The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean about 1,000 km from South America have been called ‘living museum and showcase of evolution’.  This isolation of these islands have led to the development of some unusual animals.  Adventures by Disney will give your family a vacation that you will never forget in the Galapagos Islands!

On Fernandina Island, you will join a naturalist  and visit one of the largest populations of native marine iguanas, then hike over the lava flows and see the flightless cormorant, one of the world’s rarest birds.

Swimming with sea turtles and sea lions awaits you on Isabela Island!  Check out the wildlife in the saltwater lagoons and explore caves that are inscribed with names of pirates and whaling vessels from the 1800s.

View penguins, manta rays, sea turtles and sea lions on Floreana Island and visit the historic post office.

On Santa Cruz Island, you will have a guided visit of Los Gemelos, two volcanic craters where giant tortoises roam.  Then watch for Darwin’s woodpecker finch and the vermillion flycatcher in the Highland’s Scalesia Forest.

Your family will encounter giant tortoises and sea lions alongside an array of fascinating wildlife on San Cristobal Island.

Adventures by Disney is heading to the Galapagos Islands December 27, 2013- January 5,2014.

Book your amazing Adventure by Disney with Diana today!

Written by Diana Edgar — Diana is an Adventures by Disney Expert on United States trips and around the world.  Are you ready for that once-in-a-lifetime vacation?  Diana is ready to help you plan your magical Disney vacation. Book your next vacation with Diana at diana@destinationsinflorida.com.

 

Disney Cruise Line weddings and vow renewals are a great option for couples who want a little bit of magic, but something a little different than the traditional Disney parks. These events can accommodate groups of all sizes, from two to one-hundred. Guests can choose from cruises sailing to ports including Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Pacific Coast and Hawai’i.

Couples can get married on any of the four Disney Cruise Line ships- the Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic, or the Disney Dream- or on the beach of Disney’s private island- Castaway Cay. These weddings include your officiant, ceremony musician, the bride’s bouquet, the groom’s boutonniere, wedding cake, champagne toast, day of coordinator, dinner for the couple at Palo, a commemorative certificate, and a $100 stateroom credit. Couples hosting their event on Castaway Cay also receive round-trip transportation from the ship to the ceremony site for all guests. Onboard ceremonies begin at $3,000 for the couple and eight guests while Castaway Cay ceremonies begin at $4,000 for the couple and eight guests. Additional guests can be accommodated for an extra fee depending on the location selected.

Disney Cruise Line has great features for both couples and families. Disney Cruise Line is an especially nice option for vow renewals because it offers something for everyone- adults can have some alone time while the kids play in a supervised activity center. All of the Disney Cruise Line ships offer spas, fitness centers, an adults-only restaurant, an adult only pool, nightclubs, lounges, and special entertainment.

Written by Siera Duiser, “Disney BridalEars” — Siera has grown up loving all things Disney!  She even had her very own Disney Fairytale Wedding in 2011. Now Siera enjoys Disney World with her own family.  Siera specializes in Disney weddings, honeymoons, and traveling with younger children.  Book your next vacation with Siera at siera@destinationsinflorida.com.

 

Mid-week of our anniversary trip to Walt Disney World, we experienced the most unforgettable meal of our lives…’Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort!

‘Ohana (meaning Family) was an unlikely choice for our anniversary celebration dinner.  This sought out restaurant is well known for never ending skewers of meat, lots and lots of meat.  We were following a vegetarian diet!  It’s also known as a bustling place with kids playing limbo in the middle of the floor, having races, shaking maracas.  Not exactly a relaxing and romantic atmosphere!

In spite of it all, we shared an incredible meal that we will never forget because we planned ahead.  When making our dining reservations, we indicated our dietary preference.  After being seated with our “Welcome Bread”, we had a visit from the Chef.  He asked us questions about the types of food we liked and asked us to trust him to prepare our meal.

What followed was a 7 course vegetarian meal, fit for a king!  We feasted on bread, salad, soup, hummus, noodles and veggies, including bok choy, swiss chard and fried tofu.  Oh, the words sound so ordinary but trust me, each was incredible.  The special sauces and seasonings were culinary delights that teased our senses!  The centerpiece of our dinner was a feast in itself.  It presented as a huge mound of crispy rice noodles topped with fried asparagus and marinated tofu.  Underneath, were rice and vegetables in a delicate peanut sauce with just the right tang.  Dessert was the traditional Hawaiian Bread Pudding that ‘Ohana is famous for.

