Category Archives: Uncategorized

Free Dining Returns to Disney World Exclusively for Disney+ Subscribers in 2024

@Disney

For Disney+ Subscribers – GET A FREE DINING PLAN when you purchase a non-discounted 4-night/4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package that includes a room at select Disney Resort hotels and tickets with a Park Hopper Option. For arrivals most nights 7/1–9/30/24*.

STAY IN THE MAGIC

Experience the same legendary detail, service and storytelling found in Walt Disney World® Theme Parks when you book a stay at a Disney Resort hotel. From unique accommodations to distinctive dining options, themed rooms and more, Disney Resort hotels offer Guests a variety of options that exemplify the Disney Difference. 

As a Guest, you’ll enjoy: 

  • Early Theme Park Entry: Stay in the magic at a Disney Resort hotel and enjoy 30 minutes early entry to any Theme Park every day! With early theme park entry, you can enjoy select attractions, shops and dining before regular hours. This benefit is offered on each day of your stay—in any park, subject to capacity. For early Theme Park entry, you’ll need Disney MagicMobile service or a Key to the World Card, as well as valid admission and a Theme park reservation for the same park on the same day.
  • Extended Evening Theme Park Hours: When you stay at a Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort, you’ll enjoy extended evening hours on select nights in select Theme Parks. For extended evening hours, you’ll need Disney MagicMobile service or a Key to the World Card, as well as valid admission.
  • Close Proximity to the Action: Enjoy the ease and convenience of getting around Walt Disney World Resort with fun transportation options. Zip about on the world-famous monorail, fly high on Disney Skyliner and cruise along serene waterways aboard a water taxi. Some of the Disney Resort hotels are even within walking distance of a Theme Park. 
  • Enchanting Amenities: Walt Disney World Resort hotels boast one-of-a-kind features that will immerse you in the worlds of classic Disney tales—including themed pools with slides, poolside activities, delicious dining experiences and much more. 
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* Proof of Disney+ subscription is required. This offer is only available to Disney+ Subscribers residing in the United States and Canada. The Disney+ Subscriber must stay in the room. The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package. Offer excludes select room types. Tickets valid beginning on the date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of ticket. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Advance reservations required. Walt Disney Travel Company CST#1022229-50

To book your magical Walt Disney World Resort vacation, call Siera today at (734) 771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com.

The World as Your Classroom: A Journey into Learning Adventures with World Schooling

In a world where education has traditionally been confined to the four walls of a classroom, there’s a movement that’s redefining the way we learn. World Schooling, as it’s called, is a concept that has been gaining momentum in recent years. It’s not just a method of education; it’s a way of life that offers a unique and enriching approach to learning.

What is World Schooling?

At its core, world schooling is an approach to education that takes learning outside the traditional classroom and into the real world. It’s about using the world as your textbook and embracing the myriad of experiences, cultures, and landscapes it has to offer as opportunities for learning.

Why World Schooling?

Experiential Learning: World schooling is all about learning through experiences. Whether it’s visiting historical sites, immersing yourself in local cultures, or exploring nature, every moment becomes a lesson.

Cultural Immersion: One of the greatest advantages of world schooling is the opportunity for cultural immersion. Living among or just spending time with local people, trying their cuisine, and participating in their traditions fosters a deep understanding and appreciation of diversity.

Flexibility: World schooling offers complete flexibility in curriculum. You can tailor your learning to suit your child’s interests and passions, ensuring a more engaging and enjoyable educational experience.

Life Skills: Beyond academic knowledge, world schooling emphasizes the development of life skills like adaptability, problem-solving, and communication- skills that are invaluable in the real world.

world schooling

How to Get Started

Set Your Goals: Determine your educational objectives and what you want to achieve through world schooling. This will guide your world schooling journey.

Choose Your Destinations: Select places that align with your learning goals. Consider factors like culture, history, language, and natural wonders.

Plan Your Budget: World schooling doesn’t have to be expensive, but it can require careful financial planning. Create a budget that covers travel, accommodations, and education resources like unique experiences in the destination.

Legal and Visa Considerations: Research the visa requirements of any countries you’d like to visit. Some places do have specific rules for homeschooling or remote learning.

Educational Resources: Gather educational materials, books, online courses, and tools that will support your learning journey.

Living the World Schooling Lifestyle

Document Your Journey: Keep a journal, blog or vlog to document your experiences and lessons learned.

Local Engagement: Interact with locals, participate in community activities, and even volunteer at your destination to truly immerse yourself in a culture.

