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	<title>Disney Travel Guru &#187; Press Release</title>
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		<title>Disney World&#8217;s Two New Development Projects</title>
		<link>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/09/17/disney-worlds-two-new-development-projects/</link>
		<comments>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/09/17/disney-worlds-two-new-development-projects/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:58:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tim</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Disney World]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bay Lake Tower]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[disney]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ko Olina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Oahu]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[treehouse villas]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Disney Press Release regarding two ongoing construction projects, Bay Lake Towers and the Treehouse Villas.]]></description>
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<p>If you have been to <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Walt+Disney+World" rel="tag">Walt Disney World</a> lately you have probably seen the massive construction project going on next to the <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Contemporary+Resort" rel="tag">Contemporary Resort</a>.  Disney just put out this press release detailing this project along with information on the <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Treehouse+Villas" rel="tag">Treehouse Villas</a> Project.</p>
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<h3>Disney Vacation Club Continues Unprecedented Growth With Two New Development Projects</h3>
<p>Future accommodations are rooted in Walt Disney World history</p>
<p>LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla.(Sept. 16, 2008) – Two highly anticipated resort developments announced today will expand the <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Walt+Disney+World" rel="tag">Walt Disney World</a> experience and continue the rapid growth of <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Disney+Vacation+Club" rel="tag">Disney Vacation Club</a>, Disney’s innovative vacation-ownership program:</p>
<p>* the 15-story <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Bay+Lake+Tower" rel="tag">Bay Lake Tower</a> at Disney’s <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Contemporary+Resort" rel="tag">Contemporary Resort</a> is scheduled to join the Disney Vacation Club family of properties in fall 2009, while</p>
<p>* the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Saratoga+Springs+Resort+&amp;+Spa" rel="tag">Saratoga Springs Resort &amp; Spa</a>, scheduled to open in summer 2009, will become the next room category offered at that resort.</p>
<p>Disney Vacation Club also announced that <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Bay+Lake+Tower" rel="tag">Bay Lake Tower</a> sales are scheduled to begin on Sept. 21 for Disney Vacation Club Members, while sales to the general public and sales for the newest phase of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort &amp; Spa will begin at a later date.<br />
“Our founder, Walt Disney, was well known for having one foot in the past and one in the future,” said Disney Vacation Club President Jim Lewis. “These new resort developments share that dynamic sensibility, blending modern luxury and design with the nostalgic spirit of two of the most storied resorts in Walt Disney World history.”</p>
<p>The announcement comes during an unprecedented era of growth for Disney Vacation Club, established in 1991 to give families decades of affordable vacations at Disney destinations and beyond. Disney Vacation Club membership has more than doubled since 2004, expanding to include more than 350,000 individuals from approximately 100 countries and every U.S. state.<br />
That membership growth has also driven Disney Vacation Club expansion, inspiring Walt Disney Imagineers to dream up new vacation home opportunities. In addition to Bay Lake Tower and the Treehouse Villas, development continues on <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Disney’s+Animal+Kingdom+Villas" rel="tag">Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas</a> at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/The+Villas+at+Disney’s+Grand+Californian+Hotel+&amp;+Spa" rel="tag">The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel &amp; Spa </a> at the Disneyland Resort in California and the recently announced resort at <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Ko+Olina" rel="tag">Ko Olina</a> on the island of <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Oahu" rel="tag">Oahu</a>.</p>
<p>“What excites me most about this tremendous growth is that we’re not only creating new accommodations, but new experiences,” Lewis said. “Each of the projects we’ve undertaken at Disney Vacation Club is unlike anything previously available in our resort portfolio, and both Bay Lake Tower and the Treehouse Villas proudly build on that tradition.”</p>
