What's your ideal Disney Vacation Day @ EPCOT?

For a no obligation, FREE quote, contact Heather at (973) 224-4404 (call/ text), email at heathersmith@mickeyworldtravel.com, or you can fill out the form out the form by clicking here. 


Did you know that when you use me as your personal Disney Travel Agent, you arrive at the parks with a detailed itinerary outlining ALL that you will need for the day?  Check out the Itinerary for the day at EPCOT!

Day #6:  Tuesday March 8, 2016 @ EPCOT

Future World Hours 9:00am-9:00pm

World Showcase 11:00am-9:00pm (Extra Magic Hours 9:00PM - 11:00PM)

*Pick up park map and schedule at entrance for show times, parades, & character schedules (some are not on Disney app)

**Be sure to take advantage of EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival beginning at 11:00 AM in World Showcase

Dining Reservations:

• Lunch: Via Napoli @ 12:15PM reservation for 2
• Confirmation #
• Location:  EPCOT World Showcase (Italy - in the back of the Pavilion)

Snacks: Any pastry At the Boulangerie Patisserie found in the France pavilion, Kaki Gori at Kabuk Cafe in the Japan Pavilion, Funnel Cake Kiosk in The American Adventure, Crepes Located outside Chef de France in France, Apple Strudel From Sommerfest in Germany, Red Bean Ice Cream from Lotus Blossom Café in China, Kringla Sweet Pretzel  From the Kringla Bakeri Cafe in Norway, Rullekake Jelly Roll at Kringla Bakeri in Norway, Churritos with Mexican Caramel Sauce at La Cantina de San Angel in Mexico, Paletas (traditional fruit popsicles) at La Cantina de San Angel in Mexico, , Frozen Coke Slush at Liberty Inn in America, Chili Cheese Fries at Liberty Inn in America, Sorbetto at Via Napoli Italian Sorbetto in Italy, Bavarian Cheesecake at Sommerfest in Germany- DO NOT BUY WATER; IT IS FREE TO GET A CUP OF ICE WATER.

FastPass Selections & times:

• Spaceship Earth @ 9:40AM-10:40AM
• Meet Disney Pals at the EPCOT Character Spot @ 10:40AM-11:40AM
• Test Track@ 11:55AM-12:55PM

*After the last FastPass selection is used, you may go to a FastPass Kiosk to select an additional FastPass.

Attractions Recommendations for your family:

• EPCOT’s International Flower and Garden Festival @ World Showcase
• Test Track
• Living with the Land
• Journey Into Imagination With Figment
• Illuminations Fireworks @ 9:00PM (viewing areas all around World Showcase Lagoon)

Are you looking to begin planning your magical Walt Disney World Vacation with your Personal Mickey World Travel Agent?  Contact Heather for more information!

• Email:  heathersmith@mickeyworldtravel.com
• Call/ Text:  (973) 224-4404
• Personal Message through Facebook

NEW ELEPHANT VIEWING EXPERIENCE “CARING FOR GIANTS” AT DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM

NEW ELEPHANT VIEWING EXPERIENCE “CARING FOR GIANTS” AT DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM

Posted on February 21, 2017 by Disney Destinations

Now you can get a closer look at the majestic African elephants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and learn what it takes to care for them. Caring for Giants is a unique, family-friendly backstage viewing experience of our African elephants.

During this 60-minute tour, you can meet with dedicated animal care specialists who provide for the care and wellness of our elephant herd.  African cultural representatives will also be on hand to share stories of Disney’s conservation efforts dedicated to the preservation of wild populations throughout their homeland. Throughout this experience, you will be able to observe the elephants from approximately 80 to 100 feet away – so you’ll enjoy a closer encounter with the elephants than you would during other in-park experiences.

Caring for Giants will be offered several times daily beginning March 12, 2017. Groups depart throughout the day between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., and each experience lasts approximately one hour.  Guests must be 4 years of age or older to participate. Reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-PLAY (939-7529). Cost is $30 per person (tax included). Admission to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is required and is not included with the cost of Caring for Giants.

This article was posted by Disney Destinations Travel News on February 22, 2017.  This post came directly from that site.  

BOOK 2018 DISNEY’S PRINCESS HALF MARATHON PRESENTED BY CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK HOSPITALS

BOOK 2018 DISNEY’S PRINCESS HALF MARATHON PRESENTED BY CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK HOSPITALS

Posted on February 22, 2017 by Disney Destinations

Mickey World Travel can book your Race Registration with a Magic Your Way Package for the 2018 Princess Half Marathon Weekend Presented by Children’s Miracle Hospitals, which takes place Feb. 23-26, 2018, during the 2017 Princess Half Marathon Weekend runDisney Health & Fitness Expo dates, Feb. 22-March 5, 2017.

