Category: Travel

  • Disney to Discontinue Airline Transportation for 2021 Travel Packages

    Disney to Discontinue Airline Transportation for 2021 Travel Packages

    For arrivals beginning in 2021, Walt Disney Travel Company will no longer offer air transportation as part of its packages for Guests traveling to Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa.

    This new policy applies to packages booked with directly with Disney as well ad those booked with travel agents.

    Disney will continue to make new airline bookings for travel through the end of 2020, and will continue to service existing airline bookings at this time.

  • New Delta and Disney+ Partnership Brings Exclusive In-Flight Entertainment to the Skies

    New Delta and Disney+ Partnership Brings Exclusive In-Flight Entertainment to the Skies

    Delta and Disney+ have struck a new deal that will allow passengers to access exclusive Disney movies while they travel at 30,000 feet.

    Delta customers can now enjoy a selection of movies and TV shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic thanks to the airline’s most recent partnership with Disney+.

    See the full list of Disney titles featured on the IFE Spotlight Collection in December below.

    TitleProduction Company
    Avengers: EndgameMarvel
    Captain MarvelMarvel
    CocoPixar
    Finding NemoPixar
    Free SoloNational Geographic
    FrozenDisney
    The Little MermaidDisney
    The Nightmare Before ChristmasDisney
    The Parent TrapDisney
    Remember the TitansDisney
    Star Wars: The Last JediStar Wars
    Toy Story 3Pixar
    UpPixar

    Additional Disney library titles are available within the movies and TV series pages on board.

    “We know how much our customers value entertainment on board,” said Ekrem Dimbiloglu, Director – Onboard Product and Brand Experience. “That’s why we have installed seat-back screens in over 700 aircraft and continue to forge partnerships with entertainment giants like The Walt Disney Company to bring more diversity and variety to the entertainment options we offer in flight.”

    Disney+ provides customers an unrivaled collection of Disney fan favorites, ranging from one of the highest-grossing films of all time “Avengers: Endgame” to timeless animated films like “The Little Mermaid.” A selection of content from the Disney+ library catalog joins the more than 3,000 movies, TV shows and music options already available through Delta Studio* – free of charge to all customers in all cabins. In addition to investing in seat-back entertainment, customers can choose to stream Delta Studio to their personal devices on the airline’s entire mainline fleet and most regional aircraft.

    This content partnership with The Walt Disney Company is the latest in Delta’s effort to bring new and innovative offerings to customers so they can make the most of their time in flight – from bringing Hulu Originals and Spotify podcasts on board, to debuting a next-generation IFE interface on the airline’s new A330-900neo, to taking steps toward free Wi-Fi and more.

  • Disney Raising Prices on Travel Insurance

    Disney Raising Prices on Travel Insurance

    Walt Disney Travel Company has just announced, they are raising prices on Travel Insurance for vacation packages.

    The price for adults will increase $5, to $82.50; and Child and Infant prices will increase by 50 cents, to $6.

    This change will be effective for any travel booked on or after August 7th, 2019. Take look below at everything travel insurance offers:

    Travel Insurance Covers:

    1. Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption: Reimburses up to total trip cost of the prepaid travel arrangements due to illness, injury and non-medical reasons such as job loss, military service and more.
    2. Trip Delay: Reimburses related expenses, up to $600 ($200 per day)
    3. Baggage Loss: Reimburses up to $2,000 for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal effects.
    4. Bag Delay: Reimburses the purchase of necessary personal items if your bags are delayed 12+ hours.
    5. Emergency Medical Protection: Provides up to $25,000 of coverage if you get ill or injured on your trip.
    6. Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation: Arranges and prepays for emergency medical transportation and other covered expenses.
    7. Travel Accident: Provides up to $25,000 in the event of accidental death or dismemberment.
    8. Rental Car Damage: Reimburses repair costs up to $25,000 in the event of collision, theft, damage or vandalism to rented vehicles.

