Haley

In my honest opinion, the words “Disney vacation” and “wing it” do NOT go in the  same sentence! I realize I am a bit of an over planner, I have a friend who  teases me because I PLAN to be spontaneous. What can I say, it works for me! So  obviously when it comes to a Disney vacation I go into planning overload! While  I may be on the extreme (okay crazy) end of planning, it is a good idea to know  before you go!! Which is why I am going to write a series of posts on this very  topic. I don’t think people realize the importance of planning for these types  of vacations. I’ve heard people say they didn’t enjoy their Disney vacation for  a variety of reasons, yet they all come down to one thing, poor  planning.  I  know this won’t come as a huge shock to anyone, but Disney can be expensive!  It’s not fun to shell out all this money only to come home disappointed because  you weren’t able to do all that you wanted to, or didn’t know what attractions  were being refurbished, were unsure of show times, didn’t make dining  reservations, didn’t know [...]

Christmas is my absolute favorite holiday.   I love the beauty of  the lights and decorations, the smell of the tree and holiday treats, the sounds of singing and laughter.  I even enjoy the hustle & bustle of it all, although it is much easier to enjoy once I’m done with my shopping!    I can think of no better place to experience all of this than Walt Disney World.  A couple of years ago my family was fortunate enough to visit during this time of the year. Disney goes to great lengths to “deck the halls”!  Everywhere you look you see signs of the holidays.   There are trees at every resort, lights and wreaths adorn Main Street at the Magic Kingdom, Mickey and Minnie are decked out in their Christmas duds, and there are sweet treats at every turn.   Several of the resorts display the most amazing Gingerbread houses you’ve ever seen.                The Osborne Family Lights at Hollywood Studios is one of my favorite sights to experience and it is included with park admission.  It is a light show like no other, absolutely gorgeous.  You can read more about it in this post by Wishing Well Travel Agent, Autumn.                      Other unique activities include [...]

My daughter is 5. She loves dresses, anything pink or purple, and of course Princesses. I knew she would be so excited about the New Fantasyland expansion opening today at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. While we were there in October, we were pleasantly surprised to find that they were holding previews for this new area! So off we went with our little Princess in tow. Our first stop was Maurice’s cottage for Enchanted Tales with Belle. Upon entering the cottage you will experience a room that mimics where Belle grew up with her father Maurice. There are photos of her as a child, treasured books and even a growth chart. It is homey and simple. Guests are then escorted into the workshop for a glimpse of the Magic Mirror given to Belle by the beast. Then the real magic begins! I don’t want to spoil anything so I  will withhold further details, but I will say this fantastic experience allows for some personal face time with Belle herself. It was definitely a highlight of the trip for my daughter and our family!               Next we headed over to Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid. This ride takes you [...]

Corporate sponsorships are nothing new to Disney, they have used them for years. Some examples are: Kodak sponsors Muppet*Vision 3-D and Mickey’s Philharmagic, Hanes sponsors the Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster, Siemens – Mission Space, and the list goes on and on. For the 1964 World’s Fair, Walt Disney used sponsors for his attractions, each of which were used at Disneyland at one time or another. The announcement of a partnership between Starbuck’s and Disney seems like a logical one to me. However, when Disney announced last week that they would be turning the beloved Main Street Bakery into a Starbuck’s, fans started percolating!                                                      The announcement that the coffee chain would be coming to Walt Disney World did not come as a surprise. Earlier this year, Disney announced plans to integrate Starbuck’s locations into several of their parks. In June, the first location opened at Disney California Adventure Park. It is located in the Fiddler, Fifer, and Practical Café. Any changes to the restaurant were quite subtle. There is a separate menu for Starbuck’s signature items. The theming and general tone of the restaurant remain the same.     After word got out that Disney planned to “replace the [...]

Since  it’s opening in 1971, the Magic Kingdom has been home to some of the most  beloved bears in the world. The Country Bear Jamboree is a classic Disney World  attraction that has been seen by millions since its inception. The show features  audio-animatronic bears that sing and play country music. The show is also known  for its silly country-themed songs, down home country rhythm, and witty banter  between the characters.   After  40 years, Disney decided that the show needed a little TLC with a bit of a  makeover.There were several rumors circulating as to what changes may happen  while the Bears were under refurbishment. Some were speculating that songs and  dialogue might be omitted to make the show a bit more “politically correct”. Others thought the changes would be a bit more subtle, possibly shortening the  show, updating of sound equipment, etc.    I  was fortunate to be able to see it in October 2012 just a few days after it  re-opened. The first thing I noticed was that the bears themselves, although  very similar in design to the originals, look much improved, like a house with a  fresh coat of paint. The show is basically the same too, but [...]

