The Ultimate California Adventure!

Disney Cruise Line® and Pixar Animation Studios are teaming up to offer several 7-night California Coast cruises unlike any other!

The four magical voyages set sail on September 16, 23, 30 and October 7 from Los Angeles, and will feature the following:

• Pixar Presentations and Sneak Peeks: Artists and filmmakers from Pixar Animation Studios will provide an inside look at the creative process used to develop an animated feature which includes a look at the making of Pixar’s newest release “Brave” and a sneak peek at footage of future Pixar films. 
• The Art of Pixar: Storyboards, character sketches and other inspiring concept art used to design Pixar films will be on display in a special art exhibition at sea. This collection of art has only been seen outside of Pixar Animation Studios when displayed at leading art museums around the world. 
• Pixar Film Fest: Guests will be able to enjoy the entire Pixar library of films while onboard, including a selection of delightful animated shorts. The voyages coincide with the theatrical premiere of “Finding Nemo 3D,” which Guests can enjoy at either of the two theatres equipped with state-of-the-art Dolby 3D projection systems. 
• Pixar Character Encounters: For the first time, more than a dozen Pixar characters will meet with and greet guests throughout the cruise including Mr. Incredible, Remy, Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear. There will be a special Pixar-themed dance parties and a host of other opportunities to reconnect with favorite Pixar pals. 
• Special Gift: Sailing Guests will receive a commemorative lithograph created by Pixar artist and “Brave” co-director/screenwriter, Steve Purcell.

In addition, the California Coast itinerary lets you you see iconic sights and explore popular stops in San Francisco, San Diego and wine country.

To make this truly the ultimate California Adventure, add on the Adventures by Disney® "Lights...Camera...Magic!" guided group excursion!!  Only $199 per adult, and $189 per child (ages 4-9).  

During this daylong adventure you will be immersed in the magic of Disney and the history of Hollywood in unique, unexpected and unforgettable ways.

• Guided Hollywood walking tour, including a visit to the home of the Academy Awards® at The Hollywood & Highland Center (depending on theatre availability), or tour Grauman's Chinese Theatre.
• Depart for Beverly Hills, via Sunset Boulevard (home of the "Sunset Strip") to catch a glimpse of such famous spots as the Chateau Marmont and the Whiskey a Go-Go.
• Free time to explore the sights and shopping along Rodeo Drive.
• Depart Beverly Hills for the Original Farmers Market to enjoy an authentic atmosphere which offers family fun, and frequent star spotting!
• Lunch and free time at Farmers Market and just a short trolley ride away is the fabulous open-air shopping center, The Grove.
• Travel to The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank for a guided tour of the Studio Lot to visit spaces and places not open to the public - experiences only Disney can offer!
• Evening reception in Legends Plaza at the Walt Disney Studios where Disney's many gifted animators, Imagineers, songwriters, actors and business leaders have been honored.

You will be treated to VIP access and attention by two Disney-trained guides, enjoy exciting surprised and "magical moments" - including fun Junior Adventure activities especially designed for the younger guests.

Includes luxury coach transportation, water and snacks, appetizers and nonalcoholic beverages at the evening reception, one alcoholic beverage at the evening reception (ages 21+), special treats and surprises.  Tours operate on Tuesday, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Contact us today at Mouse World Travel for additional information or a no-obligation quote on both of these exciting adventures!

The Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios

by Jen Dowling: jen@mouseworldtravel.com

Yes!...I know we are an agency that specializes in Disney travel. BUT....that doesn't mean we can't head over to the dark side, AKA Universal Studios Orlando, every once in awhile! In fact, many of our clients do side-trips for a day or two to Universal!

I would like to focus on one of my favorite rides at Universal Studios, it might be even one of my all time favorite rides anywhere, The Simpsons Ride.

It is housed in the building that formally held the Back the Future attraction. If you have experienced that ride in the past, you will understand what type of ride The Simpsons is, as they still are pretty much the same concept.

This is a simulator ride, where the audience is shown a movie while their seats move to correspond to the action on screen. This ride is obviously based on the animated TV series, The Simpsons.

