Hidden Mickey

So, I was at Sonic this weekend and came across this...



a biscuit Hidden Mickey!

2011 Refillable Resort Mugs Have Arrived

There's a new version of the ever-popular refillable mugs on the shelves at Walt Disney World resorts this week. Exciting news, perhaps, to those new to the refillable mug game...and less-than-thrilling news to those who just shelled out $13.99 for the old version, which will not be phased out. Here's a peek at the new mugs:

Booked!

We finally "pulled the trigger" on our next Walt Disney World vacation--well, at least the resort reservation. Actually, reservations. See, we had a great pin code discount, and it was actually a larger percentage off for the deluxe resorts. So I thought, Wow, this might be our best chance to splurge a little, 'cause you never know if or when one of those lovely pin codes will come along again. But then the frugal traveler in me got cold feet. It's hard for me to spend more than twice the $ just to stay in a nicer room, when we don't actually spend much time in our room. But, then again, we would be going on my 40th birthday--yep, the BIG one. So, I'm thinking that's worth a splurge, right?

So, I crunched a lot of numbers with various scenarios (different types of tickets, with or without special events and character meals, etc.), and we came to a compromise. We'll spend the first half of our trip here:



At the All-Star Sports Resort. This is actually probably my very least favorite of all the Disney Resorts. (Did I mention we're a family of mostly girls...and not at all athletic?) But I did want to stay somewhere we've never stayed, for research purposes (all for you, dear readers!). And I figured that getting to stay at my very most favorite resort for my birthday would make it well worth it. So...are you ready for it? I will be spending my 40th birthday at the...wait for it...



Grand Floridian!!! I am seriously over the moon with excitement. This is my favorite Disney Resort. We always visit and have often eaten or had tea there, but this will be our first time (and perhaps last...it is pretty pricey) to stay there. Concessions had to be made (the aforementioned Value Resort, as well as skipping the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party), because I simply won't allow us to go over what I consider to be a reasonable budget. But the concessions are well worth the special 40th birthday memories I will have. Happy birthday to me!

I'll be sharing more about tickets, dining, etc. as we get closer to our September trip.

Friday Photo

I just love Mickey kitchen gadgets! That's why this photo from the housewares section of the World of Disney Store in Downtown Disney is one of my favorites. You can actually get many of these items from www.DisneyStore.com as well.

Thursday's Tip

Today's tip is coming a bit late in the day (so sorry about that!), in part because I have been frantically crunching numbers, checking crowd calendars, and all the things I do before planning a Walt Disney World vacation...for own family! And I was not feeling especially creative in the tip area today, until it came to me. This one is so simple, but it really should be said (and repeated...'cause I'm pretty sure I've said it before): When in doubt, just ask!

What do I mean?you say. Well, today I was fretting about the fact that they haven't yet announced the dates for the fall Homeschool Days. But we have a pin code that expires in just 4 days (and it's a really good room rate!). I had a half dozen questions swirling around in my head: When will the next HS days be? If those dates don't work for us, will there be additional YES programs added to the fall schedule? And if I enroll in the YES programs, are those discounted ticket prices available to the whole family or just the student attending? And since my daughter is so young, will I be able to attend the program with her? It seems that each question led to the next.

So I picked up the phone. And I dialed the number for the Youth Education Series office. And I asked. And--guess what!--I got answers. (OK, so they actually couldn't tell me the specific dates for the Homeschool Days, because those haven't been released yet. But I did find out enough information to help me nail down our dates.) The point is, Disney Cast Members are, in my experience, almost always helpful. Now, that doesn't mean they'll offer you the best discount up front (again, you have to ask). But they will gladly walk you through whatever process you're thinking through. They'll crunch the numbers on your reservation to see which discount is the best deal for your family. And if you're really lucky, they might throw in a little extra magic along the way too. (Room upgrade? Yes, please!)

Now, if I could just decide where to stay! So many choices...so little time. I'm sure those helpful Cast Members will be hearing from me more than once over the next few days. ;-)

Favorite Desserts of Disney World

I'm a dessert person. You can keep your French fries and salty treats--I want the sugar! I thought it would be fun to highlight some of my favorite desserts--many of which are bargains--around Walt Disney World.



