Category Archives: United States

Incredible Photo Opportunities and Magic Shots in Pandora- The World of Avatar

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Incredible Photo Opportunities and Magic Shots in Pandora- The World of Avatar

Expeditions to Pandora – The World of Avatar have begun at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

When you’re not trekking among mountains, drifting down a Pandoran River deep into the bioluminescent rainforest, or soaring on the back of a mountain banshee, you’ll find the striking beauty of Pandora offers many locations to take photos of your interplanetary travel.

Disney PhotoPass Service photographers are placed in the best locations in Pandora – The World of Avatar to capture your entire group’s adventure into this exotic world. There are some incredible photo opportunities and magic shots in Pandora – The World of Avatar that you won’t want to miss on your visit!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney PhotoPass photographers are also able to capture a number of Magic Shots and Animated Magic Shots in Pandora featuring some of your favorite Pandoran inhabitants. Check them out below!

When you visit a PhotoPass photographer in front of the floating mountains during daylight hours, you’ll have the opportunity to include a banshee in your photo.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In the evening, PhotoPass photographers can capture a woodsprite floating into your photos in both a Magic Shot and Animated Magic Shot:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Remember, Animated Magic Shots can only be downloaded as part of an active Memory Maker entitlement, which allows you to take home all of your Disney PhotoPass photos and videos from your Walt Disney World Resort vacation for one price.

Enjoy your adventure!

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 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival Menus Now Available

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Opening day of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is earlier than ever this year – August 31, with lots of new tastes and sips around World Showcase Lagoon and even extending in to Future World. Here’s a rundown of the 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival menus from each Festival Marketplace to keep handy and help you plan ahead. The festival runs through November 13. For more information, visit epcotfoodfestival.com. Look for booking dates for special events soon!

Epcot Legacy Showplace

  • Chilled Scotch Egg wrapped in Sausage with Mustard Sauce
  • Zesty Cheeseburger and Cheddar Cheese Macaroni Handwich
  • L’Orange Cotton Candy: A mixture of Lime and Orange Cotton Candy (vegetarian)
  • Bright Horizons: Sprite® with Multi-flavored Boba Pearls (non-alcoholic)
  • M.I.A Beer Company 305 Golden Ale, Doral, FL
  • Playalinda Brewing Company Blonde Ale, Titusville, FL
  • Florida Beer Company Passport 35 Triple Chocolate Milk Stout, Cape Canaveral, FL
  • JDub’s Passion Wheat, Sarasota, FL
  • Central 28 Trekkerbier Farmhouse Ale, DeBary, FL
  • Cigar City Guayabera Citra Pale Ale, Tampa, FL
  • Eastern Florida Flight
    • M.I.A. Beer Company 305 Golden Ale
    • Playalinda Brewing Company Blonde Ale
    • Florida Beer Company Passport 35 Triple Chocolate Milk Stout
  • Western Florida Flight
    • JDub’s Passion Wheat
    • Central 28 Trekkerbier Farmhouse Ale
    • Cigar City Guayabera Citra Pale Ale

Flavors from Fire

  • Piggy Wings: Roasted Pork Wings with Korean BBQ Sauce and Sesame Seeds
  • Smoked Corned Beef with Warm Crispy Potatoes, Pickled Onions, and Blonde Ale Beer Fondue featuring BelGioioso
  • Romano and American Grana Cheeses
  • Sweet Pancake with Spicy Chipotle Chicken Sausage, Onion Jam, and Maple Butter Syrup
  • Chocolate Picante: Dark Chocolate Mousse with Cayenne Pepper, Chili Powder, and Raspberry Dust
  • Orlando Brewery Smokin’ Blackwater Porter
  • Ravenswood Zinfandel, Napa Valley
  • Swine Brine featuring Evan Williams Bourbon

Light Lab
Beverages

  • T=C2: Tonic Water and Cotton Candy (non-alcoholic)
  • RGB: Citrus Apple Freeze (non-alcoholic)
  • Bleu Spectrum: Blanc de Bleu Cuvée Mousseux with Boba Pearls
  • Left Hand Brewing Company Polestar Pilsner, Longmont, CO
  • Playalinda Brewing Company Robonaut Red Ale, Titusville, FL
  • Elysian Brewing Space Dust IPA, Seattle, WA
  • Sixpoint Brewery Mad Scientist Radiant Flux, Brooklyn, NY
  • Founders Brewing Company Green Zebra Watermelon Gose Ale, Grand Rapids, MI
  • Blue Point Brewing Company Hoptical Illusion IPA, Patchogue, NY
  • Space Flight
    • Left Hand Brewing Company Polestar Pilsner
    • Playalinda Brewing Company Robonaut Red Ale
    • Elysian Brewing Space Dust IPA
  • Light Flight
    • Sixpoint Brewery Mad Scientist Radiant Flux
    • Founders Brewing Company Green Zebra Watermelon Gose Ale
    • Blue Point Brewing Company Hoptical Illusion IPA

