Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
April 22, 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 Disney sweepstakes, Walt Disney World room discount, Florida Island Resort special, Disneyland California room discount, Dining certificate promotion, Mother's Day Special at WDW Good Neighbor hotel, Alaska cruise special, Ireland on a budget, cruise with cash back, and Vegas Resort & Casino room discounts
* News from around the "World" - Downtown Disney's new balloon ride offers the high life - with video
* Beth, our travel agent, writes: "You CAN afford a vacation this year!"
* Magic Kingdom Hosts Bash with Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration
* Sweet Fun Now Offered Nightly at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
* Animal Kingdom Serves Up Celebration Gathering As ‘Goodnight Kiss’ for Guests at Park Closing Time
* Disney's California Food & Wine Festival Fun Facts
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
2 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!
The booking date for deals on rooms and vacation packages at Walt Disney World this spring has been extended until May 6, 2009!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Big discount for Disney Rewards Visa Cardholders!
--------------------------------
FLORIDA ISLAND RESORT SPECIAL
Vacation at this resort from $179. Plus, kids eat free! Book before April 28, 2009 and receive bonuses worth up to $400. Beth writes: "I've stayed here myself. It was completely redone a few years ago after sustaining nearly a direct hurricane hit, and they've done a fantastic job bringing it back. Better than ever!"
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD AND DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
This resource offers money saving dining certificates to restaurants in Orlando, near Walt Disney World, in Anaheim, near Disneyland California, and all across the US. Get $25 certificates for $4. Plus, Get a FREE $15 Dale and Thomas(r) Promotional Gift Card with every order! Hurry! Offer expires 04/26/09.
--------------------------------
MOTHER'S DAY SPECIAL
Celebrate Mother's Day Sunday, May 10 at this Hotel & Suites near Walt Disney World! Includes:
* FREE breakfast for Mom on Mother's Day
* Mother's Day flower at breakfast
* FREE mimosa cocktail at breakfast
* Drawing for a gift basket
Beth writes: "This hotel is very close to Disney. 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.
-------------------------------
# Alaska cruises from $399 p/p for 7 nights!
# Ireland on a Budget: 6 nights in B&Bs, daily breakfast and a rental car from $449 - with the option to upgrade to castle one night if you want!
# Cruises with cash back!
-------------------------------
LAS VEGAS
# Save 25% on Deluxe accommodations at this luxury Resort & Casino!
# Save up to 30% at this luxury Resort & Casino when you book in advance!
=================================================
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 on $58 per day
* Disneyland Paris vacation package discount
* Luxury cruise discount exclusively for police and firefighters
* Bahamas vacation packages
* New parties for Walt Disney World Resort guests
* Disney Caribbean Cruise sale
* Kids fly FREE to this California Theme Park
* $3 a day rental car deal
* SeaWorld Partner Hotel Special
* Bahamas Resort Special
* Antigua, Cancun, Jamaica, Costa Rica and Punta Cana packages
* Disneyland California ticket sale
* Disney Cruise Line discounts for Floridians and the military
* 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
* Orlando theme park vacation package
* California theme park promotion
* Legoland San Diego special
* Caribbean cruise deals
* Disney Cruise Line sale
* Disneyland California package deal
* Universal hotel discounts
* 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
Downtown Disney's new balloon ride offers the high life - with video
2 drivers killed in head-on collision near Disney
Dateline Disney - May-June 2009
Dilemma: How to let kids take risks, be safe from negligence? - Florida is debating a law that allows parents to waive their children's rights in case of negligence on behalf of the business owner. You need to be aware of this.
Carolina Poulet Rouge Recipe From the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
Heard but not seen at Disney: Device helps blind visualize rides - Disney adds audio for the blind to attraction device that has captions for deaf patrons
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
SHAMU TWEETS: SeaWorld’s Star Killer Whale Joins the Twitter Community
SeaWorld Orlando Brings Guests Closer To Their Favorite Animals
Harbor Nights Primavera at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando set for May 8
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique: Magical Makeovers Reign As Young Princesses (and Knights) Get The Royal Treatment At Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Resort Calendar
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND TOKYO
Tokyo Disneyland still a happy place despite the economy
Tokyo Disneyland launches Monsters, Inc. ride
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
You CAN afford a vacation this year!