Balancing Travel and Education: Find a rhythm that works for you. Some days might be dedicated to exploring, while others focus on studying.

Although world schooling can present challenges, your family will certainly benefit from personal growth in addition to a broader perspective and deeper appreciation for the world’s diversity.

World schooling is more than just an education style. It’s a life-changing adventure that opens doors to new experiences. It’s an opprtunity to embrace the world as your classroom and learn from it in the most profound and enriching ways. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of turning your wanderlust into a learning experience, world schooling might be the perfect journey for you and your family. It’s a path less traveled, but the rewards are boundless, and the lessons are unforgettable.

If we can help you plan your next world schooling adventure, schedule a complimentary consultation here today!

Where would you like your world schooling adventures to take you? Let us know in the comments below!

Start Your Holiday Shopping at ShopDisney

shopDisney Holiday Shop is officially here! It’s your destination for festive finds for the entire family.

The holidays are quickly approaching! Get a head start on your holiday shopping this year at ShopDisney and have gifts for the whole family delivered right to your door!

shopDisney
Image: ShopDisney

You’ll be cozy for all your galactic holiday outings in this cute Christmas cardigan. Featuring artwork of Ewoks, candy canes, presents, and snowflakes this zip-up sweater will keep you warm this merry season.

shopDisney
Image: ShopDisney

The holidays will definitely be more fun in the company of some of your favorite Pixar characters. Sulley, Carl Fredricksen and Buzz Lightyear have all been reimagined as nutcrackers in the festive design of this bite-sized simulated leather bag by Danielle Nicole.

shopDisney
Image: ShopDisney

Pay tribute to one of Disney’s greatest Christmas stories of all time, The Santa Clause, with this fun mug. Designed after Santa’s mug in the film, this hot beverage holder features reindeer feet and Judy the elf’s hot cocoa directions ”not too hot extra chocolate shaken not stirred” on the front.

Frozen castle
Image: ShopDisney

An iridescent sparkle covers the outside of Arendelle’s regal residence. Little fans will love recreating their favorite Frozen 2 scenes with this Arendelle Castle Playset that comes with a cast of characters and opens up to reveal an array of rooms. Press the top window to activate music and lights!

holiday train
Image: ShopDisney

All aboard the Christmas special as Mickey and his friends take a ride on this festive train set by Lionel. Celebrating the 2022 ”Happy Holidays,” the set includes a locomotive and four carriages all featuring seasonal decorations and slogans, plus 32 pieces of track. With its authentic train sounds, including bell and whistle, you’re unlikely to have a silent night, but you will have fun!

Marvel pajama pants
Image: ShopDisney

Celebrate the holidays with some of your favorite Marvel super heroes. These comfy pants feature an allover festive print of Hulk, Captain America, Captain Marvel and Spider-Man that will have you slumbering in peace all through the holiday season.

shopDisney
Image: ShopDisney

Bake your own happiness this holiday season with these fun measuring cups. This set includes four measuring cups, with lid and base, that stack into a Christmas tree, perfect for adding a festive touch to your kitchen.

Pixar nightgown
Image: ShopDisney

This ”Toy to the World” nightshirt is nutcracker sweet. Featuring favorite Pixar characters depicted as nutcrackers, and bright joyful colors, it is as festive as it is comfy. It’s just the thing to make holiday dreams come true.

LEGO advent calendar
Image: ShopDisney

Build up to the holidays with the LEGO Guardians of the Galaxy Advent Calendar! Open a different door each day of December to discover a surprise gift. There are 6 minifigures waiting to be revealed, plus mini builds and accessories. As the big day approaches, bring it all together to recreate favorite scenes and Marvel adventures of your own.

Disney Loungefly
Image: ShopDisney

Get into the Christmas spirit with this festive mini backpack by Loungefly. This cute carryall features an allover print of holiday treats, striped shoulder straps, and a sequin Mickey Mouse front pocket with 3D ears for extra sweet holiday style.

Who are you shopping for this holiday season? What’s on their wish list?

Mother’s Day 2022 Gift Guide for Disney Moms

If you are a Disney mom or shopping for a Disney mom, I have some amazing gift ideas you can share with your family or order for the special mom in your life. I love ordering from Etsy because most items are handmade and best of all, it supports another small business! Here are some of my favorite Etsy items for Mother’s Day 2022:

Disney moms

Disney Home Sign

All Disney loving moms can welcome family and friends into their home with an interchangeable “welcome to our home” sign from GracefulSigns. This personalized sign includes your last name and can be purchased with any number of heads between five and thirty-five.

