Pirate and Princess Summer-Part 2

Posted on July 31, 2014 by Jillian

I’ve already covered Pirates here, now for the little (or grown) Princess in your life there are plenty of options too!

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique-located in the Magic Kingdom and at Downtown Disney your little princess or prince can enjoy a makeover at an addition cost. These reservations go quickly so make them early!

Or if you want to be a Pirate Princess or Mermaid you can check out Pirates League over by Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.

Meet Princesses- there are Anna and Elsa from Frozen, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Merida, Rapunzel, Ariel and Tiana, in the Magic Kingdom. You should pick up a Times Guide to check the exact location and times of the meets. You can also catch some princesses in the new Festival of Fantasy Parade.

In Epcot you can meet Jasmine, Aurora, Snow White, Mulan, and Belle (in her blue dress) in World Showcase.

In Hollywood Studios you can meet Sofia the First. During the summer of 2014 you’ll be able to see Anna and Elsa from Frozen too!

Animal Kingdom has one princess meet and greet, Pocahontas!

For Princess meals, you can meet a variety of princesses at Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom, Akershus in Epcot and at 1900 Park Fare dinner you can meet Cinderella, Prince Charming and her stepmother and sisters. If you are looking to catch your favorite princess in a show you can watch Voyage of the Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, and Disney Junior Live on Stage in Hollywood Studios.

If you want to have an interactive show and meet you should not miss Enchanted Tales with Belle!

For attractions there is Under the Sea-Journey of the Little Mermaid and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train ride both in the Magic Kingdom.

And if you want to stay in the magic for your entire visit there are the Royal Rooms at the Port Orleans Riverside resort. The rooms offer touches from many of the princesses and features a very special headboard.

What is your favorite Princess adventure or attraction?

Podcast Episode 16: Jamie’s Mediterranean DCL Trip Report

Posted on July 28, 2014 by Shannon

This week the whole gang gets together to hear all about Jamie’s Mediterranean cruise on the Disney Magic! She gave us lots of good information that we know you’ll enjoy!

Happy listening!

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Crystal Palace Breakfast

Posted on July 28, 2014 by Dana

Quick Facts
Location: Magic Kingdom, at the end of Main Street
Hours: 8-10:30 am (Breakfast)
Characters: Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, and Piglet (characters are always subject to change)
Dining Plan: 1 credit

Crystal Palace has been a tradition for us. Our favorite thing to do is to get an ADR for before the park opens and have our picture taken in front of the castle with no one else in it!

The restaurant is decorated in a Victorian style and a beautiful topiary garden greets you as you walk announcing a welcome to “Our Friendship Day Celebration.”

Menu
(items are subject to change)

Seasonal fresh fruit
Scrambled Eggs
Mickey waffles
Pork sausage and bacon
Breakfast Lasagna
Pooh’s Puffed French Toast
Pancakes
Breakfast Frittata
Corned Beef Hash
Omelet Station
Breakfast Potatoes
Grits
Muffins, Bagels, Pastries, and Croissants

Your server will bring you your soda, juice, coffee or milk and then you are free to explore the buffet.

What sets this buffet apart from others: omelet station. Not many of the character buffets have this.

Crystal Palace also has some signature items, like the Puffed French Toast which is a cross between a cinnamon doughnut and French Toast. And their breakfast lasagna is a fun twist with lots of sweet flavors packed in there.

Characters
Here you meet Winnie the Pooh and friends. Pooh is one of my son’s favorites so we have always enjoyed the characters here.

Additionally they do a Friendship Day Parade with all the characters and kids around the restaurant.

In Conclusion
We have done this restaurant almost every trip and we adore it for the great variety of food. There is something to be said about arriving at the Magic Kingdom before everyone else, have your photo taken without worrying about other people in them and when you’re done you have your pick of which land you can go to.

Grand Floridian Resort Tour

Posted on July 26, 2014 by Dana

The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is Disney’s flagship resort, and it certainly lives up to its name. Starting with the majestic lobby in the main building with a bird cage elevator. In the evenings an orchestra entertains the crowds of people visiting and walking through to their room. There are 5 sit-down restaurants, a counter-service restaurant and a pool bar.

The grounds are pristine, perfectly manicured and dotted with greenery and flowers. The pool and water features all fit so nicely. As with any Disney resort there are activities for children at the pool. For adults there is the Senses Spa, an indulgent treat and a great place for a non-park day. There is a marina where all kinds of motor craft can be rented. There are several shops inside of the main building and a beauty salon. One of my favorite resort stores is right where you get off the monorail, it’s inside one of the Victorian turrets and offers a view down at the resort.

