Insider Look at Disney World’s New Drone Show
Disney World created a new nighttime show for Disney Springs - over 800 drones!
Walt Disney World Resort is sharing a sneak peek of Disney Dreams that Soar, a nighttime drone show coming to Disney Springs.
I remember there being a drone show during the holiday season several years ago, and it blew me away. It was the first time I had ever seen anything like it.
My favorite part of that show was when all the drones flew off to their base when the performance ended - which I think was near Port Orleans. It made them seem very “alive” and intelligent because they knew where they were going.
“Disney Dreams that Soar” is a limited-time show that will run from May 24 to Sept. 2, 2024
I predict that Disney is using this show to gauge interest. If it is received well, we may see drone shows elsewhere on the property - perhaps Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Wouldn’t that be the perfect park for a nighttime show?
Disney World recently shared a behind-the-scenes look from a recent test session in France. The show will have over 800 drones getting into formation to create larger-than-life images of classic Disney characters.
The drones are choreographed with iconic quotes from fan-favorite films such as Disney’s “Peter Pan,” “Dumbo,” “Wall-E,” “Big Hero 6,” “Star Wars” and more.
The show also will feature scores from classic Disney soundtracks and an original song composed exclusively for this show. If there’s one thing Disney has learned recently - Walt Disney World guests love original music!
The best place to watch the Disney Springs drone show will be along the waterfront, so in the area that runs behind Starbucks on the West Side down towards House of Blues.
The show will last nine minutes and will be shown twice each night above Disney Springs.
Be sure to check the Disney World app for show times as they may change. You can also visit www.DisneySprings.com for the latest schedule.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Who Really Owns EPCOT’s World Showcase
Join me as I tour Epcot’s World Showcase and reveal who owns the different countries. The answers will shock you!
Today I’m going to clarify a popular urban legend about Epcot and give you an insider's look to see who’s really behind World Showcase. It’s coming up right now on…
If you’ve been to World Showcase at Epcot , you know that it’s made up of 11 nations, like Japan, France, Germany, and Norway, each featuring culturally accurate architecture, restaurants, imported merchandise, and even the employees imported to work there on 12-month contracts in hopes of creating an authentic experience for Disney guests.
Now the urban legend part is that each of the 11 nations sponsored their pavilions in hopes of promoting tourism to their country. Well, that’s not exactly true. First, Disney owns World Showcase and in some cases, it leases out restaurant and retail spaces to other companies - similar to the way a shopping mall works.
See, the original plan The Walt Disney Company had was to get each government to pay for their pavilion in Epcot. There was even a big convention held at the Contemporary Resort where Disney execs pitched the idea to various heads of state and dignitaries. It didn’t work. Mexico was kind of on board, they at least saw some tourism potential, and a few others almost went for it, but in the end, Disney paid for everything.
So we’ll start our tour of World Showcase at the American Adventure pavilion. But it’s a quick stop because Disney owns and operates it. While it was at one time sponsored by Coca-Cola and American Express….that is no longer the case. Coke is still the official soft drink of Walt Disney World but Visa is now the official credit card. If you still have your complimentary American Express fanny pack, please leave a comment.
At the Italy Pavilion in Epcot, guests have 2 options, either shop or eat. The shops present a range of items that include Italian leather handbags and unique Italian-themed Disney Parks merchandise, cookware, a few Italian snacks, and a large selection of wine.
The shops are operated by Disney but there are 3 restaurants, well 2 restaurants, and a wine bar that are not owned or operated by Disney.
Via Napoli, one of my favorite restaurants at Epcot, Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar, and Tutto Italia are all owned by the Patina Restaurant Group. Patina not only operates the Italy Pavilion but many restaurants at Disney Springs as well.
The entire building housing Maria and Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway, and Pizza Ponte are owned by Patina. You might think that Iron Chef Morimoto owns his namesake restaurants. But nope. That’s Patina Restaurant Group too. And just for the record, The Edison and Space 220 - all Patina Restaurant Group.
If the Italy pavilion feels a little incomplete, that’s because it is. It was originally supposed to get a dark ride attraction that would have guests riding a gondola through Italy and a walk–through attraction featuring scenes of Rome.
When Epcot first opened it was sponsored by the Alfredo Restaurant Group. This arrangement lasted through 2007. When Patina took over, it converted Aflredos into Tutto Italia, added the wine bar and Via Napoli
The Germany Pavilion is a conglomerate of small retailers. Goebel was an early sponsor of the pavilion, selling collectible Hummel figurines. Iit was located in the former Glas and Porzellan shop which is now the caramel shop sponsored by Werthers. Aribbas Brothers operates a glass and crystal shop here now.
But the reason Germany is important is that it was the first pavilion to get sponsors. This is remarkable because while Germany was being built in Epcot, it was still divided by the Berlin Wal - uh the actual Germany, not the Epcot Germany.
Germany was at one time going to have a boat ride called the Rhine River Cruise but when Disney failed to get sufficient funding for the pavilion, the ride was tabled. We don’t know too much about the proposed ride but early concept art shows guests boarding a "boat" for a ride on the Rhine River. The journey would pass through scenes of the Black Forest, the Oktoberfest, Heidelberg
In the early 80’s large wooden doors marked the entrance to the ride, but they later replaced this giant mural.
The China Pavilion shows off China’s amazing culture with colorful sights and sounds. Home to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a large marketplace of indoor shops, an art gallery, 2 restaurants, and a tea kiosk. The China Pavilion Exhibition Corporation, based in Orlando, FL is the operating participant of the gift shops where you can buy imported Chinese snacks, clothing, beverages, toys, and oddly enough, swords.
Now if you want to buy a sword, you can’t take it with you - it must be shipped to your home.
The Norway Pavilion was added to the World Showcase in May of 1988. Early plans for the Norway pavilion included representation from Sweden and Denmark as well. That is until Norway made Disney an offer it couldn’t refuse. The Norwegian government along with a group of 11 Norwegian companies, one being Scandinavian Airlines, would pay for two-thirds of the cost to make it all-Norwegian. This was great news because Sweden and Denmark were not exactly on board anyway. But I don’t think the Norwegians knew that.
Plans called for retail space, a boat ride attraction (the classic Maelstrom attraction), a restaurant, and convention space located on the second floor called the Norway Club (still there today). In the first year of operation, the Norway pavilion generated millions of dollars. Profits from the pavilion were shared among all 3 stakeholders, not equally, however.
In 2002 Disney bought full ownership of the Norway Pavilion for an unspecified amount of money.
Mexico was an opening day pavilion in 1982 and was one of the few World Showcase countries to also have a ride. And since 1982, the entire pavilion, except the Gran Fiesta Tour boat ride, has been operated by the Palmas Restaurant Group. Yep, Palmas has its finger in every pie from the table service restaurants down to the margarita kiosk - even the Food and Wine booths. And they do a good job, Mexico is one of the most popular pavilions in all of Epcot.
