Six more ways to eat healthier at theme parks this summer

1. Pack lunches to bring with you to the park. You won’t have to wait on line for food, can eat exactly what you want and you’ll save big bucks.
2. Bring reusable water bottles and forgo sugar-laden drinks. Pat yourselves on the back for traveling greener and avoiding plastic water bottles. The kids can turn their bottles into instant souvenirs by slapping stickers on them.
3. Skip kids’ meals entirely and share an adult portion with your child or divide an adult portion between two kids.
4. Make reservations for dinner at a “sit down” restaurant in the park where you have more healthy options to choose from. Order a half portion from an adult menu for the kids. Use vacation to encourage them to try new foods!
5. Opt to stay someplace where you have a kitchen or at least a fridge so you can prepare a healthy breakfast-cereal and milk, yoghurt, fruit, etc, rather than calorie-laden pastries or doughnuts.
6. Pack your own snacks so when the kids-and you-get the munchies you can satisfy your cravings without cotton candy, giant lollipops or caramel apples.

Let’s hear it for Mickey Mouse.
Order a kid’s meal at a Disney park and you get apples instead of fries, (unless you ask for fries), and low-fat milk rather than sugary soda. Of the more than 12 million kids meals served last year at Disney Parks and Resorts in the U.S., parents stuck with the healthier options six out of 10 times. Now Disney will enhance these efforts by further reducing sodium in kids’ meals and introducing new well-balanced kids’ breakfast meals.

This is all part of a broader initiative just announced that makes Disney the first major media company to introduce new standards for food advertising on programming targeting kids and families.

We all know the dismal childhood obesity statistics: 1 in 3 children are overweight or obese. But whether a child is overweight or not, it’s certainly not healthy to eat a steady diet of fried and fat-laden foods on vacation.

As we all head to theme parks this summer, let’s consider how we might eat healthier while we’re there. Sure you can still get churros, burgers, chicken fingers and fries and all the ice cream you want at theme parks, but you can also get fresh salmon and rotisserie chicken at LEGOLAND Florida, where there is an entire new exhibit, complete with LEGO characters about farming and where our food comes. At Sea World Orlando’s Sharks Underwater Grill, there’s a steak kabob on the kid’s menu.

Nearby at Downtown Disney, Kids chowing down at Wolfgang Puck Cafe can choose California rolls made from ham and cheese while the Italian restaurant Portobello offers whole-wheat cheese pizza and the kids’ menu at Fulton’s Crab House includes crab legs and fresh fish.

Disney World’s Rider Switch Program

Don’t let traveling with a toddler or infant keep you from enjoying some of the best attractions Disney World has to offer, use the rider switch program to explore some of Disney’s most thrilling rides. The rider switch program works best at rides that have a long line and have a height restriction — or are just too scary for your little one.

Consider using the rider switch if you want to enjoy roller coasters like Space Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The rider switch program isn’t just for roller coasters — Snow White’s Scary Adventures will terrify most small children, so ask for a pass if there is a long line.

How it Works: A child switch or rider switch pass allows you to just wait in line once — so Dad can wait in line and then enjoy Expedition Everest while Mom watches the little ones. Once Dad has enjoyed the ride, Mom can use a the rider switch pass just like a Fastpass, and breeze to the front of the line.

Who can use the rider switch program: Anyone with a child or dependent adult who is unable to ride an attraction like Soarin’, Splash Mountain or the Tower of Terror. At least two adults or responsible parties are required to utilize the rider switch program — one to experience the attraction and one to wait with the child.

How to Use the rider switch program: Approach the cast member at the Fastpass or main entrance of the attraction you want to ride. Some rides will do a rider switch even though they do not have a Fastpass option. Let the cast member know you want to do a rider switch, and you will be issued a special paper ticket. The first rider will need to wait in the line, but the second rider will not.

Warning: You must have all parties present to qualify for a rider switch ticket — at least one child and two responsible adults. If all parties are not present, you won’t be issued a pass.
Tips:

*You can still use a Fastpass with the child switch program — just show up at the time on the Fastpass and let the ride attendant know you need to make a switch.
*Look for play or shopping areas to explore while you wait for your turn to ride, or use the waiting time to allow your child to take a quick nap.

Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid

Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid, is the great new dark attraction located in the Enchanted Forest of the Magic Kingdom’s New Fantasyland. The ride opened this past December to great fanfare and has been delighting Walt Disney World guests who experience it.

The queue for this attraction is truly phenomenal, and winds down along the shore-line beneath Prince Erik’s Castle. Guests encounter playful sea life they descend through the grotto’s and caverns where they can interact with mischievous little crabs engaging guests in games of ‘trash’ or ‘treasure’ to help the crabs fill their treasure chest. It’s an enchanting way to pass the time

Once under the sea, guests will find themselves immersed in the story of “The Little Mermaid.”, guests climb inside their Omnimover “clam shells” that move and turn to direct the guest’s attention while traveling with Ariel and her friends through their exciting adventures both above and below the Sea.

Adults and children alike will enjoy and relate to the festive atmosphere of the attraction and the suspenseful villainy of Ursula the Sea Witch.

Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid uses more than 180 Audio-Animatronic characters to tell its story through song and imagery. Their creation posed some special challenges to Imagineers who strived to place guests inside of the animated world. To achieve their goals a special “skin technology” was developed and used for Ariel, King Triton and Ursula, because they have so much exposed. The vibrant colors and life-like motion help to suspend reality and the familiar musical score playing through will entice everyone to sing along.

Electric convenience vehicles are able to navigate the mermaid queue easily. Though the belt loading system can sometimes be difficult to navigate for guests with impaired mobility, the cast members at this attraction have the ability to slow or stop the ride’s motion in order to assist those in getting on and off the ride. My experience with the cast members at this attraction in needing assistance was both friendly and compassionate.

2013 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

Looking for something different that’s fun for kids and extra-special for grownups?

Guests visiting Disney World from March 6th through May 19th can check out Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival. First-time visitors with young children often overlook Epcot, assuming that it’s mainly for older kids, but there’s so much hands-on learning and fun at the Festival that a visit is well worth your time. In addition to flower towers, playgrounds, over 100 topiary, 240 floating mini-gardens, and countless beds with hundreds of blooms, this year’s festival offers a few surprises

  • For the first time, Future World and the World Showcase will have illuminated gardens full of sparkly lights each night. I think this is my favorite new addition.
  • There will be a new circus-like play area based on the film Oz: The Great and Powerful, which is being released on March 8, 2013. The play area will feature various play systems that will cultivate your kids’ imagination while they exercise, red and white circus tents, and plants that will recall the movie.
  • The Garden Marketplace will feature drinks like Hot Sun Tomato Wine from a local Florida winery and everyone’s favorite Dole Whip, this time with spiced rum. There will also be non-alcoholic beverages like Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade.
  • Kids will love the all the topiary featuring their favorite characters, including Phineas and Ferb, Mike and Sully, and Tinkerbelle and Friends.
  • A Radiator Springs interactive raceway located on the Test Track walkway will have Lightening McQueen and Mater in attendance.

 

As always, there will be exhibits every Friday by HGTV, showcasing various outdoor home improvement projects. In addition, you’ll want to check the schedule for other classes and seminars taking place throughout the 75-day festival.

 

There’s more than gardening on tap as well. Music lovers will enjoy the Flower Power concert series, which showcases bands from the 1970s and 80s:

March 8-10: Micky Dolenz
March 15-17: Chubby Checker & The Wildcats
March 22-24: The Guess Who
March 29-31: Nelson
April 5-7: The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie
April 12-14: Paul Revere & the Raiders
April 19-21: The Village People (new!)
April 26-28: The Orchestra, Featuring Former Members of ELO and ELO II
May 3-5: Tommy Roe (new!)
May 10-12: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
May 17-19: Starship starring Mickey Thomas.

Christmas Travel Tips


Always report any suspicious activity. You may do so by calling your local police for non- emergency or 9-1-1 for any emergency. Both are operational 24/7.
Always lock your vehicle and take all valuables with you. These items may include GPS, cell phone, loose change, and compact disc to name a few.
Set your vehicle alarm if you have one. In addition to locking you vehicle doors, make sure if your vehicle has a latch to open a trunk or cargo area, and if it is equipped with a lock feature; that you use it.
Do not announce on your email auto response that you are on vacation with the dates you are leaving or returning. This includes both work and personal emails. If you must leave an auto response reply it should contain as little information as possible. Example: I am currently away and periodically checking my emails. If you need an immediate response, please contact Jane Doe at 407-555-5555.
Do not announce to the whole community that you will be gone on vacation. This would include by word of mouth, voice mail and social networking sites (Facebook, My Space, Twitter, etc) Only let a few select and trusted friends or family members know so they can check your home for you.
Do not update your travel plans on social networking sites. Example: We are having a blast in the islands… we go snorkeling tomorrow. Wishing you were here. See you in two weeks.
Turn down the ringer on your phone so it can’t be heard from the outside
Periodically retrieve your home messages so your voice mail does not get full. This could be another indicator you are not home.
Do a maintenance check of your alarm system prior to your departure. Make sure the alarm company has updated contact information to include how to reach you as well as a trusted friend or relative in the area.
Contact your local police department and request they provide house checks while you are away. This is a free service.
Make arrangements to have someone cut your grass while you are away. If you have a lawn service, continue to have them provide the service. Do not announce to them you are leaving. Make sure your lawn and pool service is paid and up to date. This will prevent them from leaving a bill at your front door or mailbox.
Stop all deliveries to include parcel packages and newspaper delivery

Have a trusted relative, friend or neighbor do the following:
1.Park a spare vehicle in your drive way while you are away.
2.The first preference is to have your mail stopped. The second option is to have a friend/neighbor check and retrieve your mail. This includes a community mailbox.
3.Place trash in front of your home on trash day and then remove the receptacle.
4.Periodic walks and inspections around your home
5.Pick up any newspaper deliveries. (The preference is to have it stopped)
6.Check the front door for unsolicited fliers, bills (pool, lawn) and parcel packages left at your front door. Have them remove these items.
7.Place interior/outdoor lights, televisions and radios on timers. Make sure your lights are timed for appropriate hours.
8.Unplug your garage door opener and lock the rails from the inside.
9.Inspect your home prior to departure and make sure all windows and doors are locked and secure. This should also include storage areas.
10.Make sure you secure outdoor items such as bicycles, toys, outdoor grill, etc.
11.Unplug all appliances to include TV, stereos, computers, toasters, and microwave ovens to prevent damage during electrical storms.
12.Make sure the last person out of the house locks the door. Then make a check of the outside to make sure everything is secure.