    If a Guests’ vacation travel dates are modified and their package includes non-refundable airfare, or other non-refundable charges have been incurred, they must purchase a new Travel Protection Plan in order to obtain coverage for the revised travel dates.

    Contact Kimberly at Enchanted Kingdom Vacations to plan your own magical vacation. I have lots of Disney trips and tricks that will make your trip even more magical; all at no extra cost to you!

  • How to Plan, Stay and Play at the Disneyland Resort

    How to Plan, Stay and Play at the Disneyland Resort

    Guests visiting the Disneyland Resort in 2019 will enjoy special moments and create unforgettable memories with their friends and family, including their experiences at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which opens in summer 2019 at Disneyland Park, and the reimagined land of Pixar Pier, at Disney California Adventure Park.

    Beloved nighttime spectaculars, immersive attractions and entertainment offer countless ways for guests to make the most of their vacations at the Happiest Place on Earth. Just take a look below at all of tips for guests as they plan to stay and play at Disneyland Resort.

    PLAN

    • Official Disneyland App – The official Disneyland App offers useful information right at a guest’s fingertips, including attraction wait times, Disney FastPass return times, maps, entertainment guides and other special features. Guests may also use the app to purchase tickets with their mobile device, look for character appearances in the park, find park hours and even order food and beverage at select fast casual and quick service restaurant locations.
    • Disneyland Resort on Google Street View: Guests can now explore the Disneyland Resort like never before – right from a phone or computer – on Google Street View. Disney Parks have launched a series of 360-degree panoramas at Disneyland park, Disney California Adventure park and the Downtown Disney District to help guests plan their next vacation.
    • Disney Vacation Planning DVD – Guests are invited to preview the magical experiences that await their next Disneyland Resort Vacation with a library of informative videos. To order a Disney Vacation Planning DVD, go to www.DisneyPlanning.com.
    • Disneyland Express – Just 30 miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and just 15 miles from John Wayne Airport (SNA), Disneyland Resort offers the Disneyland Express for guests to book easy bus transfer to the resort. Disneyland Resort Express also provides convenient transportation to Anaheim area hotels.
    • Dining Reservations – To make the most of vacation time, guests may make dining reservations in advance at the resort’s award-winning restaurants. Special dining packages offer guests a full-course meal and reserved viewing for entertainment includng “Fantasmic!” at Disneyland.
    • Social Media – Keep up with the latest updates about the Disneyland Resort at MyDisneyDorks.com, where guests may also get behind-the-scenes looks at the parks, resort hotels and Downtown Disney. For planning tips and fun facts, follow @MyDisneyDorks on Twitter. Guests may also engage with Disneyland on Facebook and Instagram.

    STAY

    • Stay in the Magic – Guests discover many special benefits when they stay at one of three Disneyland Resort hotels: the classic Disneyland Hotel and luxurious Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the sunny California beachfront-themed Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel.
    • Extra Magic Hour – Early Admission to the Parks – Guests staying at any Disneyland Resort hotel may enjoy Extra Magic Hourentry into Disneyland or Disney California Adventure one hour before the parks open to the public. This opportunity is good for the length of a guest’s stay, with designated days for each park. To check availability, daily times and additional information, visit Disneyland.com and click on “Park Hours.” (Valid theme park admission and active hotel room key required.)
    • Grand Hotel Experience –In December 2017, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa completed the most extensive refurbishment since the hotel’s 2001 opening. Guest rooms have been completely redesigned with a fresh sense of luxury and the pool deck has been refreshed with beautiful, new hardscapes to reinforce the Arts and Crafts style. Guests staying at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa enjoy an exclusive entrance to Disney California Adventure through the hotel. Nearby, guests also enjoy the Downtown Disney District, with its eclectic mix of entertainment, dining and shopping opportunities. The new, elevated experience continues to impress guests and the hotel was named one of the Top Hotels in Southern California in the 30th annual Condé Nast Traveler’s 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards.
    • Storybook Vacation – At Disneyland Resort hotels, guests have the opportunity to share a meal and laughs with favorite Disney characters, relax by sparkling pools and enjoy a night on the town complete with dinner at one of several award-winning restaurants.
    • Convenience and Legendary Service – Guests who stay at Disneyland Resort Hotels are treated to exclusive conveniences throughout their stay, including a Key to the Magic card for charging meals and merchandise to the guest room. The Package Express service delivers resort merchandise purchases right to a guest’s hotel. Hotel guests are treated to the legendary Disney guest service throughout their vacation.
    • Multi-generational travel and large parties – Many families enjoy traveling to the Disneyland Resort with family members of multiple generations, or with family reunions. The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort welcome multi-generational travelers and large parties, offering multiple suites at each hotel that sleep parties of six or eight. Some of the suites connect to adjacent suites to accommodate the larger parties.
    • Great Value – Guests can find great value in multiple-day tickets and vacation packages at the Resort hotels, or at nearby Good Neighbor hotels, by purchasing online. Contact Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Vikki for all the latest special offers are available at Disneyland.

