Are you a homeschooling family that is always looking for a way to learn and have some family fun while doing it? Well, have I got a great opportunity for you! Destinations in Florida Travel has teamed up with Magical Mouse Schoolhouse and 3D Travel to bring you the Ultimate Field Trip!

The Ultimate Field Trip is a special Disney World vacation for with homeschooling families in mind. This event will take place September 27th thru 30th, 2016. This event is a perfect time for homeschooling families to enjoy magical meet ups and memory making, as well as get to know other families that are focused on homeschooling their children.

As a mom who homeschools her son, I definitely look for great opportunities like this one where I can mingle with other homeschoolers, have a fun, family learning experience, and make lasting magical memories that will impact my son. Plus, learning with Mickey at Disney always makes schooling more fun for everyone!

Here is the schedule of events:

September 27:  Day at Epcot
September 28:  Day at Magic Kingdom
September 29:  Day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
September 30:  Day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

The registration cost for this event is $5. Once you book your travel and pay your registration, we will send you a link to sign up for the events. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this magical fun-filled, learning experience. Plus, you can choose to come for one day or the whole event. Hurry, the deadline is September 1st!

You can request a quote for your Disney World vacation for the Ultimate Field Trip below:

Written by Staci Sampson:  Staci is a savvy traveler who prides herself in finding the best deals possible for her guests. She is a homeschooling wife and mother and loves to work travel into her son’s learning.  Staci loves helping her guests make their dream vacations their destinations and is ready to help you plan your next amazing vacation, at no extra cost to you. Staci is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida Travel, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Book your next trip with Staci Sampson at 540-877-5919 or staci@destinationsinflorida.com.

Are you looking for an inviting Deluxe Disney World Resort? Look no further than Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge…step into the heart of Africa at this incredible themed resort.  With its expansive architectural design, you will fall in love right away. From the spectacular grand lobby with hand crafted wood accents your bound to be amazed. You can take in all the animals throughout the resort.  From the rocking chairs on the public balconies, or from glass windows in the halls to the privacy of your own balcony if you have a Savanna view room. Or from the lookout points located around the resort.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge & Disney’s Kidani Village are two distinctive locations, including Jambo House in the main lodge that has the food court and cocktail lounge.  Kidani Village which has a smaller lobby that is just as impressive offers the larger of the two pool slides and a splash playground for the younger kids, which are all villa accommodations.

Written by Dawn Caitano:  Dawn specializes in multi-generational travel as well as honeymoons and proposals at Walt Disney World.  She is also an avid cruiser, having set sail on all the major cruise lines. Dawn’s experience and expertise, along with a sprinkle of her pixie dust, will make your vacation one to remember! Book your next vacation with Dawn at 917-494-5771 or dawn@destinationsinflorida.com

New Nighttime Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Experience a different breed of discovery when you explore the wilds of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve at night. Previously off limits to visitors after sundown, this unforgettable journey aboard a rugged, all-terrain caravan takes you deep into the wilds of Africa, where creatures both big and small await your arrival amid the tranquil shadows of the lush brush on the Kilimanjaro Safaris.

During your adventure, witness the rarely seen nocturnal habits of the reserve’s many animal residents, including lions, elephants, hippopotamuses, and hyena. Spy a careless crocodile slumped upon a rocky plot. Behold spirited zebras galloping silently across a vast plain. Spot a relaxing rhino soaking up a luxurious mud bath. Strategically placed lighting evoking both the setting sun and rising moon ensure you won’t miss a moment. And as always, your friendly safari guide is on hand to share expert knowledge about the animals and their unique nocturnal habits.

So climb aboard, lean back and take in the sights of Africa by night; it’s sure to be one drive you won’t soon forget. Join us on a sunset adventure safari!

What is your favorite animal resident on Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park?

Disney Dooney & Bourke Bags Available Online!

It’s a world of choices, a world of fun! Dooney & Bourke have styles for everyone!

And right now, the Disney Dooney Small World pattern collection is available on the Shop Disney Parks mobile app!

You can find several other styles in addition to the Small World collection on the app, too.

If you don’t already have the Shop Disney Parks app, download the app from the Apple Store or get it on Google Play. The app allows you to shop the largest selection of Authentic gifts and Disney Parks merchandise!

