Disney Addicts Unite!

I can't believe how much time has passed since my last post! My Disney obsession is stronger than ever and I thought it was about time that I start spreading some Disney love around the inter-web again!

I must admit, my motivation comes from two blogger positions that are currently available through . I've been selfish with my thoughts about the happiest place on Earth, keeping them all to myself.I want to share information about Disney World with others who have the same passion, and introduce new Kingdom Keepers to the magic that awaits them at Disney parks. I hope to become a writer for Chip & Company and no matter what the outcome, I pledge to keep up with this blog!

So much has been going on at Disney parks since my last blog posting, I have no idea where to begin! Do I touch on the ground breaking of the Avatar inspired land in Animal Kingdom? Do I share my new obsession with Frozen? How about my dismay over the latest Disney Store closing? Or the new addition of BBQ to the House of Blues in Downtown Disney? The possibilities are endless. Stay tuned!

See ya real soon!

Phase 1 Completion

The first portion of Fantasyland 2.0 has opened and the results, as expected, were magical. The first section of the renovated Dumbo ride has opened with the second half opening in July. The Barnstormer featuring the Great Goofini has also opened. The ride uses the same track as the original with the addition of two new props for riders to "crash" into. The surroundings of the new land have also changed the atmosphere of the ride. Cannot wait to ride it for myself! The time to enjoy Snow White's Scary Adventures is dwindling as its closing date, June 1st, approaches. A Princess Fairytale Hall will be taking its place. Later this year, Fantasyland will welcome Ariel and Belle with the addition of Under the Sea- Journey of the Little Mermaid ride, Be Our Guest Restaurant, and Beauty and the Beast Village. As a Beauty and the Beast fanatic, this is one area I will make a beeline for during my next trip. Belle and the Beast are a welcome addition to this land. The completion of Fantasyland has been pushed back to 2014 rather than the end of 2013. The last ride to open will be the Seven Dwarfs Mine Roller Coaster. This ride has proved to be more complicated than once thought so Imagineers have decided it was best to take a little more time on creating and constructing the ride. I have been trying to wait until the Fantasyland completion to return to Disney, however, it is already proving to be difficult and it has only been a little over a year since my last visit! There is just something about the feeling of being around the magic of Disney that keeps us die hard fans coming back! This semester, I have been student teaching in a local high school and middle school. Upon saying my goodbyes to my middle schoolers, one of my students gave me a book about hidden fun facts about Disney World, they know me too well!

Fantasyland 2.0

Times are a'changing in the Magic Kingdom! Fantasyland is getting a face-lift. Construction has been way for quite a while now and the first phase will open some time later this year! There have been major changes within the plans for the newest portion of Fantasyland. Each new area represents a movie and/or ride. A circus theme has been employed for the section surrounding what will be the new location of the Dumbo ride. Belle's small French village will lead the way to the new Be Our Guest restaurant in the land.
It has been rumored that park goers will soon be saying goodbye to Snow White's Scary Adventures. This spot will be filled with a Princess meet and greet. Snow White will be now represented through a new ride called the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Disney fans will have to wait until 2014 for this ride to open. That will be the last of new Fantasyland attractions to open.

Storybook Circus, The Great Goofini (originally named The Barnstomer), and the new Little Mermaid ride will be part the phase opening in 2012.







I'd like to say I will wait until 2014 to visit Disney World again so that I can see the completed renovation of Fantasyland, but I don't think I'll make it that long without an excursion to the happiest place on Earth! I cannot wait to see all of the new magic that the new area brings. We will miss Toon Town but this expansion will represent a new generation of imagineers and future Disney fans!And as Walt would say....

"I do not like to repeat successes, I like to go on to other things."

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

During my 2011 Disney trip, I was fortunate enough to see the International Flower and Garden Festival for the first time at Epcot. This display of perfectly sculpted shrubs and flowers brings the landscape of Epcot to a new visionary level of excellence.

Over 100 topiaries depicting our favorite Disney characters are displayed each year for this event. For 2011, the characters taking the main stage in the Epcot entrance are those from Toy Story 3.





