Tag Archives: disney travel planner

Say Hello: Character Meet and Greets at Animal Kingdom

March 20, 2023 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom, you’re in for a treat. Not only is the park home to a variety of exotic animals and breathtaking rides, but you’ll also have the chance to meet some of your favorite Disney characters in a setting that’s truly unique.

Here are some of the characters you can meet at Animal Kingdom:

Mickey & Minnie: Join the globetrotting couple at the Adventurers Outpost as they prepare themselves for their next grand expedition. Peruse exotic mementos they’ve collected on their trips around the world before posing for a postcard-perfect picture with the pair.

Pocahontas – This beloved Disney princess can be found near the Tree of Life, where she’ll be happy to pose for photos and sign autographs.

Donald Duck – This feathered friend is a favorite of many visitors to Animal Kingdom. You can find him near DinoLand U.S.A., where he’ll be happy to take photos and sign autographs.

Kevin: Meet Kevin at the Character Landing by Flame Tree Barbeque

Dug and Russell – Fans of the movie “Up” won’t want to miss the chance to meet these two lovable characters. You can find them near the park’s entrance, and they’re always happy to make new friends.

Meeting these characters is a great way to add some extra magic to your visit to Animal Kingdom. Make sure to bring your camera and autograph book, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories.

Magic Kingdom, Memory Keeping

Say Hello: Character Meet and Greets at Magic Kingdom

March 13, 2023 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

Magic Kingdom is a magical place where dreams come to life and fantasies become reality. It is home to some of the most iconic Disney characters that have captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. From the classic Mickey Mouse to the newer characters like Merida, there is a character for everyone at Magic Kingdom.

Here are some of the characters you can meet at Magic Kingdom:

Mickey Mouse: Pop into Mickey’s rehearsal room at Town Square Theatre for the chance to greet Mickey! Discover props and posters from Mickey’s magical career in the theater and maybe even spot a disappearing dove or a rabbit coming out of a hat. The greatest magic of all happens when Mickey Mouse strikes a pose for a fun photo with you.

Cinderella: Cinderella is one of the most beloved Disney princesses, and she can be found at Magic Kingdom, at Princess Fairytale Hall, where she often greets her fans in front of her castle. She is always dressed in her signature blue gown and glass slippers, ready to enchant visitors with her grace and beauty.

Donald & Goofy: Step right up and say hello to the stars of this slapstick circus: snake charmer extraordinaire The Astounding Donaldo and his daring stuntman pal The Great Goofini! Share hugs, get autographs and snap pictures of your new friends—before the show’s over at Pete’s Silly Sideshow.

Winnie the Pooh & Tigger: Spend some time in a shady place deep in the Hundred-Acre Wood. Winnie the Pooh and Tigger love seeing new friends at the Thotful Spot and old to share hugs and maybe even a smackerel of honey.

Aladdin & Jasmine: Make your way into the exotic marketplace in Adventureland to meet Princess Jasmine and her prince, Aladdin. They’ll share stories of Agrabah under the shade of a colorful awning. You can recount your own tales of adventure in another magical kingdom you may know.

In conclusion, Magic Kingdom is a magical place where visitors can meet some of the most iconic Disney characters. From classic characters like Mickey Mouse and Cinderella to newer characters like Merida, there is a character for everyone at Magic Kingdom. So, next time you visit this enchanting place, don’t forget to say hello to your favorite Disney character.

Attractions, Magic Kingdom, Memory Keeping

5 Best Toddler Attractions at Magic Kingdom

March 10, 2023 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

Disney World is a magical place where dreams come true for all ages, including toddlers! There are plenty of rides that are perfect for little ones, offering a fun and safe experience that will make their trip to Disney World unforgettable. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best toddler rides at Disney World.

Peter Pan’s Flight

One of the most popular rides at Disney World, Peter Pan’s Flight, is also a great choice for toddlers. The ride takes you through scenes from the beloved story of Peter Pan, as you soar through the air in a pirate ship. The ride is gentle and smooth, making it perfect for young children who might be afraid of faster, scarier rides.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Another classic ride that is perfect for toddlers is Dumbo the Flying Elephant. This ride allows children to take control of their own flying elephant, as they rise and fall through the air. The ride is gentle and slow, giving young children plenty of time to take in the scenery and enjoy the experience.

