Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
May 13, 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 - Annual Passholder room discount and vacation package, room discount and vacation package for the general public, room discount for Florida residents, save BIG at Universal Orlando Resorts, kids sail FREE promotion, and summer Lodge special in Williamsburg, VA
* News from around the "World" - All Aboard for "Disney's A Christmas Carol" Train Tour
* Walt Disney World Guests ‘Go Galactic’ In New Live Tomorrowland Show: ‘Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’
* Disney Channel Stars Ahoy! Kodak and Disney Cruise Line Bring Exclusive Fan Experience to the High Seas
* The Pirates League Sets Sail in Magic Kingdom June 29
* Universal Orlando Resort Kicks Off Brand-New "Sizzling" Summer Concert Series
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
# New Annual Passholder Room Discounts and Vacation Packages!
# New Disney Deals for the General Public! Dining Plan can be added, too!
# New Room discounts for Florida Residents!
--------------------------------
ROOMS HALF OFF AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORTS
Use this strategy and check in on a weekday and stay two nights or more and every other night will be half price at the Universal Studios Orlando resorts (except Hard Rock)! Offer is based on availability, not combinable with any other offers or discounts, and cannot be applied to existing reservations.
--------------------------------
NON-DISNEY LUXURY CRUISE KIDS SAIL FREE SPECIAL
Beth, our travel agent, writes: "The Kids Sail Free promotion is now available for select sailings in November '09 through March '10. This offer expires May 25. There is also a reduced deposit offer - only $150 per guest - and it's fully refundable until your final payment date 60 days prior to sailing." Destinations include:
* Atlantic Ocean & Canary Islands cruises
* Baltic & Russia cruises
* Canada and United States cruises
* Dubai & Suez Canal cruises
* Grand Oriental Cruises
* Indian Ocean/ Mauritius cruises
* Eastern Caribbean cruises
* Eastern Mediterranean cruises
* Far East cruises
* Norwegian Fjords cruises
* South America cruises
* Transatlantic cruises
* Western Caribbean cruises
* Western Mediterranean cruises
--------------------------------
SUMMER LODGE SPECIAL IN WILLIAMSBURG, VA
Save up to 30%. Must book today, May 13, 2009! Valid for stays through September 3. Beth writes: "I love these resorts! Very nice deal on them."
=================================================
Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 70 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
* Walt Disney World on $58 per day
* Walt Disney World room discount
* Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
* Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
* Adventures by Disney London and Paris vacation
* Orlando resort vacation package for dog owners
* Disneyland ticket deal for locals
* Disneyland Paris vacation package discount
* Disneyland California room discount
* Alaska cruise special
* Ireland on a budget
* Disneyland Paris vacation package discount
* Luxury cruise discount exclusively for police and firefighters
* New parties for Walt Disney World Resort guests
* Disney Caribbean Cruise sale
* Kids fly FREE to this California Theme Park
* SeaWorld Partner Hotel Special
* 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
* 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
* 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
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Kids stay and play FREE at Disneyland Paris
* 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
Flash Mountain: Disney no longer to screen for breast-baring coaster riders
A not-so-magical Disney World vacation - moral of the story: it pays to complain!
ADDING MULTIMEDIA All Aboard for "Disney's A Christmas Carol" Train Tour
World Showcase Packs Culinary Punch Sept. 25-Nov. 8 at 14th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Disney World actor fondly recalls Rochester - a very interesting article about this improv performer at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Guests arrive at Kidani Village - vacation club addition now open at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
SeaWorld's Manta's open -- now what?
ZOOm Air Adventures set to open Saturday at Central Florida Zoo
New Manta video from SeaWorld Orlando
Fresh pictures of Universal's Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disney bakery produces treats with less environmental impact
A brief history of the future of Star Tours 2.0 at Disneyland
Napa Rose Manager Achieves Advanced Level Sommelier Status, Giving Napa Rose a Record Five Sommeliers Now One Step from Title of Master
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.
