Disney & Orlando Travel Tips with Destinations in Florida Travel

Latest Disney Updates & Discounts - Follow Us on Twitter

2009-08-21T06:42:00.000-07:00

An great way to stay on top of all of the latest discounts and happenings around Disney World & Orlando is by following our agents on Twitter. Just last week, the newest Disney Resort called Bay Tower opened at Walt Disney World. Our agents were at this Grand Opening tweeting pictures and updates from this event. We also post the latest discounts, even before the general public is aware of the deals.

As a travel agency specializing in Disney & Orlando vacations, you can also follow us on Twitter to learn more about our agency and agents. We are a Florida based agency, so you are traveling where we live. Following us on Twitter, you will see how often our agents visit Disney World and take Disney Cruise vacations. When booking your family vacation, don't you want to book your trip with a real Disney Expert? Not just a travel agent that has been to Disney World a few times or a Disney Reservation Agent that lives in Salt Lake City?

What Makes Adventures by Disney the Ultimate Vacation

2009-08-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

There are a few words that make me think of an Adventures by Disney vacation...hassle-free and VIP. These words make an Adventures by Disney one of the best vacations you will ever experience, at least for me it did. I have two small kids, so taking a vacation is rarely hassle-free, but an Adventures by Disney vacation really is, just that. Most everything is pre-paid, so when you arrive you don't have to worry about money or expenses. You can just enjoy! When you arrive to the airport, you are greeted by a guide and then escorted to your hotel. Your luggage is picked up for you. All of your gratuities are taken care of for the meals, housekeeping, and more. Your luggage is transported from one resort to the next resort. You don't have to worry about communicating with the locals, if you do not speak the language - you have guides to help you. There are no worries during an Adventures by Disney vacation and traveling with a family really does make this a hassle-free vacation.

If you ever wanted to feel like a celebrity, take an Adventures by Disney Tour. You will get VIP experiences that only Disney can arrange. My favorite behind the scene tour is in the City of Knights and Lights Tour in England and France. You will go to the Lion King Show, but not just attend this show. You will sit in the very front row and then after the show, you will be escorted back stage to see how they put the show on and even meet some of the cast.

Another one of my favorites is the Southern California which is the Backstage Magic Tour. In this VIP tour, you will get behind the scene tours of the Walt Disney Imagineering Studio and even meet a puppeteer at Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. These are only VIP experiences that Disney can arrange! These are just a few examples of the special VIP services that Disney offers their guests during any Adventures by Disney Tour.

I hear many stories from guests everyday about their incredible experiences from the special pins that you get daily during your trip, to the picture postcards that your guide may surprise you with to send home to friends/family, to a night in a real castle for the little and big Princesses in your family...the incredible experiences go on and on. An Adventures by Disney vacation really is the ultimate vacation! For more information about an Adventures by Disney vacation, click here.

Why Book with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

2009-08-17T18:40:00.000-07:00

Book your Disney vacation, with a travel agency that’s been specially designated as an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Unlike, some other agencies, all of our agent’s extensive knowledge of the Disneyland® Resort, Walt Disney World® Resort, Disney Cruise Line®, Adventures by Disney, Disney Theme Parks, resort hotels, dining, recreation- and other magical amenities- can help you get the most of your vacation.

And, the assistance of our Travel Professionals can help you customize a Disney vacation that’s right for you, your family and your budget. Plus, most of our agents are locally based in Florida. We live where you are traveling! Contact us to book your next Disney vacation!

Kids Sail Free on 2010 Mediterranean Cruise

2009-08-14T18:38:00.000-07:00

Take your family on a 10-Night or 11-Night Disney Mediterranean Cruise and spend ALOT less money with a new discount promotion. Kids (ages 17 and under) will sail free with two full fare guests in the stateroom. This discount is available for Category 4-12 staterooms and is available for most Mediterranean Cruises from April 24 – May 26, 2010.

In addition to the Kids Sail Free Discount, book with Destinations in Florida Travel for an additional shipboard credit to use during your cruise. A shipboard credit is money added to your stateroom that you can spend during your cruise on souvenirs, recreation, Shore Excursions, alcohol, or even spa treatments. It is free cash to enjoy during your cruise! For more information, visit us at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Adventures by Disney 2010 Itineraries

2009-08-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

Imagine traveling within the United States or Internationally and having a completely hassle free trip with memories to last a lifetime. That is an Adventures by Disney vacation! An Adventures by Disney Tour is an all inclusive vacation with special VIP and Disney touches. You will get access to private events and tours, bypass regular lines for area attractions, have expert locals tell the stories, special activities for children called Junior Adventurers and so much more. An Adventures by Disney Tour is truly the ultimate vacation for adults and children.

Disney just released the 2010 itineraries for Adventures by Disney and they are some of the best tours for this year that will continue next year. Here are some of the destinations:

There are 19 different Adventures by Disney Tours to enjoy. If you were ever interested in an Adventures by Disney Tour, watch this video to learn more about this incredible experience.

As an added bonus, book a 2010 Adventures by Disney Tour and receive $100 off per person. This special discount is only available with Destinations in Florida Travel. Mention BLOG in a quote or with an agent for this extra discount with us.

Disney World 2010 Package Released for Booking

2009-08-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

If you are ready for a vacation filled with excitement, relaxation, and tons of memories...it is time to visit Walt Disney World! Disney just released the 2010 prices and packages. The packages are still the Magic Your Way Packages that include your Disney Resort, tickets, and Dining Plans. You also receive quite a few extra free perks including the new Disney Game Card good for 100 game points at a Disney Resort Game Room. For the gamer fans in your family, they will love this free feature. There are lots of other free perks included with your package including $15 voucher for lunch or dinner at Planet Hollywood, souvenir from Planet Hollywood, round of miniature golf for one person in your family, discounts on spa treatments and select recreation, Magical Express transfers and baggage handling, Must See Must Do Guide, and more. Plus, for a limited time book with Destinations in Florida Travel and receive an extra discount off your package. We also watch for any future discounts that may save you additional money on your vacation - this extra service is free. Click here to price your 2010 vacation and be sure to mention BLOG in your quote to get the extra discount on your package.

Disney Channel Summer at Sea on the Disney Cruise

2009-08-07T18:35:00.000-07:00

I am joining you today from the Disney Wonder on a 3-Night Cruise with our favorite Disney Channel Stars on the Summer at Sea Cruise. We are here with several stars from the Disney Channel Shows including Debby Ryan from The Suite Life on Deck and Jennifer Stone from the Wizards of Waverly Place. We will even enjoy a special concert from the group called KSM. It is an exciting cruise for all of the Disney Channel Stars!

The great part of this special event is that these extra autograph sessions, meet and greets, concerts, and fun with our favorite Disney Channel Stars is just part of the cruise. There is no additional fee to enjoy the Disney Channel Summer at Sea Cruise. The Disney Channel Summer at Sea Cruises will be running all summer on the 3-Night and 4-Night Cruises. Watch our blog for pictures and more details from our cruise with Debby Ryan and Jennifer Stone. Here is a fun video about the Summer at Sea Cruise.

For more information and prices for your cruise, click here.

Free Meals with a Disney Package at Walt Disney World

2009-08-05T20:15:00.000-07:00

The newest Walt Disney World Resort is a popular one! If you visit Disney World this September 29-December 17 and stay at a Disney Resort for 3 nights or longer with a Magic Your Way Package, you can get a Dining Plan for free. The Magic Your Way Package includes a room at a Disney Resort, tickets, and some extra free perks like a $15 voucher for lunch/dinner at Planet Hollywood, $10 arcade card, 5 x 7 PhotoPass certificate, and more.

If you stay at a Disney Value Resort, you will get the Quick Service Dining Plan for free. If you stay at a Disney Moderate Resort or Disney Deluxe Resort, you will get the Basic Dining Plan for free. This is a savings of 22-24% on a Disney World Package. Mention DIF BLOG and get an additional discount off this already discounted prices, when you book with Destinations in Florida Travel. For more information on this discount package with free meals, click here.

New Tower on Castaway Cay Island on Disney Cruise

2009-08-03T18:32:00.000-07:00

If you are up for a little adventure on your Disney Cruise vacation, consider renting bikes or hiking up to the new Tower on the Castaway Cay Island. During the 3-Night, 4-Night and 7-Night Cruises, you make a stop at the Disney owned and operated island called Castaway Cay. This is always my favorite stop on the itinerary. It is Disney World, but in the Bahamas! Disney's own island which the superior service, Children Activities, Disney Characters, and loads of fun. During my last cruise, we decided to hike to the new Tower that gives and incredible view of the whole island. Here are some of the pictures from this adventure.

The plane..the plane!

View of the island

View of the path from the Tower

Yes, those are birds riding a bike.

Yeah, I see the Tower...we are almost there. Little tip: Take the Bikes!

View of the Tower

Notice the Disney Wonder in the far left corner

Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort - Opens Soon

2009-07-31T18:30:00.000-07:00

Nearly 38 years after Disney’s Contemporary Resort opened its doors, its modern Disney Vacation Club addition, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, is scheduled to welcome guests on Aug. 4. This will be the seventh Disney Vacation Club (DVC) property at Walt Disney World Resort.

All 15 stories of the ultra-sleek design continue the original building’s iconic style, which opened with the Magic Kingdom theme park Oct. 1, 1971. Bay Lake Tower complements and pays homage to Disney’s Contemporary Resort while also offering a variety of new amenities and conveniences – kitchenettes or full kitchens complete with granite countertops and modern appliances, and other homelike amenities. In addition, most of the 295 two-bedroom equivalent villas in the crescent-shaped tower offer spectacular views of Bay Lake or Magic Kingdom.

Bay Lake Tower, like all DVC resorts, blends Disney magic with elegant design and premier accommodations. DVC members – and, based on availability, overnight Walt Disney World guests staying at Bay Lake Tower – can choose from a number of recreation activities and facilities, including a children’s interactive water play area, Bay Cove Pool, a barbeque pavilion, a Community Hall and two nearby tennis courts.

For easy access to Disney’s Contemporary Resort’s restaurants, merchandise shops and the monorail, the Sky Way Bridge takes members and guests from the fifth floor of Bay Lake Tower directly to the fourth floor Grand Canyon Concourse of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The opening of Bay Lake Tower is an exciting chapter in the history of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. “Our resort motto is ‘Where Tradition Touches Today,’ and the marriage of our iconic resort with this elegant new Disney Vacation Club offering is a perfect example,” said Thea Sargent, general manager of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. “Plus, with all of the enhancements we have made to the resort over the last few years – from costumes and landscaping to restaurants and merchandise locations – we offer our overnight guests and DVC members an unparalleled ‘contemporary’ resort experience. I think this kind of evolution is exactly what Walt Disney envisioned for our resort.”

Bay Lake Tower is the third Disney Vacation Club offering to open at Walt Disney World Resort this year, following the first phase of Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. What excites me most about this tremendous growth is that we’re not only creating new accommodations but new experiences for our Disney Vacation Club members as well as our resort guests,” said DVC President Jim Lewis. “Each of the projects we’ve undertaken at Disney Vacation Club is unlike anything previously available in our resort portfolio, and Bay Lake Tower proudly builds on that tradition.”

A Little Extra Disney Magic

2009-07-29T18:29:00.000-07:00

How often do you buy a TV or an item for your family and then several months later, get an email or call from the company saying that your item went on sale and you are getting a refund. In my life, that has never happened! However, all day today that is what we did for our guests that booked a Disney World vacation. Disney just released a new discount package that includes one of the Disney Dining Plans for free. Our entire office spent the time to call Disney and personally to change all of the Disney World Packages (that were already booked with a deposit) to this new promotion. We then contacted our guests to let them know we were able to book this new discount and saved them hundreds to thousands of dollars. One of the family wedding groups we had booked, saved over $3,500 with this new discount.

In a time when everyone ones to save as much money as possible on everything, isn't it nice to know you have someone on your side watching to make sure you get the best possible price on your trip (even after you paid for it). That is just one of the services we provide our guests everyday. For more information about our agency or the new Disney World Package, visit our website at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Why Stay at a Disney Resort

2009-07-27T18:27:00.000-07:00

For many guests, the benefit of staying at a Walt Disney World owned-and-operated resort begins before arrival to Disney World. And for all guests, the benefits and perks combine to make vacation magic 24 hours a day – whether at a Disney Value Resort designed for budget-minded vacationers … or at a Disney Deluxe Resort or Deluxe Villa offering lavish amenities.

Disney resort hotels are designed to provide a lot more than a pillow beneath guests’ heads. They are created to immerse guests in a continuation of the worry-free vacation magic and adventures of the Disney parks. Thus the hotels have themes celebrating the long ago or the far-away or even the world of imagination where toys can be bigger than people.

Walt Disney World Resort offers a broad range of accommodations – 23 resorts that vary in price, allowing guests to pay for only the amenities that are important to them. Disney Value resort guests are treated to larger-than-life theming, swimming pools and playgrounds, arcade rooms and standard amenities – and with more than 8,000 rooms at four resorts, about one-third of Disney’s hotel accommodations fall into the Value category. Families who prefer the great outdoors can rent a campsite at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground (with nearly 800 available) and either pitch a tent or bring along an RV. Moderate resorts, Deluxe resorts and Deluxe Villa resorts are available for guests who prefer additional amenities during their stay.

Consistent among all 23 Disney owned-and-operated hotels is staff trained in the Disney way of friendly helpfulness. Also consistent: perks and benefits that add value to the vacation experience. Here’s a look at some of the reasons why Disney hotels are so popular with vacationers:

Disney's Magical Express Shuttle Service - Free shuttle service from the Orlando International Airport
Disney's Magical Express Baggage Handling - Disney will pick up your luggage from the airport and deliver it to your resort room
Disney Transportation - Excellent transportation around the Walt Disney World Resort
Extra Magic Hours - Enjoy extra time at the Disney Theme Parks just for Disney Resort guests
Golf Club Rentals - A new free perks allows guests staying at a Disney Resort to get access to the golf club rentals for no additional cost
Key to the World Card - One card that is used as your room key, tickets, Dining Plan, incidentals, and ID. All in one card!
Package Delivery - Purchase any souvenirs at the Disney Theme Parks and they will deliver it back to the gift shop at your Disney Resort for free. You never have to carry around another bag at the Disney Theme Parks again.

For more information about the benefits of staying at a Disney World Resort, contact our Disney World Specialists.