Topping off the list has to be the Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar, not only for its simplicity and perfection in flavor and its iconic shape, but also for its portability! Who doesn't love a simple vanilla soft serve coated in rich, creamy, crunchy chocolate, shaped like Mickey on a stick? There are several theories about these beloved treats--some have guessed that they are actually Dove bars (not so, I'm told). The truth is, I'm not sure who makes them. Signage in the parks is confusing. The ice cream carts sell a variety of different products, and there are often different brand names on the signs--I've seen Edy's, Nestle, and Haagen Dazs. But does it really matter? They are spectacular! The bars themselves have changed a few times over the years, but they always retain their deliciousness. You used to be able top buy a version of them (made by Good Humor) from ice cream trucks and at some grocery stores. But don't be fooled--these were not the real Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars. To get one of these, you need to visit one of the Disney Parks. It will set you back a mere $3.25

Coming in a close second for me would be the Carrot Cake Cookie, sold at the Writer's Stop in Disney's Hollywood Studios. This is essentially a version of a Whoopie Pie, with carrot cake in place of the cookie and cream cheese frosting in the middle. This treat is big--too much for one person--and more "cake" than "carrot"--without the annoying raisins or nuts you sometimes find in carrot cake. (OK, I actually like the nuts, butmy daughter is allergic.) The icing is amazing--the perfect amount of rich sweetness, without overpowering the cookie. At around $3, it's another Disney food bargain. I'm salivating just thinking about it now!



Finally, rounding out my top 3 is the Chocolate Mousse served at Boulangerie Patisserie. If you're not looking for it, you could miss this little bakery in the rear of the France pavilion at Epcot, but--trust me--it is well worth going out your way to find it. Nothing on the menu is over $7, and they serve up various desserts and savory light bites (light as in small--not light on calories), including quiche, croissants, a cheese plate, and my favorite French treat, the chocolate mousse. I've actually made their recipe at home, and it's almost as good as they serve! Light and fluffy, you just can't beat it for $3.50!

My final "Honorable Mention" choice is the School Bread found in the Kringla Bakeri in Norway (Epcot). If you're not a fan of coconut, you need not apply. But if you are, you'll love this bargain pastry (around $2). The toasted coconut on top was just divine, and it gave me the flavor of coconut cream pie in the consistency of a donut or cream puff.

As you can probably guess, price plays an important role in making a treat from Disney one of my favorites. I have had other fabulous desserts on property, but these are the ones that we consistently return to--and they never disappoint. Try one on your next visit to the World!

Mickey FASTPASS Coming Soon

If you read this post, you know that Disney has plans to take the FASTPASS to a whole new level. Perhaps the first baby step in that direction is the newest "attraction" that offers FP service: meeting Mickey. Yep, you can now avoid that sometimes excruciating line for a meet-n-greet with the Mouse, once he moves into his new digs in Town Square Theatre (Magic Kingdom), set to open this spring.

Concept Art, copyright Disney Co.

While the official Disney Parks Blog mentions that you will be given a one-hour time window on your FASTPASS in which to return for your meet-n-greet, it is unclear whether the FP will be valid anytime after that window, as FP works for other attractions. (My guess is it will, but they aren't advertising that fact.) Either way, I for one am thrilled to see this development. Can't wait to not wait in line to see our favorite Mouse!

Epcot Flower & Garden Festival Begins March 2

One of the most beautiful times of the year to visit Epcot is during the annual Flower & Garden Festival. There are so many fabulous topiaries, a Flower Power concert series, even a butterfly garden--not to mention presentations from master gardeners and horticulturists.

The grounds at Epcot are being transformed even now for this event that begins March 2 and runs through May 15. Some of the features guests will see include:

• Bambi's Magnificent Butterfly Garden


• Flower Power concert series, featuring music from the 60's and 70's (including Chubby Checker, Davy Jones of the Monkeys, Melissa Manchester, and Peter Noone of Herman's Hermits)


• The return of favorite topiaries and a slew of new ones--most notably those of the gang from Toy Story 3


• Presentations by stars from HGTV, including Genevieve Gorder, Lisa LaPorta, Kim Myles, Brian Patrick Flynn, Taniya Nayak, Ahmed Hassan, Patti Moreno, Michele Beschen, John Gidding, Frank Fontana, and Vern Yip

Anyone heading to WDW for this event? I would love to see your pics--especially of the TS3 topiaries!

