Showing posts with label extras. Show all posts
Showing posts with label extras. Show all posts
Monday, July 16, 2012
Happy Birthday to my brother!
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Disney for Dads!
What do you plan to get your dad for Father's day? Another new tie? Dinner at a nice restaurant? Aftershave? Why not try something more creative, like something special just for him on your next vacation.
We are not going to Disney until September, but our family is all about giving each other memorable experiences, so we are giving dad a magical Disney experience. This is great for a few reasons: 1-it creates lasting memories, and 2-it keeps us from becoming hoarders.
We spend time focusing on the magic and special experiences for kids on Disney trips. Sometimes, we forget that grown-ups need magic once in awhile too. As my husband and I began to think about what to do for dad for father’s day, we began looking at one important question: what is there for dad to do at Disney?
The answers we came up with might surprise you. At the top of our list was a fishing excursion. My dad has always loved fishing, and several of the moderate and deluxe resorts offer opportunities to rent out a boat, equipment and fishing guide for a few hours. A great way for dad to get away for a few hours, relaxing and doing something he enjoys.
Next up: Pirates League. You have probably heard about how they can make over kids into pirates, and guess what--they can do it for dads too. When we were little, we used to do something similar right outside Pirates of the Caribbean. We would all get dressed up in pirate attire and they would take pictures. Dad always loved it, so for nostalgia, Pirates League made our list.
Finally, we looked at other tours. From learning about the Walt Disney World railroad to touring Epcot on a Segway, there are tours for every age group, but deciding which one would be the best fit became a challenge.
These were our Top three for my dad. There are countless others. You could go to a dessert party, or take a fireworks cruise. If he is into speed, there is the Richard Petty Driving experience. Maybe a night on the town at Downtown Disney, complete with tickets to Circ de Soleil or DisneyQuest (Depending on the dad). Alternatively, simple things, like letting dad choose which ride is his priority.
No matter what you choose, taking time out to celebrate Dad on your next Disney vacation would be a great way to say thank you for all the things he has done for you over the years because dads deserve a little pixie dust too!
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Disney, Autism, GAC.....Oh my!
My friend Elizabeth Kaplar (and fellow disney fanatic) wrote this terrific article for me, to help you! She's awesome!
*******
Traveling anywhere with a special needs child, especially Disney, and especially with 3 special needs children (all on the spectrum) can seem nearly impossible.....
But Disney has become our "home" away from home. Being the parent of three special needs children, for me, Disney has almost become my lifeline. It's a place where we get to go and....Just....Be. We get to forget about schools and IEPS, therapies, extra-curricular activities, doctors, work.....Just the craziness that life tends to throw our way on a day to day basis.
Back in 2004, we took our "once in a lifetime" trip. I was the only one, at that point, who had ever been to WDW. But, once we finished that trip in 2004, we, as a family, were hooked! We've returned every 12-18 months since then. And in January 2012 we took another one of those "once in a lifetime" trips: A 7 night Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Disney Cruise Line. That trip was nothing short of amazing! Oh......And we've rebooked another cruise since. We'll be sailing DCL for our second time in March 2013.
As amazing as these trips are, they don't come without some extra help and pixie dust. The extra help comes in the form of a GAC (Guest Assistance Card). Due to my boys' disability, it makes it difficult for them in certain situations, such as standing in large, loud crowds. You are probably thinking....Well, then WHAT on earth are you thinking when planning a WDW trip? It's full of large AND loud crowds of people. This is where the GAC comes in to play. It allows the special needs child, and up to 5 family members to use an alternate entrance to the rides. This minimizes standing in the lines with 100's of people that can cause them to become so over stimulated, and then cause a meltdown. One of my boys cannot handle going in the room with the "moving walls" before boarding our doom-buggy at Haunted Mansion, however, he LOVES the ride itself. With the aide of the GAC, we are able to bypass the room, and walk through some "secret walls", as my boys call them. It doesn't necessarily get us on the ride faster, but it does help make a smoother transition for us to board and enjoy the ride as others do. A GAC can also allow you to use a stroller as a wheelchair. So if your child is not able to stand in line, or in our case, the stroller can help our child avoid some of the extra sensory overload (he can sit in the stroller, and cover his head with a small blanket) to help 'escape' his overwhelming surroundings, and allow him to regroup. Basically, any extra assistance that you feel would benefit your child, and make the day more enjoyable, not only for your child, but those around him/her.....Make sure to mention to the Cast Member assisting you in getting the proper GAC.
