Disney Blog - Orlando Vacation Information

Epcot

2009-11-19T14:28:00.000-05:00

We went to EPCOT today! It was so fun, I mean I couldn’t help but enjoy the entire thing. Have you ever been overjoyed to learn something new? I mean 90% of the theme park is basically a Star Trek episode and all the things they teach you about are current technological advances, did I say that right? Epcot stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, which was supposed to be a community Walt Disney made himself. Of course with laws and legal rights he couldn’t make a full community, so he has a theme park dedicated to the advancements of man; and what an awesome way to spend your day!

When we first got there we went to Mission: SPACE, an amazing ride that all our friends said we have to try. It’s a space mission, literally, you get to sit with three of your friends and take on a space mission to Mars. You have to land the shuttle on the planet, and all your friends have to push the right buttons and pull the right levers to make it a successful mission. We must have ridden it three times; it was absolutely fun, we would totally do it again if it wasn’t for the long lines.

We then went to Test Track, where we spent a short tour learning about how cars get approved for safety regulations on the road. And then the video informed us that we would be able to participate in one of these daring crash tests, except that we would play the part of the dummies. So off we went with high expectations into the cart, and we were thrust down the track at 70 MPH! We narrowly dodged walls, weaved through cones and the rest I’ll leave as a surprise. Alls I can say was this was amazing! We enjoyed every moment of it and might even label it the best rides in all of Disney!

Next we went on the LAND ride, where you get in a boat and travel through a six acre greenhouse dome and see all the strange ways EPCOT is growing plants. They have Mickey Mouse shaped pumpkins, massive cucumbers, their learning to grow plants in sand so they can turn deserts into massive food resources. They have a full blown fish farm, and they even have hanging plants so they can learn to grow them in space! This ride was totally awesome, and when it’s over you can eat some of the food grown in the dome at a store outside.

Next we went on Soarin, which is right next door to the Land ride. You hang from a contraption face down, and you become elevated over a massive screen. Wind is blown in your face and you fly over national monuments. It really felt like you were flying! This experience was so cool, its probably the only time you can ever get this kind of feeling so it’s an absolute must if you go to EPCOT!

We spent the rest of the day exploring the World Showcase, a bunch of restaurants surrounding a lake. Each restaurant has its own national theme, we went to Mexico, Norway, Germany, China, Japan, Italy and more that I can’t even remember. Each one was a cultural experience, having its own restaurant and sometimes even a ride. We enjoyed Norway the most because there is a Viking ride in the back and it is so fun! We ate at the United Kingdom and the food was really, really good! The best part? The food was affordable, if you can get here for a meal while at Disney you should definitely do it.

After our dinner the fireworks started, in the center of the lake was a massive platform and fireworks poured out of it. It was such a fun time, and the fireworks were a perfect way to end it, if you wanna choose a theme park at Disney Land this is the one!

Gatorland Strives for new "Heights".

2009-11-18T08:30:00.006-05:00

Alligators have always been an icon to people visiting Florida. Since there are very few places in the US your able to see them, tourists always thrive for a sight of these rare creatures. Its the closest thing to a Dinosaur they will see. Because of this natural curiosity, who wouldnt build a themed park dedicated to these critters? Gatorland is Florida's leading attraction when it come to Alligators. With shows and exhibits running all day everyday, there are always Gators and Florida wildlife everywhere you look.

One of their leading shows, The Gatorland Jumparoo, has recieved awards for originality. This show has handlers making Gators Jump out of the water for Chicken. Gators can get up to 10 feet out of the water using their tails to propel themselves skyward, towards the chicken. The story-line of this show has two rednecks (Bubba and Cooter) trying to get a job as a Gator Wrestler. In turn, they are each given chickens and are told to "give the crowd a show." The problem lately with this show, has been lazy gators. "They dont care if they have to work or not for their food or not." Says Gatorlands Director of Entertainment Mike Hileman, "They're simply getting lazy."

Because of this, Lead Executive Handler Mark McHugh has decided to remove some of the older gators and put in some more, young, agile, and athletic reptiles. "Jumping to grab their food is a natural behavior. They can catch birds out of the air," He says, "Jumping and grabbing a chicken barely requires any training." These gators weren't used to being around people, and will probably take a few days to get acclimated. "Its a cultural shock to them." Says McHugh.

McHugh and Hileman think that adding these new gators will give a fresh start to the show. Younger gators will be able to jump higher, and will be more willing to work since its a new scene to them. They hope that this will increase crowd participation, and leave less lull in the show.

A soft-opening is scheduled for friday the 20th, and the show is expected to be at full strength again by the first of December. The moving and processing of the gators will take just over three days, and they will have moved over 250 alligators. This process includes having three people sit on the back of one with a towel over its head. "This keeps them calm, but it can be unnerving for some, because it doesnt stop their hissing." Says McHugh. He also said that the first gator they moved was a 10 foot female, who as soon as she was released into the new preserve, stared down the handlers until they were out of sight.

Other Jumparoo modifications include a stage that extends out the center instead of the two sides to provided a 360 view for the audience. They also removed some structural situations that block or obscured guests views of the show. It also included all new characters and themes, with the backdrop of the story remaining the same. Hileman says "All the fans of [Bubba and Cooter] dont have to worry. They're still there." And the retired alligators have their own exhibits. So no need to worry about them either.

More snap in Gatorland's Jumparoo

2009-11-18T07:50:00.004-05:00

After 25 years, Gatorland has decided to make some changes to it's world-class Jumparoo attraction.

