Category Archives: United States

98 Degrees, Hanson, and More Coming to 2018 Eat to the Beat Concert Series

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney recently announced many of the artists performing at the 2018 Eat to the Beat concert series for this year’s Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, coming this fall.

New to this year’s concert series will be percussionist extraordinaire and singer Sheila E and ‘80s Canadian rockers Glass Tiger. 98 Degrees – featuring brothers and “Dancing With the Stars” alums Nick and Drew Lachey – also bring their smooth harmonies to the festival. Maybe they’ll sing “True To Your Heart” from Disney’s “Mulan”? And, if that weren’t enough, entertainer Jim Belushi brings his rhythm-and-blues band The Sacred Hearts to the festival this year.

This year’s lineup also will include two Contemporary Christian music artists: MercyMe, who successfully branched out from music this year with the hit film based on lead singer Bart Mallard’s life called “I Can Only Imagine”; and former “Royal Tailor” front man Tauren Wells, who has found mainstream success this year, touring with Mariah Carey and Lionel Richie.

Returning favorites include ‘80s pop stars Tiffany and Billy Ocean, ’90s hit makers like Hanson and Everclear; and swing-meisters Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, who close out the festival as they have for the last couple of years.

The lineup so far is:

  • 8/30-31 – Blue October – “Into the Ocean”
  • 9/1-3 – Tiffany – “I Think We’re Alone Now”
  • 9/4-5 – MercyMe – “I Can Only Imagine” NEW
  • 9/6-7 – Glass Tiger – “Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone) NEW
  • 9/8-9 – Tauren Wells – “Hills and Valleys” NEW
  • 9/10-11 – Postmodern Jukebox
  • 9/12-13 – TBD
  • 9/14-16 – Baha Men – “Who Let The Dogs Out”
  • 9/17-19 – TBD
  • 9/20-21 – Living Color – “Cult of Personality”
  • 9/22-23 – Sheila E – “The Glamorous Life” NEW
  • 9/24-26 – Sugar Ray – “Every Morning”
  • 9/27-28 – David Cook – “Light On”
  • 9/29-30 – Jeffrey Osbourne – “On The Wings of Love”
  • 10/1-2 – Jim Belushi & The Sacred Hearts – Various Hits
  • 10/3-4 – Everclear – “Santa Monica”
  • 10/5-7 – Mark Wills – “19 Somethin’”
  • 10/8-10 – Air Supply – “All Out Of Love”
  • 10/11-12 – TBD
  • 10/13-14 – TBD
  • 10/15-16 – 98 Degrees – “Give Me Just One Night (Una Noche)” NEW
  • 10/17-18 – 38 Special – “Hold On Loosely”
  • 10/19-21 – Devon Allman Project – “Ragged and Dirty”
  • 10/22-23 – TBD
  • 10/24-25 – Billy Ocean – “Get Outta My Dreams”
  • 10/26-28 – Starship featuring Mickey Thomas – “We Built This City”
  • 10/29-31 – Hanson – “MMMBop”
  • 11/1-2 – TBD
  • 11/3-4 – Taylor Dayne – “Prove Your Love”
  • 11/5-7 – Boyz II Men – “End Of The Road”
  • 11/8-9 – The Hooters – “And We Danced”
  • 11/10-12 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – “Go Daddy-O”

The Epcot International Food and Wine Festival’s 23rd year runs from August 30 to November 12, 2018.

For more information on the Festival, check out TasteEpcot.com and stay tuned for updates on this year’s celebrity chef events, “Eat to the Beat” dining packages, special events and other fun.

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog)

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. 

10 Fun Facts About Paint the Night and Pixar Play Parade at Disneyland Resort

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Now through September 3, you’ll be able to experience the adorable “Pixar Play Parade” and dazzling “Paint the Night” parade at the Disneyland Resort for Pixar Fest!

“Pixar Play Parade” features fun, new story elements, adding even more playfulness to this daytime parade at Disneyland park. “Paint the Night” makes its way through Disney California Adventure park with more than 1 million brilliant lights, high-energy music and cutting edge special effects featuring many beloved Disney and Pixar pals.

