Author Archives: Genesis Ford

1. The Best DVC Resorts for Each Season

   August 29, 2024 2:48 pm Comments Off on The Best DVC Resorts for Each Season

   As the seasons change, so do the perks of your DVC stays. Each resort offers unique experiences throughout the year, and understanding the best time to visit can help you make the most of your membership. Whether you’re chasing spring blooms, summer sunshine, fall festivities, or winter wonderlands, there’s a perfect DVC resort for every season. Let’s explore the best resorts to visit throughout the year and the experiences that make them stand out!

   Spring: Celebrate Renewal and the Beauty of Flowers

   

   Best Resort Picks:

   • Disney’s Riviera Resort: Spring at the Riviera is all about vibrant gardens and the fresh, crisp air that comes with the season. With easy access to Epcot via the Skyliner, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the International Flower & Garden Festival. Enjoy beautifully crafted topiaries, garden tours, and seasonal bites as you wander through the park’s blossoming displays.
   • Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: Spring is one of the best times to visit Aulani in Hawaii. Here, you can enjoy longer days, a calmer ocean, and less rain, perfect for snorkeling, hiking, and sightseeing. The resort’s lush landscaping and serene ocean views make it an ideal destination for relaxation and the invitation to new Spring beginnings. Early spring also offers unique opportunities like whale watching and enjoying the vibrant local flowers.

   Seasonal Activities and Events:

   • At Epcot, the International Flower & Garden Festival brings the park to life with stunning topiary displays, garden exhibits, and delicious, garden-inspired bites.
   • In Hawaii, Aulani offers guests the chance to go whale watching, golfing, and fantastic excursions to help you explore the beautiful island.

   Summer: Fun in the Sun and Outdoor Adventures

   

   Best Resort Picks:

   • Disney’s Vero Beach Resort: Vero Beach is the ideal summer destination for those craving the sun and surfing. This resort is located on Florida’s Atlantic Treasure Coast and offers direct access to a beautiful beachfront, perfect for ocean adventures. From paddleboarding to guided tours during Turtle Nesting Season, there’s plenty to explore.
   • Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort: If you’re after a more laid-back, nature-filled summer escape, Hilton Head Island is a fantastic choice. This charming South Carolina resort blends Lowcountry comfort with the classic Disney touch. It’s an excellent base for exploring the outdoors with activities like fishing, boating, and participating in local summer festivals like Harbourfest.

   Seasonal Activities and Events:

   • At Vero Beach, summer is all about ocean fun, from surfing and paddleboarding to relaxing on the sandy shores. Stop by Eb & Flo’s for bike rentals and take a sunset cruise with your loved ones.
   • Hilton Head offers bike trails, guided nature walks, fishing excursions, and various local summer festivals celebrating the island’s culture.

   Fall: Embrace the Magic of the Season

   

   Best Resort Picks:

   • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas: For a unique fall experience, Animal Kingdom Lodge offers stunning savanna views, perfect for enjoying the resort’s Starlight Safaris and cooler temperatures. The fall season brings a refreshing change, allowing guests to comfortably explore the surrounding wildlife or simply relax on their private balconies.
   • Disney’s BoardWalk Villas: Located just steps from Epcot, BoardWalk Villas is a top pick for fall, especially with the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in full swing. The resort itself offers a lively atmosphere with a touch of nostalgia, perfect for autumn evenings.
   • Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Bay Lake Tower is an ideal choice for those looking to make the most of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom. Guests can easily walk to the park’s main gate in less than 10 minutes or take the monorail, with the resort being the first stop on the return route. This convenience makes it a top pick for fall festivities.

   Seasonal Activities and Events:

   • Fall foliage and the stunning vistas at Animal Kingdom Lodge make it a delightful choice for a cozy retreat. Enjoy cool autumn evenings on a Starlight Safari or unwind by the Jambo House Campfire with storytelling sessions and roasted marshmallows.
   • At Epcot, the International Food & Wine Festival is a highlight of the fall season, offering a range of global culinary delights, while Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom adds an extra dash of magic.
   • Bay Lake Tower offers “Movies Under the Stars,” where guests can enjoy complimentary screenings of favorite Disney films on the lawn by the Contemporary Courtyard every Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 8 PM—a perfect way to enjoy a cool evening outdoors.

