Archive for the ‘Special Experiences’ Category

Guests visiting Walt Disney World during the 2011 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, which runs from September 30 to November 13, 2011, can now begin planning their culinary adventures!

Some of the changes this year include the addition of booths in the World Showcase that represent the Caribbean and Portugal.  A complete listing of the participants and menus, along with a schedule of the popular Eat to the Beat concerts, is included in the Festival Guidemap.  Fans of Party for the Senses will be happy to learn that cast members from Cirque du Soleil will once again add their special brand of fun and excitement to this popular event.

Also new for 2011 is the addition of Sweet Seats to the “3D” Disney’s Dessert Discovery, The Discovery of Chocolate series, the Cranberry Bog Display, Home Entertaining Seminars Hosted by HGTV, Mixology Seminars, Scent Demonstrations, Italy Food & Beer Pairings, Italy Dessert & Wine Pairings, Italian White Truffle Lunch, Mexico Tequila Lunch, The Magic of Healthy Living Dinner, and the Kitchen Memories seminars.

For your convenience, we’ve  put together a series of printable guides which highlight the program offerings for this year.  Those wishing to attend any of the special events and seminars can begin making reservations on August 16, 2011.

Premium Events and Experiences

Premium International Events

Special Festival Seminars and Experiences

Special Sweet Events

You can also get further details about past Festivals by reviewing earlier posts.  It’s a wonderful time to visit Walt Disney World ~ the weather is beautiful, the Magic Kingdom is festively dressed for Halloween, and there is so much to see and do and taste!

Beginning July 26, 2011, tickets will be available for the 2011 season of EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional Dinner package.  Performances will begin on November 25^th and run through December 30^th, with three shows daily at 5:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8:15 p.m.

This annual favorite features a beautiful performance of seasonal music by a large chorus comprised of the wonderful Voices of Liberty, a cast member choir, and numerous guest choirs from around the country, accompanied by a full orchestra.  The highlight of each show is the reading of the Christmas story by a special celebrity narrator.

Prices are tiered to reflect both the dining venue and choice of lunch or dinner.  Guests with either the Magic Your Way Plus Dining or the Magic Your Way Plus Deluxe Dining plans can use two table-service credits.   Those on the Premium and Platinum plans can substitute the dinner package for one of their meals.

We’ve provided a downloadable document with complete details including a current list of guest narrators and a pricing chart for the various restaurants participating in this year’s package.

We invite you to review past posts for more information about the Candlelight Processional programs.

Even though it’s still summer, in “Disney Time” the holidays are right around the corner.  Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party starts in just a few weeks and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, one of the highlights of the Christmas season, begins on November 8^th and runs on selected nights until December 19^th.

 

It’s a magical night filled with special entertainment, spectacular fireworks, and the only opportunity to see the Christmas parade after dark.  Also, the first presentation of Castle Dream Lights takes place on the night of the first party, November 8.

The 2010 dates for this merry annual event are:

November – 8, 11, 12, 16, 18, 19, 28, & 30
December – 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, and 19

7 p.m. to 12 midnight

Ticket Prices for 2010, not including taxes, range from $53.95 to $59.95 for adults and $47.95 to $53.95 for children.  Lower prices reflect advance purchase savings which are not available for all dates.

If you’re booking your Walt Disney World vacation package with Whimsical World Travel, your Concierge will be happy to make arrangements for your party tickets.  You can choose to have them waiting at Will Call for pick-up after you arrive, or request downloadable e-tickets.  For an additional charge, your tickets can also be shipped.

 

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party has become a holiday tradition for thousands of families – why not make it one of yours?

Some guests mistakenly assume that the elegant Grand Floridian is less kid-friendly than other Disney resorts.  In fact, it’s a wonderland for children of all ages.  In addition to two large pools and a children’s water play area, there’s a sandy beach, a playground, and a variety of exciting meals and activities with a Disney touch.

1900 Park Fare Choose the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast with Mary Poppins, Alice, and the Mad Hatter or dine with Cinderella and her Prince at Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner.

