What is Your "Disney Moment"?

What is a Disney Moment? I'm going to channel my inner Disney therapist and try to explain it. This isn't based on any kind of professional training or education, just a few trips to Disney World.

Disney Moment: A Disney Moment is the moment you realize you are IN Disney. All the worries and cares leave you, and the outside world does not exist. Cell phones are only used for attraction line apps, the World is at your fingertips with Magic Band, and it's OK to wear Mickey Ears.

Your Disney Moment can be anything. Smells, Sights, Sounds. Something that clicks inside and you know you have arrived. For many of us, arriving at a place we call "home".

So What is Your Disney Moment?

• Boarding the Magical Express?
• Getting your Magic Bands?
• Driving under that iconic Walt Disney World sign?
• Walking down Main Street U.S.A?
• A Favorite Ride?
• A Favorite Food?
• Seeing that certain character?
• Making a purchase at the gift shoppes?

This is an interactive article folks, so please share your Disney Moments in the comments section.  

For those interested, my Disney Moment is when I unwrap the Mickey soap in the resort.  

Weird, but true!

Maria aka Mickey Mom is a travel planner for Snapshot Getaways, blogger and mom to two Disney addicts in training.  Visit her Facebook page for more fun articles and information.

Friday Freebie-Member Rewards

Each Friday, we like to tell you about free things you can download, projects you can make or just cool stuff that is made cooler because-IT'S FREE!

This week we wanted to tell you about some 0 points items you can download from Disney Movie Rewards. Most folks know about Disney Movies Rewards, but just in case you don't here's the stitch:

1) You sign up for a Disney Rewards account.
2) You buy Disney movies.*
3) You enter the codes from the insert inside the movie case.
4) Disney gives you points for each movie purchase (they also give you points on your birthday, and anniversary, and other times of the year)
5) You redeem those points for cool items. Anything from collectibles, DVDs, movie posters, experiences, clothing, and even gift cards!

*You can also earn points when you go see Disney movies at the theater! Just save your ticket stubs and mail them in.

Now-it's obviously not free to buy the movies to get the codes, but you can get a rewards account for free, and when there are free, or 0 point items, you can grab some fun, and cute items.

Here is an example of one of the free reward items in there right now. It is a free download for a Mickey Head iron on transfer . You can go the traditional route and make iron on transfers, or you could print them out and laminate them and make fun kids place mats, or shrink them down and decoupage them onto a glass tile and make coasters. Your really only limited to your own imagination!

There are lots of cool items in the 0 points bin right now. Printable stickers, more iron-on patterns, e-books, coloring pages, craft templates, and much more! Great for rainy day projects, little rewards, and just to proudly show of how Disney Devoted you are!

So there it is, this week's Friday Freebie! Go on over to our Disney Devoted Facebook page and post pictures of some of the cool items you & your family snagged from Disney Movie Rewards 0 points bin, we would love to see them!

Disney Family Magic Tour

I am always trying to find one special thing to do on every trip we take to Disney.  One that we haven't done before to keep things fun and new for us.

For our daughter's 7th birthday I decided we would take the Family Magic Tour. She has been begging to go on the Keys to the Kingdom tour but Disney says you have to be 16 and older.  She doesn't like that idea, but I guess they have their reasons.  For this tour it's ages 3 and up though so I booked it! And couldn't wait to go see what it was all about.

You meet your Cast Member and fearless leader outside of City Hall at a specific time given to you when you book the tour. They give you cute Peter Pan name tags and a bottle of water.  We were there early enough to have a few minutes alone with Snow White about Princess Erinlee's special day. She walked up behind us and took her by the hand, walked off and sat down like old friends. These memories are what makes Disney so magical.

When everyone arrives for the tour the CM explains a little about what you are going to be doing and then you set off on an ADVENTURE. Did someone say ADVENTURE? Oh wait that's Dream Along With Mickey.

We were given Mickey dust to help us along the way.  Who doesn't believe in Faith, Trust and Mickey Dust?