=================================================
Walt Disney World Guests ‘Go Galactic’ In New Live Tomorrowland Show: ‘Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - He’s been called the "Guru of Gross-Out" and "the Maker of Mischief." Now Stitch stars in his very own live show, "Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration," an out-of-this-world spectacle that combines comedic quips and musical madness for Walt Disney World guests.
The all-new show at Magic Kingdom stars the cosmic cut-up from Walt Disney Pictures’ "Lilo & Stitch" as he invades a zany interactive experience at the Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland. Guests join in a Galaxy Day celebration when the outdoor stage comes alive with high-energy music, dazzling dance moves and real-time animation.
The 25-minute show features the same cutting-edge technology used in "Turtle Talk With Crush" and "Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor," letting guests interact with an animated Stitch in one-on-one encounters. The fuzzy, loveable alien officially known as "Experiment 626" spots specific guests in the audience, asks questions and entertains them in a playful and personalized way.
Whether Stitch takes digital snapshots of audience members or comments on clothing they’re wearing, the show is different every time. He engages audience members of all ages, making them the "stars" of the intergalactic interlude.
In the show, guests follow Stitch as he pilots a "borrowed" space cruiser. Stitch joins a cast of cosmic characters – including party host Tip Trendo, space diva dancers and two malfunctioning, breakdancing robots – on his celebratory journey to planet Earth.
"‘Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’ immerses Tomorrowland guests into Stitch’s whimsical world using real-time animation technology," said Kristine Bunnell, show producer for Walt Disney World Entertainment. "And during this year’s ‘What Will You Celebrate?’ our show gives guests another reason to party."
"Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration" is scheduled six times daily. For more information about show times or Walt Disney World Resort, guests may visit disneyworld.com. (Source: Press Release, 05/07/09)
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The Pirates League Sets Sail in Magic Kingdom June 29
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Calling all scoundrels, rogues and ne’er-do-wells – Captain Jack and the crew of the Black Pearl want you.
Starting in late June, the Pearl drops anchor in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom for The Pirates League, recruiting and training Walt Disney World guests of all ages in the scurrilous ways of buccaneers.
Each guest checking in at the plunder-filled pirate’s lair gets an official pirate name. Then it’s off to Muster Station for applications of beards and eye patches, scarves and scars, earrings and gold teeth - all done with the savvy skill of a veteran pirate who shares his own tales of sea-sailing adventures.
After the new buccaneers recite a sacred pirate oath, they are officially part of Captain Jack’s motley crew, leaving their old identities behind. Past a hidden portal and into the treasure room, the shipmates have their "pirate portrait" taken before being turned loose on an unsuspecting Adventureland - and no doubt feeling right at home at the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.
Guests can choose from three daily pirate packages:
* First Mate Package: Includes bandana; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace;
* one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.
* Empress Package: Includes bandana; shimmering makeup; face gem; tattoos; nail polish; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace;
* one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.
* Captains Package: Includes choice of costume/outfit from selection; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; three 5x7-inch photos; and personalized pirate oath -- $124.95 plus tax.
Newly donned swashbucklers can test their pirate prowess on the streets of Adventureland where they search for clues and discover treasures. And for mateys who need a little more training, learn the secrets for survival by the captain himself during "Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Tutorial."
Boys, girls and grownups ready for the pirate life can start the process by calling 407/WDW-CREW beginning May 11. For more information about The Pirates League, visit disneyworld.com/crew. (Source: Press Release, 05/11/09)
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Disney Channel Stars Ahoy! Kodak and Disney Cruise Line Bring Exclusive Fan Experience to the High Seas
CELEBRATION, Fla. - In a Disney exclusive, numerous Disney Channel stars will set sail this summer, joining thousands of Disney Cruise Line guests aboard the Disney Wonder for eight special sailings during the first-ever "Disney Channel Summer at Sea," presented by Kodak.
