Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
November 19, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 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 - November membership drive, new Disney sweepstakes, scooter rental discount, Adventures by Disney discount, Disneyland California ticket discount/vacation package, Disney cruise line discounts, Disney Good Neighbor hotel & suites special, Florida Pool Homes special, packages for hotels near Disneyland Paris, dining certificate sale, and balcony bonanza cruise

* News from around the "World" - Disney Cruise Line plans 3-D theaters

* Beth, our travel agent, writes about her recent cruise aboard the Ruby Princess

* How Beth saved a family $3,000!

* Disney Cruise Line Premieres First-Ever 3-D Cinematic Experience at Sea

* Half off Disney toy promotion

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NEW THIS WEEK

Save BIG With our November Membership Drive!

* 2 years for the price of one!
* Free gift membership!
* Free lifetime upgrade for the military!

Hurry! This special offer ends November 21, 2008.
Visit our website for details.

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WALT DISNEY WORLD

8 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 51 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!

Discounted Scooter Rental: Beth's clients can rent any Standard Scooter delivered between now and December 31, 2008 at the discounted rate of $25.00 a day! Beth writes: "I would say about half of all the clients I talk with about renting scooters and chairs end up adding one from this company to their reservation and - so far - they've all been happy. In fact, I even had one once that got a scooter with a battery that wouldn't hold a charge. Not only did the company run right over with a replacement, but they also refunded half her money for her troubles... and this was about 24 hours into a 10-day stay! Really good people to work with."

Adventures by Disney early booking discount: Save up to $500 per person!

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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Beth highly recommends this Hotel and Suites. An Official Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel. One of the closest hotels in Kissimmee to Walt Disney World and all the other Orlando and Kissimmee attractions. Pet friendly. Free shuttle to the parks. Full service restaurant and food court.

# Breakfast Special: Add $13 per day (save $25!) and enjoy a breakfast buffet for two adults. Tax and beverage included. (Kids 12 and under always get free breakfast - limit 2 children per room).

# Special Military Rate: From $45 per night!

# Seniors save with their Senior Fun Club.

# Single Parent Package: Kids enjoy:

* FREE ice cream
* FREE breakfast
* FREE play at Dungeon Castle Video Arcade

# Florida Pool Homes: Private vacation homes 5 miles from Walt Disney World. 3-bedroom home (sleeps 8): $135/night; 5-bedroom home (sleeps 12): $175/night. For stays through January 31, 2009. Both homes have screened private pools and are completely equipped with bedding, towels, and cooking utensils. Book by 11/30/08 and receive FREE Pool Heat (regularly $30 per day).

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DINING CERTIFICATES

Discounts at Restaurants near Disney: This dining resource offers money saving dining certificates to restaurants in Orlando, near Walt Disney World, in Anaheim, near Disneyland California, and all across the US. Get $25 certificates for only $2! Expires 11/20/08.

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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Park Hopper ticket at the kid’s price!

Vacation package with accommodations, tickets, FREE Parking and more from $92 per person, per day!

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

7 new discounted cruises for 2009 from $299!

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OUTSIDE DISNEYLAND PARIS

Enjoy luxury hotels located in Le Faubourg, Arc de Triomphe, and Champs Elysees!

"I Love Chocolate" offer: 3-night stay for the price of 2. Book a three-night stay until January 31, 2009 and enjoy:

* exquisite accommodations
* delicious breakfast
* French hot chocolate with gourmet treats
* chocolate three-course dinner
* chocolate surprise in your rooms

"Air of Romance" offer: Valid for stays between November 12, 2008 and February 28, 2009. Includes:

* breakfast in your room
* bouquet of red roses
* bottle of champagne
* Late check-out

Plus! A gift certificate to spend at the hotel restaurants, bars or spa.

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BALCONY BONANZA CRUISE

Get a balcony for the price of an oceanview stateroom. Save up to $1,000 per cabin! Book through December 15, 2008 for 2009 summer sailings to Alaska, Europe and the Caribbean. Plus! Get a free upgrade to oceanview stateroom. Plus! Alaska and Europe cruisetours include a $200 onboard credit per stateroom.

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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!

>> Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts!

>> 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 $25

>> 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 $299!

