Tips from the Disney Diva

Disney's Aulani Resort

2012-02-13T05:43:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Planner
Photos: Suzanne Broughton @ suzannebroughton.com

Did you know that there is a Disney tropical paradise? A place to get away and feel the island breeze? A place where all your worries melt away as you swim with the dolphins?

That’s right – Disney now has a resort on the Hawaiian island of Oahu!

Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa opened up in fall 2011 and is welcoming visitors to a little piece of Hawaiian paradise.

This 21 acre resort is located approximately 17 miles from the Honolulu Airport. Included at the resort are beautiful accommodations – including suites and Disney Vacation Club villas. There are 4 restaurants, 2 lounges, 10 recreation facilities (think pools, trails and even a beach house!), a fitness center, kids club, shopping and so much more!

And only Disney can bring the culture of Hawaii to life in a fun and interactive way! Experience pool parties, storytelling, character meet and greets, cooking lessons and much more. Take excursions to various parts of the island to sightsee, jetski, snorkel, hike, or even experience a luau!

Or, if you are looking for something truly unique, take part in an Adventures By Disney tour! Options include a catamaran experience, surf school, the Honolulu Academy of Arts & Bishop Museum tour, rainforest hike, and many more.

So to experience a Hawaiian paradise Disney-style – make your way to Aulani today!

(Need help booking your trip? Contact Megan Biller at Glass Slipper Concierge and she will get you pointed in the right direction).

Disneyland's The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure attraction review

2012-02-12T05:51:00.000-08:00

By D’land Diva

I was nine months pregnant the first time I took this trip down under the sea. Yes, you read that correctly, nine months pregnant. You see, at first the ride was scheduled to open in the Spring of 2011, but didn't actually open until early summer 2011. My daughter was due middle to late July 2011. However, I was very, very excited for this ride to open and was determined to ride it before I had to take a temporary Disneyland hiatus for the birth of our daughter. All of you who have been pregnant before or been around a lady who is nine months pregnant knows that this was probably not an easy trip to make.

Let’s go back to how this ride came to be. Originally, the building on the pier in Disney California Adventure housed the Golden Dreams Theater. There was a show in there I can honestly say I never saw, starring Whoopi Goldberg. It was never a showstopper in DCA, and would sometimes house added attractions during Halloween time. When it was announced that the new Little Mermaid attraction was going to be housed there, many were wondering how that was going to work, however, Disney Imagineers had plans for a Little Mermaid Ride cooked up long before the announcements.

You can see the plans are on the extended version DVD of the Little Mermaid. Imagineers took these plans, the latest in animatronics, and some major redesigns of the Golden Dreams theater, and created a new fun family dark ride.

So, I was nine months pregnant and determined to get on the Little Mermaid Ride. We arrived on an annual pass holder, soft opening day.

Diva tip: There are days and times before a ride or attraction opens that annual pass holders are allowed to participate in the new attraction. There may also be times and days visitors can participate called a "soft opening". If you're curious you can always ask the people at Guest Relations if these opportunities exist during your trip.

To save time and energy getting into the park, we parked in the Toy Story Lot and I waddled my way into Disney California Adventure.

While I waited out front, my husband snuck back to the ride (which is located in the middle of the park) to check out the line, which turned out to be long... VERY long.

In desperation, we went over to guest services and a very kind lady gave me a guest assistance pass after looking at my belly. We were told that we would have to talk to the cast member at the front of the attraction for assistance. Since the queue is ADA compliant (more on this later), the Cast Member gave us a pass to come back to line in an hour. This meant we skipped most of the line when we returned but we would have been in about the same location if we had waited in line. This is just one of the awesome cast member experiences we have had at the Disneyland Resort.

The queue to the ride has wonderful theming. Part of the queue is outdoors, but most of it is covered from the sun and the rain. The ground is covered in a type of cement that looks remarkably like sand and has bits of seashells in it.

Once inside the building, there are more of Disney's amazing attention to detail, such as lamps that looks like seaweed. There are also murals! As in many of the other dark rides at the Disneyland Resort, story elements and characters are developed before you even reach the ride.

The ride is an Omni mover ride, much like the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland and Disney World and Nemo's under the sea voyage at WDW. There is a moving walkway and guests step onto the walkway and into an open clamshell, which seat two to three guests.

It is a slow moving ride and completely wheelchair accessible. TIP: All wheelchair guests will be instructed to move through the queue before entering the ride. One of the clamshells is designed to allow guests in wheelchairs to experience the attraction with one or two additional guests.

This is a dark ride. Guests are taken “under the sea” through creative imaging of ocean waves and by the backwards movement of your clamshell to the bottom level of the ride.

Once "under the sea", there is a magical place where the ocean animals come together to sing one of the best known songs from the Little Mermaid movie “Under the Sea.” This particular part of the ride is amazing.

You will see all of your favorite sea characters from the movie, as well as other ocean animals singing, dancing and playing musical instruments. Diva tip: be on the lookout for Mr. Limpet, a character from another Disney film. He’s a nice little homage.

Ariel is a particular standout in this part of the ride, as a demonstration of just how far animatronics have come. She moves, blinks and looks very life like.

Like many dark rides, the ride also introduces a darker side to the story, and in this case it is Ursula the sea witch in her cave. My three year old son had a bit of problem with this part of the ride the first time he rode it, so be forewarned. She is larger than life, also an amazing animatronic presence, so be warned that she can be a bit frightening for the younger audience.

There are a few screens that extend the story before one of my personal favorite scenes from the movie as well as one of my favorite songs: “Kiss the Girl.”

This ride ends happily ever after and my little Z loves to wave to Ariel and Eric during the last scene.

There is no scream factor for this ride, it is simply a family ride.

It is an enjoyable journey under the sea. Some children may have trouble with the Ursula sea witch parts, or the fact that it is a dark ride. I have also been able to ride with my littlest one sitting on my lap, for those of you with babies. There is a lap bar in your clamshell, so watch those knees.

The story is familiar, and well told through screens, animatronics, and song. This is on the list of my family’s favorite attractions for DCA, and it was well worth the effort- even at nine months pregnant- to ride the Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure.

Week in Review Feb 5 to Feb 11, 2012

2012-02-12T03:28:00.000-08:00

Special thanks to the Tips from the Disney Diva Fan of the Week JENNY MOORE! (see more below on how you can get picked fan of the week or become a Top Fan!)

Did you miss anything this week? Catch up with all the Diva News Here!

Sunday – Canadian Diva gave great advice to her fellow Canadians wondering if they will need a Passport to visit Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Chocked full of tips, if you have any Canadian friends planning to visit Disney make sure they know we’re looking out for them!

Monday – Nick the Disney Devo (tee) Wrote an open letter to all those who wonder why we return to Disney World over and over again! He highlighted the many different Disney “seasonal” activities. This is definitely an article you want to read if you’re wondering when you should plan your Walt Disney World Vacation.

Tuesday – In our first post as a part of the Magical Blogorail talked about the Most Romantic Things the Disney Diva has experienced at Disney. We are so excited to have been chosen to be a part of this great blogging collaborative!

Wednesday – Diva Planner wrote an article about Adult Fun on a Disney Cruise. Many adults struggle with this before deciding to book a Disney Cruise and Diva Planner tells you about all the fun YOU will get to have!

Thursday – Diva Meesh told you her Top 5 Thrill Rides at Disneyland, sure to get your blood pumping!

Friday – Teen Diva gave a special review of Disneyland’s Ariel’s Grotto and World of Color Dining Package. Its so great to know what your teen is going to like before going on vacation!

Saturday – Disney Diva Shared what information can be found at Walt Disney Worlds Guest Relations. So if you lose your keys, or tickets, or want to make a last minute reservation, you’ll know where to go.

On our FACEBOOK FAN PAGE we had open discussions about:

- When do you start packing for your trip. Most people said they begin 2 weeks before their vacation?

- What advice do you give to first time visitors about getting sick at Disney?

- What is your favorite breakfast treat at Disney?

Our Facebook Fan of the Week is Jenny Moore

This weeks Top 5 Facebook fans were: 1)Laurie Smith, 2) Hiro Mi, 3) Kelly Meadows, 4) Amy Marie Hall & 5) Sandara Rudolph! Your “likes”, “comments” and “shares” all add up to points to see who loves the Diva articles the most! Come “play” with us!

Are you hooked on Pinterest yet? You can re-pin your favorite articles for easy referral by following our Disney Blogs and Pals board, Disney Dining board, & Disney ride review board (hyperlinks to each of the different boards!

Also, we’d love it if you would honor us by pinning our site pin on YOUR board of favorites. There’s one pre-prepared for you by clicking HERE.

Have a GREAT WEEK EVERYBODY!!

What information can you find at Walt Disney World’s Guest Relations?

2012-02-11T03:25:00.000-08:00

Author: The Disney Diva

Did you lose your keys? Do you need to convert your currency? Have your tickets gone missing and you need reprints? Well, you need to find Guest Relations at a Disney Park!

Guest Relations stations are at every park in Walt Disney World.They will be marked with a lowercase ‘i’ in a bright blue rectangle on your park map.

There are two in Magic Kingdom. One is outside of the park entrance so you can ask questions before entering the park if you need to. The other is in City Hall.

Epcot also has two Guest Relations stations. The first is outside of the park, you will actually pass it if you get off of a resort bus. The other is near Spaceship Earth.

At Hollywood Studios before you go into the park its on the Left and then when you enter the park, immediately after the turn-styles on your left.

At Animal Kingdoms the Guest Relations also has an outside the park station on the left and you can also get to it by going left once you enter the park.

So what kind of information can you find there?

Well, first off you can get any of the nifty buttons for your birthday, anniversary, first trip, honeymoon, anything like that, for FREE at Guest Relations.

You can also find:

Disney Resort Reservations and get Advanced Reservations for Dining
Ticket Information & Adjustments
Find any missing party member and/ or leave a message for someone who may be looking for you.
Exchange Foreign Currency
Get info about tours, on-property activities, and behind the scenes educational programs.
Get maps in French, German, Japanese, Spanish and Portuguese
Purchase Walt Disney World Gift Certificates.
Information concerning Guests with disabilities
Get those Happy Birthday or First Visit Buttons
Convert tickets to annual passes.
Get Tables in Wonderland Dining Discount Cards here.

From my experience, they can find out just about any kind of information you might need! So don’t be afraid to use this valuable information!

Disneyland's Ariel's Grotto - Teen Review of World of Color Dining

2012-02-10T03:15:00.000-08:00

Author: Teen Diva

When you walk into the California Adventure Park and you go to the boardwalk one of the first things you will see is Ariel's Grotto restaurant. Like every other sit down eatery at ANY Disney Park I highly recommend getting a reservation.

If you go during the summer you NEED an Advance Reservation because if you don't get one... guess who is not eating. At a minimum you need to get your reservation at least five days in advance unless you want to eat dinner at 4:00pm or 9:00pm. If you're going during the off season they may take a few walk in's.

Here's three reasons your teen WANTS you to make a reservation:

I don't like to wait

You don't like to wait

So why not get up from where ever you're sitting right now and do it while you're thinking about it so your teenager doesn't get cranky and ruin the trip for the rest of you? Just call (714) 781-DINE and think of it as a preventative measure of sorts.

Now onto my favorite part about the restaurant. The sweet deal you get. The mother of all reason's for you, and your teen, to eat here.

You get FREE fast-passes to World of Color. In the best section (The least crowded section) It makes such a huge difference compared to other places to stand. It is great! Your teen is much more likely to ooh and ahh when they're not wanting to flick the tall person standing in front of them in the head.

If you want the Fastpasses you have to eat off a Pre-selected menu. Tou choose between two appetizers, six entrees, and depending on the size of your family one or two dessert platters,(White chocolate world of color film strip... I'm just saying)....... All of the food tastes SO great do don't stress

that your teen wont find something else they like.

SUPER IMPORTANT NOTE: If you want to see the FIRST world of color show dine from 5:00 to 7:00pm if you want to see the SECOND world of color show dine from seven o five to eight thirty.

There are NO characters during World of Color dining, but many teens are more than willing to make the trade off to not be crowded at the show.

as of February 2012, the World of Color meal will set you back $40.00 per-person (Kids $30.00)

Normal Dining: Has Disney Princesses walking around and the same choices of food (and more) from World of Color dining but no Fastpasses and you pay more (because no pre set menu)!

So to sum this up:

Make reservation! So your teens wont be cranky!

I would say World Of Color is better for teens (unless they really like Princesses.

If they like water cannons and fire go to World of Color dining

The food is soooooooo good!

Bathrooms are super clean. Like spotless. Really.(Picture on right GLOWING BLUE MIRRORS)

And they all got full and lived happily ever after and nobody wanted to kill their teenager. The end!

Stay Disney,
Teen Diva :)

Top 5 Thrill Rides at Disneyland

2012-02-09T03:34:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Meesh

So are you into Thrill Rides when you visit Disney? Well so am I!

So its time to highlight the top 5 Thrill Rides of Disneyland...

It will be short and sweet, be on the look out for more in depth reviews of most of these rides {hint we will come back to this article and link them up too!}

1.) The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror {my personal favorite, Hollywood Pictures Backlot Attractions}

If you have enjoyed The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney World then this will not disappoint you!! For fans of the WDW version there is a minor difference that might be a big surprise to you. I don't want to give away the spoiler so you'll just have to go to Disneyland and find out for yourself!

