Great Activity and Collection to do at Disney!

For the biggest Disney nerds out there, here’s a great collection for you to get collecting!

Shockingly, I haven’t gotten into this myself.  I do have 3 pins that I got from my aunt when Disney gave them out during the inconvenience of construction at Caribbean Beach.  So I’ve got the start of a collection which makes me want to stop typing this blog post right now and get on eBay to look for pins to buy.  Someone stop me!

Collecting and trading pins is something I know I’d love but it can be expensive to get started.  So for now, I’ll just look at my 3 pins and enjoy those.

But for those of you that lack my self-control (translation - I’m cheap), here’s how to get into this fun activity…

First, you’ll want some pins to get started.  You can buy these directly from Disney, eBay, Amazon…  just be aware that unless you are buying from Disney, you could run into fake pins or worn/damaged ones.  Be sure to check the pictures and read reviews of the sellers.  To trade them at Disney with Cast Members, you’ll need to be sure they are the official Disney pins with the Disney copy-write mark on it.

When you’re at Disney, you can trade with both Cast Members and Guests.  Typically, you can tell that someone interested in trading because they’ll be wearing a lanyard with pins attached.  Cast Members will also sometimes have a board displayed at their location with pins attached.  Don’t be shy about asking if someone wants to trade - most are willing!  Rumor is that Cast Members aren’t allowed to say no, but they can only trade up to 2 pins at a time. 

There are a couple of strategies to pin trading - some people are trying to build a collection based on value of the pins.  This takes some time on your part to study the pins (lots of info on the old internet) and know by glancing if you are trading your pin for another one of greater value.  

The other strategy is to ignore the value but just look for pins that are your favorites as far as characters or attractions or movies or whatever.  This would be my strategy which is another reason for me to never get into this as I would totally be losing money with each trade.

This is a really fun activity for kids and can be a great way to get them to learn how to talk to strangers (with your permission of course!) and an intro to negotiating.  

Do you trade pins at Disney?  If so, let me know!  I’d love to get talked into doing this…

Be sure to call me when you’re thinking of planning a trip - my services are FREE!!

The Disney Bubble - a Very Real Phenomenon!

One of the best parts of a Disney vacation is the “Disney Bubble.” Haven’t heard of it? Well, read on!!

The Disney Bubble is basically a complete immersion in the Magical world that is Disney. When you stay at a Disney resort, you rarely encounter anything “non-Disney.” The music on the buses, the gift shops, the Cast Members… They are all purposely geared towards Disney.

And if you’re a Disney nut like me - you never want to leave it! Here are some tips to help make sure you stay in the Bubble if you’re completely normal like I am and don’t want to leave…

• When you get to your hotel room, don’t be tempted to turn on the TV to your regular shows. There are several channels that are Disney-related - watch those! For one, you’ll be informed of that day’s Park Hours and Entertainment Times. And there’s a channel to show you some new things in the Parks you may not have found yet! I like to turn it on Disney music and hit the sleep button when I’m back in the room for the night. So fun to fall asleep to the music from the day.

• Don’t be tempted to go off property. I mean where are you going anyway? Target? As much as I love Target, you’re on vacation. Stay at Disney and get the most out of the money you’ve spent there. I seriously can’t think of anything to pull me away - Disney obviously has you covered for entertainment and the food is outstanding also. OK, so you’re thinking about checking out Universal. I’ll let you do that. You’ll just have to hop back in that Bubble as soon as you get back!

• Use Disney transportation. From the beginning of your trip, make use of the Magical Express! Once you’re at the resort, you’ll have a bus, boat, monorail, or Skyliner to get you to the Parks. It really is Magical just hopping on one of those and being whisked away. You don’t need to worry about directions or parking or trekking from the parking lot!

• Scan your MagicBand or use Disney gift cards for purchases. In the end, you’ll be paying the same amount obviously, but there’s something about not handing over your cash or normal credit card. And if you have the Dining Plan, it’s even better since it’s already paid for!

There are plenty of scoffers out there that don’t believe in the Bubble. But in all honesty, I can go an entire vacation without thinking of my normal day-to-day worries. That really only happens to me at Disney.

