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Disney Cruise Line has just announced that "Tangled: The Musical" will be the newest addition to the live stage show productions on board the Disney Magic beginning November 2015.
"Tangled: The Musical" will immerse guests in Rapunzel's fairytale world through lavish production numbers and spellbinding music. Three new songs created exclusively for this show by Academy Award-winning composer Alan Menken and Grammy Award-winning lyricist Glenn Slater will bring the story to life on stage.
This new live stage show will feature elaborate costumes, groundbreaking puppetry and stunning set designs. The show will stay trueto the storyline from the hit film-with-a few special twists to create a live staged production.
"Tangled: The Musical" complements the line-up of Disney Cruise Line-exclusive live entertainment performed every voyage aboard the Disney Magic, joining "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story" and "Disney Dreams...An Enchanted Classic," which will feature a new segment from the blockbuster animated hit "FROZEN" beginning in summer 2015.
The new show will premier during the November 11, 2015 4-night Bahamian sailing aboard the Disney Magic, which will sail 4-night Bahamian and 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami beginning Sept. 30, 2015 through the new year.
"Tangled: The Musical" will immerse guests in Rapunzel's fairytale world through lavish production numbers and spellbinding music. Three new songs created exclusively for this show by Academy Award-winning composer Alan Menken and Grammy Award-winning lyricist Glenn Slater will bring the story to life on stage.
This new live stage show will feature elaborate costumes, groundbreaking puppetry and stunning set designs. The show will stay trueto the storyline from the hit film-with-a few special twists to create a live staged production.
"Tangled: The Musical" complements the line-up of Disney Cruise Line-exclusive live entertainment performed every voyage aboard the Disney Magic, joining "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story" and "Disney Dreams...An Enchanted Classic," which will feature a new segment from the blockbuster animated hit "FROZEN" beginning in summer 2015.
The new show will premier during the November 11, 2015 4-night Bahamian sailing aboard the Disney Magic, which will sail 4-night Bahamian and 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami beginning Sept. 30, 2015 through the new year.
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If you've been to Walt Disney World® anytime in the last year or so, you have definitely noticed there are BIG changes and lots of construction going on around the Downtown Disney area. With everything that Disney does, from attractions to Castaway Cay (Disney's exclusive island for Disney Cruise Line guests), there is a back story. Now, they are creating the back story for "Disney Springs," by transforming the shopping and retail area that has been known as Downtown Disney into an entirely new area that is becoming "Disney Springs." This entire area will have a new vibe and theme that will through the entire area.
What does this mean exactly? Well, the plans include the expansion of additional new retail options, new dining venues, a brand new 4-story parking garage (which is completed and open for use), new water features, a completely new section (Town Center) and the brand new skyway bridge. If you are familiar with the Marketplace area of Downtown Disney (near the World of Disney store) you know that in order to get to the marina to rent a mouse boat or Rainforest Cafe you had to walk all the way around the end of the lake to the other side. Well, thanks to the new skyway bridge, you no longer have to walk all the way around. You can just walk across the lake to quickly get from one side to the other. How nice is this going to be the next time you are there? I know, for me...very nice even if it's just to take in the great view around the lake.
Most of your favorites restaurants and shops are still located where you have come to know them to be. But, let's take a look at what is located at both the West Side and the Marketplace areas, as there have a been a few closures.
West Side Entertainment & Dining:
*La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil (ticket prices $63-$150 adults & $52-$125 child)
*Disney Quest
(You can add the Water Park & More option to your theme park ticket for entrance here.)
*House of Blues (Good live music here & a gospel brunch on Sundays with all-you-can eat buffet)
*Splitsville Luxury Lanes
(Bowling $15-$20 per person including shoes. Dining Plan accepted-table service.)
*AMC Downtown Disney 24 (Price: $11-$15 per person)
*Characters in Flight ($18 adult $12 c hild)
*Crossroads at House of Blues (Disney Dining Plan-table service)
*Food Quest (Disney dining plan-Quick Service)
*The Express at Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe (Quick Service)
*Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe (Table Service)
*Bongos Cuban Cafe (Table Service)
*Planet Hollywood (Table Service)
Planet Hollywood is getting an updated look to reflect an observatory.
Tip: If you park in the lot by West Side (Cirque du Soleil) you can take a water taxi located behind House of Blues that will take you all the way down to the other end at Marketplace instead of having to walk all the way down there. Put your feet up for a few minutes and enjoy the ride!!