2.) California Screamin' {Paradise Pier Attractions}

California Screamin' is for anyone who loves a fast, surprising roller coaster ride! For those of you that ever wanted to feel like you were being catapulted off an aircraft carrier...this ride is for you! Another ride that will not disappoint.
3.) Big Thunder Mountain Railroad {Frontierland Attractions}

Source: nowpublic.com via Michelina on Pinterest

We made a point of trying out this ride at Disneyland having been on the one in Disney World. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is comparable to it's counterpart in WDW and definitely worth your wait!

4.) Grizzly River Run {Golden State Attraction}

Make the choice wisely of when to ride this ride as you will get wet! We purchased the rain ponchos from the store right before you enter the ride and it was worth it! (But the Disney Diva suggests you ALWAYS buy ponchos ahead of time and bring them with you in your Perfectly Packed Backpack Very fun ride that is similar to Kali River Rapids in WDW.

5.) Matterhorn Bobsleds {Fantasyland Attractions}

Source: destination360.com via Michelina on Pinterest

This was a fun, fun ride!! We waited in a line that twisted around the entire ride just to try it out. So worth it!! One of the oldest Disneyland attractions this ride still packs a lot of fun! And yes there is a basketball court at the top of it! :) *This ride is currently closed down until June 14th, 2011 for refurbishments.

There are many, many more rides and some that could have ended up on this list. However these are the Top 5 Thriller Rides from an actual rider! :)
Enjoy your Thrill Seeking Adventure!

Adult Fun on a Disney Cruise

2012-02-08T05:38:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Planner

You’ve been looking forward to some time away with your spouse. You both love Disney – but decided to try out Disney Cruise Line instead of the theme parks. Yet you’re both a little worried about getting quality adult time on a family cruise ship.

No worries – Disney has you covered!

There are many adult-only activities to enjoy while on a Disney Cruise. From an adult-only pool, to an exclusive restaurant, to a spa – even a nightclub, there are ways to enjoy your vacation with other adults – or just each other.

Adult-Only Pool

It’s true – there is an exclusive pool just for those 18 and older! Enjoy peace and calm while sailing the seas, while still being able to take a dip as needed. And – there is even a poolside bar if you need something cool to drink.

Spa

Want an excellent way to relax? Get a spa treatment at the amazing spa on board! Choose from a massage, facials, aromatherapy, and more. Talk about true relaxation!

Fitness

Perhaps you are a fitness guru like me – or just need to work off some of the amazing food you ate the night before. There is a great fitness facility on board as well! Take a fitness class (like spin or bootcamp), or just spend some time on the elliptical while looking out the front of the ship. There is also a jogging track for those who want to get a good run in!

Gourmet Meal

Although every restaurant on the cruise is excellent, there is one adult-only location on each ship. (Note: This restaurant does require advanced reservations.) Get dressed up and enjoy a peaceful meal with your spouse!

Entertainment

There are many forms of entertainment for the 18 and older crowd on the ship! Enjoy nightclubs for some dancing. Or go to a lounge for a drink and music. Or even watch a Broadway-style show each night! The opportunities are endless.

And even in the midst of all the relaxation – Disney will continue to cater to your every need and pay attention to every detail. Sounds like a perfect vacation to me!

Finding Romance at Disney World atop the Contemporary

2012-02-07T04:31:00.000-08:00

Welcome to those of you joining me from Can Do It Mom and those of you just hopping aboard. I am the 4th stop on our Magical Blogorail."

The Most Romantic Thing I Have Ever Experienced at Disney

For my 10th wedding anniversary my husband and I declared it to be a No Kids Allowed Disney Vacation.

We wanted to enjoy all the amazing dining, wine, and romance that Disney had to offer…and we found it at the top of the Contemporary Resort.

We booked a delicious meal at California Grille approximately 20 minutes before the Fireworks for the evening were scheduled to begin. We arrived 15 minutes before our reservation and adhered to the dress code as required. We ascended the elevator, were seated and grabbed a glass wine before the waiter told us that we could go out to the balcony at the top of the Contemporary.

After we took our place at the railing, the music of Wishes was piped in and washed over us! We snuggled tightly and watched the fireworks at a vantage point we have not ever seen before or since.

It was one of those moments that we will reflect on when we are old and grey, a moment filled with three of the things I love most… my husband, romance, and Disney.

Thank you for joining me today. Your next stop on the Magical Blogorail Loop is 400 Miles to Disneyland.

Here is the map of our Magical Blogorail Peach line should you happen to have to missed a stop along the way and want to re-board:

1st Stop ~ Disney in Our Blood
2nd Stop ~ Joanna and her Amazing Technicolor Interwebs

3rd Stop ~ Can Do It Mom AKA Mouse Fan Diane
4th Stop ~ Tips from the Disney Diva

Final Stop ~ 400 Miles to Disneyland

Walt Disney World: Why Return?

2012-02-06T05:44:00.000-08:00

Author: Nick the Disney Devo (tee)
Photo Credit: Simpledisneythings/tumblr

Maybe you just got back from Walt Disney World, and, of course, you had a great time. But you're, perhaps, thinking "Now that I've been there, why would I return?"

Or, you are a frequent visitor, like me, and your co-workers, friends and even family ask "Why are you going there... again?"

For me, every trip to Walt Disney World, and even Disneyland is different.

For starters, depending on what time of year you go, there will be a different event going on. In the Spring, there is the Epcot International Flower and Garden Show, which is March 7th to May 20th this year.

Later in the year is the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, September 28th-November 11th. At the same time that the Food and Wine Festival is going on, you can also go to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, select nights, September and October in the Magic Kingdom.

Then, there are a plethora of activities and events during the Holiday season, such as the Mickey Very Merry Christmas Party held select nights in November and December at the Magic Kingdom, Holidays Around the World and the Candlelight Processional at Epcot, and the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney's Hollywood Studios. In addition, many of the resorts are decked out in holiday finery. For a guide to the best times to revisit Disney World, please check out this article: http://www.tipsfromthedisneydiva.com/2011/12/best-and-worst-times-to-go-to-walt.html

Another reason I return again and again, is the resorts. There are several options in each price range, value, moderate or deluxe. I have my preferences, but still, every now and again, I will get even more excited about a pending trip because we will be staying at a resort we've never stayed at before. Each resort has it's own personality, dining choices, activities and amenities.

The thing I look forward to most of all, though, are the personal interactions I will inevitably have, be it with Cast Members, other guests, or the friends I've made from all over the country. I have made many, hopefully lifelong, friends through Disney.

Every trip is different, and the excitement and anticipation never wanes for me, and I hope the same can be said for you.

So why do I come back to Disney? Disney is home! And it ALWAYS feels good to come home.

Nick is a frequent contributor to the Disleelandia Blog: http://disneyatdisleelandiablog.blogspot.com/

Week in Review Jan 29 to Feb 4, 2012

2012-02-05T07:35:00.000-08:00

Miss anything this week? Catch up with all the Diva News RIGHT HERE!

Sunday – Dixie Diva named the Top 5 Rides at Walt Disney World for Roller Coaster Junkies! If you value a high scream factor you’ll love this article!

Monday – Diva Melisa gave a great insight into Doing Disney Vacations with Special Needs. It’s part of a series that she will continue to work on.

Tuesday – Diva Planner gave us a run-down of Tusker House Character Breakfast and why its fun with our without kids!

Disney Diva also wrote an article about What rides are in refurbishment at WDW between now and June, 2012.

Wednesday – On Wednesday Diva Mommy gave us a review Carousel of Progress in Magic Kingdom at WDW.

Thursday – Have you considered using a Travel Agent to plan your Disney Vacation? Diva Planner tells you what the advantages are.

Friday – Diva Planner helped us to all Understand the Disney Dining Plans for 2012! For anyone traveling in the near future you’ll want to make sure you can understand it!

Saturday – Saturday Diva Mouze talked about enjoying luxury at Disney World by Indulging in Basin Luxury Bath Products.

CANADIANS need a Passport to visit Walt Disney World and Disneyland

2012-02-05T05:17:00.000-08:00

Author: Canadian Diva

...and I don't mean a passport around the Epcot World Showcase!

Fellow Canucks, gone are the days when we could enter the US border with a mere birth certificate in hand. If you plan on visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland, you will need a passport. Here are some important tips to make your border crossing more enjoyable and get your Disney vacation started off on the right foot.

All Canadians 16 years of age or older must complete the ADULT General Passport Application. You can download the latest version on their website http://www.ppt.gc.ca/form/index.aspx. You can also pick up the ADULT Passport Application forms at your local post office (It is the Darker Blue Colour Print Form). For the ADULT General Passport Application, you will need to complete the form in full as well as provide Two (2) Identical photos (taken within the last 12 months) with a Guarantor to sign the back of one of the photos. The Guarantor will also need to sign the application form as well, to state your identity and you will need proof of your Canadian Citizenship and provide Documents to Support your identity.

On the forms as well as on the website http://www.passportcanada.gc.ca/cdn/form.aspx?lang=eng&region=Canada it lists the qualifications of a Guarantor can be. The forms on the website has a list of the Documents needed to prove Canadian Citizenship and documents to support your identity. You can apply in person at your nearest Passport office or Mail in your application.

Diva Tip: If you are able to get to a Passport Office, it is worth the wait in line. The Officials will tell you if you have the right documents, the correct photo, and if the application is filled out properly. If you mail your forms, and there is anything completed incorrectly in your application, you might have to wait longer with back and forth information being sent out. When applying to a passport office, we have usually received our passports in less than 2 weeks.

ALREADY HAVE A PASSPORT? Will it expire soon?

No need to go through all the hassle, there is an Adult SIMPLIFIED RENEWAL passport application. The most recent version can be downloaded from http://www.ppt.gc.ca/form/index.aspx. (You can also pick up this form from your local Post Office - it is a light Blue/Green Colour Print Form)

As long as your passport has the same name, was issued within the last 6 years and has been valid for 5 years, it is not damaged, has never been lost or stolen, you can apply without a Guarantor. You simply need to complete both sides of the form, take Two (2) Identical photos (photo restrictions and instructions are mentioned on the website as well as on the form). With this simplified process you do not need your photos signed, since you will be sending your current passport in. Don't make the mistake like I did! Apply in the fifth year, before your passport expires, you will save a lot of time and hassle with the Adult SIMPLIFIED RENEWAL Application. (I had to start the whole process again when I could have just sent my old passport with the simplified forms in before it expired)

CHILDREN:

Children under 16 are also required to carry their own passport when traveling. Canadian citizens are no longer allowed to bring children into the United States with just their birth certificate. You can download a recent CHILD General Passport application form at http://www.ppt.gc.ca/form/index.aspx You may also pick up the CHILD General Passport Application at your nearest Post Office (it is the Olive Green Colour Print Form).

Your Child will also need have two (2) identical photos taken from the same image and a Guarantor must sign One of the photos as well as the application form. Again, please see the website or application forms for whom qualifies as Guarantor.

If your child has a different last name than you, and you are traveling alone with him/her, it is advisable to bring a copy of the LONG FORM birth certificate (the certificate issued to all children in Canada when they are born) which states both parents' names. If you have custody of the child, provide documents of your custody rights as well.

If you are not the legal guardian (grandparent/aunt/uncle/friend) bringing a child to Disney World or Disneyland, it is advisable to also have a copy of the LONG FORM below and a written consent from the parents or legal guardian, to show to the U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) - Border Officials. The letter should contain telephone numbers in case the parents and/or legal guardian can be contacted. This applies also when entering back into Canada. See Canada Border Services Agency for more information http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/security-securite/admiss-eng.html

NOTE: Passports for children UNDER 3 years old, the maximum period of validity is 3 years.

For Children 3 to 15 years old, the maximum period of validity is 5 years.

Make sure, before you even start to plan your Disney Trip that your child's passport is VALID!!

Any other documentations that prove to be legitimate, you will find extremely helpful or else you will be asked a lot of questions, narrowing your time to perhaps enjoy your trip.

Diva Tip: Again, if possible, apply in person for your child, at your local passport office and MAKE SURE you have ALL the valid documents ready. I have seen many moms with crying babies in strollers, waiting in line with their documents only to be sent away and told to come back again with the proper information and documents.

There is a FEE for all Passport Applications. If you are Canadian yet applying from the US, please be aware the fee is higher. To see current application fees visit http://http//www.ppt.gc.ca/cdn/section6.aspx

But trust me, all this hard work is well worth it to be able to enjoy Disney World or Disneyland with the whole family!

Indulging the Disney Diva: Basin Luxury Bath Products

2012-02-04T05:14:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Mouze

One essential word that should be in every Diva's vocabulary, besides pampering and luxury, is Basin. Here’s a tip from the Photo Diva!

There are two locations on the Walt Disney World property for a luxury bath products store Basin. There is a Basin at Downtown Disney and another Basin White at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. During your vacation to the Disney theme parks, make a stop by either one of these Basin store locations to pick up some of their specialty bath items.

Basin is a luxury bath and body store. They carry a wide selection of chemical-free soaps, all designed to make you feel pampered, like the Diva you are! I suggest you start at one end of the soap display and smell your way to the other side of the display. All their bars of soap are visually appealing and fun to look at. There is a vast assortment of soap varieties, so allow yourself some time. Be sure to smell the Lemongrass Cranberry, my personal favorite. Basin White offers exclusive product lines of fragrances and solid perfumes, spa waxes, moisturizers, and a whole lot more.

Picture this…Basin White products do not contain any parabens, a substance that mimics estrogen. Products containing synthetic estrogen have been linked to increases in cancer, male infertility, and changes in children’s developing reproductive systems. Basin White products contain no alcohol to dry your skin, nor do they contain mineral oils, which can clog pores and slow the skin’s ability to rid itself of toxins. And for the animal-loving Diva, Basin White products are never tested on any animals. Now that you are free of parabens, alcohol and mineral oils, you can relax and enjoy your shopping!

