Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
March 25, 2009
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 sweepstakes, hotel discount for Floridians, Orlando theme park vacation package, Disneyland vacation package, California theme park promotion, Legoland San Diego special, and two Caribbean cruise deals

* News from around the "World" - Space Mountain to close for the rest of the year

* Beth, our travel agent, reveals what you need to know about paying for your vacation with your debit card

* Universal Orlando CityWalk Calendar and Venue Entertainment - April 2009

* Money saving tip: save at Downtown Disney's Illuminations candle shop!
=================================================
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!

These Disney area hotels are reducing their best rate by 15% for Florida residents.

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

ORLANDO THEME PARK VACATION PACKAGE

Buy 3 Nights, Get 2 Free and tickets to three Orlando theme parks! Nearly 24 hotels have joined with this popular Orlando venue to provide accommodations. Sample price: Family of four - $34 per person, per day! Must book by June 30, 2009 for travel through Sept. 7, 2009.

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DISNEYLAND VACATION PACKAGE

FREE nights and FREE tickets!

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

CALIFORNIA THEME PARK PROMOTION

Save BIG at this popular Theme Park: Get one night FREE and second day FREE admission!

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

LEGOLAND SAN DIEGO

Get a FREE membership to Legoland for your child good for one year's admission to Legoland with this Disney promotion. Save $99!

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

CARIBBEAN CRUISE

# 7-night Western Caribbean cruise from $649. Plus! Get a $100 onboard credit!

# 7-night Caribbean cruise includes stateroom accommodations and kids sail FREE in all room categories for only $499! Offer expires April 10, 2009.
=================================================

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

* A week at Walt Disney World from $1375 for a family of four
* FREE night at Disney Deluxe Resort
* CityPass discount for Affordable Disney members
* Non-Disney theme park/cruise vacation packages
* BIG room discount at the Las Vegas Mirage Casino & Resort
* Disneyland California package deal
* Universal hotel discounts
* Spring Training package
* Disneyland California hotel special
* Universal Orlando discounted vacation packages
* SeaWorld Discovery Cove discounts
* Luxury Cruise promotion
* WDW luxury resort deal for residents of this northeast state
* FREE nights AND tickets at these hotels near Disney
* Orlando Theme Park Package with hotel and tickets to 3 parks
* Luxury Cruise Special: Kids sail from $99 and $250 to spend
* Disney World: $1375 for a family of four for 7 nights
* Advance Purchase Rates at this Orlando Luxury Resort Hotel
* Free Disneyland Gift Card valued up to $150
* 100 free upgrades in hotels all over the world
* 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
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Kids stay and play FREE at Disneyland Paris
* 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 special 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

Disney Retirement

Revisiting Fantasmic! dinner package at Disney's Hollywood Studios

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival: Opening weekend

Rocketing through Space Mountain - Space Mountain will close for refurbishment April 19 until the end of the year!

What if you don't like theme park rides? Disney World offers plenty for the non-rider

Disney, Orlando International Airport reach deal on Magical Express shuttle

Downtown Disney's Tren-D sells icons with edge

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

Peter Pan Flies High in Branson

With apologies to the recent Facebook craze, here are 25 Random Things About Central Florida Attractions

Royal Caribbean And Universal Orlando Resort Partner To Offer Ultimate Land And Cruise Vacation

Stunt performer hurt at Universal's Islands of Adventure

SeaWorld Orlando releases video of Manta test run

SeaWorld Dolphins put on an underwater show with bubbles - cool video!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland’s new ‘Celebrate!’: A sneak peek at ’street show’ debuting Friday

Disneyland passholders: Watch out for birthday blackout dates

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.
=================================================
MONEY SAVING TIP

The Iluminations candle shop at Downtown Disney is having a closeout sale: save 50-70% on all merchandise!
=================================================
PAYING WITH DEBIT CARDS

Beth, our travel agent writes:

"You're determined not to rack up massive debt - or at least, no more than you already have - by using your credit cards. Good for you! But be aware that the debit card in your pocket may not work exactly the way you think it does.

The card may display a Visa or MasterCard logo on it, but there are differences. The big one is, no matter how much money is in the account tied to the card, there is probably a daily limit as to how much you can 'charge' to the card. This is to protect you and your assets in case the card is lost or stolen, but it can be a real pain when you're trying to pay off something like a vacation.

I've seen daily limits as low as $250 and as high as $2000, but most seem to be $1000 or $1500. That means that even if you've got $10,000 in the account, you can't make a $2500 purchase. The limits are strictly adhered to... I've had people with $1000 limits tell me to go ahead and charge $1000 a day until the trip is paid, then they forget and use the card to buy lunch. The $1000 charge for that day will then fail. (If I know it's a debit card, or it's a card that's worked in the past, I'll try a lesser amount and that usually does go through.)

