online forum where guests can get insider tips and insights for vacationing at Walt Disney World Resort from real moms who have mastered the art of planning a Walt Disney World vacation. The Walt Disney World Moms Panel consists of 12 real parents selected to share their vast knowledge of the resort and personal secrets of success with other families who are considering a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Guests can pose questions and have them answered by the panelists, as well as gain access to other valuable park insights and vacation planning tools for booking a Walt Disney World vacation. For more information, visit disneyworldmoms.com. (Source: Press Release, 06/30/08)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON
Save 15% at Reebok Orlando Outlet Stores 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
July 2, 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 - Walt Disney World room discounts, Walt Disney World package with dining option, new hotel supplier, Disney cruise early booking discounts, Disney cruise discount for Floridians, special Disney cruise to Bahamas, Universal Hotel Discount, Disneyland Fall package, Disneyland package with air, Florida resident specials at Busch Gardens and SeaWorld, Vegas Resort & Casino Summer Special, and Mystery cruises to Mexico, Alaska and Bermuda
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney closing clubs at Pleasure Island
* Beth, our travel agent, shares her thoughts on cruising
* Walt Disney World Resort Unveils Bold New Vision for Downtown Disney
* Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course Added as Entitlement on Select Walt Disney World Tickets
* Walt Disney World Moms Panel Launches ‘How-To’ Video Series Online
* Actor Brendan Fraser reveals new clip from "The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor" at Universal Studios Florida
* This week's coupon - save at the Reebok Orlando Outlet Stores
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Room Only Discount at Walt Disney World Resorts for late summer. The room rates vary based on dates... weekends higher in some cases. Sample savings:
* Value resorts - 16%
* Moderate resorts - 27%
* Polynesian around - 23% (garden view room)
* Wilderness Lodge/AKL - 34% (standard room)
* Saratoga Springs/OKW - 37% (studio)
There is also a package version of this offer. The same travel and booking dates apply. You CAN add a basic or deluxe dining plan to this offer, but it's not discounted.
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New Hotel Supplier: Beth, our travel agent, writes: "I have a new supplier that seems to have some very favorable rates with hotels and resorts all over the world. Many offers include a free night, including a Downtown Disney hotel! (Offer applies only to certain dates.) So if you're looking for a hotel room - in Orlando or beyond - drop me a note and I'll see what I can find!"
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
*Early booking savings on two Disney Caribbean cruises in 2009
* Discounts on two Disney cruises for Florida residents
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A special 3-night Disney cruise to the Bahamas from $439 per person, double occupancy. The itinerary includes:
Wednesday - Depart Port Canaveral
Thursday - Nassau
Friday - Castaway Cay
Saturday - Return to Port Canaveral
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WORLDS OF DISCOVERY - SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island
Florida Residents enjoy:
* special pricing for tickets to any two parks
* unlimited admission to Busch Gardens or SeaWorld through the rest of 2008
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland 4th Night FREE Fall Package
Book a package (room and tickets) from three nights or more at one of these hotels near Disneyland and receive the fourth night FREE! Includes:
* souvenir ticket
* character meet
* preferred seating
* collectible pin and lanyard
* Downtown Disney Fun Card
* Disney character phone call
Prices start at $227 for family of four at a Disneyland "Good Neighbor" hotel.
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Disneyland Package with Airfare
Book a package with this airline and get 3-Day Disneyland Park Hopper Bonus Tickets for $99! Valid now through 10/28/08. Includes accommodations on or off Disney property.
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Universal Hotel Discount
Save up to 20% on your summer vacation now through August 16, 2008!
* Loews Royal Pacific Resort: From $207.40
* Hard Rock Hotel: From $241.40
* Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: From $239.20
Includes FREE Universal Express - skip the lines at both Universal parks!
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VEGAS
Resort & Casino Summer Special
* July Exclusive Summer Deluxe Room Rates Starting from $77 per night (Sunday - Thursday only)
* August Exclusive Summer Deluxe Room Rates Starting from $88 per night. (Sunday - Thursday only)
Promotion runs July 1, 2008 - August 31, 2008.
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MYSTERY CRUISES
You follow the clues and discover "whodunit" all at a special price!
Itineraries include Baja Mexico, Alaska, Eastern Caribbean, Mexican Riviera and Bermuda.
Special pricing for this event! Dates: July, September, and October, 2008; April, June, August, and October, 2009.
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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!