Want to pamper you or your Disney Diva after your vacation has ended? Bring home some Basin products, and remember I said to stop and smell the Lemongrass Cranberry bath bar! You can click here to go to the Basin store online.

Get more ideas for gifts or holiday gifts to bring home from vacation by clicking on the titles.

We'll see you soon at Basin for some luxury bath products...
Have a photo of an exquisite piece of Disney merchandise you would like to share with our readers? Drop by and share your photos on Mouze Kateerz on Facebook. Take a virtual Disney vacation in photographs. Visit my photo blog at mouzekateerz.com or e-mail me your photo to mouzekateerz@gmail.com

Disneyland off-property dining

2012-02-03T20:58:00.000-08:00

Author: Mini-Diva
(All information from Google maps/ reviews, my own personal experience and fellow Divas)

Eating off-property is a tricky subject to talk about. Restaurants could be good; but they also most defiantly could be bad.

Disneyland off-property options.

There are many places to eat around Disneyland, but if you're not sure if they are actually tasty, you could end up spending money on a meal that wasn't worth it. Here are some options for you.

McDonald's.
1500 South Harbor Boulevard, Anaheim, CA
This McDonald's - if you like McDonald's - is a pretty okay place in my experience. They have always got our order right, but sometimes
(especially during rush hour) its not so great. They get a bit behind on things, we all know that for how close they
are to Disneyland, they get A LOT of people coming in and out. I really suggest that if you like McDonald's to
go there, but try to stay away from rush hours. Otherwise they get a pretty great rating.

IHOP.
1560 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, California (714) 635-0933

This IHOP I have to say isn't as good as other IHOPs. The reviews are very bad including my own. The prices are
very high. I would not recommend this IHOP because they are just not what I would like anyone to have to
deal with (especially with children) when they are on vacation or any time at that matter.

Denny's

1610 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA (714) 776-3300
Reviews are great! Great staff and great food. There is fast service, amazing amount of food for what you pay,
and even for picky little ones the kids menu is full of choices! I highly suggest it.

Tony Roma's
1300 S Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, CA (714) 871-4000
This place has undesired reviews. The prices are high. The food is not quite the best either. I would not
recommend Tony Roma's to anyone! Terrible.

Mimi's Cafe
1400 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA (714) 956-2223
Mimi's cafe has the BEST reviews of all! Prices are reasonable, and food is great! Atmosphere is well loved, too.
There is a good selection of food on the menu. Mimi's deserves TWO thumbs up for the reviews it gets!
People also love the fact that you can walk across the street and the entrance to Disney is right there!

Millies Restaurant & Bakery
1480 South Harbor Boulevard, Anaheim, CA (714) 535-6892
Millies is a good place to go. I have gone there many times and I love it! It's a great place to go with your family
because they have a little gift shop attached to it - some Disney some not, so they can buy some pins for their
lanyard, a little puppy dog to take home, and more! Prices are reasonable considering how close they are to
Disneyland. Food is good; it even has simple and fit choices.

There are many options off-property to enjoy at Disneyland. I hope you'll give some of these a try!

Understanding the Disney Dining Plans - 2012

2012-02-03T03:31:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Planner

Did you know that you can make your Walt Disney World vacation all-inclusive? That’s right – you can have your accommodations, tickets and even meals all paid before you even arrive!

Disney has great meal plan options for every family! However, with the meal plan options often comes confusion. Here is some insight into each meal plan to help you choose which is right for your family!

First of all, let’s talk vocabulary. In each meal plan are various meal options.

Table Service Meal – this is a sit-down meal and requires advanced reservations. A table service meal includes an entrée (or one full buffet), dessert (lunch or dinner), and a non-alcoholic beverage. If you are interested in character meals, relaxing meals, dinner shows or in-room dining – then you need to choose a dining plan that includes table service meals.

Quick Service Meal – this is the equivalent to ‘fast food’ in the regard that you go up to the counter, order your food and get it right away. A quick service meal includes an entrée, a dessert (lunch or dinner) and a non-alcoholic beverage. This is great for families that want to experience everything Disney has to offer without spending an hour at a restaurant.

Snack – this is exactly as it sounds, a snack to power you through your day at Disney! It goes beyond a piece of fruit or popcorn – included in snacks are ice cream bars, cookies, pastries, beverages and much more! Just look for the Disney Dining Plan purple logo to see if it is included on the dining plan.

Refillable Mug – this is a mug that you can use at your Disney resort food court to fill up on beverages throughout the day.

Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan

This is the least expensive option – which is great for those families on the go. Included in this dining plan are 2 quick service meals and 1 snack per person, per night of stay. Also included is a refillable mug for each member of your family.

Disney Dining Plan

This is the most popular option as it allows for some flexibility – yet time to enjoy some excellent meals. Included in this dining plan is 1 table service meal, 1 quick service meal and 1 snack per person, per night of stay. Also included is a refillable mug for each member of your family.

Disney Deluxe Dining Plan

This is the most expensive – yet most expansive option. This option is great for those families seeking three meals a day, or those wanting to take advantage of dinner shows and signature meals, as these meals use 2 table service dining ‘credits’ or meals. Included in this dining plan are 3 meals (table service or quick service) and 2 snacks per person, per night of stay. Also included is a refillable mug for each member of your family.

So how does the dining plan actually work? First, make sure that if you have chosen a plan that includes table service meals, you make advanced reservations. These can be made 180 days prior to your arrival date.

Once you arrive at your Disney resort, you will be given your room key – which also acts as your park ticket and dining plan voucher. Once you go to a restaurant, they will ask if you are on a dining plan. If you say yes, they will ask for your party’s room keys in order to deduct that meal from your dining plan. At the bottom of your receipt (which each family member will receive), there will be a tally for the number of dining credits you have remaining. (Note: Make SURE to keep track – the last thing you want is to lose those credits!)

Another thing to note is that your credits are based on the number of nights you are staying. For example, if 2 adults and 2 children (ages 6 and 8) are staying for 5 nights and are using the basic dining plan – they would each have 5 table service meals, 5 quick service meals and 5 snacks to use throughout their stay. They can be used in any combination up to midnight of the day of their departure! And if you are left with a number of snack credits at the end of your stay – head to the stores to stock up on cookies and other goodies to take home to keep your vacation alive a little while longer!

(If this is still confusing – contact Megan Biller at Glass Slipper Concierge to help plan your vacation and she can help you choose what dining plan is right for your family. Beyond that, she will make all of your dining reservations and help you understand how to use the dining plan once you get to Disney!)

Using a Travel Agent to plan your Disney Vacation

2012-02-02T08:37:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Planner

You’ve read all the great tips from the Disney Diva. You’ve looked at reviews of each resort and restaurant. You’ve talked with friends and family about their trips. You’ve done your research.

So why would you use a travel agent?

For starters – a travel agent does everything for you! As a travel agent, I handle your Disney package reservation and help you through the process of deciding what Disney resort and tickets are best for your family. We handle all your dining reservations, giving you advice and insight on what restaurants should be on your itinerary. We help you through any special events – making sure that your vacation is magical, but most of all – we allow you to sit back and relax, letting you feel like the VIP that you are!

A common misconception is that travel agents cost extra. This isn’t true! (Note: Some well-known agents do have a consultation fee – but it’s usually worth it.) We just love to plan magical vacations and don’t want you to worry about the cost!

As a travel agent, I do my best to make your vacation as hassle-free as possible. Here is a look inside what I do to make your vacation magical!

- Once I receive your phone call or email – I follow up right away, usually with a phone call. This way I can talk to you to find out more about your family and what you are visualizing your vacation to entail. This allows me to help choose what resorts to price out, etc.

- Next I create a personalized quote for you. I include any options you are interested in, along with information about the resorts and room types I have chosen. (If there is a promotion for your dates – I always make sure to choose the BEST value!)

- Through a phone call or email, we can talk about resort and ticket options prior to booking. Once it’s time to book – I gather your information and call Disney myself! No need for you to do anything!

- After the reservation is made – we get to work on more fun things like dining, tours, special events and more! Through a questionnaire, I find out what you are interested in – then I take it from there! Offering information and pricing, I find the best time to fit it in your vacation. You are the VIP, I handle ALL the details!

- What if a new promotion comes out during your dates? No worries – I’m on top of it! I will check the new promotion to see if it lowers your package price. If it does, I will call Disney and make the changes – then send you my favorite email. The “I just saved you some money” email!

- A week prior to your final payment, I will send you a reminder email to make sure that we have talked over any changes and that your package is correct. Then I call Disney to make the payment – you can continue to sit back and relax.

- Next I create a personalized itinerary for your family’s vacation. That’s right – I advise you on what rides to hit first, and which to get FASTPASSes for. I include your dining reservations and numbers. I even help with transportation from your resort to the parks!

- When it’s almost time for your vacation, I put together a fun package that includes your documents and itinerary (and much more) and send it to you! Then it’s time for you to go on vacation – having had someone else handle all the details for you!

And guess what – this is just for Walt Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California. We go way beyond that! I can help with Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney or even Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii!

Some of you may be thinking - but I already made my vacation reservation through Disney, this doesn't apply to me. Yes it does! As long as you made your reservation through Disney directly, all you need to do is email or call me and I will send you a form to fill out - and then I can take over your reservation (at no cost)!

What if you are staying off Disney property? If you would still like help with your itinerary, dining reservations and more - I can still help! For a fee, I will handle all of the details of your vacation for you - still allowing you to feel like the VIP you are! (Note - if you need Disney park tickets of 3 days or more, the fee can be waived.)

So the next time you are planning a Disney vacation – let me handle all the planning for you! (Don’t worry – you can keep reading Tips from the Disney Diva - I do!)

Glass Slipper Concierge is a Disney-specialized travel concierge service that offers meticulously-planned Disney vacations. Our travel specialists' unrivaled knowledge of Disney Destinations can only be matched by their passion for delivering white-glove service. If you would like Megan to plan your next Disney vacation - email her at Megan@GlassSlipperConcierge.com or give her a call at 866-614-4430.

Walt Disney World's Carousel of Progress - review

2012-02-01T05:05:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Mommy

This is one of my favorite rides at Magic Kingdom! I love it for so many reasons.

First off it's a classic, and was originally designed and created by Walt Disney for the 1964-65 New York's World Fair. In 1973 they moved the show to Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom and then was "updated" in 1994.

The theater seats revolve around the stage so you get to sit through the 21 minute ride. It also loads every few minutes so you don't wait through the entire ride, and there's hardly ever a long line. Oh, and did I mention its AIR CONDITIONED!? That's pretty important in the insane heat of Orlando.

The show is a learning experience in itself and starts off just at the turn of the century and continues with scenes in the 20's, 40's and current day. Every scene also ties into a holiday Valentines Day, 4th of July, Halloween and Christmas, it's fun to see how the family is celebrating each one.

This ride can also be a great place for a quick place to rest your tired feet. You can find some other helpful tips to keep your feet happy here.

For those of you who like to hunt for Hidden Mickey's, there are a couple of fun ones to keep an eye out for. Keep your eyes open in the last scene for a Mickey nutcracker on the mantel, and a stuffed Mickey under the tree.

You might recognize the family dog on this ride, he also appears in other Disney attractions.

The Carousel of Progress ride is a nice place for babies to take a quick nap, or to nurse them in privacy, as it's kinda dark in the theater. Find more resting places at Disney World HERE.

If the fathers voice sounds familiar that's because it's Jean Shepherd who wrote and narrated the movie "A Christmas Story".

This classic ride is always on our to do list, so if it's your first trip I suggest checking this one out. Here are some more great tips for helping you plan that FIRST Disney trip.

There are no height restrictions for this ride

Guests may remain in their wheelchairs for the ride

There shouldn't be any motion sickness issues, as the ride turns at a slow pace.

Diva Scream Factor is a 1 out of 5

Tusker House Character Breakfast

2012-01-31T06:39:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Planner

Animal Kingdom opens at 9 AM. But there is a way to get into the park early.

Yes, that’s right. Into the park early. You can even snap some pictures in front of the Tree of Life with hardly anyone around!

So what is this secret entrance?

It’s an early reservation at Tusker House! That’s right – if you make an early reservation, you can enter the park a little before your reservation time and take some pictures.

Then go eat a great breakfast with a few fun characters! Donald’s Safari Breakfast is at Tusker House – which is a fun location! Start by getting your photo with Donald (the photographer will bring the print to your table where you can decide if you want to purchase it or not). Then – go enjoy the buffet breakfast!

The breakfast foods are the same as most locations – but there is an African flare to a few dishes. However, the juice they bring to your table is amazing! (It’s the same juice at Boma and Ohana for breakfast – one of my favorites!)

While eating, enjoy the company of Mickey, Goofy & Daisy – and there is even a chance for the kids to join the characters in a parade around the restaurant! (Note: It can take an hour for all the characters to come to your table – so take your time!) Be sure to take lots of pictures as the characters are in their safari clothes!

What rides are in refurbishment at WDW Jan-June 2012?

2012-01-31T06:30:00.000-08:00

Author: Disney Diva

So there’s this ride… you’ve been SO excited to ride this ride! You’ve been pumping your kids up about it! Every time you see an advertisement about it you get all teary eyed and think “Soon I’ll be at Disney World riding ________________!!”

You get to Disney World, you run to your ride and… DARN! ITS DOWN FOR REFURBISHMENT!