>> 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
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

This Day in Disney History
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Goofy Birthday Parties: Birthday parties can be booked at Goofy’s Candy Co. at Downtown Disney Marketplace beginning Dec. 1, 2008. Call 407-WDW-BDAY for reservations. (Source: Disney email blast, 11/18/08)

Club Libby Lu at Downtown Disney to close
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Manta on demand: more details about SeaWorld coaster under construction

Some car renters find $1-a-day bargains

Holidays at the Theme Parks
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEYLAND HONG KONG

Heart Warming Christmas Stories to Magically Unfold during Hong Kong Disneyland's Sparkling Royal Kingdom
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

USA TODAY exclusive: Disney Cruise Line plans 3-D theaters

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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, writes about her recent cruise aboard the Ruby Princess:

"If you've been reading this newsletter for awhile then you know I'm a big-time cruise addict. I would be perfectly content living on a ship permanently. (Actually, I did live and work on one for five years after college.) It's also no secret that sometimes travel agents are offered great deals in order to get them to come take a look and, hopefully, follow the trip by telling all their clients how great it was. Well, when Princess Cruise Line sent me an invitation about six weeks ago to spend two nights onboard the brand new Ruby Princess for FREE I jumped at the chance.

Just as Princess knows how to take care of their passengers, they know how to take care of their travel agents. My guest and I were given a gorgeous balcony cabin, treated to an open bar for both days, and even had the cost of our gratuities and parking taken care of. You can visit Princess.com to see a video of the christening ceremony that took place that evening. It was hosted by a variety of celebrities and dignitaries including Gavin MacLeod (Capt. Stubing of Love Boat fame) and the ship's godparents, Trista and Ryan Sutter (from The Bachelorette) who had the honor of pushing the button that sent the traditional bottle of champagne crashing onto the ship's hull. In this case, it actually crashed into a wall, but it was still impressive. The entire area was doused in red lighting and filled with red roses. We'd all been asked to wear red formal attire so the overall effect was stunning.

Following the ceremony we spent the evening dining, exploring the ship, watching movies on deck (Movies Under the Stars originated with the Princess line), and attending shows. Nearly everyone was dressed to the nines so it was very reminiscent of the cruising days of old. (These days, most people don't go all out even on the designated formal night, but I think they felt obligated in this instance.) The ship departed Ft. Lauderdale's Port Everglades very late, but we spent all of day number two at sea, giving us a chance to check out the casino and shops and, of course, eat more. The evening's entertainment started with an ABBA tribute band (really good if you like ABBA) and then a late night rock concert starring the ship's musicians which was outstanding. The entertainment on this short cruise exceeded any I've seen on board before.

The food was, as always with Princess, excellent. We did both lunch and breakfast at the buffet and enjoyed both. We had our other lunch and the first dinner in the dining room... again, excellent food and really great service (especially considering we were their first passengers). Princess continues to have the best pizza at sea. Dinner two was late night at the bistro (back area of the buffet) and they did a nice job with offering variety. The specialty restaurants were closed for our short trip, but they're always worth the extra charge. We didn't try any of the poolside burgers this time or the ice cream, but I admit to being a little disappointed in the gelato from the piazza. We also tried afternoon tea in the dining room and found that, while it was fine, we missed the phenomenal scones we've had on Princess ships before. By the way, I'm in search of a great scone recipe so please write me if you have one. :)

The most notable thing was the ship herself. It was the first time we'd been on one that new... not a dent or a scratch anywhere! Every piece of flatware was like a mirror, every sheet and towel pristine, and the teak decks and furniture have yet to be faded by the sun. It's sort of like riding in a brand new car - but a LOT bigger. Princess ships built in the last ten years have all followed the same basic layout and the public areas all have the same names, so if you like one of their ships you'll not only like the others, but also quickly find your way around. The newer ones do have differences, though - most notably, the adults-only solarium which is sort of like an extension of the spa, and the piazza at the base of the atrium which features specialty coffees and combination deli/bistro/bakery fare throughout the day. (Older ships are being retrofitted with these elements.) The children and teen areas are also great on Princess ships... Plenty for kids of all ages to do both with and without their parents.