Let’s get you into your own Bubble! Call me!!

Some (Most Likely Unintentional) Creepy Things at Disney World

Being the Happiest Place on Earth, you might think there’s nothing creepy about it. But there are a few things!!

Obviously, attractions like The Haunted Mansion and Tower of Terror are intentionally creepy. But even within those rides, there are extra creepy items. I can give myself nightmares if I hear “Hurry Back” at the end of the Haunted Mansion too late at night. After exiting the Tower of Terror, you just might notice this ventriloquist’s dummy.

Disney’s Boardwalk resort has a couple of creepy things that aren’t supposed to be creepy at all. These chairs sit on either side of the Boardwalk lobby’s fireplace. Referred to as “Nanny Chairs,” they were historically found on carousels and gave adults a place to sit while the children rode the horses. I’ll just stand, thanks.

The other fun but creepy touch at the Boardwalk is the huge clown slide at the pool. I don’t have a clown phobia but this guy looks a bit too much like the clown from It to me. At least it spits you out - if you had to enter the slide through his head, there would probably be a lot fewer kids enjoying this slide!

Here’s something that should give you the creeps. While it is COMPLETELY AGAINST THE RULES, some guests still think it’s okay to sprinkle their deceased relative’s ashes at Disney World. The most common attempts are to sprinkle them outside of their Doom Buggy on the Haunted Mansion or outside of their boat on Pirates of the Caribbean. If caught, the ride must be stopped and cleaned. Don’t ruin it for the rest of us! *Side note - I’d want to be sprinkled in the water surrounding the Castle, but that’s just me…

Speaking of Pirates, it’s not necessarily a creepy ride. With the song that makes me bob my head and sing along, it actually seems pretty cheerful to me. But did you know that one of the skulls is an actual human skull? Yikes!

And lastly, not many people think of “it’s a small world” in a creepy way. Some find the song annoying but that’s about it. Well, if you’d like to keep it that way, don’t read the novel Kingdom Keepers! It’s a fun book, but the dolls come to life and attack some kids. Think about that the next time you have a delay in the ride and your boat floats in one room for a while…

Want to see all of these things? Of course you do! CONTACT ME! It’s always free to use my services…

Exciting Changes at Disney World in 2020!

As great at 2019 was at Disney World, (have I mentioned how amazing my trip was for the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge??) 2020 is set to be even better.  With the 50th anniversary ahead in 2021, a lot of new offerings and attractions are on the horizon.

And to make sure I have the latest knowledge to help you have a great trip, I’m excited that I already have a trip booked for August 2020.  Don’t worry, this time I’m taking Andrew and Luke with me.  We haven’t quite mentioned this to Don yet - we’ll see if he actually reads my blog!

Here is a list of the some of the exciting changes ahead for 2020…

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway - opening March 4, 2020 at Hollywood Studios.

The darling duo are taking a leisurely drive to a picnic in their sporty roadster—with Engineer Goofy’s train following merrily along. Plot twist—you get to go, too! Climb aboard a runaway railway and embark on a whirlwind ride through a world where the rules of physics don’t apply. Prepare for unexpected twists, slapstick gags and mind-boggling transformations at every turn, as Mickey and Minnie try to save the day.

There’s no telling where this train is heading! This is an adventure for Mickey and Minnie fans of all ages.

Based on the recent award-winning Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway is a brand-new attraction unique to Walt Disney World Resort and Disney’s Hollywood Studios—and the first ride at any Disney park that stars Mickey Mouse and friends.

Be sure to keep those peepers peeled—there are more hidden Mickeys here than any other Disney attraction or area in the world. Golly!

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure - Opening Summer 2020 at Epcot. 

Based on Disney and Pixar’s hit film, “Ratatouille,” this family-friendly attraction will invite you to shrink down to the scale of a rat for a culinary adventure with Chef Remy.  You’ll race across Gusteau’s kitchen floor aboard special trackless ride vehicles.