Earth Eats Inspired by ABC’s “The Chew”

  • Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Grilled Beef Skewer with Romaine, Apricots, and Feta Cheese
  • Peanut Butter and White Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel Drizzle (gluten friendly)
  • Kurt Russell’s Gogi Wines Chardonnay “Goldie,” California
  • Kurt Russell’s Gogi Wines Pinot Noir, California
  • Redstone Meadery Black Raspberry Mead

Active Eats

  • Loaded Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Nueske’s® Pepper Bacon, Cheddar Cheese, Peppers, and Green Onions
  • Roasted Verlasso® Salmon with Quinoa Salad and Arugula Chimichurri (gluten friendly)
  • Sweet Avocado Crema with Strawberries, Yellow Cake, and Tortilla Streusel (vegetarian)
  • M.I.A. Beer Company HRD WTR Cucumber & Lemon Lime Hard Sparkling Water, Doral, FL
  • Chateau Ste. Michelle Cold Creek Riesling, Washington
  • Evolution by Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley

Coastal Eats

  • Lump Crab Cake with Napa Cabbage Slaw and Avocado Lemongrass Cream
  • Baked Shrimp Scampi Dip with Sourdough Baguette
  • Seared Scallops with Roasted Corn and Butterbean Succotash and Chili-chipotle Butter Sauce
  • Erath Pinot Gris, Oregon
  • Soter Planet Pinot Noir, Oregon

The Chocolate Studio

  • Liquid Nitro Chocolate-Almond Truffle with Warm Whiskey-Caramel (gluten friendly)
  • Sweet Dark Chocolate Raspberry Torte with Whipped Cream and Raspberry Dust (vegetarian)
  • Justin Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles
  • Banfi Rosa Regale, Piedmont
  • Lenotti Recioto della Valpolicella, Italy
  • RL Buller Fine Muscat

The Cheese Studio Hosted by Boursin® Cheese

  • Braised Beef “Stroganoff” with Tiny Egg Noodles, Wild Mushroom, and Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese Sauce
  • Savory Caramelized Onion Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese Tart with cold Arugula Salad and Aged Balsamic (vegetarian)
  • Cheese Trio: Profiterole topped with Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese and Orange Apricot Jam; Smoked Salmon Pinwheel with Boursin® Shallot and Chive Cheese and Everything Seasoning; Strawberry Macaroon with Boursin Pepper Cheese
  • Leth Steinagrund Gruner Veltliner, Austria
  • Liberated Pinot Noir, California

The Wine & Dine Studio

  • Seared Scallops, Truffled Celery Root Purée, Brussels Sprouts, and Wild Mushrooms featuring Melissa’s Produce
  • Pulled Duck Confit with Cannellini Bean Ragoût and Zinfandel Reduction
  • Trio of Artisan Cheese (vegetarian): Fromager d’Affinois de Excellence with Toasted Baguette; Point Reyes Original Blue with Apricot Jam; Point Reyes Toma with Honey
  • Artist Palette of Wine and Cheese: Trio of Artisan Cheese Paired with Round Pond Estate Sauvignon Blanc, St.
  • Francis Chardonnay and Recuerdo Malbec
  • Round Pond Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford
  • St. Francis Chardonnay, Sonoma County
  • Recuerdo Malbec, Argentina
  • Eden Canyon “Jolie” Red Blend, California
  • Meiomi Rosé, California

Islands of the Caribbean

  • Jamaican Beef Patty with Mango Salsa
  • Mojo Pork with Black Beans, Cilantro Rice, and Pickled Red Onions (gluten friendly)
  • Quesito: Puff Pastry with Sweetened Cream Cheese and Guava Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Carib Lager
  • Caribbean White Sangria
  • Frozen Mojito

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Zealand

  • Steamed Green Lip Mussels with Garlic Butter and Toasted Breadcrumbs
  • Lamb Meatball with Spicy Tomato Chutney
  • Seared Venison Loin with Wild Mushroom Marsala Sauce and Kumara Purée
  • Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough
  • Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir, Marlborough
  • Frozen Wine Cocktail featuring Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc

Australia

  • Grilled Sweet and Spicy Bush Berry Shrimp with Pineapple, Pepper, Onion, and Snap Peas (gluten friendly)
  • Grilled Lamb T-Bone with Mint Pesto and Potato Crunchies (gluten friendly)
  • Lamington: Yellow Cake Dipped in Chocolate and Shredded Coconut (vegetarian)
  • Coopers Brewery Original Pale Ale
  • Robert Oatley McLaren Vale Shiraz
  • Hope Estate “Wollombi Brook” Semillon, Hunter Valley

The Almond Orchard Hosted by Blue Diamond Almond Breeze®

  • Cauliflower Risotto with Pulled Chicken, Artichokes, Spinach and Parmesan Cheese with Aged Balsamic
  • Fire-roasted Tomato Hummus topped with Blue Diamond® Salt & Vinegar Almonds served with Blue Diamond Nut Thins®
  • Banana Almond Soft-serve Sundae with Fresh Berries and Crunchy Chocolate Oats