Bill Nye the Science Guy @Innoventions This Week

If you were a kid during the 90s, you probably remember his show that aired on PBS and in syndication. This week, Billy Nye the Science Guy will be making an appearance at Innoventions in Epcot, in honor of National Engineers Week. While Nye will be appearing only on Wednesday, there will be various presentations at both Innoventions East and West throughout the week.

A Glimpse of NextGen Technology @ WDW

It happens with all forms of technology. Just when you get used to your turntable, somebody introduces the 8-track. When you finally buy in to the 8-track, along comes the cassette player. And the minute you convert your entire record or tape collection to cassette, you learn about compact discs. Nothing will ever replace these, right? 'Cause they last forever! Ooops...wait...here it comes...the mp3 audio file!

So it is with Disney. To be quite honest, as a novice WDW tourer, I didn't originally buy into the whole FastPass idea when they were first introduced. It seemed unneccessary...complicated even...in the early years. Now I can say without reservation that I am completely and totally on board. In fact, I can't understand why anyone wouldn't use it! It saves so much time and is so simple to use. But now that I'm a master of the system--you guessed it!--the system just might be changing.

At a conference for investors on Thursday, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs gave those attending a glimpse into what FastPass 2.0 might look like--and it's quite a change. In his own words:

We are currently developing an innovative system that will, in essence, create a version of FASTPASS for their entire Disney vacations. Now we define the guest experience as beginning from the time a potential guest sits down at a computer or picks up a phone to make a reservation. Our new tools will help them better understand all that we have to offer and better plan their time with us. They’ll be able to create a personalized itinerary that gives them the exact Disney vacation they want.

Guests will be able to reserve times for their favorite attractions and character interactions… secure seats at our shows and spectaculars… make dining reservations… and pre-book many other favorite guest experiences – all before even leaving their house.”

Wow, this sounds like a game changer to me. Did I misunderstand, or is he saying they will essentially be treating ride reservation much like ADRs? Hmmm...not sure how I feel about that. I'm a planner, but am I willing to give up all spontaneity--to schedule my entire vacation--in order to save time? And will it even actually save time, considering you may have to criss-cross the park in order to meet all your pre-appointed reservation times? And how does one schedule these reservations so precisely that you can go seamlessly from attraction to attraction without significant downtime between? So many questions.

Still, I was skeptical about FastPass, and now I'm a believer! So perhaps all my skepticism is unfounded. No word yet on how soon this sort of technology could be in place.

Friday Photo

I love a good cup of English tea, so these lovely giant teacup planters make me happy! You can find them in Epcot, of course, just steps away from the fish & chips that also make me happy. :-) This picture was taken during the Flower & Garden Festival in 2009.

All-Star Season of Phineas & Ferb Begins March 4

Is it just me, or is Phineas & Ferb nearly as entertaining for us grownups as for the youngsters? It's one of the few kids shows that my husband and I don't mind watching. Apparently, it's pretty popular with celebrities too, 'cause they're lining up to be on season 3 of the animated show. Here's a sampling of who will be helping P&F fill their summer vacation this year:

• Michael Douglas and his son Dylan, on an episode where P&F create a haunted house


• Jane Lynch, as Jeremy's mother


• Tina Fey, who tries to purchase the building where Doofenshmirtz has his Evil Headquarters


• Michael J. Fox, playing a werewolf in homage to his Teen Wolf character


• Anna Panquin, in that same episode, as a star-crossed lover


• Joan Cusack, as a train conductor


• Jamie Oliver (The Naked Chef), judging a meatloaf contest

Can't wait to see what sort of shenanigans the boys get into this year!

ABC's and 123's Take a Backseat to Social Values

So it would seem that the switch from Playhouse Disney to Disney Junior is more than just a name change and an eventual shift to a network of all preschool programming. Disney is, in fact, shifting the message. I may be overreacting but, quite frankly, it concerns me.