I’ve got a better idea! Let me tell you what’s going to be down for refurbishment (fancy term Disney uses when they want to update a ride in some way). Let’s just do the first half of the year and then in May I’ll tell you the ones for the remainder of the year.

Magic Kingdom

Big Thunder Mountain: January 9 – May 27, 2012

Celebrate a Dream Come Parade (afternoon parade): Parade route is different than normal. Starts at town square, goes up Main Street, makes a circle at Cinderella’s Castle and goes back down Main Street.

Aladdin’s Magic Carpets: February 26 – March 11, 2012

Dumbo: January 9 – March 12, 2012

Fantasyland update will not be done.

Liberty Belle Riverboat: April 16 – May 21, 2012

Main Street Electrical Parade: January 20- February 10, 2012

No longer open: Ariel’s Grotto, Exposition Hall, Pooh’s Playful Spot, Mickey’s Toontown Fair

Moved: Tinkerbelle and friends are now in Adventureland. Minnie, Mickey and Princesses are at Town Square Theater.

Epcot

House of Innoventions exhibit: January 1 – May 31, 2012

Test Track: April 1- September 30, 2012

Tutto Italia restaurant: January 8 – April 30, 2012

Hollywood Studios

Fantasmic fireworks: January 9 – February 12, 2012

Honey, I shrunk the kids movie set Adventure – February 13 – March 10, 2012

Lights! Motors! Action! Extreme Stunt Show: April 29 – May 2, 2012

Studio Backlot Tour: February 13 – March 10, 2012

No longer open: Journey into Narnia is closed. Characters no longer at HWS: Power Rangers, Lotso, Little Einstein’s (except at Play n’ Dine).

Animal Kingdom

Kali River Rapids: January 23 – February 9, 2012

Water Parks

Typhoon Lagoon is completely closed until March 17, 2012.

So mark your calendars! And plan as you need to!

Doing Disney Vacations with Special Needs - Part 1

2012-01-30T03:56:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Melisa

Traveling, even on vacation, with special needs can be an overwhelming experience. Unless you are new to this kind of traveling, you already know the most important step is to PLAN, PLAN, PLAN. Start early. Be thorough. However, dear ones, let me assure you that your Disney experience can be every bit as magical as you hope and dream.

There is a reason Disney Guest Services are legendary. The Disney Family (at least I can vouch for Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Disney Cruises) is well-equipped to handle a large variety of guest disabilities. Cast Members are very eager to assist you in any way, and are trained to welcome and be sensitive to special needs guests.

I found this especially true for people on the Autism Spectrum, which is my family's perspective. Many of my suggestions and observations come from that perspective, but I feel are applicable to most special needs issues. Also, ‘Doing Disney’ as a special needs adult might look a little different than ‘Doing Disney’ as a special needs child.

The most important factor in your Disney vacation experience is for you, and your special one, is YOU; be you parent, grandparent, or fairy godparent. Sit down for a while and think, specifically, about the kind of special help your child or adult loved one will need.

Some will be obvious, like wheel-chair accessibility, and how your special one deals with crowds. Some will not be so obvious.

You will do a LOT of walking at Disney Resorts. If your special need makes this difficult, you will need to bring, or rent, a stroller or wheelchair (more on this at a later date). Don’t forget the wonderful modes of transportation at Disney - monorail, trams, trains, boats, buses. How do these modes of transportation fit with your needs?

Some rides and attractions will be very dark, have sudden loud noises, or flashing lights, etc. If your special one is sensitive to these kinds of things, you may want to plan around those attractions (again, more on all of this later). Believe me, there is still plenty of wonderful Disney magic to enjoy without hitting absolutely every ride and show.

Which brings me to my next piece of advice: Understand that the Disney experience is not just about the rides you ride and shows you see. It is about the total experience, including your magical time with the friends and family around you. There will be things you simply won’t get to, and that is ok! You can spend weeks at Disney, and still not experience every single piece of Disney magic. Why do you think people keep coming back? Prepare, choose your activities wisely, be flexible, and enjoy your magical moments!

As you carefully consider your particular special needs, do this experiment: Take (or recall taking) your special one to a large mall, fair, circus, or other event that involves lots of people, activity, and general organized chaos (think holiday shopping, and don‘t forget the really long checkout lines). What special considerations do you take into account, to help your special one navigate those situations?

Once you have decided on the kind of special assistance you will require, be sure to notify the hotel and park Guest Services.

The hotel will need to know, at the time of booking, of any room requirements: Do you need wheelchair access? Do you need a room on ground level (or NOT ground level)? Do you need a room in the quieter part of resort?
Park Guest Services is where you will obtain your special needs pass for the theme parks once you arrive, which will include the special accommodations your loved one needs.
You will only need to do this once, and your special pass will be good throughout your entire stay.
Also, dietary needs can be met at Disney hotels and various grazing places around the parks.
This will need to be done at least a few days before your arrival!! So don't delay!

Stay tuned for much more articles to come on traveling to Disney with Special Needs. I’ll tell you exactly how to get and use your special passes, more about those strollers, how to prepare your special needs person for the trip, and lots more!

Week in Review Jan 22 to Jan 29, 2012

2012-01-29T06:36:00.001-08:00

Miss anything this week? Catch up with all the Diva News RIGHT HERE!

On Sunday Nick the Disney Devo (tee) wrote an article with some advice on Combatting Disney Vacation “Too Excited to Sleep Syndrome”. Heaven knows we all need that!

Monday Diva Melissa gave us Three Steps to Walt Disney Vacation Planning Success, No Matter What!

Tuesday The Disney Diva gave you some advice for meeting Disney’s newest Princes, Rapunzel, at Walt Disney World.

On Wednesday or resident Diva Planner gave us a review on the Rose and Crown restaurant in Epcot’s World Showcase and the great opportunity to eat delicious food and get a great view of fireworks!

Thursday Budget Diva gave some great tips about Bringing food and drinks into Walt Disney World since it’s now officially permissible to bring them into the park. Great way to save some money on your next Disney trip1

This Friday Penny Pinching Diva gave you a great idea on a Fun way to tell your kids you’re going on a Disney Vacation.

We also met four more of our new Disney Diva writers, Penny Pinching Diva, Diva Snoop, Mini Diva & Princess Diva.

Saturday D’land Diva wrote about the Disneyland celebration of Lunar New Year with a SPECIAL introduction on the history of Lunar New Year from Canadian Diva. Very interesting!

Remember to keep checking us out on Pinterest & Facebook! And have a Disney Magic Day!

Top 5 Rides at Walt Disney World for Roller Coaster Junkies

2012-01-29T03:32:00.001-08:00

Author: Dixie Diva

Many first time Walt Disney World travelers think that it’s all Princesses and Pixie dust, but the truth is Disney’s Imagineers have mastered some pretty awesome thrill rides for us “coaster junkies”. Here is a list of my TOP 5 THRILL RIDES!

5. Test Track (Epcot) - 40" height requirement

For those of you who have ever wondered what it would feel like to have your ABS brakes go out or even experience the world of “Crash Test Dummies”, then this is the ride for you! Test Track takes its riders through the different elements of vehicle testing. From breaking and extreme weather conditions, to evasive maneuvers and high-speed loops, this ride has it all! Reaching a top speed of 65 mph, this is the fastest ride on Walt Disney World property. Sounds awesome, right?

Since this is one of the most popular attractions at Walt Disney World, the line is usually pretty long (depending on the time of year you visit). However, you do have other options. Test Track is one of the few attractions that offers the “Single Rider” line. In this line, the wait is usually cut in half, but your party WILL be separated. The other option is Disney’s FastPass service!

4. Expedition Everest (Animal Kingdom) - 44" height requirement

Now, Expedition Everest is an “animal” of it’s own..a YETI, if you want to get specific! This ride is one of WDW’s newest attractions (remember those Fast Pass things I mentioned? yea…USE THEM HERE!!). While this ride doesn’t have any loops or inversions, it does consist of tight turns, hills, and dips (some while traveling BACKWARDS…yes, backwards). Oh yea, and a 50 mph plunge off the side of the mountain. If you can manage to keep your eyes open, you’ll see some of the most amazing panoramic views available in WDW (see picture above). This is definitely a MUST-DO! If you have any people in your party who have motion sickness issues or other ailments they might want to avoid Expedition Everest.

3. Space Mountain (Magic Kingdom) - 44" height requirement

Growing up, you might have heard about Space Mountain (in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World). This “Disney Classic” is one of my personal favorites! This ride may not be one of the fastest, but with all of it’s dips, DROPS, and twists, it makes you feel like you’re going at a much faster speed. What makes this a “thrill ride” is that it is in complete darkness!! So you have NO idea when you will hit one of the drops!

Space Mountain was refurbished in 2009, and even though there are no more "giant floating chocolate chip cookies", I think the ride is much smoother (which makes it more exciting!). Even if you aren’t a huge coaster fan, you should try this ride AT LEAST once!

2. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (Hollywood Studios) - 40" height requirement

Sure, this 13+ story building is great for a photo opp on Sunset Blvd., but for those of you who are willing to make the journey inside and onto one very questionable service elevator, this is one of the many Disney memories that you will never forget! After you cross over into the Twilight Zone (dah dah DAAH!!), you will get a very beautiful view of Blizzard Beach and the surrounding area, just before the elevator cable "SNAPS" and you plummet 13 stories! Another cool piece of information, the Tower of Terror chooses how many times you drop…so every ride is a different experience!

Now the moment everyone has been waiting for…DRUM ROLL PLEASE… Dixie Diva’s pick for the #1 ride at WDW:

1. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith (Hollywood Studios) - 48" height requirement

That’s right, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is my all time favorite ride in WDW! This ride has a lot of features that make it my #1 pick. Not only does this ride start you off from 0 to 57 mph in under 3 seconds and send you into the first loop pulling 5g’s, you are launched through loops, drops, and corkscrews while in complete darkness. And to top it all off..the whole ride is synchronized to the awesome music of Aerosmith! So enjoy your super-fast super-stretch limo ride through L.A. and remember to thank Aerosmith’s Manager for the AWESOME backstage passes!

Before riding, you may want to read over THE Disney Diva’s post on WDW ride info for health concerns.

Have a Magical time!

Disneyland celebrates Lunar New Year!

2012-01-28T03:05:00.000-08:00

Author: D’land Diva with a special intro by Canadian Diva

2012 is Mushu's year! The Year of the Dragon, as many Asian Cultures celebrate the Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. Red and Gold are seen everywhere which represents fortune and prosperity. Every year, children or adults who are not married, will receive a Red Envelop with money for Good Luck.

"Gung Hei Fat Choi" is said among my Chinese family members as we celebrate this special festival every year. Many other Asian Cultures celebrate the Lunar New Year as well, which D'land Diva will tell you when she describes the festivities at Disneyland below.

"Gung Hei Fat Choi" means to wish prosperity to another. We also say "Sun Yee Fai Lo" which means Happy New Year and "Cee Cee You Yee" which means everything be in your favour. These sayings are said among Cantonese-speaking people during this time.

The Lunar New Year falls at different times every year. Sometimes it is in January and some years it is in February. It depends on when a new moon arises. This shows that Spring has arrived. Historically, many Asian Cultures were mainly agricultural societies, where farmers would depend on the Moon to determine their harvest, thus celebrating rebirth and a new year to thrive.

Noodles are eaten, which symbolizes one to have a long life. And FISH is very important, for the Chinese, the phonetic saying of Fish in Chinese "Yue" also means to have abundance, therefore never running out. Another traditional dish is a whole roasted baby pig complete with head. Tangerines and Clementines are also abundant as well as lots of tasty vegetable and rice dishes. My favourite dessert is a fried glutinous-rice cake called Nian Goa.

When you see the festivities of the Lunar New Year festival, you will always enjoy the electrifying Dragon and Lion dances, with traditional Asian Drummers, beating strongly on drums along with people rhythmically clashing cymbals. These dances are made to drive out the Evil Spirits that may do harm to you in the new year.

There are 12 Animals (pig, rooster, goat, rat, rabbit, dog, ox, snake, tiger, horse, monkey and of course the Dragon) which represent each year on the Zodiac Lunar Calendar and goes through a 12 year cycle. Legend has it that when the gods called the animals, these were the first 12 to arrive. In many Asian cultures, the whole country shuts down for many days (traditionally for 15 days). This is a time for those living away from home to go back and celebrate with their families, to bring in a new year full of happiness together, abundance and fortune.

Happy Lunar New Year! - Canadian Diva

Last year, Disneyland introduced and event called Family Fun Weekends, in which rare characters, arts and crafts, new foods and a celebration of the Lunar New Year occurs in the Festival Arena area. This area used to house a show, but has since been closed off to the public and used for private events. This year, the Lunar New Year celebration was held over the course of 10 days, from January 20-29. The celebration took place in the It’s a Small World mall area. If you’re quick you might still have time to catch it!

The area was elaborately decorated with lanterns, colorful banners and was really well themed. There were even cherry blossom tree plants (not real of course) that were brought in. At the center of the mall was a long dragon that covered the length of the backdrop, thus honoring this year as the Year of the Dragon.

The elaborate theming extended to the cast members and the characters. Characters were available for pictures.

Below the dragon, at the center of the mall, was a beautiful large mural with an explanation of how Korean, Chinese and Vietnamese families traditionally celebrate the Lunar New Year. There was also a really creative way to look at the year you were born in, using Disney characters in the place of the animal icons.

The area was not only about beautiful decorations and character interactions. but was also an interactive experience with special foods, dancing with ribbons and crafting. Foods included egg rolls, edamame, and almond cookies. At the craft table, kids could make dragon puppets or paper lanterns. There was also an ever popular coloring station!

