One of my favorite ways to evoke good memories of WDW vacations is to listen to music. I love hearing the music from my favorite attractions and "lands" around Disney World. On August 20, Disney will release an updated album of theme park music. You can get full details here about what will be included. Can't wait to get my copy!
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Festival of the Lion King to Get New Home
It has been speculated for months that Animal Kingdom's popular "Festival of the Lion King" would be ousted from its theatre in the Camp Mickey/Minnie area to make room for Avatarland. Despite numerous questions from readers on this post from the Official Disney Parks Blog, the Disney rep was mum about when the current production will close, but the new theatre is set to open sometime in 2014.
And while we're on the subject of Avatarland, is anyone out there really excited about this? I mean, I can see the possibilities--what they could do with lighting and special effects...that it will extend the life of AK past 6 p.m. and offer some nighttime activities. But, really, hasn't the buzz on this movie faded? I understand that there are two more movies in the works, but I still don't get why Disney would put such a huge chunk of change into a project that has such a narrow fanbase at this point and isn't, technically, a Disney film. (There is absolutely NO comparing this to the Star Wars franchise, which has both a mainstream and cult following!) Avatarland will either surprise and amaze me, or it will be a colossal flop. Only time will tell.
Friday, July 26, 2013
Friday Photo
Just finished my adult summer reading program at the lovely Brentwood Library yesterday. It was a Jeopardy-themed game which included questions, assignments, and, yes, books to read in specific categories. With Jeopardy on my mind, I remembered this little scene. Can you name the attraction? C'mon, this is an easy one!
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Top 10 Ways to Save Money at Disney World
I've been thinking about the best and easiest ways to save the most when planning a Walt Disney World vacation. Some of them are simply not available to all guests, but since I don't know each and every one of you personally, I thought I'd compile a list in the hopes that some of you would discover that you qualify for savings! Here they are, beginning with the most savings:
1. Be friends with a Cast Member--especially management. It's a fact that all CMs get some sort of discount that can be offered to guests, but these tend to be based on seniority. For example, CMs in Disney's College Program may only get 6 days of Maingate privileges (walking up to 3 guests in to the Parks on 6 separate days) while a salaried manager may have a Maingate pass that can be used every day of the year. Tickets are almost always the most expensive part of any Disney vacation, so knowing someone who can help you cut out that cost can be invaluable. In addition, CMs can offer guests incredible savings on Resorts (usually 40% off rack rates) and often special event tickets. And, savings notwithstanding, you never know what special treatment might come your way through your favorite CM. We've been blessed to have private character meetings, VIP parade viewing, and instant Fastpass access! These are privileges we don't take for granted, but they sure are nice!
2. Be active or retired (career) military. My dad is a Vietnam Vet, and I really, REALLY wish Disney would extend their military discounts to ALL veterans...but at this point, these deals only apply to those currently serving in any branch of the armed forces or those who retired after lifetime service. In other words, a tour of duty won't cut it...you have to be career military. But if you or a family member is and has valid military ID to prove it, you can snag some great deals, including up to 30% off Resort rack rates. Military Salute park tickets can be purchased for the military personnel and up to 5 guests for $156 each for a 4-day park hopper (price goes up to $169 on September 28). Plus, if you're military, you can stay at Disney's Shades of Green Resort--a lovely military-only resort where cost is based on your rank.
3. Live in Florida. Probably the next best discounts are those available to Florida residents. They come and go throughout the year, but residents are offered room discounts as well as special seasonal passes and discounts on regular Magic Your Way-type tickets. For example, a 3-day base ticket is around $191, and a 4-day is $212. You can add the park hopper option for just $29.50. For just $223, a Florida resident can get a "Weekday Select Pass" that allows them to enter any of the four main parks on weekdays only for an entire year, with a few blocked dates (does not include free parking).
4. Have a annual pass or belong to the Disney Vacation Club. Of course DVC members have already paid for their resort stay, in theory (there are lots of variables), but they are also offered discounts on annual passes and park tickets. And while those holding annual passes have already purchased park admission, they are often given significant discounts off Resort rack rates.