 

Wonderland Tea Party Alice and the Mad Hatter return to 1900 Park Fare for an hour in the afternoon to entertain small guests between the ages of four and twelve with stories and games, and help them decorate their own cupcakes.   The price is $40.00 plus tax.
Hours: Weekdays 2:00p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Phone: (407) 939-3463

My Disney Girl’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party A Royal event takes place in the lovely Garden View Lounge where small Princesses, ages three to eleven, and their adult companions, can enjoy an hour and a half of singing and storytelling, characters and crumpets.  Each child leaves with an armload of special gifts which contribute to the cost of $250.00 plus tax for a party of one child and one adult.
Hours: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Phone: (407) 939-3463

Captain’s Shipyard Cruise Kids from four to twelve can head out into the wild blue of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake in search of adventure, treasure, and lunch!
Hours: Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Phone: (407) 939-7529

Gasparilla Grill and Games A small video arcade is nestled into the corner of this quick-service dining location that features a selection of salads, sandwiches, desserts, drinks, and ice cream.

Mouseketeer Club Most kids love it when their parents decide on an adult evening and drop them off at one of Disney’s Children’s Activity Centers.  For $11.50 per hour with a two-hour minimum, potty-trained children ages four to twelve enjoy activities, games, arts and crafts, and movies.  Dinner is also included between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. and is ordered at the time of arrival.
Hours: 4:30 p.m. to midnight
Phone: (407) 824-1666

Movies Under the Stars Arrive at 8:00 p.m. to enjoy the Dance Party and Campfire, before settling down to a movie at 9:00 p.m.  Check the schedule for featured movies.

Mousecraft at M. Mouse Mercantile Get creative on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. when “Grand” kids meet for arts and crafts.

Storytime at M. Mouse Mercantile A bed-time treat; Mondays at 8:00 p.m.

Thought you’d fallen through the rabbit hole when you saw the opening photo? Our friend Sam, aka Disney Resort, a consummate magician, created this custom image especially for this post.  Thank you, Sam!

Few visitors remain unimpressed when they first walk through the doors and into the beautiful lobby of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.  This resort is filled with references to the historic National Park lodges on which it’s based, Native American culture, the beauty of the natural world, and Disney icons.

While it’s fun to stroll the building and grounds, for a deeper appreciation we suggest the Wonders of the Lodge tour.  Follow your Ranger for an in-depth look at the architecture and landscape.  Hear the stories behind the hand-crafted totem poles, the art pieces, and the towering fireplace.  Explore nooks and seek out Hidden Mickeys and even hidden bears.  Listen to the lore and learn about the symbols and myths woven into the carvings and designs that are found throughout the lodge.

Every tour is unique, but you can make yours special by asking questions.  The guides truly love talking about their subject and will reward your enthusiasm with lots of fun facts!

No prior registration is necessary, there is no charge,  and you don’t have to be a guest of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort to participate.  Just join the Ranger in the lobby a little before 9:00 a.m.

Wonders of the Lodge

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort

Wednesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m.

Make your way to Adventureland to practice your aaarrrrrgh’s and polish your buckle and swash.  It’s The Pirates League, where buccaneers-in-training move through rooms filled with plunder to take the oath and join the crew!  The transformation is completed with special make-up and accessories.  Receive a pirate name, a “share of the booty,” to wear around your neck, a certificate and photo to commemorate your induction, and an opportunity to show off your new pirate persona in the Pirate Parade.  There are two packages offered, both priced at $29.95 plus tax:

First Mate Package

• Choice of facial effect (5 to choose from)
• Reversible bandana
• Earring and Eye Patch
• Sword and Sheath
• Temporary Tattoo
• Unique Pirate Coin Necklace
• Personalized Pirate Oath
• Official Pirate Name
• Removable Teeth
• Pirate Portrait in the secret room
• Participation in a daily Adventureland Pirate Parade

Empress Package

• Vibrant and bold makeup, nail polish, face gem
• Reversible bandana
• Earring and Eye Patch
• Sword and Sheath
• Temporary Tattoo
• Unique Pirate Coin Necklace
• Personalized Pirate Oath
• Official Pirate Name
• Pirate Portrait in the secret room
• Participation in a daily Adventureland Pirate Parade

For an additional cost, guests can grab some extra garb from the selection of themed costumes and headgear.  Other imaging options are also available.   Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance and a credit card is required at the time of booking.  No-shows and cancellations less than 24 hours prior to the experience will incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.