The thing is, if you're not aware of this little quirk, you might wait until your final payment is actually due to give me your payment info. Really, when you're going to use a debit card, we should start a few days ahead of time so we can do one charge a day, get the whole thing paid by the due date, and still leave you a little wiggle room on the debit card in case you need gas or groceries. If you plan ahead, that works. You can also call the bank that issued the card and get a one-time approval for a larger charge. The approval is usually only good for 24 hours, though, so you need to set it up and then tell me to charge the card immediately.

If worse comes to worse, we can charge the largest possible amount on the due date and then start charging more each morning until paid off. Although Disney has the right to change your rate or even cancel your reservation for not being paid in full on time, I've yet to see them actually do that. As long as there is money on the reservation and it's clear that payments are being made consistently you've probably got at least 10 days before they'll cancel you."
=================================================
CityWalk Calendar And Venue Entertainment - April 2009

**SPECIAL EVENTS**

Universal CityWalk is the Official Mardi Gras After-Party!
Mardi Gras Event Nights
When the party ends at Universal Studios, the fun is just beginning at CityWalk! On Mardi Gras event nights your Mardi Gras ticket gives you free admission to select CityWalk clubs.

*Pat O’Brien’s VIP Upgrade: $20 plus tax per person
-Includes balcony access, 2-for-1 Bud drafts, $7.95 Hurricane specials, a light appetizer buffet and more!

Now Open at CityWalk - Element, Burger King Whopper Bar, Moe’s Southwest Grill and Panda Express
Element - Share in the lifestyle of skateboarding at Element featuring skateboards and accessories; shoes; mens, juniors and boys apparel; sunglasses and watches.
Burger King Whopper Bar - Visit the world’s first, only at Universal CityWalk, and enjoy the flame-broiled burger you love with over a million ways to HAVE IT YOUR WAY®!
Moe’s Southwest Grill - Get ready for giant burritos, cheesy quesadillas and flavorful salads prepared right before your eyes. Welcome to Moe’s!
Panda Express - Wok on over to Panda Express, with original Orange Chicken and zesty Beijing Beef wok-ed up fresh, hot and fast. Experience Pandamonium!

**RESTAURANTS AND CLUBS**

Bob Marley - A Tribute to Freedom
Legendary Thursdays ~ 8PM - Close
1/2 price select appetizers and Red Stripe Beer specials

Happy Hour
Daily 4PM - 7PM

Entertainment
Mystik NRG ~ Monday - Friday
Chain Reaction ~ Saturday and Sunday

CityWalk Promenade
Live Entertainment ~ Fridays and Saturdays

CityWalk’s Rising Star
Entertainment
Karaoke with Live Band ~ Tuesday - Saturday
Karaoke with Back-Up Singers ~ Sunday and Monday

the groove
Nightly Happy Hour ~ 9PM - 11PM

Teen Nights at the groove
Come listen to live DJs spin all of today’s hits, and experience state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video. Open to teens, ages 15-19 with proper student ID. Text TEEN NIGHTS to 64646 for on-going updates.

Wednesday ~ April 1; 8PM - 12AM (Admission: $12)
Friday ~ April 10; 7PM - 11PM (Admission: $15)

Entertainment
80s Night - DJ Doc Wells ~ Thursday
DJs nightly

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
Happy Hour Monday - Friday from 3PM to 5PM at Lone Palm
Half-priced domestic drafts and house margaritas

Entertainment
Blue Stone Circle ~ Tuesday - Saturday
Hypersona ~ Sunday and Monday
Lone Palm ~ Live entertainment on select evenings

Latin Quarter
Ladies Night with Rumba 100.3FM - Thursdays
Reggaeton/freestyle dance party from 10PM - 2AM
Ladies drink free (select beverages) from 10PM - 12AM

Entertainment
Alejandro Kartal ~ Nightly on the patio
DJ Leony ~ Thursday - Saturday

NASCAR Sports Grille
Happy Hour ~ Tuesday and Wednesday - All Day

Featuring the following sporting events on BIG screens:
– All NHL and NBA games
– Kick off of 2009 NASCAR season
– MLB spring training

NBA City
All sports, all the time!
Happy Hour daily ~ 4PM - 7PM

Pat O’Brien’s Orlando
2 for Tuesdays ~ Every Tuesday, 4PM - 10PM
2 for 1 Hurricanes; 2 for 1 domestic drafts and drink specials
Half-price select appetizers

World Famous Dueling Piano Players - Live music nightly

Red Coconut Club
Nightly Happy Hour
Sunday - Thursday: 8PM - 10PM; Friday and Saturday: 6PM - 9PM
$5 Martinis and complimentary valet parking

Ladies Night every Thursday ~ 8PM - Close
Ladies receive complimentary admission and $3 cocktails all evening

In Crowd Hospitality Sundays ~ Sundays at 10PM
Free admission for members of the hospitality industry all evening
Drink specials starting at $2 with your ID or hospitality pay stub

Entertainment
Herb William’s Band ~ Thursday - Saturday
DJ’s ~ Nightly

Universal Cineplex 20, an AMC Theatre
Fast and Furious - April 2, 2009
State of Play - April 17, 2009
Fighting - April 24, 2009

