Showing posts with label Disney World. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Disney World. Show all posts

Thursday, October 15, 2020

The Walt Disney World Resort - Fall 2021 Open for Bookings!

 


Yes!  It.is.time.


Time to get back to travel.  Time to get back to family.  Time to get back to fun.  Time to get back to Disney!  Fall 2021 packages are now available for booking.


Need help?  I'm ready to help!  Email me at debbie@dreamsbydesigntravel.com.


Let's make the Magic a reality!

Walt Disney Travel Company vacation packages, and ticket-only purchases, for arrivals Sept. 27 through Dec. 31, 2021 at the Walt Disney World Resort are now available to book.

As we are still in a phased reopening, there are some Disney Resort hotels that are not, as of this time, open or scheduled for reopening in 2021. We will continue to evaluate the situation and reopen more hotels when the environment is right to do so. 

Booking a room and ticket package does not guarantee a theme park reservation, and you will need make their park reservations for dates in 2021. You will be able to view park reservation availability on disneytraveltradeinfo.com/wdwcalendar prior to purchasing theme park tickets or booking a package. We strongly recommend you book park reservations immediately after linking your 2021 vacation package in My Disney Experience. 

Disney Resort hotel packages with dining plans remain unavailable at this time.



 

Friday, October 9, 2020

New Offerings and Restaurant Updates at Disney Hollywood Studios

 


Good new Disney Parks fans!  Disney Hollywood Studios is reopening two of its most popular eateries - ABC Commissary and Hollywood & Vine (which will have a spooky new theme)!

Here is some more information and details.  Don't forget, our Travel Agency offers concierge service to you and your family (or traveling party) FREE of charge!  Plus, we can book these meals for you as well!

Want to visit the Walt Disney World Resort during the holidays?  Message me today.  (debbie@dreamsbydesigntravel.com)

Disney Hollywood Studios has delicious new offerings at ABC Commissary and Hollywood & Vine!  Read on to find out what our chefs have been cooking up!

 
Starting now, ABC Commissary is offering a terrific new menu. From sandwiches and rice bowls to tasty tacos and returning favorites, this menu has it all!  

Sandwiches/Salads

California Burger (Plant-based) – Seared farm-fresh plant-based burger with Sriracha mustard, balsamic-glazed grilled peppers and onions, a “mayonnaise”-ketchup blend, lettuce, and tomato and served with arugula-farro salad, steak fries, or apple slices

NEW Chicken Club Sandwich – Marinated chicken breast on a toasted brioche bun with bacon, provolone cheese, guacamole, ranch dressing, lettuce, and tomato served with arugula-farro salad, steak fries, or apple slices

NEW Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Grilled sourdough toasted with buffalo chicken, Monterey, provolone, cheddar, cream cheese, side of buffalo sauce, and served with arugula-farro salad, steak fries, or apple slices

Mediterranean Salad with Chicken – Chicken breast served over mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumber, pepperoncini, Kalamata olives, and feta tossed in Mediterranean vinaigrette served with hummus and flatbread

 


Tacos

NEW Pork Carnitas Tacos – Pork carnitas on flour tortillas with salsa verde, pickled onion, and radish served with Mexican rice and black beans

NEW Shrimp Tacos – Sautéed shrimp on flour tortillas with cabbage slaw, chipotle mayo, and mango salsa served with Mexican rice and black beans




 Rice Bowls

NEW Curry Rice Bowl with Shrimp – Sautéed shrimp and vegetables with red curry sauce served with Jasmine coconut rice

NEW Plant-based Curry Rice Bowl with Tofu

 – Pineapple-marinated tofu and sautéed vegetables with red curry sauce served with Jasmine coconut rice

Kid’s Options

NEW Kid’s Pork Taco – Pork carnitas on a flour tortilla served with Mexican rice and black beans

NEW Kid’s Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Grilled American cheese on sourdough served with choice of two sides.

NEW Kid’s Turkey Sandwich – Turkey sandwich served with choice of two sides.

Kid’s Uncrustable – Uncrustable served with choice of two sides.



There is Halloween fun for everyone at Minnie’s Halloween Dine at Hollywood & Vine.  While it may look a little different than the last time you visited, what hasn’t changed is our chefs’ scary good food!  Minnie’s Halloween Dine offers a three-course meal served at your table where Guests will be able to wave and snap photos of their favorite characters such as Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, and their friends.  Check out this monster of a feast!

