Archive for the ‘Special Experiences’ Category

#2 Illuminations Dessert Party

Lasers and lights, fireworks and flames; Illuminations: Reflections of Earth is a spectacular nightly event at EPCOT’s World Showcase.  You can guarantee a premier view and enjoy it in an uncrowded and festive fashion by arranging an Illuminations Dessert Party.

Although it’s not inexpensive, it is one of the least-pricey private events making it one of the most popular, as well.

The party generally lasts about an hour with guests meeting at, or being escorted to, the chosen location for a half hour of grazing before the show begins.  Because this is a custom event, there are endless possibilities for 10 to 2,000 guests.

There are a number of standardized charges including a flat fee for the venue, a minimum per-person food and beverage charge, a viewing fee for anyone not entering with a park ticket, and an additional service charge and sales tax.

The menu can be expanded to include a variety of cold items and a limited number of hot items; cordials and other alcoholic beverages; and custom cakes and desserts.  Floral and decorative accents can also be provided.

While this is often a “stand-up” event, smaller parties can opt for tables and chairs at an added cost.  Parties may be required to utilize the services of Disney hosts or private Disney transportation, depending upon their arrangements.

Locations include several wonderful waterside terraces around the World Showcase Lagoon where the fireworks seem close enough to reach out and touch.  Planning an intimate celebration for two?  No problem – smaller parties are welcome but must pay charges for the minimum number of guests required at the venue.

We’ve shared our fav5 Splurges, both Small and Special.  Now, we’re moving to our top choices for a Significant Splurge!

#1 VIP Tour Services

For those of you who would enjoy the freedom of letting Disney be your guide, we highly recommend their VIP Tour Services.  While your Whimsical World Travel concierge will take care of all the details of your vacation, your private VIP Tour Guide will be your personal navigator during your stay.

After collecting information about the interests and expectations of your group, a custom itinerary will be created just for you.  Your Guide’s special expertise includes an in-depth knowledge of the parks; attractions, geography, trivia; which will guarantee a relaxed and carefree experience for your party of one to ten people.

What you can expect:

• With a touring plan and dining reservations based upon your preferences, your Guide will choose the best routes through the parks, obtaining new FastPasses for your party while you’re enjoying an attraction, to maximize your park-touring hours.
• You will be able to take advantage of special viewing areas for parades and fireworks, and enjoy premium seating at shows.
• There’s no need to worry about finding your favorite character or even the nearest restroom.  Your VIP Tour Guide knows the neighborhood!
• Your Guide has a wealth of stories to share about the parks, the buildings, the attractions, and the thousands of small details that make the Walt Disney World Resort so amazing.
• In the past, guests were expected to include the Guide in their dining plans, and pay for the meal, when a tour ran more than 4 ½ hours.  Currently, you may choose either to dine alone or include your Guide, with Disney picking up the tab for the Guide’s meal.
• The Guide’s pager number is provided to each member of the party, making it easy to reconnect in the event that anyone becomes separated from the group.

What you cannot expect:

• Back-door access to rides – while there may be special arrangements for entrance to shows, you will be expected to utilize regular stand-by and FastPass lines for other attractions.  Your Guide’s experience with crowds, wait times, and schedules will help to minimize time spent standing in line.

• Park admission – the cost for VIP Tour Services does not include admission to the parks which must be purchased separately.

Other services available at additional cost:

• Private transportation can be arranged for pick-up from your resort to the parks and between locations if you hope to visit more than one park on a given day.  This often involves access to the parks from backstage areas which is a real time-saver if you are hoping to experience shows and events scheduled close together in different parks.

• An Unlimited FastPass option allows your party to enter the FastPass lines as often as you want during your touring period.

VIP Tour Guides can be booked 180 days in advance.  Because this department was originally created to service high-profile guests who needed separation from the crowds, those guests remain the first priority and Guides may not always be available for the general public.

Guides must be reserved for a minimum of six hours and you may choose to take advantage of the service for only one day of your vacation, or arrange to be met and accompanied by your Guide from the moment you arrive, for the length of your stay.

Prices are per hour and vary widely depending upon a number of factors including the time of year, whether or not you are a guest at a Walt Disney World Resort, any additional inclusions, and sometimes, who you are talking to.  Current prices start at about $175.00 per hour.