Beth, our travel agent, writes:
"I'm a "glass half full" kind of girl... I am, and always have been, of the opinion that where there's a will, there's a way. If you want a vacation this summer, you can make it happen even if the economy has been less than kind to you. Sure, it might involve a little compromising, creativity and extra effort - but as you lounge by a pool sipping a frozen drink with an umbrella in it you'll probably come to feel it was all well worth it.
Building a vacation on a tight budget is, to a large degree, the same as doing it when your bank account is, shall we say, healthier - but with a few extra steps.
* Start by gathering the family together to brainstorm about all the things that might be fun. Remember, when brainstorming, nothing is too 'left field' to be considered.
* Discuss the list and narrow it down to 2-3 options that are most appealing to everyone.
* Decide when you can take the trip and how long you'd like to go for.
* Decide how much you can afford to spend without causing real problems. Be realistic. If you've only got $300 then that's what you've got.
* Get an idea of what it would normally cost to accomplish those 2-3 vacations you came up with earlier. Just ballpark it... a quick estimation of transportation, lodging, meals, and entertainment.
* See if you're anywhere close... Compare the budget to your estimates on your favorite vacation options. If you're within $500 then you can probably pull it off with minimal extra effort. If you're within $1000 then it can probably be done... but that's where compromise will come in. If you're significantly further off, then don't discount the option entirely. Maybe your estimates aren't accurate, maybe there are some phenomenal steals out there you're unaware of, or maybe you can do it if you approach it from an entirely different angle.
How can you close the gap? Hit the problem from both sides: find ways to increase your budget, and ways to lower the costs.
To increase your budget you'll need to get more money by both saving elsewhere and bringing in more. Try taking 15-20% a week off your food budget and putting that money into your vacation find instead. That means downgrading your cuts of meat, buying store brands instead of brand names, and planning your meals around what's on sale. Get the family chefs together to find other ways to work within the new and improved food budget... For instance, let each person create a meal from online recipes for under $2.50 a serving. Agree to give up eating out for the next few months and put that money into the fund. Get a credit card that gives vacation benefits that are available right away, and then use that card to charge all the things that you normally pay off monthly (like the mortgage, utilities, gasoline, etc.) WARNING: Be sure you CONTINUE to pay the card in full each month!
As for bringing in more money, find things to sell on eBay and through Craig's List. You can't believe how simple it is! Two weeks ago I listed my daughter's glider and ottoman on Craig's list with a few pictures. It took me about 15 minutes to figure it all out. An hour or so later I got a phone call from a woman in a nearby town. She came with her hubby the next morning and paid me $250 in cash! I have a friend that sells old clothing from their closets on eBay. For instance, she'll sell a collection of men's shirts (some with small holes even!) for a flat rate. She clears out the closets and makes money at the same time! This is another great opportunity for family input if your kids are older. Involve them in coming up with ideas for making money.
On the flip side, you need to lower your costs. You may be assuming that driving is going to be cheaper, but there are some amazing airfares to be had these days. Of course, if you're going to need a car on the other end, the cost of renting may eat up your savings, but don't discount the possibility. And what about your lodging? Sure, it's great to stay in 4- and 5-star resorts, but they aren't a requirement. What about a timeshare? I can get you incredible prices on condos that haven't been booked by owners. Or how about camping? Did you know that Disney World has camp sites from just $43 a night - less if you can get the space on sale? You can add a dining plan, but you can also try doing some cooking out.
And if you really do only have $300 in your budget, don't give up! One of the most fun weekends I've had in a long time was at a beach condo about an hour away from here. The entire area was totally new to us, so it was as if we'd gone far, far away. The whole weekend, including meals and entertainment, ran two adults and a child about $250.