Palmas also has restaurant operations at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and one excellent restaurant at Disney Springs. Can you guess which one? Use the comments below.
The gift shops in Mexico are operated by the Arribas Brothers Company Incorporated, a retailer that started in Spain and now operates gift shops in Disney Parks around the world.
At the UK Pavilion, you’ll find a great collection of merchandise sponsored by several small retailers and one of Epcot’s most popular pubs - Rose and Crown. On opening day Rose and Crown was sponsored by Bass Ale, but that later changed when Bass was sold to Anheuser-Busch. Ad if you liked Bass Ale i’m sorry to say it isn’t even served at the UK Pavilion anymore.
Then there’s a not-so-secretive sponsor - Twinings Tea who operates the Tea Caddy and at one time it sponsored the Garden View Tea Room at the Grand Floridian - which was just featured in my video on Abandoned Places at Walt Disney World - but that’s another show.
Twinings sells traditional tea plus special blends made just for Walt Disney World. And once in a while Mr Twining, one of the descendants of the Twiningt Tea empire, will visit Epcot and give autographs to guests on boxes of tea.
The France Pavilion has several small shops, all now operated by Disney, and holds contracts with individual suppliers in France. Similar to the way a department store works. France’s 3 feature restaurants: Chef’s de France, which opened in 1982, Monsieur Paul, and La Creperie are all operated by Jerome Bocuse, son of the late celebrity chef, Paul Bocuse.
Morocco was the only pavilion in Epcot that was sponsored by the country the way Epcot leadership had originally intended. Morocco is one of the most beautiful countries in World Showcase. In 2020, Disney ended its sponsorship with Morocco in what was said to be a mutually beneficial breakup. Since 2020 the Morocco Pavilion has been under various refurbishments and much of it never reopened after the pandemic. Also featured in my Video on Abandoned Places in Disney World.
The Japan pavilion is one of my favorite pavilions in Epcot. It has a great design and it’s always fun to walk through Mitsukoshi Department Store. Now Misukoshi is a real department store in Japan, having opened in 1673. The Epcot version, which opened in 1983, some 310 years later, is a scaled-down version of the actual Mitsukoshi in Japan.
So you can probably guess by now who operates the Japan pavilion at Epcot. Mituskoshi operates the department store, Teppan Edo - the hibachi restaurant, in fact, just about everything - right down to the small beverage kiosks. They even own Yesaki, a quick-service sushi kiosk in Disney Springs, located across from Planet Hollywood.
Let me know your thoughts about this video in the comments section. Any surprises? Any ideas for what the next country should be for World Showcase? I’ll be in the comments following along. I’m Darren from Orlando Parks Guy.com, you can also find me on Facebook and Instagram. Now, here comes a video that has been picked just for you.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Upcoming Disney World Hotel Refurbisments
Plan ahead with these current and upcoming Disney World hotel refurbishments.
Disney World has several resort refurbishments coming in 2024 and 2025. Some of them have already begun. Many of them are pool refurbs that will have minimal impact on the overall guest experience. Others are much more extensive. Let’s take a closer look so you can plan ahead.
Disney’s All Star Movies Resort
Pool
From January 2025 through April 2025, Fantasia Pool at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort will be closed for routine maintenance. Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours. Guests are welcome to swim in the Duck Pond Pool at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort.
Food Court
Throughout the month of July, the World Premiere Food Court will undergo an interior refresh. During this time, Guests should use mobile order on the Disney World mobile app.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge - Kidiani Villas
Hotel and Rooms
Now through September 2023, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village will be undergoing extensive refurbishment. During this time, you may be able to see and hear construction during the daytime hours.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
From January 2025 through June 2025, Stormalong Bay and Shipwreck Pool at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts will be closed for routine maintenance. Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours. During this time, Guests can use the resort’s leisure pools. There are no water slides at the leisure pools.
Disney’s Yacht Club will be getting a room refresh from January 2025 through May 2025. Guests staying at the Yacht Club may see and hear work taking place.
Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
General Resort Refurbishments
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Disney’s BoardWalk Villas are currently being refurbished. This includes guest rooms, guest rooms, lobby refresh, and more. While most Resort hotel amenities will remain available, you may be able to see and hear construction during daytime hours. Additionally, please allow for additional travel time. The pool refurbishment has been completed.
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Rooms
A 1-year long room refurbishment project lasting from September 2024 through September 2025, will take place. During the refurbishment, Guests will see and hear construction work throughout Bay Lake Tower. Please allow extra time for travel as alternate paths may be utilized.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
General Resort and Rooms
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is currently undergoing refurbishment. Guests will be able to see and hear construction around the resort – including the lobby – during daytime hours. Most Resort hotel amenities will remain available. Please allow for extra travel time. Most of the lobby work has already been completed.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Exterior Painting and New Tower Construction
Now through Fall 2024, work will take place to paint the exterior of buildings throughout Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort & Bungalows, with Guest room balconies also being affected. Guests may see and hear painting work during daytime hours, typically from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Refurbishment work is subject to change due to operational needs or weather conditions.
Guests staying at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort will see and hear construction at certain times of the day. To minimize disruptions during your stay, activities that may create noise will not start earlier than 9:00 AM.
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter
Room Refurbishment
From May 2024 through November 2024, some guest rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter will be under refurbishment. Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours. Most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Polynesian Island Tower - Booking Dates and Details
Rooms and booking dates for Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort!
I pass by the new Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort every day, so it’s been fun to watch it rise out of the ground. But it’s also a major construction zone as Disney brings utilities that will support the new tower, so I’m excited that there’s an end in sight for all the work taking place.
Plus I’m excited to see Disney’s newest hotel!
The Polynesian’s Island Tower is located right between Disney’s Wedding Pavilion (near the Grand Floridian Resort) and directly across from the entrance from Shades of Green Resort.
As a Disney Vacation Club member, you will have exclusive access to make reservations beginning on June 4th, followed by Disney Annual Passholders on June 5th, with reservations opening to the general public on June 6th.
It’s a bit strange that DVC members will have to book stays with cash instead of using DVC points, during the initial booking days, similar to the Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
Island Tower is a modern take on Polynesian-themed resorts found in Hawaii, as opposed to the mid-century modern Great Ceremonial House of the original part of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
Rooms at Island Tower - Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
The new tower will follow the current DVC trend in terms in that it will have economy Duo Studio rooms, designed for 2 people.
Due Studios can also be found at Disney’s Riviera Resort and in the new DVC tower at the Disneyland Hotel.
It’s important to note that the Duo Studios have not been well received by guests because are just a little too small.
I’d say it’s a bold choice for DVC to continue adding them to new projects.
