Travel, Theme Parks, and Resorts

Hocus Pocus Cottage in Salem, MA Airbnb – Book this Unique Stay for October 20, 2022

28 September 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Being an Orlando local, we have a lot of themed vacation rental homes in the area, but this one-themed to the amazing Sanderson Sisters cottage in Hocus Pocus, really caught my eye! The attention to detail here is incredible. I’m originally from Massachusetts, and love Salem so much, so I would love to stay here myself! This cottage will be available soon for an exclusive $31 stay on October 20th. Read on for all the details and how you can book this Hocus Pocus cottage on Airbnb:

The Sanderson Sisters Invite Brave Souls to Book a Stay at the Hocus Pocus Cottage, Now on Airbnb

For the first time ever, guests can book a recreation of the Hocus Pocus cottage in Salem, Massachusetts for a stay this Halloween season – if they dare.
To mark their highly anticipated return in Disney’s Hocus Pocus 2, the infamous sisters are inviting guests to enter a land of enchantment with a once-in-a-lifetime stay at their creaky old cottage.
Discerning ghouls and goblins can request to book this exclusive $31 stay beginning Oct. 12 at 1 p.m. ET.

It’s all a bunch of Hocus Pocus at the Sanderson Sisters’ cottage, where, for the first time ever, guests can run amok this Halloween season when the soul-stealing, spellbinding trio invites visitors to get into the Halloween ‘spirit’ with an overnight stay at the scene of their scheming.

Nestled in the remote woods of Salem, Massachusetts, the Sanderson Sisters’ cottage has been recreated as though it’s been frozen in time for 300 years – just in time for the siblings’ highly anticipated return in Hocus Pocus 2, streaming on Disney+ beginning Sept. 30 (rated PG, Disney+ subscription required, must be 18+ to subscribe).

“We all know that the Sanderson Sisters’ story might not have ended when we turned to dust, nor did our shenanigans,” said Kathy Najimy, who plays Mary Sanderson in the beloved films. “What better way to celebrate the season than to host guests at the trio’s historic haunt for a night they’ll remember for years to come?”

The Sanderson Sisters will host the timeworn cottage for an exclusive stay on Oct. 20 for two guests, at only $31* a night in celebration of All Hallows’ Eve. Wooden boards that groan under the weight of curious cats and cupboards filled with blood of owl and herb that’s red (and even a hair from Winifred’s head) await those who dare to explore the cottage’s dark corners. Prior to slumbering in the sisters’ humble abode, guests can:

Try their hand at enchantments enshrined in the ancient spellbook that guided the sisters in all their mischief. (Maybe just don’t expect to turn anyone into cats as a result.)
Explore the dark, rich history of Salem with visits to some of the town’s most haunted properties.
View a special screening of Hocus Pocus 2, streaming on Disney+ beginning Sept. 30.

Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Salem, by broomstick or otherwise. Those looking to book should note that this stay requires strict adherence with applicable COVID-19 rules and guidelines.

To support the next generation of the historic city, Airbnb will make a one-time donation to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem, which aims to ensure that success is within reach of every young person who walks through their doors.

Those looking for an especially eerie Halloween season can request to book this stay beginning Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 1 p.m. ET at airbnb.com/hocuspocus2.

*Plus taxes and fees. This one-night stay is not a contest. The cottage is privately owned and operated.

Airbnb is closely monitoring Salem COVID-19 infection rates and government policies and will offer booking guests a refund of the booking fee ($31) and $1,000 USD Airbnb travel credit if Airbnb determines it is necessary to cancel the stay.

How cool is that?? I really wish I was staying there myself!! Let me know if you book this stay!

ICE! To Return to Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando for 2022

17 August 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Become part of the story at Gaylord Palms ICE 2022 featuring Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

ICE! is back at Gaylord Palms. Don the signature, blue parka and step into a wonderland carved by expert artisans out of two million pounds of colorful ice. You’ll see the story of the Grinch in larger-than-life sculptures and even plunge down slides made entirely of ice in this Gaylord Hotels original experience.

My family and I have been attending ICE every year since around 2007 and it is so exciting to see the wonderful Gaylord Palms ICE 2022 back in full swing in Kissimmee. This year it’s all about that mean, green, Christmas-stealing machine, the Grinch!

You can see some of our past coverage, photos and videos of Gaylord Palms ICE! while you wait to experience this season’s event in 2022!

Get ICE! tickets now!

DIS Con 2022 Fan Expo Will Take Place at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

17 August 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

With Give Kids the World now operating at full capacity and the Night of a Million Lights no longer taking place, we wanted to share another way to support this great community and cause. DIS Con 2022 (formerly DIS Family Reunion) will take place at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort September 30th-October 1st, and will be THE place to be for Disney fans!

In addition to all of the convention offerings, DIS Con is hosting a separately ticketed After Hours Party in EPCOT on the park’s 40^th anniversary! Guests will have access to Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Test Track, and Mission: SPACE, and they’ll have the chance to enjoy special desserts, entertainment, and character meet and greets. And the best thing about the whole weekend is that it’s all to benefit Give Kids The World. What’s not to love about that?!

