Disney Updates

Itinerary Change for Mexican Riviera Cruises

In order to provide Clients with a premier family experience, Disney Cruise Line® is modifying its 7-night Mexican Riviera itineraries departing Jan. 8 – April 22, 2012, by replacing calls to Mazatlán with an additional stop in Cabo San Lucas.

As you know, safety is very important to us. This decision was made, in part, due to the changing environment in Mazatlán and the surrounding area. A similar decision was made for Mexican Riviera sailings in 2011.

If you are booked on one of these cruises, you will receive an email or direct mail regarding the itinerary change.

Disney Cruise Line continually evaluates its itineraries and believes this revised itinerary with two calls in the popular port of Cabo San Lucas will provide the best overall vacation experience for you.


Disneyland Hotel Recognized with AAA 4-Diamond Award

AAA has recognized the landmark Disneyland® Hotel with its coveted 2012 Four-Diamond award. Nationwide, only 4% of the hotel properties AAA reviews will achieve this Four-Diamond distinction, and the Disneyland Hotel now joins Disney's Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa as the two hotels at the Disneyland Resort – and the only two hotel properties in Anaheim – to be granted such a high rating.

New Adventures, New Destinations: Bookings Open Today

Posted on August 30, 2011 by Disney Destinations

Adventures by Disney®, the leader in guided family travel, is pleased to announce the addition of two new destinations – Greece and Northern France – to its line up of immersive family vacations. Bookings open today for new dates and new 2012 itineraries!

“Greek Odyssey” – Athens, Santorini and Crete

The adventure begins in Athens where Greek mythology comes to life through moonlight storytelling at the Parthenon and sporting games at the home of the modern Olympics. Discovery continues on the volcanic island of Santorini where kids go feet-first into Greek grape stomping while adults enjoy a wine tasting at Volcan winery. After sailing the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, families travel to Crete and are immersed in mountain culture with local expert-led lessons in cheese making and Greek dancing.

“Espirit de France” – Paris, Normandy and Loire Valley

Perfect for families looking to experience the arts, this itinerary features a drawing activity in Monet’s Gardens, a visit to Château du Clos Lucé, the last know residence of Leonardo da Vinci, and a private dinner at the Louvre in Paris. Experiencing a true taste of the French countryside, adventurers learn the art of brandy-making, enjoy a countryside bike ride and spend the night in an authentic Château. The itinerary also includes visits to Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel monastery and Omaha Beach.

In addition to the new destinations, Adventures by Disney will continue to offer unforgettable expeditions to Egypt as well as new enhanced itineraries to Australia, London and Paris, and the Galapagos Islands.

Register to view a special on-demand virtual event to learn more about these award-winning family vacations.

Mary Poppins is released August 29, 1964

Mary Poppins is a 1964 musical film starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, produced by Walt Disney, and based on the Mary Poppins books series by P. L. Travers with illustrations by Mary Shepard. The film was directed by Robert Stevenson and written by Bill Walsh and Don DaGradi, with songs by the Sherman Brothers. It was shot at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California.

Julie Andrews won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance as Mary Poppins and the film also won Oscars for Best Film Editing, Original Music Score, Best Song for "Chim Chim Cher-ee" and Best Visual Effects, and received a total of 13 nominations.

This film was the #1 moneymaker of 1965, earning a net profit of $28.5 million. The Sound of Music was #2 with $20 million; Goldfinger was #3 at $19.7 million; and My Fair Lady was #4 at $19 million. The film also received universal acclaim from film critics. The film received a 100% "Certified Fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Mary Poppins is now a popular broadway show. If you are lucky, you may also get to meet her at the Magic Kingdom!

One of Walt's favorite songs was "Feed The Birds."

Spring Break Cruise 2012

Baby elephant born at Disney's Animal Kingdom

The African elephant count at Disney's Animal Kingdom has reached a full dozen with the birth of a male calf Wednesday at Disney World.

Vasha, the 25-year-old mother, delivered a 311-pound offspring with the assistance of a team of animal-care workers at the theme park. The newborn has not yet been named.

It's the sixth elephant born at Animal Kingdom, meaning one-half of the herd of 12 would have Florida on their birth certificates. Animal Kingdom is home to four male and eight female African elephants.

Vasha's pregnancy was achieved through artificial insemination in 2009 — it was a 22-month gestation period. It's the second calf for her: Kianga, a female, was born to her at Animal Kingdom in 2004.