Gatorland plans to re-cast it's Jumparoo performers in place of the previous generation. Underwater fences will be installed and 30 select gators of the next generation will be moved into the Jumparoo.

Some of the larger alligators were becoming lackadaisical and did not want to work for their food. The younger generation are more unpredictable, livelier, agile and create the type of performance guests are expecting.

Actually, Gatorland enhances the natural behavior of these animals by training them to jump for pieces of chicken surrounded by human beings. Acclimation to this new environment will require nearly a week.

Gatorland's new face-lift will include the logistics of moving nearly 250 alligators including a medical exam for the Jumparoo attraction. Alligators normally demonstrate their dislike of handling by a constant hissing sound.

As alligators continue to be introduced to their new habitat, they are learning to adjust to their trainers.

In an attempt to bring the action closure to guests, the all-new Jumparoo deck will extend out into the middle of the alligator infested dwelling. Instead of using poles, the trainers will feed the animals with their hands providing a whole new approach to entertainment.

'Shard back in action at Amway.

2009-11-17T14:16:00.004-05:00

Finally, after 10 long games sitting out, the Orlando Magic's All-Star 3 point man made his first appearance of the season in uniform on the Amway arena floor Monday night against a new-look Charlotte Bobcats. As to be expected, 'Shard looked a little rusty out there. He didn't even score until the third quarter. But once he did score, he was able to spark a rally.

After Lewis made his first few points Ryan Anderson, White Chocolate, and D12 made some plays. VC came out with the biggest shot of the night too. Vince looks like he's filling Hedo's spot very well. The Magic retained the lead for good after 'Shard got going.

To be honest though, I didn't recognize these Bobcats at first. I saw Stephen Jackson in that uniform and I thought to myself "doesn't this guy play for the warriors"? Turns out that Jackson had been traded earlier in the day and flew out to Orlando immediately after he found out he was traded. He sure didn't waste any time. Also the Bobcats shot 60% from the field in the first half too, which is totally out of character for the league leader in fewest points scored per game. After the Magic got there defense together in the second half though, the Bobcats landed in familiar spot, the losing column.

But it seems the Magic just can't catch a break this year with the injuries. As soon they finally play a game with their projected starting 5, the news comes out that Jameer injured his knee and will require arthroscopic surgery. He will miss 4-6 weeks, which isn't as terrible as last year when he injured his shoulder but, these injuries are starting to get ridiculous. I'm glad these injuries are happening now at the beginning of the season, where the Magic can still recover. I'm hoping the Magic can be healthy by the All-Star break.

The Re-Opening of a Legend.

2009-11-17T08:41:00.003-05:00

Magic Kingdom ride, Space Mountain, has been a key icon in the park for 34 years. This indoor roller coaster has been a defining point for roller coasters of the same genre. Disney's knack for making unique attractions has made it even more enjoyable for its guests. Rock 'n' Roller Coaster is another one of Disney's indoor attractions. This is more intense than Space Mountain. And people noticed.

Disney didnt want to shut down Space Mountain for a period lasting any longer than 6 months. So they began construction on the ride before the summer. This was a strategy to have it opened back up before the winter rush. Since Disney Worlds attendence is mostly driven by out-of-state and Internation guests, Alex Wright, Disney's Show Director and head Supervisor of Space Mountains Rehab, didnt want to ruin the Tomorrowland experience for guests who only come once ever 5-7 years. Due to a few complications, the ride was shut down for just over 7 months. It is scheduled to open up completely on November 22nd. They held a Soft Opening this monday (16th) to make sure everything was in order, and Alex said that "Everything looks promising." Although, he also stated that there is going to be mutiple-minor tweeks until mid December.

Among the $12 million dollar project changes was 87 Virtual Reality game stations to occupy guests while they wait in line. These games include concepts like, destroying astroids before they hit a ship, sorting through lost space objects, and manuevering the shuttle through obstacles. These rides are aimed at expanding the story line of the ride. This story being that of a ship about to blast off from an inter-stellar airport. This enhances the whole experience, and the guests are litterally thrown into this out-of-this-world theme that only Disney is able to convey.

If anyone has been on this ride in the last 10 years, they will be able to vouche that it isnt the smoothest roller coaster out there. Disney Recalibrated the track to provide a smooth and easy ride. In order to not take away from the intensity... Disney removed lights from the ride. This means that guests cannot anticipate drops and turns. It actually brought up the scale of the roller coaster and made it ever more intense than it actually was.

Personally, my experience has always been amazing with Space Mountain. Its my favorite attraction inside of Magic Kingdom. Its the highlight of my trip. I remember the first time i went on it with my family, i was 12 years old, and i threw up all over my little brothers stroller. While he was in it. It was incredible. To this day we still joke about it. Im excited about its re-openning, and will be attending sometime next week to try out the newly renovated legend of Disney.

Space Mountains new make-over

2009-11-17T07:27:00.006-05:00

Just after six weeks and a meager $12 million, Space Mountain will be ready to open Nov 22, just in time for the Thanksgiving weekend.

The much beloved 34 year-old icon roller coaster in Magic Kingdom was in desperate need of a make-over. Because of the type of international visitors that Disney World attracts, execs. did not want to leave the iconic attraction closed for a long period of time.

Many of the enhancements added to Space Mountain paralleled the Anaheim Calif. sister park. Unlike Disneyland, much of visitors that come to Disney World do not make multiple visits each year but every five years.

The Tomorrowland attraction is essentially in the dark transporting riders into space. Guests enter a long queue anxiously waiting for their intergalactic space vehicle, once aboard, the ship enters hyper-speed and blasts off into the dark.