    PLAY

    • Disney FASTPASS Service – Disney FASTPASS allows guests to maximize their time in the park by reserving a specific time window to enjoy their favorite attractions. When guests return during that time, they enjoy a shorter line reserved for FASTPASS holders. Guests are encouraged to pick up Disney FASTPASS tickets early for favorite attractions such as Radiator Springs Racers.
    • Disney MaxPass – Guests will maximize their day with the ability to reserve digital Disney FASTPASS selections right from your mobile device using the Disneyland app while in the parks. Plus, it offers the opportunity to download, save and share Disney PhotoPass photos captured during an entire day. Both services are included when purchased per ticket, per day. Disney MaxPass can also be purchased through the app.
    • Disney PhotoPass Service – PhotoPass photographers at character, dining and special locations throughout the park ensure that everyone gets in the photo. Guests may link, view and purchase photos at Disneyland.com or directly from the Disneyland app.
    • Play Disney Parks Mobile App – The new Play Disney Parks mobile app allows families and guests to interact with the theme parks, creating unique experiences and activities that bring surrounding environments to life. With group play that enables everyone to join in on the fun, guests can turn wait time into play time at select attraction queues, earn, collect and share uniquely themed digital achievements, test their knowledge of Disney trivia and listen to the music and sounds of Disney parks through curated Apple Music playlists.
    • “A Walk in Walt’s Footsteps” Tour – Guests may follow in the footsteps of the man whose vision and creativity brought Disneyland park to life, Walt Disney. This 3 ½-hour guided tour covers the life of Walt Disney and stories behind the magic of Disneyland.
    • Portable Phone Charging Systems Kiosks – Guests recharge their batteries without missing any of the fun by using a convenient portable battery set that can be purchased from kiosk locations throughout the resort. When the portable battery runs out, guests may swap it for a fully charged replacementat any kiosk at no extra cost.
    • Parent “Rider Switch” – A theme-park “rider switch” policy gives both parents a chance to enjoy their favorite attractions without double the wait. A parent who waits with a young child while the other parent rides the attraction may board the ride with minimal wait time once the first parent exits. Guests may ask a cast member about this option.
    • Enjoy the Shows and Entertainment – Oftentimes, children enjoy live entertainment and stage shows for the first time at the Disneyland Resort. Families may choose from multiple shows in the daily Show Entertainment Guide (available at the main entrance gate and at Guest Relations centers). These include parades, character encounters and shows such as “Disney Junior Dance Party!” (Disney California Adventure) and “Mickey and the Magical Map” (Disneyland). Fans of Disney’s global film phenomenon, “Frozen”, will find the dazzling theatrical interpretation “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion Theater” at Disney California Adventure Park. Guests also may encounter performers and singers as they stroll through the parks, including the Dapper Dans at Disneyland, and Five and Dime at Disney California Adventure.
    • Be Amazed by Projection Shows and Spectacular Fireworks – State-of-the-art projection shows and fireworks illuminate the sky above Disneyland park on select nights, choreographed to timeless music and with surprise appearances by some classic Disney characters. Viewing locations are throughout Disneyland and top spots include: along Main Street, U.S.A., in front of “it’s a small world” in Fantasyland and along the Rivers of America in Frontierland.
    • Character Dining – Character dining is a great way to introduce youngsters to Disney characters. At select locations, a cast of characters will visit guests at their tables. Another tip: Many Disney restaurants offer children’s menus.
    • Healthful Dining Options – While special treats are part of the Disney fun, families can also choose nutritious snacks such as nuts, trail mix and fresh fruit from outdoor carts. Kids meals come with fruit or vegetables on the side, along with juice, water or low-fat milk. Fries and soda are available upon request, at no additional cost. Look for the Disney Check symbol on menus, indicating the best nutritional choices for children. Additionally, for lifestyle dining options, or for requests from guests with food allergies or intolerances, there are a wide range of choices, from kosher to gluten-friendly and sugar-free.