Here's the article from the Los Angeles Times that has spawned my latest beef with the Disney Channel and TV in general. Apparently, letting the talking box teach our kids ABC's and 123's is no longer enough...we parents need it to teach our kids "social values." The problem with this, of course, is that "social values" consist of a very broad spectrum, with parents falling all along this arc. When a network decides to impart a message to our children, we as parents need to know that said message aligns with our values system before we allow them to get sucked in to a show.

Of course, television programming has always had its subtle--and not-so-subtle--ways of imparting values. And not always values that I can support. No, I'm not opposed to the basic "let's all get along and be kind to our friends" message, but I do take issue with anyone who tries to impose their belief system on my children under the guise of "every good, reasonable person should think this way." That is my job as a parent, not TV's job.

So I will be watching...watching with my children. No more unmonitored TV in our home. And, if I see things I don't like, we will be tuning out. (I've already done this on a few Disney Channel shows. I'm not a fan of "Shake It Up." Those kids are just too snarky!) I love Disney, and I appreciate most of the Disney Channel's programming. But I will not allow the television to teach my children what they should believe. Their father and I will do that, thank you very much.

Thursday's Tip

If you've flown anywhere lately, you know that airlines are really cracking down on extra luggage. In fact, some airlines are charging extra fees just for your FIRST bag, not to mention any extras. But when you go to Walt Disney World, you need a lot of stuff--am I right? Here's the tip: cut down on your luggage needs by taking less clothing and doing a load or two of laundry mid-trip.

Every Disney resort has clean, convenient laundry facilities. And if you happen to have little ones who need to return to the resort to nap in the afternoon, you can sneak a load in without interrupting your schedule. Don't forget to pack sample sizes of detergent and fabric softener, and bring a few dollars of quarters along too.

Fairy Garden Meet-N-Greet Now Open

I told you just a week ago in this post that the displaced Disney Fairies would be spending the remainder of February at Disney's Hollywood Studios until their meet-n-greet area in Epcot was ready. Then I found out from a friend who just returned from a WDW vacation that they were temporarily hanging out in the hallway at the Character Spot in Epcot. Before I could even blog this change, I learned that their permanent Fairy Garden (near Mouse Gear) is already open! This is in essentially the same spot as the Fairy Garden at the Flower & Garden Festival.

Since the meet-n-greet is outdoors, I'm guessing that inclement weather will either shut it down or move it back to the Character Spot hallway. Expect large crowds for these popular characters, although perhaps not quite as bad as when they were with the princesses and M&M at Toontown. Still, moving them to a park that is not considered one of the top kid favorites is a great move on Disney's part--making Epcot more attractive to younger guests.

We've met Tink, Rosetta, Silvermist, Iridessa, Fawn, and Vidia. We're hoping to catch Terrence on our next visit!

Phineas & Ferb Meet-N-Play Coming to DHS

I know more than a few families who have been anxiously awaiting this news: Phineas & Ferb, beloved stars of the show that carries their name, will finally be getting their own meet-n-play in Disney's Hollywood Studios in May. Until now, we've only seen the P&F walk-around characters in parades and on stage for special events. Now they're finally coming to the Parks where children can enjoy them up-close-and-personal!



And apparently, this is more than your average sign-and-get-your-picture-taken experience. You can be part of the action. Under the direction of "Cletus Filmore," the boys will recreate some of their favorite moments from their famed show, under the guise of making a movie about their adventures. Look for some audience participation on this one! And, of course, they will be greeting their fans and signing autographs as well. The experience is set to take place near the exit to the Muppets 3-D Vision attraction.

Multiple Rides Down at MK

Yikes! An air compressor issue has closed multiple rides in the Magic Kingdom this morning. Among them, many favorites: Peter Pan, Splash Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, Astro Orbiter, Aladdin's Magic Carpets, and Stitch's Great Escape. Disney expects all rides to be back in operation "later this morning." Any readers in the MK today that can confirm?

*UPDATE* I've heard reports that everything was back up and running by around noon. Still, I'm sure there was a bit of fall-out by day guests without park hoppers who didn't have the option of leaving for another park. It will be interesting to hear what guests have to say about this.