VIP Tour Guides are a terrific option for first-time visitors and those looking for a stress-free, fully-planned experience.  They are wonderful for organizing the park time of an extended family group, and can be quite cost-effective, per-person, for parties of eight to ten.  For busy adults who spend their working hours planning and organizing, VIP Tour Services offers the opportunity to enjoy a true “vacation!”

She’s a beautiful sight skimming across the water of Crescent Lake, her spray sparkling in the Florida sun.  The wonderful Breathless II, a reproduction of a Chris-Craft mahogany runabout, circa 1930, is docked at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club marina waiting to make memories for some fortunate guests.

While there are a number of specialty boating experiences available at the Walt Disney World Resort, the Breathless II offers a uniquely exhilarating ride.  Up to seven passengers have an opportunity to fly through the water at speeds of more than sixty miles per hour.

An onboard CD player adds musical ambiance as guests cruise the lake and the canal to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and travel close to the World Showcase Lagoon, enjoying close-up views from a new perspective.  Fun details include an easel at the water’s edge with a painting of the International Gateway.

Named for the Dick Tracy character Breathless Mahoney, the Breathless II is available for half-hour and hour-long daytime outings as well as Illuminations cruises at night.  Embarkation can be arranged from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, or Disney’s Boardwalk.

Due to its small size, food options for the cruise are limited, but guests looking for a romantic add-on can order champagne and strawberries. Newlyweds searching for an unusual photo opportunity might consider flying a “Just Married” flag during their wedding-day cruise!

Make your little princess feel as though she’s stepped into a fairytale with a makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.  There are two locations:  Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom and The World of Disney store at Downtown Disney.

Under the patient hands of Fairy Godmothers-in-training, girls three years and older receive their magical transformations.  Choose from several packages and three different hair styles:  Disney Diva, Fairytale Princess, or Pop Princess.

• Coach Package includes hairstyling and shimmering makeup — starting at $49.95 plus tax.
• Crown Package includes hairstyling, shimmering makeup and nails — starting at $54.95 plus tax.
• Castle Package includes the Crown Package plus the Imaging Package (one 6″ x 8″ and four 4″ x 6″ photos in a princess-themed photo holder) and complete costume of your choice with accessories — starting at $189.95 plus tax.

The optional Imaging Package includes one 6″ x 8″ and four 4″ x 6″ photos in a princess-themed photo holder.

 

Boys over 3 years old have their own special, The Knight Package, which includes hair styling as well as a mighty sword and shield for $14.95 plus tax.

Guests at the Downtown Disney location can also choose Disney’s Secret Star Makeover, featuring a rock star look like Hannah Montana complete with make-up, wig, guitar purse, microphone set, and a photo session; starting at $109.95.

Requirements for the sitting:

• guests must be at least 3 years old
• guests must bring their own brush or comb with them for the Fairy Godmother to use
• hair must be freshly clean and brushed out (no tangles)
• hair must be free of all styling aids/products such as gels, mousse, hair spray, barrettes
• scalp must be clear of any “conditions” or irritations for the last 30 days
• fingernails must be clean and free of all nail polish/decals

 

Theme park admission is required for Magic Kingdom location.  For reservations prior to park opening, bring your confirmation number and a photo I.D.  A castmember will be available to admit guests with reservations.

 

Children under eighteen must be accompanied by an adult and only one accompanying adult is permitted.

Reservations: 407-939-7895  (407-WDW-STYLE) or contact your travel concierge

Looking at this tranquil sunrise scene, it’s difficult to imagine that tall waves once broke on the shores of the beach at Disney’s Polynesian Resort.

When it opened in 1971, the resort included a wave machine and surfing was one of the featured activities.  The machine could be configured to recreate the oceans of the South Sea Islands, producing calm tides or crashing breakers.

Almost immediately, it became apparent that it in addition to providing a tropical atmosphere, it was also causing severe erosion of the beach.  The hours of operation were reduced, but eventually, it had to be closed down.  Some say that the installation remains, hidden in the lush foliage of the offshore islands.  Later, all swimming was prohibited due to boat traffic and water quality issues.

Today, guests can once again ride the curl at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park by signing up for the  surfing instruction available several mornings each week.  Groups looking for a private surf party can arrange after-hours rental of the venue.

Learn to Surf

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon

Monday, Tuesday, Friday 8:45 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.; one hour earlier on Extra Magic Hours days

1/2 hour land instruction, 2 hour surf time in the water

$150.00 per person/must be at least 8 years of age

Maximum 12 guests per class

Park admission is required to remain in the park after lesson

Call 407-939-7873  (407-WDW-SURF)

For many years, I’ve attended the Candlelight Processional at Walt Disney World.  It is always a pleasant, and sometimes quite memorable, evening; one I look forward to each holiday season.  Unwilling to stand in line for two or three hours for anything, I take advantage of the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package.