    If you need help booking your magical vacation, contact Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Vikki for help. My services are completely free and I will always find you the lowest rates. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

  • Broadway Stars Take Center Stage During Select Disney Cruise Line Sailings

    Broadway Stars Take Center Stage During Select Disney Cruise Line Sailings

    Guests aboard select Disney Magic, Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy sailings are in for a special treat when “Stars Set Sail” returns this year. This live concert series presented by Disney Theatrical Productions brings the magic of Disney’s renowned Broadway and international shows to the Walt Disney Theatre as some of the most prodigious Broadway performers join cruisers for an evening onstage.

    The program features a world-class lineup of theatrical talent. Fans of “The Lion King” will recall Alton Fitzgerald White from his record-breaking 4,308 performances as the longest-running Mufasa on Broadway. And whether you’re a Broadway connoisseur or a theatre newbie, you’ll certainly recognize Jonathan Freeman when you hear him … After voicing the evil vizier Jafar in the animated film “Aladdin,” he currently portrays the iconic character in the Broadway show!

    Disney Cruise Broadway Stars Disney Cruise Broadway Stars

    Other exciting names on our roster include Steve Blanchard, the longest-running Beast in “Beauty and the Beast” on Broadway, and Kara Lindsay, star of the original cast of “Newsies” on Broadway and the “Newsies” film.

    Every “Stars Set Sail” performance uniquely highlights the headliner’s theatrical repertoire and personal journey to Broadway. These extra-special sailings may also include meet-and-greets with the stars during exclusive Q&A sessions, plus adults-only shows in the evening and theater classes for teens and tweens.

    Are you sailing with a star this year? Check out the full schedule of performers below.

    Disney Magic

    • May 13: Kara Lindsay (“Newsies”) and Kevin Massey (“Tarzan”)
    • July 7: Susan Egan (“Beauty and the Beast”)
    • July 29: Jonathan Freeman (“Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast”)
    • Aug.16: Alton Fitzgerald White (“The Lion King”)
    • Sept. 9: Michelle Mallardi (“Beauty and the Beast”)

    Disney Wonder

    • April 8: Steve Blanchard (“Beauty and the Beast,” “Newsies”) & Meredith Inglesby (“Beauty and the Beast,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Newsies”)
    • July 9: Kissy Simmons (“The Lion King”)
    • Oct. 19: Josh Strickland (“Tarzan”)

    Disney Fantasy

    • June 30: Heidi Blickenstaff (“The Little Mermaid”)
    • Dec. 29: Susan Egan (“Beauty and the Beast”)

    If you need help booking your magical vacation, contact Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Vikki for help. My services are completely free and I will always find you the lowest rates. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

  • Disneyland to LIVE Stream Holiday Fireworks

    Disneyland to LIVE Stream Holiday Fireworks

    Wish you could watch Disneyland’s amazing holiday fireworks display and avoid that crowd?  Well no you can and from the comfort of your own home. Disneyland is all set to live stream it’s Holiday Fireworks.