>> 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 $439!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> 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
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
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"The Baton Rouge Area Convention and Visitors Bureau board voted Wednesday to spend up to $50,000 to participate in a Louisiana Office of Tourism promotion at the 2008 Epcot International Wine and Food Festival at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla." (Source: 2theadvocate.com, 06/27/08)
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The Thomas family describe their dining experiences at Walt Disney World. (Source: travel.nytimes.com, 06/27/08)
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"With nearly a hundred of these shops closing around the country this week... Disney Consumer Products plans to make the Disney Stores seems special & unique again." (Source: jimhillmedia.com, 06/27/08)
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"A 52-year-old construction worker injured in a June 13 accident at Disney's All-Star Resort died Thursday night, officials at Walt Disney World said Friday." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/28/08)
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"Walt Disney World is shutting down the six nightclubs at Pleasure Island [September 27] to make its party district at Downtown Disney more family friendly." Disney is also updating MarketPlace and Westside and plans to add a tethered balloon that will take visitors 300 feet into the air! (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/28/08)
Effective September 28, 2008, Pleasure Island will cease to be an option with the Water Park Fun & More Option. Disney is substituting a round of golf at Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course. You can still choose other options like the Water Parks, DisneyQuest or Disney's Wide World of Sports.
See Press Releases below.
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"Through a fluke of existing travel plans, my husband's extensive work travel schedule and a little bit of luck, I managed to visit all five resorts - 11 different theme parks - in less than a year." (Source: sltrib.com, 06/26/08)
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Epcot International Food and Wine Festival
"Melbourne will be put on show as one of the world's top food destinations if a bid to recreate the city's laneways and markets at Disney World in Florida is successful." (Source: melbourneleader.com.au, 06/25/08)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Busch Gardens and SeaWorld have increased their base ticket price by $2.
One-day, one-park ticket: $69.95
Aquatica: $41.95
Adventure Island in Tampa: $37.95
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"Nights are brighter at SeaWorld Orlando with new AfterDark shows [offering] entertainment not available during the day." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/27/08)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"In an effort to make waiting in lines fair for all, Knott's Berry Farm has adopted a new policy that no longer allows disabled park-goers to head to the front." (Source: ocregister.com, 06/24/08)
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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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Beth, our travel agent, shares her thoughts on cruising:
"All of a sudden I'm being bombarded by requests for 'great deals on a summer cruise.' I've written many, many times about what a great vacation value cruising is. It seems that more people are finally willing to give it a chance. Bravo! The thing is, they're waiting too long to book.
Gone are the days when you can call up the cruise line a week before sailing and snag a cabin for your family at bargain basement prices. OK, maybe not completely gone, but certainly very rare. The fact is, the cruise lines can't build ships fast enough to keep up with demand. That's especially true of the super liners. They're huge, but the demand far exceeds capacity.
Think about it... There are currently only three of those ships that feature surfing onboard. Of their 1,817 cabins, about 20 of them sleep 6 or more. Those tend to book more than a year in advance, right when the sailings are first released. Well over half of the cabins hold only two passengers. Given that these are the coolest ships at sea, how long do you suppose those triple and quad cabins for June and July itineraries last? Not long!
My point is that while the ships are really big and have lots of cabins, there aren't as many as you'd think that can accommodate a family. Those that can sell early, especially over times when schools tend to be on break. The tropical itineraries sell earlier than the Alaskan, European or other options as well. So while there are some amazing short-notice cruise deals to be had this summer, they tend to be on non-Caribbean itineraries, for cruises of 7 nights or longer, and on cabins that only sleep two people.
NOW is the time to be booking your family cruise for next summer as well as for Thanksgiving and Christmas '09. For Disney cruises, which book up even earlier, I have a waiting list for 2010 sailings. Yes, seriously! You'll get the best pricing, the best choice of cabins, the best shot at free upgrades, and more if you book early. Your deposit will be refundable, so you really have nothing to risk. If you can't do it now, then watch for the World's Largest Cruise Night in October. It only lasts one day, though, so you have to know exactly what you want and have that deposit ready because we'll have to put it in at the time of booking to secure the promotional offers for that day.
If you've got flexibility and there are just two of you, then by all means check with me about 90 days before you want to travel and I'll set you up with a bargain. If there are three or more of you, though, and you want just one cabin don't wait or you may miss out entirely."
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Walt Disney World Resort Unveils Bold New Vision for Downtown Disney
Lake Buena Vista, Florida - Walt Disney World Resort today unveiled a new vision for Downtown Disney, with extraordinary new shopping, dining and other experiences including a completely re-imagined Pleasure Island. Also planned are numerous enhancements to popular Downtown Disney locations, as well as additional theming and storytelling brought to life by Walt Disney Imagineers.
