It is a great time to book your next Club Med escape! Club Med has you covered, whether you are looking for a family friendly resort as close as Florida or the Caribbean or you would like to escape as far as Bali.
There are discounts available for Club Med properties so you’re sure to find the ideal rate for your next vacation. You can book a 7-night getaway with packages as low as $129 per person per night.
Club Med’s Punta Cana Resort in the Dominican Republic is rated a top family resort in the Caribbean by Trip Advisor. This paradise, designed for families, offers beautiful views and activities for every member of the family.
All Inclusive vacations from $139 per person, per night through August 22
Club Med’s Sandpiper Bay Resort in Florida is home to the Club Med Academies, featuring renowned coaches as well as world class instruction for tennis, golf, and fitness. Plus, it is within driving distance of the Orlando theme parks or Miami.
All inclusive vacations from $129 per person, per night through August 22
Club Med’s Rio Des Pedras in Brazil is a tropical paradise full of adventure, at one of the world’s most ecologically diverse rainforests.
All inclusive vacations from $156 per person, per night through August 22
These great offers must be booked by March 4th for travel through August 22, 2014!
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations to Explore. She would love to help you plan your next all-inclusive vacation at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com.
Disney & Orlando Digest – Week of January 27, 2014
Discounts with Destinations in Florida Travel
Disney Discounts
Walt Disney World®Resort
Save up to 30% on Rooms at Select Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels: Savings apply for stays most nights March 14, 2014 – April 12, 2014 and April 20, 2014 – June 15, 2014. Upgrade to a room and ticket package with a minimum 4-day Magic Your Way Ticket and get one more ticket day FREE! (Minimum 4-day Magic Your Way Ticket required.) Offer excludes campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort—The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms and The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Florida Resident Rates: Florida Residents can take advantage of great rates on rooms at select Disney Resorts hotels for stays through April 8, 2014. For example, save up to 37% on rooms at select Disney Deluxe Resorts and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts from January 4- January 18 and March 14- March 29, 2014. Book December 2, 2013 – April 8, 2014. Plan a winter getaway to Disney or a Spring Break trip to the Disney Water Parks. Book today with this incredible deal, just for Florida Residents.
Military Discount: Active duty and retired members of the US military can get specially discounted rooms at Disney Resort most nights through September 27th, 2014. Thank you for serving our country.
Disneyland® Resort
Last Chance! Save Up to 25% on Rooms at a Disneyland® Resort Hotel: Save up to 25% on rooms at a Disneyland Hotel most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 5th through April 10, 2014. Book through January 28, 2014.
Disney Cruise Line®
Special Rates for Florida Residents and US Military: Take advantage of special deals from $115 per person per night plus tax/port charges for Florida Residents and active/retired United States Military. Special cruises are available for select dates in February.
Canadian Resident Offer: Canadian residents save 20% off prevailing rates on 3 and 4 night Bahamian sailings aboard the Disney Magic® for most sailings through February 28, 2014 (excluding February 14 and 17, 2014) for categories 4A – 11B.
Aulani Hawaii
Get a Free Night and Free Breakfast: For a limited time, when you purchase a minimum 4-night stay at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, you’ll get the 4th night free – including breakfast daily for two adults at the new Ulu Cafe. This discount is good for most stays through April 7, 2014.
Get up to a $500 Room Credit to Spend During Your Visit: Book a 1 or 2-Bedroom Villa from April 23-June 16, 2014 and receive up to a $500 resort credit for a 4-Night vacation. Book a Deluxe Studio or regular room for 4 nights and receive a $400 resort credit.
Universal Orlando Resort Discounts
New! 4th Night and 3rd Day Free: Book a Universal Partner hotel for 3 nights with a 2 Day Base ticket and receive your 4th night and 3rd day at the parks for FREE!
New! Save up to $500 on your Universal Package: Stay at one of the Universal Hotels including Cabana Bay Hotel, Royal Pacific Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel or Portofino Bay Hotel with tickets and save up to $500 on your package. Now is the time to visit the movies at the Universal Orlando Resort.
Universal 1-Day or 2-Day Pass with Shuttle Transportation for 2014: Take a day away from the Disney World Parks to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Book a 1-Day or 2-Day Pass to Universal Studios with shuttle transportation included in the ticket. This special ticket is only available with select companies including Destinations in Florida.
New! “Take 2” Transfer: If you do not want to rent a car during your Orlando vacation, take advantage of the new “Take 2” Transfer ticket for only $39 per person. This transfer includes transportation from a Disney Resort hotel to Universal Orlando Resort for a Universal Studios vacation. After your Universal vacation, the transportation takes you back to the Orlando International Airport.
Sea World Discounts
Expedition Antarctica at SeaWorld®: Experience the Freeze! Package includes free Quick Queue (front-of-the-line) at SeaWorld’s Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™, dining at the Expedition Café, a free photo and a third hotel night FREE!
5 Incredible Parks, 1 Ticket, Orlando’s Best Vacation Value: See more for less! This package features the Orlando FlexTicket, offering unlimited admissions to SeaWorld, Aquatica, Universal Orlando, Islands of Adventure and Wet ’n Wild during your stay. Perfect for your Orlando vacation. Stay at least 5 nights and enjoy the best of Orlando! Plus, free transportation and other great benefits available when you choose an Official Hotel of SeaWorld. Package requires a 10-day advance purchase. Stay a minimum of 5 nights and as an added value, your 5th night is FREE!
Orlando Attraction Ticket Discounts
Kids Eat Free Card: Save money on over 100 different restaurants in Orlando from the quick serve restaurants like McDonald’s to sit down restaurants like Nascar Cafe at Universal CityWalk. Purchase the Kids Eat Free Card and receive a free child’s meal with any adult meal at select restaurants. Click here for more details and to purchase this special card.
Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Pre-order your tickets to Kennedy Space Center and save money with special prices. Experience the Space Shuttle Atlantis, US Astronaut Hall of Fame, and more; just an hour from Orlando. Click here to more details and to purchase tickets.
Royal Caribbean Cruise
Up to $300 to Spend During Your Cruise: Book select 2014 cruises by February 28, and Royal Caribbean Cruise will give you up to $300 to spend during your vacation. Use it anyway you choose. Go snorkeling, dive into a specialty dinner for two or discover pure bliss at the spa.
Up to $400 to Spend During Your Cruise: Book select 2014 cruises in Europe by February 28, and we’ll give you up to $400* to spend during your vacation. Use it anyway you choose. Dive into a specialty dinner for two or discover pure bliss at the spa.
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you and make sure you get the best deal possible! Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information.
The Universal Orlando Resort opened the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure back in 2010. This area allowed you to visit Hogsmeade and step into Harry Potter’s adventure for the first time. Now with the opening of Diagon Alley at Universal Studios this summer, you will be able to experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter like never before. You can travel between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade via Hogwarts Express with a park to park ticket.
