Category Archives: United States

Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Scheduled to Start November 19, 2017

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Epcot International Festival of the Holidays (previously known as “Holidays Around the World”) will return to Epcot from November 19 through December 30. What can you expect this season? The return of the guest-favorite Candlelight Processional, new Holiday Kitchens, entertainment additions and more.

First up, the Candlelight Processional, a highlight of a holiday visit for many guests, features a retelling of the traditional Christmas story by a celebrity narrator and music from a 50-piece orchestra and mass choir. This year the show will welcome a few new narrators to the season’s lineup, including Matt Bomer, CCH Pounder and Pat Sajak. Returning favorites Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg and Jaci Velasquez are also scheduled to appear. The Candlelight Processional is performed three times each evening, 5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m. at America Gardens Theatre from Nov. 24-Dec. 30. Candlelight dinner packages can be reserved now by visiting Disneyworld.com/holiday.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Guests can also enjoy entertainment throughout World Showcase, with each pavilion’s holiday traditions coming to life for guests through the sharing of joyful music and time-honored traditions. New this year is the group Mostly Kosher, who will perform holiday classics celebrating Hanukkah in the America Pavilion. Returning favorites also include JOYFUL! A Gospel Celebration of the Season and Canadian Holiday Voyageurs.

In addition to more entertainment, the park will also feature a total of 15 Holiday Kitchens this year, serving up more holiday cookies and other sweet seasonal treats than ever before. Stop into the Odyssey for snowflake sugar cookies and warm apple fritters with cinnamon ice cream, or head to the Canada pavilion for Maple Buche de Noel.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Guests can also finish their holiday visit at Epcot by watching “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” fireworks, which will feature a special holiday finale.

What are you looking forward to experiencing most this holiday season at Epcot during the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays? Tell us in the comments section below.

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

Star Wars Galactic Nights 2017 Returns December 16 at Hollywood Studios

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Attention Star Wars fans – the special event, Star Wars: Galactic Nights 2017, which sold out last April, will return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios on December 16, 2017.

Held after park hours from 7 p.m.-midnight, the event will be filled with out-of-this-world entertainment that celebrates the entire Star Wars saga.

Among many thrills in store, guests can expect to enjoy Star Wars entertainment, special photo opportunities, event-exclusive merchandise and F&B, character greetings, a look at the ongoing Star Wars expansion coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and much more.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Here’s a look at other event offerings:

  • Star Wars Entertainment – Both Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks and the Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away stage show will be enhanced with special saga elements.
  • Sneak Peeks at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – The Epic Theater will play host to a special one-night-only panel discussion about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the 14-acre Star Wars expansion that’s set to open in 2019 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
  • Special Photo Ops – Throughout the park, guests can step into immersive and iconic scenes from their favorite Star Wars films in a series of incredibly detailed photo locations, including new backdrops inspired by Star Wars Rebels and more.
  • Character Encounters – Be on the lookout for Star Wars characters like Ewoks, AWR Troopers and roaming droids; Jedi Knights teaching younglings in Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple; rocketing to the stars aboard Star Tours – The Adventures Continue; and more.
  • Exclusive F&B and Merchandise – Even more specialty Star Wars-themed food and beverage and merchandise will be available.
  • Enjoy park attractions – Select attractions will be open to all guests. At embarkation points to Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, guests may come face-to-face with Stormtroopers on the lookout for a Rebel spy.

Star Wars: Galactic Nights 2017 access and activities will be exclusive to event ticket holders. Last spring’s event sold out, so booking early is strongly suggested. Tickets are priced at $129 adults, $124 ages 3-9. Discount available for Passholders by booking online or calling 407-WDW-PASS and for Disney Vacation Club Members by calling Member Services at 1-800-800-9800 or online, as well. Tickets are now on sale at Disneyworld.com/GalacticNights or by calling 407-W-DISNEY (407 934-7639).

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 Ten Tips for Volcano Bay Water Park at Universal Orlando Resort

In case you are not aware, summer is here and I have the perfect way to beat the heat – Universal’s Volcano Bay.

The new water theme park is the perfect way to cool off with over 30 experiences including 18 water attractions such as winding and action rivers, two children play areas, an aqua coaster unlike any other, and plenty of pools and sandy beaches. And you can’t forget delicious food and refreshing beverages.