Another Disney Bus Collision

It was not such a happy Valentine's Day for passengers on Disney's Magical Express yesterday when their bus collided with a tractor-trailer on Boggy Creek Road, sending five people to the hospital. Among those injured was the bus driver. There were no life-threatening injuries, according to Florida Highway Patrol. The investigation is ongoing, and few details have been released at this time.



This is another unfortunate addition to a growing number of Disney bus incidents. Granted, the sheer volume of WDW transportation vehicles on the roads in the greater-Orlando area is astounding, and the law of averages would say that, of course, there will be collisions. And it must be noted that in many cases, the accidents have proven not to be the fault of the Disney drivers. Still, each new incident leaves a bit more tarnish on Disney's transportation record. Here's hoping Disney takes a serious look at this area and finds ways to make positive changes.

Does It Mean Anything?

Probably not. But the date for the re-opening of the Enchanted Tiki Room (after the recent fire that damaged many of the animatronics) has been moved out from the end of March until June 1. Still, considering the time frame, it's unlikely that this means there will be any significant changes to the show itself. But those of us who still long to see the Tiki Room return to its past glory can hope, can't we?

Disney Junior Premiers Today

Today is the day...no, I'm not talking about Valentine's Day (but, hey, Happy Valentine's Day, dear readers!). It's the day that Playhouse Disney officially becomes Disney Junior. Three new series will air today: Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Tinga Tinga Tales, and Babar and the Adventures of Badou. Don't worry--most of your favorite Playhouse Disney pals will be sticking around too.



This is more than a mere name change for preschool Disney programming. That's only step 1. As early as 2012, Disney Junior will be getting its own 24-hour-a-day cable channel, geared toward kids ages 2 through 7, making it easier to choose age-appropriate entertainment for your children. (Ever let your tot watch an episode of "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" only to realize it was followed by "Shake It Up"--and you hadn't noticed? Ooops!)

I look forward to seeing the new Disney Junior shows and hearing reader comments too!

A Minor Rant Against Disney Channel

I'm pretty picky about what I allow my girls to watch. But for the most part, with a few exceptions (Shake It Up being the latest added to the "forbidden" list), they are allowed to watch almost anything on Disney Channel. And Playhouse Disney (soon to be Disney Junior) has always been a "safe" zone.

Except for one little thing: Choo Choo Soul. Now, don't get me wrong--most of the time I like the little ditties they sing. It's creative how they put live actors and children in front of animation--very cute and fun. But is it too much for me to expect Disney NOT to teach my children bad grammar? Here's an excerpt from a CCS tune that has been airing for at least a couple of years (maybe more) now: "Everybody's got theyown style of rhythm..." What?!? Seriously, Disney?!? While I can appreciate stylistic liberties when it comes to artistic endeavors, when we're dealing with the preschool set, can we really afford to start out teaching them improper grammar?

I got so annoyed the first time that I heard it that I was compelled to email Disney Channel and complain. As an aside, here's something else I learned about Disney: if you want to buy something or get more information on something within the Parks (anything that might lead you to spending your hard-earned dollars on their product), there will be multiple ways to contact Disney (phone, email link, address). But if you want to complain, you're on your own trying to figure out who and how to contact them! I did find an email address for someone at the Disney Channel, but who knows if I was remotely in the right area. Needless to say, I didn't receive a response.

And yet I can't imagine that I'm the only parent bothered by this. Am I? The song continues to run...I've heard it twice in the last couple of weeks. And each time, it's like nails on a chalkboard to me.

Please, dear Disney, stop the bad grammar insanity!

New Travel Channel Disney Special Airs Tonight

If you don't have big plans tonight, be sure to tune into Travel Channel for "Disney Memories: Best Place I've Ever Been." It airs at 8:00 p.m. Eastern (7:00 p.m. Central) and will feature some of the Travel Channel hosts telling us what they love about the Disney Parks.

Friday Photo

Anyone know where you can find this timeline? This is, of course, merely a small piece of the bigger picture. I enjoyed reading (and photographing) this timeline on a visit in 2009--and I learned a few things, too!