Here are 10 fun facts about Paint the Night and Pixar Play Parade at Disneyland Resort!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. In “Pixar Play Parade,” which is now in Disneyland park, the Pixar Lamp and Ball from Pixar’s original short, “Luxo Jr.” now leads the parade in a larger-than-life fashion. The Lamp is 14 feet tall and the Pixar Ball is nearly four feet wide.

2. You’ll also will want to keep an eye out for Kevin, the friendly bird from “Up” who stands nearly 12 feet tall from her toes to the top of her feathers. The new “Up” story element also features Carl Fredricksen and Dug, while Kevin romps through the parade with pal Russell riding on her back.

3. The new “Inside Out” story element features Riley’s rocket wagon. Nearly 280 memory orbs of all different emotions appear at its base!

4. Baby Jack-Jack sits in one of the claws of the Omnidroid on “The Incredibles” float and, just like in the Pixar film, flames rise from his head when he gets excited.

5. 120-plus performers and crew entertain guests and dance along to the original songs “Countdown to Fun” and “The Party’s On” by Matthew Gerrard and Robbie Nevil, who wrote many of the songs for the successful “High School Musical” movies.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

6. “Paint the Night” parade requires more than 200 “universes of control” to operate everything from the video presentations on the floats to the lights on individual costumes.

7. Including the video screens, the parade contains more than one million sources of light. The 500 strobes used in the parade are a custom lighting product developed by Disney.

8. Slinky Dog from “Toy Story” is 32 feet long, with his ears measuring at 18 feet tall and 11 feet across! The 10 spinning disks rotate at 120 RPM and are programmed with custom video content.

9. The five animated doors on the “Monsters Inc.” float are more than nine feet tall with 40 individual LED video panels. They were created in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios.

10. Mack from “Cars” features a 3D display that creates exceptional depth of image. The display contains nearly 27,000 individual orbs. Almost 2,000 feet of LED “neon” helps bring this float to life.

In June, a new float will be added to the “Paint the Night” parade, featuring Mr. Incredible, Mrs. Incredible and Frozone. The fun and excitement of “The Incredibles” will be brought to life with high-tech, pop-art effects!

What are you most excited to see when these two parades return during Pixar Fest?

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog!)

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. 

Ten Fun Facts About Blue Man Group at Universal Orlando Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The past 10 years have been an exciting decade withBlue Man Group at Universal Orlando Resort. The partnership and creative collaboration between these two teams has brought incredible experiences to life for their guests. Blue Man Group’s nightly show in Universal CityWalk draws you into their world of unique music, art and humor and leaves you wanting more. Here are 10 things that you may not know about Blue Man Group at Universal Orlando Resort.

1. Experiencing Universal – Blue Man Style

Blue Man Group has gone beyond the theater at CityWalk and across our destination throughout the years. From hanging out on top of the globe, to riding Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, and most recently, checking out Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels.

2. You Can Meet a Blue Man!

As part of the Blue Man Group VIP experience, you can come face-to-face (watch out for the paint) with a Blue Man and get a photo with them backstage!

3. Keepin’ It Fresh

One of the great things about Blue Man Group is that, thanks to the guest interactions, every show is different. Over the years, the show has constantly evolved to keep the content fresh.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

4. Autism Speaks

Blue Man Group has given back to the community throughout the years, including their work with Autism Speaks. Every year, they perform sensory-friendly shows for individuals and families affected by autism. The next autism-friendly performance here in Orlando is on Dec. 9. Get more info here.

5. They Have Their Own Ice Cream

The 10-year milestone has even found its way to the Cold Stone Creamery in CityWalk with a special Blue Man Group ice cream. Swing by after the show and grab a cup of this sweet treat, Blue Man Scoop, consisting of cotton candy ice cream, white chocolate chips, yellow cake and marshmallows (of course).

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

6. Shake Your Booty – 65 Different Ways

Over 65 different words are used for “butt” in the show finale. Educational and fun all wrapped in one. Some of my favorites: “Bubble Pop”, “Sonic Boom”, and “Your Carry-On Luggage”.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

7. Maintaining That “Just-Stepped-Out-Of-A-Painting” Look

The Blue Men wear a specially-colored grease paint on their heads, which never dries. This allows them to keep a wet and gooey appearance throughout the show. They use 60 cakes of makeup each week, totaling over 3,100 cakes each year!