Vasha is successfully nursing, Disney officials say. The baby gradually will acclimate to the rest of the herd over the next several weeks.

By Dewayne Bevil, Orlando Sentinel
4:00 p.m. EDT, August 25, 2011

Disney Story Room family suites at Disney's Art of Animation Resort

A look inside the new Disney Story Room family suites at Disney's Art of Animation Resort

The official Disney Parks Blog has given us a sneak peek inside the "Disney Story Room" family suites at the currently under-construction "Disney's Art of Animation Resort". Disney’s Art of Animation Family Suites will be available at Finding Nemo, Cars and The Lion King Courtyard areas at the resort.

The resort is already open for reservations beginning June 1 2012.

Spring Break Cruises

Did you know Spring Break is one of the best deals in cruising for parents who do not want to take the kids out of school to travel? There are more ships in the Southern US during this time so there are more choices and it is also considered off peek travel so you can save hundreds - even thousands depending on the number of people traveling and the level of your room by sailing during this time!

I am in the process of booking some group space out of New Orleans. There are three ships out of this port and the rates are better than Galveston. I have also talked to a company about providing transportation via bus to New Orleans from the DFW area. If this sounds like something you would be interested in please let me know! The first responders will determine the cruise line - there are the choices of Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian all departing either on 3/10 or 3/11. I think we can get round trip transfers from DFW to the ship and a 7 night cruise for around $1,000 per person based on double occupancy (3 & 4 person in a room would be less).  That price may go up or down a little depending on the number of people in the group - the more we get the better the deal!

Please email me at Renee@TravelNeverland.com if you have interest!

Transportation & Getting Around Disney World

If you're driving to the Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida, here are directions from major U.S. cities and within Florida — including the Walt Disney World Interstate exits.

If you're flying to the Orlando International Airport, transportation to Walt Disney World Resort is available via Disney's Magical Express service, airport shuttle or rental car. And once you're at Walt Disney World Resort, you can zip around on complimentary and convenient transportation that runs continuously throughout the day. Check out "the best way to get around."

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Q. What is the best way to get to Walt Disney World from the Orlando International Airport?

A. Your best option is to use Disney's Magical Express Service* or an airport shuttle or car rental.

With Disney's Magical Express Service, your vacation starts the moment you land at Orlando International Airport:

•Don't bother picking up your luggage when you arrive; Disney takes you from the airport to check-in, while your bags go to your room.
•Save on transportation costs, tolls, parking, and more.
•Enjoy comfortable transportation to and from the airport in deluxe air-conditioned motor coaches.
•When your vacation's over, you and your bags are whisked back from your Disney Resort to the airport.
Some recommended shuttle options from the Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World Resort follow:

Mears Airport Shuttle is available from Orlando International Airport to your Walt Disney World Resort hotel. Shuttle tickets may be purchased at the time of boarding. For return to the airport, the shuttle boards at the entrance of every Walt Disney World Resort hotel. Make reservations 24 hours in advance and allow a minimum of two hours before flight time.

*Disney's Magical Express is available to all Guests staying at Disney Resorts with the exception of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel and the Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels.
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Q. What are the best driving routes to the Walt Disney World Resort?

A. If you're traveling by car, it's easy to find the Walt Disney World Resort. We're located southwest of Orlando, off Interstate 4, west of the Florida Turnpike. Routes from some major US cities:

•Atlanta, GA: I-75 South to the Florida Turnpike South toward Orlando to Interstate 4 West to Walt Disney World Resort Exits
•Boston, MA: I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits
•Chicago, IL: I-65 South to I-24 East to I-75 South to the Florida Turnpike South toward Orlando to Interstate 4 West to Walt Disney World Resort Exits
•Columbia, SC: I-26 East to I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits
•Dallas, TX: I-20 East to I-49 South to I-10 East to I-75 South to the Florida Turnpike South toward Orlando to Interstate 4 West to Walt Disney World Resort Exits
•Hilton Head Island, SC: US 278 West to I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits
•New Orleans, LA: I-10 East to I-75 South to the Florida Turnpike South toward Orlando to Interstate 4 West to Walt Disney World Resort Exits
•New York, NY: I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits
•Raleigh, NC: I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits
•Washington, DC: I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits

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Q: What are the best driving routes to the Walt Disney World Resort from within Florida?