Marketplace Entertainment & Dining:
*Waterside Stage
*Marketplace Train Express ($2 per child)
*Marketplace Carousel ($2.00)
*CLOSED: Captain Jack's Marina
*Ghiradelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop (Disney Dining Plan Snack Credit)
*Marketplace Snacks (Quick Service)
*Earl of Sandwich (Quick Service Breakfast , Lunch, Dinner & Snack Credit)
*Wolfgang Puck Express (Quick Serice)
*T-Rex Cafe (Table Service)
*Rainforest Cafe (Table Service)
*Now Closed: Cap'n Jack's Restaurant, Pollo Campero, Babycakes NYC & Bodies All-American
Pleasure Island will now be called The Landing once all the renovations for Disney Springs are complete. This area will host new waterfront dining options to take advantage of this great location.
*Cooke's of Dublin (Quick Service & Snack Credits may be redeemed here)
*Paradise 37 (Table Service)
*Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant (Table Service)
*Fulton's Crab House (Table Service-2 Credits on the Disney dining plan)
*Portobello Country Italian Trattoria (Table Service)
*Now Closed: Fuego by Sosa Cigars
The newest area, which will be Town Center, does not exist in Downtown Disney but will be a part of the new Disney Springs and will include new shopping and dining options along with a promenade area where you can relax. So for now, we are all going to have to bear the slight inconvenience with parking areas and continue to enjoy the pictures illustrated on the construction walls as we walk by a little bit longer. I have a feeling what's yet to come will be nothing short of spectacular!!
Stay tuned for more updates as they are revealed!!
What does this mean exactly? Well, the plans include the expansion of additional new retail options, new dining venues, a brand new 4-story parking garage (which is completed and open for use), new water features, a completely new section (Town Center) and the brand new skyway bridge. If you are familiar with the Marketplace area of Downtown Disney (near the World of Disney store) you know that in order to get to the marina to rent a mouse boat or Rainforest Cafe you had to walk all the way around the end of the lake to the other side. Well, thanks to the new skyway bridge, you no longer have to walk all the way around. You can just walk across the lake to quickly get from one side to the other. How nice is this going to be the next time you are there? I know, for me...very nice even if it's just to take in the great view around the lake.
Most of your favorites restaurants and shops are still located where you have come to know them to be. But, let's take a look at what is located at both the West Side and the Marketplace areas, as there have a been a few closures.
West Side Entertainment & Dining:
*La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil (ticket prices $63-$150 adults & $52-$125 child)
*Disney Quest
(You can add the Water Park & More option to your theme park ticket for entrance here.)
*House of Blues (Good live music here & a gospel brunch on Sundays with all-you-can eat buffet)
*Splitsville Luxury Lanes
(Bowling $15-$20 per person including shoes. Dining Plan accepted-table service.)
*AMC Downtown Disney 24 (Price: $11-$15 per person)
*Characters in Flight ($18 adult $12 c hild)
*Crossroads at House of Blues (Disney Dining Plan-table service)
*Food Quest (Disney dining plan-Quick Service)
*The Express at Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe (Quick Service)
*Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe (Table Service)
*Bongos Cuban Cafe (Table Service)
*Planet Hollywood (Table Service)
Planet Hollywood is getting an updated look to reflect an observatory.
Tip: If you park in the lot by West Side (Cirque du Soleil) you can take a water taxi located behind House of Blues that will take you all the way down to the other end at Marketplace instead of having to walk all the way down there. Put your feet up for a few minutes and enjoy the ride!!
Marketplace Entertainment & Dining:
*Waterside Stage
*Marketplace Train Express ($2 per child)
*Marketplace Carousel ($2.00)
*CLOSED: Captain Jack's Marina
*Ghiradelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop (Disney Dining Plan Snack Credit)
*Marketplace Snacks (Quick Service)
*Earl of Sandwich (Quick Service Breakfast , Lunch, Dinner & Snack Credit)
*Wolfgang Puck Express (Quick Serice)
*T-Rex Cafe (Table Service)
*Rainforest Cafe (Table Service)
*Now Closed: Cap'n Jack's Restaurant, Pollo Campero, Babycakes NYC & Bodies All-American
Pleasure Island will now be called The Landing once all the renovations for Disney Springs are complete. This area will host new waterfront dining options to take advantage of this great location.