**Dates and times subject to change. (Source: Press Release, 03/23/09)
=================================================
MONEY SAVING TIP

The ILluminations candle shop at Downtown Disney is having a closeout sale: save 50-70% on all merchandise!
=================================================
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.
=============================================

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
March 18, 2009
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 deals for everyone at Walt Disney World, FREE night at Disney Deluxe Resort, Disney Cruise Line discounts for Floridians and the military, CityPass discount for Affordable Disney members, new non-Disney theme park/cruise vacation packages, and BIG room discount at the Las Vegas Mirage Casino & Resort

* News from around the "World" - character dining returns to Liberty Tree Tavern in the Magic Kingdom

* Tren-D, New Downtown Disney Retail Offering, Blends Retro Style and Current Trends with a Touch of Disney

* Celebrity Chef Cat Cora To Open New Walt Disney World Restaurant
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

4 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 23 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!

New Walt Disney World room discounts and vacation package for the general public!

Book three nights during your birthday at this Walt Disney World deluxe resort and get one FREE night! Plus! Dine at their eateries on your birthday and receive a FREE birthday cake!

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

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Discounted cruises for Florida Residents and Military from $399!

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

LAS VEGAS

The Mirage - Remodeled Deluxe Rooms from $88 per night!

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

CITYPASS Discount FOR AFFORDABLE DISNEY MEMBERS

Beth, our travel agent, writes: "I'm now an authorized wholesaler of the awesome CityPass line of products. These are passes that give you discounted admission (nearly 50%) to major tourist attractions in 11 major North American cities: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago,  Hollywood, Houston, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California and Toronto. Affordable Disney readers will receive 5% off the stated price EXCEPT for Southern California passes (Sorry... I don't get a discount or commission on those, so there's nothing there to pass on. They're still a great deal, though!)
=================================================
NEW THEME PARK-CRUISE PACKAGES

This popular Orlando theme park venue has coupled with a luxury cruise line to offer cruise/land vacation packages to compete with Disney's Land & Sea vacations! Packages include:

* three- or four-night stays at the parks
* three- or four-night Bahamian cruise
* seven-night Caribbean cruise
* hotel and shipboard accommodations
* multi-day passes to theme parks
=================================================
Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:

* A week at Walt Disney World from $1375 for a family of four
* WDW / Florida / Disneyland / S. California sweepstakes
* New source for discounted Disney Villas
* Awesome deal on 3-Day luxury cruises in December
* FREE airfare to Disneyland
* SeaWorld San Diego ticket deal
* Disney Cruise Line sale
* Disneyland California package deal
* Universal hotel discounts
* Spring Training package
* Disneyland California hotel special
* Universal Orlando discounted vacation packages
* SeaWorld Discovery Cove discounts
* Luxury Cruise promotion
* WDW luxury resort deal for residents of this northeast state
* FREE nights AND tickets at these hotels near Disney
* Orlando Theme Park Package with hotel and tickets to 3 parks
* Luxury Cruise Special: Kids sail from $99 and $250 to spend
* Advance Purchase Rates at this Orlando Luxury Resort Hotel
* Free Disneyland Gift Card valued up to $150
* 100 free upgrades in hotels all over the world
* 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
* Walt Disney World vacation package that discounts everything
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Kids stay and play FREE at Disneyland Paris
* 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

African elephant dies at Disney's Animal Kingdom

Understanding Extra Magic Hours

T. Rowe partners with Disney for Epcot financial exhibit

Attention Passholders: Enter to win a piece of Walt Disney World

That's Just Dumb, Disney - a commentary on Disney's new fan club D23

Food for Thought: Universal's BK WHOPPER Bar opens, "Ratatouille" animatronic arrives at Epcot and Character Dining returns to the Liberty Tree Tavern

Bucs pulling out of Orlando and their Walt Disney World training camp

Tuna Carpaccio Recipe From the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
DISNEYLAND HONG KONG

Disney puts Hong Kong expansion on hold
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

Let parents say what's safe, theme parks urge

Disney World’s knee high sites: The stroller debate

Disney World’s knee high sites: Epcot Theme Park

Disney Resort Collection Expands With All New Bedding By Wamsutta

Theme park etiquette: Reserving parade viewing spots at Disney and Universal

Universal CityWalk Welcomes Burger King Whopper Bar, Panda Express And Moe’S Southwest Grill

SeaWorld steps up hiring for the spring

Church Street's Cheyenne Saloon to close again
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Restaurants Win 15 Awards At Southern California Restaurant Writers Banquet

"Re-Imagineering" Disney's California Adventure

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.
=================================================
Tren-D, New Downtown Disney Retail Offering, Blends Retro Style and Current Trends with a Touch of Disney

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - A stylish boutique with designer flair and eclectic offerings becomes a premier shopping spot at Downtown Disney Marketplace with the March opening of Tren-D. The urban-inspired Walt Disney World specialty store is a one-of-a-kind, hip destination for fashion-conscious shoppers seeking trendy apparel and novel accessories.