Patagonia

  • Beef Empanada
  • Grilled Beef Skewer with Chimichurri Sauce and Boniato Purée (gluten friendly)
  • Verum Pinot Noir, Rio Negro
  • Bodega Noemía de Patagonia “A Lisa” Malbec, Rio Negro

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Hawai’i

  • Kalua Pork Slider with Sweet and Sour DOLE® Pineapple Chutney and Spicy Mayonnaise
  • Grilled Tuna Tataki with Seaweed Salad, Pickled Cucumbers, and Wasabi Cream
  • Teriyaki-glazed SPAM® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers, Onions, and Spicy Mayonnaise
  • Passion Fruit Cheesecake with Toasted Macadamia Nuts
  • Maui Brewing Company Bikini Blonde Lager
  • Florida Orange Groves Sparkling Pineapple Wine
  • Mai Tai featuring Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Farm Fresh

  • Crispy Chicken with Griddled Cornbread and Red Eye Gravy
  • Roasted Beet Salad with Green Beans, Feta Cheese, Minus 8 Vinaigrette, and Toasted Walnuts (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • Gumption Citrus Freak Hard Cider, Middlebury, VT
  • Woodchuck Raspberry Hard Cider, Middlebury, VT
  • Two Henrys Elderberry Cream Hard Cider, Plant City, FL
  • Florida Orange Groves Mango Mama Wine
  • Cider flight

Greece

  • Loaded Greek “Nachos”: Pita Chips, Meatless Sausage Crumbles, and Vegan Tzatziki (vegetarian)
  • Taste of Greece: Stuffed Grape Leaves with Lemon Dill Sauce, Grilled Octopus and Feta Cheese Dip with Warm Pita
    Spanakopita (vegetarian)
  • Bougatsa: Warm Phyllo Dough Strudel with Sweet Vanilla Custard, Lemon Honey Syrup and Cinnamon (vegetarian)
  • Domaine Skouras Moscofilero, Peloponnese
  • Domaine Sigalas Assyrtiko, Santorini
  • Argyros Atlantis Red Blend, Santorini

Thailand

  • Marinated Chicken with Peanut Sauce and Stir-fried Vegetables
  • Seared Shrimp and Scallop Cake with Cold Noodle Salad
  • Red Hot Spicy Thai Curry Beef with Steamed Rice
  • Helfrich Gewürztraminer, Alsace
  • Singha Lager

Mexico

  • Rib Eye Taco: Marinated Rib Eye, Roasted Chipotle Sauce, and Grilled Scallions on a Corn Tortilla
  • Tequila Chipotle Shrimp: Served on a Black Bean Huarache garnished with Red and Green Cabbage, Queso Fresco, and Crema Mexicana
  • Cajeta Mousse served with Cajeta Sauce and White Chocolate Flakes
  • Prickly Pear Margarita
  • Classic Pomegranate Margarita
  • Mexican-style Sangria
  • Pacifico Lager with Floater

China

  • Beijing Roasted Duck Bao Bun with Hoisin Sauce
  • Spicy Chicken Bao Bun
  • Black Pepper Shrimp with Garlic Noodles
  • Chicken Potstickers
  • Mango Bubble Tea with Assam Black Tea and Milk (non-alcoholic)
  • Tsingtao Lager
  • Ritzy Lychee with Courvoisier Cognac VS and Smirnoff Vodka
  • Happy Peach with DeKuyper Peach Liqueur and Myers’s Dark Rum
  • Kung Fu Punch with Smirnoff Vodka and Bols Triple Sec
  • BaiJoe Punch: Chinese Bai Jiu Spirit, Lychee, Coconut and Pineapple Juice

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

India

  • Warm Indian Bread with Pickled Garlic, Mango Salsa and Coriander Pesto Dips (vegetarian)
  • Madras Red Curry with Roasted Cauliflower, Baby Carrots, Chickpeas, and Basmati Rice (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • Korma Chicken with Cucumber Tomato Salad, Almonds, Cashews, and Warm Naan Bread
  • Pistachio Cardamom Bundt Cake with Chocolate Coconut Mousse (vegetarian)
  • Mango Lassi (non-alcoholic)
  • Sula Chenin Blanc, Nashik
  • Sula Shiraz, Nashik
  • Kingfisher Lager

Africa

  • Berbere-style Beef Tenderloin Tips with Onions, Jalapeños, Tomato, and Pap (gluten friendly)
  • Spicy Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew with Vegan Yogurt and Quinoa (vegetarian)
  • Spinach and Paneer Cheese Pocket with Mint Raita (vegetarian)
  • Ernie Els “Big Easy” Chenin Blanc, Western Cape
  • Simonsig Pinotage, Stellenbosch
  • Jam Jar Sweet Shiraz, Western Cape
  • Wine flight