With the recent price change, this is now an affordable option for the entire family.  It’s a great choice for those attending Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.  Plan early to make reservations for the morning  of the party; then all the Buccaneers and Pirate Maidens in your crew will be ready for the evening’s activities!

 

The Pirates League

Magic Kingdom, Adventureland

Daily 9:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ages 3 to adult

Children must be accompanied by adult during entire experience

Park admission required

 

If you’ve ever dreamed of Halloween at Walt Disney World, it’s time to start planning!  Dates for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party have been released and there are lots of opportunities to add this seasonal favorite to your autumn itinerary:

September – 3, 8, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, & 30
October – 1, 3, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, & 31
November 1

7 p.m. to 12 midnight

Ticket Prices for 2010, not including taxes range from $53.95 to $59.95 for adults and $47.95 to $53.95 for children.  Lower prices reflect advance purchase savings which are not available for all dates.

Here are a few tips to make the party even more fun:

Don’t forget that guests holding party tickets can generally gain admittance to the park as early as 4:00 p.m.  You can save a day on your park tickets and still spend some time enjoying the Magic Kingdom before the party begins.  The cost of a ticket to the party is far less than the cost of a one-day one-park admission ticket.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party tickets represent a significant additional cost; don’t waste valuable party time having dinner.  Make your plans early and grab a late-afternoon dining reservation in the Magic Kingdom or one of the resorts close by.  When the fun begins, you’ll be ready.

If you and your family are planning to wear costumes, take the weather into account.  Party dates begin in September when the temperatures can still be extremely warm.  Going in costume definitely adds to the fun, but you don’t want your choices to interfere with the evening’s activities.

If elaborate costumes are not for you, other possibilities include matching, themed tee shirts for your group, or Mardi Gras style masks (Disney does not allow full-face masks).  These options are both easy to pack and easy to wear.

There’s plenty of candy and the candy-handlers seem to be extra generous at the end of the night.  Make some extra passes at the candy stations late in the evening.

If you’re a fan of the Villains, there’s no better time to ogle the Evil Ones than at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.  They are the stars of the parade and the fireworks extravaganza, Happy HalloWishes.  At the Villains Mix and Mingle, you can enjoy a show followed by meet and greet opportunities.

Cinderella’s coach awaits in Fantasyland but don’t miss other photo opportunities.  The Magic Kingdom is beautifully decorated for the holiday and Halloween-themed displays are everywhere, offering the perfect backdrop for a memorable shot.

Guests with dietary concerns will find sugar-free candy at City Hall.

The wonderful Mickey’s Boo to You Halloween Parade is shown twice, but the Headless Horseman only rides before the first parade.  Since the second parade is usually less crowded, you may want to find a spot to see the Horseman, then go and enjoy the attractions during the parade when lines are shorter.

When you’re ready for the parade, stake out a claim along the curb that lines Main Street U.S.A.  The view from this vantage point is wonderful; the floats are practically close enough to touch and the parade characters and cast members give lots of attention to the guests closest to the street.  The decorations are spectacular and seem to get better with each passing year.

Finding a viewing spot early gives you plenty of time to enjoy the window displays, the lighting, and the simply smashing pumpkin collection.  Keep an eye on the second floor windows for some entertaining special effects!

If your vacation will span more than one party date, remember that nights during the middle of the week are usually less busy than those on the weekends which often draw local crowds as well as visitors.

The first night to sell out is always October 31^st.  If you intend to celebrate on Halloween, pick up your tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.  While this is the most festive night, it’s generally the most crowded, as well.