Epcot  is celebrating its 30th anniversary today!  It’s hard to believe, I know.  Although I will be aging myself, I admit  that I remember when it opened.  I  will also admit, I was one of those kids who thought it would be boring due to  its educational value.   Now 30  years later, it has become one of my favorite parks and a must do on every  trip.  Initially, the park was called EPCOT Center. The “center” was dropped in  1996 and it is now just referred to as Epcot.   It is the third most visited park  in the United States with approximately 10.5 million visitors each year.  Epcot, which stands for Experimental  Prototype Community of Tomorrow, was actually the vision of Walt Disney  himself.  Prior to building the  Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, Walt was interested in creating a Utopian  community of the future.   However, he was not granted permission to build it until after the Magic  Kingdom was completed.   As you  may know, Walt Disney died prior to the completion of the Magic Kingdom and the  Walt Disney Company halted plans for EPCOT for several  years.                                                                                                     The park consists of two sections,  Future World and World Showcase.   [...]

Though it’s not something I am particularly proud of, I will admit I am NOT a patient person!  I do not like to wait for Dr. appointments, I do not like waiting in traffic, I do not like waiting in line at the grocery store and I most definitely DO NOT like waiting while I’m on vacation!   Which is why I love the FastPass system at Disney parks. If you are not familiar with this service let me give you a quick overview.  FastPasses allow you to bypass the regular line (and regular wait time) by collecting a pass to return at a designated time to visit the attraction later with a minimal wait.  Most of the popular rides and attractions have them.  It is a wonderful way to make the most of your time in the parks.  Of course your Wishing Well Travel Agent can help you figure out the best way to use them too!!                                       In an effort to always keep things new & fresh Disney will be testing an upgrade to the current FastPass system.  From September 18-24, select guests will be given the opportunity to try FastPass Plus. Guests will be invited to go online [...]

Gentlemen (and ladies), start your engines, new Disney rumors have been speeding around the track! As many of you know, the addition of Cars Land recently opened up at Disney’s California Adventure Park in Anaheim, CA. It has been reported that the themed land has been hugely popular, even more than executives had originally expected. Fans are flocking to visit at a lightning fast pace (pun intended). So the question comes, will Disney try to duplicate this new land at some of the other parks worldwide? Some are saying YES! Many believe, or want to believe, that Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World resort in Florida is the next to have this super speedy land towed in. The supposed addition will replace the area presently occupied by the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show. Another reason Disney may be looking to revamp Hollywood Studios is because of the competition! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has boosted attendance at Universal Studios. In order to stay ahead in the race, Disney must look at what they can add that will keep fans returning again and again. Hollywood Studios could definitely use a makeover! Some of the attractions are quite [...]

With the addition of Cars Land and the relaunching of Disney's California adventure last month, it goes without saying that the Disneyland Resort has been pretty popular!  It should come as no surprise then that executives are already looking at ways to increase and continue its popularity.  And oh how the rumor mill has started churning! Some rumors have recently surfaced that Tomorrowland in Disneyland park will be the next on the list for an overhaul.  Attractions on the chopping block are said to be Autopia, Innoventions and quite possibly even Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage.   It seems that these attractions take up space that may be utilized for something a little more modern and exciting. As you may well know, Autopia was an original attraction at the park on opening day in 1955.   Although it has gone through changes over the years, the ride for the most part has remained the same.  It is most certain to be missed due to it's nostalgic factor.  For year parents have enjoyed sharing the same ride that they loved so much as kids with their own children.   Insiders say however, that the removal of this classic attraction does not come as a surprise.  [...]