There will also be Deluxe Studios, 1 Bedroom Villas, 2 Bedroom Villas, and 2-Bedroom Penthouse Villas, which I can only imagine will offer spectacular views of Walt Disney World.
Disney also revealed that it embraced Polynesian wayfinding and the natural elements of water, earth, wind, and fire in the design of the new tower.
The tower will showcase pieces from modern Polynesian artists and incorporate artwork that subtly references both "Moana" (similar to the existing Polynesian rooms) and Disney legend Mary Blair, known for her prominent work in the lobby mural of Disney's Contemporary Resort.
While some traditionalists may express reservations regarding the departure from the customary architecture and design at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, others may anticipate the additional accommodation choices and the opportunity to reserve contemporary, fully-renovated rooms at one of Walt Disney World's most sought-after monorail resorts.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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How to Use Virtual Queues at Disney World
Guide to virtual queues at Disney World
When it comes to avoiding long lines at Walt Disney World, Disney offers 3 options: Lightning Lanes, Individual Attraction Selections, and Virtual Queues. They are very different and guests often get them confused. If you’re lost on how virtual queues work, don’t worry. I have great advice for you.
Torn LightCycle Run at Magic Kingdom
A virtual queue at Disney World is a system that allows guests to join a "line" for select popular attractions without physically standing in line. This system is accessed through the My Disney Experience App and allows you to secure a spot in line virtually.
Once it's your turn to ride, you’ll receive a notification and head to the attraction to enjoy your ride without the need to wait in a long line.
In short, a virtual queue places you in line, without you having to physically stand in line. You can enjoy other attractions in the park until you receive a notification on your phone that it’s your turn to ride.
This system helps to manage crowds, reduce wait times, and enhance the overall guest experience at the theme parks.
There is no cost to join a virtual queue but you must have valid theme park admission tickets.
How To use virtual queues at Disney World:
Download My Disney Experience app.
Create or log in to your Disney account.
Link your package reservation number or your ticket confirmation number to your account. (If you booked a Disney World room and ticket package, you will not link your tickets separately. They will automatically populate with your package confirmation number).
To find a virtual queue attraction, tap "Join Virtual Queue."
Select the members of your party that want to join the queue.
Tap “join virtual queue.”
Wait for notification that it’s time to ride.
Now, those are the steps, but it’s not quite that easy.
Let’s dive a little deeper into using the virtual queue system at Disney.
Virtual queues are currently offered on 2 attractions at Walt Disney World
Tron Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom
Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind at Epcot
My best tip for joining a virtual queue
Virtual queues open at 7 AM each morning and reach capacity within a few seconds. Yes, seconds!
You must be logged into the Disney App a few minutes prior so you have time to navigate to the virtual queue section and select your party. At 6:59 AM, I recommend that you repeatedly tap the Join Virtual Queue button - non-stop until 7 AM rolls around.
Just keep tapping until you (hopefully) see your virtual queue position (a.k.a. Boarding Group).
There is no way to join the virtual queue in advance, this must be done the morning of your visit.
If you don’t get in at 7 AM, you will have another chance at 1 PM. For this opportunity, you must be inside the theme park, otherwise you won’t be able to join.
And if you got in a 7 AM, you won’t be able to join again at the 1 PM time slot.
If you’re attending a special event after the park closes to the general public such as After Hours, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you can join the virtual queue at 6 PM. The virtual queue will reset just for attendees of the special event.
Rides like Tron and Guardians of the Galaxy are currently only available through the virtual queue system. Meaning, they do not take walk-ups. But if you miss out, continue reading on for the alternate plan.
What happens if you don’t get into a virtual queue?
If you are logged into the app a few minutes before 7 AM and repeatedly hit the Join Virtual Queue button, you should get in. But if you missed out, there is one other way to get on the ride.
Disney offers a program called Individual Lightning Lane Selection. It just rolls off the tongue, doesn’t it?
This system allows you to purchase a separate ticket for a specific ride, including virtual queue rides. Prices vary by day, usually between $15 and $30 per person. You purchase this in the Disney World App.
With this separate ticket, you’ll be able to bypass the regular line for the attraction using the Lightning Lane.
The Individual Lightning Lane Selection sells out as many people didn’t read this article on how to use virtual queues and missed out.
While this might not be the best way of managing lines, it’s what Disney has come up with. The system does work, and it will make more sense to you when you’re onsite.
If you have any questions about how these programs work, you can visit any of the Guest Assistance kiosks in the parks. They are identifiable with a big blue umbrella.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Special Offer for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Tickets 2024
Enter to win a FREE fireworks dessert party for 4 when you purchase Mickey’s No So Scary Halloween Tickets from me!
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World (Magic Kingdom) goes on sale May 8, 2024, for guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels. MNSSHP tickets will go on sale to everyone else beginning May 15, 2024.
Halloween parties run from 7:00 PM to midnight, which means Magic Kingdom Park will close early to day guests.
When you purchase your tickets from Magical Vacations Travel, you’ll be entered to win a FREE fireworks dessert party for 4 guests at Magic Kingdom! You’ll receive one entry for each ticket you purchase. Tickets must be ordered by May 22, 2024.
If you are looking for a Walt Disney World Room and Ticket Package, click here!
The Headless Horseman kicks the parade off by riding down Main Street USA at Magic Kingdom Park. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.
2024 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Dates
August 2024: 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30
September 2024: 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29
October 2024: 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31
This event will sell out, especially on October dates. Booking early is highly recommended.
2014 Mickey’s No So Scary Halloween Party Ticket Prices
Adult Price / Child Price (ages 3-9) (tax not included)
August 9 - $149 $139
August 13 - $119 $109
August 16 - $119$109
August 20 - $119 $109
August 23 - $119 $109
August 27 - $119 $109
August 30 - $129 $119
September 2 - $129 $119
September 6 - $129 $119
September 8 - $129 $119
September 10 - $129 $119
September 13 - $129 $119
September 15 - $129 $119
September 17 - $149 $139
September 20 - $149 $139
September 22 - $149 $139
September 24 - $149 $139
September 26 -$149 $139
September 27 -$149 $139
September 29 - $149 $139
October 1 - $169 $159
October 3 - $169 $159
October 4 - $189 $179
October 6 - $179 $169
October 8 - $179 $169
October 10 - $179 $169
October 11 - $189 $179
October 14 - $179 $169
October 15 - $179 $169
October 17 - $179 $169
October 18 - $189 $179
October 20 - $189 $179
October 21 - $189 $179
October 24 - $189 $179
October 25 - $199 $189
October 27 - $199 $189
October 29 - $199 $189
October 31 - $199 $189
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party - What’s new in 2024!
Disney World has announced there will be 5 new reasons to attend MNSSHP this year, but there will also be returning favorites.
Mickey and Minnie will have new Halloween costumes.
