Wednesday, February 23, 2011

The Countdown Calendar


So, we have had tons of people asking about having a Countdown Calendar for their upcoming trip, so here's a little something that we whipped up :)

We would LOVE to see it if you make one, and where you post it, or how you use it!

This is just an example of what it will look like!!! Just print it out...cut it out...and fill in the days!!!!

So, here's the link to get yours NOW!

CLICK HERE to get your Countdown Calendar

**But, please do us a favor, if you share it...make sure to give us credit..and not use it as your own!

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

1900 Park Fare - Character Breakfast

1900 Park Fare Character Breakfast

8:00am - 11:30am
Join Mary Poppins, Alice and the Mad Hatter

Cost: Adults $22.36 - Children $12.77 plus tax and gratuity.
Non-alcoholic, non-specialty beverages ARE included in the price.

ALL Menu Items Subject to Change without Notice!

Breads and Pastries - assorted sliced breads, croissants, English muffins, bagels, pecan sticky bun, strawberry and apple turnovers, cheese danish, apple, granola and blueberry muffins, cream cheese, strawberry jam and grape jelly

Cold Buffet - flavored yogurts, fresh fruits, cottage cheese, ambrosia, stewed plums, chilled strawberry soup, assortment of cereals, house-made granola, Edy's Soft Serve ice cream with an array of toppings, Peaches, pears, applesauce, Jello-O, Rice Krispie Treats

Hot Buffet - Chef's preparation of custom eggs and build your own omelets, bacon, sausage links, scrambled eggs, cheese blintz, strawberry melba, apple cobbler, peach and white chocolate bread pudding with vanilla sauce, blueberry pancakes, corned beef hash, Spanish scramble, mini pancakes, Mickey waffles, fresh Challah bread French toast, country-style biscuits and gravy, grits, oatmeal and shredded triangle potato

**And don't forget to ask about the special Celebration Cakes they offer, if you are celebrating a special occasion!

Monday, February 21, 2011

First Aid at Magic Kingdom--Walt Disney World


I cannot believe that in all of my years, going to Walt Disney World, I finally had to pay my very first visit to the First Aid Station.

I had just run the Walt Disney World Marathon, and needless to say....my legs were KILLING me.....more than the usually "I've-been-in-the-parks-all-day-and-my-legs-are-killing-me".....they were in some serious pain.

So, I just walked, well more like limped, in and said "is there any chance you have an Ace Bandage?"


"Oh, absolutely" she said. Then she said, "Would you like some ibuprofen, or some water?" "are you feeling ok" "can we get you anything else"

Oh my goodness, these ladies were the nicest in the world.

So, I fixed my wrap and out I went. But, I can tell you that I am so glad that I paid a visit.....because it was a wonderful experience!

And....sad but true, I have a feeling it won't be my last visit....(I'm getting older!)

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Plaza Inn - Disneyland Resort Dining

Plaza Inn

Minnie and Friends Breakfast

Meet favorite Disney Characters right at your own table as you enjoy an
all-you-care-to-eat breakfast!

$27.99 for adults
$13.99 for children (3-9 years old)
No charge for children under 3

Kellogg's Cereals
Made to order Omelets
Scrambled Eggs, Sausage, Bacon
Biscuits and Gravy
French Toast
Mickey Waffles
Variety of Muffins, Croissants, Danish & Fruit

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Big Thunder Rance BBQ - Disneyland Park

Big Thunder Ranch BBQ

Chow down on cowboy-style grub in this rustic ranch setting, complete with toe-tappin' country music and an all-you-care-to-eat barbecue feast.

Menu

At this barbecue blowout, you can have it all!

A family-style all-you-care-to-eat lunch includes barbeque chicken and ribs, cole slaw, ranch beans and cornbread.

At dinner, your server will bring you endless helpings of barbeque chicken and ribs, smoked sausages, cole slaw, Ranch beans, corn wheels and cornbread.

Vegetarians can request a barbecue skewer with potatoes, squash, bell peppers, mushrooms and tofu.

Dessert is available for an additional cost. You can order up an extravaganza of colorful cupcakes, seasonal cobblers, fresh strawberry shortcake, pies or a family-style cookie bake topped with vanilla bean ice cream and chocolate sauce.

Western Hospitality

Follow your host down a horseshoe-studded path to a shaded table. Rest your weary bones while your table server dishes up heaping piles of food and musicians fiddle and sing.