8. Speaking of Paint…

One of Blue Man Group’s specialties is the art they create with paint during their show. They use over 12 gallons of tempera paint each week, totaling 624 gallons each year. Fun tip: You can purchase a paint-splattered drumhead that’s been used in the show.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

9. Marshmallows, Cereal and Chocolate, oh my!

The Blue Men definitely have a sweet tooth. They use around 300 marshmallows per week, or over 16,000 each year; over 20 boxes of cereal each week, totaling over 1,000 boxes each year; and they eat 30 pieces of white chocolate per week, 1,560 throughout the year.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

10. That’s One Big Drum

When you think of Blue Man Group, the first thing that comes to mind is probably music.

Resident Musical Director Dave Traver has been with Blue Man Group for 18 years and part of the Universal Orlando show since it opened. “The creative spirit that surrounds the show still hasn’t escaped me and continues to inspire me,” Traver said. “After all these years, the music still resonates with me and I love playing off the energy of our diverse audience here at Universal Orlando.”

To create this epic music, 47 instruments are used in the show, 26 of which are drums. The Big Drum in the show is 60” in diameter, and the mallets that are used are custom built in-house.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Cheers to 10 years of cereal and marshmallows, late arrivals, paint splatters, and rockin’ music! Ten years’ worth of Universal Orlando visitors know what Blue Man Group is really about.

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. 

Top 5 Reasons to Stay at a Disneyland Resort Hotels During Pixar Fest

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Top 5 Reasons to Stay at a Disneyland Resort Hotels During Pixar Fest

The playful spirit and fun of Disney•Pixar films come to life at the Disneyland Resort, with the first-ever Pixar Fest going on now through September 3, 2018. Not only will guests enjoy limited-time Pixar experiences in the theme parks, but those who stay at one of the three on-property Disneyland Resort Hotels during Pixar Fest can also continue the celebration!

As a guest of one of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, here’s how you can celebrate friendship and beyond at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel:

  • Pixar-themed Movie Nights: When night falls over the Disneyland Resort, you can watch some of your favorite Disney•Pixar movies under the stars, such as “Toy Story” and “Inside Out.” Before each movie starts, there will be Pixar-themed trivia with special prizes!
  • Pixar Fest Room Packages: Surprise your friends and family with a Pixar-themed in-room amenity gift basket or Pixar-themed room package to make your stay even more memorable. As a bonus, you can take all of the items home as souvenirs!
  • Pixar-themed Summer Pool Parties: Starting Memorial Day weekend, head down to the pools for daily Pixar-themed summer pool parties! You’ll be immersed in the Pixar fun with special games, activities and an all-new energetic playlist featuring upbeat Pixar-inspired music. Adults can enjoy specialty poolside cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages themed to Pixar, including the “Forget Me Not” and “Lucky Fin” inspired by “Finding Nemo.”
  • Pixar Shorts in Kids Areas: For younger guests (and the young at heart), beloved Pixar short films will be featured on the televisions in the kids area of each hotel.
  • Pixar Fest Photo Frames: Gather your family and snap a photo with these larger-than-life, jumbo-sized Pixar-themed photo frames. These colorful photo props can be found at each hotel, so be sure to ask a Front Desk Cast Member for where you can capture your Pixar Fest memories!

Another reason to celebrate is a special spring booking offer! Guests can save up to 20 percent on Premium rooms at Disneyland Hotel, and 10 percent on select rooms at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, on most Sunday through Thursday nights between April 15 and June 14, 2018.* Book now through May 31, 2018.

*Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room at the same hotel for most Sunday through Thursday nights for the applicable dates. Book from 3/14/18 through 5/31/18; travel must be completed by 6/15/18. Premium room types included in offer are Premium, Deluxe and Woods/Garden/Courtyard rooms; select Concierge rooms; and only Paradise, Artisan, Junior and Regal suites. Not valid on previously booked rooms. Advance reservations required. Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Excludes applicable fees and taxes. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people maximum per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required to enjoy the Parks.

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog!)

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. 

