Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom

You can now book the Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

This three-hour tour will be offered several times daily at Disney's Animal Kingdom.  Groups will be small with no more than twelve people.   Introductory offer starting at $129 on bookings from Jan. 16-Feb. 26, 2011.  Park admission is required for participants.

Check out this video for an idea of what the tour will be like:

I'm really excited about this tour!  I think it looks and sounds amazing!  This is definitely on my list of things to do on my next visit to Walt Disney World!

Hi Ho Hi Ho, It's Off To Disney World I Go - Part Five

The fifth and final part to the Walt Disney Vacation Planning series!

What kind of ticket and/or package to get?  I'm going to try to sum this up in a nutshell!

So here's the scoop on the tickets:

You start with a Magic Your Way Base Ticket with a choice of ticket length from 1 to 10 days. The base ticket allows admission to one Theme Park per day – you are permitted to leave and go back to the same park.  You cannot go to a different park, even if you bought a 7 day ticket for a 4 day stay – you will not be allowed to go to a different park with the same ticket.  Ticket expires 14 days after the first use.

You can then add on the following for a fee (contact me for pricing!):

Park Hopper® Option - visit more than 1 Theme Park on the same day (or all 4 if you want!).  This applies to all days on the Base ticket.

Tip:  I recommend the Park Hopper® Option.  I like the option of going to a different park if I choose.   It can also buy you more hours in the parks if your visit is during value season when park hours are shorter.

Water Park Fun & More Option - includes a certain number of admissions into one of the following: Disney's Typhoon Lagoon, Disney's Blizzard Beach, DisneyQuest®, Downtown Disney®, Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course or Disney's Wide World of Sports®. (Subject to seasonal or weather closures. Age restrictions may apply for access to certain facilities) The number of visits is based on the length of base ticket.  

Tip:  If you plan on going to a water park for just one day or go to DisneyQuest once, it is cheaper to buy the one day admission to either of them.  Planning on more than one visit or going to both – get the Water Park Fun & More option.

No Expiration Option - unused Theme Park Days and unused Water Park Fun & More admissions never expire so they may be used on a return visit. 

Tip: If you are staying for 11 days or more, or plan on returning within a year, purchasing an annual pass is a better option.

Now on to packages!

To get a package or not, that is the question!  Packages can offer a good value – you can save money on dining.  The base package starts with resort accommodations and a base ticket (plus some features).  You can then add different packages with dining and recreational activities included. 

Tip:  Booking a package offers convenience, but is not always the most economical choice.  I feel it's worth it to price things separately. Shameless plug:  Part of my services as a travel agent are helping you choose the best options for you (package, ticket etc!).  Discounts are sometimes offered by Disney, contact me for information on the latest ones!

Below is a summary of the packages.  Park Hopper, Water Park Fun & More and No Expiration Options can be added. 

Everyone in the room must be booked on the same package and ticket options. Packages and tickets plus their options or components are nontransferable. Theme Park tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use unless the No Expiration Option is purchased. Visiting more than one Theme Park on the same day requires the Park Hopper option.

Magic Your Way Package – 2010 Starter package.  Includes:

• Accommodations at a Disney Resort
• Magic Your Way Base Ticket - admission to one of the four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks
• Official luggage tag (1 per person)
• Arcade card valid for 100 points of game play at resort arcades (1 per room)
• Planet Hollywood meal & merchandise voucher
• One round Miniature Golf (one per room)
• Niki Bryan Spa Discount – 15% off most 50 minute or greater services at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. (Hand and foot treatments are excluded. Age restrictions apply).
• ENHANCED! Walt Disney World® Marina Discounts – 15% off the regular price of any boat rental at participating Walt Disney World marina locations.
• Guided Fishing Excursions Discount – 15% off the regular price of Guided Bass Fishing Excursions and Bass Nitro Fishing Excursions at select Walt Disney World marinas. Excursions include fishing equipment, rod, reel, shiners, artificial bait, non-alcoholic beverages and a 1 year membership to B.A.S.S. (Bass Anglers Sportsman Society).
• Sammy Duvall's Watersports Discount – 10% off the regular price of all activities including parasailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing trips at Sammy Duvall’s Watersports Centre located at Disney's Contemporary Resort. (Subject to availability; restrictions apply).