My point is that you shouldn't discount the possibility getting away this year. Taking a break from the stresses of your everyday life is important for both your mental and physical health, and it can work wonders for the relationship you have with your spouse and your children. If you're totally stumped, tell me your story and I'll see what I can come up with. You deserve a vacation this year; MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Alaska cruises from $399 p/p for 7 nights
OK, that one's in May and there'd be airfare involved for most people, plus some taxes - and as you might guess, we're not talking about a suite. It might not be the ideal way to do an Alaskan cruise, but I can pretty much guarantee it would be a fun and really memorable trip, and that price is probably a fraction of what you were thinking it would be. This same cruise line (one of my favorites, by the way) offers the same 7-night itinerary in June for only $50 more.
Got a little Irish in you?
A great tour company is offering some amazing deals if you book by the end of May. For instance, Ireland on a Budget includes 6 nights in B&Bs, daily breakfast and a rental car from $449 - with the option to upgrade to castle one night if you want. Escorted tours start at $599, and golf vacations start at $899. You do have to add air, but depending on where you're flying from it can be amazingly affordable.
Cruises with cash back
A major cruise line is giving onboard credits of up to $240 per cabin to spend as you please - and if you don't spend it all, you get cash back! This applies to nearly all cruises this summer, but is for new bookings only and cannot be combined with other discounts and promotions. (Affordable Disney members should log in to learn more about these deals.)
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Magic Kingdom Hosts Bash with Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Interactive wizardry that combines comedy, real-time animation and live musical madness will dazzle guests during Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom.
Beginning in May, Stitch will host a zany interactive experience at the new Rockettower Plaza Stage. Guests are invited to participate in a Galaxy Day celebration when the new outdoor stage comes to life with music and a giant LED screen displays real-time, interactive animation.
The new show incorporates the same interactive technology used in "Turtle Talk With Crush" and "Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor." Shows will take place six times daily. (Source: Press Release, 04/15/09)
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Sweet Fun Now Offered Nightly at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - There’s a lot "s'more" new fun in store at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa each evening when guests staying at the resort can roast marshmallows around a Mickey-shaped campfire, sing favorite camp tunes on the shore of Seven Seas Lagoon and see the "stars" - both on the silver screen and in the sky - as they watch a family-friendly Disney film on the moonlit beach. S’mores kits and marshmallows are available for purchase during the campfire and movie. For more information about recreational activities at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, visit Disneyworld.com or call 407/824-4321. (Source: Press Release, 04/15/09)
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Serves Up Celebration Gathering
As ‘Goodnight Kiss’ for Guests at Park Closing Time
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests get so involved in adventures with birds and beasts of many kinds that they tend to put off one of their priorities all day long: a little quality time with Disney characters.
"So when guests come out of the park, they are absolutely determined to see our characters," said Chris Ambrose, general manager of entertainment at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
In a classic example of giving guests what they want, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has launched Adventurers’ Celebration Gathering, an interactive experience near the theme park entrance each evening during park closing.
Khaki-clad cast - including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Goofy - gather to bid farewell to guests with a music-filled celebration. Cast members shake their pom-poms and urge guests to join in the street-party fun by dancing to the music and forming a conga line procession while Mickey, Minnie and Goofy keep the beat from atop their safari vehicle.
"We’ve created a way for our guests to experience our characters ..… and it’s a way for us to have a fun, exciting way to end the day at Animal Kingdom," Ambrose said. (Source: Press Release, 04/15/09)
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Disney's California Food & Wine Festival Fun Facts
Fun Facts
Tantalizing taste buds with authentic, international flavors, Disneyland Resort celebrates its fourth annual Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival, with a six-week "World Celebration" featuring celebrity chefs, signature and complimentary experiences and winemaker dinners with themes from around the globe.
Southern California Restaurant Writers recently awarded Disneyland Resort 15 new awards for its restaurants and chefs - just in time as it prepares to launch the 2009 Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival.
