News From Around The World

R.I.P. LEGENDARY YEARS

Pop Century Resort, as a concept, is officially dead. As if there was much hope over the last nine years that it would ever be complete, the final nail in the coffin came this week when Disney announced plans for the Art of Animation Resort, the first new non-Vacation Club hotel to be built on Disney property since 9/11. Plans call for the resort to be, as expected, all family suites. It will be located across Hourglass Lake from the current Pop Century Resort in the buildings once constructed to be themed after the years 1900-40.

Why do I treat this news with an air of disappointment instead of jubilation? For one thing, Pop Century holds a very special place in my heart. Sure, it's not the Polynesian or Wilderness Lodge or Beach Club or even my beloved Contemporary Resort but it's a wonderful little resort, perfect for those quick getaways or trips that I don't want to see break the bank. And these plans effectively kill it. Now, I know what you're thinking: gee, he's being awfully negative about this whole thing. But let's look at this logically. It makes positively no sense to keep these as seperate resorts seeing as they're all located on one property and share a lake (with a walking path around it and bridge across it.) So what we're looking at is another Port Orleans situation, where Disney is going to wind up operating two distinct resorts under one banner for simplicity's sake. The new resort will be themed after four films: Lion King, Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, and Cars, and will feature the usual value resort motel buildings with big giant icons outside (the rooms are supposed to be deeply themed, probably along the lines of the pirate rooms at the Caribbean Beach.) It will be very easy for Disney to ditch the decades theme at the Pop, since the 50's already have a Lady & The Tramp theme, Jungle Book for the 60's, and Roger Rabbit for the 80's. It would take nothing to slap a Toy Story theme on the 90's and maybe come up with something else for the 70's. Of course, that's all just blue sky predicting on my part.

What IS for certain is that these two resorts will end up sharing buses, which is a big problem since value resort buses are already mad crowded. And the new resort name might be the worst name I've ever heard of for a Walt Disney World resort hotel. "Disney's Art of Animation Resort." WHO in their right mind is going to call it that?"

I'm probably being too hard on Disney on this one, as it's certainly great to see something being done with the eyesore of an abandoned property across Hourglass Lake and the family suites are a welcome addition. It's just that I've grown so fond of the current Pop Century that it's going to be hard for me to watch the poor girl try to reinvent herself.

THE LAST TOUR TO ENDOR

Mark August 14 down on your calendars. That's the last day that we can say, with absolute certainty (or as certain as it gets in the theme park business,) that you can ride Star Tours in its current form. Disney announced a special hard ticket event for that night to coincide with an Orlando Star Wars convention. The event itself, billed as "The Last Tour to Endor," will be something of a one night Pirate & Princess, Very Merry Christmas, etc. type of party at the Studios. There will be special fireworks, "party zones," and all the usual stuff (including, I'm guessing, some soon to be VERY sought after special merchandise.) The park will close to the public at 8pm for the party with guests admitted, as usual, at 4. The price is set at a gargantuan $75. Those tickets will be gone in like a day so make sure to get them the moment they go on sale if this is something you're interested in. You can get tickets on their website here.

This brings up an interesting thought. I really wonder why Disney doesn't do more stuff like this on a regular basis. Do a couple of these types of things during slow times of year and you'll boost attendance in a heartbeat. I know Disney isn't exactly hurting for money, but this is one way to bring in a quick jolt of revenue for an older but beloved ride, since you know you're going to get lots of hardcore enthusiastic fans who will be willing to drop not only $50-75 on hard tickets but also probably the same amount or more on the limited edition t-shirt, CD, poster, and Vinylmation figurine. I can see "Big Thunder Mountain Appreciation Night" or "Muppetgala 2011" or any number of similar things popping up if this is successful. As long as they don't let it get out of hand, I think it could be a pretty cool idea.

One question I have about the particular event at hand, the Star Wars night, is what else is going to be open. I assume that this will be handled like a Magic Kingdom party and they're not going to just do the Star Wars stuff and nothing else, otherwise $75 is an absurd price (granted, not one that I don't think people will pay, but absurd nonetheless.) I'd bet on them keeping Sunset Blvd. open with Rockin Roller Coaster and Tower of Terror, all of the Hollywood Blvd. shops (with Great Movie Ride likely included) and then the Echo Lake area around Star Tours, with one of the restaurants (Hollywood & Vine? Sci Fi?) open and a quick service spot or two (maybe the places around the lake and one of the food courts, the Commissary or more likely the remodeled Backlot Express.) Maybe throw in the Muppets for good measure, but definitely no Toy Story Mania or any of the live shows. Bear in mind that this is all conjecture at this point.

NEWS & NOTES

A very interesting tidbit from Disney's quarterly conference call this week. CEO Bob Iger says the company plans to stop offering theme park and hotel discounts in October to try and get people used to paying full price again. I wouldn't expect this to effect annual pass discounts to end (if it does, they can expect me buying annual passes to end) but it certainly seems like the days of free dining plans are numbered. This is assuming we believe Iger, which we probably shouldn't.

A car ran a red light near Typhoon Lagoon the other day, hitting a Disney bus in the process. It does not appear that the bus was at fault this time around.

A new TALKING Mickey Mouse character debuted recently in a test phase at Disneyland. Whenever they get the technology perfected, this will be a huge deal and change the game for the walk around Disney characters. There's video on the site.

Free dining plan is now available for packages booked 8/15 to 12/2.

Lots-o-Huggin Bear from Toy Story 3 is now greeting guests in Pixar Place at Hollywood Studios.