Entertainment

Musical guests will keep your spirits high and your hands clapping. The musical review is the perfect way to unwind before hitting the trail to your next adventure.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Private Cabanas on Castaway Cay




I love these Cabanas on Castaway Cay. To be honest, I would have NEVER considered spending $499 for a "little beach hut"....

BUT


Then, I visited it.



I went into the Cabanas, and toured them for myself. And, now.......I pretty much think that the next Disney Cruise we go on, we will probably reserve these as a family.

Look at the convenience of this.


Stocked throughout the day with drinks and snacks!!



I love LOVE love the beach access.......you will have this private beach access, where the only people on the beach with you are the few families with Cabanas.


So, on your next Disney Cruise, make sure to consider the Private Cabanas....you'll be glad you did.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Take a ride on Goofy's Barnstormer

Altough Toon Town is now officially under re-furbishment at Walt Disney World, I am certain that Goofy's Barnstormer will be even better when it comes back around in 2012.

Both of my boys rode this ride as their first "roller coaster" and I can vividly remember when the stepped off!!! Both of them, like they had been escalated to the highest point! They jumped up and down and smiled big for what seemed like hours!!!!

So, when we heard that they were closing Toon Town for over a year!!! YIKES!!! We had to ride it "just one more time!"

Won't you ride along with us?!

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Steakhouse 55- Disneyland Resort Dining

Steakhouse 55

Dinner

Disneyland Hotel

Starters

Chilled Smoked Ahi, Cucumber Relish, Wasabi vinaigrette $11

Broiled Portobello Mushroom, Humboldt Fog Cheese, Port Wine Reduction $9

Dungeness Crab Cake with Saffron Sauce $11

Popcorn-style Rock Shrimp and Aioli sauce $11

Chilled Shrimp with Cocktail Sauce $12


Soup and Salads

"Steakhouse 55" Seven Onion Soup, Parmesan Crisp $9

"Wedge" Iceberg Lettuce, Vine-Ripened Tomato and Gorgonzola dressing $8

Caesar Salad with Olive Tapenade Crouton $9

Spring Greens with Candied Pecans and Raspberry Vinaigrette $8

Baby Spinach with Warm Applewood Smoked Bacon Vinaigrette $10


Entrees

Selected cuts Certified Angus Beef
Add Bearnaise, Peppercorn Demi or Blue Cheese to any selection $4

New York Steak 14 oz. $35

Porterhouse Steak 18 oz. $29

Roasted Prime Rib 12 oz./16 oz. $29/$31

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb $35

Filet Mignon 7 oz./10 oz. $30/$35

Bone-in Ribeye with our Signature "Steakhouse 55" Rub 18 oz. $36

Pork Ribeye with our Signature "Steakhouse 55" Rub 10 oz. $27

Shelton Free-Range Double Breast of Chicken 14 oz. $26

Broiled Atlantic Salmon 8 oz. $25

Halibut Steak 9 oz. $28

Australian Lobster Tail Market Price


Prix Fixe Menu

Caesar Salad with Olive Tapenade Crouton
Petite New York Steak with Garlic and Herb Smashed Potatoes
Seasonal Tart a La Mode
$35


Sides

Sauteed Green Beans with Applewood-Smoked Bacon $7
Steamed Asparagus Spears, Hollandaise $7
Sauteed Spinach Leaves with Roasted Garlic Cloves $7
Broccoli Crown with Brown Butter and Herb Crust $7
This Season's Mushroom Sauteed with Madeira $8
Roasted Heirloom Potatoes with Rosemary, Shallots and Garlic $7
Yukon Gold, Garlic and Herb Smashed Potatoes $7
Chef's Potato Stack Au Gratin $7
Classic Baked Potato $7


Desserts

"Bonita" Velvet Chocolate Bar - Flourless Chocolate Cake with Port Wine Reduction. $9.00

Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee - With Demerara Sugar and Chocolate, Orange Lace Cookie. $8.00

Seasonal Berries Marinated in Chambord - With Mascarpone Sorbet and Brittany Cookie. $10.00

Vanilla Bean Yogurt Cheesecake - With Seasonal Berries. $8.00

Free-Form Seasonal Tart - Topped with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. $8.00


Split Plate Charge - $5.00

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Main Street Bakery - You must stop in!!


