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The Monstrous Eye-Scream Sundae Returns for Limited Time Magic
Disney released information on what we can expect for Limited Time Magic on the week of July 29 to August 4, 2013 – here is what it said:
“Prepare yourself for the return of a monster-sized pleasure! Courtesy of a little Limited Time Magic, you can enjoy the reappearance of the Monstrous Eye-Scream Sundae at Magic Kingdom park. Stop by The Plaza Restaurant and Plaza Ice Cream Cone to discover this chilling treat, which comes complete with 2 scoops of mint chip ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, cookie horns, a chocolate eye and sprinkles, all inside a crunchy waffle cone. Don’t miss your opportunity to scare up some summer fun—dig into this delightful dessert before the offer melts away!”
Your digital and cell phone cameras are great for capturing memories of your Disney vacation. In addition to recording all the fun you’re having, did you know there are many practical uses them as well? Here are some good and creative tips on how to use your camera to enhance your next trip even more!
1. Use your digital camera to take photos of any scratches or dents on your rental car when you pick it up. The couple of minutes it takes to snap the pictures can save you a lot of time and money if there is any question about the condition of the car when you return it.
2. A bright image on your camera or cell phone gives just enough extra light to read menus in any dark Disney restaurants that you may dine in.
3. Snap a picture of your luggage. Also, if you take photos of it’s contents – there are double benefits. If the airline loses or damages your luggage you will have an image to show them what it looks (or looked) like. This can be especially important if you packed anything valuable. Got that nagging feeling that you forgot to pack something important? Just take a look at your photos to either ease your mind, or plan ahead if you know you are going to need to buy an extra upon arrival.
4. Take a picture of your rental car license plate so you can tell it from all the others when you are ready to leave. While you’re at it – snap a photo of your row and section in the Disney parking lot! That way, even if you forget it later – you have a reminder.
Lightning McQueen
5. Take the media card out of your digital camera and write your cell phone number and/or your email address on it. That way if you lose your camera or phone – you will have a better chance of getting it returned to you.
6. Is the print too small on your Tables in Wonderland or Annual Pass booklet? Take a photo of the words with your phone and zoom in on that fine print! It works just like a magnifying glass.
7. Prescription medicines can sometimes have long names, different dosages and milligrams of strength. If you take more than one – it can be extra tough to remember all the details. Take a photo of the labels to keep on your phone or camera. This can come in handy if you need to replace the medication or tell someone what it is.
8.Take a photo of all your dining reservations, tours, spa appointments, that you wrote down while planning your trip! That way you aren’t carrying extra paper or notes that could get wet and unreadable after a ride on Splash Mountain or Kali River Rapids.
9. Are you in love with that new wine you tasted while on your Disney vacation? Take a photo of the label so you can remember what it was after you get home. Taking pictures of your food when it’s served will also remind you of why you want to return to that same restaurant again.
10. Write or print your name and contact information on a piece of paper. Snap a clear photo of the paper and then use the features on the camera to lock it on the memory card so it can’t be easily erased. If your camera is lost this will increase your chances of having it returned to you.
11, Take a picture your tickets and passes, being sure to include the barcode. This takes away some of the worry if you leave it in a FastPass machine. Show the picture to Guest Services and they can issue you a replacement ticket.
12. Take a photo of each of your children in the outfit they are wearing for the day. You can also dress them alike. In the unlikely event that they get separated from you, you’ll be able to show a Cast Member what your kid looks like and what they are wearing that day.
13. Here’s a fun money saving tip: If you see something that you just can’t live without, take a photo of it (as well as the store name) instead of buying it right away. Then later, maybe even on the last day of your trip, if you still think that Mickey figurine or hat really needs to come home with you, you can buy it then.
I hope these tips will help you make the most of your magical vacation! What tips do you have to share about using you camera at Disney?
Did you know Cinderella has her very own horse on Prince Charming Regal Carrousel in the Magic Kingdom?