The Ogurkis family became the 10 millionth guests on Disney's Magical Express last week. They live about 35 minutes from me in Hazleton, PA. Cool for them.

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News From Around The World

DOG DAYS OF...APRIL?

I'd been waiting to post this until there was, you know, some actual news to report. No dice. It's been a really slow end to spring at Walt Disney World but there are some exciting things on the horizon. Summer Nighttastic begins on June 6. I'll be heading to Walt Disney World that weekend to cover the festivities. The Flower & Garden Festival is winding down at Epcot but Star Wars Weekends are on the way for Hollywood Studios. There's also a rumor going around that another free dining offer is on the way very soon. There are a few news items to report from the last few weeks.

For one thing, ask and you shall recieve, I guess. Southwest Airlines is now officially a part of Disney's resort airline check-in service after joining Magical Express this month. A pilot program at the value resorts has led the way for the addition of the service at every resort except Coronado Springs and Saratoga Springs. Those two resorts will likely be added to the program by the time you read this or shortly thereafter.

An update on the new D Street store that a lot of people are going to find very interesting: It seems much of the decor is reused props from the Adventurer's Club. It's good and bad, of course. Good that the memories are living on but bad because now it's obvious that the Adventurer's Club is gone forever.

The Little Mermaid is saying goodbye to the Magic Kingdom for the time being. Ariel's Grotto is expected to close any day now (if it's not already closed by the time you read this) for the Fantasyland expansion. Ariel will eventually be moving to Adventureland until her ride in the new Fantasyland is complete. Until then, you'll have to settle for meeting her during the princess breakfast at Akershus in Norway.

Reports indicate that the Goodings supermarket near Walt Disney World will be closing soon. If so, the nearest grocery store will be the Publix near the Gaylord Palms.

A new resort, CoCo Key, opened up on International Drive on the site of the old Hilton. It's one of those resort/water park properties that are all the rage with the kiddies these days.

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News From Around The World

FROM BAD TO WORSE

What was already a bad month in a bad year for the Walt Disney World transportation system got even worse this week with TWO MORE bus accidents. The first happened when a ten-year-old boy was struck and killed by a bus at Fort Wilderness Resort. The boy was riding a bicycle at the time and was wearing a helmet, according to reports. In this case, the boy cycled into the side of the bus and was dragged under the wheels. It is not believed that the driver was at fault in the accident. Of course, that makes it no less tragic.

The second accident was a fender bender involving a Disney bus and two other cars. According to reports, the eighty-year-old (!!) Disney bus driver did not spot a traffic light in time, causing a chain reaction crash with the two other cars. Apparently this particular driver had been reported for careless and reckless driving in the past. Disney really needs a total overhaul of this transportation system, because this kind of stuff is unacceptable.

NEWS & NOTES

Hallelujah! It's an Easter miracle, as Southwest Airlines has finally joined up with Disney's Magical Express. Guests with current reservations can add their flight information and get the full benefit of the program. This is excellent news for a great many people traveling to Walt Disney World (specifically me.) Of course, they're still not a part of the resort airline check-in service...so it's not too much of a reason to rejoice.

It looks like the cruise line signature Animator's Palate restaurant is going to get a makeover for the Dream. The restaurant will be getting a Finding Nemo overlay. The restaurant will gradually transform from the usual animation studio into an underwater world, complete with fish swimming outside the "portholes" and a version of Turtle Talk with Crush, where the cartoon will talk to guests about their dinner and stuff. Aside from the fact that talking with a cartoon turtle sounds incredibly annoying, I also find humor in the idea of Finding Nemo being the subject of the Artist's Palate restaurant, considering the fact that no artists used any paintbrushes or palates in general to create that film. Oh well, it's the thought that counts.

Two refurbs are scheduled for the Studios in the coming months. Muppetvision will go down April 24-May 14 and Rockin Roller Coaster will be closed May 15-20.

The much maligned Luxo Jr. animatronic at Hollywood Studios appears to have gone dark for good. That's a damn shame.

A new store called D Street, specializing in Vinylmation, has begun soft opening in Downtown Disney. The grand opening is scheduled for April 16. Disney describes it as "chic, offbeat, popular, vintage, kickback, fashionable and fun – fusing urban art and Disney’s creative flair." OK then.

The lineups for the Eat to the Beat Concert Series are set. It'll be Sister Hazel (Oct. 13-15), 38 Special (Oct. 20-21), Night Ranger (Oct. 22-24), Starship featuring Mickey Thomas (Oct. 28-31), and Big Bad VooDoo Daddy (Nov. 12-14). I'd imagine that some more dates are to come.

Disney held a special send off for Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox this week. They presented him with a "Mousekar" award in a ceremony involving Mickey Mouse at ESPN's Wide World of Sports. The Braves hold spring training at the complex and Cox will be retiring this year after 13 seasons with the Braves.

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News From Around The World

JUNE 18

Mark that date down in your calendars because that's the day that theme parks will be changed forever, at least if you believe the folks at Universal. While it will open in some kind of "soft open" phase in late May (including a few weeks set aside just for British vacationers using Virgin Airways,) June 18 will be the official grand opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Islands of Adventure. Depending on who you believe, this new "land" will not only give Universal the jolt it needs to seriously compete with Disney but it's headline attraction, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, will exemplify the future of theme park entertainment. I tend to not believe either of these statements, both out of general apathy towards the Harry Potter franchise and based on Universal's track record.