I must warn you, if you have a problem with motion sickness like I do, take a bonine tablet before riding, and try to get into the front seat. This helped me tremendously.

The outside of the building is themed to the ride, which is a "roller coaster gone bad" at Krustyland (a low-budget amusement park in The Simpsons). Side Show Bob is doing what he does, and is trying to kill the Simpsons and we are along for the ride.  They added some great details to the outside of the building, and they have fans running to keep you cool and several TV sets hung all over showing tid bits about the plot of the ride.  This kept us very entertained. In fact my husband was upset when the line was short one day because we didn't get to watch The Simpsons cartoons long enough!

Once you enter the building, you be directed to a line where you will get a preshow that is very entertaining. It tells you the story and why sideshow Bob is after them.

Next you are directed to a preloading room that has a video about the safety precautions, including Itchy and Scratchy demonstrating the do's and don'ts.

Finally you board your ride vehicle.  You will be lifted up in front of a big screen for the ride. You really do feel like you are part of the action. Notice the smell of Maggie's formula and baby powder. You might also get a little splash of water when appropriate.

Though you will be riding a roller coaster for part of the ride, you do not need to fear that it will be too scary for the non-coaster lovers. My 7 year loved it and she is not a fan of roller coasters yet.

When the ride is over, be sure to grab your belongs (bigger items can be set on the floor near the car when you enter) and head over to the Kwik-E-mart and check things out there as well.  Try the phone on the side of the building, someone usually talks to you when you pick it up.

We love this ride so much that we rode it 3 times during our recent visit. Don't miss it on your next trip, I highly recommend it!

If you are interested in a trip, or a side-trip to Universal Studios during your Disney Vacation, just ask your Mouse World Travel Agent and we can assist you with tickets, hotel and transportation!  There are even ticket packages that include transportation from your Walt Disney World hotel.

Port Orleans Riverside - Royal Guest Rooms

by Michelle: michelle@mouseworldtravel.com
My family and I were lucky enough to stay at the brand new Royal Guest rooms at the Port Orleans Riverside Resort. We knew that we needed a resort that would have queen beds, but wanted to stay in a moderate resort because of the price point. Since our kids are getting older, we wanted to get 2 rooms and have more space. Having stayed at the Port Orleans Riverside Resort only a few months ago in October, and BEFORE the new refurbishments were done, we were interested in seeing what had changed and how much we would like this resort with its new improvements. My favorite resort is usually Coronado Springs and I was a little disappointed when we stayed in Port Orleans for the first time. We did not like the double beds that they had back then. They really do make a difference!

These Royal Guestrooms are located in the Magnolia Bend area of the resort, and are in the Oak Manor and Parterre buildings, which are great, preferred sections in the resort. It is very close the the main building and swimming pools and can run about $30-$40 more than a standard room.

I must say that the improvements were wonderful! Disney definitely did not disappoint with their attention to detail! I loved the new queen beds and all of the other special touches that Disney added to these Royal rooms. They were not too "princessy" or "girly" for boys and adults to be able to stay in it. The LED fireworks that can be turned on with a switch on the headboard was beautifully done. These rooms are definitely a great room for the princesses in your family, but can also be a great themed room for all ages to enjoy!

Pictures of the Princesses (and princes) were everywhere!

Some pictures of the bathroom area and bathroom fixtures. We love having the double sinks!

A letter from Tiana:

Welcome All,

We are so excited to have you stay with us.

My friends and I have shared so

many wonderful moments here that this has

become a very special place in our hearts.

As you make yourself at home, you'll

discover some treasured memories my friends

have given me over the years.

Enjoy making magical memories with your

friends and family in my Royal Guest Room.

Your friend,

Princess Tiana

A map of the Port Orleans Riverside Resort. You can see the locations of the Royal Guest Rooms that are in the buildings highlighted in RED:

Disney's Art of Animation Resort

The Art of Animation Resort is the newest addition to the wide variety of hotels at Walt Disney World. It will feature over 1,000 family suites that sleep up to 6 people, a kitchenette, living room, and 2 bathrooms. Each section of the resort is themed off of a Disney movie with the Finding Nemo section opening first on May 31, followed by Cars opening on June 18, and The Lion King opening on August 10. The final section to open on September 15 is The Little Mermaid, 864 single-hotel rooms (in the Value bracket of Disney Resorts) instead of the family suites.