Disney’s DuckTales World Showcase Adventure - Epcot

Disney’s DuckTales World Showcase Adventure invites guests to join Scrooge McDuck, Donald, nephews Huey, Dewey and Louie, Launchpad and Webby in search of priceless treasure. Using the Play Disney Parks mobile app, guests take a trip around World Showcase discovering exotic destinations, exciting mysteries, and maybe even a few thieves, villains and supernatural guardians of ancient artifacts. This will be the next iteration of a popular interactive scavenger hunt around World Showcase guests have enjoyed for years as they experience the magic of possibility at Epcot. 

New Movies at Epcot - China, Canada have new films coming.  And Awesome Planet will be a new film in the Land pavilion.

Mickey Shorts Theater is opening at Hollywood Studios in March, 2020.

The interior of the theater will evoke the same wacky fun of the Disney Channel cartoon series. You’ll see an original short in this same style, plus have the chance to take your picture in special photo locations. 

New Epcot Restaurants - Space 220, Regal Eagle Smokehouse and a new creperie are opening up!  

Roundup Rodeo BBQ Restaurant opening at Hollywood Studios  

Get yer lasso’s ready, cowpokes - there’s a brand-new table-service restaurant coming to Toy Story Land. Soon, guests will discover that a new play area has been set up – and this time, it’s a rodeo! But of course, being Andy, it certainly isn’t your usual rodeo…
Using three cardboard boxes cut and taped together, Andy has created a new rodeo arena using some of his favorite toys, games, and play sets. And while some pieces are definitely western-themed, what makes this rodeo special is the broad assortment of toys that have been brought together to create a fun, colorful mashup-atmosphere that only a child could create.
Once inside, you’ll be surrounded by all of the rodeo festivities in-action as well as western town and train station play sets. And you just might spot some of your favorite Disney•Pixar characters scattered throughout the restaurant in the form of toys and game pieces including a toy version of Jessie riding on the back of a Trixie pull-toy and unique toy versions of Bo Peep and her sheep, all who appear to be performing in the rodeo together.

This immersive restaurant will surround guests with a kaleidoscope of toys, games, and playsets, providing yet another unique, fun, family-friendly dining experience that could only be had in Toy Story Land.

Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along – opening January 17, 2020 –  Epcot

“Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along” in the France pavilion is directed and produced by Don Hahn, producer of the animated and live-action “Beauty and the Beast” films, and invites guests to participate in a twist on a tale as old as time. It also features narration from Angela Lansbury, who played Mrs. Potts in the original film. The new sing-along will run in rotation with “Impressions de France,” which will receive an upgrade to 4K projection. 

HarmonioUS 

In 2020, following the limited-time run of “Epcot Forever,” the new “HarmonioUS” will debut at Epcot as the largest nighttime spectacular ever created for a Disney park. It will celebrate how the music of Disney inspires people the world over, carrying you away harmoniously on a stream of familiar Disney tunes reinterpreted by a diverse group of artists from around the globe. “HarmonioUS” will feature massive floating set pieces, custom-built LED panels, choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics, lasers and more.

Disney Genie

This is a revolutionary new digital offering set to debut in late 2020 that will enhance the way you plan for and experience a trip to Walt Disney World Resort. Joining other innovations like the MagicBand, Disney Genie is being designed to help you make the most out of your visit, whether you’re a first-time guest or a seasoned pro.

Disney Genie will make planning easier and more fun by providing customized itineraries geared to your interests, right at your fingertips – from a royal, princess-themed day at Magic Kingdom Park to a trip around the world at Epcot for foodies and even a perfect day for thrill seekers. Certain features of Disney Genie will also be available through your preferred travel professional (THAT’S ME!!!).

Sometimes you may know exactly what you want to do, but may not know the best time or order in which to do it. You’ll be able to tell Disney Genie what you’d like to experience, and it will quickly evaluate millions of options to present you with an optimal day. And best of all, it’s flexible! If you change your mind for any reason, Disney Genie will re-optimize your day.

Disney Genie can also send you real-time tips and updates, including recommendations for experiences it thinks you’ll love, helping you navigate the theme parks with added convenience and comfort. If you don’t want to worry about making reservations in multiple steps, Disney Genie will even take care of that for you.