Distinct features have been added to the attraction built in 1975, increasing the experience for hardcore fans. Albeit, this next generation ride was not equipped with on-board audio-system, designers have added to the story-line while waiting in the queue.

With nearly 90 video-game stations, guests will begin their experience voyaging from a interstellar airport while completing a series of tasks including moving cargo, helping lost travelers, clearing runways and designing an expanded airport.

An attraction similar to Space Mountain is on every ones todo list when coming to Orlando said show designers from Disney's Imagineering.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

2009-11-16T07:46:00.004-05:00

From the windows of the Tram, Cinderella's castle suddenly illuminated in the distance shimmering with shades of purple, blue, red, guests knew that they where in for a wonderful treat.

As snow flakes fell on Main Street USA, the castle looming in the distance, merry guests hassled and bustled through brightly decorated shops. From Casey's corner to the Exposition Hall, Main Street Bookstore to The Emporium, shoppers made their final purchase before the Celebrate the Season Show.

With a cop of hot chocolate in hand, and a sugar coated cookie, people found the perfect spot on the ground before the forecourt stage. "Ladies and gentle", a friendly voice exclaimed in the speaker, "we present The Celebrate the Season Show" as the atmosphere suddenly was filled with Disney's magic.

Lively performers dressed in Christmas outfits danced on the stage, Mickey & Friends, ballerinas, toy soldiers marching, elfs bringing gifts, the show was beyond expectation.

Without a doubt, the best performance was the Holiday Wishes Celebrate the Reason for the Season. Disney spared no expense with their pyrotechnics show on that evening. As beloved Christmas Songs of the past filled the air, fireworks bursted with amazing accuracy benind the castle.

Disney Quest 09'

2009-11-14T08:52:00.003-05:00

Whats the first thing that pops into mind when you hear the word Disney? Cinderella's Castle? Mickey? Goofy? Family Theme Parks? How about Video games? No? Interactive Media? Doesnt ring a bell? Disney has a branch of itself that is often looked over when thinking of the Franchise. Disneyquest. Five floors of interactive games and fun. This is a nice change of pace from the hussle and bussle of running around the parks. A family interested in the Realm of Virtual Reality could spend all day in here. Being 20 years old, i still love this place. My friend Wes and i recently took a trip there to kill a day of a weekend. He had never been there before, so this was a new adventure for him.

The first thing you will notice when you get in, is the elevator. This pretends to be a rocket that takes you to the Fun Zone. This is a central point for everything that is included in the building. This has stairs and elevators that takes you to the different floors.

Floor one. This is the Entrance, as well as the Adventure Zone. This safari theme style of interactivity, includes Rides like the Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Carribean, and Arcade safari shooters. The Jungle Cruise puts you in a boat on an airbag that rocks and dips according to the direction you steer on the screen in front of you. Using Paddles and sensors, this ride actually lets you steer your boat on a completely virtual river. Pirates of the Carribean allows a 3D experience like none other. Also using airbags, the "crew" has up to 6 people. A Driver, and 5 gunners. Comfortably, 3 people can do this. Your job is to sink and plunder as many ships as you can before the dread pirate comes and attempts to take YOUR gold. With pull-string cannons and 3D goggles, this is something that very few people have been able to accomplish in the Virtual Reality era.

Floor Two. This is the Creation Floor. This has rides and attractions that require imagination. Create-Your-Own-Roller Coaster is probably the lead attraction on this floor. This ride allows you to create a roller coaster with the most ridiculous twists and turns and moves that will give even the most experienced Roller Coaster fanatics a run for their money. Strapping into a pod that resembles a roller coaster cart, this ride allows you to ride your very own creation. With a surrounding screen, this gives the impression that you are really there in the coaster. This is a thrill for even the most intense thrill seekers. Also on this floor, is various "Creation Stations". Sids Create-a-Toy allows guests to create their own twisted characters using various parts from Toy Story. The Living Easel allows guests to use a touch screen to draw and color anything they want with a unique Disney Twist.

Floor Three. This is the Arcade Floor. This has all the classics. From Pac-Man to Joist to TRON. This is great for anyone of the older generation who remembers spending all their Quarters at the local arcade. This Floor Also includes the Buzz Lightyears Astro Blasters. This is a bumber cars type ride. Each cart has a gunner and a driver. The Gunner can shoot "Enemy" carts to make them spin wildly out of control. Competition is required to keep from wasting time spinning.

Floor Four and Five. The Comix Zone. This allows guests to ride through rides fighting various supervillians in an array of interactive rides. This also includes the kids zone and Sports Arena Arcade. The Comix Zone has various attractions that provide both a 3D and intense experience. Ride the Comix puts guests on star ship as it is being attacked by villians and their minions. This is what Disney Calls a FEG. Fully Emmersive Game. Guests put on a helmet and are literally surrounded by this Comic Book Style world. Guests can look around, jump, swing their sword, fly. There is little the guests are unable to do. Invasion! is another ride that puts guests in the middle of a virtual planet. Guests board a "Star SpideR-R" to fend off attacking aliens while picking up Humans that are being held captive. There is once again a Driver, and 4 shooters. While this ride isnt necessarily a FEG, it shakes and "jumps" which gives a pretty convincing experience.

All this being said, DisneyQuest is most certainly an attraction that you do NOT want to miss on your next vacation to the DisneyWorld. Inside DisneyQuest, there are Many Many more attractions that have not been listed here. This is simply a taste of some of their bigger more exciting packages. Even hardcore gamers will have something to do here. I hope this has been helpful, and i hope you add this attraction to your To-Do list next time you visit Central Florida.