Here is an overview of the exciting additions to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter that can only be found in Diagon Alley!
Attractions:
Diagon Alley- Visit Ollivanders to see a wand choose a wizard or Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes to choose an assortment of magical jokes. You can dine at Leaky Cauldron or try a treat from Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour. You will also find the goblin-run Gringotts bank at the far end, home to Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.
Knockturn Alley- A gloomy back street just off Diagon Alley, Knockturn Alley offers everything practitioners of the Dark Arts could need. If you are brave enough to venture here, you will find shops and storefronts for Dark Magic, including Borgin and Burkes.
King’s Cross- You can climb aboard the Hogwarts Express here and travel between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade with a park to park ticket. You can enjoy views of London as well as characters and creatures from the Harry Potter films.
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts- This multi-dimensional thrill ride will be an experience unlike any other. Your journey will take you deep underground and put you right in the middle of the action. Plus, you just might see Harry, Ron, and Hermoine along the way.
Shopping:
Borgin and Burkes- This is Knockturn Alley’s most infamous shop, with a variety of Dark Objects available.
Madam Malkin’s- You will find every piece of wizardwear you can imagine here along with other apparel and jewelry inspired by the four school houses.
Ollivanders- As makers of fine wands since 382 B.C., this is the premier wand shop. You will be able to watch how a wand chooses a wizard and even purchase your own wand.
Quality Quidditch Supplies- Here you will find everything you could need to play the most popular sport in the wizarding world. There will be both apparel and equipment so you can show your support for your favorite team.
Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes- This colorful three-story shop will be home to an array of novelty items, magical jokes, and toys that are sure to please and amaze the mischievous child in all of us.
Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment- You can pick up your wizarding essentials here with a variety of wizarding wares and supplies such as telescopes, binoculars, magnifying glasses, and hour glasses as well as unique apparel and accessories from your favorite Hogwarts house.
Food and Beverage:
Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour- You can indulge your sweet side with unique frozen treats like strawberry and peanut butter ice cream.
Leaky Cauldron- You can satisfy your appetite at this popular gathering place for witches and wizards. You will enjoy delicious pub fare such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, cottage pie as well as classic drinks including Butterbeer and pumpkin juice.
Who wants to go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter- Diagon Alley when it opens?
Plan a Universal Orlando vacation with us and enjoy a FREE butterbeer on us!
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, the Universal Orlando Travel Agency Partner of the Year in 2010, 2011, and 2012! Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information.
There are new things popping up every day at the Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and Universal Orlando Resort. Join us every week to read about “What’s New” in Disney news and at Universal Orlando!
What’s New This Week?
New! FastPass+ Test Expanding to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot: As part of the ongoing testing process for MyMagic+ , the test will expand to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot. This testing builds on the success of the current tests in progress at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park and Magic Kingdom park. Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 21 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Thursday, Jan. 23 at Epcot, the FastPass+ test allows Guests (including those not staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel) visiting any of the theme parks the ability to make three FastPass+ selections for the current day at that theme park using FastPass+ kiosks. Disney’s FASTPASS Service (using paperFASTPASS tickets) will not be available throughout the duration of this test at any of our theme parks.
New! Spice Road Table Opening Date Jan 20 in Morocco Pavilion at Epcot: Last week, we reported Spice Road Table was in soft opening stages and this week it’s officially open! With fantastic views of World Showcase Lagoon and IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth from almost every angle of the restaurant, pretty Spice Road Table officially opened Jan 20, 2014, an authentic taste of the Mediterranean at the Morocco Pavilion in Epcot. Along with the new eatery, there’s live entertainment from Mo Rockin’ Band, henna tattoos, a “juice” bar and a shop stocked with great Mediterranean flavors to carry home (from olives to spicy harissa and mint tea). It’s a lively spot, not to mention it’s gorgeous and the small plates (tapas-style) foods are great!
Reminder! Monorail Service Unavailable: Beginning January 21, monorail service on the Magic Kingdom Resort and Express beams will be temporarily unavailable on weekdays during non-peak times, between 11:30am and 7:00pm, to accommodate planned maintenance. During this temporary adjustment watercraft and additional buses will be available. The Epcot line is not affected.
New! The Smokehouse Now Open on Downtown Disney West Side: The Smokehouse is now open. This new quick service restaurant serves up barbeque and smoked favorites outside the House of Blues on the Downtown Disney West Side. Reservations are not required and prices range from $6.99 to $12.99. At this time, Disney Dining plan is not yet accepted. Quick service entitlements will be accepted in the future.
New! D23 Destination D Announced for Walt Disney World July 26-27: Destination D: Attraction Rewind is the name of this year’s big event, taking place July 26 and 27 at Walt Disney World. The event will give guests the opportunity to visit — or revisit — beloved Disney attractions of the past, featuring Disney archivists, Imagineers, Legends and luminaries. Attractions included in the celebration will be Adventure Thru Inner Space, If You Had Wings, and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea with rare concept art and images, vintage video, and stories. There will also be several presentations dedicated to the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair, which spawned beloved attractions like it’s a small world and Carousel of Progress.
D23 Fanniversary Celebrations Announced: For the third year in a row, D23 will hit the road, visiting cities across the U.S. to commemorate dozens of magical Disney milestones celebrating landmark anniversaries this year. Hosted by Disney archivists and the D23 Team, D23?s Disney Fanniversary Celebration events will be held in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Orlando, New York City, Seattle, and other cities in fall 2014. Fanniversary 2014 will revisit some of the most beloved theme park attractions, animated and live-action films, characters, TV series, and more than 90 years of Disney history including Donald Duck, the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair, Sleeping Beauty, Haunted Mansion, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, The Little Mermaid, and many more. Fanniversary events will be open to the public, with special admission prices and surprises created for D23 Members in attendance.
New! Super Bowling Spectacular 2014: Come out for the Big Game and support a great cause! Clean the World’s (an Orlando-based non-profit that saves lives around the world with recycled hotel soap) is hosting it’s 2nd annual Super Bowling Spectacular on Sunday, February 2, starting at 5:30pm at Splitsville Luxury Lanes at Downtown Disney® West Side. It is the place to be for the Big Game! Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.cleantheworld.org/bowl. Cost: $85 per person includes 3 hours of food and drink. (Bowling will not be available for this price). Everyone in the party must be 21 or over with valid photo ID.
Highlights:
• Complimentary appetizers and buffet from 6:00pm to 9:00pm
• Open bar from 6:00pm to 9:00pm
• Three full bars serving premium brands
• 40 flat-screen TVs all showing the game
• Free parking
New! Aladdin and Jasmine Temporary Greeting Location Update: Now – Feb.13, Aladdin and Jasmine will be meeting Guests at the entrance to Adventureland (just before the bridge). This is a slight change as we previously reported they were meeting at the Veranda Porch. When the refurbishment of the Agrabah Bazaar completes next month, they will return to their usual location.
