With all of the big changes coming to Walt Disney World and Disneyland over the next few years, Disney felt the need to restrict a few things. These changes are for the safety and concern of their guests. These new policies & changes will go into effect May 1st.
Strollers
They are restricting the size of stroller permitted into the parks. If you are traveling with a stroller, the new maximum dimensions are 31″ (79cm) wide and 52″ (132cm) long or smaller. This is a GOOD thing. The smaller stroller you have, the easier it is for you to navigate through crowds. If everyone complies, foot traffic will move much smoother.
Wagons
Disney will no longer permit wagons. The wagon style strollers such as the ones made by “Keenz” will not be permitted either, even though you can “push” them like a stroller.
Smoking
Every time I read that, I hear it in Mrs. Doubtfire’s voice. No? Just me? Ok, anyway, there will no longer be smoking sections inside Disney Parks. There will be a designated smoking area outside of the parks near the entrance instead. This will be in effect for all of Walt Disney World, Disney Water parks, Disney Springs, ESPN, Disneyland and Downtown Disney. For guests that are staying in a Resort Hotel or may venture to one for dining/entertainment, they will also each have a designated smoking area. This does include vaping as well.
Loose/Dry Ice
Disney happily let’s us all bring in coolers with our own drinks and food. What they will no longer allow are coolers full of “loose ice” or dry ice. They encourage the use of ice packs and if you require loose ice for any reason, it is available at no charge at their quick service restaurants.
Let me know if you would like clarification on any of these or if you have any questions!
The time between Spring Breaks and when schools lets out is one of my favorite times at Walt Disney World. The crowds are lighter and it is less expensive to travel. Flights are often less expensive for the month of May and now with this promotion Disney is offering, your resort stay can be less as well!
Valid for most nights April 27-May 28, reserve a stay at a Disney World Resort and save while staying in the middle of the magic! The value resorts on property are even 15% off! It is a great deal and a great time to visit. Contact me for a no-obligation quote and mention that you want the “Sun & Fun” offer.
Some great things you can catch if you book a last minute trip and stay this Spring:
I started this journey with Disney and Universal because they are both something I am really passionate about. I absolutely love planning my family & friend’s trips. I get silly excited helping them and talking about their upcoming plans.
I started the blog and all of the other social media outlets because I wanted a way to get my name and my new journey “out there”. I knew that once potential guests could see how much I had to offer and how knowledgeable I am, they would know that I would be an excellent agent for their trip. Now that I have some great followers, I would love to use the opportunity to reach more people and reward someone in the process.
I would like to give away a Disney T-Shirt. These shirts are great for every day wear but we especially love wearing ours in the Disney parks. Below is the image that will be put on the t-shirt. Winner can choose between a gray or black shirt and they can choose the size – any size for child or adult. Winner can also choose the color of the image. Some of the entries can be done each day so share and win!
More “Cars” action is coming to Hollywood Studios this Spring!
Lightening McQueen’s Racing Academy zips into Hollywood Studios March 31! With it comes cars, music, dancing, and endless fun. Just outside Sunset Showcase, Piston Cup Champion Cruz Ramirez will stop to meet and greet with all of her fans. DJ, another familiar face will cruise on in and provide the party scene! He will blast off with “DJ’s Ready, Set, Party Time!!” a few times each day. A fun and entertaining party that has Lightning’s Pit Crew gathering guests and getting them involved in dances and games. This is an experience that all Cars fans are going to love!
Look for it this this Spring at Hollywood Studios!
Contact me and let’s get you to Hollywood Studios this spring! All qualifying reservations receive the Minnie Box!
Join us this Summer as Rafiki’s Planet watch reopens at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
The Affection Section and the Wildlife Express will be back up and running if you travel to Animal Kingdom this Summer. The Affection Section, a petting zoo full of sweet animals that you can touch, brush, and love on will return. It has been spruced up and enhanced but it is still the same place where guests of all ages can interact and care for animals as well as see how the Cast Members care for them.
The entire land will still place a large emphasis on Conservation. This current refurbishment will add a large presence of The Lion King which also has heavy themes of conservation and taking only what you need.
Plan a trip and come see all the new changes over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
The Tron attraction being built at The Magic Kingdom is making progress and recently, it hit a big milestone in the eyes of the Project Teams. One of the first steel support beams for the ride was unveiled and Cast Members were invited to sign.
The Tron attraction is currently being built behind Tomorrowland Speedway and Space Mountain. The ride will be based on the lightcycle from some of the Tron movies; a personal transport system that resembles a motorcycle and runs on liquid energy. The cycles will be two across and it will be a coaster-style attraction. Once aboard, “players” will be able to race, swerve, and turn through the “grid”.
