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Disney Wish News – Worlds of Marvel, Marceline Market and More

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More exciting news from Disney Cruise Line today regarding the Disney Wish. We heard news would be coming about the Worlds of Marvel restaurant but we also got some more info on the other dining spots aboard the Disney Wish. Here’s the official scoop from DCL themselves:

Disney Cruise Line is upping the “ant-e” on immersive family dining with the debut of “Avengers: Quantum Encounter” at Worlds of Marvel restaurant aboard the Disney Wish. Premiering in summer 2022, this all-new cinematic dining adventure will assemble some of Earth’s Mightiest — and tiniest — Super Heroes in a larger-than-life showcase of revolutionary quantum technology and world-class cuisine.

Guests aboard the Disney Wish will also enjoy Marceline Market and Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods, two new quick-and-casual dining options for relaxed meals throughout the day.

 

 

‘Avengers: Quantum Encounter’ at Worlds of Marvel

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

Here’s the latest video update from the Disney Wish dining locations:

 

 

Cinematic Dining

“Avengers: Quantum Encounter” will follow Ant-Man and The Wasp as they embark on their first public speaking engagement on behalf of the Avengers. Anxious to impress, they are hosting a special presentation of the most powerful Super Hero technologies, such as Captain America’s shield, Iron Man’s arc reactor and Ant-Man’s Pym Particles, giving Guests an up-close look at holographic models, field reports and iconic scenes from Marvel movies displayed on the screens surrounding the room.

The highlight of this special event is a hands-on demonstration of the latest and greatest Pym Tech, the Quantum Core, which uses cutting-edge — and highly unstable — technology to shrink and grow targets at the push of a button. A few “misfires” result in hilarious Ant-Man-style hijinks, but the real trouble begins when an unexpected villain shows up with a fearsome army in tow, eager to get their hands on this powerful quantum technology. Ant-Man and The Wasp will need all the help they can get to save the day, calling on Captain America, Captain Marvel and the brave diners of the Disney Wish for back-up.

Quantum Core Technology

Every table at Worlds of Marvel will feature an interactive Quantum Core, “a brand-new device that can cause objects to shrink and grow remotely.” Guests will assist Ant-Man and The Wasp as they attempt some small-scale trials, perhaps shrinking oversized luggage for easy stateroom storage.

When enough of the Quantum Cores are activated at the same time, the entire venue will become supercharged as energy pulses through the power channels in the walls and ceiling. Outfitted with state-of-the-art Pym Tech and decked out in signature Stark-itecture style, the design of Worlds of Marvel will offer surprises in all shapes and sizes, from a distinctly Marvel hexagonal motif to the various “Easter eggs” and unknown details embedded in the show.

Globally Inspired Menus

True to its name, Worlds of Marvel will take families on a flavorful tour of the real and fictional settings of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with dishes inspired by legendary locales like African Wakanda, Eastern European Sokovia and the Avengers’ home base of New York City. Though menus are still in development, Guests can expect to find a diverse array of globally influenced items and playful nods to the worlds and characters they know and love from Marvel Studios films.

 

 

New Quick-and-Casual Family Dining

While the Disney Wish will offer upscale table-service experiences throughout the day, families will also be able to enjoy quick, convenient meals and snacks with more casual walk-up dining options than ever before.

 

 

Marceline Market

Named for Walt Disney’s early childhood hometown in Missouri, Marceline Market is a stylish food hall inspired by popular marketplaces around the world. Here, Guests will find an ever-changing menu of specialized offerings in a vibrant, free flow setting with both indoor and outdoor seating and breathtaking ocean views all around.

Featuring 10 food stalls and a café-style beverage bar in the center, Marceline Market will be styled as an old industrial loft converted into a bustling marketplace, but with a distinctly Disney design twist: At this food hall, the local proprietors are Disney characters themselves, as each station is themed to beloved animated films such as “Tangled,” “Ratatouille,” “Alice in Wonderland,” “Zootopia” and more.

These storied shopkeepers will curate a wide-ranging variety of freshly prepared cuisines for the whole family to enjoy, including American classics, international specialties, comfort foods, seafood, soups and salads, vegetarian and plant-based fare, baked goods, and desserts.

Marceline Market will offer a casual, walk-around dining experience for breakfast and lunch, followed by table-service dining at dinnertime with entrees cooked to order.

Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods

Located right in the middle of the fun on the upper decks, Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods will be the perfect place for families to grab a quick bite for lunch, dinner or anytime in between. Avid Disney cruisers will be particularly pleased by the mix of fan-favorite treats, like Disney Cruise Line’s signature soft-serve ice cream, with two brand-new selections: The Disney Wish will feature the fleet’s first dedicated quick-service venues for barbeque and Mexican-inspired fare.

Also offering delectable American classics and other snackable delights, this open-air eatery comprises five uniquely themed food stalls: Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue, Donald’s Cantina, Daisy’s Pizza Pies, Goofy’s Grill and Sweet Minnie’s Ice Cream.

The whimsical design is inspired by the seaside boardwalk setting featured in popular “Mickey Mouse” animated shorts, a fitting addition to the Mickey and Friends-themed family district on the upper decks. A sizable, shaded seating area will provide convenient and comfortable accommodations for families to relax and enjoy their meals.

Previously Announced Disney Wish Dining Experiences

These new restaurants join an exciting line-up of previously announced dining experiences for families and adults. In addition to Worlds of Marvel, families will embark on a culinary journey to the “Frozen” kingdom of Arendelle and the golden age of Hollywood at two new restaurants aboard the Disney Wish.

  • Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure is Disney’s first “Frozen”-themed theatrical dining experience, bringing the kingdom 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.
  • 1923 is an elegant celebration of The Walt Disney Company’s legacy, paying homage to the golden age of animation and offering a tasteful tribute to its Californian heritage.

The Disney Wish will continue Disney Cruise Line’s innovative family dining concept, where Guests experience one of three imaginative restaurants each night accompanied by a dedicated service team that is assigned to their family throughout the voyage. With exceptional attention to detail, families will indulge in a variety of dining experiences with friendly, familiar, personalized service every evening.

Adult Guests ages 18 and older will savor gourmet meals and exceptional beverages at Palo Steakhouse, Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement and The Rose, an upscale suite of epicurean excellence exclusively for adults, inspired by the elegant icons of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Beauty and the Beast.”

In true Disney Cruise Line tradition, the Disney Wish will also offer complimentary 24-hour room service, specialty treats and gourmet cafes.

Maiden Voyage and Inaugural Season

The Disney Wish will sail its maiden voyage on June 9, 2022, followed by a season of three- and four-night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, from Port Canaveral, Florida.

 

We’ll be sailing on the Disney Wish in September of 2022, and we can’t wait to experience it and share it all with you! Are you booked to sail away on this amazing new ship?

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Trailer and Posters for Disney’s Encanto

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I just watched the trailer for Encanto, and wow, what a feast for the eyes! I hadn’t really heard much about this movie since its first announcement but the visuals are completely amazing! The new Encanto posters and trailer are a must-see!

If you haven’t heard about it either, here is the official info from Disney: Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto,” the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The all-new original film features the voice of Stephanie Beatriz as Mirabel, an ordinary 15-year-old who’s struggling to find her place in her family. “Mirabel is a really funny, loving character who also deeply yearns for something more,” says Beatriz. “She’s also not afraid to stand up for what she knows is right—something I love and relate to very much.

Encanto poster

“I’m Colombian on my father’s side, and playing this role fills me with immense pride,” continues Beatriz. “As a Disney kid, I’d burn through my VHS tapes and adored every single magical story that the world of Disney introduced me to. I learned in those that stories that anything is possible, especially if you believe in magic and the goodness rooted deep inside us all.”

In the film, the magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to heal—every child except one, Mirabel. But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family’s last hope. The voice cast also includes María Cecilia Botero, Wilmer Valderrama, Adassa, Diane Guerrero, Mauro Castillo, Angie Cepeda, Jessica Darrow, Rhenzy Feliz and Carolina Gaitan.

Encanto poster

“COLOMBIA, MI ENCANTO”

The new Encanto trailer includes an original song from the film, “Colombia, Mi Encanto,” performed by 17-time GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY winner, singer, songwriter and actor Carlos Vives, who’s a native of Santa Marta, Colombia. “This song is a celebration of the magical diversity of Colombia,” says Vives. “I can’t wait to see how the music will blend with the images and the characters inspired by the ‘encanto’ of Colombians.”

The film features all-new songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton,” “Moana”) and is directed by Byron Howard (“Zootopia,” “Tangled”) and Jared Bush (co-director “Zootopia”), co-directed by Charise Castro Smith (writer “The Death of Eva Sofia Valdez”) and produced by Clark Spencer and Yvett Merino. Bush and Castro Smith are screenwriters on the film. The filmmakers were deeply inspired by their research trip to Colombia during early development of “Encanto,” as well as their continuous work with a group of expert consultants assembled through the course of the film’s production. Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto” opens in theaters November 24, 2021.