"This unique environment, filled with textured fabrics, new silhouettes, and whimsical art and design allows us the opportunity to push the creative envelope as it relates to fashion and our characters," said Mark Perrotta, director of Product Development and Design. "Our guests continue to respond to trend merchandise and novel products that they can’t purchase at home. Tren-D speaks to what is happening today with a blend of vintage and hip with stylized Disney influences."

Offerings include organic loungewear, embroidered handbags, jeweled sunglasses and trendy accessories set among stylish art and unique furnishings. The eclectic environment offers a raw and unfinished feel with jeweled chandeliers, distinct fixtures and mod furnishings.

Much of the merchandise will not be available anywhere else at Downtown Disney. Designers such as Kidada Jones, Tarina Tarantino and Roxy will showcase their artistry - blending it with Disney-inspired creations.

"With its exclusive product lines and new environment, we think Tren-D will complement the existing merchandise offerings at Downtown Disney," said Perrotta.

Tren-D is in a 2,500-square-foot venue near Pin Traders and Once Upon A Toy. The space previously was used by Summer Sands. (Source: Press Release, 03/13/09)
=================================================
Celebrity Chef Cat Cora To Open New Walt Disney World Restaurant

Chef Cat Cora and Disney are joining together to open an exciting new family dining restaurant at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort. Kouzzina by Cat Cora will feature a menu of Mediterranean-style cuisine that pays tribute to the chef’s Greek roots.

The restaurant, to be owned and operated by Disney, is scheduled to open by fall 2009 in the space currently occupied by Spoodles.

"I am pleased to welcome Cat Cora and her engaging new concept for Kouzzina to the Walt Disney World Resort," said Jay Rasulo, chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "This collaboration between Cat and Disney represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to offer unique culinary experiences and choices for our guests."

As a Mississippi native born to a family of Greek restaurateurs, Cora grew up immersed in two different and flavorful cultures , and has taken from that unique background the kitchen “know-how” handed down through generations. The cuisine at Kouzzina (Greek for "kitchen" and pronounced "koo-zee-nah") will showcase Mediterranean cuisine and Chef Cora’s philosophy to create simple yet sensational meals.

Cora said that the new restaurant will feature "time-honored recipes passed down from my ancestors, as well as my favorite Greek and Mediterranean dishes that my family loves."

She began working with Disney in 2008 by creating a Disney Video on Demand series to showcase ways to help families develop more healthy eating habits. "I’m extremely excited about this latest extension of my relationship with Disney," she said. "Together, we’re going to develop a truly amazing contemporary Mediterranean restaurant."

The first and only female Iron Chef on Food Network's hit show "Iron Chef America," Cora is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York. She also is Executive Chef for Bon Appétit magazine. In addition to hosting the instructional cooking demonstrations for Disney Video on Demand, Cora has been a featured chef at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and at Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival at Disneyland Resort. (Source: Press Release, 03/17/09)
=================================================
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.
=============================================

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
March 12, 2009
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.

Donna and I attended the Celtic Woman concert last night in Wilkes-Barre, PA. A wonderful show. See them if you can. They are still on tour until July, 2009.

Now on with the show...

In this blog...

* Deals and specials - new Disney/Florida sweepstakes, new source for discounted Disney Villas, Florida resident discount, Lodge Special, and BIG savings in Vegas

* News from around the "World" - Pinocchio ready to party at Walt Disney World

* Cynthia and Karen write about taking the kids out of school for vacation

* Disney Announces Names for New Cruise Ships: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

* Disney Announces D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans

=================================================
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!

# New Source For Discounted Disney Villas: Beth, our travel agent, writes: "I now have a new source for discounted villa units at Boardwalk, Saratoga Springs and Old Key West. This is space not being used by owners and is not available at all times. Check-in dates are specific and most stays are for 7 nights only. It's at these three villas ONLY (for now). Complimentary airport transfers and Extra Magic Hours are included. Discounts vary and may not always be better than promotional offers for the general public. 100% refund if cancelled three days or more prior to arrival date; no refund (no exceptions) if cancelled two days or less prior to arrival, or for no shows and/or early departures."

# Florida residents save 20% at this Disney venue!

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

DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

New Annual Passholder Discount!

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

LODGE SPECIAL - several locations throughout the USA

Book a 2-Night Stay by March 16, 2009 and receive 10% off our best available rates. Valid Now - April 30, 2009. Package Includes:

* 4 Water Park Passes
* Special Lodge Spring Break Activities
* Nightly Fireside Story Time
* Activities For Little Beachcombers
* Available on all suites

Beth writes: "Can't express how much I love these resorts for family vacations. If you can't make it to Disney, this is a really good alternative. A great way to combine fun AND education!"