People often think that, in order to get a GAC, one must get a note from their doctor, or bring a copy of their child's IEP to WDW. This is just not the case. On your day of arrival, at your first park.....Go to Guest Services. Bring your child with you (the person requiring the GAC must be present). Explain to the Cast Member your child's needs, how many people are in your party, and how long your visit to the World is. You only have to do this once during your stay. The GAC will be dated for your specific visit, and will be good in all 4 parks.
Now, for the pixie dust.....I'm not sure how true this is, but I've been told that Disney Cast Members have been trained to identify autism. Like I said, I'm not 100% sure this is true, but I wouldn't be surprised. The CM's have always been wonderful with my boys. I truly believe they are able to distinguish autism. We've had many CM's approach us throughout the years, and just happen to sprinkle a bit of pixie dust our way. It could be something simple, from just talking to our family and making my kids feel special, to them receiving some kind of special token....Just because. There was this one specific CM who stopped to talk to my husband and middle child (age 10 at the time). She was carrying on a conversation with them as they were waiting to board Space Mountain. Nothing big, just "How has your day been? Are you enjoying the park? Have you seen Mickey yet today?" Then as they were getting off the Space Mountain, the same CM approached them again to see how Jeremy, our son, enjoyed his ride. He said he liked it. The CM then asked my husband if she could get her "New Space Ranger friend a slushie from a nearby kiosk. My husband told her that was fine. They ordered the slushie, and while waiting for the slushie to be made, the CM asked my husband if she could ask a personal question. My husband told her "Sure". She then asked "Does Jeremy have autism?" He said yes. At that point the drink came up. She handed the drink to my husband to give to Jeremy. And as she did, she said "I understand how challenging living with autism can be, I hope this slushie makes his day at the Magic Kingdom just a little more special. Have a magical day"....And then she was off......
This is a very common theme while at Disney for our family. We don't expect this extra pixie dust....But when it comes our way, it just makes it all the more special for our entire family.
While cruising, we found the same level of care....Actually a bit higher, if you can imagine that! On our fist day on the ship, we went to the Kids' Clubs so we could meet the staff and introduce them to our boys, and to see if the Clubs were even an option for them. The CM we spoke to had two questions for us (one being that the boys had to toilet independently, which they do)...After getting that out of the way, the CM asked "What can we do to make this the most memorable vacation ever for you and your family?" They were amazing with our boys! And even though we cruised almost 5 months ago, our boys still talk about it as if we just got off the ship yesterday.
When all is said and done, I think the biggest thing I would say to other special needs family is: Don't think a vacation to Disney (World, Land, or Cruise) is impossible. We once thought it was too, and wow would we be missing out! And one other thing.....Don't be afraid to ask for a GAC if you have a child with special needs.
*******
Traveling anywhere with a special needs child, especially Disney, and especially with 3 special needs children (all on the spectrum) can seem nearly impossible.....
But Disney has become our "home" away from home. Being the parent of three special needs children, for me, Disney has almost become my lifeline. It's a place where we get to go and....Just....Be. We get to forget about schools and IEPS, therapies, extra-curricular activities, doctors, work.....Just the craziness that life tends to throw our way on a day to day basis.
Back in 2004, we took our "once in a lifetime" trip. I was the only one, at that point, who had ever been to WDW. But, once we finished that trip in 2004, we, as a family, were hooked! We've returned every 12-18 months since then. And in January 2012 we took another one of those "once in a lifetime" trips: A 7 night Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Disney Cruise Line. That trip was nothing short of amazing! Oh......And we've rebooked another cruise since. We'll be sailing DCL for our second time in March 2013.