New! Winter Summerland – Winter Course Closed for Refurb: Beginning Monday, January 20, the Winter course at Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf will be closed due to refurbishment. The course will remain closed until further notice. The Summer course will still be available for Guests to play from 10:00am – 11:00pm daily.
Reminder! New characters coming to Play ‘n Dine at Hollywood & Vine on Jan. 26, 2014: Starting Jan. 26, 2014, Doc McStuffins and Sofia the First will join the cast of Disney Junior Play n’ Dine at Hollywood & Vine. Guests will get the chance to meet Doc McStuffins and Sofia the First and dance along with them during a fun, new musical number right there in the restaurant!
New 2014 Promotion Begins – Disney Family Time Resolutions: Disney launched disney.com/resolutions where Disney celebrities are sharing how they plan to resolve to spend more time with family in 2014. A new video will be uploaded everyday in January. On disney.com/resolutions, they are also awarding a vacation-a-day from December 31, 2013 through January 31, 2014! So enter every day for your chance to win because this is the year to spend more quality time with the people you love most. Good luck!
New! Merchandise Events:
Jan. 23-26 – Refresh your skincare routine with Guerlain’s ultra-effective in-depth treatments from Orchidée Impériale Skin Care. Infused with orchid extracts, Orchidée Impériale helps promote skin renewal, youthfulness and luminosity. Come experience the benefits of the orchid at La Signature Shoppe inEpcot®. Jan. 23-26, Guests who purchase $100 or more of Guerlain products will receive a complimentary product sample.
Jan 24 – Vinylmation Combo Pack Figure: The Indiana Jones series launched on January 10 at the D Street locations in Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, and on the Disney Parks online store. This series was designed by Thomas Scott, lead Vinylmation artist with Disney Design Group, and features characters from the first Indiana Jones film, “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Disney artist Maria Clapsis designed the combo pack figure which will be released on January 24.
Keep an eye out for special Disney Pin and Vinylmation releases this month in the Downtown Disney Marketplace.
Closures and Refurbishments
Magic Kingdom
Casey’s Corner 01/06/14 – 02/15/14
Splash Mountain 01/06/14 – 03/21/14
Splashdown Photos 1/6/14 – 3/21/14
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin 01/13/14 – 01/16/14
Agrabah Bazaar 1/13/14 – 1/16/14
Aladdin and Jasmine will be greeting Guests at the entrance to Adventureland (just before the bridge).
Liberty Square Riverboat 01/21/14 – 01/30/14
Barnstormer 2/3/14 – 2/5/14
Tomorrowland Transit Authority 2/10/14 – 3/27/14
Pinocchio’s Village Haus 2/17/14 – 3/30/14
The Plaza Restaurant 2/17/14 – 3/07/14
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Monsters Inc. Meet & Greet 1/5/14 – 1/19/14
Backlot Tour 1/5/14 – 3/1/14
Epcot
None
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Festival of the Lion King 1/6/14 – tbd
Camp Minnie-Mickey 1/6/14 – permanent closure
Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
Closed for annual refurbishment 01/06/14 – 03/17/14
Disney’s All Star Sports Resort
Grand Slam Quiet Pool Deck 2/11/14 – 2/13/14
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas
Kiddie Pool Wet Deck – Only wet deck is closed, pool will remain open 1/21/14 – 2/14/14
Disney’s Boardwalk Villas
Villas Quiet Pool & Spa 2/3/14 – 3/7/14
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Pool slides – pools remain open 01/27/14 – 02/07/14
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Bay Lake Tower Kiddie Pool Wet Deck – Only wet deck is closed, pool will remain open. 1/13/14 – 2/7/14
Monorail – Magic Kingdom Resort – Restricted Service – Monorail service will be temporarily suspended on weekdays between 11:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Buses and watercraft transportation will be available. 1/21/14 – 3/21/14
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Victoria & Albert’s 1/19/14 – 1/29/14
Guest rooms and buildings throughout Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will be refurbished starting in early January and scheduled to complete in August. Guest buildings will be taken out of inventory and will not be occupied by Guests while work is being performed.
Monorail – Magic Kingdom Resort – Restricted Service – Monorail service will be temporarily suspended on weekdays between 11:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Buses and watercraft transportation will be available. 1/21/14 – 3/21/14
Disney’s Old Key West
Sandcastle Pool 1/13/14 – 1/31/14
Goods to Go 1/20/14 – 1/30/14
Gurging Suitcase 2/5/14 – 2/28/14
Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Volcano Pool Slide 1/13/14 – 1/31/14
The Never Land Club 1/24/14 – 4/11/14
Beach & Sunset Point Access to the east portion of the beach, near the Transportation and Ticket Center, and Sunset Point will be unavailable due to a scheduled refurbishment. However, all other amenities will not be affected. Some rooms in certain room categories in impacted buildings have been taken off the market during the renovation period.
Monorail – Magic Kingdom Resort – Restricted Service – Monorail service will be temporarily suspended on weekdays between 11:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Buses and watercraft transportation will be available. 1/21/14 – 3/21/14
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Doubloon Lagoon Pool – transportation will be provided for Guests to swim at Ol’ Man Island Pool at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside 01/13/14 – 02/28/14
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
Congress Park Pool 01/22/14 – 01/23/14
Paddock Pool 02/1/14 – 02/13/14
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts
Yacht Club Quiet Pool 1/21/14 – 2/7/14
Beach Club Quiet Pool 2/3/14 – 2/4/14
Downtown Disney® Area
Cap’n Jack’s Marina – Closed
Parking Lots H,I,J,K Closed
Fuego – closed
Wetzels Pretzels – closed 10/20/13
Team Mickey Athletic Club 1/27/14 – 6/13/14
Disney Golf Courses / Miniature Golf
Winter course at Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf will be closed due to refurbishment.
Disneyland Resort in California
New! Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree Character Roundup at Disneyland Park: If you’re looking for a place to have a rootin’ tootin’ good time with some of your favorite Disney friends – then listen up, partner! Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree Character Roundup in Frontierland at Disneyland park is the place to find Disney characters and more! You can even watch trick ropers and meet some of our famous Disneyland Resort horses. Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree Character Roundup is open Fridays through Sundays, so stop on by!
New 2014 Promotion Begins – Disney Family Time Resolutions: Disney launched disney.com/resolutions where Disney celebrities are sharing how they plan to resolve to spend more time with family in 2014. A new video will be uploaded everyday in January. On disney.com/resolutions, they are also awarding a vacation-a-day from December 31, 2013 through January 31, 2014! So enter every day for your chance to win because this is the year to spend more quality time with the people you love most. Good luck!
New! Merchandise Events
January 25 – 26: Rounding out our artist showcases at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District is M. Andonia who will appear from 1 – 4 p.m. each day.