A: Walt Disney World Resort is located southwest of Orlando, off Interstate 4, west of the Florida Turnpike. Routes from some major Florida starting points:

•From Interstate 95, U.S. Highway 1 or southbound on the Florida Turnpike: take I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits
•From southbound Interstate 75: take the Florida Turnpike South to Interstate 4 West to Walt Disney World Resort Exits
•From northbound on the Florida Turnpike: take Osceola Parkway which connects with U.S. Highway 192 and the Walt Disney World Resort
•From the Daytona area: take I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits
•From the Tampa area: take I-4 East to Walt Disney World Exits
•From Miami/Ft. Lauderdale: take the Florida Turnpike North to Osceola Parkway West (Exit 249) to Walt Disney World Exits
•From Northeast Florida: take I-95 South to I-4 West (Exit 260B, old 86) to Walt Disney World Exits
•From Northwest Florida: take I-75 South to Florida Turnpike South (Exit 328, old 65), to I-4 West (Exit 259) to Walt Disney World Exits
•From the Ocala Welcome Center — located at I-75 (Exit 350, old 68): take I-75 South to Florida Turnpike South (Exit 65), to I-4 West (Exit 259) to Walt Disney World Exits
•From Orlando International Airport: take OIA South Exit (FL 417S - Toll) to the Osceola Parkway West (Exit 3) to Walt Disney World Exits
•From Sanford Airport: take Lake Mary Blvd. West to FL 417 South to the Osceola Parkway West to Walt Disney World Exits

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Q. There are so many Walt Disney World Interstate Exits. Which ones should I take?

A: Each of the Exits will take you to various parts of the Walt Disney World Resort. Some highlights from each Exit:

Exit 67:
Attractions: Epcot®, Downtown Disney area, Disney's BoardWalk Inn, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon

•Epcot Resort Area: Disney's Yacht Club and Disney Beach Club Resorts, Disney's BoardWalk Inn and Villas, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, the Walt Disney World Swan and Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotels, Disney's Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course
•Downtown Disney Resort Area: Disney's Old Key West Resort, Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
Exit 65:
Attractions: Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, ESPN Wide World of Sports® Complex, Disney's Blizzard Beach

•Disney's Animal Kingdom Resort Area: Disney's All-Star Movies Resort, Disney's All-Star Music Resort, Disney's All-Star Sports Resort, Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney's Pop Century Resort, Disney's Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course
Exit 64:
Attractions: Magic Kingdom® Park, Disney's Hollywood Studios™

•Magic Kingdom Resort Area: Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Polynesian Resort, Disney's Wilderness Lodge, Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, and The Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge, Eagle Pines Golf Course, Magnolia Golf Course, Osprey Ridge Golf Course, Oak Trail Golf Course, Palm Golf Course, Disney's Wedding Pavilion

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Q: What is the best way to get around within the Walt Disney World Resort?

A: There are many modes of transportation within the Walt Disney World Resort, including Bus, Boat and Monorail. A rundown of transportation within the resort:

By Bus:
Most areas of the Walt Disney World Resort are accessible by bus from other areas within the Resort, including Theme Parks*, Water Parks, the Disney Resorts and the Downtown Disney area. Buses travel on routes throughout the Resort and do not provide direct service between all destinations.
*Magic Kingdom Park is not accessible by bus from Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney's Polynesian Resort. These Resorts provide monorail transportation to the park.

By Boat:
The Magic Kingdom Park is accessible by water launch from Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney's Polynesian Resort, Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney's Wilderness Lodge. The Disney ferryboats connect the Magic Kingdom Park to the Transportation and Ticket Centre (adjacent to Magic Kingdom parking).
Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios are accessible by boat from Disney's BoardWalk Inn and Villas Resort, Disney's Yacht Club and Disney's Beach Club Resorts and the Walt Disney World Swan and Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotels.
Downtown Disney is accessible by ferryboat from Disney's Port Orleans Resort and Disney's Old Key West Resort.

By Monorail:
Disney's monorail runs between the Magic Kingdom Park, Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney's Polynesian Resort and the Transportation and Ticket Centre (adjacent to the Magic Kingdom parking lot). A connecting monorail takes Guests from the Transportation and Ticket Centre to Epcot.
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Q: What Walt Disney World Resort Area is my Resort Hotel located in?