<p><strong> Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort</strong><br />
The new, curvilinear Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is designed to complement the fabled styling of the original building, which opened with the <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Magic+Kingdom+Park" rel="tag">Magic Kingdom Park</a> on Oct. 1, 1971, and featured comedian Bob Hope as master of ceremonies. Mimicking the color palette and strong horizontal lines of its iconic predecessor, the new structure even sports a rooftop lounge inspired by the original resort’s A-frame architecture.<br />
The tower’s crescent shape, hugging lush landscaping, planned recreation options and a lakeside pool, promises to deliver some of the most dramatic views available anywhere at the <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Walt+Disney+World+Resort" rel="tag">Walt Disney World Resort</a>. Some villas face scenic, undeveloped stretches of Bay Lake, while others offer spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom Park, located a short walk away.<br />
The views promise to be equally appealing inside the tower’s 295 two-bedroom-equivalent villas, where visionary design meets Disney chic to define the vacation experience. As the closest resort to the Magic Kingdom Park, Bay Lake Tower guests can easily return to their rooms for quick breaks from their busy day in the Park, where they can relax in an inspiring setting offering many of the conveniences of home.</p>
<p>Most of the rooms in this iconic resort will feature innovative touches, such as modern artwork designed specifically for Bay Lake Tower, flat-screen TVs, full kitchens complete with granite countertops and modern appliances, separate bedrooms, washers and dryers, and other home-like amenities. Plus, to accommodate larger families or families traveling together, many Bay Lake Tower vacation villas are designed to sleep up to nine, though some units can also be divided into one-bedroom villas that sleep five and studios that accommodate four, creating flexible options for smaller groups.</p>
<p>“These vacation homes will be furnished with some amazing custom pieces that are works of art unto themselves,” said Imagineer Brian McFarland. “It’s all about maintaining that feel of clean lines and open spaces, with plenty of Disney touches.”<br />
Add to the plans a spacious lobby filled with woven woods and glass-wrapped columns, sweeping views from a rooftop lounge and fireworks viewing deck, and the convenience of a sky bridge linking families to shops, restaurants and the monorail station, and you have a Disney Vacation Club destination that is both practical and fashionable.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Treehouse+Villas" rel="tag">Treehouse Villas</a> at <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Disney’s+Saratoga+Springs+Resort+&amp;+Spa" rel="tag">Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort &amp; Spa</a></strong><br />
Meanwhile, nestled in natural forest glens just around the river bend from the bustling <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Downtown+Disney" rel="tag">Downtown Disney</a> area, the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort &amp; Spa will mark the newest phase of what has become the largest Disney Vacation Club resort. Phase one of the idyllic lakeside community debuted in 2004, and phase three sold out earlier this year.</p>
<p>This new phase will revive Walt Disney World “treehouse living,” a cherished tradition from 1975-2002. While crews are replacing villas of the ‘70s with brand-new vacation homes, Imagineers took special care to honor the original octagonal design.</p>
<p>The construction process itself is unique as each stand-alone Treehouse Villa will come together like a giant 3-D puzzle to ensure both superior quality and environmental sensitivity.<br />
All 60 three-bedroom homes, elevated 10 feet off the ground on pedestals and beams designed to blend into the forest environment, will sleep nine and are planned to offer modern luxuries such as cathedral ceilings, granite countertops and flat-screen TVs, all presented in a style dubbed “cabin casual.”</p>
<p>“I was lucky enough to have a treehouse as a kid, but it was certainly nothing like this,” said Imagineer Todd Thomasson. “In developing this resort, we’ve all learned a new word, ‘glamping,’ which apparently means glamorous camping. The Treehouse Villas will be glamping at its absolute best.”</p>
<p><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Disney+Vacation+Club" rel="tag">Disney Vacation Club</a> is owned by Disney Vacation Development Inc., part of the magic of <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/The+Walt+Disney+Company" rel="tag">The Walt Disney Company</a>. To learn more, visit www.disneyvacationclub.com.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">-30-</p>
<p>Contact: Kristin Beltz<br />
Disney Vacation Club<br />
Phone: (407) 566-3128<br />
Email: kristin.r.beltz@disney.com</p>
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		<title>Disney Cruise Line Tropical Storm Hanna Update</title>
		<link>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/09/02/dcl-hanna-update/</link>
