New Aladdin Trailers and Film Clips

This year is moving so fast, isn’t it?  And Disney is off to a rip-roaring year with Avengers: Endgame making GOBS of money so far in its two week run.  As of Monday, May 7, 2019, Avengers: Endgame has earned $632 million domestically and $2.24 billion world wide.  Wow.  That’s a LOT of money.  But of course, we know that Disney wants ALL our money, so they’re not stopping with Avengers: Endgame.  Nope.  They have several more BIG releases coming this year.  Not as big as Avengers: Endgame, of course, but still BIG.

Aladdin is next up, releasing May 24. June 21 will bring us Toy Story 4 and July 19 brings us The Lion King.  Oh my goodness!  BIG summer at the movies for Disney fans!

With the release of Aladdin only a couple of weeks away, Disney is ramping up the marketing campaign.  We have several new film clips, trailers and TV spots that have been released over the last 10 days.

We also have a new poster.  Take a look:

Disney Aladdin Poster

If you want to see the previous trailers and teasers, check out this post.

Keep reading to see all the latest Aladdin trailers and film clips.

TV Commercial: Wingman

First up is the latest TV spot, focusing on Will Smith as the Genie and his efforts to bring Aladdin and Jasmine together.

Aladdin Film Clip: A Whole New World

Next we have a brief scene from the movie to whet our appetite for the “Whole New World” duet that we KNOW is coming.

I really like this scene, and can’t wait to see more of the two of them together.

Aladdin Film Clip: I Wish to Become a Prince

Some of this scene we’ve seen in the second trailer, but this is a whole 30 second scene of the moment where Aladdin tells the Genie he wants to be a Prince, rather than just the 4-7 second snip we saw in the trailer.

I have to say, I really like Will Smith as the Genie.  Very different energy from the original animated Robin Williams version, but I think that’s a GOOD thing.  I LOVED that version, and wouldn’t want an imitation.  I think Will Smith making his OWN version of the Genie is good.  And remember, for younger audiences and first time viewers, his Genie may become THEIR Genie.

TV Commercial: Inside

This is a great 30 second commercial focusing on the overall message of Aladdin.  The outside packaging isn’t all that important, it’s what’s INSIDE that matters.

TV Commercial: Confident

I like this commercial–its focusing a little more on the big set pieces and the extravagance than we’ve seen in some of the other spots.

TV Commercial: Basics

This is a good “general” Aladdin commercial.  It provides a very brief overview of the main points…there’s a Genie, a lamp and a flying carpet.  The Genie can do lots of cool stuff.  Aladdin likes a girl. {sigh}

TV Commercial: Rags to Riches

This is another quick TV commercial hitting the highlights.  Mainly focusing on Aladdin as a “street rat” and his finding the Genie.

Disney’s #Friendlikeme Challenge

I LOVE it when Disney does stuff like this:

Here’s how it works:

Between now and May 24, 2019, every public social media post (Twitter and/or Instagram) that includes the tag #Friendlikeme, Disney will donate $5 (up to $1 million) to Make-a-Wish to help Make-a-Wish grant wishes for critically ill children all over the world.  So PLEASE, post on Instagram and/or Twitter every day and include the tag #Friendlikeme so we can get Make-a-Wish that $1 million!

To learn more, visit friendlikeme.org.  To learn more about how you can help your local chapter of the Make-a-Wish foundation, visit wish.org/local-chapters.

Tickets on Sale NOW!

Check out this cute video from Will Smith and Mena Massoud promoting presale tickets for Aladdin.

Beautiful New Character Posters

Check out the beautiful new individual character posters that Disney released for Aladdin, Jasmine and the Genie.

Disney Aladdin Character Poster

What do YOU Think?

Are all these new Aladdin TV trailers and film clips getting you excited to see the film?  Will you be purchasing pre-sale tickets or waiting for reviews?  I have high hopes for Aladdin.  I think it will be fun and entertaining.  Please like this post, and let me know below if you’re planning to go see Aladdin in theaters!

UPDATE May 14, 2019

Disney has released several new Aladdin film clips and trailers since I put up this post.  Rather than do another separate post, I just decided to add the new promos to this post.  Enjoy!

TV Commercial: On Fire

This spot focuses on Will Smith’s Genie showing off his magic.

TV Commercial: Stumbled Upon

There’s not really any new visuals in this short spot, but Jafar’s creepy voice over persuading Aladdin to retrieve the lamp for him is mostly new, and the visuals focus on the “adventure” aspects of the film.

TV Commercial: Dalia

This quick spot focuses more on Jasmine’s perspective than the other trailers we’ve seen.  It’s short, but I like it a lot.  See what you think:

TV Commercial: Friend

Only a couple “new” elements in this 45 second spot, but the focus is on the Genie.  I think this is a fun one.

Featurette: Cast of Wonders

This is a short behind the scenes featurette, showing brief snippets from the primary cast members.

I hope you enjoyed these latest additions!

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Wishing for a Disney Vacation?                                                    Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com today to start planning YOUR dream vacation.

 

NEW Extra EXTRA Magic Hours Coming to Walt Disney World

If you’ve ever stayed at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you probably know about Extra Magic Hours.  Extra Magic Hours (EMH) are just one of the benefits of staying on Disney property.  EMH are a HUGE advantage for guests who want to minimize their time waiting in lines.  With regular Extra Magic Hours, there are certain days each week when Disney resort guests can enter the EMH park one hour earlier than all other guests.  Alternatively, EMH may mean staying up to three hours later than all non-resort guests at the EMH park.

