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Hi Everyone!
In this issue...
Now... lean back, prop up your feet, and take a Disney break!
Deals and Updates as of August 3, 2005 We continuously update our information and you can find these current specials in our Addenda:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
"Hi John, I just joined your affordable Disney group. My wife and I have
been planning a trip to Disney World in December. When we ... saw the prices
we were just awed."
Beth, our travel agent, writes: "Prices are at least $50 per cabin below Disney's current pricing, it's a short cruise over a weekend so you don't have to take a lot of time off work, you can easily combine it with our great room rates, and the ship is all decked out (so to speak) for the holidays." -------------------------------- Book this Deluxe Hotel on Disney property starting at $139 per night! Save $100.00 per night! Rate valid most nights August 12-September 5. Labor Day weekend is included. -------------------------------- New nonstop jet service to Orlando from Missouri from $59 one way! -------------------------------- Beth writes: "We have some nice wholesale deals on 4- and 5-star hotels in Orlando right now. It's not the cheapest way to go to Orlando, but it sure is fun! :-) Note that these rates are subject to availability and may expire at any time." From $130.78 + tax per night! Plus! 5th night FREE! -------------------------------- Save $10.00 per adult or child ticket at SeaWorld and Busch Gardens with this promotion! Valid for single-day admission 06/3/05-12/15/05 except special events. -------------------------------- FREE Lunch or Dinner at SeaWorld and Busch Gardens now through September 5 with this promotion! -------------------------------- Stay inside the magic this summer at this hotel in the Walt Disney World Resort from $99! As an Official Disney "Good Neighbor" Hotel, guests can take advantage of exclusive benefits such as complimentary continuous transportation to the Disney attractions, preferred golf tee times and discounts at Disney’s 5 PGA championship courses, priority seating at Disney restaurants and guaranteed admission into the theme parks! -------------------------------- Affordable Disney Members should log in at our password-protected site (The Disney Reading Room) to access the particulars about the above mentioned specials. If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
Universal Entertainment MasterCard® from Chase Bank
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Resources
 Affordable Airfare
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD" "AAA's relatively new Fuel Cost Calculator is a popular online feature for the nation's oldest auto-travel club. By filling out the info at fuelcostcalculator.com travelers can get estimates of how much gas they most likely will use on a trip and what it will cost them, for one way or round-trip." Click here to access calculator. -------------------------------- "Walt Disney World employees who volunteer their time to help nonprofit groups also benefit the groups of their choice through cash donations... The money is divided among the groups based on the wishes of Disney's volunteers, known by the company as voluntEARS." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/01/05) -------------------------------- "Orlando is the test market for a new chain of NASCAR retail outlets planned for high-traffic tourist locations throughout the country. You don't get much more high traffic and tourist packed than International Drive, and the first NASCAR store opened there without fanfare about a week ago. It's next door to the Harley-Davidson merchandise store and just across Sand Lake Road from one of the world's largest McDonald's restaurants." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/31/05) -------------------------------- "Joining its sister park in Georgia and a growing number of attractions across the country, Cypress Gardens Adventure Park on Friday unveiled a portion of its new water park -- Splash Island. Only two of Splash Island's five rides were ready at Friday's soft opening... Cypress Gardens officials say two additional rides -- the Voodoo Plunge and Tonga Tubes -- should open within a week." Access to the water park is included in regular admission. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/30/05) -------------------------------- "Mickey Mouse and his Disney character friends will be hosting 29 special-entertainment parties celebrating the fun of Halloween and the gaiety of Christmas in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort between Sept. 30 and Dec. 20. Tickets are now on sale for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (on Sept. 30, Oct. 2, 6, 7, 11, 13, 16, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30 and 31) and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (on Nov. 27 and 29, Dec. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 20)." Purchase now while tickets are still available and save $5 off the price at the gate. Call 407/W-DISNEY or click the links above. Some dates are excluded from advance purchase discount. Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: $39.95 plus tax for ages 10 and above; $32.95 plus tax for ages 3-9. Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party: $43.95 plus tax for guests ages 10 and above; $34.95 plus tax for guests ages 3-9. (Source: Walt Disney World Mailer, 07/29/05) --------------------------------
Disney is offering three new dining experiences at the 2005 Epcot
International Food & Wine Festival. All dinners take place 6-9 PM.
No separate park admission required.
For reservations, call 407/WDW-FEST. (Source: Walt Disney World Mailer, 07/29/05) -------------------------------- "With the addition of pop icon Lionel Richie, urban soul songstress Jill Scott and R&B super-group New Edition, The Tom Joyner Family Reunion at Walt Disney World Resort has put together a dream lineup of hip-hop, R&B, pop and Gospel music entertainment for Labor Day weekend... Tom Joyner, host of the nation's No. 1 syndicated morning radio show, invites families from across the country to join him and his radio "family" for an unforgettable weekend filled with Disney theme park magic, exclusive live concerts, comedy shows, seminars, the Family Reunion Health Fair, the Southwest Airlines Sky Show and more." (Source: Walt Disney World Resort Press Release, 07/28/05). -------------------------------- The Bucs return to Walt Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex Friday through Wednesday, Aug. 17.
