Roy Edward Disney, the nephew of Walt Disney, died Wednesday 16th December 2009 after a yearlong battle with stomach cancer, according to a Walt Disney Co. spokesman.
Disney "played a key role in the revitalization of the Walt Disney Co. and Disney's animation legacy," the company said.
He died in a Newport Beach, California, hospital at the age of 79.
His father -- Roy O. Disney -- co-founded the Disney entertainment business with Walt Disney in 1923.
Roy E. Disney's 56-year association with the company culminated in 2003 when he stepped down as vice chairman of Disney's board and chairman of the Disney Studio's Animation Department.
Rest in Peace
Wednesday, 16 December 2009
Sunday, 13 December 2009
SeaWorld, Discovery Cove and Aquatica Get Google StreetView
Great news for us UK based orlando fans - Google Street view is now up and running with Seaworld, Aquatica & Discovery Cove
Working with Google’s Street View team, nearly every inch of the parks was mapped using one of Google’s ‘Trikes’. A state-of-the-art camera automatically gathered photographs from the back of a modified bicycle. Google software then blended the images, creating the famous, interactive and completely moveable 360-degree scenes Street View is known for.
Street View visits to the parks are accessible via web and mobile applications. Go to maps.google.com and search for SeaWorld, Discovery Cove or Aquatica. Then drag the orange ‘Pegman’ icon (found at the top left of the map) for a walking tour.
Working with Google’s Street View team, nearly every inch of the parks was mapped using one of Google’s ‘Trikes’. A state-of-the-art camera automatically gathered photographs from the back of a modified bicycle. Google software then blended the images, creating the famous, interactive and completely moveable 360-degree scenes Street View is known for.
Street View visits to the parks are accessible via web and mobile applications. Go to maps.google.com and search for SeaWorld, Discovery Cove or Aquatica. Then drag the orange ‘Pegman’ icon (found at the top left of the map) for a walking tour.
Friday, 18 September 2009
La Cava Del Tequila
Tasty tequilas and mouthwatering margaritas are on tap at La Cava del Tequila, a new offering for Disney's Epcot guests to explore the heritage and tradition of tequila-making in Mexico.
Tucked away in the Mexico pavilion at Walt Disney World, Epcot. La Cava del Tequila beckons guests with more than 70 types of authentic tequila, ranging from the simplest to the rarest of them all, aged to perfection and made from the finest distilled spirits from the agave plant. Tequilas range in price from $8 to $50 for a specialty tequila.
Amid warm décor, art work and original artifacts all celebrating the Mexican heritage, a “Tequila Ambassador” is on hand to educate Walt Disney World guests on the history of tequila-making.
Monday, 31 August 2009
Walt Disney to buy Marvel
The Walt Disney Company said Monday that it would buy the comic book giant Marvel Entertainment for about $4 billion.
Under the terms of the deal, Marvel shareholders will receive $30 a share in cash plus about 0.745 Disney shares for each Marvel share they own. The boards of both companies have approved the deal, which was valued at $50 a share.
With the acquisition, Disney will acquire more than 5,000 Marvel characters, including Spider-Man, Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk and the X-men.
“We believe that adding Marvel to Disney’s unique portfolio of brands provides significant opportunities for long-term growth and value creation,” the chief executive of Disney, Robert A. Iger, said in a statement.
Under the terms of the deal, Marvel shareholders will receive $30 a share in cash plus about 0.745 Disney shares for each Marvel share they own. The boards of both companies have approved the deal, which was valued at $50 a share.
With the acquisition, Disney will acquire more than 5,000 Marvel characters, including Spider-Man, Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk and the X-men.
“We believe that adding Marvel to Disney’s unique portfolio of brands provides significant opportunities for long-term growth and value creation,” the chief executive of Disney, Robert A. Iger, said in a statement.
Tuesday, 18 August 2009
Advanced Dining Reservations to return to 180 days - GOOD NEWS?
Effective 27 October 2009, Advanced Dining Reservations will go back to a 180 plus 10 day booking window.
This does not affect resort reservation for dates up to 24 January 2010. Anyone booked up to 24 January 2010 will continue to use the 90 day booking window.
This change will not impact existing dining, recreation and tour reservations. These reservations will be honored as booked.
This does not affect resort reservation for dates up to 24 January 2010. Anyone booked up to 24 January 2010 will continue to use the 90 day booking window.
This change will not impact existing dining, recreation and tour reservations. These reservations will be honored as booked.
Another Cast Member Dies
Officials say a Walt Disney World cast member died after an accident at the Hollywood Studios theme park.
A Disney spokeswoman says a stunt performer was injured Monday evening while rehearsing for the "Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular." The performer, who was hurt while doing a tumbling roll, was transported to the hospital and later died.
"We lost a valued cast member and our thoughts are with his family, friends and co-workers as they mourn his passing tonight," read a statement released to FOX 35 by the Walt Disney Company.
