Disneyland Resort Celebrates Los Angeles Lakers And MVP Kobe Bryant With A Victory Parade

For The 2009 World Champions

ANAHEIM, Calif., June 18, 2009 – Celebrating the best in basketball, the Disneyland Resort saluted the 2009 World Champion Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday with a victory parade down Main Street U.S.A, in Disneyland park.  Kobe Bryant, MVP of the recent NBA Finals, smiled and waved to fans as he rode on a float to represent the Lakers in the special, celebration parade.

Some favorite Disney characters joined the magical parade as Disneyland guests cheered for the Lakers and their 15th NBA championship. The Lakers defeated the Orlando Magic to win the title in a “Fairytale Series” that matched up teams located near Disneyland Resort, in Anaheim, and Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.

“It’s like a dream come true to be here and celebrate at Disneyland, coming down Main Street U.S.A. with all the fans cheering,” Bryant said after the parade. “It’s a tremendous honor to represent my team.”

The presidents of the two Resorts, Ed Grier at Disneyland and Meg Crofton at Walt Disney World, made a friendly wager on the NBA Finals.  On Thursday, Meg Crofton fulfilled her pledge by donning a pair of Lakers’ purple and gold Mickey Mouse ears and walking down Main Street, U.S.A., in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

Each of the Resorts also turned the lights of their respective castles to the team colors of the Lakers and the Magic, in celebration of the historic pairing. Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland park was glowing with Lakers purple and gold during the NBA Finals and will stay that way through Thursday night.

“I heard there was a little competition with Disneyland and Disney World and we won,” Kobe Bryant said, “so our colors are staying up a little bit longer.”

Two of the many Lakers fans at Disneyland on Thursday were selected to ride the Matterhorn Bobsleds with Bryant after the parade. David Guerrero and his son Jonathan, 4, of Pomona, are Annual Passport holders and they came to Disneyland in their team jerseys to celebrate the Lakers’ World Championship.
“They just picked us out of the crowd and said, ‘Do you want to ride the Matterhorn with Kobe?’ I’m shaking, this is so exciting,” David Guerrero said as Jonathan jumped up and down. “In Southern California, being a Disney fan and a Lakers fan, it just goes together and that’s why we wanted to be here today.”

The Disneyland Resort victory parade provided yet another reason for dancing in the streets as Disney Parks asks guests, “What Will You Celebrate?” in 2009. Guests are celebrating birthdays, graduations, engagements and more at Disney Parks and they are utilizing an unprecedented offer good throughout 2009 – the opportunity to visit a theme park at Disneyland or Walt Disney World Resort free on their birthdays.*

The summer of celebration continues at Disneyland Resort with special vacation offers and Summer Nightastic! The exciting, after-dark entertainment includes a new fireworks spectacular, “Magical,” starring Dumbo the flying elephant; Tinker Bell’s “pixie magic” in “Disney’s Electrical Parade”; and sensational new characters and special effects in “Fantasmic!” Residents of Southern California can purchase the Summer Fun Pass and visit the parks on three days for $99.** Guests who pay for a three-night vacation package get an extra two nights free for arrivals through September 26, 2009.+ For details, visit www.disneyland.com and www.disneyland.com/summer

*No cash refunds or credits will be given. Valid ID including proof of birth date required at ticket booth. Visit disneybirthdaytreat.com for details and to register your birthday.

**Must provide proof of residency within Zip codes 90000-93599 and 21000-22999. Tickets valid 45 days from first use and first use must occur on or before 8/23/09. Tickets blocked out on 7/4/09.

+Must book by 8/11/09. Number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.  Walt Disney Travel Company CST: 1022229-50, NVST No. 2006-0198.

The lobby is shockingly small compared to most or the other resorts and from the perceived amount of the accommodations. But the cozy size of the lobby really creates the sense of the “Welcome Home” mentality. Great decor and a focus on savannah opposite the main entrance to the lobby. just a note there isn’t a quick/counter service dinning on premises the store just off the lobby is where you can use your refillable mug.

Before we go out the the Savannah we will go downstairs to the lower level where Sanaa is located.

Sanaa’s cuisine is a melting pot of tastes from the islands of the Indian Ocean that all are part of Africa – Zanzibar, the Seychelles, Comoro Islands, Mauritius and Madagascar. “These islands were on important trade routes with influences from French, Portuguese, Dutch, British, Arab and Chinese traders,” said Chef Bob Getchell. “The diverse spices and flavors give us an endless array of options for Sanaa.”

Overview of the Sanaa Restaurant

Sanaa Opening Menu

the warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant along with it’s off the beaten track feel will probably be one of those hidden gems at Walt Disney World for the next few years.

With great daytime views of the Savannah daylight dining will provide some great possibilities for viewing the animals out there.

Personally this is where this resort shines! the enclosed Savannah is already providing lots of opportunity to have great viewing of the animals. Along with the large windows and a few balconies to get a good view of the the Savannah ( even if you don’t have a Savannah view room there is as a viewing area that is protruding a good 60 yards from the Lobby area with a fire pit and some seating. This is a great spot to view the animals and also get to interact with the keepers of the animals. while we were there they were training the Giraffes and Ostrich to search for food in specific locations. ( near the guests of course ) .

[View with PicLens]

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The Water park area looks like it might be a economic option for the Full Water Theme Parks at WDW. All the Kids were enjoying all the amenities of the park.

All in all I look forward to getting back to the Kidani Village and giving Sanaa a try next time I am at WDW.

G’day on this Episode we take you to Walt Disney World and do a daily wrap ups from the trip.

This is a marathon of a show and is chocked full of great info and is a fun listen ( as usual ) so get prepared.

A few weeks ago, the travelears alerted its subscribers to a new dining initiative called Picnic in the Park.  

(Original Story Link)

 

Since then, there has been an enormous amount of chatter within the Disney online community regarding Animal Kingdom’s new initiative and I thought that this would be an opportune time to share a Disney blog site link that I regularly read that recently provided a first hand review of this new dining opportunity. The writers of this blog are Orlando based, work within the Disney travel industry and can be relied upon for accurate, non biased reviews of what is happening within the parks.