Every trip, somewhere around the middle of the day, we make sure to stop in at the Main Street Bakery in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

I usually get a cup of coffee, or hot cocoa, if it is during the colder months....and the boys usually get a sweet treat.



Like one of these, maybe! YUM!

Or, one of these!
On our last trip, I spotted these new chips! WHAT?!

How cute are these! Can you see the little Mickey and Donald silhouettes on there! Ugh! How cute!!! I wanted to buy one of each...just to keep...not to eat :)

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Goofy's Kitchen - Disneyland Resort





Goofy's Kitchen

Breakfast

Five fabulous food islands featuring:

Create-Your-Own Omelet Station
"Mickey Mouse" Waffles & Pancakes
French Toast
Sausage & Bacon
Eggs Benedict
Muffins, Pastries, & Desserts
Fresh Fruit
Breakfast Enchiladas
Chicken Breast Nuggets
Goofy's Famous Peanut Butter Pizza
Soft-Serve Yogurt with Toppings
And much, much more!




Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Disney Junior - Coming February 2011


The fun information today is that Playhouse Disney is becoming "Disney Junior," a new multiplatform brand devoted to children ages 2-7 and their families. Disney Junior will invite parents and grandparents to join their children in the Disney experience of magical, musical and heartfelt stories and characters, both classic and new, while incorporating specific learning and developmental themes.

Among the new series are "Jake and the Never Land Pirates," an animated adventure combining new and classic Disney characters Captain Hook and Smee ("Peter Pan"); a series of Disney Poetry Shorts which showcases poems for children set against classic Disney animation; two short form series, "Mickey Mousekersize" and "Special Agent Oso: Three Healthy Steps," to encourage healthy lifestyles for preschoolers and families; "Babar and the Adventures of Badou," an updated version of the classic "Babar," that introduces King Babar's energetic eight-year-old grandson, Badou, and friends as they explore the world of Celesteville; and "Tinga Tinga Tales," a vibrant animated adventure inspired by traditional African animal folktales and the art of Tanzania. Playhouse Disney hits "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse," "Handy Manny," "Special Agent Oso" and "Imagination Movers," among others, will be part of Disney Junior.


As part of Disney's Magic of Healthy Living initiative, which encourages healthier lifestyles for kids and families, Disney Junior will premiere two new short-form series, "Mickey Mousekersize" and "Special Agent Oso: Three Healthy Steps." Hosted by Mickey Mouse, "Mickey Mousekersize" focuses on the fun of exercising and encourages children at home to get up and move along with Mickey and pals. "Special Agent Oso: Three Healthy Steps" features Oso and friends as they watch a live-action kid demonstrate three healthy steps to exercising and eating right.

And, check this out! A sneak peak at Jake and the Never Land Pirates! Oh, this little thing is adorable!


Tuesday, February 8, 2011

The Disney Dream - Oceaneer Lab and Oceaneer Club


Can I just say....I wish I was a kid again?! When I walked into the Oceaneer Lab, I was immediately in love! This place is every kid's dream!



The Disney Dream has re-designed their way of thinking on this one, and I just love it all. It is NOT based on their ages...but based on their interests! What a novel idea!!!

They don't have to be forced to be in the room with 4-year-olds, just because they are 4...what if they have the interest of a 6-year-old....or what if they are sailing with a cousin...and want to play with them....well, you go right ahead!!! The Disney Dream is at your service!

Look at how fun this place is! I can touch the ceiling!




But, quite honestly, I think the coolest part is the hand-washing stations!!! Yes! Check this out.
  • You put both hands in.
  • It sprays warm water.
  • Then sprays soap.
  • The sprays again...for 30-40 seconds (the appropriate amount of time to wash hands!!).
  • Then...dries!

Are you kidding me! This is fantastic!


Ok, here's one of the cool spots! It is the Monsters Inc. part of the club! This place was full of the cool-ness that Roz, and Mike, and Sully can only bring. Full of laughs, and jokes, and good times.



I even managed to fill up the "laugh tank".......now that is good stuff!

(thanks to Susie for capturing this fun moment!)


Then, moving over to Pixie Hollow! Are you serious! Pixie Hollow.....oh, every little girl in the world will just be in her own little fairy-world here!
It is ready for all fairies of all sizes, to come in and play until they just can't play any more. To believe in the magic of fairy tales, and to set their little dreams up as high as they can! AHH! I love it here!

