Paradise Found: Tastes of Hawaii and Caribbean now on the Menu. Exotic cocktails will pair like a tropical daydream with fresh new tastes from more than one island paradise at the 16th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 30-Nov. 13, 2011, at Walt Disney World Resort®. The one-of-a-kind 45-day festival serves up international cuisine, culture and entertainment from six continents, with more than 25 international marketplaces featuring tapas-sized portions paired with beer, wine and inventive new cocktails.

Be sure to watch Travel with Rick for updates with videos, pictures and other special information direct from Epcot during this amazing event.

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If “a penny saved is a penny earned,” then what of time? Shouldn’t it follow that saving time is also merit-worthy? Certainly using time purposefully is important, given that a guest has invested both money and time in a vacation. What is “purposeful” varies from person to person, however. Some guests at Epcot once shared that they were so enamored with the gardens that they hadn’t done any attractions – but they weren’t complaining; rather, they were complimenting … and beaming. Here are some ways to “make time,” save time, add time and use time during a Disney park visit…

Disney’s FASTPASS System allows guests to avoid waiting at designated popular attractions in all four Walt Disney World theme parks. Here’s how it works:

At the entrance to experiences offering FASTPASS, two times are posted – (1) approximate wait time using the normal queue and (2) return time for FASTPASS tickets currently being issued.
If the wait in the normal queue is long, guests can choose to obtain a FASTPASS ticket (at no charge) with an assigned return time (an hour-long window) and then use the time until then to enjoy other experiences in the park.
Upon returning to use their FASTPASS, the guest can experience the attraction with little or no waiting.

A “rider swap” program lets both parents enjoy a ride – one parent waits with a child who is unable to ride an attraction while one parent rides. Afterwards, the other parent can board the ride with minimal wait time.

Tip Boards located at strategic “crossroads” in each theme park provide guests with a heads-up concerning attractions’ wait times. Guests can save time – and “steps” – by consulting the boards throughout the day.

Select mobile devices are capable of running downloadable apps that allow the user to obtain real-time wait information.

Extra Magic Hours provide guests of select hotels at Walt Disney World Resort an opportunity for exclusive time in a Walt Disney World theme park. The details:

The exclusive time is one hour prior to scheduled park opening or up to three hours after park closing.  The park varies from day to day.  In all, there are up to 16 extra theme park hours available each week.  The time is exclusively for guests of the Walt Disney World owned-and-operated hotels plus Walt Disney World Dolphin, Walt Disney World Swan, Shades of Green and the Hilton at Downtown Disney.  Disney water parks sometimes open one hour early for guests of select Disney resort hotels.  To take advantage of the additional time in the parks, guests must have a Magic Your Way ticket valid for the park(s) offering Extra Magic Hours – and, of course, their hotel ID.  The Park Hopper option on Magic Your Way tickets allows guests to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours in a park or parks different from where the guest spends the rest of the day.

Guests arriving at park opening frequently head to a favorite attraction and enjoy it before it gets busy.

Guests who decide to forego viewing a popular parade frequently discover it’s a time to experience a popular attraction with less wait.

Festivals and special events are times when the theme parks feature extra entertainment and excitement – included with regular admission. Several long-running events are the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival (spring), Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (fall), Star Wars Weekends (spring at Disney’s Hollywood Studios), and elaborate decorations and seasonal entertainment at all four parks for the holidays.

The “best time” to visit…depends. The busier times to visit Walt Disney World parks are when school’s out for major holidays, the summer and three-day weekends. The very busiest times typically are Christmas to New Year’s and around Easter. Some considerations:

Avoiding the busy times likely means shorter waits for attractions and shows and better access to dining reservations.
Busy times can mean extended operating hours and sometimes special incremental entertainment.
Disney planners attempt to schedule periodic attraction closures for refurbishment at times other than vacation peaks.

Quick Service meals can cut down dining time – and sometimes cost. Add in “flexibility” because you can catch a gulp on the go without a reservation, and quick service can make consummate “good sense.”

