Goin' to the Mouse House

What’s new at Universal Studios Orlando for 2012?

2012-01-26T06:22:00.000-08:00

This year, Universal Orlando^® Resort will debut more adventure, excitement, laughter and awe-inspiring moments than ever before in our history! There's something spectacular for everyone in every family!

Marvel at the breath-taking all-new animation and effects in The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man^®. Interact with the minions from Despicable Me, E.B. from Hop and Nickelodeon's Dora & Diego and SpongeBob SquarePants during Universal's Superstar Parade.

And this summer, join Gru, Margo, Edith, Agnes—and of COURSE the mischievous minions—on an unforgettable 3-D ride experience, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem!
The new rides, shows and attractions will debut throughout 2012 as part of Universal Pictures' 100th anniversary celebration.

Start making plans now to be part of the biggest year ever at Universal Orlando!

Written by Tara Mitchell

Magical Travel Specialist with 3D Travel Company

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{Wordless Wednesday} A Boogie?

2012-01-25T06:33:00.000-08:00

I didn’t notice until after we got home that Emma’s position in this picture makes her look like a Pinochio boogie. LOL!!

{Magical Memory Monday} Club Cool

2012-01-23T06:28:00.000-08:00

Back in December 2010, I went to Disney World for training. While touring Epcot®, we had the opportunity to visit Club Cool. Now, I don’t think I had ever even been in this store. And, if I had, I know I had never tasted all the different flavors of soda offered in the soda fountain.

At Club Cool, guests can cool down and sample some soft drinks from around the world for free.

I enjoy the flavors of Smart Watermelon (China) and Fanta Kolita (Costa Rica). During my trip in December 2010, I tried MOST of the flavors offered.

I couldn’t wait to take the kids here during UFT 2011. I knew Emma and Logan would sample just the sodas that ‘sounded’ good – there is a description of each on the fountain. But, what I was really hoping was that Isaac would try Beverly. Beverly, from Italy, is said to have a bitter flavor. And, sure enough, he tried it!

You can see from his face above that it doesn’t taste very good. But, he is such a trooper that I knew he’d give it a shot – once. He didn’t feel the need to taste it again.

I’m not one to play along when someone says “You’ve got to taste this. It is so gross!”. Ummm… I’ll just take your word for it. I’m NOT a trooper. I don’t purposely try grody things just for the fun of it.

If you’ve been to Club Cool, have you tried Beverly? Do you laugh as you watch others taste it? (I do!) What’s your favorite flavor?

Written by Tara Mitchell

Magical Travel Specialist with 3D Travel Company

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Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-28T07:39:00.000-08:00

Wishin’ we were there today!!

{Magical Memory Monday} Christmas Trees

2011-12-05T06:31:00.000-08:00

One of the highlights of visiting Disney World during the holidays is viewing the variety of Christmas trees which abound throughout the resorts and the parks. No detail is too small!

Animal Kingdom

All Start Music

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Caribbean Beach

50’s Prime Time Café

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Polynesian Resort

Wilderness Lodge

Beach Club

Yacht Club

Written by Tara Mitchell

Magical Travel Specialist with 3D Travel Company

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NEW Walt Disney World Room Discount

2011-11-30T08:32:00.001-08:00

It’s the perfect time for you to visit the Walt Disney World® Resort! On select dates in 2012 you can save on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels. And yes, we can turn this into a package!

Offer Details:
Book by Jan. 22, 2012, for stays most nights Feb. 21 – March 8, 2012. Book by Feb. 28, 2012, for stays most nights April 13 – May 24 and May 28 – June 14, 2012, and your Clients can save:

Disney Value Resorts	Disney Moderate Resorts	Disney Deluxe Resorts	Disney Deluxe Resort Villas
20%	25%	30%	30%
· Disney's All-Star Sports Resort · Disney's All-Star Music Resort · Disney's Pop Century Resort	· Disney's Coronado Springs Resort · Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort	· Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts · Disney's BoardWalk Inn · Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort	· Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort · Disney's Old Key West Resort
	20%	20%	25%
	· Disney's Fort Wilderness Cabins · Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside	· Disney's Polynesian Resort · Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa · Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Standard View	· Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo · Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani · Disney's BoardWalk Villas

Ask about a 5% discount at Disney’s All Star Movies Resort, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground (campsites), Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Savannah View, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and Disney’s Beach Club Villas during the same dates indicated above.