Since this may be your first time visiting Volcano Bay, you may be looking for some tips and tricks to experiencing the park. Look no further – here are 10 tips for Volcano Bay to help you maximize your visit.

1. Hop or Skip to Volcano Bay by Staying On-Site

By staying at one of Universal Orlando’s five on-site hotels, you can get to Volcano Bay quicker! From Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort you can walk right over on the walking path that takes you directly to the park entrance. Hop aboard our complimentary shuttles from our four other hotels Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. An added bonus to staying on-site is Early Park Admission. This gives you exclusive access to Volcano Bay one hour before the park opens to day guests.

HINT: If you stay at Cabana Bay, try to grab a Volcano Side room at the new towers where you’ll get a beautiful view of the mighty Krakatau.

2. The Early Bird Gets the Best Beach Chair

This may be a no brainer, but the earlier you get to Volcano Bay the more you can jump on rides quicker. Plus, you can claim a prime spot on the beach of your choice as your home base for the day. #Winning

HINT: Want an even more epic spot on the beach? You can book a Private Cabana or Premium Seating. These options are very popular, so I recommend reserving them before you arrive by calling (877) 489-8068.

3. Head Towards the Back

It’s a known fact that people will naturally drift towards the first attractions they see. We recommend grabbing a spot in the back of the park when you first arrive. You’ll avoid the initial crowds near the front and get to the fun faster. Attractions near the back tend to have shorter wait times at the beginning of the day too!

HINT: As you’re making your way to the back to claim your spot, tap to save your ride time at one of the attractions along the way. That way, after you’ve grabbed your beach chair and applied the sunscreen, you can ride.

4. Items For Rent at Volcano Bay

If you have a large family and find yourself hauling a lot of gear into the park, have no fear! There are lockers for rent for cash or credit card throughout the entire park with three different sizes to store your things. I bet you already have a beach towel, but just in case you forget, there are towels available for rent. Your TapuTapu is technically rented for free, too, since you have to return it at the end of the day. ?

HINT: You can link up to four TapuTapus to your locker so the whole family can access it whenever they want.

5. Turn Your TapuTapu Into Your Wallet

If you would like to be able to take advantage of TapTu Pay at Volcano Bay, you can start setting up your account before you arrive through The Official Universal Orlando Resort App or online. You can link all of your party’s Volcano Bay tickets to the same account, and you can set up TapTu Pay by linking your credit card. Next step is to set up a pin number and boom – you’re all set to begin your adventure in Volcano Bay. You’ll receive your TapuTapu wearable at the park entrance when you arrive. Click here to learn more about TapuTapu.

HINT: TapTu Pay allows you to purchase merchandise, food and drinks with a simple tap of your wearable. An awesome benefit is the ability to set spending limits on your account. I know I’ll be taking advantage of this since I tend to get carried away with the shopping.

6. Thrills & Chills to Check Out While in Virtual Line

Here’s a quick snapshot to everything you can do while waiting in virtual line after you tapped into an attraction.

  • Ride the waves in the Waturi Beach wave pool
  • Discover all the TapTu Play effects throughout the park
  • Grab a tube and relax on the Kopiko Wai Winding River or take on the waves of TeAwa the Fearless River
  • Enjoy lunch or unique snacks such as a POG (a blend of Pineapple, Orange and Guava juices) or Waturi Fusion ice cream (made up of four different flavors!)
  • Play among the slides and water guns of the two kids areas Runamukka Reef and Tot Tiki Reef
  • Cool off in The Reef or Puka Uli Lagoon pools
  • Explore the gift shops for a fun souvenir to take home
  • If you’re 21+, try one of the Volcano Bay signature drinks at the two boat bars, Dancing Dragons and Kunuku

HINT: You’re in an island paradise when visiting Volcano Bay. Remember this is your time to relax and let the stress of everyday life drift away.

7. You Don’t Have to Ride Immediately…

 …When your TapuTapu alerts you that your ride time has arrived. You can head over at your leisure. So, if it catches you in the middle of enjoying an Island Chicken Salad, you don’t have to wolf it down. Enjoy your meal!

HINT: You do have to ride that attraction before you tap into another attraction, unless you want to replace it. But why wouldn’t you want to ride?!