A: You will see signs on the Interstate for different Resort Areas. Here are the Hotels in each area:

Magic Kingdom Area:
Disney's Contemporary Resort
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney's Polynesian Resort
Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground-Cabins
Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground-Campsite
The Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge

Epcot Area:
Disney's Beach Club Resort
Disney's BoardWalk Inn
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Disney's Beach Club Villas
Disney's BoardWalk Villas
Walt Disney World Dolphin
Walt Disney World Swan
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

Disney's Animal Kingdom Area:
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
Disney's All-Star Movies Resort
Disney's All-Star Music Resort
Disney's All-Star Sports Resort

Downtown Disney area:Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Disney's Old Key West Resort

ESPN Wide World of Sports Area:
Disney's Pop Century Resort

Adventures by Disney Register Now for Virtual Event

You're cordially invited to attend a special virtual event on

Tuesday, Aug. 30!

Adventures by Disney® will unveil its exciting lineup of 2012 destinations and provide itinerary highlights of these guided group family vacations. Since bookings open the same day, you can watch the presentation then immediately work with me to lock-in preferred dates.

With so many spectacular destinations around the world, you may have a hard time choosing. Register now!

http://www.abdwebcastrsvp.com/registernow/

Royal Caribbean Top 10 Sailings

As Of 8/15/11

Western Caribbean	MARINER OF THE SEAS	12/18/11 Holiday Sailing	8-Night Roundtrip Galveston, TX	$919 Cat N Interior
Western Caribbean	MARINER OF THE SEAS	11/20/11 Thanksgiving Sailing	7-Night Roundtrip Galveston, TX	$899 Cat PR Interior Promenade
Southern Caribbean	SERENADE OF THE SEAS	1/21/12	7-Night Roundtrip San Juan, PR	$869 Cat E3 Balcony
Western Caribbean	MARINER OF THE SEAS	2/12/12 Valentine’s Day	7-Night Roundtrip Galveston, TX	$649 Cat M Interior
Western Caribbean	MARINER OF THE SEAS	11/11/11	9-Night Roundtrip Galveston, TX	$1259 Cat H Oceanview
Western Caribbean	VOYAGER OF THE SEAS	3/10/12 Spring Break	7-Night Roundtrip New Orleans	$699 Cat N Interior
Canada/New England	JEWEL OF THE SEAS	10/1/11	7-Night Roundtrip Boston, Massachusetts	$1299 Cat E3 Balcony
Eastern Mediterranean	BRILLIANCE OF THE SEAS	10/22/11	12-Night Roundtrip Barcelona, Spain	$1199 Cat E3 Balcony
Eastern Caribbean	OASIS OF THE SEAS	12/3/11	7-Night Roundtrip Ft Lauderdale, FL	$1165 Cat C2 Balcony
Western Caribbean	OASIS OF THE SEAS	12/24/11 Holiday Sailing	7-Night Roundtrip Ft Lauderdale, FL	$1849 Cat Y Oceanview GTY

*Resident Promotion; one person in the cabin must be a resident of Texas in order to qualify .
**Seniors Fares; one person in the cabin must be 55 to qualify for these rates.

Aulani Grand Opening – 13 Days and Counting!

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, will offer a new way to vacation in Hawai'i when the Resort welcomes its first Guests on Aug. 29 – less than two weeks away!

Aulani is located on the island of O'ahu and is perfectly placed just far enough from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, but close enough for you to enjoy the world-class entertainment for which O'ahu is known. Situated in an idyllic beachfront setting, the Resort is nestled between lush green mountains and the beautiful Pacific Ocean.

Aulani is the perfect Hawaiian vacation for your family, created by the family experts at Disney. Here you can climb aboard a tube and glide through misty caverns on an enchanting water slide. Set sail on a catamaran for dolphin-spotting and whale watching, and party poolside with favorite Disney Characters at an all-ages celebration. Learn the secrets of Disney animation while painting an Aulani-Exclusive Animation Cel, and join Uncle for hula, games and music at the Aulani Starlit Hui. From toddlers to teenagers, Aulani features a variety of programs and activities that your family can enjoy together.

Little Ones at Epcot

Epcot is a great place to take little ones!  Many people think that it is a great park for adults with little to offer the younger crowd, but they are wrong.  Check out this video:

Here is a map that highlights Epcot for the Pre-K age.

