Star Wars fans, it has arrived. Star Wars – Episode VIII will be called: Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Check out the Poster below.
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Walt Disney World Offers Romance for Lovebirds on Valentine’s Day and Every Day
Celebrate love with your significant other on Valentine’s Day and every day at the most magical place on earth, Walt Disney World Resort. Throughout the 40-square-mile playground there’s simple and luxurious splurges for couples of all ages — from moonlit strolls and stolen kisses aboard attractions to pampering spas and intimate dining for two.
The four Walt Disney World theme parks and 26 resort hotels create a perfect setting for spontaneous romance. Gazing at dazzling fireworks, a surrey bike ride for two, or a leisurely swing beachside, couples can embrace a bouquet of romantic experiences.
Here’s a few options for lovebirds:
The Couple that ‘Spas’ Together… – What’s more enjoyable than a luxurious spa treatment? Imagine sharing it with that special someone. The Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and the Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, both feature a “couples room” where guests can enjoy specialized spa treatments – such as massages and facials – with the one they love. For information about spa treatments, call 407/WDW-SPAS.
Make like Aladdin and Jasmine – Fly through the sky with your special someone on an adventurous tandem parasail over Bay Lake. Those looking to soar to new heights can spend 10 minutes soaring high above Disney and get a bird’s-eye view of Magic Kingdom Park and its neighboring resorts. Contact Sammy Duvall’s Watersports Centre at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, or call 407/939-0754 for reservations for a tandem flight.
Sunset in the Sky – A very different kind of flight is aboard a tethered balloon rising gently into the Florida sky. Located on the waterfront at Disney Springs, Characters in Flight gives romantics a chance to take their love to new heights. Operating daily, the giant balloon provides breathtaking sights from 400 ft. up in the air with an unparalleled, 360-degree view of the Vacation Kingdom and beyond. Flights take place between 8:30 a.m. and midnight (weather permitting) and last approximately 8-10 minutes. Romantics who time their flight to sunset or fireworks bursting above the parks are in for a special treat. Tickets can be purchased at Disney Springs West Side; tickets are $12.00 per child and $18.00 per adult (tax not included).
Magical Resorts – From the tropical splendor of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to the Victorian era of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the mood is set for an enchanting stay at a Walt Disney World resort hotel. Disney’s fantasy hotels transport couples to faraway places with lavish theming, picturesque views and superior service. For reservations, guests may call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639) or visit DisneyWorld.com/resorts.
The Love Boat – The Grand Floridian’s Grand 1 – an elegant 52-foot yacht – can give couples, or parties up to 18, a stunning view of “Wishes” fireworks showering above Magic Kingdom during select evening cruises along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Private butler service and gourmet meals also are available. Romantic evening cruises include a captain and private deck hand. Reservations may be made up to 90 days in advance by calling 407/WDW-PLAY. Callers to that same number can ask about Magic Kingdom or Epcot fireworks cruises aboard gently floating pontoon boats. To turn up the romance, lovebirds can order up champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries for their fireworks viewing.
Disney Dining Serves Romance – Couples find Disney dining infused with romance in settings ranging from subdued to spectacular.
- Indulge in a romantic dinner for two at California Grill atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Situated on the 15th floor of the resort, the onstage, market-inspired kitchen boasts breathtaking views of the Magic Kingdom, Seven Seas Lagoon and nightly fireworks. The menu is creative, seasonal, sophisticated and fun.
- Beneath shimmering chandeliers, lovebirds can dine in fairy tale elegance at Be Our Guest Restaurant in New Fantasyland. Known as the place where Belle and Beast fell in love, the grand ballroom in Beast’s Castle is the perfect setting for romance as ‘snow’ falls on the French countryside outside the windows and guests dine on French-inspired cuisine and fine wines.