8. Keep a Look Out for “Ride Now!”

Your TapuTapu wearable allows you to virtually wait in line for one attraction at a time. As you’re exploring the park, keep an eye out for slides that say “Ride Now!” You’ll be able to jump right onto the ride without getting out of your virtual line. As I mentioned before, you can replace your ride time  with another ride if you’d like. All it takes is a simple tap.

HINT: More attractions will show “Ride Now!” if you arrive early in the morning or if you stay later near closing time.

9. Eat Early or Later

Restaurants are busier in the noon – 2pm hours… on second thought, you may already know that. If you can, try eating earlier or later to avoid crowds of hungry people. There are four dining locations and other food carts throughout the park and two bars to grab a refreshing beverage.

HINT: One of my favorite food finds in Volcano Bay is The Feasting Frog. Look for a frog-shaped structure in the Rainforest Village, where you can enjoy snacks like the Poke Poke Bowl or a Taco Sampler.

10. Ride Out the Rain

If you’re not a local, you may not know: it rains in Florida during the summer. So, when you see the clouds gathering, don’t pack up your things and leave. Just ride out the weather until it passes, which in Florida can be pretty quick. You’ll find wait times for attractions will shorten as people who aren’t as savvy as you leave. I would recommend taking cover and enjoying a drink, a bite to eat or doing some shopping.

HINT: You’re already in a water park. You’re already wet. Roll with it and enjoy a beverage.

If you’ve visited Universal’s Volcano Bay, you’re an honorary insider. Share your tips on enjoying the park in the comments below.

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. 

Enjoy Spooky Fun at Return to Sleepy Hollow at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Are you one of the many guests that are entranced with the appearance of the Headless Horseman at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park? Many party attendees – myself included – line up early with their smartphones at the ready, just to snap a pic as the Horseman and his mysterious dark steed clip-clop down Main Street, U.S.A., before “Mickey’s Boo To You” parade.

If you’re a brave soul who can’t get enough of the Horseman, the “Return to Sleepy Hollow” offering at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground may be your perfect idea of fall fun.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The “Return to Sleepy Hollow” offering includes a group viewing of the 1949 Disney animated classic film “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” inside the resort’s historic Tri-Circle-D Ranch stables. While the stables are usually open to guests year-round, on nights like these they should watch for galloping ghosts and be ready for an up close and personal encounter with the Headless Horseman.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Return to Sleepy Hollow offering will take place at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground: September 29-October 2, October 5-9, 12-16, 19-23 and 26-31, at 8 and 10 p.m.

The experience can be reserved by calling 407-WDW-TOUR. General seating costs $22 per person, while premium seating, which includes a priority photo opportunity with the Headless Horseman and a Halloween treat bag, costs $38 per person. Guests in both seatings, age 3 and older, will also receive an exclusive limited edition pin. Guests age 2 and younger receive complimentary admission with their families, but are asked to sit in a parent’s lap.

Space is extremely limited for this offering. Race to book now!

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. 

Three Facts About Disney MaxPass That You Need to Know

Three Facts About Disney MaxPass That You Need to Know

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Three Facts About Disney MaxPass That You Need to Know

Disney MaxPass is now available at the Disneyland Resort! You probably already know that this new digital tool helps you maximize your day’s experience with unlimited Disney PhotoPass downloads and the convenience of mobile Disney FASTPASS through the Disneyland App. But did you also know …

  1. If you did not purchase theme park admission through the Disneyland App, it’s easy to add Disney MaxPass to your park ticket. You can purchase Disney MaxPass in the Disneyland App and connect it to your ticket by scanning the barcode on the back.
  2. Disney MaxPass includes unlimited Photopass downloads for the day! This includes magic shots, attraction photos and select Character dining photos.
  3. You can make your next Disney FASTPASS reservation even quicker with Disney MaxPass! As soon as your mobile Disney FASTPASS barcode has been scanned at an attraction, you can immediately reserve another attraction.

Be sure to try Disney MaxPass on your next vacation to the Disneyland Resort!