*Cooke's of Dublin (Quick Service & Snack Credits may be redeemed here)
*Paradise 37 (Table Service)
*Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant (Table Service)
*Fulton's Crab House (Table Service-2 Credits on the Disney dining plan)
*Portobello Country Italian Trattoria (Table Service)
*Now Closed: Fuego by Sosa Cigars
The newest area, which will be Town Center, does not exist in Downtown Disney but will be a part of the new Disney Springs and will include new shopping and dining options along with a promenade area where you can relax. So for now, we are all going to have to bear the slight inconvenience with parking areas and continue to enjoy the pictures illustrated on the construction walls as we walk by a little bit longer. I have a feeling what's yet to come will be nothing short of spectacular!!
Stay tuned for more updates as they are revealed!!
- Published on
SAVE up to 30% on select Walt Disney World® Resort hotel rooms most nights June 16 - August 27, 2015. Availability is limited.
Up to 30% off for: Yacht Club & Beach Club resort, BoardWalk Inn, Animal KIngdom Lodge (standard & pool view rooms), Wilderness Lodge, Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, BoardWalk Villas, Polynesian Village Villas, Contemporary and the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Up to 25% off: Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach, Port Orleans-Riverside, Cabins at Ft. Wilderness
Up to 20% off: Animal Kingdom Lodge (savanna view & club level), Animal Kingdom Villas, Beach Club Villas, Wilderness Lodge Villas, All Stars Sports, All Stars Music, Art of Animation (Family Suites) and Pop Century
*Campsites at Ft. Wildnerness, 3-bedroom villas, Little Mermaid standard rooms at Art of Animation, All Star Movies, Port Orleans French Quarter, Polynesian Village Villas, Bay Lake Tower Villas and Villas at Grand Floridian Resort & Spa are excluded from this promotional offer.
"Preschool Summer Package"
Package your Walt Disney World® Resort hotel room stay with a minimum 2-day theme park ticket and receive a discounted rate on your vacation package. One of the Disney dining plans can be added to your resort hotel room and theme park tickets.
Coronado Springs Resort (moderate level resort) (6/16-6/21):
standard view room, 4-day Magic Your Way® theme park base tickets, 4 people (2 adutls & 2 children ages 7yrs & 10yrs)...$2188.00
*with Quick Service dining plan added: $2898.12
*with standard dining plan (1 table service, 1 counter service, 1 snack & 1 resort refillable mug per person: $3193.87.
Availability for these offers is limited. If you would like more information about dates and pricing please contact me at magicmickeymoments@gmail.com or you can click here and submit the form.
Which resort is your favorite to stay while at Walt Disney World® ?
Up to 30% off for: Yacht Club & Beach Club resort, BoardWalk Inn, Animal KIngdom Lodge (standard & pool view rooms), Wilderness Lodge, Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, BoardWalk Villas, Polynesian Village Villas, Contemporary and the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Up to 25% off: Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach, Port Orleans-Riverside, Cabins at Ft. Wilderness
Up to 20% off: Animal Kingdom Lodge (savanna view & club level), Animal Kingdom Villas, Beach Club Villas, Wilderness Lodge Villas, All Stars Sports, All Stars Music, Art of Animation (Family Suites) and Pop Century
*Campsites at Ft. Wildnerness, 3-bedroom villas, Little Mermaid standard rooms at Art of Animation, All Star Movies, Port Orleans French Quarter, Polynesian Village Villas, Bay Lake Tower Villas and Villas at Grand Floridian Resort & Spa are excluded from this promotional offer.
"Preschool Summer Package"
Package your Walt Disney World® Resort hotel room stay with a minimum 2-day theme park ticket and receive a discounted rate on your vacation package. One of the Disney dining plans can be added to your resort hotel room and theme park tickets.
Coronado Springs Resort (moderate level resort) (6/16-6/21):
standard view room, 4-day Magic Your Way® theme park base tickets, 4 people (2 adutls & 2 children ages 7yrs & 10yrs)...$2188.00
*with Quick Service dining plan added: $2898.12
*with standard dining plan (1 table service, 1 counter service, 1 snack & 1 resort refillable mug per person: $3193.87.
Availability for these offers is limited. If you would like more information about dates and pricing please contact me at magicmickeymoments@gmail.com or you can click here and submit the form.