As amazing as these trips are, they don't come without some extra help and pixie dust. The extra help comes in the form of a GAC (Guest Assistance Card). Due to my boys' disability, it makes it difficult for them in certain situations, such as standing in large, loud crowds. You are probably thinking....Well, then WHAT on earth are you thinking when planning a WDW trip? It's full of large AND loud crowds of people. This is where the GAC comes in to play. It allows the special needs child, and up to 5 family members to use an alternate entrance to the rides. This minimizes standing in the lines with 100's of people that can cause them to become so over stimulated, and then cause a meltdown. One of my boys cannot handle going in the room with the "moving walls" before boarding our doom-buggy at Haunted Mansion, however, he LOVES the ride itself. With the aide of the GAC, we are able to bypass the room, and walk through some "secret walls", as my boys call them. It doesn't necessarily get us on the ride faster, but it does help make a smoother transition for us to board and enjoy the ride as others do. A GAC can also allow you to use a stroller as a wheelchair. So if your child is not able to stand in line, or in our case, the stroller can help our child avoid some of the extra sensory overload (he can sit in the stroller, and cover his head with a small blanket) to help 'escape' his overwhelming surroundings, and allow him to regroup. Basically, any extra assistance that you feel would benefit your child, and make the day more enjoyable, not only for your child, but those around him/her.....Make sure to mention to the Cast Member assisting you in getting the proper GAC.
People often think that, in order to get a GAC, one must get a note from their doctor, or bring a copy of their child's IEP to WDW. This is just not the case. On your day of arrival, at your first park.....Go to Guest Services. Bring your child with you (the person requiring the GAC must be present). Explain to the Cast Member your child's needs, how many people are in your party, and how long your visit to the World is. You only have to do this once during your stay. The GAC will be dated for your specific visit, and will be good in all 4 parks.
Now, for the pixie dust.....I'm not sure how true this is, but I've been told that Disney Cast Members have been trained to identify autism. Like I said, I'm not 100% sure this is true, but I wouldn't be surprised. The CM's have always been wonderful with my boys. I truly believe they are able to distinguish autism. We've had many CM's approach us throughout the years, and just happen to sprinkle a bit of pixie dust our way. It could be something simple, from just talking to our family and making my kids feel special, to them receiving some kind of special token....Just because. There was this one specific CM who stopped to talk to my husband and middle child (age 10 at the time). She was carrying on a conversation with them as they were waiting to board Space Mountain. Nothing big, just "How has your day been? Are you enjoying the park? Have you seen Mickey yet today?" Then as they were getting off the Space Mountain, the same CM approached them again to see how Jeremy, our son, enjoyed his ride. He said he liked it. The CM then asked my husband if she could get her "New Space Ranger friend a slushie from a nearby kiosk. My husband told her that was fine. They ordered the slushie, and while waiting for the slushie to be made, the CM asked my husband if she could ask a personal question. My husband told her "Sure". She then asked "Does Jeremy have autism?" He said yes. At that point the drink came up. She handed the drink to my husband to give to Jeremy. And as she did, she said "I understand how challenging living with autism can be, I hope this slushie makes his day at the Magic Kingdom just a little more special. Have a magical day"....And then she was off......
This is a very common theme while at Disney for our family. We don't expect this extra pixie dust....But when it comes our way, it just makes it all the more special for our entire family.
While cruising, we found the same level of care....Actually a bit higher, if you can imagine that! On our fist day on the ship, we went to the Kids' Clubs so we could meet the staff and introduce them to our boys, and to see if the Clubs were even an option for them. The CM we spoke to had two questions for us (one being that the boys had to toilet independently, which they do)...After getting that out of the way, the CM asked "What can we do to make this the most memorable vacation ever for you and your family?" They were amazing with our boys! And even though we cruised almost 5 months ago, our boys still talk about it as if we just got off the ship yesterday.
When all is said and done, I think the biggest thing I would say to other special needs family is: Don't think a vacation to Disney (World, Land, or Cruise) is impossible. We once thought it was too, and wow would we be missing out! And one other thing.....Don't be afraid to ask for a GAC if you have a child with special needs.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Traveling with Autism.
My friend Elizabeth is an extraordinary person. She has adopted 4 children, 3 of them on the autism spectrum. She is a Disney fanatic, and her family regularly travels to Disney. She was kind enough to write an article for me about how her family utilizes the Guest Assistance Card, and how her children are all treated with special care when they travel to Disney. Tomorrow, I'm going to feature that article, in hopes that it helps other families make the most of their Disney experiences.
Stay tuned... see you tomorrow!
Stay tuned... see you tomorrow!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
News and Notes May 2, 2012
April Showers bring MAY...discounts! In
today's newsletter, I'm going to make you aware of all the upcoming discounts
being offered at Disney through September 29th, and I've also included
information for Mickey's Not
So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas
Party!
If you haven't booked a trip yet, feel free to email me or give me a call at 815-214-9832. Oh hey--or there is a link to the right that you can submit a request. :) I'm easy to reach!
