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Shhhhh!!! It’s a quiet “knight” in the Be Our Guest Restaurant!

Published November 22, 2012 by Disneyways.com

As you enter the Be Our Guest Restaurant inside Disney World’s New Fantasyland, you will see knights standing guard in the hallway to your right. Stop and listen for a moment.

You just might hear the knights whispering to each other! Great video from Zannaland.com and DisneyFoodBlog.com!

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FREE Activity in Downtown Disney Until December 1, 2012

Published November 6, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Phineas and Ferb & YOU: A Brand New Reality
Back on  September 1, Disney introduced”Phineas and Ferb & YOU: A Brand New Reality.” This is located in Downtown Disney. Adults and kids can participate in this FREE augmented reality offering. The experience is located next to Bongos Cuban Café.  The way it works is you actually step onto a platform and virtually interact with Phineas, Ferb, Dr. Doofenshmirtz and Agent P (in their animated forms) on a screen above. Expect to get any one of 20 different interactions, from dancing “The Platypus Walk” to getting caught in Dr. Dr. Doofenshmirtz’s Freeze-inator. When the interaction is over you can  digitally share a souvenir photo of your adventure with family and friends. This is also FREE!

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that, of course, special “Phineas & Ferb” merchandise will also be available to purchase.

“Phineas and Ferb & YOU: A Brand New Reality” will run through December 1, and is open from 2-9:30 p.m., daily. Here is a great video from Attractions Magazine to demonstrate how it all works!

Festival of the Masters (FREE!) Begins November 9, 2012

Published October 30, 2012 by Disneyways.com

I’ve been called many things but “refined” and “cultured” aren’t adjectives that have been used very often. That’s probably one reason why the Festival of the Masters has not really been on my radar until this year. One of my friends is really excited about this event because she is a person who really appreciates fine art. She is also an AMAZING artist herself!  So, of course, I will be heading to check out the Festival this year and I am really excited to share this experience with her (and you!) . Perhaps some of her “culture” will rub off on me!

Besides – many activities, as well as parking at Downtown Disney are FREE! That’s a great price if you ask me!

From Disney:

“The 37th Festival of the Masters presented by Michaels is a vibrant, open-air fine arts festival in the Downtown Disney area, held November 9-11, 2012. Featuring award-winning artists, this world-renowned show is a highly anticipated annual event for Guests, artists, collectors and art lovers.
Discover fun for the entire family, including:
Dazzling displays of one-of-a-kind and limited-edition painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry and more
Hands-on activities for Guests of all ages and interests
Live musical performances
Unique shopping opportunities—from fine art to Disney collectibles

Whether you’re seeking a colorful day amid Disney magic or a spectacular piece for your personal collection, you’ll discover a variety of delightful experiences at Festival of the Masters presented by Michaels.

— Marketplace
• Family Interactive Activities:
o Disney Interactive –Showcasing Epic Mickey and the Power of 2
o Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop – Kids can make their own Sundae magnet.
o LEGO® – Join in the fun as you help a real LEGO Master Builder to construct an 8-ft tall Hulk™ model for the first time!
o Rainforest Cafe® – Experience the joy of watching tropical birds as they perform for you
• NEW! Emerging Masters – Get a glimpse of more than 30 up-and-coming artists as they display their unique talents.
• The Florida Chalk Artists Association – Street Painters from the Florida Chalk Artists Association will cover over 1,000 square feet of sidewalk! The awards ceremony will take place on Sunday at 3pm at the Waterside Stage
• Art of Disney – Our flagship store at the Marketplace full of art from the Disney Masters! Artist appearances will be scheduled throughout the weekend. In addition, this location will present a unique offering by artist Dave Avanzino, giving them the opportunity to have their name made into a custom art using letters found around the Disney Theme Parks
• Michaels® – Make It Take It – Duct Tape Craft – Who knew duct take could be this fun? Visit the Michaels exhibit near the Waterside Stage to create your very own luggage tag take home craft.

Pleasure Island
• Disney Artist Village – This location will be immersed with character art created by our own Disney Masters from Disney Design Group, Yellow Shoes, WDI, Acme Archives Limited and local Disney licensed artists. See original works of art, giclées, prints, one-of-a-kind Vinylmation and the opportunity to meet the artists behind the creativity
• Michaels® Master Mural – It’s your turn to take center stage in the creation of this Disney masterpiece! Join the Michaels team as together we bring to life a masterful work of art…piece by piece!
• Fuego – Come play dominoes! Three custom domino tables will be available for play
• Curl – See several artists create a masterpiece on a pair of TOMS shoes
• Irish Artwork at Raglan Road™ Irish Pub and Restaurant – Check out the designs of Graham Knuttle, a renowned Irish painter and sculptor.