My three year old and his one year old cousin liked the ribbon dancing best of all. I think they probably could have stayed there for hours!

As we passed through the area later in the day, there was a group of students dressed beautifully there to perform from the Korean dance academy. Cast members also had a dancing show that drew the attention of the kids.

This was a special opportunity for Disneyland visitors, but it seemed quite popular and it would be great to see more cultural events, especially given the diversity in Southern California. If you are planning your Disneyland Resort vacation for next year around this time, I strongly encourage you to check out the Lunar New Year celebration!

Meet the Penny Pinching Diva, Diva Snoop, Mini Diva & Princess Diva

2012-01-27T07:17:00.001-08:00

We continue to meet our new writers today!

Penny Pinching Diva

Hi, my name is Emily, and I am the Penny Pinching Diva. I am a stay-at-home mom with two children. I love to make lists and I like to read lists. Especially in blogs. Top 5 anything… Yes, please!

The first time I went to WDW, I was 6 years old and I was July. I got too hot, and threw up, right before we got on Dumbo. So we left. I try to remember to pause for a moment every time I pass by that area. Now, we go in January. I'm a Disney podcast junkie. Right now, I have 28.7 days worth of podcasts in my Itunes. I've listened to all of it, and it has been cleaned out regularly. Another passion of mine is customer service, and Disney does that top notch. I love to study all things Disney, their communication strategies, management style and the creativity they inspire in their cast members. I love to help people plan their trips to Disney. It's a joy to me to help them learn how to spend their money smarter, and stretch the magic.

Diva Snoop

Hi, I am Diva Snoop. I am always looking for the latest information on what’s happening at Walt Disney World. I am married with two children. My son is 14 and my daughter is 8; in fact, my son wants to be a Disney Imagineer when he grows up.

Disney World is one my favorite places to go, especially during the Fall and Mickey’s No So Scary Halloween Party. I love all things Disney. I may not know all things Disney, but my goal is to keep you informed on all the latest Disney goings on so that you can better plan your upcoming vacation!!! Remember, “It all started with a Mouse!”

Mini Diva

Hi, I am Mini Diva and I’m currently the youngest of the Divas (14 years old). Ever since I was 6 years old, I have been 100% IN LOVE with everything Disney and we travel to Disneyland every year. Just being able to go from wet and icky to warm and beautiful, brightens my day right up! I'm a huge roller coaster junkie. (It helps when my 51 year old dad is too.) I am so glad that I finally get to put my Disney information to good use. I hope our articles help everyone with what they were looking for. My plan is to help you with planning vacations when you have teens/ preteens AND kids in your party I will also be helping Teen Disney with tips for helping your teens love their Disney vacations.

Princess Diva

My name is Katie. I am a wife, mom of three boys (8 years, 7 years, and 19 months, making me the ONLY Princess in the house! I’m also a teacher, and Disney-fanatic! I grew up in Florida and went to Disney World multiple times a year as a kid. I now live in Roswell, New Mexico and have rekindled my love for Disney since having children of my own. I am now trying to share my love of Disney with my boys. Seeing and experiencing the magic of Disney through the eyes of a child is an amazing thing! Our goal as a family is to try something new with each visit!

I am so excited to be a part of a team of writers that love Disney as much as I do.

Fun ways to tell your kids you’re going to Walt Disney World – hedbandz game

2012-01-27T03:29:00.000-08:00

Author: Penny Pinching Diva

We've kept the secret from our kids for months now. We are going to Walt Disney World, but not only that, we are going with two other families that we are close to, and a few grandparents.

It was great!!!

We told the kids that our friends were coming over. We explained New Year's Eve, and that we were sort of having a party. It's Disney, so you have to have a theme. I asked the right questions, enough to let my daughter think it was her idea that we have a Disney World theme. That way, I could decorate without any questions.

The decorations.
I am proud to say that I didn't have to buy one thing to decorate for this little shindig. We have the props for a Disney party.

But apparently I didn't take a picture of them all...
The food.
I read through a list of all of the animated movies looking for food ideas from the movies. The best I menu I could come up with was spaghetti, poison apples and hunny. Not so tasty, so in my first act of flexibility concerning this trip, I changed the plan. I give you...
Mickey Pot Pies

This pic was from before I baked them. The ears didn't stay on. I had to put them back on with a toothpick. The kids didn't really pay attention, but I was happy to have my little ears on though. Chef Mickey, call me if you want my recipe.

More themed food.

The army man cupcake toppers I had left over from Handsome Jr.'s 3 year old party. The one we had to cancel because he got sick. And we had to put something in a frying pan, because I just really amused myself with how cute that would be.

The rest was normal potluck: green bean casserole, roasted potatoes, marshmallow fruit salad, and those hip-dwelling cupcakes.

The crew.
We will have 9 children all together ranging 8 months to 7 years. Here are most of them, enjoying their ADR (Advanced Dining Reservation) in our living room, on a makeshift table. (Thank goodness for a more friends than I can fit in my house comfortably, or at least neatly.)

The reveal.
We bought the Hedbanz game, and played our own version of it. We let each child have a turn with a character card on their headband, and ask questions to figure out who it was. This didn't work perfectly, but it was still fun.

For the second round of the game, we gave all of the kids special cards all at once, and told them that they couldn't turn around and look at the others until we said so. Only a few of them can read, so it took a while for them to catch on. But finally, they got it.

Here's what happened.
That's me that gets tackled in the end. So excited!

So if you’re looking at a clever way to tell your family that you’re going on a Disney Vacation try this. If you have a fun way YOU told your family you were going to Disney send us a word document with the details of how you told them and some pictures and we will feature YOUR STORY on the site. Just send your email to tipsfromthedisneydiva@gmail.com

And remember: it’s a big deal! Make your reveal FUN!

The Disney Diva will be doing a Disney announcement party on Sunday and I'm sure she will tell you all about that!

Bringing food and drinks into Walt Disney World

2012-01-26T05:06:00.000-08:00

Author: Budget Diva

Here are some important tips from the Budget Diva on how to save money on snacks and meals at Disney World!

Many people are not aware that for years Disney's official policy was that people (unless they had special needs) were allowed to bring food and drinks into the parks. However, it was rarely, make that NEVER, enforced. However, now Disney has changed that policy to officially allowing soft-sided coolers, food and drinks to come into the parks!

This is a HUGE money saver for those traveling on a budget! Coolers must be "soft sided coolers" not the big heavy hard sided coolers on wheels. No over-sized coolers will be allowed, nor are glass bottles, baby food jars, etc and no alcohol. (Interesting fact: beer is not sold in the Magic Kingdom!)

I recommend that you pack snacks and drinks and maybe even lunches every day to save both time and money. You will be thanking me once you see the lunch time lines at Disney World!

Below is a list of foods that make for great snacks/meals that are quick, easy and mess free:

goldfish
raisins
cereal bars
trail mix (you can make these at home ahead of time and put in plastic Ziploc baggies)
string cheese
peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (stay away from meat, it could go bad!!)
Gatorade or any juice to keep little ones hydrated (NO straws allowed in the Animal Kingdom so you'll have to take them off of your juice boxes! )
Gerber crunchies or puffs for little ones
energy bars for the adults-trust me, you'll need this
bananas
grapes (in a Ziploc baggies)

A great soft sided cooler is the Coleman 24 can cooler. It is available at Wal-mart and Target for about $27.

However, if you want something cute, personalized (and a little pricier) check out ThirtyOneGifts , they offer adorable water resistant monogrammed insulated coolers in various sizes and patterns. You could have your family's name written on your bag with the phrase "Disney Vacation" if you want to get creative!

Remember, if you're going to want to keep anything cold you will need a refrigerator in your room. You can read THIS POST about which resorts have refrigerators in them and which have mini-fridges you can rent.

You might also want to consider having groceries delivered to your resort. You can find information on grocery delivery by clicking HERE.

Walt Disney World Rose & Crown Dining Review

2012-01-25T05:36:00.000-08:00

Author Diva Planner

World Showcase in Epcot is home to some of the best restaurants on Disney property! Where else can you experience 13 different cuisines in one location?

One of my personal favorites is Rose & Crown in the United Kingdom. This little pub holds a fun atmosphere and some great food!

When we arrived we were greeted by natives of the United Kingdom! (Disney sure does pay attention to detail!) With their fun British accents, they welcomed us and even helped us through the menu. Included on the menu were fun British staples like Shepherd’s Pie, Fish & Chips and even Bangers & Mash!

However, the most exciting part of this restaurant is its location to the World Showcase Lagoon. The restaurant is right next to it! There are even tables outside on the patio where you can look over the lake.

What does this mean? If you time your reservation correctly – you can watch Illuminations Fireworks from your table while eating dessert! (Note: If your table is inside – you can walk out on the patio to a lower area to watch Illuminations.) If fireworks start at 9:00pm I would recommend you make your reservation for after 7:30pm. This area fills up fast so attempt to make your reservations AS SOON AS you know you are going.

I highly recommend you make reservations Rose & Crown the next time you are at Disney World!

Meeting Rapunzel at Walt Disney World

2012-01-24T03:29:00.000-08:00

Everybody wants to get a little face time with Disney’s newest Princess! If you are heading to Walt Disney World in the near future you just might have your chance.

(photo credit Christie Gera)

For those of us who were lucky enough to have met “Punzie” AND Flynn Ryder at the same time you will remember a time of coloring, mini-show from Rapunzel and Flynn, dancing, and THEN a meet and greet. Oh, and you also likely remember that LONG LONG line to meet them. However, when Flynn went on the “rare character” list and no longer was a regular at the Rapunzel Meet and Greet, Walt Disney World changed things up a bit. So what do you need to know if you want to meet Rapunzel at Walt Disney World now?

WHERE is the meet and greet? The Rapunzel Meet and Greet happens in Fairytale Garden. If you’ve been to Walt Disney World before you will recognize this as where Storytime with Belle use to be. If not there are two easy ways to get there. You can either take the path AFTER the Tomorrowland Bridge towards Fantasyland and then turn left, OR you can go through the castle and take the first path on your right down to Fairytale Garden.

WHEN should I go? I know the tendency is to sprint towards Dumbo or Peter Pan after rope drop at Magic Kingdom, but if you are SERIOUS about seeing Rapunzel then you really should make a bee-line for her. Someone from your party needs to stay there and hold your spot and the rest of you can go on to Dumbo or Peter Pan and rejoin you before 9am, as the character greet BEGINS AT 9:15am. I have consistently heard that the wait climbs to well over an hour after the first 45 minutes the park is open. So unless you’re willing to camp out for “Punzie” you probably should go first thing in the morning. Oh, and get there at rope drop!!!

Rapunzel is a delight, and any time with face characters when you have really little children with you is a good idea! Just make sure you plan ahead so that the dream of seeing Rapunzel doesn’t turn into a NIGHTMARE of a wait!

Three Steps to Walt Disney Vacation Planning Success, No Matter What!

2012-01-23T00:52:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Melisa

I’m so excited to be writing for the Disney Diva, I just don’t know where to start! My main area of expertise is vacationing with a child on the autism spectrum, but my husband and I have been working on our tips, both general and specific, since our honeymoon 13 years ago. That was his first time at WDW, and let me tell you, we learned some great lessons that helped us out later on.

In my opinion, the most important (and not really secret) tip for having a totally FABULOUS trip, regardless of whether you are on your honeymoon, have special needs, are traveling with a large group (you get the idea) is to PLAN, PLAN, PLAN! I know THE Disney Diva harps on this all the time, but it doesn’t change the fact that it is vitally important.

Step One: Keep a Notebook – Online or paper where you can write all your accommodation info, tips, ideas, etc. As you plan you will need to refer to this information (including confirmation numbers) over and over. So you want to be able to find it quickly!

Step Two: Scour This Website - I was very fortunate as I planned my first trip with a special needs child to be able to pick apart the brain of the Disney Diva herself, in person. She is full of great wisdom, and if she doesn’t know the answer, she will find it. Hence, you now have this awesome resource that covers ALL THINGS Disney. If you can’t find the answer on the site, we’ll do our best to find it for you. Just send us an email using Contact with any question you might have that you can’t find the answer to on the site.

Step Three: ABSOLUTELY go with an endorsed Disney vacation planner. Ours was invaluable. I simply told her what I needed. For example: “Where can our large party celebrate mom’s birthday?” “I need these certain character meals, can you book them?” “We will be in such and such park for lunch -- what walk-in diner will provide us with our dietary needs?”). She was our female knight in shining armor, even up to the morning of our arrival. This allowed me to work on more specific plans related to traveling with a large group including a special needs child. Read more about why you should hire a Disney Travel Planner by clicking HERE. And consider using Tips from the Disney Diva’s Sponsor Megan Biller (aka Diva Planner), they’re no cost to you so why WOULDN’T you use one?!

If you begin with these three steps, you are already ahead of the curve, and on your way to a great vacation at the most amazing place in the world!

Week in Review Jan 15 to Jan 21, 2012

2012-01-22T04:45:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, the Disney Diva shared a funny (and informative) article for those people having to try to DEAL with Disney addicts, called Help! My significant other is addicted to Disney! Feel free to share it with all your friends who have no idea why you love Disney so much!

On Monday Budget Diva wrote an excellent article with some great tips on Walt Disney World When you’ve got an OLDER child and a YOUNGER Child! You really should not miss it! It could really save you a lot of irritation.