Table Service restaurant experiences can enhance the theme park experience. There are restaurants that are worth the extra planning effort of a reservation, the extra time at the table, and possible extra expense. These eateries, replete with elaborate theming, extend the entertainment experience of the park to mealtime. Dining and relaxing in an ambiance reflecting a different time or place is an entertainment experience worth the time sitting. Sometimes these restaurants serve up entertainment acts along with meals. And sometimes the meal may be part of a package that provides preferred seating at no extra cost for a signature entertainment performance (such as Candlelight Processional at Epcot or “Fantasmic!” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios).

A longer stay can yield a vacation at a more comfortable pace. Guest surveys show higher satisfaction ratings for longer stays – with “pace” typically cited as the reason. After a week-long visit, guests have reported that they “didn’t feel rushed” and they “discovered a pool at the hotel.”

For a short-duration visit, make a short list of “must-sees” and “must-dos” based on the vacationing group’s interests. One of the worst mistakes a guest can make is over-scheduling. Be realistic in planning. Don’t attempt to see and do everything. Vacation shouldn’t feel like a track meet! And remember to take into account any relevant factors such as height restrictions or ambulatory concerns.

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For many guests, the benefit of staying at a Walt Disney World owned-and-operated resort begins before arrival at the Vacation Kingdom.  And for all guests, the benefits and perks combine to make vacation magic 24 hours a day – whether at a Disney Value Resort designed for budget-minded vacationers … or at a Disney Deluxe Resort or Deluxe Villa offering lavish amenities.

Disney resort hotels are designed to provide a lot more than a pillow beneath guests’ heads.  They are created to immerse guests in a continuation of the worry-free vacation magic and adventures of the Disney parks.  Thus the hotels have themes celebrating the long ago or the far away or even the world of imagination where toys can be bigger than people.

TOP FOUR BENEFITS

OTHER NOTABLE ATTRIBUTES, BENEFITS AND PERKS OF DISNEY RESORTS

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Walt Disney World guests can sip great wines, savor new tastes and enjoy live entertainment all day long as the 16^th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival offers a “Passport to a World of Flavors” Sept. 30-Nov. 13.

The 45-day outdoor festival at Disney’s Epcot theme park serves up authentic cuisine; wine, beer and inventive new cocktails; entertainment; and cultural exhibits of more than 25 international regions.  Exotic marketplaces from Hawaii to Portugal offer exciting taste treats.  The festival is believed to be the largest food and wine event of its kind in the world, beginning at the Festival Welcome Center in Future World and fanning around the promenade encircling World Showcase Lagoon.

Here are some facts about the 16th annual event:

• More than 300 national and international wines

• 45 fabulous days long

• More than 76 kinds of international foods, each appetizer-sized portion priced $3-$8

• 160 of America’s most celebrated chefs and Walt Disney World chefs

• Over 300 wine and beer seminars

• More than 1,200 fireworks rockets exploding each night over World Showcase Lagoon in   “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” grand finale to the festival

• 135 Eat to the Beat! concerts performed

• 33,000 bottles of wine and champagne

• 289,000 servings of beer

• 900,000 sumptuous samplings

• 338,000 wine glasses

• 100,000 desserts including freshly baked waffles with berry compote and whipped cream (Belgium marketplace), white chocolate macadamia mousse with dark chocolate pearls (Desserts & Champagne marketplace) and chocolate cannoli (Italy marketplace).

• 4,000 pounds of lobster for Linda Bean’s Perfect Maine Lobster Rolls and Linda Bean’s Lobster Claw Cuddlers at the Hops & Barley marketplace plus Lobster and Scallop Fisherman’s Pie at the Ireland marketplace.

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While visiting Universal Orlando Resort with her family on Friday, September 2, 2011, entrepreneur, TV personality and author of “Modelland,” Tyra Banks came face-to-face with Lady Luck, the blood-thirsty seductress and force behind Halloween Horror Nights 21. Named “the country’s best Halloween event” for three years straight, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 21 will bring to life guests’ most intense nightmares for 25 nights this fall, beginning September 23. Banks and her family were hosted to experience both Universal Orlando theme parks while in town for a business visit.