A video from the Tron attraction in Shanghai Disney
SoCal Attractions 360 Published on Jun 24, 2016
The Tron attraction coming to Magic Kingdom is set to open in 2021 in time for the 50th Anniversary of the Park. So Exciting!
Captain Hook is looking for new recruits to help him swab the deck! If you are 4-12 and are looking for a great adventure with the Captain and his crew, then this would truly be a magical adventure for you! They set sail from Disney’s Beach Club resort and the crew will be taught how to walk, talk, and act like a pirate before setting out on the ultimate treasure hunt. Once the treasure is found, the crew will be treated to a pirate’s feast! All of this and more on this new adventure which will start setting sail April 2019. Now taking reservations!!
Mermaid School
If you or your little has always wanted to be a mermaid, now you can be part of Ariel’s World! Offered at select Walt Disney World Resort Pool’s will be a class teaching you just how to do that! Mermaids, ages 4 and up will be fitted with their very own mermaid tail. During an hour long class, you will be taught how to swim and play the mermaid way!
Art Program
Now being offered at various Disney Hotel Resorts are art classes offered by Disney Professional Artists. Guests ages 12 and older can create their own masterpiece. There is a junior class for kids at Port Orleans for 6 and up. Offerings include:
Win, Paint, Show at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Wild About Painting, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Painting on de’ Bayou (adults), Painting by the Lagoon (kids), Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter Resort. Children’s painting class; designed for ages 6 and older; accompanying parent required.
Painting in the Vineyard, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts
Canvas and Wine Glass Painting on the Boards, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Calling all fisherman, big and small!! Guests can take a guided fishing tour of Seven Seas Lagoon. Guests of all ages can choose between a pontoon boat or a bass fishing boat with up to 5 in a party. Excursions are catch and release and can be chartered for 2 or 4 hours
Looking to enhance your trip by adding some extra magic?! Contact me and we can add any of these to a vacation package for you!
Disney has announced those most Magical dates we have all been waiting for! Opening dates for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open on May 31st in Disneyland and August 29th at Walt Disney World!
Because of the demand and how excited guests have been to see this land, Disney World has decided to open the land in phases. This will get guests in as early as possible however it does mean that not everything will be open. On opening day, you will be able to experience Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run. Guests will be able to take control of the ship and hold on for a wild ride. In phase 1, guests will also get to experience all of the food and merchandise we have all been waiting to see.
Phase 2 will have to opening to the second ride, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. This is said to be one of the most innovative and immersive experiences of our time. An opening date for this specific attraction has not yet been released. We are only being told “later this year”.
Tell me this does not look amazing!! Somewhere Sheldon is Bazinga-ing all over the place.
In Disneyland, Galaxy’s Edge is supposed to be opening all at once – no phases. Guests who plan to visit between opening day and June 23rd will need to make a no-cost reservation to visit the land in addition to theme park admission. After that, no reservation is required, only theme park admission.
If you want to go visit a Galaxy Far, Far Away, please let me know if you are interested in a no-obligation quote! My services are free of charge and can save you time and money. Plus, all qualifying reservations receive our Minnie Box! A special gift tailored to your family trip.
Disney has released more details about the new land coming to Disney World & Disneyland – Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge!
This is what we have known for a short while. There will be two main attractions in the land – Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and Millenium Falcon: Smugglers Run (What is the obsession with the “:” all about?). They have also told us about one of the eateries – Oga’s Cantina. Overnight, Disney released more information about a section of the land called Batuu. This is the home of the “Black Spire Outpost” and is the section you will first come into when you enter Galaxy’s Edge. They have also revealed that the Play Disney Parks App will play a big role in guest’s interaction with the land. Sounds fun!
So first things first- FOOD!! Here is what they have informed us about:
Docking Bay 7 Food & Cargo – Exotic and unusual dishes will be served by Chef Strono “Cookie” Tuggs. He has cruised the galaxy with his traveling diner “Tugg’s Grub”.
Ronto Roasters – This looks pretty amazing. They cook various kinds of exotic meats using an old podracing engine as the heat source.
Milk Stand – Here you can purchase blue or green milk from the Bubo Wamba Family farm.
Kat Saka’s Kettle – This street merchant will sell a popular Outpost Mix. This mix is made up of different types of popcorn.
Next – Merchandise! There is no shortage of places to get all your Star Wars needs – from costume attire to sweet cuddly friends that you can take home with you.
Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities – Here, travelers can find unique items from all across the universe.
Savi’s Workshop – Handbuild Lightsabers – At this shop, travelers can find a group known as the Gatherers. This group passes on their knowledge of Jedi Lore and tries to keep the balance in the universe. You will also find a Master Guide that can assist you in building the Lightsaber that will best suit you.
Droid Depot – At Mubo’s Workshop, you will find various parts of droids. Travelers can build a droid to bring home with them.
First Order Cargo – This temporary landing base is the current location of the first order. They have brought containers and crates of attire, supplies, and gear to share to win the hearts of travelers and guests that come to the Black Spire Outpost
Resistance Supply – Here, followers of the resistance can find supplies, gear, food, and different types of attire.
Now that we know several attractions & merchants that will be a part of Galaxy’s Edge, we need to answer the biggest question – When will it be open to visit?!!? More to come! I know there are a lot of you holding out on booking your trip until the dates are released. Once they are, those resorts will book up faster that you can imagine! Follow me to be one of the first to know when it will open!!
The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is just around the corner. This year, it will run March 6th through June 3rd. This Limited Time Magic is not something you want to miss. The flowers are stunning and we love walking through all of the gardens, but now let’s talk about the food offerings!
This year, 17 Outdoor Kitchens will be serving as well as other areas for tastings throughout Epcot. The food will all be inspired by fresh ingredients that you can find in gardens. They do have vegetarian and gluten free options if that is something someone in your party prefers or requires. Don’t miss out on all the delicious offerings and fun beverages!
2019 Menu’s:
ARBOR (Located at The Gardeners Terrace in The Odyssey Center) Food:
Fried Green Tomatoes with Blue Crab-Fennel Salad, Remoulade, and Smoked Paprika Oil
Smoked Salmon Stack with Avocados, Tomatoes, Sour Cream, Caviar, and Focaccia Crostino
Mixed Berry Buttermilk Cake with Apple Cider Sorbet (GF, V)
Beverages:
Original Sin Brewery Black Widow Hard Cider, New York, NY
Florida Beer Company Caribé Strawberry Rose Hard Cider, Cape Canaveral, FL
3 Daughters Brewing Key Lime Apple Hard Cider, St. Petersburg, FL
Karbach Brewing Lemon and Ginger Radler Houston, TX
Seadog Brewing Company Sunfish Ale, Clearwater, FL
Shipyard Brewing Company Grind the Rind Watermelon IPA, Portland, ME
Cider Flight
Beer Flight
LA ISLA FRESCA (Located in Showcase Plaza East) Food:
Jamaican-braised Beef with Pigeon Pea Rice and Micro Cilantro
Sugar Cane Shrimp Skewer with Steamed Rice and Coconut-Lime Sauc
Tropical Mousse Cake: Layers of Passion Fruit Cake, Coconut Mousse, and a Tropical Fruit Glaze with Fresh Pineapple
Beverages:
Tropical Freeze (non-alcoholic)
Golden Road Brewing Tart Mango Cart Wheat Ale, Los Angeles, CA
Tropical Freeze with Mango Rum
THE CITRUS BLOSSOM (Located near Refreshment Port) Food:
Lobster Tail with Meyer Lemon Emulsion and Grilled Lemon (GF)
Tuna Tataki with Spicy Yuzu Glaze, Mango, Avocado, and Pappadam Crisp
Crispy Citrus Chicken with Orange Aïoli and Baby Greens (GF)
Orange Cream Slushy in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper (sipper only available while supplies last) (non-alcoholic)
Islamorada Beer Company Coconut Key Lime Ale, Fort Pierce, FL
First Magnitude Brewing Lemon Hefeweizen, Gainesville, FL
Heavy Seas Brewery TropiCannon Citrus IPA, Halethorpe, MD
Orange Sunshine Wine Slushy
Beer Flight
PINEAPPLE PROMENADE (Located near Refreshment Port) Food:
Spicy Hot Dog with Pineapple Chutney and Plantain Chips
Pineapple Soft-serve Ice Cream (V)