		<comments>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/09/02/dcl-hanna-update/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 02 Sep 2008 22:42:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Bernadette</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Disney Cruise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hurricane]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tropical storm]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Disney has changed their itineraries for the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder so as to keep a safe distance from Tropical Storm Hanna.]]></description>
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<p>Disney Cruise Line® is monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Hanna. In anticipation of the inclement weather associated with the storm system, we have made minor modifications to the itineraries of the Disney Magic® commencing Sept. 1, 2008, and the Disney Wonder® commencing Aug. 31, 2008, to keep our Guests and Crew Members a safe distance from the storm.</p>
<p>Guests received notification of the following itinerary adjustments at check-in:</p>
<h3>Disney Magic</h3>
<ul>
<li>Mon. 9/1 &#8211; Port Canaveral</li>
<li>Tues. 9/2 &#8211; Castaway Cay</li>
<li>Wed. 9/3 – Day at Sea (change)</li>
<li>Thurs. 9/4 &#8211; Nassau (change)</li>
<li>Fri. 9/5 &#8211; Castaway Cay</li>
<li>Sat. 9/6 &#8211; Port Canaveral</li>
</ul>
<h3>Disney Wonder</h3>
<ul>
<li>Sun. 8/31 &#8211; Port Canaveral</li>
<li>Mon. 9/1 &#8211; Castaway Cay (change)</li>
<li>Tues. 9/2 &#8211; Nassau (change)</li>
<li>Wed. 9/3 – Day at Sea</li>
<li>Thurs. 9/4 &#8211; Port Canaveral</li>
</ul>
<p>At this time, we have not made any changes to the Sept. 4, 2008, voyage of the Disney Wonder. The safety of our Guests and Crew Members is always our top concern. We will continue to monitor conditions and make operational changes, if necessary.<br />
&#8212;</p>
<p>For the latest information on Hanna, be sure to check <a href="http://www.DisneyTravelGuru.com/disney-hurricane-season-2008/">Disney Hurricane Season 2008 Update Page</a>!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Disney Cruise Line Recognized as Top Cruise Experience</title>
		<link>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/27/disney-top-cruise-experience/</link>
		<comments>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/27/disney-top-cruise-experience/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:16:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Bernadette</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Disney Cruise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[disney cruise line]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family cruise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[top cruise experience]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Disney Cruise Line has been recognized as the top cruise experience.]]></description>
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<h3>Disney Cruise Line Recognized as a Top Cruise Experience by Readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine</h3>
<p><img src="http://www.vacationdreamstravel.com/_Media/the_disney_magic_docked_in_-2_large.jpeg" width="450" /></p>
<p>CELEBRATION, Fla., (Aug 5, 2008) &#8212; Disney Cruise Line continues to receive top honors in the cruise industry, most recently being recognized in Travel + Leisure magazine&#8217;s &#8220;2008 World&#8217;s Best&#8221; awards.</p>
<p>The “World’s Best” list, which is compiled annually, recognizes the best in travel for cities, hotels, islands, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, safari outfitters and car-rental agencies each year. This year,Disney Cruise Line ranked No. 3 in the &#8220;Large-Ship&#8221; cruise line category. The ranking was determined by readers asked to rate cruise lines on cabins, food, service, itineraries, destinations, activities and value.</p>
<p>Disney Cruise Line has moved up on the Travel + Leisure World’s Best awards list each year, besting all other “mass market” cruise lines and further confirming a niche position as the ultimate family cruise vacation – a concept it pioneered and continues to refine with specifically designed areas and activities for each member of the family allowing for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences.</p>
<p>&#8220;We are delighted to be recognized in the Travel + Leisure magazine “2008 World&#8217;s Best” awards as one of the top three large-ship cruise lines and the highest ranked cruise line catering to the family market,&#8221; said Tom McAlpin, President of Disney Cruise Line. &#8220;This recognition further enhances our position as the best cruise line for an unparalleled family vacation and motivates us to continue to elevate the Disney Cruise Line experience even higher.&#8221;</p>
<p>Disney Cruise Line has received nearly 50 distinguished awards and honors since first setting sail in 1998. These awards have included all aspects of the operation from dining and entertainment to youth activities and spa facilities.</p>
