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INFO: Top 5 Walt Disney World Resorts for the Holidays

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Courtesy of Disney

Christmas is Almost Here!

Walt Disney World recently announced the coming of the most anticipated holiday celebration of the year – Christmas! Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours will take to the streets of Magic Kingdom Park this year! We cannot wait to see the parade, fireworks, the snowfall on Main Street, and, of course, Santa Clause! 

Since we’re in the booking season for a holiday getaway (even for 2022), I’d like to share with you my Top 5 Walt Disney World Resorts for a stay during the holidays.

#5 Disney’s Pop Century Resort. Though not as decked to the halls as deluxe resorts, this is one special, value resort where you can get a taste of Christmas at a reasonable price. By taste, I’m referring to EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays, which is easily accessible from this Skyliner hotel. Yet, there’s more to the Pop than meets the eye – it has the most awesome retro holiday décor that brings us all back to those old Polaroid pictures around grandma’s silver Christmas tree.

#4 Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort. As a moderate resort, the Riverside offers a budget-friendly stay at Walt Disney World for the holidays. The setting recalls the pleasantries of a Southern comfort, country holiday. If you want to see Christmas a tad more jazzed up, you can just walk on over to the French Quarter. Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts are just a ferry ride away from Disney Springs- home of endless holiday shopping, entertainment, and the ever popular Christmas Tree Stroll – making it an even more ideal choice for the holidays.

#3 & #2 Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. These sister resorts equally deserve a spot on the list, and, since they are attached, I have paired them together. Though connected to each other, the two resorts elicit a very different feel of Christmas, with the Yacht Club starring as the most unique. At the Yacht Club, a Christmas railway diorama takes center stage with a Disney Christmas Village and beloved characters getting ready for the holidays around the tracks. Equally impressive are the model ships and boats that deck the trees throughout the resort. The Beach Club implores your sense of both sight and smell, as the scent of gingerbread wafts the halls, leading you to the stunning Gingerbread Carousel which changes in theming every year! What’s more, both resorts are a stroll away from EPCOT’s World Showcase where you can experience the holidays celebrated around the Lagoon.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Lobby by Melissa Reed

#1 Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This is, beyond any doubt, the quintessential holiday resort at Walt Disney World. It’s cozy, rustic, woodsy – a typical winter getaway. I know I could stay in the grand lobby all day, looking up at the magnificent 60ft tree, and rock the night away on a rocking chair by the crackling, warm fire. You will feel worlds away from everything, yet it’s only a short ferry ride to the festivities at Magic Kingdom Park. One especially festive touch found only at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and the nearby Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, are the horse-drawn holiday sleigh rides! Board a festive, decorated sleigh for a ride through scenic trails in the secluded woodlands of Fort Wilderness  – no other resort can top that for the holidays, right?

 

Keep in mind, resort hopping is a holiday tradition that allows you to see all the wonderful decorations that each of the resorts display during this most wonderful time of year. That said, no matter where you stay, you can always set aside a day to take in all the sights, sounds, and scents of the holidays at Walt Disney World!

 

Which Walt Disney World Resort hotel do you prefer for your stay during the holiday season?

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                        Find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.
Special thanks to fellow travel agents, Mike Beyer, Emilee Biegel, and Melissa Reed. You can find them on Facebook:
  Destinations To Travel – Mike Beyer;  Destinations To Travel with Emilee Jaworowski-Biegel; Destinations To Travel with Melissa Reed.

 

INFO: How to Get the Best Firework Views, Part II

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Photo by David Roark

Unlike at Magic Kingdom, where everyone is packed tight like a school of fish, facing Cinderella’s Castle, EPCOT’s fireworks can be admired 360 degrees around the World Showcase lagoon. This means that, regardless of where you decide to park yourself, you will get a view of the fireworks.

Of course, some areas may be disputed as better than others, yet the HarmoniUS barges appear to be capable of putting on a show visible even in outer space- so I wouldn’t fret much over where to get the best view of this new nighttime spectacular coming in October.

As mentioned in the previous blog post, viewing fireworks from a seated location at a restaurant may not always go as planned. Requests for specific seating may or may not be possible, and this will require a very early arrival and much patience on your end. Keep that in mind for the restaurant recommendations that follow.