Throughout the park there are more of our famous Disney friends...










Each of the countries in the World Showcase have topiaries of characters that are related to their country. Lady and the Tramp (pictured above) for example, was placed in Italy. Beauty and the Beast could be seen in France while Mulan was in China, and Aladdin was in Morocco. It is a marvelous display to see. The detailing and intricacies that go into making just one of these is evident. I look forward to seeing these again one day.

"I don't like formal gardens. I like wild nature. It's just the wilderness instinct in me, I guess." -Walt Disney

Quick Trip

My Re-do trip to Disney has come and gone and it has been quite a long time since my last post here. This last trip to Disney was much shorter than my last venture to the sunshine state but it was much more enjoyable. My best friend and I had only three full days in the parks but thanks to park hopper passes we were able to visit each of the four Disney parks. We did not necessarily accomplish everything we would have liked to during this trip, but that just means we will have to go back again to see the rest!

It amazes me how popular some of the attractions remain after such a long span of time. I was unable to visit one of my favorite rides, Soarin', due to a two hour wait at almost every time of day. With a lack of fast passes to go around, it seemed that waiting in line for this ride would have cut into time I could have been doing so much more. Then again, I shouldn't be too surprised about the ride's popularity, there are so many other Disney-addicts like myself around the world that flock to this magical land as much as possible just like I do.
As stated in my previous post, this trip was my first as an adult of legal age. I didn't realize the amount of places within the Disney world that sell alcohol. I suppose there are just some things you do not see in the parks unless you are looking for it! I had been under the impression that alcohol was only sold in the World Showcase of Epcot. Although the varieties available are much greater here, alcohol is also offered in Animal kingdom, and Hollywood Studios at certain locations along with every hotel restaurant.
After viewing some Disney specials on the Travel Channel I made it a mission to try the Grand Marnier Orange Slush at the wine cart in France section of Epcot. This drink comes in a disposable martini style plastic cup and it is just as good as it looks! It is made with Grand Marnier Champagne and adds a fizz to the orange slush that gives it that extra something.


The Habibi Daiquiri from a Moroccan drink cart is also a drink worth searching for. This concoction made of rum, sweet and sour mix, strawberry puree and orange blossom water will have you coming back for more. Reasonably priced, this deep pink drink will make you feel like you really have traveled to another country.



Hollywood Studios offers a drink called the Stoplight Margarita. This refreshing, colorful drink is sure to cool you down on those unbearable hot Florida days.



"All cartoon characters and fables must be exaggeration, caricatures. It is the very nature of fantasy and fable." -Walt Disney

My "Re-Do" Trip

Well, it's that time of year again when I will begin planning yet another wonderful vacation to the magical world of Disney. Planning out a trip is often just as fun as the trip itself! This time around, I'm planning quite a ways in advance. I will be a senior in college this year and I have decided that there is no where else I would rather spend my spring break than in Disney World! I will be traveling with one of my best friends, a fellow Disney enthusiast.
The Orlando theme parks are always more fun when you are around others who share the same passion for the experience. On my last trip, there were some members of my group that preferred the big thrill rides you would find at Universal or Busch Gardens and did not fully appreciate the fantastical world we had entered into for six days. This did not stop me from enjoying my time, but I feel like I need a re-do.

Word to the Wise: If traveling with people you have not vacationed with before, keep the trip to a week or less. We're all bound to get on each others nerves at some point! Eight days was too much for me, but I think five days should be a safe bet. Also, keep in mind that within large groups, compromise is a must. Anything that can be discussed and sorted before the trip should be taken care of so that it does not cut into vacation time when decisions need to be made.


This time around I will be going with someone who I have been on vacation with before and we are both on the same page about what we want to do and how we want things done. This will be our first trip being 21 years of age, meaning, we will be able to fully experience Disney nightlife and I can report our findings here! I have heard nothing but good things about the nightlife in Disney and I can't wait to experience the vibrant evening atmosphere of the Boardwalk for myself.