2009-07-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite activities while visiting the Disney World Resorts or the Disney Theme Parks is looking for Hidden Mickeys. A Hidden Mickey is a Mickey Mouse shape with the head and two ears. These Hidden Mickeys are placed around the Walt Disney World Resort by Imagineers. Here is a picture of the new Sanaa Restaurant at Kidani Village at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. Do you see the Hidden Mickey?

Secret Staterooms on a Disney Cruise Vacation

2009-07-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves an upgrade! You can pay for a less expensive inside room and get an upgrade to the next category or even book an inside stateroom and get an upgrade to a view. This picture on the left is an example of the inside stateroom with an oceanview.

When booking your Disney Cruise vacation, booking with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner gives you that extra edge. Our agents are experts in booking Disney Cruise vacations. We know the best deck, perfect stateroom for adults, and even the secret staterooms like the inside staterooms with a view.

That is one of the reasons you book with us. We know all of the insider secrets to help you get the best possible deal and special upgrades. Next time you are considering a Disney Cruise vacation, contact us first. Our agents will find you the best deal and add some extra magic into your cruise vacation.

For more information, contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel.

New Pool at Kidani Village at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

2009-07-20T07:47:00.000-07:00

The newest resort at Walt Disney World is the Villas at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort or also called Kidani Village at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort. This new resort is amazing, but the true highlight is the pool. The pool area is one of the best pools at Walt Disney World with lots of fun activities for the kids. Here are some pictures from a recent visit to the Kidani Village pool at Walt Disney World.

Part of the splash park area for the kids

These are water jets that pop up around the splash park

Picture of the big pool for kids and adults

View of the rocks and waterfall (waterslide is one the other side)

More splash park area with the character snakes in the background

Relaxing hot tub for adults

For more information about Kidani Village or the Walt Disney World Resorts, contact our Disney World Specialists at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Deck Party on the Disney Cruise

2009-07-17T08:15:00.000-07:00

Once you board the Disney Cruise Ship, the party begins! Every Disney Cruise kicks off with a Deck Party as the ship leaves Port Canaveral. You can dance, sing, and see your favorite Disney Characters in this celebration. You can also meet your Disney Crew from the Captain to the Recreation Staff to keep the party running the whole cruise. Here are some fun pictures from a recent Disney Cruise for our agents:

For more information about specials or booking a Disney Cruise vacation, contact our Disney Cruise Specialists at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Disney World Tip of the Day

2009-07-15T18:21:00.000-07:00

The Disney World Tip of the Day comes from Disney Theme Park Cast Members at Magic Kingdom. Since they work at the parks where you are visiting, you know they have some good tips to beating the crowds at the Theme Parks. The Disney Tip of the Day is....(drumroll)...visit more popular rides during the parades or fireworks. If you have seen the parades or fireworks at Magic Kingdom, spend that valuable time hitting a more popular ride like Splash Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain instead of watching another parade or fireworks. Since most of the people are waiting for the parade or fireworks to start, this is a great time to hit the more popular attractions at Magic Kingdom Park.

Get the Kids Excited About a Disney World Vacation

2009-07-13T10:14:00.000-07:00

Go on...I know you want to yell it, "We're Going to Disney World!" So, you booked your trip and now you wait until it is time to go on your vacation. Why not make the waiting fun, too! You can get the kids involved at home and have some fun while you countdown your trip to Disney World. Here are some of our favorite family activities to help countdown to your Disney World vacation:

Have a movie night - Find your favorite Disney Classic movie or Disney-Pixar movie, pop some popcorn, and have a Disney Movie Night. Just calling it Disney Movie Night will get everyone excited!

Plan you Theme Park days - Pull out the guide maps to the Disney Theme Parks and have each family member pick out their favorite 3 rides to enjoy during your vacation. This will help maximize your time at the parks by hitting only the family's favorites and will get everyone excited about your trip.

Have a Themed Dinner - My youngest loves Alice in Wonderland! We will often have a night that we call the Alice in Wonderland Tea Party. We make sandwiches, fruit, and tea punch. We find out favorite hats and all join in on the fun!

Decorate your Car - If you are driving, go buy some shoe polish (the stick kind) and let the kids decorate your windows with fun sayings like "Mickey Mouse here we come" or "Running on Tinkerbell Dust". The kids will love decorating your car and it will wash right off with the rain or water.

Planning a Disney World vacation can be as much fun as visiting Disney World. Plan some fun activities at home to get the whole family ready for a Walt Disney World vacation. For more tips, contact our Disney World Specialists at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Diana Exhibit at Downtown Disney

2009-07-10T19:59:00.000-07:00

Hundreds of royal artifacts are on view in "DIANA - The People's Princess," a limited-time experience showcasing the life and story of Diana, Princess of Wales -- open now at Downtown Disney in the Walt Disney World Resort. The exhibition includes royal dresses Diana chose to auction for charity, photos and personal effects. "DIANA - The People's Princess" will be on display through Nov. 30, 2009. Tickets may be purchased at the exhibit - $14.50 for ages 10 and older, $5 for ages 3-9.

Enjoy Food? Plan a Disney World Vacation with Free Meals During Epcot Food & Wine Festival

2009-07-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is a free event held this year from September 25-November 8. This event is free with your paid admission into Epcot. You will enjoy the flavors of more than 25 international marketplaces including Bologna, Italy, Bangkok, Thailand, Wellington, New Zealand, Santiago, Chile, Marrakesh, Morocco, Shanghai, and China. You will also enjoy entertainment including the Eat to the Beat! Concert Series.

To make this event even more tasty, plan on visiting in late September and you can enjoy your meals during your Disney World vacation for free. From August 16-October 3, Disney is offering the Basic Dining Plan for free with a Magic Your Way Package. This means you can get free meals and enjoy a free event during your Disney World vacation! For more information on the International Food & Wine Festival, contact our agents at Destinations in Florida Travel. For more information about the Magic Your Way Package plus Free Dining, click here.

Keeping Kids Cool at Walt Disney World

2009-07-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

During these hot summer months at Disney World, keep your kids cool with interactive fountains at some of the Disney Theme Parks and even Downtown Disney. The interactive fountains are a great way to keep kids cool and are lots of fun! The fountains jump around in specific patterns and the tire floor keeps their feet comfortable.

Pack the kids swimsuits, just in case you want to take a break to let the kids play in the fountains at Epcot or just spend some cool time at Downtown Disney Marketplace.

New Pirate Adventure at Walt Disney World

2009-07-03T18:14:00.000-07:00

The Pirates League is the newest buccaneer adventure in the Magic Kingdom, featuring makeovers that turn theme park guests into savvy swashbucklers. Depending on the pirate package, a trained Pirate Master can transform boys, girls (ages 3 and up) and grownups into pirates, buccaneers and maidens using facial effects, fake scars, removable teeth, hats, bandanas and other costume accessories. Included in each of the three packages offered: a sword and sheath, earring and eye patch, temporary tattoo, exclusive pirate coin necklace, map case folder, a personalized pirate oath and a pirate portrait. Packages start at $49.95 plus tax. Contact one of our Disney Specialists at Destinations in Florida Travel for more information.

Five Orlando Theme Parks at One Great Price

2009-06-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

One of the best ticket values for an Orlando vacation is the popular Orlando FlexTicket. For one discount price, you can get admission for 14 consecutive days to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Sea World, Aquatica, and Wet n Wild. You can visit these parks as much as you would like for two weeks. You also save money on parking, since you only pay parking once each day.

You can even upgrade the Orlando FlexTicket to the PLUS Option to include one additional visit to Busch Gardens Tampa with a free bus ride from Sea World. This is the perfect way to enjoy most of the Orlando Theme Parks in one easy ticket at one great price. Click here to purchase the discount Orlando FlexTickets.

Beat the Heat at Walt Disney World

2009-06-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

Today, the temperature in Orlando has a high of 98 degrees. With the humidity, it will feel like 103 degrees. Let's just say it...that is HOT! As Florida Residents, we almost get used to this heat during a Disney World vacation. Here are some of our tips to help you enjoy your vacation and beat that summer heat.

Wake Up Early - I know this your vacation and you probably want to sleep in. However, a Disney World vacation is not the type of vacation to sleep in. Plan on getting up early and arriving to the Disney Theme Parks at least 15 minutes before the gates open. It is cooler in the morning and you will be amazed how much of the Disney Park you can get through before the crowds hit.

Don't Wait in Lines - Waiting in lines, makes the heat seem even even hotter! Minimize your waits by arriving early, using the FastPass system, and using the Extra Magic Hours. Even during the popular summer months, you can visit at Disney Theme Park without having to wait in those long lines.

Taking an Afternoon Break at your Hotel - One of the favorite locals tips is taking a break from 12-2 PM from the Disney Theme Parks. Head back to your Disney Resort or Orlando Hotel and enjoy a nap or take a dip in the pool. It will refresh you and get you ready to head back to the park for evening activities.

Plan on Rain - It rains almost every afternoon in Orlando! Plan for it by bringing ponchos or umbrellas. When it rains, don't leave the parks. Once the rain lets up, you can enjoy a little bit cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Wear Good Clothes - Plan on wearing a hat, Tevas or tennis shoes, and light clothing. We love Columbia clothes or exercise clothing with the dry weave. It helps keep you cooler and dryer. Many of the Theme Parks have water rides that will help keep you cool at the parks. However, you want to wear clothing that drys quickly. Wearing thick clothing light jeans or sweatshorts and you will be uncomfortable while you slowly dry. You want to wear cool clothing and clothing that can dry quickly.

Take Eating & Drinking Breaks - During your day at the Disney Theme Parks, take little stops in the restaurants to grab a quick drink and snack or just to plan your next attraction. Little 15 minute stops in restaurants will refresh your group for the next adventure.

Purchase a Battery Operated Fan - Just the other day I saw those cute little battery operated fans at Walgreens. They are $3-5 if you purchase them at home before your trip. Disney sells these same type fans, but at a much higher price. These are perfect entertainment for kids and will help keep you cool waiting for a show or in a line. Buy a fan for everyone!

Don't forget the Little Ones - The strollers can get really hot for the little ones. Plan on purchasing battery operated fans to strap onto the strollers. You may even want to pack a little screen to put over the stroller to block out the sun. Even pack a light washcloth to wet throughout the day to keep them cooler.

Most important - don't forget the sunblock! We see so many guests that get red on the first day of their vacation. Spending the days outside in the heat with a sunburn makes for a very miserable vacation. Wear hats, cool clothes and wear that sunblock. Contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel for more info about planning a Disney World vacation.

Five Orlando Theme Parks...One Great Price!

2009-06-25T10:24:00.000-07:00

Magic Kingdom on the 4th of July Holiday

2009-06-20T10:19:00.001-07:00

The 4th of July holiday is always a popular time to visit the Walt Disney World Resort. On this holiday, Magic Kingdom is usually the busiest Theme Parks. One of our favorite tips to beat this 4th of July crowd is by visiting Magic Kingdom on July 3 instead. This year, Disney will be offering the same fireworks show on July 3 and July 4. Plan on visiting Magic Kingdom on July 3 to see this popular fireworks show and then on July 4, hit a less popular Disney Theme Park or Disney Water Park.

Some of the less popular Disney Theme Parks on the 4th of July are Epcot and Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. The 4th of July is a fun holiday to spend with your family at Walt Disney World. Spend it enjoying your family time together instead of waiting in lines! Contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel for more info about planning a Disney World vacation.

Disney Cruise Tip of the Week

2009-06-18T07:57:00.000-07:00

When deciding between a Disney Cruise 3-Night or 4-Night Cruise, go with the 4-Night Cruise. The 4-Night Cruises are perfect for a shorter cruise. This cruise includes a day at Nassau, a day at Castaway Cay and a day at sea before heading back to Port Canaveral, Florida. What makes the 4-Night Cruise a little better than the 3-Night Cruise is the flexibility. The Captain is always watching the weather forcast on your cruise. If the weather looks rainy during a day at Castaway Cay, he has the flexbility of swapping the day at Castaway Cay with the day at sea. This happens quite often during the rainy season in the Bahamas. The Captain has even been know to double dip and allow the ship to dock twice at Castaway Cay if one day is rainy and the other day is nice and sunny. Since Disney owns Castaway Cay, the ship and crew are able to help you have the best possible Disney Cruise vacation and that includes working around weather. For more information on a Disney Cruise vacation, contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Pirate League Sets Sail at Magic Kingdom

2009-06-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

The Black Pearl is docking in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park starting this June 29 to recruit pirates for the Pirate League. Pirates of all ages are welcome. To kick off the adventure, you get a pirate name and then it is off to the Muster Station to choose a variety of pirate accessories including beards, eye patches, scars, earring or even gold teeth. You can listen to a veteran pirate tales of sea-sailing adventures. Some of the pirate adventures include:

First Mate Package: Includes bandana; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.

Empress Package: Includes bandana; shimmering makeup; face gem; tattoos; nail polish; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.

Captains Package: Includes choice of costume/outfit from selection; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; three 5x7-inch photos; and personalized pirate oath -- $124.95 plus tax.

Admission into Magic Kingdom is required for the Pirate League. To book the Pirate League on or after June 29, contact our Disney Specialists with Destinations in Florida Travel. We book all dining, recreation, and extra activities as part of our free Concierge Services.

Extra Magic at the Disney World Resorts

2009-06-15T10:12:00.000-07:00

The Disney World Resorts are surrounded by the Disney Magic 24 hours a day. One of our favorite bits of magic is provided by the Housekeeping Department. The Housekeeping Department at the Disney World Resorts do an excellent job of keeping your room clean and providing towels, bed rails, and even mini-refrigerators for your visit. Anything you may need and they are a quick phone call away. That is the typical customer service you expect when you stay at a hotel. What makes the Disney Magic are the extra touches you receive or sometimes called Magical Moments.

One of my favorite Disney Magic shines through as you walk a Disney Resort like Disney's All Star Music Resort. As you walk around the resort, you will see this magic in the form of stuffed animal displays in the guest room windows. You may even find a bunny that is made out of a washcloth or your child's stuffed animals displayed in the window looking outside. These special touches are the extras that you will see during your Disney World vacation. That extra magic that makes you and your family smile! Contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel for more info about planning a Disney World vacation.

