What's Included With Adventures by Disney?

When you travel to worldwide destinations on an Adventures by Disney vacation you do much more than sightsee. You experience firsthand the people and cultures of the places you visit—and you do so with the service, VIP experiences and unique local opportunities you can only expect from Disney. It's the Disney Difference.

Here's just some of what's included in your trip:

VIP Treatment: 

• • Two Disney-trained Adventure Guides on every trip 

• • Private events and privately guided tours, including backstage access
• • Bypassing lines at popular museums and attractions
• • Unique cultural experiences with local experts
• • Special activities just for Junior Adventurers
• • Special programs with the local community
• • Costumed historical characters who bring stories to life
• Hotels and Dining: 

• • Travel components that meet Disney standards for quality and comforts
• • Outstanding accommodations, from exceptional hotels to unique lodging
• • Most meals during your trip
• • Dinner and movie night, especially for the kids
• • Adult dining experience ;with wine tasting
• • Taxes and gratuities
• Activities and Admissions:

• • Tickets and admissions to events and attractions
• • National and regional park entrance fees
• • Nature and wildlife educational program
• • Special entertainment and performances
• • Fun surprises and gifts
• 
  Hassle-Free Travel:

• • Airport meet and greet upon arrival
• • Transfer to and from hotels and transportation within your trip (including internal flights, trains, etc.)
• • Snacks and refreshments en route to tour destinations
• • Luggage service
• • Concierge services to help plan "on your own" time
• • Travel taxes

Adventures by Disney family vacations feature the impeccable service, tradition and attention to detail that is the hallmark of Disney. Adventures by Disney takes care of the details - including your luggage and hotel check-in - so that you don't have to plan anything. Just relax, have fun and enjoy an unforgettable vacation! 

To learn more about the many exciting itineraries for 2015 and to check on pricing and availability, contact Magical Travel.  Call us at 1-866-207-8387, send us an email to info@magicaltravel.com or send us an online request. 

Top 5 Things To Know About the Disney Cruise Line Kids Club

If you ask a kid, one of the best things about sailing on one of the Disney Cruise ships is playing at Disney's Oceaneer Club. Here are our list of the Top 5 Things you need to know about the kids club on all four Disney Cruise ships:

1. How much does it cost? There is no cost to use the Oceaneer Club - it's free and open to children ages 3 - 12. TIP: Stop by the Oceaneer Club as a family when you first board. Take a tour, meet the counselors, & learn more about what's offered. 

2. Do I have to sign up my child for the Oceaneer Club? Yes. You can register children in your party either at the terminal when you check-in or at the front desk of the Oceaneer Club once you board. TIP: There's a mix of organized activities as well as plenty of free play time.

3. How can I safely check my child in and out of the club? A parent or guardian must complete the necessary paperwork and also choose a password to be given when the child will be picked up. Once your child is registered, they will receive a waterproof wristband to be worn for the duration of the cruise. The wristband is scanned electronically each time they enter and exit the kids club. Children are not permitted to leave the club until the designated parent or guardian is present and provides the correct password. 

4. How often can my child visit the Oceaneer Club? Your child can visit the Oceaneer Club as often as they like! Check daily for operating hours and also for special activities such as karaoke, character meet and greets, arts and crafts, movies and more. TIP: Talk to the counselors if your child has any special needs. While one-on-one care is not available, they will work with you to make sure your child has the best experience possible. 

5. What about lunch or dinner? Your kids are invited to enjoy lunch or dinner at the Oceaneer Club! And that means you can enjoy a quiet meal at one of the adults-only restaurants on board. Or, you could visit the spa, do some shopping, go for a swim, or just relax in your stateroom while your kids have fun!

And there you have it! Our Top 5 Things You Need to Know About the Kids Clubs on the Disney Cruise ships.

Have your kids visited the Oceaneer Club? Send us some pictures and tell us their favorite things to do!

Lots of Magic (And Sweet Things!) At Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

Do you know what's made with...

800 pounds of flour

1050 pounds of honey

600 pounds of chocolate

180 pounds of apricot glaze and 

35 pounds of spices?

