Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
January 30, 2009
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon:

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

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

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

IMPORTANT NOTE TO SUBSCRIBERS

Given the economic downturn and the cost of mailing our newsletter to many thousands of subscribers, we would like you to confirm that you still want to receive our newsletter. Otherwise. this will be the last issue you will receive. Please re-subscribe by sending a blank email to:

subscribe-956607225@ezinedirector.net

You will receive an email asking you to confirm your subscription. All subscriptions must be confirmed to become active.

This will help us keep the newsletter free for everyone. Thanks!

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

Now on with the show...

In this blog...

* Deals and specials -

=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

3 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 42 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!

Walt Disney World: $1375 for a family of four or $50 per person, per day for a 7-night package!

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

OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Advance Purchase Rates at this Orlando Resort: Enjoy a sunny winter escape with 6 pools, 106' waterslide, resort activities, 10 restaurants/lounges, on-site golf & spa. Just 1.5 miles to Disney and 5.5 miles to SeaWorld®, Discovery Cove® and AquaticaTM!

This special includes:

* Rates from $199 Presidents' Day and Valentine's Day weekend (2/13/09 - 2/15/09)
* Rates from $249 Spring Break (3/1/09 - 3/31/09)
* Rates from $199 Spring Break and Easter (4/1/09 - 4/23/09)
=================================================

Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:

* Hotel & Suites Birthday Special: get the 4th night FREE
* Free Disneyland Gift Card valued up to $150
* 100 free upgrades in hotels all over the world
* Save 30% on villas aboard luxury cruise line
* Massive cruise sale with FREE air
* AMTRAK special for Florida Residents
* Walt Disney World 3 nights FREE
* Room discounts, FREE tickets and Package for military
* Room discounts and Package with Dining for Annual Passholders
* 2 Days for the Price of 1 at Universal Hollywood
* Unlimited visits throughout 2009 for $65 at SeaWorld San Diego
* Annual Pass deal for Florida Residents at Busch Gardens
* BIG Amtrak sale
* Downtown Disney Resort Hotel discount
* SeaWorld Hotel suite sale
* Kids eat FREE at Universal hotels
* Universal Blue Man Group discount
* Disneyland Annual Passes on a monthly payment plan
* Disneyland 4th night FREE
* FREE dining certificate give-away
* Walt Disney World vacation package that discounts everything
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Disneyland Paris room discount
* 40 WDW / Florida / Disneyland / S. California sweepstakes
* Disneyland California package with $150 Disney gift card
* Universal Hollywood All You Can Eat Pass
* Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts
* 2010 Disney cruises now booking
* Get a FREE ticket to the Walt Disney World theme parks in 2009
* Nickelodeon Family Cruise
* Kids eat FREE membership card
* Disney cruise early booking discounts
* Vegas Resort & Casino special
* Disney hotel room and cruise line specials for Floridians

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

Florida State Completes Stellar Field for 2009 Old Spice Classic at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex

Why Stay at a Walt Disney World Owned/Operated Hotel? Benefits Can Begin Before Guest Arrives … and Continue 24/7

Health Canada recalls Disney lipstick, lip gloss

Disney's Hollywood Studios tunes up for Idol debut

Photos: American Idol Experience at Disney Hollywood Studios

Danskin Women's Triathlon at Disney: Race and registration dates confirmed

Live the spy life with Kim Possible at Epcot

Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Universal Orlando lays off 70 employees
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Boy badly hurt in 2000 Roger Rabbit accident dies

Disneyland Resort Calendar
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
We received an email from Jeff Smith of the Indy Racing Experience at the Walt Disney World Speedway:

"John,

Good afternoon! Snow is on your way to Pennsylvania. We are getting it pretty good in Indianapolis right now!