 2011 packages include the above plus:

• Children Activity Centers – 15% off the regular hourly rates at the Children Activity Center located at select Disney Resort Hotels. Minimum charge of two (2) hours per child. Services available for children age 3-12.

The following packages have a fee per person per day (in addition to the cost of the starter Magic Your Way Package) and must be purchased for entire reservation with at least a 1 day theme park ticket. Contact me for information on pricing!

Magic Your Way Package Plus Quick Service Dining      

Includes features from the Magic Your Way Package plus -

For each night of your package, each person (age 3+) receives:

- includes: entree or Combo Meal and dessert (lunch or dinner only) or juice (breakfast only) plus non-alcoholic beverage.

Children ages 3-9 must order from a Children's Menu (if one is available). Gratuity is not included. Tax included.

2 Snacks – such as frozen ice-cream novelty, box of popcorn; single piece of whole fruit or a medium fountain soft drink

1 Resort Refillable Drink Mug per Person

Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining  

Includes features from the Magic Your Way Package plus -

For each night of your package, each person (age 3+) receives:

One table service or buffet meal – includes entree and non-alcoholic beverage at breakfast or buffet,  entree, dessert, or buffet, plus non-alcoholic beverage at lunch or dinner. 

One quick service meal – includes entree and non-alcoholic beverage at breakfast, entree or Combo Meal and dessert plus non-alcoholic beverage at lunch & dinner

Children ages 3-9 must order from a Children's Menu (if one is available). Gratuity is not included.  Tax included.

1 Snack - such as frozen ice-cream novelty, box of popcorn; single piece of whole fruit or a medium fountain soft drink

Magic Your Way Package Plus Deluxe                                    

Includes features from the Magic Your Way Package plus -

For each night of your package, each person (age 3+) receives:

Three table service or quick service meals –

Table service or buffet meal – includes entree and non-alcoholic beverage at breakfast or buffet,  entree, dessert, or buffet, plus non-alcoholic beverage at lunch or dinner. 

Quick service meal – includes entree and non-alcoholic beverage at breakfast, entree or Combo Meal and dessert plus non-alcoholic beverage at lunch & dinner

Children ages 3-9 must order from a Children's Menu (if one is available). Gratuity is not included.  Tax included.

2 Snacks – such as frozen ice-cream novelty, box of popcorn; single piece of whole fruit or a medium fountain soft drink

1 Resort Refillable Drink Mug per Person

Magic Your Way Premium Package                                       

Includes features from the Magic Your Way Package plus -

For each night of your package, each person (age 3+) receives:

Three table service or quick service meals (any combination of) –

Table service or buffet meal – includes entree and non-alcoholic beverage at breakfast or buffet,  entree, dessert, or buffet, plus non-alcoholic beverage at lunch or dinner. 

Quick service meal – includes entree and non-alcoholic beverage at breakfast, entree or Combo Meal and dessert plus non-alcoholic beverage at lunch & dinner

Children ages 3-9 must order from a Children's Menu (if one is available). Gratuity is not included.  Tax included.

2 Snacks – such as frozen ice-cream novelty, box of popcorn; single piece of whole fruit or a medium fountain soft drink

1 Resort Refillable Drink Mug per Person

Unlimited selected recreation -  includes: Golf (lessons, greens fees, rental clubs, cart, balls & shoes included), Miniature Golf, Water Sports, Archery, Tennis, Guided Fishing Excursions, Cane Pole Fishing, Horseback Trail Rides, Pony Rides, Carriage Rides, Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides, Bike Rental and Watercraft Rental. Some restrictions may apply and advance reservations may be required.

One admission per person to Cirque du Soliel La Nouba

Unlimited use of Disney Children's Activity Centers (potty trained kids ages 4 -12)

Unlimited admission to selected theme park tours

Preferred fireworks viewing areas for Wishes at Magic Kingdom and Illuminations at Epcot. (One viewing per Theme Park. Advance reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance and voucher is required.)