Brewer’s Collection

  • Lebkuchenherz: Decorated Gingerbread Heart
  • Radeberger Zwickel Pilsner (Unfiltered)
  • Hacker-Pschorr Hefe Weisse Naturtrüb
  • Schöfferhofer Hefeweizen Pomegranate Beer
  • Beer flight

Germany

  • Schinkennudeln: Pasta Gratin with Ham and Cheese
  • Roast Bratwurst in a Pretzel Roll
  • Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Lebkuchenherz: Decorated Gingerbread Heart
  • Radeberger Zwickel Pilsner (Unfiltered)
  • Selbach Bernkasteler Kurfürstlay Riesling Kabinett, Mosel
  • Dr. Heyden Oppenheimer Sacträger Riesling Spätlese, Rheinhessen
  • Selbach Riesling Classic Dry, Mosel
  • Wine flight

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Spain

  • Charcuterie in a Cone with a selection of imported Spanish Meats, Cheeses, and Olives with an Herb Vinaigrette
  • Traditional Spanish Paella with Shrimp, Mussels, Chicken, and Crispy Chorizo (gluten friendly)
  • Seafood Salad with Shrimp, Bay Scallops and Mussels, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, White Balsamic Vinegar, and Smoked Paprika (gluten friendly)
  • Sweet Olive Oil Cake with Powdered Sugar and Lemon Curd
  • Rafael Palacios Bolo Godello, Valdeorras
  • Bodegas y Viñedos Artazu Garnacha Rosado, Navarra
  • Casa Castillo Monastrell, Jumilla
  • Wine flight

Italy

  • Crispy Calamari with Spicy Pomodoro Sauce
  • Absolut Penne: Vodka Sauce with Shrimp
  • Cannoli al Cioccolato: Chocolate-covered Cannoli Filled with Sweet Ricotta, Chocolate and Candied Fruit
  • Pinot Grigio
  • Chianti
  • Prosecco
  • Corbinello
  • Moscato
  • Frozen Margarita with Limoncello and Tequila
  • Moretti Lager Beer
  • Moretti La Rossa Double Malt Beer

Hops & Barley

  • New England Lobster Roll
  • Smoked Beef Brisket and Pimento Cheese served on Griddled Garlic Toast
  • Freshly Baked Carrot Cake and Cream Cheese Icing (vegetarian)
  • New Belgium Brewing Fat Tire White Ale, Fort Collins, CO
  • Anchor Brewing Liberty Ale, San Francisco, CA
  • Orange Blossom Brewing Foxtail Cold Brew Coffee Pilsner, Orlando, FL
  • Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands
  • Atalon Pauline’s Cuvée Red Blend, Napa Valley
  • Beer flight

Japan

  • Wasabi Shumai Steamed Pork Dumpling
  • Salmon BLT Sushi Roll
  • Teriyaki Ginger Pork
  • Pom Pineapple Sake Cocktail
  • Kara Tamba Tarekuchi Dry Sake
  • Yukikiage “Snow Shadow” Junmai Sake
  • Sapporo Lager

Morocco

  • Kefta Pocket: Seasoned Ground Beef in a Pita Pocket
  • Spicy Hummus Fries with Cucumber, Tomato, Onions, and Tzatziki Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Chocolate Baklava: Rolled Phyllo Dough with Toasted Almonds and Dark Chocolate Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Mimosa Royale: Sparkling Wine and Orange Juice topped with Orange Liqueur
  • Les Trois Domaines Guerrouane White Wine, Meknes
  • Moroccan Sangria
  • Casa Pale Lager

Belgium

  • Beer-braised Beef served with Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes
  • Belgian Waffle with Warm Chocolate Ganache and Whipped Cream (vegetarian)
  • Belgian Waffle with Berry Compote and Whipped Cream (vegetarian)
  • Hoegaarden Witbier
  • Leffe Blonde Belgian Pale Ale
  • Stella Artois Hard Cidre
  • Chilled Coffee featuring Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
  • Beer flight

Brazil

  • Escondidinho de Carne – “Little Hidden One”: Layered Meat Pie with Mashed Yucca (gluten friendly)
  • Crispy Pork Belly with Black Beans, Tomato, and Onions (gluten friendly)
  • Pão de Queijo: Brazilian Cheese Bread (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • M.I.A. Beer Company Barbosa Black Beer, Doral, FL
  • Lidio Carraro Chardonnay
  • Frozen Caipirinha featuring LeBlon Cachaça

France

  • Moelleux au Fromage de Chèvre et Épinards: Warm Goat Cheese Pudding with Spinach (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • Croissant aux Escargots: Escargot Croissant with Garlic and Parsley
  • Boeuf Bourguignon, Purée de Pommes de Terre:Cabernet Sauvignon Braised Beef with Mashed Potatoes
  • Crème Brûlée à la Confiture de Framboises: Crème Brûlée with Housemade Raspberry Jam (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • La Passion Martini Slush: Vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron, Cranberry and Passion Fruit Juice
  • Chardonnay, Bouchard Ainé & Fils
  • Château les Graves de Barrau Merlot and Cabernet Blend, Bordeaux
  • St-Germain Sparkling Kir: Sparkling Wine and St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur
  • Kronenbourg Blanc 1664 Pale Lager