The Indy Racing Experience is a new racing attraction in Orlando and we actually share the Walt Disney World Speedway with the Richard Petty Driving Experience. I noticed that you all had information listed on the RPDE and was wondering how we could be included on your site as an Orlando attraction. Our website is www.indyracingexperience.com, and I can provide you with any information you might need.

Thank you.

Jeff Smith
INDY RACING EXPERIENCE"

Here is the message Jeff wanted us to pass along:

"The Indy Racing Experience is now operating daily at the Walt Disney World® Speedway and now you have a place to ride or drive in an IndyCar Series car throughout the year!

Race fans can take a 3-lap ride around the 1-mile tri-oval in our 2-seater piloted by an Indy Racing League driver at a rate of $109/tax. Or they can get behind the wheel of an actual IndyCar that participated in the Indianapolis 500 and take on the 8-lap driving experience for $399/tax.

The Indy Racing Experience is open more than 350 days a year and operates daily from 4 p.m. to dusk. For more information call (888) 357-5002 or visit us at indyracingexperience.com."

Jeff wrote us back:

Thanks so much for the addition and please let us know the next time you are in Orlando! Take care!"
=================================================
‘The American Idol Experience’ Brings Pop Culture Phenomenon to Walt Disney World Resort

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – With all the thrills and suspense that have made it a television and pop culture phenomenon, “American Idol” comes to Walt Disney World Resort in a groundbreaking new attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park.

“The American Idol Experience” captures the energy and excitement of the TV series, with some Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests auditioning to take the spotlight onstage, while their fellow guests cheer them on from the audience and vote for their favorite singer with instant results.

The attraction – grand opening Feb. 14, 2009 – was developed by Walt Disney Imagineering in conjunction with FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) and 19 TV Ltd. It is based on the smash-hit television show “American Idol” – produced by 19 TV Ltd. and FremantleMedia North America (FMNA) – and is designed to immerse park guests in the authentic feel of a live television production.

“Disney parks are all about making dreams come true, and that’s exactly what will happen at ‘The American Idol Experience,’ ” said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Whether they are onstage singing or in the audience cheering on their favorite performer, our guests will feel immersed in a world of instant stardom.”

Each show takes place in a 1,000 seat, indoor theater that features the twirling neon signs and a multi-layered backdrop inspired by the actual “American Idol” set in California. Building on its hallmark of attention to detail, Walt Disney Imagineering worked with the Hollywood set designer who designed the actual TV show set for “American Idol.” The newly designed venue is the most technologically advanced theater found at Walt Disney World Resort.

Designed to reflect the best and brightest elements of the TV show, “The American Idol Experience” includes an audition process open to Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests 14 and older (audition slots are limited and interested guests are encouraged to arrive early). These guests perform live in front of a Disney’s Hollywood Studios casting director for the opportunity to be cast in one of the preliminary theme park shows that same day.

If shown to have that special “star quality” during the multi-step audition process, it’s on to performance training, hair and make-up. Then, the lights come up and it’s showtime for the singers as they try to impress an audience of theme park guests, plus a panel of three expert judges.

Fellow park guests will be able to enjoy the performances just like at a live television taping. Then, audience members vote for their favorite performance using the armrest touchpads, with their votes tallied to determine the top singer.

Performers with the highest votes during the preliminary shows will return for a high-energy, grand finale show that same evening. After their encore performances, the big moment arrives. It’s a super-charged, eye-popping scene as audience votes are tallied, the other performers drop off, music builds and the spotlight shines down, amid a blizzard of confetti, on the day’s top singer. In addition to their new-found theme park fame, the top vote-getter will receive “The American Idol Experience” Dream Ticket, which allows an eligible holder to schedule a front-of-the-line audition to a future regional audition for the “American Idol” television show. And every member of the audience can take a bow, too, because they had a role in deciding that day’s star.