DIS Con will feature celebrity panels, meet and greets, unique vendors (with twice as many artisans as last year!), amazing photo ops, and a HUGE memorabilia silent auction. There will be another auction closer in to the event date, so you can join in on the DIS Con fun by heading to gktw.org/disauction and bidding from home.

Thanks to the way Zannaland and our followers have been wonderful partners to the Village in the past, Give Kids the World is saying thank you by sharing discount code DISCON15 for 15% off convention tickets and EPCOT After Hours Party tickets!

You can find all of the DIS Con 2022 details, as well as ticket options, at gktw.org/discon. The event schedule can be found at gktw.org/discon/schedule.php.

We had so much fun at last year’s convention, we can’t wait to see what’s in store this year! Last year we gave away tickets to the event, so you can read more about it here:

DIS Family Reunion to Benefit Give Kids the World Ticket Giveaway!

LEGOLAND Florida Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party

9 August 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

LEGOLAND Florida is one of our family’s favorites (I feel like I start every article out that way, but it’s true!) and Brick-or-Treat is such a fun way to kick off the not-so-spooky season in Central Florida. This year they are adding something new – Monster Party! Keep reading to find out more:

The biggest, fun-est (yes, we said it!) party of the year will be even more monstrous this fall at LEGOLAND^® Florida Resort when Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party! Families will be screaming in excitement as they enjoy more candy, more LEGO^® characters and more spell-binding surprises than ever before with 12 nights of Halloween fun – each Saturday and Sunday, beginning September 24 through October 30. This Halloween spectacular will bewitch families with amazing NEW experiences, live shows, spooky LEGO^® decorations and Monster mischief around every corner – all included with general park admission and select Annual Passes.

NEW! Monster Mania IRL and in 4-D!

Monsters are taking over LEGOLAND Florida Resort! Enjoy a host of thrilling meet and greets with never-before-seen LEGO^® Monster characters, including Zombie Cheerleader, Plant Monster and Tiger Woman. Then, catch these ghoulish characters on the big screen in the ALL-NEW, hauntingly hilarious, 4D movie “The Great Monster Chase” complete with some sneaky special effects.

NEW! Eerily-Awesome Entertainment & Attractions

BRAND-NEW live shows will cast that BOO-tastic Halloween spirit! Lord Vampyre will have all the little skeletons grooving at his V.I.M. (Very Important Monsters) Dance Party in Fun Town. An UnbeLEAFable musical mystery takes the LEGO^® City Stage when a strange plant grows out of control. The jack-o-lantern trio, Jammin’ Jacks, are also back with an all-new chorus of monster melodies. Step aboard the Disco Dragon Coaster and get ready to jive with a groovy monster jam and party lights. The Monster Party howls on with a Pirate Pool Party at Pirate Island Hotel and special entertainment at the Beach Retreat on select nights.

More Candy, More Fun!

Brick-or-Treat throughout the streets of LEGOLAND Florida! Wander across the park to collect more candy than ever before! Beware the Curse of the Pharaoh as you creep through the Graveyard of Ghouls to the new Desert Desserts candy station on the way to the costume parade in MINILAND USA.

Inclusive Family Experiences

Creating inclusive experiences for families during their visit is a resort priority no matter the season. As a Certified Autism Center, LEGOLAND Florida is designing Brick-or-Treat specific sensory guides for families and will offer alternative treats, available through Guest Services. Team members will also be equipped with Halloween-specific information related to autism sensitivity and awareness to better understand needs around the celebration.

Dastardly Fireworks in Pirates Cove

Pirates Cove is under siege! In the cover of darkness, witness 3D LEGO^® brick-bursting fireworks come to life with ghoulish delight and hear tale of Captain Dreadbeard! This lakeside spectacle is the sweetest way to end the Monster Party on all event nights!

Ghoulish Goodies & Sweets

The Monsters are in the kitchen whipping up some spookily delectable, limited-time goodies for Brick-or-Treat! Nothing says fall like a Pumpkin Spice Up Your Life Shake or the Great Monster Cake. Pick up some Wacky Witch’s BBQ Wings for a spooky, savory treat. Enjoy the ghoulishly green Brick Blast Coca-Cola Freestyle flavor exclusive to LEGOLAND parks, a recipe that fits perfectly into any Halloween celebration. And be sure to grab an order of Rockin’ Frankenstein’s electric purple apple fries with crushed candy and peanut butter dip, a new twist on a LEGOLAND classic

Brick-or-Treat is one of many exciting events included with LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park general admission and select Annual Passes, starting at less than $11/month with a small down payment. Learn more at LEGOLAND.com/Florida.

You can see our previous coverage of LEGOLAND Florida’s Brick-or-Treat days for a look at more of the fun!

D23 Expo Walt Disney Archives Exhibit Returns for 2022

14 June 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

More D23 Expo announcements as we get closer to the big weekend. The Walt Disney Archives exhibit is always a favorite of mine when I visit, and any chance to get to see the archives in any form, is a must-do for me. Disney just announced the return of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit and stage for the 2022 D23 Expo. Here’s a little more to get you excited:

The Walt Disney Archives returns to the D23 Expo presented by Visa with an all-new exhibit, Walt Disney Archives presents Step in Time, a celebration of the nearly 100-year history of The Walt Disney Company. As part of the kick-off to Disney100, this chronological exhibition showcases Walt Disney Archives historical assets like never before with immersive, themed environments from animated shorts, films, and film premieres, as well as television productions and Disney Parks favorites, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Mary Poppins, Tron, and Walt Disney World Resort’s Haunted Mansion. The exhibition will provide fans an opportunity to experience some of the most iconic Disney moments over the course of September 9, 10, and 11 at the Anaheim Convention Center during the Expo hosted by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club.