A Magic Your Way Package allows you to enjoy Disney fun for the whole family throughout the race weekend. Choose from your favorite Disney Resort hotel and the number of days for your Theme Park ticket.

Plus, when you stay at a Disney Resort hotel you’ll enjoy special benefits, including complimentary MagicBands and early access to Disney FastPass+ planning up to 60 days before you arrive!

Booking Window: Feb. 22-Mar. 05, 2017

Travel Window: Feb. 15-Mar. 01, 2018

This article was posted by Disney Destinations Travel News on February 22, 2017.  This post came directly from that site.  

“CELEBRATION AT THE TOP – SIP, SAVOR, SPARKLE” DEBUTS FEBRUARY 26 AT CALIFORNIA GRILL AT DISNEY’S CONTEMPORARY RESORT

“CELEBRATION AT THE TOP – SIP, SAVOR, SPARKLE” DEBUTS FEBRUARY 26 AT CALIFORNIA GRILL AT DISNEY’S CONTEMPORARY RESORT

Posted on February 22, 2017 by Disney Destinations

Celebration at the Top, a new dining event coming to California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World® Resort, allows you to sip, savor and sparkle as you enjoy the Magic Kingdom® Park fireworks spectacular from an intimate and private observation deck.

Celebration at the Top Guests can check in at California Grill an hour before fireworks. After being whisked up to the California Grill, which sits on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, you will be taken to the intimate and secluded banquet rooms to enjoy canapés, a selection of sushi rolled by the expert California Grill sushi chefs, a selection of flatbreads and other small plates. A complimentary bar offering craft beers, California wines, cordials and coffee will also be available.

Just before the night spectacular begins, you will be lead to their private observation deck, which offers stunning views of Magic Kingdom Park and the fireworks. After taking in the breathtaking sights and sounds, you can return to the private room for petit four desserts including decadent chocolate confections and fruit tarts.

Reservations for Celebration at the Top are now open for select Sunday evenings from Feb. 26-April 16, 2017. Cost is $99 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Complimentary valet parking is included.

This article was posted by Disney Destinations Travel News on February 22, 2017.  This post came directly from that site.  

Disney Cruise Line Releases Itineraries for Summer 2018!

FEATURED PORTS AND ITINERARIES FOR SUMMER 2018

In summer 2018, Disney Cruise Line will sail on new itineraries and to new ports, including first-time visits to destinations in Italy and Ireland. Disney Cruise Line takes Guests on a grand tour of Europe with visits to the Mediterranean, northern Europe, Norway and Iceland. Plus, adventures continue with sailings to Alaska, the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

New sailings from Rome and Barcelona
For the first time, Disney Cruise Line Guests can experience more of the rich culture of Barcelona and inspiring history of Rome in a single cruise. In Rome, Guests can explore the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Vatican, and sample authentic local cuisine. Barcelona offers beautiful beaches, the market streets of La Rambla, the artistic architecture of Gaudi and the famed Sagrada Família church.

On June 16, 2018, the Disney Magic will sail a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome). Ports of call include Marseilles and Villefranche, France; and Genoa (Milan), Livorno (Florence, Pisa) and Naples, Italy.

On June 23, 2018, the Disney Magic will sail a seven-night itinerary from Civitavecchia (Rome) to Barcelona. Ports visited on this cruise are Naples, Livorno (Florence, Pisa) and Genoa (Milan), Italy; and Cannes and Marseilles, France.

First-time visits to Milan, Italy
Disney Cruise Line will call on Genoa, Italy for the first time in 2018, as part of three special sailings from Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome). The historic port town of Genoa, located on the Italian Riviera, is a gateway to the beautiful metropolis of Milan and the picturesque locale of Portofino. Milan is a global capital of fashion and design, featuring top-name designer stores, boutiques, open-air markets and art galleries.

A 10-night Mediterranean itinerary sailing from Barcelona on July 7, 2018, calls on Genoa, as well as other popular ports in Italy, France and Spain.

First-time visit to Cork, Ireland and first seven-night British Isles
The Disney Magic will call on Cork, Ireland for the first time as part of a first-ever seven-night British Isles cruise, departing on September 2, 2018. Additional ports visited on this sailing include Dublin, Ireland; Greenock, Scotland; and Liverpool, England. Cork is home to a vibrant culinary scene and a plethora of pubs, shops and cafes. It invites visitors to connect with Ireland's ancient past, with historic sites like Blarney Castle, where visitors can kiss the famed Blarney Stone.

Throughout the summer, the Disney Magic will continue to tour Europe with engagements in the Baltic, Norwegian fjords, British Isles and the Mediterranean.

