Category Archives: Florida

Top Five Hidden Gems at Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

Are you wanderlusting for a European getaway? How does being whisked away to the seaside village of Portofino, Italy sound?

That’s exactly where you’ll feel like you are when you arrive at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando. Staying here will feel as if you’re living the sweet life… or as they say in Italy, ‘la dolce vita.’ If you are looking to make your Universal Orlando Resort vacation extra special, don’t miss these five hidden gems at Portofino Bay Hotel.

Here are some of my favorite things to do at the hotel that you definitely won’t want to miss.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

1. Opera Singers on the Piazza

Every night around sunset (weather permitting), you’ll be able to hear the romantic sounds of our opera singers. One of my favorite ways to enjoy this beautiful music is with a cheese plate and small bottle of wine for two from Sal’s Market Deli, just below the balcony where the singers perform. It makes for a perfect date night.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

2. Gelato

What’s a trip to Italy without a delicious scoop of creamy gelato? I definitely can’t leave the hotel without enjoying a cup of pistachio gelato and taking in the view on the harbor! You can get yourself a cup of gelato from the Gelateria, which is next door to Starbucks on the Harbor Piazza. And if gelato isn’t your thing, there are also milkshakes, smoothies, pastries, coffee and espresso.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

3. Mandara Spa

spa day is definitely what you need after a long day in the theme parks! The name Mandara is Sanskrit and comes from an ancient legend about the gods’ quest to find the secret to eternal youth and beauty. I’d say that’s reason enough to indulge in a spa day.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

4. Three Pools

Do you love a little variety in life? At Portofino Bay Hotel you don’t just have to settle for one pool. We have three amazing and unique pools to choose from. In fact, this hotel has the most pools of all of our on-site hotels at Universal Orlando Resort!

  • The Beach Pool is our main pool and the perfect place for the family. This pool features a Roman aqueduct-themed water slide, a sandy beach, children’s pool, two hot tubs and plenty of games for all.
  • If you like a bit more exclusivity, our Villa Pool is a beautiful, calm pool with private cabanas and upgraded lounge chairs.
  • If you like even more seclusion, the Hillside Pool is definitely for you. The pool sits next to the hotel’s east wing and is a quiet place to relax by the water and perhaps catch up on that book you haven’t been able to finish.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

5. Bocce Ball and Games by the Pool

I love some peace and quiet by the pool but I also love a little friendly competition. You can challenge your friends and family to a game of bocce ball next to our Villa Pool or battle them in a ping-pong tournament by the Beach Pool. You can even join one of our poolside activities like water balloon tosses, pool basketball, hula hoop contests and even arts and crafts. The poolside activities take place at the Beach Pool and change daily. Be sure to check out the pool activity board for all the details.

What are your favorite hidden gems at Portofino Bay Hotel? Share with us in the comments.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando 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. 

Eight New Desserts Available at the Happily Ever After Dessert Party

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

A sweet way to end the day in Magic Kingdom Park just got sweeter, with new desserts and a second location for viewing the Magic Kingdom Park “Happily Ever After” fireworks spectacular. You can book the Happily Ever After dessert party to enjoy these sweet treats and a reserved viewing area for the fireworks.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Based on your preference, you can choose from two viewing areas: Plaza Garden Viewing (if you want to better see the castle projections) and Tomorrowland Terrace (where there’s reserved and covered seating).

And those new desserts! Here’s a peek at the 10 desserts included with the Happily Ever After dessert party, where all but two are new:

  • A Villains Chocolate Cupcake inspired by Ursula with purple buttercream and chocolate crispy pearls.
  • Pineapple Delight is a Dole Whip-inspired treat, light and fresh with whipped pineapple panna cotta with pineapple compote and a fresh pineapple spear.
  • Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – dark chocolate, of course, are back.
  • Chocolate Marshmallow Tart salutes Frontierland with a reimagined s’more: a graham cracker tart with chocolate custard topped with marshmallow meringue and a chocolate bar.
  • Macarons, a sweet nod to Gaston’s Tavern in Fantasyland in flavors such as pistachio, raspberry, lemon, chocolate, coffee and vanilla.
  • The bold Cheesecake Brownie Bite is in honor of the heroes in “Happily Ever After,” with a brownie topped with chocolate chip cheesecake and whipped cream. Add a drizzle of chocolate and more chocolate chips. This one is a repeat and guest favorite.
  • Strawberry Tart inspiration comes from Main Street, U.S.A., an all-American dessert with a vanilla tart shell filled with lemon curd and raspberry sauce. Add a little strawberry mousse, strawberry crisp pearls and a little whipped cream with a fresh berry.
  • The “Happily Ever After” Cupcake is the signature dessert – red velvet cake with yellow buttercream icing.
  • Perfect for Instagramming with a “Happily Ever After” chocolate garnish.
  • Chocolate Almond Cake features raspberry sauce in the center and a fresh raspberry on top.
  • And Mickey is the muse for the Oreo Mickey Treat, whipped Oreo panna cotta topped with two chocolate ears and sprinkled with chocolate pearls on top of an Oreo.