Princess is currently offering a great deal on cruise upgrades for next year, and (as you might guess) there are some wonderful prices to be found right now. Deposits are usually minimal and are fully refundable until your final payment date so it's worth taking advantage of the bargains. You can always cancel later if you change your mind. Please drop me a note if you have any cruising questions." (Affordable Disney members should log in for Beth's contact info.)
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How Beth saved a family $3000!

"I figured out a LONG time ago that just because Disney's promotional offers state that certain dates or resorts are excluded doesn't mean that they really are. My personal opinion is that they deem those resorts and/or dates to have very limited availability so they aren't willing to release much discount space - but they will release SOME space, and it will go to those that ignore the promotion's stated rules and try anyway.

For the current deal, the dates of April 5-18 are specifically not included. They make that really obvious on their website. I had about a dozen reservations falling into that period and I promptly told them all that the promotion didn't apply to them. And at first, it didn't. But today I got every single one of them changed over to the deal. Every one! In one case, a family with two rooms saved about $3000!

Of course, when I called Disney to ask if they could just change the pricing code they told me no, it was not available for those dates. So I rebooked the reservations through the agent site and then called in to have them transfer the deposits over. The people all ended up with new reservation numbers, and they had to reconfirm their flight information and their special requests and celebrations for me, but given the amount of money they were saving I'm pretty sure no one minded. :)"
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Disney Cruise Line Premieres First-Ever 3-D Cinematic Experience at Sea

CELEBRATION, Fla. - Disney Cruise Line is revolutionizing movie entertainment at sea with the debut of Disney Digital 3-D, a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience premiering exclusively onboard the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder.

Guests will delight as first-run Disney films leap off the silver screen and take on a whole new dimension thanks to Disney Digital 3-D technology being added to both the Walt Disney Theatre and Buena Vista Theatre. Disney Cruise Line is the first cruise line to introduce 3-D entertainment onboard its ships. Disney Digital 3-D will premiere onboard the Disney Wonder during the Nov. 20 sailing and on the Disney Magic during the Dec. 6 sailing.

Leveraging this new technology, Disney Cruise Line will take 3-D into uncharted waters in early 2009 with the debut of an exciting new cinematic experience that combines full length Disney Digital 3-D films with in-theatre effects. Tridimensional images will combine with lasers, fog, streamers, and special lighting effects to create an immersive movie-going experience like no other at sea. During these once-a-cruise special engagements, guests will feel the rush of being part of hottest show in town as in-theatre effects enhance 3-D films featuring popular Disney popstars in concert.

"With Disney Digital 3-D we can provide extraordinary cinematic experiences for our guests that no other cruise line can offer," said Tom McAlpin, president of Disney Cruise Line. "Innovation and high-quality family entertainment are Disney Cruise Line hallmarks, and the addition of Disney Digital 3-D perfectly complements our industry-leading collection of entertainment options already onboard our ships."

Disney Cruise Line will celebrate the debut of Disney Digital 3-D by hosting a special screening event for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ newest animated feature, "Bolt," onboard the Nov. 20 three-night Disney Wonder cruise. As the calendar turns from Nov. 20 to Nov. 21, guests will be invited to a special midnight screening of "Bolt" at the Walt Disney Theatre - complete with meet-and-greet opportunities with lovable walk-around characters from the film.

The film features super-dog Bolt (voice of John Travolta), whose every day is filled with adventure, danger and intrigue - at least until the cameras stop rolling. When the star of a hit TV show is accidentally shipped from his Hollywood soundstage to New York City, he begins his biggest adventure yet - a cross-country journey through the real world to get back to his owner and co-star, Penny (voice of Miley Cyrus). Armed only with the delusions that all his amazing feats and powers are real, and the help of two unlikely traveling companions - a jaded, abandoned housecat named Mittens (voice of Susie Essman) and a TV-obsessed hamster named Rhino (voice of Mark Walton) - Bolt discovers he doesn’t need superpowers to be a hero.

"Disney Cruise Line picked the perfect time to introduce Disney Digital 3-D to its guests," said Mark Zoradi, president, Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Group. " ‘Bolt’ kicks off an extraordinary lineup of 3-D movies debuting over the course of the next year, including ‘Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience,’ Disney*Pixar’s ‘Up,’ ‘G-Force,’ Disney*Pixar’s ‘Toy Story’ and ‘Disney’s A Christmas Carol.’ The 3-D immersive experience is better than ever."