Disney officials notified the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Orange County Sheriff's Office of the accident.
Out of respect for the deceased cast member, Disney spokeswoman Zoraya Suarez says the Indiana Jones show will not be performed Tuesday.
A Disney spokeswoman says a stunt performer was injured Monday evening while rehearsing for the "Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular." The performer, who was hurt while doing a tumbling roll, was transported to the hospital and later died.
"We lost a valued cast member and our thoughts are with his family, friends and co-workers as they mourn his passing tonight," read a statement released to FOX 35 by the Walt Disney Company.
Disney officials notified the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Orange County Sheriff's Office of the accident.
Out of respect for the deceased cast member, Disney spokeswoman Zoraya Suarez says the Indiana Jones show will not be performed Tuesday.
Tuesday, 11 August 2009
Our heart felt sorrow for another CM
A performer at Walt Disney World and theater-community mainstay died Monday, four days after he was injured onstage at the Magic Kingdom.
Mark Priest, 47, fell Thursday while playing in "Captain Jack Sparrow's Pirate Tutorial," an interactive show in which actors lead guests through a series of pirate-skills tests, a Disney spokeswoman said.
Priest, who was in a mock sword fight, stumbled on a wet spot on the stage and then banged into a wall, said friend Jeffrey Breslauer. His injuries included a broken vertebra in his neck and a cut that required 55 stitches to his scalp.
Priest was moved out of intensive care and appeared to be improving, but he experienced complications Monday and died at Florida Hospital Orlando, friends said. An official cause of death has not been determined.
Mark Priest, 47, fell Thursday while playing in "Captain Jack Sparrow's Pirate Tutorial," an interactive show in which actors lead guests through a series of pirate-skills tests, a Disney spokeswoman said.
Priest, who was in a mock sword fight, stumbled on a wet spot on the stage and then banged into a wall, said friend Jeffrey Breslauer. His injuries included a broken vertebra in his neck and a cut that required 55 stitches to his scalp.
Priest was moved out of intensive care and appeared to be improving, but he experienced complications Monday and died at Florida Hospital Orlando, friends said. An official cause of death has not been determined.
Friday, 7 August 2009
Animal Kingdom Testing New Central Fastpass Technique
Animal Kingdom Testing New Central Fastpass Technique
Disney currently is testing the concept of a centralized FastPass station at Animal Kingdom. There are six machines in operation in the area that once was the FastPass distribution area for It's Tough to Be a Bug. Three attractions were available at two stations apiece. You can get passes for Dinosaur, Expedition Everest and the Kilimanjaro Safaris. You can still get FastPasses at those individual attractions as well.Another "fault" is that you cannot tell what time you are going to get BEFORE you put your ticket into the machine or what the current wait time is at that attraction. (The machines will always be manned by a cast member, happy to tell you the times currently distrubting, but that's labour-intensive.).
The machines were designated by logo of the attraction, although the Dino Institute design doesn't scream DINOSAUR like the Everest or Safari signs. And they were low to the ground and hard to see if someone were actually using the machine.
Monday, 3 August 2009
Disney Dining Plan Cost increase for 2010
Hi All, well it's official they announced on a call yesterday that the Disney Dining Plan will now vary in price depending on the season you travel.
2010 Disney's Magic Your Way plus Dine Package
Dining Plan Rates are now based on dates of travel. If your stay is booked over two different seasons the price of the dining plan will be pro-rated just like the room rates.
$41.99 per adult (ages 10+) $11.99 per child (age 3-9) per night above the cost of the Magic Your Way Package for travel dates: 1/01/10 – 2/11/10 ; 4/11/10 – 6/03/10 ; 8/15/10 – 12/16/10
$46.99 per adult (ages 10+) $12.99 per child (age 3-9) per night above the cost of the Magic Your Way Package for travel dates: 2/12/10 – 4/10/10 ; 6/04/10 – 8/14/10 ; 12/17/10 – 12/31/10
Accommodations for 1-14 nights at a Walt Disney World owned and operated Resort.
Must book at least a one day base ticket to reserve the Basic Dining Plan.
Basic Dining Plan Includes:
1 Table Service Meal per Guest, per night
Meal includes: Entrée, Desert, and non-alcoholic Beverage OR full buffet and non-alcoholic beverage, gratuity not included
1 Quick Service Meal per Guest, per night
Meal includes: Entrée or entrée combo, Dessert, and non-alcoholic Beverage
1 Snack per Guest per night
2010 Disney's Magic Your Way plus Dine Package
Dining Plan Rates are now based on dates of travel. If your stay is booked over two different seasons the price of the dining plan will be pro-rated just like the room rates.
$41.99 per adult (ages 10+) $11.99 per child (age 3-9) per night above the cost of the Magic Your Way Package for travel dates: 1/01/10 – 2/11/10 ; 4/11/10 – 6/03/10 ; 8/15/10 – 12/16/10
$46.99 per adult (ages 10+) $12.99 per child (age 3-9) per night above the cost of the Magic Your Way Package for travel dates: 2/12/10 – 4/10/10 ; 6/04/10 – 8/14/10 ; 12/17/10 – 12/31/10
Accommodations for 1-14 nights at a Walt Disney World owned and operated Resort.