Minnie Ear Display

Is mom looking for a unique and fun way to display her Minnie ears? She needs a display from UtterlyInspired. UtterlyInspired also offers other fun items for the home like a Mickey (or Minnie) toilet paper holder and Mickey or Minnie napkin holder.

Disney Garden Flags

Disney garden flag

If you’d prefer something for outdoor decor, be sure to check out PKDecor. We love their Mickey and Minnie garden flag and Cinderella Castle sign. PKDecor also offers Disney k-cup holders and organizers, like this Minnie Mouse k-cup display.

Disney Hair Accessories

Some moms like bow bands while others prefer scrunchies or knotted headbands. You can find some fun Disney hair accessories at shops like Thingamabows Shop or MagicAndDreamsEars.

Disney Apple Watch Accessories

You can order a Disney Parks engraved Apple Watch band for mom to show off her favorite character. You can also find fun Mickey and Minnie Apple watch charger covers.

Disney mom gifts

Disney Apparel

Your favorite Disney mom can always use a new shirt, right? Grab a Happiest Mom on Earth shirt, Happiest Mama on Earth shirt, Disney Mom Life shirt, or another Happiest Mama on Earth shirt.

Picture Frame

Give mom what is sure to be one of her favorite gifts- a photo of a special memory. We love these personalized and engraved wood frames from TimelessEngravings.

Tumbler

Chances are that mom is always on the go so give her a tumbler she can take with her wherever she goes! Check out this Disney mom tumbler from OneSassyCraftyMama or this Happiest Mom on Earth tumbler from ENBCraftSupplies.

Disney mom gift ideas

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission from purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!

2021 Holiday Gift Guide for Every Disney Fan in Your Life

I love supporting small business! Etsy is full of small businesses and individuals who work hard to share their handmade items and creations. If possible, I encourage you to shop small this year and support these families who work so hard! Every time you purchase from a small business, you could be helping a family pay for their child’s dance class, sports, music lesson and so much more. Etsy’s Holiday Shop is full of amazing gift ideas for everyone in your life. However, if you’re shopping for a Disney fan, I have even more detailed suggestions in my 2021 holiday gift guide.

I have created a list of my favorite items on Etsy and even categorized them into groups like vacation essentials, apparel, earrings and accessories.

Disney Vacation Essentials

This list includes some of the essentials you’ll need for a day in the parks. We’ve included an ear holder for your bag, reusable straws and more.

Disney Apparel

Whether you are hanging out at home or spending the day at the Walt Disney World Resort, there are so many amazing Disney inspired shirts you can wear!

Disney Inspired Earrings

I think earrings are a fun and inexpensive way to add a touch of Disney to your day! I have highlighted some of my favorite earrings.

Disney Inspired Accessories

There are so many amazing Disney inspired accessories you can wear from head bands to scrunchies and more!

You can also check out some of my favorite Etsy shops here.

What’s your favorite Etsy shop? Be sure to share your favorites with me below!

holiday gift guide for Disney fans

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission for purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting my small business!

2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Menus

2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

From the Disney Parks Blog:

2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
Image: Disney Parks Blog

Get ready to sip, savor, and stroll across six continents at the 2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival! It’s time to celebrate the best in global food and drink at EPCOT’s longest festival ever! 

This year’s festival will be understandably different from what it was in the past. What has not changed is the chefs’ focus on authenticity through ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentation to honor the diverse global cuisines. And the beverage team has, once again, thoughtfully paired wine and beer with selections at each marketplace for the perfect sip.

New this year, a digital Festival Guidebook is available on the My Disney Experience mobile app! Check out the listing of the more than 20 festival-exclusive marketplaces and discover all the family fun activities like the return of Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak scavenger hunt; entertainment including the merry Mariachi Cobre and the rhythmic JAMMitors crew; plus, a peek at the limited-edition 25th anniversary merchandise for purchase. Download the app today to learn more.

This link takes you directly to the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Digital Guidebook on My Disney Experience, or links you to the app store if you do not have the app installed. 

Here is a peek at all the delicious offerings at the 2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Enjoy! 