A timeline in the center of the exhibit will showcase the breadth of extraordinary Disney events over the past century and will act as a guide for visitors as they journey through the 12,000-square-foot experience. Guests will have the chance to literally “Step in Time,” into various immersive areas around the perimeter of the space, showcasing rare historical objects as never before, in recreations of the settings from which they originated.

The gallery space will be divided into nine highly themed areas, providing fans the opportunity to capture photos and become part of Disney’s rich history themselves. From captaining the boat in Steamboat Willie, walking the blue carpet at the premiere of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and visiting with the carousel horses from Mary Poppins, to being serenaded by Breathless Mahoney at Club Ritz (Dick Tracy), visiting Flynn’s Arcade (Tron), and coming face-to-face with the bride in the attic of the Haunted Mansion, fans will have the opportunity to relive moments from 100 Years of Wonder, all while making new memories to last a lifetime.

The popular Walt Disney Archives Stage returns, hosting more than a dozen panels and presentations throughout the weekend. Notables such as Disney Legend Bill Farmer, Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline, author and historian Graham Allan, Walt Disney Imagineering global ambassador Bob Weis, Imagineers from the Illusioneering Lab, and historian and artist Stacia Martin will offer a unique peek “behind the magic.” Fans will enjoy exploring many of Disney’s worlds, including the impressive 50-year legacy of the Main Street Electrical Parade, a look back at the 1980s and 1990s edition of the Mickey Mouse Club, and the first half-century of the Walt Disney World Resort.

Earlier this year, it was announced that Walt Disney’s Grumman Gulfstream I airplane will be on display at D23 Expo. To accompany the return of this piece of Disney history, which is having its exterior restored and will be available for guests to see in the Arena of the Anaheim Convention Center, the Walt Disney Archives has curated an all-new exhibit featuring specially selected items that represent the history of the aircraft. Included will be a customized instrument panel originally located near Walt’s favorite onboard seat (enabling him to monitor flight conditions), a telephone handset (which gave Walt a direct line of communication to the pilot in the cockpit), and a flight bag adorned with an image of Mickey Mouse sitting on the tail of the famed plane.

Plus, join the Archives team and special guests on the 1,250-seat Backlot stage on Saturday, September 10, at 10 a.m. for a look at the creation of the upcoming Disney100: The Exhibition, which opens next February at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.

A limited number of single-day tickets for Sunday of D23 Expo 2022 are available for $99 for one-day adult admission and $79 for children ages 3–12. Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $89 for a one-day adult admission. Single-day Saturday tickets and three-day passes are sold out. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2022, visit D23Expo.com.

Schedule and talent are subject to change.

I remember the Breathless Mahoney costume from the old Backlot tour at the Disney-MGM Studios along with many other Dick Tracy items and displays. I cannot wait to see the Walt Disney Archives exhibit at the D23 Expo! We recently visited the traveling Archives exhibit at Graceland last winter and it was a phenomenal display. We may have to head to Philadelphia next February! Keep following along for more D23 Expo news and coverage.

DIS Family Reunion to Benefit Give Kids the World Ticket Giveaway!

26 August 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Before we get to the DIS Family Reunion ticket Giveaway, lets talk about Give Kids the World. GKTW is such a special and amazing place, which we love to support here at Zannaland. If you’ve been following along from the start, you know we’ve donated, toured, run with, and explored Give Kids the World many times over the years. Most recently we attended the grand re-opening of Henri’s Starlight Scoops ice cream shop, where guests of GKTW can have ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We also announced the return of last year’s incredible event, Night of a Million Lights, where proceeds benefit the Village directly.

Now, another event to benefit GKTW is happening and you can win tickets to attend! The “DIS Family Reunion” (unaffiliated with Disney) is a huge Expo-style event happening over two days, bringing together some of your favorites in the world of Disney parks, with some very special exclusive experiences too.

The event is taking place September 9 & 10, at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. We’re holding a ticket GIVEAWAY to the DIS Family Reunion event! Take a look at the incredible schedule of sessions below:

Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Complimentary parking will be provided

Thursday, September 9 (For more details, visit www.gktw.org/disfam.)

Main Stage in Fantasia Ballroom

10:00 am Event Kick-Off: WDW Resort President Jeff Vahle and Give Kids The World President

& CEO Pamela Landwirth

12:00 pm Celebrity chef Art Smith

2:30 pm Attractions Actor Panel with Ron Schneider, David Danipour, Kat Cressida and more

4:30 pm Actress Jodi Benson, the original voice of Ariel from Disney’s The Little Mermaid

The Lost Bros Stage

11:00 am Stories from Disneyland’s Opening with Tom Nabbe, Bill Hoelscher and Bill Sullivan

1:00 pm Actress Linda Larkin, the original voice of Princess Jasmine in Disney’s Aladdin, and John Morris, the original voice of Andy from Pixar Animation Studios’ Toy Story

3:30 pm Common Sense Leadership with Lee Cockerell and Dan Cockerell

5:30 pm Performance by Palm Beach Society Orchestra (formerly the Grand Floridian Society)

Main Stage in Fantasia Ballroom

6:45 pm Serveur Amusant

7:00 pm Off Kilter

7:45 pm Sergio

8:00 pm Yehaa Bob

8:45 pm Sergio

9:00 pm American Martian (formerly known as Mulch, Sweat and Shears)

Friday, September 10 (For more details, visit www.gktw.org/disfam.)