Follow along here, and of course stay tuned to Zannaland for more info and a review when it comes out! Are you excited to see this new Disney animated film? Let us know in the comments!

www.instagram.com/encantomovie

www.twitter.com/encantomovie

https://www.facebook.com/EncantoMovie

 

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New Disney Nighttime Spectaculars and More for Walt Disney World’s 50th

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VERY exciting news out of Walt Disney World this morning! Lots of nighttime spectaculars and other Walt Disney World 50th Celebration news! Here’s the official scoop from Disney:

Beginning Oct. 1, “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” honors the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, and, wow, do we have some great new details to share with you about this incredible 18-month event.

A new nighttime spectacular, “Disney Enchantment,” will help kick off the 50th anniversary festivities when it debuts Oct. 1 at Magic Kingdom Park. Created to launch with “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” this evening extravaganza will take Guests on a journey filled with adventure, wonder and empowerment. Inspiring everyone to believe in magic, “Disney Enchantment” will feature music, enhanced lighting, stunning fireworks and, for the first time, immersive projection effects that extend from Cinderella Castle down Main Street, U.S.A.

Joining “Disney Enchantment” on Oct. 1 will be “Harmonious” at EPCOT, one of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for a Disney park. This new show will bring the globe together at World Showcase Lagoon in a celebration of Disney music that inspires people worldwide. It’s a grand, powerful tribute to the stories and songs that unite us, embracing new technical magic that incorporates pyrotechnics, choreographed moving fountains, lighting and media in new ways. “Harmonious” will invite Guests to travel the globe through new interpretations of classic Disney songs as you’ve never heard them before, reimagined in more than a dozen languages by a diverse group of 240 artists from around the world.

There’s also new daytime entertainment stirring at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Check out this artist rendering of “Disney KiteTails,” which will come alive several times daily at the Discovery River Amphitheater beginning Oct. 1. Performers will fly windcatchers and kites of all shapes and sizes, while out on the water elaborate three-dimensional kites – some stretching to 30 feet long – will depict Disney animal friends, including Simba, Zazu, Baloo and King Louie. These colorful creations will dance through the sky to the beat of favorite Disney songs in an uplifting, vibrant experience for the whole family.

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will be the hosts for “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” and they’ll be decked out in sparkling new EARidescent fashions for the 50th anniversary. As you can see in the photo above, their best pals want to get in on the shimmer, too, as Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale will be sporting their own custom-made EARidescent looks beginning Oct. 1. Guests will get a chance to see them when they travel through Magic Kingdom Park several times daily in the new “Mickey’s Celebration Cavalcade.”

These eight friends will also be featured in special golden character sculptures debuting Oct. 1 at Magic Kingdom; in this artist rendering, you can see Mickey and Minnie shining in the sunlight near Cinderella Castle. There will be 50 characters total in this series of sculptures that will be displayed across all four theme parks. We’ll soon reveal more of the “Disney Fab 50” as excitement builds for the big day, as well as the surprising ways Guests will be able to interact with these beautiful sculptures as part of the 50th anniversary celebration.

This fall, Guests can bring home “Walt Disney World: A Portrait of the First Half Century,” a beautiful new coffee table book from Disney Editions. You can see the cover art above for this insider’s look at the history and evolution of Walt Disney World, written by Kevin Kern, Tim O’Day and Steven Vagnini. The book will be available for purchase beginning Sept. 28 at Walt Disney World, shopDisney.com and wherever books are sold. We can’t wait to add this to our collection!

“The World’s Most Magical Celebration” will also see the grand opening of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure at EPCOT, icons at each of the four parks transforming into Beacons of Magic at night*, EARidescent décor all across the resort, plus much more. Our Walt Disney World cast members – who will be wearing new EARidescent nametags designed especially for this occasion – are looking forward to sharing all this magic with Guests, as they are the heart of this momentous event. Stay tuned as we continue to share more details about the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World in the weeks and months to come as we get ready for the festivities to begin!

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Caribe Royale Orlando Good Neighbor Disney Hotel Tour and Review

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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.

Caribe Royale Orlando pool

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

The Venetian Chop House Patio

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.

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!

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What is Evermore Resort? Luxury Hilton Conrad Orlando Breaks Ground

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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.

Evermore Orlando Resort logo

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 Evermore

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 groundbreaking

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.