They had a few little tasks for the younger ones in the group. My daughter was chosen to protect the gold coins.

So off we went with our fearless Cast Member to find where that trouble maker Peter Pan had hidden Capt'n Hook's hook!! We had to find it because if we didn't he would take over the Magic Kingdom forever... *GASP*


We were told that when we saw a Cast Member standing around that we should approach them and say ARRRRR!
If they responded back with an ARRRRR we knew they were pirates and were part of Hook's team.  If they did not say ARRRR they were just CMs and nothing to fear.

The clues were fun and pretty easy for the Disney Geeks in our family.  So we had to hold our tongues not to shout out every answer to every clue. That wouldn't be fun for everyone else.

As we were heading down Main Street to our 2nd clue, we saw a Cast Member standing on the corner beside Casey's and approached him with caution. And we all let out a loud ARRRRRR...and he responded with an ARRRRR!! We screamed and ran!!

It was a lot of fun but people around us did not know what in the world we were doing and why we were yelling at Cast Members. I can't say that I blame them but it was kind of like a little secret society that we were a part of and it was fun!!

About half way through the tour we found ourselves in Tomorrowland sneaking up on Sonny Eclipse. Have you ever tried to sneak through Cosmic Ray's on your hands and knees? It's rather entertaining when you have about 20 people in a line on the floor crawling through a busy restaurant.

At that point we stopped to have some water and take a bathroom break.

After about a 15 minute break we headed back out on our adventure to find that hook. We just knew we were doomed! We had to save the Magic Kingdom from that rotten Capt'n Hook....

We had a few more clues to go, and they lead us straight to the Pirates of the Caribbean ride area.

Tucked away in a cozy little corner we all looked and looked for the hook, and out of nowhere came PETER PAN!!! And guess what he was holding ? THE HOOK!! 
YAY, We saved the Magic Kingdom!

We were all given a chance to have pictures with Peter Pan and we thanked Meghann from South Carolina for being such a brave leader! Each family receives a certificate as a reward for helping save the Magic Kingdom.

Overall the tour was a lot of fun for all ages. I suggest doing it as early in the morning as you can, especially if you are there during the summer. It is not too fast paced but they do try to keep the tour within the 2 hour time frame.

The price for the tour is $34.00 plus tax per person ages 3 and up. They do offer discounts for AP holders,DVC,Disney Visa and AAA Diamond members. 

All information is current at the time of this blog post.

A little about Dulcie...

I am a native Floridian who has been traveling to Disney World since 1976! I am Submariners wife,Mommy to a 9 yr old "Princess" Imagineer in Training and Travel Agent Extraordinaire with Snapshot Getaways. I earned my ears 4 years ago with Disney College of Knowledge and have enjoyed every Magical booking since.

Feel free to contact me for your FREE quote today and let's start Makin' Memories the Disney way.

Facebook-Dream Along with Dulcie

Twitter-DreamAlongWithDulcie

Email-Dulcie@SnapshotGetaways.com

Disney Devoted Kid Review: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

From a Disney Devoted kids point of view...

As you may know, the Magic Kingdom in Disney World, Orlando, Florida has opened a new ride as a part of the New Fantasyland Expansion. This new ride, based on Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs, takes passengers through the dwarves' mines. It resembles Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, due to its b oth indoor and outdoor track and with its quick drops and curves. But it differs Big Thunder through many of its attributes. For example, while both share sudden drops, twists, and turns, Mine Train is a much more controlled ride than Big Thunder. That was one the first things my mom and I noticed. Since the ride's less clattered and rickety, it's definitely quieter and milder than Big Thunder Mountain. This control softens the overall intensity of the coaster, which is great for riders who are scared of heights or drops. Even though the ride is much less intense compared to many others, it can still can the adrenaline running nonetheless. 

