
1923 Main Street: Snow Skate Surf and Travel Style
334 episodes — Page 5 of 7
Ep 134Dole Whip is Having Its Disney Day, All the Fun Facts About Dole Whip
DOLE Whip Now Has its Own Disney Day of CelebrationFun Facts About Dole WhipDole Whip is a soft-serve dairy free and gluten free frozen dessert created by the Dole Food Company in 1984. Since 2013 it has been fully vegan. It first appeared as an attraction in the Disneyland Enchanted Tiki Room. According to the official Dole website, a 2/3 cup serving of Dole Whip contains 110 calories and 25-27 carbs (depending on the flavor). Remember, the make-at-home Dole Whip recipe that Disney published in 2020 during lockdown is not the real Dole Whip recipe. The real one is made with powder from Dole, plus water and the machine that combines the two into frozen goodness. Dole Whip used to be somewhat exclusive and very much a Disney thing to many people, but that's now changed and you can get official Dole Whip in more and more places outside of Disney Parks -- including our local movie theatre in Oakville, Ontario, Canada.Dole Whip Day is officially July 21, but the Dole Whip flavor extravaganza will continue through July 24. Going forward Disney plans to hold Dole Whip Day on the third Thursday in July – so if you want to plan your WDW vacation around Dole Whip, you now know which dates to book.Walt Disney World Resort Magic Kingdom Park Aloha Isle (Located in Adventureland)Pineapple Float: DOLE pineapple juice served with a choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl (available with Tiki Sipper for additional cost) Raspberry Swirl Float: DOLE Whip and raspberry swirl served with DOLE pineapple juicePineapple Upside-Down Cake served with choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirlDOLE Whip Cup: Choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirlCoconut Cup: Choice of coconut or coconut and DOLE Whip swirlRaspberry Swirl Cup: DOLE Whip and raspberry swirlStorybook Treats (Located in Fantasyland) Soft-serve Cup: DOLE Whip lime, chocolate, or vanilla soft-serve, or swirl in a cupSnow White Cone: DOLE Whip lemon in a blue cone garnished with a chocolate bird and sugar bowSunshine Tree Terrace (Located in Adventureland; Mobile Order available)DOLE Whip Orange CupOrange Cream Soft-serve Cup: DOLE Whip orange and vanilla soft-serve swirlDOLE Whip Strawberry CupDOLE Whip Float: DOLE Whip or vanilla soft-serve with your choice of Coca-Cola, Barq’s Root Beer, Diet Coke, Fanta Orange, Fanta Strawberry, POWERADE Mountain Berry Blast, or SpriteI Lava You Float: Fanta Strawberry Soda and passion fruit flavor served with DOLE Whip orange and topped with popping candyDisney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Tamu Tamu Scar’s Lair: DOLE Whip and sour appleLion’s Lair: DOLE Whip topped with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and sour appleSimba Sunset: DOLE Whip with strawberryKing’s Cooler: DOLE Whip with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and strawberryDOLE Whip Float: DOLE Whip with DOLE pineapple juice (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum) DOLE Whip Cup (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)Trilo-Bites Trilo-Bites Twist: DOLE Whip orange with vanilla soft-serveEPCOT Refreshment Outpost (Available through November 19) DOLE Whip: Watermelon, pineapple, or swirl (New)Disney Springs Swirls on the Water Peach Bellini Float: Peach Bellini topped with DOLE Whip orange (New) Orange Bird Cone: DOLE Whip orange atop an orange cone with sprinklesDOLE Whip Flight: DOLE Whip orange swirled with DOLE Whip watermelon, DOLE Whip lemon swirled with blue butter cookie soft-serve, and DOLE Whip and Vanilla soft-serve swirlDisney Resort Hotels Disney’s Contemporary Resort Contempo Café (Available July 21 through August 20; Mobile Order available) DOLE Whip Cupcake: Yellow cupcake filled with DOLE Whip mousse and garnished with a cherry (New)Disney’s Old Key West Resort Good’s Foods to Go (Mobile Order available)Key Lime Swirl: DOLE Whip lime and vanilla soft-serve swirl topped with graham cracker crumbsDOLE Whip Key Lime Martini: DOLE Whip lime served with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and garnished with a lime (New) (available July 21 through 24)Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Pineapple Lanai“Tamatoa-inspired” Dipped Cone: DOLE Whip raspberry swirled with DOLE Whip orange in a white chocolate-dipped waffle cone and coated with “shiny” gold sugar (available July 21 through 24) 50th Celebration DOLE Whip: Your choice of DOLE Whip with a 50th white chocolate medallion, umbrella, and EARidescent glitterPineapple Float: DOLE pineapple juice served with a choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirlDOLE Whip with Rum Floater: DOLE Whip with Parrot Bay Coconut RumBarefoot Pool Bar and Oasis Pool Bar Frozen Margarita with DOLE Whip Lime: Corazón Blanco Tequila blended with DOLE Whip lime and chili-lime seasoningFrosty Pineapple: DOLE Whip with Captain Morgan Private Stock RumTrader Sam's Tiki TerraceSpikey Pineapple: Barbancourt Pango Rhum blended with DOLE WhipDisneyland Resort Disneyland ParkThe Tropical Hideaway (Located in Adventureland; Mobile Order available)DOLE WhipDOLE Whip Float: DOLE pineapple juice topped with DOLE WhipDOLE Whip Swirl Float: DOLE pineapple ju
Ep 133More Character Dining is Coming Back to Walt Disney World
You've Been Asking for it and Now More Character Dining is Returning to Walt Disney WorldIf you want a hug with your meal, you're in luck as several character-dining experiences are getting ready to bring back Disney characters. Here's what we know about which restaurants are bringing back characters and when they're reopening.Magic Kingdom Park On September 20, 2022, your favorite characters from the Hundred Acre Wood will be back at The Crystal Palace: A Buffet with Characters featuring Winnie the Pooh and Friends. This greenhouse-inspired restaurant is located just off of Main Street U.S.A. near the hub and features dishes like Carved Prime Rib, Seasonal Ravioli, and Peel & Eat Shrimp.Disney’s Polynesian Village ResortThe ‘Ohana Best Friends Breakfast featuring Lilo and Stitch is a worthwhile breakfast experience and it's scheduled to return on September 27, 2022. According to Disney, you'll be able to once again get some hugs while you feast on dishes like the Pineapple Coconut Breakfast Bread and Mickey Waffles and sip on the iconic Lilikoi Juice and Moana Smoothie.Disney’s Beach Club ResortCape May Café, a New-England inspired dining room, is an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet and it will be back with characters on October 4, 2022 for the Cape May Café Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast. In the past, this one has featured Minnie, Goofy and more friends and is a fun way to start the day. There's lot of great food from which to choose, including Salted Caramel Beach Buns and of course Mickey and Minnie Waffles.-- Zombies 3 is coming soon and Disney is celebrating with a Zom Beatz Bash at Downtown Disney and Disney SpringsDisney loves a good party and this summer's theme is the ZOM-BEATZ BASH. This a dance filled event will feature music from the Disney Channel movies ZOMBIES, ZOMBIES 2 and ZOMBIES 3, with a premiere date of July 15 on Disney+ and August 12 on Disney Channel.ZOM-BEATZ BASH is a 20-minute DJ-hosted stage show event for guests of all ages to try out some zombie dance moves, sing-along to favorite songs or snap a pic at the ZOMBIES 3 photo wall. Parties will take place at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World. Disneyland: the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage at 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. from July 29 – 31 Walt Disney World: evenings at the Disney Springs Marketplace Stage from August 5 – 14 with performances from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.--Thor Love and Thunder at Disneyland and Walt Disney WorldJane Foster at Avengers CampusFor a limited time, Jane Foster will roam the grounds of Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure park, encountering recruits and occasionally challenging others to test their worthiness with the mythical hammer, Mjolnir.Thor-inspired TreatsThe Ganachery at Disney Springs, Walt Disney World is where you can try Mighty Thor’s Hammer (a Chocolate Mjolnir). This special dessert is available July 1-31 while supplies last (limit two per person).If you are looking for a worthy beverage holder, look no further than Mighty Thor’s Hammer Novelty, available starting July 8 in Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure Park. The hammer opens on top to hold a contour bottle or cup and includes choice of bottled beverage at time of purchase. This offer is while supplies last and there is a limit of two (2) per person, per transaction. No Discounts Apply. This novelty will be sold at Shawarma Palace, Shawarma Palace Too (novelty available via mobile order as well) and at the outdoor vending cart at the entrance to Avengers Campus near Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! Unboxing the latest Thor merchandise with the stars of ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ Even Spider-Bots can join in the celebration with a new Thor Tactical Upgrade, available at WEB Suppliers in Disney California Adventure park. The Spider-Bot armor plating upgrade equips your Spider-Bot with its very own uru-powered Mjolnir and intensifies its high-velocity attacks by summoning the power of thunder.--New Car Finder App So You'll Never Lose Your Car in a Disney Parking LotCar locator is a complimentary feature that uses location technology to find and save Guest's parking details. The feature functions best when you enable Location Services, Bluetooth, and Notifications on their mobile device.The feature will be available at all four Walt Disney World theme parks, Disney Springs, Disney Water Parks, and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. All guests have to do is open their My Disney Experience app and tap the car locator card on their home screen—or they can use the Feature menu (☰) for access.After that, guests can follow the prompts to enter their parking information. If they choose to enable location permissions on their device, car locator can help fill in the details for them. When guests are ready to leave, they can return to car locator for their parking information.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that y
Ep 132Tiana's Bayou Adventure, New Disney Hotel Perks and More News
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to Replace Splash Mountain by Late 2024Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is coming to Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Walt Disney Imagineers have been spending a lot of time in Louisiana conducting research to ensure Tiana’s Bayou Adventure preserves the heart and soul of Tiana's story. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has been described as a love letter to New Orleans. The ride will take you on a musical adventure picking up where the film left off. We will see Princess Tiana, Naveen and the jazz-loving alligator Louis on an adventure through the bayou as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras celebration where everyone is welcome. The ride will travel through the bayou to original music inspired by songs from the movie as they're brought into the next chapter of Tiana’s story. --More Benefits for Guests of Disneyland Resort HotelsNew summer pool parties will take place for 30 minutes daily at all three Disneyland Resort Hotels from July 1 – Aug. 31, 2022. The Disney poolside squad will be on deck to lead games like the water sponge relay and a fun floaty toss, and play high-energy music for dancing the Pluto doggie paddle! Disney characters will stop by the pool to join in the fun.Early Entry: Starting August 8, 2022, Disneyland Resort Hotel Guests will be able to enjoy Early Entry for 30 minutes prior to each park’s opening to enjoy select attractions, dining and shopping.Dining Delivery: Select restaurants in Downtown Disney provide meal delivery services. Scan the QR code right from your in-room TV to access the links to those restaurants’ delivery webpages to place an order that can be delivered right to a Disneyland Resort Hotel lobby.Package Delivery: Starting August 8, 2022 you can have your park purchases delivered to your Disneyland Resort Hotel the next day. Preferred Dine Access will offer Disneyland Resort Hotel Guests the opportunity to have preferred access to a limited number of reservations at select hotel table service restaurants during the dates of their hotel stay. More details coming soon. --Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique returns August 25Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will welcome young guests starting August 25 at both Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Park at Disneyland Resort.You can start making reservations in early August only in the My Disney Experience app and Disneyland App, or at DisneyWorld.com and Disneyland.com. Valid admission and park reservations are required for entry into Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland park.--Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course Undergoing Most Extensive Redesign EverAs part of a long-running collaboration with Arnold Palmer Golf Management, Disney is currently redesigning part of the Magnolia course. There will be four holes – No. 14, No. 15, No. 16 and No. 17 – that will be reimagined with innovative layouts and landscaping.Also, the course’s 18 greens will be upgraded to create even more pristine putting surfaces. Plus, holes No. 16 and No. 17 will be connected by a new, wooden cart bridge through the forest and several fairway and greenside bunkers are being installed along with more challenging tee boxes.The new-look Magnolia course will debut later this year.--Foodie Guide to Disney Springs Flavors of FloridaFlavors of Florida at Disney Springs is under way and runs from July 5 through August 14. Over 30 restaurants and shops at Disney Springs are celebrating fresh flavors from the Sunshine State. These locations are serving up a slice of summer with refreshing beverages and delicious dishes, all inspired by Florida. Amorette’s PatisserieBlood Orange Éclair – Éclair filled with triple blood orange mousse, topped with tangy citrus jam and candied blood orange.Blue Citrus Sauvignon Blanc Slushie – Matua sauvignon blanc, Blue Curaçao syrup and lemonade. Served in a Flavors of Florida Corkcicle.The BOATHOUSECoconut Panna Cotta – Coconut panna cotta, layered with mango gelée and topped with tropical fresh fruit, shredded coconut and a crispy coconut shortbread cookie.Chef’s Art Smith’s Homecomin’Southern Fried Hand Pies – A pair of fried pastries filled with moonshine-glazed strawberry compote and served with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.Blood Orange Margarita – Dobel Diamanté tequila with fresh-squeezed lime juice and blood orange purée, garnished with a fresh Florida orangeChicken Guy!Florida Sunshine Shake – Hand-spun, vanilla, soft serve ice cream and fresh Florida orange juice, topped with whipped cream and garnished with an orange wheel. (Not available for online orders.)City Works Eatery & Pour House Smokehouse Cuban – Hardwood-smoked pulled pork shoulder, ham, shaved hot link, smoked provolone, Robonaut Red mustard and spicy bread & butter pickles, on a Cuban roll.Coca-Cola Rooftop Beverage BarSunshine Orange Chill – St. Augustine vodka, orange juice, topped with Sprite and served in a souvenir Coca-Cola glass.D-Luxe Burger Lime Garage Burger – Deluxe patty, topped with pepper jack cheese, pork belly
Ep 131Christmas 2022 at Walt Disney World, Plus More Characters are Back!
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is Back for 2022Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is back on 24 select nights November 8 - December 22, 2022. This popular ticketed takes place at the Magic Kingdom and features:Mickey and pals on the Cinderella Castle stage for the ultimate Christmas extravaganza – Mickey’s Most Merriest. The show features holiday music with dance performances.Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks will light up the sky, along with castle projections, and seasonal songs.Santa Claus will join Mickey Mouse and friends in the Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.As in the past, partygoers will get complimentary cookies and hot cocoa at locations throughout Magic Kingdom.Holiday magic will once again transform the Jungle Cruise into the Jingle Cruise. And, as an exclusive treat, Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Speedway, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor and Mad Tea Party will all get a special holiday makeover.Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café becomes the coolest place to party when North Pole residents drop by for an intergalactic dance party!You can also dance the night away with favorite Disney characters at the Totally Tomorrowland Christmas on the Rockettower Plaza Stage.Younger partygoers and Disney Junior fans of all ages can head to Storybook Circus during the Disney Junior Jingle Jam as Disney Junior characters take part in a fun-filled dance celebration.In honor of the 50th Anniversary celebration, part attendees will find three new photo opportunities and will get a special 50th Anniversary holiday-themed commemorative keepsake.Tickets go on sale July 7, 2022 on DisneyWorld.com. Guests of Walt Disney World Resort hotels can book in advance on June 30. Tickets range from $149-$199 plus tax. Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can get speically priced ticket for select dates.The party does not require an additional theme park ticket or Park Pass reservation. Event dates are:November: 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 27, 29December: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22Say Hello to Santa ClausSanta will make special appearances throughout Walt Disney World. Whether cruising down Hollywood Boulevard in his red convertible at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or voyaging across the Discovery River as part of a festive flotilla at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park you may see Santa just about anywhere. For individual visits with Santa, Magic Kingdom Park and Disney Springs are where to go. And at EPCOT, Santa Claus will join storytellers from around the world as a part of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays beginning November 25, 2022Enjoy Festive Entertainment Across Walt Disney WorldDisney’s Animal Kingdom Park will come alive with the return of a Merry Menagerie of winter animals in the form of life-size, artisan-sculpted puppets.“For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios adds a festive finale, featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, and songs of the season.At Disney Springs, Town Center will experience a magical snowfall, bringing the spirit of the North Pole to Central Florida.The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays begins November 25 and features the Candlelight Procession, a heartwarming holiday performance at America Gardens Theatre.Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will blast off to the tune of an awesome holiday single.Disney PhotoPass will have holiday-themed Magic Shots at all four Walt Disney World theme parks, a new PhotoPass Lens and virtual backdrops at the Disney Springs PhotoPass Studio.Savor Festive Seasonal FlavorsHoliday Cookie Stroll will return to EPCOT this year, it's a sweet scavenger hunt during Festival of the Holidays. There are also special Holiday Kitchens with festive food from around the world.At Disney Springs, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar becomes Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar and will feature yuletide touches along with festive food and craft cocktails.Immerse Yourself in Delightful Holiday Décor In addition to all the twinkling trees, glittering ornaments, tinsel and wreaths, the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll will have themed Christmas trees that draw inspiration from beloved characters. And don't forget the visit select resorts for gingerbread houses and more!--Walt Disney World Character NewsMirabel is now part of the “Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade," as of June 26.Minnie Mouse will join Mickey Mouse in Town Square Theater, Magic Kingdom Park starting July 6. July 6 also marks the return of Chip 'N Dale's Campfire Sing-A-Long at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. On July 10, Peter Pan and Snow White will greet guests at Magic Kingdom Park once again.Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Star Wars Launch Bay returns July 17. You can meet Chewbacca, encounter BB-8 or run-into Darth Vader himself.In the coming months, a visit to Magic Kingdom Park will bring chances to meet Aladdin, Jasmine, Merida, Pooh, Tigger and Storyb
Ep 130Disney Summer Food Guide, plus Soarin' on Disney's private jet adventure
