All the Disney Parks in One Podcast
Disney Parks Podcast Show #826- Disney New For The Week Of July 29 2024
In today’s show, we have news about Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs Menu Revealed, Disney Imagineering Files Second Permit for EPCOT Test Track Revamp, headline News and so much more.
Disney Parks Podcast Show #825- Disney New For The Week Of July 22 2024
In today’s show, we have news about Prepare for Changes to Lightning Lane Entry on July 24, Disney and Oriental Land Co., Ltd. Embark on Expanded Relationship to Launch Disney Cruise Vacations in Japan, Dear Disney segment, headline News and so much more.
Disney Parks Podcast Show #824- Disney New For The Week Of July 08 2024
In today’s show, we have news about New Funnel Suite and More Coming to the Disney Dream this Fall, 2024 EPCOT Eat to the Beat Concert Series Lineup, Dear Disney segment, headline News and so much more.
Has Disney’s recent announcements on the holiday celebrations later this year put you in the holiday spirit? Since we are halfway to the holidays and many of us feeling jolly (or is that only me?), it’s time to start shopping for holiday decorations- just don’t put them up yet. After all, it is still July!
There are three stores at Walt Disney World that keep the holiday cheer alive year-round. That’s right- 365 days of Christmas does exist, and it’s in sunny Orlando, Florida! Stepping into any one of them will have you feeling like you’re walking in a winter wonderland even if just outdoors can turn a snowman into a puddle in mere minutes. So, before you grab the hot cocoa and snuggle up by the fireplace, let’s take a look at where you can shop for a never-ending Christmas.
Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe, Magic Kingdom. Keeping with the Colonial America theme, this store located in Liberty Square looks, feels, and smells like Christmas. And, if you don’t happen to celebrate the holiday or you’re not ready yet to commit to that wondrous festive feeling, there is usually other seasonal finds- like Halloween decorations or Independence Day gear- in the store. Santa’s Helpers, I mean, Cast Members, are always keeping busy, too, adding a personalization or customized message to most merchandise.
Disney’s Days of Christmas, Disney Springs. Located in the Marketplace section, Disney’s Days of Christmas cannot be missed. It is massive, and appropriately decorated with all the Christmas trimmings. Caution: Whiplash imminent upon entering. Expect a full 360 spin once inside- the rows upon rows of ornaments alone seem endless. Yet, it is all very well organized by both theme and color- so if you’re looking to go all silver, or gold, or purple even, there’s a section coordinated with décor and trimmings in that color. Also, this store has a wide selection of boxed sets, which isn’t easily found anywhere else. Again, personalization of most merchandise is available on site, and, if you find yourself buying half the store, save your back and ask a Cast Member to ship it home!
Die Weihnacts Ecke, EPCOT. Translated as The Christmas Corner, this is by far one of the most beautiful stores not only in the Germany Pavilion, but in all of EPCOT. The shop is brimming with both elegant and Old World charm. Ornaments and holiday home décor range from the classic of nutcrackers and winter birds to the whimsical of steins and pretzels. Most of the holiday items sold here are handmade and many are from Germany. There’s even a traditional pickle tree, as it is customary in Germany to hang a pickle ornament on the Christmas tree for good luck.
I hope reading about Christmas stores at Walt Disney World has you dreaming of the holidays. Stopping by, whether for a souvenir, memento of your trip, or a gift, will surely put you in a festive mood any time of year!
Special thanks to fellow blogger and travel agent, Christina Smith, for the photos taken during the Destinations To Travel Social Media Blitz.
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.
Let’s talk about a #truthbomb. We ALL want to save money on our vacation. And this is especially true for a trip to Walt Disney World. For many of us, these trips are “Once In A Lifetime” experiences, and while we are happy to save for that trip, we want to save on the extras where we can. One of the extras that is easy to brush aside is Memory Maker. But let’s talk about why, out of all the extras, this is one you shouldn’t pass on!
~Get Everyone In The Picture~
Whether it’s a Couples, Family, Solo, Multi Generation, First or 50th trip, it’s the perfect way to have everyone in the picture. It’s called Memory Maker for a reason. They can capture the special memories that you will treasure forever, with everyone in the picture – Moms too! In addition, it will include all of your Attraction photos, including Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and more.
~Special Surprise Guests~
You never know who may pop up!
One of the BEST features – Magic Shots! These super fun, surprise photos add a touch of Disney Magic when they show up. You could find Mickey, Tinkerbell, Chip and Dale, or so many more of your favorite characters… and even Sven has made an appearance! Don’t hesitate to let the photographer know you would like some of these special photos. They will happily oblige!
~Where To Find Them~
Check for locations of photographers in your MDE app
While you’ll usually find PhotoPass Photographers near the icons in each park, they will move around. And there will be some in a few of the beaten path areas too. To see where they are located at any given time, simply check your MDE App, and from the drop down menu, select “PhotoPass”. It will pinpoint where to find them in each park. In addition, stop by the Disney PhotoPass Studio in Disney Springs for extra photos with special backgrounds and props… All included in your Memory Maker purchase!
~How (and How Much)~
If you are booking your WDW vacation with a Travel Agent (like our friends at Destinations to Travel), this will be a question they will ask you when they work up your free quote. But, if you are booking yourself, just let the cast member know, and they will add it to your package (current early purchase price $169 *subject to change). It is best to add it at least 3 days prior to the start of your vacation for the best price. Memory Maker can be added after the start of your trip, but the price will increase (currently $199 *subject to change), so by adding it in the beginning, you’ll save. All of your photos will be available to you to download to your mobile device or computer for 30 days… ALL of them! No need to decide which ones to purchase individually (or watch that bill add up)
Let us know if YOU are a Memory Maker Fan, or if you pass on this option. Will you be adding Memory Maker to your next Vacation?