West Side
• Michaels® – Make-it Take-it – Mickey Ear Wood Framing Experience – It’s time to get creative! Design and take home your very own Mickey Ear Wood Frame with a personalized artistic touch. Let your imagination take the wheel with this fun experience designed for families and children of all ages.
• D-Street – Home of Disney Vinylmation; a uniquely shaped three dimensional pallet with creative design from many of our talented Disney artists. Whether you collect or trade, make sure you stop by to see the newest collections
• Cirque du Soleil – Complimentary face painting by a La Nouba artist Friday and Saturday noon – 4pm and live performances by La Nouba performers 4:00pm to 4:30pm
• House of Blues® Folk Art Festival – See grassroots and funk art at its finest, presented by approximately 35 local and national folk artists.
• Disney Art Tent – View a variety of art styles featuring beloved Disney Characters, presented by featured artists.”

For even more info on the festival click here and here.

How to take Disneyways with you wherever you go…on your iPhone

Published October 28, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Go to Disneyways.com on your iPhone and then look for this little square with the arrow in it (pictured above).  After that you hit the option  “add to home screeen” and you should see the Disneyways app (website icon) on your phone.

Now all you have to do is tap the icon and we will be at your fingertips with the latest post on top!

I frequently use the post with the all the resort addresses for my GPS – so I really like having it handy. Click the link below to be taken to that directly.

Email me if you have questions at disneyways@disneyways.com

Thanks so much for taking us with you – and have a magical day!!

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Cinderella’s Makeover

Published October 25, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Cindy has a new hairstyle AND a new dress! Check out the photos and the slideshow below! Are you a fan of her new look?

Join us over at our Princess fan page on facebook by clicking here.

(I do not claim ownership to these photos…)

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An Imagineer Tour of Be Our Guest Restaurant

Published October 15, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Click here to see the Video!!

We want our MTV – I mean – ECV!

Published October 15, 2012 by Disneyways.com

 

 

Photo credit: Disneyworldbasics.com

The following is an update to the information in this post.  Update posted October 26, 2012:

Walt Disney World Resort has selected five featured vendors that have agreed to rent resort Guests only those Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs) that, based on size and speed, have been determined safest for use in the theme parks, resort hotels and transportation system.

Disney will recommend the featured vendors to our Guests and allow them to drop off and pick up their devices at our resort hotels, without the need for Guests to be present. All other vendors will have to arrange drop off and pick up directly with Guests and will not be able to leave the devices unattended.
This process will be implemented across all resort hotels beginning on November 1, 2012.

Begin previous post:

I adore my father-in-law. He smiles when I call him my FAVORITE father-in-law, since he’s the only one I’ve ever had. He really is one of the most terrific people I have ever known. Brilliant business man, cigar aficionado,Yankees fan, lover of all great music – (including Sinatra AND disco!), husband to his wife for over 60 years, embracer of laughter and life…and my favorite thing of all…he is a wonderful adviser and best friend to my husband.

Just like some other seasoned, mature folks however, my favorite father-in-law also happens to have mobility issues.  I love his company and I have wanted to take him to Disney World with me for years. I keep hoping to talk him into it one day. Out of curiosity – I started looking into the options Disney has regarding electric convenience vehicles – or scooters as we locals like to call them. Not that he’d really need or want one – but I thought it would be nice to give him the option.

I am hoping maybe you can benefit from some of my research on the subject. I threw in some wheelchair and stroller information too.

According to Disney,

“ECVs are available only on a same-day basis and may only be used in the Park where they are rented.  ECVs will be held if Guests wish to leave and return to the same Park.  Guests planning to visit more than one Park on the same day should retain their deposit ticket from the first Park they visit.  This will enable them to obtain a replacement wheelchair or ECV on the same day, if available, at the next Park with no additional charge.  NOTE: Wheelchairs or ECVs may not be available at the second Park. NOTE:  Guests must be 18 years of age or older to rent ECVs.  Devices are to be single-rider only. Guest Relations, located inside the Theme parks, provides a variety of services including: general information, priority seating for restaurants, ticket media information, Park guidemaps and entertainment schedules, and information on services for Guests with Disabilities.The Guide for Guests with Disabilities  provides a detailed overview of services and facilities available for Guests with disabilities and is available at Guest Relations locations within all four Parks as well as Guest Services locations at the WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resorts. Requests for brochures prior to a vacation should be sent to the Disney Reservation Center at (407) 934-7639.”