"All the adversity I've had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me... You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you." -Walt Disney

Fantasmic

Fantasmic is a night show featured at Hollywood Studios. The show can be seen twice a week after the rest of the park closes. It is located in an arena off Hollywood Blvd. right before you reach the Beauty and the Beast stage. The show incorporates music, lights, water, fire, pyrotechnics, well known Disney characters, and of course the MAGIC of Mickey! This is truly a sight to see.



Caution:
-The use of water during the show can cause a mist to fall over the audience sitting near the front if there is a breeze in the air.
-The use of fire can cause a brief change in temperature.
-The music and pyrotechnics can become quite loud at times and may not be enjoyed by very young children.




"Why be a governor or senator when you can be king of Disneyland?" —Walt Disney

Manatees

One of my favorite animals to see whenever visiting Florida is the manatee. This "sea cow" may not have a very active lifestyle but these giant gentle creatures are a magnificent and intriguing endangered species. When visiting Epcot, head to The Seas with Nemo and Friends. Take a ride in a big pink clam shell in search of Nemo. At the end of the ride are the remains of the original attraction, the living seas. The manatees are located in a tank over on the right. I could stay there for hours just looking at these creatures.

Disney takes great care of their animals, unfortunately they alone cannot save the manatees.Manatees are disappearing from the wild at an alarming rate. The Florida manatees are often in danger of being hit by boat propeller blades in the everglades. For more information on saving the manatees please visit www.savethemanatee.org

"My fun is working on a project and solving the problems." —Walt Disney

Toy Story 3

This will be a short post but definitely one that is worth while. As a child I remember going to the premier of the movie Toy Story, Disney's first collaboration with Pixar studios. This new type of computer animation being used was fascinating to audiences everywhere in 1995. Toy Story became a hit over night and eventually sparked a sequel. Now, in 2010 the Toy Story enterprise becomes a trilogy with a third installment due out in theaters this June. This will be the first Toy Story movie to be presented in 3-D! Visit disney.com for the latest trailer!

The premier of this movie comes after the opening of the newest ride in Disney World, Toy Story Mania, located at Hollywood studios. Disney.com describes the ride as: "Come board a ride vehicle and zip off into a 4-D world of midway-style games hosted by Woody, Buzz, Jessie, Rex, Hamm and more! Use your spring-action shooter to throw virtual projectiles at targets and rack up points. Compete for the high score. Certain targets trigger fun surprises!"


Before getting in line for this ride make sure to get your FASTPASS! This ride is popular and can make for a lengthy wait.


"Fantasy and reality often overlap." —Walt Disney

Some Hidden Gems of Disney

You have probably heard about the hidden mickeys that can be found in everywhere on Disney property. But there are some parts about the World of Disney that are kept out of the spotlight. On my last trip to Orlando I wanted to see the World of Disney from a new perspective, I wanted to see and do things that I had always passed over on previous trips. These are a few of the hidden secrets I looked up and found interesting.

Magic Kingdom:

While exploring Tom Sawyer's Island, look for a paint brush hidden in the bushes that Tom has left behind. Give the paint brush to a cast member nearby and you will receive a voucher for immediate access to your choice of Thunder Mountain or Splash Mountain.

Head to Main Street U.S.A. to the candy store. Inside you will find an old-fashioned phone on the wall. Pick up the receiver and you will hear an actual phone conversation.


Epcot:
Walk to the back of the UK in the world showcase to find a butterfly garden and a rose bush maze.


When leaving the Test Track ride, look for the crash test dummies, they may not be fake dummies after all!

At shops and carts throughout the park, your child can pick up a passport and have it stamped in each country of the world showcase, travel to every country and receive a prize.

Hollywood Studios:


Upon entering the building to Muppet Vision, lift up the mat at the door, find a key and bring it to the nearest cast member for a prize.


Walk the New York Streets on the Avenue of the Americas and hear gangsters plotting their next move.


There are two scenarios on the Great Movie Ride. One with gangsters and one with cowboys.


Animal Kingdom:

Head to Camp Minnie-Mickey and listen for the two talking bushes Herb and Flora.