If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney or Universal Studios vacation, I would love to be your planning partner! Email : christinasmith@d2travel.com . Looking for more Disney in your life? Come join us on Facebook at Living The Magical Life and Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith or on Instagram.
Ask a veteran WDW traveler for some park tips, and it’s likely that one of those tips will be to take a park bag with you. WDW allows you to take a bag – backpack, large purse, camera bag – into the parks with you. While people usually agree on taking a bag, some have different ideas on what to put in it. Here are few things that currently top the list of park bag essentials.
~Extra Masks~
Disposable mask vending machines are placed throughout property
Having extra masks for each person is not only convenient, but almost required. Between the Florida weather – including sudden afternoon rain showers and humidity – and some rides, being able to switch out a wet mask with a clean, dry one will not only be more comfortable, but more sanitary for you and your family. Disposable mask vending machines are available throughout the parks, and cloth masks are available for purchase at every turn in gift shops as well.
*Pro Tip – take an empty plastic sandwich bag with you to put wet/dirty masks in. When you return to the resort, wash them in the sink and hang them to dry overnight for fresh masks each day.
~Back Up Power~
Back Up Power Source
Now more than ever, having a power bank and charging cord is almost a neccesity. With the roll out of MagicMobile (available in your MDE App) which can replace MagicBands, it is more important than ever to make sure your device stays charged. Keeping a back up power source will help insure your device is always ready to capture those surprise Magical Moments that will live on in memories for years to come. There are locations throughout the parks for you stop, take a break and charge your device as well, but being able to stay on the go and power up at the same time is the best way to keep moving and save valuable time.
*Pro Tip – Forgot a portable charger? Don’t stress! There are Fuel Rod machines throughout property for purchase. While a bit pricey (approx $30) they come fully charged and can be exchanged at any time or charged at night and reused
~The Basics~
The Basics
Sanitizing and hand washing stations are front and center throughout the parks – but a little extra can’t hurt. Cast members are working diligently to keep guests safe and healthy, but we can certainly help them along. Hand Sanitizer and surface wipes come in handy, especially for peace of mind whether sitting down for lunch or hopping onto your next ride.
*Pro Tip – Anti Fog wipes (reusable or disposable) will also come in handy. If you already wear glasses, you may have already considered this but if not and you will be using sunglasses, these will be your best friend to avoid your glasses fogging up from wearing masks or going between air conditioned buildings to the warm Florida weather.
For more assistance on preparing for your trip to WDW, reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel. Your new Disney BFF will help make preparation a breeze!
What are your MUST HAVES in your park bag? Tell us in the comments below!
If you are looking for assitance in planning your next Disney or Universal Studios vacation, I would love to be your planning partner! Email : christinasmith@d2travel.com . Looking for more Disney in your life? Come join us on Facebook at Living The Magical Life and Destinations To Travel with Christina Smith or on Instagram.
Let’s get right to the point. Vacations are not at the top of many peoples “Priority List”, and in all honesty they aren’t cheap. And, I get it! We all have bills that come first, so that much desired trip to WDW tends to get put on the back burner. While I wish I could wave a pixie dust filled wand and make everyones trip the cost of the change we find in the laundry, I can’t… BUT I can give you a few tips to help make a dream come true trip a reality and a little easier on the wallet!
~BOOK EARLY~
Call as soon as the idea hits!
I cannot stress this enough. BOOK EARLY! When you book your vacation as soon as your desired travel dates are available, you are locking in those rates. To secure your vacation, all it takes is a $200, refundable deposit! Prices can go up at any time, without notice. But you will keep your lower rates. My favorite part of this is, it also allows you more time to save!
~WATCH FOR PROMOTIONS~
Keep Your Eyes Peeled
While nothing is guaranteed, even WDW occasionally does release money saving promotions. A promotion can be applied to your existing reservation. Simply call and speak to a Cast Member (or if you are using the FREE services from our friends at Destinations To Travel, they will do it for you!) and see if your package qualifies!
~GIFT CARDS~
Use Discounted Gift Cards or ask for them as gifts!
Disney Gift Cards are a fantastic (and often overlooked) way to budget for your WDW Vacation. You can even find them at a discount using your Red Card at Target, as well as other locations such as some wholesale stores (BJs, etc). While the discount may not seem like much at the time, those savings add up… quick! Gift Cards can be applied as payment on your vacation package, as well as for food and merchandise at the resorts, in the parks and at most locations at Disney Springs. * Bonus Tip – If your family is looking for gift ideas for Christmas or Birthdays, ask them for a gift card!
I truly believe everyone deserves time away and something to look forward to. By working a “vacation fund” right into your budget and following the tips above, it can be done. And with plenty of time to experience the INCREDIBLE 18 Month Long 50th Anniversary Celebration! How will you Make Memories This year?
Do you have a favorite budgeting tip? Please share with us in the comments below!
photo credit : Disney
If a trip to WDW to celebrate the 50th Anniversary with Mickey and friends is on your mind, I would love to help! You can find me on Facebook at Destinations to Travel with Christina Smith, request a FREE, No Obligation Quote here, or join in the fun in our group Living The Magical Life.