It’s a Small World

It’s a Small World is an iconic Disney World ride that has been entertaining families for generations. The ride takes you through a world of singing dolls, each representing a different country and culture. The ride is slow-moving and gentle, making it a great option for toddlers who might be sensitive to faster or scarier rides.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is a whimsical ride that takes you through the Hundred Acre Wood, as you join Pooh and his friends on a series of adventures. The ride is colorful and playful, with plenty of fun surprises along the way. It’s a great choice for toddlers who love the Winnie the Pooh stories.

Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid

For toddlers who love all things Disney Princess, Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid is a must-see ride. This ride takes you through scenes from the classic Disney movie, as you follow Ariel on her underwater adventure. The ride is gentle and slow, with plenty of fun music and colorful visuals.

Disney World has plenty of rides that are perfect for toddlers. From classic favorites like Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World to attractions like Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid, there are plenty of options to choose from. Your toddler is sure to have a magical and unforgettable experience at Disney World.

Message me to start planning your magical trip today!

Travel Planning

What are the Disney Visa Rewards Perks

May 26, 2017 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

Make the most of your vacation with Walt Disney World ^®

Do you have a Disney Visa Rewards Card? Do you know of all the perks that come with it?

Disney Character Experience at Our Private Cardmember Location

At Walt Disney World^® Resort, stop by our private location—reserved just for Cardmembers—to meet and pose with some of your favorite Disney Characters. You’ll receive downloads of your photos, too! Just present your Disney Visa Card to enter this exclusive event, offered daily 1pm to 7pm at the Disney Visa Photo Spot at Epcot^®. Our new location is located in Future World next to Journey Into Imagination With Figment.

Star Wars^™ Character Experience at our Private Cardmember Location

Feel the power of the Force at the Star Wars^™ Character Experience, offered daily from 11am to 4pm at the Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios^®. You’ll receive downloads of your photos to mark your visit to the dark side! Simply present your Disney Visa Credit Card to enter this exclusive location.

10% Off Select Merchandise

Receive 10% off select merchandise purchases of $50 or more at select locations at Walt Disney World^® Resort.

You can enjoy this discount any time during normal Theme Park hours. Just use your valid Disney Visa Card or Disney Rewards^® Redemption Card and mention this offer.

10% Off Select Dining Locations

Receive 10% off select dining locations most days at Walt Disney World^® Resort (restrictions may apply). Just use your Disney Visa Card or Disney Rewards Redemption Card at the locations below and mention this offer to receive the discount.

Save at Select Walt Disney World^® Resort Operating Participant Coffee/Tea and Merchandise Locations

Receive 20% off entire purchase at Joffrey’s coffee/tea kiosks throughout Walt Disney World^® Resort, at Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s, and online at Joffreys.com with code: VISABEANS. Plus, receive 10% off select merchandise purchases of $50 or more at the following Walt Disney World^® Resort Operating Participant merchandise locations including Basin^®, Basin White^®, Chapel Hats, Good Fortune Gifts and House of Good Fortune, kidsHeritage and Marrakesh Emporium Arts & Crafts.

15% Off Select Guided Tours

Receive 15% off the non-discounted price of select guided tours at Walt Disney World^® Resort. Just use your valid Disney Visa Card or Disney Rewards Redemption Card and mention this offer.

10% Off Select Recreation Experiences

Receive 10% off the non-discounted price of select recreation experiences at Walt Disney World^® Resort. Just use your valid Disney Visa Card or Disney Rewards Redemption Card and mention this offer.

15% Off at Select Spa and Salon Locations

15% off the non-discounted price of any salon treatment valued at $45 or greater or any 50-minute or longer spa service most days at the spas and salons at Walt Disney World^® Resort.

Create more magic and memories on your next vacation. Use your Disney Visa^® Card to treat your family to amazing perks while you relax, dine and play throughout Walt Disney World^® Resort!

Remember, even though you might have your Disney Visa Card linked to a MagicBand or RF-enabled card, you will still need to present your Disney Visa Card at the Cardmember Character Experience locations and use it for purchases to receive your Cardmember perks throughout your stay.