Mac & Cheese Hosted By Boursin® Cheese (World Showplace)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Gourmet Macaroni and Cheese with Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese topped with Herbed Panko 
  • Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese with Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese Sauce topped with Carrots, Celery, and Blue Cheese Crumbles 
  • Lobster Macaroni and Cheese with Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese Sauce and Lobster Cream topped with Herbed Panko 
  • Macaroni & Cheese with House-made Italian Sausage and Peppers (Plant-Based)

Beverage

  • Stiegl Brewery Radler Zitrone, Salzburg, Austria 
  • L’ecole No. 41 Chenin Blanc Old Vines, Columbia Valley, WA 
  • Evolution by Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, OR

Appleseed Orchard (World Showplace)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Charcuterie and Cheese Plate featuring Burton’s Maplewood Farm Applejack Brandy Barrel Aged Maple Syrup 
  • Caramel-Apple Popcorn 

Beverage

  • Frozen Apple Pie (Non-Alcoholic)
  • Short’s Brewing Co. Mule Beer, Elk Rapids, MI 
  • Heavy Seas Brewery Tropicannon Citrus IPA, Halethorpe, MI 
  • Parish Brewing Co. Ghost in the Machine Double IPA, Broussard, LA 
  • 3 Daughters Raspberry Lemonade Dry Hard Cider, St. Petersburg, FL 
  • Short’s Brewing Company Starcut Ciders Mosa Hard Cider, Bellaire, MI 
  • Ciderboys Banana Bliss Hard Cider, Stevens Point, WI 
  • Apple Blossom Sky: Fanta® Apple, Ginger Beer, Floodwall Apple Brandy, Burton’s Maplewood Farm Applejack Brandy Barrel Aged Syrup and Mini Marshmallows 

Desserts & Champagne (World Showplace)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Liquid Nitro Chocolate Cake Pops 
  • Liquid Nitro Chocolate Cake Pops with Crumbled Twix® Original 
  • Liquid Nitro Chocolate Cake Pops with Crushed M&M’S® Milk Chocolate 

Beverage

  • Frozen S’mores (Non-Alcoholic) 
  • Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut, Champagne 
  • Dom Pérignon Brut, Champagne 
  • Veuve Clicquot Brut Rosé, Champagne 
  • Frozen S’mores with Whipped Cream Vodka 

Wine & Dine Featuring Festival Favorites (World Showplace) 

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Kielbasa and Potato Pierogi with Caramelized Onions and Sour Cream, Poland 
  • Seafood Fisherman’s Pie, Ireland 
  • Spanakopita, Greece 

Beverage

  • Forge Cellars Dry Riesling Classique, Seneca Lake 
  • Conundrum Red Blend, California 
  • tenshən Rhône Style White Blend, Central Coast 
  • Lang & Reed Wine Company Cabernet Franc, North Coast 
  • Frog’s Leap Zinfandel, Napa Valley 
  • Kurt Russell’s Gogi Wines Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills 
  • Bleu Spectrum: Blanc de Bleu Cuvée Mousseux with Boba Pearls 
  • Guinness Baileys Milkshake 

Canada

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Canadian Cheddar and Bacon Soup served with a Prop & Peller® Pretzel Roll
  • “Le Cellier” Wild Mushroom Beef Filet Mignon with Truffle-Butter Sauce (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)

Beverage

  • Collective Arts Brewing Blackberry Fruit Beer, Hamilton, Ontario 
  • Inniskillin Icewine 
  • Château des Charmes Merlot 

Refreshment Port

Food

  • DOLE Whip® Pineapple (Plant-Based)

Beverage

  • DOLE Whip® Pineapple with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum 
  • Bud Light Seltzer 

Hawai’i (Showcase Plaza)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Kālua Pork Slider with Sweet-and-Sour DOLE® Pineapple Chutney and Spicy Mayonnaise 
  • Teriyaki-glazed Spam® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers, Onions, and Spicy Mayonnaise

Beverage

  • Maui Brewing Company Pineapple Mana Wheat, Kihei, HI 
  • Florida Orange Groves Sparkling Pineapple Wine, St. Petersburg, FL 
  • AULANI Sunrise: Vodka, DOLE® Pineapple Juice, and Grenadine 

The Citrus Blossom (Showcase Plaza)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Lobster Tail with Meyer Lemon Emulsion and Grilled Lemon (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)
  • Crispy Citrus Chicken with Orange Aïoli and Baby Greens (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)

Beverage

  • Orange Cream Shake in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper Cup (Non-Alcoholic)  
  • Islamorada Beer Company Coconut Key Lime Ale, Fort Pierce, FL 
  • Orange Sunshine Wine Slushy 