The author of this blog post Kathy Werling who is a excellent Disney blogger and part of the crew of the Dis Unplugged Podcast. Her indepth review of Picnic in the Park can be found here and will clear up many of the confusing reports currently out there regarding this unique dining option:  Picnic in the Park at Animal Kingdom Blog

Enjoy the review and if you enjoy Kathy’s review please leave a comment on her post.

Aj

From today to June 7, 2009, a World Celebration comes to Disneyland Resort. This six-week festival showcases California’s rich fusion of flavors. Enjoy cooking demonstrations, seminars and recipes that reflect the Golden State’s regional and culinary diversity at the Fourth Annual Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival.

The line up this year in California looks to be better than ever, with larger food portions of all of our favourites including the delicious sliders, cheddar cheese soup and Lobster pops.

More than 600 complimentary experiences will be available at the fourth annual Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival, including culinary demonstrations, children’s programs and wine and spirits seminars. In addition, food and wine aficionados will get tips from Disneyland Resort chefs, mingle with noted winemakers and celebrate at the spectacular ticketed events, including the gala Festival finale “Taste Food-Wine-Life.”

Featured celebrity chefs, including Guy Fieri of the Food Network, along with nearly 100 Disneyland Resort chefs will conduct cooking demonstrations that showcase their talents and an international mix of delectable dishes. Guests will collect cooking tips while they watch the pros in action, discovering new twists on timeless classics and sampling the festival cuisine. Guests will also taste delicious festival-inspired dishes at the Wine Country Trattoria, Pacific Wharf Café, Farmer’s Market and other eateries inside Disney’s California Adventure park.

Guests will enjoy several new signature events this year.
• Behind the Scenes With… – Unique opportunities to share food, wine and conversation with cooking personalities from popular television programs and celebrity winemakers. The stars include Guy Fieri (“Guy’s Big Bite”), Keegan Geerhard (“Food Network Challenge), Tommy Lasorda (Lasorda Wines), and John and Nancy Lasseter (Lasseter Family Winery). The evenings begin with tasty appetizers and exquisite wines, followed by question-and-answer sessions hosted a special chef.

• Sweet Sundays – The sweetest of all events features a light buffet breakfast and sparkling wine at the Golden Vine Winery at Disney’s California Adventure. Guests will see demonstrations and taste three signature desserts created by acclaimed pastry chefs, including chefs from Sweet Cheeks Baking Co. in San Diego and Cake Monkey Bakery in Los Angeles.

• Festival Wine Walks ¬ Guests will explore wines of the world, or a single region, when they purchase a tasting passport and select up to four tastes of spectacular wines. A tasting tour that features craft brews will also be available. Delicious wine country tapas that complement the beer and wine will be available at The Lounge at the Golden Vine Winery.

• World Celebration Dinners – Disneyland Resort chefs will create an elegant menu that blends the food, wine and celebrations of regions around the world. France, Japan, Korea, Italy and Spain will be featured.

• Master Sommelier Michael Jordan, of the award-winning Napa Rose restaurant, will add a new class to his “Introduction to Wine Tasting.” The “Advanced Wine Class” includes three two-hour sessions that take guests to the next level in their knowledge of wine regions, varietals, growing and harvesting techniques. Both entertaining classes will offer training as well as a blind tasting to test the participants’ skills.

Events returning for 2009 feature Disneyland Resort chefs and premier winemakers.
• Winemaker Dinners – Disneyland Resort chefs will partner with premier California winemakers to prepare outstanding culinary delights at six exclusive “Winemaker Dinners,” on selected Friday nights. Each Festival meal will be paired with award-winning vintages and served at Steakhouse 55, inside the Disneyland Hotel.

• Napa Rose Cooking School – Disney Executive Chef Andrew Sutton will once again lead this hands-on course that sells out quickly. Each class will create and enjoy a themed meal paired with wines and each class member will go home with an official chef’s coat to commemorate the experience. This amazing opportunity takes place in the show kitchen of the renowned Napa Rose restaurant at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Guests must be at least 18 years of age.

• Festival Wine Receptions – Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful sunset and weekend evening under the stars, on the patio of the Golden Vine Winery inside Disney’s California Adventure park. While sampling from a variety of selected wines and enjoying hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, guests will meet fellow wine enthusiasts, make new friends and discover new favorite wines.

If your intending to join us at Westfest, make sure that you check out the following locations:

Festival Welcome Center Presented by AARP

The Sunshine Plaza serves as the hub for all festival information including daily event schedules and same-day reservations – if available.

Festival-Inspired Dining

Enjoy festival inspirations at Wine Country Trattoria, Pizza Oom Mow Mow, Pacific Wharf Café, Farmer’s Market, Award Wieners and Taste Pilots’ Grill. Expertly paired wines and beer are also available.

Festival Wine Shop & Bistro

Shop for spectacular bottles of wines or enjoy a glass on the outdoor Lower Patio of the Golden Vine Winery. Open daily. For your convenience, bottles will be delivered to Package Pickup.

Festival Gift Shop

Shop for specially designed Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival merchandise to commemorate your visit.

The Lounge at the Golden Vine Winery

Relax on the Upper Terrace of the Golden Vine Winery and enjoy outstanding wines from California and international vineyards. Wine flights are offered by varietal, location or theme. Wine-country tapas are available for purchase.

NEW! Festival Wine Walks

Take a tasting tour of the finest wine regions and travel the globe without ever leaving the Festival. Each walk’s tasting-passport offers up to four tastings from around the world or a single region.

The following image is this years California Food and Wine Festival Map:

Festival events held in Disney’s California Adventure may require park admission, which is not included in the event price. Some events require an additional fee and pre-registration. For details and pricing information, visit www.disneyland.com/foodandwine.

Don’t forget that the travelears will be visiting this great event during its opening week, so stay tuned for our exclusive reviews.