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Travel Planning

Top 3 Reasons to be at Rope Drop

March 28, 2016 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

Rope Drop is what opening is called at the Disney theme parks. At Magic Kingdom, they have a Welcome Show each morning as a part of their Rope Drop. Occasionally, the other parks have had shows as well, but not regularly.

Why should you plan to be at the Magic Kingdom in time for Rope Drop?

3. It’s a fun show! The train pulls into the station with most of the characters on it, there is singing, dancing, waving, confetti and often a Family of the Day picked from the early arrivals to the park. Often there is fun going on just inside the park as well, cast members waving hello, the Dapper Dan’s may be out. It’s exciting!

2. Parks are empty! You are walking into an empty park. A cast member will lead people to the main attractions and there are photo ops with fewer people than you will see for the rest of the day. You can ride the big ticket rides with little to no wait, more than once if you’d like.

1. The number one reason is to maximize your time in the park! By arriving at opening when crowds are minimal and many are still sleeping in, you’ll have access to many rides with little to no wait for an hour or two. You’ll get much more accomplished in the morning than in the afternoon and it’s not quite as hot either.

Tomorrowland at rope drop — Heading to Space Mountain first thing at Rope Drop, nobody ahead of us!

While sleeping in is nice, my number one recommendation on a Disney trip is to be at Rope Drop and make the most of your time. Relax by the pool later in the afternoon when the lines are long and the parks are crowded.

Current Deals

Save up to 30% on Rooms at Select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels This Summer!

March 24, 2016 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

Save up to 30% on Rooms at Select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels This Summer!

Save up to 30%* on rooms at select Walt Disney World® Resort hotels for stays most nights June 12-Aug. 25, 2016 when you book by June 10, 2016.

Plus, receive an exclusive “Awaken Summer” graphic MagicBand when you upgrade to a room and Theme Park package with a minimum 2-day Magic Your Way® Ticket. The MagicBand will activate a surprise sound and lighting feature at select touch points throughout the Walt Disney World Resort.**

Booking Window:
March 14-June 10, 2016

Travel Window:
June 12-Aug. 25, 2016

Rooms are limited, contact me soon to book your package for best availability.

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Disney Resorts

Refurbishments 2016

December 31, 2015 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

Disney World is constantly making improvements to its parks and resorts, it’s a never-ending process.

Here is what is happening in the coming year.

Magic Kingdom

Splash Mountain
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Liberty Square Riverboat
Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Mad Tea Party

Jan. 10 – 14, 2016
Jan. 18 – Feb. 11, 2016
Jan. 18 – 22, 2016
Jan. 25 – Feb. 3, 2016
Feb. 22 – 26, 2016

EPCOT

Re-Imagination of Maelstrom
Soarin’

