Disney Resort Guests Have Extra Time to Explore Pandora
Special Extra Magic Hours Available to Disney Resort Hotel Guests.
For a limited time, May 27-July 4, 2017, Guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can explore Pandora – The World of Avatar beyond regular Park hours.
Nightly Extra Magic Hours will take place from 11 p.m.-1 a.m. only in Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. This offering will provide you with an additional opportunity to enjoy everything Pandora – The World of Avatar has to offer – including navigating a mystical river, flying on a back of a banshee and walking under floating mountains. Please note valid Theme Park admission and a Resort ID will be required.
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By Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Destinations
FastPass Availability for Pandora | Walt Disney World
When you can begin making FastPass+ selections at Pandora - World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
Today Disney announced that Guests staying at select Walt Disney Resort hotels can reserve Disney FastPass+ selections for attractions, including those in Pandora – The World of Avatar, up to 60 days prior to check-in beginning March 24, 2017. Disney FastPass+ service will be available at the two attractions within Pandora – The World of Avatar during regular Theme Park hours. Guests may select only one of these two attractions in their first set of Disney FastPass+ selections, subject to availability.
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By Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Destinations
The Disney Vacation of a Lifetime, Starting Around $9,500 Per Person
Adventures by Disney: China. Special offer for Walt Disney World Annual Passholders.
If you're Walt Disney World Annual Passholder you can take advantage of a special rate on an Adventures by Disney vacation to China.
The trip takes place from July 6 through July 19, 2017 and kicks off with a special welcome event at Disneyland Park in California.
Highlights include:
A VIP visit to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and stops at such popular sites as Victoria Peak to Stanley Market.
Historic Beijing experiences featuring the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.
A VIP visit to the new Shanghai Disney Resort and a tour of iconic landmarks and Old City wonders.
An immersive exploration of Chinese culture and traditions including dining experiences, performances, family activities and much more!
Download the Itinerary and Brochure. For information on booking this offer, contact Darren of Magical Vacations Travel today.
Miss Adventure Falls Now Open at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon
Today I take you aboard Miss Adventure Falls, the new family raft attraction now open at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park!
With a ride time of two minutes, Miss Adventure Falls will be the longest attraction at Typhoon Lagoon.
By Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Parks and Resorts
How Pandora – The World of Avatar Will Continue the Values of Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Pandora – The World of Avatar, which is set to open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World Resort on May 27, 2017, will transport you to a visually stunning world complete with floating mountains, bioluminescent plans and all kinds of immersive adventures.
Sneak Preview of Pandora on Popular ABC Shows - March 9
Tune into ABC March 9 for an inside look at Pandora – The World of Avatar
Four ABC shows will offer sneak peeks into the new land coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park at Walt Disney World® Resort. As “The View” broadcasts from Disney’s Animal Kingdom this week, several other ABC shows - including "Good Morning America" and "Nightline" - will be joining forces on Thursday, March 9, 2017 for a look into the highly-anticipated Pandora – The World of Avatar.
By Darren Wittko - Specializing in Disney Destinations
Get a Closer Look at Disney's Elephants With This New Tour
Now you can get a closer look at the African elephants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and learn what it takes to care for them during Caring for Giants – a unique family-friendly backstage viewing experience at Walt Disney World Resort.
During this 60-minute tour, you can meet with animal care specialists who provide for the care and wellness of Disney's elephant herd. African cultural representatives will also be on hand to share stories of Disney’s conservation efforts. Throughout this experience, you will be able to observe the elephants from approximately 80 to 100 feet away!
Caring for Giants will be offered several times daily beginning March 12, 2017. Groups depart throughout the day between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Guests must be 4 years of age or older to participate. Reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-PLAY (939-7529). Cost is $30 per person (tax included).
Disney Now Charging for Mail Received at Resort Hotels
If you stayed at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel recently you may have noticed an increase in the number of discarded cardboard boxes lining the hotel hallways. Savvy travelers have learned that they can save money by shipping their vacation-clothes to their hotel rather than pay high baggage fees with the airlines. The same is true with groceries - I've been seeing a lot of Amazon Prime boxes as well.