The evening was made complete when we were serenaded and presented with leis followed by a dance especially for us to celebrate the anniversary of our marriage.  I can’t promise that you’ll have the same experience as we did but I guarantee that you will have a meal to remember when you dine at ‘Ohana!

Written by Sheri Morris, “Main Street Morris” —
Sheri is proud grandmother with a keen eye for detail.  She specializes in Disney Travel for adults and RV travel.  Book your next vacation with Sheri at 804-405-5005 or at sheri@destinationsinflorida.com.

 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas  at the Animal Kingdom Lodge — is an African lodge-style Resort boasting spacious accommodations that include kitchenettes/kitchens and multi-bedroom units. Featuring over 30 species of wildlife that roam free amidst 4 lush, tropical savannas, the Villas offer you the unique opportunity to observe exotic animals in their natural habitat from special viewing areas throughout the Disney World Resort –and from the balconies of select Guest rooms.

The Villas are located on the 5th and 6th floors in the main building—called the Jambo House—of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, which also includes Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village.

Set amidst an expansive wildlife preserve, the Disney World Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort features authentic African inspired architecture and the kraal African-village landscape design—a semi-circle design popular in Africa which offers expansive views of the surrounding savannah and its many animal inhabitants. Thatched ceilings, large beams, a woven ceiling, hand-carved golden-tone furnishings, real African artifacts and a vast mud fireplace in the main lobby surround you in the inimitable spirit of Africa.

Get up-close glimpses of the animals and a panoramic view of the sprawling grounds at Arusha Rock, an elevated rock platform just outside the main lobby. Discover thousands of indigenous African shrubs and grasses—including the most recognized canopy tree of Africa, the copperpod—that paint a picture reminiscent of the unspoiled African grasslands.
Savor authentic African cuisine at 2 award-winning restaurants, Jiko – The Cooking Place and Boma – Flavors of Africa. Enjoy unique animal-themed programs for the whole family and relax in the Uzima pool, an 11,000-square-foot zero-depth entry pool that offers a 67-foot-long slide.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas at Animal Kingdom Lodge — Jambo House has been designated by the Florida Green Lodging Program, recognizing the Resort’s environmentally responsible practices.

Exciting Animal Encounters at Animal Kingdom Lodge
The Sunset Savanna, the Arusha Savanna and the Uzima Savanna are open 24 hours a day. Each features a unique look and feel, and is home to different exotic animals.

Among the animals you may see are Ankole Cattle, Bontebok, Eland, Zebra, Greater Kudu, Impala, Okapi, Red River Hog, Nyala, Reticulated Giraffe, Roan Antelope, Sable Antelope, Thompson’s Gazelle, Waterbuck, White-Bearded Wildebeest, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Blue Crane, East African Crowned Crane, Greater Flamingo, Marabou Stork, Ostrich, Pink-Backed Pelican, Spur Winged Geese, Guinea Fowl and Ruppel’s Griffon Vulture!

For a truly unforgettable experience, make reservations for the Wanyama Safari. Enjoy up-close encounters with the Resort’s wildlife, followed by a delectable South African feast at Jiko – The Cooking Place.

Activities for Children
In addition to animal-themed activities and the Uzima pool and slide, there’s a wading pool for little ones, a 24-hour, high-tech game room and a 24-hour playground. And don’t forget to take advantage of Simba’s Cubhouse, a supervised activity center for children ages 3-12 that affords parents a carefree night on the town. (Additional fee required.)

Book your Disney & Orlando vacation with a local travel agency. World famous services, free gifts, guaranteed lowest prices, and all at no cost to you! Book your vacation with the local experts – we live where you’re traveling! Call 877-918-8941 or visit us online

Living with the Land is a 14-minute boat ride in Future World at Epcot theme park that explores agricultural advances in the rain forest, Africa and beyond.

See the Future of Food Production in Living with The Land
Gain a newfound appreciation for where your food comes from on this cruise through the living laboratories of Epcot.

Many of your favorite foodstuffs—chocolate, coffee, vanilla, tomatoes and rice, to name a few—grow on trees, vines and now even in soil-less environments. See firsthand how Disney’s horticulturalists are using innovative growing techniques and cross-breeding high-yield crops with the goal of sustaining our growing global population.

Educational and Profoundly Fascinating in Living with The Land
Multimedia displays of diverse eco systems, from rain forest to farmstead, bring our agricultural history to life. As you cruise by, hear about mankind’s past successes, failures, lessons learned and hopeful future when it comes to living off the land.