Ireland

  • Roasted Irish Sausage with Colcannon Potatoes and Onion Gravy
  • Warm Irish Cheddar Cheese and Stout Dip with Irish Brown Bread (vegetarian)
  • Warm Chocolate Pudding with Irish Cream Liqueur Custard
  • Twinings® Pumpkin Chai Tea and Caramel Shake (non-alcoholic)
  • Bunratty Meade Honey Wine
  • Guinness Blonde American Lager
  • Twinings® Pumpkin Chai Tea Frozen Cocktail with Caramel Vodka

Scotland

  • Fresh Potato Pancake with Scottish Smoked Salmon and Herbed Sour Cream
  • Traditional Scottish Lamb Stew with Neeps and Tatties
  • The Tipsy Laird: Whiskey-soaked Cake with Lemon Cream and Toasted Oats (vegetarian)
  • Belhaven Brewery Scottish Ale
  • Citrus Thistle featuring Hendrick’s Gin

Canada

  • Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup served with a Pretzel Roll
  • “Le Cellier” Wild Mushroom Beef Filet Mignon with Truffle-Butter Sauce (gluten friendly)
  • Moosehead Radler: Lager infused with Grapefruit, Grape and Lemon Juices, New Brunswick Neige Premiere “Apple Ice Wine”, Québec
  • Fielding Estate Red Conception, Niagara Peninsula

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. 

Fantasmic Dining Packages at Disneyland Resort Now Available

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Fantasmic!” returns to Disneyland park on July 17, 2017! If you’re looking for a delicious way to have reserved viewing for this classic nighttime spectacular, reservations for three new Fantasmic Dining Packages at Disneyland are now available. There’s something for everyone, from on-the-go options to extravagant three-course dinners.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Blue Bayou Restaurant “Fantasmic!” Dining Package will include choice of starter, entrée, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage; cost is $65 for adults, $25 for children age 3-9.
Starters

  • New Orleans Gumbo
  • Blue Bayou House Salad
  • Louisiana Spiced Shrimp

Entrees

  • Blue Bayou Bouillabaisse with sustainable fish fillet, mussels, clams, shrimp and spiced sausage
  • Pan-seared Bone-in Pork Loin
  • Citrus-marinated Chicken Breast
  • Surf & Turf, featuring a petite lobster tail and broiled filet mignon
  • Portobello Mushroom and Louisana Popcorn Rice
  • Blue Bayou Bone-in Rib-eye
  • Pan-seared Salmon
  • Herb-crusted Rack of Lamb

Desserts

  • Sorcerer Mickey “Fantasmic!” Dessert, with milk chocolate mousse, bananas foster sauce, milk chocolate pound cake and a chocolate glaze
  • Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlèe with fresh berries
  • 8-Layer Chocolate Hazelnut Cake

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

River Belle Terrace “Fantasmic!” Dining Package will include choice of starter, entrée, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage; cost is $45 for adults, $25 for children age 3-9.
Starters

  • Corn Chowder
  • House Salad

Entrees

  • Pork Spare Ribs
  • BBQ Tofu
  • Oven-roasted Sausage Link Combo
  • Sustainable Catch of the Day
  • Oven-roasted Half BBQ Chicken
  • Fried Chicken Sandwich
  • Pulled Pork Sandwich
  • Beef Brisket Sandwich

Desserts

  • Maleficent Dragon “Fantasmic!” Dessert, with a milk chocolate crunchy base, spiced dark chocolate-blackberry ganache center, caramel mousse and orange-vanilla sauce
  • Strawberry Shortcake
  • Butterscotch Pudding

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Hungry Bear Restaurant will offer choice of entrée and natural soda; choice of entrée and bottled water, juice box or milk for children age 3-9; cost is $29.99 for adults, $19.99 for children.

  • Cedar Salt Roasted Salmon, with kale and garbanzo bean salad, cranberry-apricot grains and wild rice medley
    BBQ Chicken, with kale and garbanzo bean salad, cranberry-apricot grains and wild rice medley
  • Blackberry BBQ Pork Ribblettes, with kale and garbanzo bean salad, cranberry-apricot grains and wild rice medley
  • Mushroom and Leek Frittata, with kale and garbanzo bean salad, cranberry-apricot grains and wild rice medley

To make reservations for a Fantasmic Dining Package at Disneyland or to learn more about our premium dining options, visit Disneyland.com or call 718-714-DINE.