The Art of Animation is located across Hourglass Lake from Pop Century resort and features 3 pools, with the largest of the three in the Finding Nemo section also having a pool bar. In the Cars section there are large street cones (representing the Cozy Cone Motel from the movie); however these aren't any ordinary street cones...they are cabanas for the pool! Free of charge and first come, first serve. The Little Mermaid area also has a pool.

The food court, called "Landscapes of Flavor" features items we don't always see in the food courts, such as Create Your Own Smoothie, Mongolian Grill Beef Stir Fry, Cheesy Pesto Bread, a Chicken Burger and more. The food court will accept the Disney Dining Plan.  The dining area is themed and loaded with Hidden Mickeys!

One hot question among Disney fans is if the resort will share buses with the Pop Century resort, and that answer is no. Both resorts will have their own sets of buses.

Several Mouse World Travel agents recently had the opportunity to tour the resort and reported that the resort is beautiful, detailed and everything is done very, very well. You truly feel like you are immersed into the story--much like you do in the theme parks -- it certainly carries that Disney Magic!

Prices per night for the standard Little Mermaid rooms start at $105 (on par with the other Value Resorts), and the family suites start at $249. So if you are looking for affordability for a larger family or group, doing 2 rooms at another Value Resort will be more affordable; however, if you are visting during a time Disney is offering a discount, the Art of Animation may be more preferable with the enhanced resort and in-room kitchenettes! 

Contact us today for more information, or a no-obligation quote - we always watch for discounts to ensure you get the very best rate for your vacation!

You can see additional pictures and 360 room tours here.

Kids Eat Free & So Much More at Aulani - Disney's Resort & Spa O'ahu, Hawaii

Aulani is Disney's newest resort, a beachfront resort on the ocean waters in the Ko Olina Community, far enough away from the crowds, but close enough to enjoy all the wonders of O'ahu, Hawaii.  Spectacular beaches, a championship golf course, shopping, snorkeling, sports fishing and more await you.  Just 17 miles away from the Honolulu International Airport.

Discount Offer:

When you purchase a 5-night or longer stay at Aulani, between August 29-November 3, kids (ages 3-9) eat free when ordering from the kid's menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner! They will also receive a free length-of-stay pass for the Rainbow Reef, Aulani's private snorkeling lagoon!

In addition to this, you can take adavntage of 25% off airfare on Hawaiian Airlines when flying from JFK, SFO, LAX, OAK, or SJC.

Must book by July 14 to take advantage of these offers.

Activities:

Aulani has many all-inclusive vacation elements, it's easy to enjoy full days of family fun right at the resort--with no additional charges for most activities!

• Aulani Starlit Hui: This evening celebration by the beach features traditional and modern entertainment, including hula performers, lively music, Disney Characters and more.
• Mo‘olele Storytelling: Guests of all ages gather ‘round a fire pit for a night of enchanting tales, complete with puppetry, props and magical effects.
• ‘Ohana Disney Movie Nights: On the Aulani Events Lawn watch family-friendly Disney movies under the stars, as well as enjoy pre-movie games, activities and trivia competitions.
• Aunty’s Beach House: Kids are invited to explore this special area designed just for them as they engage in Hawaiian activities, games and crafts.
• Menehune Adventure Trail: On this high-tech scavenger hunt, Guests explore Aulani to solve riddles, search for statues and discover surprises.
• Māka‘ika‘i, the Art of Aulani: This guided walking tour showcases the art of Aulani.
• Māka‘ika‘i, the Nature and Wildlife of Aulani: On this guided walking tour learn about the native plants, nature and beauty of Aulani.
• ‘Ohana Hula: Delve deeper into Hawaiian culture with a free hula lesson for the entire family.

