Category Archives: Florida

Around the Mouse: Walt Disney World News, July 11, 2016

Around the Mouse: Walt Disney World News, July  11, 2016

What’s New This Week?

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Walt Disney World Theme Parks

Magic Kingdom Park

New! PinQuest Scavenger Hunt for Limited Release Pins:  A new Disney pin trading scavenger hunt debuted in Magic Kingdom Park on June 30. Featuring Steampunk-inspired artwork, this Disney PinQuest starts with a purchase of an adventure kit, which contains a lanyard to showcase your pins; a decoder medal for use with PinQuest pins; and a lanyard pouch to hold the map included in the adventure kit. The lanyard pouch also holds PinQuest clue cards which are sold separately.

There are six different PinQuest clue cards. Each clue card has a question that needs answered and shared with a NavigatEAR Cast Member in a particular location. Once solved, you can redeem the clue card for a PinQuest pin using the perforated ticket on the bottom of the clue card. Continue the hunt by using the decoder medal from the adventure kit. Line up the arrows for each pin to determine your next destination within Magic Kingdom Park. After purchasing all six clue cards and receiving stamps and pins from each location, guests who have completed the entire Magic Kingdom PinQuest are eligible to purchase a QuestEAR pin completer pin.

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Update! Diamond Horseshoe Open for Lunch and Dinner through Sept 10: Magic Kingdom Park guests will continue to have a table-service option for lunch and dinner at The Diamond Horseshoe through September 10. The Diamond Horseshoe is open daily, serving up a hearty, all-you-care-to-enjoy feast for Guests. As a reminder, the meal includes a salad, followed by a platter of flavorful entrees to choose from: barbecue pulled pork, sliced turkey, country smoked sausage or braised beef with all the fixin’s. Dessert is a chocolate brownie topped with a toasted marshmallow. Pricing is $33 plus tax for adults; $19 plus tax for children ages 3-9 years. Reservations are available.

Epcot

New! Taste Track Reopened With New Menu: Open daily from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., Taste Track offers sweet treats in addition to a variety of soft drinks and hard sodas. This kiosk offers the following menu options:

  • Hot Fudge Sundae-  Choice of vanilla, chocolate or swirl ice cream with hot fudge and choice of toppings rainbow sprinkles, chocolate sprinkles, or waffle cone pieces
  • Caramel sundae – Choice of vanilla, chocolate or swirl ice cream with caramel and choice of toppings rainbow sprinkles, chocolate sprinkles, or waffle cone pieces
  • Ice cream cookie sandwich – Choice of vanilla chocolate or swirl ice cream
  • Soft serve ice cream – Choice of vanilla, chocolate or swirl served in a waffle cone
  • Ice Cream Float – Barq’s Root Beer, Coke, or Diet coke with choice of ice cream
  • Not Your Father’s Hard Root Beer Float – Not your Father’s Hard Root Beer with choice of ice cream
  • Henry’s Hard Orange Soda Float – Henry’s Hard Orange Soda with choice of ice cream

New! 2016 Candlelight Processional Dining Packages Now On Sale: As a part of Holidays Around the World at Epcot, the Candlelight Processional presents the story of Christmas in truly spectacular fashion – with a celebrity narrator, a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. Celebrity narrators this year include some returning favorites like contemporary Christian music singer Steven Curtis Chapman, actors Whoopi Goldberg and Neil Patrick Harris and newcomers like legendary baseball player Cal Ripken, Jr. Here’s the list that’s been announced so far:

  • 11/25-27 – Steven Curtis Chapman
  • 11/28-12/1 – Neil Patrick Harris
  • 12/2-12/3 – Whoopi Goldberg
  • 12/4-12/12 – TBA
  • 12/13-12/15 – Meredith Vieira
  • 12/16-12/18 – TBA
  • 12/19-12/21 – Joe Morton
  • 12/22-12/27 – TBA
  • 12/28-12/30 – Cal Ripken, Jr.

The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the American Gardens Theatre. The Candlelight Processional Dinner packages, available on select nights, include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited. This year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite Epcot restaurants like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and 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.