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 Springs Summer 2017 Updates at Restaurants and Dining Locations

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

With Florida temperatures heating up, we want to share with you some cool news from Disney Springs summer 2017 updates on new and improved dining spots:

  • More shade, big umbrellas and new frozen margaritas at Dockside Margaritas, a favorite waterfront respite for cold drinks and live music. And while classic margaritas and other cocktails are on the menu, seasonal frozen margaritas (watermelon, apple, agave nectar and tangerine mix-ins are among rotating flavors) are fun for summertime. Live music usually starts around noon and goes until 10:15 p.m.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • Splitsville Luxury Lanes on the West Side added more air-conditioned space on the second floor with an enclosed balcony that expands the dining room. Tables and high tops are along the windows, with fabulous views of Disney Springs through floor-to-ceiling windows. A new bar anchors the space.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • The BOATHOUSE at The Landing has three new summer dishes: herb-marinated grilled shrimp with smoked jalapeño grits, cornbread and housemade jalapeño jelly; house-smoked beef brisket au jus sandwich with spicy giardineria; and coconut bread pudding souffle with roasted pineapple and rum caramel sauce.
  • B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. kiosk in Marketplace has a new Latin Dog, topped with chipotle mayo, corn salsa and queso fundido, one of five delectable choices – vegetarians can try the meatless Italian-style with peppers, onion and marinara. (And we love their homemade pickles.)
  • The popular “Jasper Board” starter gets bigger at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ with smoked fish dip, pimento cheese, shaved country and tasso hams and buttermilk crackers. With a cocktail, it’s a meal. Or try the new “Ham, Ham & Jam” with three Cheddar drop biscuits with ham, blackberry fig jam and pimento cheese. A new hangar steak with good ol’ Southern succotash (made with grilled corn, tomato and lima beans) and a new Chef Art Burger with Art’s special secret sauce round out the savories. If you want to go lighter, there’s a new watermelon salad with heirloom tomatoes, crispy ham, feta cheese and candied pecans.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • STK Orlando has a new happy hour menu, available every Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. with small bites like Cherry Tomato and Watermelon Skewers for $6 and beer and well drinks for $4.
  • The Polite Pig in Town Center added five bourbon flights: The Friendly Flight, The Polite Flight, The Refined Flight, The Rye Whiskey Flight and the American Whiskey Flight. A fun way to try a sip of something new – each flight has three bourbons. There is also a new BBQ Cheddar Sausage Hoagie and Double Layer Chocolate Cake.

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. 

Celebrate Christmas in July at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

For the first time in 2017, the holidays will begin a bit early at Walt Disney World Resort with the celebration of Christmas in July at Disney Springs. Beginning July 15 through July 30, 2017, you can start searching for the perfect Holiday gift throughout the Disney Springs Marketplace while experiencing special holiday-themed treats, merchandise and entertainment offerings.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In July, The Art of Disney is featuring holiday inspired art with artist meet and greets, Dockside Margaritas is pouring the Snowflake Margarita, and Disney’s Days of Christmas is hosting a special meet and greet with Santa – dressed for the Florida heat. “Summer Santa” will be on hand for photographs 1:00pm to 10:00pm.

For this limited-time Disney Springs celebration, a DJ will be spinning Christmas-beats and Enjoy Your Face will be celebrating with holiday face painting designs. Even the Disney Springs fountains will be decked for the season.

Also, Starbucks in the Marketplace is offering their holiday themed drinks and you can stock up on sweets at Goofy’s Candy Company or Disney’s Candy Cauldron, featuring peppermint bark and gingerbread cookies. You’ll also find a few holiday-themed treats, including Santa Mickey and Minnie specialty apples and krispy treats, to delight children of all ages. Head over to AristoCrepes to indulge in a gingerbread crepe.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The special events continue in July with UNIQLO celebrating their 1-year anniversary with a Japanese Night Market inspired celebration. Now through July 30, 2017, guests can experience a taste of a traditional Japanese night market, complete with prize-winning games, special photo opportunities, origami and calligraphy classes, and more. This event is a first of its kind at UNIQLO, and special activities run from 7:00pm to 11:00pm daily. Visit UNIQLO’s event page event page for more information.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

And, if you’re looking for a spot to relax before checking out the nighttime entertainment, multiple venues have enhanced their daily drink special offerings. Throughout the month of July, the bar located inside the House of Blues Restaurant & Bar will offer drink specials daily, from 11:30am to 5:00pm. STK Orlando recently rolled out daily drink specials, and now Joffrey’s Tea Traders has also joined in on the fun. Stop by Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s in the Landing between 4:00pm and 7:00pm daily to try discounted “spiked specialties,” including the Kahlua-Tini and Frozen Cappuccino with Bailey’s.

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. 

Three Exciting New Years Eve 2017 Celebrations at Disney World

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Three Exciting New Years Eve 2017 Celebrations at Disney World

Reservations open July 11 for three New Years Eve 2017 celebrations at Disney World which offer ways to ring in the New Year at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. These experiences are part of the Enchanting Extras Collection, which gives guests “can’t-miss” experiences that enhance the Walt Disney World experience.