Summer discounts: 15-30% off rooms June 15-Aug 15, booked by June 14.
Late Summer also offers discounts: 10-30% off rooms Aug. 15-Sept 29 (cannot be combined with free dining offers)
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party!
2012 Dates: 7:00 p.m. - Midnight
September 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28 & 30
October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30 and 31
November 2
Halloween at the Magic Kingdom is one of the most unique parties hosted by Disney. Come out for an evening of fun and see all your favorite Characters dressed up in their costumes. Watch for Cast Members from the Haunted Mansion. They are roaming the park, looking for new tenants perhaps...? Eek!
Returning this year is a spectacular Halloween-themed fireworks display -- “Happy HalloWishes” -- featuring spooky music from family-friendly Disney attractions and movies including Haunted Mansion and “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” as well as the voices of memorable Disney characters such as Madame Leota, Ursula, Jafar, Maleficent and Oogie Boogie. The one and only Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Parade will make it's way down Main Street USA, past all those ghostly shadows flying along the buildings. (Watch for the Headless Horseman.) The parade is shown twice. Unique floats include a Villains Float, Haunted Mansion Float, and Hades Float. The fog is thick, so watch your step. The decor of the evening is hay bales, cornstalks, balloons, and jack o lanterns... everywhere! Upon arriving guests receive a Trick-or-Treat bag with a few goodies, and can go to designated locations throughout the Magic Kingdom for even more treats.
Tickets: September 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28
If you haven't booked a trip yet, feel free to email me or give me a call at 815-214-9832. Oh hey--or there is a link to the right that you can submit a request. :) I'm easy to reach!
I do all the
work, so you can relax and enjoy your family and make magical memories.
Services are free, and I can do as much or little as you need to make your
experience truly one of a kind. Reservations, dining and customized touring
plans are just a little of what I can do. I also monitor trips to make sure you
get the best value possible. If you've already booked (through Disney) and want
to transfer your reservation, let me know.
So,lets get started! First--the
discounts!
Free dining is offered Aug. 25-Sept 29 but must be
booked by May 18th!Summer discounts: 15-30% off rooms June 15-Aug 15, booked by June 14.
Late Summer also offers discounts: 10-30% off rooms Aug. 15-Sept 29 (cannot be combined with free dining offers)
Next: Let's talk about the
parties!
If you would like to
purchase tickets for these events--shoot me an email or give me a
call!
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party!
2012 Dates: 7:00 p.m. - Midnight
September 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28 & 30
October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30 and 31
November 2
Halloween at the Magic Kingdom is one of the most unique parties hosted by Disney. Come out for an evening of fun and see all your favorite Characters dressed up in their costumes. Watch for Cast Members from the Haunted Mansion. They are roaming the park, looking for new tenants perhaps...? Eek!
Returning this year is a spectacular Halloween-themed fireworks display -- “Happy HalloWishes” -- featuring spooky music from family-friendly Disney attractions and movies including Haunted Mansion and “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” as well as the voices of memorable Disney characters such as Madame Leota, Ursula, Jafar, Maleficent and Oogie Boogie. The one and only Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Parade will make it's way down Main Street USA, past all those ghostly shadows flying along the buildings. (Watch for the Headless Horseman.) The parade is shown twice. Unique floats include a Villains Float, Haunted Mansion Float, and Hades Float. The fog is thick, so watch your step. The decor of the evening is hay bales, cornstalks, balloons, and jack o lanterns... everywhere! Upon arriving guests receive a Trick-or-Treat bag with a few goodies, and can go to designated locations throughout the Magic Kingdom for even more treats.
Tickets: September 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28
Advance
Purchase: $55.95 for adults 10 and older, $50.94 for ages 3-9
Day of Event: $62.95 for adults, $57.95 ages 3-9
October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30
November 2 (No discounts are available for Friday nights, October 5,12,26, 31)
Day of Event: $62.95 for adults, $57.95 ages 3-9
October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30
November 2 (No discounts are available for Friday nights, October 5,12,26, 31)
Advance
Purchase: $58.95 for adults 10 and older, $53.95 for ages 3-9
Day of Event: $64.95 for adults, $59.95 ages 3-9
Military Dates:
Sept.11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28
$37.77/$36.77 plus tax
Up to 5 additional tickets for family and friends. Id requirements same as Mil Promotion tickets.