2. More Disney Villains will be attending the party this year.
3. New Dance Party - DescenDANCE
4. We don’t talk about this, but Bruno will be at Mickey’s Not So Scary this year!
5. Mickey’s Book to You Halloween Parade will start earlier (better for little ones)
Things to do at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
This year, Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade will take place at an earlier time.
“Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular” fireworks show, hosted by Jack Skellington.
“Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show, and trick-or-treating throughout the park.
Attend a dance party located throughout Magic Kingdom Park.
Will there be rides? Yes! Some attractions will even have special Halloween overlays, including Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, Space Mountain, and Mad Tea Party.
Trick-or-treaters can look forward to M&M’s, Skittles, Snickers, and more available at various trick-or-treating locations.
Disney’s No-So-Speeky Dessert Party 2024
If you’ve got a frightening sweet tooth, take a bite out of Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular Dessert Party, which includes fireworks viewing from Plaza Garden or Tomorrowland Terrace. Reservations for this experience open on June 7.
Related to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party:
Free Fireworks Dessert Party Drawing with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Tickets
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Orlando
Rides and entertainment inside Super Nintendo World at Universal Orlando
You can experience many of your favorite video game characters like never before at Universal Orlando Epic Universe.
From steering through iconic Mario Kart courses, to riding a mine cart through Donkey Kong Country, to punching blocks and collecting digital coins as you explore, it’s interactive fun for everyone. Discover SUPER NINTENDO WORLD ORLANDO, opening 2025 at Universal Epic Universe.
Check my tour of Super Nintendo World at Universal Hollywood:
Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
I had a chance to ride this in Universal Hollywood, it’s one of the best dark ride attractions I have ever been on!
Prepare to be blown away with this one. On Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, you’ll wear special goggles and steer through iconic courses alongside Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach.
In this interactive dark ride, you’ll collect digital coins and throw shells to try to defeat Team Bowser and win the Golden Cup. With multiple outcomes, it’s a different experience each time you ride.
Mine-Cart Madness
It’s up to you to help Donkey Kong protect the Golden Banana on Mine-Cart Madness.
You’ll enter the Golden Temple, board your mine cart, and take off in this thrilling family coaster.
Speeding through the mine, you’ll appear to jump across gaps in the track and perform other eye-popping feats from the Donkey Kong Country video games.
Yoshi’s Adventure
Take a ride with Yoshi’s and search for the glowing eggs in this enchanting, family-friendly attraction.
On Youshi’s Adventure, you’ll weave your way through iconic Mushroom Kingdom landscapes, encountering many familiar characters and spotting hidden colored eggs along your journey.
Toadstool Cafe
Fuel up at Toadstool Cafe, where you can watch Chef Toad cooking up some of his favorite recipes and see playful scenes of the Mushroom Kingdom through the windows. You’ll enjoy tasty creations prepared daily, including soups salads, and sandwiches as well as delicious desserts.
Character Meet and Greets
Meet your favorite characters at Super Nintendo World including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Toad. Just a heads up, these are very popular the Hollywood version, I recommend getting in line about 30 minutes prior to the meet and greet time.
Interactive Key Challenges
These are the most popular attractions in the Super Mario World besides Mario Kart and Donkey Kong! Yes, you will want to buy Power-Up Bands (more on that below).
With the Interactive Key Challenges, you’ll play with family and friends to test your quickness, skill, and timing in a variety of interactive games. If you’re wearing a Power-Up Band, you can collect a digital key each time you win one of these Key Challenges. Gather enough keys and you’ll be able to unlock the Bowser Jr. Showdown.
Power-Up Bands
Do you need a Power-Up Band at Super Mario World? Yes! If you don’t purchase one, you’ll miss out on much of the experience.
As you explore and play while wearing your band, you’ll collect digital coins, and digital stamps and collect digital keys by winning Key Challenges.
Once you obtain 3 keys, you’ll unlock a special Bowser Jr. boss battle challenge, Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown.
Your band also can be used to track your progress on Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge.
You can pair your band with the Official Universal Orlando Resort App to track your scores, follow other users, and see your digital rewards.
Super Nintendo World is filled with interactive activities that will keep you exploring, discovering, and playing together.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Walt Disney World Bounceback Offer
Keep the magic going with this Disney World Bounceback Offer!
I have great news to share with my Disney World clients! You can keep the magic going with a Bounceback Offer for a future stay at Walt Disney World Resort when you book your stay before checking out. You can also book within 7 days after your check-out date, but time is of the essence.
This“Bounceback Offer” includes a deep discount on a future Disney vacation.
Save up to 35% on select Disney Deluxe Resorts
Save up to 30% on select Disney Moderate Resorts
Save up to 25% on select Disney Value Resorts
Disney World Bounceback Offer Dates
The bounceback offer is valid for select nights in 2024 and 2025. You must have checked in to your current reservation to qualify. This offer has been working out very well for clients. Some have even paid less in 2025 than they did in 2024!
2024 Bounceback Dates
May 27 - August 29, 2024
September 2 - September 30, 2024
October 27 - October 31, 2024
November 25 - November 27, 2024
December 1 - December 24, 2024
2025 Bounceback Dates
January 2 - January 8, 2025
January 13 - January 16, 2025
January 20 - January 23, 2025
January 26 - January 30, 2025
February 2 - February 6, 2025
February 9 - February 13, 2025
February 16 - February 19, 2025
February 23 - May 22, 2025
May 26 - July 2, 2025
July 7 - August 28, 2025
September 1 - September 30, 2025
October 26 - October 31, 2025
How to Book Your Bounceback Offer
Use my Contact Form here (or send me an email) either during your vacation or up to 7 days after you return home.
Please include your preferred travel dates and resort preference(s).
I will double-check for other offers and reply with your quote.
A $200 deposit is required to hold your reservation. Your deposit is fully refundable up to 30 days before your check-in date.
Look forward to another visit to Walt Disney World!