Appetizers

Served with Warm Pull-apart Rolls and Butter

Farmhouse Tossed Salad Bowl – Mixed Greens, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Red Onion, Cornbread Croutons, and Homemade Smokehouse Ranch Dressing.

Plant-based Chopped Salad – Mixed Greens, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Red Onion, Focaccia Croutons, and Plant-based Ranch Dressing.

Entrées

Garlic and Cracked Black Pepper Prime Rib of Beef – Sour Cream-Chive Whipped Potatoes, Fried Brussels Sprouts, and Pearl Onions with Red Wine Jus.

Carved Herb-roasted Turkey Breast – Garlic-Red Skin Mashed Potatoes, Cornbread Stuffing, Sautéed Green Beans, Turkey Gravy, and Cranberry-Orange Relish.

Macaroni & Cheese with Shrimp – Cavatappi Pasta, Four-Cheese Sauce, Shrimp, Crispy Bacon, and Buttered Panko Crust with Fennel and Arugula.

Seared Fresh Salmon – with Grain Mustard Beurre Blanc Olive Oil-crushed Fingerling Potatoes and Garlic-Lemon Broccolini.

Plant-based Pan-seared King Trumpet Mushrooms – Braised Lentils, Blistered Grape Tomatoes, Mushroom Ragù, Roasted Root Vegetables, and Marsala Mushroom Sauce.

Pork Osso Bucco – with Boursin Cheese Hominy Grits, Caramelized Apples, Lemon Gremolata, and Pork Reduction Gravy.

Desserts (Choose One)

Apple-Blueberry Pie – Baked Apples, Blueberries, Caramel, and Streuse.

Banana Cream Pie – Bananas, Cream, and Caramel Sauce.

Plant-based Cherry-Lemon Pie – Cherries with Lemon Drizzle.

Vanilla Crème Brûlée – Rich Custard with Caramelized Sugar.

Chocolate S’mores Pie – Dark Chocolate Mousse with Toasted Marshmallow Fluff and Graham Cracker Streusel.


Kid’s Menu Create-Your-Own Meal For Guests Ages 9 and Under

Appetizers (Choose One) 

Farmhouse Tossed Salad Bowl

Plant-based Chopped Salad

Entrées (Choose One)

Seared Salmon

Roasted Turkey

Roast Beef

Macaroni & Cheese

Dessert (Choose One)

Fresh Fruit

Lemon Sorbet

Sundae

Apple Pie



Thursday, September 17, 2020

Walt Disney World Backpack Tips!

 


About to head to the Walt Disney World Resort and theme parks?

Don't forget to pack a backpack for your days inside the Parks.  You will need one to help you carry all of your Disney theme park essentials.

These essentials can help you turn a long (and often hot) day on your feet into a pixie-dusted time inside the Most Magical Place on Earth!

What else do you add to the list above?  Leave us a comment below!

* * * * *

Need help with planning your travel?  E-mail me at debbie@dreamsbydesigntravel.com

Why should you use a travel agent.  Here are just a few reasons:

  • We make sure you have access to theme parks on your desired travel dates before booking.
  • We are up to date with current CDC and State travel advisories and cancellation/refund policies.
  • We handle all details from accommodations to theme park tickets to dining plans.
  • We offer vacation insurance policies so your family's vacation is always protected.
We want your family to have a fun and relaxing vacation.  With our connections and professional expertise, we can help you make the right decisions for traveling in these changing times.  Plus, we can help you take advantage of any offers available for your destination.


Friday, September 11, 2020

Walt Disney World: New Halloween Experiences Added!

 


There is some new fall fun coming to the Walt Disney World Resort September 15 – October 31!


Throughout the day, special Halloween cavalcades will pop up on the parade route and head down Main Street, U.S.A.  You could come across Mickey Mouse and his pals, all dressed up for the occasion in Boo-tiful Halloween costumes. On select days, you may even encounter a cavalcade of Disney Villains – from Gaston and Maleficent to Queen of Hearts and Jafar – creeping down the path or a nightmarish procession featuring the Pumpkin King himself, Jack Skellington! 


As another special treat for the Halloween season, the iconic Dapper Dans are coming back to Magic Kingdom Park, beginning September 20, performing as their undead alter egos The Cadaver Dans.  You will be enchanted by acappella performances from the Cadaver Dans when they emerge from their tombs.


The Halloween spirit is also in the air over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where Minnie’s Halloween Dine is set to return to Hollywood & Vine, beginning September 25.  A monster feast will be served to your tables, and favorite Disney friends will make special appearances in the restaurant.  You can wave and snap photos of Minnie Mouse dressed as a happy witch.  Goofy is coming as a spooky cowboy, Mickey Mouse as a funny vampire, and his best pal, Pluto, gets into the act wearing a cute Halloween collar.