Universal released the opening date and details on the Forbidden Journey ride this week. According to Universal, the ride itself will feature the "first-ever combination of advanced robotic ride system technology with innovative, immersive film-making." It will also feature an extraordinarily elaborate queue that takes guests through various rooms at Hogwarts and Universal is saying that the entire experience, including the queue, will last 45 minutes to an hour. I wouldn't imagine that they are figuring the wait time into that number, so I would guess the queue will feature a few pre-show elements, like the Haunted Mansion and Tower of Terror, perhaps even more substantial than the latter, which would be pretty impressive. Based on the descriptions I've read, almost all of which come from Universal's press release, I would surmise that the attraction will involve first a queue that winds through a number of themed rooms and areas, like Pirates of the Caribbean and Expedition Everest. Then you will probably come to one or two pre-show areas. If I were to guess, I would say that one will be a large guest swallowing pre-show movie, like at Tower of Terror, that will include the scene where you initially "meet" Harry and the gang and get the ride's premise explained to you. Then there will probably be another queue leading up to the loading zone. The ride itself, if I were to guess, will probably be some type of hybrid of The Amazing Adventures of Spider Man and The Great Movie ride or Dinosaur. What I mean by that is that, I'm guessing it will combine "real" sets with 3-D elements, like the stuff with Harry and friends. There will probably be an animatronic or two involved, the reported "dragon attack" scene comes to mind, and maybe even a few scenes involving some kind of mix of all of the above with live action. The only possible way they can drag what is essentially a thrill ride out over the course of 12 scenes and 45 minutes is if the cars come to stop a bunch of times in numerous rooms, which is where I would bet the live action comes into play (unless they have entire lengthy movie portions, like at Universe of Energy, which would be used to advance the story and calm the riders down before the next big adventure scene.) It's also possible that the ride will implore some kind of trick like at Tower of Terror, where instead of moving through scenes one after another like a traditional dark ride, the ride will move "into" scenes, becoming "immersed" in them and then back out and onto a track and then into another scene, so on and so forth. Apparently Universal has been working on some sort of new ride system to use for this. So it seems like a good bet that this is what it is. Anyway, that's all conjecture based on the little promotional material Universal has released.

In an unintentional bit of hilarity, the opening date of June 18 also happens to be the same day that Toy Story 3 opens in wide release in the United States. I have no idea if there is any significance to this but it made me chuckle.

MORE TRANSPORTATION WOES

So the banner year for Disney's transportation system continues. We have two incidents to report this week. I'll leave it up to you to decide which is more unsettling. The first incident involves the monorail. Reports indicate that a monorail was riding the Epcot line towards the TTC at the end of the night when apparently something went wrong with the suspension or perhaps an axle broke. The result was the monorail violently tipping from side to side as it went around turns. Someone submitted the following eyewitness report to John Frost and The Disney Blog:

My sister and I were riding the monorail with my two nieces, who were on a stroller. It was around 9pm when on a turn, the monorail was leaning to the left side. It was so bad that the stroller went right to the door, even with the breaks on. Then it stopped for about 10-15 min. The stop was not sudden, it made a turn and started leaning towards the left side, it must have been at least 20 degrees of inclination, as it stopped. It was pretty obvious something serious was happening.

They did not say anything about what was happening. They just put the general “delay” message and said that it was going out of service after we get to the station. Then it started moving really slow and on another turn it leaned to the right side, and it stopped for a few minutes. Until we reached the station.

To say that this incident is somewhat unsettling is an understatement. What kind of maintenance work is Disney doing on these trains that they don't notice that the parts are un such a state that they could just "break" during routine service? Even more disconcerning is the claim that the strollers went careening INTO THE DOOR when the train tipped. Could you imagine if it was a few minutes later in the night or at peak morning rush hout and the train was packed with people? It's a scary thought indeed.

The next incident happened on Tuesday when a Disney bus crashed into a parked tour bus near the Epcot toll plaza. Trust me, this one is even more baffling. Reports indicate that a shuttle bus from the new Waldorf Astoria was parked in the right lane due to a mechanical problem. A Disney bus, full of guests, was approaching in the lane behind it and, for whatever reason, the driver never once hit the breaks, I guess assuming the parked bus was, in fact, moving. He was wrong. The Disney bus smashed into the back of the Waldorf bus, at around 35 miles per hour. Seven guests, including a five-year-old boy, ended up hospitalized. The driver had to be airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center, after rescuers spent fifteen minutes cutting through the front of the bus to get him out. The five-year-old was diagnosed with a broken pelvis. There was nobody in the Waldorf bus at the time, including the driver who was standing outside of the bus, indicating that it had, in fact, been parked there for some length of time without incident. How on Earth this managed to happen is completely and utterly baffling to me.

NEWS & NOTES

Concept art has been released for the two new restaurants in the works for World Showcase. The new Patina operated pizzeria going into the Italy pavilion looks to be really great, with an outdoor seating area facing the courtyard. The new Cantina de San Angel looks less promising. The vast majority of seating will be enclosed, making it into more of a Magic Kingdom style quick service location. There will still be a few coveted outdoor tables for Illuminations viewing but it looks be nowhere near as many as the current location. In fact, the restaurant is rumored to be both table service and counter service, so the outdoor tables may end up being first day ADR's now. That makes me sad because the old Cantina was an overlooked gem of Epcot.

Disney recently fitted one of the monorails with an ad decal for the Tron Legacy film coming out in December. So if you notice a crazy looking monorail zooming around on the Epcot line, that's it.

The Studios Catering Company quick service spot debuted a new menu this week. Choices are mostly sandwiches but include a Buffalo Chicken sandwich, something I love that you don't see a lot at Disney World.