This fall, Disney is taking Extra Magic Hours to a whole new level with Extra EXTRA Magic Hours!

Disney Extra Extra Magic Hours
Photo: Disney Parks

DAILY Extra Magic Hours

Beginning August 29, 2019 and running through November 2, 2019, Disney will begin offering DAILY Extra Extra Magic Hours.  Extra Extra Magic Hours (EEMH) will be offered in three of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World.

Magic Kingdom: Extra Extra Magic Hours will happen every day from 7 am to 8 am at the Magic Kingdom for resort guests.  Just like with regular Extra Magic Hours, not all attractions are open during Extra Extra Magic Hours.  Extra Magic Hours and Extra Extra Magic Hours feature the same attractions–favorite rides in both Tomorrowland and Fantasyland.

Disney's Magic Kingdom Disney vacation planning Disney trip planning tips top reasons to visit Disney Extra Extra Magic Hours
It’s a beautiful day to be at the Magic Kingdom! Let’s pretend the crowds will be this light ALL DAY!  (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

Animal Kingdom: Extra Extra Magic Hours will happen every day from 7 am to 8 am at the Animal Kingdom.  Pandora – The World of Avatar attractions ARE included.  Also included are other attractions throughout Animal Kingdom. (The same attractions currently open during regular Extra Magic Hours).

Disney's Animal Kingdom Extra Extra Magic Hours
Pandora – World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)

Hollywood Studios: Extra Extra Magic Hours will happen every day from 6 am to 9 am (That’s THREE HOURS PEOPLE!!!).  The EEMH WILL include Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Toy Story Land and select other attractions.  Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and its experiences are subject to capacity.  NOTE: From August 29 – 31, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will open at 6 am to ALL guests, not just resort guests.  The Extra Extra Magic Hours for Hollywood Studios for Resort Guests will begin September 1.

Disney Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run Extra Extra Magic Hours
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon – Smuggler’s Run (Photo: Disney Parks)

Wait, What About Epcot?

Epcot absorbs crowds better than any of the other three theme parks.  In addition, Extra Magic Hours are not as necessary or popular at Epcot as they are at the other three parks.  Also, at Epcot, Future World opens at 9 am (usually) and then World Showcase opens at 11 am.  Morning Extra Magic Hours may frustrate Epcot visitors that wanted to visit World Showcase during EMH but World Showcase is not part of morning EMH.

Epcot will continue to have regular Extra Magic Hours on select days, just like it does now.  Epcot will NOT be getting Extra Extra Magic Hours.  Note: Of course this policy COULD change later in the summer, but I don’t expect it to.

Also, keep in mind that the popular Epcot Food and Wine Festival will be running during this time, and that’s the big attraction at Epcot in the fall.  Opening at 7 am wouldn’t be very beneficial as I don’t think they want to open all those wine and food kiosks that early! 😉

Disney Epcot Extra Extra Magic Hours
Epcot! (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)

Why?

Disney has introduced these new Extra Extra Magic Hours in anticipation of record crowd levels this fall.  With the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios coming August 29, interest in a Walt Disney World vacation has never been higher!  Disney is anticipating very high guest demand for its most popular attractions throughout Walt Disney World, but most especially at Hollywood Studios, for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Disney is trying to ensure the satisfaction of resort guests by guaranteeing them more opportunities to access the parks with smaller crowds, before the parks open to the public each day.  Theoretically, if guests are early risers and willing to be up and at the parks early in the morning, they are more likely to be able to visit more of the attractions they’ll want to visit.

This policy also helps add more value to staying on Disney property.  Disney is always looking for ways to get more guests to stay on Disney property and these new Extra Extra Magic Hours are a great step in that direction.  All those extra available hours EVERY DAY add a lot of value to your theme park tickets!

The Fine Print

Extra Extra Magic Hours require a valid theme park admission and hotel ID.  Note: If you are using your Magic Bands as your room keys and your theme park tickets, your Magic Band will serve as both theme park admission and hotel ID.

If you do NOT have the Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus option on your tickets, you will be spending the day in whichever park you choose for Extra Extra Magic Hours.  In other words, if you DON’T have Park Hopper, and start your day at 6 am at Hollywood Studios, you will be in Hollywood Studios for the entire day (unless you leave the park and go back to your resort, of course).  You will NOT be able to visit a different park after Extra Extra Magic Hours are over.

If you DO Have Park Hopper, you can “hop” to any other park you choose throughout the day, regardless of where you go for Extra Extra Magic Hours.

All Attractions are NOT Part of Extra Extra Magic

Not all Walt Disney World attractions are available with Extra Magic Hours or Extra Extra Magic Hours.  Park hours and participating attractions for Extra Magic Hours or Extra Extra Magic Hours are subject to change without notice.  All participating attractions and experiences are subject to capacity limitations and cancellation.

Fast Passes are NOT available during Extra Magic Hours or Extra Extra Magic Hours.

Will Extra Extra Magic Hours Be Extended After November 2?

I don’t know.  This is the first time Disney has offered DAILY extended hours for resort guests.  Obviously, this will significantly impact Disney’s daily operating costs–a lot will depend on how successful this program is during its initial offering.  Guest response and feedback will also significantly impact whether Disney either extends Extra Extra Magic Hours, or ever offers it again during busy periods.