Shimmering Sips (Showcase Plaza)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food 

  • Shimmering Strawberry Soft-Serve in a Waffle Cone
  • Banana Bread with Mixed Berry Compote (Plant-Based)

Beverage

  • Tropical Mimosa with Sparkling Wine and Passion Fruit, Orange, and Guava Juices 
  • Key Lime Mimosa with Key Lime Sparkling Wine and Cranberry Juice 
  • Blood Orange Mimosa with Sparkling Wine and Blood Orange Juice 
  • Banfi Rosa Regale Sparkling Red, Piedmont 

Islands of the Caribbean (Showcase Plaza)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Ropa Vieja Empanada with Tomato Aïoli 
  • Jerk-spiced Chicken with Roasted Sweet Plantain Salad and Mango Chutney Yogurt (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)
  • Flancocho:Passion Fruit Cake with Coconut Flan 

Beverage

  • Red Stripe Lager 
  • Opici Family White Sangria   
  • Frozen Mojito 

Earth Eats Hosted By Impossible™ (Near Mexico)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Impossible™ Farmhouse Meatball with Lentil Bread, Spinach, Marinated Vegetables, and Creamy Herb Dressing (Plant-Based) 
  • The Impossible™ Burger Slider with Wasabi Cream and Spicy Asian Slaw on a Sesame Seed Bun (Plant-Based) 
  • Chocolate Pudding Terrarium with Avocado Cream, Matcha Crumble, and Baby Herbs (Plant-Based and Gluten/Wheat Friendly)

Beverage

  • Bloomin’ Blueberry Lemon and Ginger Tea Featuring Twinings of London® (Non-Alcoholic) 
  • Playalinda Brewing Company Violet Lemonade Ale, Titusville, FL 
  • Bloomin’ Blueberry Lemon and Ginger Tea Featuring Twinings of London® with Tito’s Handmade Vodka served in a Mason Jar 

Mexico

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Ribeye Taco: Ribeye Steak with Ranchera Salsa in a Corn Tortilla topped with Onions, Chives, and a Lime Wedge 
  • Pork Tostada: Fried Corn Tortilla topped with Chipotle Black Beans, Roasted Pork, Fresh Salsa Verde, Onions, and Cilantro 

Beverage

  • Mexican Craft Beer: Tulum Artisanal Lager Crafted with Citrus Notes and made with Mexican Caribbean Seawater 
  • Passion Rose Sangria: Red Wine, Rum, Rose Petal Liqueur, Passion Fruit Purée, and Lime 
  • Clásica Margarita: Tequila, Chile Poblano Liqueur, Lime Juice, and Agave Nectar with a Salt Rim 
  • Mango Smoky Margarita: Mango Purée, Mezcal, Applejack, Lime Juice, and Agave Nectar with a Tajín Chile-Lime Rim 

China

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Chicken Dumplings with Chinese Slaw 
  • Mongolian Beef Bao Bun 

Beverage

  • Jasmine Draft Beer 
  • Happy Peach: Peach Liqueur and Dark Rum 
  • Byejoe Punch: Chinese Bai Jiu Spirit, Lychee, Coconut and Pineapple Juice 

Africa

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food 

  • Spicy Kenyan Vegan Corn and White Beans with Pigeon Peas, Quinoa & Ancient Grains Medley, and Kachumbari Slaw (Plant-Based)
  • Piri Piri Skewered Shrimp with Citrus-Scented Couscous 

Beverage

  • Tusker Lager 
  • Jam Jar Sweet Shiraz, Western Cape 

Refreshment Outpost (Located in the African Outpost)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Frozen Slushy Coca-Cola® or Minute Maid® Lemonadein a Souvenir Spike the Bee Sipper Cup (Non-Alcoholic)

Beverage

  • Bud Light Seltzer 

Germany

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Schinkennudeln: Pasta Gratin with Ham, Onions, and Cheese  
  • Roast Bratwurst in a Prop & Peller® Pretzel Roll
  • Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce

Beverage

  • Weihenstephaner Festbier Lager 
  • M.I.A. Brewing Company Hugo, Doral, FL  
  • Hacker-Pschorr Hefe Weisse Naturtrüb 
  • Riesling 

Italy

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Margherita: Rustic Italian Flatbread with Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese 
  • La Classica: Cheese Tortellini with Ricotta, Provolone, Fontina, Parmesan, Vodka Sauce, and Crispy Bacon 
  • Cannoli Siciliani:Crisp Pastry Filled with Sweet Ricotta, Chocolate, and Candied Orange 