Book by Jan. 22, 2012, for stays most nights March 9-31, 2012. Book by Feb. 28, 2012, for stays most nights May 25-27, 2012, and your Clients can save:

Disney Value Resorts	Disney Moderate Resorts	Disney Deluxe Resorts	Disney Deluxe Resort Villas
15%	20%	25%	25%
· Disney's All-Star Sports Resort · Disney's All-Star Music Resort · Disney's Pop Century Resort	· Disney's Coronado Springs Resort · Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort	· Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts · Disney's BoardWalk Inn · Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort	· Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort · Disney's Old Key West Resort
	15%	15%	20%
	· Disney's Fort Wilderness Cabins · Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside	· Disney's Polynesian Resort · Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa · Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Standard View	· Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo · Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani · Disney's BoardWalk Villas

Ask about a 5% discount at Disney’s All Star Movies Resort, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground (campsites), Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Savannah View, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and Disney’s Beach Club Villas during the same dates indicated above.

Remember to add Theme Park tickets so your Clients can take advantage of the magical fun available at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Written by Tara Mitchell

Magical Travel Specialist with 3D Travel Company

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{Wordless Wednesday}

2011-11-30T07:34:00.000-08:00

{ABC’s of Disney} O is for…

2011-11-29T08:38:00.000-08:00

It’s been a while since I participated in Heidi’s Destination Disney meme. I think it’s time to play catch-up. While it’s too late for me to link up, you can check out more “O” entries on her blog.

Orangutan

Breakfast at O’Hana

Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights

Dinner at O’hana (one of our favorite dinners!)

Christmas at Walt Disney World – Gingerbread Displays

2011-11-28T06:43:00.001-08:00

Two years ago, while in Disney World in December, I was able to see the extravagant gingerbread displays in several of the resorts. To say they blew me away is a complete understatement. I hope to some day take my kiddos to Disney World over the holidays to see all of the holiday magic Disney bestows on the parks and the resorts. I posted about the gingerbread displays earlier this year so I won’t bore you with a thorough description. You can read all about it on my G is for Gingerbread post. But, I will repost a few of my favorite pictures.

Written by Tara Mitchell

Magical Travel Specialist with 3D Travel Company

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{Wordless Wednesday}

2011-11-23T07:32:00.000-08:00

Magical Memory Monday - Training

2011-11-21T05:43:00.000-08:00

Two years ago at this time, I was planning a week-long trip to WDW without my kiddos. I was meeting three of my fellow 3D Travel Agents for a week of training at Walt Disney World. It was a long week, and I learned a LOT. But, we also got to enjoy ourselves a bit. I’m so glad I was able to spend that week with Amy, Cindy, and Lindsey. I hope I get the opportunity to train again soon.

Written by Tara Mitchell

Magical Travel Specialist with 3D Travel Company

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Christmas at Walt Disney World!

2011-11-20T13:12:00.001-08:00

With this week being Thanksgiving week, I’ve decided to do a holiday countdown for those of you who are lucky enough to visit Disney World during the holidays. Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss while you’re there:

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
The Gingerbread exhibits in the resorts
The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights (12/3)
Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade (12/10)
Epcot’s Candlelight Processional (12/17)
Holiday sleigh Rides at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground (12/24)