Now, for the list of locations throughout the World Showcase, as well as an ideal area outside the park, with better views of EPCOT’s upcoming reappearance of EPCOT Forever and HarmoniUS debut:

 

Rose & Crown Dining Room. This may present a challenge, as the United Kingdom Pavilion is one of the most crowded pavilions thanks to this popular dining location (and waterholes). However, if you are willing to wait for your table, it is worth all your patience. Kindly request outdoor seating at the back patio for the best views.

La Hacienda de San Angel. Most tables will have a view, as the floor-to-ceiling windows face the lagoon. Extra points if your table is, indeed, a window table.

Spice Road Table. Though there may be a slight chance of snagging a window table indoors, there’s a better chance to get a full view if dining outdoors with a table beside the gates. Arrive early – reservations are no longer offered at this location.

If you don’t want to fight for a table (I do not condone fighting for any reason whatsoever at Walt Disney World), then I do not recommend locations like Cantina de San Angel or seating areas like that alongside the Yorkshire County Fish Shop. The race to claim a table and share space with others who are also squeezing in for a comfortable view just isn’t worth it.

Photo by Jing Xi Lau on Unsplash

Don’t have a dining reservation nor care to eat? Head over to the Japan Pavilion. Just above the Mitsukoshi Department Store is a large balcony offering elevated and unobstructed views of the lagoon. Note, if you are standing in front of a window, though, chances are you are the obstruction for someone dining at Tokyo Dining.

Another place with great views is right on the bridge between the United Kingdom and France Pavilions. This is usually where I stop and stand for the show, especially when I am staying at the Beach Club –  I can walk to the resort without having to deal with the crowds exiting the park. Disney’s EPCOT area resorts are Yacht and Beach Club Resorts and BoardWalk Inn. Even without a park ticket, a visit to this area will bring you close enough to enjoy the illuminated night sky. Get an ice cream at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop or the new Boardwalk Ice Cream Shop, or warm up with a cup of coffee from the Boardwalk Bakery, and watch the fireworks from the walkway bridge that connects the Boardwalk Inn and Beach Club Resort. The Disney Skyliner is a convenient mode of transportation to access this location – the skyliner stops at the International Gateway at EPCOT and is just a stroll away.

 

Where do you go to view the EPCOT fireworks?

Are you disappointed still that Illuminations has ended?

How do you feel about the anticipated debut of HarmoniUS?

 

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

 

INFO: How to Get the Best Firework Views, Part I

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With news of fireworks returning at Walt Disney World July 1, and the new nighttime spectaculars taking to the skies for the world’s biggest 50th anniversary celebration this October, you may want to know where to be for the best (or simply better) views of Disney’s pyrotechnic displays. Surprisingly, that doesn’t necessarily require a park ticket. 

Photo by D2Travel Agent Jamie Swanson

In this post, let’s focus on Magic Kingdom Park.

It’s time to prepare for the return of Happily Ever After and the debut of Disney Enchantment over, and on, Cinderella’s Castle. There are several dining options that offer potential viewing of Magic Kingdom’s nighttime spectaculars. Note use of the word potential. Since castle projections are just as part of the show as the fireworks, appreciating this anywhere other than center stage on Main Street most likely won’t have the full effect of the overall experience. Also, there isn’t much guarantee that window seating or firework views from indoors will be unobstructed or even available at the time of the reservation. That said, if you do have a dinner reservation, arrive early and kindly request a firework view seating. Your reservation should also be up to one hour before the scheduled firework show. 

Now, for the list of Disney’s Resorts and restaurants with a view of Magic Kingdom fireworks:

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Dine window-side at ‘Ohana, or simply head to the beach for fireworks viewing. Once construction is complete and the resort is accessible via monorail again, it shouldn’t be too difficult to hop on over here.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Enjoy dinner with fireworks, and the music which accompanies the show, at the California Grill. Just visiting? Step outside on the fourth floor observation deck. California Grill also has its own observation deck, and, if you have eaten there earlier in the evening, be sure to keep your receipt. This may be used to gain access to the 15th floor deck to watch the fireworks as an end cap to a magical day.

Disney’s Grand Floridian. Get all fancy and splurge at Narcoossee’s (piped in music included). There’s a viewing deck around the restaurant as well. For a more affordable option that doesn’t require a reservation and bank account, opt for outdoor patio seating at the Quick-Service restaurant Gasparilla Island Grill.