   Winter: Festive Cheer and Cozy Comfort

   

   Best Resort Picks:

   • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Known for its opulent decor, the Grand Floridian becomes even more magical during the winter holidays. With its towering Christmas tree, life-sized gingerbread house, and festive decor, it’s the perfect setting for a holiday getaway. Guests can enjoy a luxurious stay while soaking in the spirit of the season.
   • Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: With its rustic, cozy feel, Wilderness Lodge is perfect for a magical winter getaway. The resort’s setting amidst tall pine trees and near Bay Lake creates a serene atmosphere ideal for enjoying the cooler weather. It’s also a fantastic location for those looking to immerse themselves in the holiday festivities, including Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom.

   Seasonal Activities and Events:

   • At the Grand Floridian, holiday decorations transform the resort into a winter wonderland, with gingerbread displays, live music, and festive dining options.
   • Wilderness Lodge offers a cozy winter experience where you can enjoy autumn walks around Bay Lake, warm up by one of many fireplaces, or take part in Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom.

   Tips for Maximizing Points Each Season

   Consider booking your stay well in advance to make the most of your points, especially during peak seasons. Opt for resorts that offer unique experiences aligned with the time of year. For example, choosing resorts with special holiday events in winter or beachside resorts for a summer escape can help you maximize the value of your points. Additionally, staying flexible with your travel dates and being open to mid-week stays can also help you stretch your points further.

2. D23 Announcements: A Look into Disney’s Future

   August 12, 2024 12:43 pm Comments Off on D23 Announcements: A Look into Disney’s Future

   This year’s D23 convention brought with it a wave of excitement and anticipation for Disney fans worldwide. From new attractions at beloved theme parks to thrilling updates on Disney Cruise Line and game-changing collaborations, the event was packed with announcements that will shape the future of Disney experiences. Here’s a detailed look at the major highlights, with more information for those who want to dive deeper.

   

   Disney Cruise Line Expanding with Four New Ships

   Disney Cruise Line is set to launch four new ships between 2027 and 2031, bringing the fleet to a total of 13. Alongside this, new details about the Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny were revealed, including a “Disney Hercules” production aboard the Destiny. Start planning your next magical voyage! Discover more details about the new ships and shows here.

   

   Disney and Epic Games Collaboration Update

   Disney is teaming up with Epic Games to bring characters from Disney Animation, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel to Fortnite. The collaboration will start with a new Marvel season featuring Doctor Doom, set to premiere next week. Fans can also look forward to the introduction of Disney Villains and characters from “The Incredibles” and “Star Wars” in Fortnite later this year. Learn more about this epic collaboration.

   

   Monsters, Inc. Land Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios

   Prepare to enter the world of “Monsters, Inc.” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with a new land featuring the first-ever suspended coaster in a Disney park. The attraction will allow guests to zoom through the iconic door vault, experiencing the sights and sounds of Monstropolis. Construction is set to begin in 2025. Explore the exciting details about this upcoming attraction.

   

   Cars-Themed Area Racing into Magic Kingdom

   Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater are speeding their way to Magic Kingdom Park in a new Cars-themed area set to replace part of Frontierland. This new section will feature two attractions: a thrilling rally race through the mountains and a family-friendly experience for younger guests. Construction is slated to start in 2025. Read more about the Cars-themed expansion.

   

   Villains Land Set to Haunt Magic Kingdom

   A dark and thrilling new Villain’s Land is coming to Magic Kingdom, where guests will encounter some of Disney’s most infamous antagonists. The area will include two major attractions, dining, and shopping, with a delightfully twisted theme. Construction will begin soon. Uncover more about this wickedly exciting addition.

   

   Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom

   Disney’s Animal Kingdom will welcome Tropical Americas in 2027. The 11-acre section will feature the magical world of “Encanto” and a thrilling Indiana Jones experience. It will also include a large hacienda and a carousel inspired by Disney animals. Learn more about this vibrant new land that awaits us!

   

   

   

   Avatar-Themed Destination Coming to Disney California Adventure

   Disney California Adventure will soon expand into Pandora with an all-new Avatar-themed destination. Inspired by “Avatar: The Way of Water” and future films, this new area will immerse guests in the wonders and dangers of Pandora’s wide-open seas. Dive deeper into the Avatar expansion.