Disney Countdown to Midnight

For an evening of dining and dancing, “Disney Countdown to Midnight” includes delightful dining, live music, libations and more. An interactive band and DJ will fill the dance floor (and we hear that Mickey and Minnie may make a special appearance). Then welcome in 2018 with a flute of bubbly and a viewing of those legendary New Year’s Eve fireworks in the Magic Kingdom.

Hours are 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the Fantasia Ballroom. This party is designed for guests 18 and older.

Pixar Party: A New Year’s Eve Celebration

“Pixar Party: A New Year’s Eve Celebration” is for children of all ages, a family-friendly way to ring in the New Year with a Disney•Pixar-inspired dinner.

Sarge welcomes you to the Ballroom of the Americas that features vignettes of beloved Pixar movies. From Andy’s Room in “Toy Story” to and Metro City with The Incredibles, the immersive celebration will include theatrical backdrops, dramatic set pieces and fun props that re-create the fantastic worlds of the Pixar films. And, of course, favorite characters will be on hand from “Toy Story,” “The Incredibles,” “Cars” and “Up.”

Kids can have fun at Pixar face painting, a balloon artist and a boot camp with Sarge, while an interactive DJ will spin hits from Radio Disney (he’s going to be in a “Cars”-inspired DJ rig from Radiator Springs). Dinner is buffet style.

At midnight, head outdoors to ring in the New Year with a viewing of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Hours are 8 p.m.-12:15 a.m.

Down in New Orleans: A Disney New Year’s Eve Dining Experience

Fine dining is the theme of the third party, “Down in New Orleans: A Disney New Year’s Eve Dining Experience” in the Grand Republic Ballroom. Inspired by the Disney animated film “The Princess and the Frog,” the room is beautifully decorated French Quarter style to transport you to the Big Easy.

Actions stations will feature flavors such as oyster beignets, smoked salmon mousse cones with caviar, Kobe beef tartare and sheep’s milk ricotta gnocchi. Signature dishes will include herb-crusted Louisiana redfish, crayfish etouffee, Black Angus beef cooked two ways, braised short ribs and filet of beef with truffled celery root silk.

A N’awlins jazz band will entertain during dinner, joined later in the evening by a vocalist who will bring to life the Academy-Award-winning classics from the film. Then slip outside with a glass of bubbly just before midnight to ring in 2018 with a private viewing area for the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Hours are 7 p.m.-12:15 a.m.

For reservations for any of these New Years Eve 2017 celebrations at Disney World, call 407-WDW-DINE.

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. 

Frozen Ever After Dessert Party Begins July 17, 2017 at Epcot

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Starting July 17, there will be a delicious new way to experience “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” at Epcot. Reservations are now open for the brand-new Frozen Ever After Dessert Party, the coolest dessert party with reserved seating to an amazing fireworks spectacular, delicious desserts and a special opportunity to enjoy the Frozen Ever After attraction!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The party, which takes place in World Showcase Plaza East, overlooking World Showcase Lagoon, will feature décor, drinks, desserts and snacks inspired by the beloved film, “Frozen.” Don’t worry about staking out the perfect spot to view the fireworks, because Frozen Ever After Dessert Party guests will have reserved seating. Sip on specialty cotton candy lemonade or “melted snow” and other non-alcoholic beverages, which will delight guests of all ages. Adults 21 years and older can enjoy alcoholic beverages such as a piña colada, margarita or “Summertime Punch,” a refreshing blend of prickly pear syrup, vodka, lemonade and ginger ale.

Desserts and snacks will be served on three buffet stations, check out the menus below!

Hot & Cold

  • Olaf’s Warm Double Chocolate S’mores Pudding Cake
  • Elsa’s Warm Cottage Pudding with Salted Caramel Glaze
  • Hand-dipped Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Small Bites

  • Wandering Oaken’s Eclairons
  • Hans’ Key Lime Tarts with Red Glitter Glaze
  • Living Rock Crispy Bonbons
  • Anna’s Blue Velvet Cupcakes
  • Kristoff’s No Sugar Added Lemon Curd with Blueberry

Not So Sweet

  • Sven’s Fresh Fruits & Berries
  • Grand Pabbie’s Winter-spiced Snack Mix
  • Duke of Weselton’s Cheese Fondue served with Country Bread Cubes, Broccoli, and Grilled Flatbread

After “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” guests of the Frozen Ever After Dessert Party will be escorted to the Norway Pavilion for a special ride on the popular Frozen Ever After attraction.

The Frozen Ever After Dessert Party is another exciting offering from the Enchanting Extras Collection, which allows guests to enhance their vacation with one-of-a-kind Disney experiences. Cost is $79 for guests ages 10 and above, $47 for ages 3 to 9—tax and gratuity included. Reservations are now open for dates beginning July 17 and can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

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 Places to Buy Sweet Treats at Universal Orlando Resort

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Sticky, decadent sweets are some of the greatest inventions ever. And the bigger, the better, right? Well, did you know that there are some incredible sweet shops in Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure? Many people buy sweets here and there in the parks, but there are some wonderfully unique treats in these specialty shops.