Main Stage in Fantasia Ballroom

10:00 am Wheel of Fortunate Wisdom with iconic host Pat Sajak

12:00 pm Bear in the Big Blue House Reunion Panel

2:00 pm Mickey Mouse Club Reunion Panel

4:30 pm Tony Baxter discusses 50 years of theme park design with Walt Disney Imagineering

The Lost Bros Stage

11:00 am Themed entertainment expert Jason Surrell, Universal Creative

1:00 pm New York Times bestselling author Ridley Pearson (The Kingdom Keepers)

Main Stage in Fantasia Ballroom

8:00 pm Mickey Mouse Club Reunion (until 10:00 pm)

Action-packed, right? Should be an exciting couple of days of Disney fun. I’ll be there and you can be too! I’m giving away 2 sets of two tickets for both days of events during the day and night on September 9th and 10th.

DIS Family Reunion Ticket Giveaway Details:

To enter the giveaway, head to my Zannaland instagram and Zannaland Facebook page to enter the DIS Family Reunion Giveaway. (See instructions at each location.) Two random winners will be drawn, one from Facebook entries, one from Instagram on Sunday, August 29. Winner will be announced at those places and updated here on this post.

For an extra DIS Family Reunion Giveaway entry, subscribe to our YouTube channel and comment here letting me know you did.

Good luck!

Give Kids the World Night of a Million Lights Returns for 2021!

30 July 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Give Kids the World is one of my favorite places and they do such amazing things for critically ill children and their families. With the pandemic last year, they were closed for so long, they created the Night of a Million Lights event to raise money for the Village for all the Wish children that were missing out. Now that the village is reopened to families, we all wondered if Night of a Million Lights would be back. Well GKTW Village just announced the return of Night of a Million Lights for 2021 because it was such a successful event! AND! Tickets are on sale now!

If you’d like to see what the event is like, check out our video from last year’s Night of a Million Lights:

Here is all the official news from GKTW Village about Night of a Million Lights for 2021:

A dancing lights show, tram tours and unique behind-the-scenes experiences highlight an array of exciting additions guaranteed to make this year’s second annual Night of a Million Lights holiday lights spectacular another dazzling success. Scheduled to illuminate the Central Florida skyline from Friday, November 12, 2021 through Sunday, January 2, 2022, Night of a Million Lights will once again provide the public with a rare glimpse inside Give Kids The World Village, an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit resort that provides critically ill children and their families with magical weeklong wish vacations at no cost.

Tickets are on sale now at www.gktw.org/lights, enabling guests to immerse themselves in an exquisitely decorated fairytale neighborhood which wish families call home during their stays. Guests can explore a sparkling tree trail; view larger-than-life holiday displays; take photos at one-of-a-kind step-in frames and backdrops; and enjoy a guided storytelling tour of 100 magnificently lit villas from the comfort of a tram, included in the price of the ticket. The event will run from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, with staggered entry times to prevent crowding.

What began as an inventive pandemic pivot for Give Kids The World has evolved into Central Florida’s most beloved new holiday tradition. More than 92,000 guests attended Night of a Million Lights in 2020, named #1 on USA Today’s list of the “Best Things To Do in December in Orlando.” With the return of wish families to the Village, this year’s event promises to be brighter and more festive than ever, while preserving the privacy and comfort of wish families during their visits.

“Children with critical illnesses face countless appointments, treatments and hospital stays, and they are often told “no” due to the limitations of their illness. We feel privileged to give wish children and their families a week of “yes” where they can forget their worries, experience joy, and spend precious time together,” said Give Kids The World President and CEO Pamela Landwirth. “We look forward to once again sharing some holiday joy with the community while raising the funds that will enable us to continue creating the happiness that inspires hope for these precious families.”

This year’s Night of a Million Lights enhancements will include a 360-degree dancing lights show encompassing 21 fully programmed buildings set to music, with six three-minute holiday vignettes playing each hour. In addition, a holiday marketplace will offer upgraded food and beverage experiences, festive holiday merchandise, and an opportunity for children to meet Santa in his elaborately designed Florida home. Also new this year, guests can make their visits extra special by purchasing one of a variety of VIP packages, ranging from behind-the-scenes guided tours and premium dessert parties to special events and exclusive balcony experiences – providing a stunning setting for marriage proposals, vow renewals, birthday and anniversary celebrations, and other special moments. Discounts are available for groups of 25 guests or more. To inquire about group discounts and special events, please contact [email protected].