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The Disneyland® Resort and Hollywood family vacation from Adventures by Disney begins with a Hollywood tour to some of the most famous Tinsel Town landmarks. Then visit sites where Walt Disney began his dream and meet the people who continue to bring his visions to life. Top off your trip with three thrilling days at the Disneyland® Resort.

We’ve got all the highlights of this amazing itinerary, so check it out.

 


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Click Here to Book your Disney Vacation Now!

Adventures by Disney, the leader in guided family travel, announces the addition of two new destinations to its repertoire of immersive family vacations – Greece: “Greek Odyssey” and Northern France: “Esprit de France” – available to travelers in 2012. The adventure continues in Egypt with “Pyramids, Pharaohs & Ancient Treasures,” an unforgettable expedition. New for 2012, Adventures by Disney will feature distinct enhancements to its Australia, London and Paris and Galapagos Islands departures.

Over the last six years, Adventures by Disney has developed a collection of exhilarating tours with one goal in mind: help families experience the most sought-after and culturally stimulating destinations in the world. Led by knowledgeable Adventure Guides and authentic local experts, families unlock the wonders and stories of the world through unparalleled excursions and engaging activities designed for all ages and activity levels such as pizza-making at a farm in Italy, spending the night at a German castle and playing the role of an art detective at the Louvre. With the smallest details planned in advance, it’s easy for parents to relax and immerse themselves in the most valuable experience of all – quality time with their family.

“Through our dedication to storytelling and exclusive hands-on experiences, families can get a glimpse of the history and beauty synonymous with Greece, France, Egypt and every vacation destination on our roster,” said Josh D’Amaro, Vice President, Adventures by Disney. “We are in the business of creating unforgettable, VIP hassle-free itineraries so guests can focus on discovering and exploring a new world and creating priceless vacation memories that last a lifetime.”

Adventures by Disney presents three featured adventures for 2012:

“Greek Odyssey” Athens, Santorini and Crete – the adventure starts in Athens where Greek mythology comes to life through moonlight storytelling at the Parthenon and sporting games at the home of the modern Olympics, Panathinaiko Stadium. Discovery continues on the volcanic island of Santorini where kids go feet-first into Greek grape stomping while adults enjoy a wine tasting at Volcan winery. After sailing the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, families travel to Crete and are immersed in mountain culture with local expert-led lessons in Tsatziki cheese making and Greek dancing.

“Pyramids, Pharaohs & Ancient Treasures” Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, the Nile and Sharm El Sheikh – uncover an ancient world of pyramids, mummies and man-made marvels as this expedition kicks off with a camelback tour of the Great Pyramids of Giza and a Nile River cruise to Luxor. Families will be in awe of the architectural wonder of the Sphinx and experience the secrets of Tutankhamen’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings with a Junior Adventurer scavenger hunt at the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. Activities like papyrus making, traditional cooking, and hieroglyphic writing give guests a first-hand view of life in ancient Egypt.

“Esprit de France” Paris, Normandy and Loire Valley – perfect for families looking to experience the arts, this itinerary features a drawing activity in Monet’s Gardens, a visit to Château du Clos Luce, the last known residence of Leonardo da Vinci, and a private dinner at the Louvre in Paris. A true taste of the French countryside, adventurers learn of the art of brandy-making on the Normandy Cider Route; enjoy a picturesque country bike ride and spend the night in an authentic Château. Guests continue the adventure with visits to Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel monastery, Omaha Beach and a viewing of the Bayeux Tapestry.

Adventures by Disney unveils three enhanced itineraries for 2012:

“Discovery Down Under” Australia and Tasmania – the action-packed Australian adventure will now include a visit to the island of Tasmania featuring a Eucalyptus forest zipline experience, an introduction to traditional cuisine at Kate’s Berry Farm and Meadowbank Winery as well as a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to meet the infamous Tasmanian Devil.