Presented in the America Gardens Theatre at Epcot, Candlelight Processional is one of the most beloved holiday traditions at Walt Disney World Resort. Featuring a joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a glorious mass choir, this festive performance takes place annually in November and December. Show times are at 5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m. Epcot is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Kent Phillips, photographer)

Presented in the America Gardens Theatre at Epcot, Candlelight Processional is one of the most beloved holiday traditions at Walt Disney World Resort. Featuring a joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a glorious mass choir, this festive performance takes place annually in November and December. Show times are at 5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m. Epcot is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Kent Phillips, photographer)

Reminder! Sounds Like Summer Concert Series Started June 5: Enjoy another rocking rendezvous—the fun takes place at America Gardens Theatre with the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series. Featuring renditions of songs from Boston and the Eagles to covers of classics by Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen and the Bee Gees, Sounds Like Summer is a cover-band blast from the past that’s fun for the whole family. The summer concerts for the upcoming week include:

  • July 10-16: Bruce in the USA – A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen
  • July 17-23: DSB – A Tribute to Journey

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Reminder! Sneak Peek of “Pete’s Dragon” Now Playing: For a limited time starting July 1, a sneak peek of Disney’s reimagined classic “Pete’s Dragon” will be presented as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

New! Tiffins Offering a Small Plate Lunch Menu: A new lunch menu featuring a smaller portions of Tiffins’ most popular dishes debuted at the restaurant on Sunday, July 3. From 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. each day, Guests will have the option of pairing two options from the menu along with a Jade rice blend for just $28 per person, plus tax and gratuity. The Taste of Tiffins lunch menu, the options allow Guests to select from the following ten dishes: flash-fried blue mussels, black-eyed pea fritters, crispy Yellowtail Snapper, sustainable fish crudo, 72-hour beef short rib, salad of roasted baby beets, market vegetable curry, marinated grilled octopus, Chermoula-rubbed chicken, or the masa and pulled pork tamale. Guests are also able to order from the existing all-day menu.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

New! Disney Countdown to Midnight – A New Year’s Eve Celebration at Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Disney Countdown to Midnight – A New Year’s Eve Celebration at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is returning to ring in 2017 with even more excitement than last year. During this extraordinary event beginning at 8 p.m. at the resort hotel’s Convention Center, partygoers will experience the past, present and future in a myriad of magical ways. The event will boast a variety of entertainment offerings, kicking off with groovy dance music spanning from the ‘60s to today. Other musical acts such as Alter Ego will perform their extravagant music and dance-filled revue, as well as a unique musical act that will put a retro twist on songs of today. The culinary experience will feature best-of-the-best bites and wine pairings from California Grill, Flying Fish, Cítricos and Narcoossee’s. Guests will have the opportunity to view Magic Kingdom’s New Year’s Eve “Fantasy in the Sky fireworks Spectacular. Tickets will be $225 (including tax and gratuity) and can be purchased at Disneyworld.com/countdown or by calling 407-WDW-DINE beginning July 4.

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Walt Disney World Resort – General

New! Additional Disney Springs Locations Now Open: The following locations are now open in Town Center:

  • Sugarboo & Co. is a dealer in whimsy and fine fanciful goods, from uplifting art prints to charming home goods and whimsical paper products.
  • Columbia Sportswear offers innovative apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment for outdoor and fishing enthusiasts, including the Performance Fishing Gear collection designed with industry-leading technologies.
  • Shore is a fashionable American lifestyle brand featuring swimwear, fitness wear and everyday comfort clothing, with a selection of exclusive apparel only available at Disney Springs.
  • Superdry features clothing with designs that fuse vintage Americana and Japanese-inspired graphics with a British style, offering products from outerwear and knitwear to leather goods and leisurewear.
  • Coca-Cola Store Orlando features a wide variety of Coca-Cola merchandise and a rooftop beverage bar. Guests can choose from several Coca-Cola brands from around the world, frozen beverages and over 100 drink choices via Coca-Cola Freestyle. A selection of specialty adult beverages are available in the evenings beginning July 8.

New! New Colors from Vera Bradley Blooming at Disney Parks in Summer 2016:  Two new Vera Bradley colors are coming to Disney Parks this summer. In July, guests will find the Mickey’s Magical Blooms collection. This signature quilted cotton assortment includes a Campus Backpack, Mini Hipster and Front Zip Wallet, Zip ID Case, Medium Zip Cosmetic Bag, Triple Zip Hipster, Vera Bag and Large Duffel.

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In August, Vera Bradley is releasing the lightweight Lighten Up Collection made of durable and water-resistant 560D polyester. The Lighten Up Collection will include Vera Bradley’s best-selling styles including the Lighten Up Lunch Cooler, Lighten Up Travel Organizer, Lighten Up Expandable Tote, Lighten Up Grande Backpack and Lighten Up Expandable Travel Bag.