"We’re thrilled to partner with Disney Channel and offer guests on our ship a unique opportunity to sail with Disney Channel stars," said Disney Cruise Line President Karl Holz. "A cruise vacation with Disney Cruise Line is always a family-favorite and ‘Disney Channel Summer at Sea’ provides families another reason to set sail and experience the Disney difference."
Popular stars from Disney Channel shows like "Hannah Montana," "Sonny With A Chance," "Wizards of Waverly Place," "The Suite Life on Deck," "JONAS," "Camp Rock," "High School Musical" and "Hatching Pete" will sail with guests on three- and four-night Bahamian cruises taking place July 9 through August 2. During these themed sailings, Disney Channel stars will help pump up the volume during onboard deck parties and will join guests for Q & A and autograph sessions along with preview screenings of Disney Channel programming. The onboard fun culminates with a "Party with the Stars" event, an evening where guests can join the stars for a special live musical performance. As an added treat, Radio Disney will broadcast live from the ship during two of the cruises.
Aligning with Kodak's "It's Time to Smile" campaign, all Disney fans will be able to share in the ship-to-shore fun online. Select video-blog reporters onboard the ship will capture their magical vacation memories on a ‘KODAK Zi6 Pocket Video Camera’ and post video from their voyages at disney.com/summeratsea.
"At Kodak, we’re all about relationships. We bring people together through images and are thrilled to work with the Disney Channel to help Disney fans share their magical vacation memories," said Kodak Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President Jeffrey Hayzlett.
Each cruise during "Disney Channel Summer at Sea" will include multiple Disney Channel stars. Among those scheduled to sail include Tiffany Thornton from "Sonny With A Chance" (July 9 & 12), Nicole Anderson "JONAS" (July 9 & 12), Jason Earles from "Hannah Montana" (July 16 & 19), Mitchel Musso from "Hannah Montana" (July 19), Jason Dolley from "Hatching Pete" (July 23 & 26), Debby Ryan from "The Suite Life on Deck" (July 30) and Alyson Stoner from "Camp Rock" (Aug. 2). More stars will be announced shortly, guests can visit disneycruise.com/summeratsea frequently for up-to-date information on the line-up of stars sailing. (Talent is subject to change without notice.)
"Disney Channel Summer at Sea" adds to the family-friendly fun found onboard a Disney ship. Disney Cruise Line provides a vacation experience that every member of the family feels was created just for them. Families enjoy award-winning Broadway-style entertainment at the Walt Disney Theatre, play together at high-energy deck parties featuring the only fireworks display at sea and dine in three uniquely themed restaurants. Kids delight in their own dedicated spaces and become immersed in Disney stories with their favorite characters and hosted by specially trained youth counselors. While the kids are at play, parents can slip away and relax at the spa, soak up rays at the adult-only pool, dance the night away in the clubs, or enjoy an exquisite Northern Italian meal at Palo.
A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean with special voyages to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe on tap for 2010. Disney Channel Summer at Sea voyages are exclusive to three- and four-night itineraries on the Disney Wonder between July 9 and Aug. 2 with rates starting at $679 per person -- based on double occupancy for a category 12 inside stateroom, not including government taxes and fees. Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at Walt Disney World Resort are also available. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.
About the Disney Channel Summer at Sea Sweepstakes
Beginning Monday, May 11 guests can visit Disney.com/SummeratSea, to enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win one of eight (8) Grand Prize Disney Cruise Vacation packages during the "Disney Channel Summer at Sea" program. Sweepstakes winners also receive an additional special meeting aboard ship with Disney Channel stars, and Kodak prize packages including a Kodak Zi6 video camera. Ten (10) second place winners will receive the ‘KODAK Zi6 Pocket Video Camera’ and Easy Share W1020 Digital Frame kit. (Source: Press Release, 05/11/09)
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Universal Orlando Resort Kicks Off Brand-New “Sizzling” Summer Concert Series
New Series Features Live Performances by Chart-Toppers Including Jordin Sparks and Natasha Bedingfield at Universal’s New Concert Venue, The Music Plaza
Universal Orlando is kicking off its first-ever Summer Concert Series with performances by some of music’s biggest talent - live at its new outdoor Music Plaza. Beginning Saturday, June 13 and running Saturday nights through July 4, the new concert series will give guests the chance to top off their day in the park with a nighttime mega-concert.