October 31$69.95for adults 10 and older, $64.95 for ages 3-9
This is a hard ticket event. Guests need to purchase a separate ticket for entry. Halloween Night always sells out in advance, so get your tickets early. Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable and are not included with any other ticket media.
Beginning at 4:00 p.m., Guests already inside the Theme Park who have purchased admission for the "hard ticket event" for that day may return to the Main Entrance to have their hard ticket event admission swiped. The Guest will receive a wristband which will serve as proof of admission for the event later that evening. Guests with wristbands may stay in the park at closing; all other Guests will be asked to leave the park.
Day of Event: $64.95 for adults, $59.95 ages 3-9
Military Dates:
Sept.11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28
$37.77/$36.77 plus tax
Up to 5 additional tickets for family and friends. Id requirements same as Mil Promotion tickets.
October 31$69.95for adults 10 and older, $64.95 for ages 3-9
This is a hard ticket event. Guests need to purchase a separate ticket for entry. Halloween Night always sells out in advance, so get your tickets early. Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable and are not included with any other ticket media.
Beginning at 4:00 p.m., Guests already inside the Theme Park who have purchased admission for the "hard ticket event" for that day may return to the Main Entrance to have their hard ticket event admission swiped. The Guest will receive a wristband which will serve as proof of admission for the event later that evening. Guests with wristbands may stay in the park at closing; all other Guests will be asked to leave the park.
Boo! What? Where? & When?
Trick-or-Treating Goodies for your ghouls all evenings. Consult park map for locations. 7PM-12AM
Mickey's Boo-To-You Halloween Parade 8:15 & 10:30 PM
Halloween Dance Parties Stitch's Cosmic Dance Party - Tomorrowland and Get Up & Boo-gie - Fantasyland
“Happy HalloWishes” Fireworks 9:30 PM
Villain's Mix and Mingle Your favorite Disney Villains take center stage in this Halloween production - stick around, you don't know who you may meet after the show.
Transportation to resorts will continue through the end of the party.
Trick-or-Treating Goodies for your ghouls all evenings. Consult park map for locations. 7PM-12AM
Mickey's Boo-To-You Halloween Parade 8:15 & 10:30 PM
Halloween Dance Parties Stitch's Cosmic Dance Party - Tomorrowland and Get Up & Boo-gie - Fantasyland
“Happy HalloWishes” Fireworks 9:30 PM
Villain's Mix and Mingle Your favorite Disney Villains take center stage in this Halloween production - stick around, you don't know who you may meet after the show.
Transportation to resorts will continue through the end of the party.
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party!
7 p.m. - Midnight
2012 Dates:
November 9, 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30;
December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21.
7 p.m. - Midnight
2012 Dates:
November 9, 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30;
December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21.
Pricing Advance--
58.95/$53.95 plus tax
Same Day --$64.95 plus tax/$59.95
Premium Date - December 21 --$67.95/$62.95 plus tax
Same Day --$64.95 plus tax/$59.95
Premium Date - December 21 --$67.95/$62.95 plus tax
On an ordinary day during this season,
Christmas in the Magic Kingdom is very festive in every way. A towering
Christmas tree decorates Town Square and the whole place is decked out in Disney
fashion, with garlands, wreaths, decorations and lights everywhere. On select evenings
during the Holiday season you can purchase tickets for the Mickey's Very Merry
Christmas Party event, complete with hot chocolate, cookies, a complimentary
family photo and button, and even SNOW... Don't miss the Mickey's Very Merry
Christmas Parade held twice during the evening. Also see a Special Holiday
Wishes Fireworks.
Tickets/Dates: Military Dates
Nov.9, 12, 15, 25,27, 29
$41.27 plus tax/$37.77 plus tax
Tickets/Dates: Military Dates
Nov.9, 12, 15, 25,27, 29
$41.27 plus tax/$37.77 plus tax
This is a hard ticket event. Guests need to
purchase a separate ticket for entry. Walt Disney World limits the number of
tickets sold in order to keep the crowds down and many dates sell out in
advance
Event tickets are valid only
during specific dates and hours. Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable
and are not included with any other ticket
media.
Beginning at 4:00 p.m., Guests already inside the Theme Park who have purchased admission for the "hard ticket event" for that day may return to the Main Entrance to have their hard ticket event admission swiped. The Guest will receive a wristband which will serve as proof of admission for the event later that evening. Guests with wristbands may stay in the park at closing; all other Guests will be asked to leave the park.