Disney Room Categories Excluded from the Bounceback Offer
3-Bedroom Villas throughout Walt Disney World, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas, Cabins at Disney’s Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Campsites and Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
Bounceback Offers from Disney World are subject to availability. Additional adult fees may apply if there are more than 2 adults per room.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Where to Celebrate Mother’s Day at Walt Disney World 2024
Mother’s day treats at Walt Disney World
If your plans involve being at Walt Disney World or Disney Springs for Mother’s Day this year, here are a few special places you can celebrate with Mom, Grandma, an aunt, a caregiver, or any other special person.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
The Mara (Available May 5 through 18; mobile order available)
Sunflower Cake: Marbled chocolate and vanilla cake, vanilla buttercream, and mini chocolate chips (New)
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Beach Club Marketplace (Available May 5 through 18; mobile order available)
Mother’s Day Croissant filled with raspberry jam topped with raspberry crunchies (New)
Disney’s BoardWalk
BoardWalk Deli and Carousel Coffee (Available May 5 through 18; mobile order available at BoardWalk Deli only)
Mother’s Day Croissant: Croissant dough filled with raspberry jam topped with raspberry crunchies (New)
Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Saratoga Springs Resort
Good’s Food to Go and The Artist’s Palette (Available May 5 through 18)
Bouquet of Roses Cupcake: Chocolate Cupcake, strawberry pastry cream, chocolate mousse, and buttercream
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Pineapple Lanai (Available May 5 through 18)
Makuahine DOLE Whip Float: DOLE Whip with Banfi Rosa Regale Sparkling Red topped with shimmering edible flowers
Available at Various Table-Service Restaurants and Lounges at Disney Resort Hotels
Strawberry-Orange Mimosa: Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut, orange juice, and strawberry purée topped with a strawberry (New) (Available May 5 through 18)
The Market at Ale & Compass (Available May 5 through 18; mobile order available)
Mother’s Day Croissant: Croissant dough filled with raspberry jam topped with raspberry crunchies (New)
Disney Springs
The Ganachery (Available May 1 through 12)
Mother's Day Chocolate Flower Box: Ganache with flavors of hibiscus-strawberry and jasmine tea (New)
Amorette’s Patisserie (Available May 5 through 12; mobile order available)
Mother’s Day Éclair: Lemon and lavender éclair (New)
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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More Details Revealed on Universal Orlando’s Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular
Universal Orlando’s new nighttime will feature dancing fountains and drones.
Debuting June 14 at Universal Studios Florida, the waters of the Universal Studios Florida lagoon will come to life with an all-new nighttime show celebrating the emotional power of music by leveraging the iconic scores and scenes from blockbuster films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions.
Cinesational Soundtrack
Songs being featured in the show include Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, Jurassic World, Jaws, Shrek, Ghostbusters, Trolls, Back to the Future, Universal Monsters, Transformers, How to Train Your Dragon, E.T., Fast and Furious, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Minions, The Mummy and King Kong.
Dancing fountains typically involve lighting effects, high-pressure water jets, and are choreographed to a musical score. (stock image)
Drones and 4k Projection
CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular will have an impressive collection of technologies and special effects that bring the show to life.
The next-level lagoon show will feature 288 fountains that reach heights up to 131 feet, incredible 4K projection mapping, an original composition featuring newly arranged scores meticulously crafted to each scene, and more than 600 drones that fly directly over the lagoon—all coming together to envelop guests in a breathtaking display of unforgettable cinematic moments.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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New Photos Revealed of Disney’s Private Island - Lighthouse Point
New photos of Lighthouse Point - Disney Cruise Line’s newest island in the Bahamas.
Today we have a sneak peek at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest private retreat in the Bahamas.
These new images give us a better look at how Lighthouse Point is shaping up, including a new look at the Bahamian-inspired art and architecture.
Disney Imagineers are great at incorporating art and architecture from the local community into their designs. This is one of the reasons Aulani in Hawaii has been so successful. Not just for tourists, but for getting the locals to welcome a major resort destination into their community.
Nestled along the sand dunes of Serenity Bay, the vibrantly colored architecture of the Serenity Bay Cabanas matches the Mabrika Cove Cabanas, which sit across Disney Lookout Cay at the arrival point of the destination.
Steps away from Serenity Bay BBQ and the area’s beach bar, these cabanas will be available for rent to offer a retreat for adults to take in Eleuthera’s dunes and ocean views.
Art from talented, local Bahamian artists will take shape throughout all of the spaces at the destination, including intricate wood carvings inspired by artist Andret John and colorful murals by painter Dorman Stubbs, as seen here.
True-True Too BBQ is a beautiful example of architecture designed to look like oversized seashells scattered across the shores of Disney Lookout Cay.
These uniquely designed dining pavilions will offer shade from your day of adventures on the Nature Trail or the beach.
And now we know Lighthouse Point will have a nature trail!
I love the style of these buildings and they certainly look hurricane-proof!
Lighthouse Point is expected to open this summer.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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How Universal Orlando Will Steal the Show this Summer
Universal has big plans this summer with a new land, new nighttime shows and a daytime parade.
Universal Orlando Resort has announced big plans for summer 2024, going up against Disney World’s Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and Seaworld’s Penguin Trek rollercoaster. Universal Orlando will be opening Dreamworks Land, adding a new daytime parade, displaying a new projection show in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and a dancing fountain show featuring music that includes the Jaws theme among other popular movie soundtracks (super excited about this one in particular!)
But to be fair, let’s not forget that pin trading is back at Walt Disney World.
Favorite characters from Shrek, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda will come together in Dreamworks Land, an all-new section of one colorful new land at Universal Studios Florida.
You’ll be able to meet Shrek and splash in his swamp. Scream with laughter on the all-new Trollercoaster.
On Trolls Trollercoaster, guests of all ages can take a ride on the iconic Caterbus escaping evil spiders as they speed along a bright orange and yellow track aboard this family-friendly rollercoaster.
Shrek’s Swamp for Little Ogres: This Shrek-themed play area will feature four fun slides, wet play areas, and a playground where the kiddos can climb, bounce, and splash around as well as venture into Shrek’s outhouse.
Shrek’s Swamp Meet: You can visit Shrek’s Swamp Meet to interact with Shrek, Princess Fiona, and Donkey, who will joke around and converse with guests, just outside of Shrek’s cottage.
Learn kung fu with Po. Plus, ignite your sense of wonder with the new live show DreamWorks Imagination Celebration.
Dreamworks Land will be located right outside the E.T. Adventure attraction at Universal Studios Florida. It opens on June 14, 2024. See more about Dreamworks Land in my post here.
Hogwarts Castle at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
New nighttime show at Hogwarts Castle
Universal Orlando has also announced a new nighttime show, Hogwarts Always, a projection show on Hogwarts Castle that will take guests on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at the beloved school of wizardry.
This new show will be offered on select nights beginning June 14, 2024, at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure theme park.
See E.T. and more in a new Universal daytime parade
Universal will also introduce a new daytime parade featuring a collection of movie characters like a T-Rex from Jurassic Park, E.T, Trolls, and more. According to Universal, viewers will relive memorable movie moments the whole family can enjoy. On select days this summer starting July 3, 2024.
Cinesational Water Show at Universal Studios Florida
Of all the new entertainment coming this summer, this is the one I’m most looking forward to. This new show will feature dancing fountains and popular film scores. Universal says this show will have a powerful soundtrack featuring music from Harry Potter, Jurassic World, and of course Jaws! Love this! A nice nod to the attraction that was once housed in the lagoon.
Cinesational will be offered on select nights beginning June 14th.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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2024 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Guide
This page will be updated as details are released on the 2024 Epcit Food and Wine Fest.