Of course I’ll still be there helping you in the planning phase, but Disney Genie will be a great help at the parks when I’m not with you.  If you want me to tag along on your trip, though, just take me with you!!!

If you’re not able to make it to Disney World in 2020, you’ll have some great things to look forward to in 2021. The Tron coaster at Magic Kingdom and the Guardians of the Galaxy coaster at Epcot are both set to open in 2021.  So much to look forward to!

Please contact me if you are thinking of a trip.  I’d love to help you plan the best trip for you and your family with no cost to you!!

Lesser Known Reasons to Stay On-Property at Disney World

Surely by now, I’ve mentioned the benefits of staying on site at Disney World often enough that you know them. Besides proximity (you can watch the fireworks from many rooms!), you’ll get FastPasses at 60 days out instead of 30, complimentary transportation between your resort and the parks (and the airport!), complimentary MagicBands and the option to purchase a Disney Dining Plan. These things along with the amazing customer service that’s unique to Disney makes staying on site a no-brainer for me.

But there are a few other reasons to stay at a Disney World resort that you might not have thought about.

The one that seems to be most important at the moment is that on-site guests tend to be more “in-the-loop” when it comes to new attractions/lands opening at the parks. When I was there for the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, I had a plan of being at Hollywood Studios by 4am. Since Disney doesn’t release a lot of information in advance to the public, I expected I’d need to find an Uber or taxi to get me there. Not knowing what time the park officially was going to open that day, I didn’t know what time the buses would start running. The night before the opening though, there were signs in the lobby and a note in my room letting guests know that the buses would start running at 3:30am. The off-site guests weren’t notified and many weren’t let in to the parking lot as early as the buses. That helped me get much further ahead in line!

I’ve heard the same type of situation is happening for the opening of Rise of the Resistance. On-site guests are getting notifications that the park is opening early which lets them get a head start. Off-site guests just have to show up and wait and see. This is a pretty big advantage for on-site guests as the boarding pass system being used for Rise of the Resistance is at capacity even before the park officially opens most days!

The other huge benefit to me since my favorite park is Magic Kingdom is that the internal Disney bus transportation drops off at the entrance to Magic Kingdom itself. If you are off-site and drive in yourself or use Uber/taxis, you’ll be dropped off at the Ticket and Transportation Center. From there, you’ll take a boat or the Monorail into the park. Not a huge deal if you plan ahead and are prepared for the extra time, but if you’re trying to make Rope Drop or a Reservation/FastPass, that extra step adds several minutes you may not have. And the same is true on the way out. Especially if you leave the park at a time when many others do (after parade/fireworks/closing), you’ll be waiting in the boat/monorail line for a while before you can get back to the TTC to then get to your car or Uber.

One other thing to think about is the dining/gift shop options at the resorts. Although many of the off-site locations have Disney themed gift shops, you’ll only find authentic Disney parks merch in the on-site resorts. And Mickey waffles!! The restaurants have Mickey waffles!!

I know it’s not always in the budget, but if at all possible, stay on site. You won’t regret it! If you just can’t swing it though, I can still help you! I am able to book many different resorts in the area and some have the FastPass at 60 days benefit. Give me a call!!

Behind-the-scenes Tour at Disney World Shows Holiday Transformation!

Want to see how Walt Disney World Resort is transformed for the holidays? Now you can during this behind-the-scenes tour!

Explore this winter wonderland—brimming with dazzling displays, delectable treats and pure Disney magic!

During this festive and fun-filled 3-hour tour, you'll see firsthand the incredible artistry and logistics that make Walt Disney World Resort even merrier and brighter at this time of year.

You’ll:

• Discover how the Holiday Services Designers use themes to fashion the distinctive decorations that “deck the halls” throughout the Resort.
• Visit the Floral Department for an up-close look at the special displays created just for the season.
• Join a Disney Springs culinary artist to whip up a mouthwatering seasonal treat of your own.

In addition, each Guest will receive an exclusive holiday keepsake!

This tour is $149 per person. Theme Park admission isn’t required or included. If you are interested, let me know and I’ll get it booked for you!

Food! Food! Food! (From the Stomach of a Picky Eater)...