    #DisneyParksLIVE is celebrating the holiday season at Disneyland park this Thursday, Nov. 30, with a live stream of “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular!

    The holidays have begun at the Disneyland Resort, and Holidays at the Disneyland Resort is in full swing, with returning favorites such as “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks, “A Christmas Fantasy” parade and Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle at Disneyland park; and Festival of Holidays, including Disney ¡Viva Navidad! and “World of Color – Winter Dreams” at Disney California Adventure park. There is even new festive holiday decor at Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort.

    Tune in for a live stream of “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular Nov. 30 beginning at 8:40 p.m.

  • Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail Debuts Extended Weekend and Holiday Hours

    Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail Debuts Extended Weekend and Holiday Hours

    It’s official. With Thanksgiving behind us, the holiday season is here. And at Disney Springs, it’s not only here, but bigger and better than ever. That goes for everything from holiday shopping to entertainment, and of course, to the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail!

    Now back for its second year, the Tree Trail now boasts 25 Disney-inspired trees, including ten additions featuring iconic characters.

    Wondering what’s new? Peter Pan, Robin Hood, Sleeping Beauty, Pinocchio, Snow White, Dumbo, Fantasia, and Lady and the Tramp now take center stage with trees themed to these beloved stories. There’s also a tree featuring an assortment of ornaments that are all available at the nearby Disney’s Days of Christmas store.

    Here’s a tip…  Look for the featured ornament on ALL the trees, housed inside a special display lantern; most are available for purchase. And one of our favorites—the Disney Springs Tree—showcases the many retail brands on the property – one look reminds me that I can pretty much complete all of my Christmas shopping without leaving property.

    Based on the popularity of this new seasonal staple, hours have been extended an additional hour every Friday and Saturday and also on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The Tree Trail is offered through the holiday season, and will run through January 7, 2018. The updated operating hours are as follows:

    Monday – Thursday: 12 pm to 10 pm
    Friday – Saturday: 10 am to 11 pm
    Sunday: 10 am to 10 pm
    Christmas Eve, 12/24: 10 am to 11 pm
    Christmas Day, 12/25: 10 am to 11 pm

    Have you visited the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail yet? If so, you can share your best photos on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag “#DisneySprings” for your chance to be featured on Disney’s social media sites. I’d also love to know which tree you love most, so feel free to let us know in the comments below!

  • 6 Things You Should NOT Take in the Parks

    6 Things You Should NOT Take in the Parks

    Disney is pretty accommodating to guest needs and requests, but there are some things that just aren’t allowed to be brought into the parks, for good reason. Guest safety is of the utmost importance to Disney, and should be given the same level of importance for the rest of us. It only takes one bad decision cause an injury or severe situation. With so many people in the parks, we all have a responsibility to understand the rules, and particularly the items that should never be brought to a Disney park. Here are 6 items that Disney won’t allow into the parks and you should just leave at home!

    1. Weapons:

    Anything that should be considered a weapon is an obvious bad idea. No guns, knives, mace, etc. This one is probably pretty obvious and goes without saying, but to err on the side of caution and safety, we still have to say it. There is no need to have these items at a Disney Park and fortunately for the rest of us, security will not allow you to enter with the items. If you try, you are likely to be pulled aside and asked a series of questions, too.

    2. Skateboards, Wagons, Skates, Shoes w/ Built-in Wheels:

    I am quite thankful for this rule. I can only imagine the inattentive youngsters that would be wheeling all over and collide with different guests and small children who are trying to move about the parks. The cast members will stop any guest who tries to break this rule, and if easily detectible, these items won’t be allowed through security. The only things on wheels that are allowed are strollers, wheel chairs and motorized wheel chairs. Depending on the driver, these can be dangerous enough!