Best New Food to Try This Summer at Disneyland and Walt Disney WorldDisneyland ResortParadise Garden Grill, California Adventure, has new BBQ dishes including Kansas City-style BBQ Ribs (BBQ sauce, pickles, and onions), North Carolina-style BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich (creamy coleslaw, crispy jalapeños, pickles, onions), St. Louis-style BBQ-Rubbed Chicken (beer-brined, roasted half chicken, pickles, and onions. All come with a choice of Poblano Mac & Cheese, Chuck Wagon Beans, Potato Salad with Bacon, Creamy Coleslaw, Andouille Sausage, or Jalapeño-cheddar Cornbread.There's also a Peach Cobbler Cocktail with moonshine, peach schnapps, and peach-cinnamon purée.The Family Picnic Platter is BBQ half chicken, pulled pork, ribs, andouille sausage, poblano mac & cheese, chuck wagon beans, potato salad with bacon, creamy coleslaw, jalapeño-cheddar cornbread, pickles, and onions. Topped off with cherry cheesecake. Red Rose Taverne at Disneyland park will feature a new Late Night Menu. Plant-based Bonsoir Chili Cheese Poutine includes a hearty plant-based chili, shredded “cheese” and seasoned waffle fries. Our Classic Poutine has slow-cooked beef, gravy, cheese curds and spiced, pickled red onions on waffle fries. The Firelight Fries has tangy spiced chicken and pepperoncini ranch sauce on ranch-seasoned waffle fries. This Late Night Menu is available from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily. At Disneyland park Harbour Galley there's the Soup in a Sourdough Bread Bowl with choice of clam chowder, steak gumbo, or the plant-based vegetable gumbo. The new Harbour Muffuletta Salad has cured meats and cheese on mixed lettuce with olive tapenade, giardiniera, pepperoncini and Italian dressing with sliced sourdough. The Pelican Punch is a chilled blend of pineapple, coconut, and lime.Royal Street Veranda New Orleans Square has the Hoppin’ John IMPOSSIBLE Royal Wrap with seasoned plant-based meat, rice, black-eyed peas, “cheddar,” lettuce, and Cajun dressing in a spinach tortilla. The Street Steak Salad is chilled steak on mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, candied pecans, and fried onions with a horseradish dressing. For a sweet tooth, the Blueberry Fritters with blue sugar and lemon curd dipping sauce is for you.Walt Disney World At Disney Springs, Swirls on the Water is the Buzz Lightyear Star Commander Cone, a purple cheesecake soft-serve adorned with chocolate wings and space sprinkles. Also there is a DOLE Whip Float featuring Rosa Regale Sparkling Red Wine, DOLE Whip strawberry, and a fresh strawberry slice. At Magic Kingdom Park, the new Zurg Freeze can be found at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies.EPCOT has a Barbecued-roasted Chicken with Sweet and Tangy Barbecue Sauce as well as a Southern-style Spoon Bread at Garden Grill. At Sunshine Seasons enjoy a Roast Beef Sandwich with chilled roast beef, chimichurri aïoli, cheddar, arugula, and red onion on a flour-topped kaiser roll served with potato chips. For a plant-based option, try the Mediterranean Vegetable Sandwich featuring roasted red pepper, red onion, tomato, arugula, hummus, and balsamic vinaigrette on herbed focaccia. And rounding up the new additions is the Spicy Fish Taco, with fire-roasted corn salsa, creamy jalapeño Piri Piri sauce, and radish served with plantain chips.Coral Reef Restaurant has also seen some enhanced items recently. Start off your meal with new appetizers like the Trio of Seasonal Dips with fresh vegetable crudité and crisps or the New England Clam Chowder. While enjoying the incredible, underwater views, guests can feast upon entrée additions like the Orange-glazed Sustainable Salmon served with vegetable stir-fry and shiitake sticky rice. If this doesn’t quite float your boat, consider the Cajun Chicken Pasta filled with pulled Cajun-spiced chicken, parmesan cream sauce, roasted mushrooms, peas, peppers, and onions.Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is bringing back their buffet on August 28. Meet favorite Disney Junior pals for breakfast and Minnie and her friends for lunch and dinner. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano is debuting new menu items including Fried Fresh Mozzarella with marinara sauce, ricotta salata, and lemon oil, while the Grilled Bone-in Pork Chop is accompanied by creamy polenta, roasted tomatoes, mustard vincotto, and charred broccolini. At the World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, you’ll find the Box Office Cupcake, a yellow cupcake filled with caramel and topped with marshmallow buttercream and a peanut-pretzel-popcorn brittle. Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort has the Rock and Roll Cupcake, another yellow cupcake but this one is filled with peanut butter buttercream and topped with banana panna cotta and candied bacon. The End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports is serving up the MVP Cupcake. This yellow cupcake is stuffed with apple pie filling and topped with a buttercream baseball and caramel popcorn-peanut crunch. At Everythi
Ep 129Victoria and Albert's, Hoop Dee Doo and More Dates You Need to Know
When is Victoria & Albert’s Reopening at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort?Victoria & Albert's at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is reopening on Thursday, July 28, 2022 and you can make reservations starting June 20. The reopening has "enhanced flavors" and a newly reimagined Victorian-style dining room complete with murals & wall coverings that showcase timeless elegance and subtle inspiration of a whimsical garden.If you want to up your experience even further, the private Queen Victoria’s Room or the upscale Chef’s Table (with a front-row seat to the chefs at work) are other options. The world-class wine collection has over 500 options in the wine cellar and is perfectly paired with the dishes by V&A sommeliers. There are also delicious non-alcoholic cocktails that can be paired as well. Dishes on the tasting menu are continually evolving. When it reopens, you will be able to sample dishes such as Colorado Lamb with pickled blueberry and violet mustard, and line-caught turbot with fennel fondue, and Pernod beurre blanc. If the finest of beef is your thing, you can experience the Wagyu A-5 Miyazaki with sauce romesco and potato rösti. Chocolate lovers will enjoy the Spectrum of Chocolate, an ombré featuring specialty sourced chocolates with accents of buttermilk, Grand Mariner, and vanilla.A reminder about Victoria & Albert’s dress code. This is an upscale and intimate dining experience and the culinary crown jewel of Walt Disney World. Guests are required to dress accordingly for the upscale experience with semi-formal to formal attire that respects the restaurant’s elegance and opulence. There is also a minimum age limit of 10.--What's on the Menu when Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue Reopens on June 23, 2022The long-running classic Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue will be reopening its doors on Thursday, June 23, 2022 with an updated version of this fan favorite musical extravaganza accompanied by a family-style feast. The show takes place at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, inside Pioneer Hall. The Pioneer Hall Players are ready to dance and sing as they do best.The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue has historically had some of the best comfort food at Walt Disney World. It’s all-you-care-to-enjoy feast with bottomless fountain drinks and for those over 21, red and white sangria, draft beer, and wine are included.The Hoop Salad is a simple but satisfying starter with the signature “hoop” vinaigrette topped with sharp white cheddar, cucumbers, and tomatoes. The House-made Cornbread with delicious honey butter is legendary. There's also some very tasty Creamy Coleslaw before the main course arrives at your table. For the main course there's Pecan-smoked BBQ Pork Ribs with BBQ sauce. The other main plate is the one, the only – the Legendary Fried Chicken – and it tastes just like how it sounds … legendary. And what about those side dishes? Hoop-Dee-Doo brings its A-game with its side dishes. The Cornbread-crusted Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food and the Home-style Mashed Potatoes go perfectly with the fried chicken and pork ribs. Rounding out the sides is the classic Cowboy Beans, because let's face it, you can’t have BBQ without beans.For the grand finale, the longtime favorite ‘Ma’s Famous Strawberry Shortcake topped with whipped cream and strawberries. This is a staple at Pioneer Hall and the perfect way to finish up your foodie evening.In addition to the bottomless beverages, there are a few new adult drinks options for an added cost. The Giddy-Up cocktail is the barkeep’s blend of vodka, lemonade, and freshly brewed iced tea. You can also choose from a variety of local craft beers including Tampa Bay Brewing Elephant Foot IPA, Cigar City Jai Alai IPA, Cigar City Maduro Brown Ale, Orange Blossom Pilsner, Central 28 UnderDuck Lager, and 3 Daughters Brewing Blonde Ale.--Minnie Vans Return on June 29Starting June 29, Minnie Vans will be back in service at Walt Disney World. Your can order one from your mobile device. Minnie Vans have access to special drop-off locations that can only they can access, so a little extra pixie dust for your dollars.--Moana-inspired Photo Ops Around Walt Disney World ResortThere are new photo opportunities inspired by Moana being offered by Disney PhotoPass Service around Walt Disney World Resort.At Disney’s Animal Kingdom you can snap a Magic Shot with Hei Hei by visiting the photographer located closest to the Tree of Life on Discovery Island. In Magic Kingdom Park, the Disney PhotoPass Studio in Sir Mickey's in Fantasyland is where you can capture a variety of photos with Hei Hei and another one of Moana’s friends. For a Pua Magic Shot visit the photographer stationed near the entrance to Adventureland from Main Street, U.S.A. to capture a photo with this precious pig. At the Disney Springs PhotoPass Studio there are some new Moana-themed backdrops. Tip: PhotoPass photographers can conjure Maui’s Fish Hook for you to hold in their photo.Finally,
Ep 128Tips for Visiting Walt Disney World in Summer, Plus Disney Pride Month
Tips for Summer Vacation at Walt Disney World (Hint, it's not the heat you have to worry about)More people seem to be planning summer vacations to Walt Disney World this year, including many who have never before visited during the summer months. Here's what you need to know and what to watch for:It's not so much the heat (which can be intense), but it's the rain. You would do well to make plans and reservations accordingly. Be careful about how much outdoor activity you plan between the hours of approximately 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. It's also hurricane season at this time of year and they're predicting a higher-than-average number of named storms this year. So it's more important than ever to keep that in mind.--How to Share Your Pride at Walt Disney World in June 2022Disney Parks are celebrating PRIDE Month in June as part of their commitment to recognize and celebrate the contributions, cultures and experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community. This year all four Walt Disney World theme parks have Pride-themed backdrops for your social feeds. Each park photo wall is unique, themed to its surroundings and honors the diversity and pride within the LGBTQIA+ community.Disney PhotoPass has props like a rainbow umbrella, Magic Shots and colorful photo opps throughout Walt Disney World, plus new virtual backdrops at the PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs.At Disney Springs, you will find new décor and photo opportunities in celebration of Pride Month.Locations including T-REX Cafe, Kendra Scott, Kate Spade New York, Coca Cola Store and more will also have exciting offerings throughout the month of June. Learn more here about the latest Pride Month offerings at Disney Springs. --The Pride Guide to Disney Food at Disneyland and Walt Disney World in JuneDisneyland Resort Disneyland Park Available at Alien Pizza Planet, Hungry Bear Restaurant, Pacific Wharf Cafe, Cappuccino Cart, and Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta (Available June 10 through 30; Mobile Order available at select locations) Pride Cookie: Mickey-shaped shortbread cookie dipped in white chocolate (New)Plaza Inn (Available June 10 through 30) Pride Cake: Rainbow sponge cake filled with white chocolate mousse, buttercream icing, and rainbow sprinklesDisney California Adventure ParkGhirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop (Available through June 30)Celebration Sundae made with Ghirardelli's signature handmade hot fudge and served in a delicious rainbow waffle bowlParadise Garden Grill (Available June 10 through 30) Pride Cake: Rainbow sponge cake filled with white chocolate mousse, buttercream icing, and rainbow sprinklesDisney’s Grand Californian Hotel & SpaCraftsman Grill (Available June 10 through July 4; Mobile Order available) Pride Donut: Vanilla cake donut with rainbow sprinkles and heart hand of chocolate (New) Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Holiday Cart (Available June 10 through July 4)Pride Sugar Cookie: Vanilla sugar cookie dipped in white chocolate and rolled in rainbow sprinkles with heart hand chocolate decoration (New)Pride Pretzel Rods: Pretzel Rods dipped in white chocolate, topped with rainbow sprinkles (New)Pride Crisped Rice Treat: Fruit-flavored crisped rice treat striped with white chocolate and topped with heart hand chocolate decoration (New)Pride Cookie Shot with choice of milk, low fat milk, strawberry or chocolate milk or alcohol including Baileys Irish Cream, Grand Marnier, Captain Morgan Rum, Jameson Whiskey, or Rumchata (New)Downtown Disney District Sprinkles Cupcakes (Available June 13 through 26)Pride Sprinkle Cupcake: Birthday cake-flavored cupcake filled with nonpareils, topped with strawberry frosting, and finished with a nonpareil rimRainbow Layer Cake: Festive cake features six colorful layers of vanilla cake with cream cheese frosting and carousel sprinklesSplitsville Luxury Lanes (Available through June 30) Rainbow Tataki: Sashimi-style salmon, tuna, and steamed shrimp served with seaweed salad, avocado, kimchi ponzu, tataki sauce, scallions, and sesame seeds Offerings Throughout Disneyland Resort (Available while supplies last; Mobile Order available at select locations) Pride Parade Castle Tumble (New)Coming Soon! Scented Pride Cake Straw Clip (New)Walt Disney World ResortMagic Kingdom Park Cheshire Café (Available through June 30)Pride Key Lime Tart: Key lime tart with sweet whipped cream topped with chocolate piece (New)Outdoor Vending Throughout the Park (Available through June 30)Mickey Pride Cake Pop: Confetti cake dipped in dark chocolate (New)Mickey Pride Cake Pop: Confetti cake dipped in white chocolate (New)EPCOT Connections Café (Available through June 30)Pride Liege Waffle: Brioche dough with pearl sugar (New) Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe (Available through June 30)Pride Cake: Almond frangipane cake layered with chocolateDisney’s Hollywood StudiosAvailable at ABC Commissary and Backlot Express (Available through June 30)Pride Cupcake: Vanilla cupcake, rainbow sprinkles and berry marmalade filling, top
Ep 127An Unintended Disney Ride Side Effect, Plus H2O Glow Treats
What's Making People Sick at Walt Disney World?An unintended side effect is disrupting the experience for a number of riders on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at Epcot. Reports are that Disney is taking steps to address the motion sickness problems occurring with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Listen to this week's episode for more on what's happening and what you need to know before you ride. Foodie Guide to H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon LagoonOur top picks for both new and returning frozen treats and hot bites.Happy LandingsNeon Party Bathtub Sundae: Birthday cake and vanilla swirled soft serve, confetti cake, white chocolate neon ducks, whipped cream, and a glow cube served in a souvenir bathtubH2O Glow Cone: Birthday cake-flavored soft-serve with unicorn sprinklesFred’s Dive BarFred’s Purple Siren: Kettle One Orange Vodka mixed with desert pear syrup, pineapple juice, raspberry puree, and topped with a glow cubeGalactic Lemonade: Three Olives Blueberry Vodka, Bols Blue Curaçao, and Minute Maid® Premium Lemonade with juices of lemon and pomegranate topped with Sprite® and a glow cubeHigh ‘n DryMoonlight Mudslide: A blend of Kahlua, Vodka and Irish Cream mixed with chocolate cream base garnished with a cookie rim and topped with whipped cream, sprinkles and a glow cubeElysian Dust IPA: Swirled with Space DustLeaning PalmsAlohilohi Tuna Poke Bowl: Ponzu marinated sashimi tuna, lemon sushi rice, seaweed salad, pickled vegetables, edamame, avocado, wasabi peas, and spicy mayonnaiseGrilled Orange Chicken Skewers: Orange ginger-glazed chicken skewers with peppers, onions, tomatoes, and pineapple served with roasted rainbow carrots and neon sushi riceManGLOW (Mango) Barbeque Chicken and Waffles: Mango barbecue chicken wings and rainbow mickey waffles with purple cabbage slaw, mango chutney, and Sriracha honey butterElectric Impossible™ Burger: Impossible™ burger served on a neon bun with Sriracha aioli, tomatoes, rainbow carrot slaw, and mango chutney (Plant-based offering) Disco Colada: Piña colada mixed with disco colors, garnished with a pink sugar rim, and topped with blue raspberry whipped cream and a glow cube (non-alcoholic)Electric Flash Lemonade: Tropical flavored blue raspberry lemonade topped with popping candy and a glow cube (non-alcoholic)H2O Cake Shake: Purple vanilla milkshake topped with a chocolate dipped Italian crème Bundt cake, whipped cream, and rainbow sprinkles (non-alcoholic)Let's Go Slurpin'Galactic Lemonade: Three Olives Blueberry Vodka, Bols Blue Curaçao, and Minute Maid® Premium Lemonade with juices of lemon and pomegranate topped with Sprite® and a glow cubeLowtide Lou’sGlow Mein Noodle Salad: Jerk marinated chicken, rainbow lo mein noodles, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, green onions, sesame seeds, and a hard-boiled eggRainbow Salted Mickey Pretzel with party cheeseNeon Churros with electric icingBlack Cherry Colada: Piña Colada mixed with Bacardi Superior Rum topped with black cherry puree, whipped cream, and garnished with a cherrySnack ShackDOLE Whip Bathtub Sundae: DOLE Whip Watermelon and Pineapple floating in strawberry soda with coconut whipped cream, boba pearls, and a glow cube served in a souvenir bathtubDOLE Whip Watermelon: Available in a cup, cone, or swirled with DOLE Whip Pineapple(We Don’t Talk About) The Bruno Cone: DOLE Whip Lime cloaked with Bruno's candy vision served in a dipped waffle cone and a chocolate rat along his backPineapple ManGLOW Mai Tai: DOLE Whip Mango and Lime swirled with a mai tai and Meyer’s Original Dark Rum served in a whole pineappleSurf Doggies Sahlen’s ChicaGLOW Foot Long Hot Dog: Sahlen’s pork and beef foot long hot dog with Chicago style toppingsSahlen’s Glow Dog Glow: Sahlen’s Grilled for You™ Smokehouse Pork and Beef Hot Dog covered in party cheese on a tie-dye bunRainbow Salted Mickey Pretzel with party cheeseTropicalamity CartGlow Mein Noodle Salad: Jerk marinated chicken, rainbow lo mein noodles, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, green onions, sesame seeds, and a hard-boiled eggSahlen’s Glow Dog Glow: Sahlen’s Grilled for You™ Smokehouse Pork and Beef Hot Dog covered in party cheese on a tie-dye bunRainbow Salted Mickey Pretzel with party cheeseNeon Churros with electric icingBlack Cherry Colada: Piña Colada mixed with Bacardi Superior Rum topped with black cherry puree, whipped cream, and garnished with a cherryTyphoon Tilly’sGlow Mein Noodle Salad: Jerk marinated chicken, rainbow lo mein noodles, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, green onions, sesame seeds, and a hard-boiled eggAlohilohi Tuna Poke Bowl: Ponzu marinated sashimi tuna, lemon sushi rice, seaweed salad, pickled vegetables, edamame, avocado, wasabi peas, and spicy mayonnaiseWatermelon Poke Bowl: Ponzu marinated watermelon, lemon sushi rice, seaweed salad, pickled vegetables, edamame, avocado, wasabi peas, and spicy mayo (Plant-based offering) Unicorn Churro Bites: Cinnamon sugar churro bites covered in electric icing and unicorn sprinklesEncanto Lemonade: Gu
Ep 126How to Fix Genie+, the Best New Summer Food at Disney World and more
Newest Disney Disney Food and Treats Hitting Walt Disney World this SummerMagic Kingdom ParkTony’s Town Square Restaurant: New appetizers - Tony’s Garlic Bread or the Toy Box Tomato Salad. New entrées - Oven-roasted Shrimp Scampi, Butcher’s Steak, Orecchiette with Spicy Italian Sausage, and Penne with Chicken al Forno. New desserts - Tiramisù Cannoli, Italian Strawberry Shortcake, Tony’s Spumoni Tart, or Mandarincello CustardEPCOTSunshine Seasons has new pizza rolls! Two versions: Cheese Pizza Roll and Pepperoni Pizza Roll.Disney Springs Marketplace Snacks has new Mickey and Friends Mickey-Shaped Bubble Waffle Sundaes. Mickey Waffle Sundae featuring vanilla soft-serve, hot fudge, cookie crumbles, and white chocolate crisp pearls. Minnie Waffle Sundae with vanilla soft-serve, strawberry topping, sliced strawberries, and white chocolate crisp pearls.Donald's Waffle Sundae made with vanilla soft-serve, lemon curd, and blueberries. Goofy’s Peanut Waffle Sundae has vanilla and chocolate soft-serve with hot fudge, peanuts, sliced bananas, sliced strawberries, M&M’s Minis, and a cherry on top.Pluto’s Waffle Sundae has chocolate soft-serve, chocolate-covered pretzels, peanut butter sauce, and milk chocolate crisp pearls. Disney Resort HotelsPlant-based Mickey-shaped Frittata featuring tomato, spinach, onions, and “mozzarella” served with potatoes and mixed fruit.The IMPOSSIBLE Burger serves up an IMPOSSIBLE patty topped with Carolina-style barbecued jackfruit, pickled slaw, and “cheddar” served with french fries. These two items available through June 7 at the Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, and Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter.Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort has the return of fan favorites to Grand Floridian Cafe. The Reuben is back for brunch, accompanied by coleslaw and steak fries. Chicken and Waffles with hand-breaded chicken breast and malted waffle with a sriracha-honey drizzle is also backFor dinner, the Café Meatloaf is a house-made turkey meatloaf with smashed red bliss potatoes, broccolini, and mushroom gravy, while the Shrimp and Grits feature jumbo shrimp with chorizo and fennel perfectly paired with a deliciously creamy, mascarpone cheese grits. The Caramelized Onion Soup Gratin makes a comeback for brunch and dinner.Gasparilla Island Grill has The Cheshire Cat Wildberry Mousse with swirls of wildberry mousse, berry compote, and cake crumbles topped with a white chocolate Cheshire Cat. If you love Orange Bird, the Orange Bird Cake Pop is a must-try! This is a yellow cake pop swirled with citrus-scented buttercream to look like this iconic character. If you like ice cream, the Brownie Crispy Cone is an ice cream cone filled with caramel-swirled brownie topped with a crisped rice treat, white chocolate drizzle, and sprinkles.Are you a Key Lime fan? Good’s Food to Go at Disney’s Old Key West Resort has a Key Lime Pie Swirl - a DOLE Whip lime and vanilla soft-serve swirl topped with graham cracker crumbs.Harmony Barber Shop Reopening this Summer in the Magic KingdomHarmony Barber Shop is reopening on July 31. While any haircut is pretty cool here, the “My First Haircut” experience is making its return as stylists prepare to shower young guests with magic and extra special pixie dust for the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration to commemorate the first haircut milestone. A limited number of reservations for this timeless experience will be bookable in the My Disney Experience app as of June 28. Walk-in appointments for haircuts will be accepted based on availability.On a related note, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will also be reopening later this year at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Dates are still to be announced.Disney Genie+ Service is Still Trying to Find its WayFor Walt Disney World, starting June 8, Disney Genie+ will only be offered for purchase through the My Disney Experience app on the day of visit – no more advance purchase options for 2022 and 2023. This means that, moving forward, whether guests have an Annual Pass, multi- or single-day ticket, they will now purchase Disney Genie+ on the day of their visit via the My Disney Experience app, one day at a time, subject to availability.If you already a tickets or a Disney Genie+ purchase for dates 2022, that won't change (and you can still add one in advance up until June 8). You can start booking 2023 vacations as of June 8 as well.Disney also announced that early theme park entry Disney Resort hotel guests will continue for visits throughout all of 2023.California Gril