Where the season meets the sea


Winter Wonderland On Ice
Christmas comes to life on a stage of ice, jewels and light as skaters dazzle and delight in this show-stopping, ice skating extravaganza. The other stars of the show are the towering fountains of water dancing on the lake and fireworks that light up the night sky after the last ice show of the evening. It’s a don’t-miss experience for the holidays that will take your breath away.

THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience
Now boarding! It’s a wondrous journey to the North Pole aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS. The beloved holiday classic comes to life as you and your family are immersed in the heart-warming story of a young boy’s thrilling ride into an enchanted world. The sights, sounds, and scents of the season surround you. From the moment the conductor calls “all aboard” to your arrival at the North Pole (where you’ll meet Santa Claus himself), THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience promises to create an unforgettable holiday memory.

Sea Of Trees
Take a walk through our wintery, watery wonderland and immerse yourself in a sea of holiday trees. Our glistening forest with over 100 trees sparkles to music and lights up the water… and, your eyes. As the lights literally dance to holiday classics, your heart will soar with wonder and delight at this truly awe-inspiring Christmas treat.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICKEY

Oh boy! Mickey Mouse is one old rodent!
Walt Disney’s most famous cartoon creation turns 84 on the 18th of November.
Mickey’s first appearance with sound — and the first of his films to be distributed — was in “Steamboat Willie” on Nov. 18, 1928.
The falsetto-speaking mouse appeared in “Plane Crazy” six months prior, alongside Minnie, but in that feature he was as quiet as a, well, mouse.
Ub Iwerks was the main animator for both shorts as well as co-director with Walt Disney, who also provided the vocals for the star of the show (he handed over voice duties to Jimmy MacDonald in 1946 after he got too busy with his empire).

Transformers: The 3D Ride

This has been sitting on the back burner for a while, Universal have finally announced they will be bringing Transformers the Ride to the Orlando Florida Universal Studios theme park. The news was announced Friday with an official video to go along with it. This action-packed ride will bring you face to face with Megatron as you dodge the Decepticons and fight to save mankind alongside Optimus Prime and the Autobots.

Embark on a daring adventure that redefines thrill rides. Transformers: The Ride-3D is an ultra-immersive sensory experience that puts you on the front lines of an intergalactic war between the Autobots and Decepticons. Fusing ground-breaking HD 3D media and Flight Simulation technology, this epic ride will make you lose sight of the difference between fiction and reality.

Universal Orlando
Transformers: The Ride-3D opens Summer 2013

Prepare for the greatest battle you’ll ever ride!

13 Fun Facts about Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween Party


• 23 miles of parade route — that’s how far Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade will travel over the course of the season
• 2012 marks 18 fantastically fun years of Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween Party
• 586,000 photos of guests – that’s the number of images that the Disney Photo Imaging team took during last year’s Halloween event season
• 190 individually-themed carved pumpkins adorn the balconies and windowsills of Main Street, U.S.A.
• More than 23,100 feet or about 4-1/4 miles of cable is installed for special lighting and sound effects that are part of the party’s Halloween entertainment
• A cast of 175, including performers, float drivers, costumers, cosmetologists, decorators and maintenance cast members, brings Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade to life
• 11 Disney characters are exclusive to Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade: Big Al, Captain Barbosa, Christopher Robin, Kanga and Roo, Shenzi, Banzai and Ed — the three hyenas from “The Lion King,” — plus three Hitch-Hiking Ghosts from the Haunted Mansion
• The Happy HalloWishes fireworks spectacular is narrated by the Ghost Host from the Haunted Mansion and features many of your favorite Disney Villains who go trick or treating in the night sky
• 999 Grim Grinning Ghosts enhance a not-too-spooky Halloween experience at the Haunted Mansion
• More than 215 tons of candy will be handed out to party guests during 23 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties
• 40 different kinds of brand-name candies, including Skittles, M&Ms and Kit Kats, are included in three trick-or-treat candy mixes offered during the parties
• Guests can visit 15 tasty treat locations including 2 treat trails with 3 times the candy (one in Frontierland and another that runs from the new Storybook Circus in New Fantasyland all the way to Tomorrowland)
• 0 Tricks and countless treats make Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party a memorable evening for all!