January 25 – 26: Meet artist Bob Elias from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Disneyana in Disneyland park, as he signs some of the newest pieces in his collection.
Closures and Refurbishments
Click here to download the latest renovations and closures at Disneyland.
Universal Orlando Resort
Reminder! Harry Potter Celebration Event This Weekend: Join Harry Potter™ fans from around the world for interactive experiences, exciting demonstrations, and more during A Celebration of Harry Potter™ at Universal Orlando® Resort, January 24 – 26, 2014. Come and celebrate all of Harry Potter’s adventures with interactive experiences, exciting demonstrations, and more. The celebration kicks off with a Harry Potter™ Tribute on Friday – a special evening event featuring select cast members and award-winning artist, Kazu Kibuishi, who recently reimagined the Harry Potter book covers.
Other special activities over the weekend include:
A wand masterclass hosted by Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, featuring Wand Combat choreographer Paul Harris and a special guest
Q&A sessions with members of the Harry Potter cast
Panel discussions that cannot be missed with MinaLima – creators of the graphics seen in the movies
Pottermore – an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Pottermore.com – the free interactive website from J.K. Rowling (Saturday & Sunday)
Plus, guests can explore the one-of-a-kind Harry Potter Expo with interactive activities for fans including a vignette of movie props from Harry Potter: The Exhibition and The Sorting Hat™ experience.
And More
Reminder: Live Webcast about Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Jan 23: James Phelps hosts a LIVE webcast on Jan 23 at Universal Orlando to reveal everything about Diagon Alley! Sign up now at www.universalorlando.com/webcast
New! Universal Releases New Trailer for Diagon Alley: Another new trailer has been released and is building excitement for Diagon Alley, which will open in 2014 at Universal Orlando Resort.
Mardi Gras Dates and Concerts Announced: It’s the most spectacular celebration of the Big Easy spirit outside of New Orleans itself – Mardi Gras at Universal Studios®. Bring the whole family for a party filled with music and fun as only Universal Orlando® Resort can throw. Feb 8 – May 21, 2014. This year’s concerts include Robin Thicke (Feb 22) and The Wanted, May 10, plus 18 other concerts:
FEB 8 DAUGHTRY
FEB 15 BARENAKED LADIES
FEB 16 THOMAS RHETT
FEB 22 ROBIN THICKE
MAR 1 COLLECTIVE SOUL
MAR 8 PRINCE ROYCE
MAR 14 CODY SIMPSON
MAR 15 FOREIGNER
MAR 21 TO BE ANNOUNCED
MAR 22 GAVIN DEGRAW
MAR 28 TO BE ANNOUNCED
MAR 29 TO BE ANNOUNCED
APR 5 SKILLET
APR 12 LYNYRD SKYNYRD
APR 19 KOOL & THE GANG
MAY 3 NELLY
MAY 10 THE WANTED
MAY 17 TO BE ANNOUNCED
MAY 24 TO BE ANNOUNCED
MAY 31 TO BE ANNOUNCED
New! Comedian Ralphie May Performs at Hard Rock Live Orlando Jan 24: The comedian Ralpie May will be performed at Hard Rock Live at Universal Orlando Resort on January 24, 2014. Tickets are $35 for reserved seating. Reserved balcony tables are available for purchase through the Hard Rock Live box office at 407-351-5483.
Kids Eat Free at Loews: The program has been extended to include dates of January 5 – March 13, 2014, with a minimum of a 3-night stay at our on-site deluxe Loews hotels, kids can enjoy meals at our resorts!
• Valid for breakfast, lunch & dinner (during restaurant hours of operation)
• One FREE kids meal with purchase of EACH adult entrée
• Children up to 9 years old
• Valid for kids menu and buffets only
• Beverage included (select drinks only)
• Gratuity included on the kids meal only
Telemundo’s hit Sunday night reality show, “La Voz Kids” will be taping at Universal Orlando® Resort: January 18–22 at 1:30PM & 5:00PM. Come see a wide variety of young talented singers competing to be the next music star and be part of the audience.
Closures and Refurbishments
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls®: 1/6 – 2/1
Beetlejuice’s Graveyard Revue™: 1/5 – 1/31
Disaster!SM- A Major Motion Picture Ride…Starring YOU: 1/13 – 1/19
For a limited time, you can get the 4th night free and free breakfast at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, in Hawaii. When you purchase at least a 4-night stay at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, in Hawaii, you will receive the 4th night for free as well as breakfast every day for two adults at the new Ulu Cafe.
This offer includes two Aulani Adult Breakfasts per room per night of your package stay. Breakfast is only redeemable at Ulu Cafe during normal breakfast operating hours. Each breakfast includes one entrée and one of the following nonalcoholic, non-specialty beverages: regular coffee, tea, fresh fruit juice, fountain beverage, hot cocoa or milk.
A free, extra night gives you more time to enjoy even more of the recently expanded Resort, including additional dining, shopping, and water experiences. Plus, so much is already included in the cost of your stay, including Waikolohe Valley Pools, Aunty’s Beach House kids’ club, peaceful Ko Olina Cove and family entertainment, such as Starlit Hui show, and ‘Ohana outdoor movie nights.
This offer is applicable for stays most nights through April 7, 2014. This offer must be booked by March 1, 2014. Please note that the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited, and room availability may vary by dates of stay.
Siera is a Disney travel specialist and a Hawaii Destinations Specialist. She would love to help you plan your Hawaiian getaway at no cost to you and help you make it a vacation to remember. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com for more information.
Disney & Orlando Digest – Week of January 13, 2014
Disney Discounts
Walt Disney World®Resort
NEW! Saveup to 30% on rooms at select Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels: Savings apply for stays most nights March 14, 2014 – April 12, 2014 and April 20, 2014 – June 15, 2014. Add more Character to your vacation, with this advance Card member booking offer. Upgrade to a room and ticket package with a minimum 4-day Magic Your Way® Ticket and get one more ticket day FREE! (Minimum 4-day Magic Your Way® Ticket required.) Offer excludes campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort—The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms and The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Florida Resident Rates: Florida Residents can take advantage of great rates on rooms at select Disney Resorts hotels for stays through April 8, 2014. For example, save up to 37% on rooms at select Disney Deluxe Resorts and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts from January 4- January 18 and March 14- March 29, 2014. Book December 2, 2013 – April 8, 2014. Plan a winter getaway to Disney or a Spring Break trip to the Disney Water Parks. Book today with this incredible deal, just for Florida Residents.
Military Discount: Active duty and retired members of the US military can get specially discounted rooms at Disney Resort most nights through September 27th, 2014. Thank you for serving our country.
Disneyland® Resort
Save Up to 25% on Rooms at a Disneyland® Resort Hotel: Save up to 25% on rooms at a Disneyland Hotel most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 5th through April 10, 2014. Book through January 28, 2014.