Thursday's Tip

Here's a tip, with a tinge of sadness: When you see something beautiful/awesome/fun/exciting (you get the idea) at Walt Disney World, be sure to take lots of pictures, because the World is always changing...and you never know when said beautiful/awesome/fun/exciting thing will go away. :(

Case in point: Mickey's Toontown Fair. Here are a few pics to help us all say goodbye to that happy, fun cartoon land that will be closing tomorrow to make way for the Fantasyland expansion.

Disney Youth Programs Individual Enrollment

This one is especially for all the home educators out there. I'm still waiting for Disney to announce the dates for this fall's Homeschool Days--I have heard everything from September to November dates. I'm really hoping they announce soon, 'cause we have a pin code that expires at the end of February, and we wanna take advantage of those savings at the same time, if at all possible.

In the mean time, Disney has opened individual enrollment to several of their educational programs that have traditionally been available to groups. That means that even if you don't visit the parks during their official Homeschool Days, you can take advantage of some of the unique programs they offer. The dates currently open are for summer (June through August), so they're actually quite convenient for those enrolled in traditional schools too! Click here to see the variety of programs available to students from ages 7 through 18.

Character Changes As Toontown Closes

As Toontown closes forever on February 11 (*sniff*), several Disney characters will be misplaced. But don't fret--Disney won't let Mickey, Minnie, and all their friends be completely homeless. Below is the breakdown of where you can find your favorite Toontown characters, beginning February 12.

• Mickey and Minnie will be moving to Tomorrowland, near Space Mountain, temporarily. As far as I know, plans are still in place to permanently move M&M to Main Street, to the Town Square Exposition Hall. (But Exposition Hall has been under construction for so long, it's hard to tell when that might actually happen!) Has anyone heard differently?


• The princesses can be found at the Adventureland Veranda. This is, of course, also temporary. The princesses will eventually have their own Meet-n-Greet area in what is currently Snow White's Scary Adventures, which will sadly fall victim to the new Fantasyland expansion.


• TinkerBell and her fairy friends will be spending the rest of February at Disney's Hollywood Studios before heading to Epcot, specifically the Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden near the Mouse Gear store, beginning March 2. If you've been to a recent Flower & Garden Festival at that park, you may remember this area that featured fabulous topiaries of Tink and her friends (as below). It is unclear whether this move is of a permanent nature, now that plans for a Pixie Hollow area in the new Fantasyland have been scrapped.

That's all for now, folks. I'll keep you posted as I hear of new changes.

Playhouse Disney Closes Forever...Well, Sort Of

Playhouse Disney Live On Stage has closed for good...except that's not exactly, precisely the story. See, it will re-open in March as Disney Junior. This is, of course, a reflection of the change taking place on the Disney Channel, as Playhouse Disney is being gradually shifted to Disney Junior.

Expect to see some new story lines in this perennial favorite among the preschool set. My guess is that the new Disney Junior show, "Jake and the Neverland Pirates" will play a significant role, since we've been seeing ads forit for the last few weeks on Disney Channel. I'm quite certain that Mickey Mouse Clubhouse will also remain. Early reports said that Handy Manny and Little Einsteins would also bet sticking around. (Personally, I would prefer to see these two replaced. I think they've seen their heyday. But the Disney marketing team failed to consult me. Hmmph.)

Looking forward to seeing what Disney Junior has to offer!

El Pirata Y El Perico Gets Name and Menu Change

 

One of our family's favorite seasonal eateries,  El Pirata Y El Perico, has just been renamed Tortuga Tavern. In addition to a new name, the menu has also changed--although the Mexican theming remains. Entrees include burritos (beef, chicken, or vegetarian), taco salad, and nachos, while the kids meal choices are between PB&J or quesadillas. I'll miss the "pile 'em as high as you can at the fixin' bar" tacos, but at least my favorite taco salad remains.

Splash Mountain Update

I have a retraction to print. I have seen reports that Splash Mountain has now re-opened, with the newly-installed lap bars. But it would seem that reports that these bars would limit the maximum boat capacity to only 8, as I told you in this post, have apparently been grossly exaggerated (well, maybe not grossly...but, yes, exaggerated). I have been seeing photos on various fan sites since the re-opening that show some rows that still had 3 people across!