“The American Idol Experience” is the newest attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The showbiz-inspired theme park immerses guests in the glamour of show business with thrilling attractions, Broadway-style shows, world-class atmosphere entertainment and interactive film, music, television and radio production facilities. (Source: Press Release, 01/28/09)
=================================================
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.
--------------------------------
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.
=============================================

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
January 23, 2009
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon:

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

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

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

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

Now on with the show...

In this blog...

* News from around the "World" - Universal ends free parking at CityWalk

* Beth, our travel agent, writes about the Passport Card

* Kim writes about Disney's Extra Magic Hour schedule

* Disney Cruise Line Ranked As No. 1 Cruise Experience

=================================================

Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:

* Hotel & Suites Birthday Special: get the 4th night FREE
* Free Disneyland Gift Card valued up to $150
* 100 free upgrades in hotels all over the world
* Save 30% on villas aboard luxury cruise line
* Massive cruise sale with FREE air
* AMTRAK special for Florida Residents
* Walt Disney World 3 nights FREE
* Room discounts, FREE tickets and Package for military
* Room discounts and Package with Dining for Annual Passholders
* 2 Days for the Price of 1 at Universal Hollywood
* Unlimited visits throughout 2009 for $65 at SeaWorld San Diego
* Annual Pass deal for Florida Residents at Busch Gardens
* BIG Amtrak sale
* Downtown Disney Resort Hotel discount
* SeaWorld Hotel suite sale
* Kids eat FREE at Universal hotels
* Universal Blue Man Group discount
* Disneyland Annual Passes on a monthly payment plan
* Disneyland 4th night FREE
* FREE dining certificate give-away
* Walt Disney World vacation package that discounts everything
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Disneyland Paris room discount
* 40 WDW / Florida / Disneyland / S. California sweepstakes
* Disneyland California package with $150 Disney gift card
* Universal Hollywood All You Can Eat Pass
* Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts
* 2010 Disney cruises now booking
* Get a FREE ticket to the Walt Disney World theme parks in 2009
* Nickelodeon Family Cruise
* Kids eat FREE membership card
* Disney cruise early booking discounts
* Vegas Resort & Casino special
* Disney hotel room and cruise line specials for Floridians

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

Epcot Adds Interactive 'Kim Possible' Attraction

Disney offers buyouts to 619 executives amid tourism slump

Ikon to handle some services for Disney resorts

Braised Short Ribs, Potato Silk and Organic Cauliflower recipe from The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Universal Orlando has stopped offering free parking to people who visit CityWalk in the evening.

Harbor Nights Romantico At Loews Portofino Bay Hotel At Universal Orlando Set For February 13 Nova Era's playing!

Universal Orlando Presents Mardi Gras 2009 With The Most Powerful Talent Line-Up In The Event’s History

Busch Gardens Premieres Christian Music Concert Series

Bud & BBQ Returns to SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Calendar
--------------------------------
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:

"At long last, the government seems to be content with the June 1 deadline for requiring passports for ALL travelers in and out of the country, including those on cruise ships. The deadline has been extended numerous times in the past, but all indications are that June 1 is going to be the final date. That means that if you plan on leaving the country by land, sea, or air - even if only to drive over the border to Mexico or Canada, or take a quick cruise to the Bahamas, you're going to need a passport... sort of.

There is a somewhat lesser known alternative for those quickie trips that is perfect for those who don't plan on going any further than bordering countries or the Caribbean and it's called a Passport Card. It's less expensive and easier to carry, but it's not good for going longer distances (like flights to Europe) for which you'll still need the full-blown passport. Even if you already have a passport, you might want to consider investing $20 in the wallet-sized card version to make your traveling life easier.

For details, check out this article."
=================================================
Kim writes:

"John,

I was wondering if you could help me with some planning. Do you know what parks will be open late or open early with the extra magical hours for June 7-14. I was just on WDW website and they are not listed for June 09 yet. Do you have any additional info about this. I'd like to schedule our itinerary for our 2009 trip. Thanks."