Guests are strongly advised to check the day’s FASTPASS ticket availability and other Park details before purchasing Disney MaxPass or using a Park ticket with Disney MaxPass as FASTPASS tickets for your preferred attractions may not be available at the time of purchase or use. FASTPASS tickets are limited and availability is not guaranteed. FASTPASS tickets may be obtained only while you are in the Parks and may not be available for entertainment through Disney MaxPass. An experience that does not have Disney FASTPASS availability at a kiosk will not be available using Disney MaxPass. The Disney MaxPass benefit will expire at the end of the day or when the Passport it is associated with expires, as applicable. Disney MaxPass is nonrefundable, nontransferable, may not be redeemed for cash and is subject to other restrictions. Price, terms, entitlements, attractions and entertainment are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Passholders who purchase the Disney MaxPass benefit may not use the value of any separate ticket media toward the purchase price of Disney MaxPass.

Disney PhotoPass service is subject to the PhotoPass terms found in https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos captured during the day your Disney MaxPass is used or during the validity dates of your Passport, as applicable, must be linked to your Disney account and may be downloaded pursuant to the expiration policy at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-expiration-policy/. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Downloads are restricted to personal use by Disney account holder only and may not be used for a commercial purpose. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.

Message, data and roaming rates may apply for the Disneyland app. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first.

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. 

2017 Party for the Senses at Epcot International Food and Wine Festival

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New entertainment, new seating, two cool themed evenings – there’s lots that’s new for the 2017 Party for the Senses, the sensational evening of food, live entertainment and elegant fun at World ShowPlace in Epcot World Showcase. And it’s the 35th anniversary of Epcot, another reason to celebrate during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

If you’ve never been, Party for the Senses is a culinary extravaganza with dozens of tasting stations with wine pairings and craft cocktails and beers. While food plays a leading role, the incredible talent line-up on the stage provides the backbeat for an unforgettable evening.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Here are six things you’ll need to know:

1. Start your evening early: when you buy your ticket for Party for the Senses, you also get reserved seating for the 5:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. performances of the East to the Beat concert series at America Gardens Theatre – so enjoy the live music, then stroll over to World ShowPlace for the party from 7:30-10 p.m. (Note: Epcot admission is required.)

2. There are three levels of seating this year, and every guest has a seat: Wine View Loungeincludes early admission (at 7:15 p.m.); a private reserved table in the lounge, artisanal cheeses and a specialty cocktail, with transportation to and from the Epcot main entrance. Reserved Seating is a private table on the main floor. Guaranteed Seating is with other guests on the main floor. All three have limited availability, so a reservation is a good idea.

3. This year’s dates: Sept. 23, Oct. 7, Oct. 14, Oct. 21 and Nov. 11.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. Two themed evenings worth considering: Sept. 23 will feature the chefs from Disney Springs – look for everything from Mexican (Frontera Cocina) to Asian (Morimoto Asia) to seafood (The BOATHOUSE and Paddlefish) to Southern (Homecomin’ by Art Smith) … the list goes on, and it’s great fun to interact with the chefs at each of their tasting stations. Then on Oct. 21, chefs from Disney parks around the globe will come together to create an evening of international tastes – this has been a super-popular event the last couple of years. Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disneyland, Shanghai Disney, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani and Disney Cruise Line chefs will join our Walt Disney World chefs to showcase the best of their cuisine.

5. Wow entertainment: the music takes this year’s event over the top. For the very special Disney Springs’ night on Sept. 23, popular entertainers from Disney Springs’ venues will take the stage, including the House of Blues Gospel Choir, Raglan Road musicians and Irish dancers, jugglers Nate and Aaron, magician Meraux Dantes, flamenco guitarist Nicholas Marks and more. Oct. 7 is John Pizzarelli, an American jazz guitarist and vocalist; Oct. 14, Femmes of Rock, a “hard rock” violin act with video, lights, choreography and comedy in a high-energy show; Oct. 21, Grace Kelly, American musician, singer, entertainer, songwriter, and Nov. 11, Vintage Vinyl Band (a big hit last year), an Orlando band that takes today’s pop hits and retrofits them into jazz, swing, Motown and doo-wop.

6. Make your reservations early: book online or call 407-939-3378 for Guaranteed Seating; call 407-939-3378 for Wine View Lounge or Reserved Seating.

See you on the promenade at the 2017 Party for the Senses!

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 Special Treats at Halloween Time 2017 at Disneyland Resort

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disneyland park, Disney California Adventure park and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort are all in on the frightfully delightful family fun during Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort, which runs from September 15 through October 31, 2017.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate this happily haunted season, so we’re giving you this compendium of Halloween-inspired treats and eats to help you navigate both parks and the hotels. There’s everything from Mummy Macarons to candied apples and Creole-spiced shrimp with cheese grits. Chart your course!