"We are committed to offering guests new and exciting experiences they can only have at Walt Disney World Resort," said Downtown Disney Vice President Kevin Lansberry. "Our bold new vision for Downtown Disney reflects the feedback we receive from our guests each and every day and will enable us to continue to offer the high-quality entertainment that is our hallmark."
Over the next year, the 120-acre entertainment-shopping-dining complex will add a number of one-of-a-kind, immersive experiences for guests. Downtown Disney will even get its own iconic attraction, in the form of a giant, tethered balloon that will take guests 300 feet into the air to view the amazing vistas of Walt Disney World Resort. Other new experiences include:
In fall 2008, guests will enter a world of prehistoric creatures at T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure. The dinosaur-themed family eatery will serve up pizzas, pastas, seafood and more, and will feature life-size animated dinosaurs that dwell among bubbling geysers, waterfalls and a fossil dig site.
Also this fall, a design-your-own t-shirt store from Hanes will add to the growing collection of merchandise guests can personalize at Downtown Disney.
E-brands Restaurants, an Orlando-based, multi-concept restaurant group, will premier its newest concept at Downtown Disney in spring 2009. The high-energy, casual eatery will feature authentic Central and South American cuisine, specialty drinks and live music along the waterfront.
Guests also will enjoy a brand new mix of shopping and dining experiences at Pleasure Island as it is transformed over the next two years.
"Our guests tell us they want additional shopping and dining experiences at Downtown Disney," added Lansberry. "We are currently considering a number of unique concepts from around the globe as we re-imagine Pleasure Island and look forward to sharing our progress over the coming months."
To make way for the new offerings, all of the clubs currently on Pleasure Island will close on September 27. Other locations on Pleasure Island, including Raglan Road, Fuego by Sosa Cigars, Curl by Sammy Duval, Orlando Harley-Davidson and outdoor food and beverage locations, will remain open during the transition.
To complement these new experiences, many popular Downtown Disney locations will undergo enhancements.
Beginning this summer, Portobello Yacht Club will be transformed into a Tuscan Country Trattoria. The refreshed menu features authentic Italian dishes and signature favorites and a re-designed interior along with an outdoor dining space.
This fall, Goofy's Candy Company will add a special new room that will enable families to host one-of-a-kind birthday parties at Downtown Disney.
The Marketplace Stage will be completely replaced with a larger, covered stage this fall to welcome even more entertainment to Downtown Disney and serve as a new premier venue for Disney Magic Music Days.
Fulton's Crab House will update its interior fixtures and furnishing and exterior in Spring 2009. The enhancements include a refreshed third floor deck dining area to offer additional Disney guests and larger private parties the traditional Fulton's experience.
Next year, Wolfgang Puck Café will update its interior fixtures and furnishings and will feature an enclosed glass patio offering guests a year-round outdoor dining experience.
These efforts come on the heels of recent enhancements at World of Disney, Wolfgang Puck Express, Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop, Earl of Sandwich and Cap'n Jack's Restaurant. (Source: Press Release, 06/27/08)
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Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course Added as Entitlement on Select Walt Disney World Tickets
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Disney’s Oak Trail golf course, a relaxed, nine-hole walking course designed for the entire family, has been added as an entitlement on select Walt Disney World tickets.
The ticket entitlement, which covers green fees, has been added to the Water Park Fun & More option of Magic Your Way Tickets and to Premium Annual Passes.
The nine-hole, par-36 Oak Trail course, located adjacent to Shades of Green along with Disney’s Magnolia and Palm golf courses, plays at 2,913 yards (2,552 yards from the front tees). It features undulating target greens. Holes range from 132 yards to a 517-yard, double dogleg par five that Disney pros regard as one of the more interesting and challenging of Disney’s 81 holes of golf.
Oak Trail, which was designed by well-known course architect Ron Garl, is considered perfect for both the developing golfer and the experienced player - ideal for a family outing or a quick nine.
Tee times are required and subject to availability and may be made by calling
407/WDW-GOLF or by visiting disneyworldgolf.com.
The Water Park Fun & More option now includes admissions to Blizzard Beach water park, Typhoon Lagoon water park, DisneyQuest, Pleasure Island, Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex and Disney’s Oak Trail golf course. The number of admissions to the guest’s selection of attractions varies from two to 10 depending upon the number of days on the Magic Your Way ticket. Cost of the Water Park Fun & More option is $50 on all Magic Your Way tickets.