With the kidcot stops, fountians to play in, underwater adventures and Turtle Talk with Crush and The Circle of Life with Simba and rides that are kid friendly, like The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Spaceship Earth, Living with the Land, Journey Into Imagination with Figment, Gran Fiesta Tour and Maelstrom there is a lot for a small child to enjoy at Epcot!  I would recommend the Princess breakfast in Norway and the Garden Grill in the Land with Mickey & Friends for dining experiences for the young and young at heart.

Mark Your Calendar for New Adventures

Get ready for Aug. 30! That's when Adventures by Disney® officially announces its exciting lineup of new product and additional 2012 dates. With spectacular destinations around the world, your Clients will have a hard time deciding which one to choose!

The next D-mail will invite you and your Clients to attend a virtual event to learn all about these exciting new itineraries, so stay tuned.

Aunty’s Beach House – A Kids’ Club Adults Will Want to Visit

At Aulani, your children of all ages will be welcomed as members of an extended Hawaiian family when they arrive at the Resort's exclusive kid's club, Aunty's Beach House. With over 5,200 square feet, this state-of-the-art, Disney-themed club is a warm, inviting place of fun, discovery and, of course, magic.

You can relax at the Laniwai spa or play a round of golf knowing Disney Youth Counselors are not just watching your kids, but providing entertaining and engaging programs created just for your toddler, younger child or teenager.

Aunty's Beach House offers a range of immersive experiences for all ages – from toddlers meeting favorite Disney Characters to young children making food to feed the sting rays at the Conservation Pool; from tweens embarking on a scavenger hunt to teens enjoying fun beach activities. Kids will also gain a deeper knowledge of the local Hawaiian culture in a fun way through engaging cultural offerings, such as lei making, hula, stargazing, crafts and more.

Aunty's Beach House is a place where things are not always as they first appear. Moving from room to room, kids will marvel as one enchanted surprise follows the next – making it a truly unforgettable experience.

While Aunty's Beach House will offer a lot of scheduled programs, there will also be flexible times to allow for free play or family time. Plus, much of the daily programming will be included with your stay, while select Premium Experiences will include an extra charge.

Book an unforgettable family vacation at Aulani now for stays beginning Aug. 29, 2011.

US Citizens traveling to the Bahamas Document Requirements

I went on the Disney Cruise Line website today and it looks like the requirements to the Bahamas are now a bit more complicated. I also confirmed this with the Bahama and US websites.

For travel to the Bahamas here is what you need:

From the Disney Cruise Line Website:
U.S. Citizens

All Guests claiming U.S. citizenship, including children, who board a cruise ship within the United States, travel only within the Western Hemisphere, and return to the same U.S. port on the same ship may present one of the following documents as proof of U.S. citizenship for each member of their party:
A valid, unexpired U.S. Passport
A valid, unexpired U.S. Passport Card
State Issued Enhanced Driver's License - this is a special type of license that provides proof of identity and US citizenship; not all states offer Enhanced Driver's Licenses please visit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. (Texas does not offer this type license.) I also double checke the WHTI site and it agreed with the Disney site.

I know up until this year people were traveling to the Bahamas with the birth certificate (When I looked it up earlier this year and things were not as strict) - but it looks like they are finally enforcing it.

We just renewed our kid's passports - they expired in July. It was like doing it all again for the first time even though they had valid passports. Both Alan and I had to go together with the kids - the passport documents will tell you what needs to be provided - we had to both sign documents and also have proof (original birth certificates) that Anna and AJ were ours even with their current valid passports. Children's passports are only valid for 5 years - adults are for 10 years. If you get the Passport Card, it is a bit cheaper, but only works for driving or cruising into other countries - and the countries are limited to a hand full. If you had to fly back due to an emergency you would have trouble getting back into the US. I agree with Disney's recommendation to go ahead and get the regular passport. We went to our local post office to get our passports - they even took the photos there. It was very easy!

Come work with Travel Neverland

About the Job

We are a young and growing travel company that specializes in Disney and Cruise travel.

Job Purpose:
Guides travelers by identifying itineraries; booking reservations.

Duties:
* Clarifies travel preferences by determining travel dates and destination, mode of transportation, and finances.

* Develops itinerary by assembling literature; offering personal experiences; commenting on local customs, points of interest, and special events; answering inquiries; offering suggestions.

