Confessions of a Self-Proclaimed, Unapologetic, Disney “NUT”
I am a true-blue, over-the-edge, die-hard, pixie-dusted Disney fanatic. I have spent MUCH of my free time roaming the hallowed grounds of the Walt Disney World Resort. From the turn-of-the-century optimistic ambiance of Main Street USA, to the obscure, peaceful trails winding about Wilderness Lodge, and over to the dazzling, aromatic streets of Downtown Disney with its twinkling jewel-like lights strung overhead. I have visited each of these glorious destinations on numerous occasions and all of the precious nooks and crannies in between. I simply can’t get enough of the air at Walt Disney World. It weighs ever so much lighter on my lungs and its aroma is like no other. I have attempted to surround myself with as much of “The Magic” on my home turf as I can afford by way of every form of paraphernalia imaginable, yet it in no way can compare to the feeling of actually inhabiting a piece of Walt Disney World real estate. I’m forever anticipating and planning my next trip to my “Heaven on Earth” and on the ride home from any given vacation, control my enormous urge to bawl by reminding myself of the plans I have for our next trip.
You wonder how this Disney enthusiasm came to be? I have lived in a small town just 50 miles west of Disney all of my 38 years. My mother introduced me to Walt Disney World as a small child and from the very minute I entered into the gates of the Magic Kingdom, my love and fascination of all things Disney was born. Instead of growing out of it, with each passing birthday my love and excitement concerning Disney flourished. Friends and family now consider me the one “in the know” about all things Disney and often come to me concerning questions on vacation planning to minor trivia (although nothing about Disney should ever be thought of as minor!). I spend much of my free time studying anything relevant to Walt Disney and the awe-inspiring Worlds that he created here in Central Florida, as well as the original in California. I have recently come to the realization that this infatuation, if you will, is not going to diminish and I would do well to whole-heartedly, dig in and roll around in it like a big, warm, fluffy bed covered in quilts hand-stitched by grandma herself. …….aaaaaaaaah.
You see, I dream of inhabiting a world like that of Walt Disney’s ideal; A place where smiling, laughing faces are common scenery and not the second-glance inducing surprise that you rarely encounter on any given day; Where on every path you take, a song dances through the air; the sort of melody that taps into the part of you that still believes in handsome princes on white horses and Good always triumphing over Evil. It’s a world in which you are eager to awaken before the alarm clock’s wail because you realize that the land beyond your door offers you the promise that something spectacular will surely happen to you today. It’s a place that invokes a heart so warm and full that its contents spill over into every ounce of your being, and often in my case, spill over onto my cheeks. I ask you, who wouldn’t want to be a part of a world like this?!
Lately, I have shamelessly begun sharing my enthusiasm and unadulterated love for all things Disney with perfect strangers. Gee, they deserve to “get it” like I do too, don’t they?? They deserve to know that the world we see through “Channel 8 News” is not the only thing this planet has to offer! There’s beauty, magic, child-like innocence and….and……TINKERBELL, for the love of Pete! Think about it……what does Tinkerbell say to you? I’ll tell you what I’m hearing from this little imp with wings. With a sprinkling of pixie dust, measured with just enough faith and trust, you can FLY. Yes…..at last….you can fly. Your hopes, dreams and child-like optimism can reach heights you only dreamed of. Believe… hope… dream…. and sooner than later, you’ll find that you’ll be able to SOAR. Now that’s an idealogy that I can excitedly get behind.
To sum up my adoration for all things Disney is a difficult task. But I’ll just say this as a meager attempt; The remarkable gift that Walt Disney has provided to my world is one of such greatness and magnitude that it simply MUST be shared with everyone, everywhere! I look at it as carrying on and keeping alive “one man’s dream”. My goal is most definitely to do just that. Donna Andrews (Dizney Donna) is a Disney Travel Planner with Our Laughing Place Travel.
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Rix Lounge
Rix Lounge located at Walt Disney World’s Coranado Springs Resort (my favorite Moderate Resort), is becoming a wonderful new and trendy”hot spot” at the Walt Disney World Resort. Although the Walt Disney World Resort recently closed all of its nightclubs at Pleasure Island, in Downtown Disney, I think it’s important that people know that this location is a very appealing alternative.