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

LAS VEGAS

Book early and save up to 30% at this luxury Resort & Casino! Expires December 29, 2009.
=================================================

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

* A week at Walt Disney World from $1375 for a family of four
* FREE airfare to Disneyland
* Disney's new Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary on sale
* WDW discounts for annual passholders and Florida residents
* Park discounts for military and Florida and Georgia residents
* Las Vegas room discounts and FREE nights
* Awesome deal on 3-Day luxury cruises in December
* Disney Cruise Line sale
* Disneyland California package deal
* Disneyland Paris special
* Universal hotel discounts
* Spring Training package
* Disneyland California hotel special
* Universal Orlando discounted vacation packages
* SeaWorld Discovery Cove discounts
* Luxury Cruise promotion
* WDW luxury resort deal for residents of this northeast state
* FREE nights AND tickets at these hotels near Disney
* Orlando Theme Park Package with hotel and tickets to 3 parks
* Luxury Cruise Special: Kids sail from $99 and $250 to spend
* Disney World: $1375 for a family of four for 7 nights
* Advance Purchase Rates at this Orlando Luxury Resort Hotel
* 100 free upgrades in hotels all over the world
* Massive cruise sale with FREE air
* AMTRAK special for Florida Residents
* 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
* BIG airfare 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
* Walt Disney World vacation package that discounts everything
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Kids stay and play FREE at Disneyland Paris
* 22 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

More parents feed their kids apples instead of fries at Disney parks

Epcot Flower & Garden Festival: It's all about the princesses

Disney Vacation Club Scheduled to Open Kidani Village, Second Phase of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas

Disney plans to go greener

Disney's Princess Half Marathon champion Liza Hunter-Galvan breaks mold

Pinocchio ready to party at Walt Disney World

New construction permits show that Disney is renovating the Newport presidential suite [and vice-presidential suite] at Disney's Beach Club Resort. Scroll down.

How to Treat Your Daughter Like a Princess in Disney World

Disney World's wine market no Mickey Mouse story

Disney moving ahead with Hawaii resort project

Fashion boutique TrenD to open March 19 at Downtown Disney

GM's last lap on Epcot's Test Track?

Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

CityWalk Calendar And Venue Entertainment – March 2009

Sale of SeaWorld Orlando could be nearing

Rating Central Florida Roller Coasters

SeaWorld's new roller coaster Manta on track for May opening
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Parenting at the theme parks: Put the kids' needs ahead of your own
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DISNEYLAND HONG KONG

Hong Kong Disneyland launches VIP experience program
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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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Cynthia responds to the teacher who last week expressed her objection to pulling your children out of school for a vacation:

"Hi John,

In response to the teacher who is opposed to removing your child from school for a week of family vacation, I believe it depends on the time of year, and the age/grade of the child. I cannot speak for the upper grades, but as one who taught elementary school for many years I found that is doable if limited. On occasion, when parents planned a vacation during the school year, it was inconvenient for me to make arrangements concerning the work to be completed and to provide test times for those that were missed during the week. However, with help from mom and dad, and some extra time on my part, the student had no problem catching up. If a crucial concept was taught while the child was away, I would take time during the day, before or after school or even during recess, to work with the student… If possible, we would begin such work even before the child left for vacation.

Even so, if numerous students were to take such vacation time during the school year, it would prove problematic for the teacher and students… It would be too much to keep up with. So, I ultimately agree with the aforementioned teacher in that parents should wait until the break even if it means larger crowds. But, if you simply must take your young one during the school year, with helpful parents and a willing teacher, it can be done."

Karen also responds to the teacher:

"I guess it depends on the child. I took my daughter to Disney World every two to three years all throughout her education. We went during value season (not during a school vacation) because we were not as likely to stand in line for half of our time there. Also, it was much more affordable. My daughter graduated in the top of her class and earned a pharmacy degree."
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Disney Announces Names for New Cruise Ships: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

CELEBRATION, Fla. (March 10, 2009) – Today at the 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of The Walt Disney Company, Disney announced the names of the company’s two new cruise ships.

"Last week, steel cutting began on our next two Disney cruise ships. Today I’m pleased to announce their names," said Robert A. Iger, Disney president and CEO. "The Disney Dream will set sail in 2011, while the Disney Fantasy will hit the high seas in 2012."

Similar to the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the names were chosen to celebrate Disney’s unique heritage of creating enchanting places and stories where dreams really do come true.

"The names are very telling of our brand and are part of our history," said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line and New Vacation Operations. "Disney is known for making dreams come true, and for creating worlds of fantasy that go beyond the imagination. The names are a natural choice for our ships."

As noted, Disney Cruise Line began construction on the new ships with a steel cutting ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The first piece of steel cut was part of the art deco inspired scrollwork that will grace the bow of the ships. Similar to the scrollwork on the existing Disney Cruise Line ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the intricate pattern is reminiscent of the classic ocean liners of the 1930s, with added touches of Disney whimsy.

Since finalizing a contract with the Meyer Werft shipyard to build the two new ships, Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney Imagineering have created a truly distinctive design. Over the next few years, construction will continue, bringing the design to reality, with the Disney Dream scheduled for delivery in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy in 2012.

The new ships will be purpose built with families in mind, and specially designed areas and activities for each member of the family to allow for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to provide a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds only Disney can create.