The amazingly beautiful lifesize gingerbread house in the lobby of the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Watch this time-lapse video to see how the magic is made!

2014 marks the 16th consecutive year Disney chefs have prepared this culinary masterpiece at the Grand Floridian in celebration of the holidays. And you can actually purchase sweet treats from inside the gingerbread house, too. This is just one of many festive displays you'll find all over Walt Disney World. 

So here's a tip - if you'll be at the Walt Disney World Resort this holiday season, take some time to visit the resorts and check out the gorgeous holiday decorations. 

You don't need to be a resort guest to visit. Just ride the bus, boat or monorail, or drive your car and park in the lots. Each of the resorts decorates for the holidays and many have gingerbread houses!

So tell us - have you visited any of the Disney resorts during the holidays? Which is your favorite?

Star Wars Weekends Returns This Spring at Walt Disney World

Where Is the Newest Place to Meet Cinderella and the Princesses?

At Citricos at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa!

Beginning January 8, 2015, you can meet the Cinderella and the Disney princesses at Citricos for either breakfast or brunch while Disney spruces up Cinderella's Royal Table* at the Magic Kingdom. 

Reservations are required and can be made starting in just a few weeks - on December 4. 

You probably already know that you'll get to meet each of the princesses personally as they visit your table, take photos and sign autographs. But there's one more magical experience you won't want to miss! 

Your little ones can participate in a "Magical Wishing Ceremony"  with Cinderella and the Disney princesses, with "wishing wands" and "wishing swords" for little ones.

Additional Details

Breakfast and brunch hours are 8am - 2:20pm
Cost = $49.99 per adult; $31.99 for children ages 3 - 9. 
Also, this experience is on the Disney Dining Plan (2 entitlements). 

We can book this magical character dining experience for you! Just give us a call at 1-866-207-8387 or email us at: info@magicaltravel.com. 



*Cinderella's Royal Table at the Magic Kingdom is expected to re-open in late March, 2015.

Watch Cast Members Install Christmas Decor at the Magic Kingdom

If you've visited any of the Disney theme parks over the holidays, you know it is truly the most magical time of year. But did you ever wonder when and how the decorations are installed?

All of the magic happens overnight! Check out this video of the new holiday arches being installed over the shops along Main Street USA at Walt Disney World.

And then let us know your favorite Disney holiday tradition!

13 Magical Details Included In Your Disney Cruise

The first thing you'll discover on a Disney Cruise is that the magic is in the details!

On each and every departure aboard all four Disney Cruise Line ships you'll be pleasantly surprised by all that’s included. 

And it’s all those little extras that add up to the most magical vacation. 

Here are 13 things that are included in every Disney Cruise:

1.      Themed kids’ clubs brimming with Disney activities and entertainment – plus the longest complimentary hours at sea!

2.      Immersive, private clubs for teens andtweens

3.      Exclusive adult areas, including a nighttimeentertainment district, and fine dining

4.      State-of-the-art fitness center

5.      One-of-a-kind rotational dining – three amazing restaurants where the servers travel with you to each meal

6.      Complimentary soda, coffee, tea, lemonade, punch and water always available on the pool deck – at no additional charge

7.      24-hour complimentary room service

8.      Broadway-style Disney musicals found only on board

9.      Special moments with Disney Characters

10.  First-run films at sea, some in 3D

11.  Themed deck parties with most voyages featuring fireworks at sea

12.  Spacious staterooms designed especially for families

13.  Legendary Disney service throughout the cruise

A Disney Cruise really is the perfect vacation for families, couples or singles, don't you think? 

So tell us: what's your favorite part of a Disney Cruise? 

3 Reasons Why a Candlelight Dining Package Makes Sense

The Candlelight Processional at Epcot is one of the most popular holiday shows at the Walt Disney World Resort. It's a spectacular show you'll want to see year after year as part of your family's holiday tradition.

Candlelight Processional

SO...WHAT IS THE CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL?