Which resort is your favorite to stay while at Walt Disney World® ?
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Disney Cruise Line was chosen as the Cruise Critic Cruisers' Choice Award winner for not one, but 12 number one awards!
These awards are the best-of-the-best in the industry based on the opinions of the cruisers who sailed in 2014 and posted their reviews online representing their personal opinions and experiences on the Cruise Critic forums. According to these opinions this is where Disney Cruise Line ranked.
Disney Dream (Large Category) - Best Overall; Best Entertainment; Best Public Rooms; Best Cruise t the Bahamas
Disney Fantasy (Large Category) - Best Cabins; Best Embarkation; Best Service; Best for Families
Disney Wonder (Mid-Size Category) - Best Overall; Best Service
Disney Magic (Mid-Size Category) - Best Embarkation; Best Entertainment
Congratulations Disney Cruise Line. Way to go!! What is your opinion of a Disney cruise? Post your comments below.
These awards are the best-of-the-best in the industry based on the opinions of the cruisers who sailed in 2014 and posted their reviews online representing their personal opinions and experiences on the Cruise Critic forums. According to these opinions this is where Disney Cruise Line ranked.
Disney Dream (Large Category) - Best Overall; Best Entertainment; Best Public Rooms; Best Cruise t the Bahamas
Disney Fantasy (Large Category) - Best Cabins; Best Embarkation; Best Service; Best for Families
Disney Wonder (Mid-Size Category) - Best Overall; Best Service
Disney Magic (Mid-Size Category) - Best Embarkation; Best Entertainment
Congratulations Disney Cruise Line. Way to go!! What is your opinion of a Disney cruise? Post your comments below.
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Disney Cruise Line will be offering eight sailings on the beautiful Disney Fantasy cruise ship where guests will have the opportunity to celebrate the legendary adventures and iconic characters from the Star Wars saga during a brand new, day long celebration during their sailing to the Western Caribbean.
Throughout one day during each of the eight Disney Fantasy sailings, Star Wars Day at Sea will transport you to a galaxy far, far away in the Western Caribbean. the event will feature a full day of Star Wars celebrations , including a deck party, meet & greets with favorite characters, Star Wars themed youth activities, unique food and drink offerings and special merchandise. There will also be a special at-sea screening of the Star Wars films and the new Disney XD animated series, Star Wars Rebels.
These special themed sailings will be on the Disney Fantasy sailing on Jan 9, 23; Feb. 6, 20; March 5, 19; April 2, 16, 2016. The Disney Fantasy departs from Port Canaveral, Florida and will be visiting Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands and Castaway Cay, Disney's exclusive private island.
These sailings are available to be booked now, as there is a lot of excitement about them. When you book your Disney vacation with me my services are free to you and you will receive all our special tips and tricks for a Disney cruise. Our goal is take the stress out of the planning process so you can focus on having a magical time! If you are interested in more information about the Star Wars sailings, or an alternative sailing itinerary, contact us here for your free no-obligation quote.
Cindy Poche
Affiliate, Ears of Experience, LLC
magicmickeymoments@gmail.com
1-844-462-4426 ext 1
Throughout one day during each of the eight Disney Fantasy sailings, Star Wars Day at Sea will transport you to a galaxy far, far away in the Western Caribbean. the event will feature a full day of Star Wars celebrations , including a deck party, meet & greets with favorite characters, Star Wars themed youth activities, unique food and drink offerings and special merchandise. There will also be a special at-sea screening of the Star Wars films and the new Disney XD animated series, Star Wars Rebels.
These special themed sailings will be on the Disney Fantasy sailing on Jan 9, 23; Feb. 6, 20; March 5, 19; April 2, 16, 2016. The Disney Fantasy departs from Port Canaveral, Florida and will be visiting Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands and Castaway Cay, Disney's exclusive private island.
These sailings are available to be booked now, as there is a lot of excitement about them. When you book your Disney vacation with me my services are free to you and you will receive all our special tips and tricks for a Disney cruise. Our goal is take the stress out of the planning process so you can focus on having a magical time! If you are interested in more information about the Star Wars sailings, or an alternative sailing itinerary, contact us here for your free no-obligation quote.