Busch Entertainment sales fall

2009-11-13T10:32:00.003-05:00

As the #2 theme-park in Florida, Busch Gardens Entertainment sales continue to fall into the third quarter.

Albeit, the decline eased, Parent company Anheuser-Busch InBev reported 3rd quarter revenues of $480 million generated by its eight theme-parks down nearly 3.8% the same time last year.

Revenues improved over the 18.3% declines in the 1st quarter of the year, when cash-strapped consumers cut spending due to the recession. Economic markers show that the economy is in the initial stages of recovery which is good news for Busch.

With respect to other competitors, Busch's president Jim Atchison was well please with the performance of BEC during the recession. Anchinso made comments that it was not such a "bad story" when you look at a company like Universal whose financial stats were a little bit grimmer dropping about 14% in the 3rd quarter.

Busch Gardens that boasts theme-parks in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Texas reported sales falling to 6.8% from $1.06 billion. Further attendance predictions by Moody's Investor Service indicated that attendance may fall as much as 7% in 2009 dropping to 23.6 million.

Busch Gardens hopes to achieve higher attendance figures thab was projected by the Investor Service targeting high-performance parks including its home rum with the Manta Aquarium at SeaWorld.

By comparison, high attendance was reported at Sesame Place and Busch Gardens in Williamsburg Virginia but SeaWorld San Diego experienced a rough market.

Lagging the market, Atchinson believes that the recovery will not be linear but a slow crawl.

Disney profits up 18% fourth quarter

2009-11-13T09:04:00.005-05:00

The Synergy between ESPN Sports channel and it's TV syndicate appears to have boosted fourth quarter profits to 18% at the Walt Disney Co.

While the delayed global recovery appears to be easing, businesses globally are reporting a level fiscal fourth quarter in an environment that is extremely challenging.

Despite a bear market, Disney Burbank California reported revenues increased by 4% to $9.9 billion while earnings hit $895 million in the third quarter compared to $760million the same time last year.

Although profit margins decayed 17% down $344 million at parks and resorts, attendance remained propped up. Netting just $3.3 billion for the year, down 25%, while sales fell 4% to $36.1 billion, resulting from the bear-like market.

Since bookings continue to be closer to the date of travel, Disney struggles to predict a full recovery to its theme-parks.

Between the 3% decrease at Orlando offset by a 15% increase of attendance at Disneyland exceeded the predictions by analysts over a year ago.

Sustained discounts that propped up attendance but generated losses in merchandise, food, and hotel rooms has no real end in sight according to executives.

Disney expects to lag behind the recovery just has it lagged behind with resilience at the beginning of the downturn.

One of the weakest links in Disney's division was its movie studio which underperformed other divisions plunging 84% to $175 million. Likewise other under- performing DVD's included Shopaholic, Bedtime Stores, and G-Force.

Amidst the bad news, Disney has high expectations for its media networks including ESPN and the ABC family, provoking operating profits to increase marginally.

Movie Studio Distribution head change

2009-11-13T08:04:00.002-05:00

During unusually restless times, falling revenues from $1.82 billion in the March quarter of 2008 to $1.26 billion in the second quarter, has provoked some of the changes that occurred this week.

In a major reshuffling, Disney has made several promotions and cuts to get it's movie studios back on track. In the aftermath, Dick Cook was ousted from Walt Disney Studios and replaced by Rich Ross. Disney was unhappy with the way that movies were being delivered to consumers.

Bob Chapek who was instrumental in designing plans that would give consumers access to movies across various platforms, was appointed as president of distribution. The position would make him responsible for digital, pay-TV, home, theatrical, movies and other formats.

Among the promotions, Disney elevated Grandeau to studios chief technology officer and replaced Mark Zoradi with a new marketing chief.

Deals were cut this year with Steven Spielsberg's Dreamworks Studios at the same time that Disney made cuts to its Miramax Films division.

With the new merger between ESPN and Disney Wide World of Sports, some gains to profits are being reported this week.

Holiday Season

2009-11-12T14:20:00.001-05:00

With the holiday season coming around everything is getting so stressful! Of course the excitement is building up as theme parks around Central Florida are getting ready to have their celebrations. It is kinda hard not to be exited about them to, I mean wouldn’t you like to just take a day off and go relax in the hectic part of the season? Well the theme parks are here to help, because while we cant all fly to New York and see the Macy’s day parade, we can take a short trip over to Walt Disney World or Universal and get an experience that I think is even better.

Disney is hosting Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas, a huge celebration in the Magic Kingdom theme park, this thing is huge! They have decorated the entire theme park with Christmas lights and decorations, but the thing that stands out above all the other decorations is the Cinderella Castle, the icon of Magic Kingdom. It has been fully engulfed in Christmas lights, from top to bottom shining and glimmering. Just try to imagine an entire castle, towers and all, with shining and glowing lights all over it, it’s amazing! While I could go on and on about how amazing the castle looks, the party has far more to offer than just beautiful decorations. On Main Street U.S.A, the parks point of entrance the place is covered in snow, yes real snow. If you ask the staff at the park how they are making it snow in the theme park, there response will simply be; “Your in the land of magic.” Regardless as to how they are pumping out so much snow, the kids are enjoying every moment of this constant falling snow.

On the streets you’ll find all the Disney characters dressed in winter attire, hopping around and entertaining guests. The attractions are supposed to still be open until the finally, which I must say is amazing. With a massive parade, complete only by floats and dancing characters, marching soldiers and a special and momentous appearance by the big man in red, yes I will be there. Shortly after the parade the fireworks begin, filling the sky with holiday colors and Christmas cheer, ever witnessed a firework show parodying Christmas? Well now’s your chance to get in on all the fun and action, you have got to try it, it was so fun last year, and this year it will be just as great, if not better!