Proceeds from Night of a Million Lights will support Give Kids The World, rated Four Stars by Charity Navigator 15 years in a row. When wish-granting organizations receive a request from a critically ill child who wants to visit Central Florida, Give Kids The World fulfills the wish – providing each child and his/her family with an all-inclusive stay that includes transportation; accommodations in one of the Village’s 166 storybook residential villas; all meals and snacks; donated theme park tickets; nightly entertainment; daily gifts; and priceless interactive experiences at the Village, featuring accessible rides and attractions. Since 1986, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 176,000 families from all 50 states and more than 76 countries.

We had such a wonderful time at last year’s Night of a Million Lights!

Give Kids The World Village is located at 210 South Bass Road in Kissimmee. To learn more, visit www.gktw.org. You can see our past posts about the amazing work Give Kids the World does too!

Caribe Royale Orlando Good Neighbor Disney Hotel Tour and Review

8 June 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

When I first moved to Orlando in 1995, the landscape was quite different. In fact, I currently live in a place that was pretty much cow pastures and scrub palms. So I remember well when Caribe Royale appeared on the horizon in 1996 with its pink towers, on the corner of State Road 535 and State Road 536, or World Center Drive. At the time International Drive had just been extended there and not much existed on that road either. My point is, a lot has changed since then, including the Caribe Royale! The Disney Good Neighbor resort is currently in the process of a $125 million phased renovation, to be completed by the end of this year. One tower of resort rooms has been completely refurbished, with the other two towers being done now. We were recently invited out to check out this new renovation and experience the Caribe Royale Orlando ourselves so we can share our review here with you.

Located just minutes from Orlando’s world-renowned attractions and 16 miles from Orlando International Airport, Caribe Royale Orlando is a TripAdvisor award-winning standalone, upscale hotel and convention center. It offers guests exceptional all-suite accommodations, flexible meeting space, a multitude of on-site dining options and amenities, and unrivaled service.

Caribe Royale Orlando features 1,215 one-bedroom suites and 120 renovated two-bedroom villas. If you’re looking for a place to fit your larger family, this is a great option. I know that is a problem I always have, with 3 children, especially now that two are grown adults, we need more space, or two rooms, which can get costly quickly. Having a suite option like this is the perfect answer. If you’re worried that Caribe Royale is showing signs of being built in 1996, let me put your worries at ease. Click to enlarge the photos of the rooms below. The last photo shows the 2-bedroom villa buildings in the background.

Find our full Queen One-Bedroom Suite Tour below:

The property is in the midst of a $125 million phased renovation which includes fully remodeling all of the hotel’s one-bedroom suites, an all-new 50,000-square-foot grand ballroom and pre-function space (bringing the total meeting space to 220,000 square feet), and an inviting new lobby. The all-new 50,000 square foot Palms Ballroom is now open and ready for meetings and events. The entire renovation is due for completion by the year’s end.

New Caribe Royale lobby — Here’s what the lobby of the Caribe Royale will look like when renovated.

Caribe Royale has 6 on-site food and beverage outlets, including The Venetian Chop House, recipient of the prestigious AAA 4-Diamond rating and winner of Orlando Magazine’s 2020 Readers Choice awards in four categories. (And they even have a vegan option!) There’s also 3 Large heated outdoor swimming pools with waterfalls and a 75-foot waterslide plus two hot tubs and a separate children’s pool and splash pad in addition to:

3,500 sq. ft. fitness center
The Island Spa
Lighted court for basketball and tennis, yoga and indoor cycling classes, 1.5 mile running trail and catch-and-release fishing
Accessible suites available

But how will I get to Disney?? you may ask…well, there is scheduled transportation to the Walt Disney World TTC and evening shuttle to Disney Springs. It’s also just a short Uber or Lyft ride away if you need to get there at a certain time.

We had a wonderful lunch at Calypso Pool Bar and Grill – shown below are the vegan options, and they have a full menu and full bar as well.

Vegan burger at Calypso Pool Bar Caribe Royale

Overall, I was super impressed by the Caribe Royale Orlando. We had a wonderful stay and the pool area was so relaxing and fun. I cannot wait to see the lobby renovations, but I think it’s pretty cool as it is now, very Florida/Caribbean feeling with lots of little nooks and crannies to explore. Still, they are adding an on-site Starbucks in the location of the current gift shop, and adding a Bacardi Rum Bar to the lobby too! It’s definitely something to keep in mind for your next trip.

Rates vary depending on location and room type. They have many discounted rates, including Florida Resident rates starting at $260/nt, for two-bedroom villas — a sweet savings off regular rates of $349 – plus Military and First Responder and AAA rates, as well as BOGO deals for certain dates.

Exclusively for my blog readers, I’m offering a special for your next visit to Caribe Royale Orlando. Book your suite by June 30 for stays now through September 30, 2021 and receive 10% OFF Caribe Royale’s best available rate on select suites! Advance reservations are required, and you MUST use this link when booking to get the special offer. Reminder, must book by June 15!

Disclosure: Caribe Royale Orlando invited us out to experience their resort and provided meals and accommodations for my family. That said, as always, my thoughts and opinions are my own and we are always 100% honest in our reviews.

If you have any questions on the Caribe Royale Orlando or any area resort, let me know in the comments below!

Disney Wish Cruise Line Reveals

29 April 2021 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

This was such an exciting morning as we all gathered around the fire (ok, our screens) to watch this newest reveal of Disney Wish updates. This Disney Cruise Line ship appears to be unlike any other in terms of technology, themed spaces, and new updates to what we’ve gotten used to on Disney ships. Let’s go through the news together and be sure to watch our live stream tonight at 8pm to see our thoughts – and share yours!