Bar 17 Bistro Will Offer Sky High Views Atop Universal’s Aventura Hotel

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Universal is going to take you all the way to the top of Universal’s Aventura Hotel (17 floors up to be exact) to give you a sneak peek at the rooftop bar and grill, Bar 17 Bistro.

Bar 17 Bistro will open in the evenings, so guests can soak in the beautiful Florida sunsets. When the bar is open, there will be a dedicated elevator in the lobby to take you directly to the rooftop. Since Bar 17 Bistro will be open to all Universal Orlando guests (not just those staying at Aventura) and locals, Universal wanted to make it easy and convenient to get there.

The same contemporary design and style used throughout the hotel will carry into the design of the rooftop venue. When you step off of the elevator and into Bar 17 Bistro, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived at the city’s newest hotspot with sky-high views of Orlando like you’ve never seen before.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Bar 17 Bistro will offer breathtaking views of all that Universal Orlando Resort has to offer. You’ll see all three theme parks, Universal’s other resort hotels, and even the downtown Orlando skyline. One of the best views is of Universal’s Volcano Bay, especially at night. Seeing the blue lava erupting out of Krakatau is stunning!

The sunset views from Bar 17 Bistro are especially gorgeous.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Let’s not forget about what truly matters though – the food and drinks. Bar 17 Bistro will offer an assortment of small plates that range from unique options like Bao Bun dishes inspired by global destinations, to classic favorites like nachos, sliders, and salads.

And you’ll definitely be excited for the cocktails that are designed to pair with the international flavors on the menu. We partnered with an expert mixologist and bar consultant who also helped create our drink menu at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort’s Strong Water Tavern – so you know these drinks will be amazing!

Universal’s Aventura Hotel will open August 2018, but I suggest booking your stay now because the rooms will fill up fast. Plus, if you reserve your room before June 15th, you’ll receive a free $50 hotel dining credit on a stay of four to six nights. Or if you want to enjoy more food and drinks at Bar 17 Bistro, book a seven-night stay and receive a free $100 dining credit.

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. 

Sneak Peek of Woody’s Lunch Box Menu in Toy Story Land

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In the toy-filled backyard that is Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests “shrink” to the size of a toy and explore the world of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and friends. In the middle of all the fun, Andy has taken his vintage Woody-themed lunch box and propped it open with a thermos, turning it into a walk-up window where his toys can grab a bite to eat. From a nearby tower, green army men stand at the ready, keeping watch for Andy’s return. Opening June 30, Woody’s Lunch Box will dish up all sorts of sandwiches and sides that blend classic flavor combinations with a modern twist, plus nostalgic soda floats and specialty beverages.

Here is a peek into Woody’s Lunch Box!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

S’more French Toast Breakfast Sandwich – Oozy goodness in a chocolate ganache- and marshmallow-stuffed French toast topped with graham cracker crumbles. Inspired by the classic American campfire treat.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Smoked Turkey, Eggs, Swiss, Peppers, and Onions on Sourdough – The perfect hand-held stack of breakfast goodness.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Breakfast Bowl – The green army men line up for this hearty bowl of potato barrels, brisket-country gravy, and scrambled eggs.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

BBQ Brisket Melt – With a nod to cowboy Woody, this Texas-style smoked brisket features cheddar, Monterey Jack, pickles, and BBQ sauce on garlic butter-grilled sourdough.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Monte Cristo with Raspberry Jam – Woody’s version of this classic sandwich has layers of ham, turkey, Swiss, and raspberry jam…and is grilled to a golden brown.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Totchos – Potato barrels, corn chips, chili, and cheese – what’s not to love??

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Sides include tomato basil soup, vegetable macaroni salad, and potato barrels. Mini Babybel snack cheese, the official snack cheese of Walt Disney World Resort, is also an option to eat with your meal or as an on-the-go snack.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Raspberry Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Dried Fruit and Chocolate-Hazelnut Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Caramelized Bacon – Even toys need a sweet treat! Inspired by breakfast toaster pastries, this modern interpretation, with its uniquely delicate crust, is the perfect hand-held pastry.