Here are the top 5 places to buy sweet treats at Universal Orlando Resort:

  1. San Francisco Candy Factory at Universal Studios: This shop is filled with freshly-made fudge, candy apples, gourmet cookies and bulk candies in every color and flavor. Did you know they make character candy apples? My favorite was definitely the Minion!
  2. Sugarplum’s Sweetshop in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley: Next door to the whimsical Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Sugarplum’s lines its colorful shelves with new and tasty sweets like Liquorice Wands, Glacial Snow Flakes, Bing Bong Ginger Snaps, Pumpkin Pasties and their signature treat Butterbeer Fudge. Butterbeer lovers will have another satisfying way to meet their cravings.
  3. Honeydukes at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade: The shelves are lined with all manner of colorful sweets, including Acid Pops, Exploding Bon Bons, Cauldron Cakes, Treacle Fudge, Fizzing Whizzbees, and Chocolate Frogs (which contain a wizard trading card in each box). You can also grab a bag of Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans and take a chance on what tasty—or not so tasty—flavors you’ll find!
  4. Snooker & Snookers Sweet Candy Cookers Bakery and Candy Store at Seuss Landing: If you’re a fan of peanut butter, then you’ll have to see the chunks of peanut butter in their Chocolate Peanut Butter cookies—they’re huge! But among all the delicious sweets and treats, don’t miss the “Snookers”, over-sized cupcakes that are a definite must have.
  5. Island Market and Export Candy Shoppe in Port of Entry: This tantalizing shop contains chocolate-dipped pretzels, chocolate-dipped marshmallows, chocolate-dipped cookies. They also have homemade fudge, huge brownies, caramel apples, cookies, and lots and lots of candy.

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Where are you favorite places to buy sweet treats at Universal Orlando Resort?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Fourth of July 2017 Disney World Celebrations and Festivities

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Independence Day is coming up, and the parks at Walt Disney World Resort are planning to celebrate our nation’s birthday with some star-spangled salutes to America!

If you’re visiting Walt Disney World Resort for the fourth of July 2017 Disney World celebrations, here are some highlights of the special entertainment planned for that day:

  • Magic Kingdom Park – “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” rockets into the air above – and all around – the park. This special, fireworks spectacular will be presented two nights in a row, at 9 p.m. on both July 3 and 4. You can also rock out each night to DJ dance parties in Tomorrowland and Frontierland, each a great location from which to catch the fireworks!
  • Epcot – On July 4, enjoy special evening concerts of great American songs by Voices of Liberty at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the America Gardens Theater. Throughout the day, you can also meet Mickey and the gang in patriotic attire outside The American Adventure, and at 9 p.m. that night “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” joins the celebration with the addition of a heart-pounding, all-American grand finale!
  • Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Spend the Fourth celebrating some of the great icons of American popular culture at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, with “The Music of Pixar LIVE! A Symphony of Characters” at 5 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m., the all-new “Disney Movie Magic” experience at 9 p.m. and “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular” which takes to the skies at 9:30 p.m. with fireworks, lasers, projection effects and more!

Looks like the fourth of July 2017 Disney World celebrations are going to be a blast all across Walt Disney World Resort.

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

Candlelight Processional 2017 Dining Packages Now Available

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Candlelight Processional is always a popular holiday event at Epcot at the Walt Disney World Resort. As a part of Holidays Around the World at Epcot, the Candlelight Processional presents the traditional story of Christmas in truly spectacular fashion – with a celebrity narrator, a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. Even with three shows held every night beginning Thanksgiving weekend, it is always hard to find a seat for these incredible performances which is why the Candlelight Processional 2017 dining packages can be invaluable!

Candlelight Processional dining packages include a meal at a participating delicious restaurant in or around Epcot and then reserved seating for one of the three shows that evening. Candlelight Processional 2017 dining packages are available with the Disney dining plan for two table service credits.

Newcomers to the celebrity narrator spotlight this year include 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. Returning favorites include television, film and stage superstar Neil Patrick Harris, country megastar Trace Adkins and Contemporary Christian music artist Jaci Velasquez.

Here are the Candlelight Processional 2017 narrators confirmed so far:*

  • Nov. 24- Dec. 3 – To Be Announced
  • Dec. 4-5 – Pat Sajak
  • Dec. 6-14 – To Be Announced
  • Dec. 15-17 – Trace Adkins
  • Dec. 18-21 – Neil Patrick Harris
  • Dec. 22-24 – CCH Pounder
  • Dec. 25-27 – Jaci Velasquez
  • Dec. 28-30 – To Be Announced

The Candlelight 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 Candleight Processional 2017 dining packages, available on select nights, include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited.

As with last year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite restaurants in and near Epcot again this year 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.

Holidays Around the World is 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.

Click here to book Candlelight Processional 2017 dining packages or to find out more information, call
407/ WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).

Holidays Around the World, including the Candlelight Processional, runs November 24 – December 30, 2017 at Epcot.

*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.