It's a live story-telling by a celebrity narrator of the biblical Christmas tale, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. The music is glorious, the narration is stirring, and the voices of the mass choir are powerfully brilliant.

Some of the celebrity narrators for 2014 are: Jodi Benson, Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg, Marlee Matlin, Isabella Rossellini, and Blair Underwood. (Entertainment is subject to change.)

When?
Three shows are performed nightly from November 28 - December 30, 2014.

Where?
Outdoors at the America Gardens Theater at Epcot.

WHY A CANDLELIGHT DINING PACKAGE MAKES SENSE

Candlelight is one of the most popular holiday shows at the Walt Disney World Resort.

There are standby lines each day and guests wait for hours in hopes of securing a seat for that night's performances - but there's never a guarantee.

Here are three reasons why a Candlelight Dining Package makes sense:

1. Guaranteed seating to the Candlelight Processional
2. Lunch or dinner at a select Epcot restaurant
3. VIP viewing for Epcot's nightly fireworks show, "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth"

 (*Please note that theme park admission is not included in the Candlelight Dining packages)

Want to learn more?
Ready to book your Dining Package?
Call us at 1-866-207-8387 or let us work our magic online for you.

Rates From $170 PP/Per Night On Select Disney Cruises In Early 2015

Sail February 22 & March 1 on the beautiful Disney Magic and enjoy rates starting as low as $170* per person, per night. 

Each cruise features a visit to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruises 

Departing from Port Canaveral 

From $170* per person, per night (based on double occupancy)

Category 11B Standard Inside Stateroom 

For 2/22/15 and 3/1/15 sailings

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruises 

Departing from Port Canaveral

From $187* per person, per night (based on double occupancy)

Category 9C Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom 

For 2/22/15 and 3/1/15 sailings

A small deposit holds your reservation. And when you book with Magical Travel, we'll give you a free, onboard credit to use on spa treatments, souvenirs, shore excursions and more!

Our professional planning services are always free. So please don't hesitate to request a quote or more information. Email Magical Travel at: info@magicaltravel.com or call us at 1-866-207-8387. 

*Rates in U.S. dollars and valid through November 30, 2014. Offer is subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. All amounts subject to change. Gratuities and excursions are not included. Talk to your Magical Travel agent for more information.

PLAY, STAY, DINE & SAVE AT WALT DISNEY WORLD

Click Here For Offer Details

*NEW* SPECIAL SAVINGS FOR TRAVEL TO WALT DISNEY WORLD

JUST ANNOUNCED! Special Offers For Winter and Spring Travel to the Walt Disney World Resort:

Play, Stay, Dine and SAVE! 

Save up to $600 on a 5-night/6-day room, dining and ticket package for most stays: Dec 14 - 20, 2014 and Jan 5 - Mar 7, 2015. (book by Dec 29).

Or, save up to 30% at select Walt Disney World resort hotels for most stays Jan 5 - Mar 28, 2015. (book by Dec 31).

Now is a great time to plan your winter or early spring vacation. And you don't have to pay for it all at once - a small deposit will hold your reservation.

Certain restrictions apply for these offers, so if you'd like to learn more, please fill out our easy Magical Travel Online Request. 

You can also call Magical Travel at anytime at 1-866-207-8387 or send us an email info@magicaltravel.com. 

As always, our professional planning services are free. There are no fees or commissions ever.

Special Winter & Spring Savings for Disney VISA Cardholders

If you have a Disney VISA card, you can save big on travel to the Walt Disney World Resort this winter & early spring with these special offers exclusively for Disney VISA cardholders:

Play, stay, dine & SAVE! 

Save up to $600 on a 5-night/6-day room, dining and ticket package for most stays:

Dec 14 - 20, 2014 and Jan 5 - Mar 7, 2015. (book by Dec 29).

Or, save up to 30% at select Walt Disney World resort hotels for most stays Jan 5 - Mar 28, 2015. (book by Dec 31).

Now is a great time to plan your winter or early spring vacation. And you don't have to pay for it all at once - a small deposit will hold your reservation.