   

   First Ever Walt Disney Audio-Animatronics Figure

   Disneyland will soon feature the first-ever Walt Disney Audio-Animatronics figure in a new show, “Walt Disney: A Magical Life,” debuting in 2025 at the Main Street Opera House. The show will later rotate with “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.” Learn more about this groundbreaking tribute to Walt Disney.

   

   Avengers Experiences Expanding Globally

   Marvel fans, rejoice! New Avengers experiences are coming to Shanghai Disneyland Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland, with Disney California Adventure’s Avengers Campus doubling in size. The expansion will include two new attractions, Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab. Get more information on these superhero additions.

   

   The Lion King Roars into Disneyland Paris

   Disneyland Paris will introduce its first-ever ride-through attraction, themed to “The Lion King.” In this immersive new experience, guests will follow Simba’s journey from cub to king. Explore more details of this majestic addition.

   

   Coco Attraction at Disney California Adventure

   Set to open in 2026, a new “Coco”-themed attraction will take guests on a journey to the Land of the Dead alongside Miguel and his skeletal family. This addition will bring the vibrant world of “Coco” to life at Disney California Adventure. Learn more about this colorful attraction.

   

   Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opening at Disneyland

   “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure,” inspired by “The Princess and the Frog,” is set to open at Disneyland on November 15, 2024. This highly anticipated attraction will transport guests into the heart of New Orleans during the holiday season. Discover more about Tiana’s upcoming adventure.

   

   Two New Lounges Coming to Disney World

   Disney World will welcome two themed lounges in 2025, one inspired by “Pirates of the Caribbean” and the other by Spaceship Earth. These new spaces will offer guests a relaxing retreat you won’t want to miss. Find out more about the new lounges.

   

   

   Test Track Reimagined at EPCOT

   EPCOT’s Test Track will be reimagined with a new theme exploring the past, present, and future of automation. Chevrolet will present the updated experience, which is set to open in 2025. Learn more about the reimagined Test Track.

   

   New Adventures in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

   Mando and Grogu are set to embark on new adventures in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, with a new storyline for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run inspired by the upcoming film “The Mandalorian and Grogu.” The new content will debut in 2026. Discover what’s new in Galaxy’s Edge.

   

   World of Frozen Coming to Disney Adventure World

   A new Frozen-themed land will open at Paris’ Disney Adventure World in 2026, inviting guests to explore the kingdom of Arendelle with Anna, Elsa, Olaf, and more. 

   New Nighttime Parade to Debut at Magic Kingdom

   In the summer of 2025, Magic Kingdom will unveil a new nighttime parade, “Disney Starlight,” featuring beloved characters and the magic of the Blue Fairy. New nighttime spectaculars are also set to debut at Tokyo Disneyland and Disneyland Paris. Read more about the upcoming parades.

   

   Wrapping Up the Magic

   The D23 convention has once again shown that Disney’s imagination knows no bounds. With a lineup of new attractions, expansions, and collaborations, there’s something for every Disney fan to look forward to. Whether you’re planning your next trip to the parks or dreaming about future adventures, these announcements are sure to spark excitement and anticipation. Stay tuned for more updates as these magical projects come to life!

   

3. Important Dates for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Debut

   May 14, 2024 8:22 pm Comments Off on Important Dates for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Debut

   Excitement is building as the debut of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom approaches. Here are the key dates to mark on your calendar for this highly anticipated event:

   DVC Member Preview:

   • Wednesday, June 12, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Eastern
   • Wednesday, June 19, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Eastern

   Exclusive previews for Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members offer a sneak peek into the magic of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Remember, registration opens on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern. These previews are available only to those who qualify for membership extras and have a resort reservation by May 12, 2024. Make sure you have a theme park reservation as well as it’s required. More details can be found on the DVCmember website.

   Annual Passholder Preview:

   • Thursday, June 13
   • Friday, June 14
   • Sunday, June 16
   • Monday, June 17
   • Tuesday, June 18
   • Thursday, June 20

   Annual Passholders, including those with the DVC Sorcerer Pass, can enjoy exclusive previews on these dates. Remember, a park reservation for Magic Kingdom is required, and blackout dates apply. The virtual queue opens at 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. each preview day. Please note that having a reservation does not guarantee a ride on the attraction. Read more here!