Conrad Orlando Evermore

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.

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Celebrate 35 Years with Give Kids the World – News and Ice Cream!

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It’s no secret that I love Give Kids the World Village and all that they stand for and do for critically ill children wanting to visit area theme parks. I’m definitely not alone in my love, as so many local and national companies have partnered with GKTW Village over the years to sponsor events, parts of the village, and more. As they begin celebrating 35 years of magic, Give Kids the World is undergoing an amazing refurbishment to bring even more to wish children and their families. GKTW recently invited us out to celebrate the opening of Henri’s Starlite Scoops, their refurbished ice cream shop for wish families, and to see some of the plans for the new and refurbished areas that will be coming soon at Give Kids the World.

Give Kids the World

The former Ice Cream Palace closed down to make way for this new shop, designed in cooperation with Walt Disney Imagineering and input from Universal Creative. This fully accessible ice cream shop features 28″ ice cream chests, so all children, even those in wheelchairs can see and choose their flavors. The topping bar is also accessible, while an open floor plan in the seating area allows for ease of wheelchair navigation.

Henri's Starlite Scoops

Named after founder Henri Landwirth, the name also pays tribute to the Starlite Motel on Coco Beach, FL, which Henri managed when it served as the temporary home to the original Mercury 7 astronauts. There are nods to the original space program and the Starlite Motel sprinkled throughout.

Henri's Starlite Scoops

Flavors include: Choco-Rocket (chocolate); Moon Cream (vanilla); Shooting Starberry
(strawberry); Moon Rock Crunch (cookies & cream); and Meteor Mint Chip. Sweet treats come in a dish,
cone, Popsicle, Fudgesicle or ice cream bar. Also featured are Milky Way Shakes, Galactic Splits and Celestial
Sundaes. Gluten-free, dairy-free and sugar-free options are also available. Scooping ice cream is one of the
most popular volunteer shifts at Give Kids The World. During a typical week, volunteers fill more than 70
shifts to ensure guests can enjoy ice cream all day long.

To see Henri’s Starlite Scoops and more of the upcoming refurbishments and updates, watch our vlog below:

 

We are very excited to see in person how valuable Give Kids the World donations are, and just what happens with the money or volunteer time people donate. If you would like to do more, we have created a Fundraising Team for Zannaland. We’d love you to join, and or donate or fundraise and ask those you know to help as well. We have done this a few times over the years with Gingerbread 5k’s, the Challenge for Hope, and Night of a Million Lights, so we’d love to support GKTW together with your help!

If you would like to join our Fundraising Team to either help raise money or donate directly to Give Kids the World – click here: https://give.gktw.org/zanna for the Zannaland Team Fundraising Page to donate or join the team. Thank you!

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What’s Included: D23 Gold Membership Duo Plan Announced

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The Disney D23 membership has changed a bit over the years since its inception in 2009, to accommodate family memberships. Yesterday D23 announced a new membership to replace the Gold Family Membership plan – the D23 Gold Membership Duo Plan. What’s included in the new D23 Gold Membership Duo Plan? Here’s the breakdown of all the info from D23:

Starting on January 1, 2021, the new D23 Gold Membership Duo Plan will provide the benefits of a D23 Gold Membership with the opportunity to add a second D23 Gold Member (called an “affiliate” member) all for the same price as a D23 Gold Family Membership. That means Gold Members on the Duo Plan will receive two D23 Gold Memberships including two personalized certificates, two member cards, and access for each D23 Gold Member to participate in a variety of D23-exclusive experiences, including shopping opportunities and Gold Member events*. The Gold Membership Duo Plan also includes one annual Gold Member Collector Set and one annual subscription (four issues) to the Disney twenty-three publication, each sent to the primary member on the account.

The best news? You won’t have to wait until your renewal date to take advantage of this new membership plan. Starting in January 2021, current D23 Gold Family Members will have the opportunity to transition at no additional cost to the D23 Gold Membership Duo Plan through the remainder of their current Gold Family Membership term, and will automatically** renew to the Gold Duo Plan annually thereafter. Current D23 Gold Members also can upgrade for a fee to the Gold Duo Plan starting in January 2021.

D23 Gold Duo Membership

 

Here’s a further breakdown of the D23 Membership options:

 

D23 Gold Duo Membership info

 

 

D23 Gold Individual Membership price

 

 

You can find out further info and answers to FAQ’s on this new D23 Membership option here. Are you a D23 Member? Will you be getting the D23 Gold Duo membership? Let us know in the comments below!