Here is a photo!
You will know you’ve found the right horse if you see a golden ribbon on it’s tail. The challenge can be to find this world secret among the herd. Here’s how you can find it super fast and amaze all your friends!
Keep calm and…look for the sleigh!
There is only one sleigh – and it’s big – so this is pretty easy to do. Once you spot the sleigh – go up 3 rows – and look towards the center of that third row. Once you see the beautiful horse covered in roses – with the signature gold ribbon on the tail – you’ll know you have the right one! Now get on and practice your princess wave!
Congratulations, you have found Cinderella’s horse among all the others on Prince Charming’s Regal Carrousel (in record time!)
Hey if we can’t stay in her suite in the Castle – or are perhaps a little old for the makeovers in the boutique – isn’t it great to know we can at least ride on Cindy’s horse? If a big burly Dad beats you to the horse first – perhaps you can tell him this secret and make his day! Or – just snicker to yourself like I always do.
I hope you enjoy this World Secret in record time! Have a magical day!
Could this be true or is it just a lot of wishful thinking on the part of those who loved the Imagination Pavilion in it’s glory days? Social media is swirling with rumors this morning that The Imagination Pavilion at Epcot will close beginning January 2nd, 2014. The Journey Into Imagination Ride with Figment and the ImageWorks retail location are rumored to remain closed for one year due to renovations.
We are also hearing that Captain EO will not reopen.
What are your thoughts? Could this be Figment’s big comeback?
Photo Credit DolphinDisneyOnly.com
Disney Royal Babies are so fun! Let’s take a walk down memory lane and reminisce about 8 of our favorite Disney monarchs in their younger days.
Let’s begin with beautiful little Tiana as a toddler!
She was not a Princess quite yet in this photo – but with her paper crown and a wish on a star – she was well on her way!
Bless my soul – Herc still had his (baby) rolls!
Hercules was a demigod in Ancient Greece, pretty close to being a royal – right? Besides…this photo of little baby Herc is just so cute!
Bambi
Bambi’s dad was called the”great prince” of the forest. Here is Bambi as a fawn – just about ready to begin walking in his Dad’s royal footsteps!
Tarzan
He would grow up to be the king of the jungle!
Health to the Princess Aurora!
Princess Aurora was born to a King and Queen, betrothed, eventually married to her Prince! The whole kingdom arrived when she was born – she’s (kind of) a big deal don’t you think?
Simba and Nala
Shown here as a cuddly little lion cub – he just couldn’t WAIT to be king! Already hanging out with his beautiful future queen – baby Nala!
Little Merida!
Already beautiful with her sassy big hair – here is marvelous Merida! Officially coronated in 2013 – she is certainly a Princess known for being the most gifted sports – like in archery!
Rapunzel!
Despite being kidnapped as a baby, Punzy still managed to grow in grace and was always a princess at heart.
All photos are credit Disney including the awesome one below! Can you name some Royal Babies of Disney that we might have missed?
Disney Parks asked everyone to vote on their favorite characters to bring back for Long-Lost Friends week (July 15-21) as part of the Limited Time Magic promotion in 2013. The chosen characters were then available for meet and greets
I really enjoyed this 3 minute video from John Saccheri of BigFatPanda.com – and I just had to share it with you! You may recall we had him as a guest on The Disney Parks Podcast recently – and as you can tell – he is just as much fun in person! This video also features the fabulous Shelley Caran from OnTheGoinMCO.com – and I think you’ll agree that these two make a great on-camera team!
I love that it is a real video from a real person- with no corporate filtering. It gives you an idea of what it was like to be there, including noise from the crowd surrounding the characters. Even better – it made me crack up laughing, and I hope it does the same for you! Follow BigFatPanda.com on YouTube for more great videos!