Here is the full list of special treats at Halloween Time 2017 at Disneyland Resort:

Disneyland Park

Main Street, U.S.A.

  • Main Street cappuccino cart: Assorted Halloween-inspired donuts
  • Carnation Café: Spicy Chicken Sandwich – Sriracha-glazed fried chicken topped with Pepper Jack cheese and slaw on a brioche bun
  • Jolly Holiday Bakery Café
    • Mickey-Shaped Mummy Macaron – A white chocolate macaron with white chocolate drizzle and chocolate-salted caramel filling
    • S’mores Bar

Fantasyland

  • Red Rose Tavern: Enchanted Maize Flatbread with mozzarella, roasted corn, pickled red onions, Parmesan, spicy lime aïoli and chopped cilantro

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Frontierland

  • Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante: Barbacoa Torta and Chips with seasoned beef, guacamole mayo, refried beans, tomato, lettuce and cotija cheese
  • The Golden Horseshoe: Chocolate Cowboy Bark
  • Stage Door Café
    • Chocolate Cowboy Bark
    • Campfire S’Mores Funnel Cake with chocolate-chile ganache and toasted marshmallow sauce, garnished with graham cracker crumbs and crushed peanut butter candy

New Orleans Square

  • Café Orleans: Shrimp & Grits with Creole-spiced shrimp and cheese grits, spiced sausage-fava bean-corn relish and shrimp sauce
  • French Market Restaurant: Oogie Boogie dessert – A dark chocolate cup filled with layers of dark chocolate mousse, green pound cake and chocolate cookie crumbles with gummy worms
  • Mint Julep Bar: Dreamsicle Beignets

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Critter Country

  • Hungry Bear Restaurant
    • Bison Blue Cheese Burger with candied bacon, sautéed mushrooms, baby kale and blue cheese tarragon sauce on a whole wheat ciabatta with fries
    • Milk and Hunny Funnel Cake

Adventureland

  • Bengal Barbecue: Lamb Kofta – Lamb with tzatziki sauce, spinach and pickled onions on grilled pita bread

Tomorrowland

  • Galactic Grill: Spider Parfait
  • Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port
    • Meatball Pizza with sliced meatballs, marinara, olives, roasted red peppers and pepperoncini
    • Spider Parfait

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney California Adventure Park

Buena Vista Street

  • Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café: Sleepy Hollow Cupcake
  • Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream
    • Bat Wing Raspberry Sundae -White chocolate-raspberry swirl ice cream with raspberry splatter, blood-red sprinkles, whipped cream and Bat Wing cookie
    • Spider Silk Ice Cream Sandwich – A black macaron with charcoal-tart cherry spun ice cream topped with popping candy and raspberry sauce
    • Carthay Circle Restaurant and Carthay Lounge: Poison Apple-Tini – Crown Royal Apple, Dekuyper and cranberry juice with Green Poison Apple glow cube

Grizzly Peak

  • Smokejumpers Grill: Green Apple Spell Lemonade with cherry drops

Pacific Wharf

  • Pacific Wharf Café
    • Pumpkin Raisin Bread Pudding
    • Bacon Cheddar Ale Soup
    • Anchor Blood Orange Blondie
    • Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest
  • Pacific Wharf Distribution Co.: Karl Strauss Oktoberfest Handcrafted Beer
  • Boudin Bread Cart: Pumpkin-shaped bread

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Paradise Pier

  • Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta
    • Cheeseburger Pizza (September)
    • Anti-Vampire Pizza (October)
  • Bayside Brews: Karl Strauss Oktoberfest Handcrafted Beer
  • Paradise Pier Ice Cream Company
    • Vanilla-orange swirl ice cream
    • Orange ice cream
  • Corn Dog Castle: Spicy Pepper Jack Cheese Stick dipped in corn batter, drizzled with blackberry sauce and topped with sweet pineapple salsa, pickled serranos and crushed cheese puffs
  • Cove Bar
    • “Ghost”-ly Pepper Nachos – Ghost pepper-marinated flank steak with green tortilla chips, topped with ghost pepper cheese sauce, black beans and avocado-tomatillo salsa
    • Halloween Specialty Cocktail