While you wait for your brochure to arrive however, here are some tips to help you start planning. Please keep in mind that in all of these locations – Disney REALLY stresses that vehicles are available on a first come first serve basis and of course – they are not free. For more information, ask for the Guidebook for Guests with Disabilities at any of these locations.

Magic Kingdom 
Wheelchair and ECV rentals are available at the Stroller Shop inside the Magic Kingdom theme park entrance.

Epcot

Wheelchair and ECV rentals are available on the east side of the Epcot theme park Entrance Plaza and at the International Gateway. For more information, ask for the Guidebook for Guests with Disabilities at Guest Relations on the east side of Spaceship Earth.

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

At HS you will want to check with Oscar’s Super Service near the main entrance. Guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios are able to rent strollers (single or double), manual wheelchairs, or electric scooters in this location. Replacement wheelchairs are available at the In Character Costume Shop.

Animal Kingdom

AK has ECV Rentals located  in Garden Gate Gifts near the main entrance. Guests visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park are able to rent strollers (single or double), manual wheelchairs, or electric scooters. Rentals are subject to availability.

Downtown Disney Marketplace Strollers and Wheelchairs

There is information to suggest there may be ECVs to rent, as well as strollers, and wheelchairs, located between Tren-D and Once Upon a Toy near the restrooms. However, when I called Disney, the operator on the line told me they do not rent them there. Not that I doubt – her but I am still curious and want to find out the whole story. I guess I will have to make a research trip myself to find out for sure. Anything for my Disneyways readers! Aw, who am I kidding. It’s all about feeling the wind in my hair on the new Dumbo ride.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach Water Parks

Wheelchairs are welcome at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and Blizzard Beach; however, they are not available for rent. No ECVs available at either.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
A limited number of wheelchairs (not ECV’s) are available at each Disney Resort Hotel.  A $315 USD deposit will be held on the Guest room account—charged only if the wheelchair is not returned.

Something to keep in mind:

Each of these locations have opening and closing hours that tend to vary, as well as an additional cost for rentals. You will want to check with Disney directly for details.

But what if you are staying at Disney for a whole week or even longer? Well first of all the first call you should make is to ME so I can come along.  LOL

On your next call perhaps, Disney will refer you to the area rental companies such as those listed below.

Apple Scooter

  • Best Price Mobility
  • bpmobility.com
  • 866-866-3434
  • ECVs, powerchairs, wheelchairs
  • Buena Vista Scooter Rentals
  • buenavistascooters.com
  • 866-484-4797 / 407-938-0349
  • ECVs, strollers, wheelchairs, and more
  • CARE Medical Equipment
  • caremedicalequipment.com
  • 1-800-741-2282 / 407-856-2273
  • ECVs, medical equipment, wheelchairs, and more

Another GREAT source of info (and the first place I thought of in my search) is  www.disneyonwheelsblog.com.

You can find a WEALTH of information here, including;

Walt Disney World Guest Assistance Card info

Parade viewing from a wheelchair

Tips for when you make dining reservations

Companion restrooms

And from theinfomouse.com – here are tips on your first visit.

Do you or a loved one have experiences you’d like to share regarding strollers, wheelchairs or ECV rentals at Walt Disney World?

New at the Grand Floridian!

Published October 12, 2012 by Disneyways.com
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, seen ...

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, seen from the monorail station at the Magic Kingdom. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

New offerings at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

It’s really hard to pick – but the Grand Floridian may just be my favorite resort. Sure I may look ridiculous, red-faced and sweaty…wearing Mickey ears over my wild blonde hair that’s been frizzed out by the humidity. It really doesn’t matter. When I walk in to the Grand Floridian – I am welcomed by the waft of refreshing A/C, and maybe my friend Christine the harpist playing a beautiful tune. All of a sudden I become a classy, refined, lovely lady from the Victorian Era…well…in my own mind that is.

Could they really make this place any better?

Walt used to say he wanted to “plus” things. He loved taking his work just a step further to really delight Disney guests.  I think it may be in that tradition that the Grand Floridian has added some enhancements recently.