The 2024 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival will run from August 29 through November 13, 2024. This will be the first festival where CommuniCore Hall be up and running. Disney has shared that CommuniCore Hall will be the heart of Epcot festivals once it opens to the public on June 10th.
The Eat to the Beat Concert Series will once again return to the Epcot at the American Gardens Theater.
Stay tuned to this page for more updates as they are released.
Confirmed Global Marketplaces at Epcot
Belgium Global Marketplace
Germany / The Alps
Hawai’i Marketplace
Special Activities at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival 2024
Emile’s Fromage Montage also returns in 2024. This fun food stroll encourages guests to sample a variety of delicious cheeses served in inventive ways. Guests can purchase any five cheese dishes from the official Global Marketplaces list in their Festival Passport and collect a stamp for each dish purchased. Once they’ve collected all five stamps, they can bring the passport to the specified location for a specialty unique item to enjoy!
Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak scavenger hunt front where guests can purchase a map (while supplies last) and search to find their favorite little chef hidden throughout World Showcase.
Eat to the Beat Concert Series 2024
Orlando’s top talent will take to the stage as part of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. Performances will take place nightly in the America Gardens Theatre. Eat to the Beat Dining Packages will also be available, ensuring guests can get seats for their favorite acts. We’ll have more details soon.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Win a FREE Fireworks Dessert Party with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Ticket Purchase
Enter to a win a Magic Kingdom dessert party for 4 when you purchase Mickey’s Not So Scary Tickets
2024 Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a fan-favorite event that takes place at Magic Kingdom during the Halloween season. Well, actually it usually starts in August, but we really like to celebrate holidays here in Orlando! This special ticketed event allows guests of all ages to enjoy a night of spooktacular fun in a festive and family-friendly atmosphere.
See 2024 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party dates and events
I expect that 2024 Mickey’s No-So-Scary-Halloween Party tickets will likely go on sale any day now. You can sign up to be added to my waitlist now. You’ll be among the first to get your tickets when they go live.
FREE Fireworks Dessert Party Drawing
This year, I’m offering my clients a chance to win a Magic Kingdom fireworks dessert party for 4 guests, sponsored by Magical Vacations Travel. You’ll get one entry for every ticket you purchase. Tickets must be purchased by May 22, 2024.
During Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, guests can experience exclusive entertainment offerings such as the Boo-to-You Halloween Parade, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show, and the Happy HalloWishes fireworks display. Character meet-and-greets featuring popular Disney characters dressed in their Halloween costumes are also a highlight of the event.
Trick-or-treating around the park, special Halloween-themed snacks and beverages, and access to select Magic Kingdom attractions add to the enchanting experience of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
Guests are encouraged to dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes to fully immerse themselves in the spirited celebration.
With its unique blend of magic, mystery, and mischief, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party offers a bewitching experience that is sure to delight guests of all ages as they celebrate the spookiest time of the year at the most magical place on earth.
Terms: Tickets must be purchased through a Magical Vacations Travel agent within 1 week of ticket release date. All guests attending Dessert Party must have purchased party tickets through Magical Vacations Travel to qualify. Fireworks Desset Party prize is for 2 adults and 2 children ages 3-9 or a maximum value of $450. If the event is unavailable on your party night, alternate prize for the same value will be offered - subject to the discretion of Magical Vacations Travel.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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5 Things Disney World Needs to Fix Now
Small changes that would have a big impact on guest satisfaction.
Disney World is a great place to go on vacation, but there are some adjustments that Disney could make to improve guest satisfaction. Now, I’m not talking about big ideas that would take years to complete or require massive investments.
In my latest YouTube video, I present 5 realistic things that Disney can easily fix to improve guest satisfaction.
Watch this on YoutTube now >
#5 Gratuities With Disney Dining Plans
The Disney Dining Plans are back and even Free Dining has returned for select dates. The regular Disney Dining Plan includes Table Service Meals of course. It’s a nice way to make your vacation at Walt Disney World feel a little more all-inclusive. If you stick to just what your table service meal includes, you won’t have to pay out of pocket, you simply redeem your dining credits. But it doesn’t cover the gratuity for your server.
At the end of your meal, your server will bring you the bill with the cash total on it. You only have to pay for things you ordered that are not included on the dining plan. For me, this is rare. The total is provided to help you determine how much of a tip you should leave.
It would be so much easier if the gratuity was included as well. I personally never carry cash, especially in theme parks, I’m always afraid I’ll lose my wallet on a ride or leave it somewhere.
And charging your server’s gratuity to your credit card or Magic Band doesn’t seem right either.
I’m sure Disney doesn’t include gratuities so the cost of the dining plan seems cheaper. But I think Disney should borrow an idea from the cruise line industry where you have the option to prepay your gratuities in advance for the included meals. On a cruise ship, you simply get up and walk away when you're finished. All you have to do is show up and have a great time.
I find that most menu items are similarly priced so unless you want to split hairs on the total cost of the meal, the server should still make a decent tip. And in some cases, they may do better if the customer would otherwise be a lousy tipper.
The whole idea behind the Disney Dining Plan is to make it convenient for the guests. Disney knows you’re going to leave a tip, so why not just include it from the beginning?
# 4 Daily Housekeeping at Disney World
The trend of limited or even no housekeeping began across the hotel industry during the pandemic. But now it’s becoming the industry norm. I expect more from Walt Disney World, a company that prides itself on excellent guest service and often uses terms like the Disney Difference to demonstrate how they are better than other resorts.
To be fair, Universal Orlando has a similar policy and Royal Caribbean has cut housekeeping back to just once per day.
But when Disney cut daily housekeeping to every other day at its Value and Moderate Resorts, it made national news, as it often does. And housekeeping is limited to new towels and trash removal. I believe the term for this is now skimpflation.
Daily housekeeping is offered at Disney Deluxe Resorts which often hover around $750 per night. But room and ticket packages at a Moderate hotel can easily be $5,000 or more. For that kind of money, it would be nice if the bed was made.
Being pampered is part of the fun of staying in a hotel. It’s time to bring back daily housekeeping.
#3 Disney World Theme Park Hours
In recent years the Orlando theme parks have been closing earlier than in the pre-pandemic years. While Magic Kingdom often stays open until 10 or 11 pm, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios often close at 9 pm. And Animal Kingdom can close as early as 6 pm. Universal Orlando is the same, sometimes closing both parks before 8 pm.
Epcot used to open in phases, first Future World, and then World Showcase would open at 11 am and often stay open until 10 pm or later. Today, the entire park opens at once. I would be ok with a phased opening if it means being in the parks later. Now the only way to stay in the Epcot later at night is to stay in a Deluxe hotel that includes a Monday night stay.
Being in the parks at night, especially in the summer months when afternoon temps are in the high 90s, is the only escape from the heat parkgoers have. And I think the parks are more fun at night.