Along with the best Villian-spotting of the year, you’ll have a rare opportunity to see some of the 999 Happy Haunts who make their home at the Haunted Mansion.  They’re grim and grinning and dressed to impress on these special nights, joining the parade and even chatting with guests at the Mansion.

It’s a beautiful time to visit Walt Disney World and Whimsical World Travel is ready to make your Halloween truly spooktacular!  Read about our special Halloween itinerary or contact us to help plan something special just for you.

It’s almost here – the 17^th annual EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival!  The topiary have never been more beautiful, the butterflies are fluttering, and the roses are blooming.  From March 3 until May 16, 2010, EPCOT is dressed in her fanciest florals for this colorful event.

This year, guests are greeted by Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, and friends, enjoying the pleasures of the outdoor life in a spectacular display at the front entrance.  The popular butterfly house and Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden have been expanded and new additions to the Festival include Classic Disney Couples and A Salute to Community Gardens.

Of note is a new dining opportunity at the Wonders of Life pavilion.  On March 21, April 18, and May 16, guests can pick up some gardening and culinary techniques from horticulturists and chefs as they enjoy a Garden Town Breakfast from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  The Wonders Retreat, located on the second floor of the pavilion is a whimsical private venue seldom seen by the general public.  The breakfast buffet will include an array of fresh ingredients from the Land Pavilion.

The Festival Guide lists the dates and times for a series of special presentations that feature gardening tips, expert advice, and well-known speakers.  There are plenty of kid-friendly exhibits and a return of the Flower Power Concert schedule showcasing the groovy sounds of the past from such favorites as Paul Revere and the Raiders, Herman’s Hermits, and Davy Jones.

The weather is beautiful, the sun is shining, and the World’s in bloom – contact a concierge to make your plans!

#4 Grand I Yacht

She is the queen of the Disney Fleet, the seventh largest marine fleet in the world; the beautiful Grand I – the only vessel at Walt Disney World that boasts a bed and bath.  With salon, cabins, galley, and head complete with shower, it’s a comfy and indulgent “watercraft rental” that’s a world away from the pontoon boats.

Your captain and deck hand welcome you aboard for an unforgettable luxury cruise experience around Bay Lake and The Seven Seas Lagoon.  A truly special occasion calls for special arrangements, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Private Dining is happy to oblige with everything from champagne and strawberries to a multi-course dinner served by a private butler.  Whether it’s cake and ice cream for a birthday party or hors d’oeuvres for a sunset sail, they will help to make your voyage magical.

Cruises are available throughout the day, but the most popular time is during the evening when you can enjoy an amazing view of Wishes Nighttime Spectacular, complete with stereo sound.

Variously listed as accommodating 13 to 18 guests, the space is tight for more than ten or twelve passengers and we suggest fewer if you are planning a sit-down meal.  Prices increase often and are currently more than $500.00 per hour; definitely a significant splurge with your significant other, but more reasonable when shared amongst you and a dozen of your closest friends!

#3  concept^tm Itinerary

Expect White Glove treatment as you experience the Walt Disney World Resort in a unique new way with a customized itinerary from Whimsical World Travel’s concept^tm program.

Each themed vacation includes a comprehensive package of arrangements, events, recreation, and entertainment designed to appeal to guests who are looking for an innovative and immersive experience.

Choose from some of our most popular offerings:

Boo to You! Halloween is a month-long celebration at Walt Disney World® and we’ve arranged a frightfully good time!

Over the River and Through the Woods Share the joys of the holiday season with family and friends at the beautiful Wilderness Lodge; dressed to impress in its Christmas finery.

Honeymoon Dreams Celebrate a marriage or vow renewal in unforgettable Disney style with romantic activities and memorable surprises.

Grand Indulgence Relaxing, rejuvenating, restorative – sybaritic spa treatments and sumptuous accommodations make this vacation special.

Other current themes include golf, birdwatching, theater, engineering, hot-air balloons, horses, architecture, history, animals, and transportation.  Or, let us craft a one-of-a-kind stay especially for you.  From autographs to zebras, we have creative ideas for your next significant splurge!