Beverage

  • Peroni Nastro Azzurro Pilsner 
  • Pinot Grigio, Terre Di Bacco 
  • Chianti, Gabbiano 
  • Prosecco, Terre Di Bacco 
  • Moscato, Batasiolo 
  • Rosa Regale, Banfi 
  • Italian White Sangria with Prosecco 
  • Italian Red Sangria with Cabernet Sauvignon 

Hops & Barley

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • New England Lobster Roll: Warm Lobster with Fresh Herb Mayonnaise and Griddled Roll  
  • Southern Seafood Boil: Shrimp, Mussels, Crawfish, Potatoes, Corn, and Andouille Sausage 
  • Freshly Baked Carrot Cake and Cream Cheese Icing

Beverage

  • North Coast Brewing Co. Blue Star Wheat, Fort Bragg, CA  
  • 3 Daughters Brewing A Wake Coffee Blonde Ale, St. Petersburg, FL
  • Heavy Seas Americannon APA, Baltimore, MD 
  • Angry Orchard Rosé Hard Cider, Walden, NY
  • Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands 
  • Broadside Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles 

Funnel Cakes (Located in the American Adventure)

Food

  • Street Corn Funnel Cake topped with Roasted Corn, Cotija Cheese, Cilantro and Cumin Crema dusted with Paprika 

Japan

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Tempura Donburi: Two Pieces of Tempura Shrimp and Kakiage Vegetable Tempura with Tentsuyu Dipping Sauce served over Sushi Rice 
  • Frothy Ramen: Chilled Noodles in a Dashi Broth topped with Egg White Froth 
  • Chirashi Sushi Flowerpot: Fresh-cut Salmon, Salmon Roe, and Spinach served over Sushi Rice with Furikake and topped with Poke Sauce 

Beverage

  • Kirin Draft Beer 
  • Strawberry Nigori Sake 
  • Furano Martini: Vodka, Lavender Syrup, and Yuzu Juice 

Morocco

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Beef Kefta Pocket with Caramelized Onions, Garlic, and Spicy Tomato Concassée 
  • Spicy Hummus Fries with Cucumber, Tomatoes, Onions, Tzatziki, and Chipotle Sauce 
  • Chocolate Baklava: Rolled Phyllo Dough with Toasted Almonds and Dark Chocolate Sauce 

Beverage

  • Mediterranean Beer 
  • Kasbah Prestige Red 
  • Red Organic Sangria 
  • Mimosa Royale: Sparkling Wine and Orange Juice topped with Orange Liqueur 

Brazil (Between Morocco and France)

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Crispy Pork Belly with Black Beans, Tomato, and Onions (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)
  • Pão De Queijo: Brazilian Cheese Bread (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)

Beverage

  • M.I.A. Beer Company Barbossa Black Beer, Doral, FL  
  • Frozen Caipirinha featuring Leblon Cachaça 

France

Photo: Disney Parks Blog

Food

  • Tarte aux Oignons Caramelises Et Chévre: Goat Cheese Tart with Caramelized Onions on a Flaky Pastry Crust 
  • Canard Confit À L’orange: Braised Duck Confit À L’orange with Mashed Sweet Potatoes 
  • Tarte Tropezienne, Coulis Framboise: Brioche Cake Filled with Light Pastry Cream and Raspberry Coulis 

Beverage

  • Kronenbourg Blanc 1664 Draft Beer 
  • VeRy Raspberry: Rosé Wine with Natural Raspberry Flavor 
  • Bordeaux, Merlot and Cabernet Blend, Château Tarin 
  • La Vie en Rose Frozen Slushy: Vodka, Grey Goose L’orange, St. Germain Liqueur, White and Red Cranberry Juice 

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

Photo: Disney Parks Blog
  • Future World East – Spring Berry Bliss: Frozen Strawberry and Coconut Syrup topped with Raspberry Vodka 
  • Canada – Orange Splash: Frozen Lemon mixed with Orange Vodka 
  • American Adventure – Tropical Breeze: Frozen Lemon, Coconut Syrup, and Pineapple Rum 
  • Showcase Plaza – Passion Flower: Frozen Passion Fruit and Tea infused with Lemon Vodka 

What are you most excited to try at the 2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival during your Disney World vacation?