In other food news, a few reports indicate that the Flying Fish Cafe at the Boardwalk is in the process of adding some kind of special "chef's counter" dining experience.

A new store called Ridemakerz opened in Downtown Disney this week. The store sells fully customizable model and remote control cars (and spells its name with a "z" at the end to show off how cool it is because, apparently, it's still 1999.) It takes over the spot formerly occupied by the Virgin Megastore. Apparently it's only a limited engagement but there is hope on both ends that it will be popular enough to open in another spot in Downtown Disney, which sounds like a great idea because the Virgin building is WAY too big a spot for it. Even with the whole store in there the building looks empty.

Disney World listed a hiring ad for lifeguards on Facebook this week, directing interested parties to their online hiring page. If you've never been there, it's kind of fun to check out for uber-Disney nerds. Among the things you can check out are the starting salaries for a great number of jobs around the World. If you've ever wondered how much the kid in the Mickey Mouse costume makes, that's the place.

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News From Around The World

Universal announced that they will be announcing more details on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter on March 25. Yes, an announcement about an announcement. It's expected that they'll be announcing details on the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride and a grand opening date for the island.

I haven't seen the show this season but apparently Aaron Kelly, one of the final 11 contestants on American Idol, was a dream ticket winner at Hollywood Studios. That's pretty cool so congrats to him. I guess if your dreams really are of the American Idol variety, it helps to try them out in Orlando.

There's a new pool coming to Saratoga Springs. There will be a zero entry pool with a slide, a water play area, a huge deck, and a quick service dining location.

I don't think I reported this earlier. The Sounds Like Summer concert series schedule is set. June 12-19 is Stayin Alive (Bee Gees cover band,) June 20-26 is Hotel California (Eagles cover band,) July 4-10 is Satisfaction (Rolling Stones,) July 11-17 is Slippery When Wet (Bon Jovi,) July 18-24 2U (U2,) and July 25-31 Beginnings (Chicago covers.) June 27-July 3 is to be announced.

It looks like the end of the road for motion capture at Disney, at least for the time being. Robert Zemeckis' IMD studio will shut down soon. This was the studio that did Christmas Carol. It remains to be seen if Disney is backing away from the filmmaking style or looking to take it in a different direction.

Sad to report the death of Fess Parker this week. Parker played Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone in the popular films and television series in the 1950's and 60's. Their success laid much of the foundation for Frontierland at Disneyland.

The Disney Fans Insider online newsletter recently changed its layout.

Mental Floss posted a Presidential trivia quiz this week and used a stock photo from the Hall of Presidents.

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News From Around The World

Slightly different style/format starting this week. Maybe we'll like it, maybe we won't. Comments are welcome.

Good news for people with oodles of money and vacation time on their hands. Disney announced this week an annual pass good for every domestic park, Florida and California. The "Premier Passport" is good for admission to all 4 Florida parks, both California parks, the water parks, DisneyQuest, and Wide World of Sports plus the usual parking and other pass-holder benefits. It can all be yours for $700.

Maybe that will appease the fans who are angry over the announcement that this year's D23 expo is off. That was pretty much the only reason to be a member of that club, wasn't it? They're having one next year though and will have a two day "destination event" at Disneyland this year.

The Sherman Brothers were honored with a long overdue window on Main Street at Disneyland. The window reads "Two Brothers Tunemakers." It's located on the beginning of Main Street near the Cinema.

Disney CEO Bob Iger, at the company's annual meeting, said that he has no plans to release Song of the South on DVD. He went on to call it "fairly offensive." Not offensive enough to not base a theme park attraction on, but apparently offensive nonetheless.

A cast member was hospitalized over the weekend after an accident at the Tomorrowland Speedway. I don't have many details but as best I can tell the cast member was struck by one of the cars and the injuries were not severe. Not that I ever wish for people to get hurt, but I'm kind of hoping this is just one of many reasons Disney will have to eventually shut this eyesore of a ride down.

Random wacky story of the week. Apparently Disney has partnered with a bunch of designers and high-end retailers for some absurdly extravagant Alice in Wonderland tie-in products. Among them are $1200 Versace shoes, a $630 Sue Wong gown, a $475 Furla handbag, and $115 Swarovski pendant. If you own any of the above items, please seek help.


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News From Around The World

It's a really slow news week at Disney World.

The new Holiday Inn is open on Hotel Plaza Blvd. Orlando Attractions Magazine has a bunch of pictures. It looks pretty nice, similar to the Contemporary. Almost a more contemporary Contemporary, if you will.

The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is up and running. All Ears Net has an inside look from Debra Martin Koma and a photo gallery. Orlando Attractions Magazine also has a look.

The new Universal Orlando brocure has some information on Wizarding World of Harry Potter attractions. Orlando Attractions Magazine has it up on their site.

Up didn't take home the Best Picture Award at the Oscars last night, but it did land Best Animated Feature and Best Original Score. It was one of only five films to win multiple awards. So, all in all, it was a pretty good night for Disney.

Speaking of the Oscars, it was nice to see Roy included in the "in memory" retrospective. Also, I thought James Taylor did a really great job.

That's all the news I've got for you this week. We'll update during the week if anything else breaks.