I am really so excited, most especially to hear that The Cadaver Dans are returning!  I absolutely love this quartet.  If you are going and you haven't heard them sing before, please try and seek them out.  They are the very best!


There are still plenty of admission spots left for resort Guests, and remember capacity is capped at 25% right now.  It's an incredibly historic time to visit the Walt Disney World resort.  E-mail me at debbie@dreamsbydesigntravel.com to start planning your trip today!






Tuesday, September 8, 2020

Walt Disney World: Holiday Magic Begins!

 


It's time!  Starting November 6!  It's the most magical time of the year!

"We have an update on some of the festive experiences coming to Walt Disney World Resort.  Building off of our recent experiences of operating in a new environment, we’ve reimagined the holidays which will, of course, apply current our current health and safety measures while still keeping the joy and magic of the season.  And while things are looking a bit different at Walt Disney World and beyond, we can’t wait to celebrate with you.


 



We know how much our Guests love the holidays, so from Nov. 6-Dec. 30, they will be able to enjoy festive décor, themed merchandise, seasonal food & beverage offerings, and entertainment all across Walt Disney World Resort.  Holiday magic will be in full force at the four theme parks and Disney Springs, and Santa Claus will make time for special pop-up appearances at each location, waving and exclaiming holiday wishes to all. 

Guests will be delighted by the sight of festive flotillas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, holiday promenades at EPCOT, and merry motorcades at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  Character cavalcades at Magic Kingdom Park will take on a special holiday twist, with Christmas friends on festive floats in their holiday finest.  Gingerbread Men?  Check!  Elves and Reindeer?  Check, check!  And the Toy Soldiers will join the Main Street Philharmonic as they march through Magic Kingdom Park, bringing musical holiday cheer for all to hear.  


 

When night falls, special projection effects will give a festive look to Cinderella Castle this year, providing a colorful backdrop for our Guests’ photos.  The appearance of the iconic castle will be transformed with a rotating series of designs including a whimsical Christmas sweater and a regal overlay of red, green, and gold ornamentation.  This will be in place of the Castle Dream Lights.  Other holiday experiences that draw big crowds will be on hiatus this year as well, such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Candlelight Processional at EPCOT.  We know these experiences are a cherished part of holiday traditions that will be missed by Guests and Cast Members alike, but we’re glad to be able to bring holiday magic in other creative ways.  

Of course, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a meal among friends and family.  Minnie Mouse will be hosting a yuletide gathering for all her friends at Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting Nov. 6.  Santa Goofy will be there, along with Minnie and more in their holiday best. 

Shifting gears to Disney Springs, Guests will discover Christmas around every corner as they come across a collection of elaborately-decorated Disney Christmas trees spread throughout this retail, dining, and entertainment destination.  In the evening, Guests visiting areas within Town Center, West Side, and The Landing will encounter a magical snowfall, adding an extra touch of wonder to their holiday shopping.  And to top it off, Jock Lindsey will once again be turning his hangar bar into Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar complete with delightful holiday décor and a delicious limited-time menu filled with festive favorites. 

Disney Resort hotels will also be decked out for the holidays, with their lobbies featuring iconic trees and other festive flourishes.  One thing to keep in mind is that our gingerbread displays will not return to the Resort hotels this year.  While we know they are a favorite of people taking in the holiday décor, we’re not able to include those displays due to physical distancing guidelines.
Starting a bit later in the season, on Nov. 27, we’ll celebrate highlights from the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.  Holiday kitchens will return around World Showcase promenade with favorites like American Holiday Table featuring Slow-roasted Turkey with Stuffing and Bavaria Holiday Kitchen with dishes like Cheese Fondue in a Bread Bowl.

Guests will be invited to step inside World ShowPlace to enjoy the returning group, JOYFUL!, who present a journey through R&B, Gospel, contemporary, and traditional Christmas and holiday music.  Also, the Voices of Liberty will bring their incredible 8-part harmonies to the America Gardens Theatre stage for a special concert of favorite carols and songs of the season.  There are plenty more details about this festival to come, so stay tuned.

We’re all looking forward to creating new holiday traditions with our Guests and Cast Members this year, as we introduce unique ways to enjoy the season together. There’s a lot of holiday fun to see and do here at Walt Disney World Resort!"