Must book at least a one day base ticket to reserve the Basic Dining Plan.
Basic Dining Plan Includes:
1 Table Service Meal per Guest, per night
Meal includes: Entrée, Desert, and non-alcoholic Beverage OR full buffet and non-alcoholic beverage, gratuity not included
1 Quick Service Meal per Guest, per night
Meal includes: Entrée or entrée combo, Dessert, and non-alcoholic Beverage
1 Snack per Guest per night
Thursday, 23 July 2009
2009 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Details
We have spotted a few details coming out of Disney for 2009 Epcot Food & Wine Festival:
To book any and all activities and events, reservations open on August 11 at 7:00AM. Call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Theme park admission is usually required, along with a reservation and extra payment for the event.
Check out the Disney Food and Wine Festival Page for info and more updates.
Culinary Adventures — Signature Dining Experiences
Celebrity chefs pair up with Walt Disney World restaurant big cheeses to develop a 5-course meal. Schedule and celebrity chefs include:
10/1 6:30 p.m. Jiko–The Cooking Place — Suvir Saran
10/1 7:00 p.m. Portobello Italian Trattoria — Tony Mantuano
10/13 6:15 p.m. Ragland Road — Kevin Dundon
10/15 5:30 p.m. Flying Fish Café — Tim Keating
10/16 6:30 p.m. bluezoo — Todd English
10/22 6:30 p.m. The Wave — Frank Brough
10/25 6:30 p.m. Victoria & Albert’s — Scott Hunnel
10/29 6:30 p.m. California Grill — Brian Piasecki
10/30 6:30 p.m. Wonders Retreat — Jean Claude Boisset vs. Jean Charles Boisset Wines
11/5 6:30 p.m. Cítricos — Phillip Ponticelli
Price: $100.00-$375.00 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is not required.
Food and Wine Pairing Meals
An old favorite returns.
Saturdays, 2:30–4:00 p.m. — Tutto Italia Ristorante
Mondays, 3:30–5:00 p.m. — Tokyo Dining
Tuesdays, 3:30–5:00 p.m. — Restaurant Marrakesh
Price: $55.00 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.
Mexico Tequila Tastings
A NEW addition!
La Cava del Tequila, Mexico Pavilion
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00 p.m.
Price: $35.00 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.
French Regional Lunches
Bistro de Paris chefs will prepare specialty lunches highlighting a specific region in France.
Select Sundays, 12:00 p.m. at the Bistro de Paris, France Pavilion at Epcot
10/4 — Bordeaux
10/11 — Cotes du Rhone
10/18 — Alsace
10/25 — Champagne
11/1 — Burgundy
Price: $95.00 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.
Party for the Senses
Every Saturday during the Festival; 6:30 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.
9/26 — Celebrating Spanish Cuisine
10/3 — Celebrating Comfort Foods with a Twist
10/10 — Celebrating South American Cuisine
10/17 — Celebrating Classical Cuisine
10/24 — Celebrating Asian Cuisine
10/31 — Celebrating the Fall Harvest
11/7 — Celebrating Italian Cuisine
Price: $135 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.
Wine View Lounge access is $75 per person, plus tax (in addition to admission for Party for the Senses.). Gratuity included.
Sweet Sundays
Brunch every Sunday morning. All-star Chefs will prepare three desserts. The program will be hosted at the Welcome Center.
Sundays from 10:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.
9/27 — Andrew Shotts
10/4 — Warren Brown & Mary Meyers
10/11 — David Guas
10/18 — Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito
10/25 — Claire Clark
11/1 — Geraldine Randalsome
11/8 — Jacque Torres
Price: $80 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.
Celebrating Friends and Family
September 26, then every Friday. Chefs will walk the audience through how to prepare a 3-course lunch. Events will take place at the Welcome Center (Wonders of Life pavilion) Fridays from 10:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.
9/26 — The Deen Brothers
10/2 — Suvir Saran
10/9 — Patti LaBelle
10/16 — Dean Max and Paula DaSilva
10/23 — Alan Wong
10/30 — Cat Cora and Virginia Cora
11/6 — Andrea and John Robinson
Price: $110.00-130.00 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.
Wine and Cheese Seminars
Adventures in Varietals
Grapes into wine–experts show you how! Saturdays, 1:00 p.m. — 2:30 p.m. in Wonders Retreat.
10/10 — Celebrating the Zinfandel Grape
10/24 — Celebrating the Pinot Noir Grape
11/7 — Celebrating the Cabernet Sauvignon Grape
Price: $80 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is not required.
Epcot Wine Schools
Wine experts teach you the basics of winemaking (along with some tasting!).