Disney Free Dining Plan Extended

2009-06-10T10:11:00.000-07:00

You still have time to book the best discount package on a Disney World vacation. Disney extended the sale for the Magic Your Way Package plus Free Basic Dining through the end of July. You can vacation with this discount from August 16-October 3 and including a Magic Your Way Package with room and Theme Park tickets. Plus, you get the Basic Dining Plan for free. Here are some sample prices for a 5-Night Package with a 6-Day Base Ticket for a family of 4:

$1,390 in a standard room at a Disney Value Resort
$1,764 in a standard room at a Disney Moderate Resort
$2,276 in a standard room at Disney's Wilderness Lodge or Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
$2,586 in a studio at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort or Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Guests that book with Destinations in Florida Travel will receive an extra discount off this sale. We guarantee our prices are lower than Disney direct. Plus, our agents offer extra Concierge Services for no additional cost. Free perks, extra discount, and excellent service with Destinations in Florida Travel. We are your PremEAR Disney World vacation planners! Click here for more details on this discount package.

Pack an Extra Suitcase for a Disney World Vacation

2009-06-05T08:55:00.000-07:00

Our tip of the day for a Disney World vacation is pack an extra suitcase for your Disney World vacation. One of the most popular activities on any vacation is shopping! There are lots of stores at the Walt Disney World Resort, so you will come home with more than you took to Disney World. You will need extra space to carry home your Disney stuff animals, unique International souvenirs from Epcot, or just Disney World t-shirts. Make sure you are prepared for your trip home by having extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs. We always suggest taking an extra suitcase, just for souvenirs for your trip home. Happy Shopping! Contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel for more info about planning a Disney World vacation.

The Magic of a Disney World Vacation

2009-06-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

On a recent trip to Disney World I grabbed the popular turkey leg and just sat on a bench to "people watch". Ask any Disney Cast Member and this is usually one of the "attractions" at the Disney Theme Parks. It helps you see what really happens to the guests during their days at the Disney Theme Parks. As I was sitting there I started thinking about growing up and visiting Disney World as a kid. I could remember many of my fun Disney World vacations with my family. I started thinking about favorite presents that I got growing up and I could not really think of any presents. In our lives the memories tend to be what we remember, not as much things. I could not remember a single present, but I could remember many great memories of my Disney World vacations growing up.

When thinking about a way to remember a birthday, consider a Disney World vacation instead of a party with presents. Make a birthday to remember with Mickey Mouse! Click here for birthday party freebies at Disney World. Contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel for more info about planning a Disney World vacation.

Universal Studios Florida Kids Free Vacation

2009-06-03T10:07:00.000-07:00

For a limited time, Universal Studios Florida is offering a new discount package called Kids Free Vacation for vacations through September 30. If you book a Universal Studios vacation for 4 nights or longer, save up to 30% off your Universal Studios Hotel. Plus, get (1) free child 2-Park Unlimited Pass for every adult in your room. To make this promotion even better, kids eat free for lunch and dinner with a paid adult entree. This discount package is available at Royal Pacific Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Studios. This discount package is available for summer vacations through September 30, but you do have to book your vacation with a deposit before July 31. Click here for more details.

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort - Newly Renovated Rooms

2009-06-02T07:35:00.000-07:00

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is a popular Disney Moderate Resort at Walt Disney World. This resort is going through a resort room renovations including new carpet, bedding, decorations and more. It is a beautiful renovation with bright colors and new dark woods. The renovation is incredible, but the bedding is going to be the popular update on this room renovation. The huge improvement over the older rooms are the new Queen Beds instead of Double Beds. In the past, only the Disney Deluxe Resorts offered Queen Beds. Now, the less expensive Disney Moderate Resorts have the larger beds for a more comfortable vacation.

For more information or questions at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, click here.

Walt Disney World is StormReady

2009-06-01T10:04:00.000-07:00

Planning your Disney World vacation during hurricane season, you can feel safe knowing that Disney World is StormReady. The National Weather Service has recognized the Walt Disney World Resort for their leadership in emergency management as a StormReady community.

The StormReady program helps community leaders and emergency managers improve communication and safety procedures to protect lives and property before and during severe weather events. The Walt Disney World Resort made history in 2006 as the nation's first theme park and resort area to be recognized as a StormReady Community and remains the only acknowledged commercial site in Florida.

You should feel confident that the Walt Disney World Resort is always thinking about their guests to make sure they have a safe and magical vacation. Contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel for more info about planning a Disney World vacation.

Is Characters in Flight at Downtown Disney Loosing Steam?

2009-05-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

The newest attraction at Downtown Disney West Side is called Characters in Flight. It is a tethered balloon ride that goes up about 400 feet above Downtown Disney. It is an incredible view, but many of us locals are wondering if it is worth it. Since the recent opening of this new attraction, our agents have tried many times to go ride this new attraction. Being locals, it is just a quick drive up the road. However, all of the times we have tried to ride this attraction we have never been able to do so. The reason...the ride will not operate due to wind or rain. This is Florida and it certainly does get windy and rainy around here, so that can be quite an issue for this new attraction.

We got lucky last Friday when some of our agents were visiting Disney's Hollywood Studios for the 20th Anniversary. We saw the balloon floating in the air and had to go ride it. We just left Disney's Hollywood Studios where Tower of Terror (one of the most popular rides at Disney) only had a 20 minute wait. We got to the Characters in Flight and got really excited. There were a few people on the dock waiting for their ride (maybe around 20 people) and then 10 people in line to purchase tickets. We actually thought we got there before the crowds for a quick ride. I know, I know, being locals we should have known better.

We spent 30 minutes waiting in line just to buy the tickets. I know you would think that 10 people in line should go a little bit faster, what happened? With this ride, they only allow a certain number of people on the dock or as they call it "on deck" to ride. Once they reach a certain number, they stop selling tickets. While we waited, they stopped selling tickets twice.

Once we got the opportunity to purchase the tickets, we headed down to the dock. We waited for two balloon rides and then it was out turn. The whole experience from getting in line to riding the Characters in Flight balloon took 1 hour and 15 minutes. It was quite funny to us, since it really looked like no line for this attraction. We talked with one of the Cast Members after the ride to get some more details on the wait. This is a balloon ride and the number of people riding vary depend on the weather conditions. Since it was a little windy, they only allowed 10 people at a time instead of the usual 20 people. This caused what seemed to be a "short line" into a very long wait.

If this looks like a ride that you want to try during your Disney World vacation, we have some tips to better your experience. First, call Disney Guest Services (from your resort phone) before heading to Downtown Disney to make sure the Characters in Flight is operational. Second, get to the ride at opening to avoid any lines at all.

Happy Flying!

Thrill of a Lifetime at Walt Disney World - Drive a Real IndyCar

2009-05-27T09:06:00.000-07:00

A couple of our agents got to experience a thrill of a lifetime at Walt Disney World! The newest recreational activity at Disney World is called the Indy Racing Experience. The Indy Racing Experience allows you to either ride along with a professional driver or drive a real Indy Race Car around the Walt Disney World Speedway. Yes, Disney World has their very own racetrack!

The experience starts out around 3 PM to fill out some paperwork and suit up in our firesuits. The firesuits and shoes were actually kinda cool and got us in the mood for speed. The drivers got a short instruction session about driving the cars. The drivers were then suited up with caps and helmets. For the driving experience, you get to sit in a single driver IndyCar. You follow a professional driver as you go around the Walt Disney World Speedway. If you speed up, the driver will speed up. This means you can go as fast or as slow as you want to go. You take eight laps around the track. Our agent's drive experience brought him to speeds up to 101 miles per hour. Needless to say, our agent loved the experience. He was ready to go again.

I got the chance for my ride along after all of the drive experiences. We got our masks and helmets on and climbed into the back of a two seater IndyCar. The professional driver sits in the front of the car and the riders sit in the back. The ride along experiences go much faster than the drives. Our fastest speed was 135 miles per hour. The rides take 3 laps around the Walt Disney World Speedway. It was exhillirating!

The cost is actually quite reasonable. The ridealong is $109 plus tax and the drive is $399 plus tax. There are a few requirements for the Indy Racing Experience. You must be at least 18 years old and under 6'5" and under 250 lbs. This is a great evening activity that takes just a few hours. Family members can stay on the track and take pictures and video while the drivers and riders take their experience. There is even an air-conditioned room if some of the family members need a break in the Florida heat. The Indy Racing Experience does provide shuttle transportation from the Disney Ticket & Transportation Center to the track for Disney Resort guests.

It was an incredible experience for any thrill seekers who wants more excitement than riding Tower of Terror or Expedition Everest. Try a ride or drive with the Indy Racing Experience! For more information, click on this link or call them at 888-357-5002.

Adventures by Disney - The Ultimate Family Vacation

2009-05-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

The Disney Difference

An Adventures by Disney vacation is unlike any vacation you can experience on your own! Learn historic legends, marvel at miraculous sights and turn once-in-a-lifetime moments into memories you’ll cherish forever. Adventures by Disney knows that every corner of the globe has an extraordinary story to tell.

With the impeccable service and attention to detail offered by Adventures by Disney, you can relax and truly enjoy the magic of their destination! Vacation-planning experts have traveled the globe crafting fun, immersive, authentic experiences with you in mind. Hand-selected hotels, activities and restaurants that are particularly family friendly are just a few examples of the Disney Difference Guests can experience. The Disney Difference also includes highly trained Adventure Guides, specially designed family programs, special access to popular attractions, and so much more to set Adventures by Disney apart from other guided vacations, and make your vacation truly magical. Here are just a few examples of ways you can experience the Disney Difference:

Adventure Guides

From the moment you arrive to your final goodbye, two Adventure Guides introduce the cultures and lore of each destination, while providing personal attention and excellent service every step of the way. From dining reservations to hotel check-ins, from arranging special experiences to ensuring you never have to worry about your luggage, they make sure your adventure is seamless and special.

Adventure Guides are storytellers at heart with a certain knack for making sure every moment is a happy one. No matter where in the world your adventure takes you, the two Adventure Guides know how to transform ordinary moments into lasting memories. They not only know the destination, they spend the time to get to know you … and seek out the details that make it special for you and your family.

Family Activities and Programs

While most activities are created for the whole family to enjoy together, everyone knows that when the kids are happy, the whole family’s happy. That’s why kids are given a passport to their own adventures. Throughout your journey, Junior Adventurers are transformed into journalists, detectives or photographers as they explore the corners of the world in fun new ways.

On select nights, Adventure Guides host a kids’ dinner or movie night, giving adults a taste of tranquility at the hotel and children more time to bond with some of their new friends.

Itineraries have been developed with a special focus on kids. So, no matter which destination you choose, your children get as much out of the adventure as you do. Junior Adventurers can cut loose at pizza parties and scavenger hunts while adults enjoy wine tasting or indulge in a romantic dinner. The adventure spans generations!

Local Experts

Exceptional local storytellers provide color and context to each culture while providing Guests with opportunities to enjoy local food, hobbies, and attractions. From visiting an active volcano to enjoying traditional pretzel making classes, your family will be immersed in culture and given opportunities that only local experts can provide.

Special Access

On select Adventures by Disney vacations, Guests may also enjoy special VIP treatment at exciting locations such as museums, ancient ruins, cultural monuments, Disney Parks, theatrical productions, and more!

Adventure Guides are also a great way to gain special access to exciting locations! You can follow their Adventure Guides to hidden gems they might never find on their own – like catching a magnificent sunset from the absolutely perfect spot. Adventure Guides are magicians at getting Guests where they need to be, when they need to be there. And whether they’re interpreting local customs or entertaining Junior Adventurers, the Guides are there when you need them, eliminating many of the hassles of travel such as transporting baggage from hotel to hotel, confirming reservations and so much more. Families can enjoy more of the world – and each other.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the Disney Difference for yourself!

Treehouses at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort

2009-05-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

Make your child's vacation by staying in a Treehouse during your Disney World vacation! Disney's newest resort addition is the 3-Bedroom Treehouses at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort. These rustic treehouses features 3 bedrooms, living room, fully equipped kitchen, private deck and more. The treehouses are available to book for your next Disney World vacation. To price or book your trip, contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel. Here are some sneak peek pictures of the Treehouses at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort.

Private Treehouse Dock at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort

Campfire Fun at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

2009-05-18T09:03:00.000-07:00

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa recently added some new fun that is a sure to please activity for the whole family. Enjoy evening songs and smores at the Mickey Mouse shaped campfire on the beachy shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon. Sing a song or just relax by the fire as you hear the waves from the lake lap on the shore. After the campfire fun, stay to watch movies on the beach. For more information on Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, contact one of our Disney Specialists at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Tren-D Grand Opening at Downtown Disney

2009-05-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

Some of our agents headed off to Downtown Disney Marketplace a few weeks ago to attend the Grand Opening of the new Tren-D store. This new store features fun Disney merchandise in the latest styles including clothing, jewelry and accessories. The store is truly unique with 85 beautiful chandeliers hanging in the middle of the store. Catchy artwork and paintings were around the store. Plus, watch for hidden Mickeys - there are a bunch of them at this store. Here are some of the pictures from the new Tren-D store at Downtown Disney.

Do you see the hidden Mickey?

New Disney Dining Package at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

2009-05-12T09:01:00.000-07:00

If you are booking your Disney World dining reservations at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, consider booking a lunch at Tusker House. This restaurant is always a popular choice for lunch at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Now, it is even better with a free perk! If you dine for lunch between 1:00-1:40 PM, you will receive a free voucher for a guaranteed seat at the Finding Nemo Show at 3:15 PM. If you dine from 1:40-2:45, you will receive a voucher for a guaranteed seat at the Finding Nemo Show at 4:45 PM. This free voucher allows you to enter the show about 15-20 minutes before showtime with a guaranteed seat for the Finding Nemo show. This will save you alot of time waiting for the popular Finding Nemo Show. For more information about this new Dining Package, contact your Disney Specialist at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Picnic in the Park at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

2009-05-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park has lots of incredible animal viewing locations that make for a quiet an shandy spot to enjoy a picnic with your family. To give guests a new dining experience at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, try a picnic in the park. You can order a "to go" meal including sandwiches either chicken wrap, ham grinder, tuna pita, turkey foccacia or rotisserie chicken. All meals include sides, dessert and bottled water. The sandwich meals range from $24.99 for a meal for 3 or $48.99 for a meal for 6. The rotisserie picnics range from $29.99 for 3 people or $56.99 for 6 people.