Workouts:
There is no admission charge and the public is invited. -------------------------------- "A teenage diver is in critical condition Wednesday after nearly drowning while performing underwater shore restoration at the Walt Disney World Dolphin hotel." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/28/05) -------------------------------- "Ryan Norman, 30, Mooresville, died after riding the Dinosaur Ride at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World April 30. Norman had a history of heart problems and was wearing a pacemaker, and Disney spokeswoman Kim Prunty said the ride did not play a role in Norman’s death." (Source: md-times.com, 07/27/05) -------------------------------- CLOSED FOR REFURBISHMENT
Magic Kingdom
Epcot
Disney-MGM Studios
Disney's Contemporary Resort
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Disney's Boardwalk Resort
Disney's All-Star Music Resort
Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort (Source: Walt Disney World Mailer, 08/02/05) -------------------------------- DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Effective Aug. 16, the Disneyland Resort will offer two new character
dining meals:
Call 714/781-DINE (714-781-3463) up to 60 days in advance for reservations. -------------------------------- "Anne Geddes' highly popular and internationally renowned product line comes to Southern California this fall when the company's first flagship store opens in the Downtown Disney® District, in Anaheim, California. The Downtown Disney District is the highly energetic avenue leading to the entrances of the famed Disneyland® and Disney's California Adventure(TM) theme parks. The dedicated 2,700-square-foot flagship Anne Geddes store will offer a broad range of items from the Anne Geddes line. Decorated with large prints of the Australian photographer's stunning images, the Anne Geddes store will display the Anne Geddes Baby clothing collection and accessories for infants and toddlers, including a range of diaper and tote bags, her most recent coffee-table books, calendars and datebooks, plush toys, posters, photo albums, and other items. The flagship location, by Kanner Architects, will also offer new lines including sterling silver keepsake gifts and jewelry, Anne's just-released bedding collection made in Italy, and European-styled wristwatches." (Source: Anne Geddes Press Release, 08/01/05) -------------------------------- "Fifteen people suffered minor injuries Friday evening when a roller coaster train rear-ended second train that was stopped on the tracks at Disney's California Adventure, marking the first significant accident at the Anaheim theme park. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 07/30/05) "Len Welsh, the [Occupational Safety and Health Inspectors] department's acting chief, said a 'coordination' problem occurred with the arrival times of the two coaster cars. The operator or computer is likely to blame for the crash, Welsh said." (Source: ocregister.com, 07/31/05) Here's a list of the accidents at Disneyland since 1998. -------------------------------- What you don't see after the parks close! "Nearly 2,000 mechanics, custodians, and groundskeepers toil under the moonlight, repairing, replacing and sprucing up everything at the 85-acre Disneyland and its 55-acre neighbor, Disney's California Adventure." (Source: insidebayarea.com, 07/29/05) -------------------------------- DISNEY CRUISE LINE Disney Magic sailings on the West Coast on May 14, 28 and June 4, 2005 will receive a refund - from 5 cents to $10.66 in overpaid taxes to West Coast ports. (Source: Walt Disney World Mailer, 08/02/05) -------------------------------- HONG KONG DISNEYLAND "I have been to Walt Disney's first theme park in China and I can report that it is the scariest place I have been since I visited North Korea a few years ago. The US entertainment giant recently threw open the gates of Hong Kong Disneyland to the media, nearly two months ahead of its official opening. The tour, featuring free burgers and fries and a ride on Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, was presumably intended to convert cynical journalists to Disney's all-American entertainment philosophy. Instead, it created a slightly uneasy feeling of pervasive control." (Source: FT.com, (07/30/05) -------------------------------- "Walt Disney Co. (DIS) plans to open a Disney theme park in Shanghai in 2012, the Hong Kong Economic Times reports. Citing sources, the report said Disney and the Shanghai government reached an agreement to begin construction of China's second Disneyland in 2008, with a completion date of 2012. (Source: Hong Kong Bureau, Dow Jones Newswires, 07/31/05) -------------------------------- "New tests ordered on Disney fireworks... The Environment Protection Department said Wednesday it has ordered Disney to undertake an additional monitoring program in August, following criticism over flaws in its fireworks trial in May." (Source: The Standard, 07/28/05) -------------------------------- NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message, search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain newspapers require a free registration to view their articles online.