See specimens of produce from around the world, some modified to jaw-dropping effect, in the pavilion’s 4 greenhouses. Live eels, tilapia, catfish, freshwater shrimp and American alligators are also on display as you travel though the fish farm.

Sail through the greenhouses of The Land Pavilion and behold 9-pound lemons, Mickey-shaped pumpkins and more!

Living with The Land

You can even taste the fruits of this labor for yourself by dining at Sunshine Seasons or the Garden Grill Restaurant in The Land Pavilion, both of which serve produce and seafood fresh from the farm.

Like what you see or want to learn more? We can sign you up for the Behind the Seeds tour, which is an in depth walking tour of the facilities!

About the attraction:

Epcot® Future World

Disney FASTPASS Service

Thrill Level: 

Slow Rides

 

Why I love Disneyland…

Image Courtesy of Vintage Disneyland Tickets

I first visited Disneyland when I was about 8 years old. My family went in a van with a porthole. It’s odd what we remember isn’t it? I don’t even know whom that ugly van belonged to. With my family were my Aunt and her children. It was a fairly large group of us traveling from Missouri to California, in the porthole van. Try and imagine a very uncool Mystery Machine van but in brown with 1970’s colors running down the side… Then imagine it 100 times worse and you’ll be close.

We stayed along the way in some fantastic K.O.A. campgrounds… Well fantastic may be a strong word for the accommodations, but we were going to DISNEYLAND! I couldn’t wait; I had wanted this trip for as long as my young 8-year-old self could remember.

I’m not sure I could tell anyone anything specific about our visit. I have memories of just being overwhelmed with excitement, with a bit of fear mixed in.  It could have been the Sky Way that caused the fear to be honest. When you first saw it, it went into a mountain! What is going on there? There are of course bits and pieces of memories but overall I know it started my love of all things Disney and that lives on with me to this day.

It took me over 11 years until I got to visit Disneyland again. This was the trip that sealed it for both my wife and I. We were hooked and there was no going back! Unlike my first visit, this one is etched into my memory forever. Every detail. Even if it wasn’t permanently imprinted on my mind, we have 1000’s of pictures, so I could always be easily reminded.  Matter of fact I think they are still in the Costco envelopes. Perhaps I should go on a Picture Hunt!

Through the years, we have made it a goal to visit Disneyland at least once, if not more times, a year. Heading down from our home in Seattle for a weekend is one of our favorite ways to spend our entertainment dollars. I almost hate to admit this, but my wife and I at times have ditched our son with grandparents and jaunted down to Disneyland for a weekend away for just us. Please don’t send me hate mail over that…

In the end, I can simply say that I love visiting Disneyland (and Disneyworld!). Truly it’s a magical place for my all. When I walk under the arches and see Main Street USA, I let go of any stresses I might have had, any worries and any troubles. I once again look upon Disneyland with my 8 year old eyes. I’m certain Walt wouldn’t have wanted it any other way…

And really, is there anything greater than that?

Plan your next trip here courtesy of DisneyDaniel at Destinations in Florida!: Disney Planning

I hope you find this information fun, new and worthwhile.

Written by Daniel Mullarkey, DisneyDaniel — Daniel is a self-proclaimed Disney Geek, Disney Vacation Planner and a Disney Specialist! When he’s not adding to the plethora of Disney trivia in his head, you can find DisneyDaniel on his Facebook Page and/or follow him on Twitter!  Book your next vacation with Daniel at 425-420-8988 ordaniel@destinationsinflorida.com.

Tom Sawyer Island Disney World, Magic Kingdom

On Tom Sawyer Island at Disney World Magic Kingdom you can brave an adventure all your own at this rustic, secret hideaway inspired by the stories of Mark Twain.

Adventure Awaits!
Journey by log raft across the Rivers of America and discover an idyllic place influenced by the works of Mark Twain. Arrive at Tom’s Landing and embark on a self-guided expedition into the heart of early America.

Wander dusty dirt roads lined with sycamore and oak trees and amble across creaky suspension bridges. Navigate narrow passages amid secret mined caves and uncover an age-old fort. Along the way, follow in the pioneering footsteps of the frontier’s early settlers, during an era when Mark Twain and Tom Sawyer reflected an America coming into its own.

Pick Your Path
You’ll find adventure aplenty around every corner of Tom Sawyer Island. During your tour, be on the lookout for some of these legendary sites:

Harper’s Mill
Behold a giant waterwheel on the outside, and an homage to one of Disney’s earliest animated films, The Old Mill, inside.