To order your picnic in the park, stop by the podium near the entrance to Disney's Animal Kingdom between 8:30-1 PM daily. You can pick up you rmeal at the Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery. If you are on the Dining Plan, Disney considers the picnic in the park as a Counter Service Meal.

Try a new and exciting dining experience with the Picnic in the Park at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. For more information about this dining experience, contact our friends at MouseDine.

Star Wars Weekends at Disney's Hollywood Studios

2009-05-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular free events held at Disney World is the Star Wars Weekends at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The dates for this event are scheduled for every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 22-June 14. There are more dates this year to enjoy more Yedi trainings, more special merchandise for this event, more Star Wars trivia, and more actors and characters from Star Wars movies.

One of the extra fun activities during Star Wars Weekends is the sea of stormtroopers walking down Hollywood Blvd. at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Star Wars Weekends is free with your paid admission into Disney's Hollywood Studios. For more information about Star Wars Weekends, visit our website at Destinations in Florida. May the Force Be with

Up, Up and Away with the New Ride at Downtown Disney

2009-05-03T08:57:00.001-07:00

Up, Up and Away with the new ride at Downtown Disney Westside called Characters in Flight. This new attraction will take up to 30 guest over 400 feet in the air above Downtown Disney. The ride is a tethered hot air balloon. The yellow balloon is incredible with black silouettes of Mary Poppins, Aladdin, Dumbo and more around the balloon.

The flight times and availability varies depending on the weather conditions. Wind and rain does affect the ride. The cost is $16 per adult and $10 per child (ages 3-9). For more information about the new ride called Characters in Flight, contact one of our Disney Specialists at Destinations in Florida Travel. Happy flights!

New Disney Vacation Planning Vid-cast Show called Mouseketips

2009-05-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

Destinations in Florida Travel kicked off a new update to podcasting with a live vid-cast called Mouseketips. A vid-cast is a live video, hosted by our MousekeHOSTS, Tim and Allison. Both of these hosts are long time Florida Residents, past Cast Members, and Disney World Vacation Planners with Destinations in Florida Travel. They are going to bring you new discounts, timesaver tips, updates on openings at the Disney Parks, vacation planning tips, and lots of information on planning a Disney World and Orlando vacation.

With a live vid-cast, you are able to login while we are filming and ask questions and chat with us. It is a fun way to learn and get excited about Disney World. We hosted our first vid-cast on Friday, but need your input. This vid-cast will be hosted at the same time every week, so you know when to expect shoot it that is best for our viewers. Click on this link to view our first mini vid-cast and leave us a comment when you think we should host the event (date and time). We will select randomly one of the comments to win a Disney World prize pack including a paid of Mickey Mouse ears, Disney Special Edition pins, Donald Duck Pirate Plush, and more. All you have to do is leave a comment! Click here to view our website for MousekeTIPS!

Last Chance to Get Free Nights at Universal Studios

2009-04-29T07:01:00.001-07:00

Last Chance to Get Free Nights at Universal Studios

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Celebrate Love at Disney World

2009-04-25T08:54:00.000-07:00

Just like Lady and the Tramp shared a special meatball at Tony's Restaurant, you and your special one can celebrate love at Disney World! You can mark your special romantic occasions – from an engagement to a wedding, honeymoon or anniversary – in magnificent Disney style at the place where ‘happily-ever-after’ happens every day. Here are some special ways to celebrate:

Romantic Dining
You can treat the prince charming or fairytale princess to a romantic dinner package. You will eat like royalty at an occasion that’s complete with sparkling champagne in keepsake flutes and a decadent dessert for two.
In-Room Celebrations
Romantic surprises await you when booking an in-room celebration package. Disney Cast Members adorn your room quarters with a rose petal path leading from the door to a trove of story-based gifts and decorations befitting an engagement, anniversary or romantic vacation.
Romantic Cruises
You will enjoy breathtaking views of the Wishes or IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth firework shows on a specialty cruise, or charter a private yacht for a romantic night on the water. You can even take a moonlit ride in a horse-drawn carriage!

There are so many ways to celebrate romance at Walt Disney World. Our agents at Destinations in Florida Travel are specialized in planning romantic trips from making suggestions to the best restaurants for couples to romantic spots to propose. Our romantic Disney Specialists are ready to help you plan your Disney World romantic vacation!

Celebrate Triumphs at Disney World

2009-04-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

From the smallest victory to the greatest milestone, you can celebrate all of life’s accomplishments during your Disney World vacation. I recently booked a few Disney World vacations for May for some of our repeat guests. The big celebration for their vacation was graduation from High School. This was the last big celebration for this family before their oldest child headed off to college. It was a celebration for High School, but also a special vacation for the parents having their whole family together at Disney World. You can celebrate any special milestone from a graduation, a new job, passing a special class, or even competing in a marathon. At Disney World, you can celebrate any triumph! For special triumphs, you can get a button at your Disney Resort or at Guest Services at the front entrance to any of the Disney Theme Parks to celebrate your milestone.

Here are some other suggestions to make your milestone even more magical:

Congratulations Gift Basket
Disney Florists can customize a gift basket for any personal triumph, whatever it may be. Such as a Disney Marathon-inspired basket, brimming with fresh fruit, high-energy fruit and nut mix, Power Bars®, Powerade® and a keepsake frame for the finish-line photo.
Dining to Mark Any Personal Triumph
You can choose from a variety of Character Dining, Themed Dining or Signature Dining experiences to suit any mood or taste. A host of special customizations, such as personalized desserts, cakes and celebratory wines will be available in 2009 to mark the occasion.

Celebrate your special milestone this year at the Walt Disney World Resort. Click here for more information about these special perks.

1st Visit to Disney World is the Ultimate Celebration

2009-04-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

Disney considers a 1st visit to Walt Disney World as the ultimate celebration! When you arrive to your Disney Resort, you will receive a special button that says, "1st Visit to Disney World". You can wear this button during your entire vacation. It is a fun goodie and a great souvenir to remember your trip.

Here are some suggestions to make your 1st visit to Disney World even more special:

Character Dining
From Mickey Mouse to Mary Poppins, you can experience unique Character dining experiences throughout the Disney Theme Parks. One of the most popular locations is Cinderella's Royal Table Restaurant, where the princess herself hosts a hearty breakfast or lunch. For all of the Character Dining, be sure to make an Advanced Dining Reservation with your Disney World Specialist or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. These reservations do book up early.
First Visit Merchandise
To commemorate a first visit to Walt Disney World® Resort, Disney presents essential vacation supplies for the entire family including autograph books and personalized Mickey ears. At Downtown Disney Marketplace, you can even create your own design of Mickey or Minnie Mouse ears.
Disney PhotoPass® Service – A family picture in front of Cinderella's Castle captures the splendor of Walt Disney World Resort, and is the perfect backdrop for a commemorative first family photo. Professional photographers will capture images of your Clients in the Magic Kingdom Park and other Disney Theme Parks which they can transform into personalized keepsakes with the magic of www.DisneyPhotoPass.com. If you book a Magic Your Way Package with Destinations in Florida Travel, you receive a free 5 x 7 PhotoPass certificate.

These are some special ways to make your first vacation to Disney World more special. Be sure to book your 1st Disney World vacation with us at Destinations in Florida Travel. We specialize in 1st visits to Disney World and make the whole planning process easier. Plus, our services are free. For more information, visit our other benefits of booking with us.

Birthday Celebrations at Walt Disney World Resort

2009-04-10T08:50:00.000-07:00

In the next few blog posts we are going to focus on Celebrations at Walt Disney World Resort. This is the year to celebrate all of your special milestones from a honeymoon, anniversary, graduation, or a birthday. In our house, the big celebration is potty training for our little one. Whatever your celebration, this is the year to visit the Walt Disney World Resort! In this first blog post, I am going to talk about celebrating birthdays at Disney World.

When you celebrate a birthday at Disney World, be sure to pick up a "It's My Birthday Button" at Guest Services at a Disney Resort or at the front entrance to the Disney Theme Parks. The birthday person can wear the button during your entire vacation. You will be amazed how many birthday wishes you get from strangers and Disney Cast Members (employees). Here are some other fun birthday celebrations to enjoy during a Disney World vacation:

Magic Kingdom® Park Celebration Entertainment
Enjoy a new interactive entertainment with the celebration street party. Located in the heart of the park, the dance party includes favorite party music and Disney Characters including Mickey and Minnie.
Magical Experiences
Little ones can receive a royal princess makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, or a “pirate’s life for me” experience at the new Pirate Themed Guest Rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
Dining to Mark Any Occasion
A meal at a restaurant at Disney World can mark big birthday occasions and turn them into something truly special! The young and young at heart can choose from a variety of Character Dining, Themed Dining or Signature Dining experiences to suit any taste.
Dining Add-On Options
Guests can add special Celebrate Today! Party Favors to reservations at buffets and select Character dining experiences. Festive options include “Pop-Up” centerpiece, Goodie Bag containing Mickey party hat, fun game, coloring book and crayons or Deluxe Goodie Bag has all the Goodie Bag components, PLUS a magnet activity set and Mickey shaped straw all in a special celebration tote. Or, you can order a birthday cake personalized for the birthday person or a order a Mickey Mouse shaped cake.
Free Admission on Your Birthday
I am sure you have heard that Disney Parks are offering free admission on your birthday. If you have a package including tickets, you can exchange your birthday certificate for a Birthday Fun Card or Birthday Fast Pass. Click here for more details about these birthday perks.

There is so much fun at the Walt Disney World Resort for bithdays! Contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel for more information about celebrating a birthday at Disney World.

Nickelodeon Family Suites - Kids Paradise in Orlando

2009-04-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

The ultimate hotel for kids in Orlando is the Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn. Just driving up to this hotel will cause your kids to scream out with joy as they see their favorite Nick Characters! You will see huge Characters like Dora, SpongeBob, Jimmy Neutron, and Timmy Turner on the outside of the bright orange buildings! This is only the beginning of the fun that you and your kids will experience on a stay at the Nickelodeon Hotel. With all of the resort amenities, you can spend an entire vacation right at this hotel. If you do decide to visit the Disney Theme Parks, Sea World or Universal Studios Parks; you can enjoy transportation to all of these parks via motorcoach bus. The Nick Hotel is one of the few hotels in Orlando that provide transportation to all of the main theme parks.

One of the biggest thrills about the Nick Hotel are the Kidsuites. The Kidsuites are perfect for the whole family. You walk into a living room with a sleeper sofa, TV, table, chairs, and a mini-kitchenette with a microwave and mini-refrigerator. You then walk past the bathroom to (2) additional bedrooms. One bedroom features a King Bed and the other bedroom is the kids room. This room is themed after your favorite Nick Characters including the very popular SpongeBob Kidsuite. This room features bunkbeds, TV, and even video game consoles. Your kids can have hours of entertainment just in their own room!

Since you are visiting Florida, the Sunshine State, you will probably want to get outside. There are lots of resort amenities to enjoy including miniature golf, basketball, planned kid and family recreational activities, or the ultimate waterpark filled with slides, waterjets, and even slime. The waterpark at the Nick Hotel is the best hotel pool/waterpark in Orlando. When the lights go down, the entertainment does not end. You can watch 4-D movies in the state of the art theater, entertainment in the Studio Nick, and Nick After Dark Children Activities.

For a fun weekend or a weeklong vacation, the Nickelodeon Family Suites is the ultimate hotel for kids of all ages. Take advantage of an incredible low weekday price of $79 for a 1-Bedroom Suite and $114 for a 2-Bedroom Kidsuite. Click here for more details.

Spreading a Little Disney Magic One Discount at a Time

2009-03-31T08:39:00.001-07:00

Spreading a Little Disney Magic One Discount at a Time

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One Must Do at Walt Disney World

2009-02-28T08:31:00.000-08:00

A guest visiting Disney World recently asked me, "What is the one thing we need to do during our Disney World vacation?" This question caught me off guard. I am so used to rattling off all of the things to do at Disney World. Picking just one thing at Disney World, did cause me to pause for a moment to think. The one thing that I decided was a must do at Disney World is a Character Dining Experience.

The Character Dining is an opportunity to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner with your favorite Disney Characters. The Characters vary from restaurant to restaurant, but can include the Winnie the Pooh Characters, Mickey Mouse, Chip and Dale, Pluto, Minnie Mouse, Lilo, Stitch, Mary Poppins, Goofy, Alice in Wonderland, or the Disney Princesses. A Character Dining experience is a chance to relax for an hour with your family to reconnect. It gives you the opportunity to meet your favorite Disney Characters without the crowds of the parks. You can even get pictures and autographs.

These Character meet and greets are usually some of the best memories you will enjoy over and over again from your vacation. In talking with our guests over the years, the only Disney World experience that is a favorite is the Character Dining. If you have any questions on Character Dining at Walt Disney World, contact our Disney Specialists with Destinations in Florida Travel.

Free Admission at Disney World - Birthday Review

2009-02-25T08:28:00.000-08:00

We all celebrate special milestones in our lives! Are you visiting Disney for a graduation, a reunion, a honeymoon, an anniversary, or your birthday? This is the year to celebrate your special event at Disney World and Disneyland Parks with the What Will you Celebrate promotion. For this year, you get a special birthday present if you visit the Disney World or Disneyland Parks, on your birthday. You get into a Disney Park for free.

If you already have your tickets, you can still enjoy another special birthday present. You can choose a Disney Birthday Fun Card to go shopping at the parks or Downtown Disney or a special FastPass to use during your birthday. It is the ultimate birthday present, Disney style. One of our agents just celebrated her birthday at Magic Kingdom at Disney World, click here to watch her review of the free ticket promotion.

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort Room Rehab

2009-02-20T08:29:00.000-08:00

Disney's newest Disney Moderate Resort recently went through a resort wide rehab. All of the curtains, wallpaper, beds, bedding, bathrooms, and furniture were completely updated in all of the rooms at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. The rehab is completely finished and all of the rooms have been updated.

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is themed after Southwest Americas and Mexico with colorful plazas, picturesque vistas, and even a Mayan pyramid. If you are looking for a fresh new room at Disney World and a spanish inspired resort, check out Disney's Coronado Springs Resort near Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. For additional questions, contact our Disney Specialists at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Take a Ride on the Disney World Monorail

2009-02-17T08:24:00.000-08:00

It is surprising to hear that most guests do not ride the monorail during a Disney World vacation. This is one of the "non-park attractions" that is a must do during a Disney World vacation. As my 5 year old says, "it's just cool!"