WILDERNESS LODGE - The Hidden Gem of Deluxe Resorts Beth, our travel agent writes: "When deciding which of Disney's 22 resorts is the best for your vacation, you will no doubt be impressed with the deluxe resort descriptions... everyone is; but you may find that the deluxe hotels are a bit out of your price range. Before you completely discount the option, consider Wilderness Lodge - the deluxe resort that I think is one of the best, and probably the most overlooked. This resort is located on a gorgeous lake near the Magic Kingdom, which is just a short boat ride away. It is done in the style of a grand national park lodge, with exposed log walls and trusses and soaring ceilings. Giant totem poles, a gorgeous fireplace, and Native American artifacts are highlights of the lobby, and the view of the lake from the lobby is simply beautiful. A babbling brook trickles through one corner of the lobby, passing under a footbridge and then through an exterior wall to the outside where it becomes a waterfall, splashing over the rocks to the freeform swimming pool below. We've blocked rooms for Affordable Disney readers at this resort from November 27-December 20, and the pricing is even better than an annual pass rate. These rooms are the "courtyard" view - the best - and feature balconies that overlook the lake and/or pool area. Many rooms give a great view of the electric water parade held each evening, and of the geyser that spouts high into the air every half hour. You can choose a king bed, two queens, or a queen and bunks. Rooms sleep a maximum of four plus a child under 3, and all rooms have complimentary refrigerators. High-speed internet access has recently been installed as well. Here's a hint: If staying there for your whole trip is more than your budget can take, just spend a night or two at the end of your trip. The hotels will move your luggage for you and it's a great way to end your vacation AND experience the deluxe resort difference."
Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price. Hundreds of books under $1.00! Plus! Over 700 videos have been marked down to $1.99. Exclusively for Affordable Disney Readers: Save $5.00 on an order of $35 or more! Coupon code: bookcloseouts; Coupon password: bargainbooks. Expires December 31, 2005. Click here to check out the bargains.
Beth, our travel agent, writes about Epcot's Food and Wine Festival Package: "I've had a few questions from people that want to know if the Food & Wine add-on that is available for people who have booked packages in October and November is worth it. First, remember that this package ONLY applies to Saturday nights between October 1 and November 12. If Saturday night isn't good for you then neither is the package. Second, the Party for the Senses is a wonderful event, and a lot of fun - but probably not the best place for your kids. If you don't have someone to leave them then be sure you read up on what you're getting into first. You also get reserved seating for the 5:45 Eat to the Beat Concert on that evening - a nice perk if you enjoy the music of the group playing that night - and you get a wine and glasses commemorative gift set (one per reservation). The price is $119 + tax per person, and there is no discount for children even though they don't get wine. So is it a good deal? Well, if you were going to go to the party anyway, then probably yes. Otherwise, I don't know that I'd rush out to sign up - especially if you already have a room-only discount of some sort that precludes you from doing a package. I personally think I'd skip the party, munch my way around Epcot, and listen to the concert as I wandered past the amphitheater."
With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, restaurants near WDW, and more! For details, click here.
Are You Suffering Withdrawal From WDW? You know ... that empty feeling you get when you arrive back home from your vacation at WDW and realize it may be a while before you experience that Disney magic again? We have had that feeling ourselves many times. Yet, we always seem to feel better when we read about the experiences of others who share their trip reports with us. It's almost like being there again. We invite you, our readers, to send us some feedback about your experiences during your latest vacation at WDW. Reports on Disney weddings, honeymoons, cruises, and resort vacations on and off Disney property are all welcome. Send your email to: johngross@affordabledisney.com . Thanks!
Money Saving Tip Pac-Man Café @ XS Orlando: 9101 International Drive, #2400, Orlando, FL 32819. 407/226-8923. Fax: 407/781-0806. The Pac-Man Café is located in the three-story building that houses XS Orlando, which offers more than 100 interactive games and simulators, and two bars! Receive a 15% discount off the entire check, 20% off one- and two-hour game play, and parking validation with any $20 purchase and this coupon.
YOU CAN AFFORD DISNEY WORLD! If you THINK a Disney vacation costs too much ... WE AGREE! That's why we created the ULTIMATE Disney savings site. Save up to 40% on your total trip. Learn about discounts on tickets, food, Disney merchandise, hotels ON Disney property, travel, parking, and MUCH more. Too much to list here. See it all at here. "We just got back from a great trip ... and thanks to you and your great advice, [we] saved money and time! ... In total we saved about $3,000.00 for our group of 6. We are going back within a year to use our passes again, and think our per person cost will be in the $150-200 range, flights and all." Michael Barrett, Wisconsin Rapids, WI
All for the price of a fast food
Well, that's it for now. THE DISNEY NEWS is a free service provided by
AffordableDisney.Com. Please forward our newsletter to your friends and family.
See You Real Soon! John
http://www.affordabledisney.com
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information contained in The Disney News. Always check to be sure. The views and opinions expressed by others in The Disney News do not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com. Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and other companies mentioned on our site and in our newsletter are registered trademarks of their respective companies. The use of these trademarks is for editorial reasons only. No endorsement by the Walt Disney Company or any other company is implied. |
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