Disney Cruise Line®
Special Rates for Cruises from Port Canaveral: Youcan escape on your own carefree, tropical getaway with Disney Cruise Line® and save 20% off prevailing rates on select 3- and 4-Night Bahamian Cruises sailing from Port Canaveral in January 2014. All voyages include a visit to Nassau and an unforgettable day at Disney’s private island paradise, Disney’s Castaway Cay, with its sparkling turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. Available sail dates:3-Night Bahamian Sailings on the Disney Magic®: January 10 and January 31, 2014 and 4-Night Bahamian Sailings on the Disney Dream®: January 12 and January 26, 2014.
Canadian Resident Offer: Canadian residents save 20% off prevailing rates on 3 and 4 night Bahamian sailings aboard the Disney Magic® for most sailings from January 10 – February 28, 2014 (excluding January 17, 20, February 14, 17, 2014) for categories 4A – 11B.
Aulani Hawaii
Get a Free Night and Free Breakfast: For a limited time, when you purchase a minimum 4-night stay at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, you’ll get the 4th night free – including breakfast daily for two adults at the new Ulu Cafe. Book this offer by January 15, 2014, for stays most nights January 5 – April 7, 2014.
Universal Orlando Resort Discounts
Save up to 25% at Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Discounts begin at 4 nights at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, opening early 2014. Travel back to the 1950’s and 60’s for endless family fun at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. With its ideal location and fun retro atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy everything Universal Orlando® Resort has to offer. The value and moderate accommodations feature family suites (sleeping up to 6) with kitchenettes, and standard rooms (sleeping up to 4). Rates valid for travel September 1st, 2014 through October 2nd, 2014 and November 30th, 2014 through December 11th, 2014.
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort: This new resort is opening in early 2014 with an incredible preview discount. This resort is inspired by iconic beach resorts of the 1950’s and 60’s. For a limited time, the whole family can experience Cabana Bay Beach Resort’s new family suites with rates starting at $104 per night for a seven-night stay to $134 per night for a three-night stay. Offering up to 47% savings off regular prices, this introductory offer is available now for purchase for stays from March 31 to June 14, 2014. Package is available for purchase now through January 31, 2014.
Universal 1-Day or 2-Day Pass with Shuttle Transportation for 2014: Take a day away from the Disney World Parks to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Book a 1-Day or 2-Day Pass to Universal Studios with shuttle transportation included in the ticket. This special ticket is only available with select companies including Destinations in Florida.
Sea World Discounts
Expedition Antarctica at SeaWorld®: Experience the Freeze! Package includes free Quick Queue (front-of-the-line) at SeaWorld’s Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™, dining at the Expedition Café, a free photo and a third hotel night FREE!
NEW!!SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando for $99: Enjoy two amazing parks for one amazing price. Get all the splashes of SeaWorld® Orlando and Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark™ Orlando. This ticket gives you one single-day admission to each park and is valid until February 28, 2014.
NEW!! SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa for $99: Enjoy two amazing parks for one amazing price. Get all the splashes of SeaWorld® Orlando and the thrills of Busch Gardens® Tampa. This ticket gives you one single-day admission to each park and is valid until May 15, 2014. With this offer, take advantage of FREE round-trip transportation from SeaWorld to Busch Gardens. For pick-up locations and to make a reservation for the Busch Gardens Shuttle Express. Reservations are highly recommended, due to demand.
5 Incredible Parks, 1 Ticket, Orlando’s Best Vacation Value: See more for less! This package features the Orlando FlexTicket, offering unlimited admissions to SeaWorld, Aquatica, Universal Orlando, Islands of Adventure and Wet ’n Wild during your stay. Perfect for your Orlando vacation. Stay at least 5 nights and enjoy the best of Orlando! Plus, free transportation and other great benefits available when you choose an Official Hotel of SeaWorld. Package requires a 10-day advance purchase. Stay a minimum of 5 nights and as an added value, your 5th night is FREE!
Orlando Attraction Ticket Discounts
Kids Eat Free Card: Save money on over 100 different restaurants in Orlando from the quick serve restaurants like McDonald’s to sit down restaurants like Nascar Cafe at Universal CityWalk. Purchase the Kids Eat Free Card and receive a free child’s meal with any adult meal at select restaurants. Click here for more details and to purchase this special card.
Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Pre-order your tickets to Kennedy Space Center and save money with special prices. Experience the Space Shuttle Atlantis, US Astronaut Hall of Fame, and more; just an hour from Orlando. Click here to more details and to purchase tickets.
Royal Caribbean Cruise
Discount Cruise Out of Ft. Lauderdale: Extend your Orlando vacation with a relaxing cruise on one of the newest ships called the Allure of the Seas. Less than 3 hours from Orlando, you can set sail with those fun loving DreamWorks Characters on the world famous Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. Sail for 7 Nights to the Caribbean in an Interior Stateroom from $749 per person plus taxes/port charges or $949 per person plus taxes/port charges in a Balcony. Select cruises this January-February 2014.
New!!Up to $300 to spend on anything you want: Book select 2014 cruises by February 28, and Royal Caribbean Cruise will give you up to $300 to spend during your vacation. Use it anyway you choose. Go snorkeling, dive into a specialty dinner for two or discover pure bliss at the spa.
NEW!! Up to $400 to spend on anything you want: Book select 2014 cruises in Europe by February 28, and we’ll give you up to $400* to spend during your vacation. Use it anyway you choose. Dive into a specialty dinner for two or discover pure bliss at the spa.
NEW!!Celebrate Miami Cruise Month Up to $50 in Spending Money: Book any Majesty of the Seas® sailing in 2014 between January 1 – January 31, 2014, and receive up to $50 to spend on just about anything. Go parasailing in Nassau or put it towards a massage at the VitalitySM Spa.
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations to Explore. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you and make sure you get the best deal possible! Request a free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com.
Disney’s highly anticipated “Saving Mr. Banks” is now in theaters across the country and has gotten rave reviews from Disney fans all over. The excitement can only get bigger when you plan to enjoy the “practically perfect” Southern California: Disney Backstage itinerary from Adventures by Disney. This Adventures by Disney trip allows you to walk through and experience some of the locations where the movie was filmed and learn even more about the man who started the magic, Walt Disney.
“Inspired by true events, ‘Saving Mr. Banks’ is the extraordinary, untold story of how Disney’s classic “Mary Poppins” made it to the screen – and the testy relationship Walt Disney had with author P.L. Travers that almost derailed it. Filmed almost entirely in the Los Angeles area, the film features some of its most iconic locations: the Disneyland Resort, the Walt Disney Studios, and Hollywood Blvd., all of which are stops on this rare, behind-the-magic Adventures by Disney trip.”
As an adventurer on this trip, you will receive priority treatment when visiting some of these locations. You can let your inner star out when you participate in a privately guided tour of Hollywood Blvd., transporting you to a world of glitz and glamour. You can also follow in the footsteps of your favorite celebrities as you walk through top iconic sites of Tinseltown like the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Another one of the trip’s highlights is a privately guided visit to the Walt Disney Studios. Did you know that although “Mary Poppins” was set in London, the original film in 1964 was filmed in its entirety at the Walt Disney Studios?