Certain restrictions apply for these offers, so if you'd like to learn more, please fill out our quick and easy Magical Travel Online Request. You can also call Magical Travel at anytime at 1-866-207-8387 or drop us an email info@magicaltravel.com. 

3 Quick (and Free!) Things At Disney That Will Leave You Refreshed and Rejuventated

There are lots of ways to rejuvenate and refresh at Disney without spending time or money at a spa. Here are 3 free things you and your family can do at Walt Disney World to slow down and make the most of your vacation:

1. Go for a nature walk along the trails and stop by the geyser at
Wilderness Lodge Resort

2. Stroll along the Boardwalk (located at Disney's Boardwalk Resort) and catch some of the entertainment - jugglers, musicians, actors, and more!

3. Sit in the air-conditioned lobby of the Grand Floridian and listen to the pianist or the orchestra play.

So how do you like to relax and unwind when you're visiting the Disney theme parks?

Top 5 Coffee Spots at Walt Disney World

If you're a coffee lover, you don't have to sacrifice your daily cup of joe when you're on vacation. In fact, you'd be surprised at how many rich, exotic blends there are to choose from. So, in honor of National Coffee Day (which is today!), we thought we'd share our TOP 5 coffee spots at Walt Disney World: 

5. Les Halls Boulangerie and Patisseries in France at Epcot
A lovely way to start your day at Epcot. Plus, you can choose from a variety of French pastries, baguettes, croissants, to enjoy as you take in World Showcase.

4. Starbucks at the Main Street Bakery
There are a few locations on Walt Disney World property where you can find Starbucks coffee (including Epcot and Downtown Disney), but we chose the one on Main Street as one of the best spots. Great coffee, sweet treats - perfect way to start your day at the Magic Kingdom.

3. Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop at Downtown Disney If the name alone doesn't entice you, the coffee certainly will. In addition to signature ice cream and chocolate concoctions, you can choose from a number of specialty coffee and iced beverages - all with that signature Ghirardelli taste. Yum!

2. Boma - flavors of Africa at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge This place makes you feel like you just landed in the beautiful African landscape. Amid the authentic African decor, you can enjoy a cup of full-bodied Kenyan AA coffee, African pastries and a great breakfast buffet. Definitely one of our top choices.

And our number one spot for coffee at Walt Disney World is...

1. Kona Island at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. Kona Island is considered one of the best spots at Walt Disney World to relax and unwind with a French press of Kona coffee. You can even take a bag of beans home with you (whole or ground, 100% pure or a blend).

So what's your favorite spot to grab a cup of coffee at Walt Disney World? Tell us in the comments below!

Top 10 Reasons to Celebrate the Holidays on the High Seas

This holiday season, Magical Travel can plan your trip on Very MerryTime Cruises - a Disney Cruise Line event - available on sailings in early November through Christmas!

2014 Sail Dates:

·         Disney Magic, Nov 9 - Dec 28

·         Disney Wonder, Nov 9 - Dec 30

·         Disney Dream, Nov 10 – Dec 29

·         Disney Fantasy, Nov 8 – Dec 27

Why should you sail during the holidays? Here are our TOP 10 reasons to celebrate the holidays on the high seas:

1 - Holiday Cheer at Castaway Cay

A winter wonderland awaits you aboard each ship—as well as at Castaway Cay! Disney's private island paradise is transformed with "snow" flurries, a Christmas tree and more. Be on the lookout for Mr. and Mrs. Snowman, dressed in their island attire. Plus, the island's tram is decorated to resemble a reindeer, complete with antlers and a tail.

2 - Deck the Deck Tropical Holiday Party, a celebration in addition to Pirate Night, with candy-cane limbo, dancing and games.

3 - King Triton's Tree Lighting Ceremony, where kids can help light the tree and kick off the holiday festivities

4 - Santa Claus meet-and-greet, an exciting opportunity to take family pictures and see Santa and his elves

5 - Teen-only and tween-only holiday parties—private celebrations where teens and tweens can hang out

6 - Holiday storytelling, with new and old tales about holidays at sea and around the world

7 - Themed activities and crafts for kids: decorate stockings and holiday cards, go on scavenger hunts & more

8 - See a life-sized gingerbread house made completely with edible ingredients—and make your own gingerbread house!