17 Fun Facts About The 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival

17 Fun Facts About The 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

17 Fun Facts About The 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival

Walt Disney World Resort guests are invited to join the fun when the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival turns 22 from Aug. 31-Nov. 13, 2017.  On Oct. 1, Epcot will celebrate its 35th anniversary, and this year’s festival will feature, for the first time, 35 global dine-around marketplaces. Guests will discover delicious ethnic and specialty cuisine, refreshing new beverages and more concerts and musical acts than ever.

The record 75-day festival at Disney’s Epcot theme park will include five new Future World marketplaces featuring fresh culinary concepts to pair with select wines, beers, cocktails and other beverages.  ABC’s Emmy Award-winning lifestyle series, “The Chew,” will broadcast from the festival for the third year and will again showcase dishes inspired by “The Chew” show hosts. The festival is believed to be the largest food and wine event of its kind in the world.

Here are some fun facts about the 22nd festival celebration.

  • Now 75 days long, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival began in 1996 with a first run of 30 days
  • At the 2017 festival, 35 global marketplaces will include five new marketplaces to help celebrate 35 years of Epcot –they include Active Eats, Coastal Eats, Flavors from Fire and Light Lab, all expanding into the park’s Future World area. The Almond Orchard, hosted by Blue Diamond Almond Breeze, is the fifth new marketplace located along the World Showcase promenade
  • Producers of ABC’s “The Chew” will tape 5 episodes of the show before 5 festival guest audiences numbering in the hundreds for each show Oct. 4-6 against a backdrop of the park’s iconic Spaceship Earth
  • The 22nd festival will feature 39 new marketplace dishes and 65 new cocktails, beers, wines and ciders
  • This year, more than 50 domestic and international wines will be offered at global marketplaces
  • More than 50 wineries and more than 35 breweries from around the world, including local craft beer operations, will be represented at festival marketplaces
  • The new “Disney Food and Wine Festivals Coast to Coast Cookbook” by Pam Brandon and the Disney Chefs features 50 irresistible recipes, 26 recipes from the Epcot festival global marketplaces and 24 from Disney’s California Adventure
  • 5 Party for the Senses grand tastings will take place at World Showplace during the festival run. In all, the festival will feature 177 premium events ranging from Signature Dinners and Food & Wine Pairings to “What’s Cookin’ With” and additional festival events in World Showcase pavilions and Walt Disney World resorts
  • Guest chefs and Disney chefs numbering 197 will present culinary demonstrations and will cook for festival events
  • Celebrity chefs and visiting culinarians from 11 countries and 23 U.S. states will participate in the festival at culinary demos, book signings, and special tasting events and dinners
  • 379 culinary demos, beverage and interactive seminars will take place during the 75-day festival. That’s equal to more than 6,360 hours of scheduled seminars at the Festival Center. These include the fun-filled Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It! interactive events, plus more
  • During Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak festival scavenger hunt, guests can help Remy scour the park for the ingredients to make his signature dish, ratatouille. Along the way, they’ll find 15 Remy statuettes hidden throughout World Showcase and the global marketplaces.  Guests can purchase their map and stickers at select merchandise locations, then take their completed maps to Disney Traders at the entrance to World Showcase or World Traveler at International Gateway to choose a new surprise, compliments of Chef Remy
  • 225 Eat to the Beat concerts will be performed;11 musical acts will appear for the first time at this year’s festival featuring entertainment ranging from rock and soul to funk and blues
  • The Festival Passport (previously called the Marketplace Discovery Passport) was introduced in 2010 for the 15th annual festival; today, the complimentary passport will feature pages with all 35 festival marketplaces and other outdoor food and beverage locations with special festival offerings such as Refreshment Cool Post, Fife & Drum Tavern and Refreshment Port
  • More than 1,200 fireworks will explode each night over World Showcase Lagoon in IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth nightime spectacular
  • 100,000-plus desserts, including Passion Fruit Cheesecake with Toasted Macadamia Nuts (new at Hawaii) and Sweet Olive Oil Cake with Powdered Sugar and Lemon Curd (new at Spain), are expected to be served
  • In 1997, during the festival’s second year, festival planners introduced the first Grand Tasting culinary extravaganzain 2002, the event was renamed and moved to World Showplace as Party for the Senses, now featuring dozens of food and beverage stations and, in 2017, confirmed seating for all guests plus new and different themed entertainment and surprises for each event

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Visit the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort on O’ahu

Your perfect Hawai‘i vacation awaits!