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New! ‘Words Are Powerful’ Bangles from ALEX AND ANI: ALEX AND ANI recently introduced new “Words Are Powerful” color infusion bangles inspired by Disney sayings and attributes of some of our most beloved characters. On July 18, they will continue the release of these amazing new pieces. From Elsa is a reminder to let it go and “Be True To Yourself.” Depicted on an icy blue colored charm, her iconic silhouette is framed by frozen fractals. The other uplifting bangle encourages you to “think happy thoughts,” highlighting everyone’s favorite spirited pixie, Tinker Bell! Each of these bangles costs $44.95 plus tax and will be available in both Shiny Gold and Shiny Silver finishes. They will be available online, on the Shop Disney Parks app via Shop iOS or Shop Android, and in stores at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts.

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Reminder! Refillable Popcorn Buckets Offered: Between June 26 and September 1, Walt Disney World locations are offering a souvenir popcorn bucket that may be refilled throughout the day at the Walt Disney World Resort. Guests may purchase the bucket for $10 with refills available for $1.50 each. This offering is available in Walt Disney World theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs and ESPN Wide World of Sports. The refill will be sold at all popcorn carts, but refillable buckets may only be available at select carts.

Merchandise Events

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July 12 – 15: Fragrance designer Geir Ness will be on hand for special appearances as he showcases the latest from his Laila fragrance and beauty collection. Meet Geir from Noon – 6 p.m., each day, at Puffin’s Roost in the Norway Pavilion.

July 13 – 16: As you travel around World Showcase, be sure to make a quick stop at La Signature in the France Pavilion where you’ll find the latest releases in fragrances and cosmetics from Guerlain.

Closures and Refurbishments

Click here to view the latest renovations and closures at Walt Disney World Resort.

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. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre at Halloween Horror Nights 26

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The Texas Chain Saw Massacre at Halloween Horror Nights 26

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre at Halloween Horror Nights 26 will be an all new haunted maze in 2016. The entire creative team of Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights has a library of films that have permanently etched their initials in our collective psyche. Tobe Hooper’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is certainly one of those films and this year, we’re bringing the original 1974 classic to life in an all-new haunted maze.

It’s a film that if made identically today, it wouldn’t compare to the original. Yes, today’s version would be gorier and with artistic camera moves and edits. But the 1974 original’s grit and journalistic style is what makes it so terrifying; it’s what makes it feel so real.

And I’d be willing to bet this film is the reason a chainsaw’s iconic roar is frightening to so many people.

The film features very little gore, instead focusing on the psychological nature of this warped family. I’ll never forget watching it over at my buddy’s house in middle school. Sally’s ordeal of being captured by this maniacal family is never more pungent than when the family’s near-dead, corpse-like grandfather is attempting to limply bash Sally in head. The family’s sheer joy at this sickening display was indelible.

But nothing can equate to the late, great Gunnar Hansen’s portrayal of the killer, Leatherface. You can see the maniac but also the layers of innocence deep down, that this chainsaw-wielding murderer is a product of his upbringing. Leatherface is a feral character with hints of sadness and humanity. Gunnar brought this to the role and no one has yet to duplicate his performance.

As creators of Halloween Horror Nights, we have the privilege of bringing to life many popular horror films. Every now and then, we are able to replicate one that forged the reason horror has become such a factor in many of our lives. The original The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is undoubtedly on that short list.

Like all of you, the horror fan in me is looking forward to reliving this story and entering that dilapidated Texas farmhouse. The anticipation of coming face-to-face with a horror legend and having my screams drowned by that saw blade is just as prevalent now as when I first witnessed this amazing horror film decades ago.

Are you attending Halloween Horror Nights 26? Halloween Horror Nights vacation packages are now on sale!

Contact Siera at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com today for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

New Experiences from The Secret Life of Pets at Universal Orlando Resort

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I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to see Illumination Entertainment and Universal Picture’s newest comedy The Secret Life of Pets. I have always wondered what my pets think about or do when I’m not home and I’m so excited to get a glimpse into their life! Plus, now through July 10, we can enjoy new experiences fromThe Secret Life of Pets at Universal Studios Florida at Universal Orlando Resort.

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All of the fun starts at the Animal Actors on Location! show where you’ll be treated to an exclusive trailer of the movie during the pre-show. You’ll also get an exclusive scene from the movie featuring Gidget—a 50% fluff, 110% tough Pomeranian. She may be fluffy and cute, but she is one fierce diva!