Lastly, on the Southern California: Disney Backstage itinerary from Adventures by Disney, you will experience the happiest place on Earth in the most “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” way: with a 2-day VIP experience at Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park. Your Disneyland visit is complemented with Disney’s FASTPASS service and even a visit to Walt Disney’s Disneyland apartment.
Siera is a Disney travel specialist who would love to help you plan your Southern California: Disney Backstage itinerary from Adventures by Disney vacation at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information.
Disney Insider recently shared with us 15 fun facts about Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, in Ko Olina, Hawaii. They spoke with some cast members at Aulani who have been there since it opened back in 2011 to find out some information that you may not have already heard. Aulani also recently finished a major expansion project which improved the pool areas, dining options, and even added more shopping!
Check out these hidden secrets about this amazing vacation destination:
1. Pay close attention to the rockwork all around the Waikolohe (Hawaiian translation: mischievous water) Valley. You will find carvings of hidden animals, fish, shells, and other native Hawaiian features.
2. The wall inside the entryway at Makahiki restaurant is made entirely from the inside of coconut shells.
3. Cast members who work at the bar in The ‘Ōlelo Room are required to speak fluent Hawaiian.
4. Aulani has one of the largest collections of Hawaiian artwork anywhere in the world. Over 60 local artists contributed to the original pieces found all over the resort.
5. The Kalepa store is inspired by mom-and-pop shops across the state of Hawaii. In fact, there are even photos of actual local stores featured on the walls throughout the shop.
6. Approximately 90% of the merchandise found inside the shops at Aulani is exclusive to the resort and cannot be found anywhere else.
7. The compass rose, located inside the entrance of Aulani, is unlike a traditional compass. Instead of north, south, east, and west, the compass points mauka (to the mountains) and makai (to the sea).
8. The photo collage behind the registration desk is made up of images that were taken by Hawaiian school children.
9. Many cast members at Aulani are of Hawaiian descent.
10. Menehune Bridge, situated in the heart of the Waikolohe Valley, is the place for water-filled adventures. As Aulani legend has it, the Menehune built the bridge at the same time Aulani was being constructed. The mischievous creatures work at night and aren’t always able to finish their projects, which is why there are so many leaks and wobbly bridges in the valley.
11. Speaking of Menehune, there are over 300 statues hidden throughout the resort.
12. Every New Years Eve, the community of Ko Olina and guests of Aulani enjoy one of the largest fireworks shows over the ocean.
13. The hot tub at Alohi Point is the best place to enjoy a Hawaiian sunset over the cove.
14. The piko stone is a large rock found inside the Waikolohe Valley. Piko means belly button or the heart of a space. Members of the Aulani’s Cultural Committee identified the area as having a special energy and designated it with this special honor and selected this stone to commemorate the location.
15. The feathered sticks located inside the lobby are called Kahilis. These are normally made with bird feathers and represent a family crest. Disney’s own kahili is made of red, black, and white feathers to symbolize an important member of their family, Mickey Mouse.
Bonus: No Disney Resort would be complete without a few Hidden Mickeys scattered around. At Aulani, you can find the famous silhouette in the carpets, wallpaper, bedspreads, and even on the artwork inside each guest room.
How many of these fun facts about Aulani did you already know? Would you like to visit Aulani someday?
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an authorized Disney vacation planner, and a Hawaii Destinations Specialist. She would love to help you plan your Hawaiian getaway so you can enjoy the beauty of the islands and this amazing resort! Request a free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email spreadingmagic@gmail.com for more information.
Would you like to ring in the New Year in Orlando? Here are some of the great ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in and around Orlando!
Walt Disney World Resort hosts a special presentation of the “Illuminations: Reflections of Earth” lights, lasers and fireworks show at Epcot. You could also head over to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom or Downtown Disney area for more show-stopping spectacles. You can celebrate New Year’s Eve with an evening of fun, games, music and dancing at DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park at Downtown Disney.
SeaWorld Orlando is throwing a big New Year’s Eve party complete with a spectacular live music celebration and a bold fireworks display.
Universal CityWalk’s Rock the New Year! features live performances , food and a champagne toast. You can “bid a fond farewell to 2013 with incredible food and live performances. Between shows, dine on all-you-can-eat gourmet cuisine, including filet mignon, jumbo shrimp and decadent desserts. You’ll also enjoy live entertainment in every club, a midnight champagne toast, and more!”
LEGOLAND’s “Kids’ New Year’s Eve” lets your kids rock out with a DJ Dance Party and watch LEGO fireworks at just the right time for them, “midnight KST (Kid Standard Time)”, otherwise known as 7 p.m. EST. Plus, these fire works will “explode into millions of tiny LEGO bricks with special 3D viewing glasses.”
It’s not too early to start planning your New Year’s Eve 2014 celebration! You could attend one of these great celebrations next year and ring in the new year the right way!
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida. She would love to help you plan your next Orlando vacation at no cost to you! Request a free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email spreadingmagic@gmail.com.
There are new things popping up every day at the Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and Universal Orlando Resort. Join us every week to read about “What’s New” in Disney news and at Universal Orlando!
What’s New This Week?
Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
New! Limited Time Magic – Bring Home the First All-New Art Merchandise for 2014: Calling all Disney fans: you voted and we listened! In celebration of the final Limited Time Magic surprise of the year, be the first to purchase all-new art merchandise for 2014 when it debuts at Walt Disney World Resort. Decorated by a design you helped select at the start of 2013, you can find this new art adorning a range of keepsakes, including a mug, T-shirt, ladies tee, timepiece and D-Tech iPhone case. So stop by World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney area and take home your very own lasting piece of Limited Time Magic! Plus, starting December 27, 2013, you can also discover limited amounts of this new merchandise available for purchase online, including a special, online-only deluxe print signed by artist Patty Landing.
New! Holiday Crowds Have Arrived! It’s a very busy week at the Disney Parks. Christmas through New Years is one of the busiest times of year for the parks. If you are visiting, be prepared for potential park closures when capacity limits are reached. There are different levels of closings. Be sure to ask a Cast Member if there are any closures before leaving a park or park hopping.
New! Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade Airs Dec. 25: Tune in to the magic on Christmas morning! You don’t want to miss the 30th Annual Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade airing December 25 on the ABC Television Network. It’s a coast-to-coast celebration with show hosts Nick Cannon and Neil Patrick Harris. Check your local listings for air times.