But don’t let your holiday cheer end there, Universal Studios is having their form of a Holiday Party also. Calling it the “Grinchmas;” Universal Studios Islands of Adventure is housing decorations from the hilarious movie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” If your looking for a party then you have come to the right place, its going to be a fantastic party with the Macy’s Holiday Parade on the streets of the Islands of Adventure theme park. Need I say more? It’s the Macy’s Parade in Florida! But if you think that’s all uh uh, at the Universal Music Plaza you can find a Holiday Concert Series featuring big name artists such as, Mannheim Steamroller’s, Chris Isaak and Natalie Cole. Oh my gosh it is going to be so awesome!

That just about fills up my holiday season for fun and entertainment, I don’t know how anyone can pass up this opportunity. I am so exited about these upcoming events that I have already purchased tickets to each. The dates are on select days so you gotta call for reservations, but you can bet to see me there, it makes this holiday season something to look forward to!

Princess Tiana to score big at Disney

2009-11-12T07:24:00.010-05:00

With bit-size magical kisses, graham crackers layered in chocolate, and a riverboat show, Disney's extensive Princess Tiana promotion blitz is creating a buzz at the Magic Kingdom.

Due to be released on December 11, 2009, Disney is adding a new princess to the harem of princesses to its arsenal. Tiana is causing an uproar these days during the meet-and-greet at the Magic Kingdom.

With a vast array of merchandise including Tiana dolls, makeovers, vouchers to view her movie, Disney has not had this kind of publicity for more than a decade.

To date, Disney's fairy-tale princess empire earns some estimated $4 billion in sales through it's franchise units.

Tiana's Showboat Jubilee is a sure tell-tale sign that Disney is holding no stops in promoting the Princess and the Frog. With a bigger-than-life lavish parade, musical revue, and a march through the Liberty Square, the spectacular culminates with a royal riverboat ride across the water.

Dancing, singing, and performance is all part of the magic that truly brings Tiana to life.

Get ready for both the princess Tiana to appear in Mickey's Very Merry Christmas party and giveaways through December. Even Disneyland's Anaheim Cal resort will be graced with Tiana's Showboat Jubilee.

The fact that her name is princess Tiana, is very titillating for guests who want to see how she dresses, and the depth of her beauty. This in-park blitz is probably as big as the release of the Lion King back in 1994.

The biggest push comes from Disney's CEO Bog Iger who wants to exploit the film across it's diverse platforms including video, theme-parks and television.

Recession slows construction at Disney World

2009-11-10T07:43:00.006-05:00

Albeit, Disney's Wide World of Sports is seeing an increase in attendance, construction at Disney World is at an all-time low.

This is only the second time Since WWI that unemployment has reached 10% nationwide and as much as 15% in other states. Some are calling our global economic downturn a depression.

Impacted by difficult times is the #1 theme-park Disney World whose construction projects has slowed over the last year. Data obtained from the well-known Reedy Creek Improvement District shows that building permit activity dropped to an all-time low of 25%.

Amid this weak economy, Disney is still building and demolishing building in it's theme parks. Amongst the list of upgrades includes Space Mountain's smoke and ride controls.

Disney's boardwalk Villas, Walt Disney Dolphin Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, the Yacht Club and Shades of Green Resort will all be getting a face-lift totaling some $15 million in the months to come.

Another interesting project that is slowly starting up is the reconstruction of the Holiday Inn that was devastated in the hurricanes of 2004. Disney has allocated some $2 million in funds for a new contemporary Floridian design.

Other projects include demolition of Tomorrowland's Magic Kingdom, exterior stair tower at the Grand Floridian, and new bus stop at Animal Kingdom's Kidani village totaling some $2.8 million.

But one of the most exciting upcoming installations at Disney World will be the new "The Sum of All Thrills" KUKA technology robotic arm similar to the one being used at Harry Potter's Forbidden Journey at Universal studios. This technology will propel guest on 3-axis creating a one-of-a-kind thrill-ride experience.

Epcot

2009-11-09T15:23:00.001-05:00

We went to EPCOT yesterday and wow was it awesome; EPCOT stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, and apparently it was supposed to actually be a community. However now it’s an amusement park filled with all the technological advancements that can be found, and all the rides deal with the future or past of technologies journey to our common era.

When we first arrived we were told that Mission: SPACE was a must, so we instantly went to the ride. The line wait was short, I think because it was so early in the morning and so few people were in the park at the time. This was a ride I will never forget, you are asked to complete a space mission, however, you need to do all this while barely being able to lift your hand. We were later told that we were being spun at high speeds in order to achieve this effect, but overall the rides a 12/10 in my book, it was totally awesome.

Next we made our way towards the Honey I Shrunk the Kids showing, because they had specific showing times we had to rush across the park, but we made it in time. The theater was dark and the screen showed some of the latest inventions the family had made. Through a serious of hilarious mistakes and mishaps you are shrunk, overrun by mice and attacked by a snake. The interesting part? Oh yea, each time something happens you feel it, the mice between your legs, the dog slobbering the snake hissing shoots air on you, ye it was totally amazing and I loved it.