Disney only announces their park schedule 3-4 months ahead of time. See the following links:

Magic Kingdom Calendar

Epcot Calendar (Note: Currently Disney's calendar is blank. So check back later!)

Animal Kingdom Calendar (Note: Currently Disney's calendar is blank. So check back later!)

Disney's Hollywood Studios Calendar
=================================================
Disney Cruise Line Ranked As No. 1 Cruise Experience

Disney Cruise Line was recently named the top large cruise ship experience by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine in the 9th annual "Reader’s Cruise Poll."

The Cruise Poll recognizes the best cruise ships as voted on by Condé Nast Traveler readers. Winners were determined by a survey of more than 11,000 participants who rated 400 ships. Participants were asked to rate ships based on specific criteria including: staterooms, activities, service, design and layout, dining, itineraries and shore excursions.

"We are pleased to receive this honor from the readers of such an esteemed travel publication," said Tom McAlpin, President of Disney Cruise Line. "Winning the No. 1 spot is a testament to the beauty of our ships and the dedication our cast and crew members have in creating an unparalleled vacation for every member of the family."

This year, Disney Cruise Line ranked No. 1 in the "Large Ship" category with its ship, the Disney Wonder, which sails three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas. The Disney Magic was also ranked in the top five cruise experiences overall. The Disney Magic primarily sails seven-night cruises to the eastern and western Caribbean and, beginning in the spring of 2010, will embark on a season of limited itineraries exploring Northern Europe and the Mediterranean.

In addition to the accolades in the Large Ship category, the Condé Nast Traveler "Cruise Spa Reader’s Poll" ranked the spas aboard Disney Cruise Line in the top 5 best spas at sea.

Disney Cruise Line has received more than 50 distinguished awards and honors since first setting sail in 1998. These awards have included all aspects of the operation from dining and entertainment to youth activities and spa facilities.

Known for bringing family travel to the cruise industry, Disney Cruise Line continues to raise the bar on the cruise experience, with specifically designed areas and activities for each member of the family allowing for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to allow families to reconnect, adults to recharge their batteries and kids to immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. (Source: Press Release, 01/21/09)
=================================================
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.
--------------------------------
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.
=============================================

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
January 16, 2009
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon:

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

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

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

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

Now on with the show...

In this blog...

* Deals and specials - new sweepstakes added, FREE Disney gift card, Hotel & Suites birthday celebration, FREE hotel upgrades, luxury cruise special, massive summer cruise sale, and AMTRAK special

* News from around the "World" - Disney to install defribrillators at some of resort's thrill rides

* Rae writes about Coronado Springs

* Paul and Janice share their enthusiasm for our site!

* Erika writes about her first experience with Affordable Disney

=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

6 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 42 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California / Disney Cruise Line vacation!

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

OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Hotel & Suites Birthday Special: Stay 3 nights and get the 4th night FREE! Includes:

* A Special Birthday Card
* A FREE Night stay when you stay 3 nights
* Birthday Goodie Box in your room
* Birthday Breakfast for 2 adults (Kids 12 and under eat free)
* A Birthday Celebration complete with Cake and Balloons
* 10 Arcade Tokens
* Family Birthday Photo

Beth writes: "You can't beat the price. Kids 12 and under always eat free. I'd give it a very solid 3 to 3.5 stars." 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 - located just 3 short miles to the Main Gate. Pet friendly. Free shuttle to the parks. Full service restaurant and food court.

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

DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Free Disney Gift Card valued up to $150!

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

FREE HOTEL UPGRADES

100 free upgrades in hotels all over the world! All the upgrades are free and many of the hotels are also offering free nights at the same time!

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

LUXURY CRUISE SPECIAL

* Take 10% off our Best Available Rates from January 13 - February 28, 2009

* VILLA SPECIAL! Take 30% off Best Available Rates from February 1-28, 2008

* Take 15% off our Best Available Rates from March 1-31, 2009

* Take 20% off our Best Available Rates from April 1-30, 2009 (including Easter Week!)