We look forward to sharing a slider and a glass of Napa red with all of you during the festivities at Westfest ’09.

Enjoy,

Aj

 

Typoon Lagoon (Image Courtesy of the Walt Disney Company)

 

 

Hi guys, just read this great article by Kelly Shannon at the Examiner.com. This is an extract of part 1 of 3 of a full review of Disney’s pools.

Enjoy, AJ

 

Disney is synonymous with family fun, but did you know Florida’s Disney resorts and parks have some of the most innovative pools on Earth? One of my favorite places to go when I’m really stressed out (such as after April 15th!) is Typhoon Lagoon. While the rest of the family frolics all over the park, I’m content to spend the entire day reclining on an inner tube going ‘round and ‘round in Castaway Creek, a 2,100-foot river circling the park through gorgeous colorful flowers, misty rain forest and a hidden grotto. At least my family knows exactly where to find me…

 

Upon entering Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, a 53-acre themed water park, visitors find themselves in a tin-roofed village cluttered with marine wreckage and cargo left by a big storm. In Shark Reef, swimmers come face-to-face with colorful creatures when they snorkel through a 362,000-gallon saltwater pool filled with brightly-colored tropical fish. Other guests can watch the snorkelers through the underwater portholes of a wrecked ship in the center of the reef. Three water slides drop guests down a mountain at speeds up to 30 mph and three different rafting adventures provide even more water fun. A lagoon boasts one of the world’s largest artificially created waves for body surfing.  

 

Kelly’s full article can be found here: Disney’s cool pools – part 1 of a 3-part series

If the attraction is going to be the same or similar to the one being built in DCA some details can be seen in this video:

What do you think about a Little Mermaid dark ride attraction like the the one proposed in DCA ?

Formerly known as the Disney Dining Experience (DDE), the Tables in Wonderland membership still gives Florida residents and Annual and Seasonal Passholders awesome dining discounts and benefits. Your Tables in Wonderland card can be used at select Disney World restaurants to receive a 20 percent discount on all food and beverage, including alcohol for your entire party, up to 10 guests.

Florida residents can purchase the Tables in Wonderland membership for $100 per year and Passholders can purchase membership for $75 per year. An additional card for a spouse can be purchased for an additional $50 per year. However, if you are planning on having a majority of your meals at the Walt Disney World Resorts with your spouse, there is no need to purchase a second card.

This is a membership that will pay for itself in just a few meals at a Disney restaurant. For example, a family of four’s average sit down meal can run up to $150. With your Tables in Wonderland card your savings would be $30, paying for the card in anywhere from three to four meals. As a Florida resident or Passholder, I am sure that you have more than four meals at the Walt Disney World Resorts within a year’s time.

Restaurants included in the Tables in Wonderland dining membership are located throughout the Walt Disney World Resorts and Theme Parks. There are more than 50 participating restaurants that offer discounts with your membership card. Regardless of your party’s size there is an 18 percent gratuity added to all food and beverage purchases made with your membership card.

Other benefits you will receive with your Tables in Wonderland membership card include complimentary theme park parking if your sole reason to visit is for dining. You will pay for parking upon entering and then after eating, take your receipt, parking ticket and Tables in Wonderland card to Guest Relations for a refund for parking. If you arrive at a theme park after 5 p.m. you will not have to pay for parking if you show your Tables in Wonderland membership card at the auto plaza.

If dining at one of the resort restaurants you can enjoy complimentary valet parking. When picking up your car present your dining card with your restaurant receipt at the Valet Desk.

There are block out dates, which include major holidays and special events, including the for Fantasmic! Dinner Package, Food and Wine Festival dinners or Candlelight Packages. Your card is also not valid in combination with any other discount.

2009 Blackout Dates

    * 01/01/2009

    * 04/12/2009

    * 05/10/2009

    * 07/04/2009

    * 11/26/2009

    * 12/24/2009

    * 12/25/2009

    * 12/31/2009

    * 01/01/2010

You can purchase yours by calling 407-566-5858, select option number two, Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Membership cards may take up to two to four weeks to process. For immediate purchase of your Tables in Wonderland membership visit any Guest Relations at Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot Theme Park, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park or Downtown Disney.

The Mouse For Less has a updated list of participating restaurants:

 

 

Participating Restaurants (subject to change)

For even more ways to save on Disney dining, meals on property and off, and discount coupons, visit their Dining Tips page.

 

Epcot

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall

Biergarten Restaurant

Bistro de Paris Restaurant

Chefs de France

Coral Reef Restaurant

Le Cellier Steakhouse

Nine Dragons Restaurant

Restaurant Marrakesh

Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room

San Angel Inn Restaurante

The Garden Grill

Tutto Italia Ristorante

 

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

50′s Prime Time Cafe

Hollywood & Vine

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

The Hollywood Brown Derby

Tune-In Lounge

 

Magic Kingdom

Cinderella’s Royal Table

Liberty Tree Tavern

The Crystal Palace

The Plaza Restaurant

Tony’s Town Square Restaurant

 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Flame Tree Barbeque

Pizzafari

Restaurantosaurus

Tusker House Restaurant

 

Resorts

 

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

World Premiere Food Court

 

Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

Intermission Food Court

 

Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

End Zone Food Court

 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Boma – The Flavors of Africa

Jiko – The Cooking Place

Victoria Falls

 

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Beaches & Cream Soda Shop(excludes take-out)

Cape May Cafe

Martha’s Vineyard Lounge

 

Disney’s BoardWalk

ESPN Club

Flying Fish Cafe

Spoodles

Bellevue Lounge

Admission to Atlantic Dance Hall is free for members and guests

 

Disney’s Eagle Pines and Osprey Ridge Golf Club

Sand Trap Bar & Grill

 

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Shutters at Old Port Royale

 

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

California Grill

Chef Mickey’s

The Wave

Outer Rim Lounge

 

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Maya Grill

 

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue (9:30 p.m. show only)

Trail’s End Restaurant

Crockett’s Tavern

 