9 - Cookies on Christmas Eve

10 - Holiday caroling with the kids and the crew of the ship

Disney Cruise Line has really gone all out to make sure every sailing is filled with holiday magic. Religious services will also be offered on board. Check with Guest Services for times and locations. 

For pricing on any of the 2014 Very Merrytime Cruises:

CONTACT US

1-866-207-8387

Email: Info@magicaltravel.com

No-obligation quote 

Holiday activities and offerings are subject to change and vary by ship and itinerary. 

How To Do "Pin Trading" at the Disney Parks

Have you ever noticed cast members with pins on their costume? Or maybe you've noticed other guests walking around the Disney parks with lanyards full of Disney collectible pins? Pin trading has become a favorite pasttime at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. It's fun and easy. Here's how you do it:

First, you'll want to get a lanyard. These are sold online or in the theme parks or resorts. There are lots to choose from in different colors and sizes. The lanyard is worn around your neck and is the perfect way to showcase your pin collection.

Next, you'll want to get a pin or two or three or more to adorn your new lanyard. Pins are sold online and in many merchandise locations in the parks, resorts, and Downtown Disney area. Prices for pins start around $7. Make sure you have a good rubber backing for your pin so it will stay on your lanyard securely.

Now, here's where the fun starts! Be on the lookout for cast members with lanyards and pins. Ask them if they want to do some pin trading with you and then check out the pins on their lanyard. If any of their pins catch your eye, offer up one of your pins in exchange. Before you know it, you'll be an expert pin trader!

So do you collect Disney pins - or do you trade them with cast members or other guests? Do you have special pins that you wouldn't trade for the world?

Maelstrom To Be Replaced by NEW Frozen-Themed Attraction

Anna and Elsa have certainly taken Disneyland and Walt Disney World by storm! It was just announced today that construction has begun on a new "Frozen" attraction at the Norway pavilion at Epcot. The new attraction will replace the current ride, "Maelstrom", and will take you into the Kingdom of Arendelle and into some of your favorite moments from the popular film. It is scheduled to open in early 2016. We'll keep you posted as plans progress.

NOTE: The last day you can visit the Maelstrom attraction is October 5, 2014. Although the ride will be closed after that date, the Norway pavilion will remain open during construction.

Elsa, Anna and some other characters from Frozen will also make an appearance during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (an event which requires a separate admission ticket). 

In addition to their regular character appearances, you can see Queen Elsa use her powers to transform the castle into an ice palace each night  Nov 5. Check daily show schedule for times. 

The Ultimate Fine Dining Experience at Walt Disney World

If you're looking for a new and unique dining experience the next time you visit Walt Disney World, consider an evening at Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Classic Victorian elegance meets haute American cuisine at Victoria & Albert's - AAA Five Diamond Award recipient since 2000.

The Menu
The avant-garde menu changes daily and is inspired by the freshest seasonal ingredients from a global market including truffles from Italy, beef from Japan, poulet rouge from North Carolina and oysters from Northern Florida.

The Main Dining Room
Fresh flowers, candlelight and the soft sounds of a harp create a romantic, Victorian ambiance in the main dining room. Here, you'll enjoy up to seven (7) prix fixe courses specially chosen by the Chef.

Queen Victoria's Room

Queen Victoria's Room
This exquisite room was inspired by Victorian dining rooms in London and Paris and is an intimate setting for only four tables.

You'll dine behind closed, frosted-glass doors and enjoy up to ten (10) prix fixe courses specially chosen by the Chef.

Meet the Head Chef and enjoy up to 13 courses 

Relax and enjoy your time at the Chef's Table

The Chef's Table
At the coveted Chef's Table, you'll enjoy a luxurious dinner of up to thirteen (13) prix fixe personalized courses prepared specially for you and your party by the Chef as well as a champagne toast to start the evening.

*The dining experience at the Chef's Table can last up to three hours, so be prepared for an unforgettable evening and an extraordinary feast for the senses.