Select Weekend dates 1:00 — 4:00 p.m. at the Festival Welcome Center Retreat.
10/3 — Taste Wine Like a Master
10/17 — Wines from Monterey, California
10/24 — Exploring the Burgundy Varietal’s Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Around the World
11/8 — Wines from South Africa
Price: $125.00 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is not required.
Cheese Seminars
Learn the art of cheese making (and wine pairing).
Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. — 11:45 a.m. in the Festival Welcome Center
9/26 — Spain — Waldemar Albrecht–Luna
10/3 — France — Max McCalman
10/10 — Italy — Erin Hedley
10/17 — United Kingdom — Waldemar Albrecht–Luna
10/24 — United States — Max McCalman
10/31 — France — Waldemar Albrecht–Luna
11/7 — Italy — Max McCalman
Price: $75 per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.
Thursday, 9 July 2009
Heart Felt Sympathy
We would like to take the time to say how sorry we are for the loss of a Disney cast member, we wouldn't what to impose on the family by naming him - But we do want you to know you are in our thoughts - This includes ALL members of the Disney Family
Sunday, 5 July 2009
Black Day for Disney World
At around 2am on Sunday July 5, Monorail Pink and Monorail Purple collided at the TTC. At this stage it appears that both monorails had been operating on the Epcot line. The driver of Monorail Purple was killed at the scene. Approximately 6 guests were on the monorail, and no guests were injured.
Disney have released the following statement.
"Today, we mourn the loss of our fellow cast member. Our hearts go out to his family and those who have lost a friend and coworker. The safety of our guests and cast members is always our top priority. The monorail is out of service and we will continue to work closely with law enforcement to determine what happened and the appropriate next steps."
Our thoughts are with the family of the driver at this time
Disney have released the following statement.
"Today, we mourn the loss of our fellow cast member. Our hearts go out to his family and those who have lost a friend and coworker. The safety of our guests and cast members is always our top priority. The monorail is out of service and we will continue to work closely with law enforcement to determine what happened and the appropriate next steps."
Our thoughts are with the family of the driver at this time
Saturday, 4 July 2009
The details of the Hong Kong Disneyland Expansion are starting to leak out.
The park which has been criticized for being too small will receive three new lands and approximately 30 new attractions with spacing remaining for possible additional expansion. The new lands will be "Grizzly Trail" (similar to Frontier Land), "Mystic Point" (a unique concept) and "Toy Story Land".
Expansion Map
Highlights of the expansion are below:
Grizzly Trail
Grizzly Gulch, Frontier Gold-Mining Town
The path along Grizzly Trail offers high-spirited frontier fun in an abandoned mining town called Grizzly Gulch, set amidst mountains and woods. The town was founded August 8, 1888 – the luckiest day of the luckiest month of the luckiest year – by prospectors looking to discover gold. Bears have now started causing havoc at the Big Grizzly Mountain Mining Company.
Key Technology and Creative Elements:
* Guests visiting Grizzly Gulch are part of the action, experiencing hands-on water features, massive geysers and various leaking structures in the abandoned town.
* Life-size Audio-Animatronic® bears set the story in motion on Big Grizzly Mountain Coaster, an adventure aboard a runaway mine train through town. Guests careen backward down an incline that propels them through twists and turns, before a launch sequence “blasts” the mine train out of the mountain.
* A Wild West stagecoach, an old time Jail House, and the world’s largest nugget of gold provide fun photo opportunities.
* Guests can relax with a Wild West refreshment at the old Saloon or shop for mining supplies and souvenirs at the Bear Necessities merchandise stand.
Mystic Point
Mystic Point is the site of mysterious forces and supernatural events in the heart of a dense, uncharted rain forest.
In Mystic Manor, home to an eccentric world traveler and adventurer and his collection of exotic international artifacts, strange things are afoot as an enchanted music box releases its magical powers, thanks to a mischievous monkey.
Key Technology and Creative Elements:
* Inside Mystic Manor, a trackless ride system enables vehicles to move “freely” about the attraction as the story unfolds. Audio-Animatronic® figures and special visual and audio effects help tell the story of mystical phenomena.
* Within Mystic Point lies a beautiful garden full of relics and mythological figures, where guests discover a hidden world of illusions and mysteries that trick the eye.
* Guests can dine at the Adventurer’s Club amid a vast collection of unusual artifacts from around the world or purchase exclusive curiosities and collectibles at the Archive Shop.
Toy Story Land
Disney·Pixar-themed Play Area for Kids of All Ages
Andy, the young boy from the Disney·Pixar Toy Story films, has left his toys unattended in this immersive and highly themed environment, based on one of Disney·Pixar’s most popular film series. While Andy is away, the toys come to life and play...and Guests are invited to join!
Key Technology and Creative Elements:
* Oversized outdoor rides and photo opportunities allow Guests to experience the different perceptions of scale, and shrink to the size of a toy.