The littlest toys can enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich or turkey sandwich, both served with potato barrels and mandarin oranges. For toys looking for more lighter options, they can grab one of these tasty bites at Woody’s Lunch Box or check out the many other healthful offerings available at Disney’s Hollywood Studios including fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, and grilled meats and fish.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Banana Split Yogurt Parfait – Layers of banana-vanilla Greek yogurt (with a hint of honey), fresh bananas, strawberries, and pineapple topped with granola and chocolate chips. A delicious and healthful way to start the day!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Smoked Turkey, Tomato, and Lettuce on Multigrain Bread – This quintessential lunch box sandwich is a light and fresh option. And to give it a kick of flavor, we add a creamy Dijonnaise.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Soda Floats – All toys would agree that a refreshing soda float is the perfect nostalgic beverage!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The adorable Alien Sipper may be purchased and filled with any fountain drink or the signature Mystic Portal Punch – Powerade Mountain Berry Blast with flavors of lemon-lime and tangerine.

The big kids can enjoy the backyard with Grown-Up’s Lemonade cocktail (cherry vodka, Odwalla Lemonade, and black cherry purée), beer, or hard cider.

Check out the full menu of lunch box favorites here. See you June 30!

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog!)

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. 

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort Coming to Universal Orlando in 2019 and 2020

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Last fall, Universal Orlando Resort revealed that not one, but two all-new hotel options were coming to their property and they just shared with us a few more details about these properties. The new hotel complex will be known as Universal’s Endless Summer Resort. It will feature two hotels: Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Just like Universal’s existing hotels, these all-new options will be a partnership with Loews Hotels & Co. Guests will enjoy a relaxed and easy vibe, and fun surf and beachy details will be woven in throughout the Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites experience.

One of the most exciting parts of all of this is the price. Universal’s Endless Summer Resort will introduce extra affordability to your Universal vacation. Both hotels will offer rates as low as $73 per night and introduce Universal Orlando’s all-new Value hotel category.

But don’t let the Value category fool you. When you stay at either Surfside Inn and Suites or Dockside Inn and Suites, your family will enjoy the exclusive benefits that only come with staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel. This includes Early Park Admission—allowing you to breeze into the theme parks each morning an hour before park opening—as well as free shuttle transportation to and from all three incredible theme parks and Universal CityWalk.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

And speaking of family – Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites will have plenty of space to accommodate the entire clan. More than half of the rooms across both hotels – 1,450 to be exact – will be 2 Bedroom Suites.

These suites will feature two separate bedrooms, a kitchenette and dining area, and a bathroom with a separate shower and vanity so the whole family can get #ReadyForUniversal. The 2 Bedroom Suites will sleep six for as little as $111 per night.

We can’t wait to check out Universal’s Endless Summer Resort, where the sun, surf, sand and water meet. Surfside Inn and Suites will be the first hotel at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort and will open in the summer of 2019. Its sister property, Dockside Inn and Suites, will open in 2020.

Stay tuned for more updates because very soon you’ll be able to book your trip to Universal’s Endless Summer Resort and be among the first to stay at one of these all-new, extra-affordable, extra-fun hotels.

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. 

Complete Guide to the Pixar Fest Food at Disneyland Resort

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Pixar Fest has finally arrived at Disneyland Resort – a celebration of everyone’s favorite Pixar stories. Throughout the resort, you’ll find Pixar-inspired parades, a new fireworks spectacular, tons of characters, and of course – FOOD! This festival is loaded with goodies that you’ll want to get your hands on. Here’s your exclusive Guide to all of the Pixar Fest food.

Disneyland Park

Starting on Main Street, U.S.A., you’ll find some special items inspired by the Disney•Pixar film “Up,” including the Frozen Grape Soda Slush at the Main Street Coffee Cart. Also at this location will be specialty doughnuts featuring the iconic balloons and Russell’s badge sash. And at Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor, you’ll find a Salted Caramel Butter Pecan Sundae with butter pecan and chocolate ice cream topped with salted caramel sauce, whipped cream, and candied pecans.