The atmosphere and decor is what I would refer to as super-hip and sophisticated with throw-back touches here and there to the 70s. With lots of cozy, inviting sitting areas, a nice size dance floor, and a dj spinning top 40 remix hits, it offers an atmosphere for those just wanting to relax with some friends, as well as an area to “get your groove on”.
Also, Rix offers many “special events” throughout the year, usually only requiring a $5.00 cover charge. Very reasonable for events such as the Halloween Parties (for both adults and children, offered at different time-frames on the 31st ), New Years Eve, SuperBowl, Saint Patrick’s Day, etc.
To take a peek into this hip, new nightclub and to keep informed as to what special events may be happening, you can go directly to the nightclubs website here, www.rixlounge.com.
I should also mention that there is a separate room that you can reserve for private get-togethers or special occassions. You can also choose to include onr of variously themed buffet set-ups at an additional cost.
The next time you’re at the Walt Disney World Resort and are in the mood for a more adult-oriented atmosphere, take a look at Rix Lounge……I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Note: Rix Lounge is open from 5pm - 2am daily.
Don’t forget…..if you need help planning your next Walt Disney World Vacation, contact a travel pixie at Our Laughing Place Travel. We’ve got lots of great tips we’d love to share, such as the one above, to help make your trip the best that it can be!
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The Weather Outside Could Be Delightful!
As the thermostat begins to drop, I can’t help but dream about fun in the sun. Don’t get me wrong; I adore the winter months — especially the holidays that come with them. But I also love to have a relaxing vacation to look forward to… it just makes old man winter that much easier to embrace.
And what could be more relaxing than a cruise on the Disney Magic or Disney Wonder?
Like floating resorts, these two ships feature staterooms one-third larger than any other cruise ship and a variety of entertainment venues, including a stadium and movie theater, as well as state-of-the-art fitness and spa facilities.
As with all things Disney, there are a variety of cruises and packages from which to choose, including 10- and 14-night Mediterranean cruises, 7-night Caribbean cruises, or a 3- or 4-night cruise of the Bahamas. You might even opt for the best of both worlds: a 7-night land and sea vacation!
Personally, I love taking advantage of the cruise specials Disney puts together. Any fan of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies has to be excited about the specially themed Disney Wonder cruise taking place March 8 – 12.
You can keep your visions of sugar plums… I’m going to let dreams of a Disney cruise dance in my head this holiday season!
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Lodgings for Every Budget
Today’s economy has everyone scrutinizing their purchases – no matter what you’re buying, you want to get the biggest bang for your buck. Luckily, the lodgings at Walt Disney World fulfill every fantasy, whether your budget calls for supreme luxury or convenience and comfortable amenities.
The nine Deluxe Resorts are the epitome of Disney theming, dining, and recreation. Personally, I love the Animal Kingdom Lodge, where you can watch the animals from your room and indulge in the fitness center, which includes elliptical trainers, weight machines, and a wonderful eucalyptus steam room.
Of course, there’s also the truly grand Grand Floridian Resort for those looking for a romantic resort getaway. Enjoy the boat ride to and from the Magic Kingdom, the electric water parade, dinner at Citrico’s, or a traditional afternoon tea.
Disney also has several Deluxe Villa Resorts and Moderate Resorts, as well as four Value Resorts for those who are pinching pennies. Value Resorts focus on providing playful, bright environments at a lower cost. But don’t get the wrong idea. These rooms feature the same Disney flare and care as the more expensive options. Check out the All-Star Music Resort, which has received rave reviews from our members.
Check out all your options. And here’s hoping that no matter where you lay your head, your Disney dreams are sprinkled with pixie dust!
Written by Ahnalira - Visit WebsiteFiled under Walt Disney World | Comment (0)
Your Perfect Adventure Awaits
When I hear adults object to a Disney vacation because they think the parks are for children only, I get sad. Not only do I think the world would be a better place if we spent more time embracing our inner child… but Disney is so much more than a playground for the young and young at heart.
For those who want their vacations to be mind-growing in addition to mind-blowing, there are Adventures by Disney — where you’ll travel above and beyond, and see what most ordinary tourists will never experience.
For example, on The Emerald Isle, you’ll go sheep herding in Shannon, take jig lessons in Killarney, and tour cathedrals in Dublin. Or, on Discovery Down Under you’ll plunge into the largest coral reef system on earth, ride camels through the desert to watch the sun set on Ayers Rock, and feel the rush of adrenaline as you zoom around famed Sydney Harbour on a high-speed boat. These are adventures you’ve got to hike, bike and swim to believe.