These discounts apply to all 1,218 one-bedroom suites and 120 two-bedroom villas. The villas offer apartment-style living with complete kitchen, dining room, living room and private pool. AAA Four Diamond and Zagat-rated dining... Plus, state-of-the-art fitness center, tropical pool with cascading waterfalls and 75 foot waterslide, game arcades, multiple dining venues, and children’s play and interactive water areas.

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

MASSIVE CRUISE SALE

Summer 2009. Double early booking savings and FREE - $199 air. Includes a two-night pre-cruise London hotel stay. Destinations include the Antarctic Peninsula, South America, South Africa, the Indian Ocean, Scandinavia & Iceland, the Baltic Capitals, Mediterranean and Black Sea.

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

AMTRAK Florida resident special!

=================================================

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 30% on a 2009 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!

>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!

>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!

>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!

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

OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

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

>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $25

>> 2nd day FREE at SeaWorld!

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

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

>> Three nights from $349!

>> Onboard credits!

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

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

DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!

>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!

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

DISNEYLAND PARIS

>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!

>> Kids under 12 stay and play FREE!

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

VEGAS

>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.

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

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

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

WALT DISNEY WORLD

This Day in Disney History

Disney building new practice stage for youth groups at Downtown Disney

Orlando-area theme parks rack up 9 injuries in quarter

16th Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

The American Idol Experience Grand Opening

ESPN The Weekend at Disney's Hollywood Studios

Bastos Dominates Walt Disney World Marathon - Again

Disney to install defribrillators at some of resort's thrill rides

Walt Disney World Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Central Florida's Zipline Safari takes riders atop the trees

And the Universal Mardi Gras lineup is . . .

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando's First 'Velvet Sessions' of 2009 Kicks Off With 10,000 Maniacs featuring Mary Ramsey
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Disney Cruise Line pulls Alaskan national park application

--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
Rae writes:

"We just returned from a week at Coronado Springs Resort at WDW, and it was fabulous! I remember your review of it from awhile back, and it was as good as you said! We had been booked at Pop Century (my daughter's favorite!) at the $49/night rate, but then were told that we could not get the dining plan. so, long story short. we were given a free upgrade with dining plan to CSR. Wow!!! Now that is what I call stupendous!"

We loved Coronado Springs!
=================================================
Paul and Janice (Lifetime members) write:

"John,

Love your site as always and recommend it to total strangers now in restaurants, on buses, at church. I've run out of family members to tell as I've already told them MANY times over."

Your support is always appreciated!
=================================================
Erika joined us yesterday and received a free military upgrade to Lifetime membership through our current special:

"John,

First off I would like to thank you for this amazing website. It's outstanding and I cannot wait to look deeper into the site to get the full benefit. Currently I am in the military and I am preparing to deploy in April to Iraq... This evening I called Beth and spoke with her. By the way she is such a sweetheart, I felt so bad because she has a cold and still she took the time to assist me!... Thank you again, it is so nice to know a professional will be helping me with this. Feel better!!!!!!"

Thank you, Erika, for your kind comments. We look forward to helping you with all of your vacation needs for years to come! May God protect you in Iraq.
=================================================
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.
--------------------------------
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.
=============================================

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
January 9, 2009
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon:

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

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

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

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

Now on with the show...

In this blog...

* Deals and specials - New sweepstakes added, super military deals, package for WDW Annual Passholders, ticket deals at Busch Gardens Tampa, SeaWorld San Diego, Universal Hollywood, Big AMTRAK sale, and luxury cruise promotion

* News from around the "World" - important booking update for making dining reservations at Walt Disney World

* New Immersive Fun, ‘Techno-vations,’ Delectable Eats, Resort Experiences, Free Birthday Visits in Store for Walt Disney World Guests in 2009

=================================================

NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

13 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 41 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!