The Disney Monorail has two loops. One loop goes around the Magic Kingdom Resorts to Magic Kingdom Park and to the Ticket & Transportation Center. The other loop goes from the Ticket & Transportation Center to Epcot and back to Epcot. You can ride the monorail from Magic Kingdom around the Disney Resorts back to Magic Kingdom, but our favorite ride is from Epcot to the Ticket & Transportation Center back to Epcot. The ride from Epcot to the Ticket & Transportaton Center is a beautiful view of the Walt Disney World Resort. The exciting part of this monorail ride is back to Epcot from the Ticket & Transportation Center. The monorail will drive through Epcot, so you get a different look at Epcot from the sky. The narrator even talks a little bit about the Epcot attractions to give you some insider information on your ride.

You can catch the monorail right outside the gates of Epcot near the tram pickup. For the other monorail loop, you can catch the monorail outside Magic Kingdom to the right of the security check in. There is no charge for the ride. Take the kids and make it an adventure - ride the monorail!

For more information about riding the monorial or Disney Transportation, contact a Disney Specialist at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Most Romantic Restaurants at Disney World

2009-02-13T08:19:00.000-08:00

Many of our couple guests are visiting Walt Disney World this weekend for the Valentine's Day Holiday. In the past week, we have had lots of questions about the best couple restaurants at Disney World. In this blogpost, we thought we would focus on some of the most romantic restaurants at the Walt Disney Resort.

Narcoossee's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa - A quick monorail ride from Magic Kingdom Park is Narcoossee's Restaurant. This restaurant is a favorite for the atmosphere, food, and wine. The restaurant sits on the Seven Seas Lagoon with an incredible view of Cinderella's Castle and Magic Kingdom. You can even see the Wishes Fireworks over Magic Kingdom from this restaurant (for an extra special treat). Narcoossee's features some of the best menu items at Disney including steak and seafood. They also have a wide variety of wines to accompany your entree. This is a Signature Table Service Restaurant, so it is a little more expensive entree items. This is the perfect restaurant for a romantic dinner.

Chefs de France at Epcot - What is more romantic than a dinner in France? Well, dinner in France at Epcot. Some of the seating at this restaurant is under a glass patio, which is very romantic in the evening. Plus, with all of the servers speaking French you feel like you are right in the heart of Paris. The food is incredible featuring scallops, shrimp, lamb, pasta and more. After a delicious dinner, you can enjoy desserts, desserts, and more desserts. This restaurant features some of the best desserts at Disney World. You can enjoy a cordial or champagne with your dessert for a relaxing way to enjoy your romantic dinner. Chefs de France is located inside Epcot, so admission into this park is required for this meal.

San Angel Inn at Epcot - Another restaurant in Epcot makes our list of the most romantic restaurants at Disney called San Angel Inn. This restaurant is located inside the pyramid at Epcot. As soon as you walk into this restaurant, you will be transported to a little cafe in Mexico. The restaurant is dark with candles for lighting. San Angel Inn sits on the water where the ride floats by to add to the romantic setting. As you enjoy your dinner, you will hear strolling musicians in the marketplace. The menu includes roasted duck, beef tenderloin with beans, grilled chicken, and grilled mahi-mahi. This Mexican restaurant is a romantic way to enjoy your special evening.

Artist Point at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort - Another Disney Signature Table Service Restaurant makes our list of the most romantic restaurants at Disney World. Artist Point is located upstairs at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort. This restaurant has a romantic view of the waterfall, pool, and Bay Lake. You can even see the geiser go off during your dinner. The geiser goes off every hour. Artist Point is very romantic, but with a creative Northwest menu. You can try some unique menu items including king salmon, quail, and buffalo. This restaurant also has some incredible desserts including the popular Double Chocolate Cheesecake.

O'Hanas at Disney's Polynesian Resort - O'Hanas is one of our favorite favorite restaurants at Walt Disney World for dinner. This is a popular restaurant for couples and families. For this restaurant, we suggest a later dinner (7:30 PM or later) for couples. After this time, this restaurant does settle down and can be a romantic setting for a couples dinner. The restaurant sits on the top floor of the Ceremonial House at Disney's Polynesian Resort with an incredible view of the resort, the Seven Seas Lagoon, and Cinderella's Castle. If you plan a later dinner, you may even get to see the Wishes Fireworks over Cinderella's Castle from this resort. The view is incredible! O'Hanas is also known for the amazing dinner including fire grilled pork, shrimp, steak, and turkey. These entrees are brought to you on skewers from the servers. At your table you will also enjoy veggies, wings, bread, and dumplings served family style. This restaurant is always a top restaurant for couples visiting Disney World.

These restaurants are some of our favorite romantic restaurants at Walt Disney World. Be sure to book your reservations early. Most of the popular restaurants at Disney World do book up prior to your arrival. You can contact your Disney Specialist with Destinations in Florida Travel for assistance in booking your restaurants. If you booked your vacation on your own, contact MouseDine for dining assistance.

If you liked this review, check out the Celebrations Magazine. One of our Disney Specialist, writes a column on Disney World Restaurant Reviews. The next issue will feature an article about Chefs de France.

5 Orlando Theme Parks - One Great Price

2009-02-08T08:17:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday and Sunday were huge days in Orlando for special events. Sea World kicked off the Bud & BBQ and Universal Studios started the Mardi Gras event at Universal Orlando. With all of the fun events and parks in Orlando, I started thinking about the incredible benefits of the Orlando FlexTicket. The Orlando FlexTicket is one ticket that allows you admission into 5 of the best theme parks in Orlando for one great price. The Orlando FlexTicket allows you unlimited admission for 14 consecutive days to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Sea World Orlando, Wet n Wild, and Aquatica. Most guests do not spend 2 weeks in Orlando, but even for a week this ticket more than pays for itself! Here are some of my favorites about this ticket:

1. You don't have to worry about packing and carrying around different tickets - just one ticket for your whole vacation

2. With this ticket you only pay for parking once a day. If you decide to hit Sea World in the morning and then stop by Universal Studios for the evening hours, you only pay for parking at Sea World. The parking at Universal Studios is free.

3. You get admission into the newest and best waterpark, Aquatica!

4. You can add an extra visit to Busch Gardens Tampa and shuttle to this park is included for free

5. Get the best out of Orlando Parks at one great price!

The Orlando FlexTicket is a great ticket at a wonderful price for an Orlando vacation. Be sure to pre-order your tickets. You can save a little extra money on the Orlando FlexTicket, when you purchase it before your vacation to Orlando. Click here for prices (Adult and Child) on the Orlando FlexTicket.

Get a Free Personal Disney World Assistant

2009-02-05T08:13:00.001-08:00

Just this weekend, I purchase a $15 personal organizer from Magic Kingdom called Mickey's Personal Disney Assistant. This fun little gadget helps with FastPasses, Character Autograph locations, scavenger hunt, and more. As I was looking over this item, I realized that is exactly what our agents do at Destinations in Florida Travel. We are personal Disney World Assistants! Instead of $15, we are FREE!

Unlike typical travel agencies, we help you book your trip and then that is where our services start. We watch for future discounts (that may pop up after you have booked), help with restaurant suggestions, book dining reservations, schedule spa treatments, make fun suggestions for your days at the Parks, and so much more. Just the other day, one my guests visited Disney World. It was a last minute trip for her family and they really wanted a dinner at Chef Mickey's at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Unfortunately, at the time of booking her package, this restaurant was booked up. I told her that I would watch for any cancellations while they were at Disney World. The 2nd night of her vacation a cancellation came available for Chef Mickeys. I booked it and sent her a text with the confirmation details. Her family was thrilled that they got to eat at this special restaurant with Mickey Mouse.

These are the little extra services we provide to all of our guests. It can be something as small as texting a dining reservation to a guest at Disney World to helping a guest coordinate the perfect location to propose. Our agents get excited to help with all of the extra details for a Disney World vacation. When you really think about all of the help you get to save you money and time on your trip to Disney, it is amazing that the services all of our agents provide are actually FREE. Get your free personal Disney World Assistant TODAY!

Disney Cruise in 3-D

2009-02-01T08:11:00.000-08:00

Disney Cruise Line® is revolutionizing movie entertainment at sea with the debut of Disney Digital 3-D, a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience premiering exclusively onboard the Disney Magic® and the Disney Wonder®. Be delighted as the first-run Disney films leap off the silver screen and take on a whole new dimension thanks to Disney Digital 3-D technology being added to both the Walt Disney Theatre and Buena Vista Theatre.

Disney Cruise Line is the first cruise line to introduce 3-D entertainment onboard its ships. Leveraging this new technology, Disney Cruise Line will take 3-D into uncharted waters in early 2009 with the debut of an exciting new cinematic experience that combines Disney Digital 3-D films with in-theatre effects.

Tridimensional images will combine with lasers, fog, streamers and special lighting effects to create an immersive movie-going experience like no other at sea. During these once-a-cruise special engagements, you will feel the rush of being part of the hottest show in town as in-theatre effects enhance 3-D films featuring popular Disney popstars in concert. “With Disney Digital 3-D we can provide extraordinary cinematic experiences for our guests that no other cruise line can offer,” said Tom McAlpin, President of Disney Cruise Line. “Innovation and high-quality family entertainment are Disney Cruise Line hallmarks, and the addition of Disney Digital 3-D perfectly complements our industry-leading collection of entertainment options already onboard our ships.”

Disney Digital 3-D is the latest enhancement to join the robust menu of premium guest experiences and amenities included with a Disney Cruise vacation. Dazzling Broadway-style musical spectaculars, over-the-top deck parties, first-run movie releases and fantastic kids programming are just some of the advantages of cruising with Disney.

Disney World Discount Extended for More MAGIC

2009-01-30T08:06:00.001-08:00

Disney World just extended a sale on one of the most popular discount packages in years. This popular package is called the Stay 4 Nights Get 3 Free Promotion. This package includes 3 nights at a Disney Resort and a 3 days at the Disney Theme Parks for free, when you purchase a 4-Night Package with a 4-Day Pass. Free nights and free days to play at Disney World! For this promotion, you must be visiting from March 1-June 27. The discount is based on availability.

As an added bonus, mention BLOG in your quote request and receive an extra $50 off your package! This extra bonus is only available for bookings from January 27-31. If you are considering a Disney World vacation this Spring or Summer, now is the time to book. Disney's Stay 4 Nights Get 3 Nights Free sale ends on March 29. Click here for more details about this discount package and to request a quote.

*This discount cannot be combined with the ESM or MouseEars Club (repeat guest) promotions.

Treehouses in the Sky at Disney World

2009-01-25T08:04:00.000-08:00

If you are a regular Disney World guest you probably remember the cool treehouses that were near the Disney Institute near Downtown Disney. These treehouses were a popular tradition from 1975-2002. We are excited to say the treehouses are coming back! The treehouses are currently getting renovated to open this summer as an additional room category for Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort. There will be 60 units that will be 3-Bedroom Villas. These treehouses will be elevated 10 feet off the ground on pedestals and beams designed to blend into the forest. Check back for more details about the new treehouses in the sky at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort.

Get 3 Nights Free at Disney World

2009-01-23T08:02:00.000-08:00

There is still plenty of time to save hundreds or thousands of dollars on a Disney World vacation this Spring and Summer. Disney's discount package allows you to stay at a Disney Resort for 4 nights with a 4-Day Pass and you get 3 extra nights and 3 extra days at the Disney Theme Parks for free. The promotion runs from January-April 6 and then April 19-August 15. This is the best deal that Disney has ever offered on vacations, especially if you are staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort. Just yesterday, I priced a family of 4 at Disney's Polynesian Resort at retail rate and then with the Stay 4 Get 3 Promotion. We were able to save this guest over $1,300 on their trip by using this discount promotion. It is an incredible savings!

This discount package is only available for a limited time. You must book your package with a deposit by January 24. For an added bonus, book your vacation before March 27 and get an extra $200 Disney Gift Card to use during your vacation on meals, souvenirs, tours, and more. This is a nice little bonus! Click here for details.

Mardi Gras Concert Series at Universal Studios Florida

2009-01-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Universal Studios Mardi Gras celebration kicks off in a few weeks on February 7. Universal Studios will have a diverse group of performers that will be entertaining visitors at Universal Studios Florida during this special event. Some of ther performers include rap, country, and pop.

Here is a list of performers scheduled to attend Mardi Gras:
Feb. 7: KC and the Sunshine Band
Feb. 14: Frankie Valli & the Four Season
Feb. 15: The Village People
Feb. 21: Ne-Yo
Feb. 28: Pat Benatar (featuring Neil Giraldo)
March 7: Barenaked Ladies
March 14: Montgomery Gentry
March 21: Collective Soul
March 27: Boys Like Girls
March 28: Kelly Clarkson
April 4: MC Hammer
April 11: Trace Adkins
April 18: Nelly

Mardi Gras is free with your regular paid admission into Universal Studios. Besides the Mardi Gras Concerts, you can enjoy lots of other Mardi Gras festivities including a parade, beads, New Orleans cuisine, and much more. Save money and pre-order the special Universal Studios 2-Park Unlimited Pass. This special ticket is $25 off gate prices! The Mardi Gras event runs from February 7-April 18. Visit Destinations in Florida Travel for more information.

Pirate Rooms at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

2009-01-16T07:53:00.000-08:00

The Walt Disney World Resort has been making lots of renovations and updates to the Disney Moderate Resort, called Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. This past year, the main pool received an incredible update with a new pirate ship and splash park for kids. Most of the Standard, Water View, and Preferred Rooms at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort also got a new Finding Nemo theme with unique accessories and bedding. One of the newest updates for 2009, are the Pirate Rooms. If you have any pirates in your family, this is the ultimate room for your Disney World vacation. The entire room is themed after pirates! The beds are two huge pirate ship with the headboards that look like a mast and sail. The two pirate ships are double beds. Besides the pirate beds; the artwork, curtain, and even tables and chairs are all themed for the pirate room. This Pirate Room is the ultimate themed room for your pirate fan.

You can choose from two views for this room, including the regular Standard View or a Water View that may overlook the pool or lake. The rates for the Pirate Room are very reasonable for a Disney Moderate Resort. The price runs from $174 for Value Season to $249 for Holiday Season for a Standard View Pirate Room and $199 for Value Season to $274 for Holiday Season for a Water View Pirate Room. You can book these rooms as a Room Only Reservation or include it on a Magic Your Way Package with tickets and dining. Contact our Disney Specialists at Destinations in Florida Travel for more information on booking the new Pirate Rooms at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort.