   D23 Gold Member Celebration:

   

   For D23 Gold Members, an exciting celebration awaits:

   • Tickets go on sale Thursday, May 16, 10:00 a.m. PT / 1:00 p.m. ET

   This event includes entry to Magic Kingdom Park during event hours, refreshments, entry to the D23 preview experience, one D23-exclusive Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Commemorative Pin, and live jazz performances throughout the night. All for $60 + $7 processing fee per ticket.

   Read more about the D23 Gold Member Celebration here.

   Grand Opening:

   Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will officially open on June 28! To add to the excitement of the opening day, the charming collections for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and “The Princess and the Frog”-inspired merchandise will be available at the Emporium in Magic Kingdom. Shortly after the attraction debuts, the merchandise will be available at the Critter Co-Op in Frontierland.

   Explore more articles about the debut of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and other enchanting ride updates on the official Disney Parks Blog!

   • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opens June 28 at Walt Disney World
   • Everything to Know Before You Drop Into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World
   • Everything Tiana

4. EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival: A Whimsical Topiary Adventure

   March 21, 2024 12:50 pm Comments Off on EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival: A Whimsical Topiary Adventure

   We had such a wonderful time at this year’s Flower and Garden Festival. We thoroughly enjoyed the exquisite topiaries where beloved characters are brought to life amidst vibrant blooms and lush greenery. Embark on a journey through this year’s festival, featuring 10 of our favorite topiaries.

   Top 10 Topiaries for 2024:

   

   NEW! Miguel and Dante in Mexico: Delight is the newest addition to the festival’s topiary collection. Miguel and his loyal companion, Dante, celebrate the vibrant spirit of friendship and adventure.

   

   Pandas in China: Nestled within the scenic landscape of the China Pavilion, these endearing pandas captivate onlookers with their playful energy. Did you know pandas spend most of their day eating bamboo, consuming up to 12 hours daily?

   

   Lady and the Tramp in Italy: Journey to Italy and behold the iconic duo, Lady and the Tramp, amidst the picturesque setting of the Italy Pavilion—Marvel at Lady’s voluminous topiary hair, a charming nod to her elegant persona.

   

   Tiana in The American Adventure: Tiana’s radiant smile illuminates her surroundings. Take a moment to admire the darling magnolia trees adorning the backdrop, adding a touch of Southern charm to this enchanting scene.

   

   NEW! Groot in World Discovery: Prepare for an out-of-this-world encounter with another new addition to the festival’s topiary lineup. Located near Mission: SPACE, Groot captivates audiences with his whimsical charm and undeniable charisma. Be ready to wait in line if you want a picture! 

   

   Winnie the Pooh and Friends in the United Kingdom: Journey to the Hundred Acre Woods with Winnie the Pooh and his friends to admire the quaint charm of the United Kingdom Pavilion. 

   

   Tick-Tock Croc between Canada and the United Kingdom: Discover the naughty allure of Tick-Tock Croc as he lurks between the Canada and United Kingdom Pavilions. We love how they captured his goofy personality, adding a playful touch to the festival’s ambiance.

   

   Bambi and Friends near Refreshment Port: We loved admiring these beloved characters in their natural habitat. Their sweet nature was captured in their topiaries, and you can’t help but smile when you see them. 

   

   Donald Duck near Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company: Join Donald Duck when he finds himself in a comical encounter with a friendly bee. Witness the adorable reaction as Donald navigates this unexpected surprise.

   

   Honorary Mention— Topiary Butterflies at the Bridge to World Showcase: Pause at the Bridge to World Showcase and admire the kaleidoscope of colors embodied by the topiary butterflies. These vibrant creations capture the essence of the festival and remind you to appreciate nature outside of the beautiful topiaries. 

   As we celebrate the beauty of nature and creativity showcased at the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival, we also honor National Flower Day by embracing the grandeur surrounding us. Whether in the form of intricate topiaries or the delicate petals of a flower, let us find joy in the splendors of our natural world.

5. DVC Resale vs. Direct Purchase: What’s the difference?

   March 19, 2024 11:00 am Comments Off on DVC Resale vs. Direct Purchase: What’s the difference?

   Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a timeshare program operated by Disney that comes with fabulous perks for the frequent Disney goers. Becoming a member means you’ve purchased a real estate interest in Disney Vacation Club resorts, and you’ve been provided with an allotment of annual points to spend on your vacation. 

   There are plenty of advantages to becoming a DVC owner, but the most significant is the flexibility of your point usage. DVC members can use their points to stay at different resorts, adding the option to mix up one’s stay. Other advantages include cost savings, exchange options, and great amenities. 

   When purchasing DVC, you have two options: buy directly from Disney Vacation Club or buy resale from a company like Vacation Club Life. There are upsides and downsides to both, which we will discuss in this blog.

   Upsides of Purchasing Points Resale:

   • Cost Savings: Buying points resale can offer significant savings in cost, upwards of thousands of dollars saved in the process. For example, based on September ’23 sales, Old Key West was priced at $205 per point to purchase directly from DVC, compared to $88 for resale—a whopping 57% in savings when purchasing by resale route. 
   • Multiple Resort Access: When purchasing resale, you still have the option to access the majority of DVC resorts even if they aren’t your home resort. That’s the magic of points! They offer a plethora of options for the perfect vacation. 
   • Membership Privileges: Although resale owners can’t use points to book non-DVC options like cruises, they can still access the World Collection – Vacation Exchange and vacation worldwide through timeshare exchange.
   • Purchase Any Resort: When buying a resale, you can purchase points at any DVC resort, not just the newest ones. Is your heart set on Beach Club? We’ve got it! Plus, if you’re a new owner, you can buy any allotment on resale with no minimum purchase amounts required. 

   Downsides of Not Purchasing Directly from DVC

   • Limited Membership Extras: As mentioned, you will spend considerably more when purchasing directly from Disney Vacation Club, but with that comes extra membership perks not included with resale purchases.

   Considerations When Buying Resale

   • Due Diligence: When making any substantial purchase, it’s crucial to research and understand what you’re getting yourself into. You should understand how Disney Vacation Club works and ensure it’s right for your family. 
   • Understand the Limitations: Whether you purchase by resale or directly from Disney, becoming a DVC owner will be a great experience. If you want all the perks of being an owner, you should buy directly rather than resell. If the perks are essential to you and you want to purchase a large number of points but want to save money, you can buy the 150-point minimum from Disney AND purchase a contract resale to increase your points owned for less money and keep the perks.

   Buying DVC is not a decision you’ll make overnight. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and decide what’s best for you and your family. If you would like to discuss your options with one of our sales agents to determine what avenue is best for you, you can contact us here. We’d be happy to assist in making the happiest place on earth your home. 

6. Vacation Club Life Takes On Tiana’s Palace

   November 29, 2023 3:39 pm Comments Off on Vacation Club Life Takes On Tiana’s Palace

   

   One of the best things about our visit to Disneyland was getting to experience the many things we don’t have at Disney World. One of our favorites was Tiana’s Palace! Being a proper Southerner, Disney did a great job capturing the ambiance of being in the bayou.

   Since it was our first trip to Tiana’s Palace, we couldn’t help but take in the aura as we walked in. With the traditional checkered floors, french country decor, and warm, inviting lighting, it feels like you just walked into New Orleans! We specifically appreciated the cafeteria-style serving. It felt very family-style, with the outdoor seating where everyone comes together to enjoy their meal. You immediately feel like you’re dining in Princess and the Frog with Tiana. You can view the full menu here.

   

   Now, let’s get down to what everyone is interested in, the food. We felt it only right to try as much as possible to give you all your money’s worth.

   Have a look at the menu. We decided to go with the Cajun spiced half chicken, seven greens gumbo, buttermilk cornbread, baked macaroni, and cheese, and then we finished the meal with the house-filled beignet.

   Our Ratings:

   Cajun-spiced half chicken: 7.5/10
   We thought the chicken was cooked well! What we found to be interesting was the spice of it. It was surprisingly sweetly spiced, but we expected it to have more kick, mainly because it’s advertised as cajun. Nonetheless, we enjoyed the dish. The Mac and cheese was great, but we found the side of “coleslaw” to be subpar. It was more zucchini than cole slaw but tasted like bread and butter pickles. So, if you’re not a fan of sweet and vinegary foods, steer clear.