In addition to Dooney & Bourke bags, you can add gifts, toys, collectibles, costumes, pins, Mickey ears and more to your order. Once you are done, ship your purchase to select Walt Disney World Resort hotels or to a convenient pick-up location near the theme park Main Entrance. If you aren’t currently in the Walt Disney World area, have your order shipped right to your door! They will deliver to all 50 states in the U.S. (not including P.O. boxes).

Which item will you shop for first?

With all of the new changes happening at Disney Springs, many new dining locations have sprung up with others still to come. Here are my top 5 recommendations. Most of them are new, but I have included a classic that still is a favorite for many.

#5 The Boathouse  

This is a must see! The Nautical Decor is spectacular. Each room has it’s own seaside nautical theme. There is even a speedboat inside the main dining room. Serving the freshest seafood and steaks. Also, try the lobster bisque which is amazing. After dinner, take a walk outside to the dock and check out some of the coolest classic boats. It is like a mini boat museum. This is more of an upscale dining experience. Featuring a nice dockside bar too.

#4 Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar

Set in a 1940’s Airplane Hangar turned dive bar. Very small and cozy with seating inside and outside. Offering a Lounge Menu Serving small plates and cocktails. So if you enjoy trying a mix of small appetizer plates, then you will like Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar. Some options on the menu include sliders, falafel, blt flatbread, chicken wings and tuna tacos.They also have an Aviator’s beer flight if you want to taste a few different beer choices.

#3 Morimoto Asia

This is Master Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s newest flagship location. This is a sophisticated, upscale two story restaurant. Serving tasty dishes like dim sum, sushi rolls, and sushi towers for up to 2-6 people. Dumplings, egg rolls, tempura dishes. Ribeye steaks. There is something for the entire family. They also have a nice outdoor patio with seating on the upper level next to the Sushi bar. Don’t forget to try the Sake Sangria you will not be disappointed.

#2 Raglan Road

This is a classic Irish Pub themed restaurant. Offering great food, live music and live Irish step dancers. This is not one of the new restaurants that just opened, but it is a must do. If this is your first time visiting Raglan Road make sure to dine inside to get the full experience. They do offer outside seating, where you will miss out on all the action happening on the main and center stage. If you are looking for a quiet place to dine, skip Raglan Road. This is a fun, loud fun place to dine for the entire family. Be sure to try the Shepard’s Pie or Fish & Chips.

#1 Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming

Centrally located in Disney Springs serving American cuisine in a casual setting. Art Smith is best known for being Oprah’s personal chef for ten years. If you are looking for some down home cooking, you will really enjoy some classic favorites. Serving his famous fried chicken and mouthwatering macaroni & cheese. Delicious desserts like fruit cobblers and signature Mockingbird and shine cakes. All of the food served will be harvested from local farms in the state of Florida. For the freshest ingredients around.  Adjacent is the Shine Bar, serving great punches and retro coolers made with moonshine. This is a comfort food lover’s dream come true. So make sure to take a chance at Homecoming.

When visiting the New Disney Springs make sure to try out one of the exciting restaurants listed above. Also with all the new dining establishments opening finding an advanced Disney Dining Reservation may be easier to come by. Remember to always call 180 days in advance to book your dining reservations, by calling 407-WDW-DINE or through your My Disney Experience Account. Or have your agent from Destinations to Explore, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, book them for you.

Written by Dawn Caitano – Dawn creates lasting memories by planning your customized vacations all over the world. Not only does she find the BEST accommodations with the BEST value, but she will fill in all the blanks for you, all at no cost to you. Traveling is her passion! Passing that magic on to your family is what fuels that passion!  So call Dawn today to start your next Adventure. Book your next vacation with Dawn at 917-494-5771 or dawn@destinationsinflorida.com

This week learn about Princess of Elena of Avalor joining the other Disney Princesses at the Magic Kingdom, the new EPCOT cookbook, the new family raft ride coming to Typhoon Lagoon in 2017.

All these and so much more in this week’s episode of the Around the Mouse. You can watch the video by clicking on this link and even downloading a copy for your computer or phone.

 

It wasn’t too long ago that when enjoying a sunset at Animal Kingdom park, you would likely have been heading to your ride back, The great news is that now you can enjoy a spectacular Sunset while out on the Savannah or from the top of Expedition Everest!