- One of the most romantic dinner spots at Walt Disney World Resort is a table for two at Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The elegant restaurant has been honored with the Five-Diamond Award from AAA for its gourmet cuisine. Combining Royal Doulton china, Cristofle silver and personalized menus, Victoria & Albert’s is the “crown jewel” of the Grand Floridian’s dining destinations. Soft harp music fills the air in the intimate dining room. Ladies also receive a long-stemmed red rose. For the ultimate romantic experience, an evening at the Chef’s Table is unsurpassed. Couples are seated at a cozy table in Victoria & Albert’s kitchen and treated to a culinary feast custom-tailored to their palates.
- Guests who prefer to dine in an even more intimate setting at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa need only to pick up the closest telephone. The Grand Floridian can arrange a private dinner for two, served against the elegant backdrop of the Grand Floridian beach – or aboard the Grand 1 – on a sunset excursion along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Certain menu items can be specially prepared for the evening. Seven-day notice is requested.
- There’s nothing more romantic than a champagne toast with classical French cuisine. Monsieur Paul restaurant at the France pavilion at Epcot pays homage to one of France’s most celebrated chefs, Paul Bocuse with upscale French creations. The second floor vantage point of the newly redesigned restaurant offers stunning views of the nightly IllumiNations fireworks display.
- At Disney Springs, guests can satisfy their sweet tooth and find the perfect goodies for their ‘sweetie’ with many options, including The Ganachery, with Disney’s proprietary recipe for the custom-made ganache, a luxurious mixture of melted chocolate and cream. Amorette’s Patisserie features classic and contemporary pastries by the Disney chefs, with custom cakes that are works of art.
For all Walt Disney World dining information, guests can visit DisneyWorld.com/Dining or call 407/WDW-DINE (939-3463).
Bountiful Bouquets – Disney Floral & Gifts offers much more than just the traditional dozen roses. ‘Dream Makers’ can help you design a one-of-a kind experience with everything from an in-room celebration with rose petals and champagne if you’re staying at a resort hotel to a beautiful floral arrangement.
Nature Lovers – A horseback ride through one of the backwoods trails at Walt Disney World Resort is just the thing for couples who share a love of nature and each other. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers wrangler-led tours (45 minutes) through the deep, pine-scented woods that make up part of the Vacation Kingdom’s 40 square miles. Tours leave several times daily from Trail Blaze Corral, and may be reserved by calling 407/WDW-PLAY (939-7529).
Romantic Evening – Horse-drawn carriage rides through the wilderness of Walt Disney World Resort are a romantic treat for couples looking for a secluded nighttime outing. The antique carriages depart from Pioneer Hall at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground and traverse throughout the scenic landscape of the 750-acre rustic resort. Or guests can choose a relaxing old-fashioned carriage ride through Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside with pickup at Boatwright’s Dining Hall. Each nightly excursion is 25 minutes long. For reservations, guests can call 407/WDW-PLAY (939-7529).
Weddings Around the ‘World’ – The epitome of Disney romance can be summed up in four words: Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings. Since the first wedding at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion in 1995, more than 1,000 couples each year have exchanged vows at Walt Disney World Resort.
For these couples, dreams become reality. Where else but at Disney could a bride arrive for her wedding in Cinderella’s glass coach, have a handsome major domo carry wedding rings to the altar in a glass slipper, or have Mickey and Minnie greet guests at the reception?
Whether it’s an elegant ball at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, a traditional ceremony at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion or a beach-themed wedding complete with tiki torches, leis and luau on one of the Walt Disney World white-sand beaches, Disney custom designs each wedding with the famous “Disney Difference” – providing attention to the tiniest detail. Couples can even exchange vows inside Magic Kingdom Park, offering up to 100 guests a picture-perfect view of Cinderella Castle. For more information on Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings, call 321/939-4623 or visit disneyweddings.com.
And honeymooners thrive in the romantic allure of Walt Disney World Resort–a top-rated honeymoon destination, according to industry experts. To book a Disney’s Fairy Tale Honeymoon call 321/939-4623 or visit the website at disneyhoneymoons.com
Renewing Vows – Many couples who’ve been married for years are coming to Walt Disney World Resort, often with their families, to renew their vows five, 10, 25 and 50 years later. A Disney vacation provides the perfect backdrop to celebrate this family milestone. Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings experts can tailor the ceremony and celebration to suit each couple.