   

   Seven greens gumbo: 8/10
   Finding filling and nourishing food in the parks can be difficult as a vegetarian. This gumbo was an excellent option for a lunch that will leave you feeling happy and ready to take Disneyland by storm. The greens in the dish were cooked and seasoned well. The sweet potatoes were an excellent addition to the plate as well. My one critique would be the spoonful of rice. A good gumbo typically comes with a nice bed of rice, so that’s the one thing I felt this dish was missing.

   

   Macaroni and Cheese: 8/10
   Mac and cheese is Mac and cheese. It’s not something that can be easily messed up. We enjoyed the texture and flavor. It could have been slightly cheesier, but for a baked Mac from a theme park, it was good for what it was.

   

   Buttermilk cornbread: 8.5/10
   Like the Mac, we felt the same about the cornbread. It was a great addition to the meal. Especially with a side of butter, yummy.

   

   House-filled beignet: 8/10
   The beignet was lemon-filled, which isn’t traditional to the ones from Cafe du Monde in New Orleans, but it was good nonetheless. It was served room temp, which contributed to its lost points. If you’re craving the real thing, they sell Cafe du Monde beignet mix boxes!

   

   Should you have the opportunity to visit Disneyland, make sure to stop by for a great bite and an awesome time with the family. For more articles like this, visit our blog.

7. Disney’s Destination D23 Expo Recap

   September 12, 2023 12:28 pm Comments Off on Disney’s Destination D23 Expo Recap

   

   As most of you probably know, Disney hosted Destination D23 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort this past weekend, September 8-10th, 2023, in Orlando, Florida. D23 is the biggest fan event of the year, where imagination blossoms, and Disney announces all the new changes coming to parks around the world and the Disney cruise line! Remember that some of these announcements are considered “Blue Sky,” meaning these are just current ideas and can be subject to change at any time. Disney’s Chairman, Josh D’Amara, had the pleasure of announcing Disney’s treats for us, so let’s get into what he had to say. 

   The Esteemed Journey of Water is Opening NEXT Month!

   The long-awaited Journey of Water attraction inspired by Moana opens on October 16, 2023! Stay tuned for announcements on a meet and greet with the wonderful Moana herself! The artist’s concept is included below!

   

   Soarin’ Over California Returns to EPCOT for a Limited Time. 

   This attraction will be here starting September 22, 2023. It’s only here for a finite time, so soar while you can! 

   Luminous– The Symphony of Us is Coming to EPCOT this December. 

   The newest World Showcase fireworks show will begin on December 5, 2023!

   

   Encanto & Indiana Jones Are Being Considered for Animal Kingdom, and a New Zootopia Show is Coming!

   Josh D’Amaro touched on the research on Animal Kingdom expansions, including Encanto and Indiana Jones concepts. A new Zootopia show is being developed for the Tree of Life theatre, where guests will take a trip through the biomes in the film, replacing the current 3D film “It’s Tough to Be A Bug.” Some changes are coming to DinoLand as well. Current plans are to gut the attraction while keeping the ride system and replace the DinoLand theme with Indiana Jones. The artist’s concept for the reimagined DinoLand space is included below!

   

   

   Figment’s Getting A Meet & Greet!

   Figment’s meet and greet opened for the first time on Sunday, September 10, 2023. 

   

   Test Track in EPCOT is being reimagined. 

   Disney Imagineers are working with Chevy to reimagine the attraction, taking inspiration from the original World of Motion attraction! The artist’s concept is included below!

   

   Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland is getting a new BAR!

   It looks like Pirates of the Caribbean is getting a new establishment! There has yet to be a location or opening date. Hang tight for word on that! The artist’s concept is included below!

   

   Country Bear Jamboree Is Getting A New Do!

   Country Bear Jamboree, located in Frontierland, will soon close its doors and reopen in 2024 as “Country Bear ‘Musical’ Jamboree.” These loveable bears will re-enter society with new songs and acts. How cute! 

   

   Ahsoka Is Getting Her Moment to Shine.

   Ahsoka will become a new member of the Star Tours attraction in Disney’s Hollywood Studios and globally next year. 

   

   Hatbox Ghost has a Planned Debut at the Haunted Mansion.

   This unhappy ghost is set to visit Animal Kingdom’s Haunted Mansion in late November!

   

   Avengers Campus is in the Works of A Third Attraction.