Cindy Poche
Affiliate, Ears of Experience, LLC
magicmickeymoments@gmail.com
1-844-462-4426 ext 1
- Published on
Mother's Day is a time to celebrate Mom, but, one day just isn't enough to show appreciation for everything she does. For the entire month of May, Aulani will celebrate mothers in a very special way to say "Mahalo Mama!" (Thank You, Mom). The "Mama" in your family will feel very appreciated and spoiled with these new limited time offerings to help you celebrate her.
*All new breakfast in bed option designed just for Mom.
*Artfully crafted Makuwahine ("Mothers") menu of spa treatments at Laniwai
*Special recognition of mothers throughout the resort, including arts and crafts at Aunty's Beach House, where kids can make Mom momentos she'll keep forever.
*Document memories around the resort with the Disney PhotoPass Scavenger Hunt.
As if these weren't enough reasons to head to Aulani to celebrate Mom, you can save up to 30% on your stay for the entire month of May!
If you can't make it there during the month of May, that's okay. Book your travel to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa by April 30, 2015 and SAVE 30% on your stay of 5-nights or longer, 20% for 4-nights or 10% for 3-night stays. You must travel between April 6, 2015 - June 15, 2015.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa was the winner of Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2014 for Top Family Hotel in the U.S.
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SAVE up to 30% off select Walt Disney World® Resort hotel rooms and enjoy being in the middle of all the Disney magic when you travel this summer June 16 - August 27, 2015. Availability is limited and rooms will book, so don't wait too long to make your plans for the "Coolest Summer Ever" FUN! This offer is open to book for Disney Visa card holders today, March 19, 2015, and expected to open to the general public Monday, March 23, 2015.
*Excluded resorts are: All Star Movies, Art of Animation Little Mermaid Standard Rooms, Bay Lake Towers, Campsites at Ft. Wilderness, Port Orleans French Quarter, All 3-bedroom villas, Villas at the Grand Floridian, Villa Bungalows at the Polynesian Village Resort
Fill out our contact form for a FREE no-obligation quote. All my services are free to you as a Disney resort guest.
*Excluded resorts are: All Star Movies, Art of Animation Little Mermaid Standard Rooms, Bay Lake Towers, Campsites at Ft. Wilderness, Port Orleans French Quarter, All 3-bedroom villas, Villas at the Grand Floridian, Villa Bungalows at the Polynesian Village Resort
Fill out our contact form for a FREE no-obligation quote. All my services are free to you as a Disney resort guest.
- Published on
Did you know? On an Adventures by Disney trip to France you’ll visit Monet's house and garden in Giverny. After a guided tour, you’ll unleash your inner artist in the gardens by creating your own impressionistic work of art! Choose another seamlessly pre-planned trip itinerary and you could find yourself enjoying a private dinner in the Louvre in Paris. No, you aren't dreaming. This is the stuff that an Adventures by Disney trip is made of!
When you decide to book an Adventures by Disney vacation the world is your oyster. There are so many options available including, domestic trips, international trips to Europe, South America, the Galapogas Islands etc to extended weekend trips to New York City or Nashville and longer seven plus night itineraries.. Whatever it is that you choose, you are sure to have some new adventures awaiting you. You will travel with two Disney trained guides that are extremely knowledgeable and master storytellers about the area you will be visiting. Your trip will include your international transportation, accommodations at first rate hotels or inns, most of your meals, taxes and gratuities and offer the opportunity to participate in authentic local activities with the local people. If you are wanting to make this a special trip to celebrate a special life event, no problem, there are adult only trip options available.
Did you know that Adventures by Disney offers themed experiences in real life destinations that were the the creative inspiration for popular movies and television shows? You can click on the link below to see everything that is included with an Adventures by Disney® vaction, including your destination options all around the globe. What will your next adventure be?
disneybrochures.com/wjgw
New for 2015, Adventures by Disney will offer two new amazing European itineraries that will take adventure seekers off the beaten path in Spain and Tuscany! From a culinary adventure through the Italian countryside to exploring the treasures of Spanish art and history, these offerings have something to offer for everyone.
If you would like more information about a particular Adventure by Disney® trip or a free no-obligation quote contact me here. All of my services are free to you.