While playing the the Dino-Land Boneyard look for the crates and lift their lids to hear animals growl.

Arrive at the park 15 min early to catch Rafiki welcoming the new day.


Look out for DeVine a performer dressed as foliage she blends in so watch out!




Looking for these added touches gives you a special addition to your trip, enjoy!


"The fun is in always building something. After it's built, you play with it awhile and then you're through. You see, we never do the same thing twice around here. We're always opening up new doors." —Walt Disney

Disney's FASTPASS

The Disney fastpass is definitely something you and your family will want to look into for your next vacation if you are not already familiar with the system. The fastpass is a ticket you can choose to get from certain Disney rides that allows you faster access to the most popular rides. For example, there is a 90 min wait for Space Mountain. You have antsy children that cannot wait in line that long. Does this mean you miss out on riding Space Mountain? Nope. Simply place your park ticket into a fast pass machine and it will print you out a pass to come back in between specific times.


When you return, you will be able to use the fast pass line that will take you straight to the front of the pack. If the ride is especially busy one day, the fast pass line may have to wait a maximum of ten minutes but that is still much better than the 90 min so many people decide to wait. This is a very beneficial system to the Disney parks. The only downsides to this are:
1.) so many people have caught on to the fastpass that they run out very quickly each day
2.) you may have to plan the rest of your day around the time you have been given on your fastpass



I have never really had any complaints about using fastpass. It is always beneficial for the busiest rides. I always use fastpass for Rockin' Roller Coaster, Toy Story Mania, Soarin', Splash Mountain, Winnie the Pooh, Buzz Lightyear, Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, and Expedition Everest.

"Animation can explain whatever the mind of man can conceive. "—Walt Disney

The Many Faces of Cinderella's Castle

The Magic Kingdom's main focal point is Cinderella's Castle. This breathtaking structure can make anyone feel like royalty. The castle has undergone many makeovers in order to celebrate certain occasions in Disney history but always comes back to its famous white and stone facade with blue roofing.

The first time I remember seeing the castle "transformed" was for the 25th anniversary of Walt Disney World in 1997. It looked more like a big frosted cake but it was an amazing sight to see. There was a balloon-like covering over the actual castle to give it this appearance. It was extremely colorful and to the six year old that I was, it looked like my dream house.


The next time I saw the castle made over was for their Cinderellabration in 2005 when the castle was adorned in gold embellishments giving it an even more regal appearance.

But nothing can compete with the picturesque view of the castle at night. The lighting on the castle is constantly changing through the darkness. It is possible to take a number of pictures during one night in the park without any of them looking alike.





Although I'm always amazed by the castle no matter how it looks, the most magical view I have witnessed was during the winter of 2010. Each night at the end of the fireworks show, a magical cascading transformation occurred as the structure gave the appearance of turning into a shimmering, frosted, ice castle. It is truly I sight I will not forget.




"We believed in our idea - a family park where parents and children could have fun - together."—Walt Disney

Eating in Downtown Disney

Downtown Disney can be a very exciting place. It is a shopping extravaganza for all. It is also home to some intriguing restaurants. Downtown Disney is a great place to take the family for a night out, or on a day when you are taking a break from the excitement of the parks. Downtown Disney has so much to offer. Whether you are looking toys, candy, some active-wear, Disney-themed clothing, sunglasses, a pin trading station, or just some souvenirs for the pets you left at home, Downtown Disney has a store for that and so much more! Be sure to visit World of Disney, the largest Disney character store in the world!

Can't think of where to eat dinner? Head to Downtown Disney where you can choose to dine during a thunderstorm with the animatronic animals of The Rainforest Cafe or go back in time to a land of dinosaurs at T-Rex.Both restaurants are owned by the same company so prices are similar for both. They are usually a big hit with kids, although, very young children and babies are often frightened by the loud noises made by the animatronic animals.


For an upbeat pop-culture feel, go to Planet Hollywood. Similar to a Hard Rock Cafe, Planet Hollywood displays things that once belonged to celebrities. Another reason to visit this restaurant is so you can eat inside a globe shaped building!