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

1900 Park Fare

Citricos

Garden View Lounge

Grand Floridian Cafe

Mizner’s Lounge

Narcoossee’s

Victoria & Albert’s (excludes Chef’s Table)

 

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Olivia’s Cafe

 

Disney’s Polynesian Resort

Kona Cafe

‘Ohana

Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show (Late show only)

Tambu Lounge

 

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Everything Pop Shopping & Dining

Classic Concoctions

 

Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter

Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory

Scat Cat’s Club

 

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside

Boatwright’s Dining Hall

River Roost

 

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

The Artist’s Palette

The Turf Club

 

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

The Green Cabin Room

Shutter’s and Sonya’s (except Sunday Brunch)

 

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Artist Point

Territory Lounge

Whispering Canyon Cafe

 

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Yachtsman Steakhouse

Crews Cup Lounge

Yacht Club Galley

Ale and Compass Lounge

 

Downtown Disney:

 

Marketplace

Cap’n Jack’s Restaurant

 

Pleasure Island

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant

 

West Side

Planet Hollywood

The latest video from Disney and this one is definitely for the romantics.

What she thought was going to be a fun getaway weekend to Walt Disney World, actually ended up being a magical moment that shell remember for the rest of her life.

Congratulations Eduardo & Yary!

Enjoy the video, Aj

Hi Travellears fans, I have great news for everybody, FREE Dining is back!

 

Yep, we know this is the special that so many people wait for each fall, and it is back!!!  It is available today for Disney Visa Holders and will be available on 3/30/09 for the general public.

We are encouraging guests to fill out a quote form today even if they do not have a Disney Visa so that we can have their details and book this package when it is released on 3/30/09.  Please let your website visitors and community members know that as well.

 

Travel Dates: August 16, 2009 – October 3, 2009

Booking Dates: 

Disney Visa Holders: March 26, 2009-June 21, 2009

General Public: March 30, 2009 – June 21, 2009

 

>>FREE Dining with Magic Your Way Packages for Disney Visa card holders<<

Special magic Your Way packages with FREE Disney Dining Plan are available for 8/16/09- 10/03/09 travel dates.  The Disney Dining Plan lets you choose from over 100 select restaurants throughout the Walt Disney Resort and is typically priced at 38.99 per adult (10 and over) and 10.99 per child, per night.  This is a substantial savings, and the numbers of rooms available with this special are limited.  A Disney Visa must be used for a deposit at time of booking.  This special must be booked by 6/21/09.

 

As a special bonus our EXCLUSIVE offers below can be combined with the Free dining package.

 

>>FREE Dining with Magic Your Way Packages for Disney Visa card holders<<

Special magic Your Way packages with FREE Disney Dining Plan are available for 8/16/09- 10/03/09 travel dates.  The Disney Dining Plan lets you choose from over 100 select restaurants throughout the Walt Disney Resort and is typically priced at 39.99 per adult (10 and over) and 10.99 per child, per night.  This is a substantial savings, and the numbers of rooms available with this special are limited.  A Disney Visa must be used for a deposit at time of booking.  This special must be booked by 6/21/09.

 

As a special Bonus, you can combine one of our EXCLUSIVE promotions with the free dining package.

 

  FREE Minnie Pack- EXCLUSIVE Magic for Less Travel Offer

Our exclusive promotion CAN be combined with Disney released specials!

The Magic for Less Travel will offer a FREE Minnie Pack to all guests who book a new Magic Your Way package priced at $1500* or more. The Minnie Pack includes 2 neck wallets for you to use in the parks and resorts. Packages priced at $2500* or more will also receive your choice of a subscription to TourGuideMiKE’s Automated Vacation Planner, a copy of Birnbaum’s Walt Disney World guide, a copy of Kim Button’s Disney Queue Line Survival Guidebook or 2 autograph books. *The price of the vacation is based on the final price you pay for your vacation package after any discount and before any non-commissionable options like airfare are included. Pack contents are subject to change.  Book by 4/30/09

 

 Deluxe Pixie Dust Pack & Gift Card EXCLUSIVE Magic for Less Offer

Our exclusive promotion CAN be combined with Disney released specials!

 

The Magic for Less Travel will offer a FREE Deluxe Pixie Dust Pack to all guests who book a new Magic Your Way package priced at $3500* or more. The Deluxe Pixie Dust Pack includes two neck wallets for your party, a $25 Disney gift card and your choice of a subscription to TourGuideMiKE’s Automated Vacation Planner, a copy of Birnbaum’s Walt Disney World guide a copy of Kim Button’s Disney Queue Line Survival Guidebook or 2 autograph books.

  *The price of the vacation is based on the final price you pay for your vacation package after any discounts and before any non-commissionable options like airfare are included. Pack contents are subject to change. Book by 4/30/09

 

Have a Magical Day!

************************

Pam Forrester, CTC

The Magic for Less, LLC

Hello everyone, I was excited this morning to receive a package from Disney with the first part of my new D23 membership. Although it only contained my membership card and some supporting information, I thought that I would post the images to let everybody know what they will be receiving, when they sign up to become a member.

When the other components of the package arrive, I will update this post. Greg!

 

Front of D23 Card

 

 

Back of D23 Card

 

 

Front of D23 Card Information Folder

 

 

Back of D23 Card Information Folder

By now, most people know you get into Disneyland free on your birthday in 2009. But if you’re an annual passholder, you’d better read the fine print.

It turns out that if you’re an annual passholder — and your birthday just so happens to fall on a Saturday or Sunday, almost any day in June, July or August, during Spring Break, around Thanksgiving, any time between Christmas and New Year’s Day or on Nov. 11 — you might be in for a rude surprise.

Obviously, for the average Disneyland annual passholder who visits the park on regular basis, the free-on-your-birthday deal isn’t much of perk. So the Anaheim theme park offers a free $69 gift card (the standard price of admission) to their most loyal customers. The uncharacteristically generous gesture seemed almost too good to be true.