Beginning at 4:00 p.m., Guests already inside the Theme Park who have purchased admission for the "hard ticket event" for that day may return to the Main Entrance to have their hard ticket event admission swiped. The Guest will receive a wristband which will serve as proof of admission for the event later that evening. Guests with wristbands may stay in the park at closing; all other Guests will be asked to leave the park.
What? Where? &
When?
Cinderella's Holiday Wish --Castle Forecourt Stage
Mickey's Once upon a Christmastime Parade 8:15 & 10:30 PM
Holiday Wishes 9:30 PM
Cinderella's Holiday Wish --Castle Forecourt Stage
Mickey's Once upon a Christmastime Parade 8:15 & 10:30 PM
Holiday Wishes 9:30 PM
A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Rockettower Plaza
Stage in Tomorrowland
See Santa Next to City Hall in Town Square
Character Dance Parties Join us in Fantasyland and Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland for our Holiday Disney Character Dance parties.
Save 40% on Disney PhotoPass
Exclusively for the event. See any Disney PhotoPass Photographer for Details. Special Event Merchandise is also available in select locations throughout the park be sure to check your map for exact locations.
See Santa Next to City Hall in Town Square
Character Dance Parties Join us in Fantasyland and Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland for our Holiday Disney Character Dance parties.
Save 40% on Disney PhotoPass
Exclusively for the event. See any Disney PhotoPass Photographer for Details. Special Event Merchandise is also available in select locations throughout the park be sure to check your map for exact locations.
Friday, April 20, 2012
*62,000 are employed at the Walt Disney World Resort. That’s how many people it takes to create the magic at the Vacation Kingdom. Not surprisingly, Walt Disney World Resort is the largest single-site employer in the United States.*
It takes a log of people to make magic happen. If you've been to Disney before, think about how everything is handled in an almost seamless way. The way rides are loaded, crowds are moved through the parks, and cast members taking time to talk to you as you make your way down main street.
Disney's goal isn't to be the largest employer in the United States. Their goal is to provide the best possible experience for everyone who enters the gate.
If you're getting ready to go to Disney for the first time, you should be excited that Disney has so many cast members waiting to greet you. Do you have a favorite cast member experience?
Disney's goal isn't to be the largest employer in the United States. Their goal is to provide the best possible experience for everyone who enters the gate.
If you're getting ready to go to Disney for the first time, you should be excited that Disney has so many cast members waiting to greet you. Do you have a favorite cast member experience?
Friday, March 16, 2012
*More than 270 Walt Disney World buses transport guests around the Vacation Kingdom.*
Disney on-site transportation is one more way Disney lets you enjoy your vacation. Trying to navigate unfamiliar roads have led to fights in our family, and I’m sure we’re not the only ones. Disney lets you relax and enjoy the ride as they shuttle you from one destination to the next effortlessly. If you don’t feel like riding a bus, several resorts offer boat and monorail transportation as well. I’ve always considered the monorail a ride more than a means of transportation, but it will get you from place to place.
One thing to keep in mind is that while the transportation is constantly running, you may still need to wait a few minutes for a bus to your destination. You may also have to take more than once bus to get somewhere. For example, to get to dinner at the Polynesian from Animal Kingdom Lodge, you would need to take the Animal Kingdom Lodge bus to one of the parks or Downtown Disney, and then get on the bus to the Polynesian. It’s important to keep this in mind when making dining reservations, and always allow your family about an hour to get to your dining location.
Talking with bus drivers or other guests can sometimes let you in on other things going on around WDW. Our daughter got sick on the bus and the bus driver was so gracious, and even gave her a plastic ring, which the driver told her was a magic ring to make her feel better. The driver then radioed for another bus to come and pick us up so we didn’t have to wait, and we were the only ones on the bus. Do you have any Disney transportation stories to share?
One thing to keep in mind is that while the transportation is constantly running, you may still need to wait a few minutes for a bus to your destination. You may also have to take more than once bus to get somewhere. For example, to get to dinner at the Polynesian from Animal Kingdom Lodge, you would need to take the Animal Kingdom Lodge bus to one of the parks or Downtown Disney, and then get on the bus to the Polynesian. It’s important to keep this in mind when making dining reservations, and always allow your family about an hour to get to your dining location.