* Schedules itinerary by identifying, booking, and confirming route, carriers, lodging, and dining; verifying space and rates; issuing tickets.

* Completes foreign travel requirements by obtaining visa, permit, and medical regulations; completing forms; providing information to obtain currency.

* Prepares travel packet by assembling itinerary, maps, tickets, confirmations, visas and related documents, baggage tags, emergency resources, insurance options, etc.

* Collects payment by entering and verifying scheduled services and charges; computing total; obtaining credit card charge, check, or cash.

* Maintains resource of travel options by traveling carriers and visiting destinations; assembling, filing, and updating directories, brochures, pamphlets, guides, timetables, etc.

* Obtains refunds and adjustments by completing claim forms.

* Promotes travel by selling tour packages and special events; speaking to community groups.

* Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.

Skills/Qualifications:

Travel Logistics, Scheduling, Customer Service, Data Entry Skills, Analyzing Information, Dealing with Complexity, Initiative, General Math Skills, Verbal Communication, Planning, Teamwork, Hands on travel experience - with emphasis on Disney destinations and Cruise Lines.

http://hiring.monster.com/jpw/jobs/jobspreviewpopup.aspx?post=true&source=jcm&folderid=105004214

Travel Neverland Brochure

I have been working on a company brochure and would love your feedback!

Norwegian Cruise Line Western Caribbean Video

Staci's Trip Report

(Staci took her family of four, including two young children close in age to mine, on a 5 night Disney Dream trip in July. This is her feedback - I thought since so many of us will be doing a similar trip soon you would all enjoy the information - Thanks Staci!)

The trip was GREAT! The ship was even more than I imagined. I actually feel like we didn't get to do everything on the ship that we wanted to. We saw Cars 2 in 3D, but never ended up getting to see a live show. I think I would've liked at least another day at sea just to have more time on the boat...so maybe next time we'll have to do a 7 night cruise instead!

John and I had dinner at both Palo and Remy, and did brunch at Palo as well. The food was spectacular, as was the service. John and I were really happy we went to Remy. You can order a-la-carte...but they also have an "American" set menu and a "French" set menu...and our waiter suggested we each get one and then try a little bit of each others. So we did that and I was very happy with it! We weren't able to book brunch online for Palo...so ended up calling once we got on the ship and were able to get in...which was great because the brunch was FABULOUS!

We only went to our seated dining twice. It was just easier with the kids to go get a little meal from the cafe and take it back to the room and rest up a little bit.

Castaway Cay was beautiful. We spent most of our time on the beach. John went parasailing. The kids loved seeing all the characters there and taking their pictures with them.

We ended up at Atlantis in Nassau. We really enjoyed going through the aquariums and looking around. But Atlantis was SO HUGE and Jack was too short to do most of the slides...so we ended up going back to the ship pretty early. I think you need to spend a few days there (and Jack would need to be a little bit older) to really enjoy it. Most people said they booked a dolphin or sea lion adventure and loved it...so I would suggest something like this rather than spending the day in the park itself. Since you're going for 4 nights, I would definitely suggest staying on the boat while in Nassau. It might be easier to get on the Aquaduck during this time...most of the time there was a line about 30 minutes long!

We really spent the majority of our time at the pools on the ship. Jack and Kendall could move back and forth from the pools to the Mickey slide...and then they'd watch the big screen TV...they both loved it. Kendall was scared to try the Aquaduck...but we couldn't get Jack off of it!! At one point, when most people went to dinner...Jack and John rode it 12 times in a row.

The Oceaneer's Club and Lab were awesome, although the kids moaned and groaned a little bit each time we took them. I think if they had had friends to go in with them, it would've been better. And they just always wanted to be at the pools. John and I were able to get them in there for a while one afternoon while we went to the adult pool, and we enjoyed that.

The kids would both tell you that their favorite part was the Pirate Party...and I think it might be mine too. The shows and the fireworks were awesome. There were so many people that were dressed up...it was just a lot of fun for all of us. The pirate party was split into 2 shows. The first was the Captain Hook show with Mickey, Minnie, etc. There was a pirate that repelled down during this show...and that was fun. Then there was a break and then the Pirates of the Caribbean show with Jack Sparrow. This was phenomenal! We happened to be standing next to a small stage that a dancer stood on in the crowd...so the kids thought that was great. They leave hankerchiefs in your room that morning to put on your head. And the store sells everything from eye patches/fake earrings/play swords for the party to full-on pirate costumes. I'm attaching a picture of Jack and Kendall with Jack Sparrow. Keep in mind...this is NOT the Disney Jack Sparrow...just someone who dressed up. He was GREAT!