Disney Digital 3-D is the latest enhancement to join the robust menu of premium guest experiences and amenities included with a Disney Cruise Line vacation. Dazzling Broadway-style musical spectaculars, over-the-top deck parties with the only fireworks display at sea, a unique rotational dining concept, first-run movie releases and fantastic kids programming are just some of the advantages of cruising with Disney.

A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line delivers a cruise experience that every member of the family feels was created for their own individual vacation wants and needs. Departing from Port Canaveral, Fla., Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at Walt Disney World Resort are also available. (Source: Press Release, 11/17/08)
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Save on Disney Toys

Kohl's 50% off Disney Toys Promotion: Use promo code HOLIDAY20 at checkout. Free Standard Shipping with $75 or more purchase now through November 20, 2008. 20% off purchase of $100 or more now through November 19, 2008. 50% off sale prices now through November 19, 2008.

BTW, Bon-Ton is running a super value sale on name brand cookware. I bought a $100 Circulon paella pan for $18.98 + tax! If you have a store near you, you may want to check out this special while supplies last.
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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.
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Got Coupons?

With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more! Save at hotels and restaurants near Walt Disney World, on car rental, airfare, admission to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa! For details, click here.
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Affordable Disney Movies and CD's

Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
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Affordable Accommodations

Enjoy Special Rates at select hotels, condos and vacation rentals near Disney. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
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Affordable Luggage

Save up to 60% on Luggage, Backpacks, and more! Donna and I bought a beautiful 5-piece set of Samsonite luggage for our daughter for Christmas for $144! Click here.
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Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom

Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock brokers that require you to purchase several shares of stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
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See You Real Soon!

John

AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
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Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
November 12, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon: Subscribe with Bloglines

Or copy and paste the following URL into your RSS Reader:
http://affordabledisney.blogspot.com/atom.xml

: My Yahoo! users can instantly add our blog
content to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!

: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN!
Add to My MSN!

=================================================
Hi Everyone!

NOTE: If you want to visit Walt Disney World when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable.

Now on with the show...

In this blog...

* Deals and specials - new sweepstakes, BIG savings on a 2009 Walt Disney World vacation package, Walt Disney World luxury resort specials, winter suite sale, and luxury cruise special

* News from around the "World" - Disney to redo Pop Century!

* Beth, our travel agent, writes about Disney Magical Express

* Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Teams Up with Verizon to Bring Mobile Magic to U.S. Parks

* Sail Away to a Magical Winter Holiday with Disney Cruise Line

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NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

2 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 46 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!

Walt Disney World - Value Resorts: Family of 4, 7 nights and tickets: $1,271! Similar savings on other resorts and family configurations are available. Includes free nights + free tickets + free ticket upgrades on free tickets!

Walt Disney World Luxury Resort Holiday Special from $159!
Early Booking 2009 Special from $149! Plus! Book your room now and receive a FREE one-category upgrade!

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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

All-suites hotel voted "Best For Families" in 2008. Winter suite rates from $99! Includes:

* Free breakfast daily
* Free parking
* Free High-speed Internet access
* Free shuttle to theme parks
* Fully equipped kitchens
* Heated pool and whirlpool
* Sports and exercise facilities
* Video Arcade
* Guest Laundry
* Pets allowed

The following package is offered in conjunction with this offer:

* SeaWorld Family Package: stay 4 nights and get 4 SeaWorld tickets. From $516!

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LUXURY CRUISE

Cruise Line "Past Guests Appreciation Week": Guests who have sailed with this Cruise Line before can sail to the Bahamas, Caribbean and Mexico in 2008 and 2009 from only $149 and receive a FREE stateroom upgrade! Book by December 31, 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!

>> Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts!

>> 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 $25

>> 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 $299!

>> 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.

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

If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here. Members can use the following URLs to log in:

Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"

WALT DISNEY WORLD

This Day in Disney History
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Will Pop Century be rebranded as Disney's Animation Inn and Suites?