Room discounts, FREE tickets and Package with Dining for military!

Room discounts and Package with Dining for Annual Passholders!

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

DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

2009 Vacations starting at $75 per person and include 3-Day Theme Park tickets! Total package price starting from $900.

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

MILITARY DEAL

FREE admission for active duty military at these parks though 2009!

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

UNIVERSAL HOLLYWOOD

2 Days for the Price of 1!

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

SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO

Unlimited visits throughout 2009 for $65 with this promotion!

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

BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA

Deal for Florida Residents: Annual Pass at a price too low to publish!

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

AMTRAK SALE

Rates too low to publish!

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

CRUISE UPGRADE PROMOTION

Beth, our travel agent, writes: "Now is an awesome time to be booking a cruise vacation for this year. We're officially into 'wave season' which is the time of year when the vast majority of cruises for the coming year are booked. That information helps cruise lines project what sort of year they will have, which then effects investors, etc. So it's to the cruise lines' benefit to run specials to get those numbers up. Specials abound right now.

Enjoy an upgrade for $49 or $99 on various luxury cruises now through October 9, 2009.

=================================================

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 30% on a 2009 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!

>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!

>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!

>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!

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

OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

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

>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $25

>> 2nd day FREE at SeaWorld!

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

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

>> Three nights from $299!

>> Onboard credits!

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

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

DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!

>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!

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

DISNEYLAND PARIS

>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!

>> Kids under 12 stay and play FREE!

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

VEGAS

>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.

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

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

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

WALT DISNEY WORLD

This Day in Disney History

Participants and Spectators to Experience ‘More Magic’ at Largest Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Ever

Academy Award-Nominated Actress Angela Bassett Gives Her Best Disney Vacation Tips to Other Moms

Disney settles lawsuit over Mission: Space

‘What Will You Celebrate?’ Launches: New Immersive Fun, ‘Techno-vations,’ Delectable Eats, Resort Experiences, Free Birthday Visits in Store for Walt Disney World Guests in 2009

Top U.S. Youth Soccer Players Named to Disney’s Soccer Showcase All-Star Team

American Idol: Path To Fame May Start At Disney

Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Citywalk Calendar and Venue Entertainment - January 2009

No more free beer at SeaWorld or Busch Gardens

Nickelodeon hotel hoists its own flag

=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Four-wheeling at Disneyland - Disney loses lawsuit

Disneyland Resort Calendar
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
New Immersive Fun, ‘Techno-vations,’ Delectable Eats, Resort Experiences, Free Birthday Visits in Store for Walt Disney World Guests in 2009

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - In 2009, Disney Parks poses the question "What Will You Celebrate?" in response to a travel trend that finds American families hitting the road to mark life’s special occasions. And to put guests in the spirit, Walt Disney World Resort is offering free admission to everyone who visits one of its theme parks on their birthday in 2009.

"Birthdays are the one occasion that we all share every year," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "We thought a free birthday ticket would be the icing on the cake as we extend this ‘celebration vacation’ trend to Disney Parks.

"We see our parks as the ideal setting for a personal celebration," Rasulo continued. "Guests can immerse themselves in their favorite stories and their favorite characters, creating a visit they’ll never forget."

Walt Disney World guests can choose from experiences ranging from breathtaking (magical fireworks cruises, sunrise safaris, diving the depths with undersea creatures) to mirth-making (Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, character dining, kids’ pirate adventures) in order to personalize their celebration. Even the Disney florist has gotten into the act, creating special offerings that silently scream "surprise!" when vacationers open their guest-room door.

And to aid guests as they plan their personal celebrations, a new Web-based tool at www.DisneyParks.com helps guests sort through the possibilities - whether the occasion is a birthday, anniversary, reunion, personal accomplishment, first visit or something else.