Take it from me, on Quest for the West I experienced a Wyoming I never even knew existed. I mean, who knew that Yellowstone National Park is the site of a “super volcano?”
With itineraries all around the globe, you’ll experience the world’s authentic wonders come to life. And that’s way more than kid’s stuff.
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The Choices Abound
As Election Day approaches, I’ve been spending time researching the candidate I’ll support for the office of president as well as the individual amendments that will appear on the ballot. And all this research got me to thinking… Planning your itinerary for a Disney World vacation requires much the same amount of homework. There are so many things to consider!
For example, there’s the major decision of which parks you want to visit. Now, when you say you’re going to Disney World, you have your choice between the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
Depending on how much time you have, you might even want to drill down further and pick the rides and attractions you really want to see. For example, maybe you want to see as much of Mickey Mouse as possible. In that case, you’d likely want to visit Discovery Island Trails or The Boneyard at DinoLand U.S.A. — both at Animal Kingdom. Or, try Epcot’s movie set adventure Honey, I Shrunk the Audience. Mickey and his friends also appear near the Magic Kingdom’s City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A. throughout the day.
The possibilities are endless. But remember, if you’re planning to travel throughout the parks, you might want to also plan the quickest routes from one adventure to the next. After all, you want to spend most of your time at the attractions, not looking for them.
Good luck, and tell please tell my friend Mickey I said, “Hello!”
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Member Reviews Make a Magical Difference
I don’t know about you, but when I take a vacation I want it to be joyful… not just some of the time or most of the time, but ALL of the time. And while some people may think that’s a lot to hope for, it’s quite possible with a well-planned Disney vacation.
And by heading on over to Our Laughing Place and reading member reviews of the many restaurants you could visit, it certainly improves your odds. After all, because your meals will be the perfect occasion to reflect and share your day’s activities, they will be a crucial part of your vacation – they can make it or break it.
Truth be told, you can’t get true insight into a restaurant’s characteristics from an advertisement, flier, or brochure. The very best way of getting a feel for whether you’ll enjoy the atmosphere, ambiance, and food is to ask someone who’s been there and done that.
So when you’re planning your Disney vacation, make sure to read restaurant reviews posted voluntarily by those adventurers who have gone before you. You might find yourself adding Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen® or Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant to a must-do list of activities for your perfect vacation getaway.
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Disney Cruise news
Magical Rates for Disney Cruises! Book Between October 20 and October 26, 2008
3 Night Bahamian Cruise - Nassau and Castaway Cay
Ship - Disney Wonder
Category 12 stateroom
December 18, 2008 - $499 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 8, 2009 - $349 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 15, 2009 - $349 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 22, 2009 - $299 per guest, based on double occupancy
February 5, 2009 - $299 per guest, based on double occupancy
4 Night Bahamian Cruise - Nassau and Castaway Cay
Ship - Disney Wonder
Category 12 stateroom
December 14 2008 - $539 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 04, 2009 - $699 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 11 2009 - $449 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 18, 2009 - $549 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 25 2009 - $449 per guest, based on double occupancy
February 1 2009 - $449 per guest, based on double occupancy
7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise - Castaway Cay, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Castaway Cay
Ship - Disney Magic
Category 12 stateroom
November 22, 2008 - $999 per guest based on double occupancy
7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise - Key West, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Castaway Cay
Ship - Disney Magic
Category 12 stateroom
November 01,2008 - $999 per guest, based on double occupancy
November 29, 2008 - $849 per guest, based on double occupancy
December 13, 2008 - $899 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 10, 2009 - $899 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 24 2009 - $899 per guest, based on double occupancy
March 07, 2009 - $899 per guest, based on double occupancy
7 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise - St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Castaway cay
Ship - Disney Magic
Category 12 stateroom
November 15, 2008 - $899 per guest, based on double occupancy
December 6, 2008 - $949 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 31, 2009 - $899 per guest, based on double occupancy
Please Note: These prices do not include a fuel supplement of $8 per person per day for the first two Guests in a stateroom (maximum of $112) and $3 per day for all other Guests (maximum $42).