Disney Auditions - Audition Calendar
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

No sale yet for Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede property

Holiday Cheer You Can Only Hear At Universal Orlando Resort!

Orlando Premium Outlets grows by 40 new stores

Mel's Drive-In will be closed for renovations at Universal Studios Closed now for two months.

Cypress Gardens will close for 4 months Closed Nov. 17 until sometime in March for renovations.

Acrobatics go aquatic in new SeaWorld show.

Universal to have 2 Mannheim Steamroller concerts
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

The Merriest Of Holiday Celebrations Make Spirits Brighter Than Ever At Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Resort A Great Spot For Holiday Shopping, From Passes To Unique Gift Items

Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Disney Alters Changes Itinerary to Avoid Hurricane Paloma
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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.
=================================================
Beth, our travel agent, writes:

"If there's one thing I get more questions on than anything else, it's Disney's Magical Express (DME). So maybe I can answer some of those questions for you before you ask...

1) There is no cost for this service.
2) You must be staying at a Disney-owned resort.
3) You can fly any airline and get your tickets from any source.
4) If you don't receive your baggage tags before you go DME will still take you.
5) Only the people listed on the reservation can go on the bus.
6) You cannot send your luggage to your hotel via DME unless you also take DME.
7) People in the same room can arrive/depart on more than one flight.
8) If you arrive on an international flight you have to claim your bags yourself and take them through customs before returning them to DME for transfer to the resort.
9) DME services only Orlando International Airport (MCO). If you fly into or out of Sanford or any other airport you're on your own.
10) The wait for your baggage averages 3 hours (assuming you arrive around 3PM or later) so pack things you need shortly after arrival in a carry-on and keep it with you.
11) Don't' panic if your flight times change. DME tracks you by flight number, not time, so they'll catch the change. If your flight number changes, though, it's nice to let them know (although not mandatory).
12) Because DME tracks by flight number the flight times often show on confirmations, tags, and elsewhere as midnight. Again, don't panic. It's just how their system works. As long as the flight number and the resort are correct on the tags you're fine.

Don't hesitate to ask if you have more questions!"

Affordable Disney members should log in for Beth's contact information.
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Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Teams Up with Verizon to Bring Mobile Magic to U.S. Parks

Companies Align to Bring Unprecedented New Experiences to Guests at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort... and Right on Their Verizon Wireless Phones

Marking a first in both the travel and mobile industries, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and Verizon are teaming up for a multi-year relationship designed to enhance the guest experience - before, during and after guests arrive at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. This alignment allows guests to have a personal tour guide right in their wireless phones along with reliable new services at the parks. Early next year guests will also use Verizon Wireless’ technology when experiencing Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure, an ultra-interactive attraction coming to Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort.

"With more than 90 percent of families bringing a mobile phone into our Parks, our objective was to enhance the magical Disney experience through innovative wireless technology," said Jay Rasulo, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "Imagine receiving up to the minute tips on special Park activities with just the touch of a button or receiving a call from Buzz Lightyear welcoming you to the Magic Kingdom."

Beginning next year, guests will be able to access an array of features on their Verizon Wireless phones while at the Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort to help them make the most of their Disney experiences. Planned services include an exclusive mobile application that will give guests with Verizon Wireless service the ability to easily locate shows, restaurants and the Disney characters anywhere inside the Parks; get real-time attraction availability information; access mobile games; receive messages from characters and more. Verizon Wireless is also continuing to invest in its wireless network from coast to coast, and the relationship with Disney means the wireless users will benefit from further enhancements to the Verizon Wireless network in the Parks.

John Harrobin, senior vice president of digital media and marketing for Verizon, said, "All of our efforts focus on one goal: making the Disney experience even better for our customers. There are few life experiences that are more memorable than visiting a Disney Park, and now guests with Verizon Wireless service will unlock even more magic from their visit - by navigating the Parks easier and faster with instant access to key information such as ‘Where’s Mickey now?’ and other special features - even when they travel home and share their experiences with family and friends."

In addition, guests visiting Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort in early 2009 will be among the first to experience Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure. An ultra-interactive attraction, Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure invites guests of all ages to team up with members of Team Possible to save the world from various comical villains and their mad inventions. Armed with an official Verizon Wireless "Kimmunicator," guests will use these handheld devices to help maneuver through the mission. The interactive wireless theme park game was inspired by Disney Channel’s Emmy® Award-winning animated series, "Kim Possible."