New immersive fun in theme parks
Disney Parks’ initiative to create more immersive experiences continues in 2009 at Walt Disney World Resort with premieres in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Epcot and Magic Kingdom. Here’s what’s in store:

"The American Idol Experience" (Disney’s Hollywood Studios) - Starry-eyed Disney guests will get a taste of the pop culture phenomenon - up close and personal - when Disney’s Hollywood Studios grand opens this "American Idol" attraction in mid-February. It’s another immersive opportunity as guests will be able to experience the challenge of auditioning, the rush of performing on stage in competition or the thrill of judging the performances in a live interactive setting modeled after the "American Idol" set. There will be several showtimes daily. Guests advancing through the screening process have the chance, in the nightly final competition, to win a guaranteed reservation for a regional audition for the "American Idol" TV show.

Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure (Epcot) - Inspired by Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning "Kim Possible" animated series, guests of all ages will become secret agents to save the world from various comical villains and their mad inventions in this ultra-interactive adventure packed with mystery and excitement. Guests team up with members of Team Possible in this high-tech experience slated for a late-January opening in seven World Showcase pavilions representing countries on three continents.

"Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It!" Street Party (Magic Kingdom) - It’s party time beginning in mid-February when a cast of Disney characters, stilt walkers and other performers processes down Main Street, U.S.A. toward Cinderella Castle to high-energy tunes such as "Breakout" and "I Like To Move It." Five floats decked out as gift-wrapped packages are part of the procession, and near the castle, Mad Hatter, Genie, Lumiere and Sebastian - the life and light of the party - pop out of four huge boxes. They join about a dozen other Disney characters headed by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse to mix and mingle and dance in the street with Magic Kingdom guests during a 12-15-minute party scheduled to take place three times daily.

New high-tech innovations on land and sea
High-tech innovations will help guests navigate theme park fun and treat guests to new thrills on both land and the high seas:
Verizon (in Disney theme parks) - Marking a first in both the travel and mobile industries, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and Verizon are teaming up to enhance the guest experience at Walt Disney World Resort (and at Disneyland Resort in California). Guests will be able to access an array of features on their Verizon Wireless phones including 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.

Disney Digital 3-D (aboard Disney Cruise Line ships)- Movie entertainment at sea is being revolutionized with the debut of Disney Digital 3-D, a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience just introduced onboard the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. Guests will delight as first-run, feature Disney films leap off the silver screen and take on a whole new dimension in the onboard theaters. 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 the hottest show in town.

The Hall of Presidents (in Magic Kingdom) - An Audio-Animatronics version of President Barack Obama will join representations of the previous 43 presidents of the United States as part of an attraction that has been celebrating American history since Walt Disney World Resort opened. Disney Imagineers are also updating a broad array of show elements. Reopening is slated for early July.

‘Re-imagining’ Downtown Disney
Following the fall 2008 opening of T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover, the "re-imagining" of Downtown Disney continues with:
Transformation of the Portobello Yacht Club - The name of this long-time favorite restaurant is shortened to "Portobello," and an all-new menu reflects a new, warm, Italian trattoria décor. Portobello is open daily for lunch and dinner and is owned and operated by Levy Restaurants.

Aerophile (Downtown Disney) - In the spring, Downtown Disney gets its own iconic attraction in the form of a giant tethered balloon that will take guests 300 feet into the air from the waterfront. With a volume of 210,000 cubic feet of lighter-than-air gas, the 72-foot-diameter balloon can lift up to 30 guests at a time on a six-minute trip, by day or night, that gives them an unparalleled, 360-degree view of up to 10 miles.

New waterfront dining spot - A high-energy restaurant and bar opening in spring 2009 will feature Mexican and South American cuisine, an international wine bar and a tequila bar of more than 50 kinds of tequila and 10 signature frozen margaritas. The new as yet unnamed restaurant is being developed by E-Brands Restaurant Group, a multi-concept restaurant group which currently owns and operates Timpano Chophouse and Martini Bars, Samba Rooms, Taqueria Canonita, Aquaknox, David Burke, Salsa Orlando and Canonita Express in a number of cities across the United States. The Downtown Disney restaurant will be open daily from 11 a.m. until late night with nightly entertainment.