Ep 125Big News from Disney Aulani, Plus More Reopenings at Disneyland
Aunty’s Beach House at Disney Aulani will Reopen on May 25Aunty's Beach House at Aulani will reopen May 25 giving keiki (kids) aged 5-12 access to the fun and adventure once again. Plus, there's something new: Aunty's Beach house will offer evening activities for the whole family for the very first time.Aunty's Beach House is designed as a typical hale (or house) where kids might visit their "aunty." The beach house is a Hawaiian kids club where the focus is on holiday fun. Each of the six rooms is dedicated to different activities - from a movie room to computer lab, arts and crafts studio to a game room.Parents can reserve a playtime in Aunty’s Beach House between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily for secured and supervised children’s programming. During these hours, parents choose 1.5 hours of playtime for complimentary themed activities on "Uncle's Side" of the house or 2 hours on "Aunty's Side" of the house for premium activities. This is typically a hot ticket and reservations are required.Complimentary activities include interactive games and arts and crafts based on the theme of the day. Premium activities include Surf’s Up, A Surfin’, Fishin’ and Dancin’ Party with Disney friends. Children will learn about the ocean, catch a wave on carpet surfboards with Max and get the scoop on fishing Hawai‘i waters with Goofy.NEW! Now the whole family can get in on the fun with "after hours" activities from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. when Aunty's Beach House turns into an evening entertainment venue. Families can choose from an assortment of complimentary and premium activities where they can learn to play the ‘ukulele, get together for a lesson in animation, or make lasting memories with photo opportunities in front of surfing scenes and other colorful backdrops.These activities used to take place in the community hall, but it sounds like they've now made them paid activities and moved them to Aunty's Beach House.Aunty's Beach House will reopen with new operations, safety and health protocols in place. Among them: face covering requirements, capacity limits, physical distancing, spacing between craft benches and play areas and temperature checks.Reservations for Aunty's Beach House can be made up to two weeks in advance by calling (808) 674-6943 from 7:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. daily. Programs are subject to change.--“Tale of the Lion King” Debuts May 28 at Disneyland ParkStarting May 28, 2022, Disneyland Park will welcome “Tale of the Lion King” to its new home at the Fantasyland Theatre, where this original-story theatre adaptation of “The Lion King” will be staged in an all-new presentation. At the heart of the production is a traveling troupe known as The Storytellers of the Pride Lands who weave the tale of how a cub becomes a king through dialogue, song, dance and percussion. From the scenic and costume designs to the new original music arrangements and choreography, “Tale of the Lion King” honors and is inspired by the cultural roots of this timeless story.Also on May 28, Troubadour Tavern will reopen with new menu items inspired by the show.--‘Fantasmic!’ is now 30 and is Returning to Disneyland Park on May 28If you have never seen “Fantasmic!” this is definitely a must-do (at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World, although we prefer the Disneyland version). Fantasmic is an emotional extravaganza of colorful Disney-animated story scenes, choreographed to an exciting musical score. At Disneyland, the waters of the Rivers of America come alive as Mickey Mouse dreams he is the Sorcerer’s Apprentice and faces several villains, using the power of his imagination to save the day. Along the way, fantastic events and images appear from stories including “Fantasia,” “The Jungle Book.” Fantasmic features live performers, character appearances, enhanced special effects and pyrotechnics.--A Sneak Peek at Disney Cruise Line Disney Wish Inaugural Merchandise WIth the Disney Wish setting sail this summer, Disney is teasing a little more with a preview of some of the merch that you can take home with you from the exclusive Disney Wish merchandise collection. Inspired by the Grand Hall on the ship, the first release of merch reflects the enchantment of the Disney Wish with details that include rhinestones and rich fabrication.There is something for everyone, from T-shirts, blouses and long sleeve shirts to pullovers and accessories. A Pandora charm set features Rapunzel (the Wish's bow character) and Captain Minnie Mouse. You'll also find a new pair of Minnie Mouse ear headbands to add to your collection and even a matching Loungefly backpack.Dooney & Bourke has a tote that's part of the collection, which will be available at retail shops on the Disney Wish.--Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or
Ep 124MagicBand+, Hey Disney and the Disney Travel Tech Transformation
The Tech Transformation of Your Disney VacationIt's Official: MagicBand+ Launching this Summer and ‘Hey Disney!’ Later this Year at Walt Disney World ResortWhat can you do with all this new tech?Use MagicBand+ to Bring Sculptures to LifeYou can use MagicBand+ to bring the 50th Anniversary golden sculptures to life and interact with them on the “Disney Fab 50 Quest.” You can also get a deeper experience by using the Play Disney Parks app to keep track of which sculptures you’ve found. The more you find, the more features you can unlock with digital achievements and an augmented reality feature that will give you a glimpse into your favorite characters’ worlds.Join the “Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters” Experience with MagicBand+In Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, MagicBand+ will allow you to join the “Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters” experience, where you’ll use your band to find virtual bounties hidden throughout Black Spire Outpost. MagicBand+ will be your guide, vibrating and lighting up to show if you’re on the right path. Then, the augmented reality thermal viewer in the Play Disney Parks app will reveal what’s behind locked doors in Black Spire Outpost so you can uncover your virtual bounty**. Once your mission is complete, the local guild master will reward you with galactic credits. What do these credits do? We'll find out.Experience Nighttime Spectaculars in a New Way with MagicBand+MagicBand+ will also have a glow-with-the-show feature so you can experience nighttime shows in a new way on your wrist.All of these experiences will be available when MagicBand+ goes on sale this summer. Disney World Resort hotel guests and Walt Disney World Annual Passholders will have the option to purchase bands at a discounted, pre-arrival price. Existing MagicBands will still be available for purchase and will continue to work as it does currently.MagicBand+ will be available at Disneyland Resort later this year. Some of the features will vary between Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. More on that as the news comes in.“Hey Disney!” is Coming to Walt Disney WorldWe now know that “Hey Disney!” is coming to Walt Disney World, but we still don't know exactly when. According to Disney: "Hey Disney uses Alexa technology for supported Amazon Echo devices where you’ll be able to ask all the useful questions – weather forecasts, set timers and alarms, etc. – and get answers from more than 25 popular characters including Mickey Mouse, Olaf, Rocket and Groot, Princess Tiana and many more." When you stay at select Disney Resort hotels, you can use “Hey Disney!” to learn helpful information about your vacation, order room amenities and more. Wondering when the next bus to EPCOT leaves or need to request more towels for your room? Just ask the Disney Magical Companion, a new character who will interact with you via “Hey Disney!”‘Hey Disney!’ will begin rolling out the Mickey ears devices in select Disney Resort hotel guest rooms across Walt Disney World at some point in 2022 as part of the 50th anniversary celebration. Access will be offered as an optional, complimentary feature during your stay. Yes, You Can Have Hey Disney at Home!“Hey Disney!” will also be available for purchase for supported Amazon Echo devices via the Amazon Alexa Skills store, so you can bring the magic of Disney home with you. In the future, MagicBand+ will work with “Hey Disney!” by pairing with supported Amazon Echo devices to enhance some “Hey Disney!” experiences. More details will be released soon.Note: To use the Play Disney Parks mobile app to enhance the MagicBand+ experience, guests must be logged into the Play Disney Parks app with the Disney account linked with their MagicBand+. -- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is opening with virtual queue and individual Lightning Lane selectionWhen Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind opens in EPCOT on May 27, you will be able to access the through virtual queue and individual Lightning Lane. There will be no standby line-up option.You will need to use the My Disney Experience app to join the virtual queue or buy an individual Lightning Lane spot. The virtual queue is limited to one use per day for Cosmic Rewind.-- There are Some New Details about What's Behind those Walls at Epcot World Celebration is the new hub area, divided into different gardens with a central planter based on the five-ring EPCOT logo. The area is filled with lots of seating and shaded areas in a lush, nature theme. Each of the gardens will have their own theme and they’ll change with the festivals throughout the year. At night, when the lighting takes over, the gardens will immerse you in a special nighttime experience that will evolve through the seasons.The garden areas surround CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza, where EPCOT's international festivals will find a home base. CommuniCore Plaza will host musical performances of all sizes. CommuniCore Hall will be a flexible exhibition and gallery s
Ep 123Halloween Details Have Emerged for Walt Disney World and More News
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Returns to Walt Disney World Resort This FallIt's back: the full version of Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party will take place on 37 select nights from August 12 through October 31, 2022 from 7:00 p.m. to midnight.Here’s some of what’s in store for this limited-capacity event in 2022:Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade is back, including the Headless Horseman will once again ride down Main Street, U.S.A.Trick-or-treating is back, so you can load up on M&M’S, SKITTLES, SNICKERS, and more Halloween favorites at locations throughout Magic Kingdom Park. And new for the 50th Anniversary, you will also get a reusable trick-or-treat bag featuring a keepsake 50th and Halloween design.The Sanderson Sisters will lead a “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show at Cinderella Castle.Favorite and rare Disney characters will take over the park for their favorite party of the year.Overlays themed for the occasion are back at many popular Magic Kingdom attractions: Space Mountain, Mad Tea Party, Pirates of the Caribbean and Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor.Jack Skellington, will host “Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular.” This can’t-miss nighttime show features projections, special effects, lighting, fireworks, music and Disney characters.Discover sweet and savory menu items inspired by fall flavors and the Halloween season.NEW! In honor of the 50th Anniversary celebration, there will be event-exclusive step-in photo opportunities. Plus, you'll also get a Halloween-themed 50th Anniversary commemorative print.Tickets will go on sale May 18, 2022. If you have a reservation at a Walt Disney World hotel, you can book as early as May 12. Tickets range from $109-$199 plus tax. Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members will get specially-priced tickets for select dates.Note: You do not require an additional day theme park ticket or a Disney Park Pass theme park reservation. The event dates are:August: 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30September: 2, 5, 9, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 29, 30October: 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31--Disney Cruise Line Has New Halloween ExperiencesThis September and October Disney Cruise Line will have Halloween-themed cruises with special entertainment and activities, including trick-or-treating, spooky parties, elaborate décor and limited-time food and beverage items. These voyages will also debut an all-new character meet and greet opportunity. All Disney characters on board will be in Halloween costumes but Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck and Clarabelle Cow will debut brand new looks as they dress up as the Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus.For its first season of Halloween cruises this fall, the Disney Wish will also introduce a unique twist on a Halloween on the High Seas hallmark.The centerpiece of every ship during Halloween is the signature magical Pumpkin Tree towering over the atrium lobby, each with sprouting Jack-O-Lanterns and flickering lights. On the Disney Wish, guests will witness the debut of an all-new tree in the Cinderella-inspired Grand Hall.Featuring lighter bark, graceful branches and a mystical face, legend has it that this enchanted tree (named Boo) grew beautiful gourds with the help of a wishing star. The best pumpkin of them all was destined to grant a very special wish … and that moment came when a carriage was needed to send a fair maiden to a royal soiree. In a flash of bibbidi-bobbidi-boo, that perfect pumpkin became the coach that carried Cinderella to the prince’s ball!Other Halloween experiences will include Mickey's Mouse-querade Party, a costume party for families and Disney characters; villainous takeovers in the adult-exclusive areas; Halloween-themed movies on Funnel Vision; and even a ghostly take on ship announcements.Halloween on the High Seas voyages will be offered aboard select sailings in September and October. Departing from ports in Miami and Port Canaveral, Florida, San Diego and New York City, each cruise will travel to destinations including the Bahamas, Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and Mexico. --Halfway to Halloween Announcements from Disneyland ResortDisneyland Resort is also getting in on the Halfway to Halloween fun. Here's what we know so far. It's confirmed that Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party, will officially return for the 2022 Halloween season. It's a separately ticketed, limited-capacity, after-hours event at Disney California Adventure Park and will be back for select nights this fall.We'll share exact dates and ticket information as soon as they're released.-- More Disneyland News UpdatesHotels of the Disneyland Resort News Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel is finally being reimagined based on the artistry of Pixar. It will feature favorite Pixar worlds and characters through carefully curated artwork, and décor that reveals the creative journey of the artists who helped bring these stories to life.Guests will be welcomed into whimsical cha
Ep 122How to Claim Your Spot on Cinderella Castle, plus Cosmic Rewind News
Claim Your Own Unique Place on Cinderella Castle as it transforms with Disney PhotoPass PhotosDisney PhotoPass Service is introducing a unique new offer called “Cinderella Castle Mural of Memories.” It will let you transform Cinderella Castle with your PhotoPass photos using augmented reality technology, brought to life through Disney’s collaboration with Snap.Here's how it works:Step 1: Claim Your Place on Cinderella CastleWhile in Magic Kingdom park, go to Cinderella Castle and open the My Disney Experience app to see available areas where you can pin a photo. Then select an available area on Cinderella Castle.Step 2: Select Your Disney PhotoPass PhotoChoose one of your eligible photos (to be eligible, the photo must be taken by a Disney PhotoPass photographer in a picturesque theme park location). Or, use an iconic Disney photo for your memory.Step 3: Explore Memories and Share Your OwnSee the memories of family, friends and other park Guests. You can also download your memory and share it, too! There's a one-time fee of $9.99 per memory and includes the download of your memory photo.Here's what you get for $9.99:A spot on Cinderella Castle to digitally pin a photo, which will be waiting for you (and all guests) to view during visits to Magic Kingdom Park throughout the 50th celebration and beyond (for at least three years).A video of your PhotoPass photos photos flying from the castle for downloading and sharing.The ability to download a high-resolution version of the pinned photo from your Disney PhotoPass gallery (a $16.95 value) both in its original form and a version with a special border that includes your first name. If you’re a Disney cast member, Annual Passholder, Disney Vacation Club Member, or Club 33 Member you’ll get a personalized border fora your affiliation.Over time, new sections of the castle will be released, so they'll be new spots to pin your memories. --Final Playlist and a Villain are Revealed for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOTNot surprisingly when Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind launches on May 27 it will have its own playlist to power your journey.Disney Imagineers came up with a list of more than 100 potential songs for the Starjumpers’ onboard sound system. How did they narrow it down to six? The team rode the attraction over and over again testing how various tracks fit with the spirit and the movement of the coaster. They finally settled on the following six songs in their original classic versions:“September”“Disco Inferno”“Conga”“Everybody Wants to Rule the World”“I Ran”“One Way or Another”You won’t know which track you're going to hear until you blast off. Plus we now know that the theme of the ride is to help stop Eson, the Celestial villain who is trying to complete an evil plan. --Connections Café & Eatery is Now Open at EPCOTConnections Café & Eatery is open and ready to serve in the World Celebration neighborhood.The restaurant’s design includes nods to Walt Disney’s original plans for EPCOT. There are two experiences – an eatery on one side serving lunch and dinner menus, and a café and pastry shop on the other open all day long. When walking past Spaceship Earth on the way into the park, Connections Café and Eatery is on the left. Floor-to-ceiling windows give a full view of the open space featuring modern décor and tempting smells of pastries baking, fresh coffee brewing and burgers on the grill. Since World Celebration is located in the center of the park, Connections Café & Eatery offers some great views as well.A colorful mural called “Global Gathering” covers one wall and reflects the heart of the restaurant – people from around the world gathering around food. It’s one of the biggest murals Walt Disney Imagineering has ever created. Take note how the scenes blend seamlessly from sunrise to sunset.You can also see chefs at work in three show kitchens. Watch them grilling, sautéing and baking everything from burgers to pizzas and sprinkling pixie dust on fun desserts from milkshakes to waffles.Whether it's coffee or tea, you'll find it here showcasing how various cultures enjoy their favorite drinks.As always at WDW, don’t forget to look down. There are three original floor inlays inspired by Walt’s 1966 “Florida Project” site plans, where EPCOT was to serve as the “center” of Walt Disney World. These details honor Walt's original dream of EPCOT. --‘Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!’ Opening Summer 2022 at Animal Kingdom ParkThe Nemo show is getting an update: “Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!” – opens this summer at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park.The fully updated, 25-minute show incorporates live performers and puppets, along with many of the favorite songs from the original “Finding Nemo: The Musical.”In addition to a new script, the show features new set pieces and a new LED video wall designed to visually extend the world created by the physical sets on stage. We aren’t talking small set pieces either. Watch f
Ep 121Disney Food Top Picks, What's Puzzling Disney Travelers and more