I'm really bummed about losing the gingerbread displays, but other than that, it looks like the Walt Disney World Resort is really trying their best and hardest to keep things festive and fun, as always.

Check out this short video of Merry Magic at the Walt Disney Resort!



 

 

 



"Let's Go There"

 



From the Disney Parks Blog:

Here’s some news we can all use:  new research shows that even the simple act of planning a vacation can boost your happiness and even increase your energy levels.

The recent survey, from researcher Michelle Gielan, showed that 97 percent of respondents reported having a trip planned makes them happier.  Seventy-one percent of respondents felt greater levels of energy when they had a trip planned in the next six months. 

These findings were released as part of a new travel industry-wide initiative called “Let’s Go There.”  The effort, coordinated by the U.S. Travel Association, brings together major airlines, hoteliers, local destinations, and other businesses part of the travel ecosystem.  Disney is proud to support this initiative, which aims to spark conversation about future getaways and encourage travel planning.

“The memories and experiences that travel enables cannot be replaced,” said Jill Estorino, President and Managing Director at Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, and a co-chair of the Let’s Go There Coalition.  “This campaign is a first step in inspiring Americans to think about planning a vacation and encouraging them to look forward to experiencing the wonder and joy—and even magic—that only travel can offer.” 

Given the benefits to planning travel, it might be the right time to start thinking about your next Disney vacation.  And we have just the group to help! The planDisney panelists are a passionate group of guests with years of personal experiences planning their own Disney vacations, and they are excited and looking forward to sharing advice and tips with you!

“Quite simply, the world needs more joy.  When little ones light up seeing Tiana for the first time or parents witness their children find the courage to ride an attraction, or families finally get everyone together in the reunion t-shirt, that joy inspires me as a panelist.” 

Whenever you’re ready, we’re ready to welcome you back!

Vacation IS good for your soul.  Let's get traveling again! 

Walt Disney World Resort Planning - Dining

 


Heading to the Walt Disney Resort this Fall?  Here is a list of dining locations that are currently opening.  Most of the locations still require reservations, but your chances of getting a walk-up reservation are now greater with the lower attendance crowds Disney is implementing.

Also, another handy tip -- keep that phone handy!  The My Disney Experience ("MDE") has now added dining!  You can click on the restaurant you are interested in dining at, and MDE will show you the wait times and if there is availability.

This is so great!  No more walking to the restaurant and having to ask.  Very helpful in saving valuable time in the theme parks now that the hours have been shortened.

Need more help planning your trip?  Message or e-mail me at debbie@dreamsbydesigntravel.com.

* * * * *

*Orignal post credited to Living by Disney

Table Service Restaurants Open Now:

Magic Kingdom

  1. Be Our Guest
  2. The Plaza Restaurant
  3. Liberty Tree Tavern
  4. Skipper Canteen
  5. Tony's Town Square Restaurant

Animal Kingdom

  1. Yak & Yeti
  2. Tiffins
  3. Rainforest Cafe
  4. Satuli Canteen, technically a counter service option, has a large seating area making it a great option with no reservations needed

Hollywood Studios

  1. 50's Primetime Cafe
  2. Sci-Fi Dine In
  3. Hollywood Brown Derby
  4. Mama Melrose's
  5. Oga's Cantina

Epcot

  1. Garden Grill
  2. Via Napoli
  3. Le Cellier
  4. Rose & Crown
  5. Teppen Edo
  6. Beirgarten
  7. Coral Reef
  8. San Angel Inn

Resorts

  1. California Grill
  2. Whispering Canyon Cafe
  3. Grand Floridian Cafe
  4. Sanaa
  5. Beaches and Cream
  6. Kona Cafe
  7. Trattoria al Forno (no character meals)
  8. Chef Mickey's (no character meals)
  9. Ale & Compass
  10. The Wave
  11. Olivia's Cafe
  12. Topolino's Terrace (modified character breakfast)

Disney Springs

  1. The Boathouse
  2. Homecomin'
  3. House of Blues
  4. Raglan Road
  5. Morimoto Asia
  6. Wine Bar George
  7. City Works Pourhouse
  8. The Edison
  9. Frontera Cocina
  10. Jaleo
  11. Maria & Enzo's
  12. Terralina Italian
  13. Paddlefish
  14. Paradiso 37
  15. Planet Hollywood
  16. Splitsville
  17. STK Orlando
  18. T-Rex Cafe
  19. Wolfgang Puck

*Note:  Hollywood and Vine doing a special Halloween-themed, modified character meal beginning 9/25; Cinderella's Royal Table will begin breakfast (no characters) on 9/24.  Both can be booked beginning 9/11.