Injun Joe’s Cave
Trek through the tight rocky passageways of this forgotten cavern, where strange fossils and jetting stalagmites mingle with a haunted pit.

Fort Langhorn
Explore this early frontier settlement, which includes a blacksmith shop, a watch tower, stables and an escape tunnel.

Potter’s Mill
Cross a crooked bridge to this wooden mill that offers a picturesque view of the Rivers of America and Frontierland.

Tom Sawyer Scavage Fort
March over a small bridge, slide through a tube and enjoy the view from this fort designed for children under 12 years of age.

Along the way, easy-to-read maps ensure you always know where you are during your island adventure.

Book your Disney & Orlando vacation with a local travel agency. World famous services, free gifts, guaranteed lowest prices, and all at no cost to you! Book your vacation with the local experts – we live where you’re traveling! Call 877-918-8941 or visit us online

The Magic Kingdom is known for it’s world class attractions, but one of the most overlooked areas is Main Street USA. The animated window displays outside of the Emporium pay tribute to some of the timeless animated features of the Walt Disney Company. Next time you are in the Magic Kingdom, take some time to explore Main Street USA. You never know what great tributes to Disney history you will find just by looking at the windows alone.

 

Book your Disney & Orlando vacation with a local travel agency. World famous services, free gifts, guaranteed lowest prices, and all at no cost to you! Book your vacation with the local experts – we live where you’re traveling! Call 877-918-8941 or visit us online

Who’s the leader of the pack in youth cruise entertainment?  Of course it’s Disney Cruise Line!!  Disney Cruise Line provides a ton of entertainment options for youth of all ages.  The entire family can enjoy character greetings, live shows full of your favorite Disney characters, an arcade, and even fireworks at sea. First run Disney movies are shown onboard in the Buena Vista Theatre. On my most recent Disney Cruise guests were treated to a midnight screening of Oz: The Great and Powerful on the same night it opened in theaters across America (for free!!).

In addition to the family activities, youth have plenty of things to do with the new friends they are bound to meet onboard.  Disney Cruise Line has designated areas and programs for four age groups.  Children under age 3 can spend time in It’s a Small World Nursery on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy or Flounder’s Reef Nursery on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder.  Children ages 3-12 have lots of activities planned for them in Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab.  Edge is specifically designated for youth 11-14 and Vibe is the teen hangout for youth 14-17.  The Chill Spa (only on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy) offers treatments for all of the teens such as the Hot Chocolate Wrap or Ice Cream Manicure and Pedicure.

Disney’s youth program offers some of the longest operating hours at sea so adults will have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the amenities onboard.  The youth activities counselors are trained to make sure your kids have the time of their lives on their cruise vacation. Next week, I will provide an in depth look into Disney’s Oceaneer Club.

Written by Shante Carson — Shante is a Disney Cruise Expert with over eight cruises taken on the Disney Dream, Disney Wonder, and Disney Fantasy.  Bon Voyage!  Shante is ready to help you plan your magical Disney Cruise vacation. Book your next vacation with Shante at 252-917-0497 or shante@destinationsinflorida.com.

The golden age of the circus is right now! Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom, part of the New Fantasyland expansion at Magic Kingdom theme park,  invites you to explore a lively world inspired by the Disney animated film Dumbo. What circus would be complete without tasty treats! Located in the heart of Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom, you’ll find the Big Top Souvenirs tent. Inside the tent is Big Top Treats. This serves as the centerpiece of the large gift shop area of Storybook Circus. This on-stage show kitchen will offer several delicious goodies including cotton candy, caramel apples, ice cold “Goofy’s Glaciers” beverages and much more.

Discover an irresistible combination of spectacle and showmanship for children of all ages. Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom dazzles with a glittering array of classic Disney characters and classic Disney storytelling! From the colorful big-top circus tents to the interactive line queues to the animal footprints that pepper the pavement, Storybook Circus offers imaginative touches at every turn. Casey Jr., the famous locomotive from the movie, has rolled into town and brought the grand Storybook Circus with him!

Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station brings the circus to New Fantasyland with a water play area where monkeys, elephants and giraffes splash along with guests. Joining Dumbo, the Flying Elephant and Barnstormer featuring the Great Goofini, Casey Jr. is located in Storybook Circus in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland expansion. Magic Kingdom is located at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

Contact Destinations in Florida today to book your trip today!

Book your Disney & Orlando vacation with a local travel agency. World famous services, free gifts, guaranteed lowest prices, and all at no cost to you! Book your vacation with the local experts – we live where you’re traveling! Call 877-918-8941 or visit us online