5. Be a part of a youth group. If your cheer squad, soccer team, or Boy Scout troupe takes a trip to Walt Disney World, you will qualify for group rates on both tickets and Resort rooms. Be advised, they do limit the number of adult chaperones who buy tickets--they know that every parent would offer to chaperone a Disney trip...and bring along the rest of the family too, if the price is right!
6. Homeschool your children. Typically once a year in the fall (although they have been in January too), Disney hosts Homeschool Days. This fun event allows homeschoolers to gather at one of the least crowded times of the year to enjoy a special presentation with like-minded families. This year, the event is October 9 and the theme is "On with the Show." In addition to the awesome program Disney produces, families can get great deals on park tickets--a 4-day park hopper costs around $181! (Note: families are again restricted on how many adult tickets you can purchase--no more than the number of students, unless you have only one student which allows for both parents to purchase tickets.) We're attending, so come out and join us!
7. Get educated. If you're still educationally minded but not actual homeschoolers, you can attend one of Disney's YES (Youth Education Series) programs. These 3-hour programs are super fun and informative, ranging in subjects from animal behavior to American history. The ticket prices aren't quite as good as the Homeschool Days, but they're still significantly discounted off gate prices. A 4-day park hopper will set you back around $$197 per attending student up to $323 per attending adult. Again, there are restrictions on how many adult tickets you can purchase.
8. Be Canadian. Disney Stores in Canada often sell park tickets, and with shifts in the exchange rate, you can sometimes get a significant discount on tickets this way.
9. Work for a company that sponsors a theme park attraction (or has any other affiliation with Disney). Often large corporations sell discounted Disney tickets. And if you're lucky enough to work for an attraction sponsor, you might even have a private lounge at your disposal while touring the Parks. It's always a good idea to check with your company's human resources department before purchasing tickets.
10. Belong to AAA. Discounts among clubs are varied, but members can typically save a few bucks off gate prices for tickets. In addition, AAA travel agents have access to all the latest discounts.
If you don't qualify for any of the above, take heart! There are still great discounts available throughout the year to the general public. Ticket vendors, room-only discounts, and free dining abound...you just have know where and when to look for them. That's why you read this site, right?
1. Be friends with a Cast Member--especially management. It's a fact that all CMs get some sort of discount that can be offered to guests, but these tend to be based on seniority. For example, CMs in Disney's College Program may only get 6 days of Maingate privileges (walking up to 3 guests in to the Parks on 6 separate days) while a salaried manager may have a Maingate pass that can be used every day of the year. Tickets are almost always the most expensive part of any Disney vacation, so knowing someone who can help you cut out that cost can be invaluable. In addition, CMs can offer guests incredible savings on Resorts (usually 40% off rack rates) and often special event tickets. And, savings notwithstanding, you never know what special treatment might come your way through your favorite CM. We've been blessed to have private character meetings, VIP parade viewing, and instant Fastpass access! These are privileges we don't take for granted, but they sure are nice!
2. Be active or retired (career) military. My dad is a Vietnam Vet, and I really, REALLY wish Disney would extend their military discounts to ALL veterans...but at this point, these deals only apply to those currently serving in any branch of the armed forces or those who retired after lifetime service. In other words, a tour of duty won't cut it...you have to be career military. But if you or a family member is and has valid military ID to prove it, you can snag some great deals, including up to 30% off Resort rack rates. Military Salute park tickets can be purchased for the military personnel and up to 5 guests for $156 each for a 4-day park hopper (price goes up to $169 on September 28). Plus, if you're military, you can stay at Disney's Shades of Green Resort--a lovely military-only resort where cost is based on your rank.
3. Live in Florida. Probably the next best discounts are those available to Florida residents. They come and go throughout the year, but residents are offered room discounts as well as special seasonal passes and discounts on regular Magic Your Way-type tickets. For example, a 3-day base ticket is around $191, and a 4-day is $212. You can add the park hopper option for just $29.50. For just $223, a Florida resident can get a "Weekday Select Pass" that allows them to enter any of the four main parks on weekdays only for an entire year, with a few blocked dates (does not include free parking).