<p>The Disney Cruise Line family focus allows families to reconnect, adults to recharge their batteries and kids to immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. From a theater featuring live musical spectaculars to a luxurious spa for adults and nearly an entire deck dedicated to children&#8217;s activities, the Disney ships offer a unique vacation experience that every member of the family feels was created exclusively for them. Disney Cruise Line continues to grow by attracting passengers who say they would not have cruised if it had not been for the Disney brand.</p>
<p>To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.</p>
<p><center>-30-</center></p>
<p>Media Contact<br />
Jonathan Frontado<br />
Public Relations Manager<br />
Phone: 407-566-3687<br />
Email: Jonathan.Frontado@disney.com</p>
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		<title>Disney Wonder to Host Disney Channel World-Premiere Event</title>
		<link>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/27/dcl-world-premiere-event/</link>
		<comments>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/27/dcl-world-premiere-event/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 23:55:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Bernadette</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Disney Cruise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[disney cruise line]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[disney wonder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[suite life of zack & cody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[world premiere]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Disney Cruise Line's Disney Wonder will be hosting a Disney Channel red-carpet, world-premiere event for the new Disney Channel "The Suite Life on Deck" spin-off of "The Suite Life of Zack &#038; Cody" show on the Disney Wonder cruise ship this August 28th through the 31st.]]></description>
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<p>Disney Cruise Line&#8217;s Disney Wonder will be hosting a Disney Channel red-carpet, world-premiere event for the new Disney Channel &#8220;The Suite Life on Deck&#8221; spin-off of &#8220;The Suite Life of Zack &#038; Cody&#8221; show on the Disney Wonder cruise ship this August 28th through the 31st.</p>
<p>Here is the press release from <a href="http://www.dclnews.com">http://www.dclnews.com</a>:</p>
<p><img src="http://www.vacationdreamstravel.com/_Media/suitelife.jpg" /></p>
<p>It’s a “Suite Life” on the Disney Wonder with Disney Channel World-Premiere Event</p>
<p>CELEBRATION, Fla. (Aug. 26, 2008) – Disney Cruise Line will host a red-carpet, world-premiere event for the new Disney Channel original series “The Suite Life on Deck,” a spin-off of the Emmy-nominated “The Suite Life of Zack &#038; Cody,” on the Disney Wonder cruise ship Aug. 28-31.</p>
<p>During this special premiere at sea, guests sailing will experience a Hollywood-style, red-carpet arrival of some of Disney Channel’s hottest stars, an exclusive sneak-peek of the first episode of “The Suite Life on Deck” and an opportunity to participate in a Question &#038; Answer session with stars of the show.  Cast members from “The Suite Life on Deck” scheduled to appear include Cole Sprouse (Cody Martin), Dylan Sprouse (Zack Martin), Brenda Song (London Tipton), Phill Lewis (Mr. Moseby) and  Debby Ryan (Bailey Pickett).  All events will take place on decks 9 and 10 of the Disney Wonder on Friday, Aug. 29, at the family-friendly Goofy Pool.</p>
<p>“The popularity of Disney Channel shows and stars are at an all-time high,” said Disney Cruise Line President Tom McAlpin.  “We’re pleased to partner with Disney Channel for this world-premiere event and share some of the red-carpet excitement with our guests, showcasing that Disney difference only Disney Cruise Line can offer.”</p>
<p>“We’re thrilled to give “The Suite Life on Deck” a fabulous bon voyage celebration aboard the Disney Wonder.  The cruise ship setting of the series made the Disney Wonder a great fit to host this event,” said Adam Sanderson, Senior Vice President, Brand Marketing, Disney ABC Networks Group. A day after the world-premiere, and following a day of fun-and-sun on Disney’s private island Castaway Cay, another Disney Channel star will take the stage.  Mitchel Musso, star of Disney Channel’s “Hannah Montana” and “Phineas and Ferb” will perform a mini-concert at the Goofy Pool.  At the concert’s end, Musso will spend a few minutes answering questions from the audience.</p>
<p>This marks the first time Disney Cruise Line and Disney Channel have partnered together to develop a multi-day event.  It should prove to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for fans of the Disney Channel sailing on the sold-out voyage.</p>
<p>A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean.  Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at Walt Disney World Resort are also available.</p>
<p>&#8220;The Suite Life on Deck&#8221; premieres on Disney Channel on Friday, September 26 at 8p.m. ET/PT.  In this new live-action comedy series, &#8220;The Suite Life of Zack &#038; Cody,&#8221; teenage twins Zack and Cody Martin, and spoiled hotel heiress London Tipton, go aboard a luxury passenger cruise liner, the SS Tipton, owned by London&#8217;s father, as it cruises the world with tourists and students who attend classes at its Seven Seas High.  To his delight, the dutiful Mr. Moseby is reassigned from the Tipton Hotel to be the cruise ship&#8217;s hotel manager, but is quickly deflated when he finds out that Zack, Cody and London are onboard too. Joining in the hijinks is London&#8217;s new roommate Bailey, a sweet, southern girl who has just left her small town roots to experience a whole new world.</p>