Another mentionable feature is the interactive queue. At the end of the outdoor part of the line and beginning of the indoor part, there are three interactive "games". The first is a drag and match game where different colored and shaped gems travel down the screen like a conveyor belt. Then you have to drag and match them into the correct holes (as the name suggests). The second, which is the most interesting in my opinion, is a motion activated water fountain set up like a sink with jewels set at the bottom. So when you put your hands out and let the water run down, it's as if you were washing the jewels from the mines. The third is a line of barrels that light up and play music when you spin them. Also, when they light up, an animation of each of the characters is projected on the ceiling. I think these were a nice addition to the queue but ultimately led to a longer wait time (because everyone was taking hours to wash their hands in the fountains). 

When my mom and I rode, we went on the 23rd of May, 5 days before the scheduled opening date. Our approximate wait time was an hour (a half hour shorter than the average wait at the time) but turned out to only be 20-30 minutes or so. I have no idea how long the waits have been recently but I assume no better than when we went, due to the ride's newness and advertising. Overall the 7 Dwarfs Mine Train is a terrific family ride to go on with your party, and I highly recommend you try it out on your next trip to the Magic Kingdom. 

Kerrigan is 13 year old Disney super fan. She has been been to Walt Disney World multiple times since her first birthday trip at 5 years old. She love to give a kid/teens perspective on the happiest place on earth.  Leave your article ideas for Kerrigan in the comments section below!

Disney Cruise Line Handicap Accessible Stateroom

You may know that Disney Cruise Line has some of the largest staterooms in the industry, and their handicap accessible staterooms are no different. This is a photo tour of a handicap accessible stateroom the Disney Magic. This roomy stateroom is for guests who have mobility issues, and might be sailing with a ECV, wheelchair or special needs stroller.  Giving them the extra maneuvering space to move about the cabin easily. The entry is about 10" wider than a standard cabin, and provides 32" of clearance.

**Note: The stateroom shown in these photos, is located at the stern (back) of the ship, and is larger than most of the handicap accessible staterooms. It is also a wheelchair accessible room, which means your wheelchair, scooter, ECV, or stroller can be stored in your stateroom.

Sleeping arrangements for this stateroom will accommodate up to 4 guests. The queen bed is approximately  21"-23" high and is elevated to provide storage for your luggage. The couch converts into a single bed and the upper, pull down bunk can accommodate a guest up to 220lbs.

 The bathrooms in the handicap accessible staterooms have a variety of features to accommodate guests. These features include:

*Ramped bathroom entrances
*Handrails for the shower & toilet
*Hand-held shower heads
*Fold down shower seats
*Lowered towel & closet bars
*Phone and emergency call buttons in the bathroom

 As noted above, this stateroom is located at the stern, so this cabin enjoys a very oversize verandah. Not all handicap accessible staterooms with verandah will have a verandah of this size.

 Due to the limited availability of handicap accessible rooms on each of the ships (16 on the Magic & Wonder, and 24 on the Dream & Fantasy), it is recommended you book early. When booking, you can discuss your individual needs with your travel advisor and with Disney Cruise Line, by filling out a Disney Cruise Lines Special Services Form. You will be contacted by a cast member to discuss any special needs you may have, and how they can accommodate you.

For assistance booking a handicap accessible stateroom on any of Disney's ships, contact us at Info@SnapshotGetaways.com, or for a free, no obligation quote, fill out our quote form, and one of our agents will contact you to get started planning your Disney Cruise Line vacation!

Disney Devoted Survival Tips-Planning Your Flight

So you’ve decided that flying to Disney is the way to go.  I live in the Northeast, so our flight is short, but in my opinion, necessary.  My parents were all about the road trip, but with two young boys, I’m all about getting there quickly.  So I’m going to share a few of my tips for a successful flying experience with the family. Disclaimer:  I make no guarantees here.  Flying these days can be rough.  But try a few of these ideas to ease the pain.