PhotoPass Portrait Session

Magic Your Way Platinum Package   

Includes features from the Magic Your Way Package plus:

Accommodations at a Deluxe Disney resort or select Deluxe Villa resorts (Beach Club Villas, Boardwalk Villas or Villas at Wilderness Lodge)

For each night of your package, each person (age 3+) receives:

Three table service or quick service meals (any combination of)–

Table service or buffet meal – includes entree and non-alcoholic beverage at breakfast or buffet,  entree, dessert, or buffet, plus non-alcoholic beverage at lunch or dinner. 

Quick service meal – includes entree and non-alcoholic beverage at breakfast, entree or Combo Meal and dessert plus non-alcoholic beverage at lunch & dinner

Children ages 3-9 must order from a Children's Menu (if one is available). Gratuity is not included.  Tax included.

2 Snacks – such as frozen ice-cream novelty, box of popcorn; single piece of whole fruit or a medium fountain soft drink

1 Resort Refillable Drink Mug per Person

Unlimited selected recreation - includes: Golf (lessons, greens fees, rental clubs, cart, balls & shoes included), Miniature Golf, Water Sports, Archery, Tennis, Guided Fishing Excursions, Cane Pole Fishing, Horseback Trail Rides, Pony Rides, Carriage Rides, Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides, Bike Rental and Watercraft Rental. Some restrictions may apply and advance reservations may be required.

One admission per person to Cirque du Soliel La Nouba

Unlimited use of Disney Children's Activity Centers (potty trained kids ages 4 -12)

Private in-room child care (4 hour minimum, 6 hour maximum, gratuity not included)

Unlimited admission to selected theme park tours

Fireworks viewing areas for Wishes at Magic Kingdom and Illuminations at Epcot. (One viewing per Theme Park. Advance reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance and voucher is required.)

1 Resort Refillable Drink Mug per Person

PhotoPass Portrait Session

One selected spa treatment per person

Richard Petty Ride Along Experience    

Fireworks cruise to either Wishes or Illuminations (one per reservation) 

Reserved seating at Fantasmic! (one per person)   

Nightly turn-down service  

Personalized pre-arrival itinerary planning   

I don't think I succeeded in summing this up in a nutshell!  I tried! 

Disney Vacation Memories

Here's a video about Disney's new promotion, Let the Memories Begin.

Even if you've seen it before, it deserves another look!

Pass the tissues please!

Hi Ho Hi Ho, It's Off To Disney World I Go - Part Four

Part Four of the trip planning series is about my favorite thing to decide!  Where To Stay?

Stay onsite!  I highly recommend staying onsite!  There are over 20 themed resorts to choose from.  Disney does not miss a detail when it comes to the themes of their resorts.  Plus the perks you get from staying onsite are great, not to mention the fact that you get the Disney Magic and service 24/7! 

Benefits:

• Disney themed resorts and legendary service
• Disney Magical Express Transportation - offers free roundtrip airport transportation and baggage delivery to and from Orlando International Airport. 
• Use of Walt Disney World® Resort Transportation System – motorcoach, watercraft or monorail
• Merchandise Delivery – don’t lug your packages around all day – have them sent to your resort!
• Extra Magic Hours – Each day one of the theme park opens one hour early or stays open up to three hours extra after park hours.  Resort guests get more time in the parks!  Select attractions will be open.  This is one of the best perks of staying at a Disney resort!
• Close To The Magic - Staying at a Disney Resort means being surrounded by magic 24 hours a day and also being close enough to return to your hotel for a break.   You can take a nap or go for a dip in the pool!
• Charging Privileges – Take advantage of charging privileges available with your Disney Resort ID. Charge most Disney purchases to your room!
• Guaranteed admission to the parks even when they reach maximum capacity.  If you are visiting during a holidays, you could run into the parks reaching capacity and non resort guests will be turned away.
• Disney Dining Plan option
• Complimentary Golf Club Rental - Get complimentary Titleist and Cobra club rental when you purchase a full round of golf at any of the 4 Disney Championship Golf Courses.

Here is my advice on picking your resort:

1.  Decide on the category - there are five different categories of resorts at Disney World.

To help you do this you have to answer some basic questions.

• How much do you want to spend?

• Are you going to spend time enjoying the resort and its amenities or will you be in the theme parks all day?

• Would you like the resort to have a water slide?

• Would you like the resort to have a sit down restaurant or do you prefer quick counter service meals?