On select nights throughout November and December, guests can attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in Disney’s Magic Kingdom. This event does require a special purchase ticket. A normal theme park ticket will not get you into this event. Party goers are given a wrist band to show that they have purchased the special admission ticket. Only those guests with tickets are allowed onto rides and attractions after the party starts (at 7:00 PM).
Whether you have tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (MVMCP) or not, you can watch the special Castle Lighting Ceremony which takes place about 6:30PM. Since both party goers and day guests can attend this popular show, it is advised that you arrive at least 15 minutes early to get a good viewing seat.
As the show begins, the Disney characters are trying to get into the holiday spirit, but they can’t decide how to decorate the castle. So, they ask Cinderella since she is the one who lives in the castle. Cinderella asks the fairy godmother for help. As the fairy godmother appears on the balcony, the castle is transformed by thousands of shimmering lights.
There are many other party features that guests can enjoy. From Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade (complete with an appearance by Santa himself) to an exclusive holiday fireworks show to complimentary cookies and hot chocolate to a magical snow fall on Main Street, USA, there is something magical for everyone to enjoy. I highly recommend purchasing tickets to this event if you will be visiting Walt Disney World during the holidays.

Written by Tara Mitchell

Magical Travel Specialist with 3D Travel Company

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Magic Your Way Plus Free Dining

2011-11-01T17:53:00.001-07:00

Hungry for a great deal?
Now through Dec. 17, 2011, buy a non-discounted Magic Your Way package for 4 nights and 5 days at select Disney Value Resorts and get a FREE Quick-Service Dining Plan. Or, buy a non-discounted Magic Your Way package for 4 nights and 5 days at select Disney Moderate, Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resorts and get a FREE Disney Dining Plan.
Offer Details:
This Vacation Package Includes:

Accommodations
Magic Your Way Base Ticket
A Dining Plan

Booking Window:
Now – Dec. 17, 2011
Travel Window:
Valid for arrivals most nights:

Jan. 8-12, 2012
Jan. 21 – Feb. 2, 2012
Feb. 11-16, 2012
March 3-8, 2012
March 24-29, 2012

Written by Tara Mitchell

Travel Specialist with 3D Travel Company

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* The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Tickets valid for one Theme Park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. No group rates or other discounts apply. Excludes suites. Advance reservations required.
With the Disney Dining Plan, children ages 3-9 must order from children's menu if available. Excludes gratuities and alcoholic beverages. Some Table-Service restaurants may have limited or no availability at time of package purchase.

DisneyQuest

2011-10-22T03:30:00.000-07:00

DisneyQuest

I purchased Water Park Fun & More tickets for this year’s trip to Walt Disney World. The kids really wanted to go to the water parks this year, and I thought they would love DisneyQuest, as well. And, we were not disappointed.

We visited DisneyQuest twice during our trip, and Isaac attended a birthday party there for my boss’s son. Everyone had a really good time.

Who? There’s a little something for everyone at DisneyQuest. From virtual reality to 3D to vintage arcade games to interactive pinball, there’s something to keep everyone occupied for hours.

What? DisneyQuest is an indoor, interactive theme park. Inside guests will find five floors of games and attractions.

When is it open? DisneyQuest is open seven days a week. The hours of operation are Sunday – Thursday 11:30AM – 10:00PM and Friday – Saturday 11:30AM – 11:00PM.

Where is it? You can find DisneyQuest in Downtown Disney.

Why? DisneyQuest is a great escape on a no-park day. It’s a great place to go after the parks close or on a rainy day. Give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.

What did we think? I think it’s definitely worth the price. We had a really good time, and we are looking forward to going again in the future.

Monday, I’ll have the kids review it and talk about their favorite things. Check back for that.

Our Trip – Sept. 2011 – Day 1 Highlights

2011-10-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

I’m finally getting around to blogging about our 2011 trip to Walt Disney World.

An early morning flight

A surprise one-night stay in the beautiful Caribbean Beach Resort

Ready to head to Disney World?

Click HERE for your FREE no obligation quote!!

Tara Mitchell

YOUR 3D Travel Company Magical Vacation Planner

{Wordless Wednesday} Enjoy!

2011-10-19T18:10:00.001-07:00

How is it possible she didn’t have her first Mickey bar until her fourth trip?!?