There are 2 pools, a beach and then a courtyard pool. Both pools are zero entry. The beach pool has a water slide and a child’s play area. This play feature is themed after Alice in Wonderland and is a lot of fun for the kids.

The courtyard pool is has these beautiful spray jets and is extremely large. It is one of my favorite pools on Disney property.

Even though this resort is luxurious in its offerings, it is not stuffy. We stayed here when my son was 16 months old and never felt like it wasn’t good for kids. We found quite the contrary. Our son had a blast playing in the pools and the water feature. The most child-friendly feature of this resort: it is just one monorail stop away from the Magic Kingdom. If you are a parent with stroller-aged children, the value of not having to fold up your stroller to get on a bus to get to a park has no limit.

The rooms are large, most at 440 square feet. Most rooms have a deck or a balcony. Some rooms are dormer rooms and do not have the balcony. Every room in this resort receives turn-down service each evening. Turn-down is a second maid service. They ready your room for the evening, empty the trash, turn-down your bed, leave chocolates on your pillow and ice in your ice bucket. They leave the room with the curtains drawn and a light on the dim setting. There is nothing like coming back to your room and having chocolates on your pillow.

The bathrooms are generously large. There are two vanities and a separate room with the tub and toilet. There is also a hamper for towels to go after they’ve been used. They offer the Spa H2O toiletries, which is an upgrade over other Disney resorts.

This is my favorite resort on Disney property. I love how it is elegant, yet comfortable. Its location just can’t be beat, one stop away from the Magic Kingdom, but when you are swimming in that courtyard pool, you feel like you are miles away from the hustle and bustle of the Magic Kingdom.

To see more of my pictures of this resort, click here to check out the Grand Floridian Room Tour album on our Facebook page.

Exclusive October Disney World Discount

Posted on July 25, 2014 by Dana

We are offering discounted rates on rooms at select resorts for October 3-27, 2014. You may add the dining plan and discounted tickets to this offer, or book as a room-only reservation. Availability for the discounted rooms is very limited.

Walt Disney World Room AND Ticket Discount, October 7-18, 2014

Special Rates are available at the following resorts with savings up to 35% off Disney’s rack rate.
Up to 10% off theme park tickets with a free bonus visit to a Disney water park or Disney Quest.

Participating Resorts:

All-Star Music
All-Star Sports
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Pop Century
Port Orleans French Quarter
Port Orleans Riverside
Wilderness Lodge (Standard rooms and club-level rooms)
Yacht Club
Contemporary
Grand Floridian (Standard rooms and club-level rooms)

We are all travel agents for Magical Moments Vacations, Authorized Disney Vacation Planners. If you book your trip with us, it is at absolutely no extra charge to you. We can help you plan out an itinerary and make dining and Fastpass+ reservations or you can make them–whichever you prefer.

If you would like a free, no-obligation quote, please click here or email us at dolewhipped@gmail.com .

One of us would be happy to help you save some money on your vacation!

Where is Mickey Mouse and What is Adventures By Disney?

Posted on July 25, 2014 by Tara

Photo courtesy of Adventures by Disney

So like all good Disneyphiles I have been sort of skirting the perimeter of Adventures by Disney. I have yet to find a Disney product that I do not love, but I am a savvy traveler and not easily taken for a scam (or I like to think so as I make my husband wear the fanny pack). So, while learning more about Disney via Disney’s College of Knowledge (yes that is right, folks, I am a graduate of Disney’s College of Knowledge (“CoK”) and it took me a lot less time than the four years my college degree at SMU took and it was all Disney – who could turn this down?) So, moving on as I was taking CoK classes one of the directions was Adventures by Disney (“ABD”). I had heard about ABD but really knew nothing other than I had heard it was expensive (and it is, but not even close to what I thought it cost because it’s price includes EVERYTHING almost…more on that later) and I knew it took you on tours to some different destinations like Italy.

So, in my mind I am touring around my favorite country in all the world (other than my own) Italy and drinking wine and eating authentic margherita pizza with Mickey, Minnie and maybe a Princess or two. Though that could be fun for some with me I have two modes….Disney and everywhere else. When I am in Italy I want to go on my own, eat where the locals eat, shop where the locals shop, oh and sleep where the Americans sleep. I have self awareness…I want my own bathroom and lots of amenities…sorry.

So, I learned with CoK that ABD had 25 different itineraries (that is a lot of trips!) and they even had some specialty trips that were Adults Only….hmmm now that sounded right to me. But that was still about the extent of my knowledge…so not much clearly.