Disney's Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Extra Extra Magic Hours
Disney’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  Is there anything better than visiting your favorite attractions with lighter crowds and shorter lines? (Photo Credit: Disney Parks)

If it has a major impact on guest satisfaction and crowd flow AND they see profits from people staying longer in the parks and spending more money, I think its very likely that we could see something like this again in the future.

Until Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is actually open, and we see the way Disney manages crowds in and around that new “Land”, it’s difficult to anticipate WHAT will happen from a crowd flow capacity in ALL the parks, once Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is finally open.

What do YOU think?

What do you think of this new policy?  As someone who almost always stays on property, I’m pretty excited!  We are early risers on vacation, and always take advantage of EMH.  However, we often park hop later in the day if the “chosen” park gets too crowded.  It will be interesting to see what happens when three parks are the “chosen” park, won’t it?

Please like this post and comment below.  Does this new Extra Extra Magic Hours policy have you planning a visit for this fall to take advantage?  I can help! brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!

P.S. There is still time to book reservations for YOUR fall vacation to Disney World. You can check out the amazing new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and take advantage of all these extra park hours through Extra Extra Magic Hours.  Contact me today to get started: brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.

P.P.S If you don’t want to wait for fall, there are still some great promotions running for Summer Vacations.  Check out these posts for more information:

FREE DINING for Disney Visa Cardmembers

FREE Quick Service Meals on YOUR Summer Vacation?

New Table Service Restaurant Coming to Toy Story Land

Exciting news this week is coming from Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  We’ve got a new table service restaurant coming to Toy Story Land!

We don’t have a date yet, so most likely it will be sometime in 2020 or even 2021.  However, additional table service restaurants are needed throughout the Parks, and I think a new one themed to Toy Story Land will be a welcome addition!

Rodeo Play Area

Apparently, Andy has decided to set up a new play area in the backyard.  This new area will be a rodeo play area, and lots of our favorite toys are very excited to join in the fun!

This new rodeo play area will feature western town and train station playsets, and lots of rodeo themed activities.

Toy Story Land's Roundup Rodeo BBQ restaurant
Toy Story Land’s Roundup Rodeo BBQ, Artist’s Rendering                                     (Source: Disney Parks)

Of course, this is Toy Story Land, so this may be a really unique rodeo.  Lots of toys that we know and love aren’t exactly “western” themed.  Mr Potato Head, Buzz Lightyear, Slinky Dog, the green army men and the dinosaur toys are all bound to add some color and very unique elements to the rodeo theme!

We don’t know anything about the food that will be served here yet, but I suspect it will be western themed–perhaps BBQ ribs and chicken?  I’m not sure, but I’m really excited to find out!

I think we WILL be able to count on a fun, family friendly atmosphere that will be lots of fun to visit.

Until this new table service restaurant opens, you can still find great food in Toy Story Land.  Check out Woody’s Lunch Box, a quick service restaurant that specializes in sandwiches, lunch box tarts and more!

Toy Story Land Restaurants
Toy Story Land’s Woody’s Lunch Box            (Photo: Disney Parks)
Toy Story Land
Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Photo: Destinations in Florida)

I’ll keep you posted as more information becomes available on this latest addition to Toy Story Land.

What do you think?  Are you looking forward to a new table service restaurant coming to Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?  Please comment below with your thoughts.

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!

 

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Reservation Information

Are you ready?  It’s officially less than a month until Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at Disneyland on May 31!  Guests planning to visit Disneyland between May 31 and June 23, 2019, hoping to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will need a reservation.  Read on to get Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge reservation information.

Disneyland Resort Guests

The easiest way to guarantee a Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge reservation is to stay at a Disneyland resort hotel.  If you have a reservation at any of the three Disneyland resort hotels (Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa, the Disneyland Hotel or Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel) during the “reservations required” window of May 31 – June 23, you will automatically receive a reservation for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge during your visit.

Disneyland Resort Hotel Grand Californian
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa      (Photo: Disney Parks)

In fact, you should have already received your designated reservation confirmation if you have a reservation at a Disneyland resort hotel during May 31-June 23, 2019.   Your designated reservation confirmation shows your scheduled date and time window for your Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge visit.    If you have not yet received your Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge reservation confirmation, please call 888-854-3104.

If you DON’T yet have a reservation at a Disneyland resort, and would like to guarantee a reservation to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, it’s not too late!  You can still book a stay at one of the three Disneyland hotels for any night(s) between May 31 and June 23, 2019.  If you do, you’ll receive a designated reservation for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for each registered guest in your party.  Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for more information.  I would love to help you visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge!

Disneyland Visitors

Guests planning to visit Disneyland between May 31 and June 23, 2019 that wish to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will need to make a reservation for their visit.

There is no cost for the reservation. Theme park admission to Disneyland is required to access Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Reservations will open on May 2, 2019 at 10 am Pacific Time.  Disney is releasing “how to book” information at 8 am Pacific Time on May 2.  I will post an update here as soon as “how-to” reservation information is available.

Disney put together this quick “Know Before You Go” video.

What You Will Need To Make a Reservation

Disney's Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Reservation Information
Disney’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Reservation Information (Photo: Disney Parks)

While we don’t have exact “how to make a reservation” specifics yet, we do know a few things that you’ll need before you make your reservation.