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Hollywood Land

  • Award Wieners
    • Gladiator Funnel Cake Fries topped with diced mangoes in a passionfruit-orange-guava sauce, whipped cream and chile-lime sugar
    • In celebration of “Thor: Ragnarok” – A hero-size all-beef hot dog on a “lightning struck” black bun with apple slaw, beet & onion slaw and a mighty serving of mustard crema and green onions, served with our “award worthy” Filmstrip Fries
    • North Coast PranQster Golden Ale
    • Barq’s Red Cream Ale (non-alcoholic)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • Schmoozies
    • Monstermallow Donut – Flaky donut with marshmallow filling
    • Mummy Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich – Almond macaron shell with dark chocolate “eyes” drizzled with white chocolate and filled with rainbow sherbet
    • Caramel Apple Smoothie – Fresh apple, caramel and ice cream
  • Studio Catering Co.: Dragon’s Breath Tacos – Pork belly tacos, Korean barbecue sauce, kimchi slaw and Sriracha aioli

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Cars Land

  • Flo’s V-8 Café
    • Car-achnid Pot Pie – Chicken pot pie with dried cranberries and butter-crust spider
    • Grape “Ghoul”-ant Shake
    • Mini Candy Cone Pie – A cream pie with vanilla, butterscotch and white chocolate pudding
  • Fillmore’s Taste-In: Vampire Mater Bread
  • Cozy Cone Motel
    • Slow Burnin’ Mac & Cheese Cone – Fresh-cooked pasta with spicy red pepper cheese sauce topped with crushed chile-cheese puffs, served in a Black Cauldron Cone
    • Spoke-y Cone Macaron filled with marshmallow buttercream and candy corn
    • Junkyard JamBOOree Mix – Choice of flavored popcorn with optional “nuts and bolts” (e.g., green M&M’s, candy corn, chocolate-covered pretzels, Boston baked beans, etc.)

Disneyland Hotel

  • Steakhouse 55: “Trick or Tea” served noon to 3 p.m. from September 30 through October 30
  • The Coffee House: Caramel apple cider

And for just a little sweet treat throughout the Disneyland Resort – at the Hunny Spot in Pooh Corner and Candy Palace on Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland park; and Trolley Treats at Disney California Adventure Park:

  • Candied apples, cake pops, and crispies featuring popular characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Jack Skellington and Disney Villains including the Evil Queen, Malificent and Oogie Boogie.
  • Pumpkin fudge
  • Pecan praline fudge

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Churro Carts in both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park:

  • Purple, green and orange-colored churros
  • Sour Watermelon Churro (only in Frontierland and New Orleans Square in Disneyland park)
  • Graham Cracker Churro with Marshmallow-Chocolate Dipping Sauce (only in Critter Country in Disneyland park)
  • Galactic Churro (only in “a bug’s land” at Disney California Adventure park)

Throughout Disneyland Resort:

  • Candy corn cotton candy
  • Pumpkin muffin
  • Pumpkin spice latte
  • Pumpkin cheesecake
  • Bat cookies
  • Mickey Bat cookies

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 Experiences at Halloween Time 2017 at Disneyland Resort

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Halloween Time 2017 at the Disneyland Resort begins September 15, and this year the celebration is expanding to Disney California Adventure park with new spooky experiences around every corner! Here are the top five experiences at Halloween Time 2017 at the Disneyland Resort that you won’t want to miss:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Cars Land Haul-O-Ween Celebration – The residents of Radiator Springs are decorating their establishments for the season, with Fillmore showing off his Jack-Oil-Lanterns and ghostly folk art, a Spider-Car spinning webs all over Flo’s V8 Café and more. Two Cars Land attractions will transform for the first time ever, with Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters becoming Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween, and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree becoming Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark – Once the sun sets each evening during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! will transform into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. The Guardians have successfully escaped The Collector’s Fortress, but they have accidentally left Groot behind! Help Rocket distract the creatures that have been released so he can find and rescue his little buddy.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Headless Horseman Statue at Buena Vista Street – A new 10-foot-tall statue of the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow, holding his jack-o’-lantern head up to the sky, will haunt Carthay Circle throughout the season.

Characters in Costume – Mickey Mouse and his friends will appear in new costumes along Buena Vista Street, with Mickey Mouse as a bat, Goofy as a ghost, Daisy Duck as a witch and more!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Oogie Boogie Welcomes You – A spell will be cast the moment you enter Disney California Adventure park, with new Halloween decor inspired by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Oogie Boogie’s oversized silhouette beckons guests through the main entrance as a swarm of bats encircle Carthay Circle Theatre.