4. Have a annual pass or belong to the Disney Vacation Club. Of course DVC members have already paid for their resort stay, in theory (there are lots of variables), but they are also offered discounts on annual passes and park tickets. And while those holding annual passes have already purchased park admission, they are often given significant discounts off Resort rack rates.
5. Be a part of a youth group. If your cheer squad, soccer team, or Boy Scout troupe takes a trip to Walt Disney World, you will qualify for group rates on both tickets and Resort rooms. Be advised, they do limit the number of adult chaperones who buy tickets--they know that every parent would offer to chaperone a Disney trip...and bring along the rest of the family too, if the price is right!
6. Homeschool your children. Typically once a year in the fall (although they have been in January too), Disney hosts Homeschool Days. This fun event allows homeschoolers to gather at one of the least crowded times of the year to enjoy a special presentation with like-minded families. This year, the event is October 9 and the theme is "On with the Show." In addition to the awesome program Disney produces, families can get great deals on park tickets--a 4-day park hopper costs around $181! (Note: families are again restricted on how many adult tickets you can purchase--no more than the number of students, unless you have only one student which allows for both parents to purchase tickets.) We're attending, so come out and join us!
7. Get educated. If you're still educationally minded but not actual homeschoolers, you can attend one of Disney's YES (Youth Education Series) programs. These 3-hour programs are super fun and informative, ranging in subjects from animal behavior to American history. The ticket prices aren't quite as good as the Homeschool Days, but they're still significantly discounted off gate prices. A 4-day park hopper will set you back around $$197 per attending student up to $323 per attending adult. Again, there are restrictions on how many adult tickets you can purchase.
8. Be Canadian. Disney Stores in Canada often sell park tickets, and with shifts in the exchange rate, you can sometimes get a significant discount on tickets this way.
9. Work for a company that sponsors a theme park attraction (or has any other affiliation with Disney). Often large corporations sell discounted Disney tickets. And if you're lucky enough to work for an attraction sponsor, you might even have a private lounge at your disposal while touring the Parks. It's always a good idea to check with your company's human resources department before purchasing tickets.
10. Belong to AAA. Discounts among clubs are varied, but members can typically save a few bucks off gate prices for tickets. In addition, AAA travel agents have access to all the latest discounts.
If you don't qualify for any of the above, take heart! There are still great discounts available throughout the year to the general public. Ticket vendors, room-only discounts, and free dining abound...you just have know where and when to look for them. That's why you read this site, right?
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Decorating Cupcakes the Disney Way
We are expecting 7 girls tonight for my daughter's 10th birthday party! Instead of a homemade/decorated cake (I have a history of making crazy/creative/audacious cakes for my girls' birthdays...and some have been "caketastic" failures!), this year she requested cupcakes, more specifically, chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter filling and peanut butter icing. Not too difficult. But I couldn't let them be just ordinary cupcakes. They need to be special. Birthday special. So I decided to take a few tips from the talented pastry chefs at Walt Disney World.
Here's my tutorial on decorating cupcakes the Disney way. Please keep in mind that I am an amateur baker, at best. In other words, if I can do this, so can you! Start with your basic cupcake--any recipe (or box) will do!
For the filling, I used a recipe from Martha Stewart's website. It's basically peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and marshmallow fluff.
For filling the cupcakes, and getting beautiful high mounds, I used a trick I got from a Disney online video tutorial years ago. With a small serrated paring knife, cut out a cone-shaped portion from the top of the cupcake. (Do this by holding the knife at a 45 degree angle, with the point of the knife at the center of the cupcake.)
Pipe a dollop of the filling into the hole, then replace the "divot" upside down to create a tiny mountain...like these.