Design A Tee Shop at Downtown Disney - Now Open

2009-01-14T07:44:00.000-08:00

Take part in the new Disney promotion called "What Will you Celebrate," with personalized t-shirts. The newest store at Downtown Disney Marketplace is called Design-A-Tee by Hanes. You can stop by a kiosk inside the store and create your own personalized t-shirt design with some of your favorite Disney Characters. After you create your design, Disney Cast Members print up your t-shirt and you are off with your one-of-a-kind t-shirt. This new store just opened last Friday and is already very popular for sporting events, family reunions, and birthday celebration. Stop by the Design-A-Tee store to make your Disney World vacation, even more magical!

Disney World Marathon Review

2009-01-12T07:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I participated in the Disney Marathon with a few thousand of my closest friends (22,000 to be exact). For years, I participated in other marathons and skipped the local favorite at the Walt Disney World Resort. As a Disney fan and a travel agent selling Disney World vacations, I thought this year I should participate in this marathon. It was a great event and ranks as my favorite marathon!

The marathon started at 6 AM at Epcot and ran through Magic Kingdom, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and then ended at Epcot. A marathon runs 26.2 miles, so it was interesting to run Disney World by foot, instead of my usual car or Disney Transportation. Disney did an excellent job of keeping us entertained on the long run from park to park. They had many Disney Characters, lots of bands, and even DJ's to keep us moving.
My favorite part of the marathon was running down Main Street USA at Magic Kingdom, with Cinderella's Castle in the background. Magic Kingdom opened a little early, just for the spectactors to cheer us on, as we entered the park. There was something extra magical about running into Magic Kingdom with the Castle in the background and hundreds of people cheering us on. It gives me goosebumps whenever I think about it!

Another highlight of the run was jogging through the backstage entrance of Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Many of the Disney Cast Members were there cheering us on with some of the animals from the park including a tortoise, sheep, goat, and parrot. This was fun to make a quick stop for pictures with these animals and then heading into the Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

The Disney Marathon, that is run by Disney Endurance Sports, did a great job of taking care of the runners during the race. They provided lots of water stops to keep us hydrated in the hot Florida sun. They even offered extra fun stops like a chocolate candy break. It was a great marathon! We were happy to have completed the race and are wearing our Mickey Mouse medals proudly. If you ever consider running a 1/2 marathon or marathon; you should check out the Disney Marathon.

Newest Attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios - American Idol

2009-01-08T07:38:00.000-08:00

The American Idol Experience is the newest attraction at the popular Theme Park, Disney's Hollywood Studios. The grand opening is scheduled for February 14 with soft openings in January. This show will allow guests to audition in front of a Disney's Hollywood Studios Producer, for a chance to be cast in the theme park show of American Idol Experience. If the guest auditioning, has the star qualities the Producer is looking for, they will be sent backstage for a brief preparation including hair, makeup, and vocal coach tips. It is then off to a panel of judges with a live audience! The guest performers with the highest votes for each show will compete late in the day at a Grand Finale show. The winner of the Grand Finale show will be guaranteed a reservation for a future regional audition for the "American Idol" television show. This will save you waiting in the long lines to audition. All of the shows at Disney's Hollywood Studios are amazing, but this show will bring a new energy to the guests visiting the park. Be sure to check out the American Idol Experience during your visit to Disney World!

Free Day at Sea World Orlando

2008-12-29T08:41:00.000-08:00

You can get an extra day free at Sea World Orlando with the purchase of a 1-Day Pass. This in an extra day to see Shamu, watch the Believe Show, eat dinner with sharks, or just visit with your favorite Sesame Street Characters. It is hard to believe that you actually get something free at the Orlando Theme Parks, but it is true. When you purchase a 1-Day to Sea World, you will receive a 2nd day free. You do have to use your 2nd day within 7 days of your first ticket.

To take advantage of this amazing discount, click here for details.

Disney's Contempo Cafe is Open at Disney's Contemporary Resort

2008-12-26T08:38:00.000-08:00

The newest quick service restaurant called Contempo Cafe is now open at Disney's Contemporary Resort. This restaurant is a high tech quick service restaurants at the Walt Disney World Resort with electronic menus and even electronic kiosks to order your food. The process to order and receive your food is also more efficient than other Disney counter service locations. You order your food at the electronic kiosk and then browse through drinks and side items as your walk to the cashier to pay for your meal. You receive a pager to tell you when your meal is ready. There is no more standing around waiting for your food to be ready.
This restaurant is located in the favorite spot on the Concourse Level, where Concourse Steakhouse used to sit. You have an amazing view of the monorails going through the resort every few minutes. Kids of all ages will love this view!

Contempo Cafe features some incredible menu items including Concourse Steakhouse salad, honey-lime chicken sandwich, marinated beef flatbread, chicken basil pasta, a spice-crusted mahi sandwich, and vegetarian and whole-grain items. Don't forget about the always yummy desserts including the popular carrot cake!

Be sure to check out the newest quick service restaurant to join the list of amazing restaurants at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Your Own Christmas Tree at your Disney Resort

2008-12-22T08:36:00.000-08:00

If you are visiting on Christmas Eve, you can surprise the kids with a Christmas tree from Disney Florist. This tree to the left is called the Neverland Tree themed after Peter Pan and Tinker Bell, perfect for a Disney World vacation.

You can order the tree online and they will deliver it to your room ready for Christmas. These trees are incredible and you can choose from lots of different styles for adults or kids. After Christmas, Disney Florist will ship the tree home to your house for future Christmases to come. For more information about the Christmas Trees from Disney Florist, visit this website.

Surprise Your Family with a Disney World Vacation...Let Mickey Deliver the News!

2008-12-19T08:34:00.000-08:00

Having kids of my own, I am always on the hunt for the perfect gift that will make the kids scream with joy on Christmas Day. For most kids, the ultimate gift is a trip to Disney World! I can just imagine it, the kids are tearing opening presents and then the phone rings. It is a phone call from Mickey Mouse, calling to tell the kids they are going to Disney World. What a surprise of a lifetime for kids and parents! For any Disney World package booked before December 23, you will receive this special phone call on Christmas Day.

Book Your Disney World Summer Vacation Today

2008-12-15T08:15:00.000-08:00

I know this title probably have you thinking...what? It is not even Christmas, yet! I am not ready to plan a summer vacation. However, this is the perfect time to book your summer vacation if you want to save money. Disney has a sale on the Magic Your Way Packages that runs until June 27. This is the first time in several years that Disney has offered a discount promotion in June. Besides this new summer discount, this sale will save you hundreds of dollars if you stay at a Disney Value or Disney Moderate Resort and thousands of dollars if you stay at a Disney Deluxe Resort. Just yesterday, I booked a Magic Your Way Package plus Dining Plan for a guest at Disney's Polynesian Resort and she save $1,200 off her vacation. Talk about savings!

This discount package includes 3 nights free and 3 days free at the Disney Theme Parks, when you purchase a 4-Night Package with a 4-Day Pass. To save even more money, add one of the Disney Dining Plans and you can really save alot of money on your whole Disney World vacation experience. You do have to hurry. This sale ends on December 20. It is easy to book this package. Disney just requires a $200 deposit and then final payment is due 45 days prior to arrival. You have plenty of time to plan all of the details of your trip after the Holidays. Don't miss out on this special discount price!

One more early Christmas present! If you book this discount package with us, you will save an extra $50 off your package price, plus Mickey Mouse will call your family on Christmas Day to let them know they are going to Disney World for a vacation. That sounds like the ultimate Christmas present to me!

For more information about this Disney World sale, click here. Magical Seasons!

Kids Cruise Free on 2009 Disney Cruises

2008-12-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

HOT news! Kids 12 and under can sail FREE on most 3-Night Disney Cruises from January 22 through May 28. Kids sail free with (2) full-fare guests in the same stateroom. Government taxes and fees are additional. This is the perfect opportunity for you to experience a first-ever Disney Cruise or come back to enjoy precious family time with the little ones.

Click here to request a quote.

Epcot's Newest Attraction - Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure

2008-12-05T08:23:00.000-08:00

Guests visiting Epcot® at the Walt Disney World® Resort will be treated to a brand-new, highly interactive attraction inspired by Disney Channel’s Emmy award-winning animated series, Disney’s Kim Possible.

Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure invites Guests of all ages to become secret agents, teaming up with members of “Team Possible” to save the world from various comical villains and their mad inventions. As you embark on this international adventure, you will receive an official “Kimmunicator,” at kiosks throughout Epcot. The interactive, handheld device is designed to help your family maneuver through the mission. Using state-of-the-art technology, the interactive device connects Guests with a variety of characters who provide clues to stop villains from taking over the world. The highly interactive devices also allow you to control top-secret equipment hidden inside World Showcase pavilions, creating an ultra-interactive adventure jam-packed with mystery and excitement.

Guests can play Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure in seven World Showcase pavilions: Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Japan, France, and United Kingdom. Each pavilion features a unique mission including including distinctive visual events and a different super villain from the animated series.

The cost to participate in Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure is included in your park admission.

Sparkling Seasons at Disney World

2008-12-02T04:49:00.000-08:00

Festivities and fun fill the 2008 Holiday Season at the Walt Disney World® Resort. The spectacular celebrations will unwrap with not-to-miss merriment, as the Walt Disney World Resort is transformed into a winter wonderland. This spirited season, you can experience time-honored favorites mixed with some new features!

Cinderella's Castle in Magic Kingdom® Park sparkles with 200,000 twinkling lights as part of the return of our newest holiday tradition—Castle Dreamlights! Donning their holiday finest, Cinderella and friends take to the Cinderella Castle stage daily for a dream-come-true, light-the-night moment. This glistening spectacle will signal the start of Disney’s holiday season.

By late November, festivities will cover the Walt Disney World Resort, as Epcot®, Disney’s Hollywood Studios™, Disney’s Animal Kingdom® and Downtown Disney unwrap merry, magical moments for Guests.There is sure to be a galore of astounding spectacles in store for you!

Here are the holiday highlights:

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
From 7 p.m. to midnight on select evenings during November and December, Guests can experience special holiday entertainment at a special after-hours party inside the Magic Kingdom Park. The event features “Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade,” Mickey's "Twas the Night Before Christmas" Show, the festive fireworks spectacular of Holiday Wishes—Celebrate the Spirit of the Season, Disney character greetings, and cookies, cocoa and “snow” on Main Street U.S.A.® Plus, you can use some of the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions! Admission to this event requires a separately priced ticket.

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
As "snow" falls overhead, the Streets of America backlot cityscape at Disney's Hollywood Studios comes alive Nov. 28, 2008-Jan. 4, 2009. With millions of holiday lights that “dance” to a high-energy holiday symphony, Guest will see animated sparkling displays that create twirling carousels, marching toy soldiers and even Santa and his reindeer taking flight. The “dancing lights” musical moments occur every 10 minutes and are included with Disney's Hollywood Studios admission.

Holidays Around the World and Candlelight Processional
An Epcot tradition continues Nov. 28-Dec. 30, 2008, with holiday customs from around the globe, international storytellers, a nightly tree-lighting ceremony featuring Disney characters, a stunning display of snow-white and colored lights, and Candlelight Processional. One of the most beloved holiday traditions at Epcot is the Candlelight Processional – a joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a glorious mass choir. It takes place nightly at World Showcase, America Gardens Theatre at 5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.

The World Showcase Promenade comes alive nightly at 9:30 p.m. with the brilliance and splendor of music, lights, lasers, water fountains and custom pyrotechnics in our signature nighttime spectacular: llumiNations: Reflections of Earth. Every night presents a unique, holiday finale. All of the Epcot holiday fun is included with regular theme park admission.

Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade
Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade blends the spirit of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park with the spirit of the season for a Holiday offering full of jump, joy and jive!Mickey has invited a special group of friends to join him on a Holiday adventure! The parade is filled with the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and feelings of the Holiday Season. They’ve added Holiday accessories to their safari costumes with seasonal music for a combination that celebrates the Holidays as only Disney’s Animal Kingdom can.

Festivals of the Seasons at Downtown Disney Area
Holiday shopping is easier than ever at Downtown Disney! From Nov. 28-Dec. 24, 2008, it features shopping adventures for every age, interest and budget, including Once Upon a Toy, filled with exclusive playthings from Disney and Hasbro; World of Disney, the world’s largest character emporium, plus Virgin™ Megastore, LEGO Imagination Center and Disney’s Days of Christmas holiday shop. Holiday-themed décor, colorful light displays and photo opportunities with old St. Nick himself offer yuletide cheer. Also, little princesses can get decked out for the holiday’s finest at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.

For more information, click here to visit Destinations in Florida Travel.

2008-11-20T08:10:00.000-08:00

On December 1, you can start booking Birthday Celebrations at Goofy's Candy Co at Downtown Disney Marketplace. These new birthday celebrations give you one more way to celebrate a child's birthday during a Disney World vacation. Some of the birthday celebrations include Goofy's Scien-Terrific Birthday Bash and Disney's Perfectly Princess Party. Goofy's Scien-Terrific Bash will include crazy science experiments that turn into tasty treats. They even have glow glasses for the kids. Very cool! For those little Princesses, you can enjoy your own Princess Birthday Party with royal treats and games. The birthday party includes a private party room, hosts, invitations, thank you cards, decorations, games and treats. This is a fun way to celebrate your child's birthday at Walt Disney World with family and friends.

For more information, call 407-WDW-BDAY or talk with your Disney Specialist at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Fall Activities at Disney World

2008-11-01T04:48:00.000-07:00

Did you know Disney isn’t just for families and children? Guests traveling without children are able to vacation during non-peak periods to enjoy a variety of activities. Fall is full of special rates and exciting activities your family may enjoy at the Walt Disney World®.

Whether you are looking for a reunion with friends, a romantic getaway or anything in between, there is sure to be something to suit your tastes this fall. Guests looking for a challenge should look no further than Disney’s championship golf courses. These critically acclaimed courses feature all the magic of Disney and play host to the pros during the PGA Tour’s Children’s Miracle Network Classic. These courses offer Guests a range of difficulty, so every golfer has the perfect combination of challenge and fun for their skill level.