    3. Folding Chairs:

    I know it is tempting to bring camp chairs to sit and wait for parades and fireworks instead of standing or finding a seat along the sidewalk, but this just isn’t allowed. If the walkways were filled with chairs, this would present safety hazards for everyone. There would be more potential to trip, traffic is blocked more, they would take up space otherwise needed for strollers while the owner is on a ride, etc. There are many reasons why this is a bad idea, so just don’t do it!

    4. Pets:

    Service pets are allowed into the parks, but personal pets are not. Don’t think you will be able to get by with bringing a small dog or pet in a bag or another kind of portable transport. Cast members are watching for any signs of unauthorized animals and will ask you to leave the park.

    5. Glass Containers:

    This rule does exclude baby food, as well as perfume (since you can purchase this at Epcot). Glass has the high potential to break and create dangerous situations for yourself and other guests. You will want to ensure that any items you bring into the park are not made of glass. Security will inspect for this upon entry into the park and will not let you in with the items.

    6. Large Coolers:

    According to Disney’s website, coolers larger than 24″ (61 cm) long x 15″ (38 cm) wide x 18″ (46 cm) high for coolers with or without wheels, are not permitted inside the parks. These same dimensions and rules also apply to suitcases, backpacks or any other bag that you may try to bring in. Remember that coolers and bags smaller than this will still be inspected before you are allowed to enter the park, so make sure that you follow inspection protocols.

    The good news is that you shouldn’t need most of these items to have a great day at Disney! Disney has these rules in place so that we can ensure that the parks stay a safe environment for everyone. If you question if something is acceptable to bring to the parks, it is likely not, but always feel free to ask a cast member, especially security or guest relations.

  • Very Merrytime Cruises Bring Holiday Cheer Aboard Disney Cruise Line

    Very Merrytime Cruises Bring Holiday Cheer Aboard Disney Cruise Line

    This month, the entire Disney Cruise Line fleet transformed into a glistening winter wonderland for our Very Merrytime Cruises. There’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a special atrium celebration, fun-filled tropical parties on deck, carolers throughout the ship and Disney friends dressed in their holiday best.

    Check out some of the festive fun for you and your family on a Disney Cruise this holiday:

    1. Deck the Deck with Mickey and Friends
    Looking for a tropical holiday celebration? You and your little ones can join Mickey, Minnie and their pals for limbo, hula hooping and dancing around the pool. My personal favorite has to be the “Yuletide Slide!”

    Disney cruise line party

    2. Celebrate the Season in a Winter Wonderland
    When Santa and Mrs. Claus come to the ships, the atrium lobby is filled with classic holiday tunes, your favorite Disney characters and a flurry of “Frozen” fun with Anna and Elsa.

    Disney Cruise Line

     

    3. Savor Festive Feasts
    Prepare to indulge a plethora of tasty holiday treats and drinks along with a bountiful feast on Thanksgiving Day and a special dinner on Christmas Day. There are also speciality teas and coffees available throughout the entire season including my favorites, Egg Nog Mocha and Caramel Pecan Chai!

    Disney cruise line dining

    4. Carol Through the Decks
    Listen up for the spirit of the holidays ringing throughout the ship as Dickens-inspired carolers sing holiday classics and invite children to join them in a special farewell show.

    Caroling on the decks

    5. Build Your Own Gingerbread House
    From decorating stockings to making holiday cards, there are a ton of activities and crafts for your family. If that’s not enough gingerbread for you, each of our ships have a life-sized, edible gingerbread house right outside of the atriums.

    Gingerbread making

    6. Soak Up the Season
    When you visit Castaway Cay, the celebration continues with holiday island music,a special Christmas tree, Disney characters in their tropical holiday attire and even “snow” flurries!

    Need help booking your Disney Cruise, Walt Disney World, Disneyland vacation? Contact Travel Time with Vikki today. Let me me do all the work so you don’t have to. I’m a Disney Travel Specialist and my services are completely free.