Next, pipe icing (mine is a cup of peanut butter, a stick of butter, a teaspoon of vanilla, about a pound of powdered sugar, and enough milk to make it creamy) onto the cupcakes, starting at the bottom and circling up to the tip.
To add a little extra magic, I put chocolate sprinkles (Jimmies) around the edge. (This idea also came from the Disney tutorial mentioned above.) Do this over a bowl to catch any that drop. Hold the cupcake at an angle and gently press the Jimmies around the rim...like this.
And, finally, I garnish with a miniature peanut butter cup. Here's the finished product.
And a look at the inside.
And, in the interest of research, I did taste it...and, for the record, it's yummalicious!
Here's my tutorial on decorating cupcakes the Disney way. Please keep in mind that I am an amateur baker, at best. In other words, if I can do this, so can you! Start with your basic cupcake--any recipe (or box) will do!
For the filling, I used a recipe from Martha Stewart's website. It's basically peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and marshmallow fluff.
For filling the cupcakes, and getting beautiful high mounds, I used a trick I got from a Disney online video tutorial years ago. With a small serrated paring knife, cut out a cone-shaped portion from the top of the cupcake. (Do this by holding the knife at a 45 degree angle, with the point of the knife at the center of the cupcake.)
Pipe a dollop of the filling into the hole, then replace the "divot" upside down to create a tiny mountain...like these.
Next, pipe icing (mine is a cup of peanut butter, a stick of butter, a teaspoon of vanilla, about a pound of powdered sugar, and enough milk to make it creamy) onto the cupcakes, starting at the bottom and circling up to the tip.
To add a little extra magic, I put chocolate sprinkles (Jimmies) around the edge. (This idea also came from the Disney tutorial mentioned above.) Do this over a bowl to catch any that drop. Hold the cupcake at an angle and gently press the Jimmies around the rim...like this.
And, finally, I garnish with a miniature peanut butter cup. Here's the finished product.
And a look at the inside.
And, in the interest of research, I did taste it...and, for the record, it's yummalicious!
Monday, July 22, 2013
Food Allergy Kiosk Opening in August
As a parent of a child with a life-threatening food allergy, I can't say enough about how great Disney handles guests with special dietary needs. Any time we have noted my daughter's allergy on an ADR (Advanced Dining Reservation), the Cast Member at the hostess station has always mentioned it before I had the opportunity and one of the gracious chefs has come to our table to help us make informed decisions about what items to avoid. This VIP treatment not only makes my daughter feel special, it makes this mom feel safe.
But now Disney is taking it to the next level by adding its "Garden Kiosk" at Animal Kingdom, designed to help guest with food allergies and intolerances make safe dining decisions. Opening August 4 outside the Adventurers Outpost meet-n-greet on Discovery Island, the Garden Kiosk will allow guests to discuss dietary needs with a Cast Member from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. each day. Not only that, but the kiosks will serve as a centralized location for purchasing pre-packaged snacks designed for those with dietary restrictions (think gluten free, nut free, etc.).
At this point, the kiosk only services the restaurants in Animal Kingdom. But, of course, guests can still find allergen-free snacks throughout the park and can continue to consult chefs on site at restaurants throughout Walt Disney World. And, one would hope that these kiosks will be added at the other Parks after the initial test at AK.
But now Disney is taking it to the next level by adding its "Garden Kiosk" at Animal Kingdom, designed to help guest with food allergies and intolerances make safe dining decisions. Opening August 4 outside the Adventurers Outpost meet-n-greet on Discovery Island, the Garden Kiosk will allow guests to discuss dietary needs with a Cast Member from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. each day. Not only that, but the kiosks will serve as a centralized location for purchasing pre-packaged snacks designed for those with dietary restrictions (think gluten free, nut free, etc.).
At this point, the kiosk only services the restaurants in Animal Kingdom. But, of course, guests can still find allergen-free snacks throughout the park and can continue to consult chefs on site at restaurants throughout Walt Disney World. And, one would hope that these kiosks will be added at the other Parks after the initial test at AK.
