Category Archives: United States

2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts Set for January 12- February 19, 2018

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Returning to Epcot for a second year, the 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts will celebrate all things art – performing, visual and culinary – from January 12 – February 19, 2018 – with festivities running seven days a week and Disney On Broadway performances happening each weekend (Fridays through Mondays) in 2018.

After a successful year one in 2017, the 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts is coming back better than ever.

Guests can kick off 2018 with world-class cuisine, remarkable visual art and an extraordinary lineup of live entertainment. Introduce your inner aficionado to an exciting extravaganza brimming with phenomenal artists, gourmet fare, musical performances, stage productions and other amazing acts. We’ve rolled everything you love about the arts into one spectacular festival.

The festival features:

  • Seminars and workshops from top Disney, local and nationally-renowned artists including classes on drawing animation, photography and the art of making topiaries – just to name a few
  • More than a half a dozen specially-created food studios offering a wealth of “artistic” culinary delights
  • A host of performing artists that build on Epcot’s already stellar lineup of authentic performers
  • And, my favorite, the Disney on Broadway series featuring performers from some of the best Disney Theatrical productions

Dinner and a Show
Another returning favorite is our Disney on Broadway Dining Packages, where you can maximize your experience at the Festival with a meal at one of the participating Epcot restaurants and priority seating for our Disney on Broadway concert series.

Starting today, guests can book a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner, and later be followed by a phenomenal Disney on Broadway inspired concert – select dates from January 12 – February 19, 2018. The concert series will feature pairings of Disney on Broadway stars, singing favorite songs from award-winning Broadway shows. When you reserve a Disney on Broadway Dining Package, you’ll be able to relax at your meal with friends and family and rest assured that your priority seats are waiting for you for the 5:30, 6:45 or 8 p.m. concert. *

You need to book these soon; as these events are sure to fill up quickly!

For more information on the 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts, click over to www.disneyworld.com/ArtfulEpcot or call 407-WDW-DINE or 407-939-3463.

* Disney on Broadway Dining Packages are available for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner and include a 3-course meal or full buffet, depending on the location.

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. 

Choza de Margarita to Open Soon at Mexico Pavilion in Epcot

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Construction walls will be coming down shortly at the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot World Showcase as the new Choza de Margarita nears completion, a cool new walk-up window for authentic Mexican beverages and street fare.

“Choza” is the Spanish word for “hut,” and the outdoor bar sits in the shadow of the iconic Mexico pyramid. The menu offers three hand-crafted margaritas, three frozen margaritas, three Mexican beers and a non-alcoholic Mexican fruit punch with orange, pineapple and grapefruit juices and a splash of grenadine.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Small bites at Choza de Margarita include Tacos al Pastor with grilled pork on fresh homemade corn tortillas with green tomatillo sauce, onion, pineapple and cilantro; Empanadas de Barbacoa with beef, topped with chipotle sauce, Mexican cream and queso fresco; and fresh guacamole with mango chutney, pumpkin and pomegranate seeds, served with fried flour chicharrones and salsa Valentina, an authentic Mexican hot sauce.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

On a hot Florida day, take your pick from one of the three frozen margaritas: Lime (tequila blanco, lime sweet & sour, orange liquor and agave nectar), Wild Strawberry (tequila blanco, strawberry and prickly pear puree, violet flower liquor and lime juice), or Passion Mango (tequila blanco, orange liqueur, wild passion fruit and mango puree).

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The hand-crafted, on-the-rocks varieties include Acan Grapefruit (Casa Noble Blanco Tequila, grapefruit liqueur, elderflower cordial, lemon juice, cardamom bitters and ginger beer), Lime Cucumber (Avión Blanco Tequila, fresh cucumber, orange liqueur, lime juice and agave nectar), and Guava Pink Peppercorn (Zignum Mexcal Reposado, guava nectar, grapefruit liqueur, lime juice, Peychaud’s Bitters and pink peppercorns).

(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. 

Ring in the New Year at EVE 2017 at Universal’s CityWalk at Universal Orlando

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

It’s that time of year again, time to solidify your New Year’s Eve plan and avoid major fear of missing out by choosing the best celebration. Celebrating the arrival of 2018 will not be complete without a delicious spread of food, great music to dance to and flashy outfits.

Search no further than EVE 2017 at Universal CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort for a eye-popping, mind-blowing, jam-packed New Year’s celebration.