Jolly Holiday Bakery Café will be serving “Up”-inspired Chocolate-Hazelnut Pastries and Specialty Éclairs with imagery featuring Carl Fredricksen and Russell’s badges, and right next door at Refreshment Corner, you’ll find a new all-beef hot dog! The Pastrami Dog is topped with pastrami, sauerkraut, special sauce, a dill pickle spear, and chives and served on an artisan bun.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Across the street, Plaza Inn will be dishing out slices of Pixar Lemon-Raspberry Cake. This yummy dessert has layers of lemon, blue vanilla, and red velvet sponge cakes with raspberry purée and cream cheese frosting and is topped with a chocolate half-dome featuring that lovable, fun Pixar Ball! You’ll also find this cake in Disney California Adventure park at Pacific Wharf Café and Paradise Garden Grill.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Also at Plaza Inn is a special dining package that includes a picnic-style lunch and access to a reserved viewing area for the “Pixar Play Parade.” This picnic lunch includes your choice of either fried chicken, penne pasta with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese, or a bed of greens tossed in house-made ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, beans, pickled onions, and tomatoes. Each entrée is served with white cheddar mac & cheese, lemon-thyme green beans, refreshing watermelon-feta cheese salad, and a chocolate-caramel pudding for dessert. Be sure to make reservations today for this amazing dining package.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

At Carnation Café, you’ll find a couple dishes inspired by Carl Fredricksen from “Up.” The Fried Bologna Sandwich features pan-seared bologna, toasted Pullman bread, aïoli, pickles, lettuce, and tomato. Then there’s the Pork Chop Dinner served on a “TV tray” with a spiced apple pork chop, mashed potatoes, peas and carrots, a corn muffin, and a decadent molten lava cake.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In Frontierland, you’ll find some rootin’ tootin’ sweets inspired by the Disney•Pixar film “Toy Story,” including a Berry Funnel Cake at Stage Door Café – a house-made funnel cake topped with blueberries, strawberries, chocolate cookie crumbles, crème anglaise, white chocolate, and gold-dusted whipped cream.

If you can’t get enough funnel cake, there’s also a Strawberry Funnel Cake over in Critter Countryat Hungry Bear Restaurant. This house-made funnel cake is inspired by everyone’s favorite unicorn, Buttercup, and comes with strawberry-cherry topping, strawberry butter, and streusel with a spice syrup drizzle.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Back in Frontierland at Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante, you’ll find Al Pastor Huarache. This dish, inspired by the Disney•Pixar film “Coco,” features refried beans, al pastor-marinated pork, pineapple slaw, pasilla pepper crema, Mexican crema, and queso fresco, and it’s served with pickled carrots and fried serrano chili. For dessert, you can get the Mexican Chocolate Pot de Crème.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In New Orleans Square, Café Orleans will be serving up a themed three-course meal inspired by the Disney•Pixar film “Ratatouille.” The first course features a specialty cheese flight with three cheeses, dried fruit, and honeycomb. For the main event, it’s Remy’s favorite dish – Shrimp Ratatouille Byaldi layered with roasted zucchini, yellow squash, eggplant, and tomato. The third course will feature Berry-Stuffed Beignets à la Mode served with a sweet brie drizzle and mascarpone. And nearby at the Royal Street Veranda, you’ll find a delicious Potato-Leek Soup.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

We can’t forget Alien Pizza Planet in Tomorrowland! The Aliens from “Toy Story” have sourced the finest ingredients from across the universe to deliver fresh, hot pizzas that are out of this world. These pizzas include a Cheeseburger Pizza with ketchup, yellow mustard, and pizza sauce on a sesame seed crust and topped with American and Cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, diced tomatoes, slider patties, house-made burger sauce, and pickles, as well as Cheese, Pepperoni, and Vegetarian Pizzas.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

A Chicken Caesar Salad will also be offered, along with an Antipasto Salad, Edamame-Noodle Salad, and Pesto Pasta. The Antipasto Salad consists of crisp lettuce topped with pepperoni, tomatoes, mixed olives, pepperoncini, fresh mozzarella, roasted red pepper, and roasted red onions tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette. The Edamame-Noodle Salad features grilled chicken breast on top of marinated edamame, sweet green beans, mint, cilantro, red cabbage, shredded carrot, and cold soba noodles with a ginger-lime vinaigrette. The Pesto Pasta is a gemelli pasta tossed in a spinach and miso pesto with smoky bacon, sweet peas, and Parmesan. And of course, you can pair any of these dishes with a side of fresh bread sticks or a side salad.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