I’d say she enjoyed it, huh?

{Foodie Friday} Earl of Sandwich

2011-10-07T06:23:00.000-07:00

Where is it? Downtown Disney

Who’s there? Anyone who loves a good, hot sandwich! The only characters you’ll find at Earl of Sandwich are those you bring with you.

What is there to eat? Oh my!! Only the best hot sandwiches!! Breakfast offers include hot ham & Swiss sandwiches, breakfast BLT’s, and much more. For lunch and dinner, you can find sandwiches with names like The Earl’s Club, The Full Montagu, and the Caprese. Diners can also enjoy soups, wraps, muffins, and salads. Kids can enjoy grilled cheese, a pizza sandwich, and more.

When? As I mentioned above, Earl of Sandwich is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Why? Have you looked at those sandwiches?!? Really, this is some good food. And, it’s on the Disney Dining Plan so you can use quick-service credits at Earl of Sandwich.

What do we think about it? This was our first trip to Earl of Sandwich. A co-worker of mine raves about their sandwiches so I wanted to give it a try. I was NOT disappointed. We actually ate there twice during our stay.

{Wordless Wednesday}

2011-10-05T03:54:00.000-07:00

I wish someone would make my bed and leave me one of these at home…

{Top 4} Things I Loved About Caribbean Beach

2011-10-04T04:50:00.000-07:00

With all this talk about our stay at Caribbean Beach and, specifically, the pirate room, I thought I would create a “Top 5” list of the things I loved about this resort.

1. The resort grounds – The resort grounds are spectacular. You truly feel as if you’ve stepped into a Caribbean beach resort. The white sand beaches, the lush green landscaping, the relaxing hammocks…all say Caribbean Vacation!! We truly felt removed from the hustle and bustle of Disney that we feel when we stay at the value resorts.

2. The main pool – Just check out this fantastic pool! Need I say more. I really thought the kids would love the ship-wreck splash pad, but they preferred the main pool with it’s pirate fort feel. They loved the water slide and the pool-side activities.

3. The recreational activities offered – Since we only stayed for one night, we didn’t get a chance to ‘play’ with the extra recreational activities offered at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. However, the options were plentiful if we had had more time. From bikes and surreys to sail boats, paddle boats, and more, there are plenty of ways to spend your ‘down’ days at this beautiful resort. (Please note, all of the above are rentals, and not included in the price of your resort stay.)

4. The Pirate Room, of course! – I’ve blogged about our stay in the Pirate Room so I’ll just link it here. But, it was definitely a highlight of our stay.

Written by Tara Mitchell, YOUR Magical Vacation Planner with 3D Travel Company

{ABC’s of Disney} N is for ‘new’ things…

2011-10-02T12:34:00.001-07:00

Here’s a sneak peek at a few new things we tried on our last trip to Walt Disney World. I will eventually get around to blogging about them all…

Pirate rooms at Caribbean Beach Resort

Earl of Sandwich in Downtown Disney

DisneyQuest

Mickey’s Backyard BBQ

Innoventions in Epcot

Mission Space in Epcot

Coral Reef Restaurant in Epcot

Vinylmation trading

Pixar Pals Countdown to Fun Parade

Sci-Fi Dine-in Theater

Window decorating

Disney’s Water Parks

Donald’s Safari Breakfast at Tusker House

Amazing cupcakes at Kusafiri Bakery in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

…and that’s just the first week of our two week stay…

For more entries in Heidi’s Destination Disney meme, hop on over to her blog.

Written by Tara Mitchell, YOUR Magical Vacation Planner at 3D Travel Company

Foodie Friday - Mickey’s Backyard BBQ

2011-09-30T06:50:00.000-07:00

Where is it? The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Who’s there? Mickey, Minnie, Chip, Dale, and other live entertainment

What is there to eat? BBQ chicken and ribs, of course! Guests can also enjoy hot dogs, hamburgers, mac-n-cheese, veggies, salad, cornbread and so much more. For dessert, guests can choose from an array of ice cream bars and popsicles.