While Verizon Wireless customers will have exclusive access to an array of enhanced features, Disney and Verizon are also working to ensure that some mobile information such as dining locations, show times and locations will be available to all Parks visitors, regardless of their wireless company.

Additional details will be available next year as the companies expect to add a suite of services and functionalities to help guests at Disney Parks have the most magical experience. For more information about Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, visit www.disney.com. For more information about Verizon, visit www.verizon.com.

Disney Parks and Resorts - Taking Guests to New Frontiers

The agreement between Disney and Verizon is another step in a series of new initiatives that highlight the latest technologies from Disney Parks and Resorts with a continued focus on improving guest experience and providing immersive entertainment. Disney Parks and Resorts continue to exemplify how technologies can be used to build new connections and redefine how guests plan and enjoy their vacations. From the time guests begin planning their vacation using Walt Disney World Resort in 3D on Google Earth or tuning into Disney Travel on Demand, the experience is designed to make their lives easier. Guests can take their vacation experience to a new level with Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure, an interactive wireless theme park game for families, and by personalizing and sharing their Disney experiences when they return home, using DisneyLink, a desktop application. (Source: Press Release, 11/12/08)
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Sail Away to a Magical Winter Holiday with Disney Cruise Line

CELEBRATION, Fla. - This holiday season, give a gift that’s both nautical and nice: a cruise on the Disney Magic or the Disney Wonder, both decked to the "raft-ers" with holiday cheer.

From Thanksgiving and continuing through to the new year, Disney Cruise Line adds sparkle to both ships, from traditional "turkey day" fanfare to Christmas feasts, "snow flurries" and New Year’s Eve galas. But the best part might just be relaxing on deck instead of shoveling snow.

The spirit of the season surrounds guests the moment they arrive at Port Canaveral, Fla., with Disney characters in their finest holiday attire welcoming guests to the beautifully decorated private Disney Cruise Line terminal.

Special stem-to-stern holiday events on both ships, beginning Nov. 22, include:

* Nightly "King Triton’s Tree Lighting" in the atrium lobby, where a young guest will help Disney characters light the glittering, three-deck-tall tree.
* An afternoon Tropical Pool Party every day with Santa and Mrs. Claus with fun, food, games and activities. Plenty of Disney characters join the celebration, including Lilo and Stitch, Chip ‘n Dale, Mickey and Minnie, Goofy and Pluto. Be sure not to miss the "Winter-Sunnyland" conga line around the pool.
* Special family time with holiday crafts such as decorating stockings, making holiday cards and creating holiday animation cells.
* Holiday storytellers sharing tales of diverse holiday traditions, from Hanukkah and Kwaanza to the Bahamian Junkanoo. Plus, an all-new story just for Disney Cruise Line guests about the magical feeling of the holidays on a ship.
* Traditional holiday feasts in Disney’s three themed dining rooms.
* " ‘Til We Meet Again," a special holiday edition of Disney Cruise Line’s cheerful farewell on the final night of each cruise with beloved Disney characters and the ship’s crew in an engaging musical finale led by Mickey Mouse.

And when cruises during the holiday period put in at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, the celebration continues:

* Guests will delight with "snow flurries," decked-out Christmas trees, Disney character meet-and-greets and holiday carolers.
* Youngsters will be busy with holiday-themed activities such as making candy cane reindeer, paper plate angels and snowflake mobiles.

Disney Cruise Line will kick off the holiday cheer with special Thanksgiving voyages setting sail Nov. 22 with a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise on the Disney Magic and Nov. 26 with a 4-night Bahamian cruise onboard the Disney Wonder. Guests will enjoy a sumptuous Thanksgiving Day feast, with Mickey, Minnie and friends dressed in traditional Thanksgiving attire. Activities throughout the day include holiday crafts for youngsters and the big NFL football games broadcast live on Ariel View Television, the 24-by-14-foot screen located above the Goofy Family Pool on deck 9.