2.  Pick your resort!  Once you have decided your category of resort, choose one based on the theme that appeals to you.  You will also have to consider which room view you would like.

Use the following links to explore the different categories and resorts.

1. Value
2. Moderate 
3. Deluxe 
4. Deluxe Villas 
5. Campground 

Do you have five or more in your party?  Click here to find some options.

   

It's tough deciding which resort!  If you are torn between a couple of resorts, consider splitting your stay.  If you really want to stay at a moderate or deluxe resort and it isn't in your budget for your trip, splitting the stay between two categories may put it in your reach.  There's always next time too!

As a travel agent, it's both my job and my pleasure to help you find the best resort for you.  Feel free to contact me, I would be happy to answer any questions!

Happy Birthday Walt Disney World!

Walt Disney World is 39 years old today!

Here's a video I found on You Tube of the opening ceremony at the Magic Kingdom.  The video is great, but it's even better seeing the show in person!  If you haven't seen it yet, make sure you do on your next visit!

Hi Ho Hi Ho, It's Off To Disney World I Go - Part Three

The Walt Disney World five part trip planning series continues today with the third thing you have to decide - how long to stay?

How Long Should I Stay?

If I had my way all of my trips would be at least 10 days during low attendance time periods.  Of course I don’t get my way often.  Little things like, work schedules, school schedules and budget for trip often stand in my way!

The first trip I took with my family was for 3 nights and 4 days.  It was before Animal Kingdom opened so there were 3 parks to visit.  We went at a low attendance time and stayed at the Polynesian Resort.  We were able to do everything we wanted.  Key factors that played into that happening were the low attendance, the great transportation options at the Polynesian and having a plan.  We didn’t take a break during the day and went morning till night.  It was a great trip but I did learn that we needed a break during the day!

Factors in determining how long to stay are:

1. Time of year you are visiting.
2. How you want to spend your days.

It will take 7 days during a visit in crowded times of the year compared to 4 to 5 during a slower time to experience the same amount of attractions.

The following may help you decide how long to stay.  The recommendations are my opinion and are based on my own vacations. 

How Long to Stay Guide:

 (based on trying to see it all! - most attractions, parades & fireworks)

See part one of the trip planning series to find out the dates of low, moderate and high crowd levels.

During Low Crowd Levels:

• 4 days - Tour the theme parks morning till night with no breaks and grabbing quick stuff to eat (counter service).
• 5 to 6 days – Tour at a more leisurely pace, take a break during the day, have a few sit down meals at nicer restaurants.
• 7 to 8 days – Take your time, spend a day at your resort, break during the day, have sit down meals, go to water parks and do other recreational activities like mini golf or rent a boat.

During Moderate Crowd Levels:

• 4 to 5 days - Tour the theme parks morning till night with no breaks and grabbing quick stuff to eat (counter service).
• 6 days – Tour at a more leisurely pace, take a break during the day, have some sit down meals at nicer restaurants.
• 8 to 10 days – Take your time, spend a day or two at your resort, break during the day, have sit down meals, go to water parks and do other recreational activities like mini golf or rent a boat.

During High Crowd Levels:

• 5 to 6 days – Tour the theme parks morning till night with no breaks and grabbing quick stuff to eat (counter service).
• 7 to 8 days - Tour at a more leisurely pace, take a break during the day, have a few sit down meals at nicer restaurants.
• 10 days – Take your time, spend a day or two at your resort, break during the day, have sit down meals, go to water parks and do other recreational activities like mini golf or rent a boat.

Most of us have time and/or budget restrictions.  If you can only go to Walt Disney World for 5 days during peak times – GO!  I am by no means saying to forget it if you can’t stay for at least 10 days.  You may not get in everything you want to, but any day at Walt Disney World is better than a day at home or work!

Something to keep in mind also:  Disney has made it very affordable to stay longer.  The difference in cost for theme park tickets from 4 – 7 days is very minimal (we’re talking $5 per day per person!).

My Favorite Disney Memory or Discovering The Magic!

For Fun Friday this week I thought I would share a favorite Disney memory of mine.  Disney's new campaign, Let the Memories Begin may have something to do with it!