After the show, be sure to check out the The Secret Life of Pets photo booth, located in front of the Animal Actors theatre. You’ll be able to snap pictures with your favorite characters from the movie and be able to post and share them on your social media channels.

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End your day with Universal and their new pet friends at the Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular nighttime show. Before the show, you’ll be able to watch a special trailer and see your favorite characters from the movie in the form of water silhouettes!

Plus, you can grab your The Secret Life of Pets merchandise during your visit. Stop by the Universal Studios store in either Universal Studios or Universal CityWalk for your keepsakes.

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Are you going to see The Secret Life of Pets when it comes to theaters next weekend? If you’ll be at Universal Orlando Resort before July 10, don’t miss The Secret Life of Pets at Universal!

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. 

Get Up to $100 Disney Gift Card for FREE This Week

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Do you want up to get up to $100 in a FREE Disney Gift Cards to spend on your upcoming Disney Vacation? If you booked a Disney World package (by phone or online directly with Disney World), you can add our agency to your reservation to help plan the rest of your visit with Mickey Mouse. It is a simple process to get a FREE Disney Gift Card and a lot of free perks with our company.

Here are some of the highlights included when you transfer your Disney World vacation to us:

  • Our Services are FREE (Disney pays us to help you plan your visit)
  • We are a local travel agency (right down the road from Disney World) with agents at Disney World 365 days a year!
  • Free MousePerks (valued over $199)
  • Free Dining Suggestions & Reservations (valued at $69.99)
  • Free Itinerary Planning (valued at $99.99)
  • Free autographed pictures of Mickey Mouse or the Disney Princesses for the kids in your family
  • FREE Disney Gift Card

The Disney Gift Card amount varies based on your package total.

Package Total – Disney Gift Card Amount
$2500 – $2999 / Free $40 Disney Gift Card
$3000 – $3500 / Free $50 Disney Gift Card
$3501 – $3999 / Free $60 Disney Gift Card
$4000 – $4500 / Free $75 Disney Gift Card
$4501 – $4999 / Free $90 Disney Gift Card
$5000 and up / Free $100 Disney Gift Card

*To qualify for the transfer the package must be booked within the last 30 days and not paid in full. The package must be booked directly with Disney Travel (online at disneyworld.com or by phone). The gift card will be mailed with your final documents 10 – 15 days before check in.

Hurry though as this offer is only good through Friday, July 1, 2016!

Call me at 734-771-1290 or email me at siera@destinationsinflorida.com to transfer your Disney Package today!

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Brings a New Paradise to Universal Orlando

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We’re just weeks away from the arrival of first guests at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and let me tell you, this place looks absolutely remarkable! Today, the time has arrived to give you an inside look at the inspiration and story behind this tropical oasis. So let your worries wash away and ease into island time.

From cascading waterfalls and massive stone turrets to vintage rum and fresh ceviche, we’ve always been drawn to the history and allure of the Caribbean. Imagine, in the middle of a secluded island, we stumble upon a winding river leading to a beautiful, sapphire-blue swimming hole surrounded by ancient stone ruins and dense palms – the perfect environment to reshape into your exclusive island hideaway.

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The resort is directly inspired by magnificent landmarks and architectural ruins from islands throughout the Caribbean – towering stone turrets, beautiful rock walls and a spinning waterwheel accent the tropical landscape and waterway twisting through the property.

In fact, you’ll never be far away from crystal-clear, serene water when you’re here. You’ll be greeted by waterfalls cascading into a sparkling pond upon arrival, which is your first glimpse of the amazing water features throughout the resort. There’s a gorgeous pool, surrounded by two sand beaches, a quintessential Caribbean waterfall – inspired by Jamaica’s iconic Dunn’s River Falls – and a breathtaking lush lagoon. It’s from this lagoon that you can hop on a water taxi to travel to our theme parks, CityWalk and our other on-site hotels.

The wide expanses of the Caribbean Sea inspired us to do something grand – design the largest pool at any of our resort hotels. But we didn’t want to just make a bigger pool, we wanted to do things that we’ve never done before. That’s why the Sapphire Falls pool has random and slightly varying depths to mimic the sea floor. There’s also a huge fire pit for the entire family to enjoy after the sun sets. Those are just a couple of the many unique features you’ll have some fun exploring.