Will there Be a Walt Disney World Halloween Party in 2022? Will there be a Halloween Party this year? This is what's on the minds of Disney travelers right now. The debate rages on among Disney travelers as they debate whether or not Walt Disney World will hold a Halloween event of any kind in 2022.--Expedition Everest has now Reopened and is temporarily available through Genie+Expedition Everest has now reopened at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, with one change: Expedition Everest has been added to Genie+ service through August 7, 2022. During this time, Lightning Lane entry will not be available as an individual, a la carte purchase.--Foodie Guide to Earth Day 2022 at Disney ParksWalt Disney World Resort and Disneyland are celebrating Earth Day and Earth Week by serving up a ton of limited-edition treats inspired by the world around us. Walt Disney World Resort Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme ParkPizzafari and Flame Tree Barbecue (available on Mobile Order through April 28) Flamingo Cupcake: Strawberry cake filled with strawberry compote and crowned with guava frosting, strawberry crisp pearls, and white-chocolate wingsDawa Bar Lion’s Fury: Jungle juice, Red Stag Bourbon, Fireball Whiskey Floater, and a fiery glow cube (available through April 28)Tiger Tail Pale Ale: Celebrating Florida’s tiger swallowtail butterfly, this pale ale features notes of passionfruit, strawberry, and grapefruit (available through April 28) Dino Diner (available through April 28) Sea Turtle: Frozen blue raspberry and frozen lemonade with a wave of blue cotton candy on topIsle of Java (available through April 28) Red Crowned Cane: Frozen Coke with frozen cherry and a crown of cotton candyRestaurantosaurus Lounge Crave the Wave: vodka, blue curaçao, lemonade, and a lemon wheel (available through April 28)Tiger Tail Pale Ale: Celebrating Florida’s tiger swallowtail butterfly, this pale ale features notes of passionfruit, strawberry, and grapefruit (available through April 28)Creature Comforts and Restaurantosaurrus (available on Mobile Order through April 28) Honey Bee Cupcake: Orange cake, honey cream filling, honey frosting, white choc honeycombTerra Treats (available through April 28) Loggerhead: Sprite and Granny Smith apple syrup over ice with a gummy worm, sugar lime rim, and souvenir glow cube (non-alcoholic)Satu'li Canteen (available on Mobile Order through April 28) Kiwi Margarita: Kiwi Monin syrup with lime juice, sour mix, and Tcorazon Tequila BlancoThirsty River Bar Yeti Sunset: Jack Daniels, strawberry monin, and lychee lemonade (available through April 28) Tiger Tail Pale Ale: Celebrating Florida’s tiger swallowtail butterfly, this pale ale features notes of passionfruit, strawberry, and grapefruit (available through April 28)Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge The Mara (available on April 22) Plant (Based) in Boot: Chocolate Spice Cake with Coconut Ganache in a Chocolate Boot (Plant-based) (New) Disney’s BoardWalk Inn BoardWalk Bakery (available on Mobile Order from April 18 through 22) Garden Cupcake: Lemon cupcake with a lemon curd filling topped with vanilla buttercream and white chocolate ladybug (New)Disneyland Resort Disneyland ParkRiver Belle Terrace (available April 21 through 25) Corn on a Cob Succotash: “Butter"-poached corn, edamame purée, chili oil (Plant-based) (New) Plant-based Chili & Cornbread Skillet: Chili beans, corn cake, “sour cream,” and green onions (Plant-based) (New) Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & SpaGCH Craftsman Grill (available on Mobile Order through April 30) Earth Day Hot Dog: featuring plant-based sausage, sauteed spinach, mushrooms, and onions topped with green goddess dressing, edible flowers, and served with fruit (Plant-based) (New)--World of Color to Return with a Virtual Queue on April 22 at Disney California Adventure ParkDisney is adding a virtual queue option to help you see World of Color. The virtual queue is accessible through the Disneyland mobile app. As of April 22, distribution times for virtual queue enrolment will begin at noon every day. After you reserve a virtual spot, you will be notified through the Disneyland app approx. 45 mins before the show to enter your designated World of Color viewing area (Blue or Red). --Foodie Guide to Nighttime Spectaculars at Disneyland Resort: The Magic ReturnsNighttime spectaculars are coming back to Disneyland so we shouldn't be surprised that there are some tasty eats and drinks to celebrate.Across both parks, Guests can enjoy delicious treats and eye-catching novelties to celebrate these spectaculars. From the Parade Macaron at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe to the Light-up Elliott Dragon Premium Bucket, these items are the foodie embodiment of these incredible entertainment must-sees.Disneyland Park Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor hosted by Dreyer’s (available on Mobile Order)Uni-cone: Banana, cherry, and pistachio ice cream in a white chocolate-dipped waffle cone with fantasy sprinklesHub Churro CartBlueberry Looks Good on You: Blu
Ep 120A Disney World Restaurant Makeover, Plus Easter Fun at Disney Resorts
Narcoossee's to Undergo a Refurbishment this Summer Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will be unavailable as of June 18, 2022 as the restaurant undergoes refurbishment. Disney says they expect the location will re-open later in 2022 with an enhanced dining experience. --Disneyland Forever Fireworks Spectacular Returns to Disneyland Park April 22Disneyland Resort is getting ready to “ignite the night” once again with the return of three nighttime spectaculars.It's all happening on Earth Day, April 22, 2022, when World of Color at Disney California Adventure Park and Main Street Electrical Parade and Disneyland Forever at Disneyland Park will make their long-awaited returns.“Disneyland Forever” originally debuted in 2015 for the 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration and now promises a few new surprises for its "street to sky" return.As we mentioned in past news reports, when Disneyland Forever returns on April 22, it will run weekends only (Friday through Sunday). During the week “Mickey’s Mix Magic” will present a high-energy, projections-only show from Monday through Thursday until late spring (no specific date has been announced). At that time, “Disneyland Forever” fireworks will then run nightly in the summer.--Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is Offering Discounts for Fall TravelThis fall, Aulani resort on Oahu is offering a chance to save on select rooms for stays of 5 or more nights, with travel from August 23 through November 18 and November 26 through December 22, 2022.In true Disney style, the more you play, the less you pay:You can save up to 30% on select rooms for stays of 5 or more consecutive nightsYou can save up to 25% on select rooms for stays of 4 consecutive nights If you book before May 4, 2022, your stay of 4 or more nights will include a $150 Resort credit.--Foodie Guide to Delicious Easter Goodies at Disney ParksIt’s time to hop on over to Disney Parks because Easter is here and with that, tons of treats are waiting to fill up your Easter baskets.There are returning classics and adorable treats to enjoy at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. As always, Disney's Easter goodies are works of art in addition to being pretty great tasting. And, to make this year even more special and festive, the popular hand-crafted Easter egg displays are back and sprinkled across at least three Walt Disney World Resort hotels. Walt Disney World Resort Easter Egg Display at Disney’s Beach Club Resort Lobby (available through April 17)Easter Egg Display at Disney’s Contemporary Resort (available through April 20 on the 4th floor)Easter Egg Display at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Lobby (available through April 18) Available at Multiple Resorts April 10 through 23 Coconut Sugar Bunny Cupcake: Carrot cake cupcake filled with pineapple topped with cream cheese buttercream and a coconut sugar bunny (available on Mobile Order) (New) Available at the following: Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation ResortCentertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Sassagoula Floatworks at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter Riverside Mill at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Everything Pop at Disney’s Pop Century Resort Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort World Premiere Food Court, Intermission Food Court, and End Zone Food Court (available on Mobile Order from April 10 through 23) Spring Into Easter: Strawberry mousse with blueberry compote and lemon curd on vanilla cake (New)Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge The Mara (available on Mobile Order from April 10 through 17) Raspberry Fields: Pistachio financier, raspberry gelée, lemon curd, and a white chocolate glaçage (New)Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Belle Vue Lounge (available through April 30) Cotton Tails Daiquiri: Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, Chambord liqueur, pure cane syrup, lime juice, and raspberry garnished with an orange peel (New)BoardWalk Bakery (available on Mobile Order from April 10 through 17) Chocolate-covered Strawberry ‘Carrots’: Strawberries dipped in orange-colored white chocolate and striped to resemble carrots (New) Easter Moon Pie: Sugar cookies with marshmallow filing, dipped in semisweet chocolate and decorated with holiday décor (New) Coconut Macaroon Nest: Traditional giant coconut macaroon with pastel chocolate and sprinkles and crunch candy Easter eggs (New) Cannoli: Traditional cannoli with pastel holiday décorMickey Brownie: Ganache brownies with holiday sprinklesBoardWalk Joe’s (available through April 30) Easter Basket: Empress Gin, Bols Crème de Banana liqueur, grenadine, and pineapple smoothie garnished with a candied marshmallow (New) Leaping Horse (available through April 30) The Easter Hunt: Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, Midori Liqueur, and piña colada garnished with maraschino cherries and a candied marshmallow (New) Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Spyglass Grill This location will be opening its doo
Ep 119The Longest Running Show at Walt Disney World is Coming Back
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue Returns Summer 2022Get ready to welcome back another old favorite as the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue returns this summer to Walt Disney World. Reservations will be available starting May 26 for showtimes beginning June 23.The Pioneer Hall Players lead the way on this frontier-style family fun dining experience in Pioneer Hall at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground. First debuting in 1974, Hoop-Dee-Doo is a rousing Wild West performance, featuring singing, old style comedy with lots of fun (including audience participation). The food is also great, featuring fried chicken, smoked BBQ ribs, a variety of savory sides and even strawberry shortcake for dessert.This show is the longest running performance at Walt Disney World. When it returns, Hoop-Dee-Doo will have a few updates to its script and scenery, while staying true to the treasured experience that it’s been known for all these years.-- Olaf Will be Pleased, as Hugs are Back across the Disney travel universeAs early as April 18, Disney will start reintroducing traditional character greetings at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, as well as aboard Disney Cruise Line and at Disney Aulani Resort in Hawaii. What does this mean? You will once again be able to hug Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and more friends, and get an autograph from your favorite Disney Princess (or villain). To manage expectations, Disney notes that not all locations will be available immediately for character interaction, but they are planning to reopen in phases throughout the spring and early summer of 2022.--Late-Breaking News:Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind Roller Coaster Debuts on May 27In an early gift of summer, Disney announced that the Cosmic Rewind coaster at EPCOT will officially debut on May 27, 2022. While the coaster itself promises to have elements of Crush's Coaster from Disneyland Paris, there is also a pre-show. As the story goes, Xandarians are coming to Earth and building the first “other-world” showcase pavilion at EPCOT, called the Wonders of Xandar pavilion. Guests will learn more about their technology and culture as they move through the pavilion, and discover how our two cultures are similar in so many ways.We will report more details as they emerge in future episodes. So stay tuned to 1923 Main Street as the news comes in.--2022 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Begins July 14The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is returning to Walt Disney World Resort this summer, from July 14 through November 19, 2022.It will be back with everything that you know and love about the festival and we will share full details on the event as it draws nearer. But if you plan to attend, you now know the dates!--Connections Café and Eatery Opening SoonConnections Café and Eatery will soon open its doors at EPCOT. This new dining experience embraces cultures from around the world and will bring them to life in true EPCOT fashion. Here is a preview of the menu for this highly anticipated restaurant. It's a casual quick-service restaurant with a global culinary feel.If you love burgers, there's the French Bistro Burger with caramelized onions, bacon and brie, or the Southwestern Burger featuring a roasted chipotle-corn salsa and guacamole spread. That's not all, you can also enjoy the Vietnamese-inspired Banh Mi Burger or the Greek-inspired Mediterranean Burger.For a lighter option, there are salads inspired by French and Chinese cuisines. The Niçoise-style Salad is packed with potatoes, white and green beans and olives drizzled with a delicious Dijon vinaigrette. For an Asian flare, the General Tso Chicken Salad features ingredients like broccoli slaw, red bell pepper, mandarin oranges and crispy wontons.There are four types of pizza as well, including a classic Meatball Pizza and a plant-based Curry Spice Pizza topped with carrots, potato, peas and lime “yogurt.”And for the little ones there's a Grilled Chicken Bao or classics like the Chicken Nuggets Basket or Cheeseburger.Connections Eatery will also have a dessert-style dish: the Liege Waffle. This treat is made with brioche yeast dough stuffed with pearl sugar and finished with tasty toppings.For the milkshake lover, there are two options: A Mango-Coconut Milk Shake topped off with a pomegranate molasses drizzle, and the delectable Apple Pie Gelato Shake.Both adults and kids can enjoy specialty beverages at Connections Eatery. The Watermelon-Mint Agua Fresca is alcohol-free. For adults there are multiple wines and draft beers available, along with the Cucumber and Thai Basil Cooler, a specialty cocktail filled with freshness and flavor.As a reminder, Connections Café is the future home of Starbucks at EPCOT.--Exclusive Merchandise and Enchanting Memories Await Aboard the Disney WishThe Disney Wish will feature an elegant retail district that runs between the Grand Hall and the Walt Disney Theatre on deck 3. On either side of this shop-lined promenade, five distinct outlets
Ep 118H2O Glow Nights are Back at Walt Disney World, Plus More Disney News
Disney H2O Glow After Hours Returns this Summer to Typhoon LagoonA new H20 Glow After Hours is coming to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. The fun-filled after-hours event returns on Memorial Day Weekend.Guests of Disney Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels as well as Shades of Green can purchase tickets to H2O Glow right now, with tickets going on sale to the general public on April 1. There is limited capacity, so if you're interested in going, don't delay.The after-hours party features vibrant décor, high-energy DJ dance parties, exclusive glow-themed menu offerings and more. Attendees receive a glowing wristband and tasty snacks like popcorn and select ice-cream treats to enjoy throughout the evening.Disney H20 Glow After Hours takes place between 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. every Saturday night from May 28 to August 27, giving Guests three glowing hours in the water park after gates close. Guests with tickets for the exclusive party can even enter Typhoon Lagoon as early as 6 p.m.-- Eggstravaganza at Disneyland ResortCelebrate the springtime Easter tradition of Eggstravaganza — a special “egg” hunt throughout the Disneyland Resort from March 31 to April 17, 2022.To take part you buy a game board and stickers for $9.99* (plus tax) at select shops throughout Disneyland Resort. There are three different game boards, depending on where you want to play: one each at Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park and at Downtown Disney District.Explore for special hidden “eggs” painted as Disney characters, then check off your discoveries by placing the corresponding sticker on the themed Eggstravaganza game board.Whether they choose to hunt for eggs or not, you can return their game board to collect your rewards – one of six collectible eggs! Redemption locations include Plaza Point at Disneyland Park, Elias & Co. at Disney California Adventure park, and Disney’s Pin Traders and World of Disney at Downtown Disney District, while supplies last. --New Merchandise Location, Treasures of Xandar, Coming to Wonders of Xandar pavilion at EPCOTNew details have been released about the EPCOT's first other-world pavilion, the Wonders of Xandar pavilion, part of the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy addition. Treasures of Xandar will be a merchandise shop operated by “The Broker,” a proud Xandarian who is bringing his locally-famous shop to EPCOT. This out-of-this-galaxy shop will feature treasures acquired during travels across the galaxy, as well as items that pay tribute to the planet Xandar and the Guardians of the Galaxy.--Discover the Magic of Our Planet During Earth Week Celebration at Disney’s Animal Kingdom ParkFrom April 18-24 you can connect with the magic of nature through family-friendly experiences and special offerings at Animal Kingdom Park. Learn more about animal species the Disney Conservation Fund is working to protect. Try your hand at drawing as Disney artists at The Animation Experience guide you step by step to bring your favorite Disney characters to life using real animals for inspiration. Each animal represents some of the amazing stories of conservation work Disney is doing around the world. There is also a limited-time Wilderness Explorer activity that rewards Guests with an Earth Day Nature badge. On Discovery Island, watch for a special Disney Character Cruise on Discovery River. And throughout the park, Disney PhotoPass magic will have new frames featuring Wall-E and Eve from “Wall-E.” A limited-edition Earth Day 2022 trading pin is also available along with other specialty merchandise and custom food and drinks. --New Bookable Experiences at the Hotels of the Disneyland ResortNew limited-time offerings bring a taste of the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival to two Disneyland hotels with new seminars, tastings and more.Education and Tasting Seminars - April 19Learn from industry experts during an educational tasting seminar at the Grand Californian Craftsman Bar.Winemaker Reception – April 6Enjoy an exclusive Winemaker Reception at the Rose Court Garden at the Disneyland Hotel, with tastings of acclaimed wines from Silver Oak and Twomey.--Upcoming Refurbishments at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and Disney's Vero Beach ResortThe high Rock Springs Pool and On the Rocks Pool Bar at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will be unavailable from January through late March 2023 while the pool undergoes refurbishment. The lobby at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort will undergo a refurbishment from mid-April through late May 2022. During this time, the lobby will remain operational and Cast Members will be present to help direct Guests to the check-in location.--Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choos
Ep 117Walt Disney World Trip Report Spring 2022, Plus Disney Travel News
What's it Like to Visit Walt Disney World Right Now?Walt Disney World is pretty much back to normal in many ways. Masks are a thing of the past. In fact, we felt like the only guests wearing masks at all. We still required a negative Covid test to board a plane home, so we had to be extra careful (although this mandate for Canada is set to expire on April 1, 2022). It's very rare to see a mask on guests at Walt Disney World, except on monorails and buses, where they are still required (although we feel that this mandate won't be here for much longer.As Walt Disney World continues to emerge from the pandemic, there are still some things that are catching up. For example, there are not boats running from Disney's Contemporary Resort. This is because Disney World lost a large number of boat captains over the pandemic and they are currently trying to hire and train new captains as quickly as possible. On a related note, we were told that the SeaRaycer mini speedboats would not be back. Apparently, the boats sat around for too long over the pandemic and simply got gummed up and required too much service to make the fleet worth keeping. We don't believe they will be replaced based on our discussions with Disney Cast Members.Is Lightning Lane Better than FastPass+?In short, no.Disney's Genie + and Lightning Lane make visiting the parks at Walt Disney World much more challenging and frustrating versus previous methods of FastPass and FastPass+. We share full details in the episode, along with some tips and tricks for how to make the most of the current Lightning Lane and Individual Lightning Lane.Disney World Rides and Attractions Continue to Experience DowntimeConsistent with what we had been hearing before this visit, many Disney rides and attractions continue to experience more downtime than was previously "normal" for Walt Disney World. Once again, we believe that this is due to staffing challenges and hopefully this will be remedied once Walt Disney World returns to more robust Cast Member staffing levels. This was particularly noticeable on things like the Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic Special Event. When you only have three hours in a park (in this case, Epcot), having Ratatouille down and Spaceship Earth down and Frozen Ever After experiencing issues etc., it's not a good thing. It led to longer lines at the few attractions that were open and overall was a poor experience as a result.In other Disney Travel News...Connections Café Will Be the New Home of Starbucks at EPCOTThis spring, Connections Café will become the new home of Starbucks at EPCOT. Like other Starbucks locations throughout Walt Disney World Resort, this Starbucks will be designed to fit the theme of its surroundings.To make way for Starbucks to move to its new location in World Celebration, Traveler’s Café in World Showcase will close this spring. Facemask Requirement Dropped for Disney SkylinerAs of March 16, face coverings are now optional for fully vaccinated guests on the Disney Skyliner. Face coverings will also be optional for fully vaccinated guests on Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser.At this time, face coverings remain required by all Guests (ages 2 and up) on monorails and Disney buses.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Jamendo
Ep 116What's New and What's Coming Back Soon at Walt Disney World