The expansion will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms and will each be 128,000 tons. (Source: Press Release, 03/10/09)
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Disney Announces D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans

Disney’s First Official Fan Organization Launches with
New Quarterly Publication, Web Site, Fan Events and Collectibles Line

First Quarterly Publication Features Exclusive Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, as well as behind-the-scenes visit to Pixar Animation Studios

Disney today announced the launch of D23 (www.Disney.com/D23), the first official community for Disney fans in the Company’s 85-year history. Through D23, fans will go backstage and behind closed doors to get the inside scoop from every part of Disney, while experiencing the nostalgia, adventure and fantasy of Disney as never before.

"We have a fantastic legacy that started in 1923 and is based on timeless stories, beloved characters and unforgettable experiences, but it’s our fans that keep the spirit of Disney alive year after year, generation after generation," said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger at the Company’s annual shareholder’s meeting. "D23 is our way of saying ‘thank you’ and celebrating our fans, who bring the magic of Disney to life every day in every corner of the world."

As a part of this new Disney fan experience, today also marks the launch of D23’s new quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the all-new D23 Web site at Disney.com/D23; and a new collectibles line, The Walt Disney Archives Collection, which was created specifically with D23 members in mind. D23 also will host special events for its members throughout the year, highlighted by the organization’s signature event, the D23 Expo, which will be held in Anaheim this September 10-13.

A one-year D23 membership ($74.99) includes:

* Disney twenty-three quarterly publication: A one-year subscription (four issues) to D23’s new collectible magazine filled with stunning photography, dazzling illustrations and the ultimate Disney insider perspective. This advertising-free keepsake is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future.

* Membership Certificate and Card: The D23 membership card and suitable-for-framing member certificate – both specially created for D23’s Charter Year -- feature many of Disney’s most beloved characters.

* Surprise Collectible Gift and Member Merchandise: Each member who joins D23 will receive an exclusive collectible gift from the new Walt Disney Archives Collection. This merchandise line was created specifically with D23 members in mind, and each piece is authorized by the Walt Disney Archives. D23 members will have exclusive or early access to a wide assortment of Walt Disney Archives Collection pieces.

* D23 Expo and Member Special Events: The D23 Expo - to be held at the Anaheim Convention Center from September 10-13, 2009 -- will be "The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience," featuring incredible speakers, celebrity appearances, breathtaking exhibitions, interactive experiences, sneak peeks, film screenings, one-of-a-kind merchandise, and much more. All Disney fans are welcome, but D23 members will receive a discount on Expo admissions and early access to the show daily. D23 also offers unique members-only special event opportunities throughout the year.

* Disney.com/D23: All fans can stay connected to Disney every day through D23’s new Web site, featuring up-to-the-minute Disney news, feature stories, event info and more, but only D23 members will receive regular email updates on special event and merchandise opportunities exclusive to them.

Disney twenty-three quarterly publication

Disney today launches its new quarterly publication Disney twenty-three, a hybrid entertainment and lifestyle magazine that is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future. Its name pays homage to 1923, the year The Walt Disney Company was founded.

The premiere issue of Disney twenty-three includes exclusive features such as:

* Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens
* Inside look at the new Disney/Pixar animated film Up, featuring interviews with Director Pete Docter and Producer Jonas Rivera, concept and production art, and a look at the new animated short Partly Cloudy.
* A rare look inside Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, California. Meet the Pixar team and learn the secrets behind the success of their films.
* The doors open for two of the most exclusive, magical suites in the world: the Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Dream Suite overlooking New Orleans Square and the Rivers of America at the Disneyland Resort.

Disney twenty-three’s regular featured departments include:

* A Walk with Walt: A look back at the trials and triumphs of the man who made dreams come true and whose imagination started it all.
* D Society: From gala movie premieres and grand openings to candid Disney moments and memories, D Society takes readers backstage and onto the red carpet.
* PHOTOfiles: The legendary Walt Disney Archives Photo Library houses millions of Disney’s most cherished photographic memories, and the Archives team shares its Top 100, five in every issue. Let the countdown begin!
* Where in D?: Try to identify where in the world of Disney each issue’s mystery photo was taken.
* The Funny Pages: For the first time in decades, enjoy the vintage newspaper comic strips that helped make many of Disney’s most popular characters famous.
* Making Magic: Crafts for children of all ages, inspired by Disney’s favorite stories and experiences.
* Recipes from Disney’s most popular restaurants and eateries, past and present.

Disney twenty-three subscriptions are available only by becoming a member of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans. Individual issues of Disney twenty-three retail for $15.95 and are available exclusively at all U.S. Barnes & Noble booksellers, all domestic Disney Stores, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, and Disneyshopping.com.