They had a new ride in the park, well all the rides were new to us but this one was new to the park. It’s called “The Sum of All Thrills,” a massive metallic arm with hydraulics that bends and twists and spins achieving the effect of a flight simulator, except this one lifts you off the ground. It was made by a company called Raytheon, who builds weapons defenses for the United States. I found it kinda funny that they also make rides for theme parks as well as defense systems to keep us safe. The thing moves so fast and we had to try it. You sit in two pods at the end of the arm, and after creating your own rollercoaster the pods close and you get to ride it via screens. But as the screen makes a flip, so does the arm giving you some awesome thrills without the massive steel coaster. This thing was amazing, not just riding it but watching it was totally awe inspiring.

We then went on the LAND where we were ushered through a massive dome and shown all the plants and experiments that EPCOT had conveyed. The place was really cool and the Mickey Mouse shaped pumpkins were kinda funny. Then we passed through a fish farm that was full of exotic fish and even alligators. After the ride we ate at the restaurant outside that fed you the food grown in the dome.

Next we went on Soarin, a simulator that raises you above a large screen and then blows air on you. The screen then shows images of all different monuments in California and it really feels like your flying overhead of it. If you ask me this was totally awesome and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

We then went on Testtrack, a reaaaally fast roller-coaster that does some amazing and speedy angle changes. The cool part was that before the ride they tell you all about what it takes to make a car that’s approved by safety regulations, and that your about to experience what a test dummy might feel during a high speed test. Then you are skyrocketed at brick walls, swerving around cones and more of the regular tests, all of which your vehicle is capable avoiding.

After that we met at the lake near the World Showcase, and eplored all the separate countries. Here surrounding the lake are several restaurants and separate buildings that represent their culture via architecture. We went to every one and we liked Norway so much, that we ended up eating in their restaurant, under exotic scenery and even a volcano. After we had explored countries such as Japan, China, Norway, France, United Kingdom, Canada and more; we were pleasantly surprised when they told us a fireworks show was about to start in the center of the lake. The firework show was a perfect way to end the day, and wow was a it totally a show.

Wide World of Sports linked with ESPN

2009-11-06T11:00:00.002-05:00

A long overdue transformation effort of the Disney Wide World of Sports brand built nearly a decade ago is underway in effort to resurrect a failed theme park.

In the days to come, the athletic complex will be uplinked to the world-famed ESPN television cable-sports juggernaut. Boasting a whopping 220-acre venue, Disney plans to invest millions of dollars to re-brand the theme park.

Disney is sparing no expense when outfitting the aging arena. Disney intends on making amateur competitors feel like they are in the big league by outfitting the theme-park with high-definition video cameras, big-display screens, jumbo-trons, audio system, satellite uplink to ESPN's headquarters, and a broadcasting center.

Disney speculates that roughly 250,000 amateur athletes will compete at the facility each year. With the latest cutting edge technology, they hope that the amateurs will think they made it into the big time.

As one of the best known brands in the world, the ESPN association is hoped to lure in larger crowds to the old Wide World of Sports stadium that opened in 1997.

Mickey's New Facelift in Video Game

2009-11-06T08:55:00.002-05:00

If you own or plan to purchase a Nintendo Wii, it might change the way you look at the cute lovable Mickey Mouse that many of us have all grown up with. Walt Disney is reported to give the lovable character an angry looking make over to where the mouse becomes mean and aggressive. But this aggressive critter will not be the new look of Disney forever, it’s all just going to be put into a video game named “Epic Mickey” for the Nintendo Wii. The game was officially announced by Disney on October 28th and is said to have a totally different plot than any other Disney game. In this game Mickey is stuck in Yen Sid's Cartoon Wasteland where he is forced to face Oswald the Lucky Rabbit and other forgotten Disney characters. Mickey is also on a mission to defeat Phantom Blot who plays the bad guy in this game and his only weapon of choice is a magic paintbrush. The new edgy Mickey is said to be a more appealing version of the mouse and connects to players worldwide, of course it’s hard to defeat a bad guy when you’re a smiling, happy, lovable mouse!

Along with the recent video game, Disney has also received approval from China to build a new park in Shanghai. “Epic Mickey" is expected to be released in the fall of 2010.

“Video-game sales rose 1% in September, according to NPD Group, after six months of declines. Game software sales rose 5%, a smaller increase than analysts had expected. Disney generated about $86 million in retail sales in the U.S. in the first nine months of the year, according to NPD data. Nintendo of America, which is the leading seller of games, made about $1 billion in sales.”

-MSN Money

Personally I believe this is a great strategy Disney is approaching; it has already gained and secured their targeted market and are looking to expand into an entirely opposite market. Disney’s current market is comprised mainly of younger girls – the princesses and fairy tales seemed to do a great job in capturing the attention. With this video game and the recent purchase of Marvel Comics Disney is expanding to a market comprised mainly of young boys which will ultimately put Disney on top of both major markets in the youth industry.

Disney theme-park planned for Shanghai

2009-11-05T07:54:00.004-05:00

While Disney's initial foray in China has not been as successful as they had hoped, plans are being made to open a new park in Shanghai.

With steady decline to only 4% park attendance on the second year in China, Disney has not been able to achieve the projected goal of 5.6 million visitors. More than likely, Disney did not correctly gauge the local taste for entertainment in this culture.

In order to be successful in a foreign country, more detailed studies need to be made of the tastes, food, and culture. Some feel that the park's size can not accommodate the potentially larger crowds of a over-populated nation.

However, other projects like Ocean park are good example of a business that can thrive in Hong Kong.

A particular businessman from the west have been successful in Hong Kong namely entrepreneur Zaman who has a very lucrative development and renovation project in Ocean Park. His success can be attributed to a renovation, new management teams, in-house concessionary, improved local Cantonese fare, a giant panda cuisine Sichuan province style and other real animal attractions.

In order to be successful in Hong Kong, a business has to be less Americanesc and integrate more of a cultural Chinese taste.