So, it was just a wonderful trip. Since this was our first cruise, I think we might be a little bit spoiled now. I think we will definitely look into doing another Disney cruise out of Galveston in a few years. Thanks for all of your help...it made things go much more smoothly!

I know you'll enjoy your trip as much as we did!

Staci

New Disney Deals!

Walt Disney World
Magic Your Way Package Plus Free Dine

Hungry for a great deal? Now through Oct. 29, 2011, buy a non-discounted Magic Your Way package for 4 nights and 5 days at select Disney Value Resorts and get a FREE Quick-Service Dining Plan. Or, buy a non-discounted Magic Your Way package for 4 nights and 5 days at select Disney Moderate, Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resorts and get a FREE Disney Dining Plan.

Offer Details:
This Vacation Package Includes:
•Accommodations
•Magic Your Way Base Ticket
•A Dining Plan

Booking Window:
Aug. 3 - Oct. 29, 2011

Travel Window:
Valid for arrivals most nights:
•Oct. 2-8, 2011
•Oct. 23 - Nov. 5, 2011
•Nov. 13-19, 2011
•Nov. 27 - Dec. 3, 2011
•Dec. 11-17, 2011
•Jan. 8-14, 2012
•Jan. 22 - Feb. 4, 2012
•Feb. 12-18, 2012
•March 4-10, 2012
•March 25-31, 2012

Sample Pricing:
Buy 4 Nights and 5 Days at a Select Disney Moderate Resort in a Standard Room for $89* per person, per day, for a family of 4, and get the Disney Dining Plan FREE (valid for stays most nights Oct. 2-6, 2011; Oct. 23 - Nov. 5, 2011; Nov. 27 - Dec. 3, 2011; Dec.11-17, 2011). That's a total package price of $1,773.

Buy 4 Nights and 5 Days at a Select Disney Value Resort in a Standard Room for 73* per person, per day, for a family of 4, and get the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan FREE (valid for stays most nights Oct. 2-6, 2011; Oct. 23 - Nov. 5, 2011; Nov. 27 - Dec. 3, 2011; Dec.11-17, 2011). That's a total package price of $1,442.


Disneyland

Save up to $450, Plus Get a Free Character Meal

Save up to $450* on a Disneyland® Resort vacation package with a 4-night hotel stay and a 3-day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper® souvenir ticket. Plus, receive one free** Character meal per person on the reservation! This package gives you the time to enjoy two amazing Theme Parks filled with favorite attractions, shows and more.

Offer Details:

Save when they buy a 3-day, 4-night Disneyland Resort vacation package that includes a 3-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper souvenir ticket.

•Save $350 when their package includes a stay at Disney's Paradise Pier® Hotel
•Save $400 when their package includes a stay at the Disneyland Hotel
•Save $450 when their package includes a stay at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa

Every person on the reservation also will receive a voucher for one free** Character meal (including tax and gratuity) at selected Disneyland Resort restaurants.

Booking Window:
July 26 - Sept. 24, 2011

Travel Window:
This offer is available for arrivals Aug. 14 - Sept. 28, 2011. Travel on this offer must be completed by Oct. 2, 2011.

*$450 savings is based on the non-discounted price of a standard room for four (4) nights for a family of four (3 adults and 1 child (age 3-9) at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa. Purchase of a 4-night package, with 3-Day Disneyland® Resort Park Hopper® souvenir tickets at a participating hotel includes one (1) Character meal voucher for each person in the reservation (maximum 5 guests). Offer is valid for stays with arrivals from 8/14/11 through 9/28/11 when booked from 7/26/11 through 9/24/11 with travel being completed by 10/2/11. Offer applied once per package/reservation; not valid for suites or for previously booked rooms. Check for offers associated with different package lengths of stays. Excludes taxes and fees. No substitutions or refunds and nontransferable. Must stay for all consecutive nights of the reservation (no early check out) for free Character meal. The Disneyland® Resort Park Hopper® souvenir tickets expire 13 days after first use or 12/31/11, whichever occurs first, and each day of use of a ticket constitutes one full day of use. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial purposes. Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is restricted; advance reservations required. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people per room. Not valid with any other discount or promotion. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.