If you wish to receive mail at your Disney Resort hotel, your letter or package must:
- Include the mailing address of your Disney Resort hotel
- Clearly feature the word “Guest” on the front and the date of your arrival
For example:
Guest Mary Sims - Arrival July 4, 2018
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
1600 Seven Seas Drive
Orlando, FL 32830
Recently Disney announced it will be charging a $5 per package handling fee to all envelopes and packages that are received through the Front Desk or are delivered to a Disney Resort hotel room at the following Disney Resort hotels:
Disney’s All-Star Resorts
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
See What's Coming to Magic Kingdom on May 12, 2017
“Happily Ever After,” a new nighttime spectacular that will combine the magic of Disney storytelling, beloved Disney characters, fireworks and so much more, will debut at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort on May 12, 2017.
The Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace will continue to be offered during “Happily Ever After.”
The spectacular will inspire you to seek out and find your own “Happily Ever After” by showcasing some of the greatest adventures Disney characters have taken to achieve their dreams. The show will feature the latest fireworks and pyrotechnics and original animation, plus a heart-tugging original score. And thanks to the inclusion of state-of-the-art projection mapping technology, more Disney characters than ever before will be featured in the show, including moments from “Moana,” “Brave,” “Big Hero 6,” “Zootopia,” “The Princess & The Frog,” “Aladdin” and many others.
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Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Rivers of Light Opening Date Set for February 2017
For more than a year, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World Resort has continued its evolution to a day-to-night park by introducing new nighttime experiences. And today, I'm happy to announce one of the park’s newest nighttime experiences, “Rivers of Light,” will make its official debut on Feb 17, 2017.
“Rivers of Light” combines live performance, floating set pieces, a soaring musical score, fountains and more in a celebration of animals and nature. The story unfolds on the broad natural stage of the Discovery River, conveying the uplifting spirit of an ancient and timeless lantern ceremony and filled with symbolism, storytelling and plenty of heart.
Dining and FastPass+ reservations for this new show are now available.
And don’t forget that the next step in the expansion of Disney’s Animal Kingdom – the grand debut of Pandora – The World of Avatar – will take place on May 27, 2017.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Pandora - World of Avatar Opening Date Announced!
Today I'm excited to share that Pandora – The World of Avatar will open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park on May 27, 2017!
This new land will transport you to the visually stunning world of Pandora. Here, you will wonder at floating mountains and bioluminescent plants, and can join the Na’vi on two attractions that take adventure to the next level.
Related Offers
Check out the Late May Exclusive Offer for select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
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Video: Pandora - World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom Park
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
This Tour Celebrates Magic Kingdom Classics
Recently I had an opportunity to take the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour, a brand new tour at Magic Kingdom Park designed to highlight the classic attractions You may also want to read my article at The Best of Walt Disney World on Magic Kingdom Classics.
My four hour tour was led by an extensively trained and courteous Disney VIP Tour Guide. These are the ones you see in the plaid uniforms escorting guests and celebrities through the parks. Of course they know how to navigating the park but the focus here is to show you the attractions that we all think about when we think of Magic Kingdom.
During the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour, we were able to experience 10 of the most beloved Magic Kingdom Park attractions, including everything from Pirates of the Caribbean and the Jungle Cruise, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, “it’s a small world,” Peter Pan’s Flight, and a few more attractions throughout the park. We also saw Under the Sea Voyage - which in my opinion is not quite a "classic" when compared to oldies but goodies like Carousel of Progress and Haunted Mansion.
Plus, no Magic Kingdom Park tour would be complete without saying hello to the mouse that started it all. As part of my tour, I also got to meet Mickey Mouse at the Town Square Theater!
This tour is especially great for kids. You can ask your tour guide to avoid the attractions that have height restrictions.
The Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour ($199 plus tax)* is offered Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, and is subject to availability.
Related:
New Experience Offers Backstage Access at Disney World
This Limited TIme Magic Kingdom Experience Offers VIP Treatment
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Re-Imagined Planet Hollywood Observatory Opens at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort
Planet Hollywood Observatory has opened its flagship location in the heart of Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort, transforming its iconic globe into a four-story stargazing observatory with new spaces including an outdoor terrace, a new menu and an exciting new look and feel.
Inside it’s an immersive theatrical dining experience, with each floor providing a different ambience, including the fabulous curated collection of film-making memorabilia and a 4,500-square-foot video wall the uses trompe l’oeil 3D technology – images with such realism that they appear to be in three dimensions.
Classic Planet Hollywood dishes, including the World Famous Chicken Crunch, are on the new menu, as well as a selection of over-the-top burgers and sandwiches by celebrity Chef Guy Fieri. Desserts are a hallmark of the restaurant, like the hand-dipped milkshakes.