Here are the official updates from the Disney Parks Blog:

To “Swim”-finity and Beyond

We’re taking fun in the sun to the next level on board the Disney Wish with a brand-new family water attraction and three themed districts that offer dedicated space for families, children and adults alike.

You’ll be immersed in “The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse” animated shorts aboard the first-ever Disney attraction at sea, AquaMouse. Complete with show scenes, lighting and special effects, and splashtacular surprises, this wild water ride is sure to delight everyone in the family as they zig, zag and zoom through 760 feet of winding tubes suspended high above the upper decks.

Families will have more pools, more deck space and more dining than ever before in an expansive district themed to Mickey and friends. In addition to AquaMouse, the area will feature six pools — spaciously staggered among tiered decks and surrounded by lounge chairs — and a fresh take on quick and casual fare with a festive character twist.

Little ones will delight in an all-new Toy Story-themed district designed especially for families with toddlers and young children. This whimsical water wonderland will include a splash zone, wading pool, family waterslide and smoothie bar.

Adults will indulge in sun-drenched serenity at Quiet Cove, a peaceful refuge dedicated to lounging, sipping and soaking. Set away from the bustle of family activities, this secluded adults-only district will feature a luxurious infinity pool, poolside bar and chic cafe.

Prepared and Served with Flair – A Culinary Cabaret

With the debut of three brand-new family dining concepts ranging from theatrical entertainment to cinematic adventure to sophisticated elegance, dinner on board the Disney Wish will be so much more than a meal – it will be a chance to interact with favorite Disney stories in exciting new ways.

Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure is Disney’s first “Frozen”-themed theatrical dining experience that will bring the world of Arendelle to life through immersive live entertainment — featuring favorite characters like Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf — and world-class cuisine infused with Nordic influences.

Worlds of Marvel is the first-ever Marvel cinematic dining adventure, where you’ll play an interactive role in an action-packed Avengers mission that unfolds around you, complete with a worldly menu inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

1923, named for the year The Walt Disney Company was founded, is an elegant celebration of the company’s legacy, paying homage to the golden age of animation and offering a tasteful tribute to its Californian heritage with dishes inspired by the state’s unique fusion of cultural flavors.

A Whole New World of Family Entertainment

We’re combining innovative design, technology and storytelling to create immersive entertainment environments that will surround guests in Disney stories in new and unexpected ways on board the Disney Wish.

The Grand Hall will evolve from a fairytale gathering space into an environmental theater through the magic of built-in special effects and the first-ever atrium stage on a Disney ship. Dedicated shows and interactive entertainment will come to life all around the hall, putting you front and center as you play a special role in the magic.

Luna is a brand-new entertainment hub that will transition from a daytime setting for family fun into an elegant evening venue for adult-exclusive entertainment, offering a variety of live shows and interactive programming throughout the day.

Hero Zone is a futuristic sports arena where physical activity will blend with imagination during action-packed challenges and game show-style competitions for families to take on together.

The Walt Disney Theatre is an opulent show palace that will come alive with original Broadway-style stage productions developed exclusively for Disney Cruise Line.

The Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas are intimate screening rooms that will provide you more options than ever to watch classic and first-run films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm and more.

In true Disney Cruise Line fashion, the Disney Wish will offer a robust menu of world-class entertainment throughout every voyage, including spectacular stage shows, exhilarating deck parties, one-of-a-kind character experiences, fun family activities, contemporary cabarets and more.

Imaginations, Assemble! Cool Clubs for Kids of All Ages

Children ages 3 to 12 will enter the captivating worlds of favorite Disney stories in the reimagined Disney’s Oceaneer Club, a real-life wonderland featuring more spaces and stories than ever before.

Marvel Super Hero Academy is a high-tech Avengers headquarters where young “recruits” will train to be the next generation of Super Heroes with the help of their own heroes, like Spider-Man, Black Panther, Ant-Man and the Wasp.

Fairytale Hall is a royal trio of activity rooms where princesses and princes will let their creativity shine at Rapunzel’s Art Studio, read and act out stories at Belle’s Library, and test newfound icy powers at Anna and Elsa’s Sommerhus.

Walt Disney Imagineering Lab is a first-of-its-kind opportunity for kids to discover the secrets of Disney Imagineers with hands-on activities and inventive experiments.

For the littlest cruisers ages 6 months to 3 years, It’s a Small World Nursery will offer babysitting services in a whimsical environment inspired by the beloved Disney attraction of the same name.

Edge (ages 11 to 14) and Vibe (ages 14 to 17) are trendy hangouts where tweens and teens will chill and play in their own way, with dedicated programming designed to engage the unique interests of these age groups.

A Trove of Untold Treasures Exclusively for Adults

For the first time on a Disney ship, you will embark on a space-jumping tour of the Star Wars galaxy at Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, a high-end bar styled as a luxurious yacht-class spaceship. This richly themed, immersive experience will be reserved for adults every evening, offering interactive tasting experiences and signature beverages inspired by destinations such as Batuu, Tatooine and Mustafar.