The concert line-up features four of the biggest names in pop, hip-hop and R&B - all of whom are chart-topping, multi-platinum, Grammy Award nominees and winners.
First up is "American Idol" winner Jordin Sparks, whose self-titled album has sold more than a million copies. Sparks will be followed by hip-hop icon LL Cool J, with more than 15 million records sold and 20 singles on the Billboard charts. Then comes British songstress Natasha Bedingfield, with album sales of more than 10 million – and Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Famers, The O’Jays.
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES LINEUP
* June 13 Jordin Sparks
* June 20 LL Cool J
* June 27 Natasha Bedingfield
* July 4 The O’Jays
The concert series spotlights Universal Orlando’s new home for hit music – the Music Plaza. Located in the heart of the Universal Studios theme park, the Music Plaza debuted during Universal’s Mardi Gras event earlier this year. It is a state-of-the-art outdoor music venue designed in the spirit of one of the most famous outdoor concert venues of all-time, The Hollywood Bowl: home to landmark performances by everyone from the Beatles to Elton John and more. The Music Plaza features a 2,400-square-foot performance stage, a 15,000-square-foot viewing lawn and two 20-foot-tall projection screens so that everyone can see the show.
"Our Music Plaza has quickly become Orlando’s perfect place to enjoy great music outdoors," said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment for Universal Orlando Resort. "Our Summer Concert Series will continue that tradition – and be an amazing experience for everyone from dedicated music fans to families wanting a great way to end their day in the parks." (Source: Press Release, 05/12/09)
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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.
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Affordable Accommodations
Enjoy Special Rates at select hotels, condos and vacation rentals near Disney. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
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Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom
Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock brokers that require you to purchase several shares of stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
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Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
May 13, 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 - Annual Passholder room discount and vacation package, room discount and vacation package for the general public, room discount for Florida residents, save BIG at Universal Orlando Resorts, kids sail FREE promotion, and summer Lodge special in Williamsburg, VA
* News from around the "World" - All Aboard for "Disney's A Christmas Carol" Train Tour
* Walt Disney World Guests ‘Go Galactic’ In New Live Tomorrowland Show: ‘Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’
* Disney Channel Stars Ahoy! Kodak and Disney Cruise Line Bring Exclusive Fan Experience to the High Seas
* The Pirates League Sets Sail in Magic Kingdom June 29
* Universal Orlando Resort Kicks Off Brand-New "Sizzling" Summer Concert Series
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
# New Annual Passholder Room Discounts and Vacation Packages!
# New Disney Deals for the General Public! Dining Plan can be added, too!
# New Room discounts for Florida Residents!
--------------------------------
ROOMS HALF OFF AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORTS
Use this strategy and check in on a weekday and stay two nights or more and every other night will be half price at the Universal Studios Orlando resorts (except Hard Rock)! Offer is based on availability, not combinable with any other offers or discounts, and cannot be applied to existing reservations.
--------------------------------
NON-DISNEY LUXURY CRUISE KIDS SAIL FREE SPECIAL
Beth, our travel agent, writes: "The Kids Sail Free promotion is now available for select sailings in November '09 through March '10. This offer expires May 25. There is also a reduced deposit offer - only $150 per guest - and it's fully refundable until your final payment date 60 days prior to sailing." Destinations include:
* Atlantic Ocean & Canary Islands cruises
* Baltic & Russia cruises
* Canada and United States cruises
* Dubai & Suez Canal cruises
* Grand Oriental Cruises
* Indian Ocean/ Mauritius cruises
* Eastern Caribbean cruises
* Eastern Mediterranean cruises
* Far East cruises
* Norwegian Fjords cruises
* South America cruises
* Transatlantic cruises
* Western Caribbean cruises
* Western Mediterranean cruises
--------------------------------
SUMMER LODGE SPECIAL IN WILLIAMSBURG, VA
Save up to 30%. Must book today, May 13, 2009! Valid for stays through September 3. Beth writes: "I love these resorts! Very nice deal on them."