On the sweet side of the Alien Pizza Planet menu, we’ve got Strawberry and Sour Apple Slushes, as well as an adorable Macaron and a Blackberry-Lime Parfait.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Throughout the park there will also be some exciting new churros and snacks! Outdoor carts and kiosks will be serving up Cotton Candy inspired by Nemo from the Disney•Pixar film “Finding Nemo” with orange and white stripes and a fresh orange-vanilla flavor (also found at various carts in Disney California Adventure park). At the Town Square Churro Cart and the Churro Cart in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle will be Lemon Churros with lemon sugar and multi-colored fruity cereal. The Tomorrowland Churro Cart will feature a Strawberry Churro with strawberry sugar, and the Frontierland Churro Cart will feature a Cocoa Churro with chocolate powder, salted cinnamon sugar, and a Mexican chocolate dipping sauce. The Frontierland Pretzel Cart will be offering a Cinnamon Pretzel. And finally, at the New Orleans Square Churro Cart, you’ll find a Carrot Cake Churro rolled in cinnamon sugar with raisin-carrot cream cheese frosting.

Disney California Adventure Park

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Starting in Hollywood Land there’s some special sweets that you won’t want to miss! Schmoozies is serving up some fun treats inspired by the Disney•Pixar film “Monsters Inc.,” including Whoopie Pies, a Mint Chip Shake, and a Marshmallow Doughnut with marshmallow fluff filling. And right down the street at Award Wieners, you’ll find Funnel Cake Fries topped with whipped cream and fruity cereal. If you’re looking for a savory option, Award Wieners is also dishing up a Pulled Pork Dog – an all-beef hot dog topped with pulled pork, spicy teriyaki sauce, and fresh pineapple salsa.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

You’ll find an ‘incredible’ Spicy Corn Dog at Corn Dog Castle with two different sausages (hot link sausage and Cajun chicken sausage) with pepper jack cheese, all put together, dipped in corn dog batter, fried to a golden brown, and served with a sweet and spicy blackberry-serrano chile sauce with choice of chips or apples, inspired by the Disney•Pixar film “The Incredibles.”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

At Fairfax Market and Boudin Bread Cart, the bread shaped like Mike Wazowski from “Monsters Inc.” is sure to be a favorite! On Pacific Wharf, Lucky Fortune Cookery will be serving up another item inspired by this animated favorite – Chilled Noodle Salad. These chilled iridescent noodles come with herbaceous preserved plants, sweet and spicy vinaigrette, crushed and toasted peanuts, mint, Thai basil, shredded daikon, and carrots. And right next door at Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill, there’s a decadent Tres Leches Parfait with layers of vanilla cake, sweet caramel cream, and rum.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Drive on over to Cars Land to the Cozy Cone Motel for “Choose Your Racer” Churros! There’s three colored sugars to choose from inspired by the Disney•Pixar film “Cars” – yellow for Cruz, red for Lightning McQueen and blue for Storm. You’ll also find a Champions Corn Cup with fresh corn, flavored mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili-lime spice, and lime; and a Habanero Meatball Cone with turkey meatballs in a habanero derby sauce with a cheese crisp and spiral pasta “smoke stacks.” And for the soft-serve ice cream, you can add Road Gravel Ice Cream Topping to your cold treat. This topping consists of cookie crumbles.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Nearby at A Bug’s Land is an Iced Specialty Churro at the Churro Cart. This churro is drizzled with doughnut icing and dusted with cocoa cereal. At various outdoor carts and kiosks throughout the park, you’ll be able to find the orange-cream Nemo-inspired Cotton Candy as well as Sour Lemon Cotton Candy.

Paradise Garden Grill has quite the variety of delicious items – all inspired by “Coco” – like the Yucatan-Inspired Vaporcitos – chicken tamales steamed in banana leaves with ranchero salsa, golden rice, and black beans. There’s also Mole Verde con Pollo (herb-braised chicken with golden rice, black beans, and corn tortillas), Tortitas de Papa con Queso (crispy potato cakes with Oaxaca Cheese, ranchero salsa, golden rice, and pickled onion salad), Tacos de Estilo Callejero (trio of sirloin beef tacos with pickled vegetables, golden rice, and black beans), and Ensalada de Frutas (jicama, watermelon, cucumber, pineapple, and mango with chili-lime salt and chamoy).