 

In the Magic Kingdom Park…

Have a park ticket? Ready to deal with the infamous crowds at park closing? If you answered yes, I admire your bravery. Use it wisely to grab seats, or a table, outdoors at Casey’s Corner (which appears to be opening soon) or the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor. Speaking of the area, Plaza Restaurant does have limited window space indoors with a firework view. Don’t count on getting it. You’ll need faith, trust, pixie dust, patience, and luck for any of these locations to deliver the magic you anticipate!

 

If dessert parties return at Tomorrowland Terrace, this may very well be the best option for guaranteed views of the fireworks and castle. This does come with a cost, yet you really can’t put a price on champagne, desserts, and fireworks at Magic Kingdom. Can you? Let’s just hope, for now, that dessert parties make a comeback – at least by October!

Finally, this may be unconventional and unexpected – the view isn’t ideal, but it is different. I’m referring to the inside of Cinderella’s Castle and dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table. Fireworks that set off from behind the castle may be seen from the inside, especially if seated by a window, and the bright mosaic of flickering colors will surely make the dining experience uniquely surprising and delightful.

That wraps up this half of firework views at Walt Disney World. Stay tuned for the next post that will give insight to the best locations for views of the EPCOT firework shows- including the most anticipated HarmoniUS.

 

 

 

Where do you prefer to be to watch Magic Kingdom’s firework shows?

Are you anticipating Disney Enchantment in October? 

 

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.
Special Thanks to Jamie Swanson for her photo of Cinderella’s Castle. You can find Jamie on Instagram @vacationswithjamie

INFO: Resorts Best Suited for a Family of Five

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Most hotel rooms, no matter the tier nor destination, accommodate up to 4 guests. This is fine for the majority of traveling parties vacationing as couples or fit the typical family with one or two kids. Yet, what about larger groups or families of 5 or more?

Luckily, many resorts at Walt Disney World (and all Disneyland Resorts) have rooms for parties of 5 or more- and they won’t all break the bank! Since expense is the main concern for larger groups, it would be impractical to mention Deluxe Resort Villas and Suites- even though these categories do accommodate anywhere from 5 to 12 Guests. They would be best for family reunions and that rare occasion when everyone pitches in on the bill! (Note: Standard Rooms at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, Polynesian Village, and Yacht and Beach Club Resort sleep up to 5 adults).

So, which Walt Disney World Resorts are best suited for families who break the mold, exceed maximum room capacity at most hotels, and are in want of budget-friendly lodging? 

Here’s an overview of resorts by tier:

Value Resorts

Disney’s All-Star Music Resort. Family Suites. Yes, it’s a suite. Yet, a stay here is affordable in comparison to Deluxe Resort Suites. After all, this is a Value Resort. The main room, upon entering, has two Murphy beds that pull down from above the sofa and dining table, and sleep up to 4 adults. In addition, a master bedroom offers more privacy for 2 adults. That’s 6 adults total (plus infant under 3 with a pack ‘n play). The suite features two full bathrooms and a separate kitchen area with full refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker and sink. 

Disney’s Art of Animation. Family Suite. Finding Nemo. Photo courtesy Disney.

Art of Animation. Family Suites. No matter the theme- Lion King, Cars, and Finding Nemo- these suites sleep up to 6 adults (plus infant under 3 with a pack ‘n play) and feature a master bedroom, pull-down table bed, sleeper sofa and two full baths. The kitchenette area is compact, yet is furnished with all the basic essentials like a mini-fridge, microwave oven, and small sink. 

Moderate Resorts

 

Wilderness Cabin at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Photo courtesy Disney.

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness. Not only do the cabins accommodate groups of up to 6 adults, they are also furnished with full kitchens that feature a full refrigerator, microwave, sink, 2 countertop burners and a dishwasher! The sleeping arrangement, however, may not offer the same privacy as in the family suites mentioned above- the main bedroom contains both the queen bed and bunk beds (sorry parents, you’re not alone). Also, if there’s a shower hoarder in the family, the only one full bathroom may require the troop to run on a tight schedule. Still, the cabin has everything a family needs, including a spacious and private outdoor patio and a grill.

 

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside. 5th Sleeper. Photo courtesy Disney.

5th Sleeper, child-size pull down bed. Photo courtesy Disney.