=================================================
Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 70 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
* Walt Disney World on $58 per day
* Walt Disney World room discount
* Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
* Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
* Adventures by Disney London and Paris vacation
* Orlando resort vacation package for dog owners
* Disneyland ticket deal for locals
* Disneyland Paris vacation package discount
* Disneyland California room discount
* Alaska cruise special
* Ireland on a budget
* Disneyland Paris vacation package discount
* Luxury cruise discount exclusively for police and firefighters
* New parties for Walt Disney World Resort guests
* Disney Caribbean Cruise sale
* Kids fly FREE to this California Theme Park
* SeaWorld Partner Hotel Special
* 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
* 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
* 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
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Kids stay and play FREE at Disneyland Paris
* 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
Flash Mountain: Disney no longer to screen for breast-baring coaster riders
A not-so-magical Disney World vacation - moral of the story: it pays to complain!
ADDING MULTIMEDIA All Aboard for "Disney's A Christmas Carol" Train Tour
World Showcase Packs Culinary Punch Sept. 25-Nov. 8 at 14th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Disney World actor fondly recalls Rochester - a very interesting article about this improv performer at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Guests arrive at Kidani Village - vacation club addition now open at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
SeaWorld's Manta's open -- now what?
ZOOm Air Adventures set to open Saturday at Central Florida Zoo
New Manta video from SeaWorld Orlando
Fresh pictures of Universal's Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disney bakery produces treats with less environmental impact
A brief history of the future of Star Tours 2.0 at Disneyland
Napa Rose Manager Achieves Advanced Level Sommelier Status, Giving Napa Rose a Record Five Sommeliers Now One Step from Title of Master
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.
=================================================
Walt Disney World Guests ‘Go Galactic’ In New Live Tomorrowland Show: ‘Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - He’s been called the "Guru of Gross-Out" and "the Maker of Mischief." Now Stitch stars in his very own live show, "Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration," an out-of-this-world spectacle that combines comedic quips and musical madness for Walt Disney World guests.
The all-new show at Magic Kingdom stars the cosmic cut-up from Walt Disney Pictures’ "Lilo & Stitch" as he invades a zany interactive experience at the Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland. Guests join in a Galaxy Day celebration when the outdoor stage comes alive with high-energy music, dazzling dance moves and real-time animation.
The 25-minute show features the same cutting-edge technology used in "Turtle Talk With Crush" and "Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor," letting guests interact with an animated Stitch in one-on-one encounters. The fuzzy, loveable alien officially known as "Experiment 626" spots specific guests in the audience, asks questions and entertains them in a playful and personalized way.
Whether Stitch takes digital snapshots of audience members or comments on clothing they’re wearing, the show is different every time. He engages audience members of all ages, making them the "stars" of the intergalactic interlude.
In the show, guests follow Stitch as he pilots a "borrowed" space cruiser. Stitch joins a cast of cosmic characters – including party host Tip Trendo, space diva dancers and two malfunctioning, breakdancing robots – on his celebratory journey to planet Earth.
"‘Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’ immerses Tomorrowland guests into Stitch’s whimsical world using real-time animation technology," said Kristine Bunnell, show producer for Walt Disney World Entertainment. "And during this year’s ‘What Will You Celebrate?’ our show gives guests another reason to party."
"Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration" is scheduled six times daily. For more information about show times or Walt Disney World Resort, guests may visit disneyworld.com. (Source: Press Release, 05/07/09)
=================================================
The Pirates League Sets Sail in Magic Kingdom June 29
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Calling all scoundrels, rogues and ne’er-do-wells – Captain Jack and the crew of the Black Pearl want you.