I hear people all of the time talk about the amazing food at Disney World. I agree with them - it is amazing! But my idea of amazing is pretty much what a kid would want to eat - I’m super picky. Are you a foodie? Apparently you’ll be even happier with the food selection. While I’m no expert on the gourmet options, take a look at the yummy food I had on my last trip.

Peter Pan Float!

Chicken Guy at Disney Springs

Mickey Waffles at the All-Star Sports Resort

Free Snacks from After Hours Party

Batuu Bits - not my fav!

Blue Milk from Oga's - Yum!

Pizza/Breadsticks from Pinocchio Village Haus

LeFou's Brew from Gaston's Tavern

My fav meal with a view - Casey's!

Be Our Guest Breakfast

Jungle Juice Slush - Animal Kingdom Lodge

Dinner at Mara - Animal Kingdom Lodge

Snack from France at Epcot

Ice Cream from Ample Hills at the Boardwalk

Num Num Cookie

Num Num Cookie!

Woody's Lunch Box in Toy Story Land

DOLE WHIP!!

Satu'li Canteen in Pandora

Want more info on any of this food or any other options? Call me!! I LOVE to chat Disney and my planning/booking services are always FREE!

Disney Acronyms - The List is Here!

Have you ever heard a couple of true Disney nerds have a conversation? It’s filled with plenty of acronyms that the casual guest may not understand. Here’s a list to help you get in on the conversation!

Some of these vary depending on the nerd of course, but if you’re talking to this nerd in particular, you’ll know the lingo…

ADR – Advance Dining Reservation

AK (or DAK) – Disney’s Animal Kingdom

AKL – Animal Kingdom Lodge

AoA – Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

AP – Annual Pass or Annual Passholder (I WISH THIS WERE ME!!!!)

ASMusic – Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

ASMovies – Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

ASSports – Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

BBB – Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

BCR – Beach Club Resort

BLT– Bay Lake Towers at the Contemporary

BOG – Be Our Guest Restaurant

BTMR – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

BWI – Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

CBJ – Country Bear Jamboree

CBR – Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

CM – Cast Member

Cont – Disney’s Contemporary Resort

CoP – Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress

CRT – Cinderella’s Royal Table

CSR– Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort 

DAK (or AK) – Disney’s Animal Kingdom

DCA – Disney California Adventure

DCL – Disney Cruise Line

DDP – Disney Dining Plan

DHS – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

DL – Disneyland

DLH – Disneyland Hotel

DLR– Disneyland Resort

DME – Disney Magical Express

DS – Disney Springs

EC – Epcot

EMH – Extra Magic Hours

F&G – Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

F&W – Epcot Food & Wine Festival

FEA – Frozen Ever After

FoP – Avatar Flight of Passage

FP – FastPass

FtW – Fort Wilderness

GF – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

GS – Guest Services

HEA – Happily Ever After Fireworks Show

HoP – The Hall of Presidents

iasw – “it’s a small world”

JC – Jungle Cruise

KJS – Kilimanjaro Safari

LBV – Lake Buena Vista

LWTL – Living with the Land

M&G – Character Meet and Greet

MB – Magic Bands

MDE – My Disney Experience

MK – Magic Kingdom

MNSSHP – Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

MVMCP – Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

OKW – Disney’s Old Key West

PH – Park Hopper 

PoC – Pirates of the Caribbean

POFQ – Port Orleans French Quarter

Poly – Disney’s Polynesian Resort

POP – Pop Century Resort

PORS – Port Orleans Riverside

PotC – Pirates of the Caribbean

PP - Peter Pan

QS – Quick Service (dining)

RnR – Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

RoL – Rivers of Light

SDD – Slinky Dog Dash

SDMT (or 7DMT) – Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

SoG – Shades of Green Resort

SSE – Spaceship Earth

SSR – Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

SWGE – Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

ToT – “The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror”

TS – Table Service (dining)

TSI – Tom Sawyer Island

TSL – Toy Story Land

TSM – Toy Story Mania

TT – Test Track

TTA – Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover

TTC – Transportation and Ticket Center

WDTC – Walt Disney Travel Company

WDW – Walt Disney World Resort

WL – Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort

WoD – Disney’s World of Disney

WWoS – Disney’s Wide World of Sports

YCR – Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Anything I’ve left off?? Comment and let me know!