When you decide to book an Adventures by Disney vacation the world is your oyster. There are so many options available including, domestic trips, international trips to Europe, South America, the Galapogas Islands etc to extended weekend trips to New York City or Nashville and longer seven plus night itineraries.. Whatever it is that you choose, you are sure to have some new adventures awaiting you. You will travel with two Disney trained guides that are extremely knowledgeable and master storytellers about the area you will be visiting. Your trip will include your international transportation, accommodations at first rate hotels or inns, most of your meals, taxes and gratuities and offer the opportunity to participate in authentic local activities with the local people. If you are wanting to make this a special trip to celebrate a special life event, no problem, there are adult only trip options available.
Did you know that Adventures by Disney offers themed experiences in real life destinations that were the the creative inspiration for popular movies and television shows? You can click on the link below to see everything that is included with an Adventures by Disney® vaction, including your destination options all around the globe. What will your next adventure be?
disneybrochures.com/wjgw
New for 2015, Adventures by Disney will offer two new amazing European itineraries that will take adventure seekers off the beaten path in Spain and Tuscany! From a culinary adventure through the Italian countryside to exploring the treasures of Spanish art and history, these offerings have something to offer for everyone.
If you would like more information about a particular Adventure by Disney® trip or a free no-obligation quote contact me here. All of my services are free to you.
- Published on
The Magic bands, that you hear everyone talking about, are Walt Disney World® resort's way of linking modern technology together with your classic Walt Disney World theme park vacation. The goal being... to make it a more streamlined and hassle-free experience for guests.
The Magic band is a bracelet that fits around your wrist similar to how a watch band would fit with multiple holes allowing you to adjust the fit for an adult or a child (they do not come in various sizes). Each band has a RFID chip in it which allows you to link all of your My Disney Experience account information/reservations to your band. It's pretty amazing actually!
You no longer need to worry about carrying around park tickets for everybody, credit cards, cash, or FastPass tickets. As soon as you book your trip to Walt Disney World you can set up your My Disney Experience account online, either through your computer or the free app on your smart phone, customize your very own Magic band and click to place your order. Right now, the color choices are red, blue, green, orange, yellow, pink and gray. Approximately two to three weeks before your date of arrival your box with your travel party's Magic bands will arrive in your mailbox! The underside of each band will even be customized with the name of each person so you know which Magic band belongs to each person traveling. If you are less than two weeks away from your travel date you will receive your bands when you check into your resort, and they will be gray in color.
Upon check-in at your Walt Disney World® resort you will have the option to attach a credit card to your Magic band allowing you to be able to scan your band to make any purchases in the parks...including food. Considering getting the Memory Maker photo package or just use the photo pass photographers for family pictures? No problem, they will just scan your band and your photos will all be linked to your photo pass account online to check view when you are ready...including any on-ride photos/videos! Entrance into any of the four theme parks, accessing your pre-selected FASTPASS+ attractions, redeeming your dining plan credits and even unlocking your resort hotel room door is all done by scanning the Mickey head on your Magic band! Sounds pretty simple and pretty cool doesn't it? That's because it is, and if you're wondering if you can use Magic bands at either of Disney's two water parks (Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach) the answer is, yes. They are waterproof, which also means they are totally safe to use on Splash Mountain (Magic Kingdom) and Kali River Rapids (Animal Kingdom) as well.
At this time these are free to resort guests staying at a Walt Disney World® resort hotel, but off -property guests can now purchase a Magic band for around $11.95 plus tax inside the parks or at the World of Disney store located in Downtown Disney. These bands would just need to be linked to a park ticket through a My Disney Experience account in order to be used to enter any of the four theme parks. If you accidentally lose your Magic band no one else will be able to use it for charging privileges or park entry. You will set up a 4-digit PIN code at check in that will be required anytime you charge anything to with your Magic band, and in order to enter any of the parks you will be asked to for your fingerprint to scanned as well as your band. If these forms of identification don't match what's in the computer system your Magic band will not work. So you are safe and secure. You would need to visit the front desk of your resort or guest relations to report it lost and be issued a new band.
If all this new technology and gadgets makes you feel a little overwhelmed, don't worry because I am happy to assist with getting you all set up so all you have to worry about it putting it on and going to have fun.
The Magic band is a bracelet that fits around your wrist similar to how a watch band would fit with multiple holes allowing you to adjust the fit for an adult or a child (they do not come in various sizes). Each band has a RFID chip in it which allows you to link all of your My Disney Experience account information/reservations to your band. It's pretty amazing actually!