The package has certainly changed through the years.  At one time, guests could choose to dine after the performance rather than before, making it a far more relaxed evening.  Then, for a time, reservations could be made much closer to show time, rather than what amounts to the middle of the afternoon.  Pricing was pretty much in line with the regular menu prices; participants confirmed their reservations earlier in the day at the hotel and were given a badge to wear.

As the years went by, the prices increased, of course, and the badge turned into a wrist band that needed to be obtained while waiting in line for the show.  With the advent of the dining plan, guests were allowed to exchange one table service point for the package.  In 2008, I noticed a considerable increase in cost, but in 2009, the changes are really breathtaking.  It will now cost more than $55.00 for an adult to have dinner at the Garden Grill, while the price for dinner at Teppan Edo and the other Tier 3 restaurants will be a staggering $75.00.  Now, I enjoy both the Garden Grill and Teppan Edo, but that seems excessive for the basic food served there.  Yes, they’ve thrown in an appetizer, but guests are paying dearly for it, and a couple of the venues are buffet- or family-style meals.

A decision has clearly been made that the mere one-hour wait in line for package participants is now worth $15.00, plus the cost of the most expensive menu items, whether you order them or not.  If you’re on the dining plan, you’ll now need to use two table service points.

I do understand that the company is in business to make money.  I realize that the popularity of this event, much like a reservation at Cinderella’s Royal Table, makes it a candidate for a price increase.   I know that good practices dictate charging whatever the traffic will bear.  But, at some point, the consumer does speak, and this year, I’m speaking loudly:  I won’t be attending the Candlelight Processional.  Will I miss it?  Certainly! I have many wonderful memories of this event.  But, I’ve planned a new “tradition” for 2009.  For that same $75.00, or probably a good deal less, I can have an exceptional meal at Hollywood Brown Derby, or save considerably by dining at one of the other restaurants in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, then join the fun at the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights.  I’ll enjoy the choral performances found elsewhere in the parks and resorts, make a point this year to attend the tree-lighting ceremony at EPCOT, and take advantage of the many holiday events that help to make the season bright.

One thing we can rely upon is Disney’s sensitivity to guest trends.  If there is a sufficient drop in participation, they will reevaluate the program.  If the majority of guests embrace the changes, we can be certain we’ll see those prices continue to rise.

The dates have been announced for the 17^th annual EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival.  From March 3 through May 16, 2010, EPCOT will once again come into full bloom.  Whether you’re a fan of the Flower Power concerts which feature music from the time of peace and love, or you enjoy the gardening advice from celebrity guest speakers, the Festival months are a great time to visit Walt Disney World.

There are wonderful demonstrations, seminars, and exhibits, and the park is bursting with more than 30 million blossoms.  Future World and the World Showcase are transformed with spectacular topiary, expansive flowering carpets, floating floral islands, bonsai installations, and exquisite gardens.

Visit the lovely fragrance garden at the France Pavilion to learn more about the connection between posy and perfume.  And, don’t miss Minnie’s Magnificent Butterfly Garden where hundreds of beautiful creatures fly free.

We’re planting the seeds early for a 2010 visit to Walt Disney World.  Let us help make those vacation plans grow!

The Wanyama Safari has changed a bit since I last participated a few years ago; which strikes me as the perfect excuse to sign up for a third time.  Once available only to guests staying at the concierge level of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, it is now open to all guests of the Lodge and Villas, although it is more expensive for those in non-concierge rooms.

The safari takes place in the three private savannahs of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge rather than at Animal Kingdom Park, and allows participants into areas which are otherwise off-limits to the public.  Every effort has been made to duplicate an actual African safari, drawing on the advice of experienced safari-goers amongst the cast members.

Meeting in front of the hotel, a maximum of twelve guests board a vehicle and head for the savannahs surrounding the Lodge. It’s a wonderful safari truck with a roof which raises to allow passengers to stand up and look outside.

Quite a lot of time is spent driving around the different areas behind the resort. A bit in front of the vehicle, handlers put out special food (browse) to attract the more than 200 animals that call these savannahs home. Consequently, guests are surrounded by animals during the entire excursion. It is an amazing experience.  Many animals are  close enough to touch; looking in the truck, walking around and in front of it, pecking at the tires.