FINALLY THEY’RE OPENING UP THE GATES AT DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
In “Frozen,” Anna was thrilled when Coronation Day arrived because it meant the gates of Arendelle would be opened to visitors “for the first time in forever.” However, the princess could be found welcoming guests just outside another set of open gates during the summer of 2015.
The Power of the Force: California Native Celebrates Victory at Star Wars Half Marathon – The Light Side
Adam Roach of Pebble Beach, Calif., conquered the galaxy in the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Light Side at Disneyland Resort on Sunday. Roach, 32, who placed second in last year’s half marathon, beat two-time Star Wars Half Marathon winner, Nick Arciniaga of Fountain Valley, Calif., by over three minutes.
Summoning the powers of the force, Roach launched into hyper speed to blast through the finish line at 1:10:31, just past the second and third-place finishers Bradley Apodaca of Santa Barbra, Calif., (1:10:37) and Robert Hernandez of Fresno, Calif., (1:11:32).
“Last year I was second and I really wanted to come back and win it,” said Roach of the victory. “Arciniaga, who won last year, was back so I knew it would be a really competitive race.”
Jennifer Brill, 27, of Washington D.C., also soared to victory as the female winner on Sunday with a time of 1:24:15. Second-place female finisher was 2016 Super Heroes Half Marathon winner, Lindsey Carter, 28, of Huntington Beach, Calif. (1:25:20) and third-place finisher was Kaili Zink-Hernandez, 29, Fresno, Calif (1:26:54).
More than 17,000 California runners were part of the 35,000 participants that joined the Rebel Alliances at Disneyland Resort in the third annual Star Wars Half Marathon – The Light Side. The race weekend featured several intergalactic family-friendly events, including a three-day runDisney Health and Fitness Expo, runDisney Kids Races, the Star Wars 5K, the Star Wars 10K and the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Light Side.
Runners also had an opportunity to test their skills through the Star Wars Rebel Challenge, running the 10K on Saturday and half marathon on Sunday. Runners who complete the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Light Side at Disneyland Resort and the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side at Walt Disney World Resort in the same calendar year will earn the coveted runDisney Kessel Run Challenge medal.
The Star Wars Half Marathon – The Light Side was the first of the four runDisney race weekends scheduled for this year at Disneyland Resort, which hosts runDisney events along with Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Paris.
Broadway Stars Josh Strickland and Ashley Brown at Epcot
Broadway stars Josh Strickland and Ashley Brown pose with Mickey Mouse Friday, Jan. 20, 2017 at Epcot. Strickland and Brown performed songs from Disney on Broadway musicals including Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Mary Poppins, Tarzan and The Little Mermaid during the new Epcot International Festival of the Arts as a part of the Disney on Broadway Concert Series. The festival continues each Friday through Monday, now through Feb. 20, 2017. (Chloe Rice, photographer)
DISNEY CRUISE LINE EXPANDS MARVEL DAY AT SEA TO SELECT DISNEY MAGIC SAILINGS FROM MIAMI IN 2018
In 2018, guests can celebrate Marvel Day at Sea on the Disney Magic during eight special voyages from Miami departing January through April. These new Marvel Day at Sea voyages from Miami follow the premiere of the epic event on seven special sailings from New York City in the fall of 2017. New character interactions and an immersive show with Doctor Strange take center stage in the lineup of entertainment throughout the day-long celebration on all Marvel Day at Sea cruises.
- Spider-Man, Captain America, Thor, Doctor Strange, Iron Man, Black Panther, Loki and other Marvel Universe Super Heroes and Villains are onboard for scheduled interactions and photos.
- During an immersive show in the Walt Disney Theatre, Doctor Strange demonstrates the power of the mystic arts and enlists guests in an epic battle against the Dark Dimension.
- A brand-new spectacular party fills the upper deck with music, dancing and games.