Starting in late June, the Pearl drops anchor in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom for The Pirates League, recruiting and training Walt Disney World guests of all ages in the scurrilous ways of buccaneers.
Each guest checking in at the plunder-filled pirate’s lair gets an official pirate name. Then it’s off to Muster Station for applications of beards and eye patches, scarves and scars, earrings and gold teeth - all done with the savvy skill of a veteran pirate who shares his own tales of sea-sailing adventures.
After the new buccaneers recite a sacred pirate oath, they are officially part of Captain Jack’s motley crew, leaving their old identities behind. Past a hidden portal and into the treasure room, the shipmates have their "pirate portrait" taken before being turned loose on an unsuspecting Adventureland - and no doubt feeling right at home at the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.
Guests can choose from three daily pirate packages:
* First Mate Package: Includes bandana; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace;
* one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.
* Empress Package: Includes bandana; shimmering makeup; face gem; tattoos; nail polish; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace;
* one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.
* Captains Package: Includes choice of costume/outfit from selection; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; three 5x7-inch photos; and personalized pirate oath -- $124.95 plus tax.
Newly donned swashbucklers can test their pirate prowess on the streets of Adventureland where they search for clues and discover treasures. And for mateys who need a little more training, learn the secrets for survival by the captain himself during "Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Tutorial."
Boys, girls and grownups ready for the pirate life can start the process by calling 407/WDW-CREW beginning May 11. For more information about The Pirates League, visit disneyworld.com/crew. (Source: Press Release, 05/11/09)
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Disney Channel Stars Ahoy! Kodak and Disney Cruise Line Bring Exclusive Fan Experience to the High Seas
CELEBRATION, Fla. - In a Disney exclusive, numerous Disney Channel stars will set sail this summer, joining thousands of Disney Cruise Line guests aboard the Disney Wonder for eight special sailings during the first-ever "Disney Channel Summer at Sea," presented by Kodak.
"We’re thrilled to partner with Disney Channel and offer guests on our ship a unique opportunity to sail with Disney Channel stars," said Disney Cruise Line President Karl Holz. "A cruise vacation with Disney Cruise Line is always a family-favorite and ‘Disney Channel Summer at Sea’ provides families another reason to set sail and experience the Disney difference."
Popular stars from Disney Channel shows like "Hannah Montana," "Sonny With A Chance," "Wizards of Waverly Place," "The Suite Life on Deck," "JONAS," "Camp Rock," "High School Musical" and "Hatching Pete" will sail with guests on three- and four-night Bahamian cruises taking place July 9 through August 2. During these themed sailings, Disney Channel stars will help pump up the volume during onboard deck parties and will join guests for Q & A and autograph sessions along with preview screenings of Disney Channel programming. The onboard fun culminates with a "Party with the Stars" event, an evening where guests can join the stars for a special live musical performance. As an added treat, Radio Disney will broadcast live from the ship during two of the cruises.
Aligning with Kodak's "It's Time to Smile" campaign, all Disney fans will be able to share in the ship-to-shore fun online. Select video-blog reporters onboard the ship will capture their magical vacation memories on a ‘KODAK Zi6 Pocket Video Camera’ and post video from their voyages at disney.com/summeratsea.
"At Kodak, we’re all about relationships. We bring people together through images and are thrilled to work with the Disney Channel to help Disney fans share their magical vacation memories," said Kodak Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President Jeffrey Hayzlett.
Each cruise during "Disney Channel Summer at Sea" will include multiple Disney Channel stars. Among those scheduled to sail include Tiffany Thornton from "Sonny With A Chance" (July 9 & 12), Nicole Anderson "JONAS" (July 9 & 12), Jason Earles from "Hannah Montana" (July 16 & 19), Mitchel Musso from "Hannah Montana" (July 19), Jason Dolley from "Hatching Pete" (July 23 & 26), Debby Ryan from "The Suite Life on Deck" (July 30) and Alyson Stoner from "Camp Rock" (Aug. 2). More stars will be announced shortly, guests can visit disneycruise.com/summeratsea frequently for up-to-date information on the line-up of stars sailing. (Talent is subject to change without notice.)