The Disney Magic will host a 7-Night Holiday Caribbean Cruise departing Dec. 20, with visits to Cozumel, Grand Cayman and, as a special holiday treat, two stops at Castaway Cay. The Disney Wonder 4-night Christmas cruise departs Dec. 24, with visits to Nassau and Castaway Cay. On Christmas morning at the lobby tree, Santa Claus and his elves will have surprises for all the kids, along with cookies and milk. Guests can attend sunset Hanukkah services and Christmas services, including midnight mass on Christmas Eve.

To celebrate the new year, Disney Magic departs on its 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary Dec. 27; Disney Wonder departs Dec. 31 for its 4-night cruise. These voyages will feature a special New Year’s Eve party to ring in 2009, complete with DJ music, sparkling wine in commemorative flutes, confetti and balloon drop, and a midnight countdown.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a holiday vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com. (Source: Press Release, 11/12/08)
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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.
--------------------------------
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.
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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.
=============================================

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
November 5, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 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, WDW Annual Passholder and Florida resident room discounts, $99 Disney cruise, Disney cruise/airfare deal, Disney cruise discounts for Floridians, 2 Luxury cruise line specials, Character Breakfast offer at Disneyland, Disneyland vacation package, hotel resort vacation package, and Ireland to US $13 airfare special

* News from around the "World" - Disney closes Hall of Presidents

* Beth, our travel agent, writes about an unusual NON-timeshare clearing house offer

* Celebrate Floral Fun and ‘Go Green’ At 16th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

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NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

# 4 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 46 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!

# 2009 Room discounts for Annual Passholders from $49!

# 2009 Walt Disney World room discounts for Florida residents. From $54!

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

# Book one Disney cruise, get another one for $99!

# Disney Cruise/Airfare Special: Disney cruise + round-trip airfare from certain airports for $199 per person when you book certain cruises! You must book before 11/14/08.

# New cruise discounts for Florida residents

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NON-DISNEY CRUISES

Luxury Cruise Line 3-Day Post-Election Sale: 50% off second guest on sailings in January and February to Australia, South America, New Zealand, Hawaii, Panama Canal and Caribbean. Book November 5-7, 2008.

Kids 17 and under travel FREE this winter on 7-night Caribbean cruises with this popular cruise line.

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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

# Get a FREE Character Breakfast at the Disneyland Resort!

# Disneyland vacation package, room and tickets, from $139!

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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

This hotel chain in North America, Hawaii and the Caribbean (there's one next door to Walt Disney World) is offering a $100 resort credit and more with its Family vacation package. Book by December 31, 2008 for stays January 31, 2008 - March 31, 2009.

Fly from Ireland to US roundtrip for $13 each way + taxes and fees.

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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!

>> Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts!

>> 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 $25

>> 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 $299!

>> 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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Renovations to bring Disney World's Hall of Presidents into 21st century The attraction is now closed for eight months to allow for refurbishment and the creation of a robotic 44th president.

WDW's Galaxy Palace Theater to be replaced with Cast Member parking
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Shamu Supports Sustainable

CityWalk Calendar And Venue Entertainment November 2008

Airlines launch fare sale for holiday season
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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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Beth, our travel agent, writes:

"The NON-timeshare clearing house end of an organization that arranges timeshare swaps for owners is offering an interesting deal.

For those unaware of how timeshares work, timeshare owners can deposit their weeks (or points, as the case may be) that they don't want to use into their 'bank' with this company and then use their credit to go elsewhere. They have a window of up to three years to use that credit. The company frequently gets stuck, though, with deposited time slots that no one ever requests so they sell the space to the public. These are timeshare units ranging from hotel rooms to multi-bedroom condos and some are VERY nice. They are located all over the world, although the majority are in the US. (The ones elsewhere are popular and VERY hard to get.)

This company is currently offering a deal whereby anyone can purchase a voucher for a 7-night stay for just $299 ($200 off) if you buy before the end of the year. You can use the voucher yourself or give it as a gift. When you're ready to arrange your vacation you just go online and do a search for your time period and/or destination and see what's available. If you want a larger or better unit or one that gets a higher rating than what you're seeing, you can pay (anywhere from $50-$1000) for a better selection.