And then................................ANDY'S ROOM!!!!!!!!


Oh, now, seriously, I know I've said it before....but I could stay in here forever! So crazy cute!!!

Ok, this huge barrel of monkeys, and then Mrs. Potato Head with real parts!!! Parts as big as me! This is just too much!



And, yes, that is Susie playing in the Slinky tunnel! Oh, the cuteness!

Yes, I think the workers in here were thinking we have officially lost our minds! Playing in here...and um....we did not have our kids with us?!

All in all, I would say this is the best little play place ever!!!

Monday, February 7, 2011

Star Wars Weekends - 2011

Disney's Star Wars Weekends 2011

Star Wars Weekend Dates have been announced!!! Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 20-June 12 at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Call me today to book your trip...and all children will get FREE Mouse Ears as your gift from me!!




Star Wars Weekends is an annual special event at Disney's Hollywood Studios that celebrates the legendary Star Wars Saga and the animated television series, The Clone Wars. Join Jedi Knights, Sith Lords and Star Wars celebrities for special shows, presentations and memorabilia.

Fans of the Star Wars universe don't have to travel to "a galaxy far, far away" to come face to face with droids, alien creatures and many of their favorite Star Wars characters.

Younglings can hone their lightsaber skills and prepare to do battle with Darth Vader himself at the Jedi Training Academy. Prove yourself the master of trivia in contests with prize giveaways. Board a runaway Starspeeder on the Star Tours attraction, or stare in awe as visitors from Naboo, Endor and every world between pass by in a motorcade.

In addition to all of the entertainment, there are plenty of conversations, autograph sessions and motorcades with the celebrities and creators of the Star Wars cosmos.

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Disney Dream Alert!!

Last minute offer!

I have an Oceanview Stateroom on the sold out Disney Dream....May 26th sailing...3 night cruise to the Bahamas.

I have this booked as a family of 4----

Total: $2,034.

This offer expires at midnight tonight!

email me if you are interested:

brittney@classictravelconnection.com

Friday, February 4, 2011

Disney Dream Fitness Center

AAAAHHHHH!!!!!! A runner's dream!!!

Imagine how in love I was when I walked into the Fitness Center on the Disney Dream to see this fabulous row of treadmills...overlooking the water!

I mean, I am NOT a fan of the treadmill, infact, I lovingly refer to it as the DREADmill.......but...if I am gonna be on this lavish ship...and get my miles in, this is EXACTLY how I want to do it!

Yes, fabulous!

Ok, moving on! Not only does the Disney Dream feature these fabulous treadmills, but this Fitness Center, located on Deck 11, has a fabulous variety of cardio equipment as well as weights and other items.

The Fitness Center includes:
  • Weight machines
  • Spinning machines
  • Treadmills and Ellipticals
  • Instructional classes (yoga, Pilates, aerobics)
  • Personal Training Sessions

You also enjoy the benefits of the following:

  • Showers
  • Lockers
  • Complimentary Towels
  • Men's and Women's Changing Rooms
  • Complimentary Water
**And, for a fee, you can even set up a private session with a personal trainer for an evaluation, as well as fitness routine recommendation.

So, if you are getting ready to set sail on the Disney Dream......do NOT forget to pack your workout clothes!!!

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Chef Mickey's Dinner Menu

Chef Mickey's Character Dinner!!


5:00 pm to 9:30 pm

Mickey, Goofy, Pluto, Donald and Minnie

BUFFET PRICE : $34.07 FOR ADULTS
$17.03 FOR CHILDREN 3-9


SAMPLE MENU
Actual Items Will Be Different

Premium Salad Bar and Sour Du Jour

A soup such as Chicken & Rice and Beef Barley are featured each day


On The Carving Board
Specialty Carved Item

Items like Spiced-rubbed carved beef and Oven-roasted turkey will be featured


Chef's Buffet Specials Of The Day

Oven Roasted Chicken with Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Mango BBQ Pork Ribs
Baked Salmon Fillet with mango wasabi coulis and rice
Orecchiette Pasta with vegetables, garlic oil, and goat cheese


Wonderful Accompaniments

Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Mickey Cheese Ravioli and Marinara Sauce
Chorizo Red Beans and white rice
Green Beans with a mushroom cream Sauce
Broccoli with Cheese Sauce


Children's Favorites

Chef Mickey's Macaroni and Cheese
Goofy's Cheese Pizza
Chicken Breast Tenders
Pluto's Chicken


Save Room For The Fabulous Sundae And Dessert Bar

Rice Krispy Treats
Peach Cobbler
Warm Bread Pudding
Seasonal Melon
Fresh Fruit Display

Price includes non-specialty drinks such as sodas, coffee, tea, iced tea, lemonade, punch, and milk.