<p>Disney Channel is a 24-hour kid-driven, family inclusive television network that taps into the world of kids and families through original series and movies. Currently available on basic cable in over 95 million U.S. homes and to millions of other viewers on 27 Disney Channels around the world, Disney Channel is part of the Disney-ABC Television Group. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit www.disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500.  Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit www.disneytravelagents.com.</p>
<p>-30-<br />
Media Contact<br />
Jason Lasecki<br />
Public Relations Director<br />
Phone: 407-566-3687<br />
Email: jason.lasecki@disney.com</p>
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		<title>Epcot International Food &amp; Wine Festival Right Around the Corner</title>
		<link>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/26/foodwine-update/</link>
		<comments>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/26/foodwine-update/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:27:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Bernadette</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[food & wine festival]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[The 13th Annual Epcot Food &#038; Wine Festival is coming Sept 26.]]></description>
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<p>The schedule is now published for the Epcot International Food &#038; Wine Festival. The festival will kick off in September with the &#8220;Who&#8217;s Who&#8221; list of the culinary world at the Bocuse D&#8217;Or Grand Gala on September 27, 2008.  Other September highlights include:</p>
<p>- Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito of Baked (Brooklyn NY) hosting Sweet Sundays on September 28<br />
- Chef Bob Waggoner of Charleston Grill (Charleston, SC and Au Bon Climat Wines (Santa Barbara County, CAT hosting The Cook, The Book, and the Bottle on September 26<br />
- Max McCalman of New York, NY and The Bordeaux Wine Council hosting French Cheese Tasting on September 27<br />
- Tutto Italia Ristorante hosting Food &#038; Wine Pairings on September 27<br />
- Tokyo Dining hosting Food &#038; Wine Pairings on September 29<br />
- Restaurant Marrakesh hosting Food &#038; Wine Pairing on September 30</p>
<p><img src="http://www.vacationdreamstravel.com/_Media/Food&#038;Wine-Wine-Glasses.jpg" /></p>
<p>Bocuse d’Or USA Chef Cook-Off Launches Opening Weekend</p>
<p>LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. &#8212; Fine cuisine and wines from some of the best “foodie” cities in the world will take a bow at the 13th annual Epcot International Food &#038; Wine Festival Sept. 26 through Nov. 9 at Walt Disney World Resort. Opening weekend, eight of the country’s top chef teams will compete at the gold-standard Bocuse d’Or USA semifinals of the international cuisine contest, to be held at Epcot for the first time.</p>
<p>The prestigious cook-off will feature the country’s leading chef candidates, each with one assistant, cooking Sept. 26 and 27 before an audience of park guests at World Showplace pavilion. The winning team, to be selected by prominent chef judges, will be announced Sept. 27 at a grand gala. The finalist team will compete in January at the international contest in Lyon, France, founded by renowned French chef Paul Bocuse.</p>
<p>Throughout the six-week festival, Epcot guests can explore the culinary “Cities in Wonderland” – from trendy Cork, Ireland, to the melting pot of Cape Town, South Africa – around the World Showcase promenade while also discovering blissful bites at international and regional marketplaces brimming with exotic flavors and comfort foods. The six-week festival will showcase tastes from countries on six continents.</p>
<p>More than 25 international marketplaces will serve tapas-sized portions of regional specialties at $2-to-$5 each, and recommended wines and beers make perfect pairings at each kiosk. New festival flavors explore the culinary wonders of Lyon, France; Marrakesh, Morocco; Shanghai, China; Bologna, Italy; Tokyo and Mexico City. Exhibits along the promenade also will showcase entertainment and traditional crafts of several countries.</p>
<p>Daily complimentary wine and beer tastings serve up sips from around the world, and culinary demonstrations dish up featured taste treats. A series of special culinary programs features a lineup of renowned winemakers, guest chefs and speakers participating in elegant dinners, luncheons, seminars and wine schools. &#8220;We wanted to take our guests on a grand gustatory expedition,” says Nora Carey, festival manager. “The cities that we’ll feature are known for great dining experiences, and the ‘Cities in Wonderland’ theme will inspire our guests to enjoy great food and wine in a fresh new way.”</p>