Here’s why EVE 2017 is your ultimate New Years’ experience:

1. Foodie Paradise

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Satisfy your cravings and enjoy unlimited gourmet food like prime rib, tenderloin and fresh seafood.

2. Move and Groove All Night Long

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Bust a move on Orlando’s largest outdoor dance floor.

3. Endless Live Music and DJs

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Enjoy unlimited access to six Universal CityWalk clubs with live bands and DJs.

4. Classy Goodbye to 2017

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Cheers 2017 goodbye with a midnight champagne toast!

There are a number of different ticket options, including VIP packages and Passholder specials.

I’ll see you at EVE 2017!

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. 

Chill Out at Frozen on Broadway with Adventures by Disney New York City in 2018

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In 2018, guests on the Adventures by Disney New York City Long Weekend trip will be able to experience the excitement of Disney’s newest musical, Frozen on Broadway.

Your family is invited to discover that love is a force of nature as the beloved story of Anna and Elsa comes to life on the Great White Way next year. This all new production, created for the Broadway stage by a Tony and Oscar Award-winning team, features state-of-the-art stagecraft and more than twice as many songs as the original film.

Not only will you be able to see this magical new musical but also take part in a Broadway Theater Workshop where you’ll go into a rehearsal studio and learn the music and dance steps from one of your favorite songs in the show. So, get ready to “let it go” and leave your inhibitions at the door!

Your adventure through the Big Apple doesn’t stop there though. You’ll unravel the history of New York by visiting the Lower East Side Tenement Museum, and go behind-the-scenes of “Good Morning America,” for an exclusive look at one of ABC’s longest-running live shows!

Will you be visiting New York City and Frozen on Broadway next year with Adventures by Disney?

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 Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort

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(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

A 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

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(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. 

Special Activities for Halloween 2017 at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Hawaii

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

If you’re heading to Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa this month, there is an exciting lineup of special entertainment and activities for you to celebrate Halloween 2017 at Aulani, Disney’s Hawaiian resort. Here are a few not-to-miss experiences in October:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

October 24-25, 2017

  • ‘Ohana Pumpkin Carving Contest: Families are invited to choose their pumpkin and carve their unique creations. Sculpted “monster-pieces” will be placed on display in the Pau Hana Community Hall for resort guests to view and cast their votes. Winners and prizes will be awarded during ‘Ohana Movie Night on Oct. 26. TIP: Reservations are encouraged for this premium activity. Call ahead to reserve your pumpkin!

October 29-30, 2017

  • Keiki Pumpkin Decorating: Little ones can pick their own mini pumpkins from our Pau Hana Pumpkin Patch. Our team will supply crafting tools for no-carve decorating.

October 31, 2017

  • Halloween Aloha-Style Dance Party: The Halawai Lawn will transform into a spooky-fun dance party on Halloween evening. Come dressed up for craft activities, games, face painting and of course, dancing with Disney friends!
  • Aulani Resort Trick-or-Treating: Guests staying at Aulani Resort for the night can trick-or-treat at locations throughout the resort. “Treasure” maps can be picked up at the Hālāwai Lawn before heading out!

Throughout the month of October, look out for your favorite Disney pals in their Halloween costumes. And on select evenings during ‘Ohana Movie Nights, family-friendly Halloween films will be screened on the Halawai Lawn.

Be sure to check the Daily ‘Iwa for more details on our Halloween activities!

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. 

Top Five Hidden Gems at Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando

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(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. 

2017 Holidays at Disneyland Resort Returns November 10 through January 7

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Happiest Place on Earth will get merrier once again when 2017 Holidays at Disneyland Resort returns November 10, 2017 through January 7, 2018! This festive season will bring back favorite experiences throughout the entire resort.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

At Disney California Adventure park, Festival of Holidays will again bring the spirit of the season to life through delicious food and special entertainment, including the return of Disney ¡Viva Navidad! For its second year, the celebration will feature a new take on the popular Festive Foods Marketplace, presenting a side-by-side mix of holiday comfort dishes that bridge many diverse cultures and family traditions. And at night, “World of Color – Season of Light” will illuminate Paradise Bay with a sparkling winter fantasy combining classic holiday songs with memorable moments from treasured Disney animated films.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

At Disneyland park, seasonal fan favorites return, including Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks, “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday (which begins September 15).

It’s not too late to plan your vacation to enjoy 2017 Holidays at Disneyland 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. 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

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(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.