   Avengers Campus, located in Disney California Adventure Park, has a new vehicle concept for its 3rd attraction, currently in the works. This vehicle can jump between worlds and, even better yet, realities. The artist’s concept is included below.

   

   Asha from WISH is Getting a Meet and Greet. 

   Disney’s newest film, WISH, is coming to theatres on November 22, 2023. Asha, the sharp-witted idealist, is getting her very own meet & greet! Watch the trailer here. 

   

   World Celebration Neighborhood has an Official Opening Date!

   Disney designs this neighborhood with hopes to connect the front of the park and bridge World Nature’s neighborhoods. The artist’s concept is included below.

   

   Disney Cruise Line’s Newest Island has Confirmed its Name and Opening Date.

   Disney’s newest island will officially be named “Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.” The first guests esteemed with the honor of gracing this island will be sailing the Disney Magic out of Fort Lauderdale on June 6, 2024!

   Disney Cruise Line’s Singapore-Based Ship Has Been Named. 

   The ship, Global Dream, will be named “Disney Adventure.” Announced by Disney Cruise Line President Thomas Mazloum, he hopes the new name evokes the “spirit of exploration.” Disney Adventure will soar throughout destinations in Southeast Asia.

   If you want to become a D23 member and have the opportunity to enjoy this expo, join the club here. It will be hosted in Anaheim, CA.

   We do not own the rights to any concept art in this article. All rights belong to the Disney Corporation. 

8. Reasons Why DVC Can Be a Better Fit When Planning Your Vacation

   September 8, 2023 12:07 pm Comments Off on Reasons Why DVC Can Be a Better Fit When Planning Your Vacation

   

   There’s much to consider when planning the perfect Disney vacation, with convenience and cost usually being the most vital determining factors. Disney Vacation Club offers 11 properties in the Orlando area at Disney World. These properties are within driving distance of some of Orlando’s most fantastic attractions, including the Disney parks, Disney Springs, Universal, and more. Below, we’ve included five reasons why DVC is superior to other Orlando accommodations. 

   DVC will save you money if you’re a frequent Disney goer.

   As mentioned, Disney Vacation Club requires an upfront payment, which allows you to purchase your vacation at the current price, avoiding inflation. Keep in mind with DVC ownership comes annual membership dues. We like to think of DVC as a pre-paid vacation plan. You pay your upfront purchase price, and then you have annual membership dues that are a fraction of what your hotel accommodations would cost if you were paying cash. 

   Disney Vacation Club resale comes with some perks.

   Disney Vacation Club resale owners are offered accommodations at “Deluxe” level resorts, free parking at the hotels (cash guests have to pay daily parking fees), access to Early Entry or Extended Park Hours (exclusive to Disney hotel guests), and complimentary resort transportation.

   DVC properties are perfect for larger party accommodations and provide many home-like amenities.

   Every DVC property offers a variety of options for larger parties, including larger villas and multi-bedroom suites. Great for bigger groups of people who are vacationing together and would like proximity to their travel companions. With these villas offering kitchens/kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and large living rooms, longer stays become more comfortable, convenient, and cost-effective. 

   

   Disney Vacation Club properties provide flexibility, priority booking, and excellent member services. 

   Since Disney has DVC properties in Orlando, Vero Beach, Hilton Head, Hawaii, and California, your family’s vacation options are limitless. Booking your vacation through DVC’s reservation system allows you to book your trip before non-members. This is handy during peak season when rooms like Mickey hotcakes fly off the shelves. Planning a vacation requires much attention to detail, and DVC member services can provide just that. They can assist in planning your trip, making reservations, and more. This service ensures you get the most out of your Disney Vacation!

   DVC Community

   Disney Vacation Club ownership encourages the close-knit community of Disney enthusiasts to mix and mingle, enhancing your Disney experience! There’s a plethora of online communities and forums you can join to discuss your experience and more! 

   

   Knowing Disney Vacation Club requires substantial upfront costs, it may not be the best option for everyone, but with that being said, the prospect of rentals can be just as good as any. Rentals allow you to ‘try before you buy’ and can offer some of the advantages being an owner brings, minus a few. You can access our current inventory for confirmed DVC reservations here. If one of these rentals work for you, or you’d like to request a different reservation, please fill out the attached form, and one of our team members will contact you.