So on my wife Nancy’s birthday, we headed down to Disneyland to collect her free loot. After waiting in a 45-minute line at Guest Relations, the smiling girl at the window told Nancy she couldn’t have the gift card. Why? Because our annual passes were “blacked out” for that day. All she could offer Nancy was an upgrade ticket into the park (valued at $40).

“So, just because my birthday falls on a blackout day, I don’t get the gift card?” said Nancy, on the verge of tears. “That’s unfair.”

To me, the raw deal seemed completely random. You can’t control what day your birthday falls on.

After a fruitless exchange with a surly supervisor (who had no business working in customer service) and her somewhat apologetic boss, we finally reached an incomprehensible compromise. If we paid $40 (the value of the upgrade ticket), Nancy could have the $69 gift card. By now, with Nancy’s birthday on the verge of being ruined, we paid for the card and tried to focus on the kindness of the $29 gift.

For a place that bills itself as the Happiest Place on Earth, it had proven a pretty grim experience. Throughout the entire ordeal, nobody ever wished Nancy happy birthday — and when I pointed that out, the manager said: “I’m not going to be forced to wish her happy birthday.”

Disneyland officials, contacted for a response, offered apologies but stuck by the company policy: “Our policy for Annual Passholders regarding Free On Your Birthday and blackout dates is clearly stated in Annual Passholder publications and on our website. It is unfortunate that the guest was not aware of the policy and we apologize that she was disappointed.”

Other annual passholders have run into the same problem, which will become more prevalent as we move into the busy summer months (when blackout dates abound).

Have you had a similar experience? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

 

Here’s a list of the remaining blackout dates for 2009:

March 21, 22, 28, 29

April 3-19, 24-26

May 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 22-25, 29-31

June 4-7, 10-14

June 17 – Aug. 16

Aug. 21-23, 29, 30

Sept. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27

Oct. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31

Nov. 1, 7, 8, 11, 14, 15, 21, 22, 26-29

Dec. 5, 6, 12, 13, 18-31

 

Note: Blackout days vary depending on the type of annual pass.

By Brady MacDonald, Los Angeles Times staff writer Link to original article 

Here at the Travelears, we receive so many questions regarding Annual Passes to Walt Disney World, that we thought that it was important to let everybody know what was included with a 2009 Annual Pass purchase. This guide has been developed from the information available from Disney at: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/passholder-benefits/ , and we recommend that you check with Disney prior to purchasing an annual pass to be informed of any changes, or conditions that Disney may include when they modify their Annual Pass Program. 

Walt Disney World Pass Options

 

Walt Disney World Annual Pass Holders receive special discounts and offers at Walt Disney World Resort with a Walt Disney World Pass, which allow year-round, unlimited admission to all 4 Disney Theme Parks.

 

Tables in Wonderland Membership Discount

Walt Disney World Passholders receive $25 off the regular price of the Tables in Wonderland Membership. Benefits of a Tables in Wonderland Membership include:

• 20% discount on all food and beverages at participating Resort hotel and Disney Theme Park restaurants
• Invitations to special Tables in Wonderland Member-only events
• And more!

 

For more information or to purchase the Tables in Wonderland Membership at the Passholder discounted rate of $75, call (407) 566-5858. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Tables in Wonderland Membership benefits are valid for the Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 9 Guests. Offer is valid for Passholder only. Certain restrictions may apply.

Downtown Disney Dining Discounts

Downtown Disney West Side dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

• House of Blues restaurant: 20% discount off food and non-alcoholic beverages daily in the House of Blues restaurant prior to 4:00 p.m. and 10% discount after 4:00 p.m. Discount excludes alcohol, applicable tax and gratuity. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 5 Guests.
• Planet Hollywood restaurant: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages daily in the Planet Hollywood restaurant. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests.
• Wolfgang Puck Café: 20% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages daily during lunch and 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages daily during dinner in Wolfgang Puck Café. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority Seating is available by calling (407) 938-9653 or (407) WDW-DINE (407-939-3463). Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
• Fulton’s Crab House: 20% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and beverages daily during lunch (seated by 3:30 p.m.) and 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and beverages daily during dinner in the Fulton Crab House restaurant. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available. Call (407) 934-BOAT or (407) 934-2628, and (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 934-3463. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
• Portobello Yacht Club: 20% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and beverages daily during lunch and 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and beverages daily during dinner in the Portobello Yacht Club restaurant. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority Seating is available by calling (407) 934-8888, or (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
• Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop: 10% discount on all chocolate purchases and fountain treats in the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop.
• Rainforest Cafe Downtown Disney: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of lunch and dinner entrées at the Rainforest Cafe. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available by calling (407) 827-8500. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
• Wolfgang Puck Express: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages for breakfast, lunch or dinner in the Wolfgang Puck Express. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests.
• T-REX Cafe® – Downtown Disney® Marketplace New – 10% discount off the regular price lunch and dinner entrees (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) for the passholder and up to three guests.

 

Epcot Theme Park Dining Discounts

Epcot Theme Park dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

Passholders get 10% off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of food and non-alcoholic beverages Monday through Friday during lunch hours at participating Epcot Theme Park Table Service locations.

Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available by calling (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call. Lunch hours vary by location; inquire at time of booking.

Participating Epcot Theme Park restaurants include:

• Tutto Italia Restaurant
• Nine Dragons Restaurant
• Restaurant Marrakesh
• Les Chefs de France Restaurant
• Teppan Edo
• Tokyo Dining
• San Angel Inn Restaurant
• Rose and Crown

 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Dining Discounts

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

• Rainforest Cafe: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of breakfast, lunch and dinner entrées in the Rainforest Cafe. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available. Call (407) 938-9100 for reservations. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
• Yak & Yeti Restaurant: 10% discount off the regular price (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) of lunch and dinner entrées in the Yak & Yeti Restaurant. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Discount excludes alcohol and is not valid at Yak & Yeti’s Local Food Cafes.

 

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Theme Park Dining Discount

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Theme Park dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

• Studio Catering Company: 10% discount off the regular price of food and non-alcoholic beverages (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) all day in the Studio Catering Company quick-service restaurant. Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests.