Disney's Hong Kong park, should be the experiment that can make the new park in Shanghai which may be the largest investment in China to date by an American company.

Only in Florida.

2009-11-04T10:07:00.004-05:00

November is the time of the year where you would expect to see snow littering the ground, and tree's loosing their leaves. Snow shoes and gloves accompany people everywhere they go. Snowboarders come out of hiding and Skiers prepare their equipment. Not in Florida! I went to the beach this weekend.

How many other states have tempertures in the low 90's coming into November? I was preparing my board shorts and surfboards. There isn't alot of times you CAN'T go to the beach in Florida. Last Christmas week i spent a weekend in Daytona in the high 80's. This is one of the advantages of living here in the "sunshine state".

Calling a few friends, we got up at dawn and took a road trip about an hour from Kissimmee to Cocoa Beach. Where the surf is always great and the tides are always shallow. This is the perfect beach to go to with families. Kids can hang out in the shallow tides, while adults can wade out a little deep and the surfing crowd can go even further and never worry about no having some waves. This is one of the few beaches in Florida that actually hosts surfing tournaments all year round. These are obviously in designated sections so that the kids can play in a danger free zone.

On this particular day, it started out a little cloudy in the morning but quickly cleared up so it wasn't too hot, and we didnt have to worry about alot of sunscreen. It felt great to be in the water. It was the perfect temperture for the low 90's. Not too cold, but still refreshing. The waves further out were perfect, breaking at a sand bar about 1/6 of a mile out. This kept us all away from the people so we didnt have to worry about weaving while surfing, and put them out of harms way. The children played in the shallow waters with the girls and had a blast.

There are plenty of restaurants right on the beach. From a Wendy's to a Red Lobster, there are placed to eat all over the place. We stopped at a little Italian Place and got some pizza because we all voted it sounded like the best beach lunch. This was also one of the best pizza places i have ever encountered. And relatively cheap! It cost me about $8 for 3 slices and a gatorade. It was incredible.

Its nice, among the hussle and bussle of theme parks, to make a relaxing trip to the beach and be able to any time of the year. Located only an hour or so from the Kissimmee Area, it makes this excursion worth while. Nothing beats Florida's beaches. This is an opportunity that shouldn't be missed. Make sure you include a day in your vacation to make a daylong trip to the beach.

Free movies at the Plaza Cinema Cafe Theatre

2009-11-04T07:35:00.003-05:00

For years Orlando's city officials have been looking for a way to prop-up the retail sector at downtown Orlando. Hosting festivals, donating space, providing low-cost parking, promoting downtown were all part of the agreement for the Cinema.

With its 12-screen movie plaza, free movies, and new retail stores, it appears that the Plaza Cinema Cafe Theatre is on track for success. Patrons that come to see a movie can pay as little as $2 on parking for the first 3 hours.

With only 6 months of operations, retail store owners have a positive outlook that the theater will draw the projected 10,000 guests during weeks of free movie premiers.

Many tenants that have been in operation prior to the theater being opened have experienced marketable increase in business. Up to $6 million in an incentives are available to the Plaza Cinema as long as they maintain their agreement.

Before the theater opened their has been many vacant store fronts in the area that the city is hoping will be occupied in the months to come.

Oh the Wonder!

2009-11-03T09:29:00.002-05:00

"One of the first conditions of hapiness, is that the link between man and nature shall never be broken." - Leo Tolstoy.

How many people do not enjoy having wildlife eat chips out of their hands while having a family picnic? Or who dont like feeding the birds leftover french-fries? Or dont enjoy riding horses or playing with house-pets? This is one of the few joys humans partake in. Their connection with nature.

There arent many theme parks that are able to convey this aspect of life. How awesome would it be to spend time of the day in a care-free world. One may ask, "The Carribean right?" No. Discovery Cove.

Discovery Cove is certainly one of a kind. Instead of your typical attraction and rides, Discovery Cove offers experiences rather than thrills. Instead of a roller coaster, guests can swim with dolphins and snorkel with Sting Rays (That dont sting). Its a fully emmersive experience that you won't be able to recieve anywhere else.

Discovery Cove is owned by Sea World, so it isn't a little park. It offers all different sorts of things to do. They have an Aviary that contains thousands of birds from all over the world. Both Exotic and Native. The cool thing, is they even allow the guests to feed and hold the birds, and its rarely too crowded.

They have a coral reef that they built that allows visitors to snorkel with all the exotic fish and even eels with equipment they provide. The endless color you will see under the water is breathtaking.

And of course, swimming with the dolphins. Guests can enjoy 30 minute sessions with dolphins that allows them to swim with them along side a professional trainer that shows them the ins and outs of the experience. This is the main attraction at Discovery Cove and this is what they base the majority of their marketing around. Its one of the most incredible experiences one can imagine.

Discovery cove is the most original theme park in Central Florida. There is very few things that happen here that guests have already done. Its full emmersion take on the park lets visitors experience a whole different side of the earth, untouched and unscathed by man. Its clear that the staff at the park are passionate about what they do and that just makes the experience all the more amazing. This is a park that visitors to Orlando dont want to miss.

The never-ending dream ship

2009-11-03T07:32:00.010-05:00

As one of the most spectacular dream-ships afloat, the Dream offers both the elegance and sophistication of a twentieth century ocean liner.

Its family-friendly innovations, set it apart from other cruise ships offering entertainment for all ages. For the first-time ever, Dream offers AquaDuck, Virtual Porthole, Enchanted Art and Living Characters interactive themes.