When you’re ready to have your “let’s go to Disney” conversation with me, give me a call!! There are never any fees - you pay the same if you book with me or book on your own. Why wouldn’t you get free help?!

Disney's Newest Resort is Opening Soon!!

Projected to open December 16, 2019, Disney’s Riviera Resort will celebrate the grandeur of Europe—which has long inspired some of the greatest Disney stories with its castles and fairy-tale villages. Here, you can create your own great Disney story in the middle of the magic. At the end of each enchanting day, warm and stylish accommodations will welcome you, with a full range of options from cozy Tower Studios to spacious 1-Bedroom Villas, 2-Bedroom Villas and 3-Bedroom Grand Villas.

Style, Artistry and Disney Touches

Disney’s Riviera Resort is designed to capture the magic of Europe that Walt Disney fell in love with once upon a time.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed home by a palm tree-lined boulevard and the striking façade of this Resort hotel. From the grand archways and porticos to the tower and terraces, Disney’s Riviera Resort will be a modern masterpiece of imagination, with each detail drawing upon the influences of Europe and the Mediterranean.

In the main lobby, you’ll find yourself in an elegant setting appointed with a mix of modern and classic 20th-Century furnishings. You’ll also discover a unique art collection celebrating beloved Disney Characters and icons, influenced by master artists who found inspiration along the European Riviera.

The ambiance will extend outdoors—where beautiful gardens, bubbling fountains, lush landscaping and a serene waterfront will beckon you to enjoy scenic strolls with your loved ones.

Topolino's Terrace – dining available for breakfast or dinner!

Character Dining Breakfast

Start your morning with breakfast on this beautiful indoor rooftop terrace offering exclusive Disney Character Dining experiences. The prix fixe menu offers delicious choices to please everyone in the family.

While enjoying breakfast and the bird’s eye views, meet some of your favorite Disney Friends for a perfect photo and autograph opportunity! You may find yourself mingling with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck—stylishly dressed from head to toe in outfits unique to Topolino’s Terrace!

Breakfast begins with fresh pastries—delicious Danish, croissants, blueberry scones, or Epi bread—a rustic pull-apart baguette shaped like a wheat stalk. Your choice of entrées follows: Quiche Gruyère with house-made pancetta, Sour Cream Waffle, Wood-fired Butchers Steak, Smoked Salmon, Spiced Sausage Hash, Two Eggs Any Style, plant-based “Egg” Omelet and more. Whichever you select, enjoying it on the terrace café is an absolutely enchanting way to start your day.

Dinner on the Indoor Terrace

For dinner, get ready to indulge in fresh, delicious seafood and meat dishes, handmade pasta and decadent desserts infused with French and Italian flavors at this signature rooftop dining experience straight from the Riviera. Inspired by the cliffside restaurants of France and Italy, Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera takes its name from the Italian name for Mickey Mouse.

Dining is a true experience, prepared at the exclusive expo kitchen or wood-burning grill. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from the impressive collection sourced from the Mediterranean coast. Feast your eyes on the stunning visual aesthetic, a modern interpretation of the textures, colors, carved details and stonework found in ancient villages along the Riviera.

Dining on the rooftop terrace, Guests may even glimpse the nearby nighttime spectaculars at Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Amazing food, wine and views!

*Dinner will be a Signature Experience costing two Table Service entitlements per person on the Disney Dining Plan where the Character Breakfast will only require one.

Other dining options at the resort will include Le Petit Café, a lobby locale with coffee by day and a wine bar by night. The new quick-service location, Primo Piatto, is “reminiscent of chic dining venues found along Riviera promenades.” This restaurant will be located near the feature pool, and Bar Riva, the resort’s open-air pool bar.

Rooms at the Riviera

Stylish accommodations will invite you to channel the relaxation of life along the Riviera. This Resort hotel will offer a full range of room options, including:

• Deluxe Studios

• 1-Bedroom Villas

• 2-Bedroom Villas

• 3-Bedroom Grand Villas

• NEW! Tower Studios – unique to Disney’s Riviera Resort, these accommodate up to 2 Guests

Wherever you stay at Disney’s Riviera Resort, you’re sure to rediscover the joy of life away from the everyday hustle and bustle.