For reservations, go to www.DisneyWorld.com/dining or call 407-WDW-DINE. Cost is $59 for Plaza Garden viewing ($35 ages 3 to 9); Tomorrowland Terrace is $79, $47 ages 3 to 9. Both include tax but not gratuity. Separate Magic Kingdom Park admission is required. The fireworks experience may be changed or canceled without prior notice.

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. 

Top Five Hidden Gems at Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

You don’t have to travel to the Pacific Islands to enjoy the tropical wonders typically found in a Polynesian paradise—they’re all right here at Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando. But beyond the swaying palm trees, sparkling blue waters and flourishing orchids, there are some hidden gems at Royal Pacific to help you bring your vacation to the next level!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

1. The Wok Experience

Take a break from burgers and fries, and immerse yourself in the all-you-care-to-eat Wok Experience. On select nights in Islands Dining Room, you can indulge on custom stir fry dishes, an extensive salad bar, Asian-inspired soup station, delectable dessert station and more.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

2. Torch Lighting Ceremony

On Saturday evenings, sing along to the “oli aloha” welcome chant, and get wrapped up in the sights and sounds of the poolside torch lighting ceremony. This complimentary event includes a fire dancer, hula dancer and a ukulele player. You might even learn to do the hula yourself!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

3. Sushi at Orchid Court

The Orchid Court Lounge is a tucked away oasis in the hotel’s lobby. Tempt your taste buds with one of the chef’s specialty rolls or sip on a craft cocktail. This is the perfect spot to sit and relax after a busy day in the parks.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

4. Wantilan Luau

Who doesn’t associate a trip to the Polynesian Island’s with a luau? Experience the tradition firsthand with an evening of authentic Polynesian food and entertainment. This weekly show is a memorable experience to add on to your vacation. Get ready to show off those hula skills when you get home!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

5. Beer Flights at Jake’s

Get your fill of craft beer at Jake’s American Bar. Boasting an impressive list of beers, you can even sip on their very own brew, Jake’s American Red Lager. Enjoy an ice cold pint of one of your favorites or be adventurous and try some new brews in a beer flight. Jake’s also hosts expertly paired beer dinners as well as outdoor beer festivals on select nights throughout the year.

Check out the video below for a first-hand view of some of these hidden gems at Royal Pacific and more.

Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando 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. 

Full List of Celebrity Narrators for 2017 Candlelight Processional at Epcot

(Mariah Wild, photographer)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney has finally confirmed the full list of this year’s celebrity narrators for the 2017 Candlelight Processional, part of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, which includes both new faces and returning favorites.

Disney Legend Kurt Russell, who has starred in Disney films from the 1960s to 2017’s “Guardians of the Galaxy 2” will read the Christmas story this year – as well as gold- and silver-medal-winning gymnast Laurie Hernandez. Two veterans of the event – actress/comedienne Ana Gasteyer and Jodi Benson, voice of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” – have now completed this year’s list.

As previously announced, new narrators for this year’s lineup include Matt Bomer (“White Collar,” “The Last Tycoon,”); Star Wars fan favorite Warwick Davis, who played Wicket the Ewok in “Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi;” Daytime Television Legend Pat Sajak and TV star CCH Pounder, who was recently at Disney’s Animal Kingdom for the grand opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar.

And returning this year are everyone’s favorite hard-driving Dr. Bailey from “Grey’s Anatomy,” Chandra Wilson – and newly-named Disney Legend Whoopi Goldberg, co-host of ABC’s “The View.”