For a more relaxing vacation, be sure to enjoy the world-class spa and health clubs located at the Walt Disney World Resort. Indulge yourself in rejuvenating treatments for the face, body and spirit while enjoying full-service spa offerings, including an array of massage therapies, facials, aromatherapies, signature services and workout machinery.

Your can sample the finest regional cuisine from around the world or learn from renowned winemakers while enjoying the magic of Disney at the 13th Annual Epcot® International Food and Wine Festival from Sept. 26 – Nov. 9, 2008. Special opportunities, like programs, demonstrations and dining experiences make this festival one your taste buds will never forget!

Experience the magic of Disney your way this fall!

Go Eye to Eye with Alligators in Orlando

2008-10-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

When you think about Florida, most people think sun, beaches, Mickey Mouse and alligators. Yes, alligators! On a daily basis, guest's ask our agents if they will see alligators on their Orlando vacation. Today's blog is going to focus on alligators! In Florida we do have lots and lots of alligators in every lake and pond. Did you know that we also have the "Alligator Capital of the World," right here in Orlando? The "Alligator Capital of the World" is called Gatorland. The Gatorland Park is not only the capital, but it is a park attraction. You and your family can take an afternoon during your Orlando vacation, and tour Gatorland park. This half day attraction is fun for the whole family with shows and animal exhibits.

There are famous alligator shows include the Jumparoo, where the alligators jump (4-5) feet in the air to actually catch their food and the popular alligator wrestling. There are other animal shows, besides alligators including Animal Encounters. Besides the fun shows, you can also walk throughout the park and enjoy lots of exhibits or take a train ride. There is also a kids play area including a splash park called Gator Gully. This is the perfect way to cool down during the hot summer months. There are over 110 acres of alligator and animal fun.

Gatorland is a good attraction for the animal lovers in your family! Be sure to check out the Official Ticket Center for discount tickets to Gatorland. Click here for more details.

Disney World Deal - Stay 4 Nights Get 3 Nights FREE

2008-10-01T04:44:00.000-07:00

It is true, for 2009 Disney is offering free nights and free tickets to Disney World. If you book a Disney Resort and a 4 Day Pass, you will get 3 extra nights and 3 extra days worth of tickets for FREE! For guests staying at a Disney Moderate or Disney Deluxe Resort, this is the best deal that Disney has ever offered. For those guests who always wanted to stay at a Disney Deluxe Resort, now is your chance. Or, you can just save some money and stay at one of the favorites like Disney's All Star Resorts. This promotion is good for vacation dates from January 4-April 4 or April 19-June 27.

To make this promotion even better, book your trip between the dates of January 4-March 29 and get an additional $200 Disney Gift Card to use during your vacation on merchandise, recreation, meals and more. Talk about savings! Hurry - this discount promotion ends on December 20. You do have to have a package booked with a deposit before this date. For more information, click here.

New Rooms at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

2008-08-28T06:32:00.000-07:00

The rooms at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort are getting a new look! All of the rooms at this resort are getting updated with a new theme from Finding Nemo. The rooms feature new comforters, accessories, and even a wall border themed after this popular Disney-Pixar movie. Disney started the updates in the Preferred Rooms at Martinque. It will take about a year for this new update to be completed throughout Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort.

Be sure to check back for pictures from the new Pirate Rooms at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. The new Pirate Rooms are available for booking on January 1, 2009. For more information, visit our website.

Buy Disney World Tickets - Get FREE Stuff

2008-07-16T08:41:00.000-07:00

Destinations in Florida Travel is offering two promotions this summer on Disney World tickets! If you purchase Disney World tickets for 3-Days or longer and add the Park Hopper Option or Waterparks, Fun and More Option, you will get a free Disney Gift Cards. For each ticket ordered, you will receive a $5 Disney Gift Card to use on shopping, recreation, or dining during your Disney World vacation. If you order (4) Disney World tickets, you will get (4) $5 Disney Gift Cards for a total of $20. It is a great little bonus to use during your Disney World vacation!

Besides the Disney Gift Cards, each Disney World ticket purchase will also include the Timesavers Guide to Disney World ebook. This ebook is valued at $29.95 and is FREE with every Disney World ticket purchase. The Timesavers Guide to Disney World is a great way to save time during the busier summer months. This guide includes tips from Disney Cast Members who work at the Theme Parks and even planned itineraries to maximize your vacation. This free gift is included with every Disney Ticket this summer.

Buy your tickets with Destinations in Florida Travel to save money, save time, and get FREE stuff! For more information on Disney World tickets, click here.

New Wave Restaurant at Disney's Contemporary Resort

2008-07-10T08:38:00.000-07:00

We were fortunate enough to be in the Contemporary Resort this past weekend on the day they opened the new Wave Restaurant in Disney's Contemporary Resort. This restaurant replaces the Concourse Steakhouse, which is currently being renovated to become the new food court for the resort. Although the restaurant was only open for a private event, we were early enough that no one was in the restaurant and the Cast Members let us in to get an exclusive sneak peek! We took a short video just to show-off to our guests and fans, but we were quickly ushered out, so it is a very quick peek at the new restaurant.

The restaurant is included in Disney's Dining Experience in the same manner that the Concourse Steakhouse was included. It will require using your one sit-down service meals included each day with the Dining Experience. Additionally, in the same manner as the Concourse Steakhouse, Disney will honor DVC and Annual Passholder discounts in the new Wave Restaurant. The restaurant looks to be a perfect addition to the Contemporary Resort with a very modern appearance and trendy menu. You can read more about the restaurant in Disney's press release quoted below:

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- With drinks like the Antioxidant Cocktail, entrées such as whole-wheat linguine with clams, rock shrimp and fresh thyme in chunky tomato broth, and crispy almond-raisin "baklava" for dessert, The Wave brings a surge of new dining ideas to Walt Disney World Resort.

Located in Disney's Contemporary Resort, the new restaurant is "bold cooking inspired by fresh markets," said Dieter Hannig, vice president of new concepts for Walt Disney World Food & Beverage. "America is more and more a melting pot, and The Wave features American cooking with world flavors."

Guests enter the stylish new space on the first floor of the hotel through a brushed steel arch "tunnel" into The Wave's lounge, one of the largest at Walt Disney World Resort. The sleek, serene décor is earthy browns and golds, with frosted glass lamps for soft ambient light and a copper-colored metal ceiling. Banquettes and booths line the perimeter of the dining room, and wooden tables are set with white linen napkins. A large central table is draped in sheer fabric in purples and golds.

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the 220-seat restaurant takes casual dining into the health-conscious 21st century. The classic American breakfast menu includes plenty of egg creations, but guests also can make their own Wave muesli or sip a Beta Berry Smoothie with raspberry puree and non-fat yogurt blended with Odwalla Berries GoMega (a great source of Omega-3). The Pure Sunshine breakfast cocktail features organic vodka and orange juice topped with Vitamin Energy Drink. Coffee is organic Colombian (fair trade and "Smithsonian-certified bird-friendly") and teas are whole leaf Pyramid bags in flavors from chamomile blossoms to monsoon chai.

At lunch, light eaters might enjoy lettuce wraps with sautéed lamb and bay scallops, or a lump crab cake with crispy papaya slaw. Entrées include oversized salads and a vegetarian sandwich with grilled tofu, roasted veggies and herb goat cheese on multi-grain bread, but guests also can chow down on an Angus chuck burger with cheese and Applewood smoked bacon, or a classic grilled Reuben.

The dinner menu offers a delicious spin on comfort classics such as pan-seared Alaskan black cod with corn and edamame (soybean) stew with cilantro chutney; braised lamb shank with bulgur lentil stew and red wine sauce, and a nouvelle chicken pot pie with thyme pastry. Sides at both lunch and dinner include braised greens and roasted sweet potatoes and carrots.

"Lots of stocks, lots of broths and seasonal ingredients keep the menu well balanced," said Chef Frank Brough. "We are sourcing ingredients locally and regionally to create fresh flavors, and our fresh catch of the day features sustainable seafood."

Desserts continue the theme with a dozen choices for mixing and matching three mini-favorites for one price. From chocolate mousse with chocolate ganache, to yogurt sorbet with blueberry compote and coconut panna cotta with passion fruit, guests can indulge their sweet tooth without a big hit in calories. Or go overboard with a dessert cocktail like the Mudslide martini: Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla vodka, Kahlúa and vanilla ice cream.

Pleasure Island Closing - What Happens to Disney Tickets

2008-07-01T08:46:00.000-07:00

After Disney's announcement on Saturday that Downtown Disney's Pleasure Island complex would be closing in September, 2008, many had questions about what that means to Annual Passholders, Premium Annual Passholders, and ticket holders with the Water Parks, Fun, and More option. Disney's own answers to these questions are quoted, below.

Q. What do the changes on Pleasure Island mean to a Pleasure Island Annual Passholder?

A. The closing of the Pleasure Island nightclubs will impact the Passholder's ability to use their Pleasure Island Annual Pass. Passholders who would like to request a pro-rated refund can stop by any Guest Relations location or Vacation Planning booth at the Walt Disney World® Resort or, call (888)-294-2691†.

Q. What do the changes on Pleasure Island mean to a Walt Disney World® Premium Annual Passholder?

A. Beginning September 28, 2008, your Premium Annual Pass will no longer include admission to the Pleasure Island nightclubs.The good news is that beginning June 28, 2008, Guests with a Premium Annual Passes will be able to play a round of golf at Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course—a relaxed, nine-hole walking course designed for the entire family! Tee times are required and subject to availability. To make a tee time, call 407-WDW-GOLF (939-4653)† or visit disneyworldgolf.com.

Q.How do the changes on Pleasure Island affect my Water Park Fun & More ticket option at Walt Disney World® Resort?

A. As a Water Park Fun & More ticket option holder, you receive a certain number of visits to your choice of Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, Disney's Blizzard Beach® Water Park, DisneyQuest ® Indoor Interactive Theme Park, Disney's Wide World of Sports® Complex or the Pleasure Island nightclubs.Beginning June 28, 2008, you can also choose to use a visit to play a round of golf at Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course, a relaxed, nine-hole walking course designed for the entire family. Tee times are required and subject to availability. For tee times, call (407) WDW-GOLF (407-939-4653)† or visit disneyworldgolf.com.

Disney World Vacation Planning with a Little Extra Magic

2008-06-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

On a regular basis, we are asked why a new customer should book with us instead of with another agent or Disney directly. We normally talk about our extra freebies, extra discounts, and extra services that our company provides to our guests. I recently heard a story from one of our agents that really explains why a customer should book with us - SERVICE! One of our agents at Destinations in Florida, Allison, helped plan a Disney vacation for a family, but with that extra Magic! Here is her story:

Allison recently had a group of 10 families traveling together on their first Disney Cruise vacation. With Disney Cruise vacations, you can book Shore Excursions 74 days prior to the cruise after 12:01 AM. Since the Shore Excursions are popular, Allison encouraged them to look over the excursion options early to be booked at the 74 day mark. The family emailed her a list of the favorite Shore Excursions, including the popular Dolphin Encounter Excursion. Allison knew that the Dolphin Encounter was one of the most popular Shore Excursion in Nassau. Instead of booking the Shore Excursion during normal office hours, she got up in the middle of the night at midnight, just so she could book these Shore Excursions for this family. Since she got up early to book these reservations, she was able to book all of the favorite choices for all 10 families.

After hearing this story, I wanted to write about this situation. This is the type of service that our agents do on a regular basis. We are in the business of creating Magic through services that are above and beyond. This is a perfect example, why you should book with us. How many agents do you know that will get up at midnight just to book your families favorite vacation requests?

Summer Ticket Deals at Universal Studios Florida

2008-06-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

Imagine spending a week at the Universal Studios Theme Parks for a whole week for less than the price of a 1-Day Park Hopper at Disney World. It is true! Universal Studios has an amazing discount ticket called the 2-Park Unlimited Pass that is $25 less (per ticket) than a 2-Park Pass at the gates. You can visit Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for 7 consecutive days. You can even hop between parks on the same day for free. Plus, you get free admission to CityWalk Nightlife. This ticket is $80.99 per person plus tax.

To make this ticket an even better deal, purchase the Fun, Food & Drink Combo. This combo includes your 2-Park Unlimited Passes and unlimited meals at the Theme Parks for two full days. It is an amazing discount price that will save you money on both your tickets and meals. This discount ticket is available anytime, so you can visit tomorrow or in December.

Click here for more details about the 2-Park Unlimited Pass and the Fun, Food & Drink Combos. Plan your last minute summer vacation to Universal Studios with these great savings!

Disney's Magical Express Resort Check in Changes

2008-06-09T08:35:00.000-07:00

Many of the airlines are charging extra fees when you fly with more than one piece of luggage per person. These new airline fees are causing changing with the Airline Disney Resort Check In procedure. If you are traveling by one of the Disney Airlines partners including AirTran, American Airlines, Continental, JetBlue, Delta, Northwest, or US Airways you will be affected by these changes. If you have more than one piece of luggage per person, you will have to check your luggage at the airport instead of your Disney Resort. You do have another option. You can call the Baggage Airline Guest Services to pre-pay for your extra luggage and then check your luggage at your Disney Resort. This extra step of pre-paying for your lugagge will still save you time in lines at the Orlando International Airport. The phone number for the Baggage Airline Guest Services is 407-284-1231. The number of luggage per person varies depending on your airline, but if you have more than one piece of luggage, you will have to check your luggage at the airport or call the Baggage Airline Guest Services number for more details.

For more questions about the required luggage for your trip to Disney World, contact your airlines for more details. For more questions about the Magical Express Services, contact us at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Disney's Magical Express - Baggage Handling

2008-06-01T08:34:00.000-07:00

For the Year of a Million Dreams promotion, Disney is offering some amazing perks for guests staying at the Walt Disney World Resorts. One of the more popular perks is the Magical Express baggage handling services. Let's imagine two scenerios. First scenerio...after a long flight, you arrive to the Orlando International Airport ready to get to Disney World. You have to go down to Baggage Claim and wait for your luggage and then tote your luggage to the transportation. Then you have to carry you luggage to resort check in and then you have to drag your luggage all of the way to your room. Does this sound like a fun way to start your vacation?

Now imagine, arriving to the Orlando International Airport and just hopping on the Disney Transportation to your resort. After you check into your resort, your luggage magically appears in your room. This second scenerio sounds much better, doesn't it?