This One Is for the Techies
Admittedly, when I read stories like this I rarely understand them completely. But still, there is something really, really cool about "Aireal" (not to be confused with Ariel, one of our favorite Disney Princesses). And whether or not I understand it all, it's a good bet I'll be experiencing it in the not-so-distant future. And since I can't understand it, I'm certainly not going to try to explain it. Here's the article about "Aireal" in Fast Company.
Hidden Mickey Monday
OK, so it's that time of year again for my family...the girls' birthdays. I've been spending a bit of time in the party store. Guess what? You can find Mickey there too!
Friday, July 19, 2013
Friday Photo
photo ©Disney
I have cupcakes on the brain today. My oldest has a birthday/slumber party on Tuesday, and she has some pretty specific ideas about what she wants for dessert...chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter filling and peanut butter icing. Since Disney World has some of the most fabulous-looking cupcakes around, I'm trolling websites to get ideas. I did learn a nifty trick about how they fill them and make them look so high, and I've got all my ingredients ready. I'll let you know how they turn out. In the mean time, enjoy the above photo from the Boardwalk Bakery.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Rose and Crown Bids Farewell to "The Hat Lady" Show
No, the entertainment isn't going away entirely, but "The Hat Lady" show is no more at the Rose and Crown Pub in Epcot (United Kingdom). From here on out, entertainment at the Pub will be less formal, with pianists (including both Carol Stein and Pam Brody, the stars of "The Hat Lady" show) entertaining, playing requests, and even accompanying singing guests. So, not much changing really, just taking on a different format. Good news for avid fans!
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
DRV Early Access to Disney Store "Friends and Family" Event
If you're a Disney Rewards Visa cardmember, you'll want to check your email for a promo code that gives you early access to the Disney Store's "Friends and Family" event. This promo code will get you 25% off most merchandise, today through July 21, when you use your Disney Rewards Visa. Hot items are moving fast, so log on ASAP to get the best deals!
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Candlelight Processional Narrator Slots Filling Up
Nearly all the narrators have been announced for Epcot's 2013 Candlelight Processional. They are:
Nov. 29−Dec. 3: TBA
Dec. 4−5: Ashley Judd
Dec. 6−7: Whoopi Goldberg
Dec. 8−10: Sigourney Weaver
Dec. 11−13: Dennis Haysbert
Dec. 14−16: James Denton
Dec. 17−19: Edward James Olmos
Dec. 20−22: Trace Adkins
Dec. 23−25: TBA
Dec. 26−28: Blair Underwood
Dec. 29−30: Amy Grant
Nov. 29−Dec. 3: TBA
Dec. 4−5: Ashley Judd
Dec. 6−7: Whoopi Goldberg
Dec. 8−10: Sigourney Weaver
Dec. 11−13: Dennis Haysbert
Dec. 14−16: James Denton
Dec. 17−19: Edward James Olmos
Dec. 20−22: Trace Adkins
Dec. 23−25: TBA
Dec. 26−28: Blair Underwood
Dec. 29−30: Amy Grant
Monday, July 15, 2013
Get Ready for "FastPass" Dining
Since its opening in the new Fantasyland, Be Our Guest Restaurant has been one of the hottest ADRs around! Guests who are unable to secure a reservation--or are unwilling to pay the excessive dinner prices--are able to take advantage of the lunchtime counter service option, which is less expensive and requires no reservations. But this popular option has created another problem: colossal lines that form as early as 10 a.m. each day for lunch service.
Disney has been testing a solution, a pre-order system akin to FastPass dining. Two options are offered: FastPass+ Direct to Table allows guests to choose an arrival time and pre-order their meal via the Disney World website. This can be done days or even weeks prior to arrival. A second option, FastPass+ Expedited Arrival, allows guests a bit more spontaneity about what they will eat. Guests again log on at home to select an arrival time but are able to check in at a kiosk in the Magic Kingdom the day they will be dining. A yellow rose "beeper" of sorts is provided to guests. Just bring the rose to Be Our Guest at your designated arrival time and essentially skip to the front of the order line, place your order and pay, and be seated. Your food will be delivered to your table.