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News From Around The World

Wow, I'm glad I dragged my feet on posting the update this week. Big news broke last night at a press conference at the Wide World of Sports. The big news is that the Main Street Electrical Parade will be returning to the Magic Kingdom this summer as part of a wider "Summer Nightastic" promotion. In addition to the return of the refurbished parade will be a new Magic Kingdom fireworks show to replace Wishes, at least for the time being. There were a few minor announcements for the other parks including extended evening hours at Animal Kingdom (great idea but somehow I doubt it's happening much), new drop sequences on the Tower of Terror, and the return of the Sounds Like Summer concert series at Epcot. They also announced a few additional details on some things people already knew about including the Fantasyland expansion, Wide World of Spore rebranding, and the new cruise ships. They also announced an expansion at Castaway Cay and new sailings for the Magic and Wonder. So all in all, a pretty big night last night. All Ears Net has a full update. In additional to that, we have a small update below from when the news broke last night, as well as updates from The Disney Blog, The Orlando Sentinel, and Mickey Extreme.

The Disney Blog is reporting via Fox 35 that Spaceship Earth had to be evacuated the other day due to an electrical short. Smoke was smelled in the attraction. It reopened to guests later in the day.

Drew Brees celebrated the Saints Super Bowl win in traditional fashion: by going to Disney World! Orlando Attractions has pictures of his ticker-tape parade down Main Street USA.

Samantha Brown's new Disney special debuted last night on the Travel Channel. I didn't have a chance to see it yet. It replays Saturday at 10pm.

John Frost at The Disney Blog has new concept art for Aulani, Disney's new Hawaiian resort.

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News From Around The World

In the least shocking news you'll ever hear, Austin Wuennenberg's family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Disney. Austin, you might remember, was the monorail pilot killed in the tragic accident over the 4th of July holiday. Mickey Extreme has the story.

In more bad monorail news, The Disney Blog is reporting that monorail Coral is offline for a few days after a brake fire last night. I know they're iconic but is anyone else starting to get the feeling that Disney is going to scrap the monorail system sometime in the future?

Jaunted has a story on some new stuff announced for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Included is something called Ollivander's Wand Shop. Apparently this is exciting. As I've noted before, I don't understand or particularly care about any of this.

President Obama, in his State of the Union address no less, announced the high speed train that will connect Walt Disney World and the Orlando Convention Center to Tampa's Ybor City. It's great news for those of us who live in central Florida and the Bay Area. It's also pretty exciting for people who want to travel between the theme parks as the route puts stops literally minutes from all 4 Disney parks, SeaWorld, Universal Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa, and the proposed new Legoland. Theme Park Insider speculates.

Speaking of Busch Gardens, the CEO of Busch Gardens Williamsburg apparently just visited Epcot and decided "I've got to get me one of those!" According to Theme Park Insider, the park announced the opening of two new shows: a high definition aerial tour of Europe and a nighttime fireworks called (I swear I'm not making this up) "IllumiNights."

Disney is shutting down Miramax. For the 6 or 7 of you who still care, the New York Times has coverage.

Hundreds of Walt Disney World cast members were among those who participated in the Hope for Haiti benefit last weekend. Just in case you haven't considered donating to the cause, we at WDWorld Traveler would like to encourage you to give something, anything, to the people of Haiti who very desperately need it. I know things are tight right now, trust me they are for me and are for everyone, but many many people lost EVERYTHING. See this desk your computer is on while you read this? It would be a good home for most of them. Take the money you had earmarked for a Dole Whip and a turkey leg next time at the Magic Kingdom and give it to Haiti. My real life employers have compiled a list of reputable organizations that are accepting donations. Please consider one of them. Alright...I'm done preaching now.


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New Fantasyland 3D Model

Thought this was worthy of it's own post.

Stitch Kingdom has hooked us up with an amazing view of a model of what the new Fantasyland will most likely look like.

I honestly must say that this is the first time I can actually say I'm excited about the expansion. I think this is the first time it's sunk in that there's going to be a whole new LAND at the MAGIC KINGDOM.

First off check out the link above. Then read my notes below.

• The first time walking through the new castle gate and seeing this lush new fantasy world is going to be overwhelming both for children and for us fans. I guarantee welling tears and goosebumps for a lot of people.
• The last model speculates on possible Cinerella and Sleeping Beauty attractions. I think the original announcement made it pretty clear that it was going to be that sort of meet & greet/show hybrid.
• The Little Mermaid ride is probably going to rule.
• I don't see any reason why the Barnstormer can't keep the current theme. At least that way it gives them an excuse to keep Mickey and the gang somewhere in the former Toontown. This is unless, of course, they decide to relegate them to Main Street. Come to think of it, where were they before they opened Starland in the late 80's?
• The first vibe I got from checking out the pictures was that they reminded me of a really big World Showcase pavilion, with the elaborate facades and little pathways and crevices.
  
• Gaston's Tavern just won't be the same without his favorite beverage.
  

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News From Around The World

It looks like Orlando will be welcoming yet another theme park...well, sort of. Legoland will open up on the site of the former Cypress Gardens. The Disney Blog has coverage.

We've got another potentially great/potentially awful Disney pic in the works: a Tim Burton directed retelling of Sleeping Beauty called Maleficent.

The slap on the wrist that Disney got for the monorail accident that killed a cast member back in July has been reduced to more of a flick. John Frost reports in an annoyed fashion on The Disney Blog.

Been on the edge of your seat wondering what the name of Disney's new Vacation Club property in Hawaii will be? Me neither. But it's Aulani.

From The Onion, Jay-Z decides he likes orlando better!

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News From Around The World

The big news in Disney this week is the absolutely awful weather that's been around seemingly since Christmas. It's 55 in Orlando as I type this so, all things considered, it could be worse (like the other day when it snowed.) Things look to be getting better this weekend. If your trip was ruined by the awful weather and it's related closures (Typhoon Lagoon and Spirit of Aloha just today to name a few) remember that it could always be worse. Check out what happened at Disneyland Paris, courtesy of Disney and More.