When? Available only for dinner seasonally

Why? Because it is oh-so-fun!! Just look at the pictures I took when we ate here for the first time on our Sept. 2011 trip. The kids loved watching the trick roper. The music and dancing was super fun. And, dancing with the characters – even better! (The characters do not come to each table as they do in other restaurants. But, they do line up outside the pavilion for autographs and photos if you wish to stand in line.)
Be sure to watch the video to the end for a funny surprise for my sweet Em.

What do we think about it? We really enjoyed ourselves the night we went. Typically, I don’t spend two table-service credits on a meal, but since my oldest went home early we had extra credits. So, we splurged on this dinner show. The food was pretty good, and the atmosphere was much better. I would recommend trying this dinner show at least once! It’s loads of fun.

Written by Tara Mitchell, YOUR Magical Vacation Planner at 3D Travel Company

{Wordless Wednesday} My Princess

2011-09-28T06:25:00.000-07:00

Written by Tara Mitchell, Your Magical Vacation Planner with 3D Travel Company

Disney Cruise Line Adds Second Hawaiian Cruise!

2011-09-25T06:11:00.000-07:00

Based on an overwhelming response to its first Hawaiian itinerary, Disney Cruise Line® is adding a second Hawaiian cruise to its 2012 schedule.

The new 14-night itinerary departs Oct. 14, 2012, from Los Angeles. It includes stops at Kahului, Maui; Nawiliwili, Kauai; Honolulu, O’ahu; and Hilo, Hawai‘i; plus Ensenada, Mexico. In addition, there are eight relaxing days at sea.

Book today if you are a Platinum and Gold Castaway Club Member. Silver Castaway Club Members and first-time Guests can book beginning Monday, Sept. 26.

{ABC’s of Disney} M is for…

2011-09-24T18:34:00.001-07:00

Mickey ice cream bar

Mission Space

Mr. Potato Head

Mickey

Magic Carpets

Mad Tea Party

(UFT) Mega Meet at the Polynesian Resort

Mermaid

Macarena at Downtown Disney

Music

To see more entries in Heidi’s “Destination Disney” meme, check out her blog here.

October-December Disneyland® Room Only Offer

2011-09-24T18:08:00.001-07:00

Now, your Clients can save up to 30%* on a stay at one of the Hotels of the Disneyland® Resort, for arrivals most nights Oct. 2 - Dec. 24, 2011.

Offer Details:
Save up to 30%* off a room-only reservation at Disney's Paradise Pier® Hotel.
Save up to 25%* off a room-only reservation at the Disneyland Hotel or Disney's Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa.

Booking & Travel Windows:
Book this offer Sept. 13 - Oct. 15, 2011, for a broader selection of travel dates, with arrivals most nights Oct. 2 -
Dec. 24, 2011.

Book this offer Oct. 16 - Dec. 10, 2011, for arrivals most nights Nov. 1 - Dec. 24, 2011.

This offer is not available for travel Nov. 23-25, 2011, and travel on this offer must be completed by Dec. 25, 2011.

Upgrades:
I can add tickets or upgrade your room-only reservation to a package so you can enjoy the Theme Parks, and experience popular seasonal events like Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort (Sept. 16 - Oct. 31, 2011) or Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (Nov. 14, 2011 - Jan. 8, 2012).

*30% savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room at Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel. Offer valid for arrivals most nights from October 2, 2011 through December 24th, 2011 when booked between September 13, 2011 and October 15, 2011, and for arrivals most nights from November 1, 2011 to December 24, 2011 when booked between October 16, 2011 to December 10, 2011. Travel must be completed by December 25, 2011. Other restrictions apply. Applies only to standard and concierge level rooms and not valid with previously booked rooms. Other room rates and hotel rates will vary. Excludes taxes and fees. Blockout dates of 11/23/11 through 11/25/11. Advance reservations required. Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is restricted. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people maximum per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers. Subject to change without notice.