The good part is, obviously, you can get a 7-night condo stay for just $299 and that's a phenomenal deal by any standard. There are some downsides, too, though. First, not all timeshares are great places; some really need serious refurbishment so you have to do your homework. Second, there might not be anything available for the place and time you want it. And finally, if you're looking for a 3-bedroom, 4-star condo two miles from Disney you're probably going to be very disappointed... You have to manage your expectations.

Nevertheless, if you're on a tight budget, have some flexibility with where and when you travel, and can see this as an adventure then it just might be your answer to getting an affordable vacation (to Disney or elsewhere) for your family in 2009. (Please contact me if you want more information.)"

Affordable Disney members should log in for Beth's contact information.
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Celebrate Floral Fun and ‘Go Green’ At 16th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, March 18-May 31, 2009

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - An elaborate "Cinderellabration" topiary and an environmentally friendly Green Garden will bring fresh springtime flair to the 16th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival March 18-May 31, 2009. Amid a colorful tableau of flowers, plants and topiaries, guests of all ages can explore myriad exhibits and activities geared toward gardening and outdoor fun. Weekend Flower Power concerts will pump up the volume and spread a groovy vibe at America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase.

Each year, Disney gardeners channel their creative energy into presenting an intricate topiary display against the backdrop of Spaceship Earth. This year, Cinderella and Prince Charming, Snow White and the seven dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty and Prince Phillip, and Belle and Beast from "Beauty and the Beast" will debut in all their "blooming finery" as the grand front-entrance topiary during the 75-day festival.

New gardens, events and children’s play areas offer more reasons to visit the 16th annual festival:

Green Garden - Anyone can create an environmentally friendly garden; here’s where guests will learn about low-water-use gardens, incorporating native plants into their garden and recycling.

Pixie Hollow - Colorful topiaries of Tinker Bell and her friends from Walt Disney Pictures’ "Tinker Bell" will sprinkle pixie dust over this playful garden designed just for kids.

Pirates Adventure Zone - Peter Pan, Captain Hook and Croc topiaries will lure young
swashbucklers to this interactive space designed for exploration and adventure.

Special Environmentality Celebration (April 24-26) - This special event will showcase how to keep the planet green through solutions like reducing waste and using friendly bugs.

Throughout the festival, more than 70 topiaries will decorate the park landscape and showcase the extraordinary craftsmanship of Disney gardeners. Sweeping floral beds and exhibits will feature 30 million blooms. A Fragrance Garden at the France pavilion will tell the "love story" of plants and perfume, and the English Tea Garden at the United Kingdom pavilion will explore the art and history of blending tea plants. The art of bonsai will "wow" guests at the Japan showcase.

Other festival highlights will include:

Flower Power concerts -- Popular bands will rock the open-air America Gardens Theatre every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 p.m. The concert lineup is slated to include new acts like Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, plus pop favorites like Davy Jones, Chubby Checker & The Wildcats, Tony Orlando, Jose Feliciano, Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone and other top acts.

Minnie’s Magnificent Butterfly Garden -- Hundreds of butterflies will flit inside a walk-through screened enclosure that includes a live exhibit showing how caterpillars form a chrysalis and emerge as butterflies.

Disney Gardening at Home presentations -- Disney horticulturists will share gardening tips and lead guests in a hands-on, take-home activity.

The Great American Gardeners series -- Gardening celebrities and authors from across the country will reveal their gardening secrets.

The Garden Town Festival Center -- Guests can shop for festival merchandise, attend speaker presentations and demonstrations and ask gardening questions of the experts.

Simba’s Birthday Celebration -- A lineup of topiary characters straight from Walt Disney Pictures’ "The Lion King" will greet guests at World Showcase Plaza.

Poster Signings -- Artist Heather French will sign festival posters each Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. at Canada Garden Retreat.

More Festival Celebrations -- An Art in the Garden celebration of plein air artists and a Kids Paint Out will occur March 27-29; a Florida Farmer’s Market celebration will take place May 8-10. More celebrations will bloom throughout the festival.

More information about the 16th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is available by calling 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639) or by visiting disneyworld.com/flower. The festival, including all gardening programs and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission. (Source: Press Release, 11/03/08.)
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Affordable Disney Books

Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price. To check out the bargains, click here.
--------------------------------
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.
=============================================