Disney's Magical Express baggage handling does just that! Once you arrive to the Orlando International Airport, you check in with the Magical Express Desk and then hop on the Disney Transportation to your resort. Once you arrive to your resort, you check in. After check in, your luggage will show up in your room about 2-3 hours later. It is an easy way to start your Disney World vacation.

For your trip home, you can even check your luggage at your Disney Resort instead of checking your luggage at the airline desk. Disney partners with several airlines to provide this extra service. If you are flying on AirTran, Alaska Air, American Airlines, Contiental, Delta, JetBlue, Northwest, United/Ted, or US Airways you can check your luggage and get your boarding passes right at your Disney Resort instead of at the airport. This will save you an extra step waiting in more lines at the airport. This extra service is only for domestic flights. If you are an International guest, you will still have to check in at the airport.

For this resort airline check in, stop by the Magical Express Desk in the lobby of your resort at least 3 hours prior to your flight departure time to receive your boarding pass and check your luggage. You will need to show a government ID like a passport or drivers licence plus your resort Key to the World Card to take advantage of this service. This desk is open daily from 5 AM-1 PM at your Disney Resort.

This is a great service to save your family time and stress during your Disney World vacation. Just one more reason to stay at a Disney World Resort Hotel during your Disney World vacation. For more information, contact our agents at Destinations in Florida Travel.

Pizza Planet at Disney's Hollywood Studios

2008-05-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

It seems like Disney has Pixar Characters throughout the Walt Disney World Resort from Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom Park to Finding Nemo - The Musical at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Did you know that Disney even has a restaurant called Pizza Planet themed after the restaurant in the Toy Story movie? You and your family can have lunch or dinner at Pizza Planet located at Disney's Hollywood Studios. This counter service/quick service restaurant features pizza (of course), salads and desserts. After you enjoy your meal, you can play some fun arcade games. Pack some cash because the arcade games are extra. You can plan your meal around the Toy Story Characters Meet & Greets outside the Pizza Planet. This is a favorite restaurant for kids of all ages.

O'Hanas at Disney's Polynesian Resort at Disney World

2008-05-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite activities during a Disney World vacation is Character Dining. The main reason I like the Character Dining is because this is a LINE FREE way to visit with your favorite Characters. At your Character Dining experience, the Characters come directly to your table to spend time with your family. You can get pictures, autographs, or just goof around with your favorite Character. These are usually the memories your family will remember about your trip to Disney World!

One of the most popular restaurants for Character Dining is O'Hanas at Disney's Polynesian Resort. This restaurant is near the Magic Kingdom Park, so this is a great restaurant for a day at Magic Kingdom. This restaurant sits on the top floor of the Ceremonial House overlooking the Seven Seas Lagoon and Cinderella's Castle. O'Hanas serves breakfast with some of your favorite Disney Characters. The Characters include Lilo, Stitch, Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Pluto. The Characters are subject to change, but these are the usual Characters at this breakfast.

O'Hanas Character Breakfast features the typical breakfast favorites including scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, fresh fruit, island style potatos, and assorted breads including the ever popular Hawaiian bread. The meal is an all-you-can-eat served family sytle. As you are enjoying your breakfast, one Disney Character at a time will wander up to your table. Take your time getting your family pictures and autographs. The Characters will stay at your table for as long as you need them. You will get some of the best family pictures during your meal.

This Character Breakfast is $18.99 per adult plus tax/tip and $10.99 per child (3-9) plus tax/tip. This is the only downside of a Character Dining experience is the price. This is one of the most expensive breakfasts you will probably ever eat. However, it is certainly worth the price. You will have a wonderful breakfast in a fantastic location overlooking Cinderella's Castle. Plus, you will get some amazing pictures of the Disney Characters with your family. We highly recommend O'Hanas at Disney's Polynesian Resort.

For more information about O'Hanas, click here. Destinations in Florida Travel is a Authorized Disney Vacation Planner specializing in Disney vacations including Disney World, Disney Cruise, and Adventures by Disney. Our company is based in Orlando, Florida and many of our agents work at the Disney Theme Parks. We are experts in planning Disney World vacations!

Save Money this Summer on a Disney World Vacation

2008-05-15T03:50:00.000-07:00

Come to Disney World this summer to see the new Toy Story Mania attraction and save money! Disney recently kicked off a new discount for guests visiting Disney World this summer from May 26-June 7. This promotion is a room only discount that includes your room/tax and some free perks including Magical Express transfers and baggage handling and Extra Magic Hours.

The discount is based on availability at the Disney Deluxe Villas including Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort, Disney's Old Key West, Disney's Beach Club Villas, Disney's Boardwalk Villas, and The Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort. This discount is a good savings on Disney Deluxe Resorts. The starting price in a Deluxe Studio is just $15 more per night than a Disney Moderate Resort. For just $15 more per night, you can upgrade to a nicer Disney Resort with Queen Beds (instead of Double Beds) and enjoy more resort amenities and in room amenities. This is a great way to enjoy a Disney World vacation!

Here are some sample prices with this discount promotion:

Disney's Saratoga Springs in a Deluxe Studio: $204 per night plus tax
Disney's Saratoga Springs in a 1-Bedroom Villa: $319 per night plus tax
Disney's Saratoga Springs in a 2-Bedroom Villa: $519 per night plus tax
Disney's Boardwalk Villas in a Deluxe Studio: $259 per night plus tax
Disney's Boardwalk Villas in a 1-Bedroom Villa: $384 per night plus tax
Disney's Boardwalk Villas in a 2-Bedroom Villa: $684 per night plus tax

Plus, receive an extra perk when you book with Destinations in Florida Travel! Book at least 5 nights and receive a $50 Disney Gift Card to use during your vacation. This Disney Gift Card is good on meals, merchandise, recreation, and more. Click here to request a quick quote for your Disney World vacation this May or June.

Review of Toy Story Mania at Disney's Hollywood Studios

2008-05-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

There was lots of excitement last weekend at Disney's Hollywood Studios as thousands of Annual Passholders got a sneak peek at the new attraction called Toy Story Mania. Several of our agents at Destinations in Florida Travel, headed off to Disney's Hollywood Studios to see this new ride. The whole area surrounding Toy Story Mania was closed off, so many guests did not even know this new ride was there hidden behind the walls. We showed our ID's and headed into the Toy Story Mania area to find out there was a 90 minute wait for this new ride. Not wanting to miss this brand new ride, we waited the 90 minutes that actually turned out to be 2 hours.

Even though it was a 2 hour wait, the queue line was incredible. There were so many Toy Story toys to look at from game boards, Andy's house, Lincoln Log house, barrel of monkeys to an interactive Mr. Potato Head (life size). Disney is making the waiting experience more and more enjoyable with each new ride. All of the adults were entertained. We even had a preschooler with our group (age 4) and he was actually happy during the whole 2 hour wait.

The ride is themed with the Toy Story Characters as you play midway carnival games. You are on a car that moves around while you play these games. One game is a ring toss, a different game involves shooting darts, another game involves breaking plates. Each game is centered around carnival games. You earn points during the whole ride. To make the ride more fun, you wear 3-D glasses and the whole ride is in 3-D. It is a really fun way to enjoy a ride!

The official grand opening is this week for Toy Story Mania at Disney's Hollywood Studios. We highly recommend this ride for families of all ages. It is fun for preschoolers, kids, teens, and adults. For us, it was worth the long wait. However, for guests visiting Disney World we suggest taking advantage of the FastPass with this ride. With Fast Pass and the Extra Magic Hours, you should never have to wait more than 30 minutes for a ride at Disney World. Take advantage of the FastPass for this ride.

You can experience the new Toy Story Mania right from home. Check out our video from the preview this weekend at Toy Story Mania. Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtCza2-zvOc

This Post Sponsored By:

Personalized Disney Toy Story Book

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Big Endurance Sports Weekend at Disney World

2008-05-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

Get ready for swimming, biking, running, and mud this weekend with two large endurance sports events at the Walt Disney World Resort. This weekend Disney is will host the Danskin Sprint Triathlon and Muddy Buddy. The Danskin Triathlon runs early morning (6 am) on Sunday, May 11. The athletes swim through the Seven Seas Lagoon, bike around Magic Kingdom Resort Area, and ending with a 2 mile run through Magic Kingdom Park. This popular triathlon for women is the 19th year running at the Walt Disney World Resort! The other popular sporting involves mud…yes, I did say mud! The Muddy Buddy is a team event on Saturday, May 10 at Disney’s Wide World of Sports. This endurance event incorporates trail running and biking. The big fun of this event is the huge mud pit at the end of the race. The whole team has to run or crawl through the mud pit and cross the finish line together. This is a really fun adventure race!
If you are planning a trip to Disney World this weekend, you may want to watch or cheer on one of these events at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios Open

2008-05-05T07:37:00.000-07:00

For all of those Simpson fans, the newest ride at Universal Studios Orlando is open for a “soft opening.” You can get an inside look at this new ride before the official grand opening date on May 15. This fun ride is the latest in ride technology combining thrills and a live show, all in one. You will see your favorite Simpson characters including Krusty, Homer, Bart, Marge and more. It is a fun ride for the whole family!

Be sure to pre-order your 2-Park Unlimited Tickets to be the first to see the Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios Orlando. This ticket is not available at the gates, you can only pre-order this discount ticket. The 2-Park Unlimited Pass allows you 7 consecutive days of admission to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for less than the cost of a 2-Day Pass. Click here for more details.

Ultimate Pet for Disney Fans

2008-05-03T05:10:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend one of our agents found the ultimate pet for Disney fans! There is a fish called a Mickey Mouse Platy. This small fish that looks like a goldfish, but with a little black Mickey Mouse head on the tail. This is a freshwater fish, so there is very little care involved with this pet. It is a fun pet for Disney fans of all ages! Check out your local pet store for this fun pet.

Start your Fairytale with a Disney World Honeymoon

2008-05-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

Walt Disney World Resort is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the World! Disney is the perfect start to your fairytale. The Walt Disney World Resort includes top rated restaurants, themed resorts, lots and lots of recreation, popular nightlife, and top entertainment. There are lots of activities at Disney World, just for couples.

One of the most popular aspects of a Disney World honeymoon is dining. Most couples want to dine at romantic restaurants with lots of variety. The Walt Disney World Resort is a perfect destination with over 125 restaurants at Disney World. All of these restaurants have special theming to make your dining experiences even more exciting. Imagine a romantic Mexican lunch inside a pyramid and then a few hours later sampling desserts inside a Castle with Cinderella and Prince Charming. There are so many restaurants and experiences for couples at the Walt Disney World Resort.

To make your Walt Disney World Resort honeymoon the perfect start to your fairytale, contact one of our agents. We have agents that specialize just on Disney World honeymoons. They will help you plan your romantic honeymoon with restaurant, recreation, and entertainment suggestions to make sure you are planning the best activities for a honeymoon vacation.

Disney Channel Stars at Disney's Hollywood Studios

2008-04-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

Tweens and Teens visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios today, got to see their favorite Disney Channel stars during their Disney World vacation. The Disney Channel stars made their way through Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the Stars and Motorcars Parade. All of the stars rode in a classic cars with their favorite Disney Characters including Pluto, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. The most popular stars in this parade were the popular musical group, the Jonas Brothers. Kids were very excited to see this group make their way down the parade route. Guests also got to see the Cheetah Girls and Selena Gomez from the new series, the Wizards of Waverly Place. These stars were in Orlando for the Disney Channel Games, at Wide World of Sports.

Disney Cruise Increases Price with Fuel Fee

2008-04-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

With the rising gas costs, many cruise lines have been implementing a fuel surcharge. This week Disney Cruise announced a new fuel fee that they will be adding to any new cruise packages booked on or after May 28. The fuel fee will be $8 per day for the 1st and 2nd person in each stateroom and $3 per day for any other guests in this same room.

If you are thinking about a cruise for this year. You should book now! Your family can save hundreds of dollars on this new fuel fee, if you book your cruise before May 28! Click here for more details about a Disney Cruise vacation and this new fuel fee.

Favorite Disney World Resort Pools

2008-04-21T03:19:00.000-07:00

A major part of any Orlando vacation is relaxing and swimming at a Disney Resort pool. When picking your Disney Resort, you may focus your attention on finding a great pool for your whole family. Here is a list of the most popular pools at the Walt Disney World Resort, selected from the guests that visit Disney.

Best Overall Pool - Hands down, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort is picked for the best pool at the Walt Disney World Resort. This 3 acre pool area includes a pool with real sand and a tube area where you can just relax in a tube and bask in the sun. This pool also has the best waterslide at Disney World. The waterslide is a huge pirate ship!

If the pool area gets too busy, you can even relax in a chair or hammock on the beach overlooking a beautiful lake. In the evening, you can enjoy a swim in the pool and then a campfire singalong or movies on the sandy beach. This pool area has fun for everyone, which makes Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort the most popular pool at Disney World.

Best Pool for Adults - Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort takes the prize for best pool for adults. This pool area is naturally beautiful with a waterfall and beach entry. The hot tubs are a little more private compared to the other Disney Resorts. Plus, you can see the animals right from the pool. What a fun way to enjoy an afternoon swim!

Best Pool for Teens and Preschoolers - One of the Disney Moderate Resorts called Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort gets the most votes for best pool for teenagers and preschoolers! Let’s start with the teenagers. Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort has alot of fun amenities all in the same pool area. You can grab a snack at the poolside bar, play some sand volleyball, ride a Jaguar waterslide, and then play some video games. All of the teen favorites in one area!
This resort also got the most popular pool for preschoolers. The pool features a pyramid with a waterfall trickling down the pyramid. There is also a kiddie pool and Dig Site playground, just for preschoolers. The Dig Site is a playground and sand pit for the little ones to dig up artifacts and bones. This is a perfect area for the little ones and teenagers.

Pool with the Best View - Disney’s Polynesian Resort was one of the most popular pools at the Walt Disney World Resort and came in right behind Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort for the best overall pool. Since this is such a great pool, we made up a category for this pool. So, the Disney Resort pool with the best view is Disney’s Polynesian Resort. This fun pool features a huge erupting volcano and beach entry. There is also a separate water jet area for the little ones to play. Just feet away from this pool is the sandy beach that overlooks the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom. You can see Cinderella’s Castle right from the pool. This is a great pool to enjoy in the evening. You can relax at the pool and watch the Electrical Water Pageant and Wishes Fireworks!

Enjoy the Disney Resort pools! Don’t forget your sunblock!