All good things must come to an end... or get a makeover! On May 31, Walt Disney World will say goodbye to Snow White's Scary Adventures. It will become Princess Fairytale Hall. Here little Princesses and Princes will line up to meet Disney's newest royal characters. The character experience will be located in the Castle Courtyard in the center of Fantasyland. Resembling a castle with stone walls and stained glass windows, guests will enter to find elegant decor and portraits of Disney most beloved Princesses. Princess Fairytale Hall is scheduled to open in late 2013. With the Fantasyland Expansion still underway, Snow White fans (and thrill seekers) need not be disappointed. The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is set to debut in 2014. In this new attraction guests board mine train cars and set off for an adventure through the dwarfs diamond mine. It is a unique ride in which each mine car swings back & forth individually as the train makes it's way along the track. It is unlike anything currently at the parks and should be a fun voyage! http://youtu.be/SvLExG8CAQE So while we bid a fond farewell to Snow White's Scary Adventures we can look ahead to the new [...]

My favorite season is Autumn. I love watching the leaves change colors, the cool crisp evening air, trips to the pumpkin patch, hay rides, and of course Halloween. I also love visiting The Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. One of the best parts of vacationing there that time of year is Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. On select nights, the Magic Kingdom closes early to regular guests and is transformed into a hauntingly festive celebration. You must purchase a separate ticket for these special Halloween activities which will last from 7:00 p.m.- Midnight. The dates for this event are: September 11, 14,18, 21, 25, 28, 30, October 4, 8, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28 and November 2. Guests of ALL ages are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes. There is trick-or-treating around the park. A special parade called The Boo To You Parade is held twice nightly. Be sure to be on the lookout for "dancing ghosts" from the Haunted Mansion and the Headless Horseman who might be out for an evening ride! The characters are decked out in their costumes as well, providing for some unique character photo opportunities. Also, make sure you stop [...]

Ask 10 different people what their favorite restaurant at Walt Disney World is and you'll probably get 10 different answers. Eating around the "World" is almost as popular as the parks themselves. With over 100 choices how could it not be? Disney World offers options to satisfy any palate. There is such a variety it can be difficult to choose! I thought I'd take a minute and explain a little bit about each option. Signature Dining: Signature dining restaurants are a little more upscale and usually a little pricier. Some of them have a more eclectic menu while others just offer fabulous renditions of timeless favorites. For example, The California Grill located atop The Contemporary Resort is great choice especially if you're looking for something unique to do without the kids. Dinner Shows: Disney offers 3 unique dinner show options. The Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is home to Mickey's Backyard BBQ. The idea here is that you are at an outdoor barbecue with Mickey & his pals. There's dancing, singing, games, etc. Also at Fort Wilderness is The Hoop-De-Doo Musical Revue which is a vaudeville style show served with down home country cooking. Trust me, you will have FUN!!! [...]

Earlier this week Disney announced the return of The Orange Bird.  The Orange Bird was a character that was created specifically for the Magic Kingdom Park in the 1970's.  The bird greeted guests at Sunshine Tree Terrace in Adventureland where they often enjoyed a Citrus Swirl, a delicious "retro" treat that has recently made it's comeback as well.  In 1971 the famous flier had it's very own record that featured the song,appropriately titled,  "The Orange Bird Song".   With it's return, The Orange Bird is showing up with some great new merchandise including cups, T-shirts, and a vinylmation.  An original statue from the 70's is also on display!   For those of you (okay us) old enough to remember The Orange Bird it's a great opportunity to share a blast from the past with your own children and grandchildren.  I'd say that's definitely something to "tweet" about!   http://youtu.be/3ld8DQkC6po     Haley has been a Disney Travel Specialist with Wishing Well Travel since 2012, you can contact her at Haley at wishingwelltravel.com, find her on facebook or Request a Quote from her online.

When I tell a friend or family member that we're taking a Disney vacation, I'm usually met with a "you're going AGAIN?" response.  For years I felt weird telling people we were "going again" because they always looked at me like I was crazy.  Now that I'm older and wiser (well older anyway) I've come to the conclusion that it's just what my family enjoys doing and maybe they don't know what they're missing ;) I think back over all the trips we've taken and each one holds such a special memory and place in my heart.  My husband and I honeymooned there in 1997 when the castle was decorated like a big old pink cupcake.  He can still sing you the theme song of the parade that year.  The first time we took my son he could have cared less about anything (although he danced & clapped his little heart out at The Country Bear Jamboree).  Now 9 years later he loves everything especially if it's fast and makes me want to vomit.  I think about my daughter and how on her first trip she wanted to grab all the noses of the characters, even the Princesses.  Or how [...]