NEW in 2009
Where can you find "Bad Boy" of the Food Network, Guy Fieri, along with celebrity chefs and nearly 100 Disneyland Resort chefs?
* Whipping up cooking demonstrations for guests to discover new twists on timeless classics, daily at Disney’s California Adventure.
Passport handy?
* Embark on a Festival Wine Walk and get the flavor of France, Italy, Spain and Germany, or experience the California wine country featuring 89 American Viticulture Areas - without ever leaving the Food & Wine Festival!
Celebrities on your mind?
* Go Behind the Scenes with…stars of the Food Network! Trade kitchen secrets, ask culinary questions and capture a photo. Curious about becoming a winemaker? Meet baseball legend, Tommy Lasorda (Lasorda Wines) and get "direction" from the guru of Pixar films John Lasseter, along with his wife Nancy (Lasseter Family Winery).
Who’s the SWEETEST of them all?
* Learn the magic of creating a pastry masterpiece from the highly-skilled chefs of Sweet Cheeks Baking Co., San Diego, and Cake Monkey Bakery, Los Angeles, during Sweet Sundays.
Dream of becoming a MASTER Wine Connoisseur?
* Master Sommelier Michael Jordan, of the award winning Napa Rose restaurant hosts a six-hour Advanced Wine Course featuring an in-depth look at international wine regions, various growing and harvesting techniques, wine laws and governances - a perfect recipe for wine expertise. Or, try his introductory course for another immersive experience.
It’s a Whole New World…
* Experience an exciting menu every week during World Celebrations Dinners - featuring the aromas and flavors of Italy, Spain, France, Korea and Japan as well as the wines of Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite).
For additional information, please visit www.disneyland.com/foodandwine (Source: Press Release, 04/20/09)
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Affordable Disney Books
Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price. To check out the bargains, click here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?
With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more! Save at hotels and restaurants near Walt Disney World, on car rental, airfare, admission to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa! For details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Movies and CD's
Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Accommodations
Enjoy Special Rates at select hotels, condos and vacation rentals near Disney. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
--------------------------------
Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom
Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock brokers that require you to purchase several shares of stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
=============================================
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
=============================================
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
April 22, 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 blogcontent to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!
: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN! Add to My MSN!
=================================================
Hi Everyone!
NOTE: If you want to visit Walt Disney World when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable.
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - New Disney sweepstakes, Walt Disney World room discount, Florida Island Resort special, Disneyland California room discount, Dining certificate promotion, Mother's Day Special at WDW Good Neighbor hotel, Alaska cruise special, Ireland on a budget, cruise with cash back, and Vegas Resort & Casino room discounts
* News from around the "World" - Downtown Disney's new balloon ride offers the high life - with video
* Beth, our travel agent, writes: "You CAN afford a vacation this year!"
* Magic Kingdom Hosts Bash with Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration
* Sweet Fun Now Offered Nightly at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
* Animal Kingdom Serves Up Celebration Gathering As ‘Goodnight Kiss’ for Guests at Park Closing Time
* Disney's California Food & Wine Festival Fun Facts
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
2 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!
The booking date for deals on rooms and vacation packages at Walt Disney World this spring has been extended until May 6, 2009!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Big discount for Disney Rewards Visa Cardholders!
--------------------------------
FLORIDA ISLAND RESORT SPECIAL
Vacation at this resort from $179. Plus, kids eat free! Book before April 28, 2009 and receive bonuses worth up to $400. Beth writes: "I've stayed here myself. It was completely redone a few years ago after sustaining nearly a direct hurricane hit, and they've done a fantastic job bringing it back. Better than ever!"
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD AND DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
This resource offers money saving dining certificates to restaurants in Orlando, near Walt Disney World, in Anaheim, near Disneyland California, and all across the US. Get $25 certificates for $4. Plus, Get a FREE $15 Dale and Thomas(r) Promotional Gift Card with every order! Hurry! Offer expires 04/26/09.