 

Magic Kingdom Theme Park Dining Discount

Magic Kingdom Theme Park dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

• Noodle Station: 10% discount off the regular price of food and non-alcoholic beverages (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) in the Noodle Station quick-service restaurant (open seasonally). Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests.

 

Walt Disney World Hotel Dining Discounts

Walt Disney World hotel dining discounts are valid for purchases made by the Walt Disney World Passholder and valid Pass ID is required for redemption.

Passholders get 10% off the regular price of food and non-alcoholic beverages (excluding applicable tax and gratuity) Monday through Friday during various meal periods at participating hotel table-service locations.

Valid for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Priority seating is available. Call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463 for reservations. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call. Dining hours vary by location. Inquire at the time of booking.

Participating Walt Disney World Resort hotel restaurants include:

• Disney’s BoardWalk Resort: Spoodles restaurant (Breakfast Only) and ESPN Club (Lunch Only)
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort: The Wave (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
• Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground: Trail’s End Restaurant (Breakfast and Lunch)
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Grand Floridian Café (Breakfast and Lunch)
• Disney’s Old Key West Resort: Olivia’s Café (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
• Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts: Captain’s Grille (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
• Disney’s Saratoga Springs & Spa: Turf Club (Lunch)
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside: Boatwright’s Dining Hall (Breakfast and Dinner)

 

Merchandise Discounts 

Downtown Disney Merchandise Discounts

• Arribas Brothers: 10% discount off total purchase price of merchandise (subject to certain restrictions, exclusions and/or limitations including, but not limited to: Lalique, Mats Jonasson, Swarovski, and shipping charges). Discount cannot be combined with any other offer.
• House of Blues store: 10% discount off regularly priced merchandise purchased in the House of Blues retail store (excludes books, leather, tobacco, jewelry and select CDs).
• Planet Hollywood store: 10% discount off select regularly priced merchandise purchased in the Planet Hollywood shop.
• Starabilias: 10% discount off all gift and novelty items.
• Virgin Megastore: 10% discount off total purchase. Discount valid only at Virgin Megastore Downtown Disney West Side. Not valid on virginmega.com or airport locations. Excludes personal audio, DVD players, interactive software and accessories, game hardware, gift cards or Virgin Mobile Top-Up Cards.
• Basin: 10% discount off select regularly priced merchandise.
• Curl by Sammy Duvall: 10% discount off select regularly priced merchandise.
• LEGO Imagination Center: 10% discount off all items. This offer cannot be combined with any other coupon or discount offer. Discount is available only at the LEGO Imagination Center Orlando.
• Rainforest Cafe store: 15% discount off select regularly priced merchandise purchased in the Rainforest Cafe retail store.
• T-REX Cafe®: 15% discount off select non-sale merchandise in the Dino-Store (does not include Build-A-Dino® by Build-A-Bear Workshop®)
• World of Disney Store: 10% discount off merchandise. Discount not available on purchase of Disney gift certificates, Disney Gift Cards, Disney Dollars, videos, food items, film, film processing, Walt Disney Classics Collection and other select merchandise. Discount also not available at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Merchandise discount is not available at Walt Disney World Theme Parks.

 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Merchandise Discounts

• Rainforest Cafe store: 15% discount off select regularly priced merchandise purchased in the Rainforest Cafe retail store.
• Yak & Yeti Retail Village: 15% discount off select regularly priced merchandise purchased in the Yak & Yeti retail store.

 

Sports and Recreation Discounts 

• Richard Petty Driving Experience: $20 discount off the regular price of a Ride-Along Experience or $35 discount on any Richard Petty Driving Experience package. Valid only at the Walt Disney World Speedway for the Passholder. Not valid with any other coupon or discount. Call (800) BE-PETTY or (407) 237-3889 for reservations and information. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
• Spa Treatment at Disney’s Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club: 10% discount off the regular price of one spa treatment each visit for Walt Disney World Passholder at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, near Magic Kingdom Theme Park. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (407) 824-2332. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
• Spa Treatment at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort: 10% discount off the regular price of one spa treatment each visit for Walt Disney World Passholder at The Spa and Health Club at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, near Downtown Disney area. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (407) 827-4455. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
• Sammy Duvall’s Water Sports Centre: 10% discount off parasailing, water-skiing, wakeboarding and personal watercraft for Walt Disney World Passholder at Sammy Duvall’s Water Sports Centre at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Reservations required. Certain age restrictions apply. For more information or reservations call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529). Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.
• Marina Boat Rentals: 15% discount off the regular price of boat rentals for Walt Disney World Passholder at any Walt Disney World Resort Marina. Subject to availability. Certain age restrictions apply. Excludes Specialty Cruises.
• Golf at Walt Disney World Resort: 30% discount off Day Visitor Rates for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests in the party. The discount is available on Day Visitor Rates for play any time of day. Discounts cannot be applied to any other discount or special rate including, but not limited to, Twilight Rates. Tee times at this rate are limited and may be made up to 14 days in advance by calling (407) WDW-GOLF or (407) 939-4653. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call. Advance reservations required.

 

Tour Discounts 

For Walt Disney World Tour information and reservations call (407) WDW-TOUR or (407) 939-8687. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Magic Kingdom Theme Park Tour Discounts

15% discount off the regular price on:

• Backstage Magic (age 16 and older)
• Disney’s Family Magic Tour (all ages)
• Keys to the Kingdom (age 16 and older)
• Mickey’s Magical Milestones (age 10 and older)
• Steam Trains Tour (age 10 and older)

 

Epcot Theme Park Tour Discounts

15% discount off the regular price on:

• Around the World at Epcot Theme Park Segway Tour (age 16 and older)
• Backstage Magic (age 16 and older)
• Dolphins in Depth (age 13 and older, adult must accompany)
• Epcot DiveQuest (age 10 and older, SCUBA certification required, ages 10-14 must be accompanied by an adult)
• Epcot Seas Aqua Tour (age 8 and older, Guests ages 8-16 must be accompanied by an adult)
• UnDISCOVERed Future World (age 16 and older)
• Yuletide Fantasy (age 16 and older, offered seasonally)
• Gardens of the World (Operates Seasonally)

 

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Theme Park Tour Discounts

15% discount off the regular price on:

• Backstage Magic (age 16 and older)

 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Tour Discounts

15% discount off the regular price on:

• Backstage Safari (age 16 and older)
• Wild by Design (age 14 and older)

 

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground Tour Discounts

15% discount off the regular price on:

• Wilderness Back Trail Adventures Segway Tour (age 16 and older)

 

Events and Entertainment Ticket Discounts 

AMC Theatres Pleasure Island 24: $2 off adult evening admission price. Offer is valid for Walt Disney World Passholder only and not valid with any other offer or discount.