"Disney Channel Summer at Sea" adds to the family-friendly fun found onboard a Disney ship. Disney Cruise Line provides a vacation experience that every member of the family feels was created just for them. Families enjoy award-winning Broadway-style entertainment at the Walt Disney Theatre, play together at high-energy deck parties featuring the only fireworks display at sea and dine in three uniquely themed restaurants. Kids delight in their own dedicated spaces and become immersed in Disney stories with their favorite characters and hosted by specially trained youth counselors. While the kids are at play, parents can slip away and relax at the spa, soak up rays at the adult-only pool, dance the night away in the clubs, or enjoy an exquisite Northern Italian meal at Palo.
A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean with special voyages to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe on tap for 2010. Disney Channel Summer at Sea voyages are exclusive to three- and four-night itineraries on the Disney Wonder between July 9 and Aug. 2 with rates starting at $679 per person -- based on double occupancy for a category 12 inside stateroom, not including government taxes and fees. Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at Walt Disney World Resort are also available. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.
About the Disney Channel Summer at Sea Sweepstakes
Beginning Monday, May 11 guests can visit Disney.com/SummeratSea, to enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win one of eight (8) Grand Prize Disney Cruise Vacation packages during the "Disney Channel Summer at Sea" program. Sweepstakes winners also receive an additional special meeting aboard ship with Disney Channel stars, and Kodak prize packages including a Kodak Zi6 video camera. Ten (10) second place winners will receive the ‘KODAK Zi6 Pocket Video Camera’ and Easy Share W1020 Digital Frame kit. (Source: Press Release, 05/11/09)
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Universal Orlando Resort Kicks Off Brand-New “Sizzling” Summer Concert Series
New Series Features Live Performances by Chart-Toppers Including Jordin Sparks and Natasha Bedingfield at Universal’s New Concert Venue, The Music Plaza
Universal Orlando is kicking off its first-ever Summer Concert Series with performances by some of music’s biggest talent - live at its new outdoor Music Plaza. Beginning Saturday, June 13 and running Saturday nights through July 4, the new concert series will give guests the chance to top off their day in the park with a nighttime mega-concert.
The concert line-up features four of the biggest names in pop, hip-hop and R&B - all of whom are chart-topping, multi-platinum, Grammy Award nominees and winners.
First up is "American Idol" winner Jordin Sparks, whose self-titled album has sold more than a million copies. Sparks will be followed by hip-hop icon LL Cool J, with more than 15 million records sold and 20 singles on the Billboard charts. Then comes British songstress Natasha Bedingfield, with album sales of more than 10 million – and Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Famers, The O’Jays.
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES LINEUP
* June 13 Jordin Sparks
* June 20 LL Cool J
* June 27 Natasha Bedingfield
* July 4 The O’Jays
The concert series spotlights Universal Orlando’s new home for hit music – the Music Plaza. Located in the heart of the Universal Studios theme park, the Music Plaza debuted during Universal’s Mardi Gras event earlier this year. It is a state-of-the-art outdoor music venue designed in the spirit of one of the most famous outdoor concert venues of all-time, The Hollywood Bowl: home to landmark performances by everyone from the Beatles to Elton John and more. The Music Plaza features a 2,400-square-foot performance stage, a 15,000-square-foot viewing lawn and two 20-foot-tall projection screens so that everyone can see the show.
"Our Music Plaza has quickly become Orlando’s perfect place to enjoy great music outdoors," said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment for Universal Orlando Resort. "Our Summer Concert Series will continue that tradition – and be an amazing experience for everyone from dedicated music fans to families wanting a great way to end their day in the parks." (Source: Press Release, 05/12/09)
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