Dress Code
Men: Dinner jackets with dress pants or slacks and shoes. Ties are optional.
Women: Cocktail dress, nice dress, dressy pant suit or skirt with blouse.
Jeans, shorts, capri pants, sandals, flip-flops or tennis shoes are not permitted.


Reservations
Advanced reservations are highly encouraged. You can make them up to 180 days out by calling (407) WDW-DVNA or booking online or with your travel agent.

*NEW* Nashville Tennessee Is The Newest Adventures by Disney Trip

Adventures by Disney just announced a new 4-day / 3 - night Long Weekend trip to Nashville, Tennessee.

Here's a bit of what you'll experience on this getaway to the home of country music!

Concert and Backstage at the Grand Ole Opry
Visit the show that made country music famous with a private, guided experience backstage at the Grand Ole Opry. Enjoy a private dinner as well as premier seating for the show.

Performance at the BlueBird Cafe
Experience one of the Music City's most famous musical hangouts at the Bluebird Cafe. Meet professional songwriters, learn about the songwriting profession and enjoy a private performance. 

RCA Studio B
Tour the hallowed halls of the "home of a thousand hits!" RCA Studio B has seen the recording of more than 35,000 songs and hits from some of music's biggest legends. *You'll even add to that legacy with a recording of your very own!*

After-Hours Visit at The Hermitage
Behold this beautiful national historic site that was once home to President Andrew Jackson. See its wondrous gardens and gorgeous antebellum architecture. Plus, you'll learn to make authentic southern biscuits and after hours you'll experience a ghost tour of the grounds.

For pricing and itineraries, call Magical Travel at 1-866-207-8387 or send us a request form - Just click here to start. 

3 Strategies to Plan Your Perfect Walt Disney World Vacation

You may think you know all there is to know about Walt Disney World. But no matter how many times you've visited, there's always something new to discover. So how do you make sure you don't miss anything? And how can you get the most out of every day and still allow some time for rest and relaxation?

Here are THREE strategies you can use to plan your perfect Walt Disney World vacation.

1. Plan Ahead! Using "MY DISNEY EXPERIENCE" This fabulous online or mobile app tool allows you to link your tickets, your resort and dining reservations, and connect with other friends or family who are traveling with you. Once you're linked up, you can add personal notes and even choose your FastPass selections. You can do this online, or download the free app.

2. Take advantage of EXTRA MAGIC HOURS As a Walt Disney World resort guest, you can enjoy extra time in the theme parks before they open and after they close. TIP: Not every attraction is open during extra magic hours; however, you will see shorter lines and fewer crowds at some of your favorite attractions.

3. Work with a professional planner. OK, you knew we'd throw that one in there right? Here's why. We do all the research for you! We'll book your airfare, hotel, dining reservations, special event reservations or tickets, such as: Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, and more. Plus, we'll let you know about other things that would affect your trip such as renovations, attraction closings, park hours and more. And our services? Always free.

So what are your tips for saving time and money when it comes to a Disney vacation? We'd love to hear from you. 

Trick or Treating at the Magic Kingdom

Just wait til you see the Magic Kingdom transform into a beautiful fall landscape with leaves and pumpkins and costumes! Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is an annual event that kicks off the holiday season in a big way. Here's what you need to know:

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

Select nights from 

Sept 1 - Oct 31, 2014

Tickets start at $62

1. Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is a special "hard ticket event", which means you need a separate ticket. Regular theme park admission tickets are not accepted for this event.  
2. You CAN wear a costume! Kids and adults are welcome to dress up for this special night of trick or treat fun. 
3. There are special candy stations throughout the park for trick or treating!
4. Special shows, including the Disney villains at the Castle stage and don't miss the "Boo To You" Halloween parade featuring a ride by the Headless Horseman! 

If you're on the fence about whether to attend this spook-tacular event, check out this fun video: 

We can book this event for you and we also may be able to save you some money with special offers at select Walt Disney World resort hotels this fall. Call us toll free at 1-866-207-8387 or email us at info@magicaltravel.com.