--------------------------------
MOTHER'S DAY SPECIAL
Celebrate Mother's Day Sunday, May 10 at this Hotel & Suites near Walt Disney World! Includes:
* FREE breakfast for Mom on Mother's Day
* Mother's Day flower at breakfast
* FREE mimosa cocktail at breakfast
* Drawing for a gift basket
Beth writes: "This hotel is very close to Disney. 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.
-------------------------------
# Alaska cruises from $399 p/p for 7 nights!
# Ireland on a Budget: 6 nights in B&Bs, daily breakfast and a rental car from $449 - with the option to upgrade to castle one night if you want!
# Cruises with cash back!
-------------------------------
LAS VEGAS
# Save 25% on Deluxe accommodations at this luxury Resort & Casino!
# Save up to 30% at this luxury Resort & Casino when you book in advance!
=================================================
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 on $58 per day
* Disneyland Paris vacation package discount
* Luxury cruise discount exclusively for police and firefighters
* Bahamas vacation packages
* New parties for Walt Disney World Resort guests
* Disney Caribbean Cruise sale
* Kids fly FREE to this California Theme Park
* $3 a day rental car deal
* SeaWorld Partner Hotel Special
* Bahamas Resort Special
* Antigua, Cancun, Jamaica, Costa Rica and Punta Cana packages
* Disneyland California ticket sale
* Disney Cruise Line discounts for Floridians and the military
* 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
* Orlando theme park vacation package
* California theme park promotion
* Legoland San Diego special
* Caribbean cruise deals
* Disney Cruise Line sale
* Disneyland California package deal
* Universal hotel discounts
* 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
Downtown Disney's new balloon ride offers the high life - with video
2 drivers killed in head-on collision near Disney
Dateline Disney - May-June 2009
Dilemma: How to let kids take risks, be safe from negligence? - Florida is debating a law that allows parents to waive their children's rights in case of negligence on behalf of the business owner. You need to be aware of this.
Carolina Poulet Rouge Recipe From the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
Heard but not seen at Disney: Device helps blind visualize rides - Disney adds audio for the blind to attraction device that has captions for deaf patrons
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
SHAMU TWEETS: SeaWorld’s Star Killer Whale Joins the Twitter Community
SeaWorld Orlando Brings Guests Closer To Their Favorite Animals
Harbor Nights Primavera at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando set for May 8
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique: Magical Makeovers Reign As Young Princesses (and Knights) Get The Royal Treatment At Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Resort Calendar
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND TOKYO
Tokyo Disneyland still a happy place despite the economy
Tokyo Disneyland launches Monsters, Inc. ride
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
You CAN afford a vacation this year!
Beth, our travel agent, writes:
"I'm a "glass half full" kind of girl... I am, and always have been, of the opinion that where there's a will, there's a way. If you want a vacation this summer, you can make it happen even if the economy has been less than kind to you. Sure, it might involve a little compromising, creativity and extra effort - but as you lounge by a pool sipping a frozen drink with an umbrella in it you'll probably come to feel it was all well worth it.
Building a vacation on a tight budget is, to a large degree, the same as doing it when your bank account is, shall we say, healthier - but with a few extra steps.
* Start by gathering the family together to brainstorm about all the things that might be fun. Remember, when brainstorming, nothing is too 'left field' to be considered.
* Discuss the list and narrow it down to 2-3 options that are most appealing to everyone.
* Decide when you can take the trip and how long you'd like to go for.
* Decide how much you can afford to spend without causing real problems. Be realistic. If you've only got $300 then that's what you've got.
* Get an idea of what it would normally cost to accomplish those 2-3 vacations you came up with earlier. Just ballpark it... a quick estimation of transportation, lodging, meals, and entertainment.
* See if you're anywhere close... Compare the budget to your estimates on your favorite vacation options. If you're within $500 then you can probably pull it off with minimal extra effort. If you're within $1000 then it can probably be done... but that's where compromise will come in. If you're significantly further off, then don't discount the option entirely. Maybe your estimates aren't accurate, maybe there are some phenomenal steals out there you're unaware of, or maybe you can do it if you approach it from an entirely different angle.