Florida Residents – Sail and Save
3 Night Bahamian Cruise - Nassau and Castaway Cay
Ship - Disney Wonder
Category 12 stateroom
October 30, 2008 - $399 per guest, based on double occupancy
November 06, 2008- $419 per guest, based on double occupancy
November 13, 2008 - $299 per guest, based on double occupancy
November 20, 2008- $419 per guest, based on double occupancy
November 23, 2008 - $419 per guest, based on double occupancy
4 Night Bahamian Cruise - Nassau and Castaway Cay
Ship - Disney Wonder
Category 12 stateroom
October 26 2008 - $449 per guest, based on double occupancy
November 02, 2008 - $449 per guest, based on double occupancy
November 9, 2008 - $449 per guest, based on double occupancy
November 16, 2008 - $449 per guest, based on double occupancy
7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise - Castaway Cay, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Castaway Cay
Ship - Disney Magic
Category 12 stateroom
October 25, 2008 - $649 per guest based on double occupancy
7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise - Key West, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Castaway Cay
Ship - Disney Magic
Category 12 stateroom
November 01,2008 - $649 per guest, based on double occupancy
November 29, 2008 - $799 per guest, based on double occupancy
December 13, 2008 - $649 per guest, based on double occupancy
January 10, 2009 - $649 per guest, based on double occupancy
Please Note: These prices do not include a fuel supplement of $8 per person per day for the first two Guests in a stateroom (maximum of $112) and $3 per day for all other Guests (maximum $42).
This Winter Something Special is Happening!And there’s even a fantastic rate on airfare.$199.00 round trip airfare**Selected gateway cities East of the Mississippi.It’s never been easier to experience a Disney cruise. Day and night, you’ll discover magic for everyone of every age on a Disney cruise. Legendary service. Incredible Disney dining. Unparalleled entertainment. And endless Disney magic. . . . all combined with that special kind of enchantment that only Disney can create. Treat yourself to a 7-Night Caribbean Cruise to exotic ports of call or 7-Night Land & Sea Vacation that includes 3 – or 4-days at the Walt Disney World® Resort. Call to book by November 14, 2008 before this offer disappears. 7 Night Land & Sea Vacationstarting at $1,019* per personbased on double occupancy 7 Night Caribbean Cruisestarting at$1,239*per person based on double occupancy
*7-Night Land & Sea Vacation rate valid for most commencement dates 1/1/09 – 2/01/09 for stateroom Category 11 onboard ship and a Walt Disney World® Resort Moderate hotel. 7-Night Caribbean Cruise rate valid for most dates commencing 1/3/09 – 1/31/09 for stateroom category 11. Fuel supplement, Government Taxes and Fees and excursions are not included. Fuel supplement is $8 per person per day for the first two Guests in a stateroom and $3 per day for all other Guests in the same stateroom. See Disney Cruise Line brochure for details and applicable terms and conditions. Rates in US dollars. New bookings only.
**Air rates based on economy class, round trip to/from central Florida airport location. Air rates valid for stateroom categories 4-11. Air travel must be purchased through and selected by Disney Cruise Vacations. Discounted air rates do not include Passenger Facility charge of up to $18 per person, September 11th Security Fee of up to $10 per person and segment tax of $3.30. Airline baggage fees may apply. Must mention booking code FLY.
Ships’ Registry: The Bahamas
MP2009-853
©Disney
March 8-12, 2009 on Disney Wonder – Pirate Cruise
Consult your compass and set your sights on the seas to the east as we venture to world’s end and beyond on a journey to uncover hidden treasures of pirate legend and lore.
This adventurous voyage into pirate territory will be led by Lee Arenberg and Marty Klebba, pirates that not only sailed the seven seas, but lived the legend of the Caribbean. Dare to set sail with the Pirates of the Caribbean and become a part of the legend. Package includes:
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A special welcome reception at the Walt Disney World® Resort on Saturday, March 7
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Exclusive event seminar and private meet-and-greet with talent from the Pirates of the Caribbean films
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Viewing of “The Curse of the Black Pearl”, “Dead Man’s Chest” and “At World’s End”
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First opportunity to pre-purchase open and limited edition Pirates of the Caribbean themed merchandise
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Exclusive event gifts
Event package is $250* per person plus the cost of the cruise.
* All elements of the event and the package are subject to change without notice. No items in this package may be redeemed for cash and all items (and portions thereof) are non-refundable, non-transferable and will be forfeited if not used in conjunction with The Legend Lives On experience. New bookings only.