A Look at the Newest Entertainment at Magic Kingdom ParkMagic Kingdom Park has more favorites returning, plus new entertainment filling the streets and the castle stage as part of the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration.“Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire” is newly enhanced that features characters from “Frozen,” “The Princess and the Frog” and more as they join Mickey Mouse and all his friends in a musical extravaganza on the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage. The opening and finale of the show feature a new song and sparkling EARidescent fashions designed exclusively for the 50th. The Festival of Fantasy parade is now back – with not one, but two runs each day! Of course the show features the fire-breathing Maleficent dragon – along with just about every major Disney character favorite.And sharing the same parade route is the recently launched Adventure Friends Cavalcade. It takes over the Magic Kingdom streets several times a day with nearly 30 of your favorite Disney and Pixar friends including Moana, Nick and Judy from “Zootopia” and Miguel from “Coco.”--More Experiences Added to Disney Genie+ ServiceTwo new experiences are now available in Disney Genie+ :Magic Kingdom: Disney Festival of Fantasy ParadeDisney’s Hollywood Studios: See Disney Stars at Red Carpet Dreams--Connections Café and Eatery Opens This Spring at EPCOTConnections Café and Eatery recently celebrated a new milestone, with the installation of the first of five marquees. While no date has been announced, the restaurant will open at some point this spring giving EPCOT visitors a new fast-casual restaurant and adjoining café. It is in the World Celebration neighborhood of EPCOT.The name Connections Cafe was inspired by the core EPCOT idea of “connecting”– by the common bond we share over food and the gathering of people across cultures.-- Update on Hawai‘i’s Safe Travels Program & Safe Access Oahu ProgramStarting March 26, 2022, Hawaii's Safe Travels program will end, meaning passengers arriving from within the U.S. will no longer have to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or a pre-travel negative test result upon arrival to Hawaii in order to avoid quarantine. However, international passengers still have to follow the travel requirements put in place by the federal government, so testing is still required. If you are traveling from outside the U.S., remember to check before flying.Also, Honolulu’s Safe Access Oahu program has also ended, and visitors no longer have to provide proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to dine on property.What hasn't changed: the State of Hawaii still has a face covering mandate for all indoor locations. At Disney Aulani Resort, face coverings are required for each Guest age 2 and up, and must be worn in all indoor locations, including Laniwai - A Disney Spa, except when actively eating or drinking while stationary and maintaining appropriate physical distancing. Face coverings are optional in outdoor common areas at Aulani Resort.--Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Jamendo
Ep 115St. Patrick's Day, Women's History Month and More Disney Events
Don’t Miss The Raglan Road Mighty St. Patrick’s Day Festival: March 11-17St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner and the annual Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival is back this year from March 11-17 at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant. Enjoy the very best of Irish talent, a variety of beers and cocktails, classic Irish fare and more. This festival is a can’t-miss experience! Irish Fare & BrewsNew on the menu this year is a locally crafted seltzer, called “So Berry Les.” The name is a special tribute to John Cooke’s (co-owner of Raglan Road Pub and Cooke’s of Dublin) father Les, who found himself in the Guinness Book of World Records for setting a strawberry-buying record in 1977. So Berry Les was crafted in collaboration with Crooked Can Brewing Co. in Winter Garden, Florida, and is a light and refreshing hard seltzer infused with local Florida strawberry and Key Lime juice. There are also several Irish beer flights and, of course, the classic Guinness.Live EntertainmentRaglan Road is flying in some top talent from Ireland including Jig Jam; the Lisa Canny Band; and Emerald Shore. Of course, the fan-favorite Raglan Road Irish Dancers will also be performing throughout the festival.If you really want to get into the spirit, there will also be a face painter, plus giveaways, merchandise at the shop and more. Note: On St. Patrick's Day, March 17, Raglan Road will open at 10 a.m., seating guests on a first-come, first-served basis, with a $20 cover charge for guests 18 and older. For those planning to celebrate during the other festival dates from March 11-16, reservations are encouraged.--In Honor of Women's History Month: 'Celebrate HER Story' at Walt Disney WorldWalt Disney World Resort is celebrating Women’s History Month with “Celebrate HER Story” where they put the spotlight on cherished Disney character heroines and female Cast Members who are making positive impacts. Special Selfie Backdrops across Walt Disney World Resort: Unique photo-silhouette backdrops showcase strong female Disney characters. You'll find them across the property – from Disney Springs to more than 20 Disney Resort hotels. Find them, snap a selfie with your favorite heroine, and share on social media using the tag #CelebrateHERStory.At Disney Springs on Friday and Saturday nights a female DJ will lead a Disney sing-along for families on the AdventHealth Waterside Stage. The playlist will feature songs by some of Disney’s most beloved female characters. Plus various female performers will be featured most nights throughout March.At Magic Kingdom Park special sweet offerings will pay tribute to female Disney Imagineers whose work has greatly influenced and impacted Walt Disney World Resort:At Liberty Square Market it's the Madame Leota Cupcake inspired by Leota Toombs: Chocolate-cherry cake filled with black cherry-lime cream finished with blackberry buttercreamAt Friar’s Nook, “it’s a small world” Cupcake inspired by Mary Blair: Lemon funfetti cake, blue raspberry buttercream, and vanilla-lemon buttercreamAnd, on food carts on Main Street, U.S.A., you will find the Cinderella Castle Mosaic Cupcake inspired by Dorothea Redmond: Champagne-flavored cake filled with fresh raspberry champagne compote, finished with gold champagne buttercream, mosaic tile sprinkles and chocolate garnishAt two Disney Resort hotels you'll find specialties inspired by the women of “Encanto.”At Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, discover:Chorizo Arepas: Cheese arepas topped with chorizo, red pepper and onion-egg scramble, arugula, and sliced avocadoMirabel Cupcake: Cinnamon cupcake filled with custard and topped with coconut buttercream, toasted coconut, and Mirabel-inspired fondant garnishesAlso at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, you can enjoy:Luisa Push-Up Cake Pop: Layers of vanilla cake and tres leches pastry cream topped with a doughnut hole ‘boulder’Encanto Cholado: Crushed ice topped with sliced fresh fruit, sweetened condensed milk and shredded coconutAt Disney Springs: Select locations will showcase signature food and drinks.Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar will showcase inspired dishes created by female chefs:Nona’s Home-Style Meatballs presented by Sous Chef Lori Tiritilli: Italian meatballs with Sunday gravy, basil pesto, and scratch-made lemon ricotta, grilled focaccia crostini, grated pecorino cheeseCarne Frita con Tostones presented by Sous Chef Natalie Floyd: Crispy pork shoulder tostones, pickled onions, citrus aioliTempt your sweet tooth by heading over to Amorette’s Patisserie to enjoy:“The Passion of My Life” Dessert presented by Pastry Chef Yoly Lazo Colon: Pineapple, mango and toasted coconut mousse, coconut chiffon cake, white chocolate crisp pearls and infused passion fruit glacageOr, visit The Ganachery to discover a treat inspired by a fierce female Padawan:Lady Tano Pop, a concept by Chocolatier Katie Dodge presented by Chef Chocolatier Amanda Lauder: Plant-based coconut and blueberry swirled gan
Ep 114Foodie Guides! EPCOT Flower & Garden; Disneyland Food & Wine
Disneyland Resort announced return dates for its nighttime shows plus a few new surprisesOn April 22, 2022, the Main Street Electrical Parade and Disneyland Forever fireworks will return to Disneyland Park and World of Color will return to Disney California Adventure Park. Fantasmic! will return to Disneyland park on May 28, 2022.The Main Street Electrical Parade will be celebrating its 50th anniversary and to honor this milestone the Disney team is adding an all-new enchanted grand finale that celebrates the theme of togetherness.Inspired by both the original design of Main Street Electrical Parade” floats and the art style on “it’s a small world,” the new grand finale brings to life more than a dozen Disney Animation and Pixar stories. These stories will be interpreted in thousands of sparkling lights and electro-magnetic music with unique representations of beloved characters as animated dolls.Stories will include Encanto, The Jungle Book, Raya and the Last Dragon, Aladdin, Coco, Mulan, Brave, The Princess and the Frog and more. When Disneyland Forever returns on April 22 it will only run weekends (Friday through Sunday). Mickey’s Mix Magic will present its projections-only show during the week (Monday through Thursday) until late spring. Disneyland Forever fireworks will then run nightly in the summer. World of Color and Fantasmic! will return to their regular schedule when they reopen. Foodie Guide to the 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Blooming March 2The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival runs from March 2 through July 4.Here is the complete list from nearly 20 outdoor kitchens, plus our top pick from what EPCOT chefs have put together for you in 2022.Amelia's must-try picks are noted with an asterisk *Mike's must-try picks are noted with a dagger †Flavor Full Kitchen (Between Imagination! and Refreshment Port) Food Items:Grilled Street Corn on the Cob with savory garlic spread (Gluten/Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze) Seared Verlasso Salmon with farro risotto and micro herbsStrawberry Mousse with Chocolate crisp pearlsBeverages:Blood Orange Agua Fresca (non-alcoholic)Cookie Butter Worms and Dirt (non-alcoholic)*EPCOT Sunshine Griddle (Near Test Track) Food Items:Avocado Toast with marinated toybox tomatoes on toasted ciabatta (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)Shrimp and Grits: Blackened shrimp and cheddar cheese grits with brown gravy and sweet corn salsaCorned Beef Brisket Hash with house-made potato barrels, onions, peppers, cheese curds, and a soft-poached egg with Tabasco hollandaise (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) †Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites with cream cheese frosting and candied bacon*Beverages:Froot Loops Shake (non-alcoholic)Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew Cocktail with milk, rum and coffee liqueur, and vanilla vodkaThe Honey Bee-stro Food Items:Tupelo Honey and Sweet Corn Spoon Bread with jalapeños, bacon, and house-made whipped honey butter (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) *Lavender Honey Mustard-marinated Chicken Flatbread with whipped honey-ricotta cheese, marinated vegetables, and goat cheeseLocal Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake with orange blossom honey whipped cream, whipped honey, crystalized honey, honeycomb, dehydrated honey, and fennel pollen meringue kissesBeverages:Honey-Peach Freeze in a Souvenir Spike the Bee Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic) (Limit 2 per guest)Lemonade MeadOrange Blossom Honey WineHoney-Peach Freeze with Blueberry VodkaThe Citrus Blossom (Near Port of Entry)Food Items:NEW! Crispy Mojo Marinated Pork Belly, Avocado Cream, Corn Salsa, Salsa Verde, and Plantain Chips (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) Tuna Tataki Bowl with spicy yuzu glaze, mango, avocado, and pappadam crispNEW! Grapefruit Tart: Grapefruit curd, lychee jam, ginger mousse, and yuzu creamBeverages:Orange-Lemon Smoothie in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic) (Limit 2 per guest)Key Lime Hibiscus AleOrange Peel AleCitrus Honey Cream AleOrange Sunshine Wine SlushyBeer FlightRefreshment Port (Near Canada)Food Items: House-made Italian Sausage and Peppers Poutine (Plant-based) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) Beverages: Salted Cucumber Apple Hard CiderLavender Martini: Vodka with lavender and lemonPineapple Promenade (Near Port of Entry)*Food Items:Spicy Hot Dog with pineapple chutney and plantain chipsDOLE Whip (Plant-based) Beverages:Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade (non-alcoholic)DOLE Whip with Fanta (non-alcoholic)Tropical Hefe Wheat AleFresh Pressed Mango, Pineapple, and Guava Wheat AleHazy Pebbles Fruity Hazy MilkshakeViolet Lemonade AleSparkling Pineapple WineDOLE Whip topped with mango cream liqueurPineapple Beer FlightTrowel & Trellis (Near Disney Traders)Food Items:Grilled Baby Vegetables with hummus cream and red pepper coulis (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze) Impossible Sausage and Kale Soup (Plant-based)Boneless Impossible Korean Short Rib with cilantro-lime rice, Danmuji slaw, and Kimchee Mayonnaise (Plant-based) †NEW! Chocolate Cake with whipped cassis
Ep 113Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser Backstory and More Disney News
Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Tells a New StoryStar Wars: Galactic Starcruiser takes its maiden voyage on March 1 at Walt Disney World and more details have been revealed about how this new immersive experience will interact with other Star Wars experiences in Galaxy’s Edge.The Starcruiser Halcyon -- now fully restored to its former glory -- will follow its maiden voyage to the first port it ever visited, which was Batuu. In the Star Wars timeline, your voyage on the Galactic Starcruiser takes place between the events of Star Wars Last Jedi and Star Wars Rise of Skywalker. Do you join the First Order? the Resistance? Are you a scoundrel? You get to pick your experience to some degree. Plus, you'll see Rey and Kylo Ren meet up in a period between those two films. What will happen in that encounter and how will affect the Star Wars universe? On top of it all, there's a Halcyon Legacy comic bool series if you want to learn more about the ship in this time period.The Transformation of Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland Park Begins SoonMickey’s Toontown in Disneyland Park will soon begin its transformation into a whole new world of sights, sounds, and sensations including some all-new experiences, more play and interactivity for guests. The focus will remain on families and young children, but it's something that any Disney fan will love. Mickey’s Toontown will be closed as of March 9, 2022, and will reopen in early 2023, along with the new attraction, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. So if you want to experience the current iteration, do it by March 8When Mickey’s Toontown reopens in 2023, it will still be home to Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin, Mickey’s House and Minnie’s House! And other attractions will be reimagined in new ways, including Gadget’s Go Coaster, Goofy’s House and Donald’s Boat.Disney Wish: The Full Slate of EntertainmentSetting sail this July, here's an entertainment rundown for Disney Cruise Line's Newest ship.Inside Out: Joyful SweetsThe shop will offer nearly 40 flavors of gelato and ice cream, with daily handcrafted gelato specials in combinations like peanut butter pretzel and white chocolate raspberry. Whipped cream, fruit compotes and sauces will be freshly made in-house to complement a wide selection of tasty toppings.Signature treats inspired by the film will include colorful cupcakes that evoke the five emotions — Joy (lemon), Sadness (blueberry), Disgust (pistachio), Anger (red velvet) and Fear (bubble gum) — and chocolate Memory Orbs filled with sweet candy remembrances. Specialty macarons and cake pops will join the assortment of handcrafted truffles, designer cookies, indulgent brownies and vibrant candy offerings. Olaf’s Royal PicnicHere you can join your favorite “Frozen” friends for a summertime picnic in Arendelle during a premium entertainment experience specially designed for families with children ages 3 to 12. At Olaf’s Royal Picnic, guests will interact with Olaf, Anna, Elsa and Kristoff like never before and delight in live musical performances of beloved songs like “Let It Go,” “Fixer Upper” and “In Summer.”Under the expert direction of Baroness Dagmar Birgir — a lively lady-in-waiting to Queen Anna — castle staff will serve up summer treats and picnic fare for the whole family to enjoy. The hall will be decked out in summer style with a canopy flowers and festive decor. Children will receive an assortment of gifts and keepsakes, including a reversible troll plush, themed picnic blanket and custom Nordic-style mandolin, which they’ll need for a special “Reindeer Are Better Than People” strum-and-sing-along with Kristoff. Plus Disney promises more surprises.Once you book your Disney Wish cruise be sure to reserve Olaf's Royal Picnic before sailing. There is an added fee. Immersive Storytelling and Interactive ShowsGrand HallThe fairytale castle-inspired Grand Hall will evolve from a gathering space into an enchanting theater through the magic of built-in special effects and the first-ever atrium stage on a Disney ship.A royal greeting will await you as you enter the glittering Grand Hall for the first time. Every child will receive their very own wishing wand upon embarkation, which they will use to make the “First Wish” of their vacation during a special boarding celebration.During the sailing, you can attend a royal gathering as Disney Princesses descend into the Grand Hall to meet and greet guests.The Grand Hall stage will conceal a host of Disney friends during “Who’s Behind the Curtain?”, a playful game show where you'll answer questions to reveal the identity of hidden characters.On the final night of every sailing, you'll will return to the Grand Hall to raise wands with Fairy Godmother to ignite a farewell show featuring favorite characters, special effects and lively performances.LunaThis brand-new entertainment hub — with a two-story LED screen wall, stage and bar — will offer a variety of live shows designed for families to laugh, sing and compete together
Ep 112How to Capture Your Moment in Every Park at Walt Disney World
Capture Your Moment is Coming Soon to all Walt Disney World Theme ParksDisney PhotoPass Service is introducing more fun new offerings with the expansion of the Capture Your Moment feature. Capture Your Moment is a 20-minute private photo session that was very popular at the Magic Kingdom and Disney's Animal Kingdom, where it was first launched. Now Capture Your Moment is expanding to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.EPCOT – Starting February 24 Epcot joins the fun for whatever you're celebrating: a surprise proposal, first visit to Walt Disney World, a graduation, anniversary or a family portrait memory. Photos sessions take place in World Showcase and you can choose from one of the following pavilions for your shoot: Germany, Italy, The American Adventure, Japan or Morocco.Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Starting March 21 Photo shoots at Hollywood Studios offer some pretty unique options, including the spooky ambiance of the Hollywood Tower Hotel or a more playful setting with Gertie -- Echo Lake’s resident dinosaur. Other options include the Chinese Theatre’s façade area (Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway), or the colorful neon signs and art deco architecture of Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard if you want to capture that old time Hollywood retro vibe. So how much does it cost? Capture Your Moment sessions are $79 and can include up to eight people in your party. Prints and digital downloads are not included, but, if you've purchased a Disney PhotoPass product (Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day), or if you are a qualifying Walt Disney World Annual Passholder with a Disney PhotoPass download benefit, then you can download the photos at no extra cost.Find all the details on Capture Your Moment at DisneyWorld.com--The 2022 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Starts March 4As we shared in past newscasts, Disneyland's Food and Wine Festival will take place at Disney California Adventure from March 4 through April 26, 2022.If you're thinking of visiting during this time, here's what we know so far for Disney travelers.Many of California’s communities and regions are highlighted in the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival’s smorgasbord of dishes. A dozen Festival Marketplaces will serve small bites and drinks, and dining locations across Disney California Adventure park – including Pym Tasting Lab and Terran Treats at Avengers Campus – will also feature special festival menu items. As always, the Sip and Savor Pass will be available for purchase and will include eight coupons redeemable for select food and non-alcoholic beverages at participating locations.The Hollywood Backlot in Hollywood Land will be home to an wide range entertainment and presentations for all ages. The all-new animated series, “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery,” which recently debuted on Disney Junior, is the inspiration behind a new, limited-time festival experience for junior chefs at the Hollywood Backlot Stage. During “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery Unbirthday Party,” kids ages 3 through 11 will have the opportunity to express their creativity through hands-on cupcake decorating. Take note that space is limited, and participant sign-ups begin 45 minutes before each show time.At the Hollywood Backlot, you may also find Chef Goofy or dance with Chip ‘n’ Dale as they provide the rhythm using pots and pans.On Saturdays and Sundays there will be culinary demonstration at the Hollywood Backlot Stage. A diverse lineup of Disney and visiting chefs will prepare their favorite dishes and share insider tips for making mouth watering meals at home. So if you like to try out Disney recipes, this is a must-do.Signature events will be offered for an additional fee, including Carthay Circle Winemaker Receptions and special wine, beer and mixology seminars at Sonoma Terrace. Learn more at Disneyland.com/FoodandWineOf course, watch for Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival merchandise.Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will also take part with select restaurants offering special menu items and events for a limited time.And to top it all off, Soarin’ Over California will return to Disney California Adventure park for a limited time during the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival. That starts on March 4.--Disney Trams are Coming BackAnd if you have hated having to walk to park gates from your car, you'll be happy to know that trams are making their way back to Disney parking lots. --Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.