Return to Alaska
In 2018, the newly re-imagined Disney Wonder will return to Alaska for the summer season, opening up a world of breathtaking natural vistas, magnificent glaciers and awe-inspiring wildlife. A variety of five-, seven- and nine-night itineraries will depart from Vancouver, Canada, with stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Tracy Arm Fjord.

Southern Caribbean Special Sailing
In 2018, the Disney Fantasy will embark on a special 11-night southern Caribbean itinerary departing June 30, visiting tropical destinations renowned for beautiful sun-kissed beaches, including Aruba, Barbados, Martinique, St. Kitts, Puerto Rico and the Disney private island, Castaway Cay.

Castaway Cay - More Opportunities to Explore Disney's Exclusive Private Island
Castaway Cay, Disney's private island in the Bahamas, is consistently a top-rated destination. In 2018, the Disney Dream will sail a series of cruises that include two stops at Castaway Cay so Guests can have twice the fun in the sun and enjoy even more of the pristine island paradise.

Bookings open for Platinum and Gold Castaway Club Guests on February 22, 2017 and to all Guests on February 23, 2017.

This is a promotional e-mail from: Disneyland® Resort Attn: E-mail Marketing 700 W. Ball Road Anaheim, CA Walt Disney World® Resort Disney Cruise Line® Adventures by Disney Vacations Attn: E-mail Compliance 1375 Buena Vista Drive P.O. Box 10000 Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Top 5 Walt Disney World Planning Tips

For a no obligation, FREE quote, contact Heather at (973) 224-4404 (call/ text), email at heathersmith@mickeyworldtravel.com, or you can fill out the form out the form by clicking here. 


A Walt Disney World Vacation can be a little overwhelming in planning!  Here are a few tips that I always share with my clients throughout the planning process.  

5.  Make Dining Reservations in advance - When using a Mickey World Travel Agent, we take care of all this for you!  You can begin your reservations up to 180 days before you check-in and the earlier you make these reservations, the more likely you will be able to score those hard to get reservations (Such as Cinderella's Royal Table in Cinderella's Castle and Be Our Guest in Beast's Castle, both in Magic Kingdom)

4.  Always have a plan - You don't need a full itinerary (although we will create one for you if you want to use it), but it is always helpful to have an idea of what you want to do or see each day, that way you don't accidentally miss something you or your family is really looking forward to.  Knowing the opening and closing times of the parks is a great way to get started!

3.  Don't forget to pack the necessities - There are little things that you may not realize would be very handy when in the parks.  For example, a portable charger for your cell phone, sunscreen, and Advil.  All these are easily forgotten, but will come in handy when your feet are sore!  The gift shops will sell the necessities, but why pay extra for something that you probably already have at home!

2.  Never pay for water (or even carry it around) - Did you know that you can ask for a FREE cup of ice water at any quick-service location?  This makes your backpack a little lighter throughout the day and can save you from spending $2.50 per bottle inside the parks or resorts.

1.  Stay at a Walt Disney World Resort!  - This is my number 1 because of all the perks that comes with a Walt Disney World Resort stay!

• Free transportation to and from Orlando International Airport on Disney's Magical Express
• Free transportation to and from all the Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Disney Springs
• Extra Magic Hours
• Use of the Disney Dining Plans
• Complimentary Magic Bands
• Never leaving the magic!

Do you have any go-to tips for planning and ensuring a stress-free, magical Disney vacation?  Share below!

Are you looking to begin planning your magical Walt Disney World Vacation with your Personal Mickey World Travel Agent? Contact Heather for more information! Email: heathersmith@mickeyworldtravel.com

• Call/ Text: (973) 224-4404
• Personal Message through Facebook

What's your ideal Disney Vacation Day @ Disney's Animal Kingdom?

For a no obligation, FREE quote, contact Heather at (973) 224-4404 (call/ text), email at heathersmith@mickeyworldtravel.com, or you can fill out the form out the form by clicking here. 


Did you know that when you use me as your personal Disney Travel Agent, you arrive at the parks with a detailed itinerary outlining ALL that you will need for the day?  Check out the Itinerary for the day at Disney's Animal Kingdom!

Day #2:  Monday March 7, 2017 @ Disney’s Animal Kingdom

9:00AM-6:00PM (Extra Magic Hours 8:00AM - 9:00AM)

*Pick up park map and schedule at entrance for showtimes, parades, & character schedules (some are not on Disney app)

Dining Reservations:

• Breakfast: Tusker House - Donald's Safari Breakfast @ 9:35AM reservation for 6
• Confirmation #
• Location:  Disney’s Animal Kingdom - Africa