“Grandiosos Galapagos” Galapagos Islands – Now families can spend more time discovering the flora and fauna of Darwin’s famous islands with seven nights aboard the Galapagos Explorer cruise ship. Guests will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel with sea lions and penguins and come face to face with giant tortoises.

“Cities of Knights and Lights” London and Paris – Adventures by Disney’s classic European itinerary now features an exquisite trip to the British Countryside where guests can play British lawn games and receive royal treatment on a privately-guided tour of Windsor Castle.

From VIP experiences and world-class accommodations to add-on excursions, Adventures by Disney has a quest to suit any traveler. For more information on Adventures by Disney, visit Kingdom Magic Travel.

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Click Here to Book your Disney Vacation Now!

A few weeks ago, Cirque du Soleil celebrated the 6,000th performance of La Nouba at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort. La Nouba features high wire and flying trapeze, acro-gymnastic performances and other displays of coordination and strength, set to live music and brilliant choreography. With an international cast of 67 artists, Cirque du Soleil welcomes more than 1,650 spectators, ten times per week.

“The partnership between Cirque du Soleil and Walt Disney World, represents the union of two of the world’s most iconic brands in what is a very unique and ideal relationship,” said Cirque du Soleil Company Manager Neil Boyd.  “We continue to be thrilled with providing world-class family entertainment by presenting La Nouba to an international audience for nearly 13 years here at Downtown Disney.”

The dynamic, white structure found on the Westside of Downtown Disney houses the multi-media stage and theatre which was the first permanent “Big Top” Cirque du Soleil ever built. Since Cirque opened the show for the first time on Dec. 23, 1998, multi-generations of Disney guests have made this theatrical circus a success over the years. This past July, La Nouba welcomed its 8,000,000th guest.

“Reaching the 6,000th performance of La Nouba demonstrates just how special, timeless and unique the show is,” said Keith Bradford, vice president of Downtown Disney. “La Nouba appeals to guest of all ages, making it a perfect fit among our assortment of offerings at Downtown Disney.”

The professional athletes and entertainers of La Nouba come from 14 countries around the globe and together deliver unparalleled artistic entertainment that sparks the audience’s curiosity and imagination, 478 shows a year.

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You seek her… hoping she’ll be on your side.  She appears…an enchanting seductress…and you decide to take a chance.

But the more chances you take, the more she craves…you.  Her eyes grow cold.   Her face contorts into…something that is not human.  Her charming laugh turns to rabid growl.  Your luck has run out.  You have made your last choice.

For 25 nights beginning September 23, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights returns as the nation’s best and most intense Halloween event. Guests will confront extreme Halloween entertainment that cannot be experienced anywhere else.  This year, they will scream as they become prey to fiendish creatures, panic as they come face-to-face with a horrifying “thing,” feel chills as they are haunted by deceased souls – and watch in paralyzing fear as Lady Luck transforms from a tempting seductress to a bloodthirsty beast.

Lady Luck is the force behind this year’s event, and she awaits those brave enough to challenge her and take a chance.  Her main weapon is choice, and her desire is for you to make yours.  But no matter what you decide, you can’t escape the terror she has in store at Halloween Horror Nights 21.

Halloween Horror Nights runs September 23-24, September 29-30, October 1-2, 6-9, 13-16, 19-23 and 26-31.  Tickets and vacation packages are on sale now and can be purchased via Universal Magic. Due to the event’s popularity, tickets for weekend nights are expected to sell out and should be purchased well in advance.

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Click Here to Book your Universal Vacation Now!