Ep 111Disney Parks Valentine's and Mardi Gras Celebrations
Five Ways to Get in the Spirit of Mardi Gras at Disney’s Port Orleans ResortsMardi Gras kicking off on March 1 and Disney's Port Orleans Resorts are ready to celebrate with five ways:1. Listen to jazz music at Scat Cat’s Club – LoungeNew Orleans is the birthplace of jazz. Watch for groups of live musicians entertaining guests at the Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening. Plus, you can enjoy delicious food and drinks – like the brand-new Bebop Bloody Mary and the Oyster Beignet Po Boy!2. Eat beignets at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French QuarterBeignets have played a part in Mardi Gras celebrations for centuries. You can find the Walt Disney World version of these delicious doughnuts at Scat Cat’s Club – Cafe.3. Create your own Mardi Gras bicycle paradeGather your group to create your own parade by renting bikes at both of Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts. Be sure to wear purple, green and gold to really get in the spirit!4. Sample savory southern cooking at Boatwright’s Dining HallLooking for the Louisiana bayou dining experience? Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside offers everything from Mardi Gras Fritters to their famous Boatwright’s Jambalaya.5. Enjoy the scenery along the Sassagoula RiverBoth of Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts are located along the scenic Sassagoula River. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride along the river bank, with views of magnolias, picturesque Spanish moss, natural wildlife and more. Or, you can also enjoy a boat ride down the Sassagoula River on your way to Disney Springs.--Disney Cruise Line Guests Recently Recovered from COVID-19 May Qualify to Be Considered as "90-Day-Recovered"Disney Cruise Line updated their policies for Guests who have recently recovered from COVID-19.In some cases, people who have recently recovered from COVID-19 may still test positive for the virus. If you have tested positive for Covid within 11-90 days of your sail date, you may qualify to be considered as “90-Day-Recovered.” With the appropriate documentation and subsequent approval, you would not be required to participate in COVID-19 testing during the Pre-Sail, Embarkation or Disembarkation phases of their voyage. --Disney Wish Inaugural sailing delayed until Mid-JulyThis week Disney announced that the shipyard has notified Disney Cruise Line that they need more time to finish the ship due to the pandemic and specifically the Omicron variant hitting Germany at a critical point in the process.Disney Cruise Line has delayed the maiden voyage by a few weeks, which will affect sailings through mid-July. Disney Cruise Line will be sending an email to guests on these sailings to share this news and inform them of options. -- Disneyland Resort Hotel Guests Can Step Into Fun New Fitness Classes at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & SpaThere's a new way to burn a few calories on your Disneyland vacation. Tenaya Stone Spa at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is launching new fitness activities for guests staying at any Disneyland Resort hotels.Many of the fitness classes take place in one-of-a-kind settings that can’t be found anywhere else, such as inside Disney California Adventure Park before it opens for guests -- a very unique Disney experience.Take a yoga class with scenic views of Disney California Adventure, or relax during guided meditation, focus on stretching, get in gear at a boot camp in the park, test yourself on an obstacle challenge at the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, or find yourself on a paddleboard in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel's Fountain Pool!There are more than a dozen fitness classes, 30 to 45 minutes in length, offered through Tenaya Stone Spa and the fitness center at Disney’s Grand California Hotel, and they're tailored to a many skill levels:Aqua Yoga: Practice yoga on a paddleboard while floating in the Fountain Pool. Awakening Yoga: Wake up with Disney by enjoying a yoga session overlooking Disney California Adventure from the hotel’s rooftop deck. Designed for all levels.Boot Camp in Disney California Adventure Park: This high-intensity boot camp will have you on the move traveling from land to land before the park opens, with push-ups, squats and sit-ups, at a pace of 12-minute per mile jogging around the park. This class takes place before the park opens.Disney Ears Yoga: Disney ears and a yoga session. This will be popular.Fascia Release: This class incorporates a fascia roller to help relieve muscle tightness and soreness.Obstacle Challenge in Disney California Adventure Park: At the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail attraction, can conquer obstacles like crawling, jumping, climbing and running, and test your balance and strength. This class takes place before the park opens.Power Walking Workout in Disney California Adventure Park: Start the day with an energetic walk and active stretching throughout Disney California Adventure before the park opens. This class maintains a 15- to 18-minute per mile pace, for
Ep 110More Characters, Parades and Shows are Back at Disney World
More entertainment coming to Magic Kingdom Park for the 50th Anniversary CelebrationOn February 11 the new “Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade!” kicks off with nearly 30 Disney and Pixar characters, including Nick and Judy from “Zootopia,” Baloo and King Louie from “The Jungle Book,” José Carioca and Panchito from “The Three Caballeros,” plus Merida, Moana, The Incredibles, and more. It will also include the Magic Kingdom debut of Miguel from “Coco.” The fan favorite “Festival of Fantasy” parade returns to Magic Kingdom Park starting March 9 – the anniversary of the debut of the parade in 2014. It will have two shows daily.“Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire” will make its debut on the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage February 25. The show has been updated for the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary and will incorporate favorite scenes from “Frozen,” “Tangled,” and “The Princess and the Frog” – plus a new opening and a new finale with Mickey Mouse and all his friends in their sparkling, EARidescent fashions. It will happen multiple times a day and will include a new original song entitled “Where the Magic Feels Like Home.”“Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!” and “Fantasmic!” will return later this year.Character Sightings added to Disney Genie+You will now find select Character Sightings as new selections for Lightning Lane entry with the purchase of Disney Genie+:See Cinderella and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom ParkSee Princess Tiana and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom ParkSee Mickey at Town Square Theater at Magic Kingdom Park See Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosDisney Cruise Line Introduces Pixar Day at Sea on Select Disney Fantasy Sailings in 2023Disney Cruise Line has an all-new Pixar Day at Sea on special sailings of the Disney Fantasy in early 2023.The day-long celebration features one-of-a-kind experiences on select seven-night voyages. It will bring to life Pixar tales from “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “The Incredibles,” “Finding Nemo” and more. Themed dining, character encounters, dance parties and a stage show await families on this fun-filled day at sea that caps off with a deck party of incredible proportions.A Pixar film festival, exclusive merchandise and photo opportunities will also be available as part of the new celebration. Other details and highlights include: Character EncountersFrom morning until night, you can dance, play and interact with your favorite Pixar pals, including Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Bo Peep from “Toy Story”; Mike, Sulley and Boo from “Monsters, Inc.”; Joy and Sadness from “Inside Out”; Dug and Russell from “Up”; and everyone’s favorite supers – Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl and Frozone from “The Incredibles.”Immersive EntertainmentA new nighttime show will call on Disney Cruise Line Guests to help the Incredibles save the day.A first-of-its-kind theatrical experience will bring to life the beloved story of Miguel and his family from “Coco” through live music and puppetry.Families will be able to join their favorite characters for a dance party bash. Dining Filled with CharacterA new, interactive character dining experience hosted by Sheriff Woody, Jesse and Bullseye will kick-off the day with sing-a-longs, cowboy serenades and all the country breakfast fixins.A Pixar-themed dinner will have dishes inspired by the Pixar Animation Studios’ California locale.Immerse yourself in undersea magic while dining in Animator’s Palate with visits from some of your favorite “Finding Nemo” friends, including interactive conversations with Crush.Pixar Day at Sea will happen on nine select Disney Fantasy cruises from January through March 2023. EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Will Showcase Blooms, Tunes, Scents and Flavors Beginning March 2Are you ready for spring? The horticulture and festival teams at Walt Disney World Resort are hard at work preparing for the 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. This year’s festival runs March 2 to July 4 – a total of 125 days.Disney Character topiaries offer a perfect backdrop for springtime photos with family and friends. A new main entrance display will feature Goofy with a birthday cake celebrating the Walt Disney World Resort 50th anniversary.Horticulture teams are creating new topiaries of the Seven Dwarfs to accompany Snow White near the Germany pavilion in World Showcase. And returning this year are Lumiere and Cogsworth topiaries in the France pavilion as well as Pumbaa and Timon topiaries near Imagination!On the bridge to World Showcase, you can enjoy the sights and scents of spring at a new fragrant garden presented by Scentsy. Surrounded by butterfly topiaries, you can follow your noses to six scent stations—floral, fruity, citrus, spice, woods and fresh—to form lasting memories of unforgettable aromas.The Health Full Trail presented by AdventHealth offers a fun way for families to play and learn how to sta
Ep 109Disneyland Lunar New Year Celebrations, Super Bowl Party and More
And Disneyland is Hosting a Super Bowl Party as Well!Lunar New Year Celebration is Back at Disney California Adventure Park, Now Through Feb. 13, 2022Ring in the Year of the Tiger during the Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure Park.This event runs through February 13, 2022. It's a tribute to Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean cultures with a touch of Disney magic, featuring Asian-inspired food and drinks, vibrant décor, keepsake merchandise and exciting entertainment!This year, “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” introduces a new float that Mulan and Mushu arrive upon, accompanied by traditional Chinese drummers with powerful rhythms and performers bringing cultural artistry and dance to life. The Paradise Garden Bandstand has daily live performances featuring traditional musical instruments, along with Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese folk dancers. Keep an eye out for Disney characters at the Paradise Gardens Gazebo, where you may see Tigger, Mulan and Mushu, Mickey and Minnie, and the Three Little Pigs – all dressed in their festive best.Raya, from Disney's “Raya and the Last Dragon,” is making her official debut at the Disneyland during the Lunar New Year celebration. Raya is greeting new friends under a forest canopy deep in the heart of Redwood Creek Challenge Trail. You can also stroll beneath strings of ornamental lanterns at the Lucky Wishes Wall to share your own wishes of hope, health and happiness for the Year of the Tiger. Plus, enjoy complimentary arts and crafts, such as coloring a “Dragon’s Pearl” and Chinese calligraphy with local artisans.Of course, special Lunar New Year merch is available while supplies last, including an adorable Mickey Mouse plush, Spirit Jersey, tees and tumbler.And to go along with that, festive Lunar New Year Marketplaces offer a wide array of Asian-inspired dishes with a Disney twist. Here's the Foodie Guide to Lunar New Year 2022 at DisneylandIf you want to dine, then you may want to consider buying a Sip and Savor Pass, which gives you six coupons, redeemable for select food and non-alcoholic drinks at participating Lunar New Year Marketplace kiosks and dining locations.Longevity Noodle Co. (available Jan. 21 through Feb. 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)Food Items:Garlic Noodles: Long noodles tossed in a zesty garlic butter with Parmesan cheese*Spicy Pork Dandan Noodles: Pan-fried noodles with ground pork and spicy tri-chile sauceBeverages:Salted Pistachio Cold Brew featuring Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. French Bistro Blend CoffeePale Ale with mandarin and bergamot zestNovelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)Lucky 8 Lantern (available Jan. 21 through Feb. 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)Food Items:Shrimp Fried Rice with garlic bacon edamame*Beef Bulgogi Short Rib on rice with green onion saladBeverages:Peach Yuja-Ade: Peach syrup, yuja, dragonfruit, lemon, and butterfly pea flower teaSoju Peach Yuja-Ade: Soju, peach syrup, yuja, dragonfruit, lemon, and butterfly pea flower teaLagerNovelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)Prosperity Bao & Buns (available Jan. 21 through Feb. 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)Food Items:*Char Siu BBQ Pork Bao: Pickled red onions and jalapeñoMickey Chinese Hot Dog Bun: Brioche-style Mickey-shaped buns stuffed with hot dog and finished with sesame seeds and scallionsBeverages:Prosperous Tiger: Vodka, cream of coconut, bitters, triple sec, mandarin purée, vanilla beanLychee Celebration: Gin, prosecco, lychee purée, lychee syrup, grapefruit juice, and yujaBamboo LagerNovelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)Red Dragon Spice Traders (available Jan. 21 through Feb. 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)Food Items: *Spicy Three-Cup Chicken served on a bed of jasmine riceImpossible™ Lion’s Head Meatballs: Mini plant-based pork meatballs served with cabbage and Shaoxing wine reductionMickey Purple Sweet Potato Macaron: Red macaron filled with purple sweet potato buttercream and crème fraîche centerBeverages:Dancing Firecracker: Pineapple juice, guava purée, spicy honey syrup, hibiscus syrup, and lime juiceJasmine Tea LagerNovelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)Seasonal Cart (available Jan. 21 through Feb. 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)Food Items:Mango-Pineapple PieBeverages:Mulan Sipper with assorted Coca-Cola bottled beverage or DASANI bottled waterSeasonal Cart in Redwood Creek Challenge Trail (available Jan. 21 through Feb. 13)Food Item:Brown Sugar Steam Bun: Brown sugar steam bun topped with blue cream cheese icing (New)Beverages:White Hot Chocolate: Blue white chocolate topped with toasted marshmallow whipped cream and purple sugar (non-alcoholic) (New)Warm Apple Cider Cocktail: Hot apple cider, spices, and cinnamon whiskey garnished with a cinnamon stick and a caramel rim (New)Studio Catering Truck (available Jan. 10 through Mar. 01)Food Item:Hoisin Pork Sliders: Marinated pulled pork on Hawaiian rolls with apple slaw
Ep 108Walt Disney World Dining Continues to Get Better, Plus More News
The All-New Grand Floridian Spa Opens January 26 at Walt Disney World The Grand Floridian Spa has been refreshed while keeping in style with Victorian theme of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. Inside the newly reimagined spa you'll find a tranquil Floridian garden with serene lighting and calming music. The ideal way to take a break and recharge from the high energy magic of the world outside the spa doors.There is a wide range of treatments and massages from which to choose. For example, you can experience The Grand Massage or Massage for Two. Both incorporate botanical lotions and other elements to designed to release tension and fatigue and replenish the mind, body and spirit. Or, why not destress with Nature’s Renewal Hydrating Treatment, which combines a full body exfoliation with a hydrating botanical massage.A full range of salon services are also available including haircuts, styling and The Grand Manicure and Pedicure Treatments. The Grand Floridian Spa’s nail treatments provide the ultimate pampering experience with exfoliation, mask, massage and choice of nail lacquer. Plus, you can visit the relaxation lounge before or after their treatments.Advance reservations are recommended and can be made online for dates starting January 26, 2022.--Garden Rocks Concert Series Returning to the EPCOT International Flower & Garden FestivalThe popular Garden Rocks Concert Series returns to the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival this March! New this year, top name artists will take the stage at the America Gardens Theater from Friday through Monday, while local Orlando bands and musicians will step into the spotlight Tuesday through Thursday.The Complete 2022 Garden Rocks! Concert Line-up At EPCOTMarch 4-5 – The Guess WhoMarch 6-7 – Rick SpringfieldMarch 11-12 – Melina Leon – NEW to Garden RocksMarch 18-19 – Mike DelGuidice, currently on tour with Billy Joel – NEWMarch 20-21 – Kool & The Gang – NEW to Garden RocksMarch 25-28 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELOApril 1-2 – The SpinnersApril 3-4 – The Pointer SistersApril 8-9 – Blue October – NEW to Garden RocksApril 15-16 – Tommy DeCarlo, singer of the band Boston – NEWApril 17-18 – Don Felder, Formerly of The EaglesApril 22-23 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey ThomasApril 24-25 – Claudia Leitte – NEWApril 29-30 – BerlinMay 1-2 – TobyMacMay 6-7 – Blood, Sweat & TearsMay 8-9 – The Commodores – NEW to Garden RocksMay 13-14 – Ambrosia with Peter Beckett – NEWMay 20-21 – A Flock Of SeagullsMay 22-23 – Collin Raye – NEWMay 27-28 – Thelma Houston – NEWMay 29-30 – Little River BandJune 3-6 – Simple PlanJune 10-13 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter NooneJune 17-20 – Plain White T’sYou can reserve your spot at a show by booking a Garden Rocks Dining Package available Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday. Find out more by visiting FreshEPCOT.com. --More Walt Disney World Restaurant Reopenings are Coming Your Way!Here's the latest news of upcoming reopenings and updates at Walt Disney World restaurants. January 27: The chefs from Flying Fish at Disney’s BoardWalk will welcome back guests with their signature seafood dishes. Of course, they also have steak offerings.Favorite entrées include The Seafood Pearl Pasta which includes shrimp, lobster, scallops, clams, and mussels. Or, seafood lovers may prefer the Plancha-seared Scallops accompanied with savory grits, sweet corn, and Peppadew emulsion.For dessert, Flying Fish has a few great offerings, including a chocolate-lover favorite: the Cocoa Breach accompanied with delicious vanilla custard.January 31: the Ale & Compass Restaurant at Disney's Yacht Club Resort is back with some favorite breakfast options and new lunch offerings. Why not start with some Blueberry Bacon Pancakes.February 3: The Turf Club Bar and Grill at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort will once again be off to the races. It has a well-earned reputation for offering delicious American flavors in every dish. A classic appetizer here is the New York Cider-braised Mussels with garlic, chorizo, fennel, Fresno chili, and apple cider topped with a grilled baguette.Good picks for a main course include the Grilled Pork Chop or Braised Lamb Tagliatelle. And for cheesecake fans, there's a great New York Cheesecake on the menu.February 15: Cape May Café offers a little New England vibe where you can again feast on an all-you-care-to-enjoy, buffet breakfast with tasty items like pull-a-part bread with vanilla sauce, beef hash, and an omelet station. And what breakfast is complete without Mickey and Minnie waffles? The buffet continues at dinner with options like cornbread, seasonal harvest salad, seafood boil, and a daily carving station, just to name a few. You can also upgrade with snow crab legs or even a whole lobster, both purchased by the pound. February 17: Jiko – The Cooking Place reopens at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge featuring the tastes and flavors of African, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine. Worth a try is the Seafood Tag
Ep 107It's a Food Showdown: Healthy vs Indulge at Walt Disney World
Disney Springs Health and Wellness Celebration in JanuaryDisney Springs is embracing 2022 with a focus on health and wellness, including complimentary group fitness classes on select Wednesdays and Fridays in January. Each class will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will take place in Town Center near Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories. Wellness Wednesday Events Schedule:January 12 – Warrior One Yoga presented by lululemon January 19 – HIIT Workout Class presented by Under ArmourJanuary 26 – Orlando Power Yoga presented by FableticsFitness Friday Events:January 21 – Warrior One Yoga presented by lululemonJanuary 28 – HIIT Workout Class presented by Under ArmourRegistration is required for all events and space is limited. To register, visit the Fitness and Wellness page under the Experiences tab on DisneySprings.com. Eat Healthy at Disney SpringsIt’s also important to eat a well-balanced diet. Disney Springs has plenty of great food, and that includes healthier option menu items.Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC – Focus on diners with gluten, dairy, egg, and soy sensitivities, the health-minded, and those with allergies (especially kids) who can't find good food. Everything here is vegan, gluten-free and promises to be delicious.Frontera Cocina – The Taqueria Ensalada features Arcadian lettuce, poblano rajas, carrot, radish, avocado, tortilla strips, Cotija cheese and an avocado-lime vinaigrette-grilled chicken breast or the Mojo garlic grilled shrimp can also be added.Planet Hollywood – The Hollywood Bowl is a standout salad that features Romaine lettuce, house-roasted turkey breast, hard-boiled egg, avocado, Roma tomato, and cucumber. It comes with bacon, swiss cheese and croutons, but you can omit those if you’re aiming for a lower calorie meal. While the recommended dressing is Thousand Island, feel free to swap in a balsamic vinaigrette if desired.The Polite Pig – The Polite Caesar and Cobb Salads (without bacon) are satisfying bets, while the Chicken Salad Wrap is great for those who want a handheld option. There are even healthy choices for little ones including the Roast Smoked Turkey Breast and Grilled Skinless Chicken Breast.Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant – This Shepherd Went Vegan is a plant-based Shepherd’s Pie, and the Raglan Risotto is a vegetarian dish that spotlights wild mushrooms, glazed baby vegetables, tarragon and shaved parmesan. Raglan Road is also celebrated by those with gluten sensitivities as many of their popular menu items are gluten-free.Yesake – The Tofu Power Bowl is a hearty mix of organic tofu, avocado, spinach, carrot, cabbage, cucumber, tempura crunch and wasabi ponzu. Best of all? Guests can modify it to your liking.These are just a few of the healthier items you can find at Disney Springs. But remember to ask your server for recommendations and d forget you can always ask for a dish to be modified. Foodie Guide 2022 Epcot International Festival of the ArtsRunning from January 14 through February 21, 2022 the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will showcase visual, culinary and performing arts from across the globe. Here's the long awaited Foodie Guide to the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts!Pop Eats! (Near Port of Entry)Food Items:Tomato Soup with Grilled CheeseTomato Soup with Bacon, Apple, and Brie Grilled Cheese (New)Almond Frangipane Cake layered with raspberry jam and Belgian chocolatePop’t Art: Modern-designed sugar cookie with chocolate-hazelnut fillingFigment Premium Popcorn Bucket with Rainbow Popcorn (New)Beverages:Hazy IPATomato Soup Can Bloody MaryThe Deconstructed Dish (Near Port of Entry)Food Items: Deconstructed BLT: Crispy pork belly, soft-poached egg, brioche, watercress espuma, tomato jamDeconstructed French Onion Soup: Beef broth ravioli, Gruyère espuma, onion bread pudding, and onion textures (New)Deconstructed Key Lime Pie: Flexible Key lime curd, “Key lime” mousse, graham cracker cake, and meringues (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – Green) (New)Beverages:Deconstructed Apple Pie à la Mode: Apple-cinnamon gelato, cinnamon apple cider, apple pie filling, and streusel (non-alcoholic) (New)Brown AleDeco Delights (Near Port of Entry) Food Items:Dulce Chocolate Mousse with chocolate crémeux and dark chocolate truffle (New)Decadent Valrhona Chocolate with dark chocolate mousse, chocolate brownie, and cassis mousse (New) Orange Mousse with lemon cake and raspberry meringues (New)Beverages:Strawberry Blonde NitroVanilla PorterMilk StoutNeapolitan Beer FlightThe Craftsman’s Courtyard (near Disney Traders) (New)Food Items:Cast Iron-roasted P.E.I. Mussels with Sautéed Tomatoes, Garlic, and Fresh Herbs (New)Cast Iron-seared Steelhead Trout with parsley salad, grape tomatoes, Kalamata olives, capers, and lemon aïoli (New)Beverages:Wheat BeerChardonnayRoséCabernet SauvignonWine FlightRefreshment OutpostFood Items:Plant-based Bratwurst with spicy turmeric aïoli, coffee barbecue jackfruit, and slaw (Plant-based)Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip CookieBe