How can you close the gap? Hit the problem from both sides: find ways to increase your budget, and ways to lower the costs.
To increase your budget you'll need to get more money by both saving elsewhere and bringing in more. Try taking 15-20% a week off your food budget and putting that money into your vacation find instead. That means downgrading your cuts of meat, buying store brands instead of brand names, and planning your meals around what's on sale. Get the family chefs together to find other ways to work within the new and improved food budget... For instance, let each person create a meal from online recipes for under $2.50 a serving. Agree to give up eating out for the next few months and put that money into the fund. Get a credit card that gives vacation benefits that are available right away, and then use that card to charge all the things that you normally pay off monthly (like the mortgage, utilities, gasoline, etc.) WARNING: Be sure you CONTINUE to pay the card in full each month!
As for bringing in more money, find things to sell on eBay and through Craig's List. You can't believe how simple it is! Two weeks ago I listed my daughter's glider and ottoman on Craig's list with a few pictures. It took me about 15 minutes to figure it all out. An hour or so later I got a phone call from a woman in a nearby town. She came with her hubby the next morning and paid me $250 in cash! I have a friend that sells old clothing from their closets on eBay. For instance, she'll sell a collection of men's shirts (some with small holes even!) for a flat rate. She clears out the closets and makes money at the same time! This is another great opportunity for family input if your kids are older. Involve them in coming up with ideas for making money.
On the flip side, you need to lower your costs. You may be assuming that driving is going to be cheaper, but there are some amazing airfares to be had these days. Of course, if you're going to need a car on the other end, the cost of renting may eat up your savings, but don't discount the possibility. And what about your lodging? Sure, it's great to stay in 4- and 5-star resorts, but they aren't a requirement. What about a timeshare? I can get you incredible prices on condos that haven't been booked by owners. Or how about camping? Did you know that Disney World has camp sites from just $43 a night - less if you can get the space on sale? You can add a dining plan, but you can also try doing some cooking out.
And if you really do only have $300 in your budget, don't give up! One of the most fun weekends I've had in a long time was at a beach condo about an hour away from here. The entire area was totally new to us, so it was as if we'd gone far, far away. The whole weekend, including meals and entertainment, ran two adults and a child about $250.
My point is that you shouldn't discount the possibility getting away this year. Taking a break from the stresses of your everyday life is important for both your mental and physical health, and it can work wonders for the relationship you have with your spouse and your children. If you're totally stumped, tell me your story and I'll see what I can come up with. You deserve a vacation this year; MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Alaska cruises from $399 p/p for 7 nights
OK, that one's in May and there'd be airfare involved for most people, plus some taxes - and as you might guess, we're not talking about a suite. It might not be the ideal way to do an Alaskan cruise, but I can pretty much guarantee it would be a fun and really memorable trip, and that price is probably a fraction of what you were thinking it would be. This same cruise line (one of my favorites, by the way) offers the same 7-night itinerary in June for only $50 more.
Got a little Irish in you?
A great tour company is offering some amazing deals if you book by the end of May. For instance, Ireland on a Budget includes 6 nights in B&Bs, daily breakfast and a rental car from $449 - with the option to upgrade to castle one night if you want. Escorted tours start at $599, and golf vacations start at $899. You do have to add air, but depending on where you're flying from it can be amazingly affordable.
Cruises with cash back
A major cruise line is giving onboard credits of up to $240 per cabin to spend as you please - and if you don't spend it all, you get cash back! This applies to nearly all cruises this summer, but is for new bookings only and cannot be combined with other discounts and promotions. (Affordable Disney members should log in to learn more about these deals.)
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Magic Kingdom Hosts Bash with Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Interactive wizardry that combines comedy, real-time animation and live musical madness will dazzle guests during Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom.
Beginning in May, Stitch will host a zany interactive experience at the new Rockettower Plaza Stage. Guests are invited to participate in a Galaxy Day celebration when the new outdoor stage comes to life with music and a giant LED screen displays real-time, interactive animation.