    1. Make sure you have your Disney ID account set up at Disneyland.com.  If you don’t have one, set it up NOW so you are ready to go when the reservation window opens.
      1. If you already have an ID for Walt Disney World’s My Disney Experience, you will be able to login at Disneyland.com with that ID.  Double check to make sure!
      2. You will be making your reservation using your DisneyID, so it’s critical that you know what it is and that it works.
    2. Be prepared and ready to go at 10 am Pacific Time on May 2.  Disney is anticipating the reservation “windows” filling up fast.
      1. Make a list of a few different dates that will work for you.  If your first choice isn’t available, you don’t want to have to scramble for the calendar to figure out your second (or third) choices.
      2. Once you have confirmed your reservation for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, you will NOT be able to change it.
      3. You can make ONLY ONE reservation for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge per email address (Disney ID at Disneyland.com).
      4. You’ll be able to add up to five additional guests to your Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge reservation.
    3. You will only be able to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge ONCE during your visit with your Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge reservation.  You’ll only be able to make one reservation for the entirety of the period of May 31 – June 23 with your DisneyID email.  After the reservations required period ends, you will theoretically be able to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge every day, assuming new rules aren’t released, and crowd volumes don’t restrict admittance to the Land.

Visiting Later in the Year

What if you are NOT visiting Disneyland between May 31 and June 23, 2019? If you ARE planning to visit later this year, and want to be sure you’ll get access to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, what should you do?

Disney Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon – Smuggler’s Run                (Photo: Disney Parks)

At this time, Disney states that no reservations are required to enter Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge after June 23, 2019.  However, they are also saying that access to the land will be limited, and guests will not be guaranteed access.  Admittance may be restricted, based on crowd volumes.

What if you plan to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios after it opens August 29, 201? Disney says no reservations required for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Florida.  Of course that will be subject to change after Disneyland’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opening weeks.

It is possible that Disney may elect to extend the reservation window into future periods.  It is also possible that Disney may use a Fast Pass/Max Pass type reservation to “schedule” access to the Land.  Finally, it may just be a free for all.  In that scenario, I suspect after a certain number of guests are admitted, no additional guests will be admitted until some guests exit the Land.  We just don’t know yet.

Don’t Forget: May 2, 10 am PST                    Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Reservation Window Opens

I will keep you posted as soon as I know more.  In the meantime, make sure you have your Disneyland DisneyID set up at Disneyland.com.  Be ready to go tomorrow (May 2) morning if you intend to make Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge reservations for May 31 – June 23, 2019.

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!

P.S. If you’d like to review our most recent articles about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, please check out these posts:

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Merchandise Coming Soon to Disney Parks

Update from the Dark Side: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Coca-Cola

HUGE NEWS: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge OPENING May 31st and August 29th!!!!

FREE DINING for Disney Visa Cardmembers

The good news?  Disney has released a new limited time offer featuring free dining for Disney Visa Cardholders.  The not-as-good news?  It is an EXTREMELY limited promotion, and features a very short travel window.  However, if you are a Disney Visa Cardmember, and you are available to travel August 1 – 21, 2019, you might want to JUMP on this new free dining promotion.

A couple of things to be aware of: Any time Disney offers a big promotion, they are offering it to stimulate travel to the parks during a certain period.  This USUALLY means projected park attendance and resort reservation bookings are lower than Disney wants them to be for that time period.  While this doesn’t necessarily mean light crowds, it most likely means LIGHTER crowds.  Of course, if tons of people take advantage of the promotion, crowds could be CRAZY by the dates of travel.  But generally speaking, Disney offers promotions for periods where they are projecting attendance to be down.

Disney Tomorrowland crowd

This particular travel window closes before Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on August 29, 2019.  However, there are still a lot of great reasons to visit Disney World this year.  Click here to check out my top five reasons to visit Disney World in 2019.

Free Dining for Disney Cardmembers

You can get free dining when you purchase a four-night/five-day Walt Disney resort and theme park ticket package that includes the Park Hopper option.  If you book your package at a Value or Moderate resort, you will receive the Quick Service Dining Plan.  If you book your package for a Deluxe or Deluxe Villa resort, you will receive the regular Dining Plan.

Disney Free Dining Promotion

You MUST book your vacation by June 16, 2019 to take advantage of this offer.

Your vacation must begin between August 1 and August 21, 2019.

You MUST book your vacation using your Disney Visa card.

Theme park tickets purchased with this package are valid for admission beginning the day of check-in, and must be used within a limited period of time, depending on length of stay and ticket.

Here are the resorts that are eligible for this promotion, along with which Dining Plan you would get if you booked your vacation at that resort.

Disney's Art of Animation Family Suite
Disney’s Art of Animation Family Suite (Photo: Disney Parks)

Select Disney Value Resort Hotels – FREE Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan

  • Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
  • Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
  • Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Family Suites Only
  • Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Select Disney Moderate Resort Hotels – FREE Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan

  • The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
  • Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Disney Contemporary Resort California Grill
The California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort  (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

Select Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels – FREE Disney Dining Plan

  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Disney’s Beach Club Resort
  • Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
  • Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
  • Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
  • Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Select Disney Deluxe Villa Resort Hotels – FREE Disney Dining Plan

  • Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
  • Disney’s Beach Club Villas
  • Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
  • Disney’s Old Key West Resort
  • Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
  • Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Quick Service Dining Plan vs. Dining Plan

If you book your package at a Value or Moderate Resort hotel, you will receive the Quick Service Dining Plan for free with your package.  The Quick Service Dining Plan includes two quick service meals and two snacks per person in your room, for each night of your stay.  Several beverage options are available–including non-alcoholic specialty beverages and beer, wine and cocktails for those guests who are 21 or older.