<p>The Epcot festival continues to grow dramatically, attracting a diverse audience of more than one million guests each fall – from wine connoisseurs and epicures to neophytes wishing to boost their wine IQs. Beer aficionados can raise their steins at several tasting locations, including Germany’s Biergarten, which specialize in brews from light to dark.</p>
<p>Musical entertainment pairs perfectly with culinary fun during the nightly Eat to the Beat! concert series featuring a varied lineup of classic rock, soul, R&#038;B, oldies, jazz and funk hit-makers. Concerts are performed three times each evening at America Gardens Theatre along the World Showcase lagoon. New acts to appear include Kool &#038; The Gang, Spyro Gyra, En Vogue and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. David Sanborn, Jon Secada and Otis Day and the Knights are among returning crowd-pleasing acts.</p>
<p>Festival highlights include:<br />
# Opening weekend Bocuse d’Or USA chef competition presented by culinary stars including Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller, and Jerome Bocuse, who runs the Chefs de France restaurant at Epcot. All park guests can attend the cook-off, where competitors will prepare elaborate fish and meat platters to be evaluated for excellence in taste, presentation, creativity and technical precision.<br />
# The Festival Welcome Center, with a Champagne and Wine Bar, complimentary wine seminars, celebrity chef book signings, and festival keepsakes including exclusive festival pins and an official festival cookbook.<br />
# New cultural experiences. At My Louisiana, hosted by Louisiana Office of Tourism, guests can discover sights, sounds, flavors and crafts of the state’s seven regions. Music, dance, artistry, food and beer are featured, and complimentary culinary seminars are hosted daily. At Melbourne, Australia, hosted by Tourism Victoria, guests can glimpse Federation Square and scenes from Queen Victoria Market. A wine walkabout and tasting bar serve favorite sips.  The marketplace kiosk offers tasty bites. And complimentary wine seminars occur daily.<br />
# Some 250 Disney chefs and guest chefs conducting culinary demonstrations and hosting elegant dinners and tasting events. Guest chefs now booked include Tory McPhail of Commander’s Palace, Rock Harper of Hell’s Kitchen, Tre Wilcox from Top Chef Season 3, plus Cat Cora, Jamie Deen, Allen Susser, Jeff Henderson, Gale Gand, Robert Irvine, Todd English, Warren Brown plus many other culinary stars.<br />
# New culinary programs to include French Regional Lunches at Bistro de Paris in France pavilion; City Tastes of global food and drink at World Showplace Pavilion; a Master Class Series with wines and champagnes at the Festival Center; and the Bocuse d’Or Grand Gala at World Showplace. Popular Epcot Wine Schools, Food and Wine Pairings, Kitchen Conversations and other events also are scheduled.<br />
# The weekly Party for the Senses grand tasting event featuring tempting tastes from eminent chefs, more than 70 wines and beers and live entertainment.<br />
# Family fun at Pearville Fair, a slice of Americana where pears from the great Northwest take center stage, and Behind the Seeds Greenhouse Tour at The Land fish farm and greenhouses, where guests can sample a greenhouse vegetable and release lady bugs.</p>
<p>Festival guests also can enjoy new Epcot experiences including the re-launched Spaceship Earth attraction in Future World, with narration by Oscar winner Dame Judi Dench, new scenes, sets and costumes, updated Audio-Animatronics figures, plus a touch-screen interactive ride sequence. In World Showcase, there’s a new restaurant at the Italy pavilion, Tutto Italia, with cuisine from different regions of Italy. And the Japan pavilion just introduced its new Tokyo Dining and Teppan Edo restaurants. Mexico’s new tequila bar is perfect for cool sips on a warm autumn evening.</p>
<p>Included with Epcot Admission:</p>
<p>Wine and beer seminars, cooking demonstrations, special book signings at the Festival Center, Eat to the Beat! concerts, culinary and cultural exhibits, and all attractions and park entertainment are included with regular Epcot admission.</p>
<p>Special Programming by Reservation:</p>
<p>The Party for the Senses grand tasting events, Food and Wine Pairings at select Epcot restaurants, Regional Feasts, Epcot Wine Schools, Cheese Tastings, Sweet Sundays, and other special wine and culinary programs require reservations and separate admission.</p>
<p>Guests can call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) for information and to make reservations for special events and programs. Festival details are available at the Web site: www.disneyworld.com/food.</p>
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		<title>New Ultra-Interactive Attraction at Epcot Immerses Walt Disney World Guests In the High-Tech World of Disney’s Kim Possible</title>
		<link>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/25/kim-possible/</link>
		<comments>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/25/kim-possible/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2008 03:18:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Bernadette</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Disney World]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Disney World News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[epcot]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kim possible]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[High Tech Comes to Epcot's World Showcase with New Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure

In Walt Disney's World continuing effort to bring more state of the art, interactive experiences to it's theme parks, a new Epcot attraction will bring high tech to seven of the World Showcase countries.]]></description>
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<p>High Tech Comes to Epcot&#8217;s World Showcase with New Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure</p>
<p>In Walt Disney&#8217;s World continuing effort to bring more state of the art, interactive experiences to it&#8217;s theme parks, a new Epcot attraction will bring high tech to seven of the World Showcase countries.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.vacationdreamstravel.com/_Media/kim_possible_epcot.gif" /></p>
<p>LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. &#8212; Epcot guests at Walt Disney World Resort will be treated to a brand new, highly interactive attraction inspired by Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning animated series, Disney’s Kim Possible.  The new experience is slated to premiere in late 2008.</p>
<p>Using the latest technology, Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure invites guests of all ages to become secret agents, teaming up with members of Team Possible to save the world from various comical villains and their mad inventions.</p>
<p>As guests embark on this international adventure, they will receive an official “Kimmunicator,” at kiosks throughout Epcot.  The interactive, handheld device is designed to help them maneuver through the mission.  Using state-of-the-art technology, the interactive device connects guests with a variety of Kim Possible characters who provide clues to stop villains from taking over the world.  The highly interactive devices also allow guests to control top-secret equipment hidden inside the World Showcase pavilions, creating an ultra-interactive adventure jam-packed with mystery and excitement.</p>
<p>Guests can play Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure in seven of the World Showcase pavilions: Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Japan, France and United Kingdom.  Each pavilion features a unique mission including distinctive visual events and a different super villain from the animated series.</p>
<p>&#8220;Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure is an exciting new experience that offers fun and excitement for the entire family,&#8221; said Jim MacPhee, Epcot vice president. &#8220;We are constantly exploring new ways to provide immersive experiences to Epcot guests, and this new offering will add to our dynamic portfolio.&#8221;</p>
<p>“Today’s emerging generation expects more immersive, personal and interactive experiences in every facet of their lives, including their entertainment choices,” added Bruce Vaughn, chief creative executive of Walt Disney Imagineering.  “As leaders in family entertainment, Disney theme parks push the envelope by combining state-of-the-art technology with creative storytelling to enhance the overall Disney vacation experience.”</p>
<p>Epcot is a place of innovation, imagination, human achievement and endless possibilities.  The park encompasses two “lands” of discovery: Future World, a showcase of new ideas and technology, and World Showcase, a kaleidoscope of nations celebrating cultural heritage, arts and entertainment.  For more information, guests may call 407/824-4321 or visit disneyworld.com.</p>
<p>Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure will open at Walt Disney World Resort during “The Year of a Million Dreams” celebration.</p>
<p>A worldwide hit for kids and families, Disney&#8217;s &#8220;Kim Possible&#8221; is an Emmy Award-winning animated series from creators/executive producers Bob Schooley and Mark McCorkle and Walt Disney Television Animation.  It tells the story of an average high school cheerleader, Kim Possible, who, in her spare time, happens to save the world from super villains.  With the aid of her enthusiastic pals, this contemporary heroine is capable in ways few high school students ever imagine.  On the flipside, she realizes that defeating the bad guys comes easier than coping with the typical teen pressures of schooling and socializing.  Viewers&#8217; connection to &#8220;Kim Possible&#8221; led to a successful off-TV franchise for The Walt Disney Company including Kim Possible and Ron Stoppable characters at Disney Parks &#038;  Resorts, DVDs, books, video games and Disney Consumer Product&#8217;s line of &#8220;Kim  Possible&#8221; branded products available at mass retailers  nationwide.</p>
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		<title>Disney Travel Guru Community now on MyBlogLog</title>
		<link>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/24/follow-on-mybloglog/</link>
		<comments>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/08/24/follow-on-mybloglog/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 24 Aug 2008 17:01:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tim</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Disney Travel Guru has started a community at MyBlogLog. MyBlogLog is a social aggregating website leveraging Web 2.0 capabilities.]]></description>