Maybe you’ve heard of the iconic Dole Whip or maybe even the lesser known
The Disney parks aren’t the only place you can find iconic food items. Inside the fabulous Animal Kingdom Lodge you can find Zebra Domes – a culinary hidden gem – and possibly one of the best kept World Secrets at Disney! Some guests love Zebra Domes, and some don’t. I am one who adores these little striped treasures – so get ready for a completely biased Zebra Dome blog post!
Despite what the name suggests, they do NOT contain bits of real zebra.
They get their name due to their striped appearance.
The main ingredients are actually espresso, heavy cream, and Kahlua. I am not usually a fan of strong coffee flavors and I don’t drink coffee at all. Zebra Domes, however, contain just a hint – and it is not over powering. They require refrigeration because they are so soft and smooth. They are not made of ice cream – but beware – they will melt in the heat. I tried to bring some home for my husband and they did not survive the 40 minute drive.
See the little thin layer of cake on the bottom? Mmmm….
Zebra Domes are always on the buffet menu over at Boma. No time to make a dining reservation? No problem! Just head on over to The Mara – where they are packaged in little clear boxes as a grab and go item! Bite sized pieces of heaven in a little box of 5 for $3.69 or a snack credit?! Yes please. I would like a herd of them…but once I am done they will surely be extinct.
Can we head over to the Animal Kingdom Lodge right now?
So what team are you on? Do you love Zebra Domes or maybe not so much? If you haven’t given them a try yet, now you know the secret!
I hope you will find inspiration to trot over and grab some for yourself…and please let me know what you think!
It took some searching…but we found 17 free and cheap souvenirs that you can get on property at Disney! Prices and availability are subject to change.
Here they are in no particular order:
FREE: Character drawings from Animation Studios
FREE: Downtown Disney LEGO store offers mini models for free once a month! Check HERE for monthly dates.
FREE: Resort soap and shampoo included in the price of your room, so it’s like a gift with purchase! The scents will reminded of the resorts long after you get home.
FREE and CHEAP: Pens, pencils and small notepads are sometimes left in the resort room for you as a guest. You can also buy certain pencils in the parks for just $1.00 each!
FREE: Celebration Pins – just ask for them at Guest Services. Some people get crafty and even make them into magnets after the return home.
FREE: Park maps
CHEAP: Antenna Toppers are 2 for $8. Bonus: they help you find your car in the parking lot. Even if you don’t have an antenna or a car these can be fun!
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CHEAP: Disney collector packs are 3 for $15.
CHEAP: Magnets for your fridge or your metal desk at work – some are available for just $4.95.
CHEAP: Shot glasses. You can get one from each country in Epcot and start a collection.
CHEAP: Recyclable tote bags.
FREE: Kidcot stations are free! Kids can color and make some arts and crafts that they can take with them for FREE
CHEAP: Inside the Land Pavilion at Epcot, they sell little plants that are actually generated in the Living with the Land laboratories.
CHEAP: Disney character dangles – another great way to bring something inexpensive home for the entire family!
CHEAP: Keychains
CHEAP: Pressed quarters pressed pennies!! We have so much great info on those – they get their own post – coming soon! What are some cheap and free souvenirs that you have found at Disney? Leave me a note in the comments below!
When it comes to Candlelight, you have to plan ahead! There is a good, better, and best way to enjoy Candlelight. That’s why we’ve got everything you want to know about it for you here – and you can decide what works for you.
Epcot’s Candlelight Processional is a Disney tradition now in its 43rd year! It is absolutely a must-do included in our top 5 ways to get in the Christmas spirit at Epcot! Candlelight Processional is a moving presentation of the Christmas story in readings by a celebrity narrator and music by a Mass choir and 50-piece orchestra. This event takes place in the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase in Epcot. It is an outdoor (uncovered, not climate controlled) setting and is not cancelled due to inclement weather. It is recommended that you dress accordingly – some years we actually need to wear our warm coats!
The Processionals begin on November 29, 2013, and runs every evening until December 30.
Shows are approximately 40 minutes. Each evening there are three shows — the times are 5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.