Don't get too excited...the extra time between boat launches is still in effect, which means the wait time will still be increased. But at least with this new development, we can hope that the increase won't be quite as significant. Fingers crossed!

They're Going to Disney World!

The Super Bowl is in its final minutes as I type. And keeping with tradition, I expect to hear the winning team's MVP utter those famous words in a few minutes: "I'm going to Disney World!"

If you're lucky enough to be visiting the Mouse this week, you just might catch a glimpse of some of your favorite players. The traditional Super Bowl Motorcade will take place in the Magic Kingdom tomorrow at 2:15 p.m. Expect things to be more than a bit crowded on Main Street and along the castle hub tomorrow afternoon!

Tiki Room to Re-Open in March

It looks like there won't be any significant changes to the Enchanted Tiki Room, considering that the attraction is set to re-open on March 27 after the fire that broke out in the loft  of the attraction on January 12 and damaged several animatronics (among them Iago and Zazu). Fans sites were abuzz that perhaps Disney would take advantage of this unfortunate incident and restore the attraction to its former glory--or at least do away with the newer annoying story line. No such luck, apparently. Not sure the "Tiki gods" will be thrilled with that decision.

Now, just for fun, let me get that song stuck in your head: "In the tiki, tiki, tiki, tiki, tiki room. In the  tiki, tiki, tiki, tiki, tiki room..."

Friday Photo

I call this one "Blue Screen of Death." On our 2009 visit, at Downtown Disney's Once Upon a Toy, we encountered this evidence that, yes, even Disney experiences technical difficulties once in a while. Despite the faulty kiosk, our girls still had tons of fun creating their unique Disney-themed Potato Head toys. This is a great spot to let little ones unwind and have a play break!

Thursday's Tip

This tip is for veteran Disney travelers. Do you visit Walt Disney World yearly, or close to it? Do you spend at least 4-5 days in the parks on each visit? Are your travel dates flexible (within reason)? Here's my tip: Consider planning your yearly trips, say, 11 months apart (instead of a year) and purchasing annual passes. It's probably a better deal!



It's really just a matter of doing the math. An adult annual pass costs $499 plus tax (or $459 if you're renewing a current pass). A 5-day adult Park Hopper ticket is $291 plus tax. (You're already saving $83 on just one person's ticket over a 2-year period.) Of course, you could buy a 10-day non-expiring ticket for $529--but that's still going to cost you $30 more than the annual pass.

And here's the other thing: you get some lovely perks from an annual pass. For starters, free parking! Granted, you get free parking if you're staying at a Disney Resort too, but if you stay off-site it will cost you a whopping $14/day to park. There are often room discounts that are available only to annual passholders--sometimes up to 40% off. Passholders also get discounted pricing for special ticketed events such as Night of Joy, Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, and they enjoy 50% off at Disney's miniature golf courses. Finally, there are a variety of passholder events, dining discounts, sales, etc., and you never know what might be added/offered.

And, hey, if you purchase an annual pass, you just might fit a third trip to WDW in there somewhere during the year...or more! I know I would!

Can't Wait to Watch This!

So, it came today--my 2011 Disney Planning DVD! Yes, I go to Walt Disney World every year. No, I don't really need much "help" in planning my visit, since I do plenty of research every day. But I still can't wait to see what changes Disney makes each year to their free planning DVD. Yes, I am a little geeked out about it. :-)

Admittedly, the last couple of years Disney has offered only minor changes to the DVD, sticking with the same basic look and even some of the same footage. But I have high hopes for this year...please don't disappoint me, Mickey!

I'm in the midst of rehearsals with my daughter for a production of Annie that we're both going to be in next month, so I unfortunately may not have time to watch it for a few days. And we typically like to sit down as a family and watch it together each year too. (Yes, again, we are that geeked out about it.) But I promise that I'll get back to you with my review as soon as I'm able. In the mean time, why not order your own copy? You can order a free Disney planning DVD every six months. Oh, and while you're there, order yourself some free customized maps too--they are lovely!