Animal Kingdom Park has been considered a half day park by more than a few frequent Disney visitors. The Animal Kingdom set itself up this was as it closed at 6 pm on average, leaving guess with a choice of an early night or park hop to a second park.

The Animal Kingdom now has hours as late as 11 pm with a new nighttime show based on the live version of “The Jungle Book”. The show includes Bollywood Dancing, film clips from both Disney versions of the movie and live music. The Animal Kingdom will also be adding the Rivers of Light nighttime show sometime this year (last we heard). Both of these shows are excellent reasons to hang around for and past the beautiful sunsets.

Coming in 2017 will be The World of Avatar, inspired by Planet of Pandora. This land will be an amazing place to visit during the day, but at night will become a world all of it’s own. The rumors and advance previews of this hauntingly beautiful home will be a must see for all visitors to Disney World.

Written By Daniel Mullarkey: Daniel is an agent with Destinations In Florida travel agency and travels as often as possible. His goal is to always ensure that all of our planning leads to the most fantastic trip whether to Disney, Universal, on a cruise or further away. Reach out to him at anytime via email or Facebook.

Enjoy VIP Treatment at Universal Orlando Resort

You don’t have to be a celebrity to experience the Universal Orlando theme parks like a VIP. With the VIP Experience, you’ll be personally escorted by a Universal Orlando expert on a guided tour throughout Universal Studios Florida®, Universal’s Islands of Adventure®, or both theme parks where you’ll get exclusive backstage access, learn fun insider information, and enjoy the parks’ most amazing rides and attractions without waiting in line!

You can check out the highlights from not one, but two different Universal Orlando VIP Tour experiences in our video:

On a Universal Orlando VIP Tour, along with a personal guide, you also get:

• Priority Front of the Line Access to all rides and attractions including The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D and all of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ attractions and experiences.
• Exclusive Behind the Scenes Tours
• Complimentary Valet Parking (1 Vehicle, Based on Availability)
• Continental Breakfast to start your day
• Reserved Seating at shows* and special viewing areas at Universal’s Superstar Parade®
• Lunch at one of Universal Orlando’s 50+ dining venues.

We absolutely enjoyed our VIP experiences and recommend it to guests of Universal Orlando Resort! Have you ever taken a tour at the Universal theme parks? Tell us what you thought of it!

When visiting Walt Disney World in Central Florida, be sure to include a visit to Disney Springs, formally known as Downtown Disney. The entire complex has been totally re-imagined with many new venues. Here you will find entertainment, dining, and shopping that is amazing. There is no charge for parking or admission.

As a travel agent, I recommend that guests schedule a ‘day off’ during the midst of their Disney vacation to allow time to relax and take a break from the parks. The afternoon of this day would be the perfect time to explore Disney Springs at a leisurely pace although you could spend several days here and still not see it all. It’s also a great choice for your arrival or departure day. Disney Springs can be reached via car or Disney Bus Transportation. There is plenty of convenient parking in the brand new, state-of-the-art parking garage.

Let’s take a look at just a few of the exciting options at Disney Springs:

 

Entertainment – Splitsville Luxury Lanes, La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil, AMC Movie Theatre, Living Statures, DJ Parties, local Florida talent, The Marketplace Carousel, Characters in Flight balloon…and much more.

Dining – Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC, The Boathouse, Raglan Road, TRex, Bongos Cuban Café, Earl of Sandwich, Morimoto Asia, Paradiso 37, Wolfgang Puck Café & Express, Cookes of Dublin and Rainforest Café, along with multiple Food Trucks…and much more.

Shopping – World of Disney, Chapel Hats, Orlando Harley-Davidson, The Art of Shaving, Marketplace CoOp, Sanuk, Once Upon a Toy, The Coca Cola Store, Goofy’s Candy Co., Mickey’s Pantry, Disney’s Pin Traders, Little Miss Matched, The Art of Disney, TrenD….among with many new shops opening soon.

As you can see, Disney Springs is growing and changing daily. Make sure to allow time for a visit during your next Walt Disney World vacation.

Written by Sheri Morris, “Main Street Morris”.  Sheri is a 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 sheri@destinationsinflorida.com.