You’ll savor gourmet meals and exceptional beverages at an upscale suite of epicurean excellence exclusively for adults, inspired by the elegant icons of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Beauty and the Beast.”

Palo Steakhouse is an evolution of the Palo restaurant that Disney cruisers know and love, now combining the relaxed sophistication of authentic Italian dining with the classic refinement of a modern steakhouse in a genteel setting inspired by Cogsworth, the tale’s majordomo-turned-enchanted-clock.

Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement will offer the most luxurious dining experience on board, featuring a gourmet menu crafted by the three-Michelin-starred chef. This romantic and intimate venue evokes the dazzling spirit of the film’s candelabra maitre d’, Lumiere.

The Rose is a chic lounge at the entrance of Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté. Inspired by the fateful flower at the heart of the story, The Rose will be an idyllic setting for a pre-dinner aperitif or after-dinner cocktail.

Senses Spa is a tranquil oasis offering indulgent spa and beauty treatments, drawing on the serenity of natural elements to promote pampering and relaxation. The spa will feature private treatment rooms, lavish spa villas, and steam and aromatherapy rooms, while the reimagined Senses Fitness will offer state-of-the-art exercise and wellness facilities.

Other adult-exclusive spaces on board the Disney Wish will include the Quiet Cove pool district; a variety of gourmet cafes, relaxed bars and upscale lounges; and more.

Artful Accommodations Where Dreams Do Come True

With an all-new look and feel steeped in enchantment and inspired by dreamy Disney stories, every stateroom on board the Disney Wish will be a luxurious, peaceful retreat designed with ample room for families, plenty of storage and upscale amenities. Most will feature Disney Cruise Line’s signature split-bathroom concept for utmost comfort and function.

Most of the ship’s 1,254 staterooms will offer an ocean view — including 877 (70%) with a spacious verandah — and there will be 451 connecting doors that adjoin rooms to accommodate larger families.

The Disney Wish will elevate the concierge experience with more than double the number of premium concierge staterooms and suites, including Disney’s first-ever staterooms located above the bridge, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal breathtaking ocean views overlooking the bow of the ship. An exclusive lounge with private sun deck will be the perfect place for concierge guests to relax, sip a cocktail, and enjoy a premium level of dedicated service throughout the voyage.

The Disney Wish will also debut four royal suites – richly adorned, lavishly appointed suites that accommodate up to six guests and feature extravagant details and first-class amenities. These include a pair of two-story suites, the first of their kind within the Disney fleet, which will feature stunning statement pieces like an elegant spiral staircase and a spectacular two-deck-high stained-glass frieze.

Setting Sail Summer 2022

The Disney Wish will sail its maiden voyage — a five-night cruise to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay — on June 9, 2022, followed by an inaugural season of three- and four-night cruises to the same destinations from Port Canaveral, Fla. Bookings open to the general public on May 27, 2021.

Interesting to note that booking windows will be a little different for the Wish. Normally, Platinum Castaway Club Members (those with 10+ cruises) can book 3 days prior to general public. Gold Castaway Club (5-9 cruises) can book 3 days prior, and Silver Castaway Club (1-4 cruises) can book 1 day prior.

Now with the Wish the Castaway Club requirements are changing a bit. Platinum Castaway Club members with 25+ sailings may book starting 5/17, Platinum with 20+ sailings – 5/18, Platinum with 15+ sailings – 5/19, all other Platinum members – 5/20. Gold members may book starting 5/24, DVC members – 5/25, Silver members – 5/26. And the general public can book beginning 5/27.

So that does change things up for some folks. Be aware and if you decide to book, know your dates!

Let’s Discuss!

So that is a LOT of news to take in and get excited about! As mentioned above, we will be discussing all of this news and Disney Cruise Line on our weekly live stream at 8pm! You can watch the replay below if you cannot make it live. We’d love to have you join in the discussion with our other regular watchers and chat-ers! We have a lot of fun each week!

What is Evermore Resort? Luxury Hilton Conrad Orlando Breaks Ground

11 March 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

It’s rare that a project in the Orlando area garners this much excitement and a new theme park or attraction isn’t involved. Evermore Orlando Resort has raised the bar on that excitement and so much more. But What is Evermore Orlando Resort you ask? Keep reading to learn a little more about this massive and unique undertaking very close to Walt Disney World:

What is Evermore Orlando Resort?

“With the launch of the Evermore project, Dart (Dart Interests) is introducing an entirely new hospitality category that will change the landscape of vacation rental homes,” says Christopher Kelsey, President of Dart Interests. “We are creating the first-ever wholly-owned, large-scale community of purpose-built vacation rental homes and operating them with hotel-quality standards and world-class resort amenities. Our approach solves the #1 problem for vacation renters: uncertainty in the quality of the home. Almost all vacation rentals are owned by individuals, each with their own unique tastes and willingness to maintain the properties. Our centralized ownership model makes it possible for our guests to be certain that they are getting a first-class home with superior safety standards. Our scale also means that we can deliver a wider array of services to our guests making their visit easier and more enjoyable. Plus, our range in sizes – from 2 bedrooms to 11, makes us the perfect destination for any group, including large multi-generational or multi-family gatherings,” he adds.