Here is the full list of celebrity narrators for the 2017 Candlelight Processional (everything subject to change, of course):

  • Nov. 24- 26 – Laurie Hernandez – NEW!
  • Nov. 27-28 – Matt Bomer – NEW!
  • Nov. 29 – 30 – Ana Gasteyer
  • Dec. 1-3 – Whoopi Goldberg
  • Dec. 4-5 – Pat Sajak – NEW!
  • Dec. 6-8 – Jodi Benson
  • Dec. 9-11 – Kurt Russell – NEW!
  • Dec. 12-14 – Warwick Davis – NEW!
  • Dec. 15-17 – Trace Adkins
  • Dec. 18-21 – Neil Patrick Harris
  • Dec. 22-24 – CCH Pounder – NEW!
  • Dec. 25-27 – Jaci Velasquez
  • Dec. 28-30 – Chandra Wilson

The Candlelight Processional presents the traditional story of Christmas in truly spectacular fashion – with a celebrity narrator, a 50-piece orchestra and a massed choir.

The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the America Gardens Theatre. These packages, available on select nights, include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited.

In addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite restaurants in and near Epcot like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and The Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort,** with breakfast and dinner options being offered at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk.

Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $35 plus tax per person for adults and $21 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $44 plus tax per person for adults and $15.50 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9.

Epcot provides an extravaganza of holiday entertainment, merchandise, food, beverages and festivities where guests can celebrate at Epcot throughout the holiday season. Time-honored traditions come alive through the sights and sounds of the countries of World Showcase, and live performances enliven the park throughout the day.

Visit the booking page to book a Candlelight Processional dining package, or to find out more information, call 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).

*Narrators and entertainment are subject to change without notice. Epcot admission is required and not included in the dining package price.

** (NOTE: Captain’s Grille is currently under refurbishment. Candlelight Packages will be available once it reopens.)

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. 

All of the Details for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2017 at Magic Kingdom

All of the Details for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2017 at Magic Kingdom

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

All of the Details for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2017 at Magic Kingdom

Planning a visit to Walt Disney World Resort for the holidays? Then you can’t miss Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2017 at Magic Kingdom Park, which celebrates the season with festive decor, glittering holiday lights, special photo opportunities, holiday entertainment you have to see to believe, snow on Main Street, U.S.A., and so much more.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2017, which requires a special ticket to attend, will be held on the following nights: November 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 26 and 28; and December 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21 and 22. Party fun takes place from 7 p.m.-midnight, although party ticket holders may enter the park as early as 4 p.m. to enjoy regular park offerings.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Kicking off the evening is the must-see offering, “A Frozen Holiday Wish.” Guests arriving early for the party can watch as royal sisters Anna and Elsa lead a celebration for their friends on the Castle Forecourt Stage that culminates in Queen Elsa using her incredible powers to transform Cinderella Castle into a shimmering ice palace for the holidays.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Later in the evening, the stage plays host to “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration,” a live show in which Mickey and his pals hold an unforgettable holiday gathering that celebrates friendship and music.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Another party must-see is “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade,” which steps off twice during each party night. This enchanting holiday parade features dancing gingerbread men, marching toy soldiers, Disney characters, Santa Claus and more bringing the fun straight down Main Street, U.S.A.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Then the highlight of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2017 nights is “Holiday Wishes Fireworks– Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” a special fireworks show set to holiday tunes that lights up the sky above Magic Kingdom Park.

The party also offers guests a chance to snack on complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, enjoy party exclusive character greetings (and photos!), as well as pick up event-exclusive merchandise and holiday treats.

Are you planning to attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2017?

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. 

New Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour Available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney recently announced an exciting new way to experience Disney’s Animal Kingdom — the Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour!

Prepare for an adventure like no other as this tour gives you the opportunity — as the park transitions from day to night — to experience the magic of nature in a totally unique way. Your tour guides treat you like a VIP as they impart their detailed knowledge while you explore the Disney’s Animal Kingdom lands to observe the critters, creatures and other denizens of the park. Plus, you get to enjoy certain attractions with expedited FastPass+ access. The Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour is a great way to make the most of your time in Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

The tour takes approximately four hours, and there is a discount available for Annual PassholdersDisney Vacation Club members and Disney Visa cardholders.

If you haven’t tried the Enchanting Extras Collection, yet, it lets you enjoy extra, unparalleled access to what Walt Disney World has to offer. And that equals unforgettable memories for you and that special someone or you and your family. From behind-the-scenes tours and culinary adventures to special events and encounters with nature and more, you’ll be amazed at the range of enchantment that awaits you beyond the theme park fun.