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With every step you’ll escape deeper into that distinctive attitude of island living. The beautiful new rooms in our Caribbean-inspired guest houses are designed to envelop you with a sense of relaxation from the moment you arrive. You’ll find it easy to let go and enjoy your incredibly themed private retreat. And just outside awaits the excitement and adventure of Universal Orlando’s two incredible theme parks.

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Vacation is as much about great drinks and dining as it is about the journey itself. That’s why we’ve created Strong Water Tavern, a stylish hangout with reclaimed wood, mahogany leather and exposed brick throughout. Let our rum captains take you on a one-of-a-kind cocktail journey, or enjoy the many variations of fresh ceviche available throughout the resort.

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At nearby Amatista Cookhouse, you can indulge your appetite with waterfront dining and watch our chefs at work preparing delightful dishes highlighting the freshest ingredients.

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Both experiences will give you a true taste of Caribbean flavors and define all that is unique and special about Sapphire Falls!

All of this and more can be yours in just a few weeks. Book a stay now to be one of the first to enjoy all this island escape has to offer! Plus, you can sample all the flavors of Sapphire Falls with a limited-time offer that includes a free dining credit to make your stay with us even more special.

We’ll see you in paradise soon!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios 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. 

Encounter The Mighty Legend Himself in Skull Island: Reign of Kong

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We’ve all heard the incredible story, the revolutionary ride vehicle and the unimaginable creatures that await you in the multidimensional attraction, Skull Island: Reign of Kong at Universal Orlando Resort. And now, Universal Orlando Resort is going to let us in on a little secret…

Actually, a three-story tall secret. That’s right – this summer, we will astound you with the most visceral encounter with King Kong ever.

As you near the finale of your heart-pounding expedition, you’ll be so close to the legendary beast that you can feel his breath sweep across your skin and his thunderous roar reverberate through every bone in your body. You’re in his territory now.

But is he our friend or our foe? You’ll have to come ride Skull Island: Reign of Kong for yourself to find out.

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Are you planning to visit Universal Orlando Resort this summer or fall so you can come face to face with the mighty legend himself in Skull Island: Reign of Kong? We can help!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios 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. 

Discover the Inspiration Behind The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal’s CityWalk

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Discover the Inspiration Behind The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

Inspiration Behind The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

Recently, Universal Orlando Resort announced the next original concept in a line of unique venues coming to Universal CityWalk, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium will be a delectable dining experience that combines chocolate and savory dishes with a fun atmosphere. Today, you can learn more about the inspiration behind The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.

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The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen is the next evolution of dining at CityWalk, following a groundbreaking two years of unprecedented growth that includes other original concepts from the Universal team like NBC Sports Grill & Brew, Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, Vivo Italian Kitchen, and Red Oven Pizza Bakery.

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium elevate everyone’s favorite confection to the next level by combining the incredible storytelling from Universal Orlando’s Creative and Entertainment teams with the high quality service and delectable dishes of Universal Orlando’s Food & Beverage team.

As Universal Orlando looked for inspiration, the Steampunk era really stood out with its rebellious spirit of creation and industrial influences. After delving deeper into the genre and its design elements, they found the structural shapes and rich color palettes to evoke exactly the type of experience that they wanted to create for their guests. It was the perfect fit.

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Even from afar, you’ll see the Steampunk influence with working gears and smokestacks. Once you step inside, hosts dressed in alternative fashions will greet you. The sights and sounds of brass gadgetry and manufacturing will immediately surround you.

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And of course, you’ll be able to indulge in all of the delectable creations – from the decadent milkshakes to the eclectic savory dishes, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll have to discover your favorite later this year.

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Stay tuned for more exciting news about The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, including more scrumptious details on the amazing menu items inspired by cuisine from across the globe.

Would you like to visit Universal Orlando Resort? Contact Siera today at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Experience The Exorcist at Halloween Horror Nights 26

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Experience The Exorcist at Halloween Horror Nights 26 

Haunting. Shocking. Indelible.

These are words that describe my feelings when I first saw The Exorcist.

The film is a benchmark in so many ways. It was the first horror film to be nominated for Best Picture. It helped lead the charge in a sequence of “demonic child” storylines. And it has often been replicated in many horror films today, irrefutably placing it among the kings of influential horror pop culture.

And now that influence has found its way to Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights in an all-new haunted maze. As with any horror property we collaborate with, our job is to create an attraction that adapts that property into a fully realized experience. That adaptation is a creative challenge in every case.