2013 Tentative Narrator Schedule
The tentative schedule of those who will appear as narrators for performances of Epcot’s 2013 Candlelight Processional, the annual retelling of the story of Christmas that features a mass choir and a full orchestra (subject to change):
Gary Sinise November 29 to December 1, 2013
Neil Patrick Harris December 2 to December 3, 2013
Ashley Judd – NEW! December 4 to December 5
Whoopi Goldberg December 6 to December 7, 2013
Sigourney Weaver – NEW! December 8 to December 10, 2013
Dennis Haysbert – NEW! December 11 to December 13, 2013
James Denton December 14 to December 16, 2013
Edward James Olmos December 17 to December 19, 2013
Trace Adkins December 20 to December 22, 2013
Steven Curtis Chapman December 23 to December 25, 2013
Blair Underwood December 26 to December 28, 2013
Amy Grant December 29 to December 30, 2013
There is no charge to see the Candlelight Processional (show) – it is included in your admission to Epcot. There is, however, a dinner package available for purchase. The Candlelight package includes a ticket to a guaranteed reserved seating SECTION for the Candlelight Processional (show) at American Gardens Theater – lunch or dinner at a select Epcot restaurant, and pre-arranged fireworks viewing.
Previously a mystery to most of us – YOU CAN NOW JUST CLICK HERE TO GET AN IDEA OF YOUR DINING TIME FOR EACH SHOW!
To book call 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or visit HERE. Be prepared to hold your package in advance with a valid credit card number. You don’t have to pay for your dinner package until you arrive at the location.
Again, you do not get a reserved seat at the show with the package – you get to sit in the reserved section. The reserved section is front and center, behind any VIP seating. Within the reserved section, seating is on a first come, first serve basis, so if you want your choice of seats, you should still arrive 30-45 minutes early.
Seating without the dinner package is on a first come, first serve basis for each show. This means lining up 45 minutes (longer as you are closer to Christmas) before show time. 15 minutes prior to the show, seating is then opened up to those who are standing in line. Also, keep in mind if you wait in line for the 2nd or 3rd show of the night, that you will be hearing the show before yours as it is performed.
Don’t want to stand in line? You can always stroll by the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase to listen to the music and wonders of Christmas with out any sort of planning ahead.
The Candlelight Dinner Package includes a great meal (there is a link to the menus below) – and here’s what every meal includes – no matter where you eat:
• Appetizer • Entree • Dessert • Non-alcoholic beverage (OR one full buffet where applicable!)
If you don’t have a dining plan – here are your prices per person for the meal included in the package (pricing etc. is credit wdwinfo.com):
*Price includes tax, but not gratuity and are subject to change.*
Biergarten – Germany
Chefs de France – France
Coral Reef– The Living Seas
Garden Grill – The Land
La Hacienda de San Angel – Mexico
Nine Dragons Restaurant – China
Restaurant Marrakesh – Morocco
Rose and Crown – UK
San Angel Inn – Mexico
Teppan Edo – Japan
Tokyo Dining – Japan
Tutto Italia – Italy
Via Napoli – Italy
Here’s a tip: If you are already planning to dine at one of the restaurants in the package, take a look at the menus from around the World – and see if the price of a ticket works out better for you.
If you have a Disney Dining Plan – it will be accepted as follows:
Magic Your Way Plus Dine – 2 TSR entitlements
Magic Your Way Plus Deluxe Dine – 2 TSR entitlements
Magic Your Way Quick Service Dine – Not eligible
Magic Your Way Premium Package
Magic Your Way Platinum Package
Guests are asked to arrive at least 15 minutes early to their dining reservation to check–in. Guests will receive Candlelight Seating badges at the restaurant for guaranteed seating at the America Gardens Theatre for the booked show time and for viewing of IllumiNations: Reflection of Earth (Epcot fireworks).
Click here to check out a FREE Disney holiday activity – seeing all the resort decorations!
Disneyways 