Gaston's Tavern now open; ABC Commissary will open for lunch starting 10/8


Monday, September 23, 2019

Disney On Ice to Play State Farm Arena THIS WEEK!



Good morning Disney fans (or maybe that should read fanatics...)

This is THE week!  Are we all ready with tickets in hand?  Disney's newest Disney On Ice ("DOI") production, "Road Trip Adventures," rolls into Atlanta's State Farm Arena beginning Wednesday night (9/25) and will be in town until Sunday, September 29th.

I am so excited to see my friends from Orlando again.  I always love Disney On Ice because (1) I don't have to get on a plane or in my car and travel to meet them and (2) because the DOI shows are always so amazing and fun. 

I love seeing the array of characters each show brings and I love hearing the arena fill with thousands of Disney fans singing all the Disney classics together.

If you haven't gotten your tickets yet, here is some additional information to help you get them in hand:
  • Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures will whisk families away on an immersive getaway chock-full of magical participatory moments!

  • Featuring new and classic tales, this multi-generational experience will visit State Farm Arena from Wednesday, September 25 – Sunday, September 29 for nine performances.

  • Hit the road with Mickey Mouse and his pals for a high-octane ride in Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures. Exciting twists and turns await as Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and guests of all ages embark on an interactive and memory-rich adventure to iconic Disney destinations.

  • Tickets for Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures start at $15. All seats are reserved, and tickets are available online at ticketmaster.com.
Have questions?  Message me, e-mail us, or leave a comment below!  If you're going, what Mickey ears will you be sporting?  I think I'm wearing my purple sparkly ones!







Thursday, November 30, 2017

Disney Cruise Line - Cyber Week Sale - Save Up to 25% on Select Sailings!





Think a Disney Cruise is out of your budget?

Take a peek at this sale on a limited sailing!

 * * * * *

Save up to 25%

on prevailing rates as quoted on Disneycruise.com for select

7-Night Caribbean Cruises
For Verandah staterooms with Restrictions (Category VGT) on the 7-night sailing on Disney Fantasy on 3/17/18. Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses of approx. $106 per person not included. Other savings also available for different sail dates.

Valid for new bookings only. Full payment is required at time of booking for all Guests and is nonrefundable. Full legal names of all Guests are required at time of booking and no name changes are allowed. Specific stateroom will be assigned at a later time, based on availability.

Book through 12/1/17
*Click on any of the Contact Us buttons for a **FREE** Magical Vacation Quote!



Tuesday, October 24, 2017

The Lion King - Atlanta Presale Begins Today!



Starting today, if you are a Disney Visa cardholder, you can score tickets to see Disney's The Lion King in Atlanta before tickets go on sale to the public on November 12th.

Use the promo code 2HAKUNA when checking out.

The Lion King will play Atlanta's Fox Theatre January 10 - January 28.

Earl of Sandwich - Earn 2X the Points - This Week Only!



One of my most favorite places to eat at Walt Disney World's Disney Springs is Earl of Sandwhich.  I was so excited when I found out they had a loyalty club.

If you are a current loyalty club member, and heading to an Earl of Sandwich this month, check out this deal - you can earn double points through October 31st!

Happy eating my friends!


*Double points will automatically be added to your account; offer valid for current members only.


Saturday, October 15, 2016

All New Disney Nighttime SPECTACULAR at Disney's Hollywood Studios!


The all-new  “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” holiday spectacular comes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios® at Walt Disney World® Resort on Nov. 14, 2016.

Santa Claus is missing, and the search-and-rescue mission to get The Big Guy back to the North Pole in time for Christmas Eve is all part of the fun.  The show comes to life on, above, and around the Chinese Theater with state-of-the-art projections, special effects, fireworks, and a rousing seasonal musical score.

Led by elves Wayne and Lanny, the duo from ABC/Walt Disney Animation Studios’ animated special “Prep & Landing,” the spirited yuletide adventure to the North Pole features memorable holiday moments from Disney films including “Mickey’s Christmas Carol,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Pluto’s Christmas Tree,” “Bambi,” Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” and more all building to a festive finale that’s “So tinsel!”

If you are thinking about heading to Walt Disney World this holiday season, Dreams by Design Travel can help you get there flawlessly with help making dining reservations, ride reservations, and more.  Contact them today (via the logo on our home page) for your free holiday travel quote.