#2 Seating at Disney’s Quick Service Restaurants
Remember when you had to be online at 6 am, 60-days in advance to make your dining reservations for Walt Disney World? Especially if you wanted Be Our Guest Restaurant.
Today, you can often get into Be Our Guest as a walk-up. Table service dining at Disney just isn’t as popular as it used to be. I still recommend making reservations 60-days in advance, but there is a lot more availability than in previous years.
Today, Disney World Quick-Service Dining is where it’s at. I think this is for two reasons.
Quick-service meals are good! Disney has really upped its game here.
Now that guests are paying for Genie+, they feel like they don’t have time for a lengthy table service meal or it might conflict with a Genie+ return time.
This means quick-service restaurants are crowded these days and it’s very hard to find a place to sit.
Disney has experimented with different ideas to help people find seats. A few years ago, Disney tested out a system where guests would enter a queue after they got their food. A Cast Member with a radio headset would talk to other Cast Members who were out scouting seats. I didn’t like having to wait in another line, but I knew I was going to get a table. At the Connections Eastery at Epcot, Cast Members were only allowing people to sit at tables who had trays of food. This is loosely enforced today.
Disney needs to find a way to provide seating so guests are not meandering around with trays of food and balancing soft drinks with no lids - because Disney banned lids on cups. But that’s another show.
#1 Simplfy Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane
I’m aware that Disney Genie+ is a very controversial topic. I’m not here to say we should eliminate it and go back to paper Fastpass tickets, (but I know I’m not the only one who would love that!)
Disney could make a small change that would make a big difference. Why do we have 2 terms that describe the basically same thing? Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane. Have you heard a Cast Member trying to explain the difference between the two? Not to mention Individual Attraction Selection and Virtual Queus. And while we're at it, PhotoPass and Memory Maker too. This is straight from the Department of Redundancy Department
I think they should just call the whole thing Lightning Lane. Ultimately that’s what guests want. No one is buying Genie+ for the Photopass lenses, or the in-park audio features. Call it Lightning Lane and tell guests they get some free perks with it. And while we’re at it, Individual Attraction Selection doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue and it only refers to a handful of attractions. Can't that just be absorbed into Lightning Lane at this point? I seriously think the reason some people don’t visit Disney World is because Genie+ feels overwhelming to them.
I’m sure these 5 things won’t solve every issue, but I think these are some realistic changes Disney could make to enhance guest experiences at Walt Disney World Have something that Disney needs to fix?
Do you agree or disagree with my list? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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6 Tips for Royal Caribbean Cruises
My best tips for getting started with Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean is the world’s largest cruise line. They pride themselves on creating premium family-friendly cruises with activities for everyone - from adults only to things families can enjoy together. But there’s a lot to know when booking a cruise if you want to have a great time.
I help clients plan Royal Caribbean cruises every day and have a lot of experience in helping them get the most out of their vacation.
Here are my favorite tips for clients when getting started with a Royal Caribbean cruise.
#6 Book as early as possible
Cruise lines operate just like the airline industry in that they reward people who book early by offering lower fares. The best time to book a cruise is 12 - 18 months in advance.
Those who book early also have more choices when it comes to selecting a stateroom on the ship.
Last-minute cruise deals are not a thing anymore. They are very rare and often when you see them posted online, they are already sold out when you try to book.
#5 Use a travel agent
Using a Royal Caribbean travel agent is free! There are no built-in costs or hidden fees. I offer you expert, insider tips and professional responses to all your questions. It’s like having your own personal account manager just for your vacation. Want me to plan your cruise with you? Get started here in one click.
#4 Buy beverage and internet packages in advance
Royal Caribbean offers adult beverage packages and soft drink packages. Package prices are higher onboard.
Bonus tip: wait a week or two after you book your cruise to see if you get an email offer for discounted beverage packages. If you get an email, forward it to me so I can apply it to your reservation for you.
#3 Book a balcony stateroom
While it may be tempting to book an interior room or an oceanview room (porthole) to save money, a balcony room may cost just a little more. On the newer ships, there are more balcony staterooms than any other kind of room. Most of my clients who book non-balcony rooms, almost always try to upgrade later on (but see Tip #1).
#2 Arrive a day or two before the cruise
If you experience a flight delay or cancellation, the ship will leave without you if you’re late! You should never fly the same day you are cruising.
If you’re cruising from Orlando (Port Canaveral), why not make it a Land and Sea vacation? Spend a few days at Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort and then embark on your cruise vacation. I help clients with Land and Sea vacations in Orlando all the time and have great recommendations for you.
#1 Book a cruise on an Oasis Class ship
Oasis Class ships have more than 16 decks, 20 restaurants, 7 distinct neighborhoods bustling with unique onboard experiences, and endless thrills to discover. These are the world’s largest cruise ships so they offer something for everyone.
You can usually find at least one Oasis Class ship, sailing from Orlando and Miami, Florida but they do travel the world. You can also find them in Europe and Asia.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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New Signs Are Up At EPCOT Communicore, Mysterious Globe Appears
What is that globe in Epcot? Communicore Opening Date and more…
Today on my visit to EPCOT I noticed that some of the walls have been pushed back in World Celebration Gardens.
Disney has announced that the rest of EPCOT will officially open on June 10, 2024, including Mickey and Friends, Communicore Hall, and Communicore Plaza.
Also, a mysterious new globe appeared. Let’s check it out…
MIckey and Friends signs have been installed. The construction walls have been pushed back as well, making the sidewalk wider.
“Mickey and Friends” is where you can meet popular Disney characters in Epcot.
Communicore signs have been installed. Some of the walls here have been pushed back as well.
Disney has announced that Communicore Hall will be the starting point for Epcot’s international festivals like Food and Wine, Festival of the Arts, and Flower and Garden.
Communicore Plaza will be an outdoor area where guests relax. There will also be areas for large-scale concerts and small performances.
Epcot Communicore Plaza
Communicore Plaza
The canopy has been installed over Communicore Hall. I assume this will be where a lot of the concerts will be held.
Once the walls come down, you’ll be able to walk from one side of the park to the other easily.
Epcot character meet and greet area.
Mickey and Friends is now lit up at night, giving us a better idea of how Communicore will tie in with the World Celebration Gardens and Spaceship Earth.
And this mystery contraption has appeared in World Celebration Gardens. It appears to be some kind of globe. Are those stools around the base? If you know what this is, leave a note in the comments below.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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6 Tips for Sailing on Disney Cruise Line
My best Disney Cruise line tips
Disney cruises are truly something special from being immersed in Disney entertainment 24/7 to the outstanding service and crew. But there’s a lot more to it than just booking a stateroom and showing up.
As a travel advisor who works with Disney Cruise Line every day, I have made a list of the most helpful tips that will help you get even more out of your cruise. And if you would like me to plan it with you, contact me here to get started.