Talking with bus drivers or other guests can sometimes let you in on other things going on around WDW. Our daughter got sick on the bus and the bus driver was so gracious, and even gave her a plastic ring, which the driver told her was a magic ring to make her feel better. The driver then radioed for another bus to come and pick us up so we didn’t have to wait, and we were the only ones on the bus. Do you have any Disney transportation stories to share?
Friday, March 9, 2012
*Every day an average of 210 pairs of sunglasses are turned in to LOST and FOUND. Since 1971, an estimated 1.65 million pairs of glasses have found their way into the “lost” bin. On an annual basis, Lost and Found cast members collect more than 6,000 cell phones, 3,500 digital cameras, 18,000 hats and 7,500 autograph books.*
That’s a lot of missing stuff. It’s never fun to lose things on vacation, but Disney has Lost and Found, like everything else, down to a science. Here’s what you should do if something goes missing while visiting Walt Disney World.
Call (407) 824-4245 between 9am and 7pm Eastern time, then press zero to speak with an operator. Ask to speak with someone in Lost and Found. The operator will ask where you lost your item then they’ll connect you to the correct department. For a phone or camera, tell them some recent photos that were taken, give colors and description of cases, just to help identify the item.
Typically items are turned in by cast members every hour, so don’t give up hope if initially your item isn’t “found”. Keep in mind that lost items are cataloged the next day, so finding your item on the day you lost it may not be possible. Stay calm and patient, and let Disney magic help you locate your missing item.
Do you have a story you to share about an experience with losing something at Disney?
Call (407) 824-4245 between 9am and 7pm Eastern time, then press zero to speak with an operator. Ask to speak with someone in Lost and Found. The operator will ask where you lost your item then they’ll connect you to the correct department. For a phone or camera, tell them some recent photos that were taken, give colors and description of cases, just to help identify the item.
Typically items are turned in by cast members every hour, so don’t give up hope if initially your item isn’t “found”. Keep in mind that lost items are cataloged the next day, so finding your item on the day you lost it may not be possible. Stay calm and patient, and let Disney magic help you locate your missing item.
Do you have a story you to share about an experience with losing something at Disney?
Friday, March 2, 2012
*If you stacked the number of standard autograph books sold annually, it would match the height of 200 Cinderella Castles. Add the Princess-style autograph books and, end to end, the books would reach 88 miles into space.*
Autograph books are a great way to preserve memories of your trip. Looking for a good way to make that autograph book something that you’ll return to again and again to relive the memories?
Only let characters sign on the left side of the page. Then, on the right side, you can add pictures of the character meeting, or other information about the trip. Of course, if you’re the creative type, you could make your own autograph book and set it up any way you’d like. You could also use a hat, t-shirt or pillowcase to get more use out of those autographs.
Do you have any creative ways to capture autographs during your vacation?
Only let characters sign on the left side of the page. Then, on the right side, you can add pictures of the character meeting, or other information about the trip. Of course, if you’re the creative type, you could make your own autograph book and set it up any way you’d like. You could also use a hat, t-shirt or pillowcase to get more use out of those autographs.
Do you have any creative ways to capture autographs during your vacation?
Friday, February 17, 2012
*With millions of visitors annually, it’s no wonder the Disney parks are among the most photographed places in the United States. 4% of all amateur photographs worldwide are taken between Disney world and Disneyland each year. On any given day, Disney’s PhotoPass photographers take between 100,000 and 200,000 photos of guests at Walt Disney World Resort. *
The PhotoPass service allows guests to view, share and order their Disney photos online and create Disney products such as PhotoBooks and mugs. Photopass photographers will also use your own camera if you ask! It’s a great way to get family shots, and make special memories. Photopass is free in the park, you only pay for items you purchase, and pictures are available for viewing for up to 30 days after your vacation. You can also add borders and other embellishments to photos prior to ordering, and even upload your own photos. I LOVE THIS SERVICE!!
We’ve done it a few times, and have always been pleased with the results. You can receive discounts on this amazing service by pre-ordering before your trip by checking out this link. If you decide not to purchase, Disney will either hold the credit for you, or refund your money.
Do you have any stories about your Photopass experience or questions about what other features you get with this service?
We’ve done it a few times, and have always been pleased with the results. You can receive discounts on this amazing service by pre-ordering before your trip by checking out this link. If you decide not to purchase, Disney will either hold the credit for you, or refund your money.
Do you have any stories about your Photopass experience or questions about what other features you get with this service?
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