Oct. 15, 2014 – Apr. 30, 2016
Jan. 4, 2016 – Summer 2016

Hollywood Studios

Pizza Planet

Jan. 11 – Late 2016

Animal Kingdom

Maharajah Jungle Trek
Kali River Rapids
Flights of Wonder

Jan. 4 – 21, 2016
Jan. 4 – Feb. 11, 2016
Jan. 25 – Mar. 17, 2016

Typoon Lagoon

Annual Refurbishment

Jan. 4 – Mar. 12, 2016

Blizzard Beach

Annual Refurbishment

Oct. 4, 2015 – Jan. 3, 2016

Resort Hotels

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Bay Cove Pool	Feb. 1 – March 18, 2016
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Surfboard Bay Pool	Jan. 25 – 28, 2016
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Jambo House Soft Goods Rehab	Jan. 1 – May 20, 2016
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Schoolyard Sprayground	Jan. 3 – Mar. 11, 2016
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Soft Goods Rehab	Jan. 22 – Aug. 17, 2016
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Exterior Repair and Painting	Aug. 17, 2015 – May 5, 2016
Flying Fish Restaurant	Feb. 1 – Sep. 30, 2016
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Guest Villa Renovations	Through Spring 2016
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Old Port Royale – Path of Travel Impacts Guests in some parts of Martinique and Trinidad North may experience some contruction noise.	Jan. 3 – Feb. 28, 2016
Jamaica Pool	Jan. 6 – 8, 2016
Martinique Quiet Pool	Jan. 11 – 13, 2016
Fuentes del Morro Pool	Jan. 13 – 16, 2016
Trinidad North Quiet Pool	Jan. 27 – 29, 2016
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Courtyard Pool	Jan. 16 – 19, 2016
Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort
Pool Slide	Feb. 1 – 17, 2016
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Sandcastle Pool	Jan. 4 – 6, 2016
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
General Construction During this time, Guests will observe construction taking place and certain pathways and buildings may be unavailable.	Through Spring 2016
East Pool Closed for enhancement. Guests may see or hear work in progress.	Now – Spring 2016
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Ol’ Man Island Pool	Jan. 11 – Feb. 29, 2016
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Grandstand Pool	Jan. 20 – 22, 2016
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge & Villas
General Resort Refurbishments Due to multiple resort refurbishment projects, Guests will notice construction work in various areas. Noise may be overheard while this work is being completed, but construction will not begin until after 9 a.m. Certain pathways, including the nature trail, will be unavailable. The Hidden Springs leisure pool area (the leisure pool at The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge), resort beach, playground, Marina and Recreation fire pit will be unavailable.	Through 2017
Cub’s Den (Children’s Activity Center) – unavailable	Jan. 3, 2016 – Through 2017
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Stormalong Bay Slide	Jan. 11 – 15, 2016

Current Deals

Save Up to 25% on Rooms

December 29, 2015 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

Save Up to 25% on Rooms at Select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels This Spring!

Save up to 25%* on rooms at select Walt Disney World® Resort hotels for stays most nights April 14-June 11, 2016 when you book by March 31, 2016. Other great rates for stays most nights Feb. 22-April 13, 2016.

Plus, receive 1 more ticket day FREE when you upgrade to a room and ticket package with a minimum 4-day Magic Your Way® Ticket.

Booking Window: Dec. 28, 2015 – Feb. 28, 2016
Travel Window: Feb. 22 – Jun. 11, 2016

Full list of offer exclusions : campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms.

Current Deals

Save up to 30% this summer!

March 25, 2015 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

SAVE UP TO 30% ON ROOMS AT SELECT WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT HOTELS THIS SUMMER!

Booking Window: March 23 – June 12, 2015

Travel Window: June 16 – Aug. 27, 2015

Offer Details:

Resort Category	Savings % (Travel from 6/16-8/9)	Savings % (Travel from 8/10-8/27)
Select Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts	Save up to 30%	Save up to 30%
Select Moderate Resorts	20%	25%
Select Value Resorts	15%	20%

*The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Length-of-stay requirements may apply. Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room. Additional per-adult charges apply if more than two adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Advance reservations required. Offer excludes campsites, 3-bedroom villas, and is not valid at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Village and Bungalows, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort-The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms. 30% savings for select Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts; lower savings may be available for other Resort hotels.

Availability is dwindling fast on this one, contact me soon!

Current Deals

Disney Visa Summer Package Offer

Quote March 19, 2015 Barbara Ryan Leave a comment

Disney Visa cardholders can get a package with a room discount of up to 30% at select Disney resorts for stays 6/16/15 – 8/27/15. Value and Moderate resorts have a slightly higher discount during the last portion of August (8/10/15-8/27/15). The package includes a discounted room plus tickets and/or dining plan. There is no minimum length of stay with this offer.

Up to 30% off most Deluxe and Deluxe Villa resort rooms, except:

Up to 20% off Animal Kingdom Lodge (Savanna View & Club Level), Beach Club Villas, Villas at Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom Villas
Up to 10% off Deluxe Suites

Up to 20% off most Moderate resort rooms (25% for 8/10/15 – 8/27/15), except:

Up to 10% off Coronado Suites

Up to 15% off most Value resort rooms (20% for 8/10/15 – 8/27/15)

Offer excludes Villas at Grand Floridian, Bay Lake Tower, Polynesian Bungalows & Villas, Port Orleans French Quarter, Little Mermaid (i.e. Standard) rooms at Art of Animation Resort, All Star Movies, campsites and 3-bedroom villas. As with all Disney promotional discounts, some resorts, room types and date combinations will not be available. It’s important to be flexible if you want to book a discounted package. Book by 6/12/15.