* One attraction includes a shuttle coaster which propels Guests along a U-shaped style track.
* A drop-style parachute attraction lets Guests join a “training mission,” plunging from a 25m tall tower.
* Guests will enjoy fun, immersive and interactive environments with life-size toys.
* A themed food kiosk provides a barrel of fun snacks and refreshments and Guests can shop for Toy Story inspired collectibles at the merchandise location.
TAKEN FROM OUR FRIENDS http://www.alldnews.com/
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
Get your Disney PhotoPass CD before price goes up
Orlando Sentinel - If you're considering buying a Disney World PhotoPass CD for an upcoming vacation, you'll save if you pre-order it before Tuesday. The price goes up $20 to $149.95 on June 16.
Also, you can save an additional 20 percent if you order the CD here or at PhotoPass centers on Disney property.
Disney has stationed its photographers throughout the parks -- and even the water parks -- and it's free to have your photo taken. Just ask the photographer. Afterward, he will give you plastic card; the numbers on the card are what you will use at either a PhotoPass station on Disney property or online to view your photos.
My family has purchased many professional photos from our Disney World outings through the years and by far the best deal if you plan to purchase more than 10 photos is a PhotoPass CD. The price of the CD is for an unlimited number of photos from your vacation -- even if the photos won't actually fit on one CD. So, if you plan to buy the CD, take photos everywhere and anywhere!
You can duplicate photos by doing a "save as copy" in the edit mode on disneyphotopass.com. This will allow you to save versions of the same image with different borders, signatures and crops because the images cannot be manipulated with Disney tools once they are burned on the CD.
Remember -- the CD price is for as many photos as you have in your account.
'Pirates 4' bigger priority for Disney than 'Lone Ranger'
HitFix - Speaking to HitFix tonight in New York City, uber-producer Jerry Bruckheimer broke some news regarding the fourth incarnation of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise and the previously announced big screen incarnation of the "Lone Ranger." Both pictures have superstar Johnny Depp in the mix, but Bruckheimer says "Ranger" is not the priority for his longtime home, Walt Disney Pictures.
"I think for Disney it will mostly be 'Pirates,' obviously," Bruckheimer says. "That's a great franchise for them and for us too. Beloved, with a great character and Johnny's really excited about coming back to Captain Jack. "
This past April, original "Pirates" trilogy director Gore Verbinski announced he would not helm the fourth installment due to other commitments including the movie adaptation of the popular video game "BioShock." With that project floundering, HitFix asked Bruckheimer if his former director could return to the swashbuckling seas. The Hollywood veteran clearly left the door open to a return.
"You never know," Bruckheimer says. "He created the franchise. He had a lot to add to that, but it's going to be up to him."
When asked whether Depp preferred to shoot "Lone Ranger" versus a return to Captain Jack, Bruckheimer reiterated that while Depp was interested in Tonto, but "Disney's priority is to get [a fourth] 'Pirates' made."
Additionally, Bruckheimer said he'd seen some of the early pages of the fourth 'Pirates' script, but the always cagey mogul limited his comments to that it's funny and "it's a whole new way of going."
Bruckheimer has the family friendly "G-Force" set for release Aug. 7, but will return to the blockbuster arena next summer with both "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" on May 28, 2010 and "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" on July 16, 2010.
"I think for Disney it will mostly be 'Pirates,' obviously," Bruckheimer says. "That's a great franchise for them and for us too. Beloved, with a great character and Johnny's really excited about coming back to Captain Jack. "
This past April, original "Pirates" trilogy director Gore Verbinski announced he would not helm the fourth installment due to other commitments including the movie adaptation of the popular video game "BioShock." With that project floundering, HitFix asked Bruckheimer if his former director could return to the swashbuckling seas. The Hollywood veteran clearly left the door open to a return.
"You never know," Bruckheimer says. "He created the franchise. He had a lot to add to that, but it's going to be up to him."
When asked whether Depp preferred to shoot "Lone Ranger" versus a return to Captain Jack, Bruckheimer reiterated that while Depp was interested in Tonto, but "Disney's priority is to get [a fourth] 'Pirates' made."
Additionally, Bruckheimer said he'd seen some of the early pages of the fourth 'Pirates' script, but the always cagey mogul limited his comments to that it's funny and "it's a whole new way of going."
Bruckheimer has the family friendly "G-Force" set for release Aug. 7, but will return to the blockbuster arena next summer with both "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" on May 28, 2010 and "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" on July 16, 2010.
Sunday, 7 June 2009
New Mobile Room Ready Notification Service for Disney Guests
Mobile Room Ready Notification Service allows Guests who arrive prior to their check-in time at Disney owned and operated Resort hotels to recieve either a text message or automated voice message when their room is available.
During the check-in process at a Disney Resort, Guests can provide a cell/mobile telephone number and request a return notification preference. When the Disney Resort room is ready, a text message or automated call will be sent to the Guest’s cell/mobile phone number with the room number.