** Character meal voucher is valid for one (1) meal (including tax and gratuity) at one (1) of the following: Breakfast in the Park with Minnie and Friends at the Plaza Inn on Main Street, U.S.A.®, Disneyland® Park; Surf's Up! Breakfast with Mickey & Friends at Disney's PCH Grill, Disney's Paradise Pier® Hotel; Chip 'n' Dale's Critter Breakfast at Storytellers Café, Disney's Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa; Ariel's Disney Princess Celebration at Ariel's Grotto, Disney California Adventure™ Park or Goofy's Kitchen at the Disneyland® Hotel. Not valid for World of Color Dinner Packages at Ariel's Grotto or Wine County Trattoria but may be applied up to its retail price at any other Disney owned and operated full-service or counter-service restaurant at the Disneyland® Resort. Not valid for alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, room service, holiday buffets or merchandise. Vouchers are not redeemable for cash and are non-transferable. No change given. Not valid at outdoor carts or restaurants at the Downtown Disney® District. Separate theme park admission may be necessary. Not valid in combination with other discounts or promotions. Restaurant seating is subject to availability - reservations are recommended. Dining locations, hours, menus, character appearances and all other elements are subject to change without notice. For reservations and more information, call Disney Dining at 714-781-DINE. Vouchers expire October 2, 2011.

Odds are you will love cruising.

I am in the process of obtaining many cruise certifications. During my training I am learning some interesting statistics. Did you know 80% of the population have never been on a cruise? Did you know that 95% of the people who have been on a cruise were very satisfied with their vacation and plan on returning.  That is a pretty remarkable group of satisfied vacation clients.  Cruises are also a great vacation value - especially when you consider the price of meals, entertainment, child care and travel between destinations.  Did I mention the level of pampering you experience? 

If you are among the 80% who have not tried cruising, you should give it a try!  You can always start out with a short 3 or 4 night cruise to see if you like it - there is a 95% chance that after that trip you will be eager to go again.  Those are great odds!  I would love comments from anyone who has cruising experience to see if our odds are similar to the studies!

July 30, 1999 Rock 'n' Roller Coaster opens at Disney MGM Studios!

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, a high-speed roller coaster for big kids, teens and adults, is amplified by the driving beat of a soundtrack recorded by the rock group Aerosmith specifically for this attraction. With the force of a supersonic F-14, accelerate from a stand-still stop to high speeds—then swoop into 3 inversions and discover a new twist on viewing Los Angeles: upside-down! Step into the G-Force Record studio where you see the 5 members of Aerosmith wrapping up a practice session before their big concert on the other side of town. The show starts soon, the band's late and their manager is trying to get them on the road. You're invited to come along. But how's everyone going to get to the big bash? The solution: a super-stretch limousine that races across 3,400-feet of roller coaster tracks past Southern California landmarks and slices through the toughest of traffic on the LA freeways. Each "car" is furnished with a 125 speaker, 24 sub-woofer, 32,000 watt, onboard audio system—built to blast. Careen through the neon-filled streets of Tinseltown, the rock 'n' roll adrenaline pumping through your veins, your body feeling the force from launch to loop at zero to 60 miles per hour in 2.8 seconds. This is one limo ride you'll always remember! Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is sponsored by Hanes®, and is located next to The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror attraction in the Sunset Boulevard area of Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park. Guest Policies

• Due to the nature of the experience, service animals are not permitted on this attraction.
• Guests with young children may take turns experiencing attractions. See a Cast Member for additional information.
• For safety, you should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, heart, back or neck problems, motion sickness or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure.
• Guests must transfer from motorized scooter or ECV to an available wheelchair, then from the wheelchair to the attraction/ride vehicle.
• Expectant mothers should not ride.

Location: Disney's Hollywood Studios Theme Park Sunset Boulevard Height Requirement: 48 inches (122cm) or taller Category: Thrill Rides Indoor FASTPASS Service Rider Swap Pal Mickey Wheelchair Accessible - must transfer

Fun Facts Aerosmith worked with Walt Disney Imagineering to create special music for the ride, which they synchronized to 3-D graphics before construction on the roller coaster was completed.