5 Reasons to Visit Walt Disney World in 2018

Toy Story Land Opens Summer 2018

  1.  Amazing Walt Disney World offers so you can do more, and spend less
  2. Disney Springs Will Welcome Eight New Dining Locations – A total of eight exciting new food and beverage locations are set to make their grand debuts at Disney Springs in 2018. The Edison, along with Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, Enzo’s Hideaway and Pizza Ponte are scheduled to open early in 2018, while Terralina Crafted Italian, Wine Bar George, Jaleo and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill are set to debut later on in the year.  
  3. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival Celebrates its 25th Anniversary –This year’s festival will run from Feb. 28-May 28, 2018. The 90-day event brings with it a multitude of Disney character topiaries, tasty offerings at 15 Outdoor Kitchens, garden tours, the Garden Rocks music series, new kids’ activities, the Egg-Stravaganza scavenger hunt and much more.
  4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Celebrates It’s 20th Anniversary – The  theme park dedicated to celebrating life in the animal kingdom will mark a milestone 20th anniversary on Earth Day, April 22, 2018.  
  5. Toy Story Land Opens in Summer 2018 – The highly anticipated expansion at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will debut to Guests this summer, and with it, two new attractions: Alien Swirling Saucers and the Slinky Dog Dash family coaster. You can already catch a glimpse of what’s in store inside the park’s Walt Disney Presents attraction, where they can view the model and some attraction vehicle maquettes.

By Darren W, Specializing in Disney Destinations

Policy Change for Disney World Resort Hotels

Photos courtesy: @Fireworks_Fairy/Twitter

Starting this week, a new policy is being rolled out across Walt Disney World Resort hotels regarding "Do Not Disturb" signs and room checks by housekeeping staff. 

This new policy requires housekeeping to enter a room once per day. Also, "Do Not Disturb" signs will be replaced with "Room Occupied" signs. This comes in the wake of the Las Vegas massacre where the gunman displayed a "Do Not Disturb" sign on his hotel room door for several days as he prepared for the shooting. 

This policy is currently being introduced at the Magic Kingdom Area resort hotels first. 

Personally, I seldom had a "Do Not Disturb" sign in my room, or if I did display it on my door, some other guest would inevitably take it as a souvenir. The problem is, these new "Room Occupied" signs will make even better souvenirs. 

Darren specializes in Disney Destinations

Video: Hall of President Reopens with President Trump

Donald Trump Audio-Animatronic figure at Hall of Presidents - Walt Disney World Resort.

As with every new president since Hall of Presidents opened at Walt Disney World Resort, an Audio-Animatronics figure of President Donald J. Trump has been added to the show.  According to Walt Disney Imagineering, it features the latest advances in technology that enable smoother and more lifelike movements.

President Trump personally recorded remarks exclusively for The Hall of Presidents, just as each sitting president has done for the attraction since the early 1990s.

The likeness of the animatronic figure appears to be a little "off" from the presidents that were sculpted in the past. On social media, people are saying the figure looks more like Jon Voight but you be the judge. 

Behind the Scenes: Star Wars Galaxy's Edge

Walt Disney Imagineering recently shared a behind-the-scenes look of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge currently being created for Disney's Hollywood Studios. Here's a quick summary of the tour: 

Guests will be able to fly the Millennium Falcon at Walt Disney World Resort.

 

The name of the planet in Walt Disney World's new Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opening is Batuu - a planet on the outer rim of the Star Wars galaxy.

 

A fleet of full-size X-wing starfighters are being built. 

 

Inside the Millennium Falcon - coming 2019 to Disney's Hollywood Studios

 

Retail space will offer toys that appear to be handcrafted by local artisans. 

 

 

 Galaxy's Edge will take visitors into a large-scale hangar of a Str Destroyer.

Update on New Cirque du Soleil Show at Disney Springs

New show coming to Walt Disney World Resort. 

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil is taking its final bow at Disney Springs on New Year’s Eve 2018. I'm told that the new show coming to Disney Springs will pay homage to Disney animation.

An opening date for the new show has not been announced. I'll share details here as they are finalized. 

 

,

New Benefits Extended to Disney Springs Area Resorts

,

Disney Springs Resort Area hotels now eligible for some new package benefits

Beginning January 1, 2018, Guests staying at one of the Disney Springs Resort Area hotels, which are designated Official WALT DISNEY WORLD hotels will be able to participate in Extra Magic Hours.

Scheduled to begin Jan. 10, 2018, Guests who book a Walt Disney Travel Company package staying at one of the Disney Springs Resort Area hotels, which are designated Official WALT DISNEY WORLD hotels and who have booked a Walt Disney Travel Company package, will be able to link their hotel reservation on My Disney Experience and can utilize a 60-day booking window for FastPass+ selections.