Planning Ahead

• Picking Your Flight
  :  Pick a time that works for you.  If you are not morning people, don’t stress yourself out by trying to get a 6am flight.  Direct flights are not always financially feasible, but if it’s a matter of a small amount, definitely go that way!  Spend less on your souvenirs when you get to Disney. Obviously we are all traveling from different parts of the country, but we try to take a late morning flight which gets us in mid afternoon.  For many families, traveling during nap time works out well.  If your kid is easily distracted this is not a good plan.  Then you are left with a napless, cranky child.   
• Discounted Flights: Many times if you go to your home airport there will be smaller companies that fly out of there to Orlando. Just check the individual airline website for details as many of these companies will not show up on the discount travel sites. 
• Bagging It:  We travel with a bag or backpack with several pockets and use bags within the bag.  By that I mean using ziploc bags, pencil cases,  makeup bags, etc to compartmentalize your items.  Dollar Stores are a great place to find little bags.  Keep all like items together for easy access during the security check in and flight.
• Travel Insurance:  If you are traveling during Hurricane Season or during the winter months, I strongly recommend this.  With kids, I always purchase travel insurance.  
• Entertainment:  Purchase some small entertaining toys, books or games that will be new to your children.  Or put some of their favorites away for a while and reintroduce them.  It could be as simple as a Matchbox car!  Download apps,  movies or tv shows they haven’t seen before if you travel with a IPad or similar device.  Disney shows of course!   Coloring books the “magical markers” are a big hit with this family.
• Preparation:  If this is their first flight, talk with your children about the process.  Books are always great tools.  Especially inform them that they will walk through security on their own.   Practicing and play acting your flying scenario can be fun family time.

What to Pack

• One Carry-on Per Person
  :  The trend now is to pack as much in carry-on  luggage as possible.  Remember you have to carry it through the airport so pack smartly.   We pack small, rolling bags for our kids with their toys, books and games.  Follow TSA rules ahead of time and have your toiletries and such at the ready.  Click here for TSA Tips for Traveling with Children.
• Strollers and Car Seats:  You may check those at the gate, but I recommend  investing in a cheap folding carrier any large car seats to get them through the airport.  It doesn’t have to be especially made for car seats, which will save you some money.  Ours is a $20 cart from Target with a bungee cord.  Don’t judge, it works.  Renting these pieces in Florida is also an easy option!
• Snacks:  You can never have too many snacks, because any extras can be for the parks.  Bring something you wouldn’t normally give your child on an average day so that it’s special.  Colored goldfish, flat fruit rollups, etc.  Don’t forget something for you, snacks will keep the cranky parent and child at bay!   I also suggest packing an empty sippy cup for your kiddos so the drinks on the flight (and in the parks) don’t create a mess.
• Comfort item for your child:  Do they have a Woobie, Teddy, or Lovey that never leaves them?  Make sure you don’t pack it in the luggage.  It will need to go on the security belt, so have that conversation ahead of time.
• Emergency Supplies:  Any prescription medications you need to have on hand, pain reliever (for both kids and parents), wet wipes, chargers, etc.   At least a spare shirt, preferably a spare outfit.
• Magical Express:  If you are taking the Magical Express, pack anything you might need within the first few hours of arrival in your carry-on.  Don't forget your Magic Bands!  They should be handy when you arrive in Orlando.  Change of clothes, trip information, swimsuits, sunscreen etc.  Your luggage will be a few hours behind you so keep that in mind.

Keep an eye out for my follow-up article Disney Devoted Survival Trips-Flying to Disney

Maria aka MickeyMom is a Travel Planner with Snapshot Getaways and mom to two expert flyers.  Visit her Facebook page 

Spice Road Table-Review

Spice Road Table is a cozy Mediterranean treasure that opened in Morocco a little over 6 months ago.
We were there for the soft opening and we were very impressed with the service we received. Everyone was so friendly and really made us feel at "home".

The best part about going to Epcot are the different experiences you can have in one park.
Don't be afraid to talk to the Cast Members in the park. They love talking about their home country and are always willing to share so much with the guests. I think this is why we find ourselves here many times in one trip.