On Tuesday the Disney Diva did her best to persuade you to run in the Princess Half Marathon Weekend which not only has the Princess Half Marathon (13.1 miles) but also the Royal Family 5k (3.1 miles) and Kids races all the way down to a Diaper Derby!

On Wednesday, our resident Disney Travel Agent Megan Biller (aka Diva Planner) gave us a review of Crystal Place Character Breakfast. Complete with Mickey Waffles.

Thursday came with our D’land Diva’s review of Paradise Garden Grill at Disney California Adventures. Looks delicious!

Just for Fun on Friday Disney Diva’s article “You might be a Disney Addict if” (previously run on www.chipandco.com tested all those Disney lovers out there to see if they were TRUE addicts or just faking it!

Oh Saturday Diva Mouze started us on our journey of Indulging the Disney Diva in her luxury series and introduced us to Disney themed Silver and Marcasite Jewelry! Oooh la la!

We hope you caught us on our Facebook Page, Twitter Feed, and Pinterest Boards! too! Get Social with the Divas! We LOVE comments so tell us what you think of our articles and what you want to know more about!

Combating Disney Vacation "Too Excited To Sleep Syndrome"

2012-01-22T04:01:00.000-08:00

Author: Nick the Disney Devo (tee)

If you are anything like me, about a week, sometimes 2 weeks, before a Disney Vacation, you start having restless nights. Then, the night before your magical journey is about to begin, you are wide awake, tossing and turning, watching the clock.

I call this TETSS. Too Excited To Sleep Syndrome, and it's a serious problem.

Over the years, I've developed a routine to combat this problem, and it works, to lesser or greater degree, each trip I:

Take 1 Tylenol PM (2 would make me too groggy the next morning)
Drink 1 cup of Chamomile tea (don't drink too many fluids, or THAT can be an issue!)
Have a light meal, trying to avoid anything to salty or heavy, or caffeinated
Try not to go to bed until 8 hours before I intend to get up, knowing I'll likely only get 6, 7 if I'm lucky.

I used to try to go to bed ridiculously early the night before, and would wind up waking up 4 hours later, unable to get back to sleep. My excitement about my next trip just WONT let me sleep! Very irritating when I'm planning on doing A LOT of walking once I get to Disney!!

I asked the rest of the Diva team what they do to combat TETSS, and here are some of their solutions:
Photo Diva:
"I start walking months prior to a WDW vacation, because I average about 10 miles a day in the parks. (I suggest everybody wear a pedometer- you'd be surprised how far you go each day and read this article about tips for Walking around Disney). The closer I get to" go-day", I try to walk more to exhaust myself. Melatonin (a natural herb) works wonders, as does packing in the middle of the night. I probably get more excited than my kids. I also sleep terribly on vacation. I have been known to wander around the Contemporary Resort between 2 and 3 a.m. in the summer until I can fall asleep. Standing out on the dock looking at the lights...I'm not sure that actually makes me any more sleepy though!"

THE Disney Diva:
"To be honest... I blog. I sit and write out all the things I'm thinking about into posts until I'm too tired to keep my eyes open. I'm always very careful about having any kind of caffeine or sugar during the week leading up to the trip because it really makes it hard for me to sleep period, and having the excitement on top of it makes it nearly impossible!"

Diva Melisa:
"I do yoga or Pilates right before bed. Being a little achy, but totally stretched and relaxed helps me sleep, and a little extra flexibility never hurts when you're dodging the crowds and sprinting to get those fast passes!"

Planning Diva:
"I make lists - lots and lots of lists. Packing lists. Dining reservation lists. Park hour lists. (I'm an organizer at heart - can you tell? Maybe that's why I'm a Disney Vacation Travel Planner)"

Dixie Diva:
"I just pack until 2-3 in the morning, sleep until 5, get on the early flight, and just take a "Disney nap" after we have been in the parks. Sleep is over-rated lol!"

Diva Mommy:
"I try to have as much packed the night before as I can, even though all night I am constantly thinking what I still need to pack and don't want to forget. I try to go to bed early so I have more time to try to sleep."

Teen Diva:
"I embrace my excitement! I play Disney music, I go on the website. and eventually I fall asleep from pure exhaustion."

Ah, to be young again!
As you can see, different things work for different people. This isn't an exact science, but try some of these suggestions out before your next trip, and perhaps you too can overcome the dreaded TETSS!

Nick is also a frequent contributor to the Disleelandia Blog where he discusses his Disneyana collection:
http://disneyatdisleelandiablog.blogspot.com/

Indulging the Disney Diva: Silver and Marcasite Jewelry

2012-01-21T05:28:00.000-08:00

A Walt Disney World vacation has something for every budget and every taste. Looking for something special for yourself or the Disney Diva in your life?

Jewelry is abundant in The World of Mickey Mouse, with a range starting at about $ 4 on the low end for metal charms to thousands of dollars for gold jewelry with diamonds. The sterling silver necklaces in the photograph were found at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort at their gift shop by the main hotel lobby. Coronado’s gift shop is above-average in terms of high-end jewelry selections compared to some of the other resort gift shops.

These three necklaces feature intricate craftsmanship, diamonds, and marcasite. Marcasite jewelry is made from pyrite, more commonly known as “fool’s gold,” and not actually from the mineral marcasite. Pyrite is very similar to marcasite but more durable long term. Marcasite jewelry has been produced for Divas as far back as the ancient Greeks and was particularly popular in the 18^th century, the Victorian Era, and with Art Nouveau jewelry designers.

When you’re finished with your jewelry shopping, take a stroll out to the lake. Disney’s Coronado Springs has one of the most beautiful lake-side views in all of the Walt Disney World property. Grab a cold drink and have a seat at one of the outdoor tables.

Just in case you don’t make it over to Coronado Springs Resort, Downtown Disney has a large selection of jewelry in “the jewelry room” at The World of Disney. Main Street, U.S.A in the Magic Kingdom has a large variety of silver and gold jewelry, plus Diva favorite Dooney & Bourke Disney handbags at Uptown Jewelers. Epcot also has a large selection of watches and silver jewelry at Mouse Gear near Innoventions.

So all you Disney Divas, we’ll see you at the jewelry counter!

Have a photo of an exquisite piece of Disney merchandise you would like to share with our Tips From The Disney Diva readers? Drop by and share your photos on Mouze Kateerz on Facebook. Take a virtual Disney vacation in photographs. Visit my photo blog at mouzekateerz.com or e-mail me your photo to mouzekateerz@gmail.com

You might be a Disney Addict if…

2012-01-20T08:13:00.001-08:00

Author: The Disney Diva

You know you've got a PASSION for Disney when you sleep eat and breathe it. And you might just have crossed the line into addict by now!

Remember the old Jeff Foxworth comedy routines about “You might be a redneck if…”? I do!! Part of why they were so hilarious to me was because I live in the deep south and so many of them were TRUE (however, I have lived in other parts of the country and have found there are just as many red-necks y’all just call them something different). (SIDE NOTE: I mostly write Disney World stuff. I’m sorry if that bothers you Disneyland folks, but I don’t know enough about your park to write about it with consistency).

So (once again) I was awakened with a post idea….

You might be a Disney addict if…

1. You are already planning your child’s (born or unborn) wedding at the Walt Disney World wedding pavilion. (complete with reception at Grand Floridian and horse-drawn princess carriage).

2. You have every seriously considered paying someone going on a Disney trip to bring you a Dole Whip or Turkey Leg 3. You have at least one Christmas tree that has nothing but Disney Christmas ornaments on it.

4. You would never EVER marry someone who said they didn’t want to go to Disney World or Disneyland.

5. The majority of posts you regularly see on Facebook feeds (due to the new frequency of interaction policy) have something to do with Disney.

6. You’ve ever gotten into a serious argument about whether its more important to go get fast passes for Soarin’ or Test Track when first entering Epcot or Toy Story Mania vs Tower of Terror vs Rockin’ Rollercoaster.

7. You’ve ridden in the single-rider line even though you were with a “party” of people. (Every man/woman/child for themselves.)

8. You watch the Disney Vacation Planning DVD’s even though you know every single tip they could offer you.

9. You have a Disney Visa that you pay off monthly just so you can use the points for food/ souvenirs in the park.

10. You have a SECOND Disney Visa that you use JUST to book vacation packages so you can get 6 months no-interest.

11. You would DIE to have your backyard chosen for “My yard goes Disney”

12. You half hate/ half love Samantha Brownbecause she gets to go to Disney all the time.

13. You make your kids/ significant other/ family get up and watch the Disney Christmas Parade.

14. You know that the names on the windows on Main Street USA are almost all people who worked with Walt in planning Disney World.

15. You’ve ever thrown a coin to a yeti statue in the line for Expedition Everest.

16. You’ve encouraged someone going to WDW to try “Beverly” at Coke’s “Club Cool” because its… um…. delicious (snicker, snicker)

17. You know that if you wait too long to get ADR’s you don’t have a prayer of getting a table at O’hana (for dinner), Le Cellar (for anything), or California Grille (during fireworks) or Cinderella’s Royal Table.

18. You refuse to do the math on Disney Vacation Club vs how much you’ve spent in trips so far because you know it would make you weep.

19. You see a woman with a Disney tote bag or purse on the street in “the real world” and know exactly which store it came from.

20. Almost every hat or visor you own has a Disney character on it.

21. As SOON as you book your next trip you set a count-down widget somewhere on your computer or phone so you’ll always know “how many days till”.

22. One of your favorite things to do while at WDW or Disneyland is to take pictures on your cell phone and text (or upload them to Facebook) your friends who AREN’T there with you!!! (come on, rubbing it in is half the fun!!)

23. You no longer notice the people in the park wearing fanny-packs.

24. You can do Animal Kingdom in 1/2 a day.

25. You have ever been jealous of the college kid working in the hot sun in a polyester outfit of some sort because “at least they work at DISNEY”.

26. You know how to make all 4 of the animal sounds at the Festival of the Lion King.

27. You know that Off Kilter has one heck of a bagpipes player.

28. You are seriously MAD that the child Chinese acrobats contract was not renewed.

29. You fully believe that a Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Bar really does taste better than a regular vanilla icecream “dipped” cone.

30. You collect “rare characters” photos and autographs.

31. You’ve ever gotten a hair-cut at the Harmony Barbershop on Main Street.

32. You notice “hidden mickey’s” everywhere!!! (my kids are constantly yelling loooook… hidden mickey mom!)

33. You’ve seen at least one celebrity (and their tour guide) in the parks.

34. You have your own “secret spot” for parade viewing , fireworks & using the bathroom that you don’t want to share with anybody because then it will get busy.

35. You get really irritated when you pick the “slow” fast pass distribution line.

36. You know the name of the “purple dragon” on the Imagination ride and when to hold your nose (and close your eyes)

37. You know that Mulan isn’t actually a Princess, that “sleeping beauty” has a name, and that Snow White’s Prince does NOT.

38. You know which rides the Imagineers SERIOUSLY need to consider updating.

39. You have ever cried/ teared up while watching Wishes!

40. You learned about what hydroponics was from riding “The Land” and you REALLY want a Mickey shaped pumpkin!

41. You ALWAYS pack your own ponchos.

42. You know which horse is “Cinderella’s horse” on the Carousel.

43. You can sing the music that plays in the “Innoventions” area at Epcot.

44. You know what parts of the safari to hold on a little tighter for.

45. You know when you see two vultures to put your hands up in the air because its going to be a Loooooong way down!

46. You know where to shoot on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin & Toy Story Mania in order to get the most points.

47. You know that Dinosaur is, for serious, the scariest ride at Walt Disney World!

48. You have thought of a question that YOU would ask Crush if you were the “dude in the yellow shell”. (my husband always tries to get my kids to ask Crush if turtles taste like chicken. They never will).

49. You know where the sky-way buckets use to be.

50. If you are STILL reading this post and laughing to yourself, you MIGHT be a Disney Addict!

I could go on and on and on. You will have to wait till next time. If you have any share them with us in the comment box below.

Paradise Garden Grill at Disney California Adventure

2012-01-19T05:13:00.000-08:00

Author: D'land Diva

Once upon a time, this area of the Paradise Pier in Disney California Adventure Park housed a McDonald’s restaurant and a boat themed water play area for the kids. In 2008, when the agreement between McDonald’s and Disney ended, the area sat vacant.

There were many guesses as to what would move into the vacant space here, and then Disney announced many new and exciting projects that were coming to Disney California Adventure. In addition to re-theming previous attractions, new attractions were going to be added and even a new land- Cars Land. This is an exciting time to be an annual pass holder!

One of the first new projects was the re-design of the McDonald’s area. The area transformed into a beginning of the century boardwalk theme, complete with new seating area, two new restaurants and a re-theming of Mulholland Madness to Goofy’s Sky School. One of these restaurants happens to be my new favorite place to eat in the Park- Paradise Garden Grill. It serves Mediterranean food in a quick service fashion.

The theming here is divine, especially at night when the gazebos and signs are all lit up. There is plenty of seating, with most of it offering shade from the hot sun or protection from the rain on rainy days. In fact, it is an 800 seat complex! Twice a day, a band performs in a small gazebo and there is always an audience.

Like many counter service restaurants in the Park, orders are taken at the front and then you walk forward to wait for your order to be ready. The waits have never been long, the half a dozen times I have eaten at the Paradise Garden Grill. Like many customers, I often stand to the side of the line and spend a few minutes trying to decide which delicious food I want to have for lunch or dinner. There are some great options at this place, and a chance for you to design your meal to your liking:

First, you select a skewer or the Greek Salad. There are steak, chicken, ground beef and tofu and veggie skewers available. Next, you choose your sauce for the skewer. There is a Chili sauce, a Chimichurri sauce, a Tandoori sauce and a Tzatziki sauce. For kids (on that cute little Mickey plate they have), there is the option of a chicken or a beef skewer and it generally comes with the mild Tzatziki sauce. That is not all your plate offers, however. Along with your skewer, there is a mild flavored rice, a cucumber salad and a soft, warm pita. In case you were wondering, yes, that is a lot of food for your money!