Magic Kingdom Theme Park Specially Ticketed Events: Available on selected nights, based on a limited availability, and applies to “Day-Of” admission price. (Does not apply to “Advance Sales” admission price.) See Magic Kingdom Theme Park specially ticketed event dates and prices. The Walt Disney World Passholder may purchase up to a total of 4 discount tickets for each event:

• Disney’s Pirate and Princess Party
• Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

 

Disney’s Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course: 50% discount for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests.

Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course: 50% discount for Walt Disney World Passholder and up to 3 Guests.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park: $4 discount off regular admission price for Guests ages 10 and older and $3 discount for Guests ages 3-9. Discount available for up to 3 Guests per visit.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park: $4 discount off regular admission price for Guests ages 10 and older and $3 discount for Guests ages 3-9. Discount available for up to 3 Guests per visit.

DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park: $4 discount off regular admission price for Guests ages 10 and older, and $3 discount for Guests ages 3 to 9. Discount available for up to 3 Guests per visit.

 

Services and Resources Available For Annual Pass Holders

Call (407) 560-PASS or (407) 560-7277 for assistance with Walt Disney World Pass renewal, discount information, Walt Disney World Resort reservations and priority seating at participating Resort hotel and Disney Theme Park restaurants, special ticketed events at Walt Disney World Resort, change of address, email registration or questions about your Walt Disney World Pass. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.*

A complete list of discounts, benefits, special offers and services for Walt Disney World Passholders is also available at all Disney Theme Park Guest Relations locations.

• Receive the latest Walt Disney World Passholder information online.
• Register to receive special Walt Disney World Passholder e-mails.
• Mickey Monitor newsletter, mailed in February, May, August and November, includes additional benefits and program updates. Only one newsletter per active Walt Disney World Passholder household is mailed within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
• Save up to 20% off your rental when you rent from Alamo Rent A Car**. Make an Alamo car rental reservation or call Alamo at (800) 354-2322. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call. Be sure to request ID #860292 when making your reservation. **Terms and conditions: Discount applies to base rate only. Taxes, other governmentally-authorized or imposed surcharges, license and concession recoupment fees, airport and airport facility fees, fuel, additional driver fee, one-way rental charge and options items are extra. Renter must meet standard age, driver and credit requirements. 24-Hour advance reservations required. May not be combined with other discounts. Availability is limited. Subject to change without notice. Offer valid only at participating locations through 12/31/09. Blackout dates may apply.
• Walt Disney World Resort hotel room discounts: periodically, a limited number of rooms may be made available at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels and select Disney Vacation Club Resorts at discounted rates for Walt Disney World Passholders. Search for Walt Disney World Resort hotel room discounts or read your Mickey Monitor newsletter for special offers.

 

*To enjoy your 2009 benefits, you must present your valid Annual Pass at the time of purchase, booking and/or redemption of any offer. Offers may not be combined with any other certificate, offer or discount. Offers apply to the Passholder only, unless otherwise noted. Offers are subject to change without notice and are subject to availability. 2009 Passholder benefits expire on December 31, 2009. All valid Passes will be subject to the enclosed benefits from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2009. Updated benefits will be available for all valid Passholders on January 1, 2010. The owners of the Walt Disney World® Resort reserve the right to revoke the Annual Pass if it is presented for admission by anyone other than the Passholder of record or if the Passholder violates the policies of the Walt Disney World Resort.

The Travelears Podcast, Website and Blog, was invited to participate in Disney’s D23 conference call today with Steven Clark (head of D23 and Executive Editor of Disney twenty-three), Dave Smith (Disney Chief Archivist) and Marty Sklar (EVP & Walt Disney Imagineering Ambassador). We are pleased to share the conference call with and our thoughts on the program and the possible impacts on the online Disney community. Enjoy, Aj, Chris, Will, Greg and Ryan

TheTravelears_032_-_D23_Revealed_The_full_Disney_Press_Conference_and_our_Insights.mp3

The Travelears Podcast, Website and Blog, was invited to participate in Disney’s D23 conference call today with Steven Clark (head of D23 and Executive Editor of Disney twenty-three), Dave Smith (Disney Chief Archivist) and Marty Sklar (EVP & Walt Disney Imagineering Ambassador).

This carefully orchestrated conference call, was very well attended by the press and members on the online Disney community.

 As we all know by now, the D23 viral campaign was designed to launch an “official community for Disney Fans”, run by Disney.

Steven Clark confirmed today during the discussion that program was named D23 due to 1923 being the year that Walt Disney Company founded. He went on to say “that the initiative celebrates the roots, creativity and future of Walt Disney Company” and that the Disney company recognizes that the fans are important to the Disney legacy.

 

D23 membership is $74.95 which includes:

• One year subscription (four issues) to “Disney twenty-three” publication. D23’s exquisite collectible magazine is filled with stunning photography, dazzling illustrations and Disney insider perspective. It’s an all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future!
• Membership Card and Certificate. The membership card and personalized, suitable-for-framing charter member certificate, feature many of Disney’s most beloved characters as drawn by Disney Master Artist Dave Pacheco.
• Surprise Collectible Gift. Just for D23 members, an exclusive Charter Year collectible gift from the new Walt Disney Archives Collection.
• Exclusive Special Events and Merchandise. D23 offers its members unique special-event opportunities throughout the year, as well as access to member-exclusive, limited-edition merchandise and collectibles.
• Discounted admission to the D23 Expo the D23 – premier online destination for fans is free to everyone.