Other experiences in the collection include limited-time events throughout the year that make each season special, like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween PartyDisney Night of Joy, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and more. You can view wild animals of nearly every color, shape and size in their natural habitat with Wild Africa Trek. Plus dessert parties that cater to your sweet tooth, each set to the backdrop of a popular special event — including Celebration at the Top – Sip, Savor, SparkleStar Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert PartyTiana’s Riverboat Party; and the new Frozen Ever After Dessert Party.

Create treasured moments with the Enchanting Extras Collection, a unique, specialized way to splurge on yourself and your loved ones.

Separate park admission is required for the Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour. For more information about the Enchanting Extras Collection or to make reservations, call 407-WDW-PLAY (939-7529). Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

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. 

Top Five Hidden Gems at Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

Everything in Loews Sapphire Falls Resort—from the delicious food and drinks to the gorgeous views and tropical décor—makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a Caribbean island.

As if you needed any more reasons to checkout Sapphire Falls, here are five hidden gems at Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando Resort that will leave you craving an island escape.

1. Party in the Caribbean

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

Have you always wanted to attend a party in paradise? Well, this is your chance! And good news – you don’t even need a passport. Caribbean Carnaval at Sapphire Falls will take you on a high-energy journey through the Caribbean islands. The family-friendly dinner show includes authentic dishes, yummy beverages, jammin’ island music and fun dancers that will make you want to conga all night long.

2. Find your Perfect Rum at Strong Water Tavern

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

I have to be honest with you, I’m not a huge rum drinker. However, when I walk into Strong Water Tavern I’m immediately converted into one. The main reason for this is the Rum Flight which takes you on a rum journey with one of the bar’s rum captains. With over 60 types of rums available, your rum captain will suggest different rums based on your specific pallet. Trust me – you’ll find one that makes you want to sip the night away on the bar’s picturesque outdoor deck.

3. Imported Goodies at New Dutch Trading Co.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

This quick service coffee and snack bar is anything but average. At New Dutch Trading Co., you can choose from familiar favorites like craft sandwiches, fresh brews and blends, pastries, ice cream and other sweet treats. But if you’re looking for something more adventurous, sample exotic finds from around the globe with imported goodies like Dutch chocolate and Spanish wine, specialty spices from the Caribbean, or seasonings and teas inspired by Sapphire Falls’ signature restaurants.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

4. The Best Nachos in the Caribbean (and Orlando)

What’s better than lounging by the pool? Lounging by the pool with nachos. The nachos from the Drhum Club Kantine pool bar are some of the best in Orlando. Topped with black beans, cheddar cheese sauce, sour cream, Pico de Gallo, guacamole and optional chicken or beef – or both; no judgment here – these nachos are the perfect poolside snack.

5. A Pool that’s Unlike any Other

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

The pool at Sapphire Falls is the best of any Universal Orlando on-site hotel. For starters, it’s the largest resort pool at Universal so there’s plenty of room for the entire family. The waterslide is so much fun that you’ll see both children and adults taking a ride. But, one of the best features is the zero entry sand bar that goes across the middle of the pool. It looks like you’re walking on water and you don’t have to walk all the way around the perimeter of the pool to get your nachos at the Drhum Club Kantine.

Have you already visited Loews Sapphire Falls Resort? Share your favorite hidden gems at Sapphire Falls in the comments below!

Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando 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. 

Four Things to Do During the 2017 Holiday Season at Disney Springs

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

At Disney Springs, you can create family memories, celebrate the season and find special gifts for all of the special people on your list – plus maybe even a treat or two for you! Make your holidays more magical, too, by enjoying everything Disney Springs will have to offer this holiday season…

The secret is out. Disney Springs has the most complete collection of Disney-inspired products anywhere! Because of that, it may be where you want to start your holiday shopping.

While holiday shopping is certainly more magical at Disney Springs, it’s just one of the many reasons your family will want to visit. Here are four things to do during the 2017 holiday season at Disney Springs:

  • A Bigger, Better Disney Springs’ Christmas Tree Trail: Last year Disney introduced custom decorated holiday trees to the Marketplace, each themed to a popular Disney story or character. This year, the Christmas Tree Trail will expand to twenty-five trees – many of them larger than last year’s evergreens – including ten new trees inspired by Disney classics such as Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan, Snow White and Dumbo.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • Stitch’s Holiday Gift Hunt: The mischievous experiment 626 is at it again with an expanded scavenger hunt featuring four new stops, including a special stop at the more-magical-than-ever Disney Springs’ Christmas Tree Trail. This is a great activity for families with kids! It’s your chance to work together, decipher clues, and discover all the spots where Stich is hiding. Complete the mission and receive a limited-edition button.
  • Meet & Greet with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear: The eight-foot tall Coca-Cola polar bear is available for meet and greets on the second floor of The Coca-Cola Store. If your family is Coca-Cola fans, you won’t want to miss this unique photo opportunity.
  • La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil: After nearly twenty years, “La Nouba” will take its final bow on December 31, 2017. There’s nothing else quite like the gravity-defying, jaw-dropping thrill of this stunning 90-minute show. There are still limited tickets available; visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/la-nouba for additional information and to purchase.

Complimentary and adjacent self-parking keeps things simple and hassle-free. With the retail delivery service available at all Disney Springs stores, you can easily pop in to any of the award-winning restaurants to relax and refuel.

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. 

Top Five Reasons to Attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2017

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Top Five Reasons to Attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2017

There’s so much to enjoy at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park – from characters in costume and complimentary treats, special shows, fireworks and more.

Here are our top five reasons to attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2017:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  1. Trick-Or-Treating! – Feeling like a kid again and being able to trick-or-treat right alongside our kids is so incredibly entertaining! Guests of all ages are welcome to do so at candy stops throughout Magic Kingdom Park on party nights. Be sure to pick up an event map on your way in to find your way to special treat stops.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  1. Disney Characters In Costume – Talk about fun photo opportunities! During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties, many Disney characters are out and about in their Halloween best, ready to greet guests and pose for photos. You can catch even more in “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade” at the event. Seeing the creative costumes our guests come up with is also a lot of fun.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  1. The “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” Stage Show – In this guest-favorite stage show, the Sanderson sisters – Winifred, Mary and Sarah – visit the mortal world for an all-new adventure, with a plan to use their magic to throw the best, evil Halloween party this side of the graveyard. You don’t want to miss the character appearances and fun musical numbers in this show.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  1. The “Mickey’s Boo To You Halloween Parade – This spooktacular procession steps off twice each party night, led by an appearance from the Headless Horseman. Be on the lookout for an entire section of the parade inspired by residents of the Haunted Mansion, including marching butlers, waltzing spirits and the Hitchhiking Ghosts themselves!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  1. Happy HalloWishes Fireworks – Partygoers can’t miss the event’s special Halloween-themed fireworks spectacular. Narrated by the Ghost Host from The Haunted Mansion, the skies explode with color to the tunes of “Grim Grinning Ghosts,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” “Never Smile at a Crocodile,“ “The Skeleton Dance,” from Silly Symphony and more.

What are your favorite reasons to attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2017?

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. 

Top Three Tips for Making the Most of a Rainy Day at Disney World

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Summer days at Walt Disney World Resort can be beautifully sunny, but they can also be filled with humidity and lots of rain! Here are three tips to help you make the most of a rainy day at Disney World!

  1. Find and enjoy the many indoor attractions and shows. Some of the best choices include “it’s a small world,” Pirates of the Caribbean, and Mickey’s PhilharMagic at Magic Kingdom ParkSoarin’The Seas with Nemo & Friends, and World Showcase Pavilions at EpcotStar Wars Launch BayStar Tours, and Toy Story Mania at Disney’s Hollywood Studios; and the amazing shows “The Festival of the Lion King” and “Finding Nemo – The Musical” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
  2. Be sure to pack clothing that is appropriate for all types of weather. It is usually hot and humid so you need clothes that are light but also that can dry easily in case you get caught in the afternoon downpour. You also need comfortable shoes and socks! Brings extra pairs of socks because your feet will be the first thing to get soaked during a summer downpour. Wet socks are not fun! Also, you will want to bring rain jackets or ponchos and even umbrellas to stay dry. Trust me, they’re much cheaper to pack and bring with you than to purchase in the parks. However, if you do forget any rain gear, you can always buy what you need at the stores in the resorts and the parks.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. Find indoor character greeting locations where your family can take photos and ask for autographs where they are allowed. You can find Mickey Mouse and Tinker Bell at Tony’s Town Square in Magic Kingdom Park; Mickey and Minnie at the Outpost at Disney’s Animal Kingdom; Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy at the Epcot Character Spot; and BB-8 and Kylo Ren at Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

What are your favorite things to do during a rainy day at Disney World? Be sure to share your favorites with us in the comments below!

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.