Of course, the system is merely in testing now, but expect to see some version of it offered to guests staying on Disney property in the near future.
Disney has been testing a solution, a pre-order system akin to FastPass dining. Two options are offered: FastPass+ Direct to Table allows guests to choose an arrival time and pre-order their meal via the Disney World website. This can be done days or even weeks prior to arrival. A second option, FastPass+ Expedited Arrival, allows guests a bit more spontaneity about what they will eat. Guests again log on at home to select an arrival time but are able to check in at a kiosk in the Magic Kingdom the day they will be dining. A yellow rose "beeper" of sorts is provided to guests. Just bring the rose to Be Our Guest at your designated arrival time and essentially skip to the front of the order line, place your order and pay, and be seated. Your food will be delivered to your table.
Of course, the system is merely in testing now, but expect to see some version of it offered to guests staying on Disney property in the near future.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Watch the New Trailer for Saving Mr. Banks
You can watch a trailer for the new movie Saving Mr. Banks, starring Tom Hanks as Walt Disney, here. The movie is about the process of Walt Disney securing the rights to make Mary Poppins from the protective author, P.L. Travers, played by Emma Thompson.
Early buzz is a bit mixed--let's face it, no one is ever going to play Walt as well as Walt did--but I'm excited to see a glimpse into Walt's world in the late 1950s and early 1960s...even if it is somewhat fictionalized.
Early buzz is a bit mixed--let's face it, no one is ever going to play Walt as well as Walt did--but I'm excited to see a glimpse into Walt's world in the late 1950s and early 1960s...even if it is somewhat fictionalized.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
2014 Vacation Packages and Dining Plans Released
Walt Disney World has just released their vacation packages and dining plans for 2014. There are no major changes to the dining plans themselves, although there are--as expected--rate increases. Here are the prices for the various plans:
As for the vacation packages, Disney offers a Magic Your Way Premium Package and a MYW Platinum Package. You can contact the reservation line for more information. I only recommend purchasing a Disney package when there is some sort of discount or free offer (dining, gift card, etc.). Otherwise, these are not typically the best deal.
- Quick Service Dining Plan, per day (includes 2 quick service meals, 1 snack, and a refillable resort mug): $39.64 for adults (ages 10 and over); $15.75 for children (ages 3-9)
- Disney Dining Plan, per day (includes 1 table service meal, 1 quick service meal, 1 snack, and a refillable resort mug): $58.66 for adults; $18.88 for children
- Disney Deluxe Dining Plan, per day (includes 3 meals that can be used for table service or quick service, 2 snacks, and a refillable resort mug): $104.94 for adults; $29.51 for children
As for the vacation packages, Disney offers a Magic Your Way Premium Package and a MYW Platinum Package. You can contact the reservation line for more information. I only recommend purchasing a Disney package when there is some sort of discount or free offer (dining, gift card, etc.). Otherwise, these are not typically the best deal.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Refillable Mugs Just Got More Complicated
We've all seen it coming--the crackdown on those refillable mugs that are available at all the Walt Disney World resorts. Many years ago, you could walk into just about any of the Disney resorts with a mug from just about any other Disney resort from just about any year, and no one would even look at you sideways. (Sure, they were meant to be used for the length of your stay, but no one was really policing the process.) Not so today.