Which new experiences at Halloween Time 2017 are you most looking forward to this year during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort? Tell us in the comments!

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. 

Disney California Adventure Park to Transform for Halloween Time 2017

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Halloween Time 2017 at the Disneyland Resort is almost here! This year, the spooky fun extends throughout the Disneyland Resort, with returning favorites at Disneyland park and new ghostly delights at Disney California Adventure park to transform for Halloween Time 2017.

In Cars Land, the residents of Radiator Springs are transforming their little road town into a Haul-O-Ween celebration. Each establishment will be decorated for the season, with Fillmore showing off his Jack-Oil-Lanterns and ghostly folk art, a Spider-Car spinning webs all over Flo’s V8 Café and more.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Two Cars Land attractions will also transform for the first time ever this Halloween season. Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters will become Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween, an all-new spooktacular dance celebration where Luigi and Guido will entertain the cugini (cousins) with Halloween twists on traditional Italian festival songs like the “Terror-antella,” “The Chop Top of Carsoli” and more. Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree will become Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree, where guests will whirl around the graveyard to the tune of creepy new songs and fun haunted twists on favorites such as “Monster Truck Smash” and “Welcome to Radiator Screams.”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

At Buena Vista Street, a new 10-foot-tall statue of the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow, holding his jack-o’-lantern head up to the sky, will haunt Carthay Circle. Mickey Mouse and his friends bring more Halloween fun to this stylish avenue, donning new costumes, with Mickey Mouse as a bat, Goofy as a ghost, Daisy Duck as a witch and more!

Discover these new experiences along with returning favorites when Disney California Adventure to transform for Halloween Time 2017 at the Disneyland Resort, September 15 through October 31, 2017!

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

Top 5 Reasons to Stay On-Site at Universal When Visiting Volcano Bay

Top 5 Reasons to Stay On-Site at Universal When Visiting Volcano Bay

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

By now, you’re probably aware that Universal Orlando’s new water theme park, Universal’s Volcano Bay, is officially open. I bet you’re ready to take on the thrills, soak up the sun and experience everything Volcano Bay has to offer.

Your destination is set. But have you thought about where you’re going to stay?

Here are five reasons why we recommend that you stay on-site at Universal while enjoying Volcano Bay to maximize your visit:

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

1. Get In Before Everyone Else

By staying on-site at Universal Orlando Resort, you receive Early Park Admission to Volcano Bay. That means you can enter the park one hour before the scheduled opening and check out the rides before everyone else.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

2. Walk or Ride and Save Time

Forget hopping in the car and driving to the parks. When you stay on-site, you just need to roll out of bed and make your way over.

Guests staying at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort can walk to Volcano Bay on the dedicated walking path. Guests staying at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort enjoy complimentary shuttle bus transportation.

No getting the car wet. No getting up early to drive. No parking. Enjoy Volcano Bay the hassle-free way!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

3. Make Purchases with Your TapuTapu

When you visit Volcano Bay, TapuTapu becomes your currency. You can make purchases throughout Volcano Bay using TapTu Pay. All you have to do is set up an account through the Official Universal Orlando Resort App or online, link your party’s Volcano Bay tickets, add your credit card information and create a pin number. Click here to set up your account and learn more about TapuTapu before your visit.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

4. Experience Shopping without the Baggage

Interested in purchasing gifts but don’t want to carry it around? When you stay on-site, you have the option of having your merchandise delivered back to your hotel for free. All you need to do is tell the Team Member at the gift shop you’d like to have your purchases delivered to your hotel.

Guests staying at Cabana Bay Beach Resort will have their purchases delivered to Luggage Services in the hotel lobby for pick up. Guests staying at the other on-site hotels will have their merchandise delivered to their hotel rooms.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

5. Enjoy Views Beyond Belief

Nothing beats waking up in the morning, looking out the window and seeing a 200-foot volcano.

When you stay in a Volcano Side Room at Cabana Bay Beach Resort, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Volcano Bay all day long.

Make the most of your Volcano Bay visit and stay on-site at Universal Orlando Resort. You’re just a hop, skip and a jump away from the fun!

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.