New! New Year’s Eve at Magic Kingdom Park: Guests can ring in the New Year with not one, but two nights of celebration at Magic Kingdom Park! On both Dec. 30 and 31, the park will host an extended line-up of nighttime fun:
7:00 p.m. Main Street Electrical Parade
8:15 p.m. Celebrate the Magic
8:30 p.m. Holiday Wishes – Celebrate the Spirit of the Season
11:35 p.m. Celebrate the Magic
11:50 p.m. Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks
There will also be DJs at Cinderella Castle and in Frontierland throughout the night to keep the party going.
Dec. 31 only, party hats and horns will be available for Guests while supplies last:
Splash gate – 4 p.m.
Near Rockettower Plaza stage – 4 p.m.
Rose Garden – 4:30 p.m.
New! New Year’s Eve at Epcot: Epcot will once again host a popular New Year’s Eve celebration. Park Hours – Dec. 31
Future World: 8 a.m. – 1 a.m. (Jan. 1, 2014)
World Showcase: 9:30 a.m. – 1 a.m. (Jan. 1, 2014)
IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth:
6:30 p.m. (Holiday finale)
11:40 p.m. (NYE Countdown)
Hats & Horns for Guests will be available 6-9 p.m.
NYE Entertainment will include:
Character Spot – 8 a.m. – 1 a.m.
DJs
Future World West Fountain Stage, 7-11:35 p.m., 12:10-1 a.m
America Gardens Theatre, intermittent from 2 p.m. – 12:40 a.m.
China, 7-11:35 p.m., 12:10-1 a.m.
Italy, 7-11:35 p.m., 12:10-1 a.m.
United Kingdom, intermittent from 7:30 p.m.- 12:15 a.m.
IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
6:30 p.m. (Holiday finale)
11:40 p.m. (NYE Countdown)
New! Year’s Eve at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: There will be stage pyrotechnics and special effects at the Sorcerer’s Hat stage during the Mulch, Sweat and Shears sets at beginning at 8:30 p.m. At midnight, the “Light’s! Camera! Happy New Year!” fireworks show will be presented above the Sorcerer’s Hat stage! Additionally, Comedy Warehouse Holiday Special will have shows at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m., 9 p.m., 10 p.m., and 11 p.m.
New! New Year’s Eve at DisneyQuest: For guests seeking a family-friendly New Year’s Eve party, this is a perfect option. The fun kicks off at 8 p.m. on December 31, 2013, and lasts until 1 a.m. on New Year’s Day. In addition to five floors of virtual fun, guests can also enjoy dinner (included with admission), dancing and Disney characters! The event includes unlimited video games, plus all the regular DisneyQuest attractions (except for Buzz Lightyear’s AstroBlaster, which will be converted into a dance floor), there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. The New Year’s Eve countdown will be especially colorful. This event typically sells out, so be sure to get your tickets early; they’re $55 in advance and $65 the day of the event (if available).
New! New Year’s Eve at Downtown Disney: Downtown Disney will feature DJ dance parties and live entertainment in all three districts plus a variety of food and beverage offerings including unique menu items from the new Disney Food Trucks and cocktails, beer and wine throughout property. (Tip: Walt Disney World Resort guests should plan to take Disney bus transportation and drivers should allow extra time as heavy traffic is expected.)
New! Check out Cast Gingerbread-house Displays Dec. 23-27: Stop by the second floor of the Great Ceremonial House at Disney’s Polynesian Resort between Dec. 23-27 to check out this year’s Cast gingerbread-house displays.
New! 2014 Disney Dollars Mountains Series available at Disney Parks: The 2014 Disney Dollars Mountains Series is now available for purchase at Disney Parks! Disney Dollars is the official currency of the Walt Disney World Resort, The Disney Stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and the Disneyland Resort and can be purchased or tendered for their equal value in U.S. currency. This fun, new series features the Splash Mountain, Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain attractions on three different bills. A limited supply is currently available so be sure to stop by any of the following locations to pick yours up:
Walt Disney World locations include Guest Relations located in the theme parks and Downtown Disney Marketplace and Concierge and Front Desks in resorts, and the information Desk at the World of Disney Store at the Downtown Disney Marketplace.
Disneyland Resort locations include City Hall, Star Trader, Gag Factory, and Vacation Planning Booths.
Disney California Adventure Park locations include Guest Relations and Vacation Planning booths.
Downtown Disney Anaheim location: World of Disney
Disneyland Resort hotels include Mickey in Paradise and Fantasia
New! “Star Wars” Weekends 2014 Dates Announced: The dates for the 2014 “Star Wars” Weekends have been announced. “Star Wars” Weekends will be held every weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) from May 16 – June 8, 2014. Weekend I: May 16 – 18, 2014, Weekend II: May 23 – 25, 2014, Weekend III: May 30 – June 1, 2014, Weekend IV: June 6 – 8, 2014.
New! Night of Joy Dates and Performers Announced: The 32nd annual Night of Joy event will be held Friday, September 5, and Saturday, September 6.
Friday, September 5, 2014:
Hillsong United
Chris Tomlin
Matthew West
For King & Country
Mandisa
Building 429
Matt Maher
The Neverclaim
Saturday, September 6, 2014:
Skillet
Casting Crowns
MercyMe
Israel Houghton & New Breed
Britt Nicole
Colton Dixon
Rhett Walker
We As Human
One Girl Nation
New! Merchandise Events:
Now – December 29: The holiday collection from Precious Moments doll maker Linda Rick is now available at Once Upon A Toy in the Downtown Disney Marketplace and Heritage Manor at the American Adventure pavilion in Epcot. Representatives will be on hand daily at both locations, so be sure to stop by and find new ones to add to your collection, or pick one up for someone on your holiday list.
December 16 – 23: Artist David E. Doss is back! David will be appearing daily at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace, and will return later in the month from December 27 – 30.
D-Tech on Demand Comes to Disney Truck Shop at Downtown Disney West Side for the Holidays. A place to personalize and customize your own electronic accessories, D-Tech will be visiting Downtown Disney West Side during the holidays for a sneak preview of the store at the Disney Truck Shop.