The new Beaches Pool Bar and Grill is an outdoor quick-service location with style. After you place your order at the window, a Cast Member will deliver your made-to-order meal to you. This added convenience allows you to lounge by the pool or watch your children splash in the new water activity play area instead of waiting in line for food. Take THAT Tomorrowland Terrace.

Not just your average pool bar, everything at Beaches is made fresh, completed after you place your order. Looking for an adult beverage? Let’s go visit the pool bar, equipped with a TV, signature drink selections and the option to order food from the grill. Soon, the bar also will offer local and micro brews. Beaches Pool Bar and Grill is open 7 a.m.-11 p.m., offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Times and offerings are subject to change.

Nearby, our kids (48 inches or less) can splash in the new “Alice in Wonderland”–themed water activity play area. This zone, with lifeguards, features a metallic green dump bucket fashioned after the Mad Hatter’s top hat; it pours gallons of water over the jungle-gym structure and children playing on and around it. Two slides, three pull-string sprayers and a shallow pool complete the water wonderland. This area is open 10 a.m.-8 p.m., with operation times changing seasonally.

Perhaps Alice and Wonderland with all her fanciness and Tea over in the Garden View Tea Room (also located in the Grand Floridian) is the one that inspired things to  continue to get “curiouser and curiouser” all through the fall and winter seasons. Soon we will see additional refurbishment of Sandy Cove Gifts & Sundries merchandise location, Gasparilla Grill & Games quick service spot, and the Courtyard Pool.

Pinkies up ladies!! Now if you’ll excuse me – I’ve got to take my refined self to the ladies room and straighten my Mickey ears.

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Disneyways YouTube Channel

Published September 30, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Disneyways is on YouTube! We are adding new Disney videos all the time, and working to improve.

I hope you get a chance to check them out! Just click on the graphic below.

Have a magical day!

youdis

Click here to go to the Disneyways YouTube Channel

Do you work for Disney? No, but I used to.

Published September 12, 2012 by Disneyways.com

My Disney Story

I grew up and have never lived any where but in Orlando. Walt Disney World has literally been a part of my life for as far back as I can remember. My parents would take me there as a small child, and I would cry every time we left because I just didn’t know how soon I would be allowed to go back. The parents of my childhood best friend both worked at Disney World, so I can remember going to the cast member parties at a pretty young age. Back in 1993 Disney used to have Grad Nite and I remember that magical evening at the Parks as being one of the highlights of my senior year in high school.

I think it was 2007 when I spent 3 months or so actually working at Disney. I don’t know what came over me. My siblings all worked there when they were young, but I was a very busy adult with a husband and 2 children by this time. Even though I was gainfully employed as a dental assistant in Winter Park Florida 4-5 days a week, apparently I wasn’t busy enough. So, I threw in buying a house for good measure, you know, since we had nothing else to do.

Even though I had 13 years of customer service experience, (5 years of  that customer service experience with a little company called AT&T) and absolutely no food service experience…at all…ever…the Disney casting center thought I’d be a good fit as a hostess at the Garden Grill over in Epcot. I really didn’t understand it – but I didn’t care! I just put on my little farmer’s outfit,  my Disney required non-skid shoes, and my tiny little fake diamond stud earrings. Then I made my long journey to work at the happiest place on earth. It was a long way from sucking spit at the dental office all week, and I loved it.

Little did I know that just a few short years later I would own my own company – and begin taking calls for Disney dining from home!

“Thank you for calling Disney dining, my name is Krista. How can I help you celebrate today?”

It was something I am pretty sure I said in my sleep. The calls were constant and there was no time to breathe in between. It was all the fun of working with Disney and it’s guests on a global scale – without ever leaving my little home office. Many times I was still wearing my PJ’s! I just did it, and I loved every minute.

In fact, Disney dining was a big part of my life for 3 years, so that little stint at the Garden Grill gave me some invaluable inside knowledge about how Disney dining works. I took a month long class about booking resort stays too. In spite of never working as a travel agent, I am a graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge. These are just some of the skills and experiences that I get to draw from as I spend time with my Disney friends all over the world via social media and my online radio shows. I am on an awesome journey – building a financially sound company and career out my love of the Disney Parks. I feel so very privileged and blessed to be able to share my lifetime of living near the Disney magic with you.

Thanks for reading my blog, facebook posts, and tweets! I hope you have a magical day – and I’ll see YOU in the Parks!

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