‘Re-branding’ the sports complex
Aligning the world’s No. 1 family vacation destination with the worldwide leader in sports, Walt Disney World Resort and ESPN are joining forces to "re-brand" Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex with the ESPN brand, creating an entertaining and immersive experience for the nearly 2 million athletes, coaches and spectators who come through the sports complex each year. Plans for the re-branding initiative are still in the development stage, but initial concepts involve:
Renaming the sports complex and incorporating the signature elements of ESPN - Throughout the 220-acre facility, which is a leading venue for amateur and professional sports in the country, the project aims to enhance the experience of both athletes and spectators by connecting them to their favorite ESPN programs, personalities and elements and making them feel like they’ve made it to the "big time."

Nine new places to go, four new places to settle down
In 2009, Disney Cruise Line is charting two new eastern Caribbean courses. Meanwhile, Adventures by Disney is adding seven destinations, including some of the most exotic and remote locations in the world, to its list of trips. And Disney Vacation Club is offering guests visiting Disney Parks four new resort experiences. Here’s a look at what’s coming:
New eastern Caribbean itineraries (Disney Cruise Line) - St. Croix will be a featured stop on one new seven-night itinerary, and Tortola will be featured on another seven-night itinerary, giving Disney Cruise Line guests more choices than ever before to explore the beautiful islands of the Caribbean. Both islands are new to Disney Cruise Line, increasing the seven-night Caribbean choices on the Disney Magic to four itineraries (Disney’s traditional eastern and western Caribbean itineraries will continue). Itineraries with St. Croix and itineraries with Tortola sail select dates throughout 2009.

New family-friendly adventure vacations (Adventures by Disney) - An expedition to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, a safari in Africa, and an exploration of Alaska are among seven new adventures in 2009, giving guests a total of 22 vacation options to choose from. Other new Adventures by Disney itineraries: Italy and Switzerland; Central Italy; Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park and San Francisco; and Glacier National Park and Banff National Park.

New ‘home-away-from-home’ accommodations (Disney Vacation Club) - Four new options in 2009 will combine to revive "treehouse living" at Walt Disney World Resort, immerse guests in the African experience ... in Florida, bring vacation ownership so close to Magic Kingdom that families can blow Tinker Bell a kiss goodnight and use Cinderella Castle as their nightlight, and provide the first Disney Vacation Club accommodations on the West Coast:

The Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa - Treehouse living, a cherished tradition from 1975-2002, returns with the opening (scheduled for summer) of 60 three-bedroom villas elevated 10 feet off the ground on pedestals and beams designed to blend into the forest glens where they are nestled, providing Saratoga Springs with a new room category.

Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas - Having completed the conversion of select rooms at Jambo House (at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge) into vacation villas, Kidani Village is taking shape (for phased openings in the spring and fall) with thatched roofs and hewn timber design. Kidani means "necklace" and the building is shaped like a piece of native African jewelry with guest villas forming the beads, garden-like walkways creating the knots in between and the lobby representing the ornament or jewel at its center.

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort - The 15-story curvilinear tower (slated for a fall opening) is designed to complement the fabled styling of the original building, which opened with Magic Kingdom on Oct. 1, 1971. The crescent shape, which features 295 two-bedroom-equivalent villas, promises to deliver some of the most dramatic views available anywhere at Walt Disney World Resort - some of scenic stretches of Bay Lake, others with views of Magic Kingdom.

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa - Offering 50 two-bedroom-equivalent vacation villas (in late fall), this expansion of the existing hotel at Disneyland Resort is an architectural and artistic celebration of California’s renowned Arts & Crafts style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. (Source: Press Release, 01/08/09)
=================================================
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.
=============================================