The Disney Spring Resort Area hotels include: 

Darren Wittko specializes in Disney Destinations

 

 

New Delivery Method for Magical Extras Card - Walt Disney World

Magical Extras Card - Walt Disney World Resort

Beginning with Jan. 1, 2018 arrivals, there's a new process for Magical Extra Card and voucher delivery. Instead of receiving a generic booklet including the Magical Extras card and vouchers. guests who purchase a Walt Disney Travel Company package and stay at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel will now receive information about the Magical Extras in their MagicBand delivery box. Please note this does not apply to Magical Vacations Travel Agency Exclusive offers. 

by Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Destinations

10 Must-Do Experiences at Epcot's Festival of the Arts

Epcot Festival of the Arts Events

1. Art of Topiaries  The Disney horticulture team will be showing you how we create some of the amazing signature Walt Disney World topiaries. 

2. Watermelon Carving –  A watermelon will be artfully carved while you receive great tips and tricks to use at their next party. 

3. Magic with Water – The Disney Photo Imaging team will discuss tips and tricks for taking great photos around water; including swimming pools, play fountains, waterfalls, and even in the rain. You will also learn about using camera settings, lenses, and locations to get the best results.

4. Animated Flip Books – This session is animation 101 where you will have the opportunity to create their own animated Flip Book while going over the fundamental principles of animation with one of our Disney animators. 

5. Food Styling 101 – If you love taking photos of amazing dishes, this is your experience. The session will look at the basics of what goes into making food photo- and video-ready. Lessons include going from ingredients to a beautiful hero shot, talking tricks and tools of the trade and sharing tips to make their own food photography shine.

6. Inspiring Floral –  This workshop will share floral design principles along with Disney-inspired creations to help you bring the magic of Disney home at any time of the year.

7. Handcrafted Calligraphy – It’ll be difficult not to have fun learning the basics of pointed pen calligraphy. This workshop will cover topics such as mastering faux calligraphy, how to hold an oblique pen, letter formation, common issues you may run into, and which paths they can take with their new skill.

8. Phone Cam Photography – This photography session from Disney Photo Imaging is for everyone! You will learn how to maximize the capabilities of your phone’s camera to improve your photos. Lighting adjustment, color adjustment, taking High Dynamic Range photos, time lapse, and how to edit photos are just a few of the topics on the agenda.

9. Handwritten Typography – Nothing is more personal than typography created by hand and at this workshop, a Walt Disney World Resort creative service manager will teach you how to draw their own hand drawn typography to create personalized gifts and cards.

10. Storytelling Drawings – A single drawing can tell a story – and this workshop will show you how to do it. A Disney animator will share the art of quick sketching from life. Gesture drawing of people covered in this session is a foundational practice for animators, storyboard artists, and directors. 

The Epcot International Festival of the Arts will return January 12 through February 19, 2018 to celebrate all things art – performing, visual and culinary. Book these experiences by calling 407-WDW-TOUR (407-939-8687)

by Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Destinations

EPCOT CELEBRATES THE DISNEY•PIXAR FILM ‘COCO’ WITH NEW ENTERTAINMENT, INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS

El Mariachi Coco de Santa Cecilia

From now until Jan. 6, 2018, El Mariachi Coco de Santa Cecilia, a new musical group inspired by the film, will entertain you at the Mexico Pavilion. Named for the town of Santa Cecilia seen in the film, El Mariachi Coco de Santa Cecilia perform songs from the movie including the beautiful “Remember Me” and the heartwarming “The World Es Mi Familia.”

Later this season, Mexico Folk Art Gallery, which currently houses a spectacular collection of “Dia De Muertos” artwork, also will feature an interactive exhibit and festive dioramas showcasing scenes from the film.

In addition to this new musical experience, you can enjoy “Las Posadas,” featuring colorful dancers and performers from Mariachi Cobre celebrating the holiday customs of Mexico during the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. 

Disney's Magical Express Operation Change

Magical Express Operational Changes 

Today I learned of an operational change regarding Disney's Magical Express, that might impact some travel plans. Magical Express will now pick up guests headed to Orlando International Airport 4-hours prior to their flight. Previously Magical Express picked up guests 3-hours prior to their flight. Construction delays at Orlando International as well as longer than usual security lines have caused concern about guests making their flights on time. 

This change will be in effect until further notice. 

By Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Destinations

MagicBand Deadline Coming for Gift of Magic Vacation Package

Disney World - Gift of Magic Special Edition

As a reminder, to ensure delivery of the special gift box and MagicBands by Dec. 15, 2017, those of you who have booked the "Disney Gift Vacation Package" must claim your reservation to your personal My Disney Experience account and verify your mailing address by Dec. 1, 2017. 

Reservations that do not complete these steps by Dec. 1, 2017 will not be sent the special gift box. If a solid MagicBand color is chosen in lieu of the specially designed MagicBand, the selection cannot be changed after Dec. 1, 2017.