Guests who participate in this new service can enjoy increased flexibility upon arrival at the Disney Resort as their cell/mobile telephone will notify them when their room is ready. Guests may then continue their current activities or proceed to their Disney Resort room.
Guest may of course choose not to participate in this service and will still be able to call the Resort's room availability telephone number provided to them upon arrival to check the status of their Disney Resort room, or visit the Resort Front Desk at anytime.
Mobile Room Ready Notification Service is now available for Guests staying at Disney operated resort hotels at the Walt Disney World Resort, the Disneyland Resort and all Disney Vacation Club resorts.
Note: if Guests opt to use the text message notification option, standard text message rates apply. Guests should check with their cell/mobile phone carrier for details on their particular plan.
What are your thoughts on the new idea...? feel free to leave a comment
During the check-in process at a Disney Resort, Guests can provide a cell/mobile telephone number and request a return notification preference. When the Disney Resort room is ready, a text message or automated call will be sent to the Guest’s cell/mobile phone number with the room number.
Guests who participate in this new service can enjoy increased flexibility upon arrival at the Disney Resort as their cell/mobile telephone will notify them when their room is ready. Guests may then continue their current activities or proceed to their Disney Resort room.
Guest may of course choose not to participate in this service and will still be able to call the Resort's room availability telephone number provided to them upon arrival to check the status of their Disney Resort room, or visit the Resort Front Desk at anytime.
Mobile Room Ready Notification Service is now available for Guests staying at Disney operated resort hotels at the Walt Disney World Resort, the Disneyland Resort and all Disney Vacation Club resorts.
Note: if Guests opt to use the text message notification option, standard text message rates apply. Guests should check with their cell/mobile phone carrier for details on their particular plan.
What are your thoughts on the new idea...? feel free to leave a comment
Sunday, 24 May 2009
Wayne Allwine the voice of Mickey Mouse - Dies
Wayne Allwine, the official voice of Mickey Mouse, only the third person in history to play the character in various movies and TV shows, has passed away.
According to Wikipedia Allwine’s first appearance as Mickey was voicing the animated lead-ins for The New Mickey Mouse Club in 1977.
His first appearance as Mickey for a theatrical release was in the 1983 featurette Mickey’s Christmas Carol and he has provided the voice for Mickey Mouse ever since.
He was married to Russi Taylor, the current voice of Minnie Mouse. Allwine was also a sound effects editor for various feature films. Allwine died on Monday, due to complications from diabetes. He was 62.
According to Wikipedia Allwine’s first appearance as Mickey was voicing the animated lead-ins for The New Mickey Mouse Club in 1977.
His first appearance as Mickey for a theatrical release was in the 1983 featurette Mickey’s Christmas Carol and he has provided the voice for Mickey Mouse ever since.
He was married to Russi Taylor, the current voice of Minnie Mouse. Allwine was also a sound effects editor for various feature films. Allwine died on Monday, due to complications from diabetes. He was 62.
Tuesday, 12 May 2009
Animal Kingdom - Picnic in the Park
Something worth lookng at in Disney's Animal Kingdom from April 7th 2009 Disney will will be offering a new meal program called Picnic in the Park. As part of this program, you will be able to purchase a meal for the family packaged in an "Every Tree Has Character" reusable bag, which can then be taken to one of a number of picnic spots throughout the park. Plates and utensils are provided. Meals include a choice of entrees, side dishes, desserts, and water. There are two tiers available:
Tier 1 features a chicken wrap, ham grinder, tuna pita, turkey focaccia sandwich, or portobello mushroom and vegetable Wrap, with pricing starting at $24.99 plus tax for a meal for three.
Meal for Three – $24.99 + tax
3 Sandwiches, 1 Large Gourmet Side, 3 Desserts or Fruit, 3 bottles of Dasani water
Meal for Four – $32.99 + tax
4 Sandwiches, 2 Large Gourmet Sides, 4 Desserts or Fruit, 4 bottles of Dasani water
Meal for Five – $40.99 + tax
5 Sandwiches, 3 Large Gourmet Sides, 5 Desserts or Fruit, 5 bottles of Dasani water
Meal for Six – $48.99 + tax
6 Sandwiches, 4 Large Gourmet Sides, 6 Desserts or Fruit, 6 bottles of Dasani water
Tier 2 offers a choice of rotisserie chicken or ham, with pricing starting at $29.99 plus tax for a meal for three.
Meal for Three – $29.99 + tax
6 Pieces of Rotisserie Chicken or 1 lb. of Ham, 2 Large Gourmet Sides, 3 Desserts or Fruit, 3 bottles of Dasani water
Meal for Four – $38.99 + tax
8 Pieces of Rotisserie Chicken or 1 1/4 lb. of Ham, 3 Large Gourmet Sides, 4 Desserts or Fruit, 4 bottles of Dasani water
Meal for Five – $47.99 + tax
10 Pieces of Rotisserie Chicken or 1 1/2 lb. of Ham, 4 Large Gourmet Sides, 5 Desserts or Fruit, 5 bottles of Dasani water
Meal for Six – $56.99 + tax
12 Pieces of Rotisserie Chicken or 1 3/4 lb. of Ham, 5 Large Gourmet Sides, 6 Desserts or Fruit, 6 bottles of Dasani water
Gourmet Sides (16 oz.)