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Closest Hotel to Disney Springs – We Explore the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista

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Wyndham Lake Buena Vista

If you’re like me, you have driven by the hotels on Hotel Plaza Blvd. near Disney Springs (in my case, way back to when it was called the Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village and later Disney Village Marketplace), but never really stopped to investigate the amazing resorts that exist, minutes from the shopping and dining action. One example of that is The Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort Complex, which just announced the completion of its reimagination and $14 million-dollar guest room renovations and poolside dining. Even better, the rates right now are some of the lowest the property has ever seen – some nights are under $100 a night (yes you read that right).

Situated around 5 minutes (yes you read that right too) from Disney Springs, the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista and its sister property, the Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista are conveniently accessible by the recently installed pedestrian bridges crossing East Buena Vista Drive. No need to worry about cars in your way or waiting for crosswalks to be clear. However, if you want to park in the Disney Springs parking garages, those are really close too!

We were recently invited to tour the newly remodeled rooms and Oasis restaurant and were pleasantly surprised. For those history buffs, the Wyndham property was actually the 3rd resort to open at Walt Disney World. It has a storied history, opening as the Dutch Inn, which later rebranded as the Americana Dutch Resort, before being sold to Grosvenor and becoming the Grosvenor Resort, renamed to the Regal Sun Resort, and then merged with the Wyndham Hotels and Resorts and became what it is today. In between all of those name changes, there have been several multi-million dollar renovations, so you would never know walking into the lobby or a room, the history of the resort! The resort now features open air, socially distanced dining in the Oasis Restaurant adjacent to the new kids’ pool section of their massive aquatic center.

The two official Walt Disney World Resort hotels, the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista and Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista are packed with many shared amenities. This guest room renovation includes 394 newly reimagined garden-themed rooms for the value-minded guest and another 232 rooms in the upscale 19-story tower overlooking Disney Springs, which features a lake house motif.

Wyndham Lake Buena Vista lobby

“Just in time for your holiday vacation and weekend staycation planning, we have completed a significant transformation that has been several years in the making, said Jay Leonard, General Manager of the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort Complex. We are grateful to those who have pardoned our dust as we worked with top designers and builders to create what we believe will be a great guest experience.”

 

See You at The All New Oasis Restaurant

Open daily for lunch and dinner, it’s ideal for everyone who wants to soak up a day’s worth of the Florida sun or simply delight in a refreshing beverage or satisfying meal while watching sports on the big screens in their all-weather dining room.

Handcrafted cocktails, frozen drinks, beer and wine selections and a delicious menu of dining options await poolside. From mouthwatering fish tacos to some of the best chicken wings in town, you will find what you seek at the Oasis Restaurant. Fresh baked pizza, a variety of burgers, sandwiches and salads are prepared to order as you relax at the pool or recharge after an early start at the theme parks. Hidden Mickey fans will also find quite a few to hunt down and spot! 

Click on a photo below to enlarge and see the updated restaurant and amazing pool area:

 

Reimagined Tower and Garden Rooms

Interior Image Group drew the inspiration for the design concepts from the hotel’s lobby area, continuing the lake house theme from the tower into the garden guest rooms.  These newly recreated rooms allow guests to unwind and relax with the feeling of being in their very own garden retreat.

Jamie Malays served as lead creative designer on both hotel offerings and applied her expertise using multiple fabric textures, wood finishes and a minimal color palette in the garden concept.

Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Tower Room
King room at the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista
Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Tower Room
Queen tower room
Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Tower Room Disney Springs view
A Disney Springs view tower room at the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista

Upon entering a reimagined garden room, guests will find themselves in a serene and inviting space. The main design features are the all-white, laminate wood, built-in storage bench unit that is back lit and accented with decorative aviary hooks to hang caps and jackets. This is where functionality meets beauty; it is aesthetically pleasing, and also acts as a multifunctional storage space with room to place luggage and hideaway shoes in the under-bench area.

Hidden spaces have also been created within the built-in entertainment center, which conceal a coffee maker and mini refrigerator (much larger than the Disney value resort fridges), and come standard in each room.

Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Garden Room
Garden room at Wyndham Lake Buena Vista

The 55” TV is displayed on a backlit wood finish entertainment wall conveniently opening the space on the new quartz countertops. Maintaining the functional design, the built-in unit has an ample amount of storage space with three large drawers.

Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Garden room
Garden wing room window overlooking the pool area

Carrying the minimalistic theme over onto the sleeping area, a soft green wood headboard awaits guests, accented with modern light fixtures. The vanity and bathroom also received a significant facelift, starting at the entrance with a new rolling white barn door and a frosted edge back-lit mirror that hangs over the spacious vanity.

The large picture windows feature a privacy and a blackout shade. The blackout shade is actually decorated with a relaxing garden motif so when closed, it looks like a beautifully pained picture on the wall.

The best part is perhaps the quick walk to Disney Springs, knowing that this beautiful room is waiting for you on your return. I was so impressed with the new room designs, and at this price point, how could you not to stay here?

Walking over to Disney Springs really reminded me of staying in Disneyland, and walking over from Harbor Blvd. to Downtown Disney. That’s a pretty common practice when staying off-property in Disneyland, so it really makes sense that it would work here in Walt Disney World Resort too! So many people want to stay in a Disney hotel, but the comfort and amenities found here are hard to beat – you still receive Extra Magic Hours, FastPass+ (under normal circumstances) and other Magical Extras.

What impressed me most at the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista was the people. Everyone we met was like family, ready to welcome you to their home. They were justifiably  proud of their beautiful hotel, and the wonderful amenities it has to offer guests. It truly is a hidden secret on Walt Disney World property and definitely worth investigating for your next stay. Head to Wyndham Lake Buena Vista for more info and to book your stay today!

*Disclosure: The Wyndham Lake Buena Vista invited us out to tour their rooms and pool area, and walked us across to Disney Springs and we experienced some of the shops and dining there. You can see more on my Wyndham LBV instagram story from the day! As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for reading! 

 

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Ranking Extinct Disney Attractions – Up the Waterfall Episode 44

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Another fun stroll down memory lane, this week we discuss Extinct Disney Attractions. More than just discuss, we rank them! This is one of those episodes where you’re going to want to watch it rather than (or in addition to) listening, as we rank them with cool graphics created by Christian.

Mine Train Thru Nature's Wonderland

Speaking of Christian, he chose the 30 extinct attractions that we ranked, so if you have any rides you think we should’ve included, please direct your comments to him! 😉 All joking aside, I think we could do quite a few more of these and still not get to all the former favorites that once existed at Disney parks. I know personally I would’ve added the Disneyland Peoplemover, which I never got to experience, as well as Magic Journeys among others. What rides do you miss the most? Or shows, or restaurants? We want to hear it all!

Scott’s Trivia Corner

This week we also brought back Scott’s Trivia Corner, with an answer to our last trivia question, which was all the way back on our Scariest Disney Attractions episode. Be sure to listen for that result. Because this week’s question was a little confusing, we wanted to include it here too so you can make a better guess – come on Disney trivia buffs we know you’re out there! Here it is:

There is one Disney park that featured TWO extinct attractions in TWO separate lands. During their time in the parks, they featured the SAME song, voiced by the SAME person (actor or actress, not character). One of which was an attraction with an Audio-Animatronics character voiced by an entertainer who sang the same song LIVE, in the second extinct attraction – a stage show. What are these two attractions, and as an added bonus, what was the featured song? Confused?! Yeah I was too haha! Two attractions…two characters…two lands…one person…one song. Try to figure it out and let us know in the comments below, or by commenting on the video, on social media, wherever you’d like to answer!

Journey into Imagination original

We thank you as always for listening and watching our Extinct Disney Attractions episode – if you can, please leave us a review on Apple podcasts or wherever you listen, and like and subscribe on YouTube. It really helps get the word out and spread the Disney love! See more ways to connect below:

Ways to Help Laid Off Cast Members: 

As we mentioned on the end of the show, it is such a devastating time for so many. As locals, and a Cast Member family, we want to spread the word as much as possible about ways to help if you can. 

Cast Member Pantry Facebook group for Orlando area Cast Members

Ear for Each Other Facebook group featuring Cast Members from both coasts offering their services or talents for sale

Google Sheet with Cast Member run Small Shops and businesses

Also check out our friends Sarah and Tom Bricker’s post on ways to help, including donating to the Second Harvest Food Bank in both Orlando and Orange County, California. Thank you for reading, and thank you for helping the magic makers. 

As always, we thank you for watching and listening! If you enjoyed, please share with a friend so more folks can learn about our growing podcast! Thank you!

Listen to Up the Waterfall:

You can listen anywhere you download and listen to podcasts, including: 

(If there’s a podcast service where you can’t find our show, let us know and we’ll get it added there!)