Disney Dining Plan Free Dining

If you book your package at a Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort, you will receive the Disney Dining plan with your package for free.  The Disney Dining Plan includes one quick service meal, one table service meal and two snacks per person in your room, for each night of your stay.  You can use table service credits for Character Dining and other special dining experiences.  Several beverage options are available–including non-alcoholic specialty beverages and beer, wine and cocktails for those guests who are 21 or older.

The Fine Print

This offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

An additional charge may apply if you have more than two adults per room (any one over the age of 9) in a Disney Value, Moderate, Deluxe, or Deluxe Villa Resorts.

This offer excludes the following room types:  3 bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creed Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.

Children ages 3 -9 MUST order from the Children’s Menu, if there is a Children’s Menu available.

Disney Free Dining for Disney Visa Cardmembers

Everyone in the same room must be on the same package.

Must use a valid Disney Visa Card or a Disney Rewards Redemption Card to pay the deposit.  The Disney Visa Cardmember must stay in the room.

Availability at table service restaurants is not guaranteed.  Advance reservations are recommended and availability is not guaranteed.

Gratuities are not included.

Food For Thought

Many Disney vacationers LOVE the Disney Dining Plan. They love being able to budget and essentially “prepay” for the majority of their meals before their trip, and know that they won’t need to spend a whole lot of money

Disney Character Breakfast Crystal Palace
Character Breakfast at the Crystal Palace at the Magic Kingdom  (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

on food during their vacation. If you fall into this category, and are already a fan of the Disney Dining Plan or the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan, and are already accustomed to making Advanced Dining Reservations 180 days before your trip, you are likely a good candidate for the Free Dining Promotion.

Conversely, if you tend to order in groceries, and eat a lot of meals in your room, or pack picnic lunches for your family to enjoy at the parks, you are most likely NOT a good candidate for the Free Dining Promotion.

It’s important to think about how your family dines on a Disney vacation. Do you eat in table service (sit down) restaurants for most meals? Or, do you eat primarily quick service meals? Do you do many character meals? What about sharing meals? Does your family like to snack? Are you big Mickey Bar or Popcorn fans? Are you comfortable planning your meals in advance?

Disney's Chef Mickey Character Breakfast
Chef Mickey Character Breakfast at Disney’s Contemporary Resort  (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

While the promotion is called “Free” Dining, it’s also important to recognize that by getting the dining package for “free”, you are paying full price for your room and park tickets. You are saving a LOT of money on meals, so it is a substantial savings in many, many cases–but again, it’s really important to evaluate how YOU and YOUR family vacations.

If you tend to eat more meals in the room, or pack picnic lunches, you likely will get a bigger savings from a room or package discount that does NOT include free dining.

I Can Help Make Planning Your Trip Easier!

One of the advantages of working with an authorized Disney Vacation Planner is that we have access to ALL the available discounts out there at any one time, whether Disney is actively promoting them or not. We can run comparisons for you to determine what you’ll save by booking your trip with one promotion or another. There is no cost to you to work with an authorized Disney Vacation planner to plan your vacation, and often, we have access to discounts or resort information that is not available to the general public. Working with an authorized Disney Vacation Planner will always save you headaches and aggravation, and will usually save you money as well!

Walt Disney World Entrance

In addition, we have the ability to monitor our reservations and as new promotions are released, update those reservations when it will save our customers money. For example, for all my clients that have reservations booked with me for later this year, we’ve already looked at the free dining promotion to see if it makes sense for them–and where it did, we’ve made the changes.

I don’t just love planning Disney vacations, I am obsessed with making every vacation the best it can possibly be.  Planning a great Disney vacation takes time and energy and PLANNING.  For a lot of busy people, that sounds like too much work.  If that’s you, let me do it for you!  Email me today to learn more.

To get more information, please reach out today: brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Disney Launches Free Dining Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!

Check out the Latest Aladdin Trailer!

Disney has released a new trailer for the live action version of Aladdin.  This one was designed as a TV spot, so it’s a shorter than the trailer they released a few weeks ago.

Aladdin arrives in theaters on May 24, so I think we can expect one more trailer after this.  POSSIBLY two.

Take a look at this newest trailer:

I like this one.  A little more time on the magic carpet with Aladdin and Jasmine, and a smidge more Genie time.

Aladdin Sneak Peek in the Disney Parks

Last week, Disney premiered their latest “sneak peek” in the theme parks and on Disney Cruise Line.

The sneak peek includes a special preview of scenes from Aladdin.  At Disneyland park, the preview is in the Main Street Opera House in Town Square.  At Walt Disney World, the Aladdin sneak peek is at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the Walt Disney Presents attraction.

Aladdin is being touted as a thrilling and vibrant live action adaptation of the classic animated version.  And based on what we’ve seen so far in the trailers, I have to agree that VIBRANT is right, for sure!  Don’t know yet about thrilling, I think I have to see it to know for sure.  But I’m loving the bright colors and the set pieces we have seen so far.  The scope looks EPIC.