UNIVERSAL CITYWALK CALENDAR AND VENUE ENTERTAINMENT – SEPTEMBER 2011

Venues subject to $7 coverage charge or CityWalk Party Pass.  21 and up are welcome

**SPECIAL EVENTS**

CityWalk’s Labor Day Celebration
Sunday, September 4, 2011 ~ 9:00pm – 2:00am
Must be 21 and up, $10 admission
- 10 DJs spinning throughout the night, including DJ Nova and DJ A-Rock
- Corona, Grey Goose, Bacardi and Red Bull drink specials
- VIP bottle service and private cabanas available
- Steve Burton

Halfway to St. Patty’s Day
Saturday, September 17, 2011 ~ 4:00pm – 2:00 am
- Free admission until 6:00pm, after 6:00pm admission: $10; VIP admission: $15
- Must be 21+ after 9pm
- Traditional Irish food and drinks available for purchase
- Happy hour 4pm – 6pm, $6.50 Fuzzy Leprechans
- Live entertainment, stilt walkers, bead girls and more!

**RESTAURANTS AND CLUBS**

Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom
Legendary Thursdays ~ 4pm – close
- 1/2 off select appetizers
- Heineken and Appleton Run and Pinnacle Vodka drink specials

Ladies Night ~ Sundays, 9pm – close
- No cover for ladies until midnight
- 2 for 1 drink specials until midnight: Hypnotiq, Bacardi, Grey Goose and Red Stripe

Entertainment
Mystik NRG ~ Monday – Friday
Chain Reaction ~ Saturday & Sunday

CityWalk’s Rising Star
Entertainment
Karaoke with Live Band & Backup Singers ~ Tuesday – Saturday
Karaoke with Backup Singers ~ Sunday & Monday

Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando
Happy Hour ~ Daily: 5pm – 8pm

the groove
80s Night – Every Thursday from 9pm to close
- Free admission until 10pm
- $7 cover after 10pm; 21 and up for admission
- Russian Standard & Pinnacle Vodka drink specials

Entertainment
DJs ~ nightly

Hard Rock Live
Purchase tickets at the Hard Rock Live Box Office or by calling 407-351-LIVE

September 1st ~ Hard Rock Live and AEG Live Presents Rodney Carrington *Mature Content*
September 11th ~ Hard Rock Live Presents Franco De Vita

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
Happy Hour at Lone Palm ~ Monday – Friday from 3pm to 5pm

Entertainment
Blue Stone Circle ~ Tuesday – Saturday
Hypersona ~ Sunday & Monday
Guitar Hero at Lone Palm ~ Daily
Live Guitar Soloist on the Porch of Indecision ~ Daily
Interactive DJ on the Porch of Indecision ~ Friday & Saturday

Latin Quarter
Happy Hour ~ Sunday – Friday 5pm – 7pm

Ladies Night Every Thursday ~ 10pm – 2am
Complimentary admission and drink specials all night long

Entertainment
Alejandro Kartal ~ Nightly on the patio
DJ Leony ~ Thursday – Saturday

NASCAR Sports Grille
- Showing all NFL, College Football, MLB games and UFC fights
- Beer and drink specials during all NFL and College Football games
- All day, every day draft specials
- Retail shop with the latest in NASCAR, NFL and College Football merchandise

NBA City
All sports, all the time!
Happy Hour daily ~ 4pm – 7pm

- Ask our servers for our daily drink specials

Pat O’Brien’s Orlando
2 for Tuesdays ~ 4pm – 10pm
2 for 1 Hurricanes; 2 for 1 domestic drafts and specialty drinks

Entertainment
World Famous Dueling Piano Players ~ Nightly

Red Coconut Club
Nightly Happy Hour
Sunday – Thursday: 8pm – 10pm; Friday and Saturday: 6pm – 9pm

Ladies Night every Thursday ~ 8pm – close
Ladies receive complimentary admission and drink specials all evening

Hospitality Tuesdays ~ Tuesdays 10pm – close
Free admission for members of the hospitality industry all evening with your ID or hospitality pay stub
Free parking after 10pm
$2 domestic beers, $3 premium cocktails

Entertainment
Herb Williams Band ~ Thursday – Saturday
DJs ~ Nightly

AMC Universal Cineplex 20 with IMAX

September 30th ~ Dream House

**Dates and times subject to change

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