Watch Up the Waterfall:

Head to our Up the Waterfall YouTube Playlist – where you can see our opening sequence and see some unique images during some episodes.

Feel free to comment below with your opinions on ANY of these movie choices, any questions or info you’d like to add, or if it’s easier, head to the Zannaland Facebook page and join the discussion there with fellow Disney Parks fans!

Zannaland and Up the Waterfall Community – Let’s Connect!

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Hilton Bonnet Creek & Waldorf Astoria Food & Wine Weekends Return

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Hilton Bonnet Creek Myth Bar One of the best kept secrets among Walt Disney World visitors is the resorts that are on Disney property, but not Disney-run hotels. Two exceptional examples of this is the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. I have visited, stayed, and dined at these properties for the past 5 years or so, and am consistently impressed with the quality, service and surroundings. I understand that everyone seems to want that Disney experience, but these properties really have so much to offer, you’ll wonder why you didn’t stay here before…

Hilton Bonnet Creek lazy river
Just part of the Hilton Bonnet Creek views and lazy river

If by chance you do not know where these resorts are located…if you are coming from Disney Springs, heading toward the rest of the Disney parks, you will take a left off of Buena Vista Drive onto Chelonia Parkway. The Hilton Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando are about a mile down on the right. There is a central parking garage for both properties, but you can valet at either spot too, for a fee. If you are just dining, you can have your parking ticket validated for free parking as well.  You can read more about staying here in my previous Hilton Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria posts. For now, though, we are discussing FOOD (and wine)!

Waldorf Bar du Chocolat

You may recall last year I was invited out to experience the Food & Wine Weekends that the Hilton Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Orlando put on. I then went back on my own to experience it again, and I’m still thinking about that food. Food & Wine Weekends have officially returned, and though the experience is slightly modified, it is still a spectacular time. This year, Zeta Asia has sadly not reopened yet due to the pandemic. Our fingers are crossed it will be returning soon. However La Luce and Bull & Bear still have an amazing 4 or 5 course offering for the Weekends, and better still, they have full vegan menus for both locations!

La Luce® is Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek’s signature restaurant, inspired by famed Napa Valley chef and restaurateur Donna Scala. I have yet to have a less than stellar meal there. Additionally, the servers, bartenders, managers, and more all go above and beyond to ensure you are taken care of, you know about all of the offerings, and you are enjoying yourself. It’s something we forget exists sometimes, that servers can really go above and beyond with every guest. And yes, a few of my visits have been as an invited guest of the hotel, but others have not, and I’ve still been impressed every time. It really is worth a trip over there to experience the service and food. Here is what is included with your Food & Wine Weekends menu:

La Luce Food & Wine Weekends Menu

La Luce Food & Wine Weekends VEGAN Menu

We started our our meal at La Luce with some cocktails, but then decided to get the wine pairings as well. I will say that I am in no way a wine connoisseur or even really a wine person, however each of these pairings went so well with the menu items, it really made me consider being a wine person!

For the regular menu, there are some choices to be made from the Taste of La Luce menu. Christian chose the Bruschetta, the farfalle, and the Risotto, which came with a seared filet mignon. The other options were a roasted red pepper and tomato soup, Cacio e Pepe (an amazing dish which I included a photo of even tho Christian didn’t pick it – they serve it in a bowl made from parmesan cheese!), and a salmon filet. Then for dessert the choices are between Sugar Bombolini and a Nutella cake. He chose the Nutella cake. We aren’t including photos of all the regular menu items here because we have everything on the video.

I didn’t have any choices with the vegan menu, but I was not disappointed. Even the Spaghetti Primavera, which I wasn’t super excited about because I’m not a regular ol’ tomato sauce kind of person, was wonderful. You could tell it was made fresh in the back and bursting with flavor. The risotto was also amazingly flavored. Just the right amount of pepper added. Also, I had a lot of leftovers, which I was very happy about.

The dessert, a macaron, normally made with egg whites, was made with aqua fava (the liquid left in a can of chickpeas) and you really couldn’t tell that it was vegan at all. As you can see, the portions were huge as well. Our server also recommended we try a vegan pizza, made in their 700 degree brick oven, and it was hard not to finish the whole pizza. They used a chickpea paste in place of tomato sauce, and it made for a great flavor combination with the crispy crust. There was also an absolutely amazing sunset view, as you can see below.