• Dinner:  Whispering Canyon Cafe @ 5:35PM reservation for 6
• Confirmation #
• Location:  Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Snacks: Tree of Life cupcake from Kusafiri’s, Lobster Macaroni and Cheese from Beastly Kiosk, Floats at Anandapur Ice Cream Truck in Asia, Jalapeno Cheese Stuffed Pretzel at Safari Pretzel on Discovery Island, Chicken Fried Rice at Anandapaur Local Foods Cafe in Asia, Worms and Dirt Sundae at Campfire Treats in Camp Minnie Mickey, Hummas with Vegetables at Allergy Dining Kiosk in Discovery Island. -DO NOT BUY WATER; IT IS FREE TO GET A CUP OF ICE WATER

FastPass Selections times:

• Kilimanjaro Safaris @ 11:00AM-12:00PM
• Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain @ 1:20 PM-2:20 PM
• DINOSAUR @ 1:45PM-2:45PM

Attractions Recommendations for your family:

• It's Tough to Be a Bug!
• Kali River Rapids
• Expedition Everest (for adults)

• Dinosaur
• Primeval Whirl
• TriceraTop Spin
• The Boneyard
• Affection Section (petting zoo)
• Flights of Wonder
• Meet Pocahontas at Discovery Island Trails
• Meet Rafiki and Chip and Dale at Rafiki’s Planet Watch
• Meet Baloo and King Louie at Upcountry Landing

Are you looking to begin planning your magical Walt Disney World Vacation with your Personal Mickey World Travel Agent? Contact Heather for more information!

• Email: heathersmith@mickeyworldtravel.com
• Call/ Text: (973) 224-4404
• Personal Message through Facebook

RunDisney

This weekend is the Princess 1/2 Marathon Weekend at Walt Disney World!  

From someone who has done 4 RunDisney weekends (I can't believe its been 4 already!!!!), I can attest that it is definitely something that you can easily get hooked on!  I mean, come on, how cool is it to run through Cinderella's Castle at Magic Kingdom, or backstage nears the animal holding areas at Disney's Animal Kingdom!

I think my favorite RunDisney moment was my first!  I had no idea what to expect and it was my very first race... EVER!!!  I started small, and ran my first 5K during the Princess 1/2 Marathon Weekend in February of 2014!  It seems like a lifetime ago!  

Throughout the race course, cast members are there to cheer you on and photographers will catch you in your awkward, exhausted mode, and lucky for you, you can link those special pictures to your Memory Maker package!  Also throughout the race course are characters that you don't normally see inside the parks!  There are photopass photographers at those locations so you don't have to pull out your phone and potentially stop your tracking app.

After all is said and done (and you're done early because they need to get the races done before the parks open), you have accomplished something great in the middle of the most magical place on Earth!  And now, you can enjoy the rest of the day in the parks.  All in all, some will say its just another road race, but to me, its definitely an experience that I will NEVER forget!  Oh and the bling is pretty cool too!

Mickey World Travel can book your vacations along side of the RunDisney races and apply promotions offered through the Walt Disney World Co.  Contact Heather for more information and dates!

BELOVED ‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’ STORY COMING TO LIFE WITH LIMITED-TIME EXPERIENCES IN FANTASYLAND AT DISNEYLAND PARK

BELOVED ‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’ STORY COMING TO LIFE WITH LIMITED-TIME EXPERIENCES IN FANTASYLAND AT DISNEYLAND PARK

Posted on February 14, 2017 by Disney Destinations

For a limited time, Fantasyland at Disneyland® Park will bring the beloved “Beauty and the Beast” story to life with special experiences that celebrate the classic Disney animated feature.

Red Rose Taverne – This dining location at the northwest edge of Fantasyland will magically transform from Village Haus Restaurant into a lively French taverne, with delicious quick-service meals perfect for all ages! Adorned with beautiful murals depicting favorite scenes from Disney’s animated feature, “Beauty and the Beast,” and draped with inviting curtains, each room of Red Rose Taverne tells a different chapter of the tale as old as time. The menu will transform as well, featuring some of your favorite tastes with a French taverne-inspired twist, as well as new signature beverages. We’ll have details to share on these delicious additions soon – and yes, you will be able to try the Disneyland version of the Grey Stuff. (We hear it’s delicious!)

Royal Reception – This special merchandise location adjacent to Red Rose Taverne offers keepsakes, apparel and collectibles inspired by both the animated Disney feature as well as the new, live-action film, “Beauty and the Beast,” in theaters March 17, 2017.

That Gaston – We all know Gaston loves a taverne, so Guests may find him preening around Fantasyland. 

Maurice’s Treats – The celebration continues in nearby Fantasy Faire, where each twist on the menu at Maurice’s Treats will be presented with … well … a twist!  

The Royal Theatre Presents “Beauty and the Beast” – At the Royal Theatre in Fantasy Faire, Mr. Smythe and Mr. Jones present their take on “Beauty and the Beast” in this daily favorite.

This article was posted by Disney Destinations Travel News on February 14, 2017.  This post came directly from that site.