In addition to these amenities:

• Pools: With crystalline waters, winding streams, interactive play features and more, Waikolohe Valley brims with family fun for every age and interest. Meanwhile, relaxation abounds at the Resort’s “quiet pool,” Wailana, as well as at the four whirlpool spas.
• Beach: Stroll the soft sands, make a splash in the Pacific Ocean or unwind in a complimentary beach chair.
• Fitness Center: The fully-equipped health club features cardio and strength training equipment, a Kinesis machine, free weights, a stretching area and more.
• Pau Hana Community Room: Here Guests of all ages connect with friends and family over free Hawaiian arts and crafts, video games, board games, books and Disney family movies.

Just a small portion of the massive Waikolohe Valley

More Information:

Contact us today for more information or a no-obligation quote!

Check out our Facebook page for more pictures of Aulani!

Disney Fantasy Pictures & Video

If you read our newsletter last month, you will know all about Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Fantasy.  Several Mouse World Travel Agents have already had the opportunity to sail on this beautiful vessel!

Want to learn more about the Disney Fantasy?  Take a look at some pictures on our Facebook page and enjoy the video below.



Ready to sail?  I know I am!

Disney's Hollywood Studios - Star Wars Weekends

Star Wars Weekends are held at Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios each Spring. This year the weekends are May 18-20, May 25-27, June 1-3, and June 8-10.

During this special event there is a dance contest, the "Hyperspace Hoopla", between the Star Wars characters that is incredibly entertaining (YouTube it...it's a total riot!), a Star Wars parade, special merchandise is for sale, there are unique meet & greets with the Star Wars characters, and more!  One of the most popular events are the stars from the various movies and Star Wars cartoons appear to sign autographs. The celebrity appearances were just finalized and here is the line up:

Weekend I (May 18 – 20) 

• Ray Park – (Darth Maul – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace) 
• Jerome Blake (Rune Haako/Mas Amedda – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace) 
• Dee Bradley Baker (voice of Clone Captain Rex and Clone Commander Cody – Star Wars: The Clone Wars) 

Weekend II (May 25- 27)

• Andy Secombe (Watto – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace) 
• Ray Park (Darth Maul – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace) 
• Tom Kane (voice of Yoda – Star Wars: The Clone Wars) 

Weekend III (June 1 -3)

• Jake Lloyd (Anakin Skywalker – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace) 
• Silas Carson (Nute Gunray/Ki-Adi-Mundi – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace) 
• Catherine Taber (Star Wars: The Clone Wars voice talent)

Weekend IV (June 8- 10)

• Michonne Bourriague (Aurra Sing – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace) 
• Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett – Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back and Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi) 
• Daniel Logan (Boba Fett – Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones) 
• Nika Futterman (voice of Asajj Ventress – Star Wars: The Clone Wars) 

Standard park admission is required, there is no extra charge for the events.

Are you a die-hard Star Wars fan?  Then you don't want to miss this spectacular event!  Contact us today and we can assist you in your travel plans!

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party & Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

The very popular hard-ticketed parties at Walt Disney World, Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, announced their dates and tickets went on sale today!  Here is the information.  Prices do not include sales tax.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
September: 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28
Advance price: $55.95/adult, $50.95/child (3-9)
Day of: $60.95/adult, $57.95/child (3-9)


September 30, October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, November 2
Advance price: $58.95/adult, $53.95/child (3-9)
Day of: $64.95/adult, $59.95/child (3-9)

October 31: $69.95/adult, $64.95/child (3-9)

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas PartyNovember 9, 12, 15, 16*, 25, 27, 29 and 30*
December 2, 4, 6, 7*, 9, 11, 13, 14*, 16, 18, 20*

*Advance Sale pricing is not available for these dates. Even when purchased in advance, "Day Of" pricing is in effect.

Advance Sales $58.95/adult, $53.95/child (3-9)
Day of Event Sales $64.95/adult, $59.95/child (3-9)

Dec 21: $67.95/adult, $62.95/child (3-9)

A Fetching Offer!

This morning Walt Disney World released a brand new discount!!  Save up to 30% off for stays most nights August 15 - September 29!

Contact us today for a no-obligation quote!

Must book by August 14.