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Disneyland trip report 2008
I will make short and sweet. I am a Disneyworld girl and I was a little leary about venturing out to Disneyland but I now have to say everyone should see Disneyland at least once it their lives. It’s different but yet the same. I really like how the Disney hotels are in walking distance, no buses to deal with and how Downtown Disney is right in the center, so you are right in the heart of everything. We visited Disneyland September 13-18, 2008. The weather was very nice, not at all like Disneyworld in September, hot, sunny but no humidity and no rain. We stayed at the Disneyland Hotel, in the Magic tower and had a beautiful room overlooking the pool.
The room was very roomie and I was very pleased with the size of the bathroom. Right outside the tower was the beginning of Downtown Disney and you walked through the shops and restaurants (about a 10 minute walk if that) and the entrance to both parks was right there. There is also a monorail stop in Downtown Disney that you could take and enter in Tomorrowland.
Sleeping Beauty’s Castle is small and you can not see it very well in the park, so it was hard to find that center landmark to know where you are in the park, but with the map we managed just fine. The rides are very different at Disneyland with Alice and Wonderland, Matterhorn and the Storybook Land Canal Boat ride it was something to experience. Also Tower of Terror is way different at California Adventure then at Hollywood Studios, there is no ride through the attraction, so if you are waiting for the buggy to move forward, it does not it just drops. I liked California Adventure better. Speaking of California Adventure it is a very nice park, reminds me of Disney Hollywood Studios in the front of the park and then Paradise Pier is like an old fashion boardwalk. California Adventure is suppose to be getting a big overhaul in the next few years, so we may have to venture back out there to see that.
Dining at Disneyland is not anything like Disneyworld, you really do not need advanced dining reservations, but of course hard habits are hard to break so I did make a few. The Blue Bayou and at Storytellers Cafe at the Grand Californian Hotel.
I have to say I am still a Disneyworld girl but I do like Disneyland a lot and if it wasn’t so far away from Pittsburgh, PA I may be torn between the two.
Written by Christee - Visit WebsiteFiled under Disneyland | Comment (0)
2010 Disney Cruises
Disney Cruise Line opened up their reservation lines for 2010 cruises on October 14th and let me first say it was not too easy to get through and book. But the itineraries are really something to be excited about and people are excited. Disney Cruise Line is going to to Europe starting in April 2010 with an East bound cruise departing the US and will visit Mediterranean ports, Europe and Northern Europe (Baltic Sea) so if you are interested contact OLP Travel and we would be happy to give the rates and information on the 2010 crusies.
Caribbean Cruises
5-Night Bahamian Cruise with 2 stops at Castaway Cay
Ports of Call: Castaway Cay, Nassau
2010 Departure Dates: May 30, June 13, June 27, July 11, July 25 & August 8
5-Night Bahamian Cruise
Ports of Call: Key West, Nassau, Castaway Cay
2010 Departure Dates: June 8, June 22, July 6, July 20, August 3 & August 17
14-Night Transatlantic Cruises
Ports of Call: Castaway Cay, Portugal, Spain, United Kingdom
Departure Date: April 10, 2010Ports of Call: Spain, United Kingdom, Portugal, St. Maarten, Tortola, Castaway Cay
Departure Date: September 18, 2010
10-Night Mediterranean CruiseDisney Magic® 10-Night Mediterranean Cruise
Ports of Call: Spain, Malta, Tunisia, Italy, Corsica, France
2010 Departure Dates: May 5, May 26, August 18 & September 8
11-Night Mediterranean CruiseDisney Magic® 11-Night Mediterranean Cruise
Ports of Call: Spain, Malta, Tunisia, Italy, Corsica, France
2010 Departure Dates: April 24, May 15, August 7 & August 28
12-Night Northern European Capitals Cruises June 12, 2010 departure
Ports of Call: England, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Russia, Finland, SwedenJune 24, 2010 departure
Ports of Call: England, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Russia, Estonia, SwedenJuly 6, 2010 departure
Ports of Call: England, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Russia, Finland, SwedenJuly 18, 2010 departure
Ports of Call: England, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Russia, Estonia, Sweden
7-Night Southern to Northern Europe Repositioning Cruise
June 5 departure
Ports of Call: Spain, United Kingdom, Portugal, England
7-Night Northern to Southern Europe Repositioning Cruise
July 30 departure
Ports of Call: England, France, Spain, Portugal, United Kingdom
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