You no longer need to worry about carrying around park tickets for everybody, credit cards, cash, or FastPass tickets. As soon as you book your trip to Walt Disney World you can set up your My Disney Experience account online, either through your computer or the free app on your smart phone, customize your very own Magic band and click to place your order. Right now, the color choices are red, blue, green, orange, yellow, pink and gray. Approximately two to three weeks before your date of arrival your box with your travel party's Magic bands will arrive in your mailbox! The underside of each band will even be customized with the name of each person so you know which Magic band belongs to each person traveling. If you are less than two weeks away from your travel date you will receive your bands when you check into your resort, and they will be gray in color.
Upon check-in at your Walt Disney World® resort you will have the option to attach a credit card to your Magic band allowing you to be able to scan your band to make any purchases in the parks...including food. Considering getting the Memory Maker photo package or just use the photo pass photographers for family pictures? No problem, they will just scan your band and your photos will all be linked to your photo pass account online to check view when you are ready...including any on-ride photos/videos! Entrance into any of the four theme parks, accessing your pre-selected FASTPASS+ attractions, redeeming your dining plan credits and even unlocking your resort hotel room door is all done by scanning the Mickey head on your Magic band! Sounds pretty simple and pretty cool doesn't it? That's because it is, and if you're wondering if you can use Magic bands at either of Disney's two water parks (Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach) the answer is, yes. They are waterproof, which also means they are totally safe to use on Splash Mountain (Magic Kingdom) and Kali River Rapids (Animal Kingdom) as well.
At this time these are free to resort guests staying at a Walt Disney World® resort hotel, but off -property guests can now purchase a Magic band for around $11.95 plus tax inside the parks or at the World of Disney store located in Downtown Disney. These bands would just need to be linked to a park ticket through a My Disney Experience account in order to be used to enter any of the four theme parks. If you accidentally lose your Magic band no one else will be able to use it for charging privileges or park entry. You will set up a 4-digit PIN code at check in that will be required anytime you charge anything to with your Magic band, and in order to enter any of the parks you will be asked to for your fingerprint to scanned as well as your band. If these forms of identification don't match what's in the computer system your Magic band will not work. So you are safe and secure. You would need to visit the front desk of your resort or guest relations to report it lost and be issued a new band.
If all this new technology and gadgets makes you feel a little overwhelmed, don't worry because I am happy to assist with getting you all set up so all you have to worry about it putting it on and going to have fun.
- Published on
If you are fan of all things Star Wars related then you will be happy to know that Star Wars weekends will be returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios® located at the Walt Disney World® resort in Orlando, Florida every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 15-June 14, 2015. This event will be filled with special shows, parades, special celebrity meet and greets and "Symphony in the Sky" fireworks show each evening at 9:45pm duirng the event.
Due to the popularity of this event you can expect park crowds to be much higher than normal and wait times for special Star Wars events to be long. On the positive side, wait times for non-Star Wars events can be expected to not be much longer than they would normally be any other time. Keep reading because I have several important "tips" to help you navigate this event, as well as information about the new dining events being offered...so let's get started!
First, and most important, plan to arrive at Hollywood Studios® before park opening. There are usually some pretty cool character experiences that take place right before the park officially opens. Last year, it was called "Storm the Park" and featured storm troopers at the entrance. They do a funny skit that changes each year...but worth being there to see it. Next, "autographs"...if you want autographs plan to arrive an hour prior to park opening, which is usually around 8am on Star Wars weekends. The turnstiles typically open earlier than the official open time due to the high crowds.
*Tip: You should try to ride Toy Story Mania, Tower of Terror and Rockin' Roller Coaster as soon as you get into the park. This way you have done the big three before the Star Wars weekend events even begin.
Disney does offer a FastPass for celebrity autographs during Star Wars weekend events...1 per person/per day. Tip: Choose a FP for the most popular celebrity and do standby line for the less popular ones. You can expect lots of waiting in lines for character photos and meet and greets. Plan to do those later in the afternoon when it's not so hot. The costumes and back drops are pretty cool, so enjoy it! Check the times guide for the Star Wars-Legends of the Force motorcade so you can be sure to stake out a place to view it an hour or so before it begins. This is a pretty short event, but it's fun to see all the different costumes. There are several shows throughout the day that include behind the scenes presentations, humor and some form of demonstration. One last tip, be sure to purchase any souvenir merchandise you may like early on because the lines will get longer as the day goes on and limited edition souvenirs tends to sell out.