#6 Ask for free/discounted upgrades
Here’s a secret! A limited number of upgraded rooms may be available on embarkation day. People cancel at the last minute or have trouble with their flight (see tip #2).
Before boarding the ship, stop at Guest Services to see if there are any discounted upgrades available. I was recently offered Concierge Stateroom for $6,400. Before embarkation day, this category was $9,800, so that was a savings of $3,400!
Expert Tip: Schedule your port arrival time as early as you can on embarkation day. This gives you the best chance for snagging an upgrade plus you’ll enjoy even more time onboard the ship.
#5 Use a Disney travel agent
I’m a travel advisor who specializes in Disney vacations with a lot of experience in booking Disney cruises. But did you know this is how I got started in this work? I booked my first cruise through Magical Vacations Travel because I was overwhelmed when I planning my first cruise.
Using a Disney travel agent is FREE! There are no built-in costs or hidden fees passed on to you.
Onboard Disney Cruise Credit! My clients enjoy a generous onboard credit that can be used towards upgrades like spa services, port adventures, specialty beverages, and more.
Most importantly, I provide expert answers to all your questions about Disney Cruise Line.
Overwhelmed with planning your Disney Cruise? Start here ▸
#4 Save money on a future cruise
While onboard you’ll have an opportunity to book your next cruise at a substantial discount. Don’t miss this opportunity! This is the best way to save money on your next Disney cruise.
Not sure when to book? No problem! Disney Cruise Line will allow you to book a “placeholder cruise” so you don’t have to commit to an actual sail date or itinerary right away. The placeholder cruise just locks in the discounted price.
#3 Use Disney Cruise Line transportation in Orlando
Disney Cruise Line buses operate between Orlando International Airport, Walt Disney World Resort, and Port Canaveral. Disney will even transfer your luggage from the hotel directly to your stateroom onboard the ship.
See my Guide to Port Canaveral ▸
#2 Arrive a day or two before the cruise
If you experience a flight delay or cancellation, the ship will not wait for you! always arrive a day or two ahead of time. If you’re cruising from Orlando (Port Canaveral) there are plenty of things to do in the area: Visit Disney World or Universal Orlando, Gatorland, and more.
Expert Tip: Purchase travel protection from Disney, it’s about 8% of the total cruise fare and can be added on at any time before making the final payment. It’s a terrible investment until something goes wrong. Then, it’s the best investment you ever made!
#1 Schedule a Disney character call
This is so much fun! When it’s time to drop the big news of your Disney cruise, you can get a little help from Mickey Mouse and pals with a recorded phone call (it’s not an actual 1 on 1 call but it’s still very cute).
You’ll find the “schedule a call” feature in Disney Cruise Line mobile app.
Expert Tip: Record your little one answering the phone to capture their reaction. You can share it with my followers on Facebook and Instagram @orlandoparksguy
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Free Disney Dining Plan 2024 Prices. Worth it?
Breaking down the Disney World free dining offer
On April 9, 2024, Disney released a second free dining offer for select July, September, and December dates. In short, Disney is saying that if you come to Disney World this summer or fall, you’ll be able to eat most of your meals for free while on your vacation.
Free Dining has become extremely popular over the years and many guests have even come to expect it. The idea behind it is to fill empty hotel rooms during off-peak times of the year.
Disney knows people love this offer and some even wait for it.
Since 2017, Disney has offered a free dining plan discount for summer travel dates.
For example in 2019, the offer ran from July 5 through September 2nd. And in the summer of 2018, kids would get the dining plan for free.
But what makes 2024 unique is that Disney ran the free dining plan promotion twice, for nearly the same travel dates.
The first offer came on January 3, 2024, and required visitors to have a Disney+ membership.
Disney then released a second round of free dining on April 9, 2024, also for the summer and this time included September and December as well.
To get the free dining you’ll need to pay the package deposit with a Disney Visa credit or debit card.
That’s not a bad idea because if you don’t already have a Disney Visa you can apply for one and get up to a $400 statement credit plus you’ll get 0% financing on your Dinsey World package for 6 months.
Also on April 9th Disney released a room offer where you can save up to 30% on the nightly hotel rate for summer and fall. This offer is available to everyone, even those who do not have a Disney Visa credit card but it cannot be combined with the free ding deal.
So, should you take advantage of Disney World’s free dining offer? Let’s take a look at a few sample vacation packages and see how it works.
Disney World Free Dining 2024
The free dining package promo for summer 2024 gives guests staying at Disney World Value and Moderate category resorts the quick service dining plan for free.
Deluxe hotel guests can get the regular Disney Dining Plan for free (the one that includes the table service meals).
Required package components:
Minimum of 4-day Park Hopper tickets
Minimum 4 nights at the Disney World hotel
Let’s use a sample family to see how they might do with the free dining offer. This fictional family will consist of 2 adults and 2 children ages 8 and 6, staying 4 nights during the first week of July, at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside with 4-day Park Hoppers.
This is just sample pricing to illustrate my point, but actual pricing will vary based on dates, length of stay, and party mix.
The non-discounted rate for this offer including the Quick Service Dining Plan is about $5,002. If this family takes the room offer, their package price is $4,705, a savings of about $300.
And if they take the Quick Service Dining Offer, the package price is $4,355.
But what if they take the room offer and exclude the quick-service dining plan? Then their total would be about $4,058. Yes, it’s less than the free quick-service dining offer. But only by $300.
A family of 4 staying 4 nights will easily spend more than $300 on food, so free dining is still the better deal.
What if they stay at a Disney Deluxe hotel? I like Disney’s Yacht Club Resort for free dining because it tends to have the best rates and the most availability.
Now remember at the Deluxe hotels, they will get the table service dining plan for free:
1 table service meal
1 quick service meal
1 snack
This is per night, per person.
The rack rate with the Disney dining plan included without any offers for 4 nights during the first week of July with 4-day park Hoppers comes to $6,760
Now let’s apply some discounts. The room offer with the Disney dining plan comes to $6,028. A savings of $900.
When I apply the free dining offer, the package total comes to $5,768.24, a savings of $1032 compared to the rack rate.
And what about the room offer without a dining plan, compared to free dining? That comes to $5,037.00.
Free dining is $431 more. But think about that for a moment.
For $431 more, they can dine at the best Disney World restaurants, including most character meals. The average price of a character meal is about $50 per person. So $200 for a family of 4.
It’s close when you compare free dining to the room offer. You could easily spend $700 on dining at Disney, especially if you do a character meal.
But the room offer may be the better deal.
This is where I can help. I work with people every day to help them determine which offer works out best for them. I’d be happy to help you too.
You can contact me here to get started in just one click.
Specializing in family-friendly vacations at
Disney, Royal Caribbean and Universal Orlando.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
Search articles
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See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
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