Access to the D23 web site is free.

From September 10–13, 2009, the D23 Expo comes to life at the Anaheim Convention Center. The Expo will be the single largest gathering of all things Disney.

The incredible experiences, exhibits and presentations at the Expo are another way D23 will connect fans to the timeless stories, characters and amazing worlds that we create here at Disney. Guests entering the main showroom floor of the recently renovated Convention Center will discover exciting pavilions from every part of The Walt Disney Company.

Each will offer unique immersive experiences the whole family can enjoy. Parks and Resorts, Walt Disney Records, Disney Consumer Products, ABC, ESPN and Walt Disney Imagineering — to name a few — will all be featured. There will be surprising gallery events, author appearances and signings and even a beautiful Disney Home to walk through. Radio Disney will rock the Expo every day, and you can expect favorite Disney talent to make appearances throughout the event. (We hear there may even be a wedding!)

Steven also commented that the D23 Expo web site, which will be coming soon, will give up-to-the-second breaking news about the Expo, including ticket information and online ordering, the latest event information and everything you need to know about the ultimate Disney fan experience!

Marty Sklar briefly spoke about his excitement in preparing articles for the new publication and Dave Smith gave a brief history of Disney Fandom.

 

After the formalities were completed, the queue was then opened for a limited number of questions to be asked to the Disney team.

Most of these questions came from the Disney online community and a few of the interesting points that were raised included:

• There may  be the opportunity for the Online community to participate in D23
• The D23 Expo will be an annual event in Anaheim for the next 4 years and may visit other locations
• That planning for D23 started four years ago and ramped up over the past 12 months
• There are no immediate plans to hold in park events, but this maybe considered further
• There may be spin off benefits Annual Pass Holders, DVC Members and other Disney program members
• Marty Sklar stated, “This is not meant to be another means for Disney to sell merchandise. It is intended for Disney fans to feel connected to the company and each other.”

So in a nutshell, there it is. Disney has decided to actively participate in its own fan base. Is this is good or bad, time will only tell, but it does appear that Disney is putting some of its best talent behind this program to make sure that it is successful.

Make sure that you listen to the next special edition of The Travelears Podcast, as we will be discussing D23, the press conference and our own personal opinions about this very interesting concept.

 

And dont forget to check out our website for all of your D23 questions at www.thetravelears.com 

 

Aj

The following message is from our Disney Travel partner “The Magic For Less Travel’ and is available to all of our podcast subscribers and site visitors.

The Magic For Less Travel’s Magical Month of Disney

The Magic For Less Travel would like to celebrate this Magical Month of Disney by helping the Give Kids the World charity and making a few Disney Dreams come true for our guests too!

Give Kids The World is a non-profit organization that exists only to fulfill the wishes of all children with life-threatening illnesses. Children and their families from around the world experience a memorable, joyful, cost-free, week-long visit to Central Florida attractions, and enjoy the magic of Give Kids The World Village for as long as there is a need. Each day, Give Kids The World lives by this mission and has made a promise to never turn a child away.

During our Magical Month of Disney, for every guest booking a Disney vacation with The Magic For Less Travel between 3/1/09 and 3/31/09, we will make a donation to Give Kids the World. If you would also like to make a donation to Give Kids The World during MFL’s Birthday through our ongoing 2009 charity drive, please visit our First Giving page.

Special Disney Promotions for the Month of March

This month The Magic for Less Travel is unveiling some great new booking incentives. In addition to free Magic Plus concierge service, which includes daily discount checking and assistance with dining and recreation reservations, guests will receive exclusive promotions available only when reserving a Disney vacation with The Magic for Less Travel.

Each week during March, a special promotion will be announced here for a Walt Disney World vacation, a Disneyland vacation, a Disney Cruise Line vacation and an Adventures by Disney vacation. If you are thinking of reserving any of these vacations check back on the dates below for terrific savings you won’t get anywhere else.

 
• Week #1: March 1-8, 2009, Walt Disney World Week

Now you have even more choices when you book with The Magic For Less Travel with our new new WDW Minnie Pack and Deluxe PD Packs. Included is guest’s choice of Birnbaum’s Walt Disney World Guidebook, Disney Queue Line Survival Guidebook, Tour Guide Mike Automated Vacation Planner or 2 Autograph Books.

FREE Minnie Pack- EXCLUSIVE Magic for Less Travel Offer

The Magic for Less Travel will offer a FREE Minnie Pack to all guests who book a new Magic Your Way package priced at $1500 or more. The Minnie Pack includes 2 neck wallets for you to use in the parks and resorts. Packages priced at $2500* or more will also receive your choice of a subscription to TourGuideMiKE’s Automated Vacation Planner, a copy of Birnbaum’s Walt Disney World guide, a copy of Kim Button’s Disney Queue Line Survival Guidebook or 2 autograph books.

FREE Deluxe Pixie Dust Pack & Gift Card EXCLUSIVE Magic for Less Offer

The Magic for Less Travel will offer a FREE Deluxe Pixie Dust Pack to all guests who book a new Magic Your Way package priced at $3500* or more. The Deluxe Pixie Dust Pack includes two neck wallets for your party, a $25 Disney gift card and your choice of a subscription to TourGuideMiKE’s Automated Vacation Planner, a copy of Birnbaum’s Walt Disney World guide a copy of Kim Button’s Disney Queue Line Survival Guidebook or 2 autograph books.

*The price of the vacation is based on the final price you pay for your vacation package after any discount and before any non-commissionable options like airfare are included. Pack contents are subject to change. Book by 3/31/09

Our exclusive promotion CAN be combined with Disney released specials!

• Week #2: March 9-15, 2009, Adventures by Disney Week
• Week #3: March 16-22, 2009, Disneyland Week
• Week #4 March 23-30, 2009, Disney Cruise Line Week