Mickey Extreme has a note on the first "Give a Day; Get a Disney Day" guests. It's certainly an interesting promotion. It will definitely increase the number of people doing volunteer work and especially in the case of families doing it together hopefully give the kids a look at the lives of people who probably can't afford Disney vacations (and maybe even make them want to volunteer again without the theme park ticket reward.) Then again, I don't see how this promotion will make anyone want to go to Disney who wasn't planning on going already. With how expensive it is to go to Disney for, say, a week, I don't think a one day one park ticket for free is going to make or break someone's vacation budget.

From the "there's no such thing as a bad idea...except this one" department: Disney and Jerry Bruckheimer plan on remaking the Sorcerer's Apprentice as a full length feature film starring Nicolas Cage, at least according to SF Signal.

More music news this week from Universal. They've announced the concert schedule for this year's Mardi Gras celebration, second only to Halloween Horror Nights on the list of "only reasons to go to Universal." This year has some good ones and favorites of mine including Heart, 3 Doors Down, and Chicago. Also on the schedule, and write this one down for potential trainwreck, FLO RIDA! The Orlando Sentinel has the full list.

Here's a simply amazing deal for annual passholders. The Richard Petty Driving Experience is offering one FREE shotgun ridealong! Yes. You get to ride in a racing car for 3 laps around the track for free. I'm so sad that I won't be in the Orlando area before the promotion ends March 31. The Daily Disney has more details.

Prince Caspian has done his final...whatever it is he did, exactly. No less than a month after I made fun of his attraction and the fact that I have no clue what it's supposed to be, The Orlando Sentinel reports that it's closed. Think about that for a minute: I had seriously no idea what this was when I stumbled across it at the Studios last month, and I write about this stuff for a living.

Finally, congratulations are in order for Deb and the folks over at All Ears for the money they raised for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk over the weekend at the Walt Disney World Marathon. Also a shout out to all of our friends who participated in the marathon. I get out of breath walking to the mailbox so your hard work does not go unappreciated.

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Feel free to re-post anything from WDWorld Traveler but please link back to http://wdwtraveler.blogspot.com

News From Around The World

The Disney Blog, citing WFTV, and a host of other sources are reporting on a bus crash near the Magic Kingdom on Sunday. There were a few minor guest injuries but overall the crash was nothing serious. It's just the next in a long line of transportation woes at the resort this year. I could rant about it but at this point, what's the point?

There's been a rash of arrests of Disney employees on child porn charges. This is obviously disheartening for Disney World but isn't especially shocking. Any big group is going to get a few bad apples and, unfortunately, Disney and children go hand in hand. Plus, one arrest usually results in a bunch of leads so when you get one in a big company it's not hard to quickly get the rest and that's what I have to assume is happening here. All that having been said, Disney should be careful to weed these folks out if they want to avoid a PR nightmare and, even worse, end up with someone abducting kids.

Tiana's Showboat Jubilee has been jubilant for the final time. Final curtain was last week. Rumor has it the show is being shipped to Paris though it's not out of the question that it will return to the Magic Kingdom at some time (stranger things have happened...not much stranger.)

The Disney Store is getting ready to renovate in Times Square. The Disney Blog has coverage.

There is a petition going around online to ask Disney to make a Lost themed attraction. It would be fun for us Lost fans, and I'd rather a Lost display at the Studios than a Prince Caspian one, but it's obviously not going to happen. They might have had better luck with the petition if they bothered to proofread it. As it stands now they are petitioning "Disnet." Even more so, everyone should be careful what they wish for. Next thing you know they'll open up Ugly Betty Land.

There's some theme park news for music fans. Busch Gardens Tampa released their "Real Music" concert series (you know, as opposed to the short lived "Fake Music" series) including Herman's Hermits, Davy Jones, and the 5th Dimension. (The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra is still together!?!?) Meanwhile, Orleans will be performing at the Hard Rock Hotel on January 28. You like Orleans?

The Wrestling Observer reports that a "Hulk Hogan parade" was held January 3rd at CityWalk in the area of Margheritaville to coincide with the live "TNA Impact" show scheduled for January 4th at Universal. I'm SO sorry I wasn't able to see this.

It was brought to my attention that in the last update I called the Candlelight Processional "occasionally profanity laden." This was a mistake. The Eat to the Beat Concert Series is the Epcot event that occasionally includes outbursts of profanity. The Candlelight Processional only does when the candles accidentally light someone on fire or when Vanessa Cartlon hosts.

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Feel free to re-post anything from WDWorld Traveler but please link back to http://wdwtraveler.blogspot.com

News From Around The World

The holidays are in full swing at Walt Disney World, with Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, Epcot's occasionally profanity laden Candlelight Processional, and the Osbourne Family Spectacle of Lights at Hollywood Studios. I'll be making my way to Walt Disney World December 17-18 for the party and the processional. I'll have live coverage on the site as well as on our Twitter page, with some long overdue reviews of new attractions including the updated Space Mountain and Spaceship Earth, as well as the new Toy Story Mania and American Idol Experience.

Meanwhile, taping for the Christmas Day Parade, set to air on ABC, continued this week. A number of area blogs have coverage including All Ears Net, A Mom and a Mouse, The Disney Blog, and Orlando Attractions Magazine.

The Orlando Sentinel is reporting that Annual Pass discounts have been extended for Mickey's very Merry Christmas Party for every date except for the final party on December 18. The discount is $10 off. I don't know if you can get the discount if you've already bought your tickets, but I'm looking into it now and will report my findings.