The new show incorporates the same interactive technology used in "Turtle Talk With Crush" and "Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor." Shows will take place six times daily. (Source: Press Release, 04/15/09)
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Sweet Fun Now Offered Nightly at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - There’s a lot "s'more" new fun in store at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa each evening when guests staying at the resort can roast marshmallows around a Mickey-shaped campfire, sing favorite camp tunes on the shore of Seven Seas Lagoon and see the "stars" - both on the silver screen and in the sky - as they watch a family-friendly Disney film on the moonlit beach. S’mores kits and marshmallows are available for purchase during the campfire and movie. For more information about recreational activities at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, visit Disneyworld.com or call 407/824-4321. (Source: Press Release, 04/15/09)
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Serves Up Celebration Gathering
As ‘Goodnight Kiss’ for Guests at Park Closing Time
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests get so involved in adventures with birds and beasts of many kinds that they tend to put off one of their priorities all day long: a little quality time with Disney characters.
"So when guests come out of the park, they are absolutely determined to see our characters," said Chris Ambrose, general manager of entertainment at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
In a classic example of giving guests what they want, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has launched Adventurers’ Celebration Gathering, an interactive experience near the theme park entrance each evening during park closing.
Khaki-clad cast - including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Goofy - gather to bid farewell to guests with a music-filled celebration. Cast members shake their pom-poms and urge guests to join in the street-party fun by dancing to the music and forming a conga line procession while Mickey, Minnie and Goofy keep the beat from atop their safari vehicle.
"We’ve created a way for our guests to experience our characters ..… and it’s a way for us to have a fun, exciting way to end the day at Animal Kingdom," Ambrose said. (Source: Press Release, 04/15/09)
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Disney's California Food & Wine Festival Fun Facts
Fun Facts
Tantalizing taste buds with authentic, international flavors, Disneyland Resort celebrates its fourth annual Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival, with a six-week "World Celebration" featuring celebrity chefs, signature and complimentary experiences and winemaker dinners with themes from around the globe.
Southern California Restaurant Writers recently awarded Disneyland Resort 15 new awards for its restaurants and chefs - just in time as it prepares to launch the 2009 Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival.
NEW in 2009
Where can you find "Bad Boy" of the Food Network, Guy Fieri, along with celebrity chefs and nearly 100 Disneyland Resort chefs?
* Whipping up cooking demonstrations for guests to discover new twists on timeless classics, daily at Disney’s California Adventure.
Passport handy?
* Embark on a Festival Wine Walk and get the flavor of France, Italy, Spain and Germany, or experience the California wine country featuring 89 American Viticulture Areas - without ever leaving the Food & Wine Festival!
Celebrities on your mind?
* Go Behind the Scenes with…stars of the Food Network! Trade kitchen secrets, ask culinary questions and capture a photo. Curious about becoming a winemaker? Meet baseball legend, Tommy Lasorda (Lasorda Wines) and get "direction" from the guru of Pixar films John Lasseter, along with his wife Nancy (Lasseter Family Winery).
Who’s the SWEETEST of them all?
* Learn the magic of creating a pastry masterpiece from the highly-skilled chefs of Sweet Cheeks Baking Co., San Diego, and Cake Monkey Bakery, Los Angeles, during Sweet Sundays.
Dream of becoming a MASTER Wine Connoisseur?
* Master Sommelier Michael Jordan, of the award winning Napa Rose restaurant hosts a six-hour Advanced Wine Course featuring an in-depth look at international wine regions, various growing and harvesting techniques, wine laws and governances - a perfect recipe for wine expertise. Or, try his introductory course for another immersive experience.
It’s a Whole New World…
* Experience an exciting menu every week during World Celebrations Dinners - featuring the aromas and flavors of Italy, Spain, France, Korea and Japan as well as the wines of Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite).
For additional information, please visit www.disneyland.com/foodandwine (Source: Press Release, 04/20/09)
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom
Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock brokers that require you to purchase several shares of stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 6:12 AM
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