Ep 106Disney's Typhoon Lagoon has Reopened (now for the bad news)
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon has Reopened, but it's not all good newsThe surf’s up once again at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, but that's only part of the story. The tropical-island-inspired water park reopened to guests on January 2, 2022. Unfortunately, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park closed to guests (temporarily at least) on New Year's Day, January 1, 2022. Disney giveth and Disney taketh away.There's always a lot to do at Typhoon Lagoon, but with the Walt Disney World 50th anniversary underway, there are a few more things you should know.What's New and What's a Must-Do at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon in 2022Create Your Own Custom Dole Whip The Snack Shack next to Typhoon Tilly’s allows you to sample items from a menu of all-new frozen dessert bar items. You can even mix and match some favorite Dole Whip flavors (including mango, pineapple, lime and raspberry) to build your own custom Disney Dole Whip. Adults can choose to electrify their Dole Whips by adding tequila, coconut rum or dark rum. Plus, there are new Moana-inspired Dole Whip cones as an option to make your Dole Whip into something a little different.An Old Favorite is Back: Surfing at Typhoon LagoonYou can learn to surf with professional instructors at the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, America’s largest outdoor wave pool. This is one of our all-time favorite things to do at Walt Disney World and it's a definite must do for anyone who wants to learn to surf and for experienced surfers alike (they will bring the big waves for you).Crush ‘n’ Gusher: The Disney Water Coaster at Typhoon LagoonWhat do you get when you combine a water slide and roller coaster? A water coaster of course. There are three tropical fruit-themed chutes: Pineapple Plunger, Coconut Crusher or Banana Blaster.50th Anniversary-Inspired Menu ItemsFrom Walt’s Chili Nachos, which offer a special twist on one of Walt Disney’s favorite meals, to the EARidescent Ice Dream Cone, a birthday cake-flavored soft-serve spectacular, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is home to a variety of delicious anniversary-themed treats.Castaway Creek, The Typhoon Lagoon Lazy RiverIf water slides aren't your thing or you just want a little time to slow things down, Castaway Creek offers a "peaceful drift" down a 2,000-foot lazy river, floating past shady grottoes, thundering waterfalls, overhead rope bridges and lush rainforest landscapes.Don’t ‘Miss’ Out on Miss Adventure FallsAs the story goes, Miss Adventure Falls is owned by Captain Mary Oceaneer – a sea-faring treasure hunter whose haul got caught in the rogue typhoon. This thrilling family-friendly adventure is the newest attraction at Typhoon Lagoon and gives you the opportunity to hunt for Captain Mary’s scattered global treasures during their voyage.Relax in a Beachcomber Shack, a Private CabanaIf you want to splurge for your own private space, you can relax in an piece of paradise by booking a Beachcomber Shack, a luxury cabana space featuring cushioned seating, secluded shade and exclusive menu.Beachcomber Shacks include room for up to six guests, and they have amenities such as towels, cushioned chairs, refillable drink mugs, a locker, and a cooler stocked with ice and bottled water. They make an excellent home base for your stay and you get your own personal attendant.Hurry to Humunga KowabungaIt's not quite Summet Plummet, but thrill seekers will love the near-vertical drops at Humunga Kowabunga, a downhill flume slide that uses the steep slopes of Mount Mayday.In other Disney Travel News...Explore Europe with 2022 Adventures By Disney Danube and Rhine River CruisesIf you've ever dreamed of taking an Adventures by Disney river cruise to see the towns and landscapes of Europe, Disney has announced a special offer.Adventures by Disney guests can save $500 per person on select 2022 Danube and Rhine River cruises. Departures must be booked before February 28, 2022 and your travel dates must be between June 26 and August 4, 2022. There is limited availability and the offer excludes category E staterooms and Suites. Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns
Ep 105What's Replacing Disney's Magical Express? The Sunshine Flyer
The Sunshine Flyer is Ready to Replace Disney's Magical ExpressEver since Disney announced it would be ending its popular Magical Express service in January 2022, Disney travelers have been wondering: So what now?This week, Transportation Management Services (TMS) announced The Sunshine Flyer as a new service that would transport guests from MCO to Walt Disney World resort hotels. The Sunshine Flyer offers a themed experience that is based on old-fashioned railway passenger cars and vintage stream train engines. A Design and Themed Experience that Walt Disney Would LoveThe service aims to take the stress of airport transportation for Disney guests in Orlando and help to kickstart the magic of a family vacation from the moment they board the bus at the airport. Some key facts about The Sunshine Flyer:The exteriors of the buses are designed to look like old-fashioned locomotives or passenger cars (and there are several different designs)Staff will be dressed as 1920s rail conductors and engineersThe buses will have entertainment throughout the tripTicket pre-sales are now available and service begins on February 1, 2022There is also a charitable component to the launch of The Sunshine Flyer in honor of Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary:For the first 50 days of service, 50% of Sunshine Flyer ticket sales will be donated to Make-A-Wish Central & Northern Florida.Make-A-Wish children and their families will receive complimentary service from the Sunshine Flyer for their Disney wishes indefinitelyThe Sunshine Flyer’s buses are late model, premium motorcoaches. From the classic railway-inspired bus designs to staff dressed as 1920s rail conductors and engineers, the motorcoaches effectively serve as time-machines, offering a glimpse into 1920s rail travel.According to Frank Sherman, CEO of TMS: “Everyone knows the magic of Disney once they’re inside the park gates. But through The Sunshine Flyer, we’re able to give guests the chance to start their vacation from the minute they step off the plane and turn what used to be a procedural drive into the beginning of an adventure to remember.” With 25 years of experience as a large events transportation company working with world-class events such as the FIFA World Cup, NBA Finals and various PGA TOUR Tournaments, TMS is primed to offer a streamlined and well-executed service through The Sunshine Flyer. What's inside The Sunshine Flyer buses?There will be entertainment on the busesComplete with a bathroomYou can attach your child car seat to the three-point harness on seatsFor wheelchairs request an ADA bus when bookingUSB chargers and three-point seatbelts for the comfort and safety of all guests And yes, the buses will serve all Disney resort hotels How to Make a Reservation for The Sunshine FlyerYou will book tickets online and receive a QR code that you will scan once you arrive at Orlando International Airport. Presumably this will be around the luggage carousel area. The goal is to ensure smooth timing and departures to the Resorts. No luggage handling option at launch, but they hope to add it at some future time. Located in the Main Terminal Building of Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Terminal B, Level 1, in the Ground Transportation area What You Want to KnowWill buses depart WDW four hours before flight? Unclear. "Your bus is scheduled based on your specific flights. We monitor both inbound and outbound flights to make sure your trip is scheduled properly. We will email/text you a more exact departure window the day before your scheduled trips." How long will it take to get to your hotel? According to Sunshine Flyer: "We are using a dynamic routing software that customizes each day’s transfers based on specific riders. We can set the parameters to how long the ride is or how many stops the bus makes. 65 minutes is the longest anyone will be on a bus once it leaves to the final destination."“By combining our storied expertise in mass transportation management with a creative, themed experience, we have the unique opportunity to offer an experience that’s both stress-free and engaging,” added Sherman. “Disney guests deserve a trip to remember, right from the start. Whether they’re young or old, travelling in a group or solo, we hope The Sunshine Flyer sparks the imagination and excitement of all of our guests from the moment they step on the bus.”In celebration of Disney’s 50th anniversary, the Sunshine Flyer will donate 50% of all revenue from the first 50,000 passengers during the first 50 days of business to Make-A-Wish Central & Northern Florida. As a part of the Sunshine Flyer’s commitment to giving back, all Make-A-Wish children and their families will receive complimentary service from the Sunshine Flyer for their Disney wishes indefinitely.Tickets for The Sunshine Flyer must be booked at least four days ahead of arrival. Tickets are $17.00 per adult, $12.50 per child each way. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.sunshinefl
Ep 104Disney World Tours Are Back, Plus a Disney Holiday Bonus
Important Holiday Changes at Walt Disney WorldWalt Disney World has made some temporary adjustments "to help provide a great experience for our guests." From December 19 to January 3, 2022 Disney World resort guests will get Extra Park Time! The early theme park entry benefit for Disney Resort hotel Guests and Guests of other select hotels will be extended from 30 minutes to 60 minutes.Plus, more attractions will be included in Disney Genie+ service and will not be included as an individual Lightning Lane entrance purchase option. Attractions that are now part of Lightning Lane include:Magic Kingdom Park: Space MountainEPCOT: Frozen Ever AfterDisney’s Hollywood Studios: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway RailwayDisney’s Animal Kingdom Park: Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden MountainFrom the Enchanting Extras Collection - Tours are Coming Back to Walt Disney WorldDisney’s Keys to the Kingdom This five-hour walking tour Explores the history of Magic Kingdom Park, including backstage access to the hidden “Utilidor” service tunnels. You'll also learn hidden secrets of classic attractions and lunch is included. You must be 16 or older for this tour.Caring for Giants At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park this one-hour tour offers an unforgettable experience to meet some of the park's largest inhabitants. Your guide will provide insights into the inner workings of the African elephant herd including a look a the day-to-day care for these amazing animals. You'll see these gentle giants from a private, backstage viewing area and learn how Disney’s conservation efforts help to preserve wild elephant populations around the world. Wild Africa Trek One of our favorites, Wild Africa Trek combines action, adventure and education into a three-hour safari adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. Cross a swinging rope bridge near crocodiles and view giraffes, rhinos, hippos and more on foot and in a safari vehicle. The guides are excellent and will share insights about all the animals you see plus details about the park. Recommended. Up Close with RhinosWant to get even closer to nature? This one-hour tour takes you backstage to the second largest land animal in ways few people can. You'll meet the white rhinos at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and get insights into their behavior and biology and more.Savor the Savanna This one's a little different. It explores the sights, sounds and tastes of Africa on Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park’s Savor the Savanna tour. Get samplings of African-inspired cuisine, paired with a selection of regional beer and wine offerings from a great spot overlooking the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Your private guide will share stories about the unique residents who inhabit the reserve and the special animal care provided at the park. Advance bookings are highly recommended for all tours and valid theme park admission and reservations.In addition, Disney has let it slip that the Starlight Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge may be next, so watch out for news on that one. Disney Cruise Line Selects Port Everglades as Second Year-round Home Port in FloridaThe Broward County Commission and Disney Cruise Line announced a new agreement naming Port Everglades as Disney’s second year-round homeport in Florida. This is a 15-year partnership that provides for one ship to be homeported in Port Everglades year-round starting fall 2023, joined by a second, seasonal ship in 2025.Adding Port Everglades as a second homeport gives Disney a dedicated terminal in a market with direct highway access and the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Disney’s original homeport is Port Canaveral, located in Central Florida. Epcot Flower and Garden FestivalSpring is already in the air at Walt Disney World as the horticulture team is busy creating topiaries, hanging baskets, flower towers and more in preparation for the 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. The 2022 edition will run March 2 through July 4. That’s 125 days of festival cuisine, gardens, topiaries and entertainment.The 2022 edition will feature a new Goofy topiary and a 50th-themed birthday cake. Other favorite Disney Character topiaries will include Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Germany pavilion or Lumiere and Cogsworth welcoming you to the expanded France pavilion.As always, gardeners can enjoy thousands of blooms forming colorful, living panoramas all around and for foodies, fresh flavors are on the menu at the festival’s 18 Outdoor Kitchens plus other food and beverage locations around EPCOT.The Garden Rocks Concert Series will return in 2022 at the America Gardens Theatre. This list of which musicians will be playing has yet to be released.To visit the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival you'll need valid admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date. New Shops and Photo Opps at Downtown DisneyPelé SoccerSoccer fans will enjoy the stadium-themed store with a wide assortment of soccer gear fro
Ep 103Guess What's Coming Back to Disney Parks in 2022?
Coming back to Disneyland in 2022: Sweethearts’ Nite, Villains Nite and Star Wars Nite Disneyland After Dark events take place after regular park hours with festivities, special nighttime entertainment, access to most attractions with reduced wait times (although this is not always a guarantee, as we have experienced long wait times during ticketed events). There are special things to do not typically available during regular park visits.With each ticketed Disneyland After Dark event, you get up to four hours of fun after the parks close to regular visitors. Plus, you can arrive early for a three-hour pre-party mix-in at the same park before the event begins.At each event, you also get unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the party, plus commemorative keepsakes including a souvenir credential and event guide map.Here are the details for each of the upcoming themed nights:Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ NiteFebruary 1, 3, 8, 10 and 14, 2022, at Disneyland Park (now on sale on Disneyland.com)Sweethearts’ Nite at Disneyland Park on five separate nights in February. The final night is, not surprisingly, Valentine’s Day. Here’s what to expect:A special themed fireworks showProjection effects on Sleeping Beauty Castle and Main Street, U.S.A.A jazz ensemble aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat, plus other live entertainment, including a Royal Ball and a dance party with a DJSpot the most darling Disney couples, and take selfies with your favoritesFun photo opportunities featuring romantic scenes from iconic Disney filmsLovely décor, along with food and beverage offerings around the parkPlus, early admission to Disneyland park starting at 5:00 p.m., no theme park reservation requiredDisneyland After Dark: Villains NiteMarch 8 and 10, 2022, at California Adventure (on sale on Disneyland.com, as of January 11, 2022)At Villains Nite you get to party with some of Disney’s most infamous villains at Disney California Adventure Park. Tickets will go fast as it's just two nights in March. Here's what you get:The Cauldron is a cabaret show featuring a cast of villains showing off their talents through song and danceUrsula’s Seaside Sing-a-long, where you can find your voiceThe Underworld Dance Party, which allows you to bust a move at a DJ dance party in the Hollywood BacklotSpecial photo backdrops, featuring scenes inspired by some favorite villainsSome of Disney’s infamous villains – or their sidekicks – at special locations in the parkDevilishly decadent food and drink offeringsEarly admission to Disney California Adventure park beginning at 5 p.m., no theme park reservation requiredDisneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite May 3, 4 and 27, 2022, at Disneyland Park (on sale Disneyland.com, beginning January 11, 2022)Star Wars Nite features galactic fun on three separate nights at Disneyland Park in May 2022. Highlights of Star Wars Nite include:A pyrotechnic show that will light up the night with a Star Wars-themed fireworks showMarch of the First Order, featuring Captain Phasma and her elite unit of StormtroopersA Galactic dance partySightings of various Star Wars characters throughout the evening Star Wars-themed attractions, usually with shorter wait timesStar Wars-themed eats and treats, merchandise, photo opportunities, and morePlus, early admission to Disneyland park starting at 6 p.m., no theme park reservation requiredIf you bought a ticket for the 2020 Disneyland After Dark: Villains Nite or Star Wars Nite, you can exchange you 2020 tickets to one of the nights of the new event of the same theme. You may need to pay a small price difference if the new show costs more. Is It Possible to Visit Walt Disney World or Disneyland Without a Phone?We tackle this hot topic on this week's show and share our thoughts on why it's a good thing that you'll need a digital device to get the most out of your Disney Parks vacation.Even More Entertainment Returning to Disneyland in 2022“Celebrate Gospel!”A celebration of the soulful spirit of Gospel music will return with “Celebrate Gospel!” on select days in February. The event moves to the Fantasyland Theater at Disneyland park.“Tale of the Lion King”Sometime in the spring, the Fantasyland Theater at Disneyland park will become home to “Tale of the Lion King.” It debuted in 2019 at Disney California Adventure park and then covid hit. The Storytellers of the Pride Lands are a troupe of traveling performers who present Simba’s journey in a unique story with live music and dance.“Main Street Electrical Parade”To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the “Main Street Electrical Parade” will make its big return to Disneyland park! “Fantasmic!”“Fantasmic!” is coming back too. It's nearly 30 years old at Disneyland park and it's Disney’s longest-running nighttime spectacular.“World of Color”World of Color is getting set to light up the night at Paradise Bay in Disney California Adventure park this spring.“Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular“Disneyland Forever”
Ep 102WDW Restaurant Reopenings, Mobile Magic and More News
Two Walt Disney World Resort hotel restaurants are reopening, plus more treats to watch for...Story Book Dining at Artist Point, themed after Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, will reopen Dec. 16 at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. As part of the new Character Dining experience, guests will see Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy, and The Queen stroll through the Enchanted Forest while enjoying a bountiful prix fixe dinner with the choice of individually plated entrées and shared starters and desserts. Start with a refreshing cocktail like the Enchanted Apple with a hint of sour apple. The Royal Prime Rib Roast and the vegetarian A Stroll Through Nature are both returning as well as the decadent “Poison” Apple dessert with dark chocolate-apple mousse. Boatwright’s Dining Hall, a hidden gem at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside, will be serving its Southern specialties for dinner starting Dec. 14. The flavors of the Louisiana bayou are featured with the all-you-care-to-enjoy Chef’s Platter featuring ribs, Nashville hot chicken, smoked sausage, and barbecued beef brisket with mashed potatoes, mac & cheese, street corn, and green beans. General Fulton’s Prime Rib and the Deep-South Shrimp and Grits, are back as well. Along with the signature Boatwright’s Jambalaya and the plant-based Boatwright’s Harvest Jambalaya. And for a Southern sweet dessert there's the Mississippi Mud Crème Brûlée, a decadent chocolate brûlée with a chocolate shortbread cookie.Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts has the 50th Celebration Shake: a birthday-cake-flavored milkshake drizzled in gold glitter glaze topped with a slice of commemorative 50th celebration birthday cake. Whispering Canyon Café at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is the place to be if you want to start your breakfast off with a bang of sweet and spice. Try the “Dynamite“ Cinnamon Roll Sticks -- Each order has five fiery red sticks filled with cinnamon schmear sprinkled with crushed red-hot candies and a drizzle of cinnamon oil. And for the dynamite wick – bacon! These sharable sticks of cinnamon goodness are served with a warm candied nut glaze. The White Chocolate Peppermint Cream Cheese Mousse with peppermint sauce and chocolate cookie crumbles will be offered at Satu’li Canteen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park from Dec. 20-27. White chocolate, peppermint, and cream cheese mousse? La Crêperie de Paris is the newest addition to the France Pavilion at Epcot. It's now taking reservations for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and features savory galettes and sweet dessert crêpes, along with some of Brittany’s famous hard ciders.Guests can order from the prix fixe menu with the choice of soup of the day or salade maison; choice of one galette with a glass of hard cider, soda, or juice; choice of one dessert crêpe.Festive Treats at Disney's Magic Kingdom ParkMagic Kingdom Park has two new offerings for The World’s Most Magical Celebration. Main Street Bakery has the Opening Day Celebration Cake that features milk chocolate mousse, raspberry center, and gluten-friendly chocolate cake topped with balloon sprinkles and a chocolate piece.At Storybook Treats Grumpy gets his own Seven Dwarfs Specialty Cone – a cranberry vanilla soft-serve in a cone with a chocolate belt buckle and an adorable “Grumpy” chocolate face! It's a limited-time offer only available through Jan. 9.Also at Magic Kingdom Park for a limited time is the Black Forest Cheesecake at Pinocchio Village Haus. This is a chocolate cheesecake topped with cherry compote, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a white chocolate coin inspired by the “it’s a small world” attraction.Three refreshing holiday offerings are making a splash at Disney’s Water Parks from Dec. 12-Jan. 7. Orange Bird Holiday Citrus Swirl –DOLE Whip Orange and Lime swirl in a holiday waffle cone, and a white chocolate Orange Bird Santa (available at Warming Hut) Merry Merry Melon –Melon- and apple-flavored frozen rum cocktail with a red sugared rim topped with a cherry (available at Frostbite Freddie’s) Peppermint Milkshake –Peppermint-flavored milkshake with white chocolate whipped cream and holiday sprinkles (available at Lottawatta Lodge)The best spots for special holiday snaps at Walt Disney World There are holiday-themed Magic Shots at all four parks and Disney Springs so be sure to ask the PhotoPass photographer which Magic Shots they can offer at their location. At Magic Kingdom Park head to the photographer near the lawn in front of The Plaza Restaurant to enjoy our Super Zoom Magic Shot with a holly-jolly makeover.At Disney Springs, the Disney PhotoPass Studio in the Marketplace is offering holiday themed virtual backdrops.Also at Disney Springs you can get your photo with Santa at Once Upon a Toy. There is a Disney PhotoPass photographer so you don't have to do Santa selfies. There's a virtual queue available and masks are required for this indoor experience.And if you want to add some extra holiday cheer to your photos, photograp