It is also a great photograph spot. Traveling without children? Get your groove on at the House of Blues or Bongos Cuban Cafe. Downtown Disney also offers ethnic cuisine with an Irish pub, an Italian restaurant, and a Spanish restaurant.








"Get a good idea and stay with it. Dog it, and work it until it's done and done right." —Walt Disney

Character Breakfast

Hello Disney lovers! Sorry I have not written in a while but I'm back! I'd like to say a little about the character breakfasts offered at many hotel restaurants and park restaurants throughout the world of Disney. Most of the breakfasts consist of buffet or family style food, mainly eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, fruit, juice, and you can't forget the mickey mouse shaped waffles (my favorite!).

Every 10 minutes a select number of characters come around to the tables to share comic moments, take pictures, and sign autographs. The character breakfast at the Grand Floridian is quite popular showcasing many of the favored characters, such as Mickey, and Minnie. The Polynesian offers a breakfast featuring Lilo and Stitch along with Mickey and Goofy wearing Hawaiian shirts. It is a filling, and fun-filled experience for all. The prices can range and can seem a bit steep at first for a breakfast, but you are paying for the atmosphere, and a guaranteed meet and greet with at least 4 characters. It is definitely worth it and I would recommend going to one during your vacation!

"The life and ventures of Mickey Mouse have been closely bound up with my own personal and professional life."—Walt Disney

Christmas in Disney

There's something extra special about being in Disney at the holidays. The parks are decorated beautifully, the characters are dressed like Santa, and there are special events and parades that cannot be seen at any other time of year. One down side to going to Disney World during the holiday season is that everyone else in the world is there too. The week of Thanksgiving and the week before, during, and after Christmas, are the busiest winter weeks for Disney. Families with elementary and high school aged children flock to the Sunshine State for Winter Break.

One of my favorite things to see in Disney at Christmas is the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. This amazing light display began as the Osborne family's Christmas display on their property in Arkansas. In 1995 they decided to share their passion for Christmas lights with Disney World. Some of the Osborne family's original light pieces are included in the now much larger scale display such as "flying angels" and a rotating carousel. The light spectacular has changed in recent years. Originally, visitors would walk through a setting of houses on the MGM back lot that were once used for television shows. During my first experience at the spectacle of lights I remember passing by the house seen in The Golden Girls. This section is no longer open to the public and some of the houses have been torn down. Now visitors are treated to a dancing light show on the Avenue of the Americas.







"When people laugh at Mickey Mouse, it's because he's so human; and that is the secret of his popularity."—Walt Disney

Disney vs. Universal

I have come to realize that there are two types of people that visit Orlando theme parks. Those that desire the action thrills of Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, and those hoping to experience the magical world of Disney. I don't know anyone who likes both worlds equally. They are geared towards different types of visitors, Universal is more for the roller coaster, adrenaline rush fans, mainly teenage boys and adults. Whereas Disney parks are geared towards those who want to see magic and make believe. Some sections are geared towards small children, others are for those who simply want to feel like a kid again. I believe Disney has a wider variety for a wider range of people. I'm personally not a Universal fan, however, I am looking forward to their up coming Harry Potter Theme Park.


I believe it will open their fan base a little more and I do plan on visiting at some point, but I will remain through and through, a Disney Girl =).


This is how I see it:

Magic Kingdom has the most to offer families with young children.




Hollywood Studios, formally MGM, can be more enjoyable for teenagers and adults.



Epcot is normally seen as the most "adult" park. The ride selection is limited, and the main focus of the park is the World Showcase, which can make some small children restless. Epcot was always my least favorite park as a child but as I get older, I now have a new appreciation for it.












Last and certainly not least, Animal Kingdom is a park for all ages. Everyone loves animals which is the theme of this park. There are sections of the park such as Dino-Land where small children can explore a bone yard, there are fast paced rides such as Expedition Everest and Dinosaur for teenagers and beyond, and then there is the wonderful leisurely Safari that one can enjoy whether they are 5 or 85.


"You don't build it for yourself. You know what the people want and you build it for them." —Walt Disney