New Dining Packages being offered during Star Wars weekends:
1.) "Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine"
This is a dinner at Hollywood and Vine and features Disney characters in Star Wars outfits. The featured characters are Jedi Mickey, Princess Leia Minnie, Ewok Chip-n-Dale, Stormtrooper Donald and Darth Goofy. This character meal costs $57.99 per adul and $34.99 per child (ages 3-9). Sales tax is included but gratuity is not and would expected to be paid at the time of service. *As a Fantasmic dining package, it costs $63.99 per adult and $38.99 per child (ages 3yrs-9yrs). With this package option neither sales tax nor gratuity are included. Guests will receive a digital photo download of Ewok Chip-n-Dale . The meal is served from 4:15pm until park close time daily.
2.) "Star Wars Dine-In Galactic Breakfast"
The standard Star Wars characters for this meal will be Darth Vader, Stormtroopers, Boba Fett, Greedo and Jawas. This dining event takes place in the Sci Fi Dine-in Theatre with Star Wars clips being shown during the meal. This Star Wars character dining experience cost $49.99 per adult and $31.99 per chld (ages 3yrs-9yrs). Sales tax is included but gratuities are not, and would be paid at the time of service. Reservations for this experience are recommended and are accepted from 8am to 12pm.
Enjoy and May the Force Be With You!
Due to the popularity of this event you can expect park crowds to be much higher than normal and wait times for special Star Wars events to be long. On the positive side, wait times for non-Star Wars events can be expected to not be much longer than they would normally be any other time. Keep reading because I have several important "tips" to help you navigate this event, as well as information about the new dining events being offered...so let's get started!
First, and most important, plan to arrive at Hollywood Studios® before park opening. There are usually some pretty cool character experiences that take place right before the park officially opens. Last year, it was called "Storm the Park" and featured storm troopers at the entrance. They do a funny skit that changes each year...but worth being there to see it. Next, "autographs"...if you want autographs plan to arrive an hour prior to park opening, which is usually around 8am on Star Wars weekends. The turnstiles typically open earlier than the official open time due to the high crowds.
*Tip: You should try to ride Toy Story Mania, Tower of Terror and Rockin' Roller Coaster as soon as you get into the park. This way you have done the big three before the Star Wars weekend events even begin.
Disney does offer a FastPass for celebrity autographs during Star Wars weekend events...1 per person/per day. Tip: Choose a FP for the most popular celebrity and do standby line for the less popular ones. You can expect lots of waiting in lines for character photos and meet and greets. Plan to do those later in the afternoon when it's not so hot. The costumes and back drops are pretty cool, so enjoy it! Check the times guide for the Star Wars-Legends of the Force motorcade so you can be sure to stake out a place to view it an hour or so before it begins. This is a pretty short event, but it's fun to see all the different costumes. There are several shows throughout the day that include behind the scenes presentations, humor and some form of demonstration. One last tip, be sure to purchase any souvenir merchandise you may like early on because the lines will get longer as the day goes on and limited edition souvenirs tends to sell out.
New Dining Packages being offered during Star Wars weekends:
1.) "Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine"
This is a dinner at Hollywood and Vine and features Disney characters in Star Wars outfits. The featured characters are Jedi Mickey, Princess Leia Minnie, Ewok Chip-n-Dale, Stormtrooper Donald and Darth Goofy. This character meal costs $57.99 per adul and $34.99 per child (ages 3-9). Sales tax is included but gratuity is not and would expected to be paid at the time of service. *As a Fantasmic dining package, it costs $63.99 per adult and $38.99 per child (ages 3yrs-9yrs). With this package option neither sales tax nor gratuity are included. Guests will receive a digital photo download of Ewok Chip-n-Dale . The meal is served from 4:15pm until park close time daily.
2.) "Star Wars Dine-In Galactic Breakfast"
The standard Star Wars characters for this meal will be Darth Vader, Stormtroopers, Boba Fett, Greedo and Jawas. This dining event takes place in the Sci Fi Dine-in Theatre with Star Wars clips being shown during the meal. This Star Wars character dining experience cost $49.99 per adult and $31.99 per chld (ages 3yrs-9yrs). Sales tax is included but gratuities are not, and would be paid at the time of service. Reservations for this experience are recommended and are accepted from 8am to 12pm.
Enjoy and May the Force Be With You!