My favorite is the chicken with the Chimichurri sauce. The chicken is grilled to perfection, with a nice crust on the outside and juicy on the inside. The Chimichurri sauce is a wonderful compliment to the chicken, with a mix of spices and tangy flavor. I have also eaten the steak with the Chimichurri sauce and the Tzatziki sauce. The Tzatziki sauce is a mild, creamy flavor that is also a good sauce to dip your pita into! My Z loves the chicken skewer and the rice, and of course, the apples. He is not too crazy about the sauce, but he is not a kid that likes sauce normally.

Should this amazingly large, rich meal not be enough and you are left with a sweet tooth, there are also dessert options. There is a crispy, yet sweet baklava or a chocolate brownie and strawberry skewer with a healthy dose of caramel and chocolate sauce.

The next time you are in Disney California Adventure and find yourself wondering what to eat, I strongly recommend you stop by the Paradise Garden Grill. I consider it to be one of the best deals in the Park for the amount of food you get for the price. It is also some of the tastiest food the park has to offer.

Crystal Palace Character Breakfast - review

2012-01-18T05:01:00.000-08:00

Author: Diva Planner

There is a hidden character meal gem in Walt Disney World.

Here’s a hint – it’s in Magic Kingdom. And it’s NOT with Mickey.

It’s the lovely Crystal Palace!

This intricately designed restaurant is one of my favorite character meals on property! (That’s right – my husband and I enjoy character meals, even though we don’t have kids!) Like I stated above – this character meal doesn’t include Mickey. It actually includes Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too! (And Piglet & Eeyore.)

We dined during breakfast and absolutely loved the food! Now, we realize that breakfast is pretty self-explanatory – but there were some fun extras beyond the normal breakfast fare.

This meal is buffet style and has two buffet locations (both serving the same food.) Beyond the amazing fruit spread, there were also eggs, meat, breads and cereal. And let’s not forget these…

A must for every trip!

However, what caught our attention was an area of the buffet geared for kids. And it included one of our favorite dishes. Winnie the Pooh’s own puffed French toast! That’s right – puffed French toast sprinkled in cinnamon sugar.

Beyond the food, we also were greeted at our table by the characters themselves! (Note: it can take at least an hour for all of the characters to cycle to your table – so take your time.) The characters did an excellent job of interacting with us – and all of the families around us.

I highly recommend this restaurant for a great character meal experience for your family!

Princess Half Marathon Weekend

2012-01-17T07:53:00.000-08:00

Author The Disney Diva

So here you are… You’re sitting at your computer soaking up your daily dose of Disney Addiction (which we are grateful for, don’t get me wrong), wishing you could meet me (the Disney Diva). Well, have I got an idea for you!

February 24-26th, 2012 RunDisney at Walt Disney World hosts its Princess Half Marathon Weekend. (Hey, I heard that GASP! Just wait a second and let me give you allll the information before you have a conniption fit) There are a FEW options for you for “races” you can participate in during the weekend.

Royal Family Kids Races: (Feb. 25th, 2012 – 11:00am) Everybody wants to have healthy kids. So get them out and let them “train” with you for your race. Disney hosts races for: 12& months and under – Diaper Dash for crawlers, 1-3 years old – 100m dash, 4-6 years old – 200m dash, & 7-8 years old – 400m dash. They also have a 1-mile fun run for kids 13-under (which you can run along with them). Each kid-racer gets a Disney Royal Family Kids’ Races T-shirt, Finisher medallion & Goody bag! You can register your favorite kid by clicking HERE. The 1 mile run is $25.00 and all other races are only $10.00. The races take place at The ESPN complex on Disney property.

Royal Family 5K Race: (Feb. 25th, 2012 – 7:00am) A 5K is exactly 3.1 miles, and before you even ask, No! you DON’T have to be able to run the whole way. As a matter of fact, as long as you can walk faster than a 16-minute mile, you don’t have to run at all. This race course has you running through Epcot (you can see the race map HERE). And as you run/walk you will see LOTS of Disney characters (many of them EXCLUSIVELY available for pictures at Disney Races) and cast members cheering you on. This race also has a stroller division, so you can push your little princess or pirate along the course with you. All ages are eligible to participate in the race, but they must be able to complete the race on their own (unless they are in the stroller obviously). As a part of your registration all participants get a 5K T-shirt (Unisex cut), Finisher medallion, Goody bag, Personalized bib (Must register by December 1, 2011 for name to appear on bib) & On-course and post-race refreshments. You can register by clicking HERE. The fee is $50.00 for the 5K, and $55.00 for the 5K stroller division (Ps. your little one gets their own medal too!)

Princess Half Marathon (Feb. 26th, 2012 – 5:45am) The BIG MAMA, 13.1 miles through Epcot AND Magic Kingdom! This is the race that I (the Disney Diva) will be running. First off the Princess Half-Marathon is a WOMAN FOCUSED race!!! So gentlemen, you’ll have to opt for the Royal Family 5K instead. I have seen pictures from other people who have run this race and am SO excited about all the awesome characters along the race course. I saw a photo of Prince Phillip, Prince Charming, Tarzan, Prince Naveen, and Flynn Ryder that you could stop and take a picture with. Can you say HUBBA HUBBA!! I also saw the “full cast” of many animated features as well as Cinderella’s carriage. SQUEAL! Not to mention crossing something BIG off your “bucket list” and being able to do something JUST FOR YOURSELF for a change! Don’t think you can make it the whole way? Grab a friend and split the race in two with both of you doing 6.55 miles. You can register as an individual by clicking HERE. Registration costs between $140.00-$150.00 (depending on when you register) or you can register as a team by clicking HERE . Registration for the two-person group is between $280.00- $300.00 (depending on when you register). And what do you get as a part of that registration? Champion® Women’s Short-Sleeved Tech Shirt (Unisex cut available), Finisher medal (which are normally AWESOME!). Goody bag, Personalized bib (Must register by December 1, 2011 for name to appear on bib), On-course and post-race refreshment, & a Family Reunion Area with live entertainment and characters.

For months I have been training with a group of women from all over the nation who will be meeting up with me before the race. https://www.facebook.com/DisneyDivasInTraining and I will be doing live coverage for Sorcerer Radio that I hope you’ll listen to! And, of course, with Disney’s new ONE MORE DAY on Leap Year (feb 29th) being open 24 hours if you plan your trip just right you could enjoy ALL NIGHT in the parks with ME! It will be a once in a lifetime experience.

I hope you’ll consider it!

Meet the divas

2012-01-16T15:18:00.001-08:00

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Meet the Diva team:

(click on each writers names to find articles written by them)

THE original Disney Diva (founder of site)

Specializing in Walt Disney World with families

Budget Diva

Specializing in Walt Disney World on a budget, trips

with toddlers and babies

Canadian Diva

Specializing in tips for Canadians traveling

to Walt Disney World and Disneyland and

trips with children in your party.

D’Land Diva

Specializing in Disneyland with young children

Diva Meesh

Specializing in Walt Disney World as

a couple

Diva Melisa

Specializing in Walt Disney World trips with

special needs children, groups, and transportation

Diva Mommy

Specializing in Walt Disney World with toddlers

& young children

Diva Planner – Megan Biller

Disney Vacation Planner for Glass Slipper Concierge and Tips from the Disney Diva Sponsor

Specializing in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, DisneyCruises & RunDisney Events

Diva Snoop

Specializing in Disney World “news” that would effect your trip planning

including ride refurbishments and updates.

Diva World Traveler

Specializing in Disneyland Paris, Disneyland Hong Kong

trip planning and trips as a single parent.

Dixie Diva

Specializing in Walt Disney World, tours, trips without

kids in your party, and roller coasters.

Mini Diva

Specializing in Disneyland vacations with “split” age groups of teens AND young children and making trip more fun for teens!

Nick the Disney Devo (tee)

Our official “Male Perspective” Specializing in

Disney Vacation Club, Disney World &

Disneyland, and Tours.

Penny Pinching Diva

Specializing in organizing large family/ friend vacations to

Walt Disney World. Planning trips with children, seniors, and

toddlers.

Princess Diva

Specializing in Disney trips for boys and large age-split vacations.

Teen Diva

Specializing in Disneyland and tips for helping

your TEENS have GREAT time at Disney

Diva Mouze

Specializing in finding luxury at Disney World

and Disney Vacation Club

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Meet the Diva team!

Walt Disney World When You've Got a Older Child & Younger Child

2012-01-16T06:41:00.000-08:00

Author: Budget Diva

When traveling to Walt Disney World with children of different ages it can make for a hectic schedule when trying to fit everything into one day and include time for little ones to nap, diaper changes, and big ones to ride the thrill rides they're dreaming of.

Here are some tips from the Budget Diva on how to make the most of your time at Disney with both older & younger children (including babies).

Step 1: Have a plan! Don't make the same mistake that many families do of rushing out of your hotel room at 8:00 am to catch the buses or shuttle and not discussing your day ahead of time. This usually results in some crazy fights from miscommunication. Having a spreadsheet "plan" for the day and knowing what rides are appropriate for what ages will help. You can find those sheets HERE.

Step 2: Pack accordingly! Be sure to pack everything you may need to accommodate all of the members of your family. The article on the Perfect Backpack will give you some good ideas. If you feel that your little ones can nap in the stroller while the older siblings enjoy the rides then be sure to pack blankets, pillows, your little one's favorite 'lovey' or stuffed animal to make them as comfortable as possible. If you need some tips on the best place to rest/ take naps at WDW read THIS ARTICLE.
Step 3: Make it possible to split up. If you decide to temporarily split up the party be sure to separate admission tickets, car keys, room keys, etc so that the parent who goes back to the hotel with the little ones can re-enter the park at a later time. And, of course, make sure any pre-teens or teens have a charged cell-phone that makes it possible for you to contact one another. If you have more than two children who need strollers plan for two umbrella strollers instead of one double stroller in the event that one parent does need leave the park with the other child. Teenagers usually want to sleep in, which can cause a problem when you're trying maximize your morning ride time. If you opt to stay in an "on-property" resort consider letting your teen sleep in some and catch a bus to meet you in the park later. A little freedom for your teens will go a long way in making the family vacation work.

Step 4: Plan some one-on-one time with your older child. It is a great idea for one parent to go back to the hotel with younger children while the other parent stays in the park with the older child (or children). This is a great way to squeeze in 'one on one' time with an older child which they might act like they don't need, but they do! You may even want to splurge on a special character meal during that one-on-one time which would help to save money since you'd only be paying for one adult and one child instead the whole family.
If character meals aren't in the budget then you could simply walk around Downtown Disney with your older child and do some window shopping and split an ice cream sundae at the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop. Downtown Disney also offers a huge 3,000 sq foot Lego imagination center complete with play center for children of all ages! If you have an older Princess who wants to have a princess makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique this would be a perfect opportunity.

Almost all children under age five are going to need a nap at some point during their Disney vacation (and most adults will too in order to avoid a Huge Meltdown! ) Having a plan ahead of time so that you are not standing in an hour long line for Dumbo with a cranky, whiny toddler AND a cranky, whiny teen can be avoided by letting your children help plan ahead of time and taking these tips into consideration. It may be hard, but it CAN be done. Look for a way and keep coming back to Tips from the Disney Diva for tips to plan the best holiday ever!

Week in Review- Jan 8 to Jan 14, 2012

2012-01-15T06:43:00.000-08:00

Did you miss any Disney Tips this week? Get it all wrapped up in one place right here!

Sunday: On Sunday Diva Mommy started us off with some great tips on Packing Essentials for traveling to Disney World or Disneyland with toddlers. It’s hard to remember everything when traveling so it’s a great article with things to add to your packing list!

Monday: Diva Mommy did two things on Monday. Write a great article on Tips for viewing Walt Disney World fireworks with children under 5 AND start her family vacation at Walt Disney World. T(his diva wont lie, she’s GREEN with envy! )If you have a little one scared of fireworks she offers you some great tips in her article.

Tuesday: Tuesday Nick the Disney Devo (tee) (Who is ALSO currently on vacation at Walt Disney World…. jealous anyone?) told us when the best time to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom was. Hint: Get there early….. oh well just read the article!

Wednesday: Teen Diva’s article on Is the Disney Grand Californian Resort in Disneyland for Teens helps parents traveling with teens in their party choose the best resort for them. The article, which comes from a teen perspective, gives great insights on things your teen will love about the resort and things they might not.

Thursday: Thursday came with an article from the D’land Diva chocked full on how to Survive crowded days at Disneyland. Great tips that could make your trip so much more enjoyable. It even came with tips on where to park!

Friday: On Friday Canadian Diva reviewed Walt Disney World’s Fantasmic! Fireworks show and declared it to be FAN-TASTIC! In the article she gives great tips on where to sit to enjoy the show and some cautions about viewing the show with little ones.

Saturday: Nick the Disney Devo (tee) gave us a MOUTH WATERING review of the Yak and Yeti restaurant in Animal Kingdom and what he recommends you try when you go there!

Help! My significant other is addicted to Disney!

2012-01-15T06:25:00.000-08:00

Author: The Disney Diva

Disney Addicts are just like you. They just have more pairs of Mickey Ears.