I have been lucky enough to visit Walt Disney World many times.  I have lots of Disney memories.  Each visit brings new memories and reasons I love Walt Disney World.  I am a true believer in the magic of Disney.  It wasn't always that way though.

I had been to Walt Disney World a couple of times as a kid and thought it was fun.  Back then it was only the Magic Kingdom (yes I am that old!).  It wasn't until the first trip I took with my own little family that I discovered the magic.

In 1997 my husband and I decided to take our kids to Disney.  My son had just turned 9 and my daughter was 5.  We decided to combine a trip of visiting family in southwest Florida for Thanksgiving, with a few days in Walt Disney World.  I hadn't been to Walt Disney World since 1985.  Using the internet and every guide book being published at the time, I became slightly obsessed with planning the perfect trip.  Well maybe a little more than slightly, alright, alright, completely obsessed!

We decided to surprise our kids with the trip.  Santa sent a letter with an early Christmas present and the kids were thrilled.  Yay!  Disney World here we come!

We arrived at the Polynesian around noon time the Sunday after Thanksgiving for our three night, four day stay.  Yes, you read correctly, three nights and four days.  A little ambitious, but I had a plan.   Animal Kingdom was not open yet so there were three parks to visit.  We check in, go to our room for a little while, then head out to the Magic Kingdom.

Walking down Main Street for the first time with my family was great!  My daughter pointed at the castle and asked "Who's house is that?".  I told her "It's Cinderella's house.".  She looked at me with her mouth open in awe, "Can I meet Cinderella?"  This completely took me by surprise, she was a tomboy and liked playing with her brother's action figures and cars more than dolls and princess stuff.  I told her "Maybe", thinking that idea would pass.  We spent the rest of the day and evening in the Magic Kingdom and she didn't mention it again.

The next day, we went to another park,  I don't remember which one, but will never forget that the idea was still in my daughter's head about meeting Cinderella.  She asked when she could meet Cinderella for a second time.  This time my reply was "We'll see, she's pretty busy".  She seemed to buy it.

On the third day, It was starting to become evident she wasn't going to let the idea go, when she asked when she could meet Cinderella again!  She hadn't learned yet that "We'll see" meant "Probably not going to happen".

I knew a simple answer wasn't going to suffice this time.  It had to be a more elaborate explanation to avoid a melt down.  I frantically went through many reasons why I could tell her that Cinderella was busy.  "Cinderella has to clean the big castle.  I don't know if she will be able to come out anytime soon.".  I know, lame, but I was under pressure and I don't work well under pressure!  My five year old bought it though! 

You may be asking yourself, why didn't I find a character meet or go to a dinner with Cinderella?  I did plan the trip pretty thoroughly, but never imagined my daughter would want to meet Cinderella.  I really didn't think she was serious about meeting Cinderella until the third day. 

On our fourth day we went to Epcot for the afternoon.  I was hoping, no praying, my daughter had forgotten about meeting Cinderella.  No such luck.  As we walked into the World Showcase, she said "I hope I get to meet Cinderella today".  Great!  She was like a hound dog with a bone with this Cinderella thing, she wasn't letting it go at all!  I just smiled and said "Okay honey". 

We walked around the World Showcase exploring the different countries.  We reached the International Gateway and decided to walk around some of the Epcot resorts to check out Christmas decorations.  We were the only ones walking that way (that's how I remember it anyway!).  My daughter was skipping and twirling around, not paying attention to anything around her. 

I saw her first.  Coming out from behind the store was Cinderella!!  I couldn't believe it.

My daughter stopped dead in her tracks for a moment when she saw Cinderella.  She then ran over to Cinderella and gave her a big hug!  Cinderella stopped and talked with her for a few moments and we got a great picture.  Cinderella went on her way and we went on ours.  My daughter looked up at me with a huge grin on her face and said "I knew Cinderella would come meet me". 

That was the moment I discovered the magic of Disney.  Since then we have had many magical moments at Walt Disney World, but my little girl meeting Cinderella is by far my favorite!

Let the Memories Begin

If you haven't heard the news, Disney announced a new campaign today - 'Let the Memories Begin'

Have you ever wanted to be in a Disney commercial or advertisement?  Here's your chance.  Disney is looking for your videos and pictures of favorite Disney memories.  For more information go to www.DisneyParks.com/Memories

Starting in January 2011, there will be an added nighttime show featuring photos taken that day of Disney guests creating memories.  In Walt Disney World the show will be shown on Cinderella Castle.  In Disneyland the show will be on the front of It's A Small World.