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<p>You can now follow Disney Travel Guru via the <a href="http://www.mybloglog.com/">MyBlogLog.com website</a>.  We have set up a <a href="http://www.mybloglog.com/buzz/community/disneytravelguru/">Disney Travel Guru Community</a> that has the feeds from our Blog as well as the added interactive capabilities of a modern powerful Web 2.0-based social website!</p>
<p>In addition, we have added a Recent Visitors badge in the sidebar which will show you the recent visitors coming in from the <a href="http://www.mybloglog.com/buzz/community/">MyBlogLog.com Communities</a>.</p>
<p>-Tim</p>
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		<title>22 Year Travel Industry Veteran Launches Specialty Travel Websites</title>
		<link>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/06/30/22-year-travel-industry-veteran-launches-specialty-travel-websites/</link>
		<comments>http://www.disneytravelguru.com/2008/06/30/22-year-travel-industry-veteran-launches-specialty-travel-websites/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:16:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Bernadette</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Disney Cruise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[disney vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family cruise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family vacation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[specialty travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[specialty vacations]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Press Release announcing the official launch of two specialty travel websites, VacationDreamsTravel.com and CruisesAreFun.com.  VacationDreamsTravel.com is a website specializing in Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise vacations while CruisesAreFun.com is a website specializing in Nearby Cruising from home ports scattered around the United States.]]></description>
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<p style="margin-left: 40px;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">For Immediate Release</span></em></p>
<p style="margin-right: 40px;" align="right"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Bernadette Stark<br />
Vacation Dreams Travel &#8211; &#8220;Let us do the planning, so you don&#8217;t have to!&#8221;<br />
703-496-3703</span></p>
<p>bernadette@vacationdreamstravel.com<br />
VacationDreamsTravel.com</p>
<p style="margin-right: 40px;" align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">22 Year Travel Industry Veteran Launches </span></strong></p>
<p style="margin-right: 40px;" align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Specialty Travel Websites</span></strong></p>
<p style="margin-left: 40px; line-height: 150%; margin-right: 40px;" align="left"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Lake Ridge, VA &#8211; July, 2 2008 &#8211; 22 year travel industry veteran, Bernadette Stark, CTA, launches two new speciality travel websites. VacationDreamsTravel.com specializing in Walt Disney World vacations and CruisesAreFun.com featuring &#8220;Nearby Cruises&#8221;.</span></p>
<p>Stark says experience and expertise led her to focus her vacation planning business on the two areas of vacation travel that she is most passionate about and experienced in; Disney Vacations and Cruising. &#8220;Consumers need an expert to help them get the most value from their travel dollars especially today&#8221; explains Stark. &#8220;By focusing my efforts exclusively on Disney Vacations and &#8216;Nearby Cruises&#8217; (unique cruises at ports close to most major metropolitan areas), I can stay up on the latest promotions, news, and enhancements enabling me to offer my clients the very best service. My clients benefit from the inside knowledge and first-hand tips I share with them&#8221; Stark added.</p>
<p>Both websites, VacationDreamsTravel.com, specializing in Walt Disney World Vacations, and CruisesAreFun.com, specializing in &#8220;Nearby Cruises&#8221;, are officially open for business.</p>
<p>Bernadette Stark, CTA is a 22 year travel industry veteran. Her credentials include: Graduate of the Wilma Boyd Travel School, Certified Travel Agent (CTA), Graduate of both the College of Disney Knowledge and the College of Disney Knowledge Agent Education Graduate Program, and has reached Expert Plus (currently the highest lever achievable) in the Royal Caribbean University of WOW. She is also a member of the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) and often conducts travel seminars for community groups.</p>
<p style="margin-left: 40px; margin-right: 40px;" align="center"><span style="font-size: x-small;"># # #</span></p>
<p><a href="mailto:bernadette@vacationdreamstravel.com">Bernadette Stark</a> is a Certified Travel Agent and owner of <a href="http://www.vacationdreamstravel.com/">Vacation Dreams Travel</a> which specializes in Disney World and Disney Cruise Vacations.</p>
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