Spice Road Table gets its name from the legendary spice trades between historic civilizations in Asia,Northeast Africa and Europe. Herbs and spices were used to trade as a primary source of commerce. The most common used in this trade were cumin, cinnamon, tumeric, cardamom, cassia and ginger. So be ready to have a explosion of spices and flavors when you dine here.
I even ordered a glass of water so I could enjoy all of the flavors we were about to take in.
(They have a nice selection of wines, Mediterranean beers and cocktails too.)

There are 2 different seating options. I chose to sit inside because the weather was a little too chilly for this Florida girl. They have a beautiful patio area that would be a nice place to sit and relax on a warmer day though. We requested to be seated near the windows for a better view of World Showcase Lagoon.

When I got the menu I noticed it wasn't like a typical table service but it wasn't a counter service type restaurant. It was a nice mix of both. You had smaller portions of food but you had someone to serve you. I've noticed when we are at Disney we try things we wouldn't typically try at home. So this is always a fun adventure for us.I think we are finding ourselves to be Disney Foodies...OH MY!

We had a hard time deciding if we were going to get a platter to share or order something individually just because we weren't sure of the portion sizes. We decided to share and I'm glad we did because we had room left for desserts. I mean who doesn't pick dessert options before eating? Most of the time I'm so full that I don't even get dessert at Disney but this time the portion was perfect since we split it and could enjoy samples of our top 2 picks of desserts!

We started out with the Hummus and Imported Olives with Cornichons and Za'zatar FlatBread.

The 3 of us all had a nice size sample of everything that was on the platter and it was enough to enjoy but not too much that we had any left on the plate.

Next came the "main courses" for us. My husband and I got the Tingis Sampler to share. I've never been a fan of lamb but when we were on our DCL cruise in December our server talked me into trying it and I've loved it ever since.
Our daughter got the chicken strips but said next time she was going to get her own Tingis Sampler! She really is a very picky eater but she transforms at Epcot into a different child. I am glad she is willing to sample different foods and if going to Epcot is what it takes, then LET'S GO!
The platter was small but filling. It was enough for each of us to have a good sample of each item without feeling stuffed. We slowly savored every bite but after the lamb slider we were already planning another visit to Spice Road Table. The Merguez sausage was amazing!!

And then dessert.....
The 3 of us all decided we wanted to try the Almond and Rosewater Cake with Blood Orange Sauce with a side of Chocolate Pyramid and Almond Ice Cream!! 
*My daughter recently found Chocolate Pyramids in Walmart and after tasting one she threw the other in the trash.."they don't taste like they did at Spice Road Table" according to her. So it must be the MAGIC of Epcot*
The desserts were DELICIOUS!! The cake was so moist and you could taste a hint of the rosewater which made it even better.And the chocolate pyramid was...chocolaty! You can't go wrong with chocolate....


                                     

My family really enjoyed the experience and we can't wait to go back and enjoy this little hidden jewel in Epcot.
_________________________________________________________________________________

Kids menu items are served with carrot sticks,apple sauce and 1% milk.

• Watermelon Delight Fruit Cocktail-$5.99
• Moroccan Sunrise *drink*-$5.99
• Fried Chicken Tenders-$7.99
• Hamburger-$7.99
• Moroccan Style Pasta-$7.99
• Ice Cream-$2.99

****They do not accept the Disney Dining Plan at the time of the writing of this blog post.****

*A little about Dulcie

I am a native Floridian who has been traveling to Disney World since 1976! I am Submariners wife,Mommy to a 9 yr old "Princess" Imagineer in Training and Travel Agent Extraordinaire with Snapshot Getaways. I earned my ears 4 years ago with Disney College of Knowledge and have enjoyed every Magical booking since.

Feel free to contact me for your FREE quote today and let's start Makin' Memories the Disney way.

Facebook-Dream Along with Dulcie

Twitter-DreamAlongWithDulcie

Email-Dulcie@SnapshotGetaways.com