Here's a preview of what the show will be like in Walt Disney World:

I like the idea of the pictures/memories.  I'm one of those saps who will probably get choked up and have to fight back a few tears.  I have to be honest though, the song kind of makes me cringe.  I really think Disney could have done better with it.  I'm hoping it sounds better in person.

I would love to hear what you think about Disney's new campaign.  Leave a comment or join us on facebook to discuss it!

Hi Ho Hi Ho, It's Off To Disney World I Go - Part Two

Here we go with part two of trip planning series to Disney World!

What To Do? It may seem a little crazy to be already thinking about what to do.  You just decided when to go right?  I know what's going on in your mind - I don't know where I'm staying or for how long yet and I should figure out what I'm doing already?!

It's really not jumping ahead of the game.  You may have read this somewhere before but just in case:

Walt Disney World is huge, over 47 square miles! 

There are lots of things to do there too.  Here are some of the fun things available to do at Disney World:

• Four major theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios
• Two water parks: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon
• Over twenty themed resorts
• Five golf courses
• Two mini-golf courses
• BoardWalk entertainment district
• DisneyQuest - virtual theme park
• Downtown Disney shopping and dining district
• Sports Complex
• private lakes to enjoy water sports, boating and fishing

With so much to do in Disney World, you should have a general idea of what you would like to do on your vacation.  Such as:

• Do you want to visit all four theme parks?

• Do you want to visit the water parks?

• Are other recreational activities such as renting a boat or playing mini golf something you would like to do?

• Do you want to go check out Downtown Disney?

• Do you want to spend some time at your resort relaxing?

Answering these questions will help you decide how long to stay, where to stay and what kind of ticket you should get.

To find out the best, up to date information, go straight to the source and visit the official Disney website.

Hi Ho Hi Ho, It's Off To Disney World I Go - Part One

Not very original, but kind of catchy.  You know you're humming the tune right now, don't deny it!  You can thank me later!

One of my favorite things to talk about is trip planning to Walt Disney World.  There's lots of information on the subject out on the wide world web.  So much, it could make your head spin!  You guessed it, I'm going to put more out there!  In this five part series I am going to share how I get the ball rolling on my Walt Disney World trips.

There are five major things you have to decide.  It doesn't matter if it's your first trip or your 50th!

They are:

          1. When To Go?  

          2. What To Do?  

          3. How Long To Stay?

          4. Where To Stay? 

          5. What Kind Of Ticket and/or Package To Get? 

Okay let's tackle When To Go!

I'm sure the number one question everyone has is:  When is the best time to go?  Here's the answer, drum roll please.......... Anytime you can!  Walt Disney World is open 365 days a year!  It never closes!

Seriously, the answer to the question is all relative - find the best time for YOU!  Some of the determining factors could be cost, crowd levels, park hours, weather and events.  Let's take a look at it:

Cost:  Long gone are the days when it was simple to determine the cost of a Disney World vacation.  Once upon a time there were three seasons of pricing for Disney resorts - value, regular and peak.  We now have- value, regular, summer, fall, peak and holiday.  There are also weeknight rates and weekend rates for all the seasons.

The cheapest time to go would be January (except Martin Luther King Weekend) and September.  These are times when people are least likely to travel.  Right after the holidays and right after school starts!

Disney does have promotions like free dining and resort discounts that can save you money too.  No one knows when and if they will continue these promotions.  One can only hope!

Crowd Levels:  There always seems to be a lot of people walking around the parks at Disney World.  The difference is the amount of people waiting in the lines for attractions. When the parks are more crowded you spend more time waiting in line.  Here's a break down of attendance levels.

   Low:

• January (except New Year's Day and Martin Luther King weekend) until just prior to Presidents' Week in February
• The week following Labor Day until the beginning of October
• The week following Thanksgiving until mid-December

   Moderate:

• After Presidents' week in February through early March
• Late April through early June (except Memorial Day weekend) 
• The end of August
• October until the first part of Thanksgiving week
• The week before Christmas (crowds pick up starting a few days before Christmas)

   High:

• Presidents' week in February
• Mid March through Late April (Spring Break for lots of schools)
• Memorial Day weekend
• Mid June through Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day and weekend
• Christmas week through New Year's Day 

Park Hours: Disney compensates the more crowded times of the year with longer park hours. When the parks are less crowded they do not stay open late.