Accommodations:
At full buildout, the massive 10,000-bedroom resort represents an equity investment well in excess of a billion dollars and arguably creates a new institutional-grade asset class. Evermore’s first phase will open with nearly 1,500 bedrooms spread among an array of stay experiences, from single homes to villas, flats and hotel guestrooms. The plans include 69 houses ranging in size from five to eleven bedrooms. Beyond vacation homes, the resort complex will also offer 76 four-bedroom flats, 41 two and four-bedroom villas and a luxury Conrad hotel which will offer sophisticated design, best-in-class amenities and intuitive service to provide an exceptional travel experience in Orlando.

Conrad Orlando Luxury Hilton Resort

Conrad Orlando at Evermore will debut with 433 rooms, including 51 impeccably designed suites and 10 spacious family suites offering oversized accommodations that deliver all the comforts of home. Other features include 40,000 sq. ft. of indoor meeting space, a tranquil spa and numerous dining options including a signature rooftop experience. The hotel will open with Hilton CleanStay, Hilton´s industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection in properties around the world. The elevated processes and Team Member training have been developed with RB, maker of Lysol and Dettol, to help Conrad Orlando guests enjoy an even cleaner and safer stay from check-in to check-out.

“The signing of Conrad Orlando marks a significant milestone for the brand as we continue to grow our portfolio in iconic locations around the world to better meet the needs of our discerning travelers,” said Nils-Arne Schroeder, global head for Conrad Hotels & Resorts. “This hotel’s ideal location within Orlando and near Walt Disney World, along with Conrad’s prestigious reputation for delivering intuitive service, infinite connections and modern design will ensure guests leave feeling truly inspired by their stay with us.”

Amenities:

At the heart of the resort, all guests will enjoy a massive 20-acre tropical beach complex and Evermore Bay, an 8-acre crystalline water amenity by Crystal Lagoons®. This proprietary design incorporates unique, environmentally sustainable technology that uses up to 100 times less chemicals and only 2% of the energy used by conventional swimming pool filtration systems, creating ideal conditions for guests of all ages to enjoy the water year-round.

The surrounding beach areas will feature zero-entry swim areas, bars, cabanas, private fire-pits and an aquatic adventure area with a waterslide, rope swing and watersports of all kinds. Other amenities will include a lively food hall & gourmet market, a casual resort restaurant featuring views overlooking both the golf course and bay and a two-story Boathouse that will serve weddings and private events. While the Scottish links style ‘New Course’ will remain open for play throughout construction, a new 18-hole Nicklaus Design course will open with the resort and pay homage to the legacy of golf excellence at Grand Cypress.

Meetings & Events:

Orlando currently ranks as Cvent’s No. 1 meeting destination in the country and the resort complex will offer event professionals over 150,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor event space for groups seeking a change from the traditional conference room. The Boathouse and garden lawn nestled on the bay’s edge will provide a sophisticated Orlando wedding and event locale with a classic Chris-Craft boat for private use.

Bookings for Evermore Orlando Resort are slated to launch in 2022 with the grand opening for the first guests anticipated for summer 2023.

Today, Dart Interests, a leading developer and owner of large-scale real estate projects, and global hospitality company, broke ground for the 433-room luxury Conrad Orlando as part of their latest project, Evermore Orlando Resort. Orlando-based PCL Construction is overseeing construction for Conrad Orlando.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Conrad Orlando today, coming one step closer to welcoming our first guests in summer 2023,” said Christopher Kelsey, President of Dart Interests.

Conrad Orlando Amenities

Conrad Orlando at Evermore will be managed by Hilton Management Services and will debut with 433 rooms, including 51 impeccably designed suites and 10 spacious family suites offering oversized accommodations that deliver all the comforts of home. Other features include 40,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, a tranquil spa and numerous dining options including a signature rooftop experience.

The resort’s interior design will create thoughtful moments of connections to nature including guestrooms finished in hues of sand and water that offer an abundance of light and floor-to-ceiling picturesque views out to Evermore Bay. Spa and fitness activities such as yoga, meditation and hydrotherapy will be offered in both an indoor and outdoor environment. Upon opening, the hotel will operate with Hilton CleanStay, Hilton’s industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection in properties around the world, for a healthy experience from check-in to check-out.

Conrad Orlando guests will also enjoy access to Evermore’s massive 20-acre tropical beach complex and an 8-acre crystalline water amenity by Crystal Lagoons®. The surrounding beach areas will feature zero entry swim areas, bars, cabanas, private fire pits and an aquatic adventure area with a waterslide, rope swing and watersports of all kinds. Other amenities will include a food hall & gourmet market, a casual resort restaurant featuring views overlooking both the golf course and bay and a two-story Boathouse that will serve weddings and private events.

Evermore Orlando Resort will open with nearly 1,500 bedrooms spread among an array of stay experiences including vacation homes, villas and flats, in addition to Conrad Orlando.

I am BEYOND excited for this project to take shape right down the street from me, and change the landscape of Orlando vacationing. I can’t wait to see and experience Evermore Orlando Resort and Conrad Orlando as well!

For more information about Evermore Orlando Resort or Conrad Hotels & Resorts, please visit https://evermoreresort.com or https://newsroom.hilton.com/conrad.

We’ll share more info here as we receive it! Thanks for reading.