And for dessert – try the Tres Leches Parfait with rum and vanilla bean Chantilly, drizzled with Dulce de Leche and garnished with a chocolate disc featuring Miguel’s loyal sidekick, Dante. There’s also an Agua de Jamaica Slush, Mexican Hot Chocolate and the Pixar Lemon-Raspberry Cake.

So there you have it! All the delicious Pixar Fest food at Disneyland Resort. This festival runs through September 3. Come celebrate the joy of Pixar!

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog!)

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. 

Sneak Peek of Fast & Furious- Supercharged Coming to Universal Studios Florida

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Sneak Peek of Fast & Furious- Supercharged Coming to Universal Studios Florida

Universal Orlando’s newest attraction Fast & Furious – Supercharged will be opening soon in Universal Studios Florida. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into the Fast & Furious films with supercharged cars, an original storyline and your favorite characters. Here’s a sneak peek of Fast & Furious – Supercharged.

From the moment you enter the attraction, you’ll become immersed in the storyline. You’ll encounter Dom’s iconic car parked out front of the new home base of operations for the Fast & Furious family.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Once inside, you’ll get to explore familiar scenes from the films like Tej’s high-tech War Room, where you learn more about your mission.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

And of course, garages filled with souped-up cars designed by Dennis McCarthy, the man behind the vehicles created for the films. Several of the cars you’ll see are from the Fast & Furious movies. You’ll even come across an all-new vehicle designed exclusive for the attraction – Letty’s Turbo Truck!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

If you’re a car fanatic, keep your eye out for modifications that only a true fan would recognize. I’m not what you would call “car savvy”, but it was pretty cool to walk through and see it all.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Keep checking back for more updates on this new attraction opening soon!

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. 

Victoria & Albert’s Receives Two Prestigious Awards in 2018

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Two prestigious awards have just been bestowed on Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. For the 18th consecutive year, the restaurant has received the AAA Five Diamond Award and, for the first time ever, the coveted 2018 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

There are only 68 Five Diamond restaurants in North America, and only 64 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star restaurants out of over 1,600 restaurants across the globe. Victoria & Albert’s now stands as the sole restaurant in the state of Florida to receive both the AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star awards.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

AAA Diamond Ratings represent a combination of overall food, service, décor and ambiance. A Five Diamond restaurant provides leading-edge cuisine of the finest ingredients, uniquely prepared by an acclaimed chef, served by expert service staff led by a maître d’ in extraordinary surroundings.

Forbes Travel Guide Star Ratings verify luxury and represent outstanding, iconic properties with virtually flawless service and amazing facilities. Using the most exacting standards in the industry, this year’s list evaluates properties in over 160 destinations across 50 countries.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Every night, Victoria & Albert’s brings guests the ultimate in fine dining with classic Victorian elegance, haute American cuisine and an atmosphere of refined opulence. The esteemed restaurant features three unique dining experiences: the main dining room with the choice of a 7-course menu or 10 course Chef’s Tasting Menu; the intimate Queen Victoria’s Room offers a 10-course Chef’s Tasting menu with tableside presentation and optional wine pairings; and the highly sought-after 8-seat Chef’s Table located in the restaurants kitchen, where guests can get an exclusive look at their dishes being crafted by the culinary team. Victoria & Albert’s also has an incredible wine cellar with over 700 wines from over 35 regions.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Congratulations belong to Executive Chef Scott Hunnel, Chef de Cuisine Aimée Rivera, Master Pastry Chef Erich Herbitschek, Maître d’Hôtel Israel Pérez and the entire Victoria & Albert’s team for earning these illustrious awards.

“This has been a monumental year for the entire Victoria & Albert’s Team. They have developed a culture of success, which is over twenty years in the making. Every single member of the team is fully invested, combining the perfect formula of creativity, knowledge and passion for service. Our focus remains: Aim for perfection and settle for nothing less than excellence.”

–Cosmo Kapoor, General Manager, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

For reservations, call 407-WDW-DVNA (407-939-3862) or go online to book the Dining Room or Queen Victoria’s Room up to 180 days in advance. For more information, visit www.victoria-alberts.com.

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.