Animal Kingdom can close as early as 5pm, Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios as early as 7pm, Future World in Epcot closes at 7pm with the World Showcase staying open until 9pm.

If you go to Disney World during more crowded times of the year, you will find the parks staying open later ,sometimes as late as midnight or 1 am.  So if you are a night owl, you may want to plan a trip when the parks are open later.

Weather:  I personally do not like hot and humid weather.  I'm okay, not thrilled with hot, but humid weather turns me into a whiny baby!  Some people don't mind the heat and humidity.  I know people who love to go to Disney World in August.  To each his own and an example of having to determine when is best for you!

            Jan   Feb   Mar   Apr   May   Jun   Jul   Aug   Sep   Oct   Nov   Dec

Avg Hi      72      74      79       83      88       91      92     92       90       85     79       73

Avg Lo     50      51      56       60      66       71      73     73       72       65     59       53

Avg rain   2-3     2-3    3-4      2-3     3-4       7        7       6      5-6      2-3    2-3     2-3

Average Temperatures in (F) and average rainfall in inches.

Events:  There are some fun events planned throughout the year at Disney World. Some of the big ones are:

• Holiday Events:  From the end of November through December, the hotels to the theme parks and everything in between, are decked out for the holidays!  You'll find the Candlelight Processional at Epcot, The Osborne Family lights in Disney's Hollywood Studios and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom.

• Fall Events:  Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom from the middle of Sept until the beginning of November.  Epcot's Food & Wine Festival from Oct until the middle of November.

• Spring Events:  Epcot's International Flower & Garden Festival from March until the middle of May.

Hopefully this will help you determine the best time to go for you!

Determining factors for me are cost, crowds and weather.  That being said here are some of my favorite times to go:

• The first two weeks of December:  There is nothing like the Disney Magic mixed with holiday magic! It can be chilly – sometimes even cold, parks close earlier and some attractions may be closed for refurbishment but all of the holiday happenings more than make up for it!

• First three weeks of May:  Weather is warm (can get quite warm sometimes!)  Humidity doesn’t seem to be as bad as in the summer and fall months.  Flower and Garden Festival is in bloom.

• January after the holidays but before President’s Day:  Can be chilly – sometimes cold, parks close earlier and attractions can be down for refurbishment but the low crowds make up for it.

Other good times to visit are:

• First two weeks of June – Some schools are still in session so the crowds aren’t as bad yet!

• Last two weeks of August until the end of September:  Hurricane season, hot and humid – but low crowds. 

Until tomorrow...... Hi Ho Hi Ho, it's off to (fill in the blank) I go .........

You're welcome! 

Fun Things To Do At Walt Disney World

You've arrived at Walt Disney World and you don't want to go to a theme park.  Maybe you have a one day stop (like we do before our cruise) or you arrived in the afternoon.  Maybe you want to take a day off from the parks.  So, what else is there to do?

Here are some fun things to do:

Explore Your Resort - Take a dip in the themed pool. Go for a leisurely stroll around the grounds and take the time to notice all the details.  Visit the resort gift shop.  When you check in, ask if your resort has any special programs.  Depending on where you are staying, there could be hidden mickey challenges, tours or pool activities you may be interested in. Go to the arcade.  Your resort may have boat rentals or surrey bike rentals.

Go To A Character Meal At A Resort - Dine with Mickey and friends at Chef Mickey's in the Contemporary Resort or Cinderella and her evil stepsisters at 1900 Park Fare in the Grand Floridian.  Character meals book up pretty far in advance, especially Chef Mickey's, so make an advanced dining reservation (ADR).

Go To A Dinner Show -  The Hoop De Doo Musical Review at Fort Wilderness Campground or Disney's Spirit of Aloha Show at the Polynesian.

Go To Downtown Disney - Three different areas to explore!