But translating The Exorcist presented us with many unique tests and questions. One big question was, “How do you adapt a film where most of the story takes place in a single bedroom?”

The answer we landed on was first to break down and assess all the visuals and moments from the film. Piece together every moment within that bedroom and examine why it was intense, scary or even vile. What textures can we reconstruct differently, sometimes in an incredibly abstract way?

The famous “pea soup” scene for instance. What if we were surrounded in the materials of the retch-covered bed? What if those layers of mattress padding literallyenveloped us? And let’s be honest, traversing through a vomit-covered bed is pretty horrifying and disgusting by itself. Now add a possessed girl into the mix!

Just like this amazing film, the maze needs to overcome you—even possess you (wink)—with its visuals, characters and environments. It needs to force you on its horrific quest for this young girl’s very soul and spit you out the other side. That is our goal and we are beside ourselves with excitement at the opportunity to do so this year.

Getting pumped for this year’s Halloween Horror Nights? We are too! Halloween Horror Nights vacation packages are now available and selling out quickly!

Are you attending Halloween Horror Nights 26?

The Unimaginable Creatures Coming to Skull Island: Reign of Kong

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Unimaginable Creatures Coming to Skull Island: Reign of Kong

Massive winged beasts that hunt from the skies. Serpentine predators that burrow through the earth and attack from below. Giant insects that infest the jungles. These are just a few of the deadly creatures you’ll encounter on Skull Island: Reign of Kong.

When you embark this summer at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you won’t be alone. Here you’ll come face to face with unimaginable creatures that prowl this mysterious and foreboding world.

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These carnivorous arachnids move throughout the swampy underworld of the island’s dark caverns, foraging for dead or injured creatures. The six-legged scavenger uses its crab-like claws to crush its prey before feasting on the remains.

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Carnictis

The giant, slug-like Carnictis lacks eyes or facial features. But its gaping, oozing mouth—ringed with sharp, jagged teeth—is a distinguishing feature that allows this slow but relentless creature to feed on dead and wounded beings that have succumbed to the wretched, murky chasms of the island.

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One of the largest and most aggressive cave-dwelling inhabitants on the island, the Decarnocimex will attack anything smaller or weaker that dares to cross its path. These vicious insects tear apart their prey with their razor-sharp mandibles and two-bladed forearms.

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These are the largest flying predators on the island, with wingspans up to 10 feet. They live in colonies within the island’s interior caverns and are easily provoked. Spearing victims with lethal talons, they use large carnivorous fangs to penetrate anything—or anyone—caught in their jaws of death.

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The V. Rex is the largest, most intimidating dinosaur that roams the island’s dense jungles. Despite its large, bulky head and tough leathery skin, it’s an agile predator, changing direction at high speeds and ripping into its prey with razor-sharp teeth.

Are you ready to face them all?

And, you can tune into Syfy on March 30 at 9/8c to see a whole new side to these terrifying creatures on the hit special effects makeup show, Face Off.

Are you going to Universal Orlando Resort this summer to brave Skull Island: Reign of Kong? Contact Siera at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

New Details About Star Wars Land at Hollywood Studios and Disneyland

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Star Wars Land at Hollywood Studios

I’m sure by now you’ve heard that Disney is developing Star Wars Land at Hollywood Studios. However, have you heard all of the exciting details planned for this incredible expansion?

What Newest Developments Have Emerged About Star Wars Land?

Star Wars-themed lands will be coming to Disneyland park in Anaheim, Calif., and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Fla., transporting guests to a never-before-seen planet, a remote trading port and one of the last stops before wild space where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life.

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There will be two signature attractions, including the ability to take the controls of one of the most recognizable ships in the galaxy, the Millennium Falcon, on a customized secret mission, and an epic Star Wars adventure that puts guests in the middle of a climactic battle.

Inside these authentic lands, guests will be able to step aboard The Millennium Falcon and actually pilot the fastest ship in the galaxy, steering the vessel through space, firing the laser cannons, in complete control of the experience. And with the arrival of the First Order to the planet, guests will find themselves in the middle of a tense battle between stormtroopers and Resistance fighters.

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Walt Disney Company Chairman and CEO Bob Iger announced at D23 EXPO 2015 that Star Wars-themed lands will be coming to Disneyland park in Anaheim, Calif., and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Fla., creating Disney’s largest single-themed land expansions ever at 14-acres each.

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