And I’m really loving the romantic chemistry between Aladdin (Mena Massoud) and Jasmine (Naomi Scott).  Directed by Guy Ritchie, Aladdin also features Will Smith as the Genie and Marwan Kenzari as Jafar.

Aladdin Flies into Theaters May 24

Hopefully, he will also fly into our hearts! What do you think of this latest trailer?  Does it have you excited to see the film?

If you haven’t seen the previous trailers, check out this post:

Have You Seen The Latest Official Trailer For Aladdin?

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!

FREE Quick Service Meals on YOUR Summer Vacation?

Disney has announced another special promotion to attract guests to Walt Disney World this summer.  While this is not a regular “Free Dining” promotion, this promotion DOES include one FREE quick service meal per day per guest for each night of your stay.  This promotion can potentially mean significant savings for your family.  Would you like free meals on your summer vacation?  Read on…

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge does not open until AFTER this promotion ends; however, there are still LOTS of reasons to visit Walt Disney World this year.  Check out this post for my top 5 reasons to visit Disney World in 2019!

The Details

This offer is available to guests purchasing a four-night/five-day room and theme park ticket package at select Disney Moderate and Value Resort hotels.

This offer is valid for arrivals most nights between May 28 and August 21, 2019.

The package must be booked by June 30, 2019.

Disney's Magic Kingdom Summer Free Meal Promo
Disney’s Magic Kingdom                      (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

Theme park tickets are valid for admission, beginning on the date of check-in, and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of stay and ticket.

Each quick service meal includes one entrée and one non-alcoholic beverage (or, if over age 21, one beer, wine or cocktail, if available).

The Fine Print

This offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

This offer excludes Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney’s All Star Movies Resort, The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and campsites.

Children ages 3 -9 MUST order from the Children’s Menu, if there is a Children’s Menu available.

Disney CocktailsMost beer, wine and cocktails are included, if available at chosen quick service venue.  Some exceptions do apply.  Guests must present valid ID to be served alcoholic beverages.  Beverages may ONLY be redeemed with the quick service meal.

Gratuities are not included.

Food For Thought

It’s important to consider how you and your family dine on vacation to determine if this offer will be a value for you.  If you usually eat meals in Disney Parks, and frequently choose quick service options, this offer could definitely fit your family, and save you money.  Alternatively, if you prefer to eat every meal at a full service restaurant, you could save money with this offer, but you might not be happy as at least one of your meals each day would be a quick-service meal.

Disney Dining Summer Vacation

If you usually make sandwiches or leave Disney property to eat, this offer might not be for you.  There are a couple of other promotions running at this time.  We can check and see if one of those might be a better fit.

Generally, when one hears “free”, it always seems like a terrific deal.  In this case, I think a free meal for each member of your party IS a really good deal.  However, it’s important to consider how you like to travel.  Also, you should consider what you normally spend on food on vacation.  These factors help determine if this “free meal” promotion is a good deal for YOU.

Can I Help You?

If you’re considering a family vacation to Walt Disney World this summer, I’d love to help you book and plan that wonderful vacation.  As part of my free-to-you service, I am happy to check pricing on this package.  In addition, I can also review your specific travel plans, and take a look at any other discount offers currently available.  I want to make sure you get the best possible value for your family.

An added bonus:  When you book with me, I monitor your vacation against any new discounts that are released.  I’m able to apply new discounts to your trip if they work for your trip and save you money.  Basically, if new discounts become available before you travel, I have access to your reservation and the Disney system to see if you can benefit from the new discount.  If so, I make it happen!

To get more information, please reach out today: brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Disney Launches Free Dining Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Merchandise Coming Soon to Disney Parks

It’s time to think about SHOPPING.  Recently, Disney has released some information regarding the exclusive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge merchandise we can expect to find once the new lands open.

We’ve seen just the tip of iceberg, but there is some pretty exciting stuff coming.  The initial fan response to all these goodies when they got to see them at the recent Star Wars Celebration in Chicago was very excited. I think my original prediction that Disney is going to get ALL our money is definitely on track!

Disney is promising that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at both Disneyland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will feature the same merchandise.  Regardless of which park you visit, you won’t have to worry about missing out on something amazing.

The Resistance and the First Order

Disney Star Wars Galaxy's Edge Merchandise
Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Park Exclusive Merchandise                                                 (Photo: Disney Parks)

The first look at the park exclusive merchandise for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge focuses primarily on Resistance and First Order themed items.  There are Resistance fighter pilot and Storm Trooper helmets.  There are weapons and supplies favored by both sides.  Also, there are uniforms and accessories that any Resistance fighter or First Order soldier would be proud to wear.

Take a look at this video, released by Disney Parks.  It gives a great look at some of this park exclusive merchandise.

The FUN Stuff

After giving us a look at the Resistance and First Order themed items, Disney gave us a chance to see some of the more “fun” products that will be for sale exclusively in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge stores and market stalls.

Disney Star Wars Galaxy's Edge Exclusive Merchandise
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Exclusive Merchandise                                                           (Photo: Disney Parks)

Disney has told us that there will be four primary locations in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge where Star Wars fans will want to look for these exclusive items.

  • Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers  I suspect Savi’s Workshop will be an extremely popular destination.  This may be a place Mom and Dad will want to avoid if they don’t want to spend $$ on a lightsaber!  The workshop Master will guide guests to customize and build their own lightsaber, while instructing them on the ways of the Jedi.  (Yep, ALL the money).
  • Droid Depot  Similarly, for those of us that adore R2D2 and BB8, the Droid Depot is bound to be financially dangerous!  Here, you’ll be able to choose parts and construct your own droid to join you as you explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  Then, your new friend will go with you to your home world.
  • First Order Cargo  This hangar bay serves as a “temporary” base and landing spot for the First Order.  The officers have brought in extra supplies and gear to help win the hearts and minds of locals and visitors.  (And your $$ will no doubt help fund the Dark Side).
  • Resistance Supply  Local resistance sympathizers and Resistance members manage a stall that supplies Resistance uniforms, gear and supplies.

In addition to this four “main” locations, there are also several market stalls which will sell a variety of exclusive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge merchandise and goodies.

Disney Star Wars Galaxy's Edge Toys
Toydarian Toymaker Toy Sample, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Photo: Disney Parks)
  • Black Spire Outfitters (clothing)
  • The Jewels of Bith (accessories and trinkets)
  • Creature Stall (interesting critters to take home)
  • Toydarian Toymaker (toys)

Here’s a second, longer video that Disney released, spotlighting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge exclusive merchandise.  This one focuses more on the toys and collectibles that we’ll be DYING to get our hands on!  (ALL the money).

Pricing and Budget?

As I’m sure you have guessed, Disney has NOT yet released any pricing on ANY of these items.  However, given the BILLIONS of dollars they’ve spent on park expansions over the last few years, not to mention the GIANT investment in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge?  Yes, I’m thinking most of this stuff will have price tags that will make most of us uncomfortable, if not downright terrified.

If you’ve been in any of the Disney parks recently, you know that Disney parks merchandise is not necessarily budget friendly.  The Disney Ears headbands that have become so popular in recent years now start at $23.  Basic T-shirts usually start around $25, and long sleeve T-shirts and sweatshirts usually range from $40 – $70.  Even keychains, pens and magnets, which used to be the go-to budget souvenirs, aren’t so budget friendly anymore, with many priced over $10.  As much as we love it, Disney is still a business.  If they can get us to pay $40 for a T-shirt and $30 for Ears, you can bet they will do it.

So while I don’t actually know any pricing yet for any of the oh-so-intriguing items shown above in the pictures and videos, I feel reasonably confident that there won’t be much under $20.  In fact, I suspect there will be a LOT over $100.  I could be wrong.  Oh boy, I REALLY hope I’m wrong.  There are several things already on my wish list 😉!  As I learn more about new merchandise and pricing, I will of course share with all of you.

But come on, do you agree with me yet?  Disney is going to get ALL our money.  Seriously, ALL of it. 😉

What’s on YOUR List?

Did any of this stuff grab you?  Or are you impervious to the draw of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge merchandise?  Is there anything that you REALLY want to see in person?  Are you already planning a Star Wars merchandise budget for your next trip?

I’d love to hear your thoughts, so please comment below!

Happy Dreaming,

Brooke

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!

 

 

 

 

 

 

PS: If you’d like to check out my most recent updates on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, please click on one of the topics below:

PPS: If you’re looking for the new teaser trailer for the Star Wars Episode 9 movie coming out in December, please click here.

Update from the Dark Side: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Coca-Cola

We probably should have expected this, but somehow I didn’t.  Disney, Lucasfilm and Coca-Cola have worked together to create specially themed beverage packaging for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  I have to admit, I really love this.  I can’t shake the feeling that the Dark Side is DEEPLY involved, but I still really love this!

Coca-Cola has been partnered with Disney Parks since the grand opening of Disneyland Park in 1955.  That partnership has worked really well for both Empires, I mean corporations 😉.  Disney and Coca-Cola have both made lots of money from this relationship, and I think we can fully expect that to continue WELL into the future.

Disney Springs Coca-Cola Store
Coca Cola Store, Disney Springs (Photo Credit: elisfkc, Orlando, FL)

Total Immersion in EVERY Area

For months we have been talking about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  We’ve talked at length about how much farther Disney Imagineering is going with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in terms of details and guest immersion in the Star Wars experience.

Disney Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon- Smuggler’s Run (Photo: Disney Parks)

We’ve seen pictures of cast costumes that enable cast members to build characters and make themselves part of the story, and we’ve seen photos and videos that show us that Galaxy’s Edge will truly be unlike anything Disney has done before.

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Costumes
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Costumes              Photo Credit: Disney Parks

We’ve learned there will be beverage stations selling the famed blue milk from Star Wars, and we’ve seen pictures of specially themed drinks and cocktails–all designed to keep guests fully immersed in the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge experience.

Marketing for a New Galaxy

But the Imagineers and marketing gurus planning all the magic for us in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge knew there was one area that was a glaring “meanwhile, back on earth” disruption.  Coca-Cola and other coke products for sale in the parks.  Guests want their bottled water and their cokes, but can you imagine those bright red paper cups with the Coca-Cola logo on them?  Or all those blue Dasani water bottles everywhere.  Not exactly what Resistance fighters would expect to see, that is for sure.

Fortunately for us, Disney, LucasFilm and Coca-Cola were two steps ahead.  They worked together to create a solution that fits right in to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  Even better, it WON’T immediately remind you that you’re at a theme park.