Located on O’ahu and Hawai’i, The Big Island, the Hilton Hotels & Resorts in Hawaii are the crown jewels presiding over the world-renowned tropical islands. You can pamper yourself in world-class spas, find adventure on a water excursion, or simply experience a vacation with shopping, dining and authentic activities for the whole family. These resorts are the perfect destination for an island retreat.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort – O’ahu

Located on Waikiki’s widest stretch of beach, this unique getaway offers a wide selection of 90 shops and boutiques, nightly live entertainment, weekly fireworks, award-winning restaurants, lounges and bars, 5 pools including a 5 acre salt-water lagoon and the Paradise Pool which features a ’77 foot waterslide, Camp Penguin® – children’s activity program, Waikiki Starlight Luau Mandara Spa and much, much more.

TRIPLE VALUE
Guests staying a minimum of 4 nights will receive:

  • Special Daily Rates, mandatory Resort Charge is included
  • One Category Upgrade

Book by March 31, 2014 for travel through March 31, 2014

Honeymoon Package

Honeymoon guests staying a minimum of 4 nights will receive:

  • Special Daily Rates, mandatory Resort Charge is included
  • One Category Upgrade
  • Coupon for 2 Tropical Drinks
  • Coupon for 2 Golden Circle Tickets to the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Starlight Luau

Booking  by March 31, 2014 for travel through March 31, 2104

Kids Stay FREE
Guests are allowed to have up to 3 children 17 and younger stay free of charge when sharing a guestroom with an adult and utilizing existing bedding.

Booking by March 31, 2014 for travel through March 31, 2014

Siera is a Hawaii Destinations Specialist and would love to help you plan your Hawaiian vacation at no cost to you. Request a free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email spreadingmagic@gmail.com. 

Enter to Win the Oz the Great and Powerful Sweepstakes

You can enter the Oz the Great and Powerful Sweepstakes for your chance to win a trip to the world’s largest balloon festival. Disney Movie Rewards and Delta Vacations have teamed up to bring you the Oz the Great and Powerful Sweepstakes.

The grand prize winner will receive a family vacation to Albuquerque, New Mexico and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, including:

  • Round trip airfare for a family of four
  • Three day, two night stay
  • Car rental
  • VIP Gondola Club tickets to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Fifty first prize winners will receive an Oz the Great and Powerful dress up prize package, including:
  • Theodora’s reversible witch hat
  • Spellbinding necklace and ring
  • Glinda’s signature light up tiara and wand
Fifty second prize winners will receive the Oz the Great and Powerful soundtrack from Walt Disney Records.

The Oz the Great and Powerful Sweepstakes is open to Disney Movie Rewards member who are at least 13 years of age and a legal resident of the United States or Canada. You can enter here now through October 31, 2013.

Have you not joined Disney Movie Rewards yet? You can create a free account here and still enter the sweepstakes!

Don’t forget, Oz the Great and Powerful is now available on Disney Blu-ray combo pack and HD Digital. Have you seen the movie yet? What did you think?

Are you thinking about your next vacation? I can help you find the perfect vacation for your family. Email spreadingmagic@gmail.com for more information! 

Great Spots to See “Magical” Fireworks at Disneyland

Magical is the nighttime fireworks spectacular at the Disneyland Resort in California. You will celebrate Disney magic with the “Magical” fireworks display. You are sure to feel the enchantment as bursts of vivid color and brilliant visual effects dance in the sky while beloved Disney songs from classic films fill the air. A golden comet streaks across the sky as Tinker Bell flies around Sleeping Beauty Castle. You can hear “Chim Chim Cher-ee” and other favorites as part of the tribute to the magic of imagination. Lastly, glittering pink hearts erupt in the sky as part of a prince and princess salute to the magic of a kiss!

Here are some great spots to see “Magical” fireworks at Disneyland. Plus, all three of these locations also allow you to hear the show’s soundtrack!

  • Main Street, U.S.A.- There is something magical, exciting, and awe-inspiring about watching fireworks bursting around the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle from Main Street, U.S.A.
  • “It’s a Small World”- One feature that makes this location unique is that it even offers its own mini-show, with projections onto the attraction that complement the fireworks and music.
  • Rivers of America- This is a fantastic place to catch two Disneyland park nighttime shows. If you arrive early, you can watch the first “Fantasmic!” show of the night and then, stay right there in your spot to watch “Magical.”

Have you ever seen “Magical” at Disneyland? Where do you think is the best spot to see the fireworks?

Are you considering a Disneyland vacation? Email spreadingmagic@gmail.com for more information and get a great deal!