During my first safari, one ostrich was particularly enamored of our truck and began exhibiting mating behavior on the road in front of us, ultimately lying down in front of the vehicle. We were told this is what they do when they’re really infatuated.  Be sure to bring cameras along.  No matter how many photos may have been taken from a balcony or along the route of the Kilimanjaro Safari Ride, this is an opportunity to see both animals and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge from a totally new perspective. The guides accompany the guests in the vehicle, allowing for lots of questions about the lives of the animals; their care, feeding, training, and day-to-day routines.  With such a tiny group, it is an astounding, intimate experience.

Finally, as the sun begins to set, just as on an African safari it is time to stop and have sundowners. Although these beverages aren’t alcoholic, it gives a very real sense of a true safari. The vehicle pulls up near a small table waiting in a clearing and fruit drinks are ceremoniously poured and passed around. There are also traditional safari foods on offer: dried meat, fruits, and nuts, served from containers that I know as “tiffins,” which are stacked, metal dishes with a wire carry handle, designed to keep out insects and animals.

Meanwhile, one guide has gone behind the bushes to offer some special treats to the giraffes which have been trained to come up close to the location behind a high fence. This allows everyone to have their pictures taken with giraffe backdrop!

Then, it’s on to dinner at Jiko, where guests are immediately greeted and seated together before the Chef appears to introduce the upcoming “culinary safari.”  As each course is served, the Chef returns to describe the different dishes and answer questions. The wonderful thing about this meal, served family-style, is that so many choices are available. Rather than just choosing one appetizer, entree, dessert, etc., platters arrive with six types of appetizers, three or four of their most popular entrees, a half a dozen different desserts. The meal also includes several different South African wines from Jiko’s impressive cellar. For those unfamiliar with this restaurant which specializes in the cuisines of continental Africa, it also boasts the largest collection of South African wines in North America

I cannot say enough about this wonderful activity. Much like Cirque du Soleil, it is worth giving up the cost of a day or two in the parks to participate in this unique program.

Wanyama Safari

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday – late afternoon

3 hours

Concierge guests: adults $160.00, children 8-9 $80.00

Non-Concierge guests: adults $210.00, children 8-9 $105.00

Participants must be 8 years of age or older

48-hour cancellation policy; Business Casual dress code for Jiko

Guests staying at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge should be sure to ask about being a Flag Family during their stay.  Each morning, one fortunate group has the opportunity to climb to the top of the Lodge, and walk out to assist the ranger in raising the flags.

It’s an early-morning ceremony that includes our American flag, the flag of Florida, and flags representing Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Walt Disney World.  There’s time to take pictures and enjoy the spectacular views from high up on the roof.

The family is presented with a certificate, has a photo taken and is given a frame to hold this memento of their special Disney moment.  Some families are invited to enjoy breakfast at the Old Faithful Club, the private concierge lounge on the seventh floor.

Those hoping to participate should make their request at the time of check-in.  This is very popular and limited to one party each day.

From September 25 to November 1,  the Disneyland Resort celebrates Halloween Time.  This year, the  Haunted Mansion celebrates its 40^th birthday, and the classic attraction, which has lost none of its appeal over the years, is reimagined for Halloween as the Haunted Mansion Holiday starring Jack Skellington and his associates from Halloweentown.  Space Mountain undergoes its own transformation to become Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, and even the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror gets additional spooky touches.

Visitors can tour Candy Corn Acres and enjoy more than 300 pumpkins as Main Street, U.S.A. hosts the Pumpkin Festival.  Woody’s Halloween Roundup treats kids to a fun show and the chance to try their hand at some themed crafts.  Even the residents of the petting zoo get into the holiday spirit with Halloween-print bandannas.  There’ll be some special seasonal merchandise available including costumed plush and Halloween Mouse Ears.

Mickey’s Trick or Treat Party at Disney’s California Adventure offers guests a chance to wear costumes, meet the characters wearing their own special holiday outfits, and of course, collect plenty of candy.

Both parks are brimming with seasonal décor and feature lots of meet-and-greet opportunities with the Villains; even Downtown Disney offers its own spooky surprises.

Halloween Time

Disneyland Resort

September 25 to November 1, 2009

Park admission required

Mickey’s Trick or Treat Party October 2 to October 31, 2009

7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Tickets $32.00 to $42.00