Epcot 30th anniversary celebration


Walt Disney World will mark the 30th anniversary of its Epcot theme park on Oct. 1, 2012 and D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is preparing a unique celebration for its fans.
On Sunday, Sept. 30, 2012, D23’s Epcot 30th Anniversary Celebration will bring D23 Members back to a time touted as when “the 21st century begins”—those early Epcot years when guests first marveled at “Astuter Computers,” “Smellitzers,” and the novelty of “riding on sunshine,” and were awed by a massive geodesic sphere called Spaceship Earth.
The event will take place on the one day only from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. inside Epcot (Park admission is required and not included in the event ticket price). Each D23 Member may bring up to three guests.
There are two levels of D23 Member participation:
World Passport general admission is $65 per guest and includes:
Access to all presentations
A commemorative gift
Access to exclusive D23 merchandise
World Key level admission is $185 per guest and includes:
All features of the World Passport admission
Reserved seating for all presentations
A special dessert reception at 8 p.m. inside an exclusive Future World lounge
Exclusive meet-and-greet opportunity with Disney Legends and Epcot luminaries
Reception will also include screenings of rare film footage of Epcot’s early days
D23’s Epcot 30th Anniversary Celebration will offer a detailed look at the design, development, and evolution of Epcot ever presented by The Walt Disney Company and will include rare and never-before-seen artwork; film and video footage and photos; along with a number of pioneers of Epcot, including such Disney Imagineers, Legends, and Epcot luminaries as Marty Sklar (exclusive pre-taped presentation), Tony Baxter, Ron Schneider, Charlie Ridgway, Ron Logan, Bill Sullivan, Bob Garner, Jason Surrell, Jason Grandt, Alex Wright, Duncan Dickson, and Steve Taylor.
Presentations Include:
• Hooray for the 21st Century – Disney Legend and former Walt Disney Imagineering Principal Creative Executive Marty Sklar joins D23 guests via a virtual presentation, where we see and hear what it was like to work with Walt Disney on his original vision for an Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. Along the way, learn about Marty’s favorite memories working on the EPCOT Center project with a team of passionate Imagineers.
• The Music of EPCOT Center – Some of Epcot’s most passionate fans agree that the park’s soundtrack has created one of its most lasting legacies that continue to help “makin’ memories” around the world. Join Disney historians and songwriters as we explore the incredible world of Epcot music, celebrating the talents of such Epcot songwriters and composers as Bob Moline, Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman, George Wilkins, Buddy Baker, X. Atencio, Peter Stougaard, Russell Brower, Edo Guidotti and others who have left a permanent musical mark on the park’s creative legacy. Along the way, hear stories about the recording sessions, learn about some fascinating alternate versions of some of your favorite melodies, and sing along to your favorite Epcot tunes!
• “We Can Do It!” – Disney Legends and EPCOT Center creators review the immense challenge that loomed ahead of them when bringing Epcot to reality in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Guests will hear stories of trips to foreign countries to secure participants in the World Showcase concept, what life was like inside the largest private construction project in the world, and how they readied its highly anticipated opening day.
• “We’ve Just Begun to Dream” – Join Disney Legend Ron Logan and other key Disney entertainment veterans as they reminisce about the official EPCOT Center opening festivities that remain among the most elaborate Disney has ever staged. This presentation will include rare footage from the grand openings of various Future World and World Showcase pavilions, which were held throughout October 1982. 

• “Makin’ Memories: Epcot on Film” – Join former Disney Imagineer Bob Garner and Disney author and historian Tim O’Day as they cast a “Magic Eye” on the marvelous world of Epcot on film. Bob was closely involved in the creation of film documentation and production at Epcot, including special video elements of Future World and World Showcase pavilions and such promotional films as EPCOT Center: The Opening Celebration.
• “Looking Back at Tomorrow” – Few Epcot visitors, even its most avid fans, realize The Land pavilion was almost called “Harvest Tomorrow” or that Figment was slated to co-host an “Images & Imagination” pavilion with “Professor Marvel.” With recently discovered materials from the Walt Disney Archives, join Disney archivists as they examine how the “dreamers and doers” developed favorite Epcot attractions of the past including Horizons, Journey into Imagination, Kitchen Kabaret, World of Motion, the Astuter Computer Revue, and the original Universe of Energy.
• “The EPCOT Center That Never Was” – Using rare concept artwork, guests will glimpse what it was like to design Epcot with Walt Disney Imagineering Senior Vice President Tony Baxter, designer and producer for several beloved Epcot pavilions, and explore early versions of Epcot attractions that never made it off the drawing board.
• “Imagineering Epcot: An Extra Perceptive Close-up Of Things – Fans of wall-to-wall carpeting and leapfrog fountains unite! Disney Imagineers Jason Surrell, Jason Grandt, and Alex Wright return with a humorous exploration of the details that make Epcot so unique. From miniature gardens to massive buildings (and every international food and beverage offering in between), they’ll show what makes Future World and World Showcase like no place else on earth.
“When Epcot opened in 1982 it was a monumental achievement and its opening was an unforgettable moment for Disney fans everywhere,” says Steven Clark, head of D23. “We know our members have a deep passion for this park, and we’re producing a memorable experience that lets our members relive some of their favorite Epcot shows and attractions of the past while experiencing the incredible Epcot legacy that continues today.”

Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom

Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom is an interactive game attraction for the Magic Kingdom. The game focuses on Merlin recruiting park guests as new apprentice sorcerers and sending them out to battle various Disney villains, recruited by Hades, throughout the park’s themed lands (except Tomorrowland) using special spell cards.

Gameplay
When starting the game, guests are given a specialized park map pointing out various locations for the game, along with a Sorcerer Key card that activates the game screens and tracks the guests’ progress and a set of Spell Cards. Locations included in the paper maps consist of every land except for Tomorrowland. The main play areas are Magic Portals, which Merlin opens up to allow you to interact with the characters and fight the villains. To activate a Magic Portal, tapping or scanning your Key card at a keyhole will activate the Magic Portal screen. The spell cards hold various attacks of differing strengths used to fight the villains.
As the screens are all functionally similar, a computer algorithm points guests to whichever nearby screen might be open at the moment upon completing a Magic Portal task. This is a means to prevent crowding at the Portals.

Story
Starting off at the Main Street Firehouse, Merlin welcomes park guests to his special hideout, teaches them the basics of the game with Portal activation and spell card usage and begins to tell the story. Hades, bored with the nothingness of the Underworld, is looking for a new summer home with the Magic Kingdom park looking like an ideal spot, though Merlin stands in his way. He sends Pain and Panic to Merlin’s home to steal the Crystal of the Magic Kingdom (a powerful artifact that keeps evil forces in check at the park), but they end up awakening Merlin in the process. In a brief scuffle, the crystal is shattered into several pieces, four of which are scattered to different locations throughout the park. Annoyed, Hades decides to call upon a team of villains to help retrieve the crystal shards for him, including Yzma, Jafar, Scar, Maleficent, Ursula, Ratcliffe, Dr. Facilier and Cruella de Vil.

Main Street USA
Main Street only features Cruella DeVil as a villain, though it is also home to Sorcerer Training with Merlin at the Firehouse.

Adventure land
Three villains are located in Adventure land: Yzma, Jafar and Scar.

Fantasyland

Two villains are featured in this land: Ursula and Maleficent.

Cards
Spell cards in the game are divided into nine different spell classes which includes: Toy, Machine, Animal, Fairy, Hero, Princess, Warrior, Monster and Mystic. A card’s rarity is classified by the sign in the bottom left corner, right above the number out of 70. Although Disney confirmed there are only 70, there seem to be more because of these symbols, as told by other sources. A planet means the card is common, a cresent moon means uncommon, a star is rare, a double star is double rare and a lightning bolt means super rare.
Cards 61-70 started to be re-distributed via booster packs beginning in August of 2012. These booster packs feature 7 cards, tokens and one of four gameboards for a home version of the game.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom® Park begins September 11

Ghouls and goblins gather at the Magic Kingdom® Park for a bewitching Halloween spooktacular during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party beginning September 11. A pumpkin-orange glow and light fog along with ghostly silhouettes dancing atop the roofs of Main Street, U.S.A create lots of delight and not so much fright during this family-friendly, after-hours party. Your Guests are invited to dress up in favorite Halloween costumes for trick or treating and more from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. for 23 select nights.

In addition to trick-or-treating, meet and greets with Disney characters donning Halloween costumes, and entertainment unique to

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, many popular Magic Kingdom® Park attractions – including, of course, The Haunted Mansion – are available to experience (but beware of hitchhiking ghosts). Entertainment features the twice nightly “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade” led by the infamous Headless Horseman, followed by “HalloWishes,” a green and orange fireworks display complete with Disney villains.

New This Year! The party will feature something extra special for guests viewing the parade from Main Street, U.S.A. This will be the location of a new pre-parade activity, the Not-So-Scary Street Jam!, which will take place after the Headless Horseman passes and before the “Boo-To-You Parade” begins. Have your Guests visit this site once they have purchased their event tickets and practice their dance skills for the street jam! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3qBOyFxRdQ

 

Night of Joy

Once again it’s almost time for Disney’s Night of Joy event! This contemporary Christian music festival takes theme park. During this contemporary Christian music festival, Guests can delight in live performances by music superstars across a variety of genres—including rock, pop and gospel.

Mark your calendars for a weekend of outstanding entertainment on September 7, 2012 and September 8, 2012. Enjoy performances from a variety of Christian artists, including:

Performing Friday, September 7, 2012:
Casting Crowns
Chris Tomlin
NEEDTOBREATHE
RED
Francesca Battistelli
Brandon Heath
Royal Tailor
Disciple

Performing Saturday, September 8, 2012:
MercyMe
Third Day
Kutless
Chris August
LeCrae
Yolanda Adams
Thousand Foot Krutch
Dara Maclean

From soulful, inspiring singers to hard-hitting, high-energy rockers, Night of Joy offers a variety of entertainment that’s sure to lift your spirits.