College bowl games were announced yesterday. Those with interest to the Orlando area are the Champs Sports Bowl, Miami FL vs. Wisconsin, and the Capital One Bowl (formerly the Citrus Bowl,) Penn State vs. LSU. We have an article on the Capital One Bowl from the Scranton Times-Tribune, for no other reason than it's my local paper and they mentioned Disney in the headline.

Philadelphia Examiner is reporting that guest spending at Walt Disney World dropped this year, down 4%. It's the lowest since 2005 and first drop since 2003. This shouldn't come as much surprise. When you give people free dining plans to come, they're obviously going to spend less once they get on property. Plus nobody has any money this year so everyone is scaling down their travel. They should be happy that spending only dropped 4%. Disneyland has a 7% jump in attendence and 9% drop in spending. Yikes.

Remember that contest they were holding in Great Brittan a while back to find a "twin town" for Walt Disney World? Well Swindon is the winner. According to the article Swindon is known for railways and Honda motors and has a roundabout in the middle of town. You can read more from The BBC.

That's it for this week. Hope your Christmas shopping is going well. Remember, I like cars.

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Feel free to re-post anything from WDWorld Traveler but please link back to http://wdwtraveler.blogspot.com

News From Around The World

Just a few odds and ends to report following Thanksgiving week.

Crowds are returning to normal manageable levels today with things moving more towards the "empty" column throughout the week. I've been getting my crowd information over the holiday from Touring Plans new "Lines" iPhone app that they're offering for free right now during beta testing. If you don't have an iPhone you can download Apple's Safari browser for free and check it out there. It's well worth it if you're insane like me and like to see Walt Disney World wait times while waiting at home. You can also help keep food on Len's table by paying to use his website like me. Trust me, you'll feel all warm and fuzzy inside when you do (and no doubt be about 10 bucks poorer.) In a somewhat related note, approximate wait times have returned to Walt Disney World mobile. That or they were there all along and I couldn't find them because, as established earlier, I'm insane.

The Daily Disney reports that apparently Vanessa Carlton was recently banned from the Eat to the Beat concert series for muttering the "f word" on stage during her performance. Quite possibly the only thing I'd love more than being able to perform on stage at Walt Disney World is being banned from doing so.

The Disney Blog has a small update on the Space Mountain changes. Check out the picture of the mannequin wearing the new Space Mountain t-shirt. I guess in the future everyone dresses like a tool.

Figment at the Intercot discussion boards notes that character attendants and greeters have changed their costumes to light blue shirts and khaki pants, one can only assume in an attempt to appear more like normal human beings.

Jaunted reports on the Thanksgiving travel rush to say...there's really nothing to report. Everything went well, there were minimal weather issues, and no crazy delays. Bummer?

Today's "random thing to be outraged about": Disney not allowing a paraplegic to use a fancy two-wheeled wheelchair at Animal Kingdom. Mickey Extreme has the whole article.

I got a chance to catch "Behind the Magic: Disney Holidays" on HGTV last night and it was shockingly one of the better presentations I've seen in awhile. It went backstage in the warehouses where they keep the Christmas decorations, showed the over night decorating of the parks and had specific features on decorating the Cinderella Castle Suite, the Osbourne Spectacle of Lights, and the castle dreamlights. The host was a little annoying sometimes but at least didn't seem like an all out shill for Disney. In fact, they shied away from the usual "spotlight the new big thing" formula that these shows usually take on. That having been said, if I have to see one more feature on the Grand Floridian gingerbread house on one of these specials, I'm going to scream. If you missed it, it airs next at 3am Friday December 11 (late night Thursday) with a few more airings around Christmas.

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Feel free to re-post anything from WDWorld Traveler but please link back to http://wdwtraveler.blogspot.com

News From Around The World

Space Mountain began soft openings to guests this weekend. We reported on the opening on Saturday. Reports indicate that the ride itself is almost completely unchanged. The only changes are a few effects enhancements, like darkening the ride and improving on the stars and things that are floating around. The biggest change is to the queue and post show. The queue now includes a few time wasting games and general enhancements like new paint and stuff. There is now also an on ride photo. WDW Magic has additional coverage.

The Disney World mobile site was launched last week. It offers basically all of the park information you could need in an "easy to load on a cell phone" manner. As far as it's purported "wait time information" however, it doesn't tell you something like "Soarin: 50 minutes" it only says "moderate" or "see now." Thanks, Disney. No way is it could to be remotely accurate...like, I could guess a month in advance and give you as much helpful information as this thing.

Meanwhile, Disney has also launched its mobile app for Verizon phones. Mickey Xtreme has coverage.

And because two isn't enough, one of my favorite guidebooks The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World, has released an iPhone app with wait times to every attraction. I don't have an iPhone so I can't use it but it seems like the best of the apps that's come out so far. The Disney Blog has an update on it.

Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, will become the company’s chief financial officer, while Thomas O. Staggs, the current CFO, will move to the top job at the theme park division, according to WDW Magic.

The Daily Disney is reporting that Travel Channel's Samantha Brown was spotted in Disney World recently filming another TV special, possibly her 10th Anniversary show.

Mickey Xtreme is reporting that Downtown Disney is having a special sale on December 5 for annual passholders offering FIFTY PERCENT off certain items, free Vinylmation characters, and other savings. It's only from 6:30 to 9:30am but it's well worth the trip if you're in the area and have a lot of Disney items on your shopping list.

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Feel free to re-post anything from WDWorld Traveler but please link back to http://wdwtraveler.blogspot.com

News From Around The World

As we get closer and closer to the holidays, expect less and less news from Disney outside of the usual "holy crap, there were HOW MANY people today!?!" stories.