Beverages:
Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade (non-alcoholic)
Pineapple Soft-serve Ice Cream with Fanta (non-alcoholic)
Coastal Empire Beer Co. Coco Piña Gose, Savannah, GA
Maui Brewing Co. Pineapple Mana Wheat, Kihei, HI
SweetWater Brewing Company Goin’ Coastal IPA with Pineapple, Atlanta, GA
Playalinda Brewing Company Violet Lemonade Ale, Titusville, FL
Florida Orange Groves Winery Sparkling Pineapple Wine, St. Petersburg, FL
Pineapple Soft-serve Ice Cream with Coconut Rum
Pineapple Beer Flight
THE HONEY BEE-STRO Hosted by National Honey Board (Located near Refreshment Port) Food:
Roasted Cauliflower with Buckwheat Honey Carrot Purée, Wild Rice
Pilaf, Asparagus, Honey-blistered Grapes, Sunflower Brittle, and
Coriander Flowers (GF, V)
Honey Tandoori Chicken Flatbread with White Cheddar Cheese, Charred Vegetables, Clover Honey Sour Cream, and Micro Citrus Greens
Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake with Orange Blossom
Honey Ice Cream garnished with Fennel Pollen Meringue Kisses and Petite
Lavender Shoots (V)
Beverages:
Honey-Peach Cobbler Freeze (non-alcoholic)
Goodwood Brewing Company Brandy Barrel Honey Ale, Louisville, KY
TASTE OF MARRAKESH (Located in the Morocco Pavilion) Food:
Harissa Chicken Kebab with Dried Fruit Couscous Salad
Fried Cauliflower with Capers, Garlic Parsley, and Chili-Ranch Sauce
Walnut Honey Baklava
Beverages:
Casa Beer
Larroque Chardonnay, Meknes
White Sangria
Desert Rose: Sparkling Wine topped with Pomegranate Liqueur
HANAMI (Located in the Japan Pavilion) Food:
Frushi: Fresh Pineapple, Strawberry, and Melon rolled with Coconut
Rice, sprinkled with Toasted Coconut, Whipped Cream with Raspberry Sauce
on the side (V)
Chilled Soba Noodle Salad with Pan-seared Tuna and Wasabi Dressing
Chicken Karaage with Nanban Sauce: Japanese-style Fried Chicken
served on a bed of Shredded Cabbage and topped with a Soy and
Vinegar-based Dressing
Beverages:
Kirin Draft Beer
Sayuri “Little Lilly” Nigori Sake
“Ichigo Sun” Strawberry Lemonade Cocktail with Sake, Strawberry Purée, and Lemonade
FUNNEL CAKES (Located in The American Adventure)
Key Lime Funnel Cake topped with Crumbled Graham Cracker and Whipped Cream
Lexington Brewing Company Kentucky Vanilla Barrel Cream Ale, Lexington, KY
Short’s Brewing Company Local’s Light Lager, Bellaire, MI
Dogfish Head Brewery American Beauty Pale Ale, Milton, DE
Brooklyn Brewery Defender IPA, Brooklyn, NY
Golden Road Brewing Pineapple Cart Wheat Ale, Los Angeles, CA
3 Daughters Brewing Hard Rosé Cider, St. Petersburg, FL
Beer Flight
THE SMOKEHOUSE: BARBECUE AND BREWS (Located in The American Adventure) Food:
Pulled Pig Slider with Coleslaw
Beef Brisket Burnt Ends and Smoked Pork Belly Slider with Garlic Sausage, Chorizo, Cheddar Fondue, and House-made Pickle
Shredded Beef Brisket with Smoked Potato, Chorizo Fondue, and Green Tomato Relish
Warm Chocolate Cake with Bourbon-salted Caramel Sauce and Spiced Pecans (V)
Beverages:
Frozen Simply Lemonade (non-alcoholic)
Central 28 Brewing Company Sunshine Greetings Orange Hibiscus Wheat Ale, DeBary, FL
3 Daughters Brewing Phantasmas Spicy Double IPA, St. Petersburg, FL
Shipyard Maple Bacon Stout, Clearwater, FL
Boneshaker Zinfandel, Lodi, CA
Frozen Simply Lemonade with Blackberry Moonshine
Beer Flight
FIFE & DRUM (Located in The American Adventure)
Short’s Brewing Company Soft Parade Shandy, Bellaire, MI
PRIMAVERA KITCHEN (Located in the Italy Pavilion) Food:
Pizza Toscana: Rustic Italian Flatbread with Sweet Sausage, Caramelized Onion, Mozzarella, Asiago, and Parmesan Cheeses
Pomodori Verdi e Mozzarella: Fried Green Tomatoes, Mozzarella Cheese, and Balsamic Reduction
Tri-colored Cheese Tortellini, Sage Butter, and Chicken Veloute
If you would like to escape to Epcot in the next few months to experience all the Food & Garden Festival has to offer, contact me and we will get you on your way!
Turning Dreams Into Memories 