For those of you who are not Disney Addicts this addiction may seem confusing and overwhelming. The idea that someone would choose to take every vacation at the same location might challenge you. “What is the big deal?”, you might ask yourself, “Isn’t Disney just a sweltering hot, packed-out theme-park full of kiddy rides and over-priced fast food?”

What you must understand is that to a true Disney Addict, every trip to Walt Disney World or Disneyland is a homecoming. To the Disney Addict WDW and Dland is where they belong; where they can be themselves and be surrounded by magic.

Disney Addicts are somewhat of a mystery to the rest of the population and so I wanted to give you my top 5 tips for interacting with the Disney Addict in order to make your relationship healthier.

TIP 1 – Clothing: You should make every effort to not call a Disney Addict “weird” simply because they wear ties with mickey heads to board meetings, or mickey-shaped earrings while having a night on the town. Do not call attention to the fact that every t-shirt they own has a Disney Character on it. Instead of lambasting them when they return from their vacation with a new pair of plush Mickey costume gloves, you should look for more discrete Disney based gifts to give them for holiday gifts. There are many purses, socks, scarfs, dresses and other items with mickeys “hidden” into the pattern that will allow the individual to show their Disney pride in more subtle ways.

TIP 2 – Food: Part of the addiction to Disney World/Disneyland centers around an obsession with specific Disney-park foods. I have a friend who is a stage-four Disney Addict (65+ trips and he’s 24 yrs old) who swears there must be “crack or something in Casey’s Corner Hotdogs”. He has told me many times he will be driving down the street and suddenly have an overwhelming urge to book a trip just thinking about the hotdogs. My friend Suzanne Broughton swears that the Disneyland Corndog is THE addiction of choice for Dlanders and even got the scoop in her video The Disneyland Corn Dog Story. For my husband (pictured above) its the Dole Whip that triggers his irrational need to book a trip to WDW. You can help to quell this addiction by learning to make replicas of these foods at home. Our very own Chip wrote an article on How to Make your own Dole Whips , and as you saw in the Disneyland Corn Dog Story its an off-the-shelf batter that is used to make the Disneyland corn dogs. Spring for a mickey-head-shaped waffle maker and try giving your Addict small reminders of “home” with Disney Park-like foods.

TIP 3 – Technology: You should never point and laugh when you discover that a Disney Addicts computer screensaver contains nothing but photos from past Disney trips. Nor should you mock them when their Facebook status contains at least one mention of how many days until their next trip. Don’t be surprised when every bookmark on their computer is a Disney blog such as Tips from the Disney Diva or Chip & Co . Technology allows Disney Addicts to feel a part of the magic in the time in-between trips. It both feeds and satisfies their addiction simultaneously. Take me for example, I’m working through my Disney “DT’s” by blogging tips that allow me to live vicariously through those planning their vacations. Whenever you run across a great article send it to your Disney Addict friend and help them through technology.

TIP 4 – Polite Conversation: Disney Addicts lose all concept of time when talking to other people about their Disney Vacations. You should be careful when making small-talk with the Disney Addict to never mention anything Disney related unless you genuinely want to talk to the Addict about it. Make sure you have a plan of how you will exit the conversation gracefully once you are tired of talking about how many times their kid threw-up after riding Expedition Everest. The worst thing you can do to an Addict is act like Disney World/ Disneyland is stupid and not worth talking about, or that they are crazy for going so many times.

TIP 5 – Planning Trips: To A Disney Addict planning a trip to WDW or Dland is an ART FORM. No, they can’t just show up and figure out that day what to do. Yes, they really do need to book the dining reservations 180 days in advance. No, they don’t need a park map. It doesn’t make them weird, well maybe a little weird, but it makes YOUR trip to Disney a whole lot more enjoyable because they know what the plan is before you arrive. So if they’re sleeping, eating, and speaking Disney 24/7 and its getting a little old try saying something more like “I know you are excited about our trip, I am to, I trust you to plan it, you don’t have to discuss every element with me. I enjoy the surprise of the trip!” instead of “Shush! I’m sick and tired of hearing about this stupid trip!” OK? Remember all this planning is actually a method the addict uses to elongate the trip itself. When Addicts start packing a month ahead of the trip it makes me them feel like the trip has already begun. So let them plan, really, what can it hurt?

So now you have some tips to interacting with a Disney Addict. They are people and should be treated as such, even though they are obsessed with mice, ducks, dogs, dwarfs, and weird dog-like animals with buck-teeth. Good luck!

Kristin, Tips from the Disney Diva

Four Great Entrees at Yak and Yeti - dining review

2012-01-14T04:00:00.000-08:00

Author: Nick the Disney Devo (tee)

In 2007, Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom added it's second table service restaurant, the Anandapur Yak and Yeti Restaurant, in the Asian section. My wife and I had the good fortune to be there for the Yak and Yeti's opening week. The food was terrific then, and has only gotten better. On a recent trip to Walt Disney World, my wife, our friends, and I revisited Yak and Yeti.

This is a beautiful restaurant, with two floors full of Asian/Indian flavored rooms. We enjoyed just spending time just looking at the beautiful decor.

The food and drinks also have an Asian/Indian flavor that you will enjoy and the portions are large, and perfect for sharing, which is what we did.

Let's talk about some of our favorite dishes!

Baby Back Ribs - slow-roasted ribs, hoisin BBQ sauce, chicken fried rice, sweet chili slaw: $25.99

The ribs are very tender, and the spice tangy, but by no means overwhelming. The fried rice is amazing.

Crispy Mahi Mahi - filet of mahi mahi, Japanese bread crumbs, Cantonese sweet and sour sauce, jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables: $22.99

This is my wife's favorite dish, and she orders it every time. The mahi mahi is crispy on the outside, yet light, flaky and juicy inside. The chili sauce is lightly spicy and the vegetables are always fresh.

Duck with Anandapur Glaze - roasted half duckling, orange wasabi glaze, jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables: $22.99

The duck was delicious, and the sauce a perfect compliment. Again, I love the vegetables. This was my second favorite entree of the four.

Chicken Lo Mein - Lo Mein noodles, carrots, cabbage, green onions, bean sprouts, chicken: $17.99

While you can get Chicken Lo Mein at any Chinese restaurant, I promise you can't get it quite the way Yak and Yeti does it. This was my favorite dish of them all. Perfectly flavored chicken and the mix of noodles and vegetables was just right. Absolutely the best Chicken Lo Mein I've ever had!

So my review? Yak and Yeti's restaurants themeing is wonderful and the food is even better. Put it on your next vacation schedule.

Nick is also a frequent contributor to the Disleelandia Blog: http://disneyatdisleelandiablog.blogspot.com/

Walt Disney World Fantasmic! Fireworks show is fantastic!

2012-01-13T05:27:00.000-08:00

Author: Canadian Diva

If you ask anyone in my family Fantasmic! at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios is the Best Show in the World (and I mean the whole world).

We almost missed seeing Fantasmic! With our limited schedule visiting Walt Disney World, we had decided to cross Hollywood Studios from our list, but a little voice inside of me said to rearrange my itinerary, for this 25-minute fireworks and water show, JUST to see what everyone is talking about.

I am so glad that I made this decision or else I would have missed this truly incredible feast for the eyes, young and old! Our family loved this show so much, we still do the "Mickey Dance", and when I get sad missing Disney World or just plain need a pick me up for the day, my daughter and I will watch Fantasmic! on You Tube. Of course nothing beats actually being there!

If you’re considering seeing Fantasmic! on your next Walt Disney World vacation I have a few tips to maximize the fun:

1) LINE UP EARLY. We opted for the 10:00pm show and lined up at 9:00pm and there was already a crowd gathered right in the front. If you are catching the 8:30pm show, I would suggest you line up at least an hour and a half before. I positioned myself near the front and had my husband pick up something to eat (they do sell snacks inside).

2.) BE PREPARED TO WALK QUICKLY TO GET THE BEST SEATS. Once the “rope drops” a half hour before the show you will have to walk fast and far to get the best seats. A massive crowd pushes forward in organized chaos. Quite honestly I was afraid of losing my family (me being the fastest one), so I held up my "Turkey Leg" so they can see where I was going. Those with strollers and babies in tow, stay on the right, for there is an exit ramp for the stroller parking. (with the mad rush, the strollers looked like cars existing the freeway).

3) KNOW WHERE YOU WANT TO WATCH THE SHOW FROM. Many caution sitting in the front seats, however we sat right in the front. My daughter is small, so I didn't want her to look over people's heads. Of course the disadvantage of this was that we couldn't see what others would from the seats further up, and we missed some special effects from our view. My daughter was thrilled to be lower, however, because the characters are so close to you when they move by on the boats. When the Princesses floated by they actually made eye contact with my daughter and waved at her. My fondest memory was of Ariel, sitting at the back of one boat and waving "bye" to my daughter, she kept waving and waving, making eye contact, smiling with her, until the boat disappeared into the mountain.

You will get a little wet sitting at very front which we didn't mind, especially with the August heat. Another bonus of the front seats, they have small benches all around the edge, which a family of 4 or 5 can fit. It's like having your own private seating. with just your family watching the show.

There is one point where the lake “catches on fire” and it is VERY hot. Many people have said they can feel the heat almost at the top row, so it is quite intense the closer to the front you are. It wont hurt you, but it could certainly frighten you. And, of course, fireworks are louder the close you are to them, as Diva Mommy mentions in her article Tips for viewing Walt Disney World fireworks with children under 5. So be sure to consider all of this If your child frightens easily.

This show can be SCARY, (especially in the villains section which is long and involves snakes, ghosts, and villains at their meanest) but for older children (my girl is 7) and for adults it is AMAZING. It really made me feel like a kid again; cheering for Mickey's victory and seeing all the characters especially the villains whom we don't see too often around WDW. The special effects and stunts are just mesmerizing.

My favorite part was when Mickey pulled the Sword out of the Stone. I screamed and cheered with sheer delight since I was a fan of "The Sword in the Stone" movie. I asked my daughter which part of Fantasmic! was her favorite and she said, "From start to finish".

I heard FANTASMIC! in Disneyland is even better than the one in WDW (D'land Diva you must confirm this!). If so, I want to visit Disneyland just to see how much better Fantasmic! could be.

Either way, you will LOVE FANTASTMIC and get sentimental about it afterwards - even grown, big, alpha males like my husband do. It's that magical and a show you truly don't want to miss.

Be sure you check your times guide and Walt Disney World’s online calendar to see when fireworks are planned during your trip!

Tips for surviving crowded days at Disneyland

2012-01-12T05:04:00.000-08:00

Author D'land Diva

Sometimes, you cannot avoid going during crowded times for Disneyland. Sometimes, Aunt Marie and Uncle Bill and the family want to visit the Disneyland Parks while they are in Southern California for the holidays. Then there are times that you arrive at the park only to find it insanely crowded and know that you will have to deal with the crowds for the day.

Photo Courtesy of Matthew Bassett

Don't despair! I have some helpful tips that will make your trip more bearable, regardless of when you go:

1.Get there early. Not at park opening, but before. If the park opens at 8 a.m., plan on getting to the gates about 30 minutes before park opening. Don’t be intimidated if you see long lines to enter the park. The people are absorbed into the park quickly. Go to your favorite rides and have fun. We once arrived early on a holiday and were able to get on ten rides in two hours!

2. Avoid the parking structure. The parking structure on crowded days can take forever. You have to wait to pay, wait in line to park, wait to use the elevator, wait to use the tram…we have a secret that I probably should not tell you about because everyone will start to use it, but…go to the Toy Story parking lot. It is south of the park on Harbor Blvd., but it is quick. There are buses that take you right into the park and bring you back your car

3.Get Fastpasses. Get them whenever you can in the morning times to use in the afternoons when the crowding is worse. There is a return time on the passes, but we have found that the cast members will let you return far, far after the return time.

4.Eat at off times. Eat your lunch before 11:30 am and your dinner before 5:30 pm. You can avoid the long food lines this way and more importantly, have a place to sit. Besides, eating at the off times allows you to get your favorite Disney snack later (Popcorn Anyone?) There is also the option of Disney Dining, where you can make priority seating reservations in advance. Only a few restaurants offer this option at the resort. If you are thinking about eating at Blue Bayou, be advised that Priority Seating reservations are a must. For Blue Bayou, you will need to get these reservations far ahead of time, not the same day. More information about Disney Dining can be found here.

5.Go on the most popular rides first. If you like thrill rides, Space Mountain or Star Tours is definitely the first place you want to go. If you like Fantasyland, go to Peter Pan first. These are the most popular rides in the park. Their lines get longer as the day goes on.

6. Secure your spot. If you want to see a show, parade or fireworks, get to your spot early and plan to stay about 15 minutes after it is over. It is best to let the crowds go about their business first. It is worth spending the extra time waiting so that you aren’t stuck for twice as long trying to go about your business. On our last visit on the Fourth of July, we ended up staying in the park for an extra two hours before heading back to our hotel. We noticed that a lot of people left right away and the time was very pleasant.

7. Patience is a virtue. Make sure that you are really patient during the day. You will not be able to make it across the park in five minutes and don’t use your stroller as a weapon. Remember you are at Disneyland and enjoy the day.

The most important thing to remember about the crowds is that they are not there to ruin your magical day. We are all there to have fun and we are united in our quest for an enjoyable visit. So go forth and conquer!

Heading to Disney World instead of Disneyland and need help? Check out"

Best and Worst Times to Go to Disney World

Top 5 Tips for the Week Between Christmas and New Years at Walt Disney World