• Marketplace - Shop till you drop! Home to the biggest Disney store in the world!  Lots of fun shops to explore including a huge Lego store.  If you're hungry there are plenty of options to eat.
• The West Side - Go to Disney Quest - an indoor interactive theme park.  Get tickets to Cirque du Soleil - La Nouba
• Pleasure Island - The night clubs are shut down and the area is going through a transformation but you can go to Raglan Road Irish Pub or visit Orlando Harley Davidson.

  
Explore The Monorail Resorts - Ride the monorail and get off at each of the three resorts. Have dinner at one of the resorts, then go to the beach and watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks and the Electrical Water Pageant. 

Go To The Boardwalk - You can check out the different resorts in this area plus find plenty of places to eat.  There is a pretty lake in the middle.  You could take the boat ride to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, go just for the ride!  You can rent a boat or a surrey bike also.

Visit The Animal Kingdom Lodge - This place is incredible!  An African lodge on a 43-acre wildlife preserve.  Where else can you see something like this - besides Africa? You can explore the resort and view the animals - there are four savannas with 30 species of wildlife!  The lobby, I don't even know what to say, you have to see it for yourself!  Here's your chance to try African cuisine too.

Play Miniature Golf -  

• Winter Summerland - two Santa themed courses - Snow and Sand
• Fantasia - two themed courses - Fairway (more like a traditional golf course) and Gardens (Fantasia themed)

 
Take A Carriage Ride - Carriage rides are available at Port Orleans Riverside and Fort Wilderness Campground.  During October there is a Haunted Carriage Ride at Fort Wilderness and in December there is a Sleigh ride there.  You can make advanced reservations for the carriage rides.  There's a wagon ride at Fort Wilderness too - no reservations accepted.

Parasailing/ Watersking - You can go do both!  As well as tubing and wakeboarding at the Contemporary Resort Marina.

You could go fishing, play golf, play tennis, play volleyball, go to a spa, go horseback riding or even drive an Indy car!

Walt Disney World is so much more than theme parks!




 

Fall Happenings at Walt Disney World

Fall is in the air!  I noticed this morning some trees are starting to change color and a few leaves falling. Fall couldn't come soon enough for me, it's been a brutal summer here in the southeast!  Of course as soon as it gets a little cold I will be ready for summer, but that will be another story.

This got me thinking about Walt Disney World in the fall.  I love how they decorate for the fall.  Cornstalks and pumpkins everywhere.  I could try to describe the decorations in detail but a picture is worth a thousand words right?  So here are a few pictures from a trip I took last October.

This was taken at the entrance to the Magic Kingdom

A light post in the Magic Kingdom

                                                       

The Mayor in the Magic Kingdom

The Mayor's wife!

Mickey's Toontown

The fall is a great time to visit, but be warned it can still be hot and humid!

If you are planning a visit or thinking about visiting Walt Disney World in the fall, here are some special events you should know about:

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party - on select nights from September - November the Magic Kingdom is transformed into a spooktacular place!  You have to purchase a separate ticket to this event.  It is held from 7pm to Midnight.

Some of the events include:

• Mickey's "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade - See your favorite characters! The parade begins with an entrance from the headless horseman!
• Trick-or-treating through out the park
• Happy HalloWishes fireworks spectacular — Special Halloween themed fireworks!
• Characters decked out in their favorite costumes — Don't be shy, wear yours too!
• Halloween Dance Parties - Put on your dancing shoes and boogie with Disney characters.
• Special Character Appearances - Some new friends and old favorites

To learn more about Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party click here  

Epcot Food & Wine Festival - This event runs from October 1 - November 14 and is included with park admission.  There are some experiences and programs that require an additional fee. The World Showcase is host to this special event.

Some highlights:

• International Marketplaces - Take a culinary tour around the world. The perfect chance to try food, beer and wine from around the world with appetizer-sized portions averaging $3.00-$7.00. 
• Eat to the Beat Concert Series - Musical entertainment live on stage at World Showcase, America Gardens Theatre.
• Special Exhibits - Visit a wide array of countries and regions of the world along the promenade.
• Fun for Families - Fun events and exhibits for kids of all ages!
• Special Wine & Culinary Programs
• Festival Dining Experiences 

To learn more about Epcot's Food & Wine Festival click here

(entertainment is subject to change)