Please note this is only for guests who specifically booked the "Disney Gift Vacation Package" and does not apply to "Magical Vacations Travel - Agency Exclusive Offers" or any other package type. 

Disney Gift of Magic - Special Edition Magic Bands

New Restaurant at Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Ale and Compass Restaurant | Walt Disney World

Ale & Compass Restaurant (formerly Captain’s Grille) has been completely transformed into a New England gastropub. The on-stage “hearth” oven area, where a select few diners can grab a seat, is the focal point of this warm and inviting space that is reminiscent of an off-shore lighthouse with rich, salvaged materials that are the decorative finishes.

Check out all the menus for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and the lounge.

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival 2018

Epcot 2018 Flower and Garden Festival

Held each day from Feb. 28-May 28, 2018, the Festival’s 25th anniversary event will feature fan favorites like exhibits, events and tastings including: 

  • Disney Character Topiaries
  • 15 Outdoor Kitchens serving creative, flavor-rich cuisine that highlights spring garden offerings
  • Garden Rocks music series – with its classic rock ‘n’ roll stars from the ‘60s, ‘70s ‘80s and ‘90s. Garden Rocks Dining packages will be available for certain Epcot restaurants – pairing a fabulous meal with reserved seating for your favorite concert
  • Garden Tours – Including Gardens of the World Tour (spring edition); the English Tea Garden Tour; and Royal Tea Garden Tour (extra fee required)
  • New interactive kids play areas
  • And – of course – the millions of extra plants, trees, shrubs, flowers and themed gardens that decorate Epcot in spring. 
  • Also returning will be our Egg-Stravaganza scavenger hunt and hand-crafted and Festival merchandise to extend an already-packed day of adventure at Epcot.

>> Check out available Spring Offers on Walt Disney World Resort hotels and tickets. 

by Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Destinations

New Attraction Coming to Epcot

I'm excited to share that Innoventions will welcome The SpectacuLAB, an engaging new interactive show coming November 2018. 

As you enter The SpectacuLAB, you'll be invited to join a group of real scientists – and their tech-savvy intern – for a series of thrilling experiments that put scientific principles like ultrasonic pressure, barometric pressure, acceleration and force to the test.

Through this funny and fascinating show, Guests of all ages will have the opportunity to participate in the demonstrations and discover how each scientific principle has inspired amazing technologies we enjoy today.

By Darren Wittko

New Hotel Announced for Disneyland

O have some exciting news to share with you about the Disneyland Resort in California. For the first time in almost two decades, Disney will open a new Four Diamond hotel! Set to open in 2021, this hotel will transform the west end of the Downtown Disney District and anchor a new gateway to the Disneyland Resort. 

The stunning 700-room hotel will feature a sophisticated design, extensive landscaping and water elements that will create a resort oasis, showcasing nature on every level of the hotel. The hotel’s location embraces the iconic Disneyland Monorail with a dedicated platform inside the hotel for direct transport into Disneyland Park.

The ground level of the hotel will include shops and restaurants opening onto an expansive landscaped plaza complete with playful water features, creating a gathering place for guests and visitors. The new hotel also connects all four Hotels of the Disneyland Resort through lush gardens and beautifully landscaped walkways, transforming the gateway on the west side and creating a welcoming entry.

By Darren Wittko

2017 Epcot Candlelight Processional Narrators

Disney Legend Kurt Russell, who has starred in Disney films from the 1960s to 2017’s “Guardians of the Galaxy 2” will read the Christmas story this year – as well as gold- and silver-medal-winning gymnast Laurie Hernandez. Two veterans of the event – actress/comedienne Ana Gasteyer and Jodi Benson, voice of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” – complete this year’s list. 

Here is the full list of narrators (everything subject to change, of course):

  • Nov. 24- 26 – Laurie Hernandez – NEW!
  • Nov. 27-28 – Matt Bomer – NEW!
  • Nov. 29 – 30 – Ana Gasteyer
  • Dec. 1-3 – Whoopi Goldberg
  • Dec. 4-5 – Pat Sajak – NEW!
  • Dec. 6-8 – Jodi Benson
  • Dec. 9-11 – Kurt Russell – NEW!
  • Dec. 12-14 – Warwick Davis – NEW!
  • Dec. 15-17 – Trace Adkins
  • Dec. 18-21 – Neil Patrick Harris
  • Dec. 22-24 – CCH Pounder – NEW!
  • Dec. 25-27 – Jaci Velasquez
  • Dec. 28-30 – Chandra Wilson

The Candlelight Processional presents the traditional story of Christmas in truly spectacular fashion – with a celebrity narrator, a 50-piece orchestra and a massed choir.

The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the America Gardens Theatre. These packages, available on select nights, include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited.

In addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite restaurants in and near Epcot like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and The Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort,** with breakfast and dinner options being offered at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk.

Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $35 plus tax per person for adults and $21 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $44 plus tax per person for adults and $15.50 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9.

Epcot provides an extravaganza of holiday entertainment, merchandise, food, beverages and festivities where guests can celebrate at Epcot throughout the holiday season. Time-honored traditions come alive through the sights and sounds of the countries of World Showcase, and live performances enliven the park throughout the day.

Dogs Welcome At Walt Disney World Hotels

Beginning this Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, for the first time ever, Walt Disney World® Resort will be welcoming Guests – and their dogs – to four of its resort properties!

Four Walt Disney World resort hotels have been designated dog friendly. Each property’s per night / per room pet-cleaning rate is:

  • Disney’s Art of Animation Resort $50/night
  • Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort $50/night
  • Disney’s Yacht Club Resort $75/night
  • Cabins at Disney’s Ft. Wilderness Resort $50/night

A maximum of two dogs per guestroom can be accommodated. Each Guest room will have easy access to outdoor pet walkways for exercise and green spaces with pet relief areas. 

At check-in, Pluto’s Welcome Kit includes mat, bowls, a pet ID tag, courtesy plastic disposable bags, puppy pads and dog walking maps. Also included: a Pluto “Do Not Disturb” door hanger indicating to hotel staff that a pet is in the room.

Disney enjoys a partnership with Best Friends Pet Care, an on-property full-service facility that can provide assistance with pet daycare and other pet services (fees apply).
Pet merchandise is coming soon to participating resorts.

While dogs will be allowed to stay in Guest rooms, they will be expected to be well behaved, leashed in public resort areas and properly vaccinated.

Please read the below restrictions and policies about the new dog-friendly trial program (subject to change)

  • Only dogs will be allowed in Guest rooms, and there is a limit of two dogs per Guest room. 
  • Guests are responsible for the proper care, behavior and waste maintenance of their dogs throughout the Resort. 
  • Dogs must be well-behaved and are not allowed on furniture in public areas. 
  • Dogs should be supervised at all times while staying on Resort property and should not be left unattended in your Guest room for more than 7 hours. 
  • Dogs should remain silent if left unattended in your Guest room. If noise is heard, you will be called to address the noise within 30 minutes. 
  • Please display the provided “Do Not Disturb” door hanger outside your room to alert Cast Members that dogs are present. 
  • Housekeeping service in Guest rooms with dogs is only available when Guests are present. Please dial the Housekeeping button on your in-room telephone to schedule a cleaning time at your convenience.
  • Please leash or restrain your dogs at all times while in public spaces on Resort property. 
  • Only licensed service animals are allowed in Food & Beverage locations, the Club Lounge, Pool Areas, Fitness Centers and other public Guest areas. 
  • Guests with dogs are allowed to use some Resort transportation services, including Disney’s Magical Express® and Minnie Van™. In order to use Resort transportation, dogs must remain in pet carriers for the duration of transit. All other Resort transportation and public transportation, including Walt Disney World® Monorails and Friendship Boats, are available to Guests with licensed service animals only.
  • Dogs are not permitted in Theme Parks and Disney Springs®. Only licensed service animals are allowed in these Guest areas. 

Up-to-date vaccination records must be available upon request. 

New VIP Tour at Disney's Animal Kingdom Park

I'm excited to announce the newest addition to the Enchanting Extras Collection — the Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park!

You can prepare for an adventure like no other as this tour gives you the opportunity — as the park transitions from day to night — to experience the magic of nature in a totally unique way. Tour guides share detailed knowledge while you explore the Disney’s Animal Kingdom lands to observe the critters, creatures and other denizens of the park. Plus, you get to enjoy certain attractions with expedited FastPass+ access. The Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour is a great way for you to make the most of your time in Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

The tour takes approximately four hours, and there is a discount available for Disney Visa cardholders and Annual Passholders.

Separate park admission is required. For more information about the Enchanting Extras Collection or to make reservations, call 407-WDW-PLAY (939-7529)

By Darren Wittko

Now available – Minnie Van service at Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Minnie Van Service Begins

Walt Disney World Resort just launched a new transportation pilot called Minnie Van service. Announced earlier this month at D23 Expo 2017, this new transportation service is now available for guests staying at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts.

Through a collaboration with Lyft, guests at these resorts can arrange their own private Disney vehicle right from the Lyft app on their smartphone. With Minnie Van service, Disney cast members will then whisk you away to wherever you want to be at Walt Disney World Resort. This service accommodates up to six guests and provides two versatile car seats so even the tiniest of passengers can travel in style!

Minnie Van service will be available between 6:30 a.m. and 12:30 a.m. (subject to change). Guests staying at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts can learn more by visiting their Bell Services desk.

By Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Destinations

Follow me in the parks!