 

Bull & Bear has a reputation for comfortable elegance. Where you are taken care of from the moment you step food inside, and the food and drink quality match that service. Unlike some other upscale dining locations, you don’t feel out of place or stuffy in this atmosphere. You do feel like your every desire (as far as dinner goes) will be taken care of. Named one of the Top 100 Restaurants in the United States by Open Table, Bull & Bear offers a menu featuring re-imagined steakhouse classics and trend-setting fare including a signature 32-Day Dry-Aged Tomahawk Rib Eye. You wouldn’t exactly expect a place with that sort of reputation to offer a vegan option – but they DO! And, they do it well. Here is the breakdown of what’s included for Food & Wine Weekends:

Bull & Bear Food & Wine Weekends Menu

Bull & Bear Food & Wine Weekends VEGAN Menu

We started again with cocktails and bread service. Here everything but the brioche is vegan. The ciabatta bread I had was so good, it didn’t even need butter of any kind. The amuse bouche here was quite simply, amazing. I know they like their Pasta Explosion here, but to me, this was the real explosion of flavors, it was SO good. The mushroom soup was also very hearty and flavorful. The wedge salad was a little dry for both of us but I was happy to have something light in between courses.

Bull and Bear cocktails
Gold Smoke and Mary Pickford cocktails

Next up was a tomato tart for me, which was super unique in flavor and very tasty. A thick crust with chickpea sauce inside and heirloom tomatoes on top. Then, pasta explosion time. It was basically mushroom ravioli. I’m not sure if ours were just sitting there for too long or what, but they didn’t really explode for either of us in the regular or vegan version. It was quite busy and I think there was a bit of a mix up with what the 3rd and 4th courses were for us, so that may have been the issue.

Lastly, the vegan fall vegetable fricassee was my favorite. It paired distinctly fall vegetable flavors with Asian seasoning, and made for a warm and hearty combination. I want to attempt to make this at home! The dessert here was also the vegan macaron but with passionfruit sorbet inside. Of the two macaron desserts, I preferred the limoncello.

Of the two experiences, it’s hard to pick a favorite. I think for what you get, vegan-wise, La Luce was the winner. Christian agreed for the regular menu as well. We both loved the atmosphere and surroundings in Bull and Bear though. I would go back to either in a heartbeat. In addition to my review here, Christian and I also have a fun video of our experience. We hope you enjoy watching it to see first hand what it’s like at each resort’s location. Please like and subscribe to see more of our fun Orlando and Disney vlogs!

 

Here is the rundown of Hilton Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando Food & Wine Weekends dates and info:

October 16-November 22, 2020

Bull & Bear Chef’s Table – Fridays & Saturdays, 6pm – 10pm
Experience an exclusive multiple course Chef’s Tasting Menu for $145 (plus tax and gratuity). Suggested
wine pairings are available for $45 additional. Reservations recommended. View Menu.

Taste of La Luce – Fridays & Saturdays, 6pm – 10pm
From the kitchen of La Luce, enjoy an exclusive four-course menu for $55 (plus tax and gratuity).
Suggested wine pairing available for $30 additional. Reservation recommended.

NEW: Vegan Tasting Menus
Available at Bull & Bear and La Luce, Friday and Saturdays.

Sip, Swirl & Savor: A Wine Tasting Experience – Fridays & Saturdays, 5:30pm – 7pm,
La Luce Entrance
Regardless of your wine knowledge, this is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy samples of wine and learn
from an experienced sommelier. Complimentary.

Bonnet Creek Beer Garden – Saturdays, 4:00pm – 5:30pm, Hilton Lobby
Join us for an exclusive tour of Florida’s top craft breweries with samples of their award-winning beers.
Complimentary.

Bar Du Chocolate and Champagne Tasting – Saturdays, 6:30pm – 10:30pm, Peacock Alley
A decadent selection of à la carte chocolate treats hand-crafted by Waldorf Astoria Orlando’s world-class pastry chefs. (watch our video above for more of this amazing display!)

You can reserve any of the dining experiences at Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek or Waldorf Astoria Orlando on Open Table. If you are vegan and want to order off the regular menu, I’d recommend letting the restaurant know ahead of time and the talented chefs will be happy to accommodate you! I’d go back just for the vegan pizza any time! 

Have you stayed at either of these properties, or enjoyed their Food and Wine Weekends, or their stellar dining options?
Waldorf Astoria Orlando

I’d love to hear your thoughts or if you plan to check it out. Let me know in the comments below or drop me a line on social media, I’d love to chat about it! Thanks for reading.

 

Disclosure: As mentioned, I was hosted by Hilton for this event, but my thoughts and opinions are, as always, my own. 

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