-- Chips
-- Macaroni & Cheese
-- Seasonal Fruit Salad
-- Coleslaw
-- Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
-- Tomato and Cucumber
-- Corn Medley
-- Orzo Pasta Salad
-- Green Beans
-- Tandoori Spiced Tofu and Zucchini Squash
-- Oven-Roasted Potato Wedges
Desserts
-- Apple
-- Brownie
-- Cookie
-- Cornbread
-- Crisped Rice Treat
-- Orange
Here is a map of the locations:
Place your order at the Picnic in the Park podium located in front of Guest Relations at Animal Kingdom, between 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. daily. After that time, or if you decide to get a picnic pack after you're in the park, go directly to the podium at Tusker House Restaurant to place the order.
Pick-up time needs to be at least two hours from the time the order is placed, and you'll need to bring the copy of the order form as confirmation.
The pick-up location is at Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery.
Payment is due upon pick-up of the order. If you're on the Disney Dining Plan, Picnic in the Park may be used as a Quick Service Meal (requires one adult entitlement per meal amount). For example, a meal for three will require three adult entitlements.
Pick-up time needs to be at least two hours from the time the order is placed, and you'll need to bring the copy of the order form as confirmation.
The pick-up location is at Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery.
Payment is due upon pick-up of the order. If you're on the Disney Dining Plan, Picnic in the Park may be used as a Quick Service Meal (requires one adult entitlement per meal amount). For example, a meal for three will require three adult entitlements.
Wednesday, 6 May 2009
Cash Less Tolls in Orlando?
According to reports Orlando/Orjnage County may go cash less on it's toll roads
How this will work for visitors to the state that hire cars? Hire companies will pass this charge to end user but will they try and profit from it?
Plans will be looked at again around June time
Let us know your thoughts
How this will work for visitors to the state that hire cars? Hire companies will pass this charge to end user but will they try and profit from it?
Plans will be looked at again around June time
Let us know your thoughts
Sunday, 3 May 2009
La Nouba - Discount for DVC Member
Disney DVC announces discount for Members with 30% for La Nouba
Be swept away by the fantastical spectacle of La Nouba! Disney Vacation Club Members can purchase discounted Category 2 tickets for themselves and up to five Guests for performances now through June 27, 2009*. So bring the ones you love to witness La Nouba, which transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary and stimulates the imagination from beginning to end with daring acrobatics, dazzling choreography, vibrant music and whimsical characters — only at Walt Disney World® Resort.
Disney Vacation Club Members may purchase tickets by calling Disney Vacation Club Member Services at (800) 800-9800. Tickets must be purchased in advance (up to two weeks prior to the show date). They are not available onsite or on the day of the show. All discounted tickets will be available at Will Call. A valid Disney Vacation Club Member ID must be shown when picking up tickets at the box office.
* Block Out Dates: From April 4 to April 11, 2009 and from April 14 to April 18, 2009.Tuesday, 14 April 2009
Celebrate tonight at Downtown Disney
Starting early April as part of the rejuvenation of Downtown Disney’s Pleasure Island and this year’s promotion of “What will you celebrate!” guests will have another opportunity to celebrate whatever they desire at the Walt Disney World Resorts.
Is it a birthday, anniversary, engagement or family gathering? Well, whatever it is join others at Pleasure Island in one big street party called Celebrate Tonight!
Celebrate Tonight! is an energetic street party hosted by DJs who will spin the latest and greatest of party hits. As part of the celebration you will be able to join in on popular group dances and participate in many sing-alongs. There will also be stilt walkers and a party crew to help get the party started!
Celebrate Tonight! will be held every night in the West End Plaza of Pleasure Island. Party times are Sundays through Thursdays 5 until 11 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. through midnight.
Wether this will be a permanant fixture and running through low season as well is yet to be announced.
(Seen on the examiner.com)
Is it a birthday, anniversary, engagement or family gathering? Well, whatever it is join others at Pleasure Island in one big street party called Celebrate Tonight!
Celebrate Tonight! is an energetic street party hosted by DJs who will spin the latest and greatest of party hits. As part of the celebration you will be able to join in on popular group dances and participate in many sing-alongs. There will also be stilt walkers and a party crew to help get the party started!
Celebrate Tonight! will be held every night in the West End Plaza of Pleasure Island. Party times are Sundays through Thursdays 5 until 11 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. through midnight.
Wether this will be a permanant fixture and running through low season as well is yet to be announced.