Check these out!

Disney Star Wars Coca Cola Products
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Coca-Cola Products                                                     Photo Credit: Disney Parks

Are these creative or what??  I am honestly blown away with the detail and the look and feel for these.  These bottles are PERFECT for Black Spire Outpost merchants to be selling on the streets and in the restaurants.  I love that Disney and Coca-Cola planned for this.  You just KNOW people are going to be collecting these.  I bet there will be special editions for special events or years or something.  And of course I noticed that the soft drink bottles look a little on the small side.  Which means we will all be buying LOTS of them.  Yes, the Empire will be getting ALL our money.  But we already knew that, didn’t we?

This is a relatively small detail, but it shows just how far Disney is going to make sure that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is truly exceptional.  Every single piece of information we get just further demonstrates that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be like no other land that Disney has ever given us before.

Disney Imagineering is known for creating magic with details, but with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge looks like the details are just the beginning.  I truly believe that we are all going to absolutely lose our minds when we finally get to be inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  At least those of us that are Star Wars fans, that is.

I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke

I know it’s only soft drinks and water.  But to me, it feels like really fabulous frosting on a truly amazing chocolate cake.  The cake is really, really good, even without the frosting.  Oh my goodness, that frosting adds that extra YUM.

What do YOU think?  Is this a detail that gets you excited to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge?  Or is it one step too far for the Dark Side?  Please like this post and comment below.  I would LOVE to hear your thoughts!

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Disney Launches Free Dining Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P.S. If you’d like to check out some of my other Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge updates, here are some links:

HUGE NEWS: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge OPENING May 31st and August 29th!!!!

March 2019: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Updates: March 2019 PART I

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Update January 2019

November 2018: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge UPDATE

Skyliner Update: Look Inside Disney Skyliner Cabins

Disney Skyliner testing continues, and appears to be going very well, as we discussed in our last Skyliner update post.  In this week’s Disney Skyliner Update, we get an up close and personal look at the gondolas themselves.  Disney is now calling the gondolas “guest cabins”, and this week, we get to look inside a Disney Skyliner Guest Cabin!

Up Close with a Skyliner Guest Cabin

Disney Skyliner Update Close Up Look
Disney Skyliner Guest Cabin                                                                   Photo Credit: Disney Parks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As I mentioned last week, Disney is now sending a few guest cabins through the Skyliner system uncovered.  A few cabins have been seen in the testing without their off-white protective coverings.  So far, we haven’t seen any cabins actually decked out with the promised Disney characters out on the lines testing.

This week, Disney has more information about the guest cabins themselves.  For the first time, Disney is taking us INSIDE a Skyliner guest cabin and answering some of the questions we’ve all been asking.  Here’s what we know now, based on this latest information.

  • Guest cabins will have a maximum guest capacity of 10 guests per cabin
  • Cabins feature bench seating for guests, similar to what we’re used to on the monorail, the Walt Disney World Railroad, and other similar transportation options
  • Guest cabins are wheelchair accessible
  • Cabins do NOT have in cabin air conditioning or heating
  • Guest cabins do have small windows that open to let air circulate and provide cross ventilation
  • All guest cabins will feature Disney characters in specially shaded and reflective graphics to help protect the cabins from direct sunlight
  • Disney is confident that the cabins will be comfortable, even on very hot Florida days
  • Guest cabins will be eight different colors
  • Guest cabins will feature character graphics from all Disney owned properties, including classic Disney favorites, Marvel Studios and LucasFilm, including the Star Wars characters
  • The Skyliner system is intended to be constantly moving
  • There will be approximately 300 cabins in the Skyliner system

Look Inside a Disney Skyliner Guest Cabin

Disney has released a video giving you an inside look at the Skyliner guest cabins.  Take a tour:

Transit Time on Disney Skyliner System

While of course we don’t have any actual riders in the system yet, we do have some idea on transit times using the Skyliner System.

Disney is still doing their very through testing.  We could see SOME impact on these transit numbers once they start testing with people.  It will be very interesting to see if the system will truly be able to operate continuously, once it starts testing with people.

Disney Skyliner Testing
Disney Skyliner System Testing                 Photo Credit: Amy Micari

Disney says we can expect transit times of five to fifteen minutes on the Skyliner System, depending on our origin and destination points.  The Skyliner Transportation system will transport guests from four Disney Resorts to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.  The four Disney resorts being served are Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s new Riviera Resort (opening later this year).

Opening Date?

We still don’t have an official opening date for guests for the Disney Skyliner System.  Disney will have to complete their current round of system and cabin tests, first.  Once this round is over, testing with people will begin.  If those tests go as smoothly as anticipated, I believe it won’t be long before we get some official announcements with actual opening dates, at least for some sections of the system.

Officially, we’re still being told “Fall 2019”; however I’ll be surprised if we don’t see at least some kind of soft open by August.  I believe Disney will want the Skyliner System fully up and running when Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens on August 29.

Disney Skyliner Gondolas Disney World Star Wars Toy Story Guardians of the Galaxy
Disney Skyliner Gondola Graphics featuring characters from Toy Story, Star Wars, Guardians of the Galaxy and even fan favorites Donald and Daisy!

What do you think?  Are you getting excited about the Disney Skyliner System?  Please like this post, and comment below with your thoughts about the cabins!

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!