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Both resorts feature rooms with what’s called a 5th Sleeper option. This means that a party of 4 adults and 1 child (not 5 adults) can comfortably stay in these rooms. The 5th sleeper is a pull down bed that measures, approximately, 33” wide by 66” long. That said, this bed is most comfortable for a child of up to about 5ft in height. (Note, Disney will not permit booking of these rooms with 5 adults.)

 

 

 

Has your family of 5 or more stayed at any of these resorts?

Do you prefer for everyone to stay in one room, or do you find it most convenient to request separate, connecting rooms?

 

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

 

Tomorrowland Movie Exclusive Sneak Peek at DL & WDW – April 17 & 18, 2015

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Tomorrowland

THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS, IN CONJUNCTION WITH DISNEY PARKS, TO FEATURE EXCLUSIVE SNEAK PEEK OF DISNEY’S “TOMORROWLAND”  ALONG WITH A SPECIAL EXHIBIT JUST FOR GUESTS OF DISNEYLAND AND WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORTS!

Featuring never-before-seen footage!

Exhibit to feature “Making of ‘Tomorrowland'” along with special props, artwork and pictures from the filming (Provided by Disney Archives)

Just a few days ago, the Walt Disney Studios announced an amazing and unprecedented collaboration. The Studios, in conjunction with the Disney Parks, are offering park guests a 12-minute ‘sneak peek’ of “Tomorrowland,” Disney’s newest film, opening in U.S. theaters on May 22. Park guests also will have the opportunity to walk through an exhibit featuring props, concept artwork and photos from the filming of the movie. Guests will also have the chance to view exclusive images from the Disney Archives in California. Guests in Disneyland will have the chance to view the preview April 17 in Tomorrowland, followed by an April 18th opening for Walt Disney World guests at the theater that houses Michael Jackson’s “Caption EO” in EPCOT’s Future World. These showings will be available to the public for a limited time.

This amazing event, marking the first time for a sneak peak showing in EPCOT, is also the first time the Walt Disney Studios has made such an extensive effort not only to bring the preview to the public in multiple parks but also to bring an in-depth look at the creative process that goes into making a blockbuster hit movie. While sure to spark the curiosity and imagination of people of all ages, the special exhibit will detail the creative process used to bring director Brad Bird’s revolutionary vision to life, while at the same time showing how filmmakers created the world of Tomorrowland. Also featured will be archival images of some of the iconic Disneyland attractions featured in the movie.

The movie, with a premise that the futuristic city of Tomorrowland could actually exist, will pay homage to Walt Disney’s vision for the Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow (now known as EPCOT and Tomorrowland at Disneyland Resort. It is here that ever-changing technologies are displayed along with ideas that we can use to help make the world a better place for all.

Brad Bird, two-time Oscar® winning director of the movie, commented on the exclusive “Tomorrowland” sneak peek event, saying “We are excited that park guests will be the first to get an extended look at ‘Tomorrowland’ in the part of Disneyland that inspired the film. Tomorrowland is the one section of the park that Walt Disney himself designed to be tied inexorably to constant change. After all, the future is always in motion, continually shifting as humankind’s choices of the present remake the world ahead of us. ‘Tomorrowland’ is a state of mind. My hope is that the exhibit will convey some of the magic that went into bringing this land… and this movie, to life.”

“Tomorrowland,” a rich, riveting, and enchanting mystery adventure will tell the story of former boy-genius Frank, who is jaded by disillusionment, and Casey, a bright, optimistic teen bursting with scientific curiosity. They are bound by a shared destiny, and soon embark on a danger-filled mission: to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic (and mysterious) place somewhere in time and space known only as “Tomorrowland.” The task they face will not only change their lives, but the world around them forever.

With a screenplay by “Lost” writer and co-creator Damon Lindelof and Brad Bird, and a story by Lindelof & Bird & Jeff Jensen, “Tomorrowland” will take audiences on an amazing thrill ride of nonstop adventures through new dimensions that, until now, have only been dreamed of.

This film brings together the film talents of George Clooney, Britt Robetson, Hugh Laurie, Raffey Cassidy, Tim McGraw, Kathryn Hahn, Keegan-Michael Key and Thomas Robinson. It is produced by Damon Lindelof, Brad Bird, & Jeffrey Chernov and is directed by Brad Bird. Serving as executive Producers are John Walker, Bernard Bellew, Jeff Jensen, and Brigham Taylor.

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