Closures and Refurbishments
Magic Kingdom
Casey’s Corner 01/06/14 – 02/15/14
Tomorrowland Speedway 01/06/14 – 01/12/14
Splash Mountain 01/06/14 – 03/21/14
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin 01/13/14 – 01/16/14
Agrabah Bazaar 1/13/14 – 1/16/14
Liberty Square Riverboat 01/21/14 – 01/30/14
Barnstormer 2/3/14 – 2/5/14
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Monsters Inc. Meet & Greet 1/5/14 – 1/19/14
Epcot
None
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Festival of the Lion King 1/6/14
Camp Minnie-Mickey 1/6/14
Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
Closed for annual refurbishment 01/06/14 – 03/17/14
Disney’s All Star Sports Resort
Surf’s Up Pool 01/06/14 – 01/24/14
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Pool slides – pools remain open 01/27/14 – 02/07/14
Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Beach & Sunset Point Access to the east portion of the beach, near the Transportation and Ticket Center, and Sunset Point will be unavailable due to a scheduled refurbishment. However, all other amenities will not be affected. Some rooms in certain room categories in impacted buildings have been taken off the market during the renovation period.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Victoria & Albert’s 1/19/14 – 1/29/14
Disney’s Old Key West
Goods to Go 1/20/14 – 1/30/14
Gurging Suitcase 2/5/14 – 2/28/14
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Doubloon Lagoon Pool – transportation will be provided for Guests to swim at Ol’ Man Island Pool at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside 01/13/14 – 02/28/14
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
Congress Park Pool 01/22/14 – 01/23/14
Downtown Disney® Area
Cap’n Jack’s Marina – Closed
Parking Lots H,I,J,K Closed
Fuego – closed
Wetzels Pretzels – closed 10/20/13
House of Blues – Starting on November 14, The House of Blues at Downtown Disney West Side is expanding its patio, building a new stage and adding a barbecue smokehouse. The House of Blues ticket sales window has moved inside the House of Blues retail shop. The expansion is expected to be complete in mid-January 2014. During this time, there will be no live entertainment on the Front Porch stage.
Disneyland Resort in California
New! Limited Time Magic – Bring Home the First All-New Art Merchandise for 2014: Calling all Disney fans: you voted and we listened! In celebration of the final Limited Time Magic surprise of the year, be the first to purchase all-new art merchandise for 2014 when it debuts at Walt Disney World Resort. Decorated by a design you helped select at the start of 2013, you can find this new art adorning a range of keepsakes, including a mug, T-shirt, ladies tee, timepiece and D-Tech iPhone case. So stop by World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney area and take home your very own lasting piece of Limited Time Magic! Plus, starting December 27, 2013, you can also discover limited amounts of this new merchandise available for purchase online, including a special, online-only deluxe print signed by artist Patty Landing.
New! New Year’s Eve at Disneyland Resort: From a New Year’s Cupcake at Jolly Holiday Bakery in Disneyland park to the Napa Rose New Year’s Eve Bash, the Disneyland Resort will ring in 2014 with something fun for everyone.
We’ll start with the Napa Rose celebration. Actually, there are two: an early seating from 5:30 – 7 p.m. with a four-course dinner (think grilled hand-harvested sea scallops and 28-day-aged prime New York beef … Chef Andrew Sutton’s fabulous Wine Country Feast of seasonal classics) and festive decorations. Cost is $125 plus tax and gratuity. The perfect way to start the party early when you have plans later in the evening.
The late seating commences with bubbly at 8:15 p.m. and a dinner dance party with live music – they’re adding a dance floor in the lounge area with hundreds of silver, gold, red and black balloons to create a magical party. Plus hats and party favors, of course.
Start with honeyed profiteroles with goat cheese and cranberry jam, followed by imported Osetra caviar parfait layered with Skuna Bay salmon tartare, cucumber pearls and crème fraîche. You’ll move on to three more courses before a 30-minute “intermission” for dancing, followed by two more courses (including dessert). It’s all perfectly timed to take you to midnight. Dancing goes ‘til 1 a.m.
The five-course tasting menu is $220 plus tax and gratuity (no children’s pricing), plus $65 for a flight of world-class wines for pairing. Chef Sutton also has a delicious vegetarian menu.
For reservations, call 714-300-7170. Valet is complimentary.
Other celebrations, special tastes for New Year’s Eve:
Look for menu specials in Disneyland park at Carnation Café on Main Street U.S.A. (surf and turf with shrimp and sirloin steak); at French Market (roasted pork chop with Calvados applesauce, braised greens and sweet potato soufflé); at Blue Bayou (a seafood pot pie); and Cafe Orleans (flat iron steak with bone marrow demi-glace, garlic mashed potatoes and acorn squash).
Flo’s V8 Café at Disney California Adventure park will offer meat loaf with Coca-Cola barbecue sauce and two sides.
Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel has a prixe fixe, three-course menu for $65 that includes spinach salad with warm bacon vinaigrette, filet and lobster and chocolate paté.
Storyteller’s Café at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa has a prixe fixe two-course dinner with with porcini-rubbed rib-eye with scampi-style prawns, mashed potatoes and Cabernet demi-glace, and a duo of dark chocolate and Bailey’s crème brûlée with espresso cookies for $29.99.
And who can resist a New Year’s Eve cupcake? Especially the New Year’s Cupcake with dark chocolate cake, Nutella filling, Belgian white chocolate frosting with black and silver decorations, silver disco dust, a chocolate Mickey, chocolate truffle and bow tie? That’s a party on a plate! Look for it at Jolly Holiday Bakery,Fidler, Fifer & Practical Cafe and Pacific Wharf Café at Disney California Adventure park, and White Water Snacks at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
Merchandise Events
Artist Noah, who will be appearing from Dec. 6, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 from 7 – 10p.m. at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District as this months’ artist in residence. Be sure to stop by and check out his newest work, The Kid in Me.
New! Universal Releases Trailers for Diagon Alley: Two new trailers have been released and are building excitement for Diagon Alley, which will open in 2014 at Universal Orlando Resort.
Diagon Alley Trailer 1 – Empty Places
Diagon Alley Trailer 2 – Adventure Continues
New! Harry Potter Cast Members Appearing Live at A Celebration of Harry Potter: Special guests Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood) and James Phelps (Fred Weasley) and Oliver Phelps (George Weasley) will be attending “A Celebration of Harry Potter” event at Universal Orlando Resort January 24-26 to make it even more magical. Be sure to join us for three days of unforgettable fun for all the family!
Leaky Cauldron Restaurant Announced for Wizarding World of Harry Potter Expansion – Diagon Alley: In May 2013, Universal Orlando announced the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Expansion as Diagon Alley. We’ve been awaiting more details ever since! During a media event this week, Universal Orlando officially announced that the Leaking Cauldron from the Harry Potter films will be part of the Diagon Alley expansion. This restaurant will offer guests a place to rest, enjoy some unique food offerings while immersed in Harry’s world.
Universal Orlando Unveils Plans for Universal CityWalk Expansion: Universal Orlando announcedrecently that it will open eight new venues across CityWalk throughout 2014 as part of a bold growth strategy designed to complement the entertainment complex’s already popular collection of national brands. The new venues include Hot Dog Hall of Fame, featuring iconic hot dog creations from some of our nation’s most famous ball parks. Additions also include CowFish, an innovative and trend-setting concept out of Charlotte, North Carolina with a signature dish called “Burgushi;” and popular frozen treat spots Cold Stone Creamery and Menchie’s. Original concepts include Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, a unique tapas-style restaurant, Bread Box, a home-style sandwich shop; A new modern Italian kitchen concept, where guests can watch as the culinary team handcrafts their pasta from scratch; and Red Oven Pizza Bakery – Universal’s first-ever Neopolitan-style pizza bakery, which is now open. Exact opening dates will be released at a later time.
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information.