The evolution of the mug had some positives: various different resort mugs became one standardized resort mug, allowing guests to refill their mugs at any of the Disney resorts. But the negatives started creeping in. First, guests were limited on which drinks were included--sorry, parents of tots, but milk is no longer a refillable beverage. Then, Disney started getting all tech-savvy on us, creating the RFID chip mug that would allow guests to fill mugs only during the length of their stay--with a ten-minute delay between refills, presumably to ensure that only one individual was drinking one beverage at a time and NOT refilling another larger decanter to take into the Disney Parks for the day. (Not that I would ever try this...but I assure you that others would have.) Finally, we've come to the most radical and complicated version of the mug wars: the "Rapid Fill" program. Here are the rules:
Rapid Fill offers guests the option to use a refillable mug for a specific number of days (calendar days, not 24-hours from time of purchase). Prices are $8.99 for 1 day, $11.99 for 2 days, $14.99 for 3 days, and $17.99 for length of stay. (Yes, yet another price increase.) As with the current refillable mug program, these are included in the Disney Dining Plan. And, of course, you will not be permitted to use an old mug--you will need a new one for each stay. Drink stations will include LCD displays that let you know how many days of refills are left for your mug. Expect to see this program begin this month at the All-Star Value Resorts first, then expand to the other resorts.
As a very limited soda drinker, I haven't been a fan of the refillable mugs for some time now. (We thought they were a decent value when we could use them for milk for our toddler years ago.) These new tougher stipulations only strengthen my resolve to skip the mug purchase on future trips. I mean, really, based on those prices, can you drink your money's worth in soda during your stay? This Disney-loving family will continue packing our own beverages and carrying our own refillable, filtering water bottles.
The evolution of the mug had some positives: various different resort mugs became one standardized resort mug, allowing guests to refill their mugs at any of the Disney resorts. But the negatives started creeping in. First, guests were limited on which drinks were included--sorry, parents of tots, but milk is no longer a refillable beverage. Then, Disney started getting all tech-savvy on us, creating the RFID chip mug that would allow guests to fill mugs only during the length of their stay--with a ten-minute delay between refills, presumably to ensure that only one individual was drinking one beverage at a time and NOT refilling another larger decanter to take into the Disney Parks for the day. (Not that I would ever try this...but I assure you that others would have.) Finally, we've come to the most radical and complicated version of the mug wars: the "Rapid Fill" program. Here are the rules:
Rapid Fill offers guests the option to use a refillable mug for a specific number of days (calendar days, not 24-hours from time of purchase). Prices are $8.99 for 1 day, $11.99 for 2 days, $14.99 for 3 days, and $17.99 for length of stay. (Yes, yet another price increase.) As with the current refillable mug program, these are included in the Disney Dining Plan. And, of course, you will not be permitted to use an old mug--you will need a new one for each stay. Drink stations will include LCD displays that let you know how many days of refills are left for your mug. Expect to see this program begin this month at the All-Star Value Resorts first, then expand to the other resorts.
As a very limited soda drinker, I haven't been a fan of the refillable mugs for some time now. (We thought they were a decent value when we could use them for milk for our toddler years ago.) These new tougher stipulations only strengthen my resolve to skip the mug purchase on future trips. I mean, really, based on those prices, can you drink your money's worth in soda during your stay? This Disney-loving family will continue packing our own beverages and carrying our own refillable, filtering water bottles.
Friday, July 5, 2013
The Latest Limited Time Magic
The next installment of Limited Time Magic will be "Mickey's America Streetbeat." Here's the description straight from Disney's website:
This LTM will run from July 8 through July 14.
Soak up the sounds of a little Limited Time Magic as America Gardens Theatre comes alive at Epcot, thanks to the musical performances of "Mickey's America Streetbeat." For a limited time, join Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Donald as they come together with an energetic troupe of young performers—watch the fun unfold as they take part in an over-the-top display of hip hop, percussion and acrobatics. From the rhythm and tunes to the tap-dancing of their shoes, it's set to be one incredible jam you won't want to miss!
This LTM will run from July 8 through July 14.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
WDW Railroad to Undergo Fall Refurbishment
Another bummer for us: the Walt Disney World Railroad will not be operating when we're next at the Parks. We're not really lamenting the loss of the ride experience but rather the transportation aspect. The railroad makes it easy to hop from one part of the Magic Kingdom to another quickly, all while giving your tired feet a rest and cooling you off in the breeze. We're definitely going to miss that! The train will be shut down from September 30 through October 20, reopening on October 21.
Monday, July 1, 2013
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