The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. The new 5,000 square-foot Stargazers Lounge that will let you relax under the stars will be opening soon.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
DisneyQuest is Closing (This Time it's for Real - Most Likely)
DisneyQuest to Close July 3, 2017
Disney continues to bring new experiences to the West Side Neighborhood, including The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort. To make way for this basketball-themed experience, the West Side area will be undergoing changes – beginning with the closure of DisneyQuest on July 3, 2017.
The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort will be a one-of-a-kind basketball-themed experience featuring hands-on activities that put guests of all ages right in the middle of NBA game action. There will be immersive NBA video productions and numerous interactive experiences, as well as a restaurant and a retail store.
Stay tuned to SaveAtWDW for more updates on The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort and the continuing transformation of Disney Springs.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
FLORIDA RESIDENTS ENJOY 3 DAYS OF THEME PARK FUN FOR $139 PLUS TAX WITH THE DISCOVER DISNEY TICKET
New Florida Resident Offer Available
Now for a limited time, Florida Residents can purchase the Discover Disney Ticket for $139, plus tax. Visit one Theme Park per day now through June 9, 2017 and save big on this special ticket offer. Ticket is valid 1/4 – 6/9/17. Note there is a blockout period: Not valid 5/27 – 6/9/17 at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
This ticket limits you to one Theme Park per day. Proof of Florida residency required. Ticket is nontransferable and excludes activities/events separately priced. Must be purchased by 6/5/17.
To purchase this ticket contact your travel agent or visit the Florida Residents section on the Walt Disney World website.
Disney Announces MagicBand 2 Release Date
Recently I shared with you that that the Walt Disney World Resort introduced MagicBand 2. This new form of the original MagicBand is more versatile and customizable for Guests to unlock the magic of a Walt Disney World Resort vacation.
When you book a Walt Disney World Resort vacation and elect to receive your MagicBands at home prior to arrival, you will receive a complimentary MagicBand 2. You'll continue to have the option to choose from the current eight colors: pink, blue, red, green, orange, gray, yellow and purple. Guests who pick up their MagicBands at the front desk upon check-in will continue to receive the original MagicBand until early February.
Related:
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
April 2017 Spring Break - Booking Fast!
I would like to share with my followers and clients that I'm actively booking April 2017 travel dates, especially the Easter Agency Exclusive Offer, running April 7 through April 21. If you're planning a visit to the Walt Disney World Resort for spring break, I highly recommend booking early!
Other exclusive offers for Walt Disney World offers for are available for April 2017 on my Resort Offers Page.
Video: Behind the Scenes at Pandora – The World of AVATAR
Today I'm excited to share this amazing sneak peek into one of the Walt Disney World Resort’s most exciting expansions: the construction of Pandora – The World of AVATAR, which will open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park this summer (stay tuned for an official date).
As you can see in the video, Pandora – The World of AVATAR will transport you to a visually stunning world complete with floating mountains and bioluminescent plants, first unvelied to me back in November. This new land will feature two never-before-experienced expeditions. The family-friendly Na’vi River Journey sends you down a sacred river hidden within a bioluminescent rainforest. The journey ends in an unforgettable encounter with a Na’vi shaman, a figure who has a deep connection to the life force of Pandora. And, the Avatar Flight of Passage excursion offers the jaw-dropping experience of riding on a Banshee over the world of Pandora.
View special offers available for summer travel to the Walt Disney World
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a "Best of the Best" Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Atlanta Braves Training Schedule at Walt Disney World
Here's a look at the 2017 Atlanta Braves training schedule coming to Walt Disney World. Check out the Resort Offers Page available during these times and save big. Please note dates, times and opponents are subject to change.
Atlanta Braves Training Schedule at Walt Disney World | ESPN Wide World of Sports
Disney on Broadway Stars Coming to Epcot International Festival of the Arts
In collaboration with Disney Theatrical Productions, Epcot's new festival brings a showcase of favorite music and Broadway talent to the America Gardens Theatre stage. Throughout the six weekends of the festival, different pairings of Broadway artists will perform songs from some of Disney on Broadway’s award winning shows.
I'm excited to share the lineup of performers for this brand new series:
- Jan. 13-16 and 20-23: Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland performing songs from: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Tarzan, Mary Poppins and The Little Mermaid
- Jan. 27-30 and Feb. 3-6: Kerry Butler and Kevin Massey performing songs from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Tarzan, Newsies and Aladdin
- Feb. 10-13 and 17-20: Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White performing songs from Disney’s The Lion King, Aida, Aladdin and The Little Mermaid.
Performances will be at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday through Monday of each festival weekend.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a "Best of the Best" Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World