Ep 101The Most Magical Disney Holiday Experiences
Disney World Has Stopped Selling Annual PassesIn an effort to manage attendance an create a better guest experience, as of November 22, Disney has suspended sales of all Walt Disney World annual passes, with the sole exception of the Disney Pixie Pass for Florida residents.Never saw this before Park Pass reservations, not a good trend.The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts celebrates the best in visual, culinary, and performing arts – runs January 14 – February 21, 2022. 2022 will feature the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series, with three performances each evening headlined by Broadway stars performing favorite songs from more than 25 years of award-winning DISNEY ON BROADWAY stage productions.Here’s the full lineup of jaw-dropping talents performing at this year’s DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series:Arielle Jacobs (“Aladdin”) & Adam Jacobs (“Aladdin”)Kerry Butler (“Beauty and the Beast”) & Telly Leung (“Aladdin”)Heidi Blickenstaff (“Freaky Friday,” “The Little Mermaid”) & Robert Creighton (“Frozen”)Kara Lindsay (“Newsies”) & Dan DeLuca (“Newsies”)Ashley Brown (“Mary Poppins”) & Josh Strickland (“Tarzan”)Kissy Simmons (“The Lion King”) & Michael James Scott (“Aladdin”)Feb. 21 – Special, extended finale performance featuring Brown, Strickland, Simmons & ScottAll shows are performed at America Gardens Theatre and are included with theme park admission. Look for more information soon about DISNEY ON BROADWAY Dining Packages. Ahead of its refresh in 2022, Downtown Disney is sparkling for the holiday season.From sweets, to sips and savory bites. Watch for: Marceline’s Confectionery – Mickey Peppermint Marshmallow, a Mickey Santa Cupcake, a Snowflake Caramel Apple and much more!Salt & Straw – Savor a scoop or pint of festive new flavors that embrace warmth and spice, such as Peppermint Cocoa, Gingerbread Cookie Dough, Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache and moreSprinkles – Get in the spirit with all three holiday cupcakes: Christmas Cookie, Gingerbread and Chocolate Peppermint.Enjoy evening entertainment from a capella carolers throughout the season featuring Holiday Harmony, The Moonrays and The Sugarplums who perform near the Downtown Disney District main stage, Fridays through Sundays, Nov. 26-Dec. 26, 2021, along with our main stage bands.Now through December 14, 2021, join the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive supporting Toys for Tots and give back to those in need this holiday season. Donate a toy online at shopDisney.com, or donate a new, unwrapped toy in person at Downtown Disney District. Donation bins are located near World of Disney and Star Wars Trading Post. Disney’s tradition of supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves’ Toys for Tots program dates back to Walt Disney, who personally supervised the creation of the Toys for Tots logo. Disney also was a founding sponsor of the program when it began in 1947. Today, the Disneyland Resort is proud to continue supporting this tradition.The Holidays at the Hotels of Disneyland ResortAt Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, the lobby shines with a holiday tree adorned with an under-the-sea theme with blue, green and silver decorations and a garland glistening with shells and starfish. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel once again features its majestic, towering tree with ornaments inspired by the Arts & Crafts movement of early California.A highlight at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel is the gingerbread replica of the hotel. Standing 7 feet tall and 12 feet wide, the structure is created from more than 600 pounds of gingerbread, 600 pounds of powdered sugar, 250 pounds of fondant and 1 pound of pixie dust – plus 25 hidden Mickeys. Nearby, pick up sweet treats such as Mickey Christmas cookies from the lobby’s holiday cart.Santa Claus and Carolers: Santa will visit each Disneyland Resort hotel from Nov. 25 – Dec. 24, 2021, and hotel Guests are encouraged to share their wishes with St. Nick. Guests will also be delighted to hear the joyful sounds of handbell carolers at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Nov. 25, 2021 – Jan. 9, 2022, and holiday carolers strolling the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel Dec. 15 – 25, 2021.Spa La La La La: At the new Tenaya Stone Spa at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, Guests of any of the three Disneyland Resort Hotels may treat themselves to a holiday season spa treatment, November 26, 2021 – January 3, 2022. The Candy Cane Lane Foot Treatment uses a refreshing peppermint cocoa foot soak, scrub and a minty massage to soothe and invigorate feet and legs. The Underneath the Tree Signature Massage uses customized massage techniques combined with the scent of fir, California lemon, wild mint and a touch of eucalyptus for pure relaxation.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iT
Ep 100D23 Event Highlights, DVC Disneyland, ToonTown and more
Some Big News from the Latest D23 Event and More Disney Travel News Mickey's ToonTown is ClosingMickey's Toontown at Disneyland Parks is going to be reimagined with new experiences and more play areas for young families, including grassy lawns. It closes in March 2022 and will reopen in early 2023 alongside Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway.One of the new areas coming to Mickey’s Toontown will be CenTOONial Park, the first space Guests will see when they enter. This natural space will be anchored by two interactive play experiences. At the center of CenTOONial Park will be a fountain, designed for play, which will also become a center icon for Mickey’s Toontown. As its base, water tables will invite Guests to play with the water and have a sensory experience. At night, the fountain will be brought to life in a unique spectacle.A nearby dreaming tree will be inspired by the tree a young Walt Disney would daydream under in his hometown. Sculpted tree roots will provide an opportunity for children to play, crawl and explore, and undulating topography will offer rolling hills and a place to sit and dream.Here's an update on the new DVC tower at Disneyland Hotel themed after stories of being a Disney artist, from sketching styles of Walt Disney himself to rooms based on original drawings from classic Disney films like Sleeping Beauty. Plus a very kid-friendly pool area.EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays The 2021 festival will run from November 26 through Dec. 30, 2021. It celebrates holiday traditions from around the globe, with a variety of yuletide decorations, family-friendly activities, and the return of the beloved long-standing tradition of “Candlelight Processional.”What are holidays without delicious food and drink? The 14 Holiday Kitchens are scattered throughout all 11 World Showcase pavilions and beyond offering returning fan-favorites and delicious classic holiday dishes and festive beverages.The fun Holiday Cookie Stroll is back this year with a sweet cookie scavenger hunt. The Festival Passport lists the five official Holiday Cookie Stroll locations, and each stop will offer a delicious cookie for purchase and a stamp for your Festival Passport. Once Guests have collected all five stamps, they can bring their Festival Passport to the Holiday Sweets & Treats Holiday Kitchen to receive a 50th anniversary celebration cookie! Guests can complete their Holiday Cookie Stroll at their leisure – they can even bring back their stamped Festival Passport to EPCOT at any time during the festival to complete their stroll. In The American Adventure rotunda, EPCOT pastry chefs have recreated the Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and The American Adventure building in miniature gingerbread versions.Also at Epcot, a new Walt Disney statue in the World Celebration area is likely to become a hot spot for photos. Dreamer's Point near Spaceship Earth will basically be the Partners of this park. More Fun PhotoPass Lenses!WDW has launched even more Disney PhotoPass Lenses! These new Lenses, along with our current collection, are available through the My Disney Experience app with a purchase of Disney Genie+ service.The Disney Wish will have two new stage shows: Sieze the Adventure will feature Captain Minnie and a new live action adaptation of The Little Mermaid with a new take on the story.In related news, Disney Cruise Line has announced that guests 5 and older must be fully vaccinated to sail as of January 13, 2022 and Adventures by Disney January 12, 2022. We will see how this all plays out given Florida legislation.Mirabel from ‘Encanto’ Joins Disney ¡Viva Navidad! During Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure ParkNews From Destination D23At Destination D23, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro revealed Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will open summer 2022 at EPCOT as part of the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary celebration. This new family-friendly coaster matches the “grandosity” and fun of the blockbuster “Guardians of the Galaxy” films in what will be one of the longest fully enclosed coasters in the world. an intergalactic chase through time and space. And it features a reverse launch! At Disneyland Resort, the next evolution of Downtown Disney District is being planned with work starting in January 2022. The multi-year project to reimagine Downtown Disney District will include an even broader collection of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences. More details are coming in 2022! Galactic Starcruiser March 2022, but there are soft launches earlier in February.Live entertainment is coming back almost everywhere, including shows and Festival of Fantasy Parade in early 2022.Also, “World of Color” and “Fantasmic!” are returning to the Disneyland Resort next year, along with the “Main Street Electrical Parade”.MagicBands are Coming to Disneyland (finally)This will mark the first time MagicBand+ will be available at D
Ep 99How Much Time Should You Spend in a Disney Park?
Is it Really a Good Idea to Spend All Day in Disney Parks?With so much to do on a Disney vacation, it's easy to get lost in the belief that spending all day in the parks is the right thing to do. But is it?In Episode 99 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street® we explore how much time you should dedicate to visiting Disney Parks and how much time you should leave to enjoy the other aspects of a Disney vacation.Disney Park Burnout is Not FunIf you spend all day in a Disney Park, there's a good chance you may face Disney Park burnout. That's no fun for anyone and it's really not necessary. We share our top tips for what you need to know to spend just the right amount of time in Disney Parks without going too far for anyone in your group.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 98How Important is Disney Food to a Disney Vacation?
Is it Going Too Far to Celebrate Every New Disney Cupcake as if it Were a New Attraction?Maybe things have gotten a little out of hand. Or have they? We debate how the impact of Disney food has had an affect on how we go about enjoying a Disney vacation. Has social media placed an unreasonable and unnecessary focus on the release of every Disney cupcake or fancy cocktail?Disney Dining Should Be Fun, But Not a Point of StressOver the years, Disney dining and Disney snacks have taken on almost epic proportions far beyond perhaps what they really warrant. Maybe that's not a big deal, but maybe it becomes a big deal when it starts to impact your Disney vacations in ways you may not like.Join us for Episode 98 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street® as we explore the world of Disney food and the impacts that it has on the overall Disney vacation experience.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 97The Best Disney Roller Coasters at Disney Parks
Buckle Up and Come Along for the Ride!Disney roller coasters may not be the fastest or steepest in the world, but there are still plenty of thrills, chills and good old fashion fun to be had. In Episode 97 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street® we rank and review every single coaster at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Paris to see which is best at each resort and which one will claim the overall prize as best Disney roller coaster.You'll Never Believe Our Top Picks!Here are the Disney roller coasters we cover:Disneyland ResortGoofy's Sky SchoolMatterhorn BobsledsIncredicoasterSpace MountainBig Thunder Mountain RailroadWalt Disney World ResortExpedition EverestBig Thunder Mountain RailroadSeven Dwarfs Mine TrainRock'n'Roller CoasterSpace MountainSlinky Dog DashDisneyland ParisBig Thunder MountainHyperspace MountainIndiana Jones Temple of PerilCrush's CoasterWe've ridden them all and share our thoughts on the top picks and bottom feeders. Plus we cover the kid-friendly coasters at each resort and the new Disney roller coasters that are coming soon.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 96Will Disney Genie Make Your Disney Vacation Better or Worse?
Who Will Benefit Most from Disney Genie?Disney Genie is now live in Disney Parks and it has been drawing a lot of attention from Disney travelers. We take a close look at exactly how Disney Genie works covering all three parts of its offering. Is it better for one group of Disney travelers than another.In Episode 96 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street we discuss exactly how Disney Genie may help or hinder the following groups of Disney travelers:New/first time Disney travelersFrequent Disney travelersLocal Annual PassholdersDistant Annual PassholdersJoin us as we explore all three tiers of Disney Genie and whether or not it's a good thing.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 95The Best Hotel Pools at Walt Disney World
What is the Best Disney World Hotel Pool and Which Hotel Pools are Lacking?Spending time at your Disney resort hotel pool is a must-do. Every Disney hotel at Walt Disney World has at least one pool, but the Deluxe Disney Resort Hotels has some of the best-themed pools you'll find. In Episode 95 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street® we go resort-by-resort and pool-by-pool to discuss and review all 29 hotel pools at Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts and Villas.Hear Mike's picks and Amelia's picks for the ultimate Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts when it comes to pools. We also share which Disney Deluxe hotels we feel are sorely lacking in the area of pool time fun.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 94The Disney Genie+ in Detail: Will it Be Worth it for You?
Walt Disney World Your Way: Will Disney's Genie Help or Hinder?Don't get caught up in too much research when planning your Walt Disney World vacation. That's the discussion in Episode 94 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street. From choosing a hotel, to Disney dining, events and more, there's enough to fray the nerves of even the most savvy travelers.With Disney's new Genie and Genie+ planning service as an option to help you make the most of your vacation, things are looking brighter. In this episode we take a close look at the Disney Genie planning tools, and how they can really help to bring more magic to any Disney vacation. That is, assuming they work as planned.Join us for an in-depth discussion of how to do Walt Disney World Your Way and whether we think the Disney Genie will live up to the hype.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 93The Insider's Guide to the EPCOT Resort Area at Walt Disney World
There's More Magic to the Epcot Resort Area Than Meets the EyeWhen planning where to stay for your next Walt Disney World vacation, the Epcot resort area is definitely a location to consider. While the Magic Kingdom Resort Area is often in the spotlight, the Epcot resort area offers far more than you may think. With three Deluxe Disney Resort Hotels, two theme parks, plus shopping, dining and entertainment all within walking distance, this is one location that's hard to beat.Join us for Episode 93 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street as we go inside the EPCOT resort area at Walt Disney World to share the top reasons why you may want to consider staying here on your next WDW vacation.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 92The One Thing That Can Put a Dent in a Disney World Vacation
How to Deal with (and avoid) Stress on Your Walt Disney World VacationWhile a Disney vacation is a fun and magical experience, Disney World vacations have been known to come with their share of stress. Whether it's in the planning phase or during your visit, Disney stress can appear in so many ways.In Episode 92 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street we discuss the causes of Disney vacation stress, including:weatherchanges in the parks or hotelsmissed reservationstransportation issuescrowdslinestired kidstired adultsother guests (the obnoxious ones) andover planningWe share our top tips for how to manage every one of these potentially stressful situations so that they won't ruin your Disney vacation.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 91What You Don't See on a Disney Vacation
The Business of Disney Vacation and the Guest ExperienceWhen you visit Walt Disney World, Disneyland or any other Disney resort around the globe you'll experience a very similar style of guest experience. This doesn't happen by accident and half the time you won't even notice how it shapes the world around you.In Episode 91 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street we explore five key areas that are distinctly Disney and that help to shape that magical Disney travel experience.Join us as we discuss:Brand VoiceChangeGuest ServiceInnovationBackstageFor More InformationWhat I've Learned About Business from 100 Trips to Walt Disney WorldThank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 9010 Little Luxuries to Elevate Your Walt Disney World Vacation
Give Your Disney World Vacation a Little Luxury Makeover with these Simple OptionsIf you want to do something a little extra special on your next Disney vacation, we're here to help. In Episode 90 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street we share 10 easy ways that you can elevate your Disney World vacation with a little luxury.There's something for everyone no matter what your price range or Disney vacation budget.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merch to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 89Exploring the Disney Springs Resort Area: Should You Stay Here?
Should You Stay in the Disney Springs Resort Area?The Disney Springs resort area at Walt Disney World is a very unique neighbourhood with a very different vibe than the other three major resort areas at Disney World.With a combination of onsite Disney Deluxe Villas and offsite Good Neighbour hotels from which to choose, there are many accommodation options in this area. You may not be able to walk to a Disney theme park from here, but that is not necessarily a bad thing depending on what kind of Disney vacation you have in mind.In Episode 89 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street we explore the ins and outs of the Disney Springs Resort Area to help you decide whether this may be a good option for your next WDW vacation.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merch to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 88Disney World 50th is Almost Here, So What More are they Planning?
Is Disney Doing Enough to Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World?With less than a month to go before the kick-off of Walt Disney World's 50th Anniversary celebrations on October 1, we don't really know a lot about what Disney has planned to mark this momentous occasion.Or do we?With the big day almost upon us, Disney has release precious little details about what they may have planned to celebrate the golden anniversary of Walt Disney World. Beyond the overlay of Cinderella Castle and other park icons, and some new nighttime shows and golden statues, what does Disney plan to do to celebrate the occasion with guests? Episode 88 Note:As soon as we wrapped recording of this episode, Disney announced the new annual pass options for Walt Disney World. Sadly, a premium Lightning Lane option was not included, but we're still holding out hope that this will happen at some future date.Is Disney Keeping 50th Anniversary Celebrations Under Wraps or Do They Have Nothing More Planned?In Episode 88 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street we explore what we know today and what we expect (or hope) may happen as the 50th Anniversary of The Most Magical Place on Earth quickly approaches. Join us for your weekly 30 minutes of Disney magic here at 1923 Main Street.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merch to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 87Unbelievably Shocking Tales from Our Disney World Vacation
Three Amazing and Rather Shocking Stories from our Disney World VacationOur Walt Disney World vacation of August 2021 was challenging enough, as we visited WDW in the height of Covid and the Delta Variant. So to have all of this happen to us on top of dodging Coronavirus was definitely a challenged that tested our resolve.A Follow-Up to Our Trip Report in from Episode 86In our last episode we left you with a bit of a cliff hanger as to the impact that some of these stories had on the outcome of our August 2021 WDW vacation, so the time has come for us to share our stories here on the show.Amazingly, the two biggest (and worst) stories of all are things that (thankfully) have never happened to us before. We truly hope that they never happen to you, but if they do, you can hear how we handled each one of these situations to hopefully help you out along the way.So buckle up and join us for what was definitely the wildest ride in the wilderness that we've ever had at Walt Disney World (or on any vacation anywhere, for that matter). Hear why The Medical Concierge of Orlando should be avoided at all costs and how they take no accountability for botching medical services. This and more in Episode 87.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merch to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 86Walt Disney World Trip Report: August 7-14, 2021
What's it Like Visiting Walt Disney World in the Midst of Covid?Visiting Walt Disney World during times of Covid-19 and the Delta Variant is very different than any experience we have ever had at Walt Disney World. Of course we knew that that would be the case and so we adjusted our trip planning accordingly (which we covered in Episode 85 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street). In this episode, we share how our trip went, our experiences in the Disney Parks, resort hotels, Disney Springs and much more. Should You Visit Walt Disney World in 2021?We also answer several questions, including:How safe is indoor table service dining at Walt Disney World? How many guests are wearing masks? Are the parks really over-run with trash?Should you travel to Walt Disney World in 2021?Join us for answers to all of these questions and many more about taking a Walt Disney World vacation in 2021.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merch to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5
Ep 85Planning a Disney World Vacation During Covid: What to Consider
Not Your Usual Walt Disney World VacationPlanning a Walt Disney World vacation during covid is very different. With no FastPasses, limited park hopping and a desire to keep safe and healthy during our stay, we had to do a lot of things differently. Plus, with not every resort hotel or restaurant fully available for booking, there are extra layers of things to consider. In Episode 85 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street we share what we discovered as we worked hard to craft a unique Walt Disney World vacation that would work for our family.Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merch to custom created authentic originals.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Pond5