DISNEY.COM/D23
The D23 site on Disney.com will serve as the premier online destination for Disney fans, highlighted by breaking Disney news, exclusive feature stories, blogs, historical retrospectives, a collectibles boutique, special event information, and other content. The D23 online experience includes News & Features, Walt Disney Archives, Disney twenty-three, Expo & Events, and Boutique23. Highlights include:

NEWS & FEATURES

* Late-breaking news, press releases, and photos of interest to fans from every part of Disney.
* "Twilight Bark" - inspired by the Disney animated feature 101 Dalmatians - offers up the latest tidbits and news "bites" from all around the world of Disney.
* Feature articles and interviews on current Disney topics from theme parks and animation to television and motion pictures, as well as historical retrospectives.
* Official Disney Bloggers – Get regular updates on films in production at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, current Walt Disney Imagineering projects, and the Walt Disney Archives.

WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES

* "This Day in Disney" - A daily walk down memory lane.
* "What’s Old Is News" - Go back in time and enjoy rare, vintage and classic articles, stories, interviews, press materials and other highlights from deep within the Disney Archives.
* "Ask Dave" - Disney Legend and Chief Archivist Dave Smith answers your questions about Disney history.
* "Archives Library" - helpful Disney reference tools including biographies, filmographies, award chronologies, Disney A to Z updates, historical profiles and other archival information.

DISNEY TWENTY-THREE

* The online home of Disney twenty-three, D23’s quarterly publication.
* Expanded stories, interviews and imagery.
* "D Society: Online Edition" - regularly updated photo gallery.
* "The Funny Page: Daily Edition" - a delightful daily dose of vintage Disney comics that haven’t been seen outside the Disney Archives in decades.
* "Making Magic" - An archive of the unique crafts featured in Disney twenty-three.
* "Disney Dish" - Always be able to find your favorite recipes from Disney twenty-three.

EXPO & EVENTS

* "D23 Expo" - The official Web site for everything you need to know about "The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience" September 10–13, at the Anaheim Convention Center, including programming, show hours, celebrity appearances, keynote speakers, ticket information, vacation packages, and more.
* "D23 Member Special Events" - Throughout the year, D23 hosts special events created just for its members. Members can find out which ones they want to attend and how to register.

BOUTIQUE 23

* D23 merchandise and collectibles, including D23 member-only offerings from the Walt Disney Archives Collection
* Hosted by Disneyshopping.com

D23 membership
D23 membership is not required to visit Disney.com/D23, but some merchandise and special event opportunities are exclusive to D23 members.

Fans can join D23 at www.Disney.com/D23, all Disney Store locations within the United States, select shops at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, and www.DisneyShopping.com/D23.

About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the wonder and excitement that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. Through the years, Disney has captured the imagination of millions around the world, and, as requested by Disney fans everywhere, D23 gives them a greater, richer connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic. (Source: Press Release, 03/10/09)
=================================================
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.
=============================================

Wednesday, March 04, 2009

Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation

THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
March 4, 2009
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 sweepstakes, Disney Cruise Line special, Disneyland vacation package, FREE airfare to Disneyland, SeaWorld San Diego ticket deal, BIG airfare sale, and latest Vegas Resort & Casino promotions

* News from around the "World" - Disney announces summer 2009 schedule

* A teacher writes about pulling your kids out of school for a vacation

* Walt Disney World Resort Debuts New Online Check-In Service

* Updated ‘Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln’ Will Return to Disneyland Later This Year
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NEW THIS WEEK

WALT DISNEY WORLD

3 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 22 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Big savings on 3-, 4- and 7-night sailings for families!

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DISNEYLAND VACATION PACKAGE

# From $241per person! Includes tickets and more!

# FREE airfare for these visitors to Disneyland!

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SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO

Get two days for the price of one!

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BIG AIRFARE SALE

Fares from $39!

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VEGAS

Treasure Island: Deluxe Room and Suite Offer. FREE meals FREE show admission, discounts, resort credit and more! Plus! Cirque du Soleil special!

The Mirage Las Vegas: Show and room discounts!

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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:

* A week at Walt Disney World from $1375 for a family of four
* Disney's new Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary on sale
* WDW discounts for annual passholders and Florida residents
* Military, Florida and Georgia residents save at Orlando parks
* Las Vegas room discounts and FREE nights
* Awesome deal on 3-Day Cruise in December
* Universal hotel discounts
* Spring Training package
* Disneyland California hotel special
* Universal Orlando discounted vacation packages
* SeaWorld Discovery Cove discounts
* WDW luxury resort special for residents of this northeast state
* FREE nights AND tickets at these hotels near Disney
* Orlando Theme Park Package with hotel and admission to 3 parks
* Luxury Cruise Special: Kids sail from $99 and $250 voucher
* Advance Purchase Rates at this Orlando Luxury Resort Hotel
* Free Disneyland Gift Card valued up to $150
* 100 free upgrades in hotels all over the world
* 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 non-Disney theme park
* 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
* Walt Disney World vacation package that discounts everything
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Kids stay and play FREE at Disneyland Paris
* 34 WDW / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California sweepstakes
* Disneyland California vacation package with $150 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
* Disney cruise line specials for Florida residents

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

"Scheduled to open June 1, 2009, The Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are now taking reservations." (Source: Disney email blast, 03/03/09)

Disney Planner: Summer 2009 - Attraction to Idol-ize, Hail to the (New) Chief, What’s "UP" at Downtown Disney and Treehouse Digs Greet Summer Guests to Walt Disney World Resort

Virgin Megastores, including Disney location, will shut down this summer

Multi-Platinum Christian Rock Band P.O.D. to Make 2009 Concert Debut in September at Disney’s Night of Joy

Surviving the spin: Which rides whirl at Disney World?

Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD

New stage highlights Universal's Mardi Gras celebration
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA

"Celebration Point" on Main Street, U.S.A offers guests a new place to take photos and mark their special occasions while celebrating at Disneyland.

Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Disney Cruise Line Begins New Ship Construction

Cruising: Disneyland on water, minus the rides
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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.
=================================================
A teacher writes:

"One of your writers suggested that a parent of a 10, 8, and 3 year old pull the kids out of school in November stating that they are young and won't miss much. That is so wrong! If a child misses even one day, it can cause a gap in his/her learning. Pulling him/her out for a week could be detrimental. I have seen grades slip more than once because the child comes back from vacation exhausted and overwhelmed; now the child has to keep up with current work while quickly making up missed work in all subject areas. And vacation is not an excused absence so teachers are less likely to be flexible on due dates as if it were religious or a medical reason.

I am all for parents taking their kids to Disney. My suggestion is to go when your child has off from school or to only take a day or two to make a long weekend. In our district our spring break is not the same as most other schools so parents may go then. I hope some of your readers will heed my advice; it is very stressful for both the child and the teacher to have a child miss that much school."
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Walt Disney World Resort Debuts New Online Check-In Service

Service available to guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Disney Vacation Club resorts open as of February 2009

Walt Disney World Resort launched a new Online Check-In Service today, designed to simplify and streamline guest arrivals. The new service is complimentary and available to guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels and Disney Vacation Club resorts open as of February 2009.

Within 10 days of their arrival dates, guests are able to provide check-in information, advise the resort of their arrival times and request room preferences (although those cannot be guaranteed). Guests can also register the names of all the people in their party and provide a credit card to cover charges at the resort hotel.

Upon arrival at their resorts, guests visit a special welcome location where their room keys and other registration material are waiting. Disney cast members are also available to provide additional information and answer questions.

Meeting professionals can also arrange private group check-in at a Disney resort convention center or other locations.

“Our new Online Check-In Service offers added convenience and time savings for Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests,” said Kevin Myers, vice president of Resort Operations for Walt Disney World Resort. “It’s the latest benefit created as part of our continuous effort to provide a seamless and hassle-free arrival experience for our guests as they begin their Disney vacation.”

Online Check-In Service is the newest Disney service designed to simplify the travel and arrival process. Guests staying at select Walt Disney World hotels get an extra dose of pixie dust with great perks and services including: Complimentary on-property transportation; Disney’s Magical Express, which offers complimentary airport shuttle and luggage delivery; and Extra Magic Hours, where each day one of the Walt Disney World theme parks opens one hour early or stays open up to three hours later, providing extra time in the parks to experience select attractions. (Source: Press Release, 02/24/09)
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Updated ‘Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln’ Will Return to Disneyland Later This Year

Disney Gallery Will Find a New Home In the Current ‘Bank of Main Street’

Hiatus for ‘Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years’ Begins March 16 as Main Street Opera House Prepares For ‘Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln’ Homecoming

A longtime favorite of Disneyland guests will return as “The Disneyland Story, featuring Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln,” an enhanced version of the show which appeared, in various forms, in the Main Street Opera House at Disneyland park from 1966 through 2004 . The attraction will reopen later this year in celebration of the 200th anniversary year of Abraham Lincoln’s birth.

The current Opera House presentation, "Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years," will go on hiatus beginning Monday, March 16, in preparation for the new "Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln" show. When the updated "Disneyland Story, featuring Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln" opens later this year, "Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years" will be presented as part of the "Disneyland Story" display of art, models and mementoes in the Opera House lobby.

Also planned for fall 2009 is a prominent new home on Main Street, U.S.A., for The Disney Gallery. Formerly located above Pirates of the Caribbean in New Orleans Square, The Disney Gallery houses treasured Disney artwork and collectibles representing creative efforts from throughout The Walt Disney Company. A frequently changing exhibit area often includes never-before-displayed art. The Disney Gallery’s new home will be in the Bank of Main Street building, located next door to the Main Street Opera House and currently serving as the headquarters for Disneyland Resort Annual Passport processing. The Bank will continue to operate as an Annual Passport center until mid-summer 2009. After that, Annual Passport processing will move to the Plaza Pavilion, near the entrance to Adventureland.

The original "Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln" was created by Walt Disney and his Imagineers for the State of Illinois Pavilion at the 1964 New York World’s Fair and featured the world’s first fully animated human Audio-Animatronics figure, built by Walt Disney Imagineering. The show, made its Disneyland debut in the Main Street Opera House on July 18, 1965. (Source: Press Release, 02/25/09)
=================================================

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.
=============================================