We're tracking Hurricane/Tropical Storm/Tropical Depression/Whatever Its Called Today Ida as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico. At the moment it appears to be headed towards Alabama, possibly hitting the panhandle or, unfortunately, New Orleans. Disney seems to be in the clear. Right now, the Weather Channel is reporting that the National Weather Service has issued a "Lake Wind Advisory" which probably means nothing to a lot of you (it warns boaters that gusts on open water are going to be stronger than on land and possibly small enough to flip your boat...in other words, postpone your fishing trip for another day.) The biggest chance of rain is tomorrow with the storms tapering off Wednesday, and an absolutely perfect weekend ahead (high 70's to low 80's.)

Mickey Xtreme has an update on Flamingo Crossing. Yeah, I totally forgot about this thing too.

WDW Magic is speculating that the Lights of Winter may not be performed at Epcot this holiday season, citing the fact that the lights are not in place nor are they even in the usual staging area. It is, of course, also possible that they are in a different staging area or are being installed later than usual this year.

The Daily Disney reports that Mickey Mouse will be appearing in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade for the first time this year.

In closing, I didn't get a chance to mention it over the weekend but our thoughts and prayers go out to the employees and families of RS&H after the shooting in Orlando on Friday and, while we're at it, to those affected by the shooting at Fort Hood.

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Feel free to re-post anything from WDWorld Traveler but please link back to http://wdwtraveler.blogspot.com

News From Around The World

Typhoon Lagoon began its refurbishment a few days early, starting near the end of October. WDW Magic is reporting that a large crane is on site, likely to assist with the refurb, though rumors are surfacing that something new could be getting added to the park as well.

All Ears Net has artist's renderings of the new Disney Dream cruise ship. I have to admit that the Enchanted Garden restaurant and the Oceaneer's Club stuff looks really cool. Also, one of the biggest nightclubs where I live is also called Evolution. From the looks of things, mine does the theme better than Disney's.

WDW Magic has the announcement of the 2010 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Details include:

• Starting date of March 3, the earliest ever. (Ending an early May 16)
• An expanded butterfly garden, this year themed after Bambi.
• A garden near the American Adventure celebrating home vegetable gardens.
• An "American Gothic" themed Mickey & Minnie topiary.
• A "pirate adventure zone."
• A "fragrence garden" in France to tell the "love story of plants," whatever that is.

The Liberty Belle Riverboat is now running normal again, as well as during Tiana shows, according to WDW Magic.

The Philadelphia Examiner has an update on the new Disney "Mobile Magic" cell phone app.


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Feel free to re-post anything from WDWorld Traveler but please link back to http://wdwtraveler.blogspot.com

News From Around The World

WDW Magic is reporting that a new show titled "A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas" will debut on the former "Stitch's Supersonic Celebration" stage for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. Odds that this show lasts longer than the stage's former resident?

Tiana's Showboat Jubilee, the new Frontierland show that opened today, is operating with showtimes of 12:15pm, 2pm, and 3:45pm, according to multiple sources.

Mickey Extreme is reporting on a new discount available to Disney Visa card holders at select Walt Disney World merchandise locations. It's a 10% discount off a purchase of $50 or more and you MUST ask for it. There is a lot of fine print but it boils down to this: it's not available at any store operated by an outside vendor, nor is it good for any "designer" or specialty merchandise, or for expensive stuff like tickets or electronics. Basically it's good for your basic park souvenir stuff: t-shirts, stuffed animals, etc. Still, 10% is 10%.

The Orlando Sentinel is reporting that the 2009 Christmas Day Parade will be taped December 3-5 at the Magic Kingdom.

The Disney Parks Blog has an article on the new pilot program to introduce $1 coins to Walt Disney World.

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Feel free to re-post anything from WDWorld Traveler but please link back to http://wdwtraveler.blogspot.com

News From Around The World

The Orlando Sentinel is reporting that Disney is finally on board for the proposed high speed rail system that would connect Tampa to Orlando. The train, which is cool enough news for a Clearwater guy like myself, is big news for people who want for not only Florida commuters and day trippers but for vacationers who want to see more than one of Florida's tourist spots without having to rent a car. The proposed system, that is only in the early planning stages and hasn't even been allocated funds yet, would connect Disney World, the Orlando Convention Center (Universal area,) Orlando International Airport, and downtown Tampa. You could see why Disney would oppose this but I guess they finally decided that the pros outweigh the cons.

John Frost at The Disney Blog is reporting that the Winnie the Pooh lawsuit is FINALLY over. Thank goodness Disney and all parties involved can finally move on.

WDW Magic is reporting on a number of changes around Innoventions Plaza. The overhead cables are gone from around the plaza. I always kind of liked those for some reason, though I know they had the practical purpose of keeping the birds away. This is prime season for those birds to come inland to WDW and annoy guests so maybe Disney has come up with a new method of keeping the birds away. The Fountain of Nations has a new stainless steel guardrail.

The New York Times is reporting that the World of Disney store in Manhattan is closing it's doors. According to the article, the company has not ruled out opening a smaller Disney Store in Times Square.

WDW Magic is reporting that Thumper and Miss Bunny from Bambi will be appearing at Animal Kingdom in the near future.

Finally, WDW Magic is reporting that some new land-specific merchandise has popped up in Adventureland. I've got to be honest, I'm loving that Jungle Cruise t-shirt.

One last closing note. If you haven't seen it yet, Disney Parks has launched its own official blog. Check it out.