Imagine riding a high-energy first-ever water coaster aboard a cruise liner that twists drops, turns, accelerates uphill and braves the river rapids. Now passengers can recline in their staterooms while glimpsing at the industry-first virtual Portholes offering an outside real-time view of the ocean hosted by Mickey Mouse and friends pop-ups.

Without a doubt, the Dream continues the Disney legacy of elegance and grace of one of the most stylish transatlantic ships afloat. With it's signature exterior design capturing the colors of the Mouse, Disney character silhouettes, gigantic red funnels, bold black hull, the Dream is a symbol of Art Deco elegance.

Passing through the expansive 3-deck atrium graced by Admiral Donald Duck is just the beginning of luxury as guests meander to their staterooms. Disney offers nothing but comfort & style boasting nearly 150 inside staterooms, 1,100 exterior staterooms, 860 verandahs, nearly 200 ocean-views, 19 one-bedroom suites and much more.

After checking into Disney first-ever staterooms, guests can indulge in a one-of-a-kind dining experience at Disney's signature elaborately themed restaurants. Dining aboard the Dream will be a memorable experience for years to come. Offering three world-class cuisines, get ready for a mouth-watering experience at either the Animoator's Palate, Enchanted Garden or Royal Palace.

Regardless of which dining experience you choose, be inspired by signature Disney animation, classic Disney films and a uniquely inspired Versailles-theme that transports guests to the lovely conservatory with white trellises, glass-light fixtures, and cascading fountains.

It would be a disservice to attempt to describe a journey that only a personal experience could embrace. With itineraries beginning in 2011, the Dream will offer three-and four-night voyages from port of call Cape Canaveral Florida.

Universals attendance drops 4th straight quarter

2009-11-02T07:57:00.002-05:00

As the global recession bottoms out, Universal Studios continues to feel the squeeze on its theme parks Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

While sales on food, drink and souvenirs fell 2% , attendance continued to drop the last three months to 11% reflecting a decrease from 3 million to 2.7 million visitors. But things were even worst the 1st and 2nd quarter were attendance dropped 20% and 14% respectively.

Universals spokesman believe that the slumping economy was responsible for a 20.9% decline in profits from $42.2 million to $37.3 million at Orlando's #2 theme-park.

Although Universal slashed it's expenses by 14.2 percent, operating revenues dropped 14.4% down to $224.6 million.

Sea World Price Change 09'

2009-10-31T11:55:00.002-04:00

Before Sea World actually comes out with an official release for the new prices there were already rumors going around that the annual pass prices have gone up. In reality, that’s far from the truth. Sea World will either lower the price for Florida Residents or keep the annual pass the same price. Sea World has announced that they will raise their prices on Friday, which may not be such a surprise to everyone is that the price is still below competitors Disney World and Universal Studios. However, its only by a whopping $0.05. But as stated earlier the resort will reduce the price of its popular "Fun Cards," which will allow Florida residents to purchase a single-day ticket and be able to make repeated visits to the park. Sea world plans to raise the price of a one day base ticket $4 making the cost $78.95.

Along with Sea World, Busch Gardens will also undergo the exact same price changes. Joe Couceiro, CMO for SeaWorld parent Busch Entertainment Corp. said the higher base price is "something that not only is indicative of what we feel is the value of our parks but frankly is going to allow us to continue to invest in our parks at the level our customers expect." Meaning that the customers will be paying for what they believe the park is worth and they will be getting their money’s worth.

Orlando-based Busch Entertainment is in the process of being sold for up to $2.7 billion. Company observers expected that the ticket prices would rise shortly after the Blackstone purchase was announced to the public earlier this month, even though the sale is not expected to close until after the New Year.

Multi-park ticket options will also be raised, Sea World primarily sells the multi-park ticket options to out-of-state tourists. Similar to its major competitors Disney and Universal, Busch uses its pricing structure to drive customers toward more frequent visits to the parks and facilities.

Disney Dream 09'

2009-10-30T14:00:00.003-04:00

Long without a headline story Disney has recently released the plans of it’s new cruise ship that is scheduled to hit the sea sooner than you imagine. That’s right, on November 9, 2009 you will be able to book a cruise on the all new Disney Dream.

Becoming the 3rd ship of an already impressive line, the Dream will be joining its sister ships on the open seas soon! The dreams intricate yet simple design truly flaunts it’s height by displaying its 14 towering decks. The overall length of the ship is about 1,115 feet long and about 125 feet wide. With all of the attractions and amenities you couldn’t expect this vessel to be light; the ship weighs in at 128,000-tons! The ship is rated to accommodate 4,000 passengers and nearly 1,500 crew members that are on call at all times of the day for the duration of your cruise.

With such an impressive line already functioning in the ocean the Disney Dream does not stray far from the original ships. The design aspect of the ship is relatively similar to that of the original the only thing that majorly sets this ship apart from the rest is the state of the art technology. Disney’s interior designers did a great job in combing sleek style with a classic feel to it. When you take your first step aboard the Disney Dream it’s almost like you teleport to an age of adventure and wonder. The humorous and child like acts that are displayed within the cruise mix with the elegance to truly provide a pleasant experience. The interior of the ship is filled with lavish decorative murals that mingle with sparkling fixtures, furnishings, original paintings, statues and woodwork envelope. The design doesn’t just stop at the hallways of the ship. You’ll be able to notice the design in youth activity clubs, resplendent restaurants, intimate lounges and theatre spaces.

Year-round, you and your family are invited to hop aboard on this unforgettable cruise adventure on the Disney Dream. Discover for yourself and find the ultimate meaning of relaxation no matter where your destination takes you.