With the Premium Annual Pass, guests have unlimited admission for 365 days from the purchase date (except to activities/events separately priced) to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, DisneyQuest, Disney’s water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon), Disney’s Oak Trail golf course, and Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex, as well as complimentary parking. (Source: Press Release, 07/01/08)
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Actor Brendan Fraser Reveals New Clip From Universal Pictures’ Upcoming "The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor" At Universal Studios Florida
Guests Greeted by Fraser, Preview New Epic Adventure - and Then Climb Aboard Universal’s Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride
They May Also Win a Package to Attend the Movie’s World Premiere in Hollywood
WHAT: Brendan Fraser, star of "The Mummy" movies and star of Universal’s Revenge of The Mummy attraction visits the theme park to meet with park guests. He will reveal a sneak peek from his new film - "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" just weeks before the film’s world premiere. Park guests will also have the opportunity to enter onsite for a chance to win a movie premiere package for two, complete with round-trip airfare, three nights of accommodations, tickets to attend "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" premiere and Universal Studios Hollywood.
In addition to being the first to see the exclusive film footage, guests will also get to ask Fraser questions on the filmmaking process during a Q&A session.
After seeing the film clip, guests can climb aboard the ride based on the phenomenally popular "The Mummy" films, The Revenge of The Mummy - The Ride. The psychological thrill ride, with Fraser in the lead role, is the first attraction in history to feature an unprecedented fusion of threshold technology, high-speed roller coaster engineering and space-age robotics to propel guests through authenticated ancient Egyptian catacombs and "live" pyrotechnic effects.
In "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor," Fraser reprises his role as explorer Rick O’Connell to combat the resurrected Han Emperor (Jet Li) in an epic that races from Ancient China to the neon-lit streets of post-war Shanghai and high into the spectacular Himalayas. The movie hits theaters August 1.
WHEN: Friday, July 11, 2008 at 2 p.m.
WHERE: Universal Studios Florida
TICKET INFORMATION: For tickets to Universal Studios Florida or for more information, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com (Source: Press Release, 06/27/08)
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Walt Disney World Moms Panel Launches ‘How-To’ Video Series Online
Park-savvy panelists share their best Disney vacation tips with home videos
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Families planning a vacation to Walt Disney World Resort now have access to a new online resource at disneyworldmoms.com: Moms Panel "How-To" videos.
The Walt Disney World Moms Panelists share quick, step-by-step visual tips about everything from planning a girlfriends getaway without the kids to figuring out how Disney’s Magical Express really works.
"How-To" Videos Preview:
* "Packing for the Park" - Heather Roberts-Nault, Louisville, Ky., with a little help from her daughter, shares tips and personal favorites on what to pack when headed to a Disney theme park for the day, especially with little ones in tow.
* "Fast Pass" - Bret Caldwell, Evanston, Ill., takes the guest inside Walt Disney World Resort to uncover the magic of FASTPASS, including where to find FASTPASS, how to get one and the best ways to use it.
* "Make Flying Fun" - Beth Choisez, Floral Park, N.Y., shares her ‘secret to sanity’ when traveling by plane - Beth provides tactics for dealing with the luggage, strollers, diaper bags, and the kids, so that everyone stays calm and happy.
* "Disney for All Ages" - Laura Spencer, Boston, Mass., and her girlfriends, Julie, Dot and Carolyn, provide some ideas for enjoying Disney without the kids - suggestions include a visit to the Art of Disney in Epcot concluded by a champagne toast in France.
* "Make the Switch" - Michelle May, Lebanon, N.J., and her husband take on an attraction using the Rider Switch Pass - specifically, how families with young children can experience the rides without having to stand in line twice.
The Walt Disney World Moms Panel experts conceived the "How-To" videos as a fun way to provide original and innovative content designed to help alleviate the pressure of planning a memorable Disney vacation - so families can focus more on making memories of a lifetime.
To view the Walt Disney World Moms Panel "How-To" videos or find additional vacation planning tips from experts, visit disneyworldmoms.com.
About the Walt Disney World Moms Panel
Launched in January 2008, the Walt Disney World Moms Panel is an online forum where guests can get insider tips and insights for vacationing at Walt Disney World Resort from real moms who have mastered the art of planning a Walt Disney World vacation. The Walt Disney World Moms Panel consists of 12 real parents selected to share their vast knowledge of the resort and personal secrets of success with other families who are considering a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Guests can pose questions and have them answered by the panelists, as well as gain access to other valuable park insights and vacation planning tools for booking a Walt Disney World vacation. For more information, visit disneyworldmoms.com. (Source: Press Release, 06/30/08)
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 6:07 AM
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