- The deck party culminates in a stunning display of themed pyrotechnics, lighting, sound effects and the largest collection of Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains ever assembled on a cruise ship.
- Kids and families summon their Marvel knowledge and enjoy friendly competition during trivia games, covering courageous heroes and fun facts from the Marvel Universe.
- For young heroes-in-training, Marvel-themed games, activities and arts and crafts will be offered throughout the day in the Marvel’s Avengers Academy in the Oceaneer Club.
The new 2018 Marvel Day at Sea sailings depart from Miami on Jan. 7, 21; Feb. 4, 18; March 18; April 1, 15 and 29. The five-night cruises include a stop at Disney’s private island Castaway Cay and either Cozumel, Mexico, or Grand Cayman.
Marvel Day at Sea from New York will be on seven- and eight-night Disney Magic Bahamian cruises departing on Oct. 6, 14, 28; Nov. 4, 11 and 18, 2017. All will include a stop at Disney’s private island Castaway Cay and Port Canaveral, Fla., with a day at the Walt Disney World® Resort. Marvel Day at Sea will be on one seven-night Canadian Coast cruise departing from New York on Oct. 21, 2017, with stops at Charlottetown, Sydney and Halifax.
TOP THREE REASONS TO BOOK DISNEY AFTER HOURS AT MAGIC KINGDOM
Disney After Hours is an amazing nighttime theme park experience at Magic Kingdom® Park that offers guests quick access to some of the parks’ most popular attractions and character greetings. Check out the top four reasons to book this hard-ticket event.
2) 7 p.m. Entry Into The Park – The Disney After Hours ticket allows park entry as early as 7 p.m., which gives you time to enjoy the park’s “Wishes” fireworks spectacular. Event Guests only will be allowed to remain in the park for three hours past the park’s scheduled closing time.
3) Snacks are Included – Ice cream novelties, popcorn and select beverages are provided as part of your admission.
START A NEW CELEBRATION WITH A “KINDERMOON” PACKAGE
Our Clients can save with this special offer targeted to families with preschool-aged children.
Contact Travel Agents, Scott and Becky Donahue, of Wish Upon a Star With Us to plan and book your vacation.
With this offer, our Clients can enjoy a 3-night stay in a standard room at a Disney’s All-Star Resort and 2-day Magic Your Way base tickets for as low as $987*. Sample package price is valid for a family of 3 for stays most Sunday through Thursday nights from February 26 through March 9, and from April 23 through May 25, 2017.
Plus, our Clients will receive 2 FastPass+ vouchers** if they book this package in addition to the standard FastPass+ selection allotment. The FastPass+ vouchers can only be used at the following preschool-friendly attractions (valid park admission required):
- 1 voucher valid at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® for Disney Junior – Live on Stage!
- 1 voucher valid at Magic Kingdom® Park for your choice of one of the following attractions: Dumbo the Flying Elephant®, Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid, Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor® or Mickey’s PhilharMagic®
While anyone can book this package it is targeted to Preschool families. The FastPass+ vouchers will be inserted into a Preschool-themed envelope and delivered with the luggage tags and MagicBands. Each FastPass+ voucher is valid for up to five Guests. If there are more than five Guests on the reservation, they will receive an extra set of FastPass+ vouchers. The FastPass+ vouchers are only included with this package.
*Price based on 2 adults and 1 child (ages 3-9) in a standard room. The number of packages available at this rate is limited. Savings based on the non-discounted price of the same package. Tickets are valid for one Theme Park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
**The FastPass+ vouchers are provided in addition to the FastPass+ entitlements that are included with theme park admission. The vouchers can be redeemed at the entrance to the experience. Advance planning is not required for the vouchers. One (1) FastPass+ voucher valid at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Disney Junior-Live on Stage!. One (1) FastPass+ voucher valid at Magic Kingdom Park for your choice of one of the following experiences: Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid, Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor or Mickey’s PhilharMagic. Each FastPass+ voucher is valid for up to five (5) guests at any one FastPass+ experience. FastPass+ vouchers expire on 6/17/17.