(Seen on the examiner.com)
Sunday, 5 April 2009
Downtown Disney's Characters in Flight
Disney's Characters in Flight is due to open in early April ..and looks set to be a crowd pleaser.
It reaches 400 feet about every 10 minutes, Prices are $16 general and $10 for ages 3-9. (That's tax included).
Here are a few links to some other sites with pictures
Pictures
It reaches 400 feet about every 10 minutes, Prices are $16 general and $10 for ages 3-9. (That's tax included).
Here are a few links to some other sites with pictures
Pictures
Tuesday, 31 March 2009
DISNEY WORLD LAYOFFS
Seems no one is immume from the World credit issue. Disney, which is Central Florida's largest employer with about 62,000 "cast members," refused to say Thursday how many jobs it has eliminated.
Jason Garcia | Sentinel Staff Writer
5:55 PM EDT, March 26, 2009 - At the Orlando Sential
Walt Disney World has stepped up layoffs this week, as the company moves ahead with a broad, recession-forced restructuring of its management ranks.
Disney, which is Central Florida's largest employer, with about 62,000 "cast members," refused to say Thursday how many jobs it has eliminated. But one person familiar with some details of the cuts said he was given an estimate of 450.
The cuts have predominantly targeted salaried workers, rather than the hourly employees who make up the vast majority of the resort's work force. Employees say layoffs have occurred across Disney World's back-office functions, including entertainment, merchandise, finance, transportation, training, emergency management and theme-park operations.
Some workers who deal directly with guests have also been let go, including guest-service managers and managers in Disney Vacation Club's sales-preview center.
More info -
Jason Garcia | Sentinel Staff Writer
5:55 PM EDT, March 26, 2009 - At the Orlando Sential
Walt Disney World has stepped up layoffs this week, as the company moves ahead with a broad, recession-forced restructuring of its management ranks.
Disney, which is Central Florida's largest employer, with about 62,000 "cast members," refused to say Thursday how many jobs it has eliminated. But one person familiar with some details of the cuts said he was given an estimate of 450.
The cuts have predominantly targeted salaried workers, rather than the hourly employees who make up the vast majority of the resort's work force. Employees say layoffs have occurred across Disney World's back-office functions, including entertainment, merchandise, finance, transportation, training, emergency management and theme-park operations.
Some workers who deal directly with guests have also been let go, including guest-service managers and managers in Disney Vacation Club's sales-preview center.
More info -
Thursday, 26 March 2009
Sales begin for The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa
With construction of The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa on schedule for a late 2009 opening at the Disneyland® Resort in Anaheim, sales have officially begun for this West Coast Disney Vacation Club Resort.
Check out the DVC Website for more details
Sunday, 22 March 2009
MORE VERO BEACH INFORMATION
Here is more information on Disney's Vero Beach
Tennis Racket: Complimentary/5.00
Miniature Golf Rental Equipment
Hourly: 1.00/2.00
Entire Stay: 5.00/7.00
Kayak (30 minutes): 20.00/25.00
Jet Ski (30 minutes): 55.00/60.00
What is availiable for rental at the resort?
There are a number of items availible for rental.
Prices are as follows (DVC Member/Non-Member)
2 Chairs and Umbrella: 24.00/30.00
Umbrella: 10.00/12.00
Beach Chair: 7.00/9.00
Cushioned Lounge Chair: 9.00/12.00
2 Lounges and Umbrella: 28.00/36.00
Body Board: 9.00/12.00
Cabanas: 12.00/15.00
Tennis Racket: Complimentary/5.00
Miniature Golf Rental Equipment
Hourly: 1.00/2.00
Entire Stay: 5.00/7.00
Kayak (30 minutes): 20.00/25.00
Jet Ski (30 minutes): 55.00/60.00
What dining options exist at the resort?
Disney's Vero Beach offers more dining options than most Disney resorts:
Shutters is a casual table service restaurant featuring American cuisine, fresh seafood, and a wood-brick oven. Character dining is offered Saturday morning, reservations are suggested. The Green Cabin Room offers specialty drinks, a light lunch and appetizer menu, and both indoor and outdoor dining areas. There is nightly entertainment.
Sonya's is open select evening and features signature dining with steaks and seafood. Brunch is availiable on Sunday.
Bleacher's offers pool-side counter service with hot dogs, hamburgers, subs, and salads. Alcoholic speciality beverages are also offered.
There is also the option of Inn Room Private Dining, including the option to pre-order breakfast with a selected delivery time.
Prices seem to be on par with all Disney resorts in terms of CS,TS and Signature Dining experiences. The Disney Dining Experience card (DDE) is accepted at Disney's Vero Beach
.
Please Note: The DDP is NOT accepted at VB.
Is there a supervised kid's club?
There is a 3-hour 3DC Discovery Club for kids age 4-12 on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Price is 35.00 per child for non-members and 30.00 for DVC members. Dinner and supervised activities are included and advance reservations are required.
LINK TO OUR OTHER VERO POST
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