NEW! Tower Studios
Specially designed for 2 Guests, these one-of-a-kind Tower Studios are a marvel of efficiency and luxury—and are unique to Disney’s Riviera Resort. Built into the wall, you’ll find a microwave, small refrigerator, drawers and a cleverly hidden pull-down queen-size bed that just as easily tucks away to reveal a comfortable lounge-worthy space.

Deluxe Studios
Each stylish Deluxe Studio will sleep up to 5, with a queen-size bed, a pull-down queen-size bed, and a single pull-down bunk-size bed. Enjoy the convenience of your own kitchenette—and unwind on your private patio or balcony.

Discover the Villa Difference
You’ll truly feel at home in 1-Bedroom Villas or larger, where you’ll discover a variety of comforts and conveniences, including:

• Separate bedrooms that offer privacy

• A sleek, fully equipped kitchen with stainless-steel appliances—perfect for whipping up a French toast breakfast

• Your own washer and dryer—so you can pack lightly and avoid airline baggage fees

• A soothing bubble-jet bathtub—where you can to relax after an excitement-packed day

Disney Skyliner Access

Discover Disney Skyliner, an incredible new way to travel around Walt Disney World Resort!

Glide above the treetops and add an extra dash of pixie dust to your day. This grand, state-of-the-art gondola system conveniently connects Disney's Hollywood Studios and International Gateway at Epcot to the following Resort hotels: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Disney's Pop Century Resort and Disney's Riviera Resort.

Guests will be able to enjoy easy access to Disney’s BoardWalk entertainment district and a fun way to travel between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Plus, the Disney Skyliner provides a relaxing trip to dining locations across Disney Resort hotels—including Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn.

Some of the gondolas are adorned with iconic Disney Characters, figures from Disney attractions and film favorites, which makes getting around even more magical as Guests enjoy breathtaking vistas over and between each of these enchanting locations!

** as of this blog post (10/7/19), the Disney Skyliner is currently closed due to an incident that occurred over the weekend. Disney has not released the length of time the gondola system will be closed, but there are of course other complimentary transportation options available.

The best part of all of this is if you are a Disney Visa Cardholder, you’re eligible for a 40% room discount on most nights between December 16, 2019 – March 31, 2020! The number of discounted rooms are limited so don’t wait! Give me a call to find you a room at this brand-new resort!! It’s always free to book with me!!

The Kiss Goodnight - A Magic Kingdom Magical Moment

If you’re any kind of Disney World fan, you’ve probably seen or at least heard of the Kiss Goodnight. If you haven’t, then enjoy today’s blog post about one of the most Magical moments you can experience at the Magic Kingdom.

Being my favorite park by far, I can find tons of Magical moments in the Kingdom. But the Kiss Goodnight is the top of the list. It’s Disney’s way of saying goodnight to the guests that remain in the park after closing. It’s around 2 minutes long and usually happens every half hour starting 30 minutes after the park officially closes. I saw it twice one night but have heard others that saw it 3 times so if you miss it, try to hang around another half hour and catch the next one. Sadly, they will eventually kick you out (in a very kind Disney way), so try to make a point to catch the first one.

You’ll know it’s starting when Cinderella Castle starts to twinkle as the music from When You Wish Upon a Star begins to play.

It may surprise you to find out that this trip was my first time to see the Kiss Goodnight in person. Since you can get in line for any ride you’d like mere minutes before closing, I usually try to get one last ride on Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Peter Pan’s Flight. That’s great but timing has never worked out and it’s usually more than 30 minutes before I get back over to the Castle.

This time I made a point of getting back over there and sacrificed my last ride (it helps that it wasn’t my last night in the parks). There’s something about being there after the park closes. There are also very few people who stay to watch this (someone explain that to me) and it feels like you have the Castle to yourself.

Just in case you’ve never seen it, take a look at my video here! Just don’t blame me if you get tears in your eyes…

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