But, then I was invited to dinner and a presentation at Alba’s Restaurant in Port Chester, NY and the invite was from ABD. I could go, eat some yummy food and learn more about this Adults Only trip to Peru. So, what did I learn – yes there is that and SO MUCH MORE! Holy Schmoly how excited was I to learn about the 5 star treatment, and the tour group that let’s you be your own person (I may or may not like tours) and the 4 or 5 star beautiful hotels and amazing adventures (yes please to making pretzels in Germany!)

So, pricing and a good deal is important to most people. Everyone’s good deal though is different so let me tell you the Top 5 (for me) of what all is included in an Adventure by Disney trip:

1. About 80% of meals (huge perk, food is expensive, just ask my dad about my $13 glass of OJ in England when I was 10 years old that he STILL harasses me about)

2. Luxury accommodations – I could say 5 star but some of the private castles are not even available to anyone else besides you and your group.

3. Internal transportation – so any sort of transportation you need once you are there so trains, flights, bus, whatever…flights to and from are not included so that is a bummer, but okay already over that and moving on to one of the biggest for me:

4. Luggage service – what is that? So basically once you check your luggage at your local airport you NEVER carry it again. I am going to say that again…you NEVER carry your luggage again – umm on this trip, I mean you get when you go on your next trip that is not an Adventures by Disney trip that you have to carry your luggage? Right? Anyway, Disney services will get it at the airport on the other end, they will take it to your room, they will pick it up from your hotel room when you check out and as you change hotels. How great is that?

5. So, ever been to Disney World in June? Want to stand in line at Toy Story Mania for 83 hours? Well, the major must see attractions (think Eiffel Tower) is that line x 10. So, good news my Adventurers…Disney waits in line for no one….well actually you do wait a lot sometimes but not Adventures by Disney. On ABD trips you bypass the lines at popular museum and attractions. Waiting to get in to the Sistine Chapel in Rome is always a long day and even with ABD you have to push through the crowds to get to the front of the line. So, ABD came up with a better solution and you get to visit the Sistine Chapel at night, by yourself, when it is closed. How Disney is that???

Okay, so these are my Top 5 of what is included in the Adventures by Disney trip. From China to Peru and Vietnam to Italy can you think of a better way to spend some time with family and friends – just relaxing because someone else is doing the thinking for you.

So, if you want to join me on a trip to somewhere amazing or you want to go by yourself…either way you let me know and I can make magic happen.

Preparing for walking at Disney

Posted on July 24, 2014 by Shannon

Walt Disney World is full of magic and wonder, but let’s be honest, it can be less magical for your feet with all the walking you’ll be doing! I’m going to give you some tips to help minimize the pain and damage to your feet while still enjoying a fabulous vacation.

1. Wear the right footwear.

Save the heels and cute sandals for another day. Unless they’re extremely comfortable with appropriate arch support, that is. Good sneakers or walking shoes are what you’re going to want, preferably ones that are relatively new but have been broken in. You want to avoid blisters at all cost. Wear good, thick (but not too thick) cotton socks with your shoes as well. That’ll help minimize friction on your heels and balls of your feet caused by sweat.

2. Practice makes perfect.

Start walking before you even make it to the parks. Take an evening stroll after dinner each night for 2 weeks before your trip. That will get your body used to daily walking. Start small and work up to longer walks. If you involve your kids, this could also be some fun anticipation time chatting about your upcoming Disney trip!

3. Hydrate!

Make sure you’re taking in plenty of water during your day. That’ll help keep you from feeling worn out and sluggish. If you don’t want to carry water around with you, there are water fountains at every restroom location, plus you can get cups of free ice water at any time at any quick service restaurant in the parks.

4. Take frequent breaks.

This seems like a no brainer but it’s easy to get caught up in the fun and excitement of Disney and forget to give yourself a rest from time to time. My family likes to take a midday break at our resort, but if that’s not your speed, maybe find a quiet place to sit for a few minutes every hour or so. You could even jump on the train at Magic Kingdom and ride around the park. That would give you some time to sit while still seeing the sights.

5. Sweet relief.

Blisters can’t always be avoided and should you get one you’ll want to take care of it so it won’t interfere with your fun. If you have a spot on your shoe that’s causing some friction, try some moleskin or some friction block. If you’ve got a blister that’s already formed try these blister relief bandages. They can help speed healing and add some padding to keep you comfortable.

I hope these tips help keep your feet happy and healthy while you’re visiting the Disney parks. If you have a tip I’ve forgotten, leave it in the comments!

Planning a trip to Disney? Click on the “Free Vacation Planning!” tab in the header above to take advantage of our expertise in planning a trip! All writers for Dole Whipped: Dishing on Disney are travel agents with Magical Moments Vacations, authorized Disney Vacation Planners and are happy to help you and your family put together a magical Disney vacation (Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland and beyond!)… for FREE!

Podcast: Episode 15, Post Disney Depression

Posted on July 21, 2014 by Jamie

A subject nobody likes to talk about, but everyone has to deal with, this week the Dole Whipped ladies dish on the best ways to beat Post-Disney Depression!

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Disney Military Room Rates available from Sept. 28, 2014-Oct. 3, 2015

Posted on July 21, 2014 by Dana

From the Disney Parks Blog:

At Walt Disney World Resort – from August 25, 2014, through September 30, 2015, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) or their spouses can purchase:

Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper Option for $177 each, plus tax
Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Water Park Fun and More Option for $177 each, plus tax
Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More Options for $207 each, plus tax.

Walt Disney World Resort tickets may be used September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015, except that the tickets may not be used December 22, 2014 – January 2, 2015 and March 29 – April 9, 2015.

At the Disneyland Resort – from August 25, 2014, through October 1, 2015, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) or their spouses can purchase:

Disney Military Promotional 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets for $132 each

Disneyland tickets may be used September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015, except that the tickets may not be used December 25, 2014 – January 4, 2015 and March 29 – April 9, 2015.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel can purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets for themselves and up to five additional family members or friends. No more than six Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (or spouse) pursuant to this offer. All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by October 3, 2015.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel can also take advantage of specially priced rooms at select Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort hotels.* This offer is valid for stays most nights from September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015, except for:

November 27 – November 29, 2014
December 24 – December 31, 2014
March 30 – April 4, 2015

Here are some other details you should know about:

Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets ONLY by Eligible Service Members (defined below) or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and other family members and friends, as provided herein. These Tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold.
“Eligible Service Members” are active or retired members of the U.S. military, including the National Guard, Reservists and the U.S. Coast Guard.
The actual prices charged at the individual U.S. military base ticket offices for Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be less than the prices set forth above.
Participating military sales outlets must require that Eligible Service Members (or their spouses) present valid military identification to purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets.
Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Walt Disney World Resort are not valid until activated by the Eligible Service Members (or their spouses) at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows. Tickets and options expire and may not be used after October 3, 2015. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use.
Disney 3-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Disneyland Resort expire and may not be used after October 3, 2015. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use.
No more than six (6) Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased and (if applicable) activated by any Eligible Service Member or spouse (regardless of the place of purchase and whether purchased by that person or that person’s spouse). In addition, one of the six (6) Tickets purchased must be used by the Eligible Service Member or his/her spouse.
Each Disney Military Promotional Ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.

*The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Minimum length of stay requirements may apply. Valid Military ID will be required upon check-in, and military member (or spouse) must stay in the room. No group rates or other discounts apply. Advance reservations required. Additional per-adult charges apply at the Walt Disney World Resort if there are more than two adults per room. Other restrictions apply.

One of us would be happy to help you take advantage of this offer, click here to request a quote, or send us an email at dolewhipped@gmail.com .

Pirate and Princess Summer- Part 1

Posted on July 21, 2014 by Jillian

Disney’s Pirate and Princess Summer has returned again! And if you all are reading this blog you probably have a Disney addiction like us. So here is some fun Pirate things you can find in the Walt Disney World Resort Parks. Pirates of the Caribbean- this one is pretty obvious but it is a classic inside the Magic Kingdom.

A Pirate’s Adventure –Treasures of the Seven Seas- an interactive game in the Magic Kingdom that is a lot of fun for all ages and gives you a break from being in a queue.

Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Tutorial-located near Pirates of the Caribbean this short stage show is sure to delight.

Pirates League- If you are lucky you can walk up but you might want to plan to have an appointment ahead of time if you have your heart set on it. You can find this gem near Pirates of the Caribbean and be made over into a pirate, mermaid and many others. This is also for the whole family if you so choose.

Peter Pan’s Flight- you won’t want to miss this if you are a fan of Captain Hook and Mr. Smee or the rest of the crew!

You can also see Peter, Wendy, Captain Hook and Mr. Smee during the parades, particularly the Festival of Fantasy Parade.

Pirates and Pals Firework Voyage-fun for the whole family. This leaves from the Contemporary Resort and will be an additional cost, but you get cool character meets, lots of fun and a great view of Wishes.

Pirate Adventure Cruises- There are 4 to choose from and all are located at various Disney resorts. This is for kids 4-12 only and is an additional cost. They will love the adventure and search for treasure with Disney Cast Members and snacks.

Meet Jake from Jake and the Neverland Pirates- inside of Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the Animation Courtyard, the youngest pirate crew members can meet a favorite, Jake! Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow- located inside of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this

If you want to keep the pirate mood for your entire trip there are Pirate rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.

What is your favorite pirate adventure? And don’t forget to look for our Princess adventures article next!

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