A Gratuity of 18% will be added to parties of 6 or more.

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

50's Prime Time Cafe Dinner - Disney's Hollywood Studios




50's Prime Time Cafe Dinner

Disney's Hollywood Studios - Walt Disney World


Menu:

Non-Alcoholic Specialties

Tinker Bell and Friends or Buzz Lightyear Punch - Minute Maid Light Lemonade Punch served in a souvenir Fairies or Toy Story 3 cup with a glowing Tinker Bell or Buzz Lightyear Clip-on Light $6.49

Mega-Berry Smoothie - Raspberry Purée and Nonfat Yogurt blended with Odwalla Berries GoMega (an excellent source of Omega-3) 4.69

Flavored Sodas - Coke blended with vanilla or cherry flavors. Unlimited refills $3.19

Mickey's Bee Bop Drink delicious cherry-flavored Sprite with Dad's Glowing Electric Ice Cubes served in a souvenir cup $5.99

Root Beer or Coke Float $4.29

Milkshakes and Malts $4.99

(the living room...while you wait!)


Appetizers

Aunt Annie's Seafood Salad - Lump Blue Crab, Bay Scallops, and Shrimp tossed in Citrus Vinaigrette served on seasonal Greens $9.99

Chicken Noodle Soup - Hearty mixture of chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles $6.49

Cousin Amy's Iceberg Lettuce Wedge - Blue Cheese Dressing, Bacon, and Chives $5.49

Beer Battered Onion Rings for Two - served with Horseradish sauce $7.99

Blue Claw Crab Cake - lump crab cake served with succotash with chili sauce and crispy onions $8.49

Don't forget to mind your manners!



Entrees

Grilled Boneless Pork Loin - glazed with peppered mushroom gravy with mashed potatoes and green beans $20.99

Char-grilled Butcher Tender Steak - with red wine sauce, sauteed mushrooms, cheddar scalloped potatoes, and green beans $20.99

Uncle Dana's Artichoke and Ricotta Agnolotti - Pearl Pasta with Roasted Zucchini and Crookneck Squash with spicy Tomato Broth $16.99

Aunt Liz's Golden Fried Chicken - served with mashed potatoes, chicken gravy and southern greens $15.99

Cousin Barry's Olive Oil Poached Salmon - served with sweet peas, brown rice pilaf, and a dill cream sauce $20.99

Uncle Charlie's Grilled Tuna Casserole - classic creamy casserole with egg noodles, peppers, mushrooms, onions, carrots, and celery topped with grilled tuna steak and crunchy bread crumbs $17.49

Dad's Traditional Meatloaf - a blend of beef and pork topped with tomato glaze, mashed potatoes, and green beans $14.99

Mom's Old Fashioned Pot Roast - Slow cooked 'til fork tender, served with mashed potatoes, carrots, celery and onions $16.99

"No dessert unless you finish your vegetables"

(Dad's Brownie Sundae)

Desserts

Dad's Brownie Sundae - Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream, Hot Fudge, and Caramel topping $5.99

No Sugar Added Cheesecake - topped with fresh whipped cream and strawberry sauce $5.49

Seasonal Cobbler $5.49; ala mode $7.49

50's Boston Cream Cupcake - White Cake filled with Pastry Cream and covered with a Chocolate Glaze $4.99

S'mores $4.79

Ice Cream Sundaes $4.99

We are happy to discuss with you and attempt to accommodate any dietary or special needs diets.
Prices do not include sales tax and gratuity.
18% gratuity will be added to parties of 8 or more

Beverages

Coca Cola, Sprite, Caffeine-free Diet Coke, Pink Lemonade $2.00
Cappuccino $3.25
Cafe au Lait $2.50
Espresso $2.95
Milk $2.00
Chocolate Milk $2.00
Brewed Iced Tea $2.00
Hot Tea $2.00
Coffee (regular or decaf) $2.00
Carnation Hot Cocoa $2.00


50