Create a Magical Memento of Your Disney Vacation

Your Disney World vacation will be packed with magical memories, making it the ideal subject for a scrapbook spread, or even a whole album. Create a day by day journal of your entire vacation. The resulting scrapbook will be a treasured memento for years to come — and a great reference when you plan your next trip to Disney World!
Take Great Photos: Any scrapbook spread begins with great photos, and a Disney World scrapbook is no exception. You can take photos on your own or take advantage of Disney’s Photo Pass, which allows you to download professional photos from your trip right from your home computer.
When you visit any of Disney World’s four theme parks, look for the special “photo” signs that designate great spots to snap a photo. You can also meet and greet your favorite Disney characters while you are in the park — a photo and autograph make great additions to your scrapbook!
Save everything: Disney goes out of its way to make your trip special, and the little extras that you accumulate each day make great embellishments for your scrapbook. From free stickers to park maps and “make it and take it” crafts, you can collect many free Disney World scrap booking supplies and memorabilia during your trip.
Keep a journal: Make a few notes each night to include in your scrapbook later. Writing things down when they are fresh ensures that you will fully capture the experience, and you will be able to transfer your notes to your scrapbook. Whether you make notes about the rides you experienced, the dinner you enjoyed, or the characters you met, you will enjoy revisiting these events when you return home.
Shop for supplies: Make some time to visit Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories, located in Downtown Disney for a wonderful selection of scrap booking supplies you just won’t find anywhere else.
Tip: Don’t overlook the Disney World theme parks or your resort as a source for supplies, some stock resort, ride or park specific scrap booking supplies.

Florida Deluxe Villas new office.

Happy 4th of July America

Happy 4th of July to all our friends and guest.
May your 4th sparkly at bright as the fireworks.

Downtown Disney’s CARS weekend.

Lots of fun will rev up at Downtown Disney in two weeks — Saturday and Sunday, June 2 & 3, 2012 — as classic cars meet the car stars from Disney-Pixar’s animated motion picture “Cars 2.” Lightning McQueen, pal Mater and master British spy Finn McMissile are racing into town for meet and greets during the second annual two-day Car Masters Weekend. Car fans are sure to delight in a family-friendly weekend devoted to all things cars, that includes activities from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day at Downtown Disney’s West Side:

More than 100 classic muscle cars are expected to line the Downtown Disney promenade as the local Muscle Car Network of Cental Florida displays their muscle and exotic cars for families and judges to view. Guest will have the chance to vote on their favorite car to win the “People’s Choice” and “Kid’s Choice” awards.
Automotive designer, Chip Foose, will make special appearances as one of the car show’s guest judges. Foose contributed to the design of Ramone in the Disney-Pixar “Cars” film, will also be on-hand for a signing of his Cars-inspired images, including Doc Hudson, Lightning McQueen, Flo, Ramone and Mater. Ridemakerz
Put the pedal to the metal with Ridemakerz model cars.
Vehicles from the new Exotic Driving Experience at Walt Disney World Speedway will be on display.
Cars fans can purchase tickets and cool off at the AMC Downtown Disney 24 Theatres for an all-day movie marathon featuring the 2006 Disney-Pixar “Cars” and 2011 release “Cars 2″ films.
General Motors will display their latest Chevrolet models, including the Corvette Grand Sport, Camaro Convertible and the Volt.
Disney face painters and tattoo artists will be on hand with special cars-themed designs. Also, special “Cars” merchandise will be available throughout

New Fantasyland® Grand Opening Set for December 6, 2012, at the Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World® Resort!

The grand opening for the New Fantasyland® expansion at Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World® Resort will take place on December 6, 2012! Attractions included in this opening are Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid, Be Our Guest Restaurant, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariel’s Grotto, Gaston’s Tavern and Bonjour! Village Gifts.

Previews of these attractions will begin earlier in mid November.

As previously planned, the New Fantasyland® expansion will continue with the opening of Princess Fairytale Hall in 2013 and the debut of a new Disney “mountain” in the form of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in 2014.

The Storybook Circus section of the New Fantasyland® expansion, which includes Barnstormer – Starring the Great Goofini, the Casey Jr. Splash & Soak Station, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant, opened to Guests in July.

Star Wars Weekends


Star Wars Weekends is an annual special event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park that celebrates the legendary Star Wars Saga and the animated television series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday of each weekend, you can join celebrities and characters for special shows, panels, presentations and more!
The Return of Star Tours
Blast into the universe of Star Wars like never before—in 3-D! Star Tours—The Adventures Continue takes Jedi from Tatooine to Coruscant and beyond. With several possible missions, you never know where the Force may take you.

Celebrity Autographs
Have a memento signed by Star Wars celebrities attending the event! A Disney’s FASTPASS ensures your place in line at the celebrity autograph kiosk outside the Front Gate entrance. Grab a FASTPASS before the park opens, as quantities are extremely limited and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Once FASTPASS tickets have been distributed, stand-by tickets may be issued, although stand-by tickets do not guarantee an autograph.

Train, You Must
Kids under 12 can hone their light saber skills and prepare to do battle with Darth Vader himself at the Jedi Training Academy. And in the Padawan Mind Challenge, they can test their wits before the Jedi Council.

Hyperspace Hoopla!
At the end of each day, let loose with music, comedy and dancing at the Hyperspace Hoopla! With so many Ewoks, Wookiees, stormtroopers, Jawas and otherworldly creatures, young Jedi and their parents would be wise to have their cameras ready.

Carbon-Freeze Me
Coming this year to Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’ll have the opportunity to relive the famous carbon freezing scene from The Empire Strikes Back with the “Carbon-Freeze Me” experience. This new experience was created especially for Disney Parks, and is part of our “D-Tech Me” line that uses technology to take personalization to a whole new level.
Using state-of-the-art imaging technology, this experience casts your likeness as a three-dimensional, eight-inch figurine. At the “Carbon Freezing Chamber” (located adjacent to The American Idol Experience), several cameras will capture multiple angles of your face. The experience will officially open on Friday May 18 with the launch of Star Wars Weekends.

Evelyn’s Dream, Featured home of the week

Beautiful town home located in Windsor Palms. Click Here to view this home.

Star Wars Weekends at Disney

Star Wars weekends are back at Disney.
Over 50 character encounters from the entire saga, you will find heroes and villains from throughout the galaxy.
Every Friday to Sunday May 18th to June 10th

April Vacations

Exciting family and group vacations often include travel plans to the greater Orlando Disney area in Florida. There’s so much to see and do during an April vacation in Orlando! The weather is already warm enough to swim every day, or to enjoy the delights of an area water park. A scent of oranges seems to permeate the air as winter-weary travelers drink in the sheer beauty of this place!
Spring Break vacations
Although college and school Spring Break vacations may vary, April is a month of heavy crowds in the Orlando Disney area. That’s one of the reasons many vacationers think about getting away from the crowds by renting a vacation villa.
Greater Orlando has many high quality hotel rooms for vacationers, but anyone who’s ever spent a few days during a peak vacation period knows that many of these hotels hum day and night with activity. For example, the Disney Resort alone has 33,000 hotel rooms—and few people visit Disney alone! The numbers of people arriving and departing make finding a “quiet spot” quite challenging!
Renting a villa during vacation makes all the difference. One recent traveler said, “I live an active life and love to enjoy a vacation. But when I travel to Orlando, I want my days filled with theme parks and my nights filled with family and a home-cooked meal. We won’t rent a Disney area hotel again after finding a lovely little home away from home!”
How to rent a Disney area vacation villa
Florida Deluxe Villas takes all the guess-work out of identifying, reserving and preparing a safe haven for families, friends, or business travelers visiting the Disney area.
Because Florida Deluxe Villas wants to be match every guest’s requirements as specifically as possible, and because management values honesty and integrity in all communications and interactions, guests think of Florida Deluxe Villas as their Orlando area vacation spot. Many guests request the same villa every time they travel.
How to buy your own Disney area villa
Real estate investors understand the importance of managing a prime rental property. Owning a Disney area villa, for personal enjoyment or investment purposes, can make great financial sense with the inclusion of the right property manager.
Florida Deluxe Villas helps buyers choose the right property first. If the buyer plans to rent out the property for any portion of the year or on a continuous basis, Florida Deluxe Villa’s team makes the difference!
Next year, during an April vacation, new buyers know that a perfectly appointed and managed slice of Orlando area real estate awaits—without the long lines and constant activity of hotel life.

Things To Do in Florida

There is no doubt that when it comes to an ideal location to rent a vacation condo within the U.S., or just enjoy perfect sunny weather and out-of-this-world attractions, Florida is near the top of the list. It rarely ever experiences winter frost, with average temperatures ranging in the upper 80’s in the summer, and the 60’s in the fall and winter.

The city of Orlando is a prime vacation destination, with the main attractions being the numerous ever expanding theme parks. The biggest is the great Disney vacation getaway, Walt Disney World Resort, which includes the Magic Kingdom, the Animal Kingdom, Downtown Disney, Disney’s Boardwalk, Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival, and two of the biggest water parks in the world.

When you’re done with your Disney vacation, to the North you’ll find Universal Studios Plaza, featuring the Islands of Adventure, which is known for its innovative and thrilling roller coaster rides, including Jurassic Park River Adventure, Incredible Hulk Coaster, Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and Storm Force Acceleration. There is also the Fun Spot Action Park with its 10,000-square-feet of arcade games, a 100-foot Ferris wheel, bumper boats and four go-cart racing tracks.

Then there’s Anheuser-Busch’s Seaworld with its extravagant marine exhibits and water shows. There is the Discovery Cove, where you can swim with marine life, including Dolphins. Wekiwa Springs has thousands of acres of natural oasis and offers hiking, fishing, canoeing, snorkeling, horseback riding, skydiving, swimming and sunbathing. The area is rich with a variety of wildlife, ranging from gray foxes deer to manatees.

Known for its spectacular theme parks, Orlando is also home to an assortment of resorts and a city life saturated with activities and attractions. The downtown area boasts of historic buildings and fine architecture, gardens, art galleries, famous world-class museums, and performing art venues. Outdoor recreation and cultural treasures are scattered throughout Baldwin Park, Thornton Park, Loch Haven Park and Winter Park. There are nine major shopping malls, numerous antique shops and fleas markets. In the daytime, there are a variety of sporting opportunities from golf and tennis to swimming and basketball. Whether you’re a spectator of professional sports or a participant, there’s something for the athlete in everyone. At night, the city turns into a dazzling array of restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Because Florida offers such an array of attractions and events, it’s simply not possible to experience everything in just a few short days, or even a week. New residential developments, villas and condo rentals are expanding on an annual basis, and bargain condo rentals are not at all hard to find. Sometimes tourists just grow so attached, irresistibly allured by the sights, the malls and shopping centers or the rich artistic and cultural heritage, that they decide to either become permanent residents or vacation condo renters. Considering there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family looking for a long fun-filled vacation, Florida is the perfect location.

Disney Area Attractions

Few places come close to the breadth and diversity of attraction in the Orlando, Florida area. Whether traveling with children, parents, a spouse, or on spring break, central Florida offers premiere entertainment for all, exceptional choices for the vacation condo and enough to satisfy the pickiest of personalities. No longer is the area synonymous with pixie dust alone, as golfing, award winning dining, shows, sports, theme parks, and food, wine, garden and Mardi Gras festivals promise unmatched excitement and lifelong memories.

When traveling to the Disney vacation area, peruse condo rentals early for exceptional rates and quality during your stay. While there are times of the year considered low season in the central Florida area, an attractions packed calendar keeps vacationers streaming to Orlando and the surrounding region regularly.

Fans of the Walt Disney World Theme Park will find a wealth of attractions to explore and occasions for fun of all ages. Disney offers six distinct theme parks and opportunities for everything from boating and fishing to celebrity concerts, spa treatments, princess makeovers and more. Spring is home to the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival where the nation’s top designers flock to demonstrate the ins and outs of garden planning and design. In the fall, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival features wine and culinary delights from around the world for the adventuresome palate. Finally, the theme park hosts a Halloween Party, Christmas Party, Princess Marathon, Summer Concert Series and host of other attractions, making it festive no matter the time of year you chose to plan your Disney vacation.

Universal Studios is home to arguably the most talked about Mardi Gras festival outside of New Orleans. Crammed full of big name concerts, parades, and authentic Cajun eats, the Universal Studios Orlando Mardi Gras festival promises Big Easy fun for the whole family. For those who go big on Halloween, the park’s critically acclaimed Halloween Horror Nights breaks the mold when it comes to nightmarish fun. For those traveling with younger ones, or those simply young at heart, Universal Studios offers a wealth of theme park rides, including what some are calling the best theme park ride in America at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

For an awe inspiring event, consider the Holy Land Experience, a museum and living exhibit based on Israel in the 1st century. Owned by the Trinity Broadcast Network, it’s considered by many to be a wonderful experience for Christians. Among its exhibits are a replica of the Dead Sea Qumran Caves, the Last Supper and a boat modeled after another found in the Sea of Galilee, dating back to the times of Jesus.

Whether venturing to the area for a bit of professional sports, theme park family excitement, or for five star wining and dining, enjoyment is sure to be had. The right vacation condo is available whether you are traveling alone, with a few friends, or a large family. Since condo rentals can fill up quick, begin your search today.

Benefits of Renting a Villa

A family getaway is a great way to leave behind the stresses of everyday life, and reconnect with the people most important to you. If you’re planning a Disney vacation in the Orlando, Florida area, you should carefully consider your choices in lodging. Think outside the hotel box, and let your family enjoy one of the well appointed vacation villas the area has to offer. Florida Deluxe Villas can help you find the accommodations that will best suit the needs and wants of your family.

Villa rentals can provide a welcome change from staying in a hotel. Choosing a to stay in a villa while you enjoy the Disney parks provides several benefits for your family. You’ll have more privacy than a hotel could afford, since you won’t be surrounded by hundreds of strangers. Also, vacation villas offer your family a great deal more space than a hotel room would. This will allow you to enjoy your time together, while having ample room to store your belongings, and to allow each family member some personal space of their own. Orlando area villa rentals make your Disney vacation even more wonderful!

Renting a villa also means you will have your own, private kitchen, where you can prepare meals for your family. Not only will this help you be sure your family eats healthfully, but it will save you a great deal of money on eating out at the Disney parks, or at nearby restaurants. Villas are available in a variety of styles, and you can choose one that provides the best accommodations for you. Want a pool? Need several bedrooms? Traveling with a beloved family pet? In most cases, there is a property available to rent that will give you exactly what you’re looking for.

You may be wondering how you can find information about these rentals. When planning your Disney getaway, you will want to work with a vacation rental agency with integrity; someone who can listen to your needs and provide you an honest assessment. Florida Deluxe Villas can provide the great service you deserve, matching you with just the right property to fit your requirements. No matter which agency you choose, be sure to make your wishes known. Being open will make it easier for an agency to help you find the right property.

A Disney vacation will leave your family with many cherished memories for years to come. You can add even more enjoyment and fun by renting a private villa during your stay. The Orlando area and surrounding